I make constant allegations which, to a varying degree, I can back up with easily proven evidence. Today, I have the goods. I have long maintained that the worst possible stewards of the minds of children are the government minions in charge of public education. The offering of the day is, I’ll admit, regionally affected by factors other than just the school administration. However this is exemplary of that old parable about the talents. In this circumstance, the talents were not buried or allowed to remain idle; they were willfully destroyed.
The link contains nineteen pictures of various views within the depository. They loaded slowly for me because with satellite internet service, I only download at 350 KBs. You needn’t look at them all. Just a few will give you the idea.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/sweetjuniper/2066872860/in/set-72157603302647339/
At first view, one suspects a fire or a flood caused this carnage. Closer inspection reveals that any fires were limited and probably set by vandals. Obviously, any time you neglect a building, depreciation of the structure will allow excessive moisture in and ruin the interior and its contents. Some of the chaos evident in the photos was caused by the recovery of usable furniture and lumber from the areas shown. One rarely sees a bookcase or pallets. There is also the presence of “gang” signs every where with its obvious implications.
Although I have no confirmation, it would be a safe wager that many of the people responsible for this building are still on the payroll. There is no reason to believe under current policy that they would have less job protection than the incompetents who man the classrooms. Given its size, one can only imagine the immense actual dollar cost of its construction and contents. Having examined some text books in current usage, it is entirely possible the destruction of some of these would work for the good of the students.
This travesty should concern us as Christians at many levels. First in my mind is the matter of stewardship. The Master took a dim view of waste. He was concerned with the acceleration of assets and their care and keeping. See talents, sheep, oil for lamps, wheat and tares, and other familiar biblical stories and references. From Genesis 1 he gave us the gift of our earth and its contents for our careful use. The only examples of willful destruction are reprisal in the face of sin or the acts of the sinners. Those who are not among the faithful to His teachings are promised a terrible end in the latter days. Even though not local, this waste of resources can probably be traced to our individual communities to a lesser or, God forbid, greater degree.
Our second highest concern should be loss of liberty in the process of teaching the young. The need for this building was the storage of teaching materials. Yes, it was more than likely they used it to martial material for distribution during the school year. But I see its primary function as the warehousing of unused and “out of date” teaching aids. Is a physics book out of date because they repealed the laws of gravity? Is a math text no longer useful because speed problems are expressed in “mph” rather than “kph?” Is a literary work (see “Huckleberry Finn”) obsolete because we can’t see political correctness in the genius of the author? In today’s world, No Child Left Behind equates to “no child left to think.” We all recognize the effort to ban any text in any subject which offers the slightest defense of creationism or its author, God Almighty. Thus, by banishing these volumes to their fate of being destroyed through neglect in the depository makes sense to the formers of the new social construct. Once abandoned, any text which sees Jesus Christ as other than an historical curiosity can be allowed to molder and rot. Given the Divine nature of the US Constitution I would not be surprised to see hundreds of copies lying in waste under the rubble.
Anyone who has driven through Detroit in the last decade has seen a city which more closely resembles Würtzburg shortly after World War II. Having seen both, I feel qualified to make the comparison. Vast empty spaces between crumbling buildings inhabited by feral former pets form a ring around the central business district. It has a CBD which boasts some of the most expansive and beautiful buildings in America. Built primarily for visitors on the back of US taxpayers it fulfils the definition of “bread and circuses.” The easy explanation is the decline of the auto industry. While a factor, it is simpler to point to moral decay and citizen ennui. Make no mistake; I am describing an American City, and a very large one.
Before we point the fingers at Detroit with too much enthusiasm, we should also look at our own communities and school districts. While probably not as extreme as the example cited, are the monitors of our own local school systems doing an equivalent proportional amount of damage to the children in their care? Have you, as a Christian parent or grandparent, checked out the situation in your district? If you think that kids are going to complain about getting a “softball” education, you can think again. The path of least resistance is very attractive to all of us and especially to kids. With five kids and twenty grandchildren, I have more than a passing acquaintance with their thinking.
I thank God for my daughter and one daughter-in-law for their efforts to home school my grandkids. A third is giving it prayerful consideration. Although each is a solid Christian home with a very active participating father, that is not my prime consideration. I very much want them to have the opportunity to be challenged and fail! I want them in an atmosphere where there are no stupid questions. I want them educated where the qualities of a mother’s love prevail. I freely admit to excessive pride in these families and their zeal to keep the government out of their lives. I have rendered unto Caesar and concluded I would rather render unto God.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Wednesday, January 23, 2008
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
Selfishness
In a fit of atypical sensitivity, I questioned my bride this morning about what seemed obviously, some distress. As usual, she denied any problem and, fighting back tears, continued in her work. Fearing that I had committed some unknown high crime, I later pressed the matter in the hope of finding the cause of her angst. She finally confessed she had received a note from a close relative in response to a suggested book which she found spiritually outstanding.
