Monday, December 31, 2012
Survivors of Abortion - Rape Cases....
http://www.lifenews.com/2011/12/30/survivors-of-abortion-are-changing-hearts-and-minds/
Here are some accounts of women that were conceived via rape, and still managed to survive abortions. Some of these are just down right sad. Imagine being born and learning later your brother or sister had died from abortion.....I personally would not have the easiest time with that one.
Padre Pio Newsletter - GREAT stuff here...
http://www.padrepiodevotions.org/january-march2013.pdf
Great reading from St. Padre Pio etc., ...
Great reading from St. Padre Pio etc., ...
Never let us put aside the thought of our ultimate
aim. And what is this ultimate aim? To know God,
principally, is why he conceived our days, our years.
Therefore, let us try never to forget this ultimate
aim, for everything depends on it. And for what
reason? To serve him with faith, with love, and with
constancy. Let us try to excel in all of this, then. Since
God created us for love, he takes care of us for love,
and for love he has promised us the prize.
— St. Pio of Pietrelcina
Focus On Fundamentals
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887323320404578212051282802358.html?mod=WSJ_Opinion_MIDDLESecond
I think the concept of "Spending Cuts" is completely foreign to Uncle Sam; much like Tangential, 3- Dimensional Calculus is foreign to the typical Fine Arts Enthusiast enthralled with Picasso etc....
I think the concept of "Spending Cuts" is completely foreign to Uncle Sam; much like Tangential, 3- Dimensional Calculus is foreign to the typical Fine Arts Enthusiast enthralled with Picasso etc....
More Padre Pio...
The palm of victory is reserved only for those who fight up to the end. Therefore let us begin this year our holy battle. God will assist us and crown us with eternal triumph. St. Padre Pio"
We shall not see each other again in this world; but when I am no longer here, do not forget me in your prayers before the Almighty and I shall continue as your guide from Heaven. St Padre Pio
Sunday, December 30, 2012
Obama playing Mr. Propaganda
President Obama can blame everyone he wants - this is on him as much as it is anyone else. It was not the Repubs decision to incur Trillion Dollar deficits the last 4 years; and it's not like he's forcing Boehrner or McConnel to sit in meetings with him 12 hours a day to get this worked out. He's met about 3 times in the last year....not exactly implying a sense of urgency.
http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/274877-obama-pressure-is-on-congress-to-reach-fiscal-deal-before-deadline
http://thehill.com/homenews/administration/274877-obama-pressure-is-on-congress-to-reach-fiscal-deal-before-deadline
More Padre Pio Gems...
Some more awesome quotes from St. Padre Pio. I am going to try and include more saint quotes on this blog regularly.
But let us take heart. . .Let us glance at the Divine Master who prayed in the Garden and we will discover the true ladder which unites the earth to Heaven. We will discover that humility, contrition and prayer make the distance between man and God disappear, and act in such a way that God descends to man, and man ascends to God, so that they end up understanding, loving and possessing one another. St. Padre Pio
One day, a former Italian Army Officer entered the sacristy and watching Padre Pio said; “Yes, here he is! I am not wrong!” He approached Padre Pio, and kneeling in front of him crying, he said; “Padre, thank you for saving me from death.” Afterwards, the man told the people present there, “I was a Captain of the Infantry and one day on the battlefield in a terrible hour of battle, not far from me I saw a friar who said; ‘Sir, go away from that place!’ I went towards him and as soon as I moved, a grenade burst in the place where I was before and opened a chasm. I turned around in order to find the friar, but he was not there anymore.” Padre Pio, who was bilocating, had saved his life.
But let us take heart. . .Let us glance at the Divine Master who prayed in the Garden and we will discover the true ladder which unites the earth to Heaven. We will discover that humility, contrition and prayer make the distance between man and God disappear, and act in such a way that God descends to man, and man ascends to God, so that they end up understanding, loving and possessing one another. St. Padre Pio
One day, a former Italian Army Officer entered the sacristy and watching Padre Pio said; “Yes, here he is! I am not wrong!” He approached Padre Pio, and kneeling in front of him crying, he said; “Padre, thank you for saving me from death.” Afterwards, the man told the people present there, “I was a Captain of the Infantry and one day on the battlefield in a terrible hour of battle, not far from me I saw a friar who said; ‘Sir, go away from that place!’ I went towards him and as soon as I moved, a grenade burst in the place where I was before and opened a chasm. I turned around in order to find the friar, but he was not there anymore.” Padre Pio, who was bilocating, had saved his life.
Becoming a Child of Padre Pio - Worth it and then some!
The below link is for the Padre Pio foundation. Great, awesome stuff. Then again, St. Padre Pio was a rather exceptional saint - one of the "Saints of the saints" as it were.
http://www.padrepio.com/
http://www.padrepio.com/
About
Padre Pio promised not to enter Paradise until all his spiritual children have entered.
Description
What is a spiritual child of Padre Pio? In Padre Pio's own words: "Once I take a soul on, I also take on his entire family as my spiritual children. If one of my spiritual children ever goes astray, I shall leave my flock and seek him out." These promises are capped by the "Great Promise" of Padre Pio which he repeated many times: I will ask the Lord to let me remain at the threshold of Paradise, and I will not enter until the last of my spiritual children has entered."
There are five conditions for becoming Padre pio's spiritual child:
!) To live intensely a life of divine grace.
2) To prove your faith with words and actions, living a true Christian life.
3) To desire to remain under the protection of St. Padre Pio and to want to enjoy the fruits of his prayers and sufferings.
4) To imitate Padre Pio's virtue, particularly his love for Jesus Crucified, for the Most Blessed Sacrament, for the Madonna, for the Pope, and for the entire Church.
5) To be animated by a sincere spirit of charity towards all.
If you have not already done so you can ask St. Padre Pio in your heart to be his spiritual child, or you can be formally enrolled. One way to do this is by requesting either the Padre Pio Foundation of America, or the National Centre for Padre Pio to enroll you. See Contact Info below:
Padre Pio Foundation of America
463 Main Street, Cromwell, CT. 06416
Tel: 860-635-4996 Website: www.padrepio.com
National Centre for Padre Pio, Inc.
2213 Old Route 100
Barto, PA. 19504
Tel: 610-845-3000 Website: www.padrepio.org
You may also enroll by writing the Friary directly. It is customary to include a small donation
Our Lady of Grace Capuchin Friary
71013 San Giovanni Rotondo
(FG) Italy
What is a spiritual child of Padre Pio? In Padre Pio's own words: "Once I take a soul on, I also take on his entire family as my spiritual children. If one of my spiritual children ever goes astray, I shall leave my flock and seek him out." These promises are capped by the "Great Promise" of Padre Pio which he repeated many times: I will ask the Lord to let me remain at the threshold of Paradise, and I will not enter until the last of my spiritual children has entered."
There are five conditions for becoming Padre pio's spiritual child:
!) To live intensely a life of divine grace.
2) To prove your faith with words and actions, living a true Christian life.
3) To desire to remain under the protection of St. Padre Pio and to want to enjoy the fruits of his prayers and sufferings.
4) To imitate Padre Pio's virtue, particularly his love for Jesus Crucified, for the Most Blessed Sacrament, for the Madonna, for the Pope, and for the entire Church.
5) To be animated by a sincere spirit of charity towards all.
If you have not already done so you can ask St. Padre Pio in your heart to be his spiritual child, or you can be formally enrolled. One way to do this is by requesting either the Padre Pio Foundation of America, or the National Centre for Padre Pio to enroll you. See Contact Info below:
Padre Pio Foundation of America
463 Main Street, Cromwell, CT. 06416
Tel: 860-635-4996 Website: www.padrepio.com
National Centre for Padre Pio, Inc.
2213 Old Route 100
Barto, PA. 19504
Tel: 610-845-3000 Website: www.padrepio.org
You may also enroll by writing the Friary directly. It is customary to include a small donation
Our Lady of Grace Capuchin Friary
71013 San Giovanni Rotondo
(FG) Italy
What is a spiritual child of Padre Pio? In Padre Pio's own words: "Once I take a soul on, I also take on his entire family as my spiritual children. If one of my spiritual children ever goes astray, I shall leave my flock and seek him out." These promises are capped by the "Great Promise" of Padre Pio which he repeated many times: I will ask the Lord to let me remain at the threshold of Paradise, and I will not enter until the last of my spiritual children has entered."
Words from Padre Pio - I LOVE this Saint :)
It is difficult to become saints. Difficult but not impossible. The road to perfection is long, just as long as a lifetime. Consolation is rest along the way, but as soon as your strength is restored, you must get up diligently and continue the race. St. Padre Pio. Have a Nice Day, Page 241
Good Article On "Comparative Religion"
http://www.hprweb.com/2012/12/father-arent-you-afraid-ill-become-muslim-the-challenge-of-encountering-non-christian-religions/
There is but one truth - therefore - an honest, sincere pursuit of faith is strictly speaking - a no lose proposition. It also so happens that "Faith" - the ability for a human person to assent (say yes to accepting" ALL that God has Revealed is ultimately given by God Himself . Every soul is given the desire to seek truth and the inner sense that it is obligated to live by this "light". As one Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange of happy memory once wrote - "the intellect directs the will". The "will" is the power of every human to exercise free will; alas one cannot act freely choose "the good" without knowing what it is. The driver can't drive at night if the headlights don't work; humans can't know what to do, or choose what is best for them if they don't know what's really "good for them".
