CatHouse Chat

The ONE TIME I regret not having HBO

"Taking Chance"

I'm going to get it, though, if it ever comes out on DVD...

Virginia - take back your Tenth Amendment rights!

I've really been disgusted by the continual creep of the Federal Government into areas where it has no Constitutional right. It offends me as a citizen and as a conservative who loves our Founding Documents and the founding principles of this country.

This morning, I see that Duncan over at And Rightly So has posted that Texas is finally fed up with this too, and has taken steps to address the issue. Here's the summary of the bill (ARS has the full text):

Affirming that the State of Texas claims sovereignty under the Tenth Amendment to the Constitution of the United States over all powers not otherwise enumerated and granted to the federal government by the U.S. Constitution, serving notice to the federal government to cease and desist certain mandates, and providing that certain federal legislation be prohibited or repealed.

Virginia, you are the "Mother of Presidents"! Many of our distinguished Founders and Presidents have come from the Commonwealth, and served with honor and integrity. Why are we not on the forefront of this movement??

I got your Second Amendment right here!

An eloquent, personal explanation of what the Second Amendment is all about.

Watch the WHOLE THING!

Bill Whittle, I just adore you!

Really, I do. We don't agree on everything, but the love and regard we have for our nation and for conservative/libertarian ideals is spot on:

It has been a source of delight for me these past few days to see nothing but evidence of this, all across our defeated lines. Nowhere have I heard a shred of defeatism or despair. On the contrary. In point of fact, the magnanimity and graciousness I have seen in defeat in so many places on the right tells me that this is a eager and seasoned army, one able to look defeat in the face and own up to the errors in tactics and strategy that got us there. And nowhere do I see a call to abandon our core principles and sue for terms, but rather that our loss was caused precisely by our abandonment of the issues we which hold dear and which have served us so well on battlefields past.

So consider this, my fellows in arms:

On Tuesday, the Left – armed with the most attractive, eloquent, young, hip and charismatic candidate I have seen with my adult eyes, a candidate shielded by a media so overtly that it can never be such a shield again, who appeared after eight years of a historically unpopular President, in the midst of two undefended wars and at the time of the worst financial crisis since the Depression and whose praises were sung by every movie, television and musical icon without pause or challenge for 20 months… who ran against the oldest nominee in the country’s history, against a campaign rent with internal disarray and determined not to attack in the one area where attack could have succeeded and who was out-spent no less than seven-to-one in a cycle where not a single debate question was unfavorable to his opponent – that historic victory, that perfect storm of opportunity…

Yielded a result of 53%

Folks, we are going to lick these people out of their boots.

Go read his whole post; it's short (particularly for him; he writes WONDERFUL essays!), and very much worth your time.

*sigh* Yup. Just ADORE the man...! And, he's just earned the right to have the label "Hero" applied to him in my categories - this has previously been reserved for our wonderful, brave military, and a few other folks who have also displayed courageous patriotism. Welcome to their ranks, Bill - you've earned it!

Republicans have finally turned into Democrats

... Which is one of the BIGGEST reasons we lost this election, you friggin' morons! Via Ace, Michelle, and Redstate among many others, I hear of "anonymous" staffers from the McCain campaign trashing Gov/ Sarah Palin.

Ace says:

Here's a story these staffers tell: Sent to collect Palin from a hotel, she greeted them, straight from the shower (running late, I guess ) dressed (scandal!) only in a bathrobe (presumably a very thick hotel bathrobe).

These staffers called that "uncommon" -- Cameron delighted in the word to give it the sound of "whorish, unprofessional."

Heh, assholes? She had to open the door and had just gotten out of the shower. Did you want her to use her magical powers of telekinesis to open the door for you?

Michelle:

The anonymous trashing of Sarah Palin by blabbermouth McCain aides who are leaking to Fox News is disgusting. Absolutely disgusting.

Allah’s got the vid clip of a report citing unnamed McCain staffers accusing Palin of lacking, in Carl Cameron’s words, “knowledgeability.”  More slime here. And here.

At least all the Hollywood and Manhattan Palin-haters were willing to sign their names and put their faces on their attacks.

Redstate is launching Operation Leper:

We intend to constantly remind the base about these people, monitor who they are working for, and, when 2012 rolls around, see which candidates hire them. Naturally then, you'll see us go to war against those candidates.

Works for me.

Listen, you deaf, smug, elitist snobs who claim to be Republicans and yet refuse to adhere to the core values of the party, I didn't for FOR John McCain. I voted FOR Sarah Palin and AGAINST Obama. If John McCain hadn't brought Sarah Palin on board as his running mate, I would have voted third party and said "To hell with the Republicans!"

If not for Sarah Palin, the popular vote would have been much MORE in Obama's favor; she is a true maverick, is cheerfully courageous, actually lives the values that make up the Republican Party, and isn't afraid to speak the truth and call her opponent on his gaffes, lies, subterfuges, associations, and experience. She is articulate without the overly-polished (i.e. "how well can I say something without actually saying anything?") rhetorical style of Washington insiders - she is a REAL PERSON who understands what it's like to be an "average citizen."

That's who I voted for, and your slimy, craven, and dishonorable behavior towards her ranks you right with the LameStream Lying Media and the DemonRATS.

We lost this election because you RINOs went to Washington, lived the good life, and forgot your base. Your spines turned to mush, your brains decayed, your hearing faded, and your eyes went blind. And the proof is that now, in defeat, instead of standing firm as the loyal opposition and graciously conceding this victory while remaining true to your (long-abandoned) values, you are rolling over, showing your belly, and peeing all over yourselves in eagerness to show your willingness to bend over and be screwed.

Curs! Cowardly, dishonorable, craven, spineless, frail, dithering, foolhardy IDIOTS!

Congratulate Sen. Obama for his historic accomplishment - and remind America that the race card is now off the table forever. Acknowledge his well-run campaign; 'cause you obviously can learn a lot from it. Acknowledge the Democrats' lawful leadership - but never forget that almost half of the people who voted voted AGAINST socialism, AGAINST big government, AGAINST weakness, and AGAINST corruption.

Your "leadership," RINOs, got us into this. You ignored your base, and now the country will pay the price. You will eventually go down; either to more and more liberal, spineless, weak socialists, or to true conservatives who will lead according to the foundational philosophy of conservatism: small government, fiscal restraint, national strength, personal integrity, individual responsibility, and dedicated perseverance. 

Something tells me I'll be voting third party for real, next time - unless a miracle happens and you incompetents can get your act together and promote real conservative Republicans.

Fool me once, shame on you. Fool me twice... Ain't gonna happen, dudes.

UPDATE: Oh, and Misha has a few choice words to offer McCain (but read it all; it *IS* the Emperor, LOL) -

But where is the “Maverick” in all of this? Nowhere to be found. His staffers are spreading lies about his VP pick like crazy, but the “brave” Maverick can’t find it in himself to tell his own employees to shut up already and quit character assassinating his own pick. As a matter of fact, the only person in the McCain camp who stood up for her, one Randy Scheunemann, was first reported to have been fired for “disloyalty” and then, later on, claimed that he hadn’t been. Who knows?

All we know is that our Imperial Mother told us to stand up for ladies when they are attacked, but obviously that’s not something that appears in the McCain family curriculum.

Call us when you find your balls, you clown.

Yeah. I'm disgusted with this - for all the rhetoric McCain spoke about his warrior past, and his honorable, manly service, he can't stand up for the woman who pulled his campaign's nuts out of the fire and saved him from losing like Carter lost to Reagan.

[headdesk] No more, RINOs. Not EVER again!

"Really think before you vote!"

And vote McCain-Palin!

(Kittipurrs to Gateway Pundit)

Oh, and you want a bit more documented evidence of Obama's socialist background? Look right over here... Wonder why New Zealand could dig this up, when our own media can't [rolls eyes].

A vote for Obama is a vote for socialism and the destruction of our Constitutional liberties!

Choose ye this day: Life and blessings, or death and cursings

Gateway Pundit posts this damning video about Obama's position on abortion:

Christian, if you are faithful to your Bible, you cannot vote for Sen. Obama. If you do, you are spitting in the face of God Himself - and displaying serious evidence which would lead many to conclude that you are not truly His.

Look at the way Obama prevaricates with Pastor Warren. Listen to his strong statements in favor of abortion. Remember how he describes a baby as a punishment when referring to his daughters and a hypothetical unplanned pregnancy.

Do you know how GOD describes children? Like this:

Behold, children are a heritage from the LORD,
        The fruit of the womb is a reward.
Like arrows in the hand of a warrior,
        So are the children of one’s youth.
Happy is the man who has his quiver full of them;
        They shall not be ashamed,
        But shall speak with their enemies in the gate.

The Lord has been abundantly kind to this nation, but we have fallen so terribly far from where we began! The fact that He has restrained His hand of judgment for so long both amazes and terrifies me, because America has earned His condemnation.

