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President Bush's Remarks to the Nation
March 17, 2003
THE PRESIDENT: My fellow citizens, events in Iraq have now reached the final days of decision. For more than a decade, the United States and other nations have pursued patient and honorable efforts to disarm the Iraqi regime without war. That regime pledged to reveal and destroy all its weapons of mass destruction as a condition for ending the Persian Gulf War in 1991. 
Since then, the world has engaged in 12 years of diplomacy. We have passed more than a dozen resolutions in the United Nations Security Council. We have sent hundreds of weapons inspectors to oversee the disarmament of Iraq. Our good faith has not been returned.
The Iraqi regime has used diplomacy as a ploy to gain time and advantage. It has uniformly defied Security Council resolutions demanding full disarmament. Over the years, U.N. weapon inspectors have been threatened by Iraqi officials, electronically bugged, and systematically deceived. Peaceful efforts to disarm the Iraqi regime have failed again and again -- because we are not dealing with peaceful men.
Intelligence gathered by this and other governments leaves no doubt that the Iraq regime continues to possess and conceal some of the most lethal weapons ever devised. This regime has already used weapons of mass destruction against Iraq's neighbors and against Iraq's people.
The regime has a history of reckless aggression in the Middle East. It has a deep hatred of America and our friends. And it has aided, trained and harbored terrorists, including operatives of al Qaeda.
The danger is clear: using chemical, biological or, one day, nuclear weapons, obtained with the help of Iraq, the terrorists could fulfill their stated ambitions and kill thousands or hundreds of thousands of innocent people in our country, or any other.
The United States and other nations did nothing to deserve or invite this threat. But we will do everything to defeat it. Instead of drifting along toward tragedy, we will set a course toward safety. Before the day of horror can come, before it is too late to act, this danger will be removed.
The United States of America has the sovereign authority to use force in assuring its own national security. That duty falls to me, as Commander-in-Chief, by the oath I have sworn, by the oath I will keep.
Recognizing the threat to our country, the United States Congress voted overwhelmingly last year to support the use of force against Iraq. America tried to work with the United Nations to address this threat because we wanted to resolve the issue peacefully. We believe in the mission of the United Nations. One reason the U.N. was founded after the second world war was to confront aggressive dictators, actively and early, before they can attack the innocent and destroy the peace.
In the case of Iraq, the Security Council did act, in the early 1990s. Under Resolutions 678 and 687 -- both still in effect -- the United States and our allies are authorized to use force in ridding Iraq of weapons of mass destruction. This is not a question of authority, it is a question of will.
Last September, I went to the U.N. General Assembly and urged the nations of the world to unite and bring an end to this danger. On November 8th, the Security Council unanimously passed Resolution 1441, finding Iraq in material breach of its obligations, and vowing serious consequences if Iraq did not fully and immediately disarm.
Today, no nation can possibly claim that Iraq has disarmed. And it will not disarm so long as Saddam Hussein holds power. For the last four-and-a-half months, the United States and our allies have worked within the Security Council to enforce that Council's long-standing demands. Yet, some permanent members of the Security Council have publicly announced they will veto any resolution that compels the disarmament of Iraq. These governments share our assessment of the danger, but not our resolve to meet it. Many nations, however, do have the resolve and fortitude to act against this threat to peace, and a broad coalition is now gathering to enforce the just demands of the world. The United Nations Security Council has not lived up to its responsibilities, so we will rise to ours.
In recent days, some governments in the Middle East have been doing their part. They have delivered public and private messages urging the dictator to leave Iraq, so that disarmament can proceed peacefully. He has thus far refused. All the decades of deceit and cruelty have now reached an end. Saddam Hussein and his sons must leave Iraq within 48 hours. Their refusal to do so will result in military conflict, commenced at a time of our choosing. For their own safety, all foreign nationals -- including journalists and inspectors -- should leave Iraq immediately.
Many Iraqis can hear me tonight in a translated radio broadcast, and I have a message for them. If we must begin a military campaign, it will be directed against the lawless men who rule your country and not against you. As our coalition takes away their power, we will deliver the food and medicine you need. We will tear down the apparatus of terror and we will help you to build a new Iraq that is prosperous and free. In a free Iraq, there will be no more wars of aggression against your neighbors, no more poison factories, no more executions of dissidents, no more torture chambers and rape rooms. The tyrant will soon be gone. The day of your liberation is near.
It is too late for Saddam Hussein to remain in power. It is not too late for the Iraqi military to act with honor and protect your country by permitting the peaceful entry of coalition forces to eliminate weapons of mass destruction. Our forces will give Iraqi military units clear instructions on actions they can take to avoid being attacked and destroyed. I urge every member of the Iraqi military and intelligence services, if war comes, do not fight for a dying regime that is not worth your own life.
And all Iraqi military and civilian personnel should listen carefully to this warning. In any conflict, your fate will depend on your action. Do not destroy oil wells, a source of wealth that belongs to the Iraqi people. Do not obey any command to use weapons of mass destruction against anyone, including the Iraqi people. War crimes will be prosecuted. War criminals will be punished. And it will be no defense to say, "I was just following orders."
