Archives
This is the blog archives page. Just like on the site updates page, you will find, in chronological order, the blog entries I have made (though on the home page, they are in reverse order; with new updates first). Just in case you may have missed something, or maybe it peaked your interest. Nothing fancy. Plain and simple. Enjoy.
(11-9-2008): Change in America
It's that time of year in America again. Yes, the time when we, as Americans, vote to elect the next President and Vice President of this U.S. of A. I do not know much about politics, and I am neither Democrat nor Republican. Heck, I'm not even Independent. I vote for the one that best suits my convictions... personally, morally, spiritually, etc. I have only one thing to say to Barack Obama, the President Elect.... "Do your best!". That's about all that's been on the news lately, for most of this year. But, I guess they have to campaign and do all of their politicalness anyway.
With that said, I have to say that I just haven't felt like blogging. That explains the almost six-month difference between this update and the last. To put it plainly and non-specifically, I haven't felt well, (and still don't); and thus haven't felt like it. I enjoy blogging and sharing my opinions on various life subjects, but there comes a day when even I don't feel like it. I am glad to be back!
(7-4-2008): What Say You?
Happy Birthday America! On this Fourth of July weekend, I just have to say that I am happy, proud, and blessed to be a true-to-the-core, Patriotic, Red-White-& Blue, conservative American male that loves his good old U.S. of A, supports the troops, and most of all, takes time to pray for the troops in our military branches. They need all the support that we Americans can give. I think it's a shame that the men and women of our military often do not get the help and support that they so desperately need, whether that be in the form of armor and ammo for their weapons and their trucks, armor for themselves, or even just a card and/or a care package from caring American citizens, much like myself. I am physically not able to serve in our military, because of my various physical challenges, but there's something I can do... and that is pray hard for the men and women that serve in it.
That said, I was listening to the O'Reilly Radio Factor, during one of his many shows concerning the upcoming political election and ensuing race between Barack Obama and John McCain, (I listen to loads of talk radio, in addition to Bill O'Reilly, like the Mike Gallagher Show, and plenty of sports radio, (like the Scott Van Pelt Show, Sports Nation, and The Pulse, thanks to our local affiliate for ESPN Radio), when I heard either Bill or one of the callers rant on about what each candidate would or wouldn't do if he were elected President in November. When it comes to politics, I try to keep up with it some, so I know what the issues are and therefore who I will hopefully vote for. Other than that, I could care less about watching most of the news, local or national. News tends to depress me, especially when most of it is bad. I care who gets shot, mugged, and/or raped around town. That's someone's family member, and most of all it matters to God. But what really grinds me is that it seems to be all I hear on the news, whether it be from the TV, radio, the Internet, or the occasional newspaper I might pick up. There's plenty of positive news in the world. Why isn't the media covering an equal share of the good and the bad news? Speaking of positive news, I heard this piece on the Mike Gallagher Show about a week or so ago. I don't know where the mother and her 11 year old son were living at the time, but apparently it was in an area that received lots of flooding. Therefore, she and her son would have to make a trip to the basement of their home to dry it out. The sad part of this is that I guess it got hot wherever they lived, because she went to plug an electric fan into the wall, and not realizing that she was standing in water, barefoot, which, essentially, makes a very good electrical ground, she was electrocuted. Here's the good part. Her 11 year old son, who was on the basement steps, saw that his mom was essentially being fried, ran down the steps and into the water to save her. Since he had rubber soled shoes on, that essentially grounded him from the electric current that was zipping through the standing water. He then pulled the plug from the wall and saved his mother's life! Is that a piece of good news or what? Let me know. Opinions, opine-ings, etc. welcome. What Say You? As Bill O'Reilly would say: "You're in the No-Spin Zone". Essentially, this is my "No-Spin Zone". E-Mail or I.M. me. (Info is in the "Contact Me" section at the bottom of this page).
Music: [Unknown]: "What Say You" (Opening bumper music from the O'Reilly Radio Factor). (If anyone has heard it and knows the artist, please e-mail or I.M. me, because I certainly don't; and I listen to plenty of country music.
(6-29-2008): Just Being Me
You might say that I am a rather relaxed man, since I don't take to leaving my comfort zone very well, because of my various physical disabilities. There's days that I just want to sit back, relax, and just lavishly thank God for just being me. After all, God made me to be the best man that I can be for Him and to glorify and praise Him each and every day.
That said, I was watching what little bit of national news coverage that comes on TV, (not having cable or satellite; it's not much to pick from), when I heard someone make light of the fact that California is now beginning to marry same-sex couples, and it be legal, as it is in a few other states in our U.S. of A. Personally, though I try to respect others and their various lifestyles, religions, creeds, and/or personalities, that doesn't necessarily mean that I agree with them, Biblically; because I don't. God's Word condemns homosexuality... with a passion. Not to mention that the prices of most everything in our country, (food, gas, electric bills, etc) are going up each and every day. Even though our nation isn't what it could and should be for the Lord, I am happy and proud to say that I am a true, red, white, and blue American male that loves my country, respects my President, and most of all loves and respects God.
This being the week before the Fourth of July, (for American readers), I just want to tell all of you that you should be proud and thankful that you live in such a great, glorious land like the U.S. of A. A lot of men and women in our nation's military and Armed Forces have already paid the ultimate price and given completely of themselves and their lives, so that others like you and me could know what it is to experience freedom. Jesus Himself gave His own life on Calvary over 2,000 years ago so that you and I could be eternally free from Satan's curse of sin, and be able to spend eternity in Heaven with God and His Son, Jesus, along with everyone else that's gone on before, from Abraham to Zaccheus. Trust me, that's going to be a wonderful time. The gift of Salvation is free. Jesus has already paid the price, with His life. All you have to do is sincerely believe within your heart that he was born in Bethlehem's manger by the Virgin Mary, that He eventually went to Calvary to lay down His life for your sins, and that He was placed in a borrowed tomb, which He didn't need but for three days. Why borrowed? He only needed the tomb for 3 days. It's recorded several times in Scripture that He even told His disciples that He was going to have to go to Calvary and lay down His life for the world's sin, and that He would be crucified on a cross, and be placed in a borrowed tomb for 3 days and 3 nights. After which, God sent an Angel to roll the big stone away from the door of the tomb. Jesus arose victorious over death, hell, and the grave. That's the Gospel in a nutshell! The birth, death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! He is knocking on your heart's door today. Will you let Him in?
If you need more information on what the Gospel message is, or maybe you want to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, there's a link to my local church's website, Clearview Baptist. (Look under "Sausage"), along with a link to email the church. You can also email one of the local Christian radio stations that I have links for. They should be able to help point you to the Lord. Also, you can use the information in the "Contact Me" section at the bottom of this page to email or I.M. me. May God richly bless you, and may God Bless America!
