CULTURE/SOCIETY and SPIRITUALITY/RELIGION: Nativity Display Message Board Action

Seinfeld 'Festivus' Display Vies With Nativity
By SARA KENNEDY, AP

BARTOW, Fla. (Dec. 23) - When a church group put a nativity scene on public property, officials warned it might open the door to other religious - and not-so-religious - displays. They were right.

Since the nativity was erected in Polk County, displays have gone up honoring Zoroastrianism and the fake holiday Festivus, featured on the TV show "Seinfeld."

The Polk County Commission voted 4-1 Wednesday to permit the nativity scene to remain across the street from the courthouse, as well as to make that area a "public forum" open to any type of display.

But the commission insisted that unless someone claims a particular display and submits a written request asking it remain, it would be removed. By Wednesday evening, no one had claimed the Festivus display, and the commission said it would come down; a woman claimed the Zoroastrianism display, which was to stay.

The debate began Dec. 15 when a handmade creche with the figures of Joseph, Mary and baby Jesus was erected by a Bible study group from the First Baptist Church of Bartow.

"The real spirit of Christmas is the birth of Christ," said Marvin Pittman, a retired law enforcement officer and parishioner. "We felt it needs to be in the public eye, so we did it."

Other displays are fine, too, he said, adding, "If somebody wants to do that, it's their right."

And true to form, the site almost immediately sprouted alternative displays, including a simple sign that reads: "Festivus for the Rest of Us - Donated to Polk County by the Seinfeld Fan Club."

The display, a reference to the fake holiday featured on an episode of the television sitcom, did not include the totem of Festivus - a bare aluminum pole instead of a tree. Key rituals of Festivus include accusing others of being a disappointment and wrestling.

Another display celebrating Zoroastrianism was erected by Stella Darby, who wanted to encourage people to research the ancient Persian religion.

Richard Blank, a member of the American Civil Liberties Union, objected to the nativity scene's presence on public property, arguing it violates the constitutional separation of church and state.

"The nativity scene is totally celebratory of the birth of Christ," he said. "Not everyone subscribes to that, and those who do should put it on their own property."

But a board member who voted to allow the creche as part of the "public forum" disagreed with Blank. "A group had asked to display a scene important to their beliefs; I felt we shouldn't suppress their right to do so," said Commissioner Samuel K. Johnson.

Copyright 2004 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.




Message 1 of 60 (Msg # 549107:5)
Subject: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/23/04 4:55:48 PM EST

I live here in Polk County and I am ashamed at what this world is coming to. EVERY other religion BUT Christianity is widely accepted. Christmas is a Christian holiday and for the ACLU and other faculties to remove the meaning from this celebration is absurd! Has anyone bothered to read the Declaration of Independence or our Constitution? Our founding fathers were God fearing men. Christmas is not about Santa and pretty lights it is about a gift that was given to ALL of us 2000 years ago. It is up to us to accept it or not. It is fine with me if people choose not to believe in Jesus but all I ask is please don't take that RIGHT away from me. We all have choices in our lives and no one knows what is yet to come but I do know that I am responsible for me. Christmas is a religious holiday and is a celebration of MY Savior's birth. If non Christians do not like this then they need to re -examine the meaning of Christmas and possibly evaluate their perspective in life. The display of a Nativity scene is NOT demonstrative of government in religion it is FREEDOM of SPEECH. I am heartbroken that our great nation is stooping to such levels and people do not have better things to do with their time. Lets all become friends again and get to know our neighbors and ...why can't we all get along?



Message 60 of 60 (Msg # 549107:501)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 2:35:45 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"Our founding fathers were God-fearing men." - This is not totally true. Some were, but others were deists, who believed A god - not necessarily the Christian one - created the universe, but then left it alone.

"It is fine with me if people choose not to believe in Jesus, but all I ask is please don't take that RIGHT away from me." "The display of a Nativity scene is NOT demonstrative of government in religion. It is FREEDOM of SPEECH." - That right isn't being taken away. You are allowed to believe. You - or any other believer of a religion - shouldn't be allowed to use public space to display your religion - or else all religions- Christian, Wiccan, Pagan, whatever- should be allowed to display on public property. Otherwise, the government is establishing a certain religion as the proper one.

"Let's all become friends again and get to know our neighbors and... why can't we all get along?" - We can if we all have the same rights and privileges for all our religions.


Message 2 of 60 (Msg # 549107:15)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/23/04 5:19:43 PM EST

You're right...and their actions are disrespectful as well. I would never horn in on the expression of another religion in such rude defiance. It's to the point where Christians are being persecuted...in a country that was founded by Christians. My final comment would be that I expect all government and non Christian people to report to work on Christmas.



Message 14 of 60 (Msg # 549107:503)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 2:41:43 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"I would never horn in on the expression of another religion in such rude defiance." - When one particular religion is allowed expression on PUBLIC property and others are not, that one is the one doing the horning in.

"My final comment would be that I expect all government and non-Christian people to report to work on Christmas." - I bet many would if they could get their own holidays off and paid for.


Message 3 of 61 (Msg # 549107:145)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/23/04 7:16:04 PM EST

>I would never horn in on the expression of another religion in such rude defiance.

