Engineering Consent

Engineering Consent





….and now back to our regularly scheduled programming………..

Well it sure has been a week, or soon to say “Quite a Year”! (But I’ll save those thoughts and salutations till Saturday’s Post) With so much provocative thoughts and crafted writing on subjects that affect the “modern” worldview, from technology to television to governmental reeducation camps I’ve decided to postpone my post on Progress until giving it a thorough rework, admen and gutting.

Going from Herrick’s “Enlightening” Post to Chad’s Book Review and follow up comments by The Missouri Rev, on to today. I found an article while researching, and though I retained a few ‘clips’, which I’ll post, I lost the original authorship to the words. The article it’s self was a bit ‘unnerving’ in a sense as it was a “bit out there”, but the substance was logical and progressive. After that, I was reading KSmilkmaid’s writings from today and went to the manufacturer’s manual for some technical advice and spent some time conversing with His utmost. For those who like acronyms, I am a firm believer in the Basic Instructions Before Leaving Earth. Fortunate for me it was a warm day here in NY for December and I headed out back to the soil and did a little dressing up of the previous seasons stalks still remaining in the earth, mended the fence that had “taken some wind” and stacked some firewood by the back door.

There is not a thought of this earth that I would not trade for the time spent ‘not thinking’ while doing my labors of joy. It is meditation and rest for my mind, quiets my soul and fills my heart with gladness untold. You can not rent that at Blockbuster or find it on Channel 3, they won’t give you these moments in the practical before a test in the ‘Publik’ School and no technology outside of my simple and worn Husky assistant cutting stalk & twine could better make my day complete.

We owe it to our posterity to pass a long not just in writing but in deed our love for simplicity and the life worth living. (Philippians 4:8)



Here’s the Clips:

“Why do countless American people go along with the War on Iraq? Why do so many people call for a police state control grid? A major component to a full understanding of why this kind of governmental and corporate corruption is to discover the modern science of mind control and social engineering. It's baffling to merely glance at the stacks of documentation that this world government isn't being constructed for the greater good of humanity. Although there are a growing number of people waking up the reality of our growing transparent soft cage, there seems to be just enough citizens who are choosing to remain asleep. Worse yet, there are even those who were at least partially awake at one time but found it necessary to return to the slumber of dreamland. This is no accident; this is a carefully crafted design. The drive to dumb down the populations of planet earth is a classic art that existed before the United States did. One component to understanding and deciphering the systems of control is to become a student of the magicians of influence and propaganda. In order to defeat our enemies (or dictators), its imperative that we understand how they think and what they believe in.”



“Our founding fathers faced enormous challenges in the formation of this country and its bill of rights. One challenge was laying down the groundwork or a free society without knowing what kind of technological advances would be made. Who would have guessed in those times that we needed an article in the bill of rights that specifically prohibits the government and it's associates from engaged in mind control or thought control. The closest item that promises our protection from the government is the 4th Article in The Bill of Rights which states, "The right of the people to be secure in their persons, houses, papers, and effects, against unreasonable searches and seizures, shall not be violated, and no warrants shall issue, but upon probable cause, supported by oath or affirmation, and particularly describing the place to be searched, and the persons or things to be seized." Like many are now beginning to note, the US Constitution and its Bill of Rights are merely given lip service by our supposedly elected officials.

One of the most common examples of mind control in our so-called free and civilized society is the advent and usage of the television set. This isn't to say that all things on TV are geared towards brainwashing you. They're not. But most of the programming on television today is run and programming by the largest media corporations that have interests in defense contracts, such as Westinghouse (CBS), and General Electric (NBC). This makes perfect sense when you see how slanted and warped the news is today. Examining the conflicts of interest is merely glancing at the issue, although to understand the multiple ways that lies become truth, we need to examine the techniques of brain washing that the networks are employing.”


”Experiments conducted by researcher Herbert Krugman reveal that when a person watches television, brain activity switches from the left to the right hemisphere. The left hemisphere is the seat of logical thought. Here, information is broken down into its component parts and critically analyzed. The right brain, however, treats incoming data uncritically, processing information in wholes, leading to emotional, rather than logical responses. The shift from left to right brain activity also causes the release of endorphins, the body's own natural opiates--thus, it is possible to become physically addicted to watching television, a hypothesis borne out by numerous studies which have shown that very few people are able to kick the television habit. It's no longer an overstatement to note that the youth today that are raised and taught through network television are intellectually dead by their early teens. The dumbing down of humanity is represented by another shift, which occurs in the brain when we watch television. Activity in the higher brain regions (such as the neo-cortex) is diminished, while activity in the lower brain regions (such as the limbic system) increases.”

