“THE OTHER SIDE OF THE STORY”

If truth be told, many if not most of us often find accepting some of life’s “inescapable realities” exceptionally difficult.   Realities such as: “we are all mortal beings”; “nothing is truly free”; “freedom of speech not only applies to what you and I agree with, but also the views of others we may take exception to”; as well as the at times very unwelcomed annoyance—“there’s always another side of the story.”

And for some reason the realities regarding “free speech” and “other side of the story” kept coming to mind as I read a particular opinion article on page 4 of the Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, March 11-12, 2023 edition of our local newspaper the Parsons Sun. 

One authored by Mr. Rod Haxton of the Scott County Record and titled “Empathy is not one of the 3 ‘Rs’ in the Legislature.”  An in my view politically biased article; apparently triggered by Representative Pat Proctor’s (R-Leavenworth) reportedly expressed views regarding certain activities at a Leavenworth school. 

Views that said article reflects were articulated by Representative Proctor’s following statements: “I find it impossible to believe that an entire grade of third graders and fourth graders, all on their own, decided to draw rainbow flags and talk about LGBTQ and spell those things out on their artwork.” “I find it impossible to believe ... they were not coached to do that by the teacher. That’s just implausible in the extreme.”

Although I seldom if ever find any personal agreement with Mr. Haxton’s published views, I never the less rather routinely lend them my eye and attention as they are included in the Sun.  And in doing so I more often than not find said articles to not only typically include a drawing attention to what Mr. Haxton considers to be the intolerance, lack of empathy, etc., of the Republican Party in whole or in part, but also a demonization of those expressing views counter to his.

For example, the herein referenced opinion article doesn’t just rationally present “another other side of the story” relative to Representative Proctor’s herein reportedly expressed views.  But rather, also sets out to in length demonize Representative Proctor for his reportedly expressed concerns, as well as others of like or similar views. Via a mixed bag of demonization tactics including, but not limited to, expressed or inferred claims of Republican racism, bigotry, hate, fear mongering, intolerance, lack of empathy, close-minded views, etc.

And in reacting in such “intolerant manner” to the expressed views of another, the herein referenced opinion article also demonstrates the human shortfall of “projection,” whereby through ignorance, oversight, or intent one accuses others of being and/or doing that which they the accuser often actually are and/or do.  An often at best very counter-productive behavior it seems we all must personally avoid using and/or guard against being distracted by—as we each in our respective ways seek, and/or strive to share our view of, . . . “the other side of the story.” 

                                  —William James Moore  03/13/2023

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 3 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, March 18-19, 2023 Edition.]

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"Click" on the below image to view the Rod Haxton article to which above "The Other Side of The Story" is responding to:

“Unprecedented in Modern Times" . . . a follow-up to prior