Thursday, December 29, 2011

It's What I Wanted For Christmas!

The question is the same one asked every year, "What do I want for Christmas?"

Well, this year, I actually gave it a lot of thought. Usually I don't really care what I get. I’m always grateful and happy with what folks will buy me. And the truth be known, I love the surprise of opening up gifts and seeing what folks come up with. It sure reflects how they see you – if you know what I mean!

I guess my wife thought I needed a kid’s toy last year. Last Christmas she decided to buy me a remote control car.

Now, believe me when I say that I never thought in my wildest imagination that I’d be working one of them things. No sir, not me, right? I figured that that was for kids and I’d save it for when my nieces and nephews come around.

Well, fact is that I’ve played around with the thing. I use it to frustrate our dog Jake.

Jake becomes completely helpless watching this thing buzz around, spin, reverse, and roll around the way it does. Poor dog can’t figure out whether he should bite it, chew it, or just sit on it to make it stop!

So yes, for some unknown reason, this year I was actually thinking about asking for something that I might really want and need. And yup, you can bet the ranch that I gave it some thought.

So what did I want?

Well, since I have more clothes than I can wear out, I knew I don't really need clothes. As for boots, western and construction boots, well I have enough to last me. And of course, yes there’s socks!

Socks are usually something that I can always use, except last year everyone gave my socks that now I’m good for the next twenty years at least with socks.

I thought about a new yellow rain slicker, but then again the one I have is still holding up fine. And as for a new hat, well I just bought a new Stetson to be in my friend's wedding - so I have a brand spanking new hat that hasn't even been around here but a little while. So no, I didn’t ask for either.

How about a new saddle, or bridles, breast collars, spurs, blankets, hole punches, latigo, cinches, new halters? Nope! I got everything I need there. And before you get all crazy yelling at the computer that “a man can never have enough tack!”

Well pard, I feel the same way – but I really do have a lot of tack! And when I took a long look at all the tack that I have, well I decided that maybe I should start thinking about my other likes.

What can I ask for in line with what I need to go fishing or camping, hunting, and shooting, guns, and of course Cowboy Action Shooting?

Well, I hadn't been fishing or camping in a long time and didn't know when I'd have time again for that, so I figured that fishing was out.

Of course I do need more ammo to shoot Cowboy Action Shooting. I shoot a lot so I can always use more ammo. I’m always ordering bullets and brass, so I can definitely use them.

As for the powder, the primers, the reloading equipment, and of course the “know-how” to reload my own, well that’s why I’m so grateful that my father-in-law reloads for me.

He has the reloading equipment and the “know-how” to get it done right. Besides, he loves putting those bullets in each case. He is very precise. He would've made the perfect Old World Toy Maker because of his patience and attention to detail.

So I finally had something to tell my wife about! Yes, there was something that I wanted for Christmas.

She immediately told me to write it down.

Now, let me make one thing clear, it's never safe to give a wannabe writer a piece of paper and a pen. And since my wife gave those very things to me to jot down my Christmas List, well now I had to write something more than just bullets and brass.

So since I've wanted to learn how to play a musical instrument, I decided that I needed an instrument. The problem is that I've never had any musical ability. But then again this is 2011, soon to be Twenty-Twelve, so why should a lack of musical ability stop me from playing an instrument.

Just turn on your radio to any kind of station and you're guaranteed to hear noise being passed off as "music" these days. So why should I be any different - I mean, at least I know I can't sing or play an instrument.

Maybe that's why Christmas Music is so popular! Once the radio stations turn over their broadcasts to Christmas Music, they double their listener-ship. In contrast to most music today, Christmas Music is understandable, clear, pleasant, and yes the voices are beautiful for the most part.

And as for an instrument to play, well, I thought that I wanted something nice like say a slide-trombone. So yes, I wrote "Slide-Trombone." Then I got to thinking granted a slide-trombone is a tough instrument to lug around. Besides, I really wouldn't consider a slide-trombone a soothing musical instrument.

So then I decided that since I’m willing to ask for a slide-trombone, why not just ask for a tuba for Christmas! So yes, I wrote "Tuba."  At least if you owned a tuba, you'd be able to do so many tunes. Yup, a Cowboy with a tuba on a horse riding into the sunset! Imagine that for a minute!

Of course we do have another problem. You see unknown to most people is the highly classified fact that most, if not all, tuba players can't sing a lick. So how can a cowboy sing to the cattle at night or serenade his sweetheart using a tuba?

Answer, he can't. And yes, in case you're curious, a flute and a sax both have the same problem as a tuba and slide-trombone. They just don't work out for practical purposes like serenading your sweetheart – even if you are a permanent member of a marching band.

Now a guitar, or say a mandolin, now that's a great Christmas present. But then again, they have a lot of strings. The strings can be a potential problem.

So, how about a ukulele? Half the strings, half the weight, half the size, and I played a uke in High School when I was a kid. And no, contrary to what some people want to say, I wasn't that bad with it. A ukulele is that perfect instrument in many ways. It's small, and yes it's easy to pack around. Besides, a cowboy on his horse with a uke is not out of the question at all.

I’ve always had a hard time asking for things for Christmas, especially lately in a time when most folks are short on dollars.

To me, there is a fine line between getting nothing and getting everything for Christmas. It seems to me that those people who get nothing haven’t asked for what’s important. I can thank God that I've always gotten everything for Christmas - at least everything important.

As for my Christmas, I spent Christmas Eve with my family being amazed at how my nieces and nephews are growing into adulthood. Truth is they are already adults for the most part. I love each and every one of them.

I invited a friend to spend Christmas Eve with my family and I was glad that he accepted. I have a very large family and we all get-together at my Mom’s on Christmas Eve. It’s a tradition that goes back many years. At one time many of us would go to Midnight Mass at a Catholic Church, but lately that has stopped because many of us are older and stay awake long enough.

And yes, since it is a lot of folks, it can be a bit chaotic and crazy at times. Fortunately for all, it’s all fun. It was good to hear that my friend had a great time.

On Christmas morning I gave my wife her presents and she gave me mine. All were fantastic! We lingered around the tree for a bit before getting out of our house and on the road to brother-in-law’s home for a Christmas Day get-together and dinner.

When we came home that night, we found that one of our horses, Dancer, had got out of her pen and was roaming around the property. A neighbor closed our gate to make sure she didn’t end up down the road and lost.