Should Saddam Hussein choose confrontation, the American people can know that every measure has been taken to avoid war, and every measure will be taken to win it. Americans understand the costs of conflict because we have paid them in the past. War has no certainty, except the certainty of sacrifice.
Yet, the only way to reduce the harm and duration of war is to apply the full force and might of our military, and we are prepared to do so. If Saddam Hussein attempts to cling to power, he will remain a deadly foe until the end. In desperation, he and terrorists groups might try to conduct terrorist operations against the American people and our friends. These attacks are not inevitable. They are, however, possible. And this very fact underscores the reason we cannot live under the threat of blackmail. The terrorist threat to America and the world will be diminished the moment that Saddam Hussein is disarmed.
Our government is on heightened watch against these dangers. Just as we are preparing to ensure victory in Iraq, we are taking further actions to protect our homeland. In recent days, American authorities have expelled from the country certain individuals with ties to Iraqi intelligence services. Among other measures, I have directed additional security of our airports, and increased Coast Guard patrols of major seaports. The Department of Homeland Security is working closely with the nation's governors to increase armed security at critical facilities across America.
Should enemies strike our country, they would be attempting to shift our attention with panic and weaken our morale with fear. In this, they would fail. No act of theirs can alter the course or shake the resolve of this country. We are a peaceful people -- yet we're not a fragile people, and we will not be intimidated by thugs and killers. If our enemies dare to strike us, they and all who have aided them, will face fearful consequences.
We are now acting because the risks of inaction would be far greater. In one year, or five years, the power of Iraq to inflict harm on all free nations would be multiplied many times over. With these capabilities, Saddam Hussein and his terrorist allies could choose the moment of deadly conflict when they are strongest. We choose to meet that threat now, where it arises, before it can appear suddenly in our skies and cities.
The cause of peace requires all free nations to recognize new and undeniable realities. In the 20th century, some chose to appease murderous dictators, whose threats were allowed to grow into genocide and global war. In this century, when evil men plot chemical, biological and nuclear terror, a policy of appeasement could bring destruction of a kind never before seen on this earth.
Terrorists and terror states do not reveal these threats with fair notice, in formal declarations -- and responding to such enemies only after they have struck first is not self-defense, it is suicide. The security of the world requires disarming Saddam Hussein now.
As we enforce the just demands of the world, we will also honor the deepest commitments of our country. Unlike Saddam Hussein, we believe the Iraqi people are deserving and capable of human liberty. And when the dictator has departed, they can set an example to all the Middle East of a vital and peaceful and self-governing nation.
The United States, with other countries, will work to advance liberty and peace in that region. Our goal will not be achieved overnight, but it can come over time. The power and appeal of human liberty is felt in every life and every land. And the greatest power of freedom is to overcome hatred and violence, and turn the creative gifts of men and women to the pursuits of peace.
That is the future we choose. Free nations have a duty to defend our people by uniting against the violent. And tonight, as we have done before, America and our allies accept that responsibility.
Good night, and may God continue to bless America.
*Personal gripes, and not always so light comments...
Customer Service. Whats That?
"May I help you?" Probably not. I am appalled at how many places charge for their services, but then barely offer any. Come on folks...
It's bad enough that many stores have cut back so far on employee base that you can't find help. This is sometimes understandable, because of the economy and such things. I'll be kind, because of the financial times, and skip over this part.
It's worse, by far, to find an employee and ask them for help only to have them refuse it, or give shoddy and rude performance.
To stand in line at a fast food restaurant behind two people for 40 minutes, to ask 4 people at Wal-mart where the super glue is and get 4 different and 4 incorrect answers. Then, there's the one I saw yesterday. To stand in a line of 20 people at K-mart and be made to stand there waiting for help because the cashier decides she will go for lunch just then. What happened, was that the group of us suffered and waited because nobody cared whether or not we ever got checked out.
To use an age old phrase, 'we pay these peoples salaries'. 'They have jobs because the business has customers'. Period. Plain and simple.
I have to say it. Businesses that act like they don't need those pesky customers tick me off. I, for one, am fed up. Except, it seems, when I go to a restaurant that practices these poor ideals. I rarely get fed at these particular establishments.
Geesh...
Gripe, Gripe, Gripe
I got a phone call the other day. The caller-ID said, 'unavailable', so right away I was suspicious of the call. Now, I should say, I'm not against telemarketers. They're human beings, and they are just trying to make a living. It's just that.. Well... They're wrong. They're just... wrong.
Now, back to this, particular, call. The pleasant voice on the other end explained to me that if I'd listen to her talk for just a minute or two, I'd receive something free at the end of the call. Well, I'm doubtful any time someone uses the, 'F' word, but bored, so what the heck.
She goes on to explain that she isn't selling anything, (a little flag has gone up right there), she is merely taking a survey. Okay. I slowly and cautiously agree to this, provided the questions are not too prying or down right dumb.
She tells me that she is going to name some popular magazines and she wants me to pick two that I would enjoy reading if given the opportunity. (Does anyone see where this is going?)
So anyway, I name two. This girl is so good, that she never changes the tone of her voice, or misses a single beat. She tells me that was it, and now on to the free stuff that she promised. Just for taking the survey.
