There are many things on my mind this morning that I feel the need to discuss. And, instead of going my original route, I am changing directions, slightly. I am writing and editing this on my phone, so please bare with me.
I am extremely unhappy with President Trump's recommendations for Chief Justice, Brett Kavanaugh have been handled. Quite frankly, the proceeding are being made into a disgusting circus by many people in the Senate and in the media (plenty of shame to be shared by all). But, what are the facts?
In talking with my wife, I have learned that the woman who "made the accusations" against Kavanaugh had originally written a letter to Sen. Dianne Feinstein's office expressing memories from decades ago concerning an event that happened, but she was not sure of all of the details. Mrs. Ford neither was wanting to go public, nor was she making criminal accusations. And, instead of Feinstein talking privately with Mrs. Ford and/or just giving the letter to the FBI, before the public proceeding, and let them investigate to confirm or deny that something had happened. Instead, she tosses it out, during the public hearings, and starts dragging everybody in the mud. Dragging Mrs. Ford and Kavanaugh both in the mud.
Now, as a reminder, I have been a Military Police Officer (MP) for just over 10 years. My training has been on the importance of thoroughly investigating a person's accusations concerning a crime, taking witness statements and evaluating physical evidence, to determine if: a) was a crime actually committed?, and b) What does the physical evidence show?
A few years ago, I was the investigating officer for a traffic accident that happened on a military base during a deployment. The initial evidence only indicated that some of the guards had heard a vehicle collision and that a concrete barrier had been damaged, as well as moved a significant difference. No vehicle was specifically seen hitting the barrier, just the evidence that it had been hit.
Only because I knew the color of the vehicle and the approximate location of the vehicle damage did I have much to go on. And, that evidence proved to be very helpful. Only one vehicle on the base matched the color and location of the damage. But, with further investigating, many interviews, and many hours analyzing the facts, I tetermjnedtwo things. One particular Soldier was confirmed to be the driver during the accident. I also discovered and documented how his Chain of Command had (unintentionally) set him up for failure. Because the evidence and my investigator's notes where handed over the the Unit for any disciplinary proceedings, I do not know what the results were. The big thing to take away is that I learned a lot simply by examining the physical evidence, talking with the various witnesses, sorted through the facts, opinions, and speculations, and came to very specific conclusions.
In a case of sexual harassment, especially an event that happened decades ago, determining all of the facts is very, very difficult. Unfortunately, it can often come down to a "he said, she said" situation without any supporting documentation or physical evidence. So, without credible witnesses, independly interviewed, can support the accuser, there is not a whole lot that can be done legally.
Now, I do agree with my wife that a harassment 'crime' had been committed, though possibly it was done unintentionally because someone had been under the influence of drugs and/or alcohol, and made worse decisions than what he many normally had made. However, all of the evidence that I have heard discussed does not support the accusations.
To be honest, I think that the greatest victim right now is not Kavanaugh, but Ford. Why? Mrs. Ford had written her Senator, Feinstein, about some concerns about Kavanaugh that she had. But, these concerns were solely based on her memories that she wasn't sure of. She knew something had happened to here whole in college that negatively impacted her emotionally and, I would argue also spiritually. But, she couldn't remember many details. And, again, this was before the public hearing. From a Law Enforcement perspective, I believe that Feinstein was grossly negligent with how she and her office has handled it. Unfortunately, some Senators and many in the media, are grossly, grossly mishandling the situation.
Think about it this way... How would you like it if you shared some concerns about someone else in private, in confidentiality, especially something you were not 100% sure on, and then that person used your confidential and private information for their personal agenda? Myself? I would be absolutely furious! I would probably go so far as taking that person to court for breach of confidentiality, unethical behavior, slander, and possibly other charges. And, I would at least consider similar charges against specific people in the media, too, for aiding and abetting, if I felt that the evidence and overall situation warranted it.
As a Law Enforcement professional, I would be legally responsible for investigating any accusation concerning a person wellbeing (like child abuse, rape, murder, self-harm, etc.). Such situations would require me to determine in n, through interviews and examining physical evidence, to determine if a crime has (or very likely will) take place, the actual seriousness, and what I can do according to current laws, status as, regulations, etc. Has that actually happened in this situation? Personally, from what I know, I seriously doubt it.
Showing posts with label assumption. Show all posts
Showing posts with label assumption. Show all posts
Tuesday, October 2, 2018
Wednesday, March 8, 2017
Just Some Thoughts
Yes, I know that it has been quite a while since I've written an entry. Most days have been fairly busy. Eben though I started this blog entry several weeks ago, I wanted to try and fish it.
For those who know me, I have been dealling with lower back and knee pain for the last year plus. Although some issues with my back seem to be improving, other things have been staying the same or getting worse. Some days I do well. Other days are much more difficult. I praise God for mow much my National Guard unit and the prison have worked with me so much. That has helped during the more painful days. Because all of my issues are related to my last deployment (service related), I have been working on VA Disability claim and getting a permanent profile with the Army. One thing after another seemed to get in the way. However, as of a week ago, things seem to now be moving forward with both. Your prayers for these things would be greatly appreciated.