There is but one truth - therefore - an honest, sincere pursuit of faith is strictly speaking - a no lose proposition. It also so happens that "Faith" - the ability for a human person to assent (say yes to accepting" ALL that God has Revealed is ultimately given by God Himself . Every soul is given the desire to seek truth and the inner sense that it is obligated to live by this "light". As one Fr. Reginald Garrigou-Lagrange of happy memory once wrote - "the intellect directs the will". The "will" is the power of every human to exercise free will; alas one cannot act freely choose "the good" without knowing what it is. The driver can't drive at night if the headlights don't work; humans can't know what to do, or choose what is best for them if they don't know what's really "good for them".
http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2012/12/30/Rates-Estate-Tax-Are-Sticking-Points-in-Possible-Deal.aspx#page1
The talk on tax rates is probably legit, the bit about "Estate Taxes" - probably over emphasized. They will just continue putting all public spin on taxation - as if spending cuts were but a trivial part of the problem. Again, never mind, that Uncle Sam is already deficit spending just months into the new Fiscal Year. Somebody should ask Senator Reid and Obama if they ever plan on passing a budget.
The talk on tax rates is probably legit, the bit about "Estate Taxes" - probably over emphasized. They will just continue putting all public spin on taxation - as if spending cuts were but a trivial part of the problem. Again, never mind, that Uncle Sam is already deficit spending just months into the new Fiscal Year. Somebody should ask Senator Reid and Obama if they ever plan on passing a budget.
Saturday, December 29, 2012
Blessed Pope John Paul II on Family....
"Dear brothers and sisters, spouses and parents, this is how the Bridegroom is with you. You know that he is the Good Shepherd. You know who he is, and you know his voice. You know where he is leading you, and how he strives to give you pastures where you can find life and find it in abundance. You know how he withstands the marauding wolves, and is ever ready to rescue his sheep: every husband and wife, every son and daughter, every member of your families. You know that he, as the Good Shepherd, is prepared to lay down his own life for his flock (cf. Jn 10:11). He leads you by paths which are not the steep and treacherous paths of many of today's ideologies, and he repeats to today's world the fullness of truth, even as he did in his conversation with the Pharisees or when he announced it to the Apostles, who then proclaimed it to all the ends of the earth and to all the people of their day, to Jews and Greeks alike. The disciples were fully conscious that Christ had made all things new. They knew that man had been made a "new creation": no longer Jew or Greek, no longer slave or free, no longer male or female, but "one" in Christ (cf. Gal 3:28) and endowed with the dignity of an adopted child of God. On the day of Pentecost man received the Spirit, the Comforter, the Spirit of truth. This was the beginning of the new People of God, the Church, the foreshadowing of new heavens and a new earth (cf. Rev 21:1).
The Apostles, overcoming their initial fears even about marriage and the family, grew in courage. They came to understand that marriage and family are a true vocation which comes from God himself and is an apostolate: the apostolate of the laity. Families are meant to contribute to the transformation of the earth and the renewal of the world, of creation and of all humanity.
Dear families, you too should be fearless, ever ready to give witness to the hope that is in you (cf. 1 Pet 3:15), since the Good Shepherd has put that hope in your hearts through the Gospel. You should be ready to follow Christ towards the pastures of life, which he himself has prepared through the Paschal Mystery of his Death and Resurrection.Do not be afraid of the risks! God's strength is always far more powerful than your difficulties! Immeasurably greater than the evil at work in the world is the power of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which the Fathers of the Church rightly called a "second Baptism". Much more influential than the corruption present in the world is the divine power of the Sacrament of Confirmation, which brings Baptism to its maturity. And incomparably greater than all is the power of the Eucharist."
The Eucharist is truly a wondrous sacrament. In it Christ has given us himself as food and drink, as a source of saving power. He has left himself to us that we might have life and have it in abundance (cf. Jn 10:10): the life which is in him and which he has shared with us by the gift of the Spirit in rising from the dead on the third day. The life that comes from Christ is a life for us. It is for you, dear husbands and wives, parents and families! Did Jesus not institute the Eucharist in a family-like setting during the Last Supper? When you meet for meals and are together in harmony, Christ is close to you. And he is Emmanuel, God with us, in an even greater way whenever you approach the table of the Eucharist. It can happen, as it did at Emmaus, that he is recognized only in "the breaking of the bread" (cf. Lk 24:35). It may well be that he is knocking at the door for a long time, waiting for it to be opened so that he can enter and eat with us (cf. Rev 3:20). The Last Supper and the words he spoke there contain all the power and wisdom of the sacrifice of the Cross. No other power and wisdom exist by which we can be saved and through which we can help to save others. There is no other power and no other wisdom by which you, parents, can educate both your children and yourselves. The educational power of the Eucharist has been proved down the generations and centuries.
Everywhere the Good Shepherd is with us. Even as he was at Cana in Galilee, the Bridegroom in the midst of the bride and groom as they entrusted themselves to each other for their whole life, so the Good Shepherd is also with us today as the reason for our hope, the source of strength for our hearts, the wellspring of ever new enthusiasm and the sign of the triumph of the "civilization of love". Jesus, the Good Shepherd, continues to say to us: Do not be afraid. I am with you. "I am with you always, to the close of the age" (Mt 28:20). What is the source of this strength? What is the reason for our certainty that you are with us, even though they put you to death, O Son of God, and you died like any other human being? What is the reason for this certainty? The Evangelist says: "He loved them to the end" (Jn 13:1). Thus do you love us, you who are the First and the Last, the Living One; you who died and are alive for evermore (cf. Rev 1:17-18)."
The whole text is in the link below....
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/letters/documents/hf_jp-ii_let_02021994_families_en.html
The Apostles, overcoming their initial fears even about marriage and the family, grew in courage. They came to understand that marriage and family are a true vocation which comes from God himself and is an apostolate: the apostolate of the laity. Families are meant to contribute to the transformation of the earth and the renewal of the world, of creation and of all humanity.
Dear families, you too should be fearless, ever ready to give witness to the hope that is in you (cf. 1 Pet 3:15), since the Good Shepherd has put that hope in your hearts through the Gospel. You should be ready to follow Christ towards the pastures of life, which he himself has prepared through the Paschal Mystery of his Death and Resurrection.Do not be afraid of the risks! God's strength is always far more powerful than your difficulties! Immeasurably greater than the evil at work in the world is the power of the Sacrament of Reconciliation, which the Fathers of the Church rightly called a "second Baptism". Much more influential than the corruption present in the world is the divine power of the Sacrament of Confirmation, which brings Baptism to its maturity. And incomparably greater than all is the power of the Eucharist."
The Eucharist is truly a wondrous sacrament. In it Christ has given us himself as food and drink, as a source of saving power. He has left himself to us that we might have life and have it in abundance (cf. Jn 10:10): the life which is in him and which he has shared with us by the gift of the Spirit in rising from the dead on the third day. The life that comes from Christ is a life for us. It is for you, dear husbands and wives, parents and families! Did Jesus not institute the Eucharist in a family-like setting during the Last Supper? When you meet for meals and are together in harmony, Christ is close to you. And he is Emmanuel, God with us, in an even greater way whenever you approach the table of the Eucharist. It can happen, as it did at Emmaus, that he is recognized only in "the breaking of the bread" (cf. Lk 24:35). It may well be that he is knocking at the door for a long time, waiting for it to be opened so that he can enter and eat with us (cf. Rev 3:20). The Last Supper and the words he spoke there contain all the power and wisdom of the sacrifice of the Cross. No other power and wisdom exist by which we can be saved and through which we can help to save others. There is no other power and no other wisdom by which you, parents, can educate both your children and yourselves. The educational power of the Eucharist has been proved down the generations and centuries.
Everywhere the Good Shepherd is with us. Even as he was at Cana in Galilee, the Bridegroom in the midst of the bride and groom as they entrusted themselves to each other for their whole life, so the Good Shepherd is also with us today as the reason for our hope, the source of strength for our hearts, the wellspring of ever new enthusiasm and the sign of the triumph of the "civilization of love". Jesus, the Good Shepherd, continues to say to us: Do not be afraid. I am with you. "I am with you always, to the close of the age" (Mt 28:20). What is the source of this strength? What is the reason for our certainty that you are with us, even though they put you to death, O Son of God, and you died like any other human being? What is the reason for this certainty? The Evangelist says: "He loved them to the end" (Jn 13:1). Thus do you love us, you who are the First and the Last, the Living One; you who died and are alive for evermore (cf. Rev 1:17-18)."
The whole text is in the link below....
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/john_paul_ii/letters/documents/hf_jp-ii_let_02021994_families_en.html
The Family..aka..Domestic Church and holiness
http://www.integratedcatholiclife.org/2012/12/dambrosio-sunday-reflection-holiness-and-the-family/
A great line from this article....
