Why??

I was not going to post anything more on Terri Schiavo. May her family find peace in their memories of their beloved daughter/sister. Surely she resides in a better place and state of being.

But, what has been done is done. Now it is up to those of us who believe in the "rule of law" to back that up and seek proper and just remedies to the system, so something like this is not allowed to happen again. Yes, there will be an autopsy and perhaps more information will be forthcoming, to allow for either her "true condition" to be known, or some of the unanswered questions being tossed about to be put to rest.

What caused me to post was listening to Michael Schiavo's lawyer making a (public) statement. Regardless of your take, be it a "rule of law issue", constitutional issue (allowing for the federal intrusion), or a religious/moral issue(s). (And when I can get a transcript of his news conference or an audio feed, I will link to same) If your stomach doesn't turn when listening to this weasel speak, well, just damn!

Some might argue he is "just doing his job", but where a simple statement would have been sufficient, he goes into a tirade about justification and doing what is plainly, first and foremost, in Terri's best interest. He is grandstanding before the body is even cold! After hearing him, I was very close to having an RCOB moment, my hands where shaking. And begs the question (and title of this post) WHY?

And why in heaven's name, was Bobby Schindler not allowed to stay in the room to be with Terri in her final moments? What kind of a heartless beast would prevent this as Michael's lawyer stated Michael did?

Final observations:

1. Talk to your local, state, and federal legislators. Let them know you would welcome changes in existing law(s) to reflect the continuing of life to be paramount. The rights of the spouse should be respected, BUT all available methods MUST have been used, and documented in determining a persons legal "living status". And failing documentation being on hand to demonstrate a persons specific desire, being to the contrary, hearsay from any source is not to be sanctioned as the determining factor in deciding whether or not to medically allow a person to die. This last part would apply only when there is contention regarding an individuals final choice/wishes. (And getting "feeding tubes" removed as a form of "life support", to be on the same level as a respirator or some such, would be a good thing too.)

2. Like it or not (unless there is a major swing in the national psyche to erring on the side of life) we are perilously close to officially becoming a society which favors the right to die as being paramount. It behooves all of us to go and get a living will or living trust set up, so you have the greatest chance possible in having your wishes honored, in the event you are not able to communicate same.

If we, as conservative/constitutionalists/those who favor choosing life over death as the right and proper action for any healthy society to follow, then we need to follow up on the above. If we do not, then hypocrisy becomes the word of the day.

Finally, and most importantly,
Rest in Peace Terri.

UPDATE:
If you want to see and hear George Felos spin his tale, like the spawn of hell he is, go to The Political Teen. He has the video feed and you can download it there. Alas I haven't the storage space for it or I would offer it here.

The Return Of Aaron And Blogopoly

Sheesh! I noticed yesterday that Aaron had not only updated his site, but had changed his "address" as well. I had planned on getting a note up here to mention his return, but it seems he was (much) faster then I.

While looking at his new digs, I was reading about his "game to fame", Blogopoly. Of course humble harbor master that I am, I groveled, and whined excessively respectfully asked if he had the time, to include my bit of fluff on the net as a "personal player piece".

Well, you could knock me over with a feather! Not only did Aaron produce this:

he was also (much more than) kind enough to write a flattering post, introducing said piece to the blogosphere. Thank you my friend, welcome back! Looking forward to reading all of your "spleen venting" goodness.

An Eleventh Hour reprieve?

At this late hour (it is 01:30 Wednesday morning), AP is reporting here:

ATLANTA (AP) - A federal appeals court early Wednesday agreed to consider a petition by Terri Schiavo's parents for a new hearing on whether to reconnect their severely brain-damaged daughter's feeding tube.

The 11th U.S. Circuit Court of Appeals ruled without comment on Schiavo's 12th day without nourishment. Last week, the same court twice ruled against Schiavo's parents, Bob and Mary Schindler, who are trying to keep her alive.

In seeking a new hearing late Tuesday, attorneys for Schiavo's parents argued that the District Court "committed plain error when it reviewed only the state court case and outcome history."

Now, the court will consider the request for a new hearing based on the facts of the case, rather than whether previous Florida court rulings have met legal standards under state law.

There was no time frame for the court to consider the motion, but the Schindler's attorneys asked to have the tube reinserted immediately "in light of the magnitude of what is at stake and the urgency of the action required."

This could, at last, be the break the Schindlers have been hoping and praying for. And if their luck, and Terri's holds out, provides medical closure as to Terri's status. It could also be the beginning of the end for Michael Schiavo, if in fact, sworn testimony previously ignored, is given closer scrutiny.

UPDATE The federal court has responded here. Though I am for the following of the rule of law, this sounds more like a ducking of the issue by a court which had the right to review this case. May Terri find peace when she finally crosses the veil. And may a complete autopsy, as promised by her HINO (Husband In Name Only), and provided for by Florida law, answer any and all questions regarding both Terri's alleged broken bones (among other things), and the allegations drifting round the net, about Michael Schiavo.

A Two Headed Dragon

I didn't think (boy how often do us married fellas say that) I would be posting about Terri Shiavo again. There have been pundits by the bus load commenting and reporting on the various shades and flavors of this event non-stop for at least the past 3 months, and I am willing to place odds it won't stop upon her taking her last breath.

But Riverdog has brought up some very interesting personal concerns, regarding this event. He looks at how this event effects his obligations to the constitution, his conservative "world view", and potential changes in relationships with friends. Read the post, he describes it much better than I.

What could be causing this supposed riff among conservatives? Specifically, those of faith, and those who are either not of a particular Judeo-Christian sect or take a very literal (and IMHO correct) view of the Constitution. I think there is really a two pronged conflict going on here. It is a two headed dragon, not only does the MSM the democrats (and other assorted moonbats) not get it, but many of us are either blind or ignorant of it as well.