A meme was shared by someone I know concerning pastors, the poor, and taxing churches. The top picture was of a 'mega church' with the phrase "If a church looks like this...;" the second picture was of a huge mansion, with the text of "And the pastor lives in this...;" and the third picture was of a woman (crying) with a sad looking girl, and the caption was "And we still have homeless families..." The last sentence in the meme had to do with 'Maybe we should tax churches.'
I have to admit, I was pretty angry when I saw that meme. I grew up a pastor's kid and have worked as a pastor on several occasions. I also have several close friends who are pastors. The fact of the matter is, very few pastors have a high income. We are both employed and self-employed, so we have to save money every month for paying taxes. For a 'full-time' pastor, one typically works 60+ hours each week because of all the planning, meetings, visitations, emergencies, etc. Most pastors are 'middle income.' Only a very small percentage make extreme amounts of money.
Such a meme is tasteless, or even down right insulting. I am saddened that people post such non-sense. Especially when you consider the fact that people like Osteen, who 'claims' to be Christian, is more of a 'touchie-feelie" self-help guru. His 'positive thinking' is only loosely based on Scripture and mostly 'feel-good' pop-psychology. Please, think about things before posting them.
Life goes on for me. I will try to post more later. May God bless you richly!
For those who know me, I have been dealling with lower back and knee pain for the last year plus. Although some issues with my back seem to be improving, other things have been staying the same or getting worse. Some days I do well. Other days are much more difficult. I praise God for mow much my National Guard unit and the prison have worked with me so much. That has helped during the more painful days. Because all of my issues are related to my last deployment (service related), I have been working on VA Disability claim and getting a permanent profile with the Army. One thing after another seemed to get in the way. However, as of a week ago, things seem to now be moving forward with both. Your prayers for these things would be greatly appreciated.
A meme was shared by someone I know concerning pastors, the poor, and taxing churches. The top picture was of a 'mega church' with the phrase "If a church looks like this...;" the second picture was of a huge mansion, with the text of "And the pastor lives in this...;" and the third picture was of a woman (crying) with a sad looking girl, and the caption was "And we still have homeless families..." The last sentence in the meme had to do with 'Maybe we should tax churches.'
I have to admit, I was pretty angry when I saw that meme. I grew up a pastor's kid and have worked as a pastor on several occasions. I also have several close friends who are pastors. The fact of the matter is, very few pastors have a high income. We are both employed and self-employed, so we have to save money every month for paying taxes. For a 'full-time' pastor, one typically works 60+ hours each week because of all the planning, meetings, visitations, emergencies, etc. Most pastors are 'middle income.' Only a very small percentage make extreme amounts of money.
Such a meme is tasteless, or even down right insulting. I am saddened that people post such non-sense. Especially when you consider the fact that people like Osteen, who 'claims' to be Christian, is more of a 'touchie-feelie" self-help guru. His 'positive thinking' is only loosely based on Scripture and mostly 'feel-good' pop-psychology. Please, think about things before posting them.
Life goes on for me. I will try to post more later. May God bless you richly!
Wednesday, February 15, 2017
When God Speaks
References:
• Blog Entry written by Josh Buice
• Mark 13:11 NKJV
• John 14:26 NKJV
• Philippians 3:15 NKJV
• James 4:14-17 NKJV
Someone I know on Facebook asked what other thought about the above article, so I read it. Well, honestly, I tried to read it. It’s not very often that I come across articles that I cannot finish reading. This was one of them.
I am sure that Josh Buice meant well. However, I read the article with more than a little discomfort. This is because a young Christian could easily come away after reading the article and think, “God does not speak to me, so therefore God does not care about me.” Nothing can be further from the truth!
Now, there is a difference between people saying, “God told me..” because He inspired him or her to do something and someone saying, “God told me…” because they are trying to justify their own agenda. If what a person is saying or writing clearly clearly contradicts God’s Word, then they are teaching/speaking from their own human (sinful) spirit or it is demonically inspired. However, if it is something that is not clearly contradict Scripture but honors it, is edifying, points people back to God, etc., then it is probably Divinely inspired.
Now, there will be no more ‘inspiration’ of Scripture. What we have as Scripture is complete, from Genesis through Revelation. That much is very, very true. However, God will still ‘speak to us’ via the Holy Spirit. We are given God’s Spirit (Holy Spirit) for our guidance, encouragement, correct, etc. If God gives us to encourage and guide us and ‘instruct us,’ this it is a given that God will ‘speak to us.’
Although I grew up a pastor’s kid, it wasn’t until I was 20 that I gave my life to Christ. That was back in January of 1994. Over the decades, God has spoken to me on numerous occasions. Very rarely has it been an ‘audible voice.’ More often than not, it will be a nudge in my spirit, my conscience, highlight something in my thoughts (so that it really stands out), etc. Very rarely has it been in ‘distinct words.’
On many occasions while being a pastor in a church (while going through an ordination process), doing a Bible study, or something else, where I will clearly feel God directing me to do something, focus on something, etc. This is especially the case when God is directing me to confront something that is wrong (like a wrong belief that a local church wants to believe). On several occasions I have felt God directing me to confront something and will not let me ‘have peace’ until I obey.
