Brief end year bullets on the career track...v2

• Image one: While in bed this morning, I captured this interesting live image from a presenter on TikTok.

• I hope to see more of the world via train...

• Image two: As I have noted, especially on my Facebook Business Page, I highly doubt that all of mentions of Russell Norman Murray, are actually me.

• That being stated, I edited two more website articles this Christmas break.

• Now 69 articles on academia.edu.

• The Blogger website articles have always been peer reviewable on their own, online.

• However, academia.edu does provide another, third party website.

• Although I am not buying at all, that all 2700 mentions are of Russell Norman Murray, I still reason that the academic exposure probably gains a scholar readers..

• Career-wise, it is IMHO, 99.99999% unlikely I ever willingly end my government career.

• But, I suppose that part-time work remains a possibility.

• On the weekends...as it is already.

• I reason God's primary (specific to me) purpose for me in Christ is the website and academic work. 

• It was not a 'mistake' for me to gain a PhD. My goal in academia, was always to be a scholar with a PhD.

• Becoming a professor was never the goal, although for a while I assumed it was a possible mode of income with the PhD.

• Government work provides an indexed pension.

• Not that I plan on retiring, ever, really.

• Government work also provides one with opportunities to travel for work, apart from travel with vacations.

• Image three: Whether or not Mr. Rich stated this, I agree with it, in regards to Mr. Bonham...

Short philosophical bullets in the snow: Merry Christmas 2022

• In regards to the first TikTok video, I am not embracing any views of the late John Wayne.

• As I have noted, online and offline, as a biblical Christian of the Reformed tradition, I reason...

• Galatians 3:28 New American Standard Bible 28 There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free, there is [a]neither male nor female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. Footnotes Galatians 3:28 Lit not male and female

• There is no gender or 'race' (ethnic group) not fit for the gospel and Kingdom of God.

• That being stated, the comedian's cancel culture comments are IMHO, hilarious.

• Instead of seeking to 'cancel' perceived negative views of the past and present; critics should leave these opposing views for public consumption.

• These views should be allowed to stay publicly extant, and simultaneously be allowed to be intellectually challenged.

• There is within various western legal jurisdictions, slander and libel laws, for example, which already significantly handle actual cases of what is called 'hate speech'.

---

• In regards to the second Tik Tok video. I have no interest in attacking anyone.

• But in agreement with my points from the first video, at times people are worthy of legitimate, intellectual critique for views held to and actions taken.

• No exceptions...

---

For me the PhD was like a train, and if anything was in my way I would run it over: However, God in his sovereignty placed some things on the track...

CN Rail photo 

I reason that God wanted me to complete a PhD...

I will admit, that for me the PhD was like a train, and if anything was in my way I would run it over. However, God in his sovereignty placed some things on the track...

Brain Transplant $39.99

 

Images from Marvel, 2007

Hmm, not very scientific or New Testament...

However theologically, there is regeneration:

Website search: regeneration 

John Murray (1937-1966)(1977) explains that the Holy Spirit ‘summons men into union and fellowship with his Son so that, united to him in whom all spiritual blessings are treasured, they come to possess Christ and all that belongs to him in his capacity as Saviour and Redeemer.’[1] Regeneration[2] takes place which is a powerful change in the human being via the Holy Spirit,[3] which transforms one corrupt and in sin in opposition to God,[4] to one pleasing to God and trusting in God. 

[1] Murray (1937-1966)(1977: 167). [2] Murray (1937-1966)(1977: 171). [3] Murray (1937-1966)(1977: 171). [4] Murray (1937-1966)(1977: 168-169). Soren Kierkegaard states that ‘sin is man’s destruction.’ Kierkegaard (1847-1848)(1955)(1966: 108).

See: John 3, Titus 3, 1 Peter 1

KIERKEGAARD, SOREN (1847-1848)(1955)(1966) On Authority and Revelation, Translated by Walter Lowrie, New York, Harper and Row, Publishers, Incorporated. 

KIERKEGAARD, SOREN (1848-1849)(1961) Christian Discourses & The Lilies of the Field and The Birds of the Air & Three Discourses at The Communion on Fridays, Translated by Walter Lowrie, New York, Oxford University Press. 

MURRAY, JOHN (1937-1966)(1977) Collected Writings of John Murray, Vol. 2: Select Lectures in Systematic Theology, Edinburgh, The Banner of Truth Trust.

Came home from work, it soon smelled like burning wires...