" The family is the original seminary. There is sown the call to share in both Christ’s holiness and his mission. Ironically, tending to these seedlings causes the parent/gardeners to grow as well. So family, in God’s plan, is a community where everyone grows and becomes more fruitful."
A great line from this article....
" The family is the original seminary. There is sown the call to share in both Christ’s holiness and his mission. Ironically, tending to these seedlings causes the parent/gardeners to grow as well. So family, in God’s plan, is a community where everyone grows and becomes more fruitful."
Friday, December 28, 2012
The fight against Obama favoring abortion continues....
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/28/watchdog-sues-obama-admin-over-arranging-abortions-for-illegals/
It's sad that this is happening at all - and - it's encouraging that somebody is putting up a challenge. The Obama Admin seems to take advantage of every possible opportunity it has to advance abortion. Calls for prayer and God are publicly invoked with disasters and horrible events like shootings and the like, but, come abortion - no problem with this heinous act at all.
It's sad that this is happening at all - and - it's encouraging that somebody is putting up a challenge. The Obama Admin seems to take advantage of every possible opportunity it has to advance abortion. Calls for prayer and God are publicly invoked with disasters and horrible events like shootings and the like, but, come abortion - no problem with this heinous act at all.
Orphaned kids getting reamed over politics
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/28/president-putin-signs-ban-on-americans-adopting-russian-kids/
This is just wrong - using orphaned kids as part of a political "game" with the Obama Admin.....ridiculous :(
This is just wrong - using orphaned kids as part of a political "game" with the Obama Admin.....ridiculous :(
Some Pro-Life Legislative Progress
Go Michigan! Yea, it's a huge step per se, but this certainly doesn't hurt and it clearly rankles Planned Parenthood that abortion be more restricted, directly or indirectly, whatsoever. It's a very gradual phenomenon, but this country is slowly becoming more pro-life...Praise God!
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/28/michigan-governor-signs-major-pro-life-bill-stopping-abortions/
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/28/michigan-governor-signs-major-pro-life-bill-stopping-abortions/
Christian Persecution - Obama Style....
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/28/hobby-lobby-will-defy-obama-hhs-mandate-risk-millions-in-fines/
Hobby Lobby faces fines up to $1.5 Million a day for not adhering to the onerous HHS Mandate. The Obama's Administrations attack on religious liberty continues. As irony would have it, other regions of the country - including the Washington D.C. area, see the appeals courts deciding in favor of companies or entities dealing with the same issue. This battle is not quite over yet - and may very well find its ultimate destination sitting on the desks of the Supreme Court Justices.
Hobby Lobby faces fines up to $1.5 Million a day for not adhering to the onerous HHS Mandate. The Obama's Administrations attack on religious liberty continues. As irony would have it, other regions of the country - including the Washington D.C. area, see the appeals courts deciding in favor of companies or entities dealing with the same issue. This battle is not quite over yet - and may very well find its ultimate destination sitting on the desks of the Supreme Court Justices.
Polling and Abortion - contradictions in play here...
http://www.lifenews.com/2011/08/11/poll-shows-americans-dont-know-roes-pro-abortion-effects/
Ignorance is a terrible thing sometimes. In some instances, it's even tragic. 58% supposedly polled think Roe vs. Wade was a good decision. Alas, the better part of 70% of the same polled oppose some of the laws Roe vs. Wade effectively put in place. Those in the pro-life movement have another "front" for action; improved eduction among the masses about what Roe vs. Wade is REALLY about - and the consequences thereof.
Ignorance is a terrible thing sometimes. In some instances, it's even tragic. 58% supposedly polled think Roe vs. Wade was a good decision. Alas, the better part of 70% of the same polled oppose some of the laws Roe vs. Wade effectively put in place. Those in the pro-life movement have another "front" for action; improved eduction among the masses about what Roe vs. Wade is REALLY about - and the consequences thereof.
Thursday, December 27, 2012
Blessed Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist
This is another cool link that is probably worth checking out. I have not looked at this exhaustively, but, first "gleanings" do look pretty good :)
http://linktoliturgy.com/
God Bless you all and a very blessed Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist to all!
http://linktoliturgy.com/
God Bless you all and a very blessed Feast of St. John the Apostle and Evangelist to all!
International Courts and Abortion.....
http://www.turtlebayandbeyond.org/2012/abortion/the-culture-of-death-the-dictatorship-of-relativism-and-the-inter-american-court/
It's a little weird to think of international bodies having sway of any sort on the legislation of a given "sovereign" nation....but there it is....or at least an attempt at such........
It's a little weird to think of international bodies having sway of any sort on the legislation of a given "sovereign" nation....but there it is....or at least an attempt at such........
Great Source For Life and Family Information
http://www.c-fam.org/
These guys are pretty good at keeping tabs on the UN even participating with the UN on all matters family and life.
http://www.turtlebayandbeyond.org/2012/abortion/the-culture-of-death-the-dictatorship-of-relativism-and-the-inter-american-court/
The above is from an international public policy organization - "Think Tank" perhaps - that does some good work on global matters related to life and family.....
These guys are pretty good at keeping tabs on the UN even participating with the UN on all matters family and life.
http://www.turtlebayandbeyond.org/2012/abortion/the-culture-of-death-the-dictatorship-of-relativism-and-the-inter-american-court/
The above is from an international public policy organization - "Think Tank" perhaps - that does some good work on global matters related to life and family.....
Wednesday, December 26, 2012
This is VERY cool - From the Pope as a kid :)
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/popes-childhood-letter-to-baby-jesus-shows-his-faith?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When:2012-12-25%2009:58:01
A letter from a 7 year old, now Pope Benedict XVI.......
A letter from a 7 year old, now Pope Benedict XVI.......
Pope Benedict XVI own words...
http://www.ncregister.com/daily-news/popes-2012-urbi-et-orbi-address-open-the-door-of-faith?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When:2012-12-25%2021:02:01
Below is the complete text of Pope Benedict XVI’s Urbi et Orbi address for 2012, delivered from the loggia of St. Peter’s Basilica.
“Veritas de terra orta est!” — “Truth has sprung out of the earth” (Ps 85:12).
Dear brothers and sisters in Rome and throughout the world, a happy Christmas to you and your families!
In this Year of Faith, I express my Christmas greetings and good wishes in these words taken from one of the Psalms: “Truth has sprung out of the earth”. Actually, in the text of the Psalm, these words are in the future: “Kindness and truth shall meet; / justice and peace shall kiss. / Truth shall spring out of the earth, /and justice shall look down from heaven. / The Lord himself will give his benefits; / our land shall yield its increase. / Justice shall walk before him, / and salvation, along the way of his steps” (Ps 85:11-14).
Today these prophetic words have been fulfilled! In Jesus, born in Bethlehem of the Virgin Mary, kindness and truth do indeed meet; justice and peace have kissed; truth has sprung out of the earth and justice has looked down from heaven. Saint Augustine explains with admirable brevity: “What is truth? The Son of God. What is the earth? The flesh. Ask whence Christ has been born, and you will see that truth has sprung out of the earth … truth has been born of the Virgin Mary” (En. in Ps. 84:13). And in a Christmas sermon he says that “in this yearly feast we celebrate that day when the prophecy was fulfilled: ‘truth shall spring out of the earth, and justice shall look down from heaven.’ The Truth, which is in the bosom of the Father has sprung out of the earth, to be in the womb of a mother too. The Truth which rules the whole world has sprung out of the earth, to be held in the arms of a woman ... The Truth which heaven cannot contain has sprung out of the earth, to be laid in a manger. For whose benefit did so lofty a God become so lowly? Certainly not for his own, but for our great benefit, if we believe” (Sermones, 185, 1).
“If we believe.” Here we see the power of faith! God has done everything; he has done the impossible: he was made flesh. His all-powerful love has accomplished something which surpasses all human understanding: the Infinite has become a child, has entered the human family. And yet, this same God cannot enter my heart unless I open the door to him. Porta fidei! The door of faith! We could be frightened by this, our inverse omnipotence. This human ability to be closed to God can make us fearful. But see the reality which chases away this gloomy thought, the hope that conquers fear: truth has sprung up! God is born! “The earth has yielded its fruits” (Ps 67:7). Yes, there is a good earth, a healthy earth, an earth freed of all selfishness and all lack of openness. In this world there is a good soil which God has prepared, that he might come to dwell among us. A dwelling place for his presence in the world. This good earth exists, and today too, in 2012, from this earth truth has sprung up! Consequently, there is hope in the world, a hope in which we can trust, even at the most difficult times and in the most difficult situations. Truth has sprung up, bringing kindness, justice and peace.
Yes, may peace spring up for the people of Syria, deeply wounded and divided by a conflict which does not spare even the defenseless and reaps innocent victims. Once again I appeal for an end to the bloodshed, easier access for the relief of refugees and the displaced, and dialogue in the pursuit of a political solution to the conflict.
May peace spring up in the Land where the Redeemer was born, and may he grant Israelis and Palestinians courage to end to long years of conflict and division, and to embark resolutely on the path of negotiation.