Information

Information

“A wealth of information creates a poverty of attention…”
~Herbert Simon

Having read several good posts on technology it’s application and use over the past several days, caused me to ponder. We are certainly rich beyond our means in a wealth of information with all our resources. A culture with ‘push button’ technology; be it a cell phone, telephone, keyboard, microwave or the multitude of various other “Domestic Servants” at our beckoned call, or virtual ‘snap of the fingers’. To put it one way, “we are blessed to the bridle”!

With all this abundance and given the nature of the season it causes me to think upon the subject of responsibility. In its application and use, the idea of opposite and the “Do Nothing Culture” giving armchair admiration as the sea of humanity parades by becoming less and less humane toward our fellow man. It is the age-old dichotomy selflessness vs. selfishness. How one can have the same tools as another and choose to see them rust, rather than put ‘em to good use or lend them to a neighbor, who in turn could put them to good use ~ rather than rust idle.

The same can be applied to information. The best instruction book in the world, never opened & applied, is as functional and life saving as it is a doorstop. Knowing is not knowledge until it is applied. Guess I’ve got some work to do, that nail left unhammer’d in the household is beckoning me………..(to be continued)

Great News

Great News











“I just saved us a ton of money on car insurance!”
~My Wife

Well as with any subject I like to form my thinking with great quotes I find on a particular subject. Sorry Geico – this one goes to my wife. (and we didn’t use Geico) As I have stated in a previous post, it’s nice to have a Proverbs 31 wife. She is becoming quite adept at practicing frugality in our family economy (still a future topic) and demonstrating her skillfulness in obtaining a good bargain. This week to the tune of, saving over fourteen hundred dollars in car insurance, with a few phone calls. Nice. To understand why this impressed me so much, despite the obvious economic benefit to our family, was that she does not take pleasure in having to contact and speak with people she does not know concerning business matters. Not shy or fearful, just reserved in conversation, that’s all. I of course persevere in encouraging her to be more forthright in dealing with business or economy matters. She is loving and accommodating in my persistence of the matter. It is good to see her success.

As well she has ventured out in what we hope to be a gainful endeavor of starting her own tutoring business this year as well. Touchstone Academic Service ~ “A Foundation for Learning” To say I am quite proud would be understating my admiration for her. She recently completed a four year degree in mathematics this past spring and for a guy who never progressed passed 10th grade math, quote: “Geez she is smart!”

As well, I get wonderful cards like this:


















A true “Hallmark” of God’s helpmeet! How fortunate in riches immeasurable is the provision in life of a loving and honorable wife!

Purpose

Purpose

"Going to church does not make you a Christian anymore than going to the garage makes you a car."
~ Dr. Laurence J. Peter

In reviewing scripture, my comments, and past notes I have made for myself let me introduce this topic by submitting this brief but conclusive reminder to the reader: “The author of this writing is not inspired, and is subject to error, ignorance, and prejudice. You must go to the bible for answers – all I can do is challenge your thinking.” That being said, a relevant quote to much of what is said in the realm of purported Christian thought (or theology) is this, “It is amazing the amount of light the bible can shed on many of our commentaries.” Many a supposed ‘high-church’ individual could befuddle one with amazing terminology such as hermeneutics, soteriology, and eschatological arguments that would lead one to their “Wits End” if not the end of the age. I will do my best to avoid such theological acrimonious transduction as possible in its presentation. It is not due to lack of understanding the terms, they’re just not very useful in explaining things in a straightforward and concise fashion. The best word picture that comes to mind is throwing “big rocks” into a small pond. (Lots of fun if you’re a kid by the way.) Ok, to the point, almost….

Please do not confuse the purpose of the “meeting” of the church with the “purpose” of the church which I would place it’s primary emphasis of seeking and saving the lost. (Mathew 28:19-20) If there is any debate as to this emphasis let it be with the author of the verse and not myself, I didn’t write that He did. On to the point, again, almost…..in writing this I gave a lot of thought as to various ‘functions’ of the church with in the members of its body. Please do not mistake my writing as to avoid or dismiss the various functions which would include, but not limited to, items and thoughts found in Ephesians 4:12-13 and James 1:27. There are many others and through "meeting" many of these things take place and are fostered.