Afterward getting her in a pen, we both sat together on the sofa. It was an end to a long day. We talked about our horse Dancer and wondered who could have locked the gate - then we paused and said nothing for a while as we looked at our Christmas tree.

I got what I wanted and needed this Christmas. It wasn't a shirt or a new pair of gloves, it was what I watched on the faces of my family as they celebrated on Christmas Eve. The laughter, the happiness, the joy, and the fun. And yes, as they say, a good time was had by all. 

It was a gift that I wanted to see and touch. I got what I had hoped for when I saw it on the faces of the children who came to see Santa, many for the first time. And yes, there were those who waited all year to sit on his lap and tell him what they wanted.

My gift includes that wonderful feeling of having good friends.  I still can't thank one friend enough for helping me two weeks ago when I needed him on short notice and he came through to help me with a horse.

So much is painted as bleak these days. If one believes the News Media then they may believe the worse. If we believe television, then there is a real lack of hope and goodness in Americans.  I really don't believe it.

I see hope in having neighbors like Alfie Fischer and his son Vince who are willing to help a neighbor simply out of friendship. And yes, there is a goodness about folks like the Fischers that one really can't put into words. They are just good people.

It is important to know that goodness is still alive and well in America. We are being bombarded with the idea that we are at our end, and I won't accept it no matter what might be said.

Yes, I had a great Christmas because I found what is important to me. And yes, it was all I wished for. I wished for signs of love and beauty and kindness, of family closeness, of friendship and camaraderie, of a wonderful life for maybe just a single moment, and I got my wish.  

There is nothing like the night skies here in Glencoe. I can count every star if I had a mind to, point out every planet, and yes even see a satellite or two as they make their arc across the sky. I looked up into the heavens on Christmas night, and gave thanks for all that I've gotten.

 
Story by Tom Correa

Tuesday, December 27, 2011

Call for HBO Boycott because of Bill Maher's comments about Tim Tebow


So why am I taking a News story and reprinting it here? Well, this was in the News today, and I thought you might want to read about it because it just shows how Hollywood, television, and the Entertainment Industry treats Christians.

Just imagine if he were talking about a Muslim football player instead of a Christian player.  I believe, if that were the case, HBO would have jerked Maher's show faster than you can say Atheist.

Here's the article:   

Some Call for HBO Boycott in Wake of Bill Maher's Derisive Tweet About Tim Tebow

Published December 27, 2011
FoxNews.com

HBO is catching some flak in the wake of comedian Bill Maher's crack about Denver Broncos quarterback Tim Tebow.

Maher, who hosts the long-running HBO show "Real Time With Bill Maher," wrote a message on his Twitter account after the Broncos lost to the Buffalo Bills on Saturday.

"Wow, Jesus just [screwed] #TimTebow bad! And on Xmas Eve! Somewhere ... Satan is tebowing, saying to Hitler "Hey, Buffalo’s killing them."

Tebow had thrown four interceptions in his team's Christmas Eve loss to the Bills, which prompted Maher's remark.

Tebow did not respond to Maher, but now some fans are calling for a boycott of HBO, urging customers to cancel their subscriptions, Yahoo! Sports reports.

Tebow has made it clear he believes in God, and some (including Tebow's own pastor) have said God is due some credit for the Broncos' surprise winning season with him running the offense. Many were surprsied when he was given the starting quarterback job as Tebow is an unorthodox quarterback with a below average arm that he overcomes with scrappiness and grit. The prayer he says in the end zone after scoring a touchdown has been dubbed "Tebowing," as the quarterback has become a national sensation.

Maher is an avowed Atheist. His "Real Time with Bill Maher," returns with new episodes on January 13, 2012.

--- end of article.

I have no idea why such a disturbed individual can have his own television show.  It seems to me that Bill Maher is a perfect representation of the anti-Christian Liberal Left in America. 

Americans who are non-Christians are such a some percentage of the American people.  I don't understand how such a small percentage of the American people can have such a prominent voice in what is presented to us on television. 
Boycotting HBO is a start.  Other shows who attack and/or mock Christians should be boycotted as well.

That's just how I see it!

Story by Tom Correa

Wednesday, December 21, 2011

The Nature Of Things Today



















Below is a great letter to the Editor that I believe deserves reprinting:











That's just how I see it!

Story by Tom Correa


Sunday, December 18, 2011

The Christmas Story - From The Book Of Luke


In the sixth month, God sent the angel Gabriel to Nazareth, a town in Galilee, to a virgin pledged to be married to a man named Joseph, a descendant of David. The virgin's name was Mary. The angel went to her and said, "Greetings, you who are highly favored! The Lord is with you."

Mary was greatly troubled at his words and wondered what kind of greeting this might be. But the angel said to her, "Do not be afraid, Mary, you have found favor with God. You will be with child and give birth to a son, and you are to give him the name Jesus. He will be great and will be called the Son of the Most High. The Lord God will give him the throne of his father David, and he will reign over the house of Jacob forever; his kingdom will never end."

"How will this be," Mary asked the angel, "since I am a virgin?"

The angel answered, "The Holy Spirit will come upon you, and the power of the Most High will overshadow you. So the holy one to be born will be called the Son of God. Even Elizabeth your relative is going to have a child in her old age, and she who was said to be barren is in her sixth month. For nothing is impossible with God."

"I am the Lord's servant," Mary answered. "May it be to me as you have said." Then the angel left her.

At that time Mary got ready and hurried to a town in the hill country of Judea, where she entered Zechariah's home and greeted Elizabeth. When Elizabeth heard Mary's greeting, the baby leaped in her womb, and Elizabeth was filled with the Holy Spirit. In a loud voice she exclaimed: "Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the child you will bear! But why am I so favored, that the mother of my Lord should come to me? As soon as the sound of your greeting reached my ears, the baby in my womb leaped for joy. Blessed is she who has believed that what the Lord has said to her will be accomplished!"

And Mary said: "My soul glorifies the Lord and my spirit rejoices in God my Savior, for he has been mindful of the humble state of his servant. From now on all generations will call me blessed, for the Mighty One has done great things for me--holy is his name. His mercy extends to those who fear him, from generation to generation. He has performed mighty deeds with his arm; he has scattered those who are proud in their inmost thoughts. He has brought down rulers from their thrones but has lifted up the humble. He has filled the hungry with good things but has sent the rich away empty. He has helped his servant Israel, remembering to be merciful to Abraham and his descendants forever, even as he said to our fathers."