I have, earned, not one, but two, free, subscriptions to those magazines that I picked in the survey. Great subscriptions! 60 month subscriptions. Now, if I'd just send them a bit of money for their trouble, they'll gladly get those started for me right away.
Huh?! Did I miss something? At what point did they start charging for free stuff? When did ordering magazines become a survey?
I'm not against people selling magazines. I enjoy magazines. Many times while at....oh, I dont know, Wal-Mart, or the pharmacy, gas station or whatever, I pick up one or two. I figure, hey, these magazines are for sale, I think I'll buy them. I have never, one time, seen a sales person standing next to the rack taking, surveys, in order to sell them. Come on
I may be asking too much, but do you think it would be too much trouble for those people selling us stuff to simply admit they are sales people?
I mean, think about it. We are slammed with a barrage of associates, agents, consultants, brokers, and counselors... Hello!?! They're sales people! Every last one of them. For some reason, and at some point, certain retailers, legitimate and otherwise, have chosen to disguise their sales force. Sshh...dont tell the public. They'll never know. Do they honestly think they are taking us by surprise?
Well, I'm not sure about you, but I think I can spot them. See through their disguises. Now I may be stretching here, but I'll bet you can, too.
Do associates really sell more than simple sales people? Does broker really sound any better than seller? I mean, think about this one. 'Broke'-er. Call me crazy, but this does not make me trust this guy more. Where do these people get their information?
Well, I'm about to put this thing to bed, finish, sign off, end. Somebody stick a fork in me, I'm done.
 Truthfully, life has been, life. I have been hanging around trying to keep from going bananas. Not always an easy thing to do. Yet, God is faithful. I'm hoping and trusting that the details of my life will continue to flow and work out as He guides and directs.
I will say that going bananas isn't always so bad. LOL When people know you're insane you get by with so much more. And, the conversation changes. Things become so much more colorful and interesting. Words take on hidden meaning. When someone talks about crackers, they could be talking of the yummy baked goods that you put in soup, or, well, you. Fruits, and vegetables take on a whole new meaning, I don't need to tell you. Yes, it is true, life has been life. I just have to think that the alternative really bites. Lord bless me, and Lord bless you.
Two favorite things..quiet place, and my son..
I'll try to refresh this site continually with photos near and dear to my heart. Whether it be pics that reflect my moods, or the devotion of the day. It is true what they say..'a picture is worth a thousand words'. Since I don't have the time or the patience to write a thousand words, the pictures will have to help do the talking. 
"So, Where Have I Been?"
Going just a little bit crazy. I won't sit here and complain, because life has not been all bad. There just has been so much on my plate, and I have been scrambling to eat it all. LOL
There has been a lot of sickness in our family, going round and round among all of the members of our household. As soon as the ones in our house get better, the ones in my brothers' house come down with it, and it starts going around again. Geesh. Right now we are all well, for the moment, and so thankful for the health we do enjoy.
The holidays were great, here, but a lot of stress and tension that does not usually come with them. There was just a lot of personal turmoil going on with situations in my life, both spiritual, and every day factors of our life.
My son, Christian, had a major issue in his little life when his school teacher was found to be physically, and verbally abusing the kids in her class. Yes, this including my son. There was no blood, bruises, or sexual abuse, but there was a lot of verbal and some hair pulling, and even a bit of choking. The situation has been resolved, and he seems to be doing so much better, but it may be something that effects him in some way, permanently. He is a tough little guy, and I'm so proud of him. Thank God, again, that he was not damaged in more severe ways.
He has had a tough year. There have been physical problems. He broke his wrist this year, and he has been battling this viral thing going around so much. He has had the struggles with school regarding his teacher, and the circumstances surrounding disciplining her, and replacing her. He has been blessed with his mothers' presence in the same town as us. He enjoyed that very much, but due to circumstances out of our control, she had to move to a place where she could better herself, and is living many miles away, again. They do get to talk, and will get to see each other again, very soon, but it was a struggle for all of us. God is blessing and healing, and there is comfort there, as well. We pray for her, and I know she prays for us, as well. Our hearts are with her, and we hope for all good things for her.
My own life, has been a menagerie of problems, and extremes. There has been such a high and low roller coaster going on, that I am exhausted from the ride. The joy in my heart has been tested more than once, and there has been so many times in the last few months when I just wasn't sure whether to get up or not. Both, physically, from bed in the morning. . . and emotionally/spiritually, when I've felt knocked down, and wasn't sure I had the strength to get back up.
So, the question is, when you've been weird as long as I have, weird is normal. So, then, when you become normal, after being weird, is normal, then, weird?
Over the years, I have heard my share of strange questions and silly comments from people who call the computer software company where I work as a tech support telephone operator.
But one day I realized how absurd things can sound on the other end of the line when I heard myself say to one caller, "Yes sir, you must first upgrade your download software in order to download our upgrade software."
~Carlos Mejia
As a trucker stops for a red light, a blonde catches up. She jumps out of her car, runs up to his truck, and knocks on the door.
The trucker lowers the window, and she says, "Hi, my name is Heather and you are losing some of your load." The trucker ignores her and proceeds down the street.
When the truck stops for another red light, the girl catches up again. She jumps out of her car, runs up and knocks on the door.