One example that comes to mind… Many years ago, I had the opportunity to give a sermon at the church that my dad had once pastored and that I had grown up in. When my dad first shared this opportunity with me, I felt a very, very unusual sense of excitement to doing it, as if God was not just giving me ‘permission’ to do so, but very much wanted me to do so. Along with this, I felt ‘inspired’ to preach about my conversion. It wasn’t a ‘got knocked off my horse’ kind of conversation like Saul had, but more of a ‘quiet one.’ When I shared this with my dad, he ‘reminded me’ that the church used the liturgy and I was expected to follow it. Ironically (and hilariously to me), the passage was Luke 24:13-33, which perfectly described how I went from ‘just head knowledge’ to ‘saving heart knowledge.’
If Josh Buice’s goal was to speak against people saying, “God told me…” so that they could ‘add to Scripture’ or support their own agenda, I would whole heartily agree. However, the tone and words of the article spoke very differently to me. It spoke of a cold god who did not care about how we lived our lives. Think of it this way… Because of our sinful nature, there is no way we could live in obedience to God based on the Bible. We are absolutely incapable of doing so. It is when God gives us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us that God can guide us. If God guides us to live according to His Will (and His Word), then He is, in fact, ‘speaking to us.’ And, there will be times where God will very clearly instruct us to talk with a certain person, go to a certain place, maybe even some of the courses or college major to focus on. How God does that will be just as varied as there are people on this earth. But, because our God is a loving God who cares about how we live and what we do, He will ‘speak to us.’
Final thought… Prayer is how we communicate with God, is it not? What is communication, but the sharing of ideas, right? Because God calls us to cast all of our cares unto Him, does that not imply that there is going to be a response from Him? Again, how God will respond to us about different things will vary greatly on the person and the situation. God will never add to or take away from Scripture. But, how God wants you to apply things in your life, that He will let you know. Are you willing to listen?
• Blog Entry written by Josh Buice
• Mark 13:11 NKJV
• John 14:26 NKJV
• Philippians 3:15 NKJV
• James 4:14-17 NKJV
Someone I know on Facebook asked what other thought about the above article, so I read it. Well, honestly, I tried to read it. It’s not very often that I come across articles that I cannot finish reading. This was one of them.
I am sure that Josh Buice meant well. However, I read the article with more than a little discomfort. This is because a young Christian could easily come away after reading the article and think, “God does not speak to me, so therefore God does not care about me.” Nothing can be further from the truth!
Now, there is a difference between people saying, “God told me..” because He inspired him or her to do something and someone saying, “God told me…” because they are trying to justify their own agenda. If what a person is saying or writing clearly clearly contradicts God’s Word, then they are teaching/speaking from their own human (sinful) spirit or it is demonically inspired. However, if it is something that is not clearly contradict Scripture but honors it, is edifying, points people back to God, etc., then it is probably Divinely inspired.
Now, there will be no more ‘inspiration’ of Scripture. What we have as Scripture is complete, from Genesis through Revelation. That much is very, very true. However, God will still ‘speak to us’ via the Holy Spirit. We are given God’s Spirit (Holy Spirit) for our guidance, encouragement, correct, etc. If God gives us to encourage and guide us and ‘instruct us,’ this it is a given that God will ‘speak to us.’
Although I grew up a pastor’s kid, it wasn’t until I was 20 that I gave my life to Christ. That was back in January of 1994. Over the decades, God has spoken to me on numerous occasions. Very rarely has it been an ‘audible voice.’ More often than not, it will be a nudge in my spirit, my conscience, highlight something in my thoughts (so that it really stands out), etc. Very rarely has it been in ‘distinct words.’
On many occasions while being a pastor in a church (while going through an ordination process), doing a Bible study, or something else, where I will clearly feel God directing me to do something, focus on something, etc. This is especially the case when God is directing me to confront something that is wrong (like a wrong belief that a local church wants to believe). On several occasions I have felt God directing me to confront something and will not let me ‘have peace’ until I obey.
One example that comes to mind… Many years ago, I had the opportunity to give a sermon at the church that my dad had once pastored and that I had grown up in. When my dad first shared this opportunity with me, I felt a very, very unusual sense of excitement to doing it, as if God was not just giving me ‘permission’ to do so, but very much wanted me to do so. Along with this, I felt ‘inspired’ to preach about my conversion. It wasn’t a ‘got knocked off my horse’ kind of conversation like Saul had, but more of a ‘quiet one.’ When I shared this with my dad, he ‘reminded me’ that the church used the liturgy and I was expected to follow it. Ironically (and hilariously to me), the passage was Luke 24:13-33, which perfectly described how I went from ‘just head knowledge’ to ‘saving heart knowledge.’
If Josh Buice’s goal was to speak against people saying, “God told me…” so that they could ‘add to Scripture’ or support their own agenda, I would whole heartily agree. However, the tone and words of the article spoke very differently to me. It spoke of a cold god who did not care about how we lived our lives. Think of it this way… Because of our sinful nature, there is no way we could live in obedience to God based on the Bible. We are absolutely incapable of doing so. It is when God gives us the Holy Spirit to dwell within us that God can guide us. If God guides us to live according to His Will (and His Word), then He is, in fact, ‘speaking to us.’ And, there will be times where God will very clearly instruct us to talk with a certain person, go to a certain place, maybe even some of the courses or college major to focus on. How God does that will be just as varied as there are people on this earth. But, because our God is a loving God who cares about how we live and what we do, He will ‘speak to us.’
