rigney

iNow, First of all, are you an American citizen? Otherwise "bug off". I just don't beat up on foreigners unless they have crashed my pad, uninvited! You want answers, be civil; don't expect subserviency or me to placate your???, or what ever.

No!; Wee Scotch Laddie, you'll do just fine being the a--hole. C'mon over and I'll teach you English! Und brang Lassie wit' 'ya also. She probably stands a better chance of larnin' our reasoning than you? Pardon me, I simply had a notion you were still in puberty and just wanted attention.

Veteran of what? Army, Navy, Marines, Al Queda? Saw your "beefs" before lad, and see you only as a troubled soul.

Know why the people from European nations, middle eastern and Asians speak English? They want to assimilate. And you must either be a a kid to have such a view as you do, or perhaps you live somewhere other than the states? I'm going to reply only because you don't live here in the states! I'm not sure where you're from, but I pity your plight. Maybe you can pity mine at a future date?

We are very congruous in this country. If I began trying to name the nationalities making up the US, I probably wouldn't even come close. So why?, Why, when you pick up the phone and call your bank, an accountant, the grocery store or your PCP, you're asked up front; Press 1 for English, then the voice changes to Spanish?????? What in the hell is going on? Listen!, I have nothing against anyone living here in the states. But freedom reaches out only so Damned far. Why don't we extend the same courtesy to Germans, French, English, Russians, Poles, Slavic, Arabic (in all dialects), and Chinese, (in all dialects) and etc. etc. and etc.? Have we gone totally "BONKERS"? Or has our "ass kissing" gone beyond retrieval, or is Californinia running this nation? English, that has been our native tongue for over four hundred years, why compromise now?

Wish I could answer your queary using Jurisprudence 101, or political BS 000???. But unfortunately, I'm fluent in neither. 'Seat of the pants", is my only forte. Perhaps I am, and have always been a protector of our country through ignorance? But, I would rather be here under those circumstances than being in many parts of the world that care nothing of human life. And propaganda? None of us will outlive the word?? It's here to stay, regardless of which side of the ball you are on! And do I feel for the needy? "YES" The unsavorily greedy? !NO!!

So, is there or not an afterlife, or simply a premium on morality? If not, why is it mentioned at all? Is morality something we grow slowy into from birth, instinct, or something so deeply ingrained that we have no idea from where it came? Consciousness alone allows us either moral, immoral or amoral actions. Which ever, they are only words and the rebuttal of all religions. I believe morals are much like music. Each of us are equipped with the same pitch pipes, it's only that the ear of each individual is tuned differently. Fortunately, most of us try keeping on the same key and octive. But unfortunately, everyone in the choir wants to sing the song their way. And by the way, what key do you sing in, religious, non, atheistic or other?

I see your reasoning, but simply can't relate to it. I look back on five generations of coal miners that has consumed my heritage and family. But without the integrity, honesty and self respect of their work, I would have no continuity. I'm extremely happy with where I am today because of their effort. Am I rich? Not even in the ball yard. But then, you don't have to be rich to be proud, just honest. Thanks!

I only meant that we either learn to "agree" as to how this world keeps turning with people on it, or shut it down and give it back to the worms. The American dream doesn't only belong to Americans, it belongs to any and all who are willing to work for a living. It should have nothing to do with ethnecity, race or creed. Everyone deserves a fair shake regardless of who or where they come from. I despise servitude in any form or fashion. That reasoning went out of style years ago. But all of us can't be wealthy at the same time. I would love to be rich! Have I done enough to acheive it? No! Should I have a chicken in the pot while you eat you're filet mignon? Yes, if I earn or steal it. Today, we seem to have as many thieves as those willing to work. Why?

Couldn't agree with you more. When I was a kid, we slaughtered in the late fall so the winter weather would keep the meat as fresh as possible. We salted or smoked the pork as a preservative. Beef went to market, other than a few steaks or roasts that we could use right away. Vegetables, we kept in a root cellar under the house. Came spring, we started the process all over again. We even had an icebox. Thanks for the comment, Chris is no prude and will appreciate it.