That's not what's happening. The town ruled that a nativity scene and scenes that marked any other sort of belief system could be built on town property. The ruling didn't specify how close the other displays should be to the nativity one or what and what couldn't be displayed near the nativity scene.

The point is, you Christians got to show your nativity scene. Now you're jealous that other scenes were allowed whose statements don't agree with yours. But that's one of the aspects of free speech and what it allows.

So what are you Christians whining about so loudly? That you didn't have everything YOUR way?


Message 9 of 61 (Msg # 549107:451)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 12:55:59 AM EST

YOU’RE SICK.

(Name removed) wrote: [[That's not what's happening. The town ruled that a nativity scene and scenes that marked any other sort of belief system could be ]]


Message 10 of 61 (Msg # 549107:505)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 2:49:19 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"That's not what's happening. The town ruled that a nativity scene and scenes that marked any other sort of belief system could be displayed..."

"You're sick."

Why is this person sick?


Message 11 of 60 (Msg # 549107:203)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/23/04 8:08:04 PM EST

And I am adding my agreement in with the two of you..wholeheartedly. Wonder what would happen if us Christians (about 80% of the population believes in the virgin birth, according to AOL)..got together and revolted against Christmas displays of Santa and reindeer etc?..it is offensive to us..what if we boycott any stores that use Santa in their Christmas advertizing.?..a celebration of Christ's birth has become a commercial spending free for all...and that is offensive to us, but we have tolerated it for years. NOW the 20% are telling us that we can no longer display the nativity without offending someone who doesn't believe the same? Isn't it time that we 80% stop letting the 20% push us around.?



Message 13 of 60 (Msg # 549107:508)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 2:54:53 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"(displays of Santa are) offensive to us"

Sorry, but not all Christians find Santa offensive. It is mostly the fundamentalists who do, and they do NOT make up a majority of the Christians in this country.

Also, Santa displays in stores are on PRIVATE property, not PUBLIC property as the nativity display is.

"Isn't it time that 80% stop letting 20% push us around?"

Actually, the Constitution was designed to protect minority opinion and prevent the tyranny of the majority.


Message 27 of 60 (Msg # 549107:23)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/23/04 5:28:38 PM EST

Richard Blank, a member of the American Civil Liberties Union, objected to the nativity scene's presence on public property, arguing it violates the constitutional separation of church and state.
This Is A Crock Of Bull!! The Constitution Contains NOTHING That Demands A "Separation Of Church & State"!!
Although The ACLU Has Done A Few Good Things, The Majority Of Its Efforts Misrepresent The American People.
For Those That Choose To Eliminate The Existence Of GOD, Contact The ACLU & DEMAND To Be Allowed To Work On December 25th. As It Is "Just Another Day" For You, Holiday Pay Should Not Apply, As A Matter Of Honor.
The Constitution States; "Congress Shall Make No Law Respecting An Establishment Of Religion, Or Prohibiting The Free Exercise Thereof..."
This Means NO "ONE RELIGION" Will Be Deemed OUR NATIONALLY RESPECTED RELIGION & Anyone Of Faith Can Celebrate Their Chosen Religion As They See Fit.(See "Bill Of Rights", Below)
The CONSTITUTION Restricts The Government From Ruling Over "The People". The BILL Of RIGHTS Was Drawn Up To Address "The People".
The Bill Of Rights, Broken Down, Allows "The People" To Do As They Please, Including The Celebration Of Holidays, Providing Their Actions Do Not Infringe Upon Anybody Else's Rights.
Nobody Should Be FORCED To Celebrate Christmas & The Choice To Keep Your Children Out Of A Choir, That Might Expand Their Talents With Songs Like The Carol Of The Bells, Is Yours Right. But, By CONSTITUTIONAL LAW, No One Has The Right To Eliminate The Culture From OUR Society.
If This Country Were Indeed Governed Under Constitutional Law, We Would Be The EPITOMY Of Freedom & Envied By The Rest Of The World.
It's Really THAT SIMPLE.


Message 31 of 60 (Msg # 549107:517)
Subject: Re: CHRISTmas
Date: 12/24/04 3:03:31 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"For Those That Choose To Eliminate The Existence Of GOD, Contact The ACLU & DEMAND To Be Allowed To Work On December 25th. As It Is "Just Another Day" For You, Holiday Pay Should Not Apply, As A Matter Of Honor."

This would be fine, except that others don't get a paid day off for their holidays.

"This Means NO "ONE RELIGION" Will Be Deemed OUR NATIONALLY RESPECTED RELIGION & Anyone Of Faith Can Celebrate Their Chosen Religion As They See Fit."

This is being done, because other religions are being allowed to put up their displays in the same space.


Message 1 of 5 (Msg # 549107:481)
Subject: IT"S ABOUT TIME
Date: 12/24/04 1:47:03 AM EST

Wow, an arm of government has finally stood up for freedom of speech and good sense. We as a nation have gone too far in trying to repress religious expression. If having Christian symbols on display means allowing displays from other religions, then so be it. In this case, festivus is a joke but it's a start.