(6-21-2008): Relaxey
This is just one of those days. A clear, sunny, lazy Saturday afternoon. Sure, it's nice outside, maybe a chance for a shower and/or thunderstorm. For me, it's just one of those days that I could just fall asleep. I am generally a night owl, so I have a tendency to burn the midnight oil (for the lack of a cornier cliche; and I generally sleep late anyway (9:30-10:30 AM +). I guess I have always needed a lot of sleep. When I am sleep deprived, I tend to be a royal grouch. I guess I just need my relaxey time, that's all.
Anyways, speaking of relaxey time, I did spend a relaxing evening with Kevin, one of my former classmates from high school. I graduated with him in 2001. I think our Senior class had, like maybe, two or three. I was the Valedictorian, with a 4.2 GPA (which amazed the socks off of my teachers). He was the Salutatorian, next in line, with a 4.0 GPA). We both did well in school together. And even now, after seven years, and a trip to Kyrgzstan, he's still one of the few friends that I still have from the school. Most everyone else has either went back to public school, and/or dropped out, applied for their GED, working, and/or in trouble with the law. Thankfully, Kevin & me are still good friends, even though, until last night, we haven't seen each other since just after graduation. He's one of the few male friends I still have. He stays busy with college and work, so I don't get to see him too often, but that certainly doesn't mean that I am not a good friend to him. May God continue to richly bless you, Kevin!
(6-13-2008): Name That Tune
I am now one of many satisfied owners of an Apple iPod Shuffle, the BEST combination digital music player/USB flash drive in the world, and have been, since I received it as a Christmas gift from my father a few years ago. I have the G1 (First Generation), 1 GB model, (which was the bigger of the two, chewing-gum-stick shaped models that were available). It's rather awesome, that I can carry upwards of 240+ songs around my neck, and not have to contend with the hassles of poking through the hundreds of CD's I currently have, just to pick out a few to play on my battery powered CD player. That's where I leave the uncertainty up to my computer, iTunes, and my iPod. I just plug it in, and once iTunes loads and tells me that it's ready for iPod disconnection (after it syncs), I just double-check the settings on both the iPod settings and contents panes, (since I already have my iTunes settings set to my personal preferences anyway), and making sure the iPod software that's loaded on the iPod is up-to-date with the copy that's currently on the Internet, I just click the "autofill" button on the iPod contents pane, and let my computer, iTunes, and the high-speed USB 2.0 connection do the rest. I never know what I will end up with next. Maybe some varying styles of Gospel music, some country, some Christian rock and/or rap... who knows. It adds a little bit of musical pot-luck to my day, and now that I can use my folding speaker system from electric power while at home, that makes it even better, since even though it only uses four AAA batteries, that's still expensive, since I don't use that many cells of that type. That makes it that much more yupness for me.
I would like to give a big Clearview Yupness to all o' yall that may be familiar with my blog there at the church. As you may or may not know, the Sunday School teacher that I have not only known since I first started coming regularly to Clearview, but most importantly, took the time to lead me to the Saving Grace that's only found in a relationship with the Savior Himself, passed away Monday morning of this week from cancer. Mrs. Betty Maddox was her name. She and her husband of 52 years, Lawrence, were not only two sweet, caring, humble people that loved not only their church and their Savior, but more importantly, they loved teaching children about the Love of Jesus. I was one of those. Our church pastor asked me to share my testimony of how she led me to Jesus that wonderful July day in 1997, (July 27, to be precise), at her home-going service this past Wednesday afternoon. It was through her leadership and the leadership of my wonderful church there at Clearview that I was able to be in Sunday School that morning, and thus be led by the Spirit of God, through such a sweet lady like Mrs. Maddox. She's rejoicing in Heaven with her Savior; and I have faith that I will one day meet her there, along with the rest of my family and friends that have gone before.
Listening to: [Squire Parsons]: "Beulah Land"
(6-7-2008): Politi-Puke
I don't have access to satellite or cable television, (and thus have had to make some upcoming major changes to continue to watch television. (Click the link for more information). Therefore, I don't get to (nor do I choose to) watch very much national news coverage concerning this whole political campaign (particularly between Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton). Personally, I'm not for either candidate; nor am I considered Democrat, Republican, or Independent. When I vote in November, I choose whichever candidate fits my moral and spiritual convictions. I am very conservative and therefore don't stand for things like higher taxes (which also jacks up the gasoline prices), and more importantly, abortion. As a patriotic, Christian, American male, I firmly believe that the taking of a defenseless baby's life, at any stage, for whatever reason; is a sin against the laws of God and the inerrant teachings of the Bible. Having said that, I have to say that from watching what little slice of news coverage concerning the political campaign and the corresponding Democratic and Republican primaries that have been going on since the Caucus in Iowa, back in January; it royally makes me want to BARF! Sure, most, if not all political campaigns often include some amount of negativity and mudslinging. But, if you ask me, this takes the cake. I'm not really sure who to vote for when election time comes in November, since, in my personal opinion, I haven't seen much from either ticket worth casting a ballot for. I guess I'll have to just wait and make my best personal choice, using my own judgment and common horse-sense.
Speaking of horses, I don't follow much horse racing, since I don't gamble money. But, after hearing about the horse that finished second in the Kentucky Derby, then had to be euthanized, thanks to a broken leg or foot. I'm generally not big on animals, but I do have to say that when it comes to breeding horses for racing; I think the ultimate quality of the horse has dropped; for the sake of speed and winning races. I think a major problem with this horse was that his legs could not support the weight of the rest of his body. (His legs were too thin). I think a lot of it has to do with inbreeding, which if done too often, (in any animal), will weaken the genetic line; and produce offspring with defects such as this. I feel sorry for this horse's owners, trainers, doctors, and everyone else involved in the care of this horse. Something needs to be done in order to ensure quality racing horses, while also not endangering their lives, simply by racing them. It almost makes me think of Barbaro, a horse that had similar trouble after the Preakness race a few years ago. He fought and fought, but eventually lost his battle. Very sad.
All in all, a good week in the Yupness? files.
Listening to: [Gold City]: "Another Red Sea"
(5-25-2008): The Most Famous Words in Motor Sports
"Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!"... Those four words are like Mozart and a symphony orchestra to most any motor sports fan, such as myself. Yes, it's that time of the year again. Memorial Day Weekend, a time where we, as Americans should take time to think about and reflect on what really counts in this country, our great land known as the United States of America. I can sum it all up in one word... FREEDOM! Most countries in this world simply don't know what it really means to know the experience that most every American at some point has taken for granted. A lot of men and women in our military branches and our Armed Forces have paid the ultimate price and given completely of themselves,... of their blood, sweat, tears, and most importantly, their lives; so that Americans such as myself could know what it really means to live in a nation so great, so mighty, and most of all, so democratically free as what we have here in the good old U.S. of A.! God bless all of our military, Navy, Army, National Guard, and the families of our servicemen and women that give of themselves each and every day out on the battlefields of our land so that Americans like you and me can live each day in not only political and democratic freedom, but most importantly spiritual freedom; as only our Savior Jesus Christ could give when He gave of Himself nearly 2,000 years ago at the Old Rugged Cross on the hill of Calvary. He paid the ultimate sacrifice so that you and me could be free from a life of sin, spiritual death, and eternal damnation in Hell forever; and be able to one day spend eternity with Him in Heaven. If you are reading this, and you need more information about what it means to be a Christian, or maybe you want to accept Him as your Savior, but you need some specific Bible verses, go to the "Sausage" section, and there's links to not only my local church, (where I accepted Jesus), but also to the two main local Christian radio stations, Joy FM 107.1 and Spirit FM 90.3. Any of them will be able to help you out. As always, you can always email or send me an instant message to reach me. Information is there also. God bless all of you wonderful Americans, God bless our troops for what you all do to keep us safe each and every day; and God bless America!