Came home from work, it soon smelled like burning wires... 

Shortly there was smoke coming from the microwave (most likely). It will be replaced, tomorrow. Everything else close to that appliance is fine.

Then as it happens, I received the image on Facebook from Mr. James Lee.

Reasonably uncertain? Avoid being dogmatic (philosophical pondering)

Walking home from work, thinking of the statement, tonight.

A good friend recently told me I am a badass...(Email sent from my mobile)

A good friend recently told me I am a badass...(Email sent from my mobile)

Photo

Qaqortoq, South Greenland, Civil N922 'Toy houses' 

I just emailed the CEO of FedEx

Subject line:

Any chance my parcel, sitting in the back of your truck for days, can be delivered N1022??? 

Dear Sir.. 

Many thanks for reading... 

This email with your (alternating reps) rep. explains...

FedEx NYC to Maple Ridge, BC.. #53********* 

Hi Mark 

Cheers

This can be solved tomorrow if you or someone make it happen. Don't pass the buck. I am helping you out here...Being of reason. 

I have two FedEx cards from my mail box. FedEx has had two opportunities already to simply walk upstairs and leave the parcel at my door. I cannot buzz FedEx in from work, stated several times (security issues for the context of this article).

You got in twice and blew it. You can also drop it off at Staples and let me know.

I paid the duty the first day FedEx refused to drop it off. 

The card said the parcel would be available the next day at Staples. NOT. 

Your rep. on the phone said it would be delivered the next day. NOT. 

The next day on the phone, another FedEx rep. said it would arrive the next day. NOT. 

Several text messages have promised that day or next delivery. NOT. 

You need to step up and make it happen. Talk to someone for a N1022 delivery. No next week delay. Not meeting promises! 

I will be reporting this to your superiors tonite. I have already filed a documented consumer complaint. Thx     

Name & Address was given

Brief philosophy for consideration: With major disagreement, the answer is always 'No'

Brief philosophy for consideration: With major disagreement, the answer was always 'no'

Photo: Washington-DC-hero-History: One of the places I managed to visit as a teenager, through my parent's Amway business.

As a teenager my parents were in Amway. I happened to listen to hours of motivational tapes while in the car. Richard DeVos was co-founder of Amway with Jay Van Andel. One of the Amway tapes featured...

(Paraphrased) Devos: If Jay and I ever have a major disagreement, business wise, the answer is always 'No' to proceed.

In other words, with confusion and lack of clarity, where applicable, do not proceed. I should have followed this with an online business venture or two that 'The Boss' was pressuring me to do, during the completion of my PhD. (Well, it was her money, but still)

It's a 'miracle!' (Satire mode)

Photo: Facebook, October 29, 2022

Quick Bullets work update: Four self-directed online courses done today

Switzerland from Civil Engineering on LinkedIn

• Walking to my gov. work is good exercise, about 30-40 minutes a day.

• I walk through 'skid row' with military gloves, but it is worth it. 

• I completed four self-directed online course today.

• These are mandatory for training and then there are also future, more specialized courses.

• It is a good career, good pay, and opportunities within my skill-set.

• I think I would like to stay in Metro Vancouver, I do not own much on my condominium. 

• There are nationwide opportunities, however.

• Church is good, supportive folks.

• I met briefly with my lead pastor on Saturday, he has always been supportive with me seeking career alternatives with my theology/philosophy of religion PhD. 

• I told him that I am getting up so early and putting in virtually eight hours a day on the computer.

• I am too tired for 'baloney' I stated.

• Much less time spent online, but I am keeping up with some short academic articles, by God's grace.

• Nothing I do for employment, will ever be more difficult than a technical, philosophical, British PhD, but I am a working man, now. 

• That type of PhD is a social killer too.

• I am noticing my neck is getting thinner, a little strange, but for the best me thinks.

Not a good church social strategy/Not a good fighting strategy

My friend '007', thank you for the history lesson from 1894/Mr. Clean appeared on the Job bible study

Image 1: My friend '007', thank you for the history lesson from 1894 

Image 2: Mr. Clean appeared on the Job bible study

(I have heard the rumour that Mr. Muscle also lives in Maple Ridge...my friendly neighbour)

Friday Bullets: Non-exhaustive, afternoon thoughts on this classic problem

Preface

• Over the years I have seen and analyzed, a few of these videos with this type of scenario.

• The traditional 'striking', 'hard art', martial arts, practitioner, being demonstrated as useless against a grappler in a studio situation.