As to my first use of scripture John 4:23 was to reference the scriptural application of worship as given by the author Himself where He referred to a time when the true worshipers would worship the Father is spirit and in truth. Which leads me to pose the question: When is the Christian not to be in the spirit and in truth? As stated in Romans 8:9 by the apostle Paul in writing to the church in Rome, the very evidence that one is His, is the indwelling spirit of Christ. (Paraphrased) One of the greater sources of error is when we use non-biblical terms to define biblical concepts. The “church” in scripture is the very body of Christ, and its members are that which make up His body. To conclude that we go to “Church” is to infer that in some way a subtle or unconscious deviation of biblical thought transpires, that “worship” takes place in a “building” or structure outside of these ‘tents of flesh’ we inhabit here on earth. Now I know many would say, “that’s not me” or “I don’t think that way” and to this I would say “bully for you!” good that you don’t. It is a risk that we run though for our weaker minded brethren in the context of conscious that what we “win them from” is as important as what we “win them to” and can lead to, though not always, a sense of double mindedness. This though is not a doctrinal thesis of worship, just a reference to my use of the scripture in John 4:23. I would say that our worship need be as one put it 24-7-365. An individual’s ability to attain to that standard does not negate the standard. Just as Paul referred to the brethren in Rome, as “saints” does not infer that all acted so “saintly”. Please understand the differentiation in usage and context of my explanation. Since I try to avoid addressing Jesus as CEO, in turn I will avoid the use of a non-biblical term “Corporate Worship”, I’m sure the use and practice is infused into the various doctrines of men and denominational creeds, though I imagine it has led to many misunderstandings and fisticuffs in the history of its use and misapplication.

As to the meat of the matter, I would reference Acts 2:42 which carries the greatest portion of “scriptural thrust” (if you will) regarding the “meeting” of the church. When they were continually devoting themselves to the apostles’ teaching and to fellowship, to the breaking of bread and to prayer. The observation of the Lord's supper and the proclamation of His death till He comes as evidenced in I Corinthians 11:23-26. The public reading of scripture as instructed to Timothy by the apostle Paul (I Timothy 4:13) would be of benefit to those gathered and speaking to one another in psalms, hymns and spiritual songs as stated in Ephesians 5:19 in the letter to the saints in Ephesus could do no harm either. These seem to be consistent with what the bible provides as to the purpose of the meeting of the church. To the contrary the bible gives us some warnings to heed as in Hebrews 10:25, I Timothy 6:3-5 and II Peter 2:1-3. So as to keeps alert and not quick to have our ears tickled.

Through these things we are edified. Though these things we find fellowship. Through these things we learn love (for one another) and through these things, in prayer & petition and thanksgiving to God will He (Christ) guard our hearts and mind. Preserving spirit, soul & body until that day of His sure return. (Paraphrased) I Thessalonians 5:23.

In summary, having feared saying to much already, I would say that the “obedience of the faith” referred to in scripture is much more than the keeping of a ‘spiritual scorecard’ and to checking off 1) Assemble 2) Read Bible 3) Pray 4) etc. that mindset, if you will, is flesh and does not please God. Again though as previously stated in my other post, I roast and count beans and am not a through source for biblical exegesis, for that stuff you have to go to the professionals. Best I could do, hope it helps and does not hinder your understanding.

Compass

Catskill Compass

The thing is plain. All that men really understand, is confined to a very small compass; to their daily affairs and experience; to what they have an opportunity to know, and motives to study or practice. The rest is affectation and imposture.

~William Hazlitt

Having a respite from posting these past three weeks to attend to matters of the homestead, consideration of future events and consolation & prayer for the grieved, as my wife’s grandfather passed this month December 4th 2005. Death is an inevitable part of life; it is in fact most certain, we appreciate your thoughts and concern.

Given some time away from weblogging afforded me the opportunity to do some much needed research on things, finish a book or two (and start two new ones), as well as select a new bean to profile for the Coffee Company this coming year.

It is my hope to complete a selection of 7 signature roasts that we will be offering to our wholesale and eventually retail customers. Last year’s selection of a Brazilian bean from the South Minas region of Brazil was such a popular coffee it was difficult for me to ‘mentally’ move on and select a new bean to profile. This year’s selection: Colombian Popayan Supremo or as I term it “The Columbian Connection”. Now, we do roast several other coffees organic, decaf (Swiss Water Process) and fair trade selections, I have not yet acquired a reliable & cost efficient source for the beans. This has proven to be the hardest aspect of stability for our operation. Even roaster malfunction & repair is less evasive and consistent then finding a stable source of suppliers. Needless to say the holiday orders are coming in, so it will be a busy season toward the end of 2005.

Time has meet the expense on the latitude to expand my horizons a bit in getting to be familiar with the writings of Rick Saenz through various mentions and links in like minded agrarian weblogs. Small world it is, that I come to find out his catalog from his former nomenclature as Drought Horse Press is sitting beside me at my desk. Looks as if I’ll get the benefit of ordering some great reading for 2006.