In the countries of North Africa, which are experiencing a major transition in pursuit of a new future — and especially the beloved land of Egypt, blessed by the childhood of Jesus — may citizens work together to build societies founded on justice and respect for the freedom and dignity of every person.
May peace spring up on the vast continent of Asia. May the Child Jesus look graciously on the many peoples who dwell in those lands and, in a special way, upon all those who believe in him. May the King of Peace turn his gaze to the new leaders of the People’s Republic of China for the high task which awaits them. I express my hope that, in fulfilling this task, they will esteem the contribution of the religions, in respect for each, in such a way that they can help to build a fraternal society for the benefit of that noble People and of the whole world.
May the Birth of Christ favor the return of peace in Mali and that of concord in Nigeria, where savage acts of terrorism continue to reap victims, particularly among Christians. May the Redeemer bring help and comfort to the refugees from the east of the Democratic Republic of Congo, and grant peace to Kenya, where brutal attacks have struck the civilian population and places of worship.
May the Child Jesus bless the great numbers of the faithful who celebrate him in Latin America. May he increase their human and Christian virtues, sustain all those forced to leave behind their families and their land, and confirm government leaders in their commitment to development and fighting crime.
Dear brothers and sisters! Kindness and truth, justice and peace have met; they have become incarnate in the child born of Mary in Bethlehem. That child is the Son of God; he is God appearing in history. His birth is a flowering of new life for all humanity. May every land become a good earth which receives and brings forth kindness and truth, justice and peace. Happy Christmas to all of you!
More on unemployment and Obamacare....
http://www.freeenterprise.com/health-care/hands-tied-businesses-look-ways-around-health-care-law?utm_medium=Email&utm_source=ExactTarget&utm_campaign=FreeEnterpriseWeekly&utm_content=feweekly12_12_26
Just a bit more on the Affordable Care Act's impact on jobs and businesses. At least in some cases, the new mandates are likely to cost some businesses another 40K a year....tell me that doesn't hurt a little.
“His backup plan, if he can't split his firm, is to keep his head count low or to invest in machinery that would replace workers. He also plans to raise prices as much as 20% starting in January to buffer any health-care related costs he may incur in 2014.”
Just a bit more on the Affordable Care Act's impact on jobs and businesses. At least in some cases, the new mandates are likely to cost some businesses another 40K a year....tell me that doesn't hurt a little.
“Mr. Schanstra is contemplating various strategies he can take next year in order to sidestep what he believes are significant burdens of complying with the law. In fact, he's considering whether he should split his manufacturing firm in two.
That is because his plant, with sales of about $1.6 million for 2012, currently employs 40 full-time workers, mostly low-paid employees who monitor the factory equipment. If sales were to continue to rise, the plant could, conceivably, employ 50 full-time workers in 2014.”
Obamacare Increasing Unemployment?
"Obamacare" has struck me as problematic from the beginning; based on way too many assumptions that were/are dubious at best. Then, there are all the indirect consequences that are not easily anticipated or considered without a very thorough consideration of all the factors in play. This is in part where legislative process really is important; lots of eyes to really analyze and assess the scope and range of impact - direct or indirect. Obamacare was passed via Reconciliation - which is essentially a simple majority endeavor. In bypassing the normal legislative process - having the bill passed by the House and Senate - elements and aspects of the law simply were not "vetted" adequately. This is a real problem with a sector of the USA economy that accounts for about 15 to 20% of total US domestic product or "servince" each year. Anyway, the employment issue is almost certainly one of the hidden or surprise pitfalls that I am guessing most missed.
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324677204578186030313144130.html
http://online.wsj.com/article/SB10001424127887324677204578186030313144130.html
Monday, December 24, 2012
Good Christmas Article - Origins etc....
http://www.ncregister.com/blog/jimmy-akin/9-things-you-need-to-know-about-christmas?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When:2012-12-22%2021:35:01
I dare say some might find this interesting, possibly even informative :) In all seriousness, another enlightening read for many.
"Blessed Virgin - pray for us - and lead us closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus....Amen."
I dare say some might find this interesting, possibly even informative :) In all seriousness, another enlightening read for many.
"Blessed Virgin - pray for us - and lead us closer to the Sacred Heart of Jesus....Amen."
Pope Benedict XVI - Christmas Article...good read :)
http://www.ncregister.com/site/article/vaticans-christmas-call-to-faith/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+NCRegisterDailyBlog+National+Catholic+Register#When:2012-12-24%2012:12:01
We are blessed by God with yet another awesome Pope; what a gift following right on "the heels" of Pope John Paul II.
God Bless and a very blessed Christmas Season to all.....
We are blessed by God with yet another awesome Pope; what a gift following right on "the heels" of Pope John Paul II.
God Bless and a very blessed Christmas Season to all.....
Saturday, December 22, 2012
Pope’s Christmas message warns .....Awesome Article :)
"Pope’s Christmas message warns gender theory is a denial of God and the Bible"
This is perhaps the most important posting on this blog yet. When the Holy Father is concerned about civilizations understanding of what it is to be human - that ought to raise one's eye brows just a little bit. This pope is no idiot. Just a few highlights from this article that especially caught my eye...
"The gender theory, which is behind the homosexual revolution and the attack on the family was highlighted in Pope Benedict’s Christmas message to Vatican prelates this morning. “There is no denying the crisis that threatens,” the family “to its foundations – especially in the Western world,” he said.
[...it is now becoming clear that the very notion of being – of what being human really means – is being called into question. According to “the ‘gender’ philosophy,” explained the Pope, “sex is no longer a given element of nature, that man has to accept and personally make sense of: it is a social role that we choose for ourselves, while in the past it was chosen for us by society. People dispute the idea that they have a nature, given by their bodily identity, that serves as a defining element of the human being. They deny their nature and decide that it is not something previously given to them, but that they make it for themselves."
When people start questioning what "human nature" is - that is a real problem that will eventually effect human life, legally and otherwise. This is starting to remind me of the OT scripture account of the Tower of Babel....which just did not work out to well for those attempting to usurp the sovereignty of the Almighty. Things could get more hairy, sooner than later if this stuff keeps up.
Obama and the Cliff....
http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/post-politics/wp/2012/12/21/obama-extend-middle-class-tax-cuts-and-unemploument-benefits-by-jan-1/?wpisrc=al_comboNP_p
Obama's claim to having met more than 1/2 towards compromise with the GOP on taxes and spending, is well, questionable at best. That said, promoting a brief band-aid is better than nothing at all, but not nearly adequate for fixing the problem. This basically tells the world, that our legislative process is still as messed up as ever, though admittedly, probably better than almost anywhere else on the planet with a Democratic Government of this size and civilian population. A National Credit Downgrading is probably inevitable - there is no legitimate plan for reducing the debt, and the process for working towards this is as "dysfunctional" as ever - S&P etc., are not happy campers right now.
And, for those worried about the economy, yea, the markets are not terribly excited about this either. Don't expect the economy to continue as it has been - as weak and tepid as the recovery has been to this point. Fully prepare for another slowdown...aka...recession....decent odds it's on the horizon.
Bottom line, until Dems get publicly serious about cutting spending - this thing will continue unresolved and a constant "injury" to our economy.
Obama's claim to having met more than 1/2 towards compromise with the GOP on taxes and spending, is well, questionable at best. That said, promoting a brief band-aid is better than nothing at all, but not nearly adequate for fixing the problem. This basically tells the world, that our legislative process is still as messed up as ever, though admittedly, probably better than almost anywhere else on the planet with a Democratic Government of this size and civilian population. A National Credit Downgrading is probably inevitable - there is no legitimate plan for reducing the debt, and the process for working towards this is as "dysfunctional" as ever - S&P etc., are not happy campers right now.
And, for those worried about the economy, yea, the markets are not terribly excited about this either. Don't expect the economy to continue as it has been - as weak and tepid as the recovery has been to this point. Fully prepare for another slowdown...aka...recession....decent odds it's on the horizon.
Bottom line, until Dems get publicly serious about cutting spending - this thing will continue unresolved and a constant "injury" to our economy.
Friday, December 21, 2012
Problem is "Perception" - NOT policy....
http://www.ijreview.com/2012/12/26236-poll-republicans-too-extreme/?utm_source=EmailElect&utm_medium=Email&utm_content=Subscriber%2330084&utm_campaign=End%20of%20the%20World%20-%20IJ%20Review
All sorts of studies keep suggesting that the GOP is horribly losing every PR battle there is to lose. The problem is not with policy per se, but rather in "marketing" and advertising, and of course the media not being terribly friendly either. Both sides of the ailse have their strengths and weaknesses. Yes, when it comes to the most important values, "life", "family", etc., the Repubs generally, though not exclusively, have the stronger positions.
