Kremaston Lake, Greece (photo from trekearth.com)
I hope you like my new blog template, a twin of thekingpin68 template, but with different colours. If you do not like it, go ahead 'break my heart' and tell me in comments, if you care.
My Mom told me it makes no difference as far as content.
Within my short audio post I discuss my blogging rationale and philosophy, which includes perspectives on career, ministry and life.
It may be a bit controversial, but I am trying to be at peace with others, especially those in the Church, as much as possible.
I am not in any ongoing conflict!
Comments appreciated.
views on blogging.mp3
I saw this classic on David's blog No More Darkness, thanks David.
Aerides sunset, Greece (photo from trekearth.com)
What a total moron! He had to really step on the gas pedal to jack it up like that. Hopefully he will be losing his driving "privileges."
ReplyDeleteAgreed, Stan.
ReplyDeletePerhaps the driver lost mental focus.
Thanks.:)
You made some good points with your audio post.
ReplyDeleteJeff,
ReplyDeleteThanks my friend.
You are very solid!
Yes you did send me the blog with new template, and I do admit I did not notice it at all. I am not saying it is not appealing -- because it does have a colorful effect. Now about my comment re when I read a blog: It is content of the blog I am looking for as well as comments and input from others. Now if I was creating the blog I too would be more selective of the template. You have no conflict from me! Looks GOOD!
ReplyDeleteMom
Thanks, Boss.
ReplyDeleteLove,
Russ
Regarding that 'Speeding Ticket Fail' video, though I have seen somewhat similar videos, I was not expecting that exact ending. Wow. For all the stupid mistakes I've ever made, I am thankful that I cannot think of a single one that was as stupid as what that guy did. I was feeling down about myself today and last night, but after watching that, I don't feel so bad anymore. Thanks for that, Russ.
ReplyDeleteThat was great!:) Thank You!:)
ReplyDeleteI had a few minor accidents, for which I never lost my insurance discount (was not charged), when I was younger and starting to drive. I also had a couple major accidents where I did not lose my discount (was not charged) when I was younger. For almost twenty years I have continued to be accident free, as in not losing my insurance discount and not being charged.
ReplyDeleteI pray that I will avoid causing or being involved in a serious car accident.
Jeff, as we are unemployed and single, our egos can take a beating at times. But, I do think you are a successful person.
'I was not expecting that exact ending. Wow.'
Me either!
I did not top or match that one either.
Leon, thanks for the encouragement!
ReplyDeleteJeff, as we are unemployed and single, our egos can take a beating at times. But, I do think you are a successful person.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Russ.
Welcome.
ReplyDeleteLDS/JW Smackdown!
Fight
Russ,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your goals. And I totally agree about we Christians, even where we may have some disagreements on some interpretations (since most of our disagreements aren't basic to the core of our faith) need to stand together in this world and uphold each other. I always read your Blog, I don't always comment. Often when I don't comment on people's Blogs it is because i have nothing worthwhile to add to what they wrote. But know I've been there.
I went on facebook, Twitter, YouTube and even another Blog site with the purpose of perhaps getting more people to read "Night Writing in the Morning Light". My purpose in writing that Blog is to share the Word of God in whatever way I can. I take perhaps a more homey approach, but I think we need different voices telling the same story in different ways and on different levels.
Larry E.
Larry E.
'Russ,
ReplyDeleteI agree with your goals.'
Cheers, Larry.
'And I totally agree about we Christians, even where we may have some disagreements on some interpretations (since most of our disagreements aren't basic to the core of our faith) need to stand together in this world and uphold each other.'
Good points.
'I always read your Blog, I don't always comment. Often when I don't comment on people's Blogs it is because i have nothing worthwhile to add to what they wrote. But know I've been there.'
Sure, and we will not comment on each and every post of the other person. I understand.