Although I disagree strongly with how Judge Greer has consistently ruled on this case (Don't take my word for that. Look around the net and other blogs. For one example, he has allowed in at least one instance, his personal bias to affect a given ruling.), the bottom line, whether I or anyone else likes it, according to Florida law, the spouse has the right to decide his partners fate. And again, according to Florida law the whole feeding tube situation is considered "life support". I did not believe this last one, but looked it up, and sad to say, it is true. I don't have to like either parts of the Florida statutes but the bottom line is...they are law.

That the law in this case is considered by many to be unjust and or immoral can (and should) be addressed by seeking redress through enacting either a change to existing law or getting it tossed out altogether. Will that help Terri Shiavo? Unfortunately, no it won't. So, it remains for men and women of good conscience to actively seek change in the applicable laws, so this sad series of events are no longer able to occur again. This would be the correct "constitutional/rule of law" way to go.

The other issue here is far more emotionally charged, and the one where the divide (even with the politicos) really lies. This has been addressed by my favorite curmudgeon, here. In a nutshell, we have, as a society, gone from one which values life as one of our underlying core values, to one which allows the antithesis of life an equal footing. We, allowed for those who favor selfishness, and the animalistic nature of man, to take primacy over man's conscience (his rational, thinking, ongoing quest toward a higher/better state of being).

In witnessing what is going on in Florida, man is forced to choose between the two parts of his being, conflict is the result. And more than ever before, (Yes, there are exceptions on both sides, but the sub-groups of "exceptions" are shrinking.) these two points of view have posited to either side of the political/ideological fence. That no one knows exactly what this poor woman would really want, brings not only clarity to the divide, but allows for a battle line to be distinctly drawn. (And yes, I think the *husband* is lying, otherwise he would have been expressing his wife's "wishes" for her treatment since day one. Information available on the web, shows this not to be the case. It was only after the malpractice suits had been won, this was brought to light.)

It is unfortunate the forces who preach the animalistic nature of man is man's ruling force, have wrapped themselves in what is normally the conservative argument of following the "rule of law". Any but a fool could see they are only following this tactic for the sake of convenience(to advance their agenda). That a large part of conservative factions would willingly ignore the rule of law as their first remedy are just as wrong. At some point, sure, we must literally "stand up and fight". Indeed, it is part and parcel of the Constitution, but if we fail to use the right and proper avenues of recourse first, we become no better then those who have been accused (by conservatives/constitutionalists) of failing to honor and abide by what this country was founded on.

If the process fails due to, activism at the judicial level, or the legislative/executive branches failing to act on the express will of the people to correct what is perceived to be a moral shortcoming within the law(s). THEN stronger remedies must and should be followed. It would be better to lose the battle then to see those who would fight on the side of life and individual accountability be divided, and the war lost, before it is barely begun.

Monday Morning Quarterbacking Liberal Style

As those of you who drop by here know by now, I like Russ Vaughn's style when it comes to putting his passion to rhyme. Having said that, Russ has favored me with another bit of verse.

This ties in with a recent article written by Jeff Edwards, called "The Wrong Army". "Chief" Edwards is a retired U.S. Navy Chief Petty Officer, and an Anti-Submarine Warfare Specialist. He is currently working as a civilian expert consultant to the Fleet Anti-Submarine Warfare Command. And like many of us who served, or have actively supported or supplied the troops/fleet, this is nothing new. Though it seems to have grown in scope and (malevolent) intent. And though neither the good Chief or feisty SSGT bandy about the words traitor or seditionist...sometimes you just have to wonder.

Anyhow, check out Chief Edward's words of wisdom, as linked above, and enjoy Russ's below.

Some Belated Easter-time Humor...

though you could think of it as a "communing with nature chortle ™". This was received from an old retired Navy buddy. And as the news is still more of the same (even though sports wise, there is still some sort of final four thang going on with an Illinois flavor to it...and the Bulls might even make a post season appearance, who'd a thought.)

Anyhow...

An atheist was taking a walk through the woods.

What majestic trees!
What powerful rivers!
"What beautiful animals!" he said to himself.
As he was walking alongside the river he heard a rustling in the bushes behind him.
He turned to look. He saw a 17 foot grizzly charge towards him.
He ran as fast as he could up the path. He looked over his shoulder and saw that the bear was closing in on him. He looked over his shoulder again, and the bear was even closer.
He tripped and fell on the ground. He rolled over to pick himself up but saw the bear right on top of him, reaching for him with his left paw and raising his right paw to strike him.
At that instant the Atheist cried out: "Oh my God!?

Time stopped.
The bear froze.
The forest was silent.
As a bright light shone upon the man, a voice came out of the sky:

"You deny my existence for all of these years, teach others I don't exist, and even credit creation to a cosmic accident.
Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Am I to count you as a believer?"
The atheist looked directly into the light, "It would be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask You to treat me as a Christian now, but perhaps could you make the bear a Christian?"
"Very well," said the voice.

The light went out.
The sounds of the forest resumed.
Then the bear dropped his right paw, brought both paws together, bowed his head and spoke:

"Lord, bless this food, which I am about to receive from thy bounty through Christ our Lord, Amen."

Linux

Posting has been slow...I got a wild hair to install linux on to the ol beater computer that has been in the two older genetic hostage's room. They also got an ancient video card (and had none before that), and a 10 gig HD. So, I am a gonna be a bit busy...trying to get it up and running. May the gods of open source OS's have mercy on my heathen soul.

Sea Stories

Eric, The Straight White Guy, was kind (?) enough to let me take him up on his challenge of answering a couple of questions. So, in the interest of adding to the long history of "Marine Corps /Navy cooperation, and brotherly love ™", here are said questions and my coerced off-the-cuff response to same.

1. ... Knowing that all squids like to tell tall tales of their overseas
exploits, enlighten us on the most exotic port of call you visited while you
were in the Navy... preferably a tale where drinking, pretty women, and a
smidgen of violence were mixed in..

"Listen up shipmates, 'cause this is no shit.." The most exotic place, was perhaps, also the coldest. I'm talking about the end of the Gulf Stream, that tropical paradise ninety degrees south of the Arctic circle, Iceland. (Otherwise known as Keflavik-by-the-sea.)