The above said, I think I agree with the "selling" issue here with the GOP. I, myself, am of more "Independent" thought and persuasion, Dems have some good ideas and Repubs do too. However, when it comes to matters like the Fiscal Cliff - the GOP pretty much OWNS this issue for the large part - they will tackle the chief sickness - an addiction to spending. Dems are generally fighting any cuts whatsoever, as if their very lives depended on it, which on this particular matter - is a real problem. However, if the GOP in general were more successful with their "presentation" of thought, well, their influence culturally might be a tad stronger. Of course, I fully grant that the media, by in large, is clearly more friendly toward the Dems - no question about it. Such as it is, Repubs practically speaking have to deal with this and figure out a way at least "minimize the damage." I generally think "educating" the masses is critical - and the only way the GOP will turn the tide. Again, this is not to say Dems don't have some good ideas, but rather that, when the Dems are wrong they are still winning because of the reputation the GOP has via the media.
All sorts of studies keep suggesting that the GOP is horribly losing every PR battle there is to lose. The problem is not with policy per se, but rather in "marketing" and advertising, and of course the media not being terribly friendly either. Both sides of the ailse have their strengths and weaknesses. Yes, when it comes to the most important values, "life", "family", etc., the Repubs generally, though not exclusively, have the stronger positions.
The above said, I think I agree with the "selling" issue here with the GOP. I, myself, am of more "Independent" thought and persuasion, Dems have some good ideas and Repubs do too. However, when it comes to matters like the Fiscal Cliff - the GOP pretty much OWNS this issue for the large part - they will tackle the chief sickness - an addiction to spending. Dems are generally fighting any cuts whatsoever, as if their very lives depended on it, which on this particular matter - is a real problem. However, if the GOP in general were more successful with their "presentation" of thought, well, their influence culturally might be a tad stronger. Of course, I fully grant that the media, by in large, is clearly more friendly toward the Dems - no question about it. Such as it is, Repubs practically speaking have to deal with this and figure out a way at least "minimize the damage." I generally think "educating" the masses is critical - and the only way the GOP will turn the tide. Again, this is not to say Dems don't have some good ideas, but rather that, when the Dems are wrong they are still winning because of the reputation the GOP has via the media.
Trend Setting nearly at it's worth.....
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/21/concerns-grow-that-france-may-legalize-assisted-suicide/
We are not Europe yet - but Obamacare certainly puts us more in that general direction. There are other cultural tends that also indicate movement towards a more "European" friendly view from many in the USA.
We are not Europe yet - but Obamacare certainly puts us more in that general direction. There are other cultural tends that also indicate movement towards a more "European" friendly view from many in the USA.
The Almighty is the Best at "getting" a good out of a tragedy..
Mom Changes Mind About Abortion After Newtown Shooting
Well, there it is, God is at it again - bringing good out of yet another horrible tragedy.....
Well, there it is, God is at it again - bringing good out of yet another horrible tragedy.....
Planned Parenthood Study: One Woman Injured From Abortion Drug Daily
Planned Parenthood Study: One Woman Injured From Abortion Drug Daily
Has anyone seen anything from CNN, ABC, CBS, Reuters, or any media outlet on this? I am guessing no, but, but I would be interested in knowing if my sense is accurate. This is really bad news for women to the extent this study is accurate. Speaking of which, it would seem to me, after a quick perusal of this article, if anything, it's possible the numbers may actually be lower. It seems these results are only based on "reported" occurrences - meaning - this "survey" is actually a "Best-Case" scenario so to speak.
Has anyone seen anything from CNN, ABC, CBS, Reuters, or any media outlet on this? I am guessing no, but, but I would be interested in knowing if my sense is accurate. This is really bad news for women to the extent this study is accurate. Speaking of which, it would seem to me, after a quick perusal of this article, if anything, it's possible the numbers may actually be lower. It seems these results are only based on "reported" occurrences - meaning - this "survey" is actually a "Best-Case" scenario so to speak.
Planned Parenthood Study Claims Abortion Drug Killing Women is “Safe”
http://www.lifenews.com/2012/12/20/planned-parenthood-study-claims-abortion-drug-killing-women-is-safe/
Contraception drugs of various sorts safe(?)....of course they are...just ask those who are making and dispensing them. Below is a link to the actual FDA Report on this matter; one is invited to check out the results for themselves, but, it sure would not encourage me if I was a woman.
http://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF11G29.pdf
Contraception drugs of various sorts safe(?)....of course they are...just ask those who are making and dispensing them. Below is a link to the actual FDA Report on this matter; one is invited to check out the results for themselves, but, it sure would not encourage me if I was a woman.
http://downloads.frc.org/EF/EF11G29.pdf
"RCM 2007-525
NDA 20-687
Mifepristone U.S. Postmarketing Adverse Events Summary through 04/30/2011"
CNN...Dropped the Ball again (CBS in on the act)
http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/21/politics/fiscal-cliff/index.html?hpt=hp_t3
Yea, nice try, but not so much. The Senate is being strangely left out of the "blame game" here - as are all those who are opposing the spending cuts "end" of this. CNN, as well as Charlie Rose's female "host" for the morning show on CBS want this to be ALL about the GOP shortcomings in this. I am not about to say the GOP are completely without fault - and - the Senate and Obama are getting a real clear "pass" from the media on this whole Fiscal Cliff issue. Already, as stated earlier, the Fed Govt is in "deficit spending" mode for the current fiscal year - it took......wait for it....a whopping TWO months. So, when CNN etc., focuses on Boehner's problems with getting all House members in line with him - yea - CNN etc., is NOT getting it's facts straight or providing an accurate picture of the situation. Yes, Repubs are struggling with the whole taxation issue - it's not an easy call for them to make. And, anyone who has done ANY decent budget or spending analysis will recognize, that taxes are not the main issue here. When, we are in the hole, again, after just two months in the fiscal year - "Houston -we have a problem!" What is not being reported - some in the House are willing to consider taxes - but - do not trust that the Senate etc., will be reasonable or responsible in passing desperately needed spending adjustments. Budget analysts are suggesting we need somewhere in the neighborhood for 4 Trillion Dollars in savings - that is not going to be achieved by taxation...period. Yet, no one seems to be holding the Dems feet to the fire on this, which is really a disservice to the American public. Though, admittedly, some in the American public are enabling the problems by not being better informed of the facts and the problem as a whole. Govt's should not be in the business of saving the public from themselves - and yet - ignorance is creating quite the complications in this circumstance. Essentially, it would seem the average Joe will not care if they were "off" in their "outlook" until they are already suffering from the consequences. Unfortunately, by this point, it will far too late for any quick fixes, and the pain, well, that will be around for a little while.
The more the Feds have to borrow to sustain spending levels, the faster we enter the "Greece stage" where really painful cuts are required or we go bankrupt. By which point "welcome to the world of Austerity" measures. This may seem ridiculously unlikely, but, if the legislative environment and process does not improve - it's not out of the question.
Yea, nice try, but not so much. The Senate is being strangely left out of the "blame game" here - as are all those who are opposing the spending cuts "end" of this. CNN, as well as Charlie Rose's female "host" for the morning show on CBS want this to be ALL about the GOP shortcomings in this. I am not about to say the GOP are completely without fault - and - the Senate and Obama are getting a real clear "pass" from the media on this whole Fiscal Cliff issue. Already, as stated earlier, the Fed Govt is in "deficit spending" mode for the current fiscal year - it took......wait for it....a whopping TWO months. So, when CNN etc., focuses on Boehner's problems with getting all House members in line with him - yea - CNN etc., is NOT getting it's facts straight or providing an accurate picture of the situation. Yes, Repubs are struggling with the whole taxation issue - it's not an easy call for them to make. And, anyone who has done ANY decent budget or spending analysis will recognize, that taxes are not the main issue here. When, we are in the hole, again, after just two months in the fiscal year - "Houston -we have a problem!" What is not being reported - some in the House are willing to consider taxes - but - do not trust that the Senate etc., will be reasonable or responsible in passing desperately needed spending adjustments. Budget analysts are suggesting we need somewhere in the neighborhood for 4 Trillion Dollars in savings - that is not going to be achieved by taxation...period. Yet, no one seems to be holding the Dems feet to the fire on this, which is really a disservice to the American public. Though, admittedly, some in the American public are enabling the problems by not being better informed of the facts and the problem as a whole. Govt's should not be in the business of saving the public from themselves - and yet - ignorance is creating quite the complications in this circumstance. Essentially, it would seem the average Joe will not care if they were "off" in their "outlook" until they are already suffering from the consequences. Unfortunately, by this point, it will far too late for any quick fixes, and the pain, well, that will be around for a little while.
The more the Feds have to borrow to sustain spending levels, the faster we enter the "Greece stage" where really painful cuts are required or we go bankrupt. By which point "welcome to the world of Austerity" measures. This may seem ridiculously unlikely, but, if the legislative environment and process does not improve - it's not out of the question.
Thursday, December 20, 2012
Analysis: Traders hedge bets as budget talks turn to bluster
http://www.reuters.com/article/2012/12/20/us-usa-fiscal-hedge-idUSBRE8BJ0VV20121220
Them stock traders don't know what the heck to do - mostly because no one REALLY knows what will happen with the Fiscal Cliff. Part of the problem, if those in the stock market are feeling cautious about this, one can certainly bet businesses are executing their own "loss preventive" measures. Also, the stock market seems to be a bit overly-bullish given the current economic conditions. Then again, I sensed this a year ago. Consider this, the peak stock value for Dow Jones was just a tad over 14, 000 - about 14, 200 or so. Right now, most economic data suggests our Labor Participation Rate is still well below the 2010 levels or so, hovering some where around the 1980's rates. This suggests markedly less people are employed and thereby significantly less economic activity or positive production. So, how is the stock market climbing as it is with the labor participation rate and the unemployment level still a bit high. Remember, the unemployment rate only includes those in the labor market - so we are still experiencing "aberrative" data since only those looking for jobs are counted as unemployed.