Final thought… Prayer is how we communicate with God, is it not? What is communication, but the sharing of ideas, right? Because God calls us to cast all of our cares unto Him, does that not imply that there is going to be a response from Him? Again, how God will respond to us about different things will vary greatly on the person and the situation. God will never add to or take away from Scripture. But, how God wants you to apply things in your life, that He will let you know. Are you willing to listen?
Tuesday, August 11, 2015
Games People Play
Please read:
- Philippians 2:1-18 NAS
- James 3:1-12 NAS
While I was growing up in the 70's and the 80's, my family and I would take a long vacation (one to two weeks) every summer. Most of the time we drive from one place to another. To help keep us occupied, my mom would sometimes read to us articles from the Kitchen Klatter Magazine that she would get in the mail. Other times she would read to us from a book. Two books that I remember very well (and still have) are 'Fuzzy Bones' and 'Fuzzy Papers'.
When my mom didn't feel like reading, I would sometimes entertain myself with reading my own books or playing a games like travel bingo. Other times we would play a game like going through the alphabet using the letters that we saw on billboards and license plates. All of these activities would help the time to pass more quickly, so that it would seem that we arrived at our destination sooner.
I have played numerous bard and board games over the years with friends and family. Just a few of them are Monopoly, Risk, Clue, Chutes and Ladders, Mr. Mouth, etc. Usually I have really enjoyed playing games with others. Games can be a great way to help people get to better know each other. It can also be a great way to have fun and help facilitate conversation. My kids are both getting to the age where they can join my wife and I in some games. And they have loved it! But, not all games are good.
A song that was popular when I was growing up was “Don't Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John & Kiki Dee. Unfortunately, I am sure that a lot of people have experienced this. A person would lead someone else on, manipulating their emotions in one way or another. Although not always, it would often be an issue of commitment from one person. Unfortunately that would often lead to great heartache. It is saddening that some people continuously do this with one person after another. After one person finally puts their foot down, the manipulator goes and finds someone else to lead around.
But, that isn't the worse of it. There are those who are very good manipulators and play con games with others. But, instead of just misleading a person's heart, they use their charm and manipulative skills to take things from others. Things like money, healthy, and/or property. For them, it's a game with how much they can take from others and how many lives they can hurt, or even destroy, before they are caught. Many of these people go for years before they are stopped, leaving a trail of emotional, physical, and spiritual wreckage in their wake.
I have observed some very manipulative people in my life. And, it saddens me to say, there are many within the physical church. It could be a congregation that has very unhealthy dynamics, a lay leader who uses his/her position to manipulate others, or even a pastor who uses his/her position to take advantage of others. I have even seen youth, who don't like how a youth leader does things, to 'play games' to try and get rid of that person.
These 'games people play' can take the form of spreading false rumors, being argumentative with someone over petty things, character assassination, showing ill will towards those who support someone they don't like, or even making false accusations with law enforcement or with a church or denomination’s legal organization. I have read numerous articles over the years with how a person or group within a church destroyed a person's life through false accusations. Even though they were later found innocent of the charges, their reputation and, potentially their ministry career, was ruined.
The thing is, we don't just 'play games' with each other, we also try to play games with God. Think about it… How often have you gone through life making excuses for things you may have said or done that you knew displeased God? When you justify your actions, are you not trying to play games with God? Take a moment and read about why God choose David (1 Samuel 16:1-11 NAS and how God later confronted David (2 Samuel 12:1-15 NAS). In both examples, God shows us that He knows what is on our hearts, what our attitudes are. Whether we like it or not, we cannot lie to God. We can only believe the lies that we tell ourselves. And God will confront us about it.
While playing card games and board games can be a great and wholesome form of entertainment, not all games are good. God calls us to be honest with ourselves, with each other, and with Him. When we try to play games with others so that we can manipulate them, we are not just being selfish, but we are essentially lying to them (and to God) about what our real motives are. Let us strive to repent of when we are false with each other, and towards God. That way we can edify (to build up) each other and tear each other down.
- Philippians 2:1-18 NAS
- James 3:1-12 NAS
While I was growing up in the 70's and the 80's, my family and I would take a long vacation (one to two weeks) every summer. Most of the time we drive from one place to another. To help keep us occupied, my mom would sometimes read to us articles from the Kitchen Klatter Magazine that she would get in the mail. Other times she would read to us from a book. Two books that I remember very well (and still have) are 'Fuzzy Bones' and 'Fuzzy Papers'.
When my mom didn't feel like reading, I would sometimes entertain myself with reading my own books or playing a games like travel bingo. Other times we would play a game like going through the alphabet using the letters that we saw on billboards and license plates. All of these activities would help the time to pass more quickly, so that it would seem that we arrived at our destination sooner.
I have played numerous bard and board games over the years with friends and family. Just a few of them are Monopoly, Risk, Clue, Chutes and Ladders, Mr. Mouth, etc. Usually I have really enjoyed playing games with others. Games can be a great way to help people get to better know each other. It can also be a great way to have fun and help facilitate conversation. My kids are both getting to the age where they can join my wife and I in some games. And they have loved it! But, not all games are good.