Mary stayed with Elizabeth for about three months and then returned home.

In those days Caesar Augustus issued a decree that a census should be taken of the entire Roman world. This was the first census that took place while Quirinius was governor of Syria.  And everyone went to his own town to register.

So Joseph also went up from the town of Nazareth in Galilee to Judea, to Bethlehem the town of David, because he belonged to the house and line of David. He went there to register with Mary, who was pledged to be married to him and was expecting a child.  While they were there, the time came for the baby to be born, and she gave birth to her firstborn, a son.  She wrapped him in cloths and placed him in a manger, because there was no room for them in the inn.

And there were shepherds living out in the fields nearby, keeping watch over their flocks at night.

An angel of the Lord appeared to them, and the glory of the Lord shone around them, and they were terrified. But the angel said to them, "Do not be afraid. I bring you good news of great joy that will be for all the people. Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is Christ the Lord.  This will be a sign to you: You will find a baby wrapped in cloths and lying in a manger."

Suddenly a great company of the heavenly host appeared with the angel, praising God and saying, "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to men on whom his favor rests."

When the angels had left them and gone into heaven, the shepherds said to one another, "Let's go to Bethlehem and see this thing that has happened, which the Lord has told us about."

So they hurried off and found Mary and Joseph, and the baby, who was lying in the manger. When they had seen him, they spread the word concerning what had been told them about this child, and all who heard it were amazed at what the shepherds said to them. But Mary treasured up all these things and pondered them in her heart. The shepherds returned, glorifying and praising God for all the things they had heard and seen, which were just as they had been told.

On the eighth day, when it was time to circumcise him, he was named Jesus, the name the angel had given him before he had been conceived. When the time of their purification according to the Law of Moses had been completed, Joseph and Mary took him to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord (as it is written in the Law of the Lord, "Every firstborn male is to be consecrated to the Lord"), and to offer a sacrifice in keeping with what is said in the Law of the Lord: "a pair of doves or two young pigeons."

Now there was a man in Jerusalem called Simeon, who was righteous and devout. He was waiting for the consolation of Israel, and the Holy Spirit was upon him. It had been revealed to him by the Holy Spirit that he would not die before he had seen the Lord's Christ. Moved by the Spirit, he went into the temple courts. When the parents brought in the child Jesus to do for him what the custom of the Law required, Simeon took him in his arms and praised God, saying: "Sovereign Lord, as you have promised, you now dismiss your servant in peace. For my eyes have seen your salvation, which you have prepared in the sight of all people, a light for revelation to the Gentiles and for glory to your people Israel."

The child's father and mother marveled at what was said about him. Then Simeon blessed them and said to Mary, his mother: "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too."

There was also a prophetess, Anna, the daughter of Phanuel, of the tribe of Asher. She was very old; she had lived with her husband seven years after her marriage, and then was a widow until she was eighty-four. She never left the temple but worshiped night and day, fasting and praying. Coming up to them at that very moment, she gave thanks to God and spoke about the child to all who were looking forward to the redemption of Jerusalem.

When Joseph and Mary had done everything required by the Law of the Lord, they returned to Galilee to their own town of Nazareth. And the child grew and became strong; he was filled with wisdom, and the grace of God was upon him.

- Luke 1:26 - 2:40

Friday, December 16, 2011

Some People Are Just Jerks

On December 15th, American Airlines decided to fire back at ultra-left actor Alec Baldwin for his disparaging comments regarding that airline.

A morning after the liberal actor was booted off a flight in Los Angeles for using his cell phone after the doors had closed, Alec Baldwin started disparaging the bankrupt carrier via his Twitter account.

But now, well let's just say that American Airlines isn't taking this sitting down.

American Airlines said on its Facebook page that "since an extremely vocal customer has publicly identified himself as being removed from an American Airlines flight, we have elected to provide the actual facts of the matter."

While the actor claims that he was just playing a game, the airline noted that when after being told repeatedly to turn off the device - Alec Baldwin got up and bolted for the lavatory. 

Then, believe it or not, Baldwin decided to stay locked in the lavatory even after the seat-belt sign was activated.  In fact, on his way into the lavatory, he slammed the door so loud that it was enough to actually alarm the crew.

In addition, American Airlines said that Alec Baldwin had been "extremely rude" to the crew and "used offensive language" prior to being removed from the flight.

Such a Nice Guy!

And talk about nice guys!

In Aberdeen, Mississippi, a federal judge has postponed the trial of a man accused of shooting an American Bald Eagle.  Yes, American Bald Eagles are protected under federal law. 

The basic problem in the world is that there are people out there who don't care what they do.  It doesn't matter to a lot of folks whether something is illegal or not, or morally right or not.

William "Bill" Branum of Iuka, Mississippi, is the individual accused of shooting the American Bald Eagle on March 31st of this year.

Yes, justice moves slow as his trial had been scheduled to being January 9th of next year. Branum's attorney asked for the delay so he could have more time to prepare for the trial. 

Please don't write me asking how a lawyer prepares to defend someone for shooting an American Bald Eagle! 

Lawyers being lawyers, they might come up with some lame excuse like the saying that the symbol of America just happen to fly in front of Branum's rifle sights at the exact moment the alleged eagle killer was squeezing the trigger. I mean who knows really what a lawyer will come up with.

At his arraignment on November 17th in U.S. District Court in Aberdeen believe it or not, Branum pleaded not guilty. If convicted, Branum faces up to 18 months in prison and a $200,000 fine.

Since it's a federal crime, too bad he's not a millionaire baseball player, if he was he might get off with probation - but that's another story.

I have a feeling that the shot Branum took will be one expensive shot!

And this is from Portland, Oregon! 

It's being reported that four canines had been subpoenaed to appear in Multnomah County Circuit Court for the trial this week of two Portland residents accused of neglecting them.

Prosecutors accused Wayne Martin and Layne Woods of failing to give two of the dogs adequate veterinary care. So here it comes, defense attorney Chris O'Connor subpoenaed the dogs to demonstrate that they were in good shape. Imagine that!