In addition to the Memorial Day Weekend, the Sunday before Memorial Day Monday is always home to the annual running of the Indianapolis 500. It is run at the world famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located in Speedway, Indiana (just outside of Indianapolis). Each year, many drivers will compete in nearly two weeks of qualifications and time trials, followed by "bump day" (where the drivers that are not currently in the race will compete and run four-lap time trial runs to try and knock the last driver, out of the famed field of 33 drivers, out). They call it "on the bubble". Then there's "carbureation day", the final tune-up day before the big race, where the teams can tweak and tune their cars, (within the rules, of course), in a last ditch effort to squeeze as much power out of the engine and therefore more speed. There's also many race related festivities on this day, such as the "Pit-Stop Challenge", where teams will pair off in twos and at the green flag, will accelerate down a section of the pit lane and into a special space on that same pit lane, specifically for the challenge. There, they will be timed, and each team has to complete a four tire change, along with a five-second (approximate) simulated fueling. The winner of which will progress to the next round, and hopefully at the end of the day, win a big trophy, lots of prize money, and perhaps a donation to a charity of his choice. I'm not sure how all of that works. Then there's Sunday... the big race. After all of the usual Memorial Day festivities, most noticeable is the military fly-over, the invocation, our Nation's Anthem, the playing of Taps, and the traditional singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana" by Jim Nabors. (He played Gomer Pyle on the Andy Griffith Show), then it's time for the race, always started by those four famous words... "(Ladies &) Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!"... then a few pace and warm-up laps later it's down to racing. 500 miles, 200 laps, 800 corners (it's a rectangular track, with about 9 degrees of banking per corner, and flat in the "short chutes" and on the front and back straights). It's a relatively flat track, but for some drivers, one mistake, either on-track, or during one of many pit stops, can be the difference between winning and going home. It's a very interesting race!
(5-14-2008): Yee-Haw
I may be considered a modern-day, up-to-date, suburban American male, but that certainly doesn't mean that I don't sometimes have somewhat of a redneck side to my seemingly relaxed personality. I can relate to comedian Jeff Foxworthy, when it comes to some of his "You Might Be a Redneck If..." jokes. With my recent fascination with lawnmower racing, you could maybe add that to the list of his sometimes off-color redneck jokes. Me? I just think that lawnmower racing is not only very manly, (although there are probably plenty of women that professionally race them regularly), but to most Americans, very dangerous and very unusual. You have to be insanely physically fit and not be scared to fall off a lawnmower, in order to drive one well enough to race competitively. For me, since I have the series official computer game (also available for Xbox), (see "Sausage"), it's about the closest I've personally come to the high-speed, four-wheeled, bladeless insanity known as the United States Lawn Mower Racing Association (USLMRA). It's interesting, believe me.
On to a more emotional note. From watching the news lately, I can't help but feel sorry for not only all those helpless victims from the big earthquake in China that's killed upwards of about 10,000, with many more missing and otherwise unaccounted for; but also this food aid mess going on in Myanmar (or Burma, as some call it). Yes, the people need food, water, and the necessities of life, after the trouble they have been through in recent days. But personally, what really gets my undies in a bunch, is hearing on the news, (particularly ABC World News with Charlie Gibson, that many of these desparate men, women, and children are basically getting the leftovers, to put it plainly. Spoiled and/or stale food as well as possibly bad water, not to mention that any additional aid that may be getting in is being sifted through by their government, so that they get the better items, while the common people that desperately need this stuff, basically get what's left... the leftovers. Trust me, that's not how our Lord would have it. He gave His best for us when He gave His life on the Old Rugged Cross to pay eternally for our sins. So, we should give our best to others, which includes the desperate, hurting, hungry people of Myanmar. We should give them not only food, water, clothing, and anything else we can think of, but more importantly, the Love of Jesus and the way of Salvation!
Something for the other corrupt governments of the world to chew on. Point made, opinion voiced. Verdict in. Case Closed.
Music: [NewSong]: "Jesus to the World"
(5-2-2008): Show Him The Money
The last half of this week was very exciting for not only me, but also my favorite Gospel radio station, Joy FM. This was their share-a-thon time, which is a special time where they take six days out of each year; (three days each in the spring and fall), to ask the listeners to support the radio station with their financial gifts. Yes, it takes a lot of money to run even a Christian radio station. Joy FM is an exceptional station. Not only do they have a good quality signal in most areas, and excellent audio quality thanks to an all-digital (and digitally remastered, for the classics), computerized playlist, but they have a dedicated staff that is committed not only to playing the best in Southern Gospel music and related music programming, such as "The Gospel Greats" with Paul Heil, but also countless other locally produced programs, as well as short features by some of the best national Bible teachers and Gospel preachers in the country; but most importantly, Joy FM has a staff that is committed to serving the Lord faithfully each day through their lives, families, churches, and their own personal devotional time with God, not to mention that they will be faithful to pray for your various needs when you ask them to. That's what I like about Joy FM. The local affiliate for the area, WTTX 107.1 FM, used to be owned and operated by my local church (look under "Sausage" section). But, thanks to the lack of funds in recent years, and not to mention the bogus pledges of a few listeners that just wanted to make trouble, the station had to be sold to Positive Alternative Radio, (the parent media organization for not only Joy FM, but contemporary sister station Spirit FM). It's a shame that people would make bogus pledges to a Gospel radio station that does it's best to lift high the Blood-Stained Banner of our Lord Jesus Christ. It not only breaks the hearts of those that operate the station and other faithful listeners that send in their support pledges each month, but most importantly it breaks the heart of God Himself.
