Good morning, dear Reader, and welcome to yet another day above ground. Unfortunately, I had vivid nightmares last night which is why I'm glad that I almost never dream, or, if I do, that I wake up without remembering the dreams more than 99% of the time. In fact, I can't recall the last remembered dream of any kind that I had, it's been multiple years now, until last night.
And now. I'm sick and damned tired of liars on the left telling deliberate LIES and twisting words intentionally taken out of context in the effort to paint a MURDERED MAN as some kind of vicious person that HE WAS NOT.
Click HERE to debunk ALL of the far-left's litany of LIES right now. And I don't want to hear ONE WORD FROM ANYONE until you've read the entire thing and watched EVERY SINGLE VIDEO!!! TRUTH MATTERS. You do NOT get to INVENT THINGS because you do NOT LIKE TRUTH. PERIOD.
Jesus Christ, people, have some damned integrity for once! If you're willing to LIE to yourself, you WILL BECOME INCAPABLE of discerning fact from fiction, it's a 100% GUARANTEE. So, if you're not already TOO FAR GONE, get on board with TRUTH and that will be a good first step in keeping you from the eternal fires of HELL.
Now. Here is today's Proverb which I will have to read again when I'm not so damned angry, I've already read it but was too mad to retain anything so a repeat is in my near future this morning. And, mad or not, I pray that Truth WILL pierce your hearts and souls and bring genuine repentance of evil, as I pray for myself as well, asking for these things in Jesus' Name. Nobody is perfect, everyone can get things wrong. But to do so deliberately IS DEMONIC and WILL NOT BE TOLERATED. PERIOD.
Greetings and salutations, dear Reader, and welcome to this obscure, American blog! It's pretty hot to many of you for this time of year, at least if you're here in the Northern Hemisphere. According to Google, it's only 73F outside, but I'm in my mid-fifties and, *man* am I hot right now! 😂
I sure hope this grant-writing thing takes off soon, we're pretty sick and tired of living in a $300, 30 year old 5th wheel camper. We are grateful, we make it work, but naturally, better is better; right? He's on retirement, and I hadn't worked for nearly ten years, primarily due to my health. Recently I've found that I can do grant-writing from home, at any and all hours, and that accommodates my need for frequent rest and multiple doctor appointments. Primarily, though, if I'm able to actually help secure funding for the numerous nonprofits who need the help, that's aces in my book - everyone wins! 😎
Getting back to our current situation, it might sound dire to some of you, but it's never far from my mind how wealthy we truly are, especially in comparison to so, so many other people of the world right now! I mean, we have: food, clothing, shelter, luxuries like air conditioning and a car of our own, and I could go on. We are so blessed! And the best part is the fact that God is with us. Who could ask for anything more, right? We would like to be more comfortable, physically, though, and of course, we want to spoil our animals even more than they are now and that takes money.
It's all good, though! Money comes and goes, after all. I'm just ready for a bit of it to trickle back in to our lives. It's tough out there, y'all. I'm sure you know, though, dear Reader, right?!
I finally submitted a full grant request to one organization today and feel many things at once: first, is "yay! I think I did it!" followed immediately by "Oh my GOSH, now what's going to happen?" with an immediate "and now... we wait" type of thing.
I also have this major list of tasks required in order to finally get the local homeless shelter and resource center up and running so that we can finally serve the precious, important people who Jesus calls "the least of these" in the New Testament. It will be such an honor to bring people the comforts of life: food, clothing, hygiene and laundry needs, somewhere to go inside from the elements and be safe, somewhere to rest, somewhere that they will each and all be treated with kindness and dignity above all else, period. That's the goal. God dropped this in my heart and I'll do all that I can while I live to make this happen. For them. For Him!
Good morning, et cetera, dear Reader, and welcome to this obscure American blog as I sit to write down thoughts in the hours before dawn, here in the beautiful Sonoran Desert.
True Meanings vs. Political Abuse
Let's begin Socratically: What happens when words lose their precision? They become weapons, not tools for understanding. Consider these terms, drawn from historical and definitional sources.
Nazi: Historically, Nazism (National Socialism) was the far-right totalitarian ideology of Adolf Hitler's Nazi Party (NSDAP) in Germany from 1933–1945. It fused intense nationalism, racial supremacy (especially anti-Semitism), militarism, and state control over society and economy, culminating in the Holocaust and World War II. In current U.S. and global rhetoric, it's abused as a slur for anyone perceived as authoritarian or bigoted—e.g., labeling immigration policies or conservative figures as "Nazi" without evidence of genocidal intent or totalitarianism. This dilutes the term's gravity, equating policy disagreements with systematic extermination.
