Simply the Best I Can Do

Obama Promises to Decrease American Defense

2008-06-02T13:45:00.004-05:00

Video found on YouTube courtesy of BarackObama.com.

This is scary. We will be wide open to any attacks on our country and we will be heading back to pre-9/11 days. Lord get ready because here I come!

Obama's Endorsements

2008-05-29T12:00:00.000-05:00

In the midst of a Presidential election many spectulate at the power a candidate's endorsements play in the election process. Candidates often desire senior and top officials in that candidates party and usually the candidate nominated has the most from his or her party. But interesting to me is this article I found. It speaks about the nominations Obama has received from several other nations leaders.

Thanks to http://www.dmiblog.com/archives/barack_obama.jpg for the image!

The article starts with this, "The latest unsought praise for the Democratic front-runner came from Fidel Castro, who wrote in a column for Cuba’s Granma newspaper Monday that Obama is
'the most progressive candidate to the U.S. presidency.'"

The article also talked about another endorsement he received, "In mid-April, Hamas adviser Ahmed Yousef told WorldNetDaily that 'We like Mr. Obama, and we hope that he will win the elections.'" He also said, "'I hope Mr. Obama and the Democrats will change the political
discourse. I do believe [Obama] is like John Kennedy, a great man with a great principle.'"

It is important that we consider these endorsements carefully as we are engaged in a global war!

Thanks to this article (http://elections.foxnews.com/2008/05/28/obama-dogged-by-praise-from-americas-foes/) and Fox News for keeping us informed about Obama!

Clinton and Obama both beating McCain

2008-05-29T08:00:00.000-05:00

I read an interesting article yesterday that shows that both Clinton and Obama are leading McCain in the polls. This is scary to me. Here is what the polls look like according to CNN.

NATIONAL GENERAL ELECTION POLL OF POLLS*
May 15-27
Voters’ Choice for President
Obama: 46 percent
McCain: 44 percent
Unsure: 10 percent
NATIONAL GENERAL ELECTION POLL OF POLLS*
May 15-27
Voters’ Choice for President
Clinton: 46 percent
McCain: 44 percent
Unsure: 10 percent

Wow folks! We need to pray and fast. A national government in the hands of the democrats is terrifying to me. They will have control of both the executive and legislative branches and could take over the judicial branch during that term (should a Supreme Court justice retire). All I have to say is pray, pray, pray!

*The national general election “poll of polls” consists of three surveys: Gallup (May 22-25/27), Newsweek (May 21-22), and Reuters/Zogby (May 15-18). The poll of polls does not have a sampling error.

Bush - Helpful or Harmful?

2008-05-28T16:36:00.003-05:00

Yesterday a closed door fundraiser was held in support of John McCain by Pres. Bush. I couldn't help but wonder if this would be helpful or harmful to McCain. Currently President Bush has a 70% disapproval rating and I fear that this disapproval could rub off onto McCain.

Picture courtesy of http://newsimg.bbc.co.uk/

Currently on a Fox News Poll, voters say that Bush is harmful to McCain (68% to 32 %). And voters are who matters. I think the only true way to tell Bush's impact is on Election Day in November!

It's true that McCain will carry out many of the policies implemented by the Bush administration (McCain is not hiding that), so why should he be worried at all that Bush will have a negative effect on him. Well the American people will see John McCain side by side with a president they don't like and view McCain's presidency as simply another Bush presidency - McCain doesn't want that. I don't think Bush has been a bad president, he's not been the greatest though. His 70% disapproval rating is evidence of that. But too many Americans vote on the basis of money in my opinion. As long as they have lots of money in their pocket and lots more on the way, they are happy (now that is a blanket statement - I realize that).

Bush may not have done much to help our economy, but thanks to him we are still alive - too many people take that for granite. As for McCain I wish him luck against Obama or Clinton. For our sake I hope it is Clinton. Our nation won't be able to stand an Obama presidency!

I Just Don't Get It

2008-05-20T12:42:00.002-05:00

As a young kid I would hear my mom and my grandma and different ones in my church say how they longed to go to Heaven and that this world no longer had anything to offer them. I never quite understood how they felt. I mean, I always wanted to go to Heaven, but I felt I had so much left to do that I didn't want to go yet.

As I have gotten older and have been put through many tests and trials, I can honestly say I understand how they felt and feel. Lately I just feel like I have been through so many things and I would be glad to call Heaven my home today. I love my friends ( and I have some of the best there is) and family and I look forward to what my future may hold, but if the Lord were to call me home today, I would have absolutely no problem going. I feel like there is nothing that is holding me here.

I heard Pam (she's like a second Mom and awesome spiritual mentor I have) say that she feels like a visitor here on Earth and she is just passing through. I feel more like that every day. I just don't feel at home here anymore. I find that the things that I loved just don't mean the same thing anymore.

I long to be closer to God and I want to just stop saying that and actually do it. I want to be so close to Him that I think like He would. When you get really close to them many times you start acting like them and talking like them. I want that.

I wonder if anyone else feels like they aren't really effecting anyone around them. I sometimes feel like the things I am doing and the stand I am trying to take for God doesn't effect anyone around me. There are so many things I want and maybe they are so hard to reach because they are such great things. I think that if some of my closest friends were to start coming to church and surrender their lives to God I would probably not be able to stand myself. I would be so messed up. It would be great!

God, these situations I am going through at church are yours now. I can't handle them anymore. I don't want them anymore. They are yours to do with as you please and I am going to worry about them no longer! I can't do anything to make them better anyway, so you can do what you want! I am in your hands and trust you completely.

Andy

Conservatives too quiet?

2008-05-17T01:08:00.002-05:00

Are conservatives being to silent on every issue? We have our talk shows, Laura Ingraham, Sean Hannity, Rush Limbaugh, and Mark Levin to name a few, but the rest of the conservative base sit by quietly. I worry that our silence is taken as a head nod. We don't necessarily agree, but we fail to make our voice heard.

It has happened so often throughout the years. A small group of people and sometimes just one person stands up to say they don't like something and before we know it, because of lack interest or lack of caring or lack of knowing what to do, certain rights are taken away.

With the case in California, the gay marriage ban being lifted, one state (two counting Massachusetts) is able to legislate for the whole country. I fear that because of the conservative base's silence and the boldness of liberals, everything that we hold dear will be gone and all morals will be lost. I know a lot of conservatives are worried about hurting people's feelings and it is important to approach people with a good spirit, but we have to stand up and speak.

As a Christian, I have been commissioned to share the truth and not standing against evil and what is wrong, I'm allowing the wrong to happen.

Here's what you can do to make a difference:
On a spiritual level you can pray and fast for our nation.
In the physical you can try to educate people (share what you know - the truth).
You can also call your leaders of your state and country.

The time to act is NOW!

California Overturns Gay-Marriage Ban

2008-05-16T11:17:00.004-05:00

Yesterday California's highest court overturned the ban on Gay-marriage in that state (court decision). The issue will mostly likely be placed on the ballot in November to determine if the a law would be amended to the state's constitution.

Picture from www.signonsandiego.com

As many homosexual couples are making plans to get married many conservative groups are rallying to ask the court to postpone the ruling until voters can vote on the issue in November. This would allow the people to decide rather than a small group of individuals. We need to pray for the people of California!

My biggest issue with this whole thing (besides gay-marriage) is that one or two (Massachusetts) states are deciding the issue for the rest of the country. Homosexuals can simply travel to one of these states to have their relationship validated. I don't like the fact that state courts are legislating issues for the rest of the country.

We as a nation should be praying and fasting over this issue. I believe that God is disgusted with this nation and at anytime he could lift his hand of protection and we as a nation are on our own. If you have not started praying and fasting over our nation, what are you waiting for. Pray daily for it. An all out Satanic attack has been launched against this nation because we are the main source for the gospel to all parts of the world. We need to take a stand again him and fight back! Now is the time!