First there was the wind. In all the time I was there, we never had a day in which the wind was not holding steady at between 10-20kph. The afore mentioned Gulf Stream, was the cause of this, as well as keeping the temperatures higher then what would be the norm for being so close to the Artic Circle (it seldom if ever, dropped below 20 degrees during the winter, conversely, it was very unusual for the temp to rise above 65 during the summer months.) And you haven't lived 'til you have your 200lbs, fully clothed with winter parka, boots, and such, having to stop it's forward motion by grabbing on to a dumpster. For, it appeared to be a sure thing, if you didn't stop, you would be a human tumbleweed, until the wind deposited you into the bay.

Of course being that close to the Artic Circle, during the winter months, if you did not step outside at high noon, you missed the few minutes of daylight for the day (not sunlight, there was no sun, just a teasing of twilight). The Norse gods, however, took pity on the hearty Icelanders, providing a nightlight of sorts, the Aurora Borealis. Step outside and look up, all the colors of the rainbow danced, curtain like, across the sky. From the yellow to purple, and all colors and shades in-between. I have never since seen such a vibrant display in any part of the world, before or since.

Nature, as is her want, compensated with no night during the summer. The sun would dip behind the foothills, rising again, after a scant 30 minutes of twilight. Night time light shows were out of the question, but summer brought out other delights for ones eyes.

In Iceland, there are no ugly women. (And yes, for the ladies, most of the guys were of rugged Nordic stock, so you do the math on that side of the street.) The "average" woman (as perceived by "horny young American Sailor standards ™ " ) would be considered very attractive....and it only got better from there. Now, place a large number of them into shorts or other clothing of a fetching or flattering nature, and the northern lights were all but forgotten. Gents, there were gals who were the perfect poster child for Denmark, blonde, buxom, long legs. But fate was kind toward those who favored redheads and brunettes too. For the Irish "invaded" in centuries past, and left their mark as seen....well picture a taller, long legged version of "Dolly" from Baby Troll Blog, and you'll have the correct image. Want a dark haired beauty with more of an olive complected skin color, you can thank the Turks, for their "visit", and the progeny left behind.

So, sorry, no bar fights....too busy drinking..eating some of the best lamb on God's green earth, and chasing skirts.

2. ... I notice that you live in Illinois... it must still be colder than a
well digger's ass up there.. how do you cope with those harsh winters?...
are you a snow-shovel kind of guy, or do you just batten down the hatches,
hibernate, and wait for the Spring thaw?.. also, I notice that you have
quite a few good ole Southern blogs on your roll... any plans on catching up
to us all in Jekyll?...

I was born and raised in the "land of Lincoln". And tried, with some limited success, to get away from the cold, biting, winters. (Yeah, go figure, my first duty station with the Navy was Iceland *grin*.) Right now we are at a balmy 38 degrees, and overcast, yep spring is here at last. As to shoveling the snow, living in an apartment, I don't have to send the teen age genetic hostages out do take care of that task. But, the in-laws live less then a mile from here, and I have done their drive . Thank the heavens above, there was enough rum "back medicine" in the house, to take care of the resulting lower back issues.

Having lived in Texas (yes, Rob, I know you have issues with that state being considered part of the south), southern Maryland, and Virginia. And being stationed at one time or another in Tennessee, Maryland, Texas, I have a fondness for the south and the flavor/customs/history of that part of the country. Plus, the politics, and general manners of "the south ™ " seem to most closely match my own.

As far as catching up to y'all at Jekyll, I would love to! (And the TrueBlue one would be there with me as well.) But, finances, and to a much lesser extent logistics, prevent that from happening at this time. I don't play guitar, was a good horn man at one time, and have a strong bass baritone voice....get me to a piano bar with all the old standards and I am a happy guy (same goes for Karaoke). But who knows what the future holds.

3. ... c'mon, Guy... your blog is conservative, but you don't write about
firearms very often... and that is just wrong... if you don't mind, give us
your thoughts on the 2nd amendment.. conceal carry permits.. and the right
to self-defense... do you carry a firearm?.. if so, what kind?..

No, I haven't. Mostly 'cause I currently have none in my possession. This has to do with family and finances (again) more then anything else. I have, back when I lived in Texas, owned a vintage 9mm Astra. And a very good friend and retired Sailor, who resides in the DFW area, was a class 3 firearms dealer, who went with me to the range many a time. Used to load my own rounds too.

As far as the 2nd Amendment goes. What is so hard for the socialist/liberal/GFW bastards out there to understand? It grants us the "right to bear arms" specifically to:

1. Carry out our responsibilities/duties as part of a "regulated militia" (which is NOT EXCLUSIVELY the National Guard, btw).
2. Carry out, if and when, oaths taken by those of us with military affiliation, demand we need to take action in "defending the constitution against all enemies, foreign and domestic".

There is also the need/desire to (by owning and being properly trained/proficient in the use of any given firearm) take direct action if confronted by various forms of pond scum. Or helping a neighbor out with same if the need arises (civic duty what a concept).

In short the reason I haven't posted about guns/swords/bows...I start to drooling on my keyboard...and well, it just ain't a pretty sight.

4. .. going back to the "lets get to know Guy" theme... tell us more about
your service time... what was your job while you were in the Navy.. did you
go to any c-schools?.. if so, which ones?

I joined in April of '73 on a delayed enlistment program, and went on active duty (and to boot camp-Great Lakes) the following August. The majority of my training and schooling was in aviation electronics (radios/navigation aids/radars/electric counter-measures and the like). The Navy (along with the Marines) divides their maintenance into three main sections....Squadron level, Intermediate Maintenance , and Depot Level. Most of my time was spent at the Intermediate level. We received the broken equipment from the various squadrons we supported, and repaired it down to component level (though these days I understand it is all cards now). I have worked on every thing from DC-3s to UAVs. But electronics was not the only "hat" I was privileged to wear while in the Navy. I was, at one time, a recruiter, an assistant Public Affairs Officer, Commnad Career Counselor, and a "pilot" of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. Retirement arrived far too soon, at the end of February 1997.