Them stock traders don't know what the heck to do - mostly because no one REALLY knows what will happen with the Fiscal Cliff. Part of the problem, if those in the stock market are feeling cautious about this, one can certainly bet businesses are executing their own "loss preventive" measures. Also, the stock market seems to be a bit overly-bullish given the current economic conditions. Then again, I sensed this a year ago. Consider this, the peak stock value for Dow Jones was just a tad over 14, 000 - about 14, 200 or so. Right now, most economic data suggests our Labor Participation Rate is still well below the 2010 levels or so, hovering some where around the 1980's rates. This suggests markedly less people are employed and thereby significantly less economic activity or positive production. So, how is the stock market climbing as it is with the labor participation rate and the unemployment level still a bit high. Remember, the unemployment rate only includes those in the labor market - so we are still experiencing "aberrative" data since only those looking for jobs are counted as unemployed.
"Obamacare HHS mandate gets judicial correction"
http://www.mercatornet.com/sheila_liaugminas/view/11629
This is great news - the Obama Admin is on the hot seat a bit here - deliver the goods or the lawsuit ascends "northward" :)
Wheaton and Belmont Colleges are winners on this one. A lawsuit from each, or filed jointly, was previously "shot down" due to a mere technicality; the HHS Mandate was NOT close enough to being implemented to meet the juridical criteria for presenting an immediate violation of religious freedom. The Federal Appeals Court in DC., basically overruled the lower courts and is requiring Obama to step up to the plate. Either Obama delivers on the court orders - OR - the suit proceeds higher. Crying shame NO networks are giving this the light of day, but, who would ever expect or sincerely hope for this, right?
This is great news - the Obama Admin is on the hot seat a bit here - deliver the goods or the lawsuit ascends "northward" :)
Wheaton and Belmont Colleges are winners on this one. A lawsuit from each, or filed jointly, was previously "shot down" due to a mere technicality; the HHS Mandate was NOT close enough to being implemented to meet the juridical criteria for presenting an immediate violation of religious freedom. The Federal Appeals Court in DC., basically overruled the lower courts and is requiring Obama to step up to the plate. Either Obama delivers on the court orders - OR - the suit proceeds higher. Crying shame NO networks are giving this the light of day, but, who would ever expect or sincerely hope for this, right?
Budget Experts on the Fiscal Cliff....
http://money.cnn.com/2012/12/19/news/economy/fiscal-cliff-budget-experts/index.html
"In the absence of bond market pressure, it is hard to be too optimistic that Congress will either complete these 2013 tax and entitlement reform processes or refrain from filling in the blanks with gimmicks," said Sean West, U.S. policy director of the Eurasia Group."
"Budget gimmicks: Experts say Congress needs to enact at least $4 trillion in deficit reduction over 10 years to start curbing the growth in debt. "But not all $4 trillion plans are created equal. Everything depends on what's counted."
Expect Obama etc., to "count" savings from withdrawing from Iraq, Afghanistan etc., as part of the $4 Trillion plan. My bet - Dumbo and his entire family of elephants will ALL grow wings and start their very own circus "flying act" before a legit 4 Trillion Dollar plan is agreed upon. There will NOT be 4 Trillion in actual, NEW savings or cuts, up and above the Budget Control Act. Uncle Sam will slyly try to pass 4 trillion in cuts with included savings from NOT being in wars oversees. "Of course, such a plan would do less to curb growth in the debt than a plan that achieves $4 trillion in debt reduction on top of Budget Control Act and war savings."
One budget analysis actually suggested there may actually be less than even 1 Trillion in NEW cuts. To further quote West...
"And in reality, West noted, such a deal could end up delivering less than $1 trillion in new savings if many of the actual spending cuts are not specified in the deal."
So, look forward to a very Happy New Year :) The stock markets, national credit rating, and the US economy will be paying for this until REAL spending cuts are accepted in new law(s).
"Tax and entitlement reforms: Reforming the tax code and entitlement spending will be key to reducing deficits in the long run.
But since Congress and the White House have waited until the last minute to negotiate, no one expects them to reach a grand bargain with all the details hammered out.
But, budget experts say, there needs to be a strong "framework" agreement that paves the way for substantial debt reduction without upending the economy in the near term.
Such an agreement would postpone most fiscal cliff measures -- since they threaten the recovery next year. It would also include some sort of small down payment for deficit reduction and further require that Congress pass a large, long-term debt reduction package by a given date next year."
Consider this Fiscal Cliff Issue - "Punted" - barring a minor miracle, there will NOT be an agreement before the 31st with any "meat" in it, not that goes into effect anyway. Watch us "take another one in the economic chin" as law makers - especially those viewing spending cuts as worst than "the devil" himself. My prediction - we are going to be downgraded again by S&P etc.,: Uncle Sam is still too messed up, the legislative environment and process incapable of producing reasonable and prudent legislation....AND....still NO results to reduce debt. Alas, the markets will suffer and the economy will continue staggering forward.
Ah yes, and the gimmicks we are about to see: "In the absence of bond market pressure, it is hard to be too optimistic that Congress will either complete these 2013 tax and entitlement reform processes or refrain from filling in the blanks with gimmicks," said Sean West, U.S. policy director of the Eurasia Group."
"Budget gimmicks: Experts say Congress needs to enact at least $4 trillion in deficit reduction over 10 years to start curbing the growth in debt. "But not all $4 trillion plans are created equal. Everything depends on what's counted."
Expect Obama etc., to "count" savings from withdrawing from Iraq, Afghanistan etc., as part of the $4 Trillion plan. My bet - Dumbo and his entire family of elephants will ALL grow wings and start their very own circus "flying act" before a legit 4 Trillion Dollar plan is agreed upon. There will NOT be 4 Trillion in actual, NEW savings or cuts, up and above the Budget Control Act. Uncle Sam will slyly try to pass 4 trillion in cuts with included savings from NOT being in wars oversees. "Of course, such a plan would do less to curb growth in the debt than a plan that achieves $4 trillion in debt reduction on top of Budget Control Act and war savings."
One budget analysis actually suggested there may actually be less than even 1 Trillion in NEW cuts. To further quote West...
"And in reality, West noted, such a deal could end up delivering less than $1 trillion in new savings if many of the actual spending cuts are not specified in the deal."
So, look forward to a very Happy New Year :) The stock markets, national credit rating, and the US economy will be paying for this until REAL spending cuts are accepted in new law(s).
Fiscal Absurdity Continues
http://www.cnn.com/2012/12/19/politics/fiscal-cliff/index.html?hpt=hp_t1
Why do I have the distinct feeling the GOP is going to "take the hit on this one" - if nothing else - in the "court of public opinion." This would say MUCH more about the general lack of education among the public on economics than the GOP approach - of which I just heard - one Paul Ryan is now in support of for at least the Part B. Obama is facing all sorts of opposition in his own party for ANY cuts of ANY sort to Medicare, Social Security, etc., which simply means, many on the Dems side are STILL totally in denial, or ignorance. As I have posted before - or so I think anyway - there is NO way to have a long-term deficit reduction plan that is perceived as "respectable" without entitlements cuts; this simply will NOT happen. Some seem to be under the impression that ANY Cliff averting deal is better than nothing at all, a position, that I frankly disagree with. Any agreement that does NOT provide a clear and substantial framework for REAL deficit reduction is NOT going to make S&P happy or the markets REALLY satisfied. We are most likely looking at a "Punt" Here - which I pretty much guessed was going to be our immediate fate about a day after Obama won re-election. The Debt to GDP ratio problem, is EVERYTHING here. Until Congress and the Commander in Chief actually put forth a concrete, tangible proof via new legislation that they are capable of correcting the ship - economic recovery will be hindered, and our National Credit Rating etc will be in further jeopardy.
"Obama, Boehner remain at odds on verge of fiscal cliff"
Why do I have the distinct feeling the GOP is going to "take the hit on this one" - if nothing else - in the "court of public opinion." This would say MUCH more about the general lack of education among the public on economics than the GOP approach - of which I just heard - one Paul Ryan is now in support of for at least the Part B. Obama is facing all sorts of opposition in his own party for ANY cuts of ANY sort to Medicare, Social Security, etc., which simply means, many on the Dems side are STILL totally in denial, or ignorance. As I have posted before - or so I think anyway - there is NO way to have a long-term deficit reduction plan that is perceived as "respectable" without entitlements cuts; this simply will NOT happen. Some seem to be under the impression that ANY Cliff averting deal is better than nothing at all, a position, that I frankly disagree with. Any agreement that does NOT provide a clear and substantial framework for REAL deficit reduction is NOT going to make S&P happy or the markets REALLY satisfied. We are most likely looking at a "Punt" Here - which I pretty much guessed was going to be our immediate fate about a day after Obama won re-election. The Debt to GDP ratio problem, is EVERYTHING here. Until Congress and the Commander in Chief actually put forth a concrete, tangible proof via new legislation that they are capable of correcting the ship - economic recovery will be hindered, and our National Credit Rating etc will be in further jeopardy.