So yes, Jurors on Tuesday took a long look at Merlin, Patches, Coco and Raven on the witness stand. It was reported that Raven slobbered a bit, but the court rug hid the spot.

Dog gone it, that's strange - even for Oregon!

And from New York!

The Brooklyn Judge who unleashed a violent ex-con just weeks before he killed a cop was a no-show at work yesterday. Imagine that!

Judge Evelyn Laporte was nowhere to be found in Brooklyn Criminal Court as several City Council members called her decision to release career criminal Lamont Pride without bail after his arrest last month on drug charges.

Even though there was a warrant out for Pride's arrest when he was busted on November 3rd in New York for crack and pot possession, Judge Laporte ignored the pleas of prosecutors for a $2,500 bail.

The warrant that was out on Pride was issued by North Carolina for an August shooting no less.  And this guy Pride, who is 27 years of age, is the jerk being accused of gunning down Officer Peter Figoski during a Brooklyn home invasion on Monday.
 
It's a fact that Lady Justice is always depicted with a blindfold, but now it seems that this judge is trying to say justice is stupid as well.

More out of New York! 

A group of New York High School students a reportedly being suspended for "Tebowing". 

Reports say that there is a "Tim Tebow Mania" sweeping the nation. Supposedly kids across the America are mimicking the Denver Bronco quarterback's famous Christian prayer pose.

I know this has to be aggravating liberal teachers and principals who are usually Atheist in their own right. It is probably the reason that led to the suspension of New York high school students.

Twin brothers Tyler and Connor Carroll of Riverhead HS in Long Island, and classmates Jordan Fulcoly and Wayne Drexel, were hit with one-day suspensions for kneeling and bowing their heads like Tebow does when he scores a touchdown - this reported by the New York Post. 

Supposedly the week long "Tebowing Craze" was a distraction and a hallway hazard after dozens of classmates followed their lead, administrators told the newspaper.

The brothers have to serve their suspensions, while the others were rescinded because the other participants had not been given warnings, officials said.  In all, about 40 students had gathering in the hallway all week emulating Tebow's Christian prayer pose.

School administrators said "the stunt jammed the hallway, creating a fire hazard."

"This is not about religious discrimination," Riverhead School District Superintendent Nancy Carney told the Post.  "It is about being sure kids are able to get to class on time and keeping the kids safe and orderly." 

I can't help but wonder if Riverhead School District Superintendent Nancy Carney would find the same problem with students who were involved in the Occupy protest.

Now let's talk about crime and baseball!

Millionaire baseball player Barry Bonds, who was found guilty of obstructing justice stemming from the 2003 federal steroid investigation, has just been sentenced to 30 days of house arrest.

Imagine that! Bonds could have faced a maximum of 10 years in Federal Prison for his Obstruction Of Justice conviction for lying to a grand jury during a 2003 federal investigation into steroid use by MLB players.

But no, besides a slap on the wrist by having to stay in his mansion for 30 days - Bonds was also sentenced today to two years probation.

Of course since I don't know Barry Bonds, other than knowing that he had supposedly used illegal steroids to get into home-run history, I don't know if Bonds is a jerk or not. But I do know one thing, he sure got off lightly considering Bonds committed a Felony!

And yes, he was convicted of a Federal Felony at that!

Last but not least!

So now, since Bonds gets of light with just a slap on the wrist, where are the Occupy protesters who have made it their mission to take on Millionaire abuse of the system.

The Occupy idiots have had a huge impact! Too bad their sorry movement has had a huge negative impact on Blue-Collar workers more than anyone else - but their negative effect on the American economy is not only limited to everyday Americans. 

It's true! The Occupy protesters have cost everyday Americans loss wages and subsequently have done nothing but hurt the average American out there.  They have had a horrible effect on money-strapped cities across America.

How? By costing those cities all sorts of cash in Police and Fire overtime, trash cleanup and collection, and other city services connected to their protests.  Can you imagine how much money was spent on preventing them from looting and burning?  Can you imagine the loss of services to Seniors and the needy because of the money spent on there bullspit? 

Needed dollars that could have gone to good use, instead went to their leftist cause.  I can't help but wonder if that's what they were trying to do, and bankrupt cities that were trying to keep their heads above water.  If so, in many places where the Occupy protesters had been -  they can say "Mission Accomplished!"

And since I'm on the Occupy jerks, why aren't the Occupy protesters and their Labor Union allies protesting multi-millionaire sports felons like Barry Bonds, or lousy anti-American filmmakers like Michael Moore, or horrible ultra-left actors like Alec Baldwin? 

Why? Well, it's because Barry Bonds, Michael Moore, and Alec Baldwin are the types of people who support the Occupy protesters. You see that's how liberal hypocrites do things -  they support each other!




Story by Tom Correa

Thursday, December 15, 2011

America is a Christian Nation

If not by law, then certainly through practice!

Poll after poll after poll, research all concludes, fact is fact, Americans believe in God and are Christians.

Liberal Atheists try to disprove it. But it's the truth: approximately 90% of all Americans say they "believe in God," and of those Americans approximately 80% of them are Christians. 

When Americans are asked if they believe in God, here are their answers. When asked if they "Believe in God"? Well, 72% say that they are "Absolutely Certain" while 18% say that they are "Fairly Certain" that God exists.

And how do Americans identify themselves by Religion, well the chart to the right is how they answer.

Eight traditional religions such as Buddhist, Hindu, Jehovah's Witness, Muslim, Orthodox, Other Christian, Other Faiths and Other World Religions constitute less than 5% of the population in nearly every state.

In the United States, we have a total of 1.6% of our people who've declared themselves Atheist. Another 2.4% are Agnostic.

These are some interesting numbers when we consider that in the United States of America, there are 2,454,000 Muslims which means that they are 0.6% of the American population.  In Great Britain, there are 1,647,000 Muslims, a full 2.7% of the population there.

So why does a nation, that has about 80% of its people claiming to be Christian, surrender its religious freedoms and rights, like openly displaying ornaments or nativity scenes, to the 1.6% who are Atheists and the tiny population of 0.6% who are Muslims? 

How does a nation that is predominately Christian find Judges willing to make rulings using Muslim Sharia Law when Religious Law of any sort is in itself illegal to use in the United States under our form of Government? 