Message 2 of 5 (Msg # 549107:488)
Subject: Re: IT"S ABOUT TIME
Date: 12/24/04 2:02:24 AM EST

The problem is that now they're trying to do away with Christian symbols, and let all the other ones in. I'm all for having your religious symbols displayed and so on, but don't take away my right as a Christian to worship Jesus. And by the way, I'm a big Seinfeld fan. Festivus is hilarious!


Message 3 of 5 (Msg # 549107:494)
Subject: Re: IT"S ABOUT TIME
Date: 12/24/04 2:19:07 AM EST

[[The problem is that now they're trying to do away with Christian symbols, and let all the other ones in. I'm all for having your religious symbols displayed and so on, but don't take away my right as a Christian to worship Jesus . And by the way, I'm a big Seinfeld fan. Festivus is hilarious!]]

Actually, they HAVE been trying to do away with Christianity for many years, i.e., prayer or even a moment of silence in schools. My point is, if by strengthening Christianities public stand, we need to support other religions, then that's fair. Besides, the Constitution speaks of "religion", not just Christianity.


Message 5 of 5 (Msg # 549107:521)
Subject: Re: IT"S ABOUT TIME
Date: 12/24/04 3:18:56 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"Actually, they HAVE been trying to do away with Christianity for many years, i.e., prayer or even a moment of silence in schools."

Some people don't believe in prayers, and most prayers have references that people of other religions don't need to be subject too.


Message 1 of 19 (Msg # 549107:24)
Subject: Majority are Christian
Date: 12/23/04 5:30:59 PM EST

All who come to this nation know without doubt that the majority here are Christian in their beliefs. Why should we have to erase all traces of our faith so as not to offend others? I am offended that I can not publicly display my beliefs; what happened to our freedoms? If you don't like Christians leave, we have gone out of our way to make all feel welcome. Why should we conform to your beliefs or restrictions? We Are "ONE NATION UNDER GOD" "IN GOD WE TRUST" group of God fearing God believing people. When we dismiss God in this Nation look for the end to be near.


Message 19 of 19 (Msg # 549107:524)
Subject: Re: Majority are Christian
Date: 12/24/04 3:22:15 AM EST
Author: OlderMusicGeek

"Why should we have to erase all traces of our faith so as not to offend others? I am offended that I can not publicly display my beliefs; what happened to our freedoms?"

You can display anything you want on PRIVATE property. But on PUBLIC property, everybody - or nobody - should be allowed to have a display.

ENTERTAINMENT and CULTURE/SOCIETY: Punk Rock Yoga

Punk Rock Moves Become Latest Yoga Trend
By REBECCA COOK, AP

SEATTLE (Oct. 10) - The guitarist plugs in his amp, and the yoga instructor strips off her baggy skull-patterned boxers to reveal black bike shorts. They both warm up for the latest twist on an ancient practice: punk rock yoga.

Power yoga, baby yoga, kickboxing yoga, and now this. Has yoga fusion finally gone too far? After all, yoga is a spiritual discipline aimed at creating a sense of deep quiet and inner peace, while punk rock is all about being undisciplined and LOUD.

It makes sense to instructor Kimberlee Jensen.

"It's the whole do-it-yourself ethic," said Jensen, 34. "Punk is democratic, nonhierarchical - that's definitely the way I like to approach it."

Her free, weekly classes are held at an all-ages nightclub and aimed at teenagers and adults who wouldn't be caught dead in a health club.

"It shouldn't be a thing that just skinny people do," Jensen said. "That's not what yoga should be."

Jensen was inspired by the success of Punk Rock Aerobics, the brainchild of two Boston women who turned classic punk moves into a real workout. Blasting The Sex Pistols and Blondie works for aerobics, but Jensen knew she would need something a little mellower.

The live music in her classes doesn't sound anything like punk. It has ranged from Arabic drumming to a saxophone and flute to the current house band, solo electric guitarist Christopher Hydinger.

The music is quiet and peaceful, flowing with the yoga poses - but still "raw and organic" like punk, Jensen points out.

One of her favorite music moments was when an acoustic guitar duo performed easy-listening versions of punk classics such as "God Save the Queen." The class and instructor broke out in giggles.

"A lot of people who come probably would not respond to traditional Hindu music," Jensen said. "That's probably heresy, I'm sure."

A longtime fitness instructor, Jensen has practiced yoga for eight years and began training as a teacher about a year ago. The punk yoga class started last year to satisfy the community outreach requirement of her training, but it was so popular she's kept it going. She teaches a flowing Hatha style yoga.

She eschews a fancy studio with mirrored walls for a dark, black-painted nightclub. She banishes rows of yoga mats in favor of a circle arranged around a plate of flickering votive candles. She knows plenty of serious yoga people wouldn't approve of her methods, but it doesn't worry her.

"I get new people in off the street every time," Jensen said. She especially remembers one student who told her, "This is the first physical thing I've done where I haven't felt made a fool of."

Jensen smiled. "That," she said, "is what yoga should be."

After one recent class, students gave punk rock yoga good reviews.