As with any job/career it was not perfect, but if I got a call tomorrow to put the uniform back on, I would do it in a heartbeat. As as side note, the days that followed 9/11, saw me in the local recruiters office, asking if they were going to do any sort of "recall" for those of us in an "inactive reserve status". I was jokingly told "Thanks but no thanks Pops, but we are not looking for old farts right now." After talking with the Recruiter In Charge for a few minutes, he did see my point of view, and passed on that other retired Sailors had been by to offer their services as well.

5. ... and finally, have you ever met any bloggers (other than your better
half) in person?... if so, were they what you had imagined them to be from
reading their blogs?.

I have met a few folks, both my better half and I were close to, from back in our mIRC days. The only blogger I have met in person, who was a friend of Debs before I started reading her, resides in Iowa. She is quite the conservative, intelligent, and (though she denies it)cute, young lady. We met her, her mother, and sister when they were on their way back from a weekend in Chicago. UPDATE The blogger in question is Kate, at The Running Conservative. (yes, preview is your friend)

I have had the pleasure of "IM'ing" with Mike (of DGCI fame), the old curmudgeon Francis Porretto, and Red Falcon who runs "The Steiner Aid". But, have not made personal contact with any other netizen. I hope this changes as time, circumstances, and money allow.

And there you have it. And perhaps more then you wanted to know, about the ol' fool retired squid who is at the helm here at Snugg Harbor. Thanks again, to Eric, who came up with his questions, and the opportunity to answer same.

My Two Cents

We have all been reading with our hearts, about the dealings in Florida with Terri Schiavo. My heart goes out to her and her family. No parent should have to bear witness to any of their children being in the state Terri is in.

It is my personal belief that Terri Schiavo has on more then one occasion shown herself not to be in a vegetative state. Indeed, one of the lawyers for the Schiavo's, Barbara Weller says based on visits to Terry, she is not in what would be called a permanent vegetative state (PVS). A number of doctors, during court hearings, have stated otherwise. And for those who may be interested, here is the timeline as to what has transpired with Terri Schiavo from the beginning. And this testimony given by Jay Wolfson, as Guardian Ad Litem to Theresa Marie Schiavo.

That having been said, gentle reader please take a minute to look at this, posted by the good Kim Du Toit, and this, as written by another of my favorite wordsmiths, Chris Byrne.

There are parts of both posts, that I am not in complete agreement with. But the bottom line of both posts, speaks to the heart of the matter as far as federal interference goes. And *that* is where I fall into (gentle readers you may flame at will) complete agreement with them.

Should something be done to resolve this, at the State and or local level? Yes, in my mind there are far too many questions unanswered. Should the "feds" get involved? Not unless, upon further review of all aspects in this affair bring to light criminal conduct which might trigger some violation of a federal statute.

Here would be my concerns:

I really wonder what motives her husband Michael has.
They were still *husband and wife* at the time of Terri's change of medical state. But they were living apart at the time she was felled. Was there ever any criminal investigation regarding Michael's possible involvement, in Terri being injured? Assuming he played no part in her arriving at the state she is in now, are there other actions/events in his life which are driving him to do what he is doing? Or, is it simply a case of a husband (allegedly) following the verbal wishes of his wife?

I really wonder what has not been told to the public via the media, regarding the facts, as they pertain to Terri Schiavo's medical state and how she arrived at same.

I really wonder as with other federally legislated "good intentions", this will at some future date, come back to haunt us. As an example, there is the case of Brown vs the Board of Education. SCOTUS eventually, with the best of intent, superseded the rights of the state. And because this bit of judicial activism was allowed to stand, it became ever easier for judges to act in the same manner.

With more contemplation, there could be more questions brought to the fore. And as mentioned above, I do feel for this woman, who is caught now in a web of good intentions, ulterior motives, and being used by both sides of the political spectrum to meet their own agendas, at her expense (for good or ill).

In a basic sense, Kim is correct in stating "It is none of our business..". But, whether it had obtained national exposure or not, the effects/actions taken, one way or another, may very possibly have an effect on many more people then just Terri Schiavo, her husband, and family. And that my friends makes it at least *our business* to know what went on, why a final decision was arrived at, and what if any precedence could be used in the event future cases are brought against any one of us, should the need ever arise. If nothing else, get thee to a lawyer, and make out a living will. That way YOUR wishes stand the greatest chance of being honored.

Finally, may Terri and those who are truly working to see her wishes be honored (and I don't know-honestly-which side that is), be successful.

March Madness of a Different Sort

What is this *basketball* you talk about? Where the law of gravity is routinely ignored, and round orange balls seem to act like some crazed positively charged particle in its unerring trajectory toward a negatively charged hoop?

No, my March madness...comes about not due to the stylized urban battle, taking place on courts with lords of the hoops vying for supremacy, mine involves all the senses....

You can have your march madness. Give me a transistor radio,with ear piece surreptitiously being used, listening to Brickhouse, or Carry, while trying to look attentive in history class. The smell of musky ground, which a month past was in winters suspended animation, now assaults the senses. Spring has arrived, even north of a southern gentleman's line of demarcation. In that sweet period of youth before legs which seem to go on forever, and eyes of unlimited depths, take full command of a young mans fancy, the clarion call of spring was to love of a different sort. The distant thunder of an oncoming spring storm recalled the thunderclap of wooden bats sending a single leather hailstone over the fence and onto Waveland Avenue. Even the tell-tail sound of bright red birds, did nothing more then to remind one of a reviled adversary from that ersatz "big city", St. Louis.

In my youth, the rally was "Santo, Kessinger, to Banks", and "Lets play two!" Seeing Ferguson Jenkins consistently pitch complete games. When you only came out of the game, if the magic failed to arrive on any given day, or worse, you were injured beyond the ability to play. (To be fair, there are some players, who given the chance, would do the same. Managers and management have been the villains here, the same folks who gave us the "dh"...but these attempted debaucheries of the game are topics for another day.)