And we're not alone, if you think this is only happening here in the United States, Great Britain is on the road of a two-tier justice system - Civil and Religious - by openly observing the radical Muslim laws known as Sharia Law.  It is insanity! 

And yes, the Brits don't seem to care enough to rid themselves of this new black plague which is attacking all of Europe, one country at a time!

So how can a small percentage of Muslims rule over the rest in Britain?  How does a nation lose its guts to fight for the religious principles that has given it strength during the hardest of times?  How does a great nation like Great Britain lose it's desire to stay free and observe its own set of laws?  Why has Christian Britain turned it's back on the core basis for it's rules of law? 

We should learn from what is happening in Great Britain.  We should learn what happens when we elect people who work contrary to the basic best interest of their people.  America's Christian heritage should not be forgotten. 

President John Quincy Adams, our 6th president, said, "The greatest glory of the American Revolution was this: It connected in one indissoluble bond, the principles of civil government with the principles of Christianity."

It's true, for well over 235 years, America have shown the world that we have had the ability to meld together the principles of Civil Government with the principles of Christianity - and make it work for all. 

We, as a nation, did not turn to the laws that guide the Christian Church, Canon Law, but instead used Christian principles to guide our hands when writing our laws.   

The first being the Golden Rule: "Do onto others as you would have them do onto you." And the second, "Do not seek revenge or bear a grudge against one of your people, but love your neighbor as yourself."

As Christians, our Founding Fathers agreed on the value and dignity of human life, the need to recognize the works and needs of the individual, the value of human labor, and on our ability to gain happiness while being charitable toward the next person. 

They understood the parable of the Good Samaritan,  

He, who is your neighbor, the Good Samaritan.  He who helps a stranger and asks for nothing in return.  He is derived from the parable that Jesus Christ told the young lawyer.  Today many hospitals and charitable organizations are named after the Good Samaritan.

Our Founding Fathers were realist and pragmatist, they knew Civil Law and one's obedience to those laws must depend on ones sense of right and wrong.  It is from our Christian heritage that we understand the teachings that enable us to have the proper understanding of what is right and wrong. 

American Christians understand that God expects us to use our intelligence. 

According to the Holy Bible, God says, "I will instruct you and teach you in the way you should go; I will counsel you and watch over you. Do not be like the horse or the mule, which have no understanding but must be controlled by bit and bridle" (Psalm 32:8,9). 

While horses and mules need to be forcibly controlled to get them to respond. Christ expects us, however, to use our intelligence and ability to reason. this is the difference between a Christian nation and a Muslim nation.  One has laws based on the Christian principles of compassion while the other has laws born out of an Islamic code of hate and murder. 

Don't believe me? Then just look to the stoning of Muslims for petty crimes, and the mutilation of Muslim women for what is hardy crime at all.

Because Christianity was the guiding factor for our Founding Fathers, we have been a Christian nation from our conception.  It is our identity at our core because it has everything to do with our beliefs as Americans. 

It has everything to do with a nation based on Christian ideals such as love and understanding.  It is a fact that Liberals may hate to recognize, but American values and morals came from Christian values and morals.

Fact is, it is common knowledge that our cherished American values are identical to Christian values. Our founding principles like life, liberty, the pursuit of happiness, our freedoms of speech and religion, all that are enshrined in our nation's founding documents are all based on Christian principles.

Yes, if not by law, then certainly through practice, America is a Christian nation. And yes, our American values, what makes us different from the world, was indeed first drawn from Christian perspectives of how life should be.

And for those unfamiliar with where it started, it was in a far off land long long ago ...




Story by Tom Correa

Thursday, December 8, 2011

Exercise Your Freedom - Say Merry Christmas!

As the years pass, I've found that I don't like it when people try to tell me what to do. 

Call me ornery! Call me stubborn! Call me hard headed! Call me tough to get along with, if you'd like, although anyone who knows me will tell you that I'm very easy to get along with. 

I like a joke, a good story, even a tall tale is great - I love them all.  But if there is one thing that I don't like, it's someone telling me what I can and I can't say or do.  Even more so, when I know I'm right and not doing anything wrong or offensive. 

Granted, in my younger years, I was told once or twice to hold it down during a party with friends. And yes, I still remember that time when I was asked to curb my cussin' when women and children were present. A little embarrassing to say the least, but honestly I'm still sticking to my story that I really didn't know that they were there. 

Heck, if I had known, well then I really don't think that I'd have ever used some of the colorful language that I used - even if I was talking with a few other former Marines.

So yes, as for vulgar speech goes, I do try to hold it down.  I'm a big believer in being courteous, most Americans are actually.  Most Americans work to get along with others. Most Americans, contrary to what we see coming out of Hollywood, really are not as vulgar as the movies paint us to be.

I see nothing vulgar or obscene about wishing a person Merry Christmas, after all, this is the season to be Merry.  It is the season Christian Americans celebrate Christmas. Actually to be more accurate about the facts, this is the season when all the world celebrates Christmas.

And yes, I know full well that many non-Christians also recognize and celebrate Christmas not for the religious aspect but for it's cultural aspect.  Whether the Liberals and Atheist like it or not, Christmas is an American tradition - and yes, along with the rest of the world, Americans celebrate Christmas.

Let me try to explain this so that Liberals will understand it. The vast majority of Americans are Christians and we celebrate this time of year - not because of Winter Solstice or some pagan ritual - we celebrate Christmas to rejoice and remember the birth of Jesus Christ. 

It is just that simply really. I say Merry Christmas!  It's no secret that I'm a Catholic, and subsequently a Christian.  We Christian don't stop other from celebrating their beliefs.  We ant the same respect handed to us in return.

Christian Americans don't need to be secretive or ashamed about their religious beliefs.  In fact, all Americans of all faiths don't need to hide their beliefs.  It goes against our whole nationality as Americans to be ashamed of our religious beliefs. 

That's right! As Americans, we should not be expected to hide our personal beliefs, religious or political, because of the thin skin sensitivities of others who need convincing that we respect their beliefs.  And yes. we should not be mocked or attacked for our religion as well. 

It may be popular to attack and make fun of Christians on television and in the movies, in the classroom, in the workplace, in sports and in art, but that does not make it right!

We seem to forget that we are a nation born out of people looking for a place to express their religious beliefs without fear of persecution or prosecution.  It would be a shame to think that a small percentage of liberal atheist in government can assume that they are better than us - and subsequently Lord over the rest of us by imposing their non-believing ideology upon us.