ObamaCare mandate may force nuns devoted to the eldery to leave U.S.
http://www.lifesitenews.com/news/obamacare-mandate-may-force-nuns-devoted-to-the-eldery-to-leave-u.s?utm_source=LifeSiteNews.com+Daily+Newsletter&utm_campaign=64866f83ca-LifeSiteNews_com_US_Headlines_12_19_2012&utm_medium=email
Just how saddening, and really tragic is this? Would anyone in a million years envision USA domestic policy actually FORCING out nuns devoted to serving the elderly?? I for one, find this just a bit surreal - as in like a bad nightmare.....actually more like a horrible nightmare. The American public won't necessarily notice it, not immediately anyway. But, truly, I 'd never guessed in a million years our policy would put us in the same company as China, Hungary, and other nations that "mete" out despicable religious intolerance. At some point, the slippery slope will be even more obvious, and more religious intolerance is likely surface still. That this is even a concern or a possibility says volumes about the situation. Prayer and fasting - like there is no tomorrow :(
Just how saddening, and really tragic is this? Would anyone in a million years envision USA domestic policy actually FORCING out nuns devoted to serving the elderly?? I for one, find this just a bit surreal - as in like a bad nightmare.....actually more like a horrible nightmare. The American public won't necessarily notice it, not immediately anyway. But, truly, I 'd never guessed in a million years our policy would put us in the same company as China, Hungary, and other nations that "mete" out despicable religious intolerance. At some point, the slippery slope will be even more obvious, and more religious intolerance is likely surface still. That this is even a concern or a possibility says volumes about the situation. Prayer and fasting - like there is no tomorrow :(
Wednesday, December 19, 2012
Gun Control
Here's the thing; as I understand it, only semi-automatic weapons are sold in this country. I am not a gun expert, but intuitively, I don't see how using "assault rifles" would be any different from using a Colt 45 or any hand gun for that matter. In fact, I would guess due to size etc., it would actually be harder to shoot an assault rifle than a hand-gun. Both will kill a person. However, hand guns are probably more efficient - one could potentially fire two guns at the same time - or at least hold one in each hand. I might be mistaken, but it seems an assault rifle is generally a 2-handed effort? Do I have this right? I don't know if one can fire one of these with only one hand. So, if minimizing "efficiency" and "effectiveness" is the goal - banning hand-guns 1st would seem the logical way to go. Am I missing something here?
The REAL problem is not "law" - it's the cancer of the human soul, character, and heart; no law fixes this. There is only one remedy for a sick human heart, it's God and as a nation we are doing just about everything possible to get rid of Him; we are taking Him out of our culture just about every chance we get.
The REAL problem is not "law" - it's the cancer of the human soul, character, and heart; no law fixes this. There is only one remedy for a sick human heart, it's God and as a nation we are doing just about everything possible to get rid of Him; we are taking Him out of our culture just about every chance we get.
Tuesday, December 18, 2012
Federal Spending cuts to Avoid Fiscal Cliff....
http://www.cbo.gov/publication/42864
http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=1258
I had a dialogue with a wonderful aunt earlier on facebook, I figured I'd include it here too, with an additional thought or two :) The question I responded to was about spending cuts. Responding to an article I came across about the American Public desiring compromise, but, NOT spending cuts proposed so far.....a wonderful family member suggested spending cuts were fine, just not for social programs; cut subsidies for the rich etc. One problem, perhaps among others, not nearly enough federal dollars spent on these "subsidies" to make a difference. Now, related to this, the cost of Obamacare; whatever compromise of Fiscal Cliff deal is reached in the foreseeable future, probably won't be the final deal - in fact - it will probably the "too rosy" an arrangement to really work. The cost of Obamacare is almost certain to be more than predicted or assumed. Mr. Foster already spelled out pitfalls to this - assumptions that were NOT terribly likely to work out, or prove to be correct.
Sounds good in principle, but there is not nearly enough Fed spending here to be helpful for avoiding the Fiscal Cliff. Most Federal dollars are spent on entitlements :SS, Medicare, Medicaid, Military, Benefits for Retirees, and veterans, etc. As of 2012 we are STILL looking at a close to a Trillion Dollar Deficit according to the most recent CBO projections I have seen. The so-called "safety net" programs have to be touched and/or modified in some way if we are going to get our debt trajectory in an acceptable condition. And, whatever they come up with now is a "Dream Case" scenario. Obamacare is going to be much more expensive that originally "scored" (the Doc Fix alone is a problem) so more cuts will be required later when the assumptions behind Medicare don't work. (Foster laid out some real concerns about some assumptions...some of which are almost certain NOT to "hold" or pan out.
This will actually get worse before it gets better. The "Doc Fix" - which was NOT included in Obamacare has not been worked out yet; this alone which is will cost tens, if not hundreds of Billions of dollars. The official information is right below on this....but the short version...this is about a reportedly 300 Billion Dollar cost that is not accounted for in Obamacare. (as reportedly estimated by the CBO) http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/post/faq-the-doc-fix/2011/11/22/gIQAnv6wkN_blog.html
Here is some data from the CBO for the 2012 fiscal year projected deficit.....CBO’s Current-Law Baseline
"CBO projects a $1.1 trillion federal budget deficit for fiscal year 2012 if current laws remain unchanged. Measured as a share of the nation’s output (gross domestic product, or GDP), that shortfall of 7.0 percent is nearly 2 percentage points below the deficit recorded in 2011, but still higher than any deficit between 1947 and 2008. Over the next few years, projected deficits in CBO’s baseline decline markedly, dropping to under $200 billion and averaging 1.5 percent of GDP over the 2013–2022 period." The whole page from the CBO is linked above. Some notable assumptions which may or may not actually work.
http://www.cbpp.org/cms/index.cfm?fa=view&id=1258
I had a dialogue with a wonderful aunt earlier on facebook, I figured I'd include it here too, with an additional thought or two :) The question I responded to was about spending cuts. Responding to an article I came across about the American Public desiring compromise, but, NOT spending cuts proposed so far.....a wonderful family member suggested spending cuts were fine, just not for social programs; cut subsidies for the rich etc. One problem, perhaps among others, not nearly enough federal dollars spent on these "subsidies" to make a difference. Now, related to this, the cost of Obamacare; whatever compromise of Fiscal Cliff deal is reached in the foreseeable future, probably won't be the final deal - in fact - it will probably the "too rosy" an arrangement to really work. The cost of Obamacare is almost certain to be more than predicted or assumed. Mr. Foster already spelled out pitfalls to this - assumptions that were NOT terribly likely to work out, or prove to be correct.
Sounds good in principle, but there is not nearly enough Fed spending here to be helpful for avoiding the Fiscal Cliff. Most Federal dollars are spent on entitlements :SS, Medicare, Medicaid, Military, Benefits for Retirees, and veterans, etc. As of 2012 we are STILL looking at a close to a Trillion Dollar Deficit according to the most recent CBO projections I have seen. The so-called "safety net" programs have to be touched and/or modified in some way if we are going to get our debt trajectory in an acceptable condition. And, whatever they come up with now is a "Dream Case" scenario. Obamacare is going to be much more expensive that originally "scored" (the Doc Fix alone is a problem) so more cuts will be required later when the assumptions behind Medicare don't work. (Foster laid out some real concerns about some assumptions...some of which are almost certain NOT to "hold" or pan out.
This will actually get worse before it gets better. The "Doc Fix" - which was NOT included in Obamacare has not been worked out yet; this alone which is will cost tens, if not hundreds of Billions of dollars. The official information is right below on this....but the short version...this is about a reportedly 300 Billion Dollar cost that is not accounted for in Obamacare. (as reportedly estimated by the CBO) http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/wonkblog/post/faq-the-doc-fix/2011/11/22/gIQAnv6wkN_blog.html
"You asked about the total budgetary impact of enacting the reconciliation proposal (the amendment to H.R. 4872), the Senate-passed health bill (H.R. 3590), and the Medicare Physicians Payment Reform Act of 2009 (H.R. 3961). CBO estimates that enacting all three pieces of legislation would add $59 billion to budget deficits over the 2010–2019 period.
Under current law, Medicare’s payment rates for physicians’ services will be reduced by about 21 percent in April 2010 and by an average of about 2 percent per year for the rest of the decade. H.R. 3961 would increase those payment rates by 1.2 percent in 2010 and would restructure the sustainable growth rate mechanism beginning in 2011. Those changes would result in significantly higher payment rates for physicians than those that would result under current law. CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 3961, by itself, would cost about $208 billion over the 2010–2019 period. (That estimate reflects the enactment of two short-term extension acts, which lowered the cost in 2010 by about $2 billion compared with CBO’s estimate of November 4, 2009.)…
CBO estimates that enacting H.R. 3961 together with those two bills would add $59 billion to budget deficits over the 2010–2019 period. That amount is about $10 billion less than the figure that would result from summing the effects of enacting the bills separately. The $10 billion difference occurs primarily because H.R. 3590 and the reconciliation proposal would modify how the government’s payments to Medicare Advantage plans are set."