Fascist: True fascism is a far-right, authoritarian ultra-nationalist movement (originating in early 20th-century Italy under Mussolini) that exalts nation and often race above individuals, suppresses opposition through force, and merges state with corporate power while promoting militarism. Politically, it's flung loosely at leaders like Trump (called fascist for isolationism or rhetoric) or opponents in Europe (e.g., Italian far-right distorting fascist history to sanitize it). This conflates strongman tactics with the full regime of violent suppression and expansionism, turning nuance into hyperbole.
Dictator: A dictator wields absolute power in a state, often via emergency decree, crushing dissent and controlling military/economy (e.g., ancient Roman figures or modern autocrats like Stalin). In rhetoric, it's slapped on elected officials for controversial decisions—e.g., Biden or Trump accused of "dictatorial" overreach in 2024 elections—ignoring checks like courts or elections that true dictators dismantle.
Abuse thrives in echo chambers: A 2024 study notes Americans struggle to spot factual vs. opinion claims amid bias, fueling vitriol. From multiple perspectives, left-leaning voices decry right-wing "fascism" to rally bases; right-leaning ones flip it on "woke dictatorships." Both erode trust—ask yourself: Does this label illuminate or inflame?
On The Importance of Separating Opinion/Feelings from Facts
Truthfully, conflating them poisons discourse: Facts are verifiable (e.g., "X passed a law"); opinions interpretive ("X's law is evil"); feelings subjective ("It scares me"). Blurring them, per research, hinders info competence, amplifies misinformation, and polarizes—half of Americans can't distinguish them, per 2024 data. Compassionately, this hurts everyone: It silences empathy (e.g., dismissing fears as "just feelings" ignores valid concerns) and entrenches division. From a global lens, it echoes propaganda in authoritarian regimes. Socratically: If your outrage stems from fact or fury? Prioritizing facts fosters dialogue; mixing them breeds violence. Improve by questioning sources—seek diverse views to see others' truths.
De-Escalating Political Violence: US and Global Strategies
Violence escalates when rhetoric dehumanizes; de-escalation demands collective will. Here's a concise framework, informed by experts:
Start small: In conversations, pause and affirm shared humanity. Truthfully, if you're contributing to heat, repent of it—admit wrongs to heal divides. If conversations become heated, agree to break and circle back to the topic later when passions have cooled and both parties have had time to reflect and process. Be determined and committed to maintaining civility, both for yourself as well as from yourself in the focused aim of finding common ground together. Remember, too, that it is perfectly fine to truly agree to disagree, especially here in the currently-still-free United States.
And now a prayer for God's help and guidance:
Father, in this fractured world, grant us wisdom to speak truth with compassion, eyes to see from every heart's vantage, and courage to choose peace over pride. Bind wounds of division, soften hardened spirits, and guide leaders toward justice. In Jesus' name.
AI says: Political hyperbole is the use of exaggerated and extravagant statements in political discourse for rhetorical effect. This form of communication is often not intended to be taken literally, but to emphasize a point, grab attention, and sway public opinion. [1, 2, 3]
Characteristics and function
A tool for persuasion: Politicians use hyperbole to create strong impressions, stir up emotions, and cast their own platforms or character in a positive, larger-than-life light while negatively portraying opponents.
Emphasis through exaggeration: By describing situations in extreme, outsized terms (e.g., calling a policy a "disaster" or a problem a "carnage"), speakers make their point seem more urgent and significant.
Can blur lines with deception: The strategic use of hyperbole, particularly in the current media landscape, can make it difficult for voters to distinguish between genuine exaggeration and outright lies.
Promotes political polarization: Studies have shown that elites increasingly engage in hyperbole, a tactic that can exacerbate political polarization, especially through platforms that reward and amplify exaggerated claims, such as social media and echo chambers. [2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7]
Legal protection as free speech
In the United States, political hyperbole is generally protected under the First Amendment and often arises as a defense in defamation cases.
The Watts case (1969): The Supreme Court case Watts v. United States is a landmark example that affirmed this protection. An anti-war protestor was arrested for stating, "If they ever make me carry a rifle, the first man I want to get in my sights is L.B.J." The court ruled that this statement was "crude political hyperbole" rather than a "true threat" and was therefore protected speech.
The Watts factors: This case established a test, or "Watts factors," for distinguishing protected speech from true threats by considering the context, the conditional nature of the statement, and the reaction of the audience.