With that rabbit trailed, caught, and safely put back in his hole, I just have to say that if there are any regular readers of my blog, and I'm sure there are a bunch; that listen to Joy FM and are encouraged on a regular basis, please be sure and send in your pledge of support if you have called or sent one in on-line. The station needs your support to stay on the air proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
(4-25-2008): Polyg-A-Palooza
I am an emotionally sensitive man. I have to say that I feel sorry for the 400-ish children and parents that were part of the Texas compound run by polygamist sect leader Warren Jeffs. Even though he is in jail serving time, (and I pray every day that he will NEVER get out), I can't help but feel sorry for and feel sympathetic for these children. Personally, I think that being under that man's leadership and control has hurt them greatly, not only physically (since they were forced to marry and bear children at such a young age to much older men), but emotionally, and psychologically (since they were separated from their parents for the most part), and cut off from the outside world. Think about it... No television, radio, no access to a computer, video game, or even a newspaper. Personally, just the lack of my computer for even a short time in the repair shop would drive me up a freaking wall. Yes, I know I am just rambling on about my own personal feelings, but from the perspective of one of these children (as of last news check, were in Texas foster care), I can't really say just how they feel, since the whole experience has undoubtedly warped their sensitive little minds. I could probably say that they are really scared, in shock, and not to mention wondering what in the bull-doo is going on, since just being in foster care is a good case of culture shock; especially after being in the compound for pretty much their entire lives. As a Christian, I have to say that I pray that this entire mess will be sorted out as quickly as possible and that these children and their parents will be reunited soon. But, I am sure that I will be hearing a lot more about it on the news. Hearing about it just makes me want to BARF!
On a lighter note, I have to say that I enjoy blogging. Blogging allows me to freely express my personal thoughts on most anything of interest, whether it be from something I watch on TV and/or the news, hear on the radio, maybe even read on the Internet. A lot of times, however, my blog may consist of some random musings or tidbits about my own personal life... my faith, my family, myself. You never know. I guess that's what makes blogging such an interesting and expressive hobby. And, a secondary note... I will be listening to more of my iPod, since I now have a smaller speaker system. That's a definitely big yupness.
Music: [Brad Paisley]: "Online" (I heard it on the radio a few days ago, and it sort of reminds me of myself). I am a huge Country music fan.
(4-19-2008): Two And A Half Brains
I am a sitcom buff. New or old... funny or stupid... combo of all of the above. I enjoy most generally any sitcom on TV. Most notably, for me, is the CBS hit "Two and a Half Men". The character that plays the son of one of the two men obviously has more brain power than the two men combined. I just think it's outrageously funny, not to mention a little bit stupid. The show sort of reminds me of myself... funny and stupid at times.
What I would like to know is why modern day politicians seem to have about as much brain power as the two men in "Two and a Half Men". It seems like these days all they care about is raising taxes (and not to mention gas prices), and sending people up in space, when there are plenty of good quality opportunities to help out our own homeland. Think of the poor, the disabled, and the homeless. With as much money as the American politicians send up into space to fund only God knows what, we could help out plenty of people not only here, but in some of the third-world countries around our great Earth. Personally, I have nothing against space exploration, other than it is a waste of money. Sure, a lot of useful products that we Americans use every day wouldn't be here if it were not for space exploration and technological advances from NASA. But, I do think we Americans should think more about what really matters in our country.
On the lighter, more emotional side of things, I did watch the end of the candlelight vigil in Blacksburg, to mark the one year anniversary of the massacre at Virginia Tech. I don't attend the college, so I really can't say just how I feel about the whole issue of guns on campus, or how it all relates to those who are mentally challenged. As an American, I do remember those that lost their lives during the shootings. and have sympathy for their families during their time of loss and sorrow. However, as with the terrorist attacks of September, 11, I do have to say that when it comes to security on college campuses like VA Tech, we have a long way to go and a lot of work to do. VA Tech is healing, but it will take some time, just like the rest of America. God bless all of you!
Music: [Bon Jovi]: Bad Medicine
(4-13-2008): For the sake of the Olympics
I enjoy sports. This includes professional baseball, football (American NFL/Arena Football; as well as International football... soccer, to us West of the big swimming pool known as the North Atlantic Ocean), NBA, Motor Racing, (Formula One, Indy Car Series, Champ Car, some NASCAR, and maybe even some AMA Supercross or some powerboat racing thrown in). In general, I am a sports fan. Some I like better than others.
But watching the local and network station news lately makes me rethink a lot of my views about sports;... most notably the integrity of the sports. I have most noticed this during the recent coverage airing on most every network affiliate news segment concerning the Chinese-Tibetan protests during just about every Olympic Torch Relay that has taken place. Personally, I am not pulling for either side during the Olympic games... I remain neutral in their "family feud". As an American, I can't say how I really feel about the whole thing, (from an athlete's point of view), since I have and will never compete in the Olympics. But just as a common, everyday, concerned (and somewhat irate person), I have to say that personally, I have to agree with some of the news media as well as some of the other blogs and articles I have recently been reading as I have been trying to keep up with the torch's relay route and pending protests... concerning the fact that in past years, China's human rights record (as well as a few other countries), has not been all that great. Given that I am not a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), nor have any connection whatsoever to either the Olympic games, or to anyone sanctioning or monitoring them, I really can't give you an accurate view of whether or not we should or should not attend and/or take part in the Opening Ceremonies and/or the games themselves. That's for Jacques Rogge and the rest of the IOC guys to decide. If I were an athlete, I would just have to say that if you do compete in the games; practice well, compete to your fullest ability, and most of all, be fair and sportsmanlike. I think it was on one of the Fox News.com blogs, where some computer tech person from China said that the Olympics should be about global unity and sportsmanship through Olympic sports, but that these protests have added an unneeded political ulcer to the already insanely upset stomach of the Olympic community. This whole mess is bull-doo and really torques my jaws.
Point made, opinion voiced. There. I rest my case. Now, either kiss & make up so we can all enjoy the games; or just keep on protesting and get yourselves into some deeper and smellier legal doo-doo.
Music: (Not listening to anything as of yet, but this will most likely reflect my wide tastes in music, reflected within my cassette/CD collection, as well as in my iTunes library and my Apple iPod Shuffle playlist). Rock On, America!
(4-11-2008): Live & Well (again)
Welcome to Yupness? my website; or as a lot of sites are now, blogs. What is Yupness?, you may ask? Just a simply designed collection of my random musings, thoughts, and opinions on what goes on in my day to day life as a happy, proud, Patriotic Christian American. Sometimes I may rant, I may rave, sometimes I might even make you laugh. It's all based on whatever my opinion is on a particular subject. I don't use Word Press or any complicated design or HTML editor; so this is fairly easy to maintain for me. Feel free to browse, and be opinionated. Feel free to rant, rave, or just give your opinion (see "Contact Me" section below and check the postings page to see if your submission is up. (Mind you, they will need to be reviewed by myself for cleanliness concerning language, since this is a Christian blog.), but PLEASE, keep the foul and/or obscene language, obscenities, and other rudeness to a bare minimum. Remember, this blog is maintained by a Christian person. So I would appreciate it greatly if you visitors please try and keep it that way. More coming.