The writer of the note revealed in the text, not agnosticism but absolute disbelief. Since my wife has an exemplary faith in Jesus Christ and the tenets of the Gospel, that reply brought serious questioning of “where she went wrong.” The matter prompted a discussion of some length.
Several things came up as we attempted to figure out why the aforementioned relative had so firmly come to these conclusions. Being well versed in her history, I had a measure of understanding, not sympathy -- understanding. We sawed back and forth and finally singled out selfishness as the villain. This is an easy conclusion because the condition is nearly universal to some degree or another in each and every one of us.
As previously argued on these pages, we have survival mechanisms hard wired into our psyche which render us primarily concerned for our own well being. As babes, we scream for food, comfort and attention. We progress to a more sophisticated level, protecting our own toys, space, and importance in the family. As teens we are introduced to more and more interest in the carnal self and are constantly reacting to our peers, not just in the family, but in the world at large. If nothing interrupts this process, the result is inevitable. Our pre-adult years are spent often within the confines of our own existence. Under these circumstances, it is difficult not to realize that, “it’s not about you.”
We question some adults, who are far from the realm of childhood, and wonder when they will “grow up,” a euphemism for diminishing selfishness. Some never do. They continue to clamor for attention and their entire world view is a mirror for their own needs. You know these people. They populate our divorce courts, rehabilitation centers for drugs and alcohol, hospitals, prisons, and congress. I didn’t just throw that in to see if you were paying attention. Unfortunately, it is frequently apropos. Each is a rampaging example of selfishness and almost every social ill can be traced to it. Infidelity, personal gratification, hypochondria, crime, and, for that matter, earmarks of other peoples' money as a re-election device can be traced to love of self. None of these people have the greater good of mankind as their central purpose. Their exposure to the teachings of Jesus Christ have either been inadequate or ignored.
Recognizing selfishness in oneself is not an easy matter but it is absolutely essential for a professing Christian. As a foundation for the humility we are advised to seek and the repentance necessary for salvation it is of the utmost importance. Success in the issue is difficult to quantify. It cannot be seen in terms of the absolute. It exists on a sliding scale. With the total absence of self comes a degree of perfection which would make us an immediate candidate for translation to the heavenly realm. Does that mean it is a hopeless endeavor? Speaking personally, I easily recognize the various levels of selfishness which have guided me to harm not only myself but others. This realization has drawn me to see in Jesus Christ the answer to all of life’s problems. Even though I see Him as a solution I recognize, even today, a varying sublimation of self and elevation of Him. I would love to tell you the process is final but must share that I am a work in progress. I offer this as a disclaimer for those who don’t realize I am writing this for me as well as for you.
There is a finite amount of space in our hearts and minds. We may either choose to fill the void with love of self or the love of Christ. Along with the love of Christ comes the love of others. He did not suggest it; He commanded it. I know; your back aches, your car payment's due, your sister ran off with the pool boy, the preacher offended you, and your boss is a minion of Satan. But, is that an excuse to offend everyone else in your life? Does it become a reason to withdraw your tenderness and not address the needs of others? We are advised not to hide our light under the bushel but shine as a beacon to all as an example.
I must re-emphasize that this is an ongoing procedure. Filling the voids with the spirit of the Lord, to be successful must be constant. Any departure from this effort will result in failure and all its consequences. I have encountered a few professionals in my life whose constant focus was on practice: a couple of doctors, lawyers, and certainly some athletes who have recognized this as an essential aspect of their careers. Is not our pursuit of the Lord’s purpose in our lives not worthy of practice as well? Further study of the scriptures, a good word to a brother, random acts of kindness and a general sense of a good example go a long way toward practicing what we preach. I fully realize that it might forestall some of our selfish interests, but then, that is what this all about, isn’t it?
While I cherish the fellowship with other believers I fully understand that my future rests upon my personal relationship with God. I find it non-contradictory that I face judgment based upon my actions alone. I cannot run, neither can I hide. As my knowledge of Him has increased and my heightened awareness of His purposes has taken over my thoughts I am far more comfortable facing the realities of the future.
As far as the relative who caused all this introspection in the first place, my immediate thought is to seek the Lord in prayer. The second response is to enlarge the scope of the example we set by assuring her that all our love is available and, like it or not, so is the Lord’s. The most important thing is to continue the contact and not run away from any confrontation, because once dialogue ceases, any chance for ministry disappears as well.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
The writer of the note revealed in the text, not agnosticism but absolute disbelief. Since my wife has an exemplary faith in Jesus Christ and the tenets of the Gospel, that reply brought serious questioning of “where she went wrong.” The matter prompted a discussion of some length.
Several things came up as we attempted to figure out why the aforementioned relative had so firmly come to these conclusions. Being well versed in her history, I had a measure of understanding, not sympathy -- understanding. We sawed back and forth and finally singled out selfishness as the villain. This is an easy conclusion because the condition is nearly universal to some degree or another in each and every one of us.