You, who have the "other" March madness, enjoy. She is a street smart, and gritty kind a gal. But at best only a pretender to Lady Baseball's charms. The lass who's spirit resides (for me) at Wrigley Field, had my heart first. She taught me more about patience, loyalty, and love, then you ever could. She also, yearly, gave lessons on fickleness, and the capriciousness of winds blowing out of the park. Yes, that was when I became infected with my March madness. It continues to this day, currently residing in Arizona, soon to head for the city of big shoulders, and an ivy covered walled cathedral, where, this year as in every year past, hope springs eternal.

Lets play ball!

Naught Solved by War

It has been far too long since one of Russ's works have graced this corner of the net. Thanks to the man himself, this is most happily corrected. Welcome back poet warrior.

The First 10K Is The Hardest

Well, according to sitemeter, I rolled over the 10,000 mark today.

It has been about a month and one half shy of a year, since Snugg Harbor opened for business. And it has been a blast. Thank you. There have been (and are) many voices out in the blogosphere which prompted me to stake out my own little corner of the net. To my better half, who was (and is) never shy in stating her opinion and brings out the best in me. The Du Toits, with their blend of commentary, well thought out points of view, and excellent essays, are a required daily stop. Mark Alger's Baby Troll Blog , whose look at life and the world around him, along with pithy comments from the effervescent Dolly, deserve to be on everyone's required reading list. Then there is the "old curmudgeon", Francis, at Eternity Road , if pens were swords, and posts, well and truly pieces of our souls put to paper, his pen would be a shining longsword of truth. His words, the soul of a Palladian, for all to see. With equal parts honor, courage, and justice.

There are so many others, men and woman who's voices rise in a beautiful noise. The two Erics (Bits and SWG), Rob, Ed, SondraK, two Kates (Venomous and Conservative), DeDoc (*the* carry over from the old live journal days), and the list goes ever on.

To each and every one of you, thank you. You have given this humble harbor master, much to think on over the past ten months, and I suspect you will continue to do so far into the future. I am proud and honored to be counted among you as a fellow traveler on this journey we are all a part of. May the next 10,000 be as fun, and exciting as the first has.

Love and Marriage

A couple of things were posted today at Eternity Road. Both tie into what has been probably *the* topic of discussion here at the Harbor. No, the First Mate ™ is not kicking me out. (I think it has something to do with that male chromosome, but not totally sure.) Anyhow, we were talking about the same sex marriage issue.

We are both of the opinion, the rite of marriage, is not something which should, or even can, be handed out by the federal government, for a number of reasons (talk about your separation of church and state for starters).

Marriage is the union of a man and a woman in the sight of man (the community) and God (a unifying entity or consciousness said community acknowledges as a source of their collective moral guidance). For the state to dictate who any church should or will marry, regardless of the spiritual teachings and beliefs of said church, is treading on dangerous constitutional ground.

For a very small but vocal minority, to seek to impose its views and values on the rest of mainstream society, is wrong. If we wish to see our current society dissolve before our eyes, let the tyranny (or more correctly the temper tantrums) of the few control the actions of all, and we will be well on our way toward either an elitist/statist society or total anarchy. Perhaps the same sexers would not be the end all or be all...but who would be next? What about the NAMBLA folks? Or the ecco-extremists.(ELF in charge anyone?) Or, on the other side of the coin...do you want the white supremacists to be the controlling factor, to have an equal voice or say in how you are to live your life?

This country, for the most part, has been about folks having the right to express their views. To expect any minority view, to be accepted across the board by the majority of mainstream thought/conventional wisdom, was not part of the deal. That the folks which spout or back ideas and ideals such as those in the above paragraph expect to have this is arrogance of the highest order.

Getting back to the same sex marriage folks, specifically to expect to be granted equality in all dealings, when fact(s), plainly dictate otherwise falls into the same line of thought as the last paragraph states. For example, because same sex couples, specifically males, are part of an extremely high risk group regarding HIV, AIDS, and other medical maladies, it would be the height of selfishness to expect them to receive the same rates for health coverage as would be given to a hetero couple (non smoking). Just as my spouse and I , as smokers, would not have the right to expect our rates to be the same as a non-smoking couple, for life insurance, same sex couples have to expect to be judged and treated accordingly based on their choices.

So, in short:

Should same sex couples (or single gay women/men) be allowed to live with out fear of harm to their persons?

Of course, as should any other person.

Should there be civil unions for same sex couples?

I can see that...it is not a religious rite, but a function of the state.

Should they be granted the same tax status as other couples?

If they are *officially* a union, sure, any one that can get a few more dollars by filing jointly is okay by me.

Should they expect to pay the same in health care insurance or life insurance?

Nope. And the actuarial tables will back me up on that one.

Should they be allowed to receive, across the board, the rite/sacrament of marriage?

Nope. The caveat here ...if they can find a church which sanctions same...good luck and deity bless. But to expect mainstream churches to either ignore or rewrite their teachings and or beliefs to accommodate a very vocal minority, which goes against their religious doctrine, is nothing more then thuggery. And, shows nothing but disrespect toward the very establishment(s) they seek to gain the confidence or respect of, or admittance into.

For the majority of civilized society, marriage is the tool used to provide at least a semblance of security (in this day and age) for a women and children brought into the union of a given couple. It is one of the pillars which provides for the successful functioning of a society. It is not restricted to a Judeo-Christian point of view either. All major faiths, world-wide, recognize and support this type of union. For a minority to want to change the worth or value of this union, only because it advances their agenda, is an act of arrogance which we as civilized man ignore at our own peril.

Mothers

They set high standards.

All they need is a sigh or a gesture. When that happens, you know what ever you have done, was not "really" good enough, for they know you could have done better. "Your report card is good, but, *sigh*, if only you would live up to your potential." Some would say it is criticism. Better to think of it as an almost unlimited faith in their child's abilities, that you *can* do better. And after all is said and done, looking back shows, they are almost always right.