Again, the trucker lowers the window. As if they've never spoken, the blonde says brightly, "Hi my name is Heather, and you are losing some of your load!" Shaking his head, the trucker ignores her again and continues down the street.
At the third red light, the same thing happens again. All out of breath, the blonde gets out of her car, runs up, knocks on the truck door.
The trucker lowers the window. Again she says "Hi, my name is Heather, and you are losing some of your load!"
When the light turns green the trucker revs up and races to the next light. When he stops this time, he hurriedly gets out of the truck, and runs back to the blonde. He knocks on her window, and as she lowers it, he says...
"Hi, my name is Kevin, it's winter in Michigan, and I'm driving the... SALT TRUCK!!"
A wealthy man decided to go on a safari in Africa.
He took his faithful pet dachshund along for company.
One day, the dachshund starts chasing butterflies and before long the dachshund discovers that he is lost. So, wandering about, he notices a leopard heading rapidly in his direction with the obvious intention of having lunch. The dachshund thinks, "OK, I'm in deep trouble now!" Then he noticed some bones on the ground close by, and immediately settles down to chew on the bones with his back to the approaching cat. Just as the leopard is about to leap, the dachshund exclaims loudly,"Boy, that was one delicious leopard. I wonder if there are any more around here?" Hearing this, the leopard halts his attack in mid-stride, as a look of terror comes over him , and slinks away into the trees. "Whew," says the leopard. "That was close. That dachshund nearly had me." Meanwhile, a monkey who had been watching the whole scene from a nearby tree, figures he can put this knowledge to good use and trade it for protection from the leopard. So, off he goes. But the dachshund saw him heading after the leopard with great speed and figured that something must be up. The monkey soon catches up with the leopard, spills the beans and strikes a deal for himself with the leopard. The leopard is furious at being made a fool of and says, "Here monkey, hop on my back and see what's going to happen to that conniving canine." Now the dachshund sees the leopard coming with the monkey on his back,and thinks, "What am I going to do now?" But instead of running, the dog sits down with his back to his attackers, pretending he hasn't seen them yet... and just when they get close enough to hear, the dachshund says, "Where's that monkey? I sent him off half an hour ago to bring me another leopard."
Here are some miscellaneous personal photos..
| Cast & Crew of "Come as You Are" |
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With enthusiasm and wit these goofy guys and girls got down to business and helped me put together and perform a moving play not with perfection, but with a lot of heart. Thanks people. I love you all.
Our little church in Vriesland, MI. I'm so thankful for it, and for the good and real people who are a part of it. 
This used to be my 'little' cousin Scott. Not any more. He's so old now. LOL We've always been more like brothers. I love you, man.
| Best buddies... |
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Our good friend Jordan. More like a son and brother to us. Separated by distance, but with us in heart.
| Wrestling again.. |
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The little guy loves his big bro.
Daniel is a really special guy. He made some mistakes early in his life, but is coming around now. I cherish his friendship.
Couldn't make up my mind where to put this one. Keith is more like family than just a friend. We live about 14 hours away from each other, I miss him. Here are some pictures of my friends. Kym and Vicky. Vicky has been a friend of mine since the birth of our son. She was our angel in the hospital when we were struggling through a difficult pregnancy. Six days we waited for our son to be born. Scary times, and lots of time to think. There was our nurse, Vicky. She was such a strength and encouragement to us. Been a great friend ever since. Thanks, Vic..
| Keith and Michaela |
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They were an item for a long time, seems like 'forever' ago. When they were good together they were very good, when they weren't happy, nobody was.
Christian and Jimmy are the best of friends. Christian loves to beat on Jimmy, and Jimmy loves to let him. Thanks Jimmy. We miss you a lot, little bro...
Keep an eye out for more pics. And, by all means send me new ones. I love all of my friends and family, but don't have a lot of current pics of them. Thanks...
| Jordan and Janna at Prom |
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| Do they not make a perfect, and incredibly good looking couple?? |
I've known Jordan forever it seems, but I've never seen him happier, or do better than he is right now. I'm happy for you buddy. Never give up. Not ever. You're looking good bro....
This is a pic of my friend Kym. She lives in the Portland area. She's the one in the back.
| Michael in the hospital |
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| Badly beaten |
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My friend Michael was jumped by two guys that he thought were friends of his. They beat him so badly he didn't know where he was, and dumped him near his house. He even had a shoe print on his back where they had stomped on him.
| Sandip |
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This is my friend Sandip from India. His home is near the Pakistan border and there is much tension there. I value his friendship greatly, and pray for him often.
Remember...as the saying goes, 'Opinions are like armpits; Everybody has them, and some of them stink'. For Lack of a Better Word..my 'Philosophy':  
"If You Hide Your Head in the Sand,
Crucial Parts are left Unguarded"
~TWM
This has been a pet peeve of mine for ages, but has resurfaced close to home, again, and I just want to rehash a few things publicly.
Without saying too much and being too personal, I'll speak as freely as I can. Even as you begin to read this, some of your heads will start burrowing into the sand. Some folks rarely even come up for air. They don't even know I'm writing. They might not even know I exist. LOL
The world we live in is an imperfect place, to be sure. Different personalities, and characters. Lots of different points of view. This is not the enemy, folks. This is not a bad thing. Diversity is a good thing. It makes us, as a group, ready for anything, and as individuals, a whole lot more interesting.