And if you think that I'm too single-issue about this, that's not my problem. But a true Christian recognizes and submits to God's absolute sovereignty over us all, even from before our birth - and He hates the murder of children. His holy hatred will exact a terrible retribution, and I fear for Sen. Obama's very soul when he espouses such evil while claiming the title of Christian.

At Sinai, God commanded the Israelites to choose, and to hold fast to that choice. He gives America the same choice today, with the same sober warning:

See, I have set before you today life and good, death and evil, in that I command you today to love the LORD your God, to walk in His ways, and to keep His commandments, His statutes, and His judgments, that you may live and multiply; and the LORD your God will bless you in the land which you go to possess. But if your heart turns away so that you do not hear, and are drawn away, and worship other gods and serve them, I announce to you today that you shall surely perish; you shall not prolong your days in the land which you cross over the Jordan to go in and possess. I call heaven and earth as witnesses today against you, that I have set before you life and death, blessing and cursing; therefore choose life, that both you and your descendants may live; that you may love the LORD your God, that you may obey His voice, and that you may cling to Him, for He is your life and the length of your days; and that you may dwell in the land which the LORD swore to your fathers, to Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, to give them. [emph. mine]

Choose wisely, America. Your fate, and the fate of your children, hangs in the balance.

Christian, have you considered this?

Have you considered praying for the economy?

Matt Perman, over at Desiring God, gives his reasons as to why every Christian ought to be doing this. Well worth a Sunday read, as are pretty much all the posts at Desiring God.

It is absolutely true that God does good through times of hardship and not just health. This is not just true, but glorious. Yet this does not give us reason as Christians to be nonchalant about whether hardship comes. We are to guide our actions and desires by God’s will of command, which is to seek our nation’s (and the world’s) welfare, just as God commanded Jeremiah: “But seek the welfare of the city where I have sent you into exile, and pray to the Lord on its behalf, for in its welfare you will find your welfare (Jeremiah 29:7).

Our leaders need extraordinary wisdom as they determine the most effective way to deal with the current tumultuous situation in the financial markets. This weekend is especially significant as Treasury Secretary Henry Paulson, Federal Reserve Chairman Ben Bernanke, and congress flesh out the details of the bold plan that is needed to end this situation.

Like I said - go read!

Also of note today, the Anchoress has an excellent article this morning (last night?) about why our financial system nearly collapsed:

Yes, I know is voice is grating, yes I know he can be too rude by half on his program, but take the time to listen to this audio of last Friday’s Mark Levin show. (H/T Ace) You want the breakdown of what happened and why it happened? Levin gives it to you in plain language. Listen to it, even if you really don’t want to. I didn’t want to, but it’s important that we understand what happened, here, historically, that we don’t simply succumb to spin. Look past Levin’s politics and his cranky yelling, and just get the history.

Another worthwhile read for today.

John McCain: An American hero, worthy to lead

(POST WILL BE UPDATED ALL DAY WITH NEW LINKS)

PRIDE OF PLACE ADDITION: To celebrate Bill Whittle's return (God willing) to regular writing, I quote from his essay in National Review Online:

And, finally . . . what of John McCain? I’ve read many comments about his speech being a disappointment. I don’t know how it looked or played from the floor. But I know how it played from my Los Angeles living room. I believe — and we’ll know soon enough if I’m right — that John McCain did something Thursday night more powerful and astonishing than Sarah Palin did the previous evening. Sarah stole Obama’s glamour. McCain stole his message. (Granted, that may not be a lot, apart from the glamour, but it was all Obama had left.) {emph. mine - Kat}

(We now return you to the original post)

A couple of confessions, first - as I was a little worried about how Gov. Palin would do on Wednesday night, I was also worried about how McCain would do last night. Saracuda did so well, and was received so enthusiastically that, combined with her pitbull determination and her novelty, I wondered how Sen. McCain would match her.

Well, Maverick did just fine - just fine, indeed!

Which leads to my second confession: I only watched the speech this morning on CSPAN's YouTube channel. Although I wasn't sorry to miss what I hear were some real yawner speeches last night, I did want to watch McCain - but, as they say, the spirit was willing, but the flesh was weak: I was asleep by about 9:45. Ah, well...

But I watched the speech this morning, and I was very optimistic because of what my blog-brother, Mike, has passed along in the e-mail list (gotta check the e-mail first thing in the morning, LOL) and then posted on his blog:

We’d heard the story over and over this week. How he was shot down. How he was tortured. How he never fully healed. So I didn’t expect to hear it again from him.

By the time he’d finished his story, I was nearly in tears. And I understood. I understood the Maverick. I understood his value system. I understood his love for America.

By the end, I was ready to scream along with the crowd.

I may have been slow in coming around.

But tonight, I love John McCain.

When I watched the video, I, too, understood. And I can now say, proudly and certainly that

JOHN MCCAIN IS THE RIGHT CHOICE FOR AMERICA!!

Watch his speech:

I've been an imperfect servant of my country for many years. But I have been her servant first, last and always. And I've never lived a day, in good times or bad, that I didn't thank God for the privilege. [...]

I was in solitary confinement when my captors offered to release me. I knew why. If I went home, they would use it as propaganda to demoralize my fellow prisoners. Our Code said we could only go home in the order of our capture, and there were men who had been shot down before me. I thought about it, though. I wasn't in great shape, and I missed everything about America. But I turned it down.

A lot of prisoners had it worse than I did. I'd been mistreated before, but not as badly as others. I always liked to strut a little after I'd been roughed up to show the other guys I was tough enough to take it. But after I turned down their offer, they worked me over harder than they ever had before. For a long time. And they broke me.

When they brought me back to my cell, I was hurt and ashamed, and I didn't know how I could face my fellow prisoners. The good man in the cell next door, my friend, Bob Craner, saved me. Through taps on a wall he told me I had fought as hard as I could. No man can always stand alone. And then he told me to get back up and fight again for our country and for the men I had the honor to serve with. Because every day they fought for me.

I fell in love with my country when I was a prisoner in someone else's. I loved it not just for the many comforts of life here. I loved it for its decency; for its faith in the wisdom, justice and goodness of its people. I loved it because it was not just a place, but an idea, a cause worth fighting for. I was never the same again. I wasn't my own man anymore. I was my country's.

I'm not running for president because I think I'm blessed with such personal greatness that history has anointed me to save our country in its hour of need. My country saved me. My country saved me, and I cannot forget it. And I will fight for her for as long as I draw breath, so help me God.

And that, my friends, draws the stark contrast between the newest American Idol, Barack Obama, and a true American Hero, John McCain.

I am sure that Obama is intelligent, and attractive, and charismatic; his accomplishment in rising to where he is is a testament to the American ideal that a citizen of this great country can do anything, if he or she puts their mind to it.

But Sen. Obama simply does not have the history of sacrifice, of dedication, of endurance and of honor that are the distinctive marks of John McCain's life.

Sen. Obama is too untried, he is too unscarred, he is too unknown. I cannot risk entrusting the safety, prosperity and freedom of this country to him. John McCain, for all the differences I may have with him (*cough* McCain-Feingold *cough* Amnesty for Illegal Aliens *cough*), is a man who has PROVEN with blood, sweat and tears, that he is worthy to lead this great country and to protect and serve the Constitution to the best of his considerable ability.

John McCain has the determined steadfastness, courage, and character required of a President of the United States.

Here are more links to read:

• CalTech Girl - "John McCain: Service, Sacrifice, Substance"
• Jim Bowden, while he is cautious, says "Senator John McCain called for Americans to fight with him for what is right and best."
• Bearing Drift calls for Sen. McCain to be bold - "If you can deliver on that, you will change the future of this nation for the better."
• The Right Wing Liberal - "And they broke me" (That line in the speech was delivered without histrionics; just a simple, heavy, statement of fact - it gave me goosebumps, and smacked me in the face with the brutal horror POWs went through)
• Scott looks at the terrorist vote *snicker*
• Crystal Clear Conservative observes "I like that McCain actually mentions real life stories in battleground states.  It is a good political move in a speech.  It is good to hear how he will fight for these people to ensure a better future." She did an EXCELLENT liveblog last night!
• Dr. Melissa is thinking along the same lines I was: "How do you compare a man of his depth and breadth with Barack Obama? There is no comparison."
• From National Review's Corner blog: K-Lo "I think this McCain speech is one that will resonate." and she asks some good questions... Then Peter Robinson - The Eloquent Absence of Eloquence "Tonight John McCain ensured that the democracy to which he has dedicated his life has functioned yet again.  He gave the American people a choice." And Jay Nordlinger has an excellent point-by-point commentary
• Actually, the Corner has a lot of stuff (just keep scrolling) - Victor David Hanson gives this thought: "McCain's last minute was worth the entire hour. What I like about him is that he doesn't care whether he or his experiences are ancient history to the duh/whatever generation. He does things his way and has confidence in yet another generation of Americans who in time will come around as he himself once did so long ago"
• John Podhoretz says "But this was not a speech for people interested in policy, or for those who are going to vote for McCain, but for people who don’t yet know for whom they are going to vote."
• RightWingSparkle has a very personal post up that is a MUST READ: " 'I was not my own man anymore. I was my country's.' That was the line of the night. It illustrates why McCain should be our President. He belongs to us. He fought for us. He suffered for us. [...] John McCain has always put his country first. He will always put us first. Because as he said, 'my country saved me.'  McCain has never forgotten that. He has lived his life returning that favor."
• The Texas Hill Blog came to my attention via one of my blog-brothers, DJ. A very interesting blog, and here's what they say "If you are looking for a great orator, the kind that makes your knees weak and has you screaming “hallelujah” to the rafters, the John McCain is not your guy… BUT ...If you listen to the content of his speech, to his words, they are chock full of wonderful reasoning and incredible insight."
• Zoey at blatherings says "he may be an old guy but he's my old guy."
• Yeah, Right, Whatever - "I'm still not a huge McCain fan, and I can't forget my objections to him, but I'm more willing to listen now." It's also another excellent round-up, and I'll probably be adding some of the links!
• CakeEater Chronicles - "No, it was not as hot as Palin's speech last night, but it wasn't designed to be.  It was a Presidential speech..." [emphasis mine - Kat] And LOTS of photos!
• Captain Ed at Hot Air - "Instead of a partisan attack on Barack Obama, McCain aimed a little higher.  He sounded a message of reform that reached out to people across the political spectrum, and he challenged everyone — but specifically Republicans — to reform government and the way they do business in politics."
• Powerline - "often pedestrian, but ultimately effective"
• Big Dog (still want to spell it "Dawg"... *grinz*) comments "...though not as gifted a speaker, McCain hit home with issues that affect families"

AIIIGH!!! There's life!!! Bill Whittle returns!

He's my favorite on-line essayist, and I must admit that sometimes I get truly angry with him... because he never posts enough! Weeks - months! - will go by and the will be nothing. Nothing* whatsoever to feed my love of country, nothing* to encourage me to try and uphold the rugged individualism that is the foundation of this great country, nothing* which smacks me in the face with how blessed we are to live in this great country.

It can be quite depressing. As a matter of fact, it can be similar to a great love, unrequited...

But, it appears that Bill Whittle may - MAY! - be writing again.

All right. Maybe it's not his long, detailed and exhaustive tours-de-force... But, if National Review can get Bill Whittle writing again on a regular basis - I'LL TAKE IT!!!

*"nothing" of course, meaning "nothing written by Bill Whittle"

Dear Mr. Obama...

Oh, yes. Yes, indeed!

(Kittipurrs to my blog brother, Scott)

The empty suit makes empty promises - gee, what a surprise!

Obama is not ready for prime time - what the heck is he doing, spewing this kind of pap?!

Democrat Barack Obama took his presidential campaign today to the region with Virginia’s highest unemployment and vowed to work to improve lives of middle-class workers

“I’m not going to say all of the jobs in Martinsville are going to come back if I’m elected president,” Obama told about 300 invited guests - most of them blue-collar workers - gathered at a community college.

“I’m not saying the schools will be fixed,” he said. “What I’m saying is that I’m going to wake up every morning thinking about you.”

Oh, how sweet! [pauses while everyone coos "Awwww!"] While he's raising our taxes, while he's pandering to terrorists, while he's supporting infanticide, he'll still be thinking about Martinsville every morning. My, that's so... comforting! So... inspiring!

Yeah. Right. You want to know what he's gonna be thinking? He's gonna sit up in bed at the White House every morning, have a good stretch, and think

I can't believe those schmucks actually bought it!

Vote NObama - because if hope ain't teamed with sweat and guts, it's just an empty suit of hot air.

3 Doors Down rocks the National Guard!

As always, I am so grateful to be reminded of the deep and abiding debt we owe to all our men and women in uniform.

We are free - because of the brave!

The American Military - Citizen Soldiers - serving with honor for over 200 years!

Black and White on the Grey Matters

(UPDATE: Ooops - fixed the wee typo in the title)

LOVE this guy! Love him, love him! He's conservative, he's Republican, he's awesome!

(WARNING: the language is not always safe for work... So if Mom and her friends stop by and then click through to his videos - YOU HAVE BEEN WARNED!)

Here's a sample:

Receive him, Father - and comfort his family

Virginia Beach has lost one of their honored sons.

May God comfort his family and friends, and may He continue to bless and guide the men and women who stand against evil.

In Memoriam
Michael Smith Phillips
Virginia Beach Police Department
Honor. Integrity. Service.

God bless you and keep you. May He honor your service and guard your family.

Oh, this is scary!

I was brought up to honor and respect police (and I still do!) and to believe that I should do my civic duty and offer what appropriate assistance and information they might require. Heck, I grew up when the police were often derisively called "pigs," and Mom had a bumper sticker that I love to this day:

I LIKE PIGS
Pride. Integrity. Guts. Service.

So it is with a definite sense of shock that I post these two videos, and am now basically determined that the only words which shall pass my mouth in a police interview are "I'd like a lawyer, please."

*sigh*

I'll spend my own money, thankyouverymuch

Good boy! Glad to see you express these sentiments, President Bush:

As Cassy Fiano, over at Wizbang, says:

This sums up, in a nutshell, the difference between Republicans and Democrats. Republicans usually believe that Americans are smart enough to run their own lives; Democrats don't. Republicans usually think that Americans deserve to keep their own money; Democrats don't. Republicans usually think that Americans will lead their lives perfectly fine without government intervention; Democrats don't.

Which is why, although I'm disenchanted with the majority of Republicans in office these days, I could never, ever, EVER be a nanny-state-we-know-better-than-you-give-us-your-money-so-the-government-can-help-you DemocRAT.

Cold, dead hands, people. "Cold, dead hands."

No due process, no warrant, no just cause, no accountability.

I'm very glad I wasn't there.

But folks, this is why we have the Second Amendment, this is why it is an individual right: because men are not angels, and governments turn too easily into police states. The New Orleans area got a small taste of what it's like to live in a police state when their guns were being taken without reason and when the police had no desire to obey the law - or wanted to obey unconstitutional laws.

When the police act like thugs, when law-abiding citizens are treated like criminals, that's when the Second Amendment stands in the way. That's when we return to the Declaration of Independence:

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty, and the pursuit of Happiness. That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shown, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security. [emph. mine.]

Kittipurrs to the Puppy Blender for the video.

Independence Day!

--- I posted this last year from the year before, and it was well received. And so I post it again in hope that it lifts up someone's spirit and reminds them of the foundation of this great country on its birthday. Here is the wonderful mix that Alton, made for me two years ago. He'd asked me to record this post, and then he added music. Listen or read - but enjoy either way!

04 July, 2008 - I've made some minor edits, so the audio version won't match exactly with this written version. Have a blessed and safe celebration of our Independence!

Two hundred thirty two years ago, a group of men - men of influence, wisdom, and courage - gathered together to sign a Document and birth a Nation:

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.

And so began the war for our Independence, a war where we threw off the stifling apron-strings of our Mother, Britain, and began our journey of discovery. The War was long, and fraught with set-backs, disasters, tremendous hardship, and discouragement. But through it all, one man held true to the ideal and fought with dogged determination to keep his army and his new country from giving in.

General George Washington. He was not necessarily a brilliant man, but he was honorable and resolute. He had been given the duty of defeating the British and winning the War, and he pursued his orders with unflinching persistence.

And in October of 1781, the British General, Cornwallis, surrendered at Yorktown, VA.

The United States of America was free.

But freedom doesn't come easily. The States had adopted the Articles of Confederation in early 1781. The Articles gave the States many sovereign powers, and any changes to the Articles had to be approved by nine of the thirteen States. Federal power was practically non-existent: it couldn't raise taxes, it couldn't regulate trade, it couldn't stop States from printing their own money.

With authority to act scattered throughout the States, and an anemic central government, America threatened to dissolve into a group of bickering little provinces. The States had their own armies, their own international ambassadors, they argued over interstate trade, the justice system left quite a bit to be desired. In other words, it was a bit of a mess!

In 1786, after much unrest and disputes among the States, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton petitioned that the Constitutional Convention convene to write a new Constitution which would strengthen and unify our young Nation. The man the Convention elected to preside over this process was none other than George Washington, the man all Americans look on as our First Father. General Washington was reluctant - he had recently lost his brother, and he preferred to remain at Mount Vernon, managing his lands. Finally, however, he accepted the duty, and made his way to Pennsylvania.