This is the blog archives page. Just like on the site updates page, you will find, in chronological order, the blog entries I have made (though on the home page, they are in reverse order; with new updates first). Just in case you may have missed something, or maybe it peaked your interest. Nothing fancy. Plain and simple. Enjoy.
(11-9-2008): Change in America
It's that time of year in America again. Yes, the time when we, as Americans, vote to elect the next President and Vice President of this U.S. of A. I do not know much about politics, and I am neither Democrat nor Republican. Heck, I'm not even Independent. I vote for the one that best suits my convictions... personally, morally, spiritually, etc. I have only one thing to say to Barack Obama, the President Elect.... "Do your best!". That's about all that's been on the news lately, for most of this year. But, I guess they have to campaign and do all of their politicalness anyway.
With that said, I have to say that I just haven't felt like blogging. That explains the almost six-month difference between this update and the last. To put it plainly and non-specifically, I haven't felt well, (and still don't); and thus haven't felt like it. I enjoy blogging and sharing my opinions on various life subjects, but there comes a day when even I don't feel like it. I am glad to be back!
(7-4-2008): What Say You?
Happy Birthday America! On this Fourth of July weekend, I just have to say that I am happy, proud, and blessed to be a true-to-the-core, Patriotic, Red-White-& Blue, conservative American male that loves his good old U.S. of A, supports the troops, and most of all, takes time to pray for the troops in our military branches. They need all the support that we Americans can give. I think it's a shame that the men and women of our military often do not get the help and support that they so desperately need, whether that be in the form of armor and ammo for their weapons and their trucks, armor for themselves, or even just a card and/or a care package from caring American citizens, much like myself. I am physically not able to serve in our military, because of my various physical challenges, but there's something I can do... and that is pray hard for the men and women that serve in it.
That said, I was listening to the O'Reilly Radio Factor, during one of his many shows concerning the upcoming political election and ensuing race between Barack Obama and John McCain, (I listen to loads of talk radio, in addition to Bill O'Reilly, like the Mike Gallagher Show, and plenty of sports radio, (like the Scott Van Pelt Show, Sports Nation, and The Pulse, thanks to our local affiliate for ESPN Radio), when I heard either Bill or one of the callers rant on about what each candidate would or wouldn't do if he were elected President in November. When it comes to politics, I try to keep up with it some, so I know what the issues are and therefore who I will hopefully vote for. Other than that, I could care less about watching most of the news, local or national. News tends to depress me, especially when most of it is bad. I care who gets shot, mugged, and/or raped around town. That's someone's family member, and most of all it matters to God. But what really grinds me is that it seems to be all I hear on the news, whether it be from the TV, radio, the Internet, or the occasional newspaper I might pick up. There's plenty of positive news in the world. Why isn't the media covering an equal share of the good and the bad news? Speaking of positive news, I heard this piece on the Mike Gallagher Show about a week or so ago. I don't know where the mother and her 11 year old son were living at the time, but apparently it was in an area that received lots of flooding. Therefore, she and her son would have to make a trip to the basement of their home to dry it out. The sad part of this is that I guess it got hot wherever they lived, because she went to plug an electric fan into the wall, and not realizing that she was standing in water, barefoot, which, essentially, makes a very good electrical ground, she was electrocuted. Here's the good part. Her 11 year old son, who was on the basement steps, saw that his mom was essentially being fried, ran down the steps and into the water to save her. Since he had rubber soled shoes on, that essentially grounded him from the electric current that was zipping through the standing water. He then pulled the plug from the wall and saved his mother's life! Is that a piece of good news or what? Let me know. Opinions, opine-ings, etc. welcome. What Say You? As Bill O'Reilly would say: "You're in the No-Spin Zone". Essentially, this is my "No-Spin Zone". E-Mail or I.M. me. (Info is in the "Contact Me" section at the bottom of this page).
Music: [Unknown]: "What Say You" (Opening bumper music from the O'Reilly Radio Factor). (If anyone has heard it and knows the artist, please e-mail or I.M. me, because I certainly don't; and I listen to plenty of country music.
(6-29-2008): Just Being Me
You might say that I am a rather relaxed man, since I don't take to leaving my comfort zone very well, because of my various physical disabilities. There's days that I just want to sit back, relax, and just lavishly thank God for just being me. After all, God made me to be the best man that I can be for Him and to glorify and praise Him each and every day.
That said, I was watching what little bit of national news coverage that comes on TV, (not having cable or satellite; it's not much to pick from), when I heard someone make light of the fact that California is now beginning to marry same-sex couples, and it be legal, as it is in a few other states in our U.S. of A. Personally, though I try to respect others and their various lifestyles, religions, creeds, and/or personalities, that doesn't necessarily mean that I agree with them, Biblically; because I don't. God's Word condemns homosexuality... with a passion. Not to mention that the prices of most everything in our country, (food, gas, electric bills, etc) are going up each and every day. Even though our nation isn't what it could and should be for the Lord, I am happy and proud to say that I am a true, red, white, and blue American male that loves my country, respects my President, and most of all loves and respects God.
This being the week before the Fourth of July, (for American readers), I just want to tell all of you that you should be proud and thankful that you live in such a great, glorious land like the U.S. of A. A lot of men and women in our nation's military and Armed Forces have already paid the ultimate price and given completely of themselves and their lives, so that others like you and me could know what it is to experience freedom. Jesus Himself gave His own life on Calvary over 2,000 years ago so that you and I could be eternally free from Satan's curse of sin, and be able to spend eternity in Heaven with God and His Son, Jesus, along with everyone else that's gone on before, from Abraham to Zaccheus. Trust me, that's going to be a wonderful time. The gift of Salvation is free. Jesus has already paid the price, with His life. All you have to do is sincerely believe within your heart that he was born in Bethlehem's manger by the Virgin Mary, that He eventually went to Calvary to lay down His life for your sins, and that He was placed in a borrowed tomb, which He didn't need but for three days. Why borrowed? He only needed the tomb for 3 days. It's recorded several times in Scripture that He even told His disciples that He was going to have to go to Calvary and lay down His life for the world's sin, and that He would be crucified on a cross, and be placed in a borrowed tomb for 3 days and 3 nights. After which, God sent an Angel to roll the big stone away from the door of the tomb. Jesus arose victorious over death, hell, and the grave. That's the Gospel in a nutshell! The birth, death, burial, and resurrection of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ! He is knocking on your heart's door today. Will you let Him in?
If you need more information on what the Gospel message is, or maybe you want to accept Jesus Christ as your Savior, there's a link to my local church's website, Clearview Baptist. (Look under "Sausage"), along with a link to email the church. You can also email one of the local Christian radio stations that I have links for. They should be able to help point you to the Lord. Also, you can use the information in the "Contact Me" section at the bottom of this page to email or I.M. me. May God richly bless you, and may God Bless America!