Americans traditionally hate those who think they are better or smarter or wiser than the rest of us. The biggest problem with Liberals is that they fit that bill to a tee!

I say Merry Christmas to everyone so that they too can feel good about the season. And yes, I also say it so that they understand that it's really OK to celebrate the birth of the son of God - he who ultimately died on the cross so that our sins can be forgiven.

I'm no priest or reverend. I'm just an old cowboy, a former Marine, a man who has seen the strength and love that Christ can give when times were hard and troubles surround you.  I'm not preaching, in fact, I've never been able to stay awake through most sermons. Maybe that's why I don't go to church very often.

Fact is that I've see the wonders of God in the mountains and at sea, atop a horse in the back country and moving cattle, and holding a new nephew and niece. I've seen God's wonder when I visited New York City and visited the Statue of Liberty and went to the observation deck of the Empire State Building. 

I've seen the wonder of God in the faces of people like Doctor Alabama who recently treated my leg, to the young women on stage who sang their hearts out last night in the play I attended, and yes in the sound of a crying child who wakes hungry.

I'm an American, I say Merry Christmas because it is my right and I am free to say it.  Not only because it irks Liberals to hear it being said, but mostly because it has a bigger meaning then they realize. It is a handshake and a smile. It is warmth and something real when said from the heart.  

I say Merry Christmas because it is the proper thing to say, and yes, like I said before - I really don't like someone telling me what I can and cannot say.

I see no reason that a Christian store clerk or Christian bus driver or Christian police officer is forbidden from saying Merry Christmas because some manager finds it offensive. I don't like the idea that a store manager, like the one in charge of our local WalMart, thinks he can order his employees to stop saying Merry Christmas. 

What gives him that right to do that?  Who gave him the power to forbid others from celebrating their religion in the way that they want to?  I think it is offensive to everyone, Christian and non-Christian alike.

Why non-Christians as well? It's because limiting what your employees can and cannot say isn't right.  It builds resentment and bitterness. And yes, it might only effect Christians and Christmas today - but who and what will it effect tomorrow? 

Besides, telling a person, any person, what they can and can't say goes against everything that is American!  It is shameful behavior on the part of management and should not be put up with - by the employees or the prospective customers. 

I know that employees have to take it, especially in a bad economy when jobs are hard to come by. But customers don't have to shop at a store that treats their employees and customers without respect.  And after all, it's not a good sign of good management or basic citizenship to refuse your employees the ability to express their religious beliefs in just a few words that are not offensive.

To deny any American their right to excersise their religious freedom is to deny them of the basics of dignity as people. As a prospective customer, I'll take my hard earned dollars somewhere else that respects its employees and me. And just for the record, even if I were not a Christian, I would feel the same way about taking my dollars else where.

Why?  Because to say Merry Christmas is not hard to do. Basically most say Merry Christmas as a simple gesture of peace and love and good will toward others.

It shouldn't matter if I'm a Catholic, or if I'm a Christian, or if I'm free to do so as an American. If I were not a Christian, I believe that I would still say Merry Christmas because there is nothing wrong with saying it. 
 
Some, like me, also say Merry Christmas because they've realized that it irks Liberals to no end!  It irks them because it says to them that they don't have complete control. They believe themselves to be superior and want to dictate to all of us how we should act and what we can and can't say. 
 
For me, all I can say is that if they think they can tell me what I can and can't say! Well, like Hell they can!

Americans don't do well with Dictators. In all of our history, yes we have avoided having a Dictator as the head of our Federal government. We have avoided them because we have seen the result of their work. 

Seventy years ago, on December 7th 1941, Americans were attacked by the dictatorial regime of the Japanese empire. A few days later on December 11th 1941, a former wall paper hanger turned dictator Adolf Hitler declares War on America.

Americans have fought dictators and stopped them.  Americans naturally don't like our freedoms abused and trampled on by anyone, but especially by those who think for some unknown reason that they have some right to tell us how to live.

I say Merry Christmas for a lot of reason, and yes mostly because it is that time of year, but I also say Merry Christmas because I don't like anyone messing with my freedoms or dictating to me what I can and can't do.

If you feel the same way, say Merry Christmas and declare yourself free to do so.



May God Bless you and yours during Christmas and all year round!  

Tom Correa

Wednesday, December 7, 2011

Liberals Wage War On Christmas!

The liberal crazies are loose and attacking anything even slightly related to Christmas! 

In Forth Worth, Texas, students and parents are outraged after their school district declared that Christmas celebrations – including Santa Claus - would no longer be allowed during the school day.

Yes, the Fort Worth Independent School District also banned students exchanging Christmas gifts after they determined that public schools could no longer "endorse or sponsor any religious activity or doctrine."

If they can't endorse, then I don't see why the Fort Worth Independent School District couldn't just respect that these Christian children have rights to celebrate Christmas between them and other Christian kids.

Someone had to try to explain the insanity at the Fort Worth Independent School District, so a spokesman for the school district actually had the job of saying the words. 

The words? What words? Well the words behind the real reason for all of the blatant attacks on Christians and especially Christmas these days. 

You see, the Fort Worth Independent School District spokesman told Fox News that "in an effort to be Politically Correct" - Teachers are not allowed to "post something that would foster or promote or impugn one doctrine or religion over another – or even give that impression."

Liberal idealism is the poison we call "Political Correctness," and "Political Correctness" is their number one weapon used to attack Christmas and all Christian holidays.

In Stockton, California, one school is finding itself at the center of the annual war on Christmas debate after teachers were told that they won’t be allowed to display Santa, Christmas trees, or even Poinsettia plants this year.

Supposedly, the ban is intended to prevent religious discrimination. Imagine that, the ban is intended to prevent religious discrimination by discriminating against Christians. 

Supposedly there is a district wide bulletin that was sent to teachers, many have reportedly received it.  It purportedly says that teachers are allowed to decorate with "benign snowflakes and snowmen," as these items "are safe and not attached to religion."

The document apparently read, "District office would like to remind everyone when displaying holiday decorations in and around school to be mindful no association to any religious affiliation i.e. Santa, poinsettias, Christmas trees, etc."