Andy

Will Obama get the nomination?

2008-05-15T08:30:00.002-05:00

I wonder if Obama is worried after the West Virginia primary. Should he be? Will the same voters who voted for Hillary in places like Texas, Ohio, Indiana, and West Virginia vote for Obama (this article considers that issue)? These are all questions running through my mind. It seems to me that the democratic party would be better to rally behind Clinton instead of their favored hero Obama. But that's only my take on what I see.

According to the polls Obama would be a much easier candidate for John McCain, but I anything could happen and that worries me. I think my greatest fear right now is Obama in the Whitehouse. I am willing to do my best to make sure that doesn't happen. If that means praying and fasting or campaigning for McCain that is what I will do. McCain is not my favorite candidate and may just be one step right of the middle, but he is far better than the alternative.

Either way this election is going to be excited. I am going to pray and fast for the best!!!

Andy

I'm Calling a Fast

2008-05-05T15:11:00.000-05:00

As you may know, tomorrow, May 6 marks two important primaries (Indiana and N. Carolina) for the democratic party. Currently candidate Hillary Clinton is trailing Barack Hussein Obama in the delegate count. Many believe that Hillary plans to stay in the race until the very end, but tomorrow's primaries could help to sway many super-delegates, who may ultimately decide this race, in Obama's favor. According to all polls, the races are close, but Obama is leading.

As a Christian and Conservative I believe that both candidates (Clinton and Obama) would be disastrous for this nation and I will not be supporting either candidate in November, but I believe that Barack Obama produces the larger threat to the survival of the United States and to the freedoms that we cherish. Despite the traditional platform of the democratic party, Obama has voted more liberal than any other democrat in the senate, he is often referred to as "The Most Liberal Senator".

He voted against banning partial birth abortion, he supports giving full reign and full monetary support to scientists who work in the field of stem cell research, he voted no on the constitutional ban on same-sex marriages, he voted yes on banning drilling in the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge (could bring gas prices way lower), and he wants to give illegal immigrant's driver's licenses, just to name a few things he supports.

He has also been shrouded with controversy - the Rev. Wright scandal (Obama's pastor who blamed America for the attacks on 9/11 and also used very racist and divisive speech), his wife (who claims she has never been excited about her country or happy to live here until now), and Obama's own words, he said that residents of small-town America “cling to guns or religion or antipathy to people who aren’t like them” out of bitterness over lost jobs.

Obama has said that he will abandon the protection that our nation provides to Israel. The Bible clearly says that Israel is God's chosen nation and it is dire that we continue our protection of Israel. I believe that our nation has been spared many conflicts and difficult times because of our protection of this nation. Our protection of this land began back in the 1940's during President Truman's administration and it MUST continue indefinitely. I believe our nation has prospered and we have been successful because of this protection we have given. Despite how you feel about the other issues, once we withdraw our support I believe that we will open ourselves up for destruction. I believe this support is the last thread that is helping us to remain in God's favor. We are a nation that has lost all moral values and the beliefs of this nation are all askew.

As I was praying today, I felt to call a fast. Those of you who believe in the power of prayer I ask that you join me tomorrow in a fast and prayer. I also ask that you contact all your friends and family who know how to get a hold of God and ask them to join as well. I believe in the power of prayer and fasting to change things. Pray that God will speak to the hearts of all who are voting tomorrow and in the future and that he will guide them in what way to vote. I believe that those people can go in with their mind made up to vote for one candidate and come out voting for a completely different one. Pray that the delegates will switch their position to the other candidate. It's not to late to change things. God is able to do all things!!! Pray for the republican candidate John McCain. Pray that God guides him in decisions he makes in the next couple of months on his campaign. Pray for those who are undecided on which way to vote.

Ezra 8:21-23
21 Then I proclaimed a fast there, at the river of Ahava, that we might afflict ourselves before our God, to seek of him a right way for us, and for our little ones, and for all our substance.

22 For I was ashamed to require of the king a band of soldiers and horsemen to help us against the enemy in the way: because we had spoken unto the king, saying, The hand of our God is upon all them for good that seek him; but his power and his wrath is against all them that forsake him.

23 So we fasted and besought our God for this: and he was intreated of us.

It is important that we seek God's direction and pray that others will do the same...If you have any questions about the candidates or about the election process I would be glad to answer them and remember to forward this on!!!

Andy

Cross Country Trip

2008-03-26T14:50:00.001-05:00

So I am thinking about taking a cross country trip this summer. I am trying to figure out an estimated cost so I can get some friends to go to, but all my friends are poor. Does anyone have any suggestions for routes or places to see?

My Comments on Amanda's Comments about my post "Republicans Should Vote for Hillary Clinton"

2008-02-28T13:47:00.003-05:00

Amanda's Comments from a previous post I wrote called "Republicans Should Vote for Hillary Clinton"

1. we live in a democracy. in order for you to suddenly wake up and womenhave to
wear head coverings, etc., congress would have to approve it. and thenlaw
enforcement and the military (which are all made up "of the people") wouldhave
to enforce it. And if they did, and were able to, that would mean that
mostAmericans agreed with and were behind the law. So, I agree with "anonymous"
- doa little more research and use your brain a little bit instead of just
latchingon to whatever chain emails, James Dobson, Ann Coulter and the other nut
jobsare saying
2. Have you read any of Obama's platforms or listened to any
of hisspeeches...beyond debates (because in debates there isn't much time to
expoundon specific ideas) because he has said how he will fix things. It is the
Clintonadmin. that is spreading around that he doesn't have specific ideas.
Again, doyour research.
3. What in the world do those verses have to do with
this election? Americais most certainly not the promised land. And there are
"christians" that havekilled for their "religion" too - timothy mcvay claimed to
be doing just that.and abortion clinic bombers. most muslims want to be
associated with the"muslims" that kill for their "religion" about as much as
christians want to beassociated with timothy mcvay.
4. finally, change for
the sake of change IS a bad thing. but, again, do yourresearch. obama isn't
advocating change just for the sake of change. he isadvocating change in the
areas that Bush has failed (and there are a lot ofthem). there are other areas
that he is not advocating change in, because theyare already working. you have a
right to vote for whoever you want to. one ofthe great things about this
country. and i suspect your voting has a lot to dowith your faith. but i would
strongly encourage you to look past what theevangelical leaders of this country
are saying and do your own research. becauseit's not so black and white. there
are good and bad things with both politicalparties and things that Jesus would
like about both political parties.(republicans - abortion and stem cell research
come to mind) (democrats - thedeath penalty because Jesus says turn the other
cheek and judge not, and socialissues because Jesus says to help the poor and
needy, not cast them aside andtell them they should have done better because
they had opportunities in this country). anyway, no hard feelings. and may the
best candidate win.

I just wanted to take the time to address some of the issues that Amanda brings out. First, I think Congress is completely out of touch with reality and the American people and for me to say that one day we could wake up and women would be required to wear full coverings is not unrealistic. If you take a look at certain laws or decisions that have been handed down from the Supreme Court, for instance, Roe v. Wade, or prayer taken out of schools, before those ideas past everyone was saying that is outrageous, it will never happen. But then it did and people eventually opened up to the idea and now abortion and lack of prayer in schools are accepted things.

Next I am a free thinker. Many times I do agree with the things that Conservative thinkers say (and it's funny you mention James Dobson(I don't really don't agree with him on a lot of things) and Ann Coulter(I think she is too outrageous for the Conservative movement and always attempts to anger everyone)), but if I don't agree with them I will say so as well. I never latch on to their ideas. I listen, read up on the issue and then make my own decision.