Under his calm influence, eventually each of the States made compromises and came to agreements, negotiated the power of the Federal Government and State Governments, outlined the authorities of the branches of the Federal Government, and placed the ultimate power of Government firmly in the hands of the People. The first draft was accepted in August of 1787 after months of wrangling and debating. Five weeks later, on September 17th, the convention dismissed, and the Constitution went to the States for ratification. It wasn't until July of 1788 that the Convention received word that the ninth State, South Carolina had ratified the Constitution.

Finally, enough States had accepted the Constitution to begin to implement its laws. Of course, there was further debate about the Bill of Rights, which were passed by a total of three quarters of the States by late 1791, but now America had her "supreme Law of the Land," which began:

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Thus we began to work out this fine balance between the Power and Authority of the People, and that of the Government. Men and women have stepped up to serve our country in war and in peace throughout our 230-year history. Elected officials, military, police, firemen, medical personnel, charity organizations, human rights groups, and so many more have furthered the cause of Freedom and Liberty in our country.

But for me, no group deserves our honor and our respect more than the men and women who serve her in our Armed Forces. Each man and woman who enters the military takes this oath:

...I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same...

Our men and women do not swear to a particular leader. They are not members of a cult of personality. They swear to uphold the Law, and the Supreme Law of the United States of America is the Constitution. At this time, they are engaged in combat against an enemy that hates everything America stands for, and unfortunately, some of those enemies are here at home. As civilian citizens, we owe it to them to honor their service and to protect the freedom, independence and dedication to duty which our Founders bequeathed to us.

Freedom isn't free, and the Tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what the Fourth of July means to me. "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," "We the People," and "I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same." I would hope that each citizen of this beloved country would rededicate themselves to the principles of our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution and work together to keep America strong and just.

Happy 232nd birthday, America! I love you dearly, and pray that God will continue to bless and guide you. I pray that you will always be that "shining city on the hill," a light and example to the rest of the world of Freedom and Liberty.

Happy birthday!

UPDATE: Here are some other extremely worthy posts to read -

• Cassandra explains why she *IS* patriotic
• LC Crunchie, at the Anti-Idiotarian Rottweiler, talks about the sacrifices the Signers made
• Bob Krumm reports on the 1,215 soldiers who re-enlisted today, the largest re-enlistment ceremony in history
• Jammie Wearing Fool posts Red Skelton's magnificent recitation of the Pledge... MUST WATCH!!!
• Make sure you check out the Open Post at Stop the ACLU for others' contributions!

--- I posted this last year from the year before, and it was well received. And so I post it again in hope that it lifts up someone's spirit and reminds them of the foundation of this great country on its birthday. Here is the wonderful mix that Alton, made for me two years ago. He'd asked me to record this post, and then he added music. Listen or read - but enjoy either way!

04 July, 2008 - I've made some minor edits, so the audio version won't match exactly with this written version. Have a blessed and safe celebration of our Independence!

Two hundred thirty two years ago, a group of men - men of influence, wisdom, and courage - gathered together to sign a Document and birth a Nation:

IN CONGRESS, July 4, 1776.

The unanimous Declaration of the thirteen united States of America,

When in the Course of human events, it becomes necessary for one people to dissolve the political bands which have connected them with another, and to assume among the powers of the earth, the separate and equal station to which the Laws of Nature and of Nature's God entitle them, a decent respect to the opinions of mankind requires that they should declare the causes which impel them to the separation. We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.--That to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, --That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its foundation on such principles and organizing its powers in such form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness. Prudence, indeed, will dictate that Governments long established should not be changed for light and transient causes; and accordingly all experience hath shewn, that mankind are more disposed to suffer, while evils are sufferable, than to right themselves by abolishing the forms to which they are accustomed. But when a long train of abuses and usurpations, pursuing invariably the same Object evinces a design to reduce them under absolute Despotism, it is their right, it is their duty, to throw off such Government, and to provide new Guards for their future security.

And so began the war for our Independence, a war where we threw off the stifling apron-strings of our Mother, Britain, and began our journey of discovery. The War was long, and fraught with set-backs, disasters, tremendous hardship, and discouragement. But through it all, one man held true to the ideal and fought with dogged determination to keep his army and his new country from giving in.

General George Washington. He was not necessarily a brilliant man, but he was honorable and resolute. He had been given the duty of defeating the British and winning the War, and he pursued his orders with unflinching persistence.

And in October of 1781, the British General, Cornwallis, surrendered at Yorktown, VA.

The United States of America was free.

But freedom doesn't come easily. The States had adopted the Articles of Confederation in early 1781. The Articles gave the States many sovereign powers, and any changes to the Articles had to be approved by nine of the thirteen States. Federal power was practically non-existent: it couldn't raise taxes, it couldn't regulate trade, it couldn't stop States from printing their own money.

With authority to act scattered throughout the States, and an anemic central government, America threatened to dissolve into a group of bickering little provinces. The States had their own armies, their own international ambassadors, they argued over interstate trade, the justice system left quite a bit to be desired. In other words, it was a bit of a mess!

In 1786, after much unrest and disputes among the States, James Madison and Alexander Hamilton petitioned that the Constitutional Convention convene to write a new Constitution which would strengthen and unify our young Nation. The man the Convention elected to preside over this process was none other than George Washington, the man all Americans look on as our First Father. General Washington was reluctant - he had recently lost his brother, and he preferred to remain at Mount Vernon, managing his lands. Finally, however, he accepted the duty, and made his way to Pennsylvania.

Under his calm influence, eventually each of the States made compromises and came to agreements, negotiated the power of the Federal Government and State Governments, outlined the authorities of the branches of the Federal Government, and placed the ultimate power of Government firmly in the hands of the People. The first draft was accepted in August of 1787 after months of wrangling and debating. Five weeks later, on September 17th, the convention dismissed, and the Constitution went to the States for ratification. It wasn't until July of 1788 that the Convention received word that the ninth State, South Carolina had ratified the Constitution.

Finally, enough States had accepted the Constitution to begin to implement its laws. Of course, there was further debate about the Bill of Rights, which were passed by a total of three quarters of the States by late 1791, but now America had her "supreme Law of the Land," which began:

We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.

Thus we began to work out this fine balance between the Power and Authority of the People, and that of the Government. Men and women have stepped up to serve our country in war and in peace throughout our 230-year history. Elected officials, military, police, firemen, medical personnel, charity organizations, human rights groups, and so many more have furthered the cause of Freedom and Liberty in our country.

But for me, no group deserves our honor and our respect more than the men and women who serve her in our Armed Forces. Each man and woman who enters the military takes this oath:

...I will support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic; that I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same...

Our men and women do not swear to a particular leader. They are not members of a cult of personality. They swear to uphold the Law, and the Supreme Law of the United States of America is the Constitution. At this time, they are engaged in combat against an enemy that hates everything America stands for, and unfortunately, some of those enemies are here at home. As civilian citizens, we owe it to them to honor their service and to protect the freedom, independence and dedication to duty which our Founders bequeathed to us.

Freedom isn't free, and the Tree of Liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants.

And that, ladies and gentlemen, is what the Fourth of July means to me. "Life, Liberty, and the Pursuit of Happiness," "We the People," and "I will bear true faith and allegiance to the same." I would hope that each citizen of this beloved country would rededicate themselves to the principles of our Declaration of Independence and our Constitution and work together to keep America strong and just.

Happy 232nd birthday, America! I love you dearly, and pray that God will continue to bless and guide you. I pray that you will always be that "shining city on the hill," a light and example to the rest of the world of Freedom and Liberty.

Happy birthday!

UPDATE: Here are some other extremely worthy posts to read -

• Cassandra explains why she *IS* patriotic
• LC Crunchie, at the Anti-Idiotarian Rottweiler, talks about the sacrifices the Signers made
• Bob Krumm reports on the 1,215 soldiers who re-enlisted today, the largest re-enlistment ceremony in history
• Jammie Wearing Fool posts Red Skelton's magnificent recitation of the Pledge... MUST WATCH!!!
• Make sure you check out the Open Post at Stop the ACLU for others' contributions!

BWAHAHAHAHAHA!!!

But - fair warning! - it's not politically correct, and the language isn't pristine... But this is hilarious! (Thanks to my friend, Tony, who e-mailed the link to me)

The CatHouse endorses a presidential candidate

He's tough.

He's stoic.

He has no patience for BS.

He's the right man for the job!

The Patriot Guard is coming to Danville!

The Patriot Guard Riders, the men and women who, among other things, ride as honor guards when fallen patriots return home, will be holding a Gathering of the Guard in Danville, Virginia, from 29 through 31 August, 2008.

Danville is practically my back yard! I am SO there!!!!

An opportunity to talk with Evan Sayet

I posted this video of Evan Sayet speaking at the Heritage Foundation last March, because I thought it was so insightful and true - and now one of my dear friends of the blogosphere, my beloved blog-brother, Kender, has set up a phone call for me this evening with this witty and astute man. 