Difficult to sue for defamation: Courts have ruled that when a public figure's language is so heated or exaggerated that a reasonable person would not take it as a statement of fact, it is difficult to successfully sue for defamation. [4, 8, 9, 10, 11]
Factors driving increased use
The rise of the 24-hour news cycle and the widespread use of social media have significantly increased the prevalence and intensity of political hyperbole. These platforms often incentivize extreme, attention-grabbing rhetoric. [5, 12, 13]
So I said: Now please formulate how we as a society world-wide can collectively work to counter, change, or better yet reverse, this destructive trend that foments violence, hate, and death.
and AI said:
To counter the destructive tide of political hyperbole—where exaggeration foments violence, hate, and death—we must confront our complicity first. Have you, like me in moments of frustration, amplified division with your own heated words? If so, pause: true reversal begins with repentance, admitting where our rhetoric has wounded others, and vowing to speak with measured grace. This isn't weakness; it's the compassionate pivot toward healing, seeing adversaries not as enemies but as shared bearers of divine image.
From multiple lenses—voters, leaders, media shapers, tech stewards—here's a formulated, collective blueprint, drawn from global insights. It's Socratic: not prescriptions, but provocations. What one step will you claim today?
Collective Strategies for Worldwide Reversal
Foster Intergroup Empathy and Contact:
Prioritize face-to-face dialogues across divides, like community forums or "perspective-taking" workshops where participants role-play opponents' views. This reduces false perceptions of extremism, as studies show it rebuilds trust by humanizing "the other." Globally, scale via international NGOs (e.g., adapting Europe's "deliberative democracy" assemblies) to bridge cultural chasms—imagine rural farmers debating urban elites on climate policy, not as foes but co-stewards of earth.
Reform Media and Tech Ecosystems:
Demand platforms algorithmically prioritize "kinder" content—downplaying fringes, amplifying median voices and shared values—while users commit to "social media diets" limiting echo-chamber scrolls. Worldwide, advocate for cross-border regulations (e.g., expanding EU's Digital Services Act) that penalize hyperbole-fueled misinformation, rewarding fact-checked nuance. Tech firms: audit for polarization; citizens: call out your own side's excesses without tribal loyalty.
Educate for Media Literacy and Civic Humility:
Embed global curricula teaching hyperbole's pitfalls—spotting "carnage" claims as emotional bait, not fact—while modeling cooperative discourse in schools and workplaces. From Asia's community mediation programs to Africa's youth peacebuilding networks, integrate Socratic questioning: "What evidence tempers this outrage?" Leaders: reward compromise in policy, not just viral zingers.
Amplify Cross-Partisan Alliances:
Build diverse coalitions—politicians with rivals, voters across aisles—focusing on universal goods like health or security, viewing differences as political, not existential threats. Internationally, UN-led summits could enforce "hyperbole audits" in campaigns, fostering humility: If hyperbole killed dialogue, what life-giving words revive it?
These aren't utopian; they're tested threads for reversal, but they demand your intuitive buy-in—seeing from the marginalized's view, the elite's pressure, the child's fear of inherited hate. Where have you let hyperbole harden your heart? Soften it now, with compassion that listens before it lambasts.
Heavenly Father, in this fractured world, kindle in us the fire of unity over division, truth over exaggeration, love over loathing. Empower societies to dismantle walls of words that breed death, raising instead bridges of mercy that heal nations. Guide leaders, voters, and creators toward Your reconciling peace, that violence may yield to justice, hate to embrace, and death to abundant life. In Jesus' name
Hello, dear Reader, and welcome! Those of us on this side of Sheol are truly fortunate; the gift of life itself merits our gratitude, in both good times and bad. After reading through today's Proverb and playing around on the perfume website, I ate some potato chips with coffee and called it 'breakfast'. 👏
Okay, so I told y'all about how my husband and I chose to (stupidly, at least unwisely) start smoking cigarettes again - and we decided last night that, as of today, we will not be smoking cigarettes any more, so help us God. I took 60mg of oral Prednisone last night and will take another 40 mg today and tomorrow, followed by two days at 20 mg each, and finally two more days at 10 mg each (using the leftovers from a friend's Rx - don't judge me, haha! Those who know me in real life know that I've always been an enthusiast for finding helpful asthma medication on the Black Market) 👀
Anyway, in two approximate weeks I've gone from having my singing voice back to veritably no voice at all as of this moment, from feeling pretty normal and alright most of the time, to definitely *not*. The expense, the social stain, the fact that cigarettes in no way, shape, form or fashion serve to glorify God... I mean, how much reason do I need?! Right? Regardless of these things, I *still* got up and immediately smoked all the butts that we had. So you see, there's no way that I could *really* be as 'smart' as some mistakenly think
Good morning, dear Reader, and welcome to another day above ground—a gift not everyone received today. As we mark the 24th anniversary of the September 11, 2001, attacks, I’m reflecting on the weight of that tragedy and recent losses, such as the reported murder of Charlie Kirk, a prominent conservative commentator, and the school shooting that occurred in Colorado on the very same day. These events stir grief in my heart, as I know they do for many of you. Let’s pause—selah, which some interpret as a call to reflect in the Psalms—to let this reality sink in. In this moment, I’m praying not just for answers, but to hear God’s heart, trusting He is near the brokenhearted (Psalm 34:18). May He guide us toward healing and justice, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
It’s early here in the Mountain Standard Time zone, not yet 3:00 AM. I’ve made coffee, fed the dog, read today’s Proverb, and now sit with a heavy heart. The pain of loss—whether from 9/11’s thousands of lives taken or recent acts of violence like Kirk’s murder—breaks my heart. I’m not more compassionate or spiritual than anyone else; I share this because I believe many of you feel this same ache. The world’s brokenness, from violence to division, weighs heavily. Yet, I find comfort knowing God sees our pain. I imagine Him weeping with us, His compassion far surpassing our own, as He intercedes for humanity (Hebrews 7:25).