It is my feeling that we can learn a lot from each other, as well as from events of the day. Good and bad. However, we have to be willing to see and listen, and be honest with ourselves about what it is we see and hear. Too often we refuse to see the negatives, and put our hands over our ears and humm when something is being said we don't like. We refuse to see the positives if they're coming from someone or somewhere we don't like. We assume that if we close our eyes and ears to the world it won't effect us.
I strongly feel, that we were given reasoning abilities on purpose. We are blessed to be the only creatures on earth who can process information the way we can. I don't believe this is by accident, but rather by design.
Stuff happens, good and bad, and we have the abilities necessary to deal with whatever comes. That's not to say that sometimes the thing that we are to do isn't just to lay it all on our creator. I agree that certain things can only be, and should only be, taken to Him to deal with. I believe, however, that it is our God given responsibility to recognize such things, and do just that. Bring them to Him. Ignoring things that we can't control does not solve the problem.
I believe that life is a verb. We are to be involved in the act of living. If a challenge comes, deal, and move on. That is life. Plain and simple. I'm not, in any way, saying that there is never a time to simply weather a storm. What I am saying, is that I believe, that we are to do everything we can to stand, and then, stand. After, we have done our part.
I see this in all aspects of life. For example, the all too common car repairs. We hear our car make a funny noise. We know the car does not make, and has never made that noise. Yet, instead of taking it in to be checked and possibly fixed, we turn up the radio. Wouldn't want to notice if the noise continues, or gets worse. More often than not, the noise is an early warning of some problem. A problem that, with attention and action, might have been taken care of before it caused serious damage, or worse, destroy the vehicle.
Another place we see this is in politics, and churches. Yikes! I just said politics and churches in the same sentence.
Churches, for example, today in particular, would rather look the other way, or cover up, than to deal with a hot issue.
I know of a church that a few years ago chose to allow good people to leave the church, and then fix the problem that caused them to leave. Why didnt they address it sooner? Because of, politics, and because they did not want the controversy. Once the folks that had been wronged, left, they were able to address the issues quietly, and thus avoid active confrontation. The pastor of this church actually said, to my face, that he knew the situation had been handled wrong. Yet, refused to make it right with those hurt. Couldn't let word get out that something had been done wrong.
It's not just the church by any means, although I know that those anti-christian readers were whole heartedly agreeing with and slapping me on the back with the comments about the church. Sorry, its global and all encompassing.
I'll close with just these few final words. I know another person that is a good and decent soul. Kind, considerate, and loving. Yet, you can not discuss with them about a problem or anything, because they choose to ignore it. They will not hear of it. As if refusing to acknowledge the problem makes it non-existent. "John Smith is a good person, fine and upstanding", they might say. If you try to tell them anything other than the knowledge of John Smith that they have they will ignore you. Then they will further push the envelope by saying that they know of nothing bad about John Smith. Well, of course they don't. They won't hear of the problems and faults of the world. They truthfully, don't want to know what you know. Then, they, too, would have to deal with it.
I'm not saying that we should run around being negative and constantly tearing down and making everyone miserable. Simply, that we face so many struggles and challenges. We need to constantly be aware and on guard to analyze and act, and defend if necessary.
Now let me ask you a piercing question. If we have our heads buried in the sand, what part of us is unprotected??? You got it.
Thanks for coming up for air.
 
War, or Peace?
Im about to step where many fear to tread, while others, can not wait to. Fear, because we tend to want to hide our heads in the sand, and anxious because everybody loves controversy. Its fun and people will notice you.
First, I assure you, I have no fear to state my opinion on practical anything. Second, I assure you that I am not speaking of this because of the attention Ill get. I have strong feelings, and need to vent them. Youre welcome, as always, to write and vent to me, as well.
Im shocked at how many folks are adamant about having what they call, peace demonstrations. Peace, meaning, more often than not, lack of action on our part.
I am not, by any means, anxious to go to war. Im happy to sit in my home or work place safe and warm, at peace with any and everyone.
Humor me, if you will. First, allow me to point out, we have been at war since the 9-11 attacks. Or, shortly thereafter, officially. It was stated, then, loud and clear, Democrat and Republican alike, that our offensive would be well thought out, patient, global, and would not be a quick ended campaign.
As I said, I am more than happy to sit at peace in my home and work place. Similar in thought, I imagine, to the peace expected by those innocent souls who lost their lives in the attack on the World Trade Center. Those travelers who were traveling, at peace, on an ordinary flight to somewhere, peaceful. To those who were serving their peace time country in the pentagon. These people were, presumably, peaceful and decent, overall. They wanted peace. They would have agreed, most likely, that peace is a wonderful thing. They were robbed of peace by those who would ignore another mans right to peace. Their lives were taken, regardless of their politics. Their families forever robbed of their presence.
I saw a, so-called, peace demonstration, today in the town I live in. I am offended at the idea stressed in signs, that America is the terrorist organization. These are American citizens doing this demonstrating, and they are referring to their own country as if they are the criminals and hate filled lunatics. Perhaps these nice folks would like to go to live in Husseins country. Maybe defect and take up citizenship in a country where the government is not so murderous and criminal.