I have researched Obama's ideas and he says want he wants to do and goals for his administration, but doesn't layout clear and consise means for reaching those goals.

It was wrong of me to make the assumption that all Muslims are radical extremists because they are not.

As far as Jesus saying "turn the other cheek" that is true, but God many times in the Bible brought down capital punishment on people who disobeyed his laws. I am only for the death penalty during times when the defendant is clearly guilty and it has been determined without a doubt.

As far as social programs, I am definitely for helping the poor and needy I just believe that the democrats means of helping is crippling people. I believe that in times people do need help and the government should be there to help them. But when I go to the grocery store and see the women in front of me spend $200 on cigarettes and alcohol and then turn around and use her food stamps for $200 in food, there is a problem there. I have heard of great stories where people got on welfare and in a short time were on their feet and prospering on their own. That was the original intention of welfare, our government has taken it to far and people live their entire life on welfare. We need to still help people, but reform the way we do it.

I am nervous and excited all at the same time to see what will happen during this election. I had a dream last night that I was with my friend Natalie running through downtown Cincinnati dodging bombs and gunfire. Not sure if it was a sign of what is to come or just a dream???

Thanks Amanda for your comments. It helped be to better formulate my argument and to take into account the other side of issues!!!

William F. Buckley...you will be missed!

2008-02-27T18:25:00.002-05:00

A truly great conservative that will be missed by all!!!

William F. Buckley

Republicans Should Vote for Hillary Clinton!!!

2008-02-26T21:32:00.006-05:00

I never ever thought that I would suggest that anyone vote for Hillary Clinton, but I guess as the saying goes...Never say never! I have been thinking and praying about what to do and I think the best option is to vote for Clinton in the Ohio Primary. Ohio has an Open Primary, which means I can request a Democrat Ballot and vote for a democrat! McCain has the Republican ticket locked so my vote really won't matter on the republican side. I think it is crazy that I am even contemplating this right now!!

I feel that Clinton is the weaker candidate against a republican, although she does stand for something. Obama screams change, but we don't know what he will do to achieve the change. I think our future with Obama is much graver than our future with Clinton, although neither are great candidates, but then neither is McCain! I fear Obama so much because it's like people don't question anything he says they just go along with it. People are so hungry for something different and aren't satisfied with anything that they run to the first person who says they will work hard to change Washington and make it better for everyone.

Change for the sake of Change is bad!!!

I fear for our future with Obama. So many people are rallying behind him because of his charisma. But I fear that there isn't much more there. He is the most liberal voting senator on capital hill. We know that he wants to bring change, but he is yet to tell us how he will do it. At least with Clinton we have some idea of what she will do.

Take note of these scriptures...

13I am the LORD your God, which brought you forth out of the land of Egypt, that
ye should not be their bondmen; and I have broken the bands of your yoke, and
made you go upright.
14But if ye will not hearken unto me, and will
not do all these commandments;
15And if ye shall despise my statutes,
or if your soul abhor my judgments, so that ye will not do all my commandments,
but that ye break my covenant:
16I also will do this unto you; I will
even appoint over you terror, consumption, and the burning ague, that shall
consume the eyes, and cause sorrow of heart: and ye shall sow your seed in vain,
for your enemies shall eat it.
17And I will set my face against you,
and ye shall be slain before your enemies: they that hate you shall reign over you; and ye shall flee when none pursueth you.

As Americans we have turned away from God and have not kept his decrees and laws. When I read verse 17 I think automatically of the Muslims (not all Muslims those who kill for their religion). I find it interesting that Barack Obama has a family past as a Muslim. Not to say he would ever progress to those roots, but who can say he won't.

I fear we will wake up in 2009 and on TV all women are forced to take on full coverings and the Bible is outlawed. It may seem crazy, but it could happen! I hope and pray that you think and pray about who you will vote for this election.

As for me I will vote Clinton on March 4 (that hurt!) and do a lot of praying and fasting!

To God - February 24, 2008

2008-02-24T02:52:00.003-05:00

Dear God,

Tonight was a lot of fun. I have been thinking so much about the future. I find it hard to not think about it. I know that I must live in this moment, but with so much preparation for the future I just can't help, but wonder if I'm doing everything right. I guess no one really can be totally sure. I trust that I am walking in your will and that I am doing the things you would have me do, but there is always that little bit of uncertainty that I have. I need to get over that. I mean I really have no reason to fear because you have never led me astray, but it's hard to trust what I can't see.

God I thank you for taking care of my family in this hard time we have been having since Aunt Linda passed away. I am thankful to know she is with you and has completed the race and run well. I mean she has made what we all strive for...HEAVEN! I pray that all my family will receive peace. Especially Grandma, Grandpa and Beth. They have taken it the hardest. I am thankful to have had what time with her I have had. I wish there was more, but I will have all of eternity with her when I cross the finish line and receive my reward.

God I am excited to make it to Heaven. Each day I long for it more and more. I am excited to see what is in store down here though. What the future will hold. I can't wait to see what you have for me.

Well I need to get to sleep...

Love you God,
Andy

To God - February 14, 2008

2008-02-14T14:45:00.003-05:00

Dear God-
I have been thinking about a lot of things lately: My future, relationships and friends (all the normal stuff I guess). I sometimes wish that I had a map to know where to go and what to do, but that's what you are for! I sometimes wish I could fast forward several years and see what I am up to, who my friends are, and how my life is going. I trust that I am going to be fine it just seems like a lot of work to get to the "American Dream". I feel like I will never be done with college.

There are a few things I want to know:
1. Who is my wife gonna be?
2. Will I become a senator or maybe President?
3. Will I be rich?
4. How many kids will I have?
5. Will I change the world?

I have also been thinking a lot about the upcoming election and wondering who I am going to vote for. I had planned to vote for Duncan Hunter, but he never made it, then I decided on Fred Thompson and he dropped out, then I liked Mitt Romney and he dropped out and now I just have no idea. I guess I will vote for Huckabee, but I don't really want to and then I am going to have to clinch my jaw and vote for McCain for fear of the alternative (Hillary or Obama).

I hate to tell everyone, but our future should we pull out of Iraq and the middleeast is grim. You better get ready for the returning of the Lord.

Last night's revival services at Shield of Faith Pentecostal Church were awesome. Sister Pamela Reckers is an outstanding woman of God, but the spirit of the Lord was in complete control of the service last night and she really didn't get to preach, but the service was still awesome. I really want to go tonight, but I am going to my church. I will get to go Friday night though and I can't wait.

I am excited to see what you have in store for me God!

Love you,

Andy

New Pledge of Allegiance

2008-02-11T16:52:00.000-05:00

New Pledge of Allegiance
(TOTALLY AWESOME) !

WRITTEN BY A 15 yr. old SCHOOL KID IN ARIZONA:

Since the Pledge of Allegiance and The Lord's Prayer are not allowed in most public schools anymore Because the word 'God' is mentioned....

A kid in Arizona wrote the attached

NEW School prayer: -

Now I sit me down in school
Where praying is against the rule
For this great nation under God
Finds mention of Him very odd.

If Scripture now the class recites,
It violates the Bill of Rights.
And anytime my head I bow
Becomes a Federal matter now.

Our hair can be purple, orange or green,
That's no offense; it's a freedom scene.
The law is specific, the law is precise.
Prayers spoken aloud are a serious vice.

For praying in a public hall
Might offend someone with no faith at all.
In silence alone we must meditate,
God's name is prohibited by the state.

We're allowed to cuss and dress like freaks,
And pierce our noses, tongues and cheeks.
They've outlawed guns, but FIRST the Bible.
To quote the Good Book makes me liable.

We can elect a pregnant Senior Queen,
And the 'unwed daddy,' our Senior King.
It's 'inappropriate' to teach right from wrong,
We're taught that such 'judgments' do not belong.