The Claudia Landeen School, part of the Lincoln Unified School District, is a kindergarten through grade eight public school. District Superintendent Tom Uslan explained the reasoning behind the ban, saying that the Lincoln Unified School District believes that since there are a "myriad of religious affiliations at the school we don’t want a pervasive theme of a class to represent one religious affiliation."

Interestingly enough, District Superintendent Tom Uslan claims that there have been no complaints at the school thus far. In fact, the ban went into effect as a pre-emptive attack.

The Lincoln Unified School District decided to ban Christmas for Christian children before there was even a single complaint.

Imagine that! They banned Christmas for their Christian students even though it hasn't offended anyone! Does that sound like good management? Not to me.

A spokesperson for the district, though, denied that a letter or communication had been sent to teachers, but did say, "There was a conversation to encourage administrators that each of our employees should enjoy their religious freedoms but we don’t want to have a pervasive theme of a classroom or public office to represent a specific religious affiliation unless we are formally teaching topics regarding those affiliations."

So the question becomes, with that said, does that mean teachers can decorate their classrooms with Santa Claus and poinsettias? The short answer is no!

Fact is that regardless as to whether a letter was sent or not, the spokesperson reiterated that religious elements cannot be "the pervasive theme" in classrooms - which means that one culture cannot trump another at a public school.  At least that's the excuse that liberal educators and policy makers want us to believe.

And by the way, the definition of "pervasive theme" may be sort of difficult to pin down. But then again, maybe not! 

After all, not very long ago California had a week of "Islamic studies" where all of the students - even those of other religions - had to dress as Muslims and learn about Islam, and learn about their religious and political agenda, and even attend a Mosque. 

What would have happened if a Christian student would have objected? 

From what I have seen these days, he would have probably been disciplined and maybe suspended from school for not adhering to the school's "political correct" agenda. 

No, this isn't about "being sensitive" to the religion of others. It's all about control and dismantling a Christian America. 

It is all about a liberal atheist desire to eliminate Christmas from America.  And no, to the Liberal Left, facts don't matter!

Especially when confronted with facts that show that approximately 90% of all Americans believe in God - or facts that show that approximately 80% of all Americans are Christians.

Christmas is part of our fabric of America. It is woven into our American Culture.

And sorry Mr Obama, but facts are facts, and the fact is "America is a Christian Nation."    

It is just that simple, and yes, it is a time of year when most all Americans celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ.

The war on Christmas seems to get worse every year.  But then again, this war is no different that any other attack on America.  It is designed to cut away at our traditions and our values. 

It is designed to demoralize Americans.  

It is organized by the Liberal left who hate commercialism and Capitalism.  Liberals see it as a mission, as their life's work, to end Christmas and a Christian's ability to worship.

The war is being waged to deprive our children of American traditions. And yes, attacking Christians and Christmas is all part of their agenda.  

If they get their way and remove religion and traditions, remove traditional marriage, fuel hate for America, and work to make harmful drugs even more available through legislation, then they accomplish their mission of breaking down the American family unit - and subsequently blacken American society. 

No Jesus, no Santa, no Christmas, no America. All goals of American Liberalism - a truly toxic ideology.

Story by Tom Correa

Wednesday, November 23, 2011

Be Thankful - There's A Lot To Be Thankful For!

There are a lot of things that I'm thankful for this year. 

Among the things that I'm thankful for is that my Mom's health is good as can be expected for 77 years old.  It is great to see my Mom so active and surrounded by a great group of friends. 

She enjoys the card games, the bunko games, the lunches, the time together, it is a a great thing to see her happy.  She deserves it. 

Life is not always fair, and my mom paid her dues in many ways.  It's nice to see that my grandfather was right when he said, "God doesn't sleep. He takes care those who have earned it - either way." 

My mom has earned a good life. And yes, I'm thankful that now she's living the life she was denied for so long.  No one should be denied being happy. 

My wife is a good woman. I met her right after my divorce and she has been both friend and wonderful companion ever since.  I didn't know how she would like living out here in the so-called "boonies."  Yes, Glencoe is considered the Boonies by many - even out here.

Glencoe is definitely the country, but it's also the mountains - and yes, some say we are the "back woods" or the "back country."  Our population hasn't changed much in years, in fact we keep being threatened with loosing our Post Office because our population is so small.   And coming from the Bay Area, my wife has had to make adjustments.

I'm thankful that she has.  Like a fish taking to water, like a horse to hay, like a country-girl waiting to be shown a place of her own, she is happy out here.

My grandfather once told me that a man was more than just someone who could drink and fight.  He said a man is someone who can take care of his responsibilities before himself, and that caring that his family was well cared for was really the true test of being a man.  So yes, no kidding, I'm very thankful that she is happy here.

I'm thankful that my In-Laws are great people, and yes, I thank God that we get along so well.  It is the truth that I actually start missing them right after they leave for home after visiting for a weekend.  They like it up here, the quiet appeals to them, the freedom and space, I know it feels like their private Bed and Breakfast.

Where my father-in-law comes up and has to unwind some when he first gets here, that's not the way it is for my mother-in-law.  He's a good guy and friend, a shooter, a smart man, knows more than most mechanical engineers that I've known, and he definitely has a sense of humor that can be over the top sometimes -  but then again, can't we all.  Yes, he is a good guy. 

My mother-in-law takes in the mountains as if she were born in them.  It might me her Kentucky heritage, American Indian blood, her all American "We can do it" attitude, he closeness to her daughter that makes her at home here.  And yes my friends, having family feel at home in my home is a big deal to me.  I'm thankful that that is the way things are around here.

I've been here in Glencoe over a decade now, and it's only been in the last 2 years that I've gotten to know more of the folks around these parts.  Mostly its due to my volunteering at the American Legion, and yes being volunteered for a position within the post has made a big difference to how busy I am with the post.

I'm thankful for so much these days.  Sure this year I've had another concussion from another fall from a horse, screwed up my neck and shoulder after Murphy whacked me a good one, and of course a week ago I just about broke my leg. 

But really, I'm still thankful.  I have friends like Curtis Janto who asked me to a part of his wedding.  I was shocked that he'd want to old codger in his wedding party, after all, he is old enough to be my son.  But I was part6 of their beautiful day, and I feel blessed to have been a part of it. 

I talked with Curtis a few days ago, we laughed about this and that - but I can tell he is now taking his new role as husband in the right way.  He is a good man, and his dad Mike has all the reasons in the world to be proud of him. 