'I went on facebook, Twitter, YouTube and even another Blog site with the purpose of perhaps getting more people to read "Night Writing in the Morning Light". My purpose in writing that Blog is to share the Word of God in whatever way I can. I take perhaps a more homey approach, but I think we need different voices telling the same story in different ways and on different levels.'
Agreed, we need different voices. I realize I have limited appeal (most are not greatly popular) and attempt to work within my limitations. I also hope to improve in Christ.
Russ:)
I wish I had the capabilities to listen to audio and view video's here at work, but I don't; so I'll have to wait until I get home. But I'm interested in what you have to say about this.
ReplyDeletePersonally, for me "blogging" is a way for me to practice expressing my thoughts and understanding of the Gospel. You've said before that you desire "comments" otherwise you are simply creating an online "diary", and this is not your purpose and goal in "blogging".
I can appreciate that and I hope that I am contributing to your desire for interaction. And I too would like people to find me, read my material and comment (in agreement or disagreement). But I started my blog mainly for the benefit of the people in my church to read and (hopefully) grow spiritually and because, as I said, I enjoy writing and trying to improve in communicating my thoughts and understanding of the Gospel (and other stuff); only subsequent to establishing my blog did I even consider the idea of a wider "audience".
So I guess I'm saying that my purpose in writing and sharing through the "blogoshpere" is a bit more personal (my own growth as I interact with and communicate my thoughts) and focused on a specific demographic (my church, and now my family), with only the added potential benefit of broader interaction.
I'm not deliberately trying to keep my blog hidden from the masses! I mean, come one...everyone can benefit from the wisdom of the Great Googly Moogly, right?! :-)
But I've enjoyed (and spend most of my time) engaging others on their own blogs--and that suites me just fine. Of course, since I've been trying to get my new site up and running (which will have my general blog and stuff, but also personal places for family and church to go to) I haven't been as frequent a "commentor" on others' blogs as I'd like to be.
(I repent, O "Kingpin" of "Satirical" profundity and wisdom) :-)
Hopefully by this weekend I'll be ready to publish my new site and then get back in the swing of things here and the other places.
Hey, for someone who hasn't had the chance to even listen to this post yet I sure did have a lot to say. I hope at least some of it was relevant! :-)
GGM
Hello Russ,
ReplyDeleteA merry heart doeth good like a medicine.. Good clean humor is great.. I appreciate humor among christians. Satire and theology is great :)
'I wish I had the capabilities to listen to audio and view video's here at work, but I don't; so I'll have to wait until I get home. But I'm interested in what you have to say about this'
ReplyDeleteBoo hoo hoo, (with French accent) my heart is broken beyond repair. However, I am glad you are interested my friend. It is always good when someone cares.
'Personally, for me "blogging" is a way for me to practice expressing my thoughts and understanding of the Gospel.'
Me as well.
'You've said before that you desire "comments" otherwise you are simply creating an online "diary", and this is not your purpose and goal in "blogging".'
Yes, for sure.
'I enjoy writing and trying to improve in communicating my thoughts and understanding of the Gospel (and other stuff); only subsequent to establishing my blog did I even consider the idea of a wider "audience".'
Cool, as we do not have to be clones here.;)
'So I guess I'm saying that my purpose in writing and sharing through the "blogoshpere" is a bit more personal (my own growth as I interact with and communicate my thoughts) and focused on a specific demographic (my church, and now my family), with only the added potential benefit of broader interaction.'
Yes. I can fully admit, however, that I have learned and grown through blogging. I think the discussions and debating (not in circles or with ad hominem) helped me to be sharp for my PhD viva as well. Contrary to what some might think, my blogs are not always 'country club.'
'I'm not deliberately trying to keep my blog hidden from the masses! I mean, come one...everyone can benefit from the wisdom of the Great Googly Moogly, right?! :-)'
Frankly, it is not difficult to keep a blog hidden...LOL.
'Of course, since I've been trying to get my new site up and running (which will have my general blog and stuff, but also personal places for family and church to go to) I haven't been as frequent a "commentor" on others' blogs as I'd like to be.'