We can get our condoms and birth controls,
Study witchcraft, vampires and totem poles.
But the Ten Commandments are not allowed,
No word of God must reach this crowd.

It's scary here I must confess,
When chaos reigns the school's a mess.
So, Lord, this silent plea I make:
Should I be shot; My soul please take!

Amen

Where Has This Bush Been?

2008-01-29T14:55:00.001-05:00

Dear God-

I watched the State of the Union Address Last night and couldn't help, but wonder where this strong, conservative President has been. I believe that Bush was your chosen candidate, but some of the decisions he has made recently have upset me to my core. He seemed to be migrating to the left a little. But last night I had a restored trust in him.

White House Photo by Eric Draper

In the beginning of the address he called for less government and placing government back in the hands of the people...

"In the work ahead, we must be guided by the philosophy that made our nation great. As Americans, we believe in the power of individuals to determine their destiny and shape the course of history. We believe that the most reliable guide for our country is the collective wisdom of ordinary citizens. And so in all we do, we must trust in the ability of free peoples to make wise decisions, and empower them to improve their lives for their futures."

He seems to be migrating back towards tried and true conservative principles - allow the people to decide their destiny. I principle that has worked time and time again (i.e. the Reagan years).

Bush also talked about placing money back in the hands of the people. This sounded very much like Reagan...

"To build a prosperous future, we must trust people with their own money and empower them to grow our economy. As we meet tonight, our economy is undergoing a period of uncertainty. America has added jobs for a record 52 straight months, but jobs are now growing at a slower pace. Wages are up, but so are prices for food and gas. Exports are rising, but the housing market has declined. At kitchen tables across our country, there is a concern about our economic future."

Bush also sounded strong as he waved his veto sword. He didn't seem to be the scared little man he has been in the past. He doesn't seem afraid to stand up for his principles and fight again the democrats!

He also seemed fierce here...

"Since 9/11, we have taken the fight to these terrorists and extremists. We will stay on the offense, we will keep up the pressure, and we will deliver justice to our enemies.

We are engaged in the defining ideological struggle of the 21st century. The terrorists oppose every principle of humanity and decency that we hold dear. Yet in this war on terror, there is one thing we and our enemies agree on: In the long run, men and women who are free to determine their own destinies will reject terror and refuse to live in tyranny. And that is why the terrorists are fighting to deny this choice to the people in Lebanon, Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, and the Palestinian Territories. And that is why, for the security of America and the peace of the world, we are spreading the hope of freedom."

I'm excited to see what President Bush will do for our country over the next year. I'm thankful that we have a President that recognizes the true threat that is terrorism. I believe that had we elected a democrat our country would be much worse off.

I pray God that Americans will elect a Godly candidate in this upcoming election. I pray that you will lead and guide this candidate in every decision. The fate of America depends on your protection and should we continue down our unGodly path, I fear that your protection will be lifted.

I just pray that the Christians will go to war for this country and return it back to its Godly roots!!

Love you God,
Andy

Quotes courtesy of www.whitehouse.gov

To God: January 22, 2008 (Roe v. Wade)

2008-01-22T15:53:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

As you know, today marks the 35th anniversary of the landmark decision of Roe v. Wade. This case decided that most abortion laws and laws preventing abortion were unconstitutional under the 14th Amendment. It is so sad to think of all the babies that have been aborted because of this case.

God I pray that those who are marching in Washington D.C. and those in the Pro-Life movement make a real change. I pray that our Congressmen and women begin to have a change of heart. I pray that your anointing will begin to soften hearts and open eyes to the truth. I pray that those who fight hardest for abortion rights will begin to become sick at the decisions they have made and supported. I ask you God for these things because I know you are able. I know that I pray to a God who is mighty and alive and well.

I am so thankful for you God. I cannot wait to see change happen in our country. I pray that hearts all across the US will begin to turn back to you. Will hunger after You and righteousness. I long for those things!

Love you God.

Andy

After taking this quiz I was shocked to see how little I truly knew about the Roe v. Wade decision. Take it and see how much you know.

I Thank God for our Military

2008-01-19T15:42:00.000-05:00

I am so thankful to have an awesome military in this country. They are truly amazing men and women. I pray for God's protection over them!!!

You stay up for 16 hours।

He stays up for days on end.

You take a warm shower to help you wake up.
He goes days or weeks without running water.

You complain of a "headache", and call in sick.
He gets shot at as others are hit, and keeps moving forward.

You put on your anti war/don't support the troops shirt, and go meet up with your friends.
He still fights for your right to wear that shirt.

You talk trash about your "buddies" that aren't with you.
He knows he may not see some of his buddies again.

You walk down the beach, staring at all the pretty girls.
He patrols the streets, searching for insurgents and terrorists.

..

You complain about how hot it is.
He wears his heavy gear, not daring to take off his helmet to wipe his brow.

..

You go out to lunch, and complain because the restaurant got your order wrong.
He doesn't get to eat today.

Your maid makes your bed and washes your clothes.
He wears the same things for weeks, but makes sure his weapons are clean.

You go to the mall and get your hair redone.
He doesn't have time to brush his teeth today.

You're angry because your class ran 5 minutes over.
He's told he will be held over an extra 2 months.

You call your girlfriend and set a date for tonight.
He waits for the mail to see if there is a letter from home.

You hug and kiss your girlfriend, like you do everyday.
He holds his letter close and smells his love's perfume.

You roll your eyes as a baby cries.
He gets a letter with pictures of his new child, and wonders if they'll ever meet.

You criticize your government, and say that war never solves anything.
He sees the innocent tortured and killed by their own people and remembers why he is fighting.

You hear the jokes about the war, and make fun of men like him.
He hears the gunfire, bombs and screams of the wounded.

You see only what the media wants you to see.
He sees the broken bodies lying around him.

You are asked to go to the store by your parents. You don't.
He does exactly what he is told even if it puts his life in danger.

You stay at home and watch TV.
He takes whatever time he is given to call, write home, sleep, and eat.

If you support your troops, the click "reply to poster" copy all the codes, and repost the bulletin.

If you don't support your troops well, then don't re-post. You won't die in 7 days, your love life won't be affected, and you won't have the worst day ever. You don't have to repost. It's not like you know the men and women that are dying to preserve your rights.

To God - January 18, 2008

2008-01-18T17:39:00.000-05:00

Hey God-

First of all, I want to thank you for allowing me to go on the trip to Gatlinburg. It was so much fun. It was so awesome to view some of your mighty creation. I was in awe a lot of the time.

Below are some of my favorite pictures from the trip...Thanks to Anna for taking them!!!

This is my favorite picture...

Right before we ate at some restaurant. I can't think of the name. Joe looks like some man who just walked up from behind and jumped in the picture.

If you can't tell Joe fell into the water and I was cracking up because I had just warned him that the rocks were slick.

Kyle and I in some big ol' rocking chair.

Well thanks again God for that opportunity. I am so thankful to be able to do that kind of stuff. I can't wait for the next trip, I'm thinking it is going to be a cruise.

Classes started this week and the end of my undergrad is in sight. I think I will be able to squeeze what I have left into one more semester. I am enjoying my classes so far, I think I will learn a lot. It is so awesome to have a great job too. I was calculating to see how much less I would have made on this paycheck if I was still at my old job and it was more than $100 and I had only worked 23 hours this paycheck. God you are awesome!

Church has been unbelievable too. There is just such excitement and anticipation in the air. It's almost like Christmas morning each time we come to church because we are all expecting something awesome to happen and it always does.