As previously argued on these pages, we have survival mechanisms hard wired into our psyche which render us primarily concerned for our own well being. As babes, we scream for food, comfort and attention. We progress to a more sophisticated level, protecting our own toys, space, and importance in the family. As teens we are introduced to more and more interest in the carnal self and are constantly reacting to our peers, not just in the family, but in the world at large. If nothing interrupts this process, the result is inevitable. Our pre-adult years are spent often within the confines of our own existence. Under these circumstances, it is difficult not to realize that, “it’s not about you.”
We question some adults, who are far from the realm of childhood, and wonder when they will “grow up,” a euphemism for diminishing selfishness. Some never do. They continue to clamor for attention and their entire world view is a mirror for their own needs. You know these people. They populate our divorce courts, rehabilitation centers for drugs and alcohol, hospitals, prisons, and congress. I didn’t just throw that in to see if you were paying attention. Unfortunately, it is frequently apropos. Each is a rampaging example of selfishness and almost every social ill can be traced to it. Infidelity, personal gratification, hypochondria, crime, and, for that matter, earmarks of other peoples' money as a re-election device can be traced to love of self. None of these people have the greater good of mankind as their central purpose. Their exposure to the teachings of Jesus Christ have either been inadequate or ignored.
Recognizing selfishness in oneself is not an easy matter but it is absolutely essential for a professing Christian. As a foundation for the humility we are advised to seek and the repentance necessary for salvation it is of the utmost importance. Success in the issue is difficult to quantify. It cannot be seen in terms of the absolute. It exists on a sliding scale. With the total absence of self comes a degree of perfection which would make us an immediate candidate for translation to the heavenly realm. Does that mean it is a hopeless endeavor? Speaking personally, I easily recognize the various levels of selfishness which have guided me to harm not only myself but others. This realization has drawn me to see in Jesus Christ the answer to all of life’s problems. Even though I see Him as a solution I recognize, even today, a varying sublimation of self and elevation of Him. I would love to tell you the process is final but must share that I am a work in progress. I offer this as a disclaimer for those who don’t realize I am writing this for me as well as for you.
There is a finite amount of space in our hearts and minds. We may either choose to fill the void with love of self or the love of Christ. Along with the love of Christ comes the love of others. He did not suggest it; He commanded it. I know; your back aches, your car payment's due, your sister ran off with the pool boy, the preacher offended you, and your boss is a minion of Satan. But, is that an excuse to offend everyone else in your life? Does it become a reason to withdraw your tenderness and not address the needs of others? We are advised not to hide our light under the bushel but shine as a beacon to all as an example.
I must re-emphasize that this is an ongoing procedure. Filling the voids with the spirit of the Lord, to be successful must be constant. Any departure from this effort will result in failure and all its consequences. I have encountered a few professionals in my life whose constant focus was on practice: a couple of doctors, lawyers, and certainly some athletes who have recognized this as an essential aspect of their careers. Is not our pursuit of the Lord’s purpose in our lives not worthy of practice as well? Further study of the scriptures, a good word to a brother, random acts of kindness and a general sense of a good example go a long way toward practicing what we preach. I fully realize that it might forestall some of our selfish interests, but then, that is what this all about, isn’t it?
While I cherish the fellowship with other believers I fully understand that my future rests upon my personal relationship with God. I find it non-contradictory that I face judgment based upon my actions alone. I cannot run, neither can I hide. As my knowledge of Him has increased and my heightened awareness of His purposes has taken over my thoughts I am far more comfortable facing the realities of the future.
As far as the relative who caused all this introspection in the first place, my immediate thought is to seek the Lord in prayer. The second response is to enlarge the scope of the example we set by assuring her that all our love is available and, like it or not, so is the Lord’s. The most important thing is to continue the contact and not run away from any confrontation, because once dialogue ceases, any chance for ministry disappears as well.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Monday, January 21, 2008
Monday Morning Rant 21
We shall start the rant this morning with a quote: “The saddest aspect of life right now is that is that science gathers knowledge faster than society gathers wisdom.” Isaac Asimov
I would suggest that Mr. Asimov nailed it. It could also be modified by substituting people for the word science. The information age has provided the data. God can indeed help us with the wisdom part, but only if He is sought.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I may have isolated part of the problem with the church. In my initial exposure to the faith, in Bedison Congregation, Far West Stake, in the sixties, each priesthood member was employed as a “hands on” farmer. This closeness to the land was expanded by a system of preaching exchange within the Stake to include priesthood largely from neighboring congregations with a primarily agricultural bent. Most were limited in formal education but were extremely accomplished in their chosen vocations as tillers of the soil. They also pursued their priesthood duties seriously and effectively.