They are pack rats.

Go up in the attic, crawlspace, or musty basement. You'll almost always find bags, boxes, or stacks of stuff wrapped with string. Your first Mother's day card, crayon written, from 1st grade. ALL your report cards, class pictures, awards and ribbons long forgotten. Perhaps birth certificates or notices, any newspaper clippings. If you were away in the service or at college, you'll find postcards and letters too.

They live in the past.

Whether you are 5, 15, or 50, you will always be "their little boy". Be it a skinned knee, broken heart, shattered dreams, failed marriage, their arms are always open. The knee will be tended to, broken hearts usually salved with a word of wisdom and a hearty meal or two ("It's your favorite!! Now, eat!"). Your dreams given new purpose or direction, with but a "Don't let this stop you. I know you have it in you." "Why, did you know all left handed people excel at what they are talented in?" "Just look at ____!" As for failed marriages, has ANY son married a woman who, at least early on in the relationship, met with a hundred percent approval rating from her? No one is either too good, or good enough, for her son. (The converse is true for fathers and son-in-laws, but that is a tale for another day.)

They forgive far too easily.

You may wound them in a thousand ways, forget a birthday, miss a promised visit, not write or call as often as you should. For some reason, if you show up at the door with a large bouquet of their favorite flowers, most all is forgiven.

They never forget.

Just leave your kids with grandma for a day. Then, when you have them back home, ask how their day went. Ask what they and grandma talked about. "Grandma's cool!" "She told us about the time you got stuck in the tree next door." "Grandma said when you were in school you were the best trumpet player in the whole band!" "Grandma got out the old photos of when you were a baby!" "Yeah, we saw daddy's baby butt...hehehe." Yep, they always remember what you did as a child and sometimes have pictures to back it up.

They like to talk.

Go over for a visit and the next thing you know, it's time for a trip down memory lane. All the old family history comes up. There may even be stories about when she was a little girl or young lady, and what life was like back then. Usually punctuated with "We had to be tougher back then, there was a war on!" "You know movies were better....why your Great grandmother had garlic out round the house, for days, after seeing Dracula!"

They leave their mark.

You can look at a man and usually see his father in how he looks, in his manner, and overall how he presents himself. If you get to know him, really know him as a close friend or as a husband/lover, look into his eyes and to his soul...you will see his mother.

They leave much too soon.

And then they are gone. You are left with scrapbooks, school projects carefully preserved, photos, memories, and with any luck at all, the sudden realization you were well and truly, and unconditionally, loved.

Why did I write this now?

Well, one of the first things I did today was to talk on the phone (she called), with my mother. It wasn't anything important, just about the usual things, how is she doing, what's up with the rest of the family, and verbal side trips here and there.

After the call, I went online and looked around the net. The very first item which caught my eye was that a good friend (least I would like to consider him that) was grieving. His mother began a journey this morning, on a path not his to take right now. And though I believe with all my heart, his mamma knows, and is able to hear when he says "I love you mamma." May the memories, and such, provide him with her response of; "I love you too son."

Both of these, happening as they did, prompted this post.

Rest In Peace

Rob's beloved momma passed today. The loss of a loved one is never easy. Though most of us will, or have already dealt with the death of a parent, it is the perhaps the greatest loss of all. Please, if you have ever read his stories, especially those about his family, drop him a line or a kind word.

Two Years And Counting

Before I started to add my voice to the multitudes here on the web, I read and commented on a number of other blogs. One of these, which was at least partially instrumental in me getting off my butt and into the blogosphere, was this lady. Well, today is her blogiversary. Kate has been pounding the keyboard for two years now, and shows no sign of letting up anytime soon. Go and stop by, take a look at her way with words, and wish her well on *her day*. I think you will be glad you did.

The Online Coalition

When word spread about Judge Colleen Kollar-Kotelly’s decision in the U.S. District Court for the District of Columbia in Shays v. FEC, there was a flurry of activity around the blogosphere. Captain's Quarters has been leading the charge with his detailed coverage. Geek With A 45, capturing the passions of many, has with the advent of a new blog, started a "confederacy of bloggers", with his McCain-Feingold Insurrection.

Now there arises yet another call to arms. Looking at the list of signatures, this group really seems to have a multi-partisan feel to it. Bloggers from across the political spectrum are lending their signature and support. Go take a look here and then toss your hat into the ring.

For as much as "The McCain-Feingold Insurrection" addresses our passions, and that is a necessary thing to do. "The Online Coalition" , appears to be arguing the case in a more reasoned fashion. The end result, in my mind, is both groups provide two pronged attack against those who would see a precedence set, whether immediately acted on or not, allowing for the curtailing of our first amendment guarantees.

(tip o' the squid-lid to Captain Ed, for the heads up)

McCain Hypocrite At Large

I have been following, with interest, not only the hub-bub about the BCRA and the FEC as it relates specifically to blogging and bloggers at large, but about the exploits of it's more notable author, Senator John McCain.

Ed Morrissey at Captain's Quarters has been on this item and the Senator like a good hunting dog...ferreting out bits and pieces of the truth along with giving us larger swatches about one of the main players in this madness.

But I am noticing something else here.

Yes there was the Keating Five scandal, and though he came out of it with little more than a slap on the hand (and a hope that the voting public has short memories), McCain did admit he was wrong. This major incident was spun over the years as his main personal reason for the BCRA. That, there exists a possibility legislators could become corrupted by the large amounts of money out their in corporate coffers and PAC land. The average voter across the nation (assuming McCain's ambition for power and the presidency are as strong as they ever were) could, if spun right, believe McCain has learned his lesson.

But wait you say, what about information currently being brought to light about his ties with Cablevision and their contributions to the Reform Institute. In fact looking at the cronyism prevalent at the Reform Institute, and McCain's ties to same, if this is the actions of an active "reformer", one might wonder when wolves became just another subspecies of chicken.