My Pastor Brian preached awesome last night. He said "2008 is our year" and he also said that this is our year for harvest and prosperity. I could have exploded listening to him. I got so excited. He was saying the importance of being positive and speaking things into action, because the Bible says that "Life and Death lie in the power of the tongue" Proverbs 18:21. So I am going to stop speaking negative and speak positive. He also spoke of writing things down and the power that is in that. So I am going to write down things I KNOW WILL HAPPEN this year...

My dad will once again be saved and will serve God with all of his being at Victory Worship Center.

My mom will also move to Victory Worship Center and work with my dad in a powerful children's ministry.

I will lose weight.

I will grow deeper in my relationship with God.

I will get straight A's the next two semester's at Miami.

I will do outstanding on the LSAT's.

I will get into a great law school - the school God wants me to be in!

I will walk perfectly in God's will.

I will lead many people to Christ.

I will see all of my lost family and friends saved.

My church family will see their family and friends saved.

Victory Worship Center will move into a huge building that allows us to do all the ministries that fall within the vision of Pastor Brian Sawyers.

Those called by God to join Victory Worship Center will come without hesitation.

Our church will grow in spirit, number and financially.

I cannot wait to see these things happen God. I pray that you move upon hearts even now and lead and guide me and those who are seeking your will.

Love you God!

Andy

To God - January 4, 2008

2008-01-04T12:43:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

I just saw the results from the Iowa Caucus and I must say I am surprised. It was a pleasure to see that Hilary did not win, but I don't know if the alternative (Obama) is any better. I know that I would probably crawl into a cave somewhere if Hilary won and I can deal better with Obama winning, but I want a republican (a true republican) in the White House for four more years. I just think that having someone who would withdrawl troops from Iraq and the middle east is scary.

I like Huckabee I think. I'm not sure. There is just something about him I am not sure about. Please God help me to see who to vote for. You know that I long to walk in your will even when it comes down to something like this. Just lead and guide me with this decision.

I pray that our country will unite once more. It seems that we are so divided into two parties. I know the saying goes that divided we will fall and I wholeheartedly believe that. Allow us to find hope in you and seek after you. Show our country that we are nothing without you and if we think that we are, humble us. I believe that our country can still be restored to the greatness it once had if we seek after you and put all our trust in you. Help us to do that!!!

Lead and guide voters to make the proper decision and select the candidate that you have for us. In the Bible you ordained and anointed Kings to rule over Israel. I pray that we can find a candidate like David. One that would seek after your heart and your desires for our country. I don't believe it is impossible to have that!

Love you God! I place my trust in you and not in man!

The Anti-God Movement

2007-12-27T13:08:00.000-05:00

It is just so hard to believe that 2008 is almost here and with it comes another Presidential election. I can't help but feel nervous when I think about where America could be headed should certain candidates be elected to the highest position in the country. I am a strong conservative and although I am deeply concerned about the candidates for the the democrat party, there really aren't any candidates I like in the republican party.

I have heard many conservatives say that they are going to sit out of this election because they couldn't vote for someone who doesn't support the exact same ideals they do. I totally understand where they are coming from and in a perfect world they would have a candidate like that, but it seems we have reached a point in the United States (and it has been here for some time) where we vote for the lesser of two evils.

I hope and pray that one of the many republican candidates will rise up and take a highly conservative stance on all issues. I truly believe that if a candidate would stick to the right instead of trying to move to the middle they would gain a lot more votes.

When I think about the elections I can't help but worry that our nation may be turned over to another Clinton. I have this shirt I love to wear that says, "One Clinton Was Enough". I got it in Texas oddly enough...haha!

If you believe in praying to God, I ask that you pray for our nation. We are headed in the wrong direction and into a dangerous direction. I believe that our country has been protected and has prospered because of our deep belief in God and for the most part putting Him first. But now we have come to the point in our nation where there is a movement to rid God out of everything. Off of our money, our of our pledge, etc. It's sad!

PRAY PRAY PRAY!

To God - November 23, 2007

2007-11-23T01:22:00.000-05:00

Dear God,

I just wanted to thank you for all the following things...

-You and my relationship with you

-My parents (the two most supportive people you will meet, I love them so much)

-My entire family (I wish I got to see them more, but everytime I see them I remember how great they are)

-My best friends (Kyle, Anna, Joe, and Crystal - they truly love me and understand me and I love them!!!)

-All the rest of my awesome friends (you have truly surrounded me with amazing people who truly care about me)

-My church (it is the best one there is)

-My Pastor and his wife (two amazing people, they have done so much for me)

-My church family (great people who truly care about me, I love them so much)

-Food (I love it)

-that fact that prayer does work

-My new, old job at the Cincinnati Area Board of Realtors (I love that place and plus it was like a $5 raise)

-My job writing for the Norwood Times (it is just a lot of fun plus a lot of extra money)

-The calling you have placed on my life (I can't wait to really step into it and see everything that you will do
through me)

-being healthy

-Freedom

-living in the USA

-having a republican in the White House for at least 1 more year

-Laughter (I love to laugh, make people laugh, and people who make me laugh)

-Long Horn

-Sleeping in

-the tv show LOST!

-music

-having a long talk with my mom

-my grandma Eva's vegetable soup

I am thankful for everything that You have done for me God and given me and the people You have surrounded me with.

To God - November 9, 2007

2007-11-09T09:57:00.000-05:00

Hey God-

I am in a great mood today despite my circumstances. I am learning more and more everyday that I can trust and depend on only you. I do have some truly great friends that I can trust and my family, but often in certain situations I can go only to you.

I am trusting you to work out this financial situation. I am not the cause of it, but I realize that only you can I fix it. I am stuck unless you move in it. I thank you for the jobs that you have given me and I pray that I will get to go back to my job at CABR. That would truly be a great blessing.

I am so excited about church. Services have been awesome and everyone is growing as is our church. I just can't wait to see what you have in store and I can't wait to see where our church is going to end up. I truly believe that we are going to succeed because we are established on you and we truly have a heart to see lives changed, people set free, people healed, and saved! I am so lucky to have an awesome church and church family that strives only to see me grow and prosper so that I can help others to do the same.

I have only a praise on my lips today God. I thank you and praise for all that you have done, all you are doing, and all you will do. I thank you for saving me, and true I can be better but I am not where I used to be, thank God! I love you truly with all my heart, soul and mind and appreciate you for being a savior and a friend!

To God - August 17, 2007

2007-08-17T01:46:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

It has been awesome all the things you are doing at my church and in the lives of the people there and in my life. I just can't wait to get back to church to see what you are going to do or to hear another testimony of something great you have done.

I also wanted to thank you for the word that you gave me on Sunday. It really meant a lot as you could see - I couldn't stop crying. It's exciting to know that you are working on the people I have been praying for and that you do know the desire of my heart.

I can't wait to see my friends and family saved and on their way to Heaven. They don't even have to go to my church (that would be awesome) I just want to spend eternity with them. God I am truly about to shout right now, thinking of everything that has happened and the fact that we have only scratched the surface of the things you are going to do in our midst.

God I am going to place everything on the altar again today. I keep picking everything back up and trying to fix it myself, but like you told me, my arms just don't reach - BUT YOURS DO!!! So God, I am leaving it up to you. I am going to pray and pray for them, but I am going to no longer try to fix it myself.

You know, I sit and imagine them next to me in church worshipping along side me, crying out to you. I can see them receiving their salvation and the baptism of the Holy Ghost and their lives forever changed. Those are the desires of my heart.

Oh, and one more thing, I need a wife God. Well, I don't want to get married today, but soon. Maybe after I graduate in a year. I know you have someone amazing for me. I just can't wait to meet her or if I have met her realize it is her. I'm just excited about everything!

To God - July 15, 2007

2007-07-15T20:36:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

Youth Camp was just awesome! Every night was so great. I just have to say that you presence was so heavy each night. I enjoyed it so much.