• As a teenager, I quit karate after 1.5 years, realizing there was just too many problems with its uses. 

• At the time, my issue with karate, kung fu and taekwondo, was their lack of street fighting techniques.

• But videos such as this highlight the lack of ground fighting defence, knowledge. 

• I am not a martial arts expert, I am proficient.

• Besides the karate, I have paid online training from a MMA trainer its regards to grappling and stand up fighting. 

• I have studied street fighting, including the extensive use of weapons for several years. 

Capture 1 from the video

• I absolutely will not claim either a win or loss for me against a good grappler, such as in the video, but here are some opinions...

• The stance of the Wing Chun, kung fu fighter is way too close together.

• The legs of the Wing Chun fighter need to be more apart to make it more difficult for the grappler to successfully shoot out and take his legs out, for a take down and ground fighting.

• As the opponent the Wing Chun fighter is facing is a BJJ, Brazilian jiu-jitsu, grappler, this shoot attack, or charge should have been much better prepared for by this Wing Chun fighter.

• This could have been a physically devastating or even fatal mistake in a street fighting event.

Capture 2 from the video

• Besides a wider, more prepared stance, here the attacked has as an opportunity to use elbows to the head, and perhaps neck, of the grappler.

• The shoot or charge from a grappler, is in-part, designed to tie up the hands and legs of the opponent.

• In other words, take away punching and kicking power, punches and kicks.

• So, yes a technique that could be used versus a boxer.

• Mastery of elbow strikes is crucial here in defending this type of charge and not depending on punches and kicks.

Capture 3 from the video

• There are options for from the moves I have been taught and practice.

• The attacker's neck is available for a counter attack, at least, initially.

• A guillotine choke could be used.

• Or perhaps even the gable grip, which could be, in a life or death situation, and legally in your legal jurisdiction, used for joint and bone dislocation for self-defence.

• A rear-naked choke might be used if the opportunity arises for defensive purposes.

Capture 4 from the video

• The Wing Chun practitioner is going down here, and needs to have some knowledge of grappling.

• Much of my study has been grappling defence, but also the use of chokes and strikes while on the ground.

• Similar chokes and strikes that can be used while standing or on the ground.

• This is a hard takedown. 

• If on the street or a park, it could knock out the attacked.

• It could lead to serious injury or death from head and/or neck trauma.

• Quite frankly, in a street situation a grappler moving in for a takedown, needs to watch for a knife or other edged weapon, defence...

• In particular, I study weapons for close in fighting.

Capture 5 from the video

• If the attacked cannot roll away quickly and/or get up and out of this situation...

• The guard has to often, at least, be used as seen in MMA fighting...

Cited: Fight site 'And what distinguishes BJJ from other grappling styles including its progenitor, Judo, is the centrality of the guard. At its most basic, the guard is a position in which one combatant on his back uses his limbs and positioning to keep the combatant on top from dealing damage with strikes or advancing to a better position such as side control, mount, or back mount. Possibilities exist for sweeps (reversals of position where the bottom man ends up on top) and submissions, but the primary goal of the guard player is to avoid taking damage. In sport BJJ the guard is the primary battleground with most high level matches consisting of extended sequences of guard play vs guard passing with standup work and defense from inferior positions being largely perfunctory.'

Capture 6 from the video

:(

• The fight is basically over at this point.

• No suitable counters to the grappler have been offered.

Capture 7 from the video

 

• Easy submission. 

• Now, I do not recommend this grappling move in a street fight, unless one is certain this is an isolated event. 

• I personally, am not interested in using grappling, sport holds. 

• My grappling holds are designed to choke out the opponent. 

• I have zero interest in studio fighting.

• Ethically, as a law abiding citizen, and biblical Christian, I should only be fighting, legally in self-defence, in a street fighting scenario.

• The grappler could for example, be kicked in the head or otherwise assaulted by a third party while performing that hold and waiting for a submission. 

• Theoretically, the attacker could be stabbed by the attacked if he/she has an available hand, and a high pain tolerance.

• Theoretically, the attacker could be stabbed by the attacked that has submitted once allowed up. 

• There are also, if the attacked has a high pain tolerance and/or is physically strong, the option of biting  (sad but true, not the real meal) the attacker.

Quick Monday Bullets: Told I look like a professional bodyguard

• I am not a professional martial artist, but a proficient amateur. 

• Excellent demonstration.