Yesterday, in response to Kirk’s murder, I posted on TruthSocial, a social media platform, tagging the President to urge that, if the perpetrator is found guilty through due legal process, the maximum penalty under the law be applied. My intent was to advocate for justice within the bounds of the legal system, not to call for vengeance or bypass due process. Unfortunately, my words were unclear, and the post was misinterpreted, leading to an immediate ban from the platform.
Reflecting on this, I see my mistake. I assumed my intent was clear, but I failed to communicate precisely. I don’t fault the TruthSocial admins; in a heated online environment, my words could have seemed inflammatory. I’m sorry for any confusion or harm caused by my lack of clarity. This experience reminds me to choose my words carefully, ensuring they reflect truth, justice, and love. May God forgive my shortcomings and help me grow in wisdom, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
The call for justice in tragedies like Kirk’s murder stirs complex emotions. As a Christian, I believe in accountability for evil, yet I’m also called to pray for mercy and repentance, even for perpetrators (Matthew 5:44). This tension is real: I long for justice to honor victims, but I also pray that God moves the hearts of the guilty toward true repentance. I don’t have all the answers, but I trust God to balance justice and mercy in His perfect way.
Today, we honor the lives lost on 9/11—a day that changed the world. The images of collapsing towers, heroic first responders, and grieving families remain etched in our hearts. As we remember, let’s also commit to healing and hope. The same God who comforted us then offers hope now, promising to make all things new (Revelation 21:5).
Dear Reader, I invite you to join me in prayer: May God protect the righteous, convict the misguided, and bring healing to our broken world. May He guide our leaders, comfort the grieving, and lead us toward unity and peace. And may we never forget the lessons of 9/11 or the hope found in Christ, in Jesus’ Name, amen.
Hello, dear Reader, and welcome to this obscure, free American blog, where I just share random thoughts (hence, the name).
I may never understand why I'm still alive at almost 54, but, today, someone took young Charlie Kirk's life... for political reasons. The young man was only 31 (younger than my children!) and leaves behind a beautiful family, including his wife and their two babies.
This has GOT TO STOP - RIGHT NOW. That is why, I openly plead with American lawmakers on both sides to please create and pass Charlie's Law, legislation that will require the mandatory Death Penalty in cases of murder that is motivated by political reasons, no matter which "side" the perpetrator aligns themselves with. It takes powerful deterrents to exact powerful results. If we just let these people get away with these acts of senseless violence, it will not only continue, but will get worse.
Please, from both sides of the aisle, this profoundly stupid division has GOT to stop. Your jobs are to serve us, this nation and it's people, the ones who elected you for your jobs. You need to be at work, Monday through Friday, every week of the year save two for vacation, period. Now get to work, get together, in fact, I say that those proven to be hardened partisans be immediately removed from office and replaced by whomever the runner-up was, full stop.
May God have mercy on poor, beautiful Erika and wrap His loving arms around her and their innocent little babies who will now grow up without their daddy.
And, at the same time, there was yet another shooting at a school in Colorado, with three injured and currently in critical condition. Lord God, please heal all the injured and minister peace to all affected, in Jesus' Name, amen.
Hello, dear Reader! Good morning, et cetera based on where in the world you are, and welcome to yet another day on this side of the grave! It's almost 3:00 AM in our time zone as I start this entry and (as per usual) only Max and I are currently awake. He's 20 years old now - which is amazing, and we're so grateful! - but, due to his age and special needs because of it, we feed him soft food twice daily, by himself (in fact, I think he's waiting for me now!) and dry food is kept out for all three dogs 24/7. We noticed him trying to pick at the dry food one day and having an obviously hard time with it, and are gratefully now meeting him at his point of need with the soft food, although I do wish we'd noticed his need from the very beginning, but am also grateful to have realized it at all.