It was so awesome to hear the word preach with such anointing. It really just fed me and got me fired up.
I can't wait to have service at church. I know that what we received at youth camp is going to come back with us and our church is going to just burn with the holy spirit!

God just send us the lost. I hunger to see them saved and set free!

I'm tired God! It has been a long week, but I loved every minute of it.

To God - July 8, 2007

2007-07-08T00:25:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

Service tonight was unbelieveable. I first have to thank you for healing my foot. It was so awesome the way you took away the pain and the swelling. When I saw and felt the proof, I thought I was going to explode. The Holy Spirit raised up in me so strong I could not believe it.

I am so thankful God for your mercy and grace and forgiveness. I thank you for bringing back my zeal and excitement. I just cannot wait to see what you are going to do next. I just hope that you will use me.

I realize God that I need to work on sanctification. You have brought me so far and I never want to let the old man rise up in me again. I realize that I need to cut some things out of my life that have only been preventing me from getting as close to you as possible. I just need to remember that the things of this world are only fun for a short time, but your treasures are eternal.

I just can't wait to see some people saved and set free! I am just so excited to see whats next.

I can't wait to go to the doctor tomorrow. I know that his report is going to be that there is nothing wrong with my foot, because I know you healed me tonight! I also can't wait for youth camp this week. I want to get recharged and on fire for you.

Also God please remember my grandma. She is in the hospital have difficulty breathing. Please give her lungs strength.

To God - July 5, 2007

2007-07-05T01:12:00.000-05:00

Dear God-

I don't even feel worthy to talk to you right now, but I know that you are the only one that can help me. I ask, no I beg, for forgiveness. I don't even have to tell you what I have done, you already know. I wish I had some great reason to explain why I did it, but I don't. But God, I am so sorry. I totally understand how David felt after he had an affair with Bathsheba. I want to hide my face from you as I have been, but I have chose to fess up, because without you I am nothing. I feel so empty without you.

I can't believe Youth Camp is coming up. I really just don't feel like going because I know that I am going to feel guilty the whole time. God, please help me to forgive myself and get back on the straight and narrow path.

I still can't believe I did it. It wasn't me. I got caught up in the moment. I really love my friends third only to you and my family and I would do anything for them, but the most important thing I should be doing for them I always don't do. I fail on a daily basis to discuss the importance of you and what you have done for them.

I guess I thought that by hanging out with them they would see you through me, but what happened is they became more of an influence on me than I was on them. God, they really are great people and have done so so much for me. They have been there when few have. But, God more than anything I want to spend eternity with them and I know that there is only one way that will happen. The one and only way is if they come to know you as your personal savior.

I know I am the last person that should be asking for a favor, but here goes. God I just pray that you somehow, someway begin to draw them to you. I know it is their decision and I will always love them either way, but God I want them to know you as I have - to stand in your mighty, holy presence and to feel you wrap your arms around them. I want them to know the benefits of serving you.

God please give me strength to get back to you. I love you and you will always be worthy of my praise and again I am so sorry for what I have done.

To God - June 5, 2007

2007-06-05T04:58:00.000-05:00

Dear God-
I just want to thank you for the word that you gave us at church Sunday night, it helped so much! I also want to thank you for sending me to an amazing church where I can grow and be used to my full potential. I thank you for my pastor and the many spiritual mentors you have given me. It really isn't hard to see that you are there for me in everyway and provide everything that I need.

I've gotten to the point that I am totally willing for this test and hardship to happen. I trust you God and I know that you have never forsaken me and you never will. I trust that my finances, my health, my family, and my friends are all going to be ok and that you are taking care of them just as you take care of me. I know that you only wish to draw me closer to you and that is exactly what I want. These tests are hard, but I trust you in whatever you allow to get me to that point. I want to be as close to you as possible and I know that it takes sacrifice and struggles so that I can learn to trust you fully and hear your voice.

I know that you are doing something awesome in my church. I can feel and see it. All of us are struggling in the mostly the same manner and all at the same time. I know that the Devil is attacking our finances so that we are unable to give to the church and therefore our church can purchase the things we need to really grow. But what excites me, is that we are all going to stand firm and be closer to you and bolder and on fire and the devil won't be able to touch the move of God that comes. I can't wait for that.

God I honestly can't wait to see my friends and family saved and in church. I am trusting that you are moving in their lives and preparing their hearts to receive you. I long to see them worship beside me and cry out to you and know you as I do. My heart hungers for that! I am holding on to the promises and dreams you have given me. I just can't wait to see what you have in store!

I love you God and I truly trust you with all that is within me! I give you my heart, my mind, my body, and my soul!

To God - June 1, 2007

2007-06-01T00:30:00.000-05:00

Hey God-
Well I played in the orchestra at graduation tonight. It made me think of the past, but also the future. As I was listening to the speeches from the Class President and Valedictorian and my mind began to wonder to what I would have said if I would have earned that honor. I couldn't help, but realize that what I would write now would have been all about you and serving you, but in high school I can't say I would have written the same thing. You know how I was in high school - let's just say I wasn't a great Christian really I wasn't a Christian at all. I do miss high school though. It was so easy and comfortable. I miss the plays and silhouettes and even orchestra, it was all so great. I wish I would have realized it at the time and taken time to enjoy it.

My mind also wondered to graduating college. It seems so far away. College hasn't been like high school, it has been a lot harder for me to fit in, but I think that is because I haven't wanted to. Miami is a great school, but it seems that everyone drinks and parties and I don't want to live that lifestyle anymore. I'm sure there are some Christians on campus, but its hard to find them.

I really enjoy the scripture, Proverbs 3:5-6 "Trust in the LORD with all thine heart; and lean not unto thine own understanding. In all thy ways acknowledge him, and he shall direct thy paths." It allows me to know that all I have to do is trust in you and you will show me the way I should go! It is a relief to know that, but also it is so hard to turn everything over and release my hand from it.

I trust that I am in your perfect will for my life. I just want to do everything that you have for me and to do it to the best of my ability. I want to be exactly what you want me to be just help me to get there. If it is a plumber I will do it (but please let it don't let it be that! HA!). I love you God and want to please you.

I will serve you at all times!

To God - May 30, 2007

2007-05-30T00:39:00.000-05:00

Dear God,

Its been a while since I have been here. It seems for so long that I have been up on top of that mountain, with very few worries or concerns just living my life for you with no regrets. But I find myself in one of those moments of testing, where true Christians stand and weak ones fall. I want to stand!

I trust you God I really do! I know that "All things work for the good of those who serve you". I know that all times can't be perfect and I don't always want them to be because I know that during these times I get the opportunity to get closer to you.

I know I'm not perfect - I find that out more and more each day! I'm so thankful God that you look upon my heart and know that I truly wish to do good. It makes me sad when I put myself in your shoes. How many times I have not spoken up on your behalf and remained silent! AAAAAAAAAAAAHHHHHH! I pray that you help me overcome that! That makes me more upset than when I outright sin.

I'm not sure what this feeling is really. I refuse to allow myself to get depressed and worry. That doesn't help. God help me to fully turn all my burdens over to you. I have such an issue with control. Remember what Joyce Myer was talking about on her show today, that worrying and not giving up control waste time.

It's funny to me sometimes how quickly I jump to worrying. I mean, you have never once let me down or forgotten right where I am. You knew me even before I was in my mother's womb.

I'm sick of being a talker and not a walker. I talk a big talk about getting out and working with the lost, but so often I fail to do it. God I just wish sometimes that people would just give you a chance. I want them to know you like I do, to experience how great you truly are. I know that if they could just get a glimpse they would know!