• The attacker (s) having a weapon, such as knife needs to be factored in. 

• I do not see much point in just training for a one versus one confrontation with no potential weapon. 

• Even with a defence at that speed, which I can do, an attacker with a knife can do tremendous damage.

• A weapons defence versus a knife, sharp weapon, or bat, for example, needs to considered. 

• A real life confrontation could take place on the 'street' or in a residence, both prime places to face a weapon.

• For a straight up, no weapons defence, I would focus mainly on neck up with strikes, such as elbows, punches and other hand strikes.

• Depending on the size and strength of the attacker, I would leave body shots to knees and perhaps, only when proficient, kicks.

• As noted on this website and on Russell Norman Murray, PhD, Facebook, I generally do a two-handed weapons defence.

• Of course, as noted in the previous posting, I will be quite fashionable when my gloves arrive from Texas.

---

• I was told I look like a professional bodyguard, recently. 

• I accept. 

• I was told I look good by a 22 year old, recently. 

• I accept.

Ordered gloves from TX: Being fashionable as I walk to and from work

Military Depot

Cited 

'Carbon Fiber Hard Knuckle 

Cut/Fire Resistant Gloves 

These Carbon Fiber Hard Knuckle Cut And Fire Resistant Gloves are perfect for shielding and protection with textured genuine leather and molded carbon fiber knuckles. 

Molded Carbon Fiber Inserts Surrounded By Textured Genuine Leather Provide Maximum Shielding And Protection To The Knuckles 

Hard Knuckle Gloves Are Made Of A Cut And Fire Resistant Aramid Fabric Above The Wrist And Top Side Of The Fingers And Thumb 

Rothco’s Tactical Gloves Have A Smooth Base Layer And A Textured Top Layer 

Neoprene Adjustable Hook And Loop Closure Provides A Secure Proper Fit 

Perfect For Law Enforcement, Military, And Other First Responder Personnel'

??? (Thanks, Arne)

Image one: LinkedIn 
I see that as of September 9, 2022, Ozzy has six documented children.

Image two: Facebook. Thank you, Arne, for posting.

Contingent Phil might do TikTok presentations: Brief Bullets

• My good friend and friendly neighbour has an idea for me (us) to create short TikTok presentations.

• My own suggestion is that he 'hosts' and I provide the bulk of content. 

• I am Contingent Phil on TikTok (Contingent Philosopher). 

• So far, I have created no videos. 

• I am too often contacted by 'strange women', that I attempt to avoid.

• TikTok does have some interesting, intellectual content. 

• My friend and friendly neighbour, likes the content of fellow Canadian and psychologist, Jordon B. Peterson. 

• My friend states that like Peterson, I am blunt, and that I don't really care too much about critics, and I seek the truth.

• My friend told me the other night that I am looking thinner and younger. 

• By God's lead, this is largely, in-part, due to my permanent low carb diet. 

• Video 1: A church friend recently sent the first video link below, I have been on a low carb diet for over a year and lost 64+ pounds. 

• I have always been a low calorie intake person, and have exercised regularity since I was four years old.

• Video 2: A person should generally avoid walking through tunnels. If this is rather unavoidable, I would consider legal means in one's legal jurisdiction to protect self.

• I agree with the video, to be alert and to make full use of one's senses.

• A benefit of martial arts that teach street fighting, is awareness.

• Video 3: I prayerfully keep progressing in Christ, and improve where I can.

• I take accountability, and seek progress.

• I seek progress over excuses for stagnation.

• I cannot govern what other people do, in regards to me.

• Government work will keep me busy, but God-willing, I will continue with my academic writing, as well as being social.

• In person, taking priority over online. 

• 1 John 5:14-15 from the New American Standard Bible (NASB): And this is the confidence which we have before Him, that, if we ask anything according to his will, He hears us. And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked before Him.

Quote today: You don't look so mean now (Hmm, that is both good and bad, IMHO)

Photo, Vancouver, Civil, LinkedIn, August 15 2022

My sleep apnea has been permanently significantly declined through UPPP (I have no uvula, and that is a formal excuse to avoiding singing) and Rhinoplasty surgeries, from years ago. I have not woke up in the middle of the night, choking, in years. 

I needed the Rhinoplasty, in particular, as I was bottled in downtown Manchester, by a thug, when him and his two buddies could not beat me up. My from the neck up (no brain surgeries) surgeries are now minor maintenance. The very low carb, no potatoes, no pasta, diet, helps immensely with weight loss.