(6-21-2008): Relaxey
This is just one of those days. A clear, sunny, lazy Saturday afternoon. Sure, it's nice outside, maybe a chance for a shower and/or thunderstorm. For me, it's just one of those days that I could just fall asleep. I am generally a night owl, so I have a tendency to burn the midnight oil (for the lack of a cornier cliche; and I generally sleep late anyway (9:30-10:30 AM +). I guess I have always needed a lot of sleep. When I am sleep deprived, I tend to be a royal grouch. I guess I just need my relaxey time, that's all.
Anyways, speaking of relaxey time, I did spend a relaxing evening with Kevin, one of my former classmates from high school. I graduated with him in 2001. I think our Senior class had, like maybe, two or three. I was the Valedictorian, with a 4.2 GPA (which amazed the socks off of my teachers). He was the Salutatorian, next in line, with a 4.0 GPA). We both did well in school together. And even now, after seven years, and a trip to Kyrgzstan, he's still one of the few friends that I still have from the school. Most everyone else has either went back to public school, and/or dropped out, applied for their GED, working, and/or in trouble with the law. Thankfully, Kevin & me are still good friends, even though, until last night, we haven't seen each other since just after graduation. He's one of the few male friends I still have. He stays busy with college and work, so I don't get to see him too often, but that certainly doesn't mean that I am not a good friend to him. May God continue to richly bless you, Kevin!
(6-13-2008): Name That Tune
I am now one of many satisfied owners of an Apple iPod Shuffle, the BEST combination digital music player/USB flash drive in the world, and have been, since I received it as a Christmas gift from my father a few years ago. I have the G1 (First Generation), 1 GB model, (which was the bigger of the two, chewing-gum-stick shaped models that were available). It's rather awesome, that I can carry upwards of 240+ songs around my neck, and not have to contend with the hassles of poking through the hundreds of CD's I currently have, just to pick out a few to play on my battery powered CD player. That's where I leave the uncertainty up to my computer, iTunes, and my iPod. I just plug it in, and once iTunes loads and tells me that it's ready for iPod disconnection (after it syncs), I just double-check the settings on both the iPod settings and contents panes, (since I already have my iTunes settings set to my personal preferences anyway), and making sure the iPod software that's loaded on the iPod is up-to-date with the copy that's currently on the Internet, I just click the "autofill" button on the iPod contents pane, and let my computer, iTunes, and the high-speed USB 2.0 connection do the rest. I never know what I will end up with next. Maybe some varying styles of Gospel music, some country, some Christian rock and/or rap... who knows. It adds a little bit of musical pot-luck to my day, and now that I can use my folding speaker system from electric power while at home, that makes it even better, since even though it only uses four AAA batteries, that's still expensive, since I don't use that many cells of that type. That makes it that much more yupness for me.
I would like to give a big Clearview Yupness to all o' yall that may be familiar with my blog there at the church. As you may or may not know, the Sunday School teacher that I have not only known since I first started coming regularly to Clearview, but most importantly, took the time to lead me to the Saving Grace that's only found in a relationship with the Savior Himself, passed away Monday morning of this week from cancer. Mrs. Betty Maddox was her name. She and her husband of 52 years, Lawrence, were not only two sweet, caring, humble people that loved not only their church and their Savior, but more importantly, they loved teaching children about the Love of Jesus. I was one of those. Our church pastor asked me to share my testimony of how she led me to Jesus that wonderful July day in 1997, (July 27, to be precise), at her home-going service this past Wednesday afternoon. It was through her leadership and the leadership of my wonderful church there at Clearview that I was able to be in Sunday School that morning, and thus be led by the Spirit of God, through such a sweet lady like Mrs. Maddox. She's rejoicing in Heaven with her Savior; and I have faith that I will one day meet her there, along with the rest of my family and friends that have gone before.
Listening to: [Squire Parsons]: "Beulah Land"
(6-7-2008): Politi-Puke
I don't have access to satellite or cable television, (and thus have had to make some upcoming major changes to continue to watch television. (Click the link for more information). Therefore, I don't get to (nor do I choose to) watch very much national news coverage concerning this whole political campaign (particularly between Barack Obama and Sen. Hillary Clinton). Personally, I'm not for either candidate; nor am I considered Democrat, Republican, or Independent. When I vote in November, I choose whichever candidate fits my moral and spiritual convictions. I am very conservative and therefore don't stand for things like higher taxes (which also jacks up the gasoline prices), and more importantly, abortion. As a patriotic, Christian, American male, I firmly believe that the taking of a defenseless baby's life, at any stage, for whatever reason; is a sin against the laws of God and the inerrant teachings of the Bible. Having said that, I have to say that from watching what little slice of news coverage concerning the political campaign and the corresponding Democratic and Republican primaries that have been going on since the Caucus in Iowa, back in January; it royally makes me want to BARF! Sure, most, if not all political campaigns often include some amount of negativity and mudslinging. But, if you ask me, this takes the cake. I'm not really sure who to vote for when election time comes in November, since, in my personal opinion, I haven't seen much from either ticket worth casting a ballot for. I guess I'll have to just wait and make my best personal choice, using my own judgment and common horse-sense.
Speaking of horses, I don't follow much horse racing, since I don't gamble money. But, after hearing about the horse that finished second in the Kentucky Derby, then had to be euthanized, thanks to a broken leg or foot. I'm generally not big on animals, but I do have to say that when it comes to breeding horses for racing; I think the ultimate quality of the horse has dropped; for the sake of speed and winning races. I think a major problem with this horse was that his legs could not support the weight of the rest of his body. (His legs were too thin). I think a lot of it has to do with inbreeding, which if done too often, (in any animal), will weaken the genetic line; and produce offspring with defects such as this. I feel sorry for this horse's owners, trainers, doctors, and everyone else involved in the care of this horse. Something needs to be done in order to ensure quality racing horses, while also not endangering their lives, simply by racing them. It almost makes me think of Barbaro, a horse that had similar trouble after the Preakness race a few years ago. He fought and fought, but eventually lost his battle. Very sad.
All in all, a good week in the Yupness? files.
Listening to: [Gold City]: "Another Red Sea"
(5-25-2008): The Most Famous Words in Motor Sports
"Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!"... Those four words are like Mozart and a symphony orchestra to most any motor sports fan, such as myself. Yes, it's that time of the year again. Memorial Day Weekend, a time where we, as Americans should take time to think about and reflect on what really counts in this country, our great land known as the United States of America. I can sum it all up in one word... FREEDOM! Most countries in this world simply don't know what it really means to know the experience that most every American at some point has taken for granted. A lot of men and women in our military branches and our Armed Forces have paid the ultimate price and given completely of themselves,... of their blood, sweat, tears, and most importantly, their lives; so that Americans such as myself could know what it really means to live in a nation so great, so mighty, and most of all, so democratically free as what we have here in the good old U.S. of A.! God bless all of our military, Navy, Army, National Guard, and the families of our servicemen and women that give of themselves each and every day out on the battlefields of our land so that Americans like you and me can live each day in not only political and democratic freedom, but most importantly spiritual freedom; as only our Savior Jesus Christ could give when He gave of Himself nearly 2,000 years ago at the Old Rugged Cross on the hill of Calvary. He paid the ultimate sacrifice so that you and me could be free from a life of sin, spiritual death, and eternal damnation in Hell forever; and be able to one day spend eternity with Him in Heaven. If you are reading this, and you need more information about what it means to be a Christian, or maybe you want to accept Him as your Savior, but you need some specific Bible verses, go to the "Sausage" section, and there's links to not only my local church, (where I accepted Jesus), but also to the two main local Christian radio stations, Joy FM 107.1 and Spirit FM 90.3. Any of them will be able to help you out. As always, you can always email or send me an instant message to reach me. Information is there also. God bless all of you wonderful Americans, God bless our troops for what you all do to keep us safe each and every day; and God bless America!