Here is some data from the CBO for the 2012 fiscal year projected deficit.....CBO’s Current-Law Baseline
"CBO projects a $1.1 trillion federal budget deficit for fiscal year 2012 if current laws remain unchanged. Measured as a share of the nation’s output (gross domestic product, or GDP), that shortfall of 7.0 percent is nearly 2 percentage points below the deficit recorded in 2011, but still higher than any deficit between 1947 and 2008. Over the next few years, projected deficits in CBO’s baseline decline markedly, dropping to under $200 billion and averaging 1.5 percent of GDP over the 2013–2022 period." The whole page from the CBO is linked above. Some notable assumptions which may or may not actually work.
Latest in Official Tax Numbers - 2010
http://taxfoundation.org/article/summary-latest-federal-income-tax-data-2012
There is so much talk about the rich paying the fair share - I am mighty curious (well only somewhat actually :)] what this "fair share" percentage is. Basically, those who made $116, 623K or more ONLY paid a mere...wait for it....70.6% of ALL Federal Taxes for 2010. The government/IRS has not released data more recent than 2010 - so this is the best we have for the time being. Meanwhile, to my knowledge, the Senate STILL has yet to pass a budget, which means technically, Uncle Sam has been without a budget for the last 5 years.
There is so much talk about the rich paying the fair share - I am mighty curious (well only somewhat actually :)] what this "fair share" percentage is. Basically, those who made $116, 623K or more ONLY paid a mere...wait for it....70.6% of ALL Federal Taxes for 2010. The government/IRS has not released data more recent than 2010 - so this is the best we have for the time being. Meanwhile, to my knowledge, the Senate STILL has yet to pass a budget, which means technically, Uncle Sam has been without a budget for the last 5 years.
The Fiscal Cliff...Ad nauseum....
http://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/poll-most-want-fiscal-cliff-compromise-but-oppose-cuts-that-may-be-part-of-deal/2012/12/18/4876b79a-4877-11e2-b6f0-e851e741d196_story.html
Someone has to explain to me how those insisting on Fed Spending cuts are "taking the fall" in this Fiscal Cliff crises, when spending is the main culprit. The truth of it, I suspect most "polled" or included in these surveys don't understand the economy enough to have a well-informed thought on the matter. So, while the Govt keeps borrowing about 34 cents of every dollar it spends, those who are advocating for a more budget responsible "game-plan" - are portrayed as "hard-liners" that are just unwilling to compromise. The so-called "court of public opinion" is quite uninformed - when did some real basic economic education become such a scarce reality.
Someone has to explain to me how those insisting on Fed Spending cuts are "taking the fall" in this Fiscal Cliff crises, when spending is the main culprit. The truth of it, I suspect most "polled" or included in these surveys don't understand the economy enough to have a well-informed thought on the matter. So, while the Govt keeps borrowing about 34 cents of every dollar it spends, those who are advocating for a more budget responsible "game-plan" - are portrayed as "hard-liners" that are just unwilling to compromise. The so-called "court of public opinion" is quite uninformed - when did some real basic economic education become such a scarce reality.
Sunday, December 16, 2012
"Boehner Offers Tax Increase on Incomes over $1 M"
http://www.thefiscaltimes.com/Articles/2012/12/16/Cliff-Talks-Halted-As-Obama-Focuses-on-School-Shooting.aspx#page1
"Boehner Offers Tax Increase on Incomes over $1 M"
Ok, the good news is Repubs are willing to raise taxes ....bad news....this in the grand scheme of things does not really matter. The central problem is with spending - and while increasing taxes might help soften the blow here a bit, Uncle Sam's borrowing is STILL the culprit. The latest projections I have seen from the CBO suggest we are basically dealing with yet ANOTHER year of a Trillion Dollar Deficit. The CBO aka the Congressional Budget Office serves as the official Federal "Score Keeper" so to speak on budgeting etc. When lawmakers want to know the cost of a program or law, they send it to the CBO and they come up with a cost number. This however, can be "played", as was the case with Obamacare. The CBO asssess the cost, BUT, basing this on the assumptions Congress gives them; these "assumptions" are HARDLY beyond critique or criticism and can be just downright wrong. In the case of Obamacare, for example, issues like the "Doctor Fix" were not included. The so-called "Doc fix" dealt with the reimbursement level doctors would receive for seeing patients on Medicare or a similar Federal Health Care program, So, this "cost" NEVER figured into the supposed "official" CBO "score" or figure of what The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) was costing tax-payers. When did doctor reimbursements STOP counting as a cost of health care - I am confused. (note the sarcasm) Alas, this is slightly off topic, so the tangent stops here. However, the point is, the CBO number is pretty considered "official" - or at least serves as the official "projected" cost.
Returning back to the matter at hand, Obama is doing all he can to "win" the tax battle while paying no commensurate or proportional attention on the "spending" side of this. This is a bit ironic as the spending IS the central problem. When we are running a Trillion Dollar deficit EVERY year, well, there is no way to fix that with just revenue. Just to state the problem in more concrete terms, most recent figures suggest the top 25% income earners already pay upwards of 80% of ALL Federal Income Tax. Yes, not 40%, not 60%, not 75%, but 80% plus of ALL Fed income. We could have all the 250K plus earners pay 100% of ALL Fed taxes and this still wouldn't touch the problem if the spending levels stayed close to about $3.2 Trillion annually - very ballpark. To put in specific terms, about 35 cents of EVERY dollar the Govt. spends is borrowed - and we are SPENDING a lot!!!
The HUGE mess is on the spending side. The problem in part is, Obama and Dems are attacking, lets say 30% of the problem, as if it's 90%. The tax issue is the hill they are seemingly ready to "die on" while pretty much ignoring or avoiding the expenditure side, as if this was cancer or something. And, well, in a sense....it is at the moment. Most polls suggest Americans see some problem with spending but are NOT actually supportive of any specific cut. The propaganda machine is working on the wrong problem. Obama is trying to "sell" taxes; he should REALLY be "selling" cuts, but he is generally and inexplicably MIA on this.
"Boehner Offers Tax Increase on Incomes over $1 M"
Ok, the good news is Repubs are willing to raise taxes ....bad news....this in the grand scheme of things does not really matter. The central problem is with spending - and while increasing taxes might help soften the blow here a bit, Uncle Sam's borrowing is STILL the culprit. The latest projections I have seen from the CBO suggest we are basically dealing with yet ANOTHER year of a Trillion Dollar Deficit. The CBO aka the Congressional Budget Office serves as the official Federal "Score Keeper" so to speak on budgeting etc. When lawmakers want to know the cost of a program or law, they send it to the CBO and they come up with a cost number. This however, can be "played", as was the case with Obamacare. The CBO asssess the cost, BUT, basing this on the assumptions Congress gives them; these "assumptions" are HARDLY beyond critique or criticism and can be just downright wrong. In the case of Obamacare, for example, issues like the "Doctor Fix" were not included. The so-called "Doc fix" dealt with the reimbursement level doctors would receive for seeing patients on Medicare or a similar Federal Health Care program, So, this "cost" NEVER figured into the supposed "official" CBO "score" or figure of what The Affordable Care Act (Obamacare) was costing tax-payers. When did doctor reimbursements STOP counting as a cost of health care - I am confused. (note the sarcasm) Alas, this is slightly off topic, so the tangent stops here. However, the point is, the CBO number is pretty considered "official" - or at least serves as the official "projected" cost.
Returning back to the matter at hand, Obama is doing all he can to "win" the tax battle while paying no commensurate or proportional attention on the "spending" side of this. This is a bit ironic as the spending IS the central problem. When we are running a Trillion Dollar deficit EVERY year, well, there is no way to fix that with just revenue. Just to state the problem in more concrete terms, most recent figures suggest the top 25% income earners already pay upwards of 80% of ALL Federal Income Tax. Yes, not 40%, not 60%, not 75%, but 80% plus of ALL Fed income. We could have all the 250K plus earners pay 100% of ALL Fed taxes and this still wouldn't touch the problem if the spending levels stayed close to about $3.2 Trillion annually - very ballpark. To put in specific terms, about 35 cents of EVERY dollar the Govt. spends is borrowed - and we are SPENDING a lot!!!
The HUGE mess is on the spending side. The problem in part is, Obama and Dems are attacking, lets say 30% of the problem, as if it's 90%. The tax issue is the hill they are seemingly ready to "die on" while pretty much ignoring or avoiding the expenditure side, as if this was cancer or something. And, well, in a sense....it is at the moment. Most polls suggest Americans see some problem with spending but are NOT actually supportive of any specific cut. The propaganda machine is working on the wrong problem. Obama is trying to "sell" taxes; he should REALLY be "selling" cuts, but he is generally and inexplicably MIA on this.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)