I was just back from a second visit to a Vancouver cosmetic surgeon. She is a real genius, with an instant eye for what needs to be improved. She says: 'You don't look so mean now.'

(Hmm, that is both good and bad, IMHO)

Bullets on baseball bat/bat defence

• As a proficient, amateur martial artist, that has studied and trained for decades, including being trained from an MMA trainer online...

• Here is my take on a baseball bat/bat defence, which I do practice. 

• I completely agree with the video on having the hands up. 

• I am not as confident, as the video, with being able to avoid the first bat strike. 

• But in agreement with the video, I should always attempt to avoid being struck.

• If on the 'street', it might be a surprise attack, perhaps from behind.

• Assuming I am facing the attacker, before the first strike...

• If initially, I can move inside quickly on the attacker, I would double-hand grab the bat where the attacker is grasping the weapon.

• Assuming here the bat might strike the top of my left arm and perhaps the back, painful but manageable. 

• Assuming here the bat might strike my ribs, I need to simultaneously move my body away from the bat, to limit impact. 

• Again, in repeat, not a second time, if initially, I can move inside quickly on the attacker, I would double-hand grab the bat where the attacker is grasping the weapon. 

 • As I do this I hold the bat down with my left hand, and with my right elbow, fiercely strike the attack in the head and neck area, several times. 

• Most likely, most often, with the elbow tip.

• A knee to the stomach and/or groin area might work.

• If the bat is dropped, it opens up opportunities for a rear-naked choke or from the front, a guillotine choke. 

• Unlike the video example, I would not let go of the bat, as much as possible.

• If I did let go, I would attempt to grab the bat again, and hopefully disarm.

• If initially, I have to move quickly on outside of the attacker, instead of the inside, I would double-hand grab the bat where the attacker is grasping the weapon.

• Here with an outside move it is more likely I will get struck, hopefully minimally.

• From the outside, I  would attempt a double-hand grab the bat where the attacker is grasping the bat. 

• This time, I would attempt to hold the bat with the right hand and strike viciously with mainly left tip, elbow strikes.

• If the bat is dropped, it open up opportunities for a rear-naked choke or from the front, a guillotine choke. 

• In agreement with video, there are punching options, to the head and neck.

• If hit from behind, if not knocked out from a head shot...

• I would follow as already noted.

Fighting a Bear/Chuck Norris v Bear

Facebook image, thank you to my friend Mike Krueger for posting the image.

IMHO, if any kind of legal, self-defence weapon against a bear is going to be employed, it should be minimally, a distance weapon with immediate stun (then run) capability. Definitely not close in fighting techniques.

The time Documentary Man & I, met two young women from the Jersey Shore in NYC: 'Your friend is really weird!'

Photo: NYC Civil, Aug 10 22, LinkedIn

• The time Documentary Man & I, met two young women from the Jersey Shore in NYC: 'Your friend is really weird!' 

• I heard recently, another version of the classic story of someone marrying the first woman that showed interest in him, and later regretting it.

• By God's grace, I have missed that... 

• In Christ, from a Christian perspective, let the wrong ones pass you by...

• When I was closer to being a 'baby philosopher', pre PhD, I was still on Christian dating sites.

• As a more mature philosopher now, I have zero toleration for dating sites.

• To be blunt, I prefer no deal, to a bad deal.

• For me relying on similar age and supposed same level of looks = bad deal.

• When I was closer to being a 'baby philosopher', my good friend from England, Documentary Man and I, visited NYC.

• We viewed a Yankees game in the Bronx.

• We did the Manhattan tour.

• I reluctantly agreed to meet with someone from a Christian dating site, from New Jersey.

• As a Hollywood actor friend states of many of his projects: 'This will go straight down the toilet.', was my thinking.

• Documentary Man and I met this young woman and her friend at the Empire State Building.

• Her friend in particular, was extremely disinterested in being social.

• The two young women pulled me aside and stated (paraphrased) 'Your friend is really weird!' 

• (Paraphrased) 'You are normal.', I was told.

• Immediately after an approximately 30 minute visit on the top of the Empire State Building, as we got back to the street, the two young women told us they needed to go.

• My good friend, 'Documentary Man' begged them to stay, as (paraphrased) my friend is here from British Columbia.

• I told him that it was okay, (paraphrased) let them leave...

• We had polite goodbyes and I was soon off that website...

• French cuisine is NYC...A+.