Their knowledge of the Scriptures was at a level of advanced degree college work. Their social and counseling skills, though not polished, were exemplary. As visitors came to the pulpit, we saw clothing accurately described as “Sunday Best” and only worn four or five hours a week. No thought had been given to style. The faces were tanned from the sun, even in winter, and their strong hands showed evidence of hard work. As they spoke, the king’s English was not always the rule, but God’s message was unmistakably constant. I marveled at their clarity and faith and came to realize how “God driven” these men actually were. In comparison to the slick, articulate presentations I had received from the pastors of other faiths, I came to feel that these men presented truths which had been otherwise unavailable. As I review the vocations of the faithful prophets and visionaries of the Testaments, I see far more tent makers, fishermen and men of husbandry than I do bankers, lawyers, and accountants. Please don’t plead that those latter occupations didn’t exist then, they did but often identified by different titles.
In the final analysis, my spiritual development progressed to baptism under the guidance of these holy men. My further growth has been a constant striving to live up to the example they set of following the Master without question. I really do miss them. I miss the unequivocal positions they held on doctrine. I miss the upraised voices in prayer and supplication. I miss their ability to make Jesus Christ a living factor for so many of the congregation. Not a myth or an entertaining story but rather they presented a living God ever active in our lives.
Am I suggesting that one needs to be a farmer to be an effective representative of Christ? Absolutely not. I am not saying that you can’t do the work of the Lord unless you are immersed in agriculture. I am also not saying that you can’t be Satan’s tool if you are. I am only reporting anecdotal evidence from a happier time in the church when those to whom I was exposed were working the land.
Carpenters, farmers, and throwers of nets all break a sweat in their daily work. They must “get out of themselves” to accomplish their tasks. In the process, they often get their hands dirty and calloused. They tend more generally to deal in solving life’s problems and in seeking these solutions, to call on the Lord. Also, they have learned to accept the adversity which living on the land and dealing with weather and the fickle nature of some crops and animals bring. They deal in realism. Feelings never helped birth a calf or plow a row of corn, only skill will do that.
Please consider one final note on the parables of the Bible. Given the times, they were often couched in terms of a subsistence society. Thus, they are often more understandable to those who more closely live that life today. Although not easily discerned by some in today’s world, separating wheat from tares was and is an every day task for those who provide our food and clothing.
Yes, I have known men of great faith, with exceptional spiritual gifts, who were merchants, engineers, teachers and bean counters. It is not my intention to insinuate they do not have a good spirit. My only contention is that I personally have benefited more in my growth in the faith from the counsel of humble men of the soil.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
I would suggest that Mr. Asimov nailed it. It could also be modified by substituting people for the word science. The information age has provided the data. God can indeed help us with the wisdom part, but only if He is sought.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I may have isolated part of the problem with the church. In my initial exposure to the faith, in Bedison Congregation, Far West Stake, in the sixties, each priesthood member was employed as a “hands on” farmer. This closeness to the land was expanded by a system of preaching exchange within the Stake to include priesthood largely from neighboring congregations with a primarily agricultural bent. Most were limited in formal education but were extremely accomplished in their chosen vocations as tillers of the soil. They also pursued their priesthood duties seriously and effectively.
Their knowledge of the Scriptures was at a level of advanced degree college work. Their social and counseling skills, though not polished, were exemplary. As visitors came to the pulpit, we saw clothing accurately described as “Sunday Best” and only worn four or five hours a week. No thought had been given to style. The faces were tanned from the sun, even in winter, and their strong hands showed evidence of hard work. As they spoke, the king’s English was not always the rule, but God’s message was unmistakably constant. I marveled at their clarity and faith and came to realize how “God driven” these men actually were. In comparison to the slick, articulate presentations I had received from the pastors of other faiths, I came to feel that these men presented truths which had been otherwise unavailable. As I review the vocations of the faithful prophets and visionaries of the Testaments, I see far more tent makers, fishermen and men of husbandry than I do bankers, lawyers, and accountants. Please don’t plead that those latter occupations didn’t exist then, they did but often identified by different titles.
In the final analysis, my spiritual development progressed to baptism under the guidance of these holy men. My further growth has been a constant striving to live up to the example they set of following the Master without question. I really do miss them. I miss the unequivocal positions they held on doctrine. I miss the upraised voices in prayer and supplication. I miss their ability to make Jesus Christ a living factor for so many of the congregation. Not a myth or an entertaining story but rather they presented a living God ever active in our lives.
Am I suggesting that one needs to be a farmer to be an effective representative of Christ? Absolutely not. I am not saying that you can’t do the work of the Lord unless you are immersed in agriculture. I am also not saying that you can’t be Satan’s tool if you are. I am only reporting anecdotal evidence from a happier time in the church when those to whom I was exposed were working the land.