"A lot of yoga classes are really kind of wimpy," said Janelle Hartman, a hard-core yoga devotee attending her first punk rock yoga class. "She got us really heated up."

Erik Englund, 28, has been attending Jensen's classes for about a year. He said the nightclub setting intrigued him, and the health benefits and relaxed atmosphere kept him coming back.

"This felt very unpretentious," he said. His wife, Amy Wyland, 27, said she likes how she feels after a session of punk rock yoga.

"I feel really relaxed," Wyland said. "And I'm getting stronger."

Copyright 2004 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.


Related links:

another article on punk rock yoga
Punk Rock Yoga Plans to Expand
PuNk RoCk AeRoBiCs - home page
Punk Rock Aerobics article
another article on punk rock aerobics

ENTERTAINMENT and CULTURE/SOCIETY: A Fun Little Personality Test Using Star Wars

I found this test at a website I was checking out - Tickle: Tests, Matchmaking and Social Networking. It has all sorts of personality tests - some more serious, some rather frivolous. (My IQ is 130! {he brags} I found that out on one of their test.)

But the funnest test that had was The Star Wars Personality Test.



It has great questions like these -

1. If you were alive a long, long time ago in a galaxy far, far away, what would you be doing?
a)I'd be outrunning Imperial Star Cruisers in my ship full of contraband spice.
b)I'd be wielding my lightsaber to defend the universe from the dark side of the force
c)I'd be just trying to find a quiet planet where I could call home and raise a family
d)I'd be bringing about change at various inter-planetary government counsels

4. Lightsaber or Blaster?
a)Lightsaber
b)Blaster

5. Which punishment is worse?
a)Being frozen in a carbon block
b)Getting your hand lopped off by a lightsaber
c)Being a love slave to Jabba the Hutt
d)Getting thrown into a giant trash compactor

8. An evil force is threatening to take over the galaxy, what do you do?
a)Enlist in the military and help any way that I can
b)I would travel to some isolated region and wait it out
c)My friends and I would start our own rogue army
d)Rent my services out as a hired gun to whichever side bid highest

12. What's your vehicle of choice
a)Landspeeder
b)Star Cruiser
c)Podracer
d)Millennium Falcon

16. Trilogy or Prequels
a)Trilogy
b)Prequels


I thought I might be C3PO or Luke

C-3PO



Even though "We're doomed" is your signature declaration, it's more of a comforting affirmation than a pessimistic prediction. (I have been accused of being rather negative - I think of myself as giving an honest answer.) Your Star Wars type is See-Threepio, the chatty protocol droid, and it's your gift for gab that comes in handy when you get yourself into a jam.

While you may be somewhat of a worrywart, it's only because your sharp mind and infallible logic fails to take into account the fact that you are also one lucky duck. (I not really a worrywort, because frankly I just don't care enought to worry, but the second half of the sentence probably does describe me.) You are also a friend, never forgetting a birthday or special occasion. (Well this isn't me!) Your work ethic is second to none, although your friends usually have to pry you away from whatever your latest project is just so you can have a little fun. (I work hard, but I have no problem playing!) Once they do, you can be the life of the party.

Luke Skywalker



"I want to learn the ways of the force and become a Jedi like my father." You must be a dreamer brimming with ambition (yeah, that's me, Mr. Ambition), that's why your Star Wars type is Luke Skywalker. Like the farm boy-turned-Jedi Knight, you have the potential for greatness. (We can only hope!)

No matter what others may tell you, it's an inner voice that keeps you on the straight and narrow path to success. (An inner voice keeps me on the straight and narrow, but it must have forgotten about the success part.) Just because you're the chosen one, doesn't mean you have to be a goody-goody. There's plenty of fire in your belly, especially when it comes to defending your family tree (even if you're not exactly sure who's who). But rest assured with your ability to see through to the truth, your answers will never be far behind.


But surprisingly, this was my result -

The Classic Star Wars Test
OlderMusicGeek, you're Yoda



You are wise beyond your years — a sage for the ages, the master's master. That's why your Star Wars type is Yoda. Sure, you might not look too much like the little green Jedi Master, but you have a quiet contemplative way about you that commands respect. (Do you people really respect my "quiet" comtemplative way?)

People trust you, especially your friends who are constantly coming to you for advice and sometimes predictions. (Yeah, why do you guys do that?) While you may not be able to tell them who's going to win the big game, you do possess the rare ability to see the big picture. (This is probably true to some degree.) You never lose sight of the fact that we're all part of a greater whole. It keeps you grounded and balanced, and it's the perfect cover for a mischievous sense of humor that always catches others off-guard. (Me? With a sense of humor? Catching people off guard? I have no idea what this means!) This mix of wisdom and impish delight promises to bring you long life...another thousand years or so anyway.


Some other interesting possibilities -

Han Solo



"I wasn't going to let you get all the credit and take all the reward." While these may sound like the words of a mercenary, it's really the sentiments of a reluctant hero. You have a lot in common with Han Solo, the sarcastic soldier of fortune turned rebel pilot.