• That same trip Documentary Man became embroiled in a massive religion debate @ a Manhattan, McDonalds with a ticked off Hare Krishna. 

• Me later to Documentary Man (paraphrased): There is no point trying to beat that guy into the Kingdom of God.

• 13 These things I have written to you who believe in the name of the Son of God, so that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 This is the confidence which we have [a]before Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He hears us. 15 And if we know that He hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests which we have asked from Him. New American Standard Version I John 5: 13-15 

• 13 I write these things to you who believe in the name of the Son of God that you may know that you have eternal life. 14 And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us. 15 And if we know that he hears us in whatever we ask, we know that we have the requests that we have asked of him. English Standard Version I John 5: 13-15

Is this some kind of cult?

Image one from Bored Panda: Is this some kind of cult?

Image two from Facebook, thanks to Pastor David Pitman. 'Kool.'

Image three from Bored Panda: I am more concerned that the man in the image makes me think of Vladimir Lenin.

Image four from Bored Panda: If a person embraced my academic work, he/she would realize that existence is not a matter of libertarian free will.

Secular opinion: Dark Age in Society

 

Secular opinion: Dark Age in Society

Disclaimer 

I think this is a good, reasonable and short, secular opinion in regards to discussing a Dark Age in Society. I do not formally hold to a Red Pill worldview, as Taylor the Fiend represents. I hold to a New Testament, Biblical worldview within the Reformed tradition. I do not think Taylor is promoting the occult, or practices the occult. His imagery is used to conceal his identity, and is more comparable to using Dr. Strange or Dracula imagery from Marvel Comics than actual occultism. As the video is secular and not Christian, or evangelical Christian, the discussion is more crude than would be typical church discussion. The views expressed in the video seem, secular and moderately, conservative with an attempt at being highly rational. In regards to the world system, this video and many of the videos on his channel in general, express aspects of the truth.

Image: Capture File Scott Kelly NASA via AP 2021

Not true in my case, but sort of funny (Cheesecake)

1. Spelling correction.

2. I do not bake.

3. I have never made a cheesecake.

4. It is a first-rate dessert that I will order on rare occasions, such as a birthday party at a restaurant.

Arne is that you? Hope you are okay

Brief Sunday Bullets: Journal articles, WOT, Lock her down, Game of Thrones

• As my online friend from Florida used to state: (Paraphrased) Remember this is a satire site.

• Those that know me personally, realize I write this with a grin...

• Image: Right>>>Marilyn Monroe Left>>>Marilyn Moron

• I had a pretty good day @church and then further out.

---

• By God's grace I have 44 entries on academia.edu.

• When I earned my PhD, some academics stated that I needed journal articles to gain academic credibility.

• I thought the idea a bit 'crazy', after I had embedded an accepted, within British academia, solution to problems of evil in my PhD.

• But it was stated, a journal article was for the sake of peer review.

• As I had been online for six years already, much of my work had been peer reviewable online, that entire time.

• There is a comments section with each entry.

• Writers are free to write their own response on their own online platform.

• But, a now deceased, older scholar gave me a lead where I could submit a paper.

• This academic journal had the standard 90%, submission, rejection rate.

• Waste of time = WOT, came to mind.

• But, after a few months editing my PhD material, I begrudgingly, submitted a journal article.

• I was turned down.

• I was informed my work was theological and that the journal was religious studies.

(I took that as yet another backhanded compliment, by the way)

• Of course, theology is under the academic umbrella of religious studies.

• Anyway, years later, this silliness has fixed itself.

• With my 44 (and counting) academic entries on academia.edu.

• But, I have been a published scholar with peer review since 2004.

---

• Again, I am not formally red pill, philosophically. 

• I hold to biblical, New Testament, views on marriage and relationships. 

• However, a major thing that 'Taylor the Fiend' teaches on You Tube is useful.

• That being, do not try to get a quote 'girl' (woman) to like you. 

• The more I exist, the more I agree with him, it is a waste of time. 

• Waste of time = WOT (once again).

• He is right, if they like you, they will show interest. 

(Provided you are likeable, in a variety of contexts, such as TYPICALLY not being like Charles Manson and/or not having 90% of your body as 'tats' and alterations)

• To try and convince a woman to like you is just likely trouble for the man.

• To try and convince a woman that sort of likes you, to really, really, super duper, like you....is another potential disaster.

• Purchase your ticket for the Titanic (not the film).