God I know that I have to love everyone, but that Rosie O'Donnell really pushes my buttons. Its just such a same how blinded some people are to you! It breaks my heart to see so many people who aren't content because they don't know you. It hurts me to see my dad just fight and fight for things to happen and I know they won't because he needs to turn them over to you! I hate to see the anger and fustration he has, because I know he knows that he needs you but he just won't turn himself over.

God if you could also remember my Dad's side of the family - Roxie, Pam, Debbie, Pete, Susie, and Grandma Charlotte. God they don't know you, but they think they are ok. God I just pray that you show them the truth, someway, somehow.

Oh, and God, remember my Aunt Linda, she called today and needs help in the ministry she has started in Minnesota. It sounds like she has a true work to do out there, but we all do. And God if it is your will for me to go out there and help for a while show me and provide the way.

God I pray for my wife, where ever she may be. God I pray that you keep your hand upon her and raise her up to be a mighty worker for you. God I pray that you keep me from finding second best I want the very best that you have for me. God I need someone who is soldout to you and on fire! I want someone who is going to complement me and make her funny too (you know how I like to laugh).

God I just want you to know I love you. I only ask these things of you because I know that you are able and in control of everything. I just thank you for all that you have done for me. For saving me and filling me with the Holy Ghost and giving me chance after chance to serve you better. Here Am I - use me as you see fit! I will do whatever and go whereever. Give me wisdom and discernment to know the truth!

Today I give you my all!

How Big Are Our First Amendment Rights?

2006-05-01T14:30:00.000-05:00

Recently on Northern Kentucky University several questions arose: How big is one person's first amendment rights and where does one person's first amendment rights stop?

Let me give you the scenario. A newly founded Pro-life group at NKU (Northern Kentucky Unversity) called, Northern Right to Life set up a display that was to represent a cemetery of unborn fetuses that had been aborted. They called it "Cemetery of the Innocents." The display consisted of about 400 white crosses and a sign that explained what the monument represented. Below is a picture of the of the memorial...

(Picture Credit The Northerner)

The Northern Right To Life group had set up the display as a protest to abortions. The group had gone through all the proper channels to see that their display was legal and could stand on the NKU campus. The group went before a board and the administration and the Right to Life Group was given permission to create the display.

Recently, the memorial was destroyed by a literature professor of NKU, Dr. Sally Jacobsen and several of her students. According to the Cincinnati Enquirer, "Jacobsen was infuriated by the display. She saw it as a 'slap in the face' to women who might want to make 'the agonizing and very private decision to have an abortion.'" She also went on to say, "'Any violence perpetrated against that silly display was minor compared to how I felt when I saw it. Some of my students felt the same way, just outraged."' Below are pictures documenting Jacobsen and her students destroying the display.

(Photo Credit The Northerner)

Although I like to argue the issue of abortion, I am only going to argue the issue of free speech and first amendment rights. This issue is really a matter of where one person's freedoms end and another's starts. The First Amendment of the Constitution of the United States says: "Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances." Therefore people have the right to exercise their free speech and assemble peacefully. This is exactly what the Pro-Life group of NKU was doing. They had set up a memorial (their free speech and also approved by the school's administration) to protest against abortions. It was their right to do this.

Dr. Jacobsen has said that she was only exercising her right to free speech. According to the Cincinnati Post, "During a break in class, Jacobsen said she asked 'if any students wanted to participate in practicing their freedom of speech in destroying the very offensive right to life, anti-abortion display in the central plaza.'" Just about everyone at NKU and the Cincinnati Area have drawn sides on the issue. The Northerner, NKU's student ran newspaper polled students and asked their opinions of the issue.

I disagree with Dr. Jacobsen when she says she and her students are practicing their free speech. The proper way to protest against the "Cemetery of the Innocents" display or against abortion is not to destroy the memorial. One way to protest would be to create a monument calling for pro-choice or something of that nature. The destruction of another's free speech is NOT free speech. We do not have the right under the Constitution to take censorship into our own hands. It is not our right to destroy anything that may upset us or anything that we do not agree with. Like I said earlier, The Northern Right to Life display was approved by NKU's administration and it would be the administration's job to deem the memorial harmful and rule it to be taken down. It was not Jacobsen's job to enlist students to destroy the monument.

If we allow Jacobsen's definition of free speech to stand, it would be okay for me to spray paint in orange lettering "I HATE HILLARY CLINTON!" on every house in my neighborhood. No matter what Jacobsen says, destruction of property is not covered under free speech. I do understand that Jacobsen was upset by the display, that means the display was doing it's job. I can relate to her because many times that I am driving down the road and see a "I voted for Bush, I am sorry" bumper sticker or a "Bush sucks" bumper sticker or anything else that I don't support, and I do get mad, but it doesn't provoke me to slam my car into the other car or to shoot the person. I get a little frustrated, drive on, and slap on a "I Voted For Bush and I am Proud of It!" bumper sticker onto my car.

Different People's Opinions on the Issue

UPDATE!!!

According to The Northerner, Jacobsen and her students have been charged with misdemeanors. "The theft charge, which is a class A misdemeanor, is punishable by a $500 fine and up to one year in jail. A person with criminal mischief or criminal solicitation charges, which are class B misdemeanors, can be sentenced to 90 days in jail and a $250 fine. According to Verst, sentence severity depends on the criminal record and prior court history of an individual."

My Last English 225 Paper

2006-04-25T10:16:00.000-05:00

The last paper in my English 225 class has been assigned. It is a position paper and I have to take a stance on a certain issue and provide adequate information and defend my stance.

I am writing about the recent events at Northern Kentucky University. A pro-life group, with permission of the school's administration, set up a monument to the fetuses that had been aborted. They called the monument, "Cemetery of the Innocents". Needless to say, the monument received some attention, but not in the way you might think. It did spark some emotions in those who saw it, but the monument got one teacher of NKU so angry that she and some of her students destroyed the monument.

My paper isn't going to be about abortion or abortion rights, it is going to be about freedom of speech. I want to flirt with the thin line that separates one person's freedom of speech from another's. I am going to side with the pro-life group because it was their freedom of speech that was destroyed. The group had permission from the faculty so it was ok for the group to be there. I am going to argue that the professor took censorship into her own hands by destroying the monument. She claims that destroying the monument was her free speech. So I am going to argue whether, destroying one's free speech is another means of free speech. I am also going to argue that emotion is not a valid reason to destroy someone's freedom of speech.

This should be an interesting paper. I am excited to write it because I have often wondered about free speech and when it goes to far.

They aren't my heroes...

2006-04-20T23:36:00.000-05:00

I think today in America, we are way to caught up in the lives of celebrities and the famous. It seems that everywhere you go there is always someone talking about the latest celebrity gossip or a newspaper stand with all the different celebrity magazines.

I was looking through this blog and was amazed at how much people really care to know about their favorite celebrity. I think people envy the lives that these celebrities have and they want to be just like them, so they want to know everything there is to know about them.

I personally don't get too involved in the celebrity gossip. The only things I know are things that are told to me. I don't really care to know which celebrity is dating whoever. It just has never interested me. I don't have a problem with people who do.

I find it interesting that in America the number one headline is "Tom Cruise and Katie Holmes have their baby". It amazes me that this covers the front page when we have men and women fighting in various parts of the world to save our freedoms. I worry sometimes about the people we look up to and envy and set as our heroes. My hero was always my parents, but some kids today don't have parents to look up to or choose a different hero and a lot of the time it is somebody famous. I just worry that these people aren't good role models and they set a bad influence for the kids of today.

I just think America needs to start worrying more about the serious issues first and then spend time worrying about who is marrying who.

The Gift

2006-04-17T22:50:00.000-05:00

This is a short story I am working on for my English 226 class. If anyone has anytime to read and give suggestions that would be great. I have to revise and make it portfolio worthy. Thanks!

"Hey mommy! Guess what I did today?" the little boy said attacking his mother as she walked in the huge wooden front door.