For generations and reasons only speculative; America has tried remaining isolated. If we went into a scenario as to why other countries have also tried it, we would probably find the cause no different than our own. It's a scary situation at best. But then, we really haven't a choice when self-preservation is the necessity. An old adage, Damned if you do and damned if you don't? Well, I prefer the "do"! Right now, our country is in a "don't" situation. We have cajoled and frittered away the integrity that an entire world revered. If many other countries were in our position, you, I and an entire globe would be speaking a soveriegn language. We can step away and "nuke hell" out of any offender who goes against us, but that isn't our purpose. I'm just not exactly sure what it is right now? Congruity, perhaps? But to hell with a pack of wolves or neighbors wanting to steal the clothes off your back and the food off your table just because you are amicable? C'mon!. We had better get it together with young people likes this guy while they stilll have the resolve. And this; before bowing and scraping becomes the norm. "Stand proud".

I said to myself, rigney; your first reply is probably going to be from an "old gunnery sergeant" who will take your head off for digging into someones private life. Well, you got me. I apologise, but didn't think of it quite like that. Just thought it would be nice reading something not so gruesome as most of the stuff we get. You know, the old blood and guts thing? I thought there was even a bit of humor in the young man's letter. Was hoping maybe some folks might reply with a line or two I could send to his Mom and Dad to make them feel a little better, and also to let them know that people out here are actually concerned and care. As far as his family being stationed with him? I don't think he'd take too kindly to that. Well! Didn't mean for my questions to be so provocative and insensitive. I'm just not too expressive. Semper Fi!

Wussy? maybe so! This kid is twenty nine years old and hoping by next August to be home with his family. Don't know him personally; just his folks. Read the message. Give me your thoughts. Hi Guys and Gals, Greetings from Kandahar, Afghanistan. I hope everyone is doing well and enjoyed their summer. It has been quiet here the last few weeks. Time is going by quickly and I hope to soon be back with Gen and the girls. I've had the opportunity to do some traveling to other bases. In August, I went to Kabul, the capital, and to Maz-er-Sharif, a city in the northern part of the country. There we met and trained Afghanai Army soldiers. Traveling with me are GIs I am responsible for training. I also have an interpreter that is with me daily. We travel on C-130 planes from various NATO nations, including France and Australia. Working directly with the Afghanistan National Army (ANA) has provided many experiences. Every day our crew travels to the ANA base next to our own. There, we spend the time trying to train them on various functions of how to run a hospital. Adjusting to their ways of culture and thinking have been a challenge. The hard part is that Afghanistan standards are not exactly like ours in the US. Teaching them important items like hospital cleanliness and simple patient care are our main focus. Right now the ANA is at a point that we were back in the 1920's. that is, so far as understanding the basics of hospital issues and cleanliness, but they are catching on. Our job is to get them into the 1970's, if possible. 30 straight years of war has destroyed the educational and cultural system of the country. We spend many hours and days with the Afghans. Here, we are more involved with the local population and its culture than in Bagram during 2008. We spend many hours together, eating and sometimes praying with each other. They are an extremely friendly and courteous culture. When seeing each other at the beginning of each day, it is as if they and we, haven't seen each other for ages. Everyone always shakes hands, hug and send greetings. With such courtesy comes lots of food. When eating, giant portions of rice and bread are always the norm. The food tastes wonderful once you get by the sanitation aspect of it. Afghanistan is not like our country. Cleanliness during food preparation is not stressed very much. But, in order to be a good guest, we ignore our inhibitions and push forward. The most surprising part is seeing your food walking around eating grass on day, before enjoying it in a delicious kabob form the next. It has been very busy lately. The ANA hospital here sees only Afghans and no US patients. Our workload is high. The number of Afghans injured in attacks continues to climb. Quite often we will have a mass influx of casualty situations where a number of patients come in all at once for reasons ranging from car accidents, to war injuries and IED attacks. The experiences are different from those in Bagram. There, we saw and cared for many patients who were our own. Here, the numbers are much higher but it's the Afghans doing all the hands on work. We simply train them for the job, step back and watch to see what happens. Thank's to all of you who have donated help to the Afghan children. With temperature dropping somewhat, school is about to begin and we are preparing donations for delivery to the kids. Please take a moment to wish Gen well. As you know, baby # 3 is just days away. The family is already in Las Vegas to help her, even though more help is coming during the next couple of weeks. She will always be my hero. Chris