• From a Christian worldview, a man should love others in the Church (Gospel of John, 1-2 John, as examples). 

• From a Christian worldview, a man should love God first a foremost.

• And his neighbour as much as self (Matthew 23, Mark 12, Luke 10, Galatians 5, as examples). 

• From a western perspective, be loving, true and kind, and if you fit into a woman's agenda one day, she might show romantic interest. (If the man is still interested by that time)

• But, the Lord I believe, put into my head, one night while I was praying, 'Only take what is given to you'. 

• Humbly, I am finite and sinful.

• I cannot honestly tell you today, what should be in the future...

• Taylor is right on this one...

• The idea of 'lock her down' in general terms, stated to me, works when I have been chosen.

(Lock her down, meaning in context, seal the deal)

• The idea of 'lock her down' in general terms, stated to me, does not work when I have not been chosen.

• In regards to a woman's right to choose a man, I am in the 21st century, not an episode of Game of Thrones.

Taking out the trash with class

Thank you to James Lee for posting.

Link

Dailyhive.com/vancouver/Aug 1 2022 

Quote: First introduced in their Winter ’22 collection, Balenciaga’s “Trash Pouch” is currently available in stores and it’s selling for a hefty $1,790. The “garbage bag-inspired” drawstring sack comes in three colours: black, blue, and white.

Second image is from Twitter

Yes, a fancy trash bag is the missing puzzle piece in my life...

Motivational v Informative answer

Photo: NASA: STScI-SMACS0723_webb Webb's First Deep Field, July 13, 2022

A comment I stated today in a meeting (paraphrased):

At times, some falsely assume a motivational answer is needed, when it is in actuality, an informative answer that is needed.

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(The second usually requiring a higher level of intellectual difficulty)

Not a happy accident...

Quick Bullets: I am attempting to take moral & ethical responsibility for thoughts, actions & acts, where I can

• Buzzfeed image

• This morning I was at a new low, by a few pounds, since leaving England/Wales.

• I am still working out with weights, martial arts weapons and walking.

• As I have noted, working out, is nothing new.

• In my case, in particular, low calorie intake is not enough.

• 20 carbs approximately a day, no potatoes or regular, non-vegetable pasta is a key for me.

• As the results of my decreasing sleep apnea, become less through surgeries years ago, diet also tremendously helps with weight.

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• IMHO, socially stigmatizing bad thoughts, actions & acts is not as problematic as the bad thoughts, actions & acts committed.

• From my MPhil/PhD, website, work, those with significantly healthy, rational, adult, minds, have moral and ethical responsibility for his/her acts/actions.

• drrnm: moral responsibility

• I have noted: As a compatibilist, and Reformed theologian, within soft determinism, I view God, as infinite, eternal and omnipotent, as the primary cause of this theoretical chain of human nature, consciousness, thoughts, desires, limited free will, choices, acts and actions.

• When this chain is embraced by a human being, as a finite, secondary cause, as in willing and choosing, leading to acts and actions; there is significant, moral responsibility.

• I reason a human being cannot choose or change his/her nature, from corrupt to incorrupt.

• But where this nature leads to embracing choices and the results, without force or coercion, significant moral accountability exists.

• God through the applied atoning and resurrection work of Jesus Christ, within the gospel, regenerates persons (John 3, Titus, 1 Peter 1).

• God legally justifies sinners and also sanctifies these persons toward eventual post-mortem resurrection (1 Corinthians 15, Revelation 20-22).

• The human nature is biblically in this realm, sinful and fallen (Genesis 1-3, Romans, Galatians, Ephesians, Hebrews, as examples). 

• God being the primary cause of all things, whether within his perfect or permissible wills.

• God remains, perfect and holy.

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• Back to my own story. I could take no responsibility for my weight, as I did not choose it as it was.

• I have never embraced my former weight...

• But, by God's grace, prayerfully, something has been done about it.

• I am attempting to take moral & ethical responsibility for thoughts, actions & acts, where I can.

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BLACKBURN, SIMON (1996) ‘Fatalism’, in Oxford Dictionary of Philosophy, p. 137. Oxford, Oxford University Press. 

BLOESCH, D. (1996) ‘Fate, Fatalism’, in Walter A. Elwell (ed.), Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Books.

CARSON, D.A. (1981) Divine Sovereignty and Human Responsibility, Atlanta, John Knox Press.

CARSON, D.A. (1990) How Long, O Lord?, Grand Rapids, Baker Book House.