Everyone, we should flock to GGM's (Great Google Mogul) new website when opened. This should be an opportunity for new links, I hope.
'(I repent, O "Kingpin" of "Satirical" profundity and wisdom) :-)'
I am honoured, but of course I am but a child of God.
Russ:)
'Satire and theology is great :)'
ReplyDeleteTammy, that is very nice to read, especially from a female perspective. I think you like the humour on this blog more than my Mommy does.;) She likes the serious stuff, but then states she cannot understand most of it.
A couple of female links have recently cut my blogs loose, thekingpin68 2x and satire and theology 1x. But, heck, I cannot please everyone.
Cheers,
Russ:)
LDS/JW Smackdown!
ReplyDeleteThat was funny. Wouldn't it be great to schedule some Mormons and JWs to visit your house at exactly the same time? That could be hilarious.
On another note, I think at least one benefit of Christians blogging is that it helps to cut across denominational boundaries and also, of course, country boundaries. Jesus prayed in the Garden that Christians be united, yet we are divided by color, by denomination, etc. Now, the Bible does talk about separating yourselves from certain individuals, but I think it means those that teach false doctrines or that practice open, unrepentant sin. For example, we should not fellowship with cults, or those who openly and unashamedly practice homosexuality. But we should find common ground with other Christians, whether they are Baptist, Presbyterian, Lutheran, Charismatic or non-denominational, Methodist, Calvary Chapel, Christian & Missionary Alliance, or whatever. Though we may disagree on issues such as infant vs. believer's baptism, what it means to be filled with the Holy Spirit, predestination vs. free will, speaking in tongues, etc., we should be able to agree on the foundational issues, at least.
A couple of female links have recently cut my blogs loose, thekingpin68 2x and satire and theology 1x. But, heck, I cannot please everyone.
That's right. Even Jesus did not please everyone. In order to please everyone, you would have to ride the fence or change back and forth like a chameleon, the way some politicians do.
'Wouldn't it be great to schedule some Mormons and JWs to visit your house at exactly the same time? That could be hilarious.'
ReplyDeleteAgreed.
Excellent points on unity Jeff. We are unified in truth and love.
We can agree that we have spiritual and theological disunity with the cults even as we should show them love.
'In order to please everyone, you would have to ride the fence or change back and forth like a chameleon, the way some politicians do.'
Not my style.
Cheers, Jeff.:)
If that guy (in the video) did that in Vancouver he'd probably get tasered...
ReplyDeleteGood point.
ReplyDeleteCare to provide background story for our non-Canadian readers?
I like the lay out, but look at it like this, not everyone will like it and guess what, you cannot please everyone, so do what you like and dont worry about everyone else. Rick b
ReplyDeleteCheers, Rick.
ReplyDeleteI appreciate the comment after a six hour all night/early morning thesis revision session.
You are right, I cannot please everyone.
I have never tried to.:)
I have never been particularly popular in or outside of the Church. Although overall the Christian Church has been supportive of me in my Christian walk, I would not call it overwhelmingly supportive.
But, I expect nothing else.
The Church is quite fragmented and I can deduce from Statscounter that some of the bloggers that I contact that are Christian, or claim to be Christian, do not even check out my blogs.
As my friend Dean states, some Christians and religionists are so fundamentalistic and closed-minded that there is no room for serious dialogue concerning views. I agree.
The Church talks about pseudo-Christian cults, but Dr.Walter Martin mentioned the concept of Christian cults, as in groups with basically orthodox primary Christian doctrines, but with very divisive secondary doctrines.
Christian cults may be less than common, but divisive views and more importantly approaches, are not.
I look for open-minded persons to blog with, even while I hold to my own dogmatics.
LOL! If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have never realized that you changed your blog's theme! Guess I'm just a typical unobservant guy....
ReplyDeleteIt was cool to hear your voice for the first time. I totally see where you're coming from.