I can be dense; those of you who know me in real life, know.
Right now, we've started smoking cigarettes again for about two weeks now, and I can already physically feel that it's *not* going to be sustainable for me to continue on this path, not at all. Even though it's cost-effective enough to roll your own like we do, the health costs cannot be denied and will end up being the deal-breaker for me before it's all said and done, due to lifelong asthma coupled with C.O.P.D. (for about the last twenty years or so now). I just believe in full disclosure and also want you to know, dear Reader, that I am every bit as imperfect as you are (if not moreso). Truth at all times, even if and when it makes me look bad (because optics mean nothing in the grand scheme of things, not to God they don't).
So, due to my own idiocy (smoking!) I've been pretty sick for the last couple of days, spending most of each day and night in bed, sleeping on and off. I've quit smoking before: once for about four years, another time for two years, and the last time I'd stayed away from cigarettes for nine years before returning to that folly the way dogs return to their own vomit yet again. On the one hand, I know that it's possible to quit because I've done it before, and I'd really like for this next time to be 'it' (no more smoking, period). I'll keep you guys here updated with facts, good or bad, about how that's going for us as I don't see the habit lasting for much longer, not at our ages. If you, dear Reader, are also struggling with some addiction like I am (in this case, just cigarettes and weed but those things count) then I pray that you will be empowered to put down whatever it is and walk free, in Jesus' Name, amen. (and for us, too!)
You know, I'd really like to see RFK, Jr. move to make cigarettes illegal, in consideration of future generations that they will not even have the legal temptation for that method of self-destruction. Yes, I know that those of us who are currently hooked wouldn't be pleased with that decision, but when you look at it in the long-term and understand how future generations can be spared having to deal with that struggle, then (I for one) realize that it would, in fact, all be worth it. That'd be a super-ballsy move on his part, and, given the tobacco industry giants and their current (apparent) power, would probably put his very life at risk if he were to do so. May God empower him unto (more) good and correct decisions in his current office as he seeks to help make America healthy again.
This time, when I quit, may it be forever, and may I quit the whole lot of it: cigarettes and the marijuana. My flesh will scream for a time, but that's never permanent.
So, what happened and how easy was it for my husband and I to pick that bad, expensive habit back up? We were hanging out with some friends; he'd had a few beers, and the next thing I know, he's handing me a cigarette. That's it. Now, I could have and should have refused, but no (and that's on me wholly, not him) and now, here we are. I've just got to get better at adulting (telling myself "no" - being my own parent). But maybe that's a life-long struggle for us all?
Greetings and salutations, folks, and welcome both to this obscure, American blog, yes, but also to yet another day above ground! Right? Today, I will tell you about another real-life miracle in our lives, this one involving our favorite, beloved pet, the original who's had the name "Freedom" for two years now, Freedom the Ornate Box Turtle. She's about 5" long at her biggest measurement and weighs about 370 grams. A tiny little thing, we often have to scour our home to find her in any of her numerous hiding spots.
A few days ago, with both of us searching for her for a good couple of hours, we finally realized that we were not going to find her and I called the police, who came out in a mere matter of minutes. Let it be known around the world that the law enforcement in and around Douglas, Arizona, US is among the finest the world has to offer. The responding officers, though visibly young, were fast, efficient, thorough, and - this one is huge! - compassionate. (But I digress).
My husband, of course, was like "There's no way on Planet Earth that I'm calling the police for a lost turtle" so I was like "Word, I got you" and called them because I do not care that I am now known as the local crazy turtle lady!
Anyway, they created a report and left. An hour or so later after searching again and again, I was sitting at my desk, praying and crying, when I heard the Lord say "Go look under your bed".
Now, dear Reader, please understand something: our bed, a queen-size that we bought from Wayfair.com a couple of years ago, is one that lays on a metal frame that is wholly encased by a zippered fabric cover and is flush with the floor that it lays on. With both of us laying on it, that's about 400 lbs of weight in addition to the weight of the bed itself. Nonetheless, I went and did what He told me to.
At first, nothing happened, so I thought "Oh, I didn't do that right" and picked up the frame and mattress corner again. This time, when I did, the little turtle appeared to fall from the bottom of the frame into my hands and she was asleep!
Now, I'm no physicist, but YOU tell ME how that tiny little turtle got herself under that bed setup, with he and I both laying on it!
We've both carefully inspected the bed and the fabric-covered frame it rests on; there are NO holes in the fabric whatsoever.