A song that was popular when I was growing up was “Don't Go Breaking My Heart” by Elton John & Kiki Dee. Unfortunately, I am sure that a lot of people have experienced this. A person would lead someone else on, manipulating their emotions in one way or another. Although not always, it would often be an issue of commitment from one person. Unfortunately that would often lead to great heartache. It is saddening that some people continuously do this with one person after another. After one person finally puts their foot down, the manipulator goes and finds someone else to lead around.
But, that isn't the worse of it. There are those who are very good manipulators and play con games with others. But, instead of just misleading a person's heart, they use their charm and manipulative skills to take things from others. Things like money, healthy, and/or property. For them, it's a game with how much they can take from others and how many lives they can hurt, or even destroy, before they are caught. Many of these people go for years before they are stopped, leaving a trail of emotional, physical, and spiritual wreckage in their wake.
I have observed some very manipulative people in my life. And, it saddens me to say, there are many within the physical church. It could be a congregation that has very unhealthy dynamics, a lay leader who uses his/her position to manipulate others, or even a pastor who uses his/her position to take advantage of others. I have even seen youth, who don't like how a youth leader does things, to 'play games' to try and get rid of that person.
These 'games people play' can take the form of spreading false rumors, being argumentative with someone over petty things, character assassination, showing ill will towards those who support someone they don't like, or even making false accusations with law enforcement or with a church or denomination’s legal organization. I have read numerous articles over the years with how a person or group within a church destroyed a person's life through false accusations. Even though they were later found innocent of the charges, their reputation and, potentially their ministry career, was ruined.
The thing is, we don't just 'play games' with each other, we also try to play games with God. Think about it… How often have you gone through life making excuses for things you may have said or done that you knew displeased God? When you justify your actions, are you not trying to play games with God? Take a moment and read about why God choose David (1 Samuel 16:1-11 NAS and how God later confronted David (2 Samuel 12:1-15 NAS). In both examples, God shows us that He knows what is on our hearts, what our attitudes are. Whether we like it or not, we cannot lie to God. We can only believe the lies that we tell ourselves. And God will confront us about it.
While playing card games and board games can be a great and wholesome form of entertainment, not all games are good. God calls us to be honest with ourselves, with each other, and with Him. When we try to play games with others so that we can manipulate them, we are not just being selfish, but we are essentially lying to them (and to God) about what our real motives are. Let us strive to repent of when we are false with each other, and towards God. That way we can edify (to build up) each other and tear each other down.
Wednesday, May 13, 2015
Stereotypes and Prejudice
Picture this… You see a white guy running down a road, and he appears to be running as hard as he can. Be hind him, you see a black SUV with police lights on top and a black guy driving. The guy driving is wearing a Military Police uniform and is telling the white guy running to, “Keep running!” Think about this mental picture for a few minutes…
Over the last few months, I have become more and more disgusted with the media concerning stereotypes. Whether it was the situation in Ferguson, MO, last year, or the more recent situation in Baltimore, MD. Hundreds of people are protesting and capitalizing on many different stereotypes. Just a few of them that I see are:
- All blacks are persecuted and have to rise up.
- Most white cops are evil racists and must be eradicated.
- Since the Civil Rights Marches during the 1960's didn't 'fully get rid of' racism, we have to act out violently.
- Anytime a white cop arrests a black person, it has to be racially motivated.
I could go on and on, because there are many, many different stereotypes out there. There are stereotypes of people in colleges, there are stereotypes of people in politics, there are stereotypes of those in the military. But, since Ferguson and Baltimore have been in the news so much recently, I will focus on those.
I am sure that most of you out there reading this blog know the cliché, “Don't judge a book by it's cover...” In a nutshell, that means don't make a decision about reading or not reading a book based solely on the title, the cover art, etc. Actually take time to read the summary of the book, the preface, or scan a couple of the chapters. I know that all of us are guilty of doing this. Back in April, I had a birthday and I decided to pick out two books for myself since I knew that, due to an upcoming deployment, I would not get much in the way of gifts. And, I have been a very avid reader since I was in grade school. So, I spent some time scanning a number of books in a store. Since I did not have a lot of time, I had to make a purchase fairly quickly.
Because of that, I 'judged a lot of books by their covers.' If the genre was one that I didn't care for, wasn't a small paperback, or the title did not sound appealing, I did not consider it further. But, after going through once and not finding anything 'good,' I realized that I would have to spend a little more time looking at at least some of the books more closely, otherwise I would not have any travel books. So, I took more time looking through the books and finally found two that appealed to me. One appealed to me because it was about a former US soldier and his Military Working Dog (MWD), both who had been released from the military and doing private contract work. Being in the military and having a dog myself, when I saw what the book was actually about, I chose to buy it. And, although I haven't quite finished it yet, I have really enjoyed it! (For those who want to know, it is “The Kill Switch; A Tucker Wayne Novel” by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood.)