What you call confidence, others may call ego, but you don't care. You and those close to you know that inside the arrogant exterior is a loyal and selfless friend. After all, a pirate needs to maintain a certain reputation. When it comes to adventure, there's little you haven't done. Whether it's jumping out of a plane or charging the whitewater of the mountains, your courageous spirit yearns for another rush. And while your quests may sometimes have a reckless edge to them, you maintain a cool head through it all.

Chewbacca



No disrespect to your hair stylist, but you have more in common with Chewbacca the loyal Wookie than you might think. Like "Chewey," you are a powerful force to be reckoned with. Whether you are playing pick-up sports with friends or interviewing for a job, your competitive nature is virtually unbeatable (and more than a little intimidating). But you have a definite gentle side too — a part of you that is more bark than bite and even longs for a cuddle or two.

When it comes to friends, it's quality not quantity. And you're usually the first one on the scene when someone needs a little rescuing (emotional or otherwise). You have a simple sense of right and wrong, and when someone crosses the line, you let them know. You're the ideal righthand man/woman — strong, stable, and ultimately incorruptible.


Like I always said, Star Wars - you da movie! (Okay, maybe I didn't always say that. But my thinking was along those lines - just a little more nerdy, like "Star Wars is soooo cool!")

If you take the test, leave a comment of what you thought of the results.

Related links:

A less fun, more intricate psychology test comparing you to Star Wars characters
The Psychology behind Star Wars
The Star Wars Trilogy - A Psychoanalytical Interpretation
Star Wars as Personal Mythology
Jung Talk - Star Wars
Metaphilm - Star Wars
What Star Wars Teaches Us

POLITICS: A Day in the Life of Joe Republican

Got this from a friend. Found it pretty funny. Thought I'd pass it on.


Joe gets up at 6:00am to prepare his morning coffee. He fills his pot full of good clean good clean drink water because some liberal fought for minimum water quality standards . He takes his daily medication with his first swallow of coffee. His medications are safe to take because some liberal fought to insure their safety and work as advertised .

All but $10.00 of his medications are paid for by his employers medical plan because some liberal union workers fought their employers for paid medical insurance, now Joe gets it too. He prepares his morning breakfast, bacon and eggs this day. Joe's bacon is safe to eat because some liberal fought for laws to regulate the meat packing industry .

Joe takes his morning shower reaching for his shampoo. His bottle is properly labeled with every ingredient and the amount of its contents because some liberal fought for his right to know what he was putting on his body and how much it contained.

Joe dresses, walks outside and takes a deep breath. The air he breathes is clean because some tree-hugging liberal fought to keep industries from polluting our air.

He walks to the subway station for his government subsidized ride to work; it saves him considerable money in parking and transportation fees. You see, some liberal fought for affordable public transportation, which gives everyone the opportunity to be a contributor.

Joe begins his work day; he has a good job with excellent pay, medicals benefits, retirement, paid holidays and vacation because some liberal union members fought and died for these working standards. Joe's employer pays these standards because Joe's employer doesn't want his employees to call the union. If Joe is hurt on the job or becomes unemployed he'll get a worker compensation or unemployment check because some liberal didn't think he should loose his home because of his temporary misfortune .

Its noontime and Joe needs to make a bank deposit so he can pay some bills. Joe's deposit is federally insured by the FSLIC because some godless liberal wanted to protect Joe's money from unscrupulous bankers who ruined the banking system before the Great Depression.

Joe has to pay his Fannie Mae-underwritten mortgage and his below-market federal student loan because some elitist liberal decided that Joe and the government would be better off if he was educated and earned more money over his lifetime.

Joe is home from work. He plans to visit his father this evening at his farm home in the country. He gets in his car for the drive. His car is among the safest in the world because some America-hating liberal fought for car safety standards. He arrives at his boyhood home. His was the third generation to live in the house financed by Farmers' Home Administration because bankers didn't want to make rural loans. The house didn't have electricity until some big-government liberal stuck his nose where it didn't belong and demanded rural electrification.

He is happy to see his father, who is now retired. His father lives on Social Security and a union pension because some wine-drinking, cheese-eating liberal made sure he could take care of himself so Joe wouldn't have to.

Joe gets back in his car for the ride home, and turns on a radio talk show. The radio host keeps saying that liberals are bad and conservatives are good. He doesn't mention that the beloved Republicans have fought against every protection and benefit Joe enjoys throughout his day.

Joe agrees: "We don't need those big-government liberals ruining our lives! After all, I'm a self-made man who believes everyone should take care of themselves, just like I have."

Related links:
What? There aren't enough in the piece?

SPIRITUALITY/RELIGION: A Little Dialogue on Spirituality vs Religion

Here's a little spiritual dialogue I had on the AOL Religion and Spirituality message board - or it be a religious dialogue, depending on how you look at it.