Carpenters, farmers, and throwers of nets all break a sweat in their daily work. They must “get out of themselves” to accomplish their tasks. In the process, they often get their hands dirty and calloused. They tend more generally to deal in solving life’s problems and in seeking these solutions, to call on the Lord. Also, they have learned to accept the adversity which living on the land and dealing with weather and the fickle nature of some crops and animals bring. They deal in realism. Feelings never helped birth a calf or plow a row of corn, only skill will do that.
Please consider one final note on the parables of the Bible. Given the times, they were often couched in terms of a subsistence society. Thus, they are often more understandable to those who more closely live that life today. Although not easily discerned by some in today’s world, separating wheat from tares was and is an every day task for those who provide our food and clothing.
Yes, I have known men of great faith, with exceptional spiritual gifts, who were merchants, engineers, teachers and bean counters. It is not my intention to insinuate they do not have a good spirit. My only contention is that I personally have benefited more in my growth in the faith from the counsel of humble men of the soil.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Saturday, January 19, 2008
New York Times Update
Yesterday, we posted about the New York Times and their scurrilous attack on the US military. Today we have a follow-up by blogger, Iowahawk regarding a similar situation in the media. For those unfamiliar with the work of this brilliant satirist, he is incomparable in his ability to isolate the essential truths and present them in a humorous manner. Please note that, unlike the NY Times, he has provided a link to each and every allegation of misconduct conduct on the part of journalists.
Although not a problem in this particular piece, he has been known to use some earthy language and ribald analogies. Therefore, if you find it entertaining and decide to investigate his writings further; you have been warned.
(So here you have it). Enjoy!
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Although not a problem in this particular piece, he has been known to use some earthy language and ribald analogies. Therefore, if you find it entertaining and decide to investigate his writings further; you have been warned.
(So here you have it). Enjoy!
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Friday, January 18, 2008
New York Left Wing Times Article
As a teenager during WWII, I was privileged to be in frequent contact with a wonderful man. My half brother’s grandfather was Don Hoopes, the managing editor of the Marshalltown Times-Republican and then president of the Iowa Daily Press Association. During that time, we spent many hours together and I was fascinated by both his vocation and his ability to extract bass from a tiny lake where the family had a cabin. Since I delivered the Des Moines Register he often joked that we newspaper guys had to stick together. To elevate my importance, he said that without me, the editor’s work would never reach the public. He also shared much inside information about the business and the responsibilities of his position. As a consequence, I grew up with a tremendous respect for him and the fourth estate in general.
I now recognize that a regular feature of the Times-Republican is now virtually absent from most daily papers. Their corrections notice was on the front page, below the fold. Any errors or omissions were dealt with and enjoyed the same prominence as the original story. The rule in modern papers today is to publish their rare mea culpas on page 18a. I found this impressive as a child and as a man, a vital component of reporting the truth. We all make mistakes regardless of our most careful efforts but corrections are not consistent with the arrogant self-interest that most editors have today.
He was also a man who, as editorial writer, was scrupulously fair. In private, his politics were readily apparent; in public offerings he made every effort to cloak his individual opinions. No story passed his desk without fairness and a full presentation of all the facts which might color the reader’s mind. Fifty years before Fox News seized it, he proclaimed the slogan “we report, you decide.” Despite offers from larger papers, he preferred to serve the community he called home.
This recap of a man’s life and his influence on a boy was prompted by a recent objection to an article in the New York Times. The suggested claim is that veterans of the Iraq War are involved in an inordinate number of violent crimes once they rejoin the populace at large. “Across America, Deadly Echoes of Foreign Battles" is the name of the article and one click will put you in touch with this slander.
Of the 749,932 discharges (all branches) through 2007, 121 homicide cases have been processed. This includes not only premeditated murder, but also negligent death (manslaughter) and some involving self-defense. This indicates a rate of 16.1 per 100,000 for the entire six year period. The total number of active duty and discharged personnel is more than 1.5 million giving us a rate of 1.34 incidents per 100,000 per year! So what would the rate of the general population in the same age bracket be? According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, in white males, age 18 to 24 years the rate was 20 per 100,000. To repeat the comparison that would be 1.34 for Iraq veterans vs. 20 for the general population in the same age bracket.
It took nine reporters and 6300 words to compile this hogwash. Apparently there was not a pencil and the back of an envelope among them to crunch the numbers. If this article proves anything, it would be that our fine fighting men (there was only one woman among the offenders) have a far better grasp of living peaceful and disciplined lives once home from the carnage that is war, than their counterparts in civilian life.
Little mention is made in the article about the role of resistance to gang activity, drugs and alcohol as causative effects. Some also reacted to unfaithfulness of wives and girl friends in their absence, although not a valid reason for murder, certainly a significant contributing factor. One of the 121 individuals shot a man who had sexually abused his stepson, hardly a result of his service in Iraq. All in all, the piece seemed more dedicated to the defamation of our troops than to actual fact filled reportage of a problem. To intentionally defame the military in time of war is in my mind a vile and unconscionable act. To further degrade a publication with a noble history, while expected, only adds to the crime. The New York Times has accomplished this by adding to their agenda driven and bias reporting of this story.