I also selected another book called, “The Lost Island” by Preston and Child. I have not read it yet, but based on the description on the back, it is potentially a good book. I love Indiana Jones movies, but I am a little critical of some of the books out there concerning archeology or searching for lost treasure. Being a lover of history and having studied theology and ancient writings (primarily ancient Hebrew and ancient Greek), I am critical with how such such movies/books are done.
I know that, had I not changed my attitude towards finding a book last month, I would have missed out on at least one really good book. The authors of “The Kill Switch” have done a very good job and portraying the former soldier and his dog in a believable way. And, since my family has had a dog for almost 7 years, and I have been in the military for almost 14 years now, I am a bit critical of such things. Sure, there are things that have to be taken with a grain of salt, like how some of the fight scenes are described. But, that comes with most any book or movie. I am very glad that I did not go with my 'first impression,' especially with this particular book.
As I just mentioned, I have been with the US Army, both Active Duty and with the Nebraska National Guard, for almost 14 whole years. I have had the privilege of serving with many different people of very different vocations, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, etc. Although I have been skeptical of some people based on first impressions, I have found that I am often wrong with what I initially thought. They were either having a bad day, I misread them, or something else. Most of the people I have served with I have been proud to call a brother or sister in arms.
Even while in college and seminary, I learned that initial assumptions about a person can end up being totally wrong. My life has been blessed by knowing each of this different people from all over the United States. Nay… From all over the world. Each of these experiences have enriched my life and enabled me to be a better person, I am greatly thankful for each of them.
The rioting that has happened in Baltimore and in Ferguson are excellent examples, I believe, of what can happen when people focus on fist impressions and/or the prejudices that they already have. Instead of seeking to find out what all of the details of the incident to see if the situation was justified or not, they immediately assume that the white police officer was biased and racist because he caused injury and/or death to a black person.
Yes, it is saddening when a person dies, and having to live with the fact that someone died based on the actions you took, either justly or unjustly, are things that each person faced with those situations will have to remember and deal with for the rest of his/her life. I am thankful that, as of writing this blog entry, I have not been forced to take a life. I hope that I never have to. But, due to the nature of the work that I do, as a Military Police Officer or a Corporal with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, that will always be a significant possibility. Every time someone is seriously injured or killed during any kind of military, law enforcement, corrections, or even self-defense situation an investigation will be done. It's mandatory. It's done to make sure that what ever force was used was actually justifiable, based on what the person knew at that time.
To make an assumption that a white cop killed a black person for no other reason than racism and prejudice, without making an attempt to know why everything happened, that makes your racist and prejudice. In assuming that a situation happened based on what your perceive as the causes, without seeking to find out the actual details, makes you just as 'pre-judging' as a white person who judges a black person to be on welfare and incompetent and lazy because he/she saw the person wearing dirty clothes and not working during 'regular banker's hours.' Or, just as prejudice as a person who equates all followers of Islam with those who are extremist and seek to force their 'version of Islam' onto others.
We are all fallen people with broken relationships with each other and with God. Do to our finiteness, we cannot see all things or understand all that happens around us. And, in some jobs, a person may have to make judgment calls and react to a situation based on a very incomplete understanding of all that goes on around them. The military, law enforcement, working in corrections, and firefighting are just some of the many jobs where a person has to make a split-second decision based on what they know, at that time. If they perceive that their life or the life of someone else is in jeopardy of death or serious bodily injury, they have to react. Even if it is later proved to have been a bad decision, if it can be proved that, at that time, they acted correctly, based on what they typical person in a similar situation would have reacted, then their actions will be considered justified.
When a person makes judgments based only on what they think or assume happened, and make no attempt to find out what the details of the situation is, it is very likely that your perception and understanding will be incorrect. That is bad enough. But, to go around and state that your understanding of the situation is true (that the shooting in Ferguson, MO, was racially motivated, for example) and not listen at all to evidence being shown to the contradict what you believe, then you are not doing anything positive for society. You are, in fact, actively making things worse. And, if you you such situations as an excuse to do violent things, like assault officers, destroy private property, and otherwise riot and be destructive, you are no better than the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against. When you participate in such violent acts, you show yourself to be as closed minded, arrogant and hateful as the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against.
And, it doesn't help with the media, no matter who they are, help to portray that kind of stereotyping. My wife grew-up in the Baltimore area and we have talked at length about that situation. It isn't just a white/black thing, there is also deep rooted anger concerning job and education opportunities, perception that law enforcement officers of any race arrest first, ask questions later (perceived or actual), etc. These people who give us the news or share their 'educated insights' into situations should be the first ones to actively seek out the truth and then use that knowledge to bring things to a more peaceful end, not purposely encouraging it to be worse (either because it makes them look better, more rating, or just too lazy to seek out the truth).
We live in a fallen world. It is easy for us to hate, seek only after our own gain, seek after answers that please us while dispelling truths that make us uncomfortable, etc. It is a daily challenge to stop and examine all of the evidence. It is much easier, from the safety of one's own living room to 'armchair quarterback' the decisions of others. It is important to examine things that happen in the world and make informed decisions on them. But yet, the important word here is 'informed.' That requires time and energy. Just like making new friends, experiencing new places, learning a new skill, or reading a new book, it all takes time and energy. Although first impressions will always happen (and we should strive to make good first impressions), a person is more than just one's first impression. A situation is more than just your initial thoughts after seeing or hearing about it later on.