Okay, lets not look at the above. After all it's been many years since Keating...and one can't fault a fella from back sliding. Oops, it seems Mark R. Levin, dug up a bit more about McCain getting monies from outside sources at different times from 1989 through 2002.

So, what is the big deal here? To me it is simple, and Mr. Levin brings it to light in this fashion:

"Of course, I don't believe the mere receipt of campaign contributions is corrupting. In fact, it's evidence of representative government at work. The public has every right to try to influence the direction of their government. But McCain believes this activity to be corrupt, yet he took the money anyway."

And that appears to be McCain in a nutshell....the man is a hypocrite.

This brings me back to McCain's recent statements about the FEC and the BCRA not effecting, or having any effect on, individual bloggers. Judging on how the man is able to apparently talk reform out of one side of his mouth while feathering his campaign coffers or providing "capital" shelter for his cronies. You have got to wonder not only about John McCain's ability to prevent the erosion of YOUR first amendment rights, but his willingness to do so as well.

Book 'em Danno!

I will admit right up front, I stole this from this guy, who of course "acquired it" from someone else.

Any how here is my two cents. What would your choices be?

You're stuck inside Fahrenheit 451, which book do you want to be?

"The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress" or "JOB: A Comedy of Justice" both by Robert Heinlein

Have you ever had a crush on a fictional character?

No crushes....they are fictional after all.

The last book you bought is:

"Another Fine Myth / Myth Conceptions" by Robert Asprin published by Ace books, May 2002

The last book you read:

"MYTH INC." (Asprin again)

What are you currently reading?

"To Reign In Hell" by Steven Brust
"The Da Vinci Code" by Dan Brown

The five books you would take to a deserted island:

Any good survival book
"Time Enough For Love: The Lives of Lazarus Long" by Robert A Heinlein
"The Works of Mark Twain, Complete and Unabridged"
"The Bible"
"William Shakespeare: The Complete Works"
"The Lord Of the Rings Trilogy" J.R.R. Tolkien

Who are you going to pass this stick to (3 persons) and why?

Francis (the ol' curmudgeon)....because I am curious

Stephen...cause I wonder what else he reads besides anything sports related
Red Falcon....because there are only so many biographies about big band leaders, so what else *does* he read

Update: Just got off the horn with my oldest. He has much better math skills than I Yes there are *six* books up there on my deserted island list...so no offence to Tolkien, but that is the one that would get the cut. Damn kids, they go to college and the next thing you know, they are editing your work *grin*, go figure.

Revisiting Senator McCain

I received more than a few comments about this post when it appeared a number of months ago. The major piece of legislation co-authored by the good Senator has been in the news and making major waves throughout the blogsphere over the past few weeks. Perhaps it is as good a time as any to take a walk down memory lane...The main point of my post still stands. Senator McCain in all good conscience needs to step down from his senate seat and retire. I have the greatest respect for the senators Naval service, and for his time spent as a POW. But, I posit his time in hell, has at the very least affected his powers of reasoning. It's not his fault, and it may not be fair (as things in life often are) but his actions as a Senator, and the legislation he has backed or sponsored, as well as his actions as a member of the Senate fact finding committee on the issue of POWs/MIAs are questionable at best.

Anyhow, here is the old post.

With all the war of words about the Swift Boat Vets for Truth and their ad depicting Kerry in a less than favorable light (Truth hurts don't it Kerry). Aside from the whining and pseudo legal garbage put out by the DNC (and others for the Kerry Konvoy), one voice spoke out, which judging by his past actions isn't too surprising at first look. Yes, I am talking about Arizona's own Senator John McCain.

There has been talk over the years about his checkered political past (Keating Five ring a bell?), including the election ads cure-all (that didn't)which bitch-slaps ignores that pesky first amendment, the CFR. But, his statements concerning the ad placed by the Swifties, is not really about his being a "maverick", or even being an independent thinker.....it goes deeper.

As most folks know Senator McCain was a POW during Viet Nam. There have been other sites and other comments, over the years, suggesting he got the majority of his wounds by not following procedure upon ejecting from his aircraft over the middle of Hanoi. I would humbly suggest until you have done the same, you might want to pipe down about that....ejecting from an aircraft even in optimal conditions is not failsafe....and though I have concerns about the Senator, that isn't one of them.

He landed in the middle of " the Western Lake" and was removed from it by one Vietnamese. Thus started his 5 1/2 year stint as a prisoner of war.
And, on his fourth day of captivity and believing he was going to die, McCain chose instead to deal with his captors. I said, "O.K., I'll give you military information if you will take me to the hospital.". Even this almost failed to work, until the Vietnamese realized he was the son of a senior Naval Officer. Now, only those who have been in that part of hell experienced by POW's of Viet Nam, would have any honest insight to what McCain was exposed to....the rest of us can imagine...based on what we have read or heard from other POW's. Is he a turncoat to his fellows based on his own admissions in so far as he claims to have freely violated the Code of Conduct all service members are bound to? I don't want to address that concern...indeed it is not as important as another question I do have.

Was Senator McCain broken so hard that he can never exorcise the demons his actions past and present would indicate he still faces? If he were just a small town mayor, or a little bureaucrat in a dimly lit office, that may not be much of a concern...certainly others have matters of self worth and conscience they must face constantly...But how many are US Senators....and past (and possible future) contenders for the highest office in the land?

Fact: McCain actively sought to dismiss and marginalize attempts of finding out whether there were American POWs/MIAs still alive in Viet Nam and possibly neighboring countries

Fact: After keeping his distance from Massachusetts Senator John Kerry for a number of years, obstinately due to Kerry's well documented anti-war stance, He has been alleged to have "Made his peace" with Kerry while on a trip to Kuwait.

Fact: The very enemy which caused him physical and mental damage, became the beneficiary of his actions in bringing about more open trade as one of a number of US Senators seeking to help open relations with Viet Nam.

Fact: When fellow vets attempt to present their side of the ongoing saga that is the Kerry attempt to rewrite (Kerry's) history of the Viet Nam war, he summarily dismisses them and calls upon the Bush administration to do the same.