The saddest aspect of the whole affair is that those whom the Times choose to diminish are those who fight and die to protect their right to publish such drivel. Why then should this concern us as Christians? We should avoid the habit, and it does become a habit, of accepting as truth every pronouncement from the minds of men. Unlike the Times, “Zion Beckons” welcomes comments and disagreement. Most true Christian publications actively solicit you to detect any variation from the straight and narrow presentation. We all recognize the frailties of men and encourage correction.
Provided with our God given access to Him for confirmation of that which we question, we have little excuse not to recognize truth. This should be on our minds every time we see a questionable assertion. Be it in national affairs or local church assemblies it is necessary to accept God’s promise and check with Him. In addition, once a source proves to be the purveyor of falsehood, why consult them in the first place?
“All the news that’s fit to print.”
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
I now recognize that a regular feature of the Times-Republican is now virtually absent from most daily papers. Their corrections notice was on the front page, below the fold. Any errors or omissions were dealt with and enjoyed the same prominence as the original story. The rule in modern papers today is to publish their rare mea culpas on page 18a. I found this impressive as a child and as a man, a vital component of reporting the truth. We all make mistakes regardless of our most careful efforts but corrections are not consistent with the arrogant self-interest that most editors have today.
He was also a man who, as editorial writer, was scrupulously fair. In private, his politics were readily apparent; in public offerings he made every effort to cloak his individual opinions. No story passed his desk without fairness and a full presentation of all the facts which might color the reader’s mind. Fifty years before Fox News seized it, he proclaimed the slogan “we report, you decide.” Despite offers from larger papers, he preferred to serve the community he called home.
This recap of a man’s life and his influence on a boy was prompted by a recent objection to an article in the New York Times. The suggested claim is that veterans of the Iraq War are involved in an inordinate number of violent crimes once they rejoin the populace at large. “Across America, Deadly Echoes of Foreign Battles" is the name of the article and one click will put you in touch with this slander.
Of the 749,932 discharges (all branches) through 2007, 121 homicide cases have been processed. This includes not only premeditated murder, but also negligent death (manslaughter) and some involving self-defense. This indicates a rate of 16.1 per 100,000 for the entire six year period. The total number of active duty and discharged personnel is more than 1.5 million giving us a rate of 1.34 incidents per 100,000 per year! So what would the rate of the general population in the same age bracket be? According to the U.S. Bureau of Justice Statistics, in white males, age 18 to 24 years the rate was 20 per 100,000. To repeat the comparison that would be 1.34 for Iraq veterans vs. 20 for the general population in the same age bracket.
It took nine reporters and 6300 words to compile this hogwash. Apparently there was not a pencil and the back of an envelope among them to crunch the numbers. If this article proves anything, it would be that our fine fighting men (there was only one woman among the offenders) have a far better grasp of living peaceful and disciplined lives once home from the carnage that is war, than their counterparts in civilian life.
Little mention is made in the article about the role of resistance to gang activity, drugs and alcohol as causative effects. Some also reacted to unfaithfulness of wives and girl friends in their absence, although not a valid reason for murder, certainly a significant contributing factor. One of the 121 individuals shot a man who had sexually abused his stepson, hardly a result of his service in Iraq. All in all, the piece seemed more dedicated to the defamation of our troops than to actual fact filled reportage of a problem. To intentionally defame the military in time of war is in my mind a vile and unconscionable act. To further degrade a publication with a noble history, while expected, only adds to the crime. The New York Times has accomplished this by adding to their agenda driven and bias reporting of this story.
The saddest aspect of the whole affair is that those whom the Times choose to diminish are those who fight and die to protect their right to publish such drivel. Why then should this concern us as Christians? We should avoid the habit, and it does become a habit, of accepting as truth every pronouncement from the minds of men. Unlike the Times, “Zion Beckons” welcomes comments and disagreement. Most true Christian publications actively solicit you to detect any variation from the straight and narrow presentation. We all recognize the frailties of men and encourage correction.
Provided with our God given access to Him for confirmation of that which we question, we have little excuse not to recognize truth. This should be on our minds every time we see a questionable assertion. Be it in national affairs or local church assemblies it is necessary to accept God’s promise and check with Him. In addition, once a source proves to be the purveyor of falsehood, why consult them in the first place?
“All the news that’s fit to print.”
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Thursday, January 17, 2008
A Blank Page
There is a certain purity to a blank page. Whether it is an empty computer screen or a piece of paper, it awaits your input without judgment or condemnation. There is also a calling inherent in its presence, as if crying out for words to fill the void. I believe that the artist senses the same feelings when he surveys the empty canvas. I imagine he sees the completed canvas as a projection of what is in his heart.