We definitely have an (un)resolved system when it comes to criminal punishment. The fact this woman's IQ was less than what we consider normal, is no reason for her not being put to death. A dog that bites is generally put down in like fashion. What bothers me most is that the two who actually did the "killings", (those not on leash) are patrons of Virginia's finest institute. Oops!, Did I say patrons? I meant to say "LIFE" guests. Now, for the actual crime; It's not this gal or those committing the crime doing the most damage, but those issuing punishments mandated by such an obtrusive and delinquent manner.

We may never know even one of these young people's names, yet, isn't it comforting that; "They are there"? Or do we need them at all? Are we right or wrong, using them as a shield? If so, 'against what'? http://www.af.mil/news/video/index.asp?cid=422&sid=15358

Thanks for getting back John B., but Moontanman had already handed me my a-- for being so "gullible". And you're right! While radicals bring out the worst in all cultures, most folks just want to be left alone in a safe setting. And that "calathumpin" thing?, I've heard it, but not quite sure of what it means. Gonna look it up!

I'm sure this has been edited in someones favor at least a dozen times over the past few days? And while I have no idea of the man's political convictions, I sure as hell agree with his philosophy. Yes!, We still have Americans capable of saying "no" the way Rudd has for Australian's, but; we need to get them out in front again! Australian Prime Minister Rudd says "NO" a second time to Muslims!! and sure isn't backing down on his hard line stance. One has to appreciate his belief in Australian's rights. It took a lot of courage for him to speak as he did and for the world to hear it. The chances of retribution from terrorist are risky, but at least he is willing to take that chance by standing up for Australian's beliefs. The world needs leaders like; Prime Minister Kevin Rudd - Australia Muslims wanting to live under Sharia law in Australia were told Wednesday to get out! Rudd, relating that there is no possible way two such diverse governments can function side by side in Australia. Thus targeting radicals in a bid to head off potential terrorist attacks. His comments angered many Australian Muslims by stating he openly supported spy agencies monitoring suspected mosques. Quote by Rigney: "Kudos Prime Minister Rudd"! We used to monitor the K.K.K., Black Panthers, Weathermen, and a few other subversive "Nut Cases" but the practice is become rare nowadays. By Rudd; Quote: 'IMMIGRANTS, NOT AUSTRALIANS, MUST ADAPT. Take it or leave It. I'm tired of this nation worrying about whether we are offending some individuals or their culture. Since the terrorist attacks on Bali, we have experienced a surge in patriotism by Australians. Australian culture has been developing over two centuries by trial and error, tribulation, struggle and victory, by millions of men and women who sought, and fought for those rights and freedoms. 'We speak mainly ENGLISH, not Spanish, Lebanese, Arabic, Chinese, Japanese, Russian, or any other language. Therefore, if you wish to become part of our society, Learn our language!' 'Most Australians believe in God. This is not a Christian right wing, radical push, but fact. Men and women of Christian faith founded this nation, which is clearly documented. So, it is certainly appropriate to display HIM on the walls of our schools, in our libraries and political offices. If our God offends you, consider some other part of the world for your new home, because God is a huge part of our culture.' Australia is OUR COUNTRY, OUR LAND, and OUR LIFESTYLE, and we will allow you every opportunity to enjoy all of this. But once you are done complaining, whining, and griping about Our Flag, Our Pledge, Our Christian beliefs, or Our Way of Life, I highly recommend you take advantage of another Australian freedom, 'THE FREEDOM TO LEAVE'.' 'If you aren't happy here with the way things are going, then go!. We didn't force you to come here, you asked to be here. So accept our country as it is, or get out.' Unquote. You and Australia have much to be proud of Lad! Not so much unlike America was just a short time ago. Perhaps we here in States aught to inhale Mr. Rudd's words and savor their meaning for a moment? Excusez moi! But Moontanman just set me straight on my error of believing first hand any and all "bull Sh--" you hear and forward without researching it. I really don't know at the moment just how much of this BS is truth, but I loved it! Even my stupid "Kudos" were genuine! When you supplant one unknown for another and not know the new ones face value, you're in trouble. Again, pardon my ignorance.