Curtis has the ability to right himself when things are not going in a positive manner.  That in itself takes a real talent to do.  It is done by first letting go of what is throwing you off center and grabbing onto what you need to right yourself.  Identifying which is which is part of the trick.  Saying to yourself that you were wrong about something and making changes to get on the correct path can be difficult.  Most times egos get in the way, but seeing the harm that might take place if you don't make things right - that can motivate you into action. 

Obama has none of these abilities, but thank God that Curtis does.  Curtis can see what he needs that to do to get ahead, and that will make him a good provider and husband.  He will always be a great son and friend, and yes I'm thankful for that.

Then there's Larry Bruns and Steve Duman.  They put up with my crazy ideas at the post.  And yes, I'm very thankful that we got the post painted and have we've now started on the kitchen.  It is amazing to think what can be done with the right eye and attitude. 

Those who see what needs to be done, and have the attitude that they themselves can do it, even alone if have to, they get things done.  That attitude is always a magnet to those like minded people who have the same desire.  And yes, I'm very thankful that Larry and Steve are like minded great friends. 

As Second Vice Commander of our post, I'm in charge of the bar and the kitchen - and volunteers make it go. So yes, I'm very thankful that Chris stepped forward to help. He really is my saving grace around there.

Talking about Steve Duman, he showed up on my property this morning.  He said he knew that I've bummed up my leg and that I might need some help.  He knew that I've needed some help to get my barn squared away.  Today, with his help, we did just that and everything looks great.  I couldn't thank him enough. 

I told him so and Steve simply said, "that's what friends do for friends!"  Hes' right, and I'm thankful for his friendship.  He is one great guy!

I find solace in seeing that our little piece of the world up here is fairly squared away.  Most folks up here work to keep it that way.  Sure some call us "Hicks" - but so what!  Heck, I've been called a lot worse than that - even lately as a matter of fact. 

Yes, even our small American Legion post has its problems.  Minor usually, nothing big really. Lately it's with a fouled mouth individual who has pushed the envelope for a long time now. 

He is around 65, and surprisingly he still hasn't learned the real facts about swearing.  Fact is that I'm sort of shocked that he has never learned that foul language and swearing up a storm loses its shock value after you use it more than once or twice.   And really, people really stop paying attention to what you're saying - and really start paying more attention to what kind of ignorant boob you are when you swear every other word. 

Of course, if your parents swore a lot than it's probably true that you swear a lot. And of course if you were in the military, than you probably perfected your swearing to an art form.  And that was probably great when you were talking with other 18 to 20 year olds who all probably talked just like you, but of course your probably weren't around women and children when you talked like that.  If it was, or is, then too bad and shame on you.

But for a man in his mid 60s, you would think that at some point in his life that he would have had to deal with regular people - you know, adults?  I mean, I remember going home on leave once while I was in the Marine Corps and saying "pass the #$%@& the potatoes" at my mom's dinner table. 

I remember how that was an educational experience - to say the least.  It was an instant awakening to what is OK around my Marine buddies, and what was not OK around everyone else.  I never forgot the lesson or the embarrassment.

But even in the Marine Corps, I remember finding out that there was a difference between swearing a blue streak when we were out in the field as a young Lance Corporal - and later attending a Platoon Commanders meeting with all Staff NCO and Officers in attendance.  I learned quickly that when in Rome, try to show a little Class.  Besides, I found out that no one really pays any attention to you if you use nothing but foul language. 

As for foul language coming from an old man, well it sure shows people that age hasn't taught him very much at all.  Heck, if by the age of 60 he really needs to swear to get your point across - then he must really have a problem with speaking clearly and understandably.  Of course, like with some these days, maybe his problem is that he may be time to lay off the drugs and the dope, and stop hanging out with bloody idiots.

But really, I'm thankful that we only have one swearing senior citizen around these parts.  At least only one like the one who I'm thinking about.  The guy can't put together a full sentence without swearing every other word.  And the real irony? Well the real irony is that the guy can't understand how his foul mouth is very offensive to the men and women around him!  Imagine that!

Now that I'm talking about my dislike for foul language around women and children, I'm sure someone out there is going to write and say, "Hey, what kind of Marine are you that doesn't swear?"

Well, let me make something clear here, I swear.  In fact, I started swearing a blue streak the other day when I almost broke my leg - but I'm not talking about that moment when you cuss because you hit your thumb with a hammer - I'm talking about everyday conversation, and especially when women and children are present.  During everyday conversation, let's be honest here, there is very little need for it to make your point.

And yes, I'm thankful for that! But of course, there are other things to be thankful for. 

I was sent a News Article about a massive wildfire in Arizona that has burnt down more than 30 homes and has forced nearly 10,000 Americans to evacuate their homes.  I was sent the article because someone wanted me to comment on it simply because the people who started the fires are Illegal Aliens who are crossing the Southeastern Arizona desert.

So what can I say about it that Americans haven't heard?  This is the same Illegal aliens, who the Government Accountability Office (GAO) which is the investigative arm of Congress says has purposely started multiple wildfires in a five year period with the intention of destroying homes and killing Americans.

It is a form of attacking Americans.  It is a form of Terrorism.  And no, I've never said that only Muslims are Terrorists.  This is Terrorism from across our Southern border.  It is a way of attacking Americans in an attempt to kill us!

But wait, the whole idea that it is vital to secure our southern border is something Obama does not want to acknowledge.  The Obama Administration and the Democrat Party look to these same people who are starting these fires as prospective Democrat voters!

This is an attack on American soil.  And yes, I wish Obama would find the courage to go to Arizona and Texas, and face the people down there, and tell those 10,000 Americans who had to be evacuated their homes that he is honestly and truly doing all that he can do to secure the border to stop these sorts of attacks. 

Really folks, if this is all that Obama can do to solve the problem - then he is pathetic!

And yes, that brings me to something that I'm thankful for this year.  The fact is that I'm thankful that Barak Hussein Obama only has one more year in office, and you bet that I'm extremely thankful for that.

Maybe after he leaves office, he can go home to Kenya and open up a Golf Course and New United Nations building there. Then again, maybe after he's in office he can just go back to Chicago where in-action and impotence is considered a great job - and pathetic politics is the way of life.

Story by Tom Correa