In addition to the Memorial Day Weekend, the Sunday before Memorial Day Monday is always home to the annual running of the Indianapolis 500. It is run at the world famous Indianapolis Motor Speedway, located in Speedway, Indiana (just outside of Indianapolis). Each year, many drivers will compete in nearly two weeks of qualifications and time trials, followed by "bump day" (where the drivers that are not currently in the race will compete and run four-lap time trial runs to try and knock the last driver, out of the famed field of 33 drivers, out). They call it "on the bubble". Then there's "carbureation day", the final tune-up day before the big race, where the teams can tweak and tune their cars, (within the rules, of course), in a last ditch effort to squeeze as much power out of the engine and therefore more speed. There's also many race related festivities on this day, such as the "Pit-Stop Challenge", where teams will pair off in twos and at the green flag, will accelerate down a section of the pit lane and into a special space on that same pit lane, specifically for the challenge. There, they will be timed, and each team has to complete a four tire change, along with a five-second (approximate) simulated fueling. The winner of which will progress to the next round, and hopefully at the end of the day, win a big trophy, lots of prize money, and perhaps a donation to a charity of his choice. I'm not sure how all of that works. Then there's Sunday... the big race. After all of the usual Memorial Day festivities, most noticeable is the military fly-over, the invocation, our Nation's Anthem, the playing of Taps, and the traditional singing of "Back Home Again in Indiana" by Jim Nabors. (He played Gomer Pyle on the Andy Griffith Show), then it's time for the race, always started by those four famous words... "(Ladies &) Gentlemen, Start Your Engines!"... then a few pace and warm-up laps later it's down to racing. 500 miles, 200 laps, 800 corners (it's a rectangular track, with about 9 degrees of banking per corner, and flat in the "short chutes" and on the front and back straights). It's a relatively flat track, but for some drivers, one mistake, either on-track, or during one of many pit stops, can be the difference between winning and going home. It's a very interesting race!
(5-14-2008): Yee-Haw
I may be considered a modern-day, up-to-date, suburban American male, but that certainly doesn't mean that I don't sometimes have somewhat of a redneck side to my seemingly relaxed personality. I can relate to comedian Jeff Foxworthy, when it comes to some of his "You Might Be a Redneck If..." jokes. With my recent fascination with lawnmower racing, you could maybe add that to the list of his sometimes off-color redneck jokes. Me? I just think that lawnmower racing is not only very manly, (although there are probably plenty of women that professionally race them regularly), but to most Americans, very dangerous and very unusual. You have to be insanely physically fit and not be scared to fall off a lawnmower, in order to drive one well enough to race competitively. For me, since I have the series official computer game (also available for Xbox), (see "Sausage"), it's about the closest I've personally come to the high-speed, four-wheeled, bladeless insanity known as the United States Lawn Mower Racing Association (USLMRA). It's interesting, believe me.
On to a more emotional note. From watching the news lately, I can't help but feel sorry for not only all those helpless victims from the big earthquake in China that's killed upwards of about 10,000, with many more missing and otherwise unaccounted for; but also this food aid mess going on in Myanmar (or Burma, as some call it). Yes, the people need food, water, and the necessities of life, after the trouble they have been through in recent days. But personally, what really gets my undies in a bunch, is hearing on the news, (particularly ABC World News with Charlie Gibson, that many of these desparate men, women, and children are basically getting the leftovers, to put it plainly. Spoiled and/or stale food as well as possibly bad water, not to mention that any additional aid that may be getting in is being sifted through by their government, so that they get the better items, while the common people that desperately need this stuff, basically get what's left... the leftovers. Trust me, that's not how our Lord would have it. He gave His best for us when He gave His life on the Old Rugged Cross to pay eternally for our sins. So, we should give our best to others, which includes the desperate, hurting, hungry people of Myanmar. We should give them not only food, water, clothing, and anything else we can think of, but more importantly, the Love of Jesus and the way of Salvation!
Something for the other corrupt governments of the world to chew on. Point made, opinion voiced. Verdict in. Case Closed.
Music: [NewSong]: "Jesus to the World"
(5-2-2008): Show Him The Money
The last half of this week was very exciting for not only me, but also my favorite Gospel radio station, Joy FM. This was their share-a-thon time, which is a special time where they take six days out of each year; (three days each in the spring and fall), to ask the listeners to support the radio station with their financial gifts. Yes, it takes a lot of money to run even a Christian radio station. Joy FM is an exceptional station. Not only do they have a good quality signal in most areas, and excellent audio quality thanks to an all-digital (and digitally remastered, for the classics), computerized playlist, but they have a dedicated staff that is committed not only to playing the best in Southern Gospel music and related music programming, such as "The Gospel Greats" with Paul Heil, but also countless other locally produced programs, as well as short features by some of the best national Bible teachers and Gospel preachers in the country; but most importantly, Joy FM has a staff that is committed to serving the Lord faithfully each day through their lives, families, churches, and their own personal devotional time with God, not to mention that they will be faithful to pray for your various needs when you ask them to. That's what I like about Joy FM. The local affiliate for the area, WTTX 107.1 FM, used to be owned and operated by my local church (look under "Sausage" section). But, thanks to the lack of funds in recent years, and not to mention the bogus pledges of a few listeners that just wanted to make trouble, the station had to be sold to Positive Alternative Radio, (the parent media organization for not only Joy FM, but contemporary sister station Spirit FM). It's a shame that people would make bogus pledges to a Gospel radio station that does it's best to lift high the Blood-Stained Banner of our Lord Jesus Christ. It not only breaks the hearts of those that operate the station and other faithful listeners that send in their support pledges each month, but most importantly it breaks the heart of God Himself.
With that rabbit trailed, caught, and safely put back in his hole, I just have to say that if there are any regular readers of my blog, and I'm sure there are a bunch; that listen to Joy FM and are encouraged on a regular basis, please be sure and send in your pledge of support if you have called or sent one in on-line. The station needs your support to stay on the air proclaiming the Gospel of our Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ.