FEINBERG, JOHN S. (1986) Predestination and Free Will, David Basinger and Randall Basinger (eds.), Downers Grove, Illinois, InterVarsity Press. 

FEINBERG, JOHN S. (1994) The Many Faces of Evil, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House. 

FERRE, FREDERICK (1952)(1976) ‘Self-Determinism’, in American Philosophical Quarterly, Volume 10, Number 3, in John R. Burr and Milton Goldinger (eds.), in Philosophy and Contemporary Issues, London, Collier Macmillan Publishers. 

FEINBERG, JOHN S. (2001) No One Like Him, John S. Feinberg (gen.ed.), Wheaton, Illinois, Crossway Books. 

GEISLER, NORMAN L. (1975) Philosophy of Religion, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House. 

GEISLER, NORMAN L. (1978) The Roots of Evil, Grand Rapids, Zondervan Publishing House.

GEISLER, NORMAN L. (1986) Predestination and Free Will, Downers Grove, Illinois, InterVarsity Press. 

GEISLER, NORMAN L. (1996) ‘Freedom, Free Will, and Determinism’, in Walter A. Elwell (ed.), Evangelical Dictionary of Theology, Grand Rapids, Baker Books. 

GEISLER, NORMAN, L (1999) ‘The Problem of Evil’, in Baker Encyclopedia of Apologetics, Grand Rapids, Baker Books.

GREENSPAN, P.S. (1998) Free Will and Genetic Determinism: Locating the Problem (s), Maryland, University of Maryland. 

GRENZ, STANLEY J., DAVID GURETZKI AND CHERITH FEE NORDLING (1999) Pocket Dictionary of Theological Terms, Downers Grove, Ill., InterVarsity Press. 

KAPITAN, TOMIS (1996) ‘Free Will Problem’, in Robert Audi (ed.), The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press.

MAWSON, TIM (1999) ‘The Problem of Evil and Moral Indifference’, in Religious Studies, Volume 35, pp. 323-345. Cambridge, Cambridge University Press. 

KAPITAN, TOMIS (1996) ‘Free Will Problem’, in Robert Audi (ed.), The Cambridge Dictionary of Philosophy, Cambridge, Cambridge University Press. 

POJMAN, LOUIS P. (1996) Philosophy: The Quest for Truth, New York, Wadsworth Publishing Company. 

STACE, W.T. (1952)(1976) Religion and the Modern Mind, in John R. Burr and Milton Goldinger (eds), Philosophy and Contemporary Issues, London, Collier Macmillan Publishers. 

STRONG, J. (1890)(1986) Strong's Exhaustive Concordance of the Bible, Burlington, Welch Publishing Company. 

THIESSEN, HENRY C. (1956) Introductory Lectures in Systematic Theology, Grand Rapids, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Company.

Wednesday: Death by mosquito blood draining? Bullets

• Raid advertisement from the early 1970's.

• From How Many Mosquito Bites Would It Take to Kill You (and Other Mosquito Musings): Matt Heid/July 1, 2014: Appalachian MTN Club 

• Cited 'Death by mosquito draining? For an average person, losing two liters of blood becomes life-threatening. The average mosquito bite drains 0.01 to 0.001 milliliters of blood.' 

• Cited 'Thus it would take somewhere between 200,000 and 2 million mosquito bites to kill you from blood loss. For the average adult male (a.k.a. me), that works out to between 68 and 680 bites for every square inch of skin. (Converted from average body surface area of adult male: 1.9 square meters.)' 

• From Here's how many mosquito bites it would take to drain all of your blood: Sean Kane Feb 29, 2016, 9:01 AM : Business Insider

• Cited 'Now consider the average human has 5.5 liters of blood, or 5.5 million microliters. If you do the math, you'd need a swarm of 1.1 million Asian tiger mosquitoes to completely drain a human's blood — but chances are you'd die long before all your blood was gone.' 

• Cited 'A condition called hypovolemic shock sets in after you lose about 20% of your blood, and it leads to major organ failures because your heart loses the pressure necessary to circulate blood.' 

• Good news on the mosquito bite front...

• TSN (paraphrased): The new Blue Jays manager, is not to be confused with former Dukes of Hazzard star John Schneider.

Interesting Disney 3D Birthday Cards

Much appreciated. The dinner was very good on the actual day, as was the Thor film last evening. (The Star Wars card dedicated to Chuck and Zombie's, Star Wars, Star Trek, Lord of the Rings, discussions)