Therefore, since no logical explanation solves it, I gratefully defer to giving credit where credit is due - to God - with deep and ample gratitude. 💖
Edited to add that I did do the responsible thing and called the police back to thank them again for coming out and let them know that we'd found her. Like a true professional, the deputy laughed and said that he was just glad we had her back and thanked me for the update. 😏
Greetings and salutations, dear Reader, and welcome to my obscure American blog. Don't worry, it's still "free" in every sense of the word as of the time of this writing, at least. I've been up for hours which is par for the course for me as I often/ usually go to bed before the Sun does.
from last night's sunset, with colors enhanced
Without any further ado, here is today's Proverb: First, in text format: Proverbs 31 ESV And, audio format as well (because "Faith cometh by hearing, and hearing the Word of God"):
Well, folks, even though I did vote for Donald Trump this last time, that doesn't mean that I can blanket-approve of all things just because it's his decision. The biggest, most glaring (and, only if I'm being honest with myself) fail of this administration so far is the fact that he plans to allow 600K Chinese nationals (spies!) to come and fill positions in our colleges and Universities. I think that this can only be a huge mistake since the CCP has NO love for us AND the fact that all Chinese people who are allowed to come here are required by their government to spy and report all intelligence to them.
So, no, that was a very, very bad mistake on our President's part and I pray that he will repent and wholesale change his mind about that. Nobody's perfect, but WHOA what a F*** up that is going to be if it materializes! I wonder what on earth motivated him to make such a dead-wrong decision like that?! Sorry, man, but national security is priority numero uno! If we don't keep this nation together, then no one will have somewhere to emigrate to for a better life, and that would really suck for the entire planet, not just us who are already here. Anyway.
I don't pretend that our immigration system is perfect. In fact, I feel like, in this day and age, major reform is due. The process needs to be shortened because, as it is, our beloved legal immigrants currently have to wait in line for years, and that's just too damned long. With things like the internet now, it should be a much faster process to vet these people and get them in here. We have the technology, so let's use it to improve the currently-failing immigration system and, by that, I mean the actual process itself. It needs to NOT take them years to get in, because that only encourages them to do it illegally which ends up not really helping them in the end. It's not fair to our precious legal immigrants who want to do the right thing the right way only for the current process to stymie and frustrate them. It's not right. Anyway, that's about all I have for now, dear reader. Thanks for stopping by and spending a few moments reading my drivel, be blessed and have a wonderful day today. 💜
It's the largest concert that I ever went to and man did we have a great time! We kept leaving and bringing in cases of beer, handing them out freely to sweating but grateful strangers, saying "For tribal relations" with each beer given. The music was amazing, all the way around, each and every one of them.
Someone at the perfume website brought it all back to me with her topic about Lilith Fair and reminiscing for the past hour or so has been a welcome blast from the past, though I don't see myself doing it again anytime soon. 😎
I attended with friends and will always be grateful to them all for making it such a great time, even though we've lost touch over the years by now.
So, dear Reader: what is the most memorable event you've attended? Were YOU there, at Rockfest?! 👀
Greetings and salutations, dear Reader, and welcome to yet another day above ground. It got warm and that woke me up, but I do feel rested enough even though it's not yet four-AM (as of the time of these type-written words, at least, maybe not by the time it's been published though). Anyway, here's a look at today's forecast:
And, here is today's Proverb. It's my blog, so I choose to copy and paste it here. Thanks.
And, today is all about verse 19 for me:
Even with the changing climate with more and more Americans sanely moving to the political center, I am still today the recipient of real-life cancel culture, folks—by someone who's "in the party of tolerance"—yes, the political left. Not a politician, no; a rank and file voter like most of us.
Rather than engaging differing views with open dialogue, as many of us strive to do, I encountered heated words and frustration directed at my beliefs, without any personal attack from my side. (For the record, even now, I've refrained from any insults or ad hominem remarks.) All I did was invite the group chat to provide evidence of even one American citizen who has been deported, offering a wager I was confident in because, to my knowledge, such cases don't exist. I believe this is a shared understanding across the spectrum, though it can be a tough pill to swallow for some.
So, instead of sparking thoughtful discussion—which has historically strengthened societies by encouraging growth beyond initial reactions—our exchange highlighted a broader challenge. In 2025, it seems we've drifted from the constructive debates that once propelled progress, and that's something worth reflecting on together. What might it look like if we all paused to examine our assumptions more deeply?
When I was in high school, I signed up to take Latin—there weren't enough of us, so I had to choose another foreign language and went with German. These days, as far as I know, Latin in public high schools is rare, Civics classes have faded, and History is often presented through specific viewpoints shaped by extensive academic training. It's concerning when we assume those views are entirely original, as it can limit broader inquiry.