(4-25-2008): Polyg-A-Palooza
I am an emotionally sensitive man. I have to say that I feel sorry for the 400-ish children and parents that were part of the Texas compound run by polygamist sect leader Warren Jeffs. Even though he is in jail serving time, (and I pray every day that he will NEVER get out), I can't help but feel sorry for and feel sympathetic for these children. Personally, I think that being under that man's leadership and control has hurt them greatly, not only physically (since they were forced to marry and bear children at such a young age to much older men), but emotionally, and psychologically (since they were separated from their parents for the most part), and cut off from the outside world. Think about it... No television, radio, no access to a computer, video game, or even a newspaper. Personally, just the lack of my computer for even a short time in the repair shop would drive me up a freaking wall. Yes, I know I am just rambling on about my own personal feelings, but from the perspective of one of these children (as of last news check, were in Texas foster care), I can't really say just how they feel, since the whole experience has undoubtedly warped their sensitive little minds. I could probably say that they are really scared, in shock, and not to mention wondering what in the bull-doo is going on, since just being in foster care is a good case of culture shock; especially after being in the compound for pretty much their entire lives. As a Christian, I have to say that I pray that this entire mess will be sorted out as quickly as possible and that these children and their parents will be reunited soon. But, I am sure that I will be hearing a lot more about it on the news. Hearing about it just makes me want to BARF!
On a lighter note, I have to say that I enjoy blogging. Blogging allows me to freely express my personal thoughts on most anything of interest, whether it be from something I watch on TV and/or the news, hear on the radio, maybe even read on the Internet. A lot of times, however, my blog may consist of some random musings or tidbits about my own personal life... my faith, my family, myself. You never know. I guess that's what makes blogging such an interesting and expressive hobby. And, a secondary note... I will be listening to more of my iPod, since I now have a smaller speaker system. That's a definitely big yupness.
Music: [Brad Paisley]: "Online" (I heard it on the radio a few days ago, and it sort of reminds me of myself). I am a huge Country music fan.
(4-19-2008): Two And A Half Brains
I am a sitcom buff. New or old... funny or stupid... combo of all of the above. I enjoy most generally any sitcom on TV. Most notably, for me, is the CBS hit "Two and a Half Men". The character that plays the son of one of the two men obviously has more brain power than the two men combined. I just think it's outrageously funny, not to mention a little bit stupid. The show sort of reminds me of myself... funny and stupid at times.
What I would like to know is why modern day politicians seem to have about as much brain power as the two men in "Two and a Half Men". It seems like these days all they care about is raising taxes (and not to mention gas prices), and sending people up in space, when there are plenty of good quality opportunities to help out our own homeland. Think of the poor, the disabled, and the homeless. With as much money as the American politicians send up into space to fund only God knows what, we could help out plenty of people not only here, but in some of the third-world countries around our great Earth. Personally, I have nothing against space exploration, other than it is a waste of money. Sure, a lot of useful products that we Americans use every day wouldn't be here if it were not for space exploration and technological advances from NASA. But, I do think we Americans should think more about what really matters in our country.
On the lighter, more emotional side of things, I did watch the end of the candlelight vigil in Blacksburg, to mark the one year anniversary of the massacre at Virginia Tech. I don't attend the college, so I really can't say just how I feel about the whole issue of guns on campus, or how it all relates to those who are mentally challenged. As an American, I do remember those that lost their lives during the shootings. and have sympathy for their families during their time of loss and sorrow. However, as with the terrorist attacks of September, 11, I do have to say that when it comes to security on college campuses like VA Tech, we have a long way to go and a lot of work to do. VA Tech is healing, but it will take some time, just like the rest of America. God bless all of you!
Music: [Bon Jovi]: Bad Medicine
(4-13-2008): For the sake of the Olympics
I enjoy sports. This includes professional baseball, football (American NFL/Arena Football; as well as International football... soccer, to us West of the big swimming pool known as the North Atlantic Ocean), NBA, Motor Racing, (Formula One, Indy Car Series, Champ Car, some NASCAR, and maybe even some AMA Supercross or some powerboat racing thrown in). In general, I am a sports fan. Some I like better than others.
But watching the local and network station news lately makes me rethink a lot of my views about sports;... most notably the integrity of the sports. I have most noticed this during the recent coverage airing on most every network affiliate news segment concerning the Chinese-Tibetan protests during just about every Olympic Torch Relay that has taken place. Personally, I am not pulling for either side during the Olympic games... I remain neutral in their "family feud". As an American, I can't say how I really feel about the whole thing, (from an athlete's point of view), since I have and will never compete in the Olympics. But just as a common, everyday, concerned (and somewhat irate person), I have to say that personally, I have to agree with some of the news media as well as some of the other blogs and articles I have recently been reading as I have been trying to keep up with the torch's relay route and pending protests... concerning the fact that in past years, China's human rights record (as well as a few other countries), has not been all that great. Given that I am not a member of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), nor have any connection whatsoever to either the Olympic games, or to anyone sanctioning or monitoring them, I really can't give you an accurate view of whether or not we should or should not attend and/or take part in the Opening Ceremonies and/or the games themselves. That's for Jacques Rogge and the rest of the IOC guys to decide. If I were an athlete, I would just have to say that if you do compete in the games; practice well, compete to your fullest ability, and most of all, be fair and sportsmanlike. I think it was on one of the Fox News.com blogs, where some computer tech person from China said that the Olympics should be about global unity and sportsmanship through Olympic sports, but that these protests have added an unneeded political ulcer to the already insanely upset stomach of the Olympic community. This whole mess is bull-doo and really torques my jaws.
Point made, opinion voiced. There. I rest my case. Now, either kiss & make up so we can all enjoy the games; or just keep on protesting and get yourselves into some deeper and smellier legal doo-doo.
Music: (Not listening to anything as of yet, but this will most likely reflect my wide tastes in music, reflected within my cassette/CD collection, as well as in my iTunes library and my Apple iPod Shuffle playlist). Rock On, America!
(4-11-2008): Live & Well (again)
Welcome to Yupness? my website; or as a lot of sites are now, blogs. What is Yupness?, you may ask? Just a simply designed collection of my random musings, thoughts, and opinions on what goes on in my day to day life as a happy, proud, Patriotic Christian American. Sometimes I may rant, I may rave, sometimes I might even make you laugh. It's all based on whatever my opinion is on a particular subject. I don't use Word Press or any complicated design or HTML editor; so this is fairly easy to maintain for me. Feel free to browse, and be opinionated. Feel free to rant, rave, or just give your opinion (see "Contact Me" section below and check the postings page to see if your submission is up. (Mind you, they will need to be reviewed by myself for cleanliness concerning language, since this is a Christian blog.), but PLEASE, keep the foul and/or obscene language, obscenities, and other rudeness to a bare minimum. Remember, this blog is maintained by a Christian person. So I would appreciate it greatly if you visitors please try and keep it that way. More coming.