That was a crazy video! I'm just thankful the police officer did not appear hurt. Last Christmas, I spun off the icy highway and nearly slammed into a stationary police car! It was literally the hand of God that steered us clear!
'LOL! If you hadn't mentioned it, I would have never realized that you changed your blog's theme! Guess I'm just a typical unobservant guy....'
ReplyDeleteWell, it is the exact same template with the same modifications as on thekingpin68, but with different colours for the most part.
'It was cool to hear your voice for the first time. I totally see where you're coming from.'
Cool, Greg. People need to realize I would continue my blogs with no readers, links, and commenters, but I prefer support and to support others. As noted many times, I do not wish to write an online journal/diary.
Icy roads are 'evil.';)
Cheers, Greg.
chucky said...
ReplyDeleteIf that guy (in the video) did that in Vancouver he'd probably get tasered...
satire and theology said...
Good point.
Care to provide background story for our non-Canadian readers?
chucky:
Not really. But if you insist (for the sake of blog volume).
Vancouver cops go nuts
Thanks, Chuck!
ReplyDeleteOff to Potter we go.
In the Kingpin and S&T are we seeing what you call the "identical twin/twerp" syndrome or are we seeing the King and his Court Jester? :-)
ReplyDeleteGGM
Excellent questioning!
ReplyDeletePlease have a most happy weekend.
Rolling waves of Japanese people.
ReplyDeleteMoonie wedding
ReplyDeleteMoonie propaganda
ReplyDeleteInfo on other cults:
ReplyDelete"Top 10 Cults"
'Rolling waves of Japanese people.'
ReplyDeleteA new type of hyper-charismatic church?
Someone should have stood up to Reverend Moon and wife when they were going to be crowned. I would have either walked out or told them they were false Christs and false prophets right there. Matthew 23.
ReplyDeleteWhat a disgrace that leaders of various religions stood there as the Moons claimed ridiculous status for themselves.
Jesus was raised from the dead and has power over life and death as God. Now that is status I can respect.
Wow! That Cop probably had to change his pants after this incident!! The audio is a bit muffled on this video, but if I had to guess what was said after the accident, here's what I would guess...
ReplyDeleteCop: What's going on here???
Driver: Don't know, just got here.
-Oopsy Driving School-
(Where all accidents are happy ones)
Enjoyed your audio presentation on blogging. Its nice to see you bringing the reality and love of Christ and the Gospel to people of all sorts and backgrounds. You have created a very interesting and informative blog which incorporates teaching, humour, and integrity. What a great blogging ministry.
ReplyDelete-Blogger Bugger-
Thanks for the massive support.
ReplyDeleteRuss:)
I watched that "Vancouver cops go nuts" video that Chucky posted, and that really creeps me out. It has been giving me chills for days now. That's why I don't watch horror movies. I don't get scared at the time, but it goes through my mind for days, and I dwell on it. I felt extremely sad when I watched it, because it's sad to see someone die, and even more so to see someone killed. Stuff like that really bothers me. Those cops are murderers, and though I usually stand up for cops who take the heat for killing someone, in this case, the guy they killed was not a criminal, and was merely confused, not able to communicate because he spoke a different language, and, because he was stuck there for several hours not knowing what to do or where to go, he threw a temper tantrum and threw a couple chairs around. That's no reason to murder him. Even now, it still bothers me and gives me chills. Plus, now I think even less of gun bans than I did before.
ReplyDeleteThat Tokyo wave pool (Chucky's "Rolling waves of Japanese people" video) is ridiculous. That's even worse than trying to find a spot to sit down on Miami Beach! Though it's not as crowded as the annual Calle Ocho festival in Miami, or as noisy.
ReplyDeleteThanks, Jeff.
ReplyDeleteI wonder if a taser should only be used in a situation against a weapon or weapons, or if an officer or officers are outnumbered.
It seems very questionable to me that several officers wearing bullet-proof vests, more than likely, needed to surround a man and taser him.