In hearing, Christian, people saying that, war is never Gods plan. God hates what we are doing.
Well, Im not sure what God these people serve, nor why they would need to speak for Him, when He left His word for us to learn from, to refer to, and to be guided by.
I would never say that we are a perfect people, nor that this is a holy war we are involved in. Im merely saying, it seems to me that this is not something that we chose, but something that was thrust upon us with great force in the form of passenger/civilian jets slamming into our civilian, unsuspecting, unwarned, and unarmed citizens killing thousands of innocents.
Of course, it would be wonderful if we never had to offensively protect our country. It would be great if there was no hate, nor madness out there. That is simply, not the world we live in. The real world needs policing, at times. There has to be consequences, and there has to be action. Its not a pretty and popular thing. The necessary things rarely are.
Would God approve? Is war an option? I think God would, and does. I base that, not on divine revelation, or spiritual channeling. I base it on the history of His actions as told in the Bible. There are many places in the Bible where He sent His people into battle. As aggressors. At times, told to destroy everything and everyone. Everyone! Then there is all that talk about war and battles in Revelations.
Im not, by any means, saying that we should kill men, women, and children. Im simply saying that war, even offensive war, is sometimes necessary to maintain overall and ultimate peace.
Lastly, disunity and backbiting, is not peace, in my book. Those out there that claim to seek only peace, seem, to seek, peace, only with those who hate and want to kill them. While they war and slam against their very own people.
Thats the way I see it. Have a nice day..
FYI:
Where I'm Coming From
It's been a while since I posted my feelings, and personal beliefs. So, I thought I would post some general info on....me. Mr. Mac.
I believe that there is a God. I believe in the Trinity-(Father, Son, and the Holy Ghost). I don't pretend to know all there is to know about this, and may never know half of what there is to know. I do know that this, this inherent belief, is not debatable. I will discuss my beliefs with anyone and everyone with the right attitude. Respectful, and civil. Yet, the basic belief is not an open debate for me. Period.
I believe that we should love and accept all people. By this, I do not mean that we should agree with, or go out with murderers and rapists. Simply that these people are human, too. I feel that they should be treated with a certain civility.
I'm not a religious person, in the respect that I become somebody I'm not. A different person at church than I am at home, or at the grocery store. That's not to say that I don't show a certain amount of respect, and dress a little different. It just means that what you see if what you get. I believe that there are too many wanna-bes, and I don't 'wanna-be' one.
I believe that a person should be evaluated by their actions, more than their words. Just because someone claims to be something does not make it so.
My life is based on my decisions, and my choices. I'm where I'm at either directly, or indirectly due to the choices I've made. Good and bad.
I want to touch peoples lives in some small way. To encourage, uplift, advise, and show friendship. It is my desire to leave this world a little bit better place than when I arrived here. To make a difference, even if it is just in my immediate circle of friends, family, co-workers, and neighbors.
Your Views: What you think is important. I may not always like other peoples opinions, but I always think they have a right to them. While I won't ever allow hate and intolerance to be spread on this website, I will allow people to have their say, as long as by exercising their right to speak their mind, they don't infringe on someone elses. I don't claim to know all of the answers, I simply invite you to join me on my journey to find them. Fair enough? **To my cousin Lisa...I love you, hun.
"There is Always Hope"
Down and out, but not defeated,
so much pain, a healing needed.
We want to run, lay down and die,
We want to quit, I will not lie.
So many things have gone and come,
lost a lot, but won some.
We want to run, we can't do this.
Just can't stand another boo or hiss.
Why the trials? Why the pain?
Why does every day turn out the same?
I'm just not sure, but I know this.
Through everything...we ARE still His.
~LM 06/13/02
"First Day of School"
Hes so great, already five,
my every joy, reason to be alive.
I remember the day of his birth,
the greatest thing in all of the earth.
Blond hair and big blue eyes,
looks of his mother, smile of mine.
So much to go through, so much to teach,
the world of great things within his reach.
Bought his school clothes, set him up right,
ready for his first day, a handsome little sight.
Just yesterday diapered him with such care,
our bundle of joy with curly, long hair.
I watch him go with a pain in my heart,
bittersweet feelings of the day school starts.
My special little guy, happy as he goes,
off to expand his mind and broaden what he knows.
I watch him go with sadness in my mind,
a numbing pain, hurt of a blessed kind.
Hes growing up, opening new doors,
Im thankful each day, to love him more.
(*To my son on his first day of kindergarden, Aug. 21, 2000.)
~Spiritual warfare is a touchy and mysterious thing. To tell someone they are going through it, or to convince someone that you are, is a controversial subject at best. This short series of writings came at a time in my life when the reality of spiritual warfare was made real and personal to my wife and I. They are written in a surreal style, but the aspects of this time in our life still is very real in my heart and mind.
At once we knew satan was nipping at our heels. His hot breath stirred up the dust of the sin parched town before us. Fear began to catch up with us, as this unexpected attack raged on.
It wasnt long until we could hear the voice of the Master calling out to us. Directing us toward His refuge. A safe retreat from the raging storm. His loving arms surround us, even while we hear the enemy pounding at the gate.
satan cries out for our destruction, but Christ knows no fear or intimidation. The vain and empty threats of one less powerful echo in our ears. Yet we are held safely close to His chest.