After all of that…. Let's go back to the illustration that I started this blog out. The white guy with a black cop driving behind him, telling him to keep running. Think it was an ironic version of Ferguson that happened somewhere in the world? Did you even think that the cop was chasing a white criminal? I am sure it looked quite humorous, a white guy running on the road with a SUV behind him and a black cop telling him to keep running. I am sure that it got a lot of double takes. The thing is, I don't know for sure, because I didn't see it. I was the guy running.
Back in 2011, during third deployment to Iraq, I had to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). For those that don't know, the standard Army APFT includes the number of push-ups and sit-ups done by an individual within 2 minutes (for each event), and then a timed two mile run. While I was getting ready to take my APFT, a friend and fellow Military Policeman asked me if I would like him to pace me. I told him that it would be wonderful if he did. After a little discussing, we settled on him trailing me, lights on for our safety, and he would call out the time every so often. He also 'encouraged' my to 'keep running' throughout the 2 miles. Thanks to his help, I was able to successfully pass the 2 mile portion of the APFT. And, although we laughed later on about how it must have looked, I observed that it would have looked even more absurd (and hilarious), if he had been in front and I had 'chased' him. Now, wouldn't that be the sight, a white guy 'chasing' a black MP in a SUV, lights flashing, and him yelling at me to 'keep running!' Coffee and doughnuts, anyone?!
Over the last few months, I have become more and more disgusted with the media concerning stereotypes. Whether it was the situation in Ferguson, MO, last year, or the more recent situation in Baltimore, MD. Hundreds of people are protesting and capitalizing on many different stereotypes. Just a few of them that I see are:
- All blacks are persecuted and have to rise up.
- Most white cops are evil racists and must be eradicated.
- Since the Civil Rights Marches during the 1960's didn't 'fully get rid of' racism, we have to act out violently.
- Anytime a white cop arrests a black person, it has to be racially motivated.
I could go on and on, because there are many, many different stereotypes out there. There are stereotypes of people in colleges, there are stereotypes of people in politics, there are stereotypes of those in the military. But, since Ferguson and Baltimore have been in the news so much recently, I will focus on those.
I am sure that most of you out there reading this blog know the cliché, “Don't judge a book by it's cover...” In a nutshell, that means don't make a decision about reading or not reading a book based solely on the title, the cover art, etc. Actually take time to read the summary of the book, the preface, or scan a couple of the chapters. I know that all of us are guilty of doing this. Back in April, I had a birthday and I decided to pick out two books for myself since I knew that, due to an upcoming deployment, I would not get much in the way of gifts. And, I have been a very avid reader since I was in grade school. So, I spent some time scanning a number of books in a store. Since I did not have a lot of time, I had to make a purchase fairly quickly.
Because of that, I 'judged a lot of books by their covers.' If the genre was one that I didn't care for, wasn't a small paperback, or the title did not sound appealing, I did not consider it further. But, after going through once and not finding anything 'good,' I realized that I would have to spend a little more time looking at at least some of the books more closely, otherwise I would not have any travel books. So, I took more time looking through the books and finally found two that appealed to me. One appealed to me because it was about a former US soldier and his Military Working Dog (MWD), both who had been released from the military and doing private contract work. Being in the military and having a dog myself, when I saw what the book was actually about, I chose to buy it. And, although I haven't quite finished it yet, I have really enjoyed it! (For those who want to know, it is “The Kill Switch; A Tucker Wayne Novel” by James Rollins and Grant Blackwood.)
I also selected another book called, “The Lost Island” by Preston and Child. I have not read it yet, but based on the description on the back, it is potentially a good book. I love Indiana Jones movies, but I am a little critical of some of the books out there concerning archeology or searching for lost treasure. Being a lover of history and having studied theology and ancient writings (primarily ancient Hebrew and ancient Greek), I am critical with how such such movies/books are done.
I know that, had I not changed my attitude towards finding a book last month, I would have missed out on at least one really good book. The authors of “The Kill Switch” have done a very good job and portraying the former soldier and his dog in a believable way. And, since my family has had a dog for almost 7 years, and I have been in the military for almost 14 years now, I am a bit critical of such things. Sure, there are things that have to be taken with a grain of salt, like how some of the fight scenes are described. But, that comes with most any book or movie. I am very glad that I did not go with my 'first impression,' especially with this particular book.
As I just mentioned, I have been with the US Army, both Active Duty and with the Nebraska National Guard, for almost 14 whole years. I have had the privilege of serving with many different people of very different vocations, ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, etc. Although I have been skeptical of some people based on first impressions, I have found that I am often wrong with what I initially thought. They were either having a bad day, I misread them, or something else. Most of the people I have served with I have been proud to call a brother or sister in arms.
Even while in college and seminary, I learned that initial assumptions about a person can end up being totally wrong. My life has been blessed by knowing each of this different people from all over the United States. Nay… From all over the world. Each of these experiences have enriched my life and enabled me to be a better person, I am greatly thankful for each of them.