"What Johnny?" she said trying to hang on to the heavy bag of groceries and close the front door of the house with her hip.

"Do you really wanna know? Do ya, do ya?"

"Yes Johnny, please tell me," the mother said as she put down the groceries and pulled up a chair, to devote full attention to the story. "Ok, let me hear it."

The little boy took a long, loud, drawn out breath in anticipation for his tale, "Ok, so me and Stevie were down by the park riding bikes and we saw these kids there and they had a ramp and I wanted to try so I rode to the top of this biiiiiiiig hill and then I started pedaling as fast as I could towards the ramp I was going faster than lightning and BOOM," Johnny took off arms outstretched, running through the house, the dirt jumping off of his clothes. "I hit the ramp and I was so high in the air I was flying like superman and then I was like woooooooaah I am so high in the air and then I hit the ground and I stayed on my bike I didn’t fall off mommy and then I was the coolest kid in the park the coolest kid in the park all day."

"Johnny you know that your father and I don’t want you doing things like that. It is dangerous and you could get seriously hurt. Don’t do that again. Do you hear me?"

"Yes mommy, but I was the coolest kid in the park, and Stevie’s mom let’s him do stuff like that. I was flying Mommy. I was like Superman."

"Well I am not Stevie’s mother and I don’t care if you were flying. You could get hurt. Now go upstairs and get cleaned up. We need to get to the hospital."

Johnny tip toed as slowly as he could up the creaking stairs, hoping that if he was quiet his mom would forget about him and he wouldn’t have to go to the hospital. The last time he had been in a hospital was to visit with his older brother. Johnny was familiar with the puppy wall paper, pee smell, and beeping sounds of the machines in his brother’s room at the hospital. His brother’s kidneys had stopped working and he was always in the hospital. Johnny remembered how scary his brother looked at his last visit. He was pale, skinny, and his eyes were dark.

Johnny loved his big brother, Matt. Johnny missed hanging out with Matt. Before Matt got sick he was teaching Johnny how to play baseball. They spent hours tossing and batting the ball around. Matt always took Johnny to the arcade and to the movies instead of spending time with his own friends.

"Are you about ready Johnny?" Johnny’s mom yelled from downstairs.

"Almost!"

Johnny pulled his favorite tee shirt over his curly blond locks, the shirt his brother had bought for him last year. It was blue and in white lettering said, "World’s Greatest Brother". Matt had a matching one. They wore it every time they went out together.

Johnny walked even slower down the stairs. He was worried about how his brother was going to look. In the car, Johnny, tapped his feet against the plastic floor mat, and chewed at his fingernails.

"Mom? Is Matt any better? I miss him."

"Well, he is going to be. The doctor is going to make him better."

Johnny and his mom were greeted as they entered the sliding doors of the hospital. Johnny stomach dropped as he recognized the face of Matt’s doctor. Johnny always thought he looked scary. His dark, bushy mustache and dark, bushy eye brows reminded Johnny of Captain Hook. Johnny always had to check to make sure that he didn’t have a hook for a hand.

"Johnny, are you nervous?" the doctor asked.

"Yeah."

"Doctor, we haven’t asked him yet. Matt wanted to be with us when we asked him." Johnny’s mother said.

"Ok, let’s hurry then."

The three took off in almost a run down the hall. Johnny hated the mural on the wall. He always thought the smiles on the people’s faces were making fun of him. As they arrived at room, 226, Johnny stopped.

"Mom, I’m scared."

"Johnny, it’s just your brother."

There was something about his mom’s voice that made him even more scared, but he assured himself, he was just visiting Matt, and walked in.

"Hey buddy," Matt said reaching out a trembling hand. Johnny slapped it and gave his brother a hug. "Hop up here we gotta ask ya something." Johnny climbed up onto the bed and laid his head on Matt’s shoulder.

"Johnny, your brother is really sick. But the doctor knows how he can fix Matt. But we need to ask you for a big favor. The doctor wants to take one of your kidneys and put it in Matt. The doctor thinks this will make Matt better." Johnny’s mom said.

"I’ll do it!"

"Johnny you won’t be able to play like you usually do. Once you give your brother your kidney, you will have to be careful, because if you injure yourself you could hurt your kidney and that wouldn’t be good." Johnny’s mom said.

"I still want to do it!"

"Johnny you don’t have to. Don’t think that you have to. Do you understand that you won’t be able to play around anymore?" Matt said.

Johnny turned, sat up in the bed, and faced his brother. "I want to Matt. I want you to be better again. I miss you Matt. I love you." Johnny said.

"Well let’s get you ready for some tests then Johnny. You are a brave little boy." The doctor said. Johnny hopped off his brother’s bed and followed the doctor out of the room.

"Thanks. I get it from my brother."

Bernadette Mayer - Made Me Mad

2006-04-12T22:17:00.000-05:00

Last Wednesday night I attended the Bernadette Mayer reading in Peabody Hall. I was a little upset that I would be missing my favorite television show LOST, but once I saw the large number of students there to attend the reading, I knew that this poet and author was going to be great, and I was no longer upset. I WAS SO WRONG!

Ms. Mayer was given a great introduction that made me hungry for a taste of her writing. As she climbed the stairs onto the stage, cane and books in hand, I stared her up and down wondering where she got her clothes from. She had on this weird hat, gray I think, and what looked like a burlap, purple sweater vest and some tan pants. She reminded me of a character I had read about in elementary school, The Lupin Lady.

When she sat down, she looked a little unorganized. She had papers everywhere it seemed, but she didn’t seem to have any trouble picking a piece to read. The first poem of the night was "Words that Rhymed With Disease". I really felt like I would have liked the piece had I been able to hear her better. The microphone wasn’t up loud enough and Ms. Mayer’s speech seemed a little mumbled. The next two pieces she read were, "Before Sextet" and "After Sextet". I was unaware that the poems were about sex until "After Sextet" when she used words like condom. I really feel like Ms. Mayer should try to make her poems sound more interesting by making her voice less monotone and more energetic. It might help the audience better understand the words she is saying so that we can laugh along with her.

The rest of the reading really is a blur to me. I sat wondering if Hurley really was going to die on LOST and what the map that Locke found last week really means. I watched many people get up and leave the auditorium. I watched them all the way out and then wished I was them. I then proceeded to balance my pen on my nose and try to catch it in my mouth, needless to say, I was bored. I was unable to understand any of the reading. I was unable to follow along and I quickly lost interest.

The only part in the reading where she grabbed my attention was in the middle when she bashed President Bush. I happen to like President Bush and she basically told Bush Supporters F(she used the actual word) U. She didn't care if we got upset. I believe that everyone has the right to their own opinion, but to flat out tell someone F U because you don't believe the way I do, is wrong.

All I remember from the rest of the reading is the F-word (again she did use the actual word) being used too many times to count. I wondered if anyone else in the audience was offended as me. If the amount of people that left, not even half way through the reading is any measure, I think many people were offended. There were people who stayed though so they may have liked it. I just had no interest. I mean for her to be a somewhat famous poet, someone has to like her.

I feel like poetry is supposed to evoke some sort of feeling or emotion. Her poetry really didn't do that for me. I didn’t really get any emotional response from the reading, except the little bit of anger. I was unable to visualize and "experience" her poetry. Her poetry was extremely different from anything I had read of heard before and I hope that I will never have to encounter it again. I didn't dislike it because it was different it just didn't appeal to me. I don't expect it to. Her poetry may be amazing to others, I am just giving my opinion.

By the way, my friend taped LOST for me, so I wouldn’t miss it. Hurley didn't die!

Here is the link to Bernadette Mayer's Website. If you want check it out and clue me in on her poetry. Click Here.

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2005-12-26T16:45:00.000-05:00

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