I am greatly honored, and the K-man also tells me that he's arranged for Mr. Sayet to autograph a copy of his book for me when it comes out. Hopefully, I'll be able to chat intelligently, and then gracefully allow Mr. Sayet to get back to his busy schedule ;-)

What IS so great about America?

Why don't you let this gentleman tell you?

Hard talk about government spending and entitlements

Folks, we're in for some hard times. Listen to what Charlie Rose and Pete Peterson are talking about - we're either going to have to step up to the plate now, tighten our belts, and exercise fiscal restraint and responsibility, OR our children and grandchildren (probably even ourselves, fellow Boomers) are going to be smacked in the face with a debt we cannot pay...

Our future is in peril... We need to fix this!

When Leftards "peaceful demonstrators" attack - the video

Yep. He did. He whacked Skye, just for videotaping an exchange of insults. Sky was not participating, she was only taping, and this cretin lashes out at her! Melanie Morgan has posted that the... male person... who attacked Skye has been identified as

The (alleged) Peace Slapper has been identified as John Meicht , a college professor who taught a course at Widener University last spring.

And here's the video of the, erm, "distinguished professor's" attack:

Class act, dude. Really... stylish. So tolerant, enlightened, loving and peaceful.

Not.

"Freedom Never Cries"

Got this via the Instapundit... PLEASE watch!

America... Buy your flag BACK from the pawnshop! The 4,000 men and women who have given their lives in Iraq and Afghanistan deserve all the support, love, and thanks we can give. Don't let them die for nothing.

Buy back that flag.

The Gospel triumphs, yet again!

The power of God works its way through our lives, visibly and invisibly, no matter what we believe. God can work  - He DOES work! - even in the lives of atheists and agnostics to accomplish His purposes.

He can even use a little old lady who is strong in faith to further His Kingdom, and to save a soul...

I would ask my readers to pray for this man that Mrs. Jacoby met. Pray that God's Word reached down into his soul and brought forth new life. Pray that God would work His will in this man so that he becomes a strong witness to the glorious, transforming power of the God Who Saves.

And then turn right around and praise God for a little old lady who stood firm in her faith, and wielded the Sword of the Spirit like a true warrior!

(Kittipurrs to the Evangelical Outpost - and if you're NOT reading his weekly "33 Things," you're missing out!)

So, it's gonna be McCain...

Not that I'm surprised; I saw this as inevitable once Thompson crapped out:

...John McCain swept all four states voting Tuesday and clinched the GOP nomination, leading Mike Huckabee to drop out of the race. With his victories, McCain reached the 1,191 delegates needed to ensure he becomes his party’s nominee.

*sigh*

My blog-brother, Michael, has this to say:

So to my friends in the “I’ll never vote for John McCain” camp, all I’ll say is “Go now and die in what way seems best to you.”

But as for me, I’m joining the McCain camp.

He wasn’t my first choice.  But the remaining choices, Barack Obama or Hillary Clinton, are simply unacceptable.

OK. You're right.

But I'm still gonna bring my airsick bag to the polls in November...

Amen. Amen, and WELL DONE!

Now, THIS is truly "talent on loan from God!"

(KittiPurrs to the Emperor and Stop the ACLU...)

Happy birthday, Mr. President!

The Father of our nation, a man of humility, integrity, and deep faith. Indeed, he was a blessing to our fledgling country, and set a high standard for all who followed him.

His eulogy declared:

First in war, first in peace and first in the hearts of his countrymen, he was second to none in the humble and endearing scenes of private life. Pious, just, humane, temperate and sincere— uniform, dignified and commanding—his example was as edifying to all around him as were the effects of that example lasting. . . . Correct throughout, vice shuddered in his presence and virtue always felt his fostering hand. The purity of his private character gave effulgence to his public virtues. . . . Such was the man for whom our nation mourns.

How far have we fallen from the foundations our godly forebears gave to us! I pray that God will somehow have mercy on America and raise up sound leaders who will help us return to the principles which birthed this land.

Happy birthday, President Washington!

Lest we forget, conservatives...

Today would have been Ronald Reagan's 97th birthday. He was a good man of integrity and courage, a man with a moral vision who wasn't afraid to stand for what it right and good and true. Yes, he had faults (who doesn't?), but his grace and easy humor paired beautifully with his character and humility and gave America a President worthy of leading this blessed country.

Ladies and gentlemen, I miss Ronald Reagan and the legacy and values for which he fought. But we don't need another Reagan, and we ought to stop looking for one. What America needs is a man (or woman) of character, integrity, honor, and courage who isn't Reagan but simply... himself.

Yes, that person will be standing on the shoulders of a giant - of many giants! - but Reagan's qualities didn't start with him, and they are not unique to him. Men and women of his caliber used to be all around us; where are they now? If conservatives want to return this wonderful country to the foundation of liberty and freedom and limited government, DON'T LOOK FOR ANOTHER REAGAN.

Look for a person of integrity, both in public and private life. Look for a person of courage, who can stand for what is right, even when the opposition is overwhelming. Look for a person who can speak the truth clearly and forcefully, but who can also laugh at themselves. Look for a person who is gracious and humble, who remembers and appreciates those who have given them support and encouragement. Look for a person who is optimistic, who loves this country and believes in the potential of our citizens. Look for a person who is thoughtful, who reviews the facts and can listen to and accept different opinions before making a decision. Look for a person who can make decisions with confidence, and without excessive concern for what the world thinks. Look for a person who can own up to a  mistake, and make an apology without passing the buck.

Reagan was a good man. He was a good president. But he's dead; let him enjoy his well-earned rest.

We don't need another Reagan. All we need is another person of honor, courage, and integrity.

(But, because he had great ideas, I'll post a video and transcript of his speech, "A Time for Choosing," below the fold...)

A conservative's dilemma...

Who to vote for?

I mean, I told an RNC caller just two months ago that the Republican Party could just kiss me goodbye if either Guiliani or McCain were the nominee. Guiliani, thankfully, has now made that point moot (unless he's a VP nominee *shudder*), but McCain looks to be the favorite at the moment.

Huckabee is all wrong; on the unlikely chance that he did win the White House, I truly think he'd be an embarrassment to Christians (rather like Jimmuh CAHtuh). Ron Paul, while he has a lot of good conservative principles, is really unelectable and I cannot abide some of the dreck surrounding him about 9/11 and the War on Terror. Romney? A "successful" Republican in a state that's so liberal they pass blue urine? I dunno...

I certainly can understand with Ann Coulter's assertion that she'll campaign for Hillary if McCain wins the Republican nomination; Clinton would certainly provide someone for Republicans to rally against... But I think that that argument really isn't sufficient. Besides, I'd rather vote FOR something... Yet, the need to vote against another corrupt Clinton in the White House is a possibility...

*sigh*

Frankly, I'm sick of the whole line up - on BOTH sides.

So at the moment I believe I'm firmly in the "They're all self-serving liars, and a lot can happen between now and November, so I'm throwing up my hands in intense frustration and waiting until October."

But, I swear, if I end up voting for McCain, I'll be slinking into the voting booth wearing stealth-clothes and carrying an airsick bag...

I think it's time that I reposted this...

This is a post from March 27, 2007. I've been more and more irritated with the Republican party in general, and Bush's latest stupidity concerning the gun ban in D.C. is yet another burr under my saddle...

I'm far too tired with the lack of character displayed by members of my former party. I'm disgusted with the fact that they exhibit little to no moral fortitude, neither do they appear to care about conforming to the founding principles of our country.

So, I'm done with them.

Now, Democrats, don't start crowing with joy because your party isn't any better! Your representatives seem pretty rife with self-serving corruption, too, and I'm tired of having to choose between the pot and the kettle.

Therefore, I'm now calling myself a Christian Conservative. Note the order of that: Christian is first. My first allegiance is always to my risen Lord and Savior, and I cannot endorse any candidate who does not live according to a biblical moral code, who does not keep to the highest standards of integrity and honor.

First off, if you're "pro-choice," I want nothing to do with you. I will not cast my vote in favor of anyone who supports the state-sanctioned murder of innocents. Abortion is an abomination in the sight of God, and a terrible, black stain on our country's conscience. Any candidate who wants my support must believe firmly in the sanctity of life and have a record to prove that they will fight for that position. I want a candidate who is unabashedly against Roe v. Wade, and outspoken in favor of its reversal.

Secondly, I want an honest candidate. I want a man or a woman who strives for openness and integrity in every area of their life, personal and public. I understand how mistakes can be made - none of us are perfect - but mistakes should be dealt with immediately, with full disclosure and proper apologies accompanying appropriate preventative measures for the future. I don't want any mealy "Well, if you were offended, I'm sorry" apologies, I want "What I said/did was wrong and unacceptable. I take full responsibility, and I will not do that again. I apologize."

I want a candidate with fortitude and perseverance. I want follow through. I want a candidate whose handshake is a guarantee of a done deal. I want a candidate who knows he or she is my employee, who will use my tax dollars responsibly, honestly and transparently. I want someone who remembers what it's like to be a typical citizen, with little access to the "halls of power" or mansions and private jets. I want someone who honors and upholds our laws, and does not exempt himself from them.