That's why, even at 13, I declined Duke University's offer to skip high school and attend for free (extended to those of us who excelled on Texas standardized tests). Instinctively, I sensed the value in a more varied path, leading me to become a lifelong, mostly self-taught learner who strives to think independently to this day.
I'm very grateful that my parents instilled these habits in my formative years. And, as a human, it's not always straightforward to prioritize thoughtful analysis over emotional responses. Sometimes, our feelings align with what's true, but other times, they can lead us astray unless we examine them closely. None of us is exempt from this—it requires ongoing effort to balance heart and mind. We all make room for emotions, as we're not machines, but how can we ensure they don't steer us into decisions we might later question? Consider how a child reacts to "no"—it's raw emotion, and as adults, we have the opportunity to build on that with wisdom.
These days, even those in their 50s and beyond can react strongly to differing opinions, much like that instinctive response. How might we, as a society, foster more resilience in these moments? It's a shared sadness when bridges break over ideas.
Anyway, since my opinions proved divisive, I decided to deactivate all my social media accounts (except for the apolitical perfume sites). I'd had my Facebook since 2009; it held memories of departed loved ones, relatives, pets, and life's milestones over 16 years. As invested as I was, I chose to step back in hopes of easing tensions, setting it not to reactivate automatically.
A gesture like this could be seen as an olive branch, inviting peace. Yet, if it's not received that way, it reminds us we're all navigating these waters differently.
Anyone who advocates for Socialism or Communism might benefit from reflecting on the historical toll—tens, if not hundreds, of millions of lives lost directly under those systems, every time they've been implemented. Lives have been tragically ended.
What might it take for us all to recognize potential flaws in our cherished ideas? Why do so few seem willing to engage in that self-examination? It's a capacity we once valued highly—let's consider reclaiming it.
Or, if we persist in letting differences fracture relationships based solely on emotion and opinion, we risk congratulating ourselves for rationality while missing the irony. In the name of tolerance, perhaps we can aim higher.
For my part, I'm saddened that sharing my political views honestly can cause such pain to others. Estoy muy triste.
Hello, folks! Greetings and salutations on another beautiful day above ground. 💖 We almost lost our little turtle today and it was wholly my fault, so I'll tell you about it.
she looks innocent here but she is much faster than you'd think!
So, earlier, we had the turtle outside and were talking to some friends who I asked to watch Freedom for just a minute so I could run and fetch something; when I returned, this creature had scuttled off into some nearby tall grass and instantly disappeared on them, so when I got back, we were all looking for the turtle. There were (my) tears, garden tools were fetched and used, and once I came inside for a hair-tie (due to building heat), Terry found the turtle and told me when I got back outside.
I realized that it was MY fault for not warning my friends about how super-quick the little turtle can and will disappear every time she reaches thick cover like that - it's in her DNA! I'd forgotten about the time I lost her like that, same situation with just me that time: I was walking her, she saw the tall grass and BLOOP! I spent thirty minutes searching for her that time.
So - the PSA is this: when you have a tiny little pet turtle and you take her for a walk, she WILL disappear like Houdini if she's able to get to the tall grass!
Hello, dear Reader, and welcome (back?) to this (in every sense of the word) free, obscure American blog on a mild July afternoon in 2025.
First things first, please:
If you are prone to, say, hating another person because that person, say, is a MAGA Republican (you know! 😉 for example) then, maybe, you know, don't read what I write? 😎👍 And, I say this as a former card-carrying Democrat (1979 - 2016). But I digress.
What I'd like to point out is a well-known, irrefutable fact and that is this: the 2nd Amendment to the U.S. Constitution ends with the phrase: "...shall not be infringed". Does it not? If not, then what exactly are the ending words/ phrase? Tell us, if you know. No?
Ok. So my point here is, the 2nd Amendment does not end with "but".
It doesn't say "maybe don't infringe". No, the words - verbatim - are "SHALL NOT BE INFRINGED".
Therefore, all gun control laws *are* unConstitutional.
The Devastating Impact of Childhood Lies and Why Parents Must Stop Perpetuating Myths
Parents, in their desire to create magical moments for their children, often weave tales of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy. These stories, presented as truth, are meant to spark joy and wonder. However, this well-intentioned deception comes at a steep cost. Replacing meaningful traditions, such as those centered on Jesus in Christian households, with fictional characters not only distorts cultural and spiritual values but also inflicts profound, lasting harm on a child’s ability to trust. This essay condemns the practice of telling children these popular lies and admonishes parents for the permanent damage they cause, including a diminished capacity for trust that can persist for life.
The Betrayal of Trust
Trust is the foundation of human relationships, built slowly through honesty and consistency. When parents deliberately lie to their children about figures like Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny, they undermine this foundation. Children, who rely on their parents as their primary source of truth, internalize these stories as fact. The eventual revelation—that these beloved figures are fabrications—can shatter their sense of security. For some, this betrayal plants a seed of doubt that grows into a lifelong struggle to trust others, even in the most intimate relationships.