From:
taser
'The use of the Taser has come under scrutiny in Canada following national media coverage of the 2007Robert Dziekański Taser incident in which a Polish immigrant died after being tasered five times by a Royal Canadian Mounted Police officer at the Vancouver International Airport.[46] As a result several official reviews of Taser safety are underway in Canada and two police forces have put large orders of the device on hold.[47]
See also: Braidwood Inquiry
In October and November 2007, four individuals died after being tasered in Canada, leading to calls for review of its use. The highest-profile of these cases was that of Robert Dziekański, a non-English-speaking man from Poland who died in less than two minutes after being tasered by Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) at the Vancouver International Airport, October 14, 2007.[48][49][50] Followed by three other post-Taser deaths, this incident led Amnesty International to demand an end to Taser use in Canada.[51]
On December 12, 2007, in response to the death of Robert Dziekański, Public Safety Minister Stockwell Day requested that the federal Commission for Public Complaints Against the RCMP (CPC) prepare recommendations for immediate implementation. The CPC report recommended to "immediately restrict the use of the conducted energy weapon (CEW)" by reclassifying it as an "impact weapon."[52] The commission released its report on 18 June 2008; recommendations include restricting use to experienced officers (5 years or more), providing medical attention to those who have been zapped, improving previous documentation of specific deployment of the weapon, among other things.[53][54]
In June 2008, a federal jury ordered Taser International to pay the family of Robert Heston, Jr., $6 million in punitive and compensatory damages for the 2005 death of the man a day after he was shocked repeatedly by officers using Tasers. According to a press report, the jury "said Taser had failed to warn police in Salinas, California, that prolonged exposure to electric shock from the device could cause a risk of cardiac arrest."[55]
In December 2008, in light of extensive testing of Tasers by the CBC, many Canadian police agencies, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police have suspended use of either all Tasers or just those manufactured before 2006.[56]'
That Japanese clip is wild.
Thanks for that additional information regarding the taser story, Russ. I'm glad that some are working to see that such an incident doesn't happen again, at least.
ReplyDeleteI like you, I am quite pro law and order, but when it comes to the use of tasers electricity can be deadly and not just painful to the human body. I reason more caution is in order with the use of these weapons.
ReplyDeleteCheers, Jeff.
By the way, everyone the comes to YVR (Vancouver International Airport in Richmond) by an international commercial flight arrives through that same entrance. Just something for you to remember when and if you visit. Incidentally there is a good little pub/restaurant in that same part of the building.
Well, I need another big glass of ice tea and a DVD. I was out on a beach near YVR today for about three hours with a couple of friends.
By the way, everyone the comes to YVR (Vancouver International Airport in Richmond) by an international commercial flight arrives through that same entrance.
ReplyDeleteYeah, um, after watching that video, I probably won't be visiting via that route anytime soon.
If that had happened in the U.S., my guess is the man probably would not have been murdered. American cops would likely have used their combined strength and weight to take the guy down, and then, if the guy absolutely refused to calm down, they probably would have used Plasticuffs/Flexicuffs or handcuffs to bind his hands, and possibly his feet if absolutely necessary. Since they carry guns, they would have only used lethal force as a very last resort. And, since they carry guns, just pointing a gun at the guy is usually enough to scare the person and make the person submissive. The person would not be nearly as scared or as submissive from a pointed taser. So again, if the police had been carrying guns instead of tasers, I think the guy would still be alive today.
Perhaps you are thinking of Britain in regard to no handguns. They do carry larger guns in the trunks (boots) of cars if needed.
ReplyDeleteRCMP officers do carry guns, but can also carry taser guns and clubs.
They can bring in larger guns if needed.
Cheers, Jeff.
What would really be funny was if some one gave the moon's a very public mooning. Rick b
ReplyDeleteTrue, Rick.:)
ReplyDeleteToday is a strange day for this blog. It has had its best day for traffic ever with 500 hits so far, with many of them clicking on my old Richard Dawkins and Richard Dawson article.
I know my blogs are still fairly small...
Richard