I want a candidate who loves this country and believes in its foundational goodness. I want this man or woman to be dedicated to protecting its citizens and our borders. I want our military to be cherished and supported, and directed with wisdom and shrewdness.

I want this candidate to understand that our Founding Fathers were intelligent men who did not write in parables. Our Founding Documents were written in clear English, with documented interpretation and discussion as to their meaning, and the current "dynamic translations" of the Constitution shame and insult our Fathers.

I want a candidate who is color-blind. I do not want any special rights for any ethnic group: either you are qualified to do a job, or you're not - skin color has no bearing on the issue. I want a candidate who works towards encouraging people to take responsibility for their own lives and actions, to stand on their own feet. Welfare and programs like it should be reserved for people who truly need the assistance, and not those who simply have no motivation. I want a candidate who has practical intelligence, however: if one group of people is statistically far more likely to blow up planes, trains, schools, banks, etc., then that's the group our law enforcement officers should focus on.

Finally, I want strong Christian candidates. I want people who go to church on Sunday and read their Bible every day. I want devoted followers of Christ, who take up their cross daily to follow their Savior. I want the humble, servant's attitude of a disciple of Christ. I want them to display a compassion and fortitude similar to Jesus, and I want them to be bold in calling evil by its name.

These are tough standards, and I realize I may have to go with the best available on some - some! - of these points. But if you don't pass on the first test, and don't get at least 80% on the rest, then get out of my face: I want nothing to do with you.

So. Is there anybody out there who can meet my standards? I'm watching. I'm looking.

And I'm hoping and praying...

To the original post I will add that if you don't take our National Security seriously, if you are in favor of benefits and fast-track citizenship to illegal immigrants, then you are a spineless coward who does not truly have the interests of American citizens in mind. On the contrary, you are out to destroy our sovereignty and, yes, I question your patriotism.

Secondly, our government sent our troops into Iraq and Afghanistan. It is now our responsibility to support our military and do all we can to help them finish the job and come home triumphantly. These men and women have volunteered for service, have shed blood, sweat and tears to help Iraq and Afghanistan become free and productive countries. We owe our men and women in uniform the honor and respect of a grateful nation. If you don't stand four-square behind our troops and the job they are doing, then, yes, I question your patriotism.

Finally, if you can't vigorously support tax reform, fiscal responsibility, low taxes, and openness and transparency in all monetary aspects of our legislature, then I not only call you cowardly, craven and anti-American, I call you a liar and a thief. I would say that if you wouldn't do it to your dear, sweet Mom, you shouldn't do it to the American taxpayer. Too many of you have proven you're willing to have your Mom roast in Hell so you can have your moment of power and 15-second soundbite, however, so I doubt that will mean much to you.

If the Republican party can't get on board, if they continue to turn away from their base and our values, then I'm looking for a new party. I'm tired of the status quo, I'm tired of business-as-usual, and I'm tired of just settling for the lesser of two evils.

"Here I stand; I can do no other. God help me. Amen!"

Chatham, Virginia, "hosts" the United States Marines!

 Well, sort of... The Marines are coming into town for "Realistic Urban Training," where they will conduct an exercise:

U.S. Marines will conduct reconnaissance and surveillance, then raid a mock terrorist cell during a special training exercise in Chatham Nov. 1-3.

The "Realistic Urban Training," or RUT, exercise is designed to duplicate the kind of situations Marines often encounter in the field, said Capt. Kelly Fushour, public affairs officer for the 24th Marine Expeditionary Unit at Camp Lejeune, N.C.

"Any time we can do training off base, it's a good thing," she said." It's training we can't replicate on base."

According to Frushour, about 100 Marines will take part in the three-day Chatham exercise, which is being conducted with the Federal Bureau of Investigation.

"Role players" posing as Al Queda terrorists are scheduled to arrive Thursday, Nov. 1, and will be "inserted" in a house in town. [link]

Works for me! Any support and assistance our citizens can give to the training of our armed forces should be offered unstintingly - and maybe we'll have some part in hunting those murderous barbarians down and sending them on to the "72 Virginians" who are waiting for them!

Technorati Tags: US Marines, training, Chatham, local news, terror cells

To those who want to advise a Christian Conservative how she "ought" to vote:

That he is the best friend to American liberty, who is most sincere and active in promoting true and undefiled religion, and who sets himself with the greatest firmness to bear down profanity and immorality of every kind. Whoever is an avowed enemy of God, I scruple not to call him an enemy of his country.…

It is in the man of piety and inward principle, that we may expect to find the uncorrupted patriot, the useful citizen, and the invincible soldier. God grant that in America true religion and civil liberty may be inseparable and that the unjust attempts to destroy the one, may in the issue tend to the support and establishment of both. [emph mine] John Witherspoon

So, if you want to try to convince me to vote for someone who supports abortion - I'm not going to do it. If you want me to vote for someone who supports government interference in our lives - I'm not going to do it. If you want me to vote for someone whose life consistently flouts biblical standards - I'm not going to do it.

I am tired of voting for the "lesser of two evils." I am tired of "settling." I do not care anymore if my vote ends up putting Queen Shrillary in the Presidency. I will not - I cannot - personally support anyone who supports values which are totally in opposition to my faith.

You know, if people would stop thinking they had to vote for someone who is a "candidate who can win" versus "the right candidate," then perhaps we could return this country back to her solid foundations.

So, believe me, if it's a Shrillary vs. Guiliani race for the Presidency - I'm going to write in a vote for Duncan Hunter... and let the chips fall where they may.

God is still in control of history, people, even if "the worst case scenario" happens. It has been said that God permits us to have the leaders we deserve - so, don't you think we all ought to start working to deserve something better?

General Peter Pace's moral compass

Thanks to Kim Priestap over at Wizbang for linking to this article over at Threats Watch. Steve Schippert outlines the depth of character and integrity which permeate General Pace's life and contrasts them with the craven lust for power and popularity which epitomizes Congress:

Yet a majority in Congress telegraphed their intent to oppose [Gen. Pace's] renomination as Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and create a national spectacle for the self-serving political purposes of staging public opposition to the President of the United States. And as displayed by many in that elected body, leadership by example is a sword that cuts both ways. The Congressional ‘Peter’ Principle was on clear display.

And with that came the end of the exemplary service of a good man and outstanding Marine. He now must - and will - find another avenue to serve and honor those fallen Marines whom he led.

Yet there is nary a Congressional leader who does not famously proclaim “I support the troops.” But the often hollow nature of these words has the effect of reducing such phases to little more than bumper sticker slogans. For they are immediately trumpeted following a sitting Senator who compares those in the United States Military as running abusive and torturous “gulags” and their actions no different from the genocidal “Pol Pot.”
“I support the troops” immediately trailed a Congressman’s hasty and false accusations of Marines as murderers based on the unscrupulous and uncorroborated accounts of those who supported the enemy on the battlefield. “Supporting the troops” remains the official position of a sitting Senator who falsely testified before the Congress he now serves within that his fellow servicemen in Vietnam had “cut off limbs, blown up bodies, randomly shot at civilians, razed villages in fashion reminiscent of Genghis Khan.”

Our Congress, Republicans and DemoRATS alike, could use new direction, and I believe that they should be guided by General Pace's moral compass:

Chaminade students also noted that the general learned a life-changing lesson from Farinaro’s death in July of 1968 when a sniper’s bullet struck him down. Pace learned about the importance of maintaining a “moral compass,” several students noted, especially when making decisions at emotional moments.

“You could lose yourself in the heat of a situation,” the general explained, said Dennis Grabowski. The senior is a parishioner of St. Patrick’s, Glen Cove, and Tarmac co-editorial editor. Pace explained that his initial response to Farinaro’s death was to order an air strike on the village where the sniper was shooting from, but a look on his sergeant’s face gave him pause. Instead, Pace ordered a ground sweep of the village and “found it full of women and children.”

“The general said that had he ordered the air strike, he would have felt guilty the rest of his life,” Finn noted.

“You are going to come up on situations in life that are going to test you, he told us,” said Craig Hauser, a senior from St. Aidan’s Church, Williston Park. “In those situations, he told us, you go with your moral compass,” weighing the effects on everyone involved.

“He also said in making a decision to ask God for the wisdom to do the right thing and the strength to do it,” said Sal Garofalo, a senior, Tarmac co-editor in chief, and a parishioner of St. Aidan’s Church, Williston Park. “And after you make the decision, thank God for the help.”

General Pace's moral compass has proven itself to be honorable and true, and Virginia's populace as a whole ought to be pleading with this man to shoulder another duty for his country and run for Senator!

General Peter Pace:

• honor
• integrity
• humility
• faithfulness
• persistence
• determination

A Marine. A man. A leader!