Message 1 of 72 Subject 2 of 2
Subject: help in general
Date: 8/27/2004 9:10 PM Central Standard Time
From: name removed

i was born Catholic & was never happy or felt i fully understood everything in the teachings , i had a rather difficult childhood & found a group of Baptist who changed my life & gave me guidance in understanding life, but unfortunately i was away at the time I met them and when i came home i slowly started loosing my faith. anyway i've been turning to the wrong things in life & not happy as a person. I want to live life healthy & happy... I am 18 & i feel i am not ready be characterized as one religion (not wanting to offend anyone who is dedicated to one religion i think faith is a beautiful thing). anyway i'm just looking for some support, no particular religion. just some one to help me through the struggles in life. i would love to gain knowledge of other religions- the thing is all my friends aren't into religion & spirituality & they turn to drinking & more material things in life to make them happy. i on the other hand don't want to be surrounded by things of that nature. i feel my life is just better without & just want someone who i can relate to. Sorry for rambling. *thank you* P.S- I do believe there is a God & do have strong faith in that who he or she is... i haven't cleared that up yet


Message 67 of 72 Subject 1 of 1
Subject: Re: help in general
Date: 9/6/2004 12:08 AM Central Standard Time
From: OlderMusicGeek

I, too, was raised Catholic, and still feel some cultural and ethnic ties to Catholicism, though I no longer believe in The Bible.

I was a hard-core atheist for a while. But now I'm basically "spiritual, but not religious", as they say.

I find I like walking and finding my own path. It's more difficult than going on a trail already there, but I find it more satisfying.

But if you like joining with others, you might try the Unitarians. If that doesn't work, check the Bahai's and Hare Krishnas, and there are scores of others that try to blend all the religions.

That's the best advice I can give you. Good luck.


Message 68 of 72 Subject 1 of 1
Subject: Re: help in general
Date: 9/6/2004 5:27 PM Central Standard Time
From: other name deleted

>From: OlderMusicGeek
>But now I'm basically "spiritual, but not religious", as they say. I find I like walking and finding my own path. It's more difficult than going on a trail already there, but I find it more satisfying.

This post made me smile. It's not too often that you run across a person who likes to take the path less traveled and learn from it as well in today's society. There's so much that we as humans could teach one another, but so many refuse to do so. It's sad.


Message 70 of 72 Subject 1 of 1
Subject: Re: help in general
Date: 9/7/2004 9:21 AM Central Standard Time
From: third name deleted

What is the difference between spiritual and religious from your point of view?
Is spiritual- believing there is a god and not using our actions to be an example to others in our actions about God? Do spiritual people read the bible?
Are religious persons- the out there every time the door of the church is open you should be there. Putting down others but not looking in the mirror at themselves.
How do you view religious and spiritual?


Message 71 of 72 Subject 1 of 1
Subject: Re: help in general
Date: 9/7/2004 10:09 AM Central Standard Time
From: fourth name deleted

From: third name deleted - What is the difference between spiritual and religious from your point of view?

Is spiritual- believing there is a god and not using our actions to be an example to others in our actions about God. Do spiritual people read the bible?

Spirituality means different things to different people. It could be a belief in God/Goddess or no belief at all. For me, Spirituality means looking inside myself for the answers. Learning about myself and how I connect to the world around me. I believe everyone has that inside them, they just have to look for it. As far as reading the bible, it would depend on if you believe in it.

Are religious persons- the out there every time the door of the church is open you should be there? Putting down others but not looking in the mirror at themselves.

It depends on how you look at the question. A religious person is one who believes in a religion. I don't adhere to any organized religion but I do consider myself religious. To me it is a journey. I am learning every day and what I learn influences my tomorrows. IMO, people who put down others are insecure in themselves and do this to try and justify their beliefs. I prefer to look at the positive. I think it does so much more for my Spirituality.


Message 72 of 72 Subject 1 of 1
Subject: Re: help in general
Date: 9/14/2004 1:48 AM Central Standard Time
From: OlderMusicGeek

What is the difference between spiritual and religious from your point of view?

well, to me, being religious it basically following a certain religion or sect.

whereas spiritual, is being interested in all that stuff like is there a god, is there an afterlife, do we have souls, without necessarily using a certain religion to help them answer it. Though one may.

i think religious people are spiritual, but not all us spiritual people are religious.

i guess that's the difference to me in a nutshell.

Mystic Visions Discussion Forums: Religion vs spirituality
Religion vs. Spirituality - Science Technology Services
Vikar's Rant: Religion Vs. Spirituality
The Indus Telegraph Religion vs. spirituality
AOL Message Board on Religion and Spirituality

ENTERTAINMENT and CULTURE/SOCIETY: "Earth to Grandma" lyrics

I just get a kick out of this song by The Ass Ponys. It reminds me of somebody, but I can't think who. ;-)



It's a doll completely made of socks
It's a cover for a tissue box
It's a clothespin duck and Funfur cat
And a crazy yarn and beer can hat

Earth to Grandma
What the hell is that?

It's a painted rock with google eyes
It's a match stick cross where Jesus died
It's a plaque that says, "I Heart My Home"
It's toothpicks, felt and styrofoam

Earth to Grandma
What the hell is that?

Related links:

Checkered Past Records - Artists - Ass Ponys
Ass Ponys Still Kicking Butt
The All Music Guide's take on The Ass Ponys
The All Music Guide's take on the cd with "Earth to Grandma"

CULTURE/SOCIETY: Missouri Man Legally Changes His Name to 'They'

BRANSON, Mo. (Sept. 23) - A Branson man has put a face to the anonymous references people often make to "they" by changing his name to just that: "They."