This damage is not hypothetical. Psychological research shows that breaches of trust in childhood can lead to attachment issues and heightened skepticism in adulthood. A child who learns their parents lied about Santa Claus may question what else they’ve been misled about—family values, personal safety, or even love. This erosion of trust can manifest as hypervigilance, difficulty forming secure relationships, or an unyielding belief that no one can be fully trusted under any circumstances. Parents, by prioritizing fleeting whimsy over truth, risk sentencing their children to a lifetime of relational guardedness.
Distorting Spiritual and Cultural Truths
In Christian households, substituting Santa Claus or the Easter Bunny for Jesus during sacred holidays like Christmas and Easter is particularly egregious. These holidays carry profound spiritual significance, centered on the birth and resurrection of Jesus Christ. Replacing these truths with commercialized, secular myths dilutes their meaning and confuses children about what matters most. A child taught to revere a fictional gift-giver over a figure central to their faith may grow up prioritizing materialism over spirituality, a distortion that can persist into adulthood.
This practice also robs children of the opportunity to engage with their faith in a meaningful way. Instead of learning about sacrifice, redemption, and divine love, they’re fed stories of magical beings who reward good behavior with toys or candy. When the truth about these figures emerges, children may feel cheated not only by their parents but also by the traditions they were taught to cherish. This can lead to cynicism toward faith itself, as the line between sacred truth and parental fiction blurs.
The Cognitive and Emotional Toll
Beyond trust, these lies can impair cognitive and emotional development. Children are naturally curious, seeking to understand the world through observation and questioning. When parents present falsehoods as reality, they disrupt this process, forcing children to reconcile conflicting information when the truth is revealed. This can lead to cognitive dissonance, confusion, and a diminished sense of self-efficacy. A child who once believed they could discern truth may feel foolish or inadequate upon learning they were deceived, eroding their confidence in their own judgment.
Emotionally, the fallout can be even more severe. The joy of believing in Santa Claus or the Tooth Fairy often gives way to feelings of embarrassment, anger, or grief when the lie is exposed. For some children, this moment marks their first experience of betrayal, a wound that shapes how they approach relationships and authority figures. In extreme cases, this can contribute to black-and-white thinking—an inflexible worldview where people are either wholly trustworthy or entirely deceitful. Such rigidity, as seen in some adults with heightened sensitivity to betrayal, can stem from early experiences of being misled by those they love most.
A Call to Repent and Reform
Parents must confront the gravity of their actions. While the intent behind these lies may be innocent, the consequences are not. The fleeting magic of childhood myths pales in comparison to the lasting harm they inflict. By choosing honesty, parents can foster trust, preserve the integrity of meaningful traditions, and equip their children to navigate the world with confidence and clarity.
To those who defend these lies as harmless fun, consider this: joy does not require deception. Children can experience wonder through truthful storytelling, creative play, or the rich narratives of their faith. Parents who perpetuate these myths must repent of their role in undermining their children’s trust and commit to a path of transparency. This means admitting past mistakes, explaining why they chose to tell these stories, and rebuilding trust through consistent honesty.
A Compassionate Perspective
From the perspective of a child, the world is already a place of mystery and complexity. Parents, as their guides, have a responsibility to provide a stable foundation of truth. By choosing lies over authenticity, they risk leaving their children adrift, questioning not only the stories they were told but also the motives of those who told them. Compassion demands that parents prioritize their children’s long-term well-being over short-term amusement. It requires seeing the world through a child’s eyes—where trust is sacred and betrayal cuts deeply—and acting with integrity to protect it.
For adults who carry the scars of these childhood betrayals, healing is possible but requires acknowledgment of the pain and intentional work to rebuild trust. Parents can support this by modeling vulnerability, admitting their own faults, and fostering open communication. In doing so, they can help their children—and perhaps themselves—learn to navigate a world where truth, not fiction, is the cornerstone of connection.
Conclusion
The lies of Santa Claus, the Easter Bunny, and the Tooth Fairy are not harmless traditions but deliberate deceptions that erode trust, distort values, and inflict lasting emotional and cognitive harm. Parents must stop perpetuating these myths, especially when they supplant meaningful spiritual truths like those centered on Jesus. The damage—potentially a lifelong inability to trust anyone, under any circumstances—far outweighs the temporary joy these stories provide. By embracing honesty, parents can cultivate trust, nurture resilience, and honor the sacred bond they share with their children. Let us choose truth over tradition, for the sake of our children and the adults they will become.