Technorati Tags: Peter Pace, Senator, moral compass, honor, integrity, Marine, General Pace

Rush is getting the last laugh - and the DemocRATS prove their hypocrisy (UPDATED - WOW!!!)

Final call:

TWO MILLION, ONE HUNDRED THOUSAND ONE HUNDRED DOLLARS!!!!
$2,100,100.00!!!!

That means $4,000,000.00 plus going to the Marine Corps Law Enforcement Foundation!

And Dingy Harry Reid on the Senate floor today tries to horn in and make people think he was a team player on this... What a hypocrite! Sen. Reid, do you remember THIS?

Sen. Harry Reid - hypocrite extraordinaire!!!

This post is going to stay on top for the next several days, because I want to see just how much this letter is going to go for...

And I want to see if any of the DemocRATS will step up to the plate and show honest support for our troops by matching funds: remember, 100% of the proceeds will be donated to the Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation.

Rush is going to match the bid (I think that link will work - let me know if it's accessible only for Rush 24/7 members. The quote is from yesterday's [15Oct2007] transcript):

And, by the way, folks, I forgot to announce this on Friday.  Of course, I'm going to match whatever this is.  Of course, I always do.  Whatever it ends up, I'm going to match the dollar figure, and I have suggested that Senator Reid and the 40 other Democrats who signed the smear letter to Mark Mays, the CEO of Clear Channel, also match the donation that's going to Marine Corps-Law Enforcement Foundation.  It provides college scholarships for the children of Marines and law enforcement officials killed in action.  I've suggested they should show their support for the military also by matching whatever the high bid is. 

So, as I write this, that's $100,000 dollars that the Foundation will receive at minimum.

And I think this is a classic violation of the First Amendment:

Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.

Well, all right, I will concede that the DemocRATS haven't tried to make it a law, but they are certainly violating the intent and spirit of that Amendment, if not the precise letter...

Hypocrite, thy label is DemocRAT.

UPDATE: Oh, I forgot *snicker* - here's the original announcement by Rush

Technorati Tags: Rush Limbaugh, letter of censure, censorship, hypocricy, Democrats, Senate

General Peter Pace - honor, grace, and humility

No TV circus, no huge press conference, no fanfare of trumpets accompanied a visit to the Viet Nam War Memorial earlier this month. There was just a man, erect of bearing and solemn of face, who knelt to place three simple index cards against the Wall.

Each card had the four stars of a Marine Corps General attached and said,

"These are yours - not mine!
With love and respect,
Your platoon leader,
Pete Pace"

I suspect that a head bowed in prayer for a while, and that before he left, General Pace came to full attention and offered a grave salute. And then he turned and strode away, quietly and without seeking notice or adulation.

I hope and pray that a man of such sterling character, who continually exhibits honor, humility, and servant-leadership at every turn, will indeed accept One Last Mission. Virginia is at a crossroads, and we need wise leadership from a man of integrity.

We need to Draft General Pace!

As I said before:

Please, General Pace. We need men of your proven character and wisdom to guide this country. It will be a tremendous sacrifice for you and your family... But you have proven yourself a servant-leader, and I beg you to shoulder yet another heavy duty and help lead America.

Technorati Tags: Peter Pace, Pace for Senate, Draft Peter Pace, One Last Mission

General Pace - please accept the nomination

Sir, I do not pretend to know your political preferences, or all of your opinions on the issues of the day.

However, you have proved yourself to be an honorable man, dedicated to following and defending what you understand to be right. You have lived your love of country, and your determination to serve America in good times and in bad.

Sir, your example of integrity and honor lead me to ask you to please... PLEASE!... serve your country still more by accepting the burden of running for the Senate. They may have forced you to retire from the military, but I pray that you will continue to serve this country you love so much by running for John Warner's (RINO, VA) seat in the United States Senate.

Please, General Pace. We need men of your proven character and wisdom to guide this country. It will be a tremendous sacrifice for you and your family... But you have proven yourself a servant-leader, and I beg you to shoulder yet another heavy duty and help lead America.

Technorati Tags: General Pace, Peter Pace, senate elections

General Peter Pace - a true Marine

And God bless him for it! Chris, over at the Mason Conservative, posts this video, which I must share with you:

Humility, grace, honor, dignity, and a dedication to do what is right... Dear Lord in heaven above, we need more men of this quality!

Technorati Tags: Peter Pace, US Marines, honor, character

****BRAVO!!!****

Alton alerted me to this video featured over on Breitbart.tv -

Mexican flags
Uploaded by dollarsandsense123

Make sure you go on over and digg it - and read those comments! My favorite is by stealthboy:

What's it going to take to get Americans angry enough to realize we are being invaded? I'm sick of seeing Spanish in all the stores I go to now. I'm sick of all the liberals playing the race card whenever anyone tries to discuss illegal immigration (Note: Illegal, not legal). This crap has to stop, and I'm glad this guy took a stand. He's a true hero in my book.

No joke! We are being invaded, and our government - at the local, state, AND federal levels - has betrayed the trust we placed in it to KEEP OUR BORDERS SECURE.

I have nothing against people who want to come to this country - I welcome them! - but if they refuse to do it legally, then *I* don't want them here. We have enough trouble with crime among our proper citizens - I don't want proven lawbreakers here, too.

The God Who Votes

DJ Drummond, over at Wizbang, has an excellent post up:

...I have found it fascinating and a bit dishonest, how many people whose policies they know are amoral at best, demand that God stay out of things, that His opinion cannot be considered in electing those leaders who will direct the nation's decisions on moral issues. Abortion, war, coercive redistribution of wealth, and the limits on personal freedoms are all expected to be addressed without considering of the simple question about whether the proposed action is the right thing to do. To that, I think it is well past time to voice dissent, indeed to oppose and suppress those who think that Freedom of Religion still disallows a person from voting their conscience by listening to the voice and will of God. It is time for us all to exercise our rights, not lay them down because someone is a boor about how we voice our opinion.

Just go read it all.

Bravo, DJ. BRAVO!

Columbia University President Lee Bollinger showed moral courage

I am so glad that my blog-brother, Jerry Fuhrman, posted this video:

Mr. Bollinger, I was immensely skeptical of and disgusted with Columbia University's decision to permit Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad to speak at your facility. With this speech, however, you have done much to redeem your institution's reputation.

Bravo, sir! Bravo!

UPDATE: Here's a transcript, and a lovely quote which the video, above, does not include:

... Let's then be clear at the beginning. Mr. President, you exhibit all the signs of a petty and cruel dictator. And so I ask you -- (applause) -- and so I ask you, why have women, members of the Baha'i faith, homosexuals and so many of our academic colleagues become targets of persecution in your country? Why, in a letter last week to the secretary-general of the U.N., did Akbar Ganji, Iran's leading political dissident, and over 300 public intellectuals, writers and Noble Laureates express such grave concern that your inflamed dispute with the West is distracting the world's attention from the intolerable conditions in your regime within Iran, in particular the use of the press law to ban writers for criticizing the ruling system? Why are you so afraid of Iranian citizens expressing their opinions for change?

In our country, you are interviewed by our press and asked to speak here today. And while my colleagues at the law school -- Michael Dorf, one of my colleagues, spoke to Radio Free Europe, viewers in Iran a short while ago on the tenants of freedom of speech in this country -- I propose further that you let me lead a delegation of students and faculty from Columbia to address your universities about free speech with the same freedom we afford you today. (Applause.)

Secondly, the denial of the Holocaust. In a December 2005 state television broadcast, you described the Holocaust as "a fabricated legend." One year later, you held a two-day conference of Holocaust deniers. For the illiterate and ignorant, this is dangerous propaganda.

When you have come to a place like this, this makes you, quite simply, ridiculous. ...

Technorati Tags: Columbia University, Lee Bollinger, Mahmoud Amadinejad

The "Bowl of Embrace" doesn't measure up

When AMERICA commemorates heroes who have sacrificed themselves to serve their countrymen, who have shown extraordinary courage, who have dedicated themselves to liberty, or who have shown incredible courage in the face of adversity, THESE are the memorials we build to honor them:

 

 

Just as a small sampling...

America builds triumphant MONOLITHS! We build soaring statues, we erect meaningful and wrenching reminders of the blood, sacrifice, and INTEGRITY of our heroes.

We don't construct namby-pamby, enemy-appeasing "Bowl of Embrace" drivel!

The concept of the "Bowl of Embrace" is just too disgusting, cowardly, and appeasing for me to outline, so I will direct you to Cao, GMan, and Justin, who offer far better descriptions and denunciations.

But never forget that when proper Americans fashion and forge a memorial to courage, honor, and bravery, we produce something that says

IN YOUR DAMN FACE!!!!

to our enemies!