The angels of evil and good wage a battle on our behalf. We can almost hear the grunts and wailing of the unholy power struggle.
Though the dust creates a cloud that our eyes cannot penetrate. Our Saviour holds our hand firmly as He guides us through the blanket of confusion.
This darkness will surely pale. The power of satan cannot restrain. The love of God is now, and forever, our driving force!
I sat there quietly as the fog gathered on the still river. The stars of peace shown so brightly they could have been within reach if only I had tried. The darkness surrounding, enveloped me as the awesomeness of the Holy struggle entertained my heart and soul.
satans wicked eyes peered across the misty water at me. I knew if he could, he would devour my very being. I also knew that a host of heavenly angels surrounded me, waiting for him to try.
Somewhere in the thick air around me, ministering angels and demons fought. While Jesus sat on a rock close by loving me and longing to take away my hurts.
Into the wee hours the battle raged. From a nearby thicket came an un-Godly, desperate scream. Was this the sound of a demon who crept too close?
On and on the hounds of hell raged through the darkness.
Still, I knew in my heart that no harm could come to me. The hedge about me stood strong.
**I Peter 5:8, Psalm 34:7, Job 1:10
And the storm rages on. Everywhere I turn satan is sneaking up to me. Trying ever so hard to catch me off guard. Coming under pretense of being a sheep, yet wolflike characteristics give away his grisly identity.
The lightening flashes and glimpses of the real evil appear inside the innocent facade. I hear the flowery words of a hardened heart, but Im not fooled. The inner Spirit prompts me, "Keep an eye on the evil one".
I stay away and allow Gods vengeance, yet I see my adversary striking away at my heel.
My feelings numb, it causes no more pain, but I wonder how long my shields can hold.
The storm is raging harder still. I see him in the most holy of forms. We must be careful to call on God. Watch for fruit in the most impressive of these.
It comes to one undying truth. By their fruit well know, and not their words.
**Isaiah 34:8, Romans 12:19, Genesis 3:15, Matthew 7:16
You hide my hurting soul, oh Lord. You take away the pain. My wounded heart Cries out in agony, but you ever comfort me.
I stepped out on the raging waters. Knowing you'd hold me up. The waves crashed, now my water walk is ankle deep.
God hear my cry, Father know my voice. I've come this far to follow You. Don't let confusion swallow me or discouragement drown my soul.
You have always been my best friend. A loving Brother, and a Father always near. I love You Jesus, I know You know. My heart is drifting; Hold me close.
**Psalm 23, Matthew 14:27-31
"September 11th A Day To Remember"
I went to school on Tuesday morning
Without an idea of tragedy.
When I heard the news, my soul
Cried for the innocent people
On board the airplanes
And inside the World Trade Center.
Tragedy it is the base of evil.
Evil causes tragedy.
Now the brave firemen and police officers
Dig under the rubble, their faces smeared
With black soot and dust.
They have taken something important
To all Americans, but they will never take
Our spirit.
Spirit is soul, spirit is confidence,
And spirit can never be stolen,
For spirit is the most powerful being on earth.
These words make me feel better
Because spirit can cut through the strongest metal
And stay alive through the hottest fire
Or stay warm through the coldest winter.
Spirit, my spirit, will keep me alive
And safe.
"Where Is God?"
A plane hits- many will die
Another hit- people begin to cry
Where is God?
A third plows into the Pentagon
Plane number four crashes- many more are gone
Where is God?
Rescuers rush in- the buildings fall
Our country mourns- death has touched us all
Where is God?
Churches open- people come to pray
People are found in the rubble- alive they say
Here is God
Strangers helping strangers fast become friends
Working together united till the very end
Here is God
Chorus' of God Bless America ringing in the air
Proving to one and all- Terriorists we will not fear
Here is God
Peace will come to those in pain
For as sure as the sun shines after the rain
God is here!
Helen Steiner Rice (One of my favorite poets) 
C. S. Lewis, ROCKS... 
Sorry the words are a little hard to read on this one. It's worth the effort to read it, though. 'Nuff said.... Here you'll find reviews of movies and music...(hence, the clever name). Check this page out from time to time. Where you'll not always get the most profound and articulate reviews....just the RIGHT ones, LOL.
Movie Reviews:
I'm going to try something different for right now on this page. Instead of reviewing a particular movie, I'm going to review a particular type of movie. The type that is akin in any genre. Horror, drama, comedy, whatever the category, they all have one thing in common. They end really badly!!
Movies like this are such DOGS!!
Woof, woof!!
I'm not saying that there shouldn't be a sad movie once in a while, or that the hero shouldn't have his or her share of knocks and bruises. What I'm saying is, is it too much to ask that the hero get to win? Be happy? Live?
I just watched a movie the other night that I have been dying to see ever since the first previews I saw for it back a year and a half or so ago. It started off really intense, and continued to be pretty terrific throughout most of the film. I was really getting into it.
As with any movie, the tension was building and our heroes were really having a time of it. It looked bad for them, and you knew that it was time for something to happen to turn the tide. What happened? One of the heroes got murdered; one hero was helpless to do anything and crying, while another hero kind of lost her mind.