The former Andrew Wilson, a 43-year-old self-employed inventor, was granted legal permission last week by a circuit judge to change his name.

It's just They, no surname.

He also has changed his driver's license to reflect his new name.

They said he did it for humor to address the common reference to "they."
"'They do this,' or 'They're to blame for that.' Who is this 'they' everyone talks about? 'They' accomplish such great things. Somebody had to take responsibility," he said.

Now, his friends are getting used to his new name.

"They call up and say, 'Is They there?"'

He acknowledged the name could drive grammarians crazy.

"Not only is he making a statement about his name, but he's messing with the entire English language," friend Craig Erickson said.

They holds 14 patents including Ground-Effect lighting, used to create a neon glow beneath vehicles and patented in 1987.

His newest product is "Shades Eyewear," which have a built-in visor over each sunglass lens. The visors protect the eyes from glare without having to wear a hat, he said.

09/23/04 12:48 EDT

Copyright 2004 The Associated Press. The information contained in the AP news report may not be published, broadcast, rewritten or otherwise distributed without the prior written authority of The Associated Press.


Just Justin 3.0.1 Optimized
9/24/2004
The Boils of Branson
Filed under:
Rant— justex07 @ 9:30 am

This is a perfect example of the types of things that go down in Branson Missouri that makes those native to Missouri ashamed of the “combination of neon and nature".

For those who do not know the story, a man named Andrew Wilson, inventor of the neon lights that light the underbody of “riced-out” Honda’s, changed his name this week. In any other circumstance, this might be normal. Perhaps his father was Michael Jackson and Blanket did not suit him. But honestly, Andrew Wilson requires some serious imagination to poke fun of. I.E. Ann Drew [a] Wilson…

No, this guy changed his name just because he wanted everyone to know who they were. They are the ones always doing the great things. “Who saved you and your dog from the raging fire?” “They saved me!”

He changed his name to “They". His lives in Branson. I am done.

post a comment to Just Justin's site


Link to original site - AOL News - Missouri Man Legally Changes His Name to 'They'

Related links:

Just Justin 3.0.1 Optimized » The Boils of Branson
Interesting message board on this topic in The Rantburg
You Know What They Say
Psychology Today: You know what they say…: are proverbs nuggets of truth or fool's gold?

ENTERTAINMENT: A Little Bit of Rock Music History

I was watching this show on public television, Great Performances - John Lennon's Jukebox. And on it, they were interviewing one of the singer's on his jukebox, Fontella Bass. Apparently, she was the first to do "Rescue Me", that song so strongly associate with Aretha Franklin.

And Fontella was talking about when she was recording the song. I guess they had a really strong groove going on. And while she was recording the song, the songwriters came up with another verse. So they slid it under the recording room door.

Well, Fontella didn't want to stop the band since it was going so well. So instead of just stopping and just quit singing, she started humming. Then as she was humming, she reached down for the lyrics. That way, the recording could keep going.

Then Aretha just did it the same way, and that's why "Rescue Me" has that little humming bit in it.

Related links:

Great Performances - John Lennon's Jukebox - on PBS
Great Performances - Lennon's Musical Inspiration - Fontella Bass - on PBS
Fontella Bass - Life Story
Fontella Bass: Coming Full Circle
All Music Guide's take on Fontella Bass

ENTERTAINMENT: Hall and Oates - Why I Hate Them So

I don't know what it is about Hall and Oates - but they really get on my nerves.

Not the two guys. From what I've seen of them, they seem like nice enough guys, but their music just drives me insane.

And it's not like there are artists who do worse music. Take Michael Bolton for instance. He takes all this great soul music - and fills it up using the emotional skills of William Shatner's acting combined with the slickness of Ronald Reagan and Bill Clinton combined. (Yes, that's right, I said Ronald Reagan AND Bill Clinton! So give it to me from both sides people!)

And don't get me started on Celine Dion! Can all those fans of The Titanic soundtrack be wrong?! Yes, they can!

But there's just something about Hall and Oates that drives me batty! When that "oh-oh-oh" from "Maneater" comes on, I find myself becoming a cheesy nightclub singer snapping my fingers and singing along.

And what's with the ten thousand -ist rhymes on "Your Kiss is on My List". Oh, okay, we get it! You know how to use a rhyming dictionary! So do the guys in those foot gelling commercials. But at least those commercials aren't put to a schmaltzy melody!

But the one that drives me craziest is that "oo-oo-you make-ah my dreams come true" song. Is it so hard to say "make"? What? Are they trying to act Italian or something? Is his real name Hallini?

But the worst thing about this song is the stupid catchy melody gets stuck in my head, and I find myself singing this song the rest of the day! Actually, it's not even the whole song, just the stupid chorus! And then choruses of their other songs pop out of my mouth!

Oh god, it's my head now! Let me end now and go listen to some Sex Pistols!