Perhaps this is the province of amateurs. Do professionals operating on assignments have the same thoughts? Perhaps under the guidance and demands of editors and time constraints they must complete the thoughts of others. I find that notion an affront to liberty, but then putting bread on the table often is. This is possibly the reason I am so attracted to websites which are written for the most part by persons with little hope of ever making a living as a result of their efforts. If they dealt in oils and canvas they would fit the name, starving artists. As it is, they are mostly those with firm opinions on one of an immense variety of topics which in themselves are very narrowly confined as the subject of the sites.
We deal with others in our lives in much the same way. We are presented, at their birth, with little ones with the same blank page. These precious souls come equipped with little more than instinct and a genetic code. The rest is up to us. But, you say, our job as parents is past. Really! Where in the manual (you did get one didn’t you?) does it say you can quit parenting at some arbitrary time? Is it after college graduation? Is it when they get married? Is it because you never had any children of your own? Did Jesus Christ shun the children because they weren’t His? No, He gathered them unto Him and shared stories and Himself with them. Although He didn’t say so, I’m certain He listened to them as well.
When I address those in the faith by the title "brother" and "sister" I assume a familial relationship which assigns their children’s care and keeping to me as well. I must maintain an example for them. I must be aware of their needs. I must be ever alert to present the face of a joyful Christian and follow it up with action as well. I am always thrilled to hear an adult refer with rapt remembrance to a Sunday school teacher who guided them in their formative years. Do we not remember the various plays and other offerings we performed to enhance a holiday worship service? Some very patient adults were there to guide the youngsters to sing or recite.
Even the most dedicated reader of scripture finds passages which require interpretation and explanation. I doubt the validity of any proposition which cannot be explained to a child. Practice and be prepared to render understandable those laws and doctrines which we hold dear. This is not preaching but loving sharing. If one tells a child. “You wouldn’t understand” it diminishes the child but demeans your willingness and spiritual condition even more. This whole process is not work; it’s love.
So, here we have a very valuable “blank page” just awaiting our positive and spiritual response. We can cover it with an appreciation of the Master, His life and teachings. Or, we can just doodle and waste an opportunity to truly be of service to Him. The most precious resource of our church is awaiting our input. Without them, we will eventually expire as a faith.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Perhaps this is the province of amateurs. Do professionals operating on assignments have the same thoughts? Perhaps under the guidance and demands of editors and time constraints they must complete the thoughts of others. I find that notion an affront to liberty, but then putting bread on the table often is. This is possibly the reason I am so attracted to websites which are written for the most part by persons with little hope of ever making a living as a result of their efforts. If they dealt in oils and canvas they would fit the name, starving artists. As it is, they are mostly those with firm opinions on one of an immense variety of topics which in themselves are very narrowly confined as the subject of the sites.
We deal with others in our lives in much the same way. We are presented, at their birth, with little ones with the same blank page. These precious souls come equipped with little more than instinct and a genetic code. The rest is up to us. But, you say, our job as parents is past. Really! Where in the manual (you did get one didn’t you?) does it say you can quit parenting at some arbitrary time? Is it after college graduation? Is it when they get married? Is it because you never had any children of your own? Did Jesus Christ shun the children because they weren’t His? No, He gathered them unto Him and shared stories and Himself with them. Although He didn’t say so, I’m certain He listened to them as well.
When I address those in the faith by the title "brother" and "sister" I assume a familial relationship which assigns their children’s care and keeping to me as well. I must maintain an example for them. I must be aware of their needs. I must be ever alert to present the face of a joyful Christian and follow it up with action as well. I am always thrilled to hear an adult refer with rapt remembrance to a Sunday school teacher who guided them in their formative years. Do we not remember the various plays and other offerings we performed to enhance a holiday worship service? Some very patient adults were there to guide the youngsters to sing or recite.
Even the most dedicated reader of scripture finds passages which require interpretation and explanation. I doubt the validity of any proposition which cannot be explained to a child. Practice and be prepared to render understandable those laws and doctrines which we hold dear. This is not preaching but loving sharing. If one tells a child. “You wouldn’t understand” it diminishes the child but demeans your willingness and spiritual condition even more. This whole process is not work; it’s love.
So, here we have a very valuable “blank page” just awaiting our positive and spiritual response. We can cover it with an appreciation of the Master, His life and teachings. Or, we can just doodle and waste an opportunity to truly be of service to Him. The most precious resource of our church is awaiting our input. Without them, we will eventually expire as a faith.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Monday (Wednesday Really) Rant 20
With apologies to those who faithfully read the blog to see what I’m upset about this time, I plead family responsibilities and travel as an excuse. I was in Lisle, Illinois to attend the memorial service for my recently deceased brother.