The rioting that has happened in Baltimore and in Ferguson are excellent examples, I believe, of what can happen when people focus on fist impressions and/or the prejudices that they already have. Instead of seeking to find out what all of the details of the incident to see if the situation was justified or not, they immediately assume that the white police officer was biased and racist because he caused injury and/or death to a black person.
Yes, it is saddening when a person dies, and having to live with the fact that someone died based on the actions you took, either justly or unjustly, are things that each person faced with those situations will have to remember and deal with for the rest of his/her life. I am thankful that, as of writing this blog entry, I have not been forced to take a life. I hope that I never have to. But, due to the nature of the work that I do, as a Military Police Officer or a Corporal with the Nebraska Department of Corrections, that will always be a significant possibility. Every time someone is seriously injured or killed during any kind of military, law enforcement, corrections, or even self-defense situation an investigation will be done. It's mandatory. It's done to make sure that what ever force was used was actually justifiable, based on what the person knew at that time.
To make an assumption that a white cop killed a black person for no other reason than racism and prejudice, without making an attempt to know why everything happened, that makes your racist and prejudice. In assuming that a situation happened based on what your perceive as the causes, without seeking to find out the actual details, makes you just as 'pre-judging' as a white person who judges a black person to be on welfare and incompetent and lazy because he/she saw the person wearing dirty clothes and not working during 'regular banker's hours.' Or, just as prejudice as a person who equates all followers of Islam with those who are extremist and seek to force their 'version of Islam' onto others.
We are all fallen people with broken relationships with each other and with God. Do to our finiteness, we cannot see all things or understand all that happens around us. And, in some jobs, a person may have to make judgment calls and react to a situation based on a very incomplete understanding of all that goes on around them. The military, law enforcement, working in corrections, and firefighting are just some of the many jobs where a person has to make a split-second decision based on what they know, at that time. If they perceive that their life or the life of someone else is in jeopardy of death or serious bodily injury, they have to react. Even if it is later proved to have been a bad decision, if it can be proved that, at that time, they acted correctly, based on what they typical person in a similar situation would have reacted, then their actions will be considered justified.
When a person makes judgments based only on what they think or assume happened, and make no attempt to find out what the details of the situation is, it is very likely that your perception and understanding will be incorrect. That is bad enough. But, to go around and state that your understanding of the situation is true (that the shooting in Ferguson, MO, was racially motivated, for example) and not listen at all to evidence being shown to the contradict what you believe, then you are not doing anything positive for society. You are, in fact, actively making things worse. And, if you you such situations as an excuse to do violent things, like assault officers, destroy private property, and otherwise riot and be destructive, you are no better than the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against. When you participate in such violent acts, you show yourself to be as closed minded, arrogant and hateful as the person and situation that you are 'rioting' against.
And, it doesn't help with the media, no matter who they are, help to portray that kind of stereotyping. My wife grew-up in the Baltimore area and we have talked at length about that situation. It isn't just a white/black thing, there is also deep rooted anger concerning job and education opportunities, perception that law enforcement officers of any race arrest first, ask questions later (perceived or actual), etc. These people who give us the news or share their 'educated insights' into situations should be the first ones to actively seek out the truth and then use that knowledge to bring things to a more peaceful end, not purposely encouraging it to be worse (either because it makes them look better, more rating, or just too lazy to seek out the truth).
We live in a fallen world. It is easy for us to hate, seek only after our own gain, seek after answers that please us while dispelling truths that make us uncomfortable, etc. It is a daily challenge to stop and examine all of the evidence. It is much easier, from the safety of one's own living room to 'armchair quarterback' the decisions of others. It is important to examine things that happen in the world and make informed decisions on them. But yet, the important word here is 'informed.' That requires time and energy. Just like making new friends, experiencing new places, learning a new skill, or reading a new book, it all takes time and energy. Although first impressions will always happen (and we should strive to make good first impressions), a person is more than just one's first impression. A situation is more than just your initial thoughts after seeing or hearing about it later on.
After all of that…. Let's go back to the illustration that I started this blog out. The white guy with a black cop driving behind him, telling him to keep running. Think it was an ironic version of Ferguson that happened somewhere in the world? Did you even think that the cop was chasing a white criminal? I am sure it looked quite humorous, a white guy running on the road with a SUV behind him and a black cop telling him to keep running. I am sure that it got a lot of double takes. The thing is, I don't know for sure, because I didn't see it. I was the guy running.
Back in 2011, during third deployment to Iraq, I had to take the Army Physical Fitness Test (APFT). For those that don't know, the standard Army APFT includes the number of push-ups and sit-ups done by an individual within 2 minutes (for each event), and then a timed two mile run. While I was getting ready to take my APFT, a friend and fellow Military Policeman asked me if I would like him to pace me. I told him that it would be wonderful if he did. After a little discussing, we settled on him trailing me, lights on for our safety, and he would call out the time every so often. He also 'encouraged' my to 'keep running' throughout the 2 miles. Thanks to his help, I was able to successfully pass the 2 mile portion of the APFT. And, although we laughed later on about how it must have looked, I observed that it would have looked even more absurd (and hilarious), if he had been in front and I had 'chased' him. Now, wouldn't that be the sight, a white guy 'chasing' a black MP in a SUV, lights flashing, and him yelling at me to 'keep running!' Coffee and doughnuts, anyone?!
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