Oo-oo. Oo-oo. Oh God, help me.

hallandoates.com / official daryl hall john oates website
Other Hall and Oates links
Arizona Daily Wildcat - Remember Hall & Oates? We didn't either - Thursday, February 12, 2004
lunchboxing.com :: taking your lunch money since 1983

SPIRITUALITY/RELIGION: Fun Little Religion Test

Found this fun test on a bulletin board for religion - Belief-O-Matic -- A personality quiz about your religious beliefs and spiritual beliefs - a quiz answering What Religion Am I.



It compares your beliefs to the doctrine and dogma of various religions, and show how much in line your thinking is with those religions. I highly recommend it. It's fun.

Here are my results:

Rankings:
1. Liberal Quakers (100%)
2. Unitarian Universalism (97%)
3. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (92%)
4. Neo-Pagan (90%)
5. Theravada Buddhism (90%)
6. Bahá'í Faith (87%)
7. New Age (86%)
8. Mahayana Buddhism (83%)
9. Jainism (72%)
10. Orthodox Quaker (69%)
11. Reform Judaism (66%)
12. Secular Humanism (64%)
13. Taoism (63%)
14. Hinduism (63%)
15. Sikhism (62%)
16. New Thought (60%)
17. Seventh Day Adventist (58%)
18. Orthodox Judaism (56%)
19. Nontheist (55%)
20. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (52%)
21. Scientology (49%)
22. Islam (47%)
23. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (47%)
24. Eastern Orthodox (43%)
25. Roman Catholic (43%)
26. Jehovah's Witness (35%)
27. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (32%)

I was surprised by #1. Never thought of myself as the Quaker type. I always admired them for their anti-slavery and pacifist views, but didn't think we were that much in line. I think part of it is that Quakers can be anti-abortion, and so am I. Otherwise, they're quite liberal... And so am I.

#3 was surprising too, because I don't believe in the Bible, and I don't believe that Y'Shua/Joshua/Jesu/Jesus was the son of the Jewish god. And I was raised Catholic, and still considered myself somewhat of an ethnic/cultural/secular Catholic, if not a Catholic by religion, sort of like a non-believing Jew. And Islam is even higher than Catholicism at #25!

And non-theism is only #19! I am an agnostic! I lean toward towards thinking there is a god and an afterlife, but I ain't convinced.

The others I can see, because I do believe all religions have some truth to them, and that everyone has to find their own path to the god of the universe. And Buddhism and Paganism intrigue me, even if I not interested in joining those faiths.

But I don't think my results were quite right, because on a lot of questions, one of the choices was "Or not sure. Or not important. " I wasn't sure, but I still thought the question important, so I didn't choose this answer, and took one of the others that seemed most right.

I'm going to retake the test using this answer to see how it comes out this time.


1. Unitarian Universalism (100%)
2. Theravada Buddhism (99%)
3. Liberal Quakers (90%)
4. Mainline to Liberal Christian Protestants (79%)
5. Neo-Pagan (78%)
6. Mahayana Buddhism (76%)
7. Bahá'í Faith (70%)
8. New Age (70%)
9. Secular Humanism (70%)
10. Jainism (69%)
11. Hinduism (66%)
12. New Thought (60%)
13. Taoism (60%)
14. Orthodox Quaker (59%)
15. Sikhism (57%)
16. Reform Judaism (56%)
17. Nontheist (51%)
18. Scientology (48%)
19. Christian Science (Church of Christ, Scientist) (46%)
20. Seventh Day Adventist (43%)
21. Orthodox Judaism (42%)
22. Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints (Mormons) (40%)
23. Islam (40%)
24. Mainline to Conservative Christian/Protestant (39%)
25. Jehovah's Witness (38%)
26. Eastern Orthodox (36%)
27. Roman Catholic (36%)

Well, this seems more in line with my beliefs. I tend to see something in all religions, so #1 isn't a big surprise here. But Quakerism and Protestantism is still high. But Secular Humanism and Nontheism are still lower than I expected.

Oh well, try the test and let me know your results.

ENTERTAINMENT: Review of the "new classic", Open Water

My wife dragged me to this movie. Otherwise, I wouldn't have gone, and it turns out I was right.

This movie took forever to get started. The first 30 minutes or so was spent giving you background into these characters. Maybe it wasn't 30 minutes, because the film is only 90-odd minutes long, but it seemed like more than 30 minutes.

And they didn't provide any real background. All you could know from that time was that the wife was so stressed from work that she couldn't have sex. That's about it.

And what can I say about the rest. They hang out in the water hoping to get help. They get nibbled once by a shark. And a chunk is taken out later. Oh, and look out for the jellyfish. Oooo, scary kids!

And all the obligatory fights. She gets mad because he screams in anger. He says they're stuck out there because of her job stress. She blames him for being left behind because they took too long. Blah, blah, blah.

The only good part was the end. It was touching with a good deal of restraint.

Actually, the whole movie was restrained. And that was part of the problem. You need a little more excitement if you're going to make a movie about people bobbing in the ocean for a day!



Related links:

Open Water - Chris Kentis
Open Water Movie Trailer (Chris Kentis) Empire Movies
Roger Ebert review
JoBlo's movie review of Open Water: Blanchard Ryan, Daniel Travis, Chris Kentis
Blanchard Ryan Interview - Open Water scuba stories