I have taken some time to drafting some thoughts on two topics of interest that I came across and commented on: Purpose of the meeting of the church by ctroutma and Progress by KSMilkmaid, as I promised to revisit the subjects, and for those who know me, will tell you I promise very little and not often.

It has been evidenced in American Culture that we, as a nation, are a lot of sizzle but no substance! For our societal-schizophrenia thinks that just saying something is evidence we care and are sincere, while we willy-nilly forget our promises, grab our Prozac and wonder whatever is the matter with the world around us. If we could commit to doing half of what we said, we’d get twice as much accomplished. This is evidenced and supported by two sections of scripture Matthew 21:28-31 and James 4:13-15. This does not invalidate planning (proper & prayerful) or negate the avoidance of ‘fools folly’ if we should find ourselves on the short stick of wisdom in a particular matter. The whole council of God and His grace is sufficient in these (and all) matters. So to my vegetable enhanced cultural comrades, there’s the beef! (so to speak)

I found this article, which related to what Walter wrote about in his Pig Pile Post. Something I’ve documented to the long-term storage file of agrarian ideas, thank you Walter to introducing me to the concept. This is a reference and application to our proper & prayerful planning for future events in our pursuit of our family’s agrarian aspirations. We got to witness this in John’s announcement December 6th 2005, The Return. With applauds and high hopes for his success! You are an encouragement to us here in Catskill, NY. Also I hope to study out and give application to Herrick’s Chicken Plucker & Scalder for this summer, as we hope to have chickens this spring 2006. (as the Lord wills) I’ll wait for to see if the posting comes available at Cumberland Books.

We are about 3 months away from our new pup which should arrive sometime this coming March. We have a deposit on a Vizsla at Southside Dogs. I hope to get up and visit with Frank again before the litter comes; they are some terrific dogs. (The pup is our gift to each other this holiday) Note: Thank you Herrick for your post on a Good Country Dog. One must know the beginning and end of each story, it is important. Thank you.

So apart from that and some consummate searching of properties in the NY area for ag-land to meet our future goals, we keep the home fires burning and the roaster turning and that’s the Good Life here in Upstate New York………….(to be continued)

Just Paper

Let every lover of liberty, every well-wisher to his posterity, swear by the blood of the revolution never to violate, in the least particular, the laws of the country and never to tolerate their violation by others. As the patriots of '76 did to the support of the declaration of independence, so to the support of the constitution and laws, let every American pledge his life, his prosperity and his sacred honor. Let every man remember that to violate the laws is to trample on the blood of his fathers and to tear the charter of his own and his children's liberty. Let reverence for the laws be breathed by every American mother to the lisping babe that prattles on her lap. Let it be taught in schools, in seminaries, and in colleges. Let it be preached from the pulpit, proclaimed in the legislative halls, and enforced in courts of justice. In short, let it become the political religion of the nation.

~Abraham Lincoln

Put aside, for a moment, political affiliation or personal beliefs. It doesn’t matter if you are a Democrat, Republican or Independent. It doesn’t matter if you support the invasion or Iraq or not. Despite our differences, the Constitution has stood for two centuries as the defining document of our government, the final source to determine – in the end – if something is legal or right.

Is it “just” a piece of paper? [Text]

The U.S. Constitution

The United States Constitution - established in 1789 - is the oldest written national constitution currently in effect. It adapts to our changing society through the addition of amendments. The First Amendment protects many of the freedoms that we exercise on a daily basis, such as freedom of speech, freedom of the press, the right to freely practice religion, and the right to peacefully assemble. The first ten amendments together - otherwise known as the Bill of Rights - outline the various basic freedoms that make this country such a wonderful place to live.

Here’s another historical figure that thought the ‘ends justify the means’.

Ends Justify the Means
Numbers 22:18

God continuously warns Balaam, "Do not go beyond what I tell you to do," and every time, Balaam tries to anyway. He fights God at every turn because He wants his own way. He wants the gold, the honor, and the reputation he would have by cursing Israel (who had defeated mighty Egypt and most of the nations they came in contact with). The true God was the "game in town," and if Balaam beat Him, he would be on the top of the pile. This is Balaam's plan; he was "working his magic," trying to move himself into first position among diviners.

This brings out his major flaw, one that many in the world also have. He believed that the end justifies the means. He was willing to set aside principle (if he had any) to achieve his goals. He functioned by self-interest rather than by belief or standards. His standard was "anything that is good for Balaam," which is self-righteousness and self-interest. These were the principles by which he felt he could live a successful life. He did not base them on anything godly or even ethical but strictly on human reason.

He was willing to do anything to get his way. By putting together different parts of the Bible on him, Balaam comes out smelling like manure, not roses.

History seems to indicate, we are in for some serious times…….(to be continued)