This "Bowl of Embrace" is an abomination, and ought to be replaced (as should the Twin Towers) with something that BEGS the Islamofascist terrorist murderers to try and destroy them. We need to raise up memorials which scream

• We will never surrender!
• We will never back down!
• We will never forget!
• We will hunt you to the ends of the earth and destroy every last evidence and memory of your intolerant, barbaric and insane ideology!

Technorati Tags: Bowl of Embrace, Crescent of embrace, cowardly, appeasing, islamofascist, terrorists, murder, barbarian

Hope Rides Alone: An American Hero answers the CodePink/Int'l Answer/MoveOn crowds...

The CatHouse bows in prayer and thanksgiving for a fallen hero, and the honorable example he lived.

But even thousands of miles away, in Ramadi, Iraq, the cries and screams and complaints of the ungrateful reach me. In a year, I will be thrust back into society from a life and mentality that doesn't fit your average man. And then, I will be alone. And then, I will walk down the streets of America, and see the yellow ribbon stickers on the cars of the same people who compare our President to Hitler.

I will watch the television and watch the Cindy Sheehans, and the Al Frankens, and the rest of the ignorant sheep of America spout off their mouths about a subject they know nothing about. It is their right, however, and it is a right that is defended by hundreds of thousands of boys and girls scattered across the world, far from home. I use the word boys and girls, because that's what they are. In the Army, the average age of the infantryman is nineteen years old. The average rank of soldiers killed in action is Private First Class.

People like Cindy Sheehan are ignorant. Not just to this war, but to the results of their idiotic ramblings, or at least I hope they are. They don't realize its effects on this war. In this war, there are no Geneva Conventions, no cease fires. Medics and Chaplains are not spared from the enemy's brutality because it's against the rules. I can only imagine the horrors a military Chaplain would experience at the hands of the enemy. The enemy slinks in the shadows and fights a coward's war against us. It is effective though, as many men and women have died since the start of this war. And the memory of their service to America is tainted by the inconsiderate remarks on our nation's news outlets. And every day, the enemy changes...only now, the enemy is becoming something new. The enemy is transitioning from the Muslim extremists to Americans. The enemy is becoming the very people whom we defend with our lives. And they do not realize it. But in denouncing our actions, denouncing our leaders, denouncing the war we live and fight, they are isolating the military from society...and they are becoming our enemy.

Democrats and peace activists like to toss the word "quagmire" around and compare this war to Vietnam. In a way they are right, this war is becoming like Vietnam. Not the actual war, but in the isolation of country and military. America is not a nation at war; they are a nation with its military at war. Like it or not, we are here, some of us for our second, or third times; some even for their fourth and so on. Americans are so concerned now with politics, that it is interfering with our war.

Terrorists cut the heads off of American citizens on the internet...and there is no outrage, but an American soldier kills an Iraqi in the midst of battle, and there are investigations, and sometimes soldiers are even jailed...for doing their job. [all emphasis mine]

This is an excerpt from an essay written on February 1st of this year by SGT Eddie Jeffers, and I would urge you to read it, as well as two others, "Freedom Feels Good," and "Real Deal in Ramadi."

On Thursday, September 20, 2007, SGT Jeffers laid down his life for the ideals and convictions he cherished. Thank God for his Christian convictions: because of them, SGT Jeffers was ushered into the presence of his Lord and Savior by a host of angels. And I know that as he knelt at the foot of the Throne, he was blessed when God his Savior reached down, lifted him up and said,

"Well done, thou good and faithful servant! You have been faithful in a few things, and I will give you charge over many. Enter into the joy of your Lord!"

SGT Jeffers' father wrote,

It is with great personal sadness but joy in our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ that I announce the death of my son Eddie Jeffers. Eddie was killed around 7 am Iraqi time from an accidental vehicle roll-over. Although our personal loss is traumatic, we know he is in a better place. All of you have been so wonderful to my son and my family and he was so blessed and humbled by your love for him. He told me this past summer after the wonderful gift you gave his wife and him that he didn't understand why people were so generous and kind to him. You see to Eddie, he was just doing his job and what he believed was his life mission from God.

I've said this often; Eddie was my hero. My dear brother in Christ Rod Martin told me that Eddie died a hero for not just the soldier he was but the person. Eddie, through his writing, touched so many people's lives, yours and you so lovingly touched ours back.
We thank you in advance for your condolences and prayers. Please pray especially for Eddie's wife Stephanie; as you can imagine she is devastated. Our prayer is that Eddie's death will exalt Christ as did his life.

In lieu of any flowers we are asking all donations be given to the Fisher House in memory of Eddie; he loved that charity.

Will you join me in honoring an American hero, who followed his Savior in laying down his life for his friends? Please donate as much as you can to Fisher House, which "...donates 'comfort homes,' built on the grounds of major military and VA medical centers. These homes enable family members to be close to a loved one at the most stressful times - during the hospitalization for an unexpected illness, disease, or injury."

And will you also read his essays, and commit to cherishing and nurturing this great country that he loved so much?

Let's honor him - and his fallen brethren - by bringing our troops home... VICTORIOUSLY!

(Crossposted to the Wide Awakes and the Cotillion)

Technorati Tags: SGT Eddie Jeffers, in memory, killed in action, essay, patriot

Duncan Hunter at Gathering of Eagles

What a great guy... He spoke from the heart, with passion and love for our country and our men and women in uniform. He was also the only presidential candidate to show up for this important gathering!

Congressman Hunter graciously stopped for a couple of words with me, and a polite bystander took this photo:

Technorati Tags: Duncan Hunter, Gathering of Eagles

SQUIRM, John Murtha, you anti-military, libelous B*ST*RD!

I wonder, if enough people confront him on the record like this, if he might actually eventually issue a grudging apology.

And to think that this... person... was once in the Marines himself. You note I don't say "was once a Marine," because I suspect that a true Marine would never condemn his younger brothers without evidence or a hearing.

I hope one or more of the accused and now exonerated Marines *DO* sue him for libel or slander. After all, Murtha's remarks weren't made on the congressional floor, and so his immunity is a moot point...

Here's what Murtha said last year:

YouTube - John Murtha Says Troops Kill In Cold Blood

But when Jason Mattera, of Young America's Foundation confronted him today, Murtha couldn't even address the issue. "I served in Korea and Viet Nam!"  

Yeah? So? Even a Viet Nam and Korean War vet should have to answer for his egregious abuse of his position to smear our military!

SQUIRM, you maggot!

YouTube - Rep. Jack Murtha cuts and runs when asked about Haditha

Thanks so much to Jason Mattera for his pursuit of an answer, and to Bryan at Hot Air for posting the video!

UPDATE: And Gateway Pundit adds to the pile on... [rubbing hands together in gleeful delight] Make sure you read it all, and then poke around in the comments section at Hot Air... and then follow the trackbacks... Oh, wouldn't it be wonderful if Murtha was forced to resign in disgrace (he won't: DemonRAT(icks) like this don't have the spine to do the right thing)...?

(Crossposted to the Cotillion)

Technorati Tags: John Murtha, traitors, Jason Mattera, libel, slander, Young America's Foundation

Arlington Cemetery

CatHouse Chat pauses to bow in prayer, honoring our sacred dead and asking for safety and God's blessing on our living heroes who are standing the Watch.

UPDATE: Video added -

Visitors to the Tomb of the Unknowns are very quiet, very respectful, which is entirely appropriate for such a sacred place. The guards take 21 paces in each direction, then they pause for 21 seconds with each change of direction. This represents one of the highest honors offered to our military service members: the Twenty One Gun Salute. I need to research this tradition to find out the significance of the number "21."

I have an hypothesis, though - twenty-one is three times seven (d'uh!). Both "three" and "seven" are considered to be important and perfect numbers in the Judeo-Christian tradition. "Three" is representative of the Trinity, for instance, and "seven" could refer to the seven days of Creation. I dunno, it's just a wild-eyed guess on my part, and I'm probably totally wrong...

I was unable to get the video of the Changing of the Guard this time because the battery of my video camera was used up COMPLETELY for yesterday's rally (I'll convert and post it all, I promise!), and my little purse camera couldn't have held it all (not to mention that I'd only get *one* level of zoom once I started recording).

I'm thinking of coming up for Spring Break, and bringing the Munchkin - in which case, I will certainly get a record of the ceremony, which is conducted every half hour when the Memorial is open.

Gold Star families!!! (Edited and bumped)

Thank God for the Gold Star families who were here. They were welcomed warmly - applause and cheers and "thank you!"s resounded - and gave the love back freely. They spoke about how proud they were of their sons, and how much those heroes would have appreciated Gathering of Eagles.

Tears ran down my face as they gave their testimonies and testified to their sons' bravery.

America is blessed beyond measure to have men and women of such courage and character who stand between us and harm, and freely give their lives to guard our freedom.

When I saw the MoveOn, Code Pink, and Answer traitors spitting on these men and women by their actions, I had to wonder...

Does America deserve all the heroes who have died for her?

I don't think we are worthy of them.