The bottom line is there is more to Senator McCain then meets the eye. Based on what has appeared in print (US News and World Report, Congressional Record[s], McCain's own statements, "The Nightingale", etc) he is a man who seeks to put Viet Nam well behind him....even if the costs are far greater than just the personal well being and mental health of one Senator John McCain.

It is one thing to allow Kerry to dodge and weave as he puts on his "Visions of Viet Nam Heroics Pornshow ™" and attack those without credentials or affidavit's to back up their accusations. But the Swift Boat Veterans for Truth are NOT in that group Senator McCain. They have the poof, they have been there, been wounded, and seen their comrades in arms die there.

You have talked about courage. You have talked about falling short of what you would consider to be honorable conduct. You have the chance here to do what would be considered to be the honorable thing, in really listening to what the Swift Boat vets have to say. And, in doing all of what is in your power to ensure the current Commander in Chief is returned to office for another four years. We are at war Senator, and though he is not perfect, President Bush has the clarity of vision to recognize the evil we are fighting for what it is. Perhaps, in finding the courage within yourself to drop the blinders and see the truth, you will be able to eliminate some of the demons who dine on your soul daily.

Where's The Bear?

Is it just me? Or has something happened to NZ Bear? The TTLB seems to have gone poof over the past couple of days. Anyone have a clue as to why? Inquiring Minds want to know.

The First Amendment

Does anyone remember this little item from past history classes or what was once called civics?

"Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the Government for a redress of grievances."

It seems that unconstitutional piece of crap called "The McCain-Feingold Act", is about to be used to muzzle our constitutional guarantee to free speech.

Despite assurances from members of the FEC, that our individual right to free speech will not be in jeopardy, if the additions proposed for McCain-Feingold are allowed to become law, I offer this old bit of prose.

"Fool me once, shame on you.
Fool me twice, shame on me."

I can be no more clear or resolute in my thoughts and actions then as follows:

• If you pass and place into law the proposed amendments/enhancements to the legislation commonly referred to as "The McCain-Feingold Act" I shall do, and take, any and all actions, up to, and including willful civil disobedience in working toward the abolishment of said act.

• If any agents or persons acting as agents from the FEC, or any other branch of the government try in any manner, pursuant to the above legislation, to prevent me or my family from being able to exercise our Constitutional guarantees, you will be met with such force as necessary to either compel you to cease and desist, or be personally in need of a body bag, your choice.

• I have sworn to protect and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and DOMESTIC. I do not take that charge or responsibility lightly, it has been my privilege and honor to have been able to do so these many years, I hope to be able to for many more.

Guy Stephen Sochor

Ed Morrissey at Captain's Quarters has an open letter to all members of the House and Senate. Read it and please take the time to follow his instructions afterwards.

There are kindred spirits you can find a large chunk of them here. There are others.

I will post on this again, as my temper, but not my passion cools.

Update
This has become one of the hottest, if not the hottest issue on the net. More people are coming on board or adding to the information or discussion all the time.

Here are some of the following with links to their take on this subject:

Riverdog
Kim Du Toit
Emperer Misha
Fran at Eternity Road
Chris at AnarchAngel
LaShawn Barber

DeDoc
Geek With A 45
OKIE on the LAM
and of course, Captain's Quarters
Redstate
Professor Bainbridge
And even my better half has pontificated on this right here.

We will not be quiet. We will not go silently into the night. We shall yell it from the street, shout it from the mountain. To the despots from Arizona and Wisconsin, your willingness to pervert or out and out remove the citizens first amendment rights will cost you both a high price. History shall show nothing but scorn showered upon you and your memory.

SCOTUS

Others have talked about the recent 5 to 4 ruling by SCOTUS which decided the death penalty would no longer apply to anyone who was under the age of 18 at the time they committed a crime that made the death penalty an option in their ultimate sentencing.

Justice Kennedy noted that "the stark reality is that the United States is the only country in the world" that sanctioned executions for juvenile crimes.

That drew an angry response from Justice Antonin Scalia, who read parts of his dissent from the bench. "The basic premise ? that American law should conform to the laws of the rest of the world ? ought to be rejected out of hand," he said in his written opinion.

USA Today

And that, in a nutshell, is where my biggest concern lies. When the highest court in the land elects to base its rulings not on a legitimate interpretation of the Constitution, but on the individual whims of any given Justice or the conventional wisdom of international opinion, we have ceased to be a nation governed by the rule of law, but have begun the decent toward the rule of the mob.

The other pending news, regarding SCOTUS, is their hearing of two cases which will address that pesky (and IMHO incorrectly interpreted) part of the Constitution, the "separation of church and state". This is tied into the open displays of, specifically, the ten commandments. And as with most battles of this sort, you have the atheists along with those who misinterpret the constitution's guidance on this issue on one side, and various religious groups, conservatives, constitutionalists, and as noted here the majority of Americans (as high as 76%), on the other.

Like it or not, the fact is the ten commandments have played a part in western civilization's development of its laws, and what was of importance or "value" to the guidelines of a functioning and healthy society. This country was formed by men who if not individually particularly religious, knew faiths (of all flavors) were an important underpinning to the societies of their day. What they were very concerned about, and rightly so, was the federal government NOT select any given sect over another, as being favored by the state.

So, in theory, if we recognize the Judeo-Christian roots which helped to form this nation, and as in the case of the ten commandments, allowed for the public display of this recognition, it is NOT a violation of the constitution. However, if tomorrow the President came out and said the Roman Catholic Church was now "The" one and only recognized faith of this country, and would be granted favor, power, and a formal presence over all others, THAT, would be a direct violation of the constitution.

It is really just that simple. If the Supreme Court rules in any other fashion, then perhaps another case needs to be brought in front of the court. The idea that atheists are in fact a -theism of their own. I contend the folks who follow that particular line of thought...although not believing in (a) god...have in fact substituted man in gods stead. And as such, they are just as culpable as any other religion or faith, and should be as restricted in how they effect the "rule of law" in this country as any other religion has been.