I’ll not dwell on it excessively but simply say that the outpouring of condolences from those assembled was overwhelming. They came from all over the United States and represented major appliance manufacturers, rent to own centers, builders, and those who ski, bike, and golf. The most emotional moment came as the military unit assigned from the Navy presented the flag to the widow in acknowledgement of his service aboard the USS Mansfield during the Viet Nam era. Our family appreciated all those who attended, sent regrets and otherwise celebrated a very exuberant and successful life.
Although I was not with those who share my specific beliefs, I felt a good spirit was present and enjoyed exchanging views with others about the nature of the afterlife. Sometimes it’s good to stop and listen to those whose spiritual credentials are not on their sleeves. Their opinions were not all that different from mine. All in all, I came away with the notion that the teaching of Jesus Christ is alive in the hearts of many fellow believers.
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Before we left Friday for the memorial service we experienced another loss which affected each and every life in our little Ozarks paradise. My faithful companion, a yellow lab named Ashley, died while lying at my feet Thursday evening. She went without a whimper or any sign of protest. As ever, she lay near me as I typed on my keyboard. Always the lady, she never sought attention while I was working.
What has provoked so much thought is the role she played among the other animals. Our smallest dog, Gus, was far more dependent upon Ashley as a friend and more important, protector. He has spent an inordinate amount of time on the chair by the window looking for the return of his buddy from one of her occasional forays into the neighborhood. We were aware they had a strong relationship but not aware of how dependent he had become. Although our newest resident, Maggie, is friendly, she is young, exuberant and four times as large as Gus. Without the restraint which Ashley provided, we are now concerned about accidental incidents during play.
The cats have freaked. They are nowhere to be easily seen. Without Ashley’s moderating influence, they are fair game for Maggie’s boisterous play style. If we ever see the three of them again, we shall report on their activities.
Although I am not a fan of humanizing pets, I do see parallels in their behavior. In this case it is the outstanding example Ashley set for the rest. In her dignity and calm demeanor, she set the example and provided the discipline for the rest. It has only been since we lost her that we realized it fully. This then provokes some reflection for all of us.
Do we set that example as a guidepost to others? Do the behaviors of those around us appear to be influenced by our manner and attitudes? God has given us intellect and an indwelling spirit far in excess of the beasts. One can only pray that we are using them for His purposes and as a good example to others.
---------------------------------------------------------------
We shall attempt to get the postings to Zion Beckons back on track and regular as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience, prayers, and kind thoughts.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
I’ll not dwell on it excessively but simply say that the outpouring of condolences from those assembled was overwhelming. They came from all over the United States and represented major appliance manufacturers, rent to own centers, builders, and those who ski, bike, and golf. The most emotional moment came as the military unit assigned from the Navy presented the flag to the widow in acknowledgement of his service aboard the USS Mansfield during the Viet Nam era. Our family appreciated all those who attended, sent regrets and otherwise celebrated a very exuberant and successful life.
Although I was not with those who share my specific beliefs, I felt a good spirit was present and enjoyed exchanging views with others about the nature of the afterlife. Sometimes it’s good to stop and listen to those whose spiritual credentials are not on their sleeves. Their opinions were not all that different from mine. All in all, I came away with the notion that the teaching of Jesus Christ is alive in the hearts of many fellow believers.
-------------------------------------------------------------
Before we left Friday for the memorial service we experienced another loss which affected each and every life in our little Ozarks paradise. My faithful companion, a yellow lab named Ashley, died while lying at my feet Thursday evening. She went without a whimper or any sign of protest. As ever, she lay near me as I typed on my keyboard. Always the lady, she never sought attention while I was working.
What has provoked so much thought is the role she played among the other animals. Our smallest dog, Gus, was far more dependent upon Ashley as a friend and more important, protector. He has spent an inordinate amount of time on the chair by the window looking for the return of his buddy from one of her occasional forays into the neighborhood. We were aware they had a strong relationship but not aware of how dependent he had become. Although our newest resident, Maggie, is friendly, she is young, exuberant and four times as large as Gus. Without the restraint which Ashley provided, we are now concerned about accidental incidents during play.
The cats have freaked. They are nowhere to be easily seen. Without Ashley’s moderating influence, they are fair game for Maggie’s boisterous play style. If we ever see the three of them again, we shall report on their activities.
Although I am not a fan of humanizing pets, I do see parallels in their behavior. In this case it is the outstanding example Ashley set for the rest. In her dignity and calm demeanor, she set the example and provided the discipline for the rest. It has only been since we lost her that we realized it fully. This then provokes some reflection for all of us.
Do we set that example as a guidepost to others? Do the behaviors of those around us appear to be influenced by our manner and attitudes? God has given us intellect and an indwelling spirit far in excess of the beasts. One can only pray that we are using them for His purposes and as a good example to others.
---------------------------------------------------------------
We shall attempt to get the postings to Zion Beckons back on track and regular as soon as possible. Thank you for your patience, prayers, and kind thoughts.
In His abiding love,
Cecil Moon
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