Received this email from my oldest son Dave; a couple of days ago. Some years back, 1993, Dave was retiring from the Navy. My wife, Glenna and I went to LA for the graduation? Ahem!!, Took him over twenty years to get his diploma, but he got 'er done. A party recognizing him and his buddie's accomplishments was held behind the C.P.O. barracks. Officers and enlisted men had put it on to honor the retirees. I met Kenny Munds that day. He, Dave and a couple of their buddies were playing some music for us. Impressed! Yes. Not so much by the group itself, but Kennys voice. He was doing drug, booze and rehab all rolled into one at the time, but was begining to understanding again what sobiety actually meant. His voice,? That was what impressed me. You'll hear it shortly. I didn't know it at the time, but he and Dave were attending college together and playing honky tonks in the area, nights. Dave was still in the Navy but getting some credits before finishing his naval career. Kenny was a likable sort, but you could see the hurt in him. He and Dave had played music together for a couple years, with Dave trying to keep Kennys head screwed on right. Dave and Becky moved to the Nashville area shortly after that, while Kenny stayed in California. This guy is extrordinary to say the least. Pulled his head out of his "backside", and is doing himself proud by helping others with the same problems he had suffered with? There are many hypocrites professing religious convictions, but this guy lives what he talks and walks what he talks. He's been there! and still lives on the third floor of a place that neither you nor I would consider. Only reason you're seeing this is not because I know Kenny all that well, but because I met him, and somehow realized even then; that this guy would touch a lot lives. Crazy? Maybe. But the Arizona prison system, Arpaio and the likes treat him as "royalty", or at least loyalty. The link below is some of Kennys videos on "You Tube". "Good Intentions" will get your attention. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ri1_eZMZBj4&NR=1 This song is one he and Dave recorded in their brief travels together. I have four or five of their original recordings on cassette here at the house somewhere? Now, Kenny is no Bible Thumper, but he's been through "Hell" and has turned his life around. Listen to some of his stuff, and if you would like to contact him, its: Kenny Munds Ministries, 20701 N Scottsdale Rd #107-260, Scottsdale, AZ 85255. Below is an explanation of his life.

I probably won't get odds, or even a big "AMEN' in this fight, and being older than dirt; you'd think I'd know better. But I've seen just about every side of life that you can imagine, and other than family; with most of it, I'm not overly proud. A persons GOD is their matter. Who or what he/she is, is congruent to only that individual. Good, bad or indifferent and without hurt, does it really matter what someone believes??

Wonder if it might even be called "blind fold equilibrium"? Generally, 99% of us analyze politics out of ignorance. The other 1% just hasn't been caught with their drawers down yet. At least 80 to 90% of public speakers don't speak, they rhetorical(ize)? Sad part is, they don't even know when they're lying. Naa! Propaganda gets you into wars, manipulation gets you "reelected".

This short video demonstrates how budget manipulation has been done by our Federal Government for ages, "regardless" of who's in office. Take a look and tell me, what's right or wrong with it; if anything? http://www.wimp.com/budgetcuts/

My family's heritage in America began in the Yadkin River country of North Carolina. Diverce? More than you would care to know! Semantics? Let's not go there. History tells both you and me what life is all about. How we use that information is strictly up to us as individuals.

Try reading the content instead of what you want to hear and see, Lad. Your visceral needs are such as to surmount any knowledge I might possess that will make sense to you. Your perceptions are not unfounding, only insulting. I'd like having a conversation with you, but find it rather difficult. Good luck.