Meanwhile the one character that you did not want to see live, let alone win, is the very one that won, and lived to kill again.
I understand the need Hollywood has for sequels. In a business environment the sequel is a money machine. That's cool. It still does not make it necessary for the film to kill off the good guys and allow the bad guy to go on to, Bad Movie II.
I sat there watching the end of the movie all psyched up because I thought I had figured out how it was going to end. Then, it ended. Abruptly, and pitiful. As if the author had been working on the story, and was great at it, and then suddenly tired of it and said, heck with it, and decided to make it stink.
This is not the only movie that does this. There is a common thread with this movie, and a lot of others. No matter what the category, the authors seem to think that a bad ending movie somehow makes their work, art. As if a happy, and victorious ending couldn't be as artistically sound.
Alas, I am saying too much. What do you think? Should a movie have a decent ending? Should we be left hanging, and disappointed? We do pay high dollars to go see these things. Shouldn't we, at least, feel good when we are finished watching the movie?
Have fun, and choose you entertainment wisely. You never know when it is going to be a dog. WOOF!!
Feel free to send in your comments or reviews. All opinions given the same courtesy and respect. (I toss them all out.) Just kidding... =P
Words can never truly express the loss we feel when a close friend leaves this world. I was asked to speak at the funeral of my friend Tim, but just couldn't. To say, out
loud, the thoughts and feelings I was having at the time was
impossible for me. If you didn't know Tim, you missed out on a true gift from God. He was a special person, and a good friend.
"In Memory of a Dear Friend"
Tim Dykema was a complex and unique individual. Talented in everything he set his hand and heart to. Strongwilled
and determined, Yet, generous to a fault.
My friend, one year my junior, died in my arms June 15, 2001, of complications of advanced diabetes. My life changed forever that day.
I, now, appreciate every breath. I live, as he did, making every day count, and giving it my all. Failures or victories, whole-hearted attempts; no regrets.
In the first few weeks after his death I was privileged to
join his family as they sifted through the life Tim left
behind. Those were hard times, but also filled with laughter and joy.
You see, Tim spent his life entertaining people. Whether it was making them laugh, writing novels, acting, or making movies.
I mourn the loss of my friend, but I celebrate life. The
life God has blessed me with, those of friends and loved ones around me, the friendship I enjoyed with Tim, and the
legacy of life he left us to enjoy in his absence.
My life is better for having known you. I don't know why
God chose to take you so young, but I'm so thankful He allowed me to be with you when you left this world.
I miss you, my friend.......
Books are amazing things. They uplift and encourage, inform and enlighten. They educate us, and keep the mind sharp. This page will list just a few books that have done one or more of these things for me.
"The Prisoner in the Third Cell"
By Gene Edwards
Gene Edwards has a style of writing all his own. He has taken a story that most of us know, to some extent, and has written it in a way that truly puts you into the characters life. Into the very heart of the story.
The story taken from the Bible, is written in an, every man, way. You feel the emotions and you find yourself understanding the story just a little better than you did before.
Aside from the way the story is written and the awesome familiarity that you gain during the course of the book with the characters and the story, it shocks the average reader a bit.
The story builds throughout the book. It ends for John, of course, and then you wait for an amazing and surprising revelation from the author. What he does, is simple. He takes this long and old story, makes you feel the feelings and identify with the emotions and points of view. Then gives you a straight forward and simple word of knowledge to glean from and use in your own life.
It's not an easy book to take, but it is very easy to read, and quickly. I read through it in a couple of days, and wasn't trying to rush at all. It is written in such a way that you want to keep reading. Then the word there for you, will keep it in your mind. It's just that type of book.
In short, a little heavier than I like, usually, but, pleasantly easy to read and you won't regret reading it.
Happy reading.
It's available in Christian book stores, and can be found at, or ordered from Barnes & Noble and other fine book stores across the country. My copy was $5.99
Subject: PRAY BEFORE IT STARTS PRAY BEFORE IT STARTS A torch has been lit today to be passed along to your e-mail friends...asking them to pass it along....and along....and along. We can do something about the threat of war; both in
Iraq and with terrorists. In the Old Testament, God's armies were always led by the priests. When the waters parted in the Jordan, it was the priests' feet which first hit the turbulent river. In the New Testament, Christians are also referred to as priests...all Christians.
We must, therefore, go in first.
As the possibility of war approaches with Hussein and Iraq, we are asking the priests to step in first.....ahead of our military. Let us be setting up camp for our soldiers' entrance into the conflict. How? By prayer.
Let us be sending in "prayer missiles," "cruise and scud prayers" to target enemy plans. "Patriot prayers" to shoot down incoming threats.
We should be praying for two things: (1) that the enemy leaders become confused, disoriented, and distrustful of each other; that their entire system of attack fall apart, and (2) that in God's wildest ways, these enemies would become aware of His deep love for them and the war Jesus has already fought for them, personally, on the cross.
God had Gideon reduce his army from 32,000 to 300 men. He then equipped them with nothing but trumpets, pitchers, and torches. What an odd combination to fight off well-armed soldiers. When Gideon gave the command, the Bible says the enemy fled crying and turned on each other...all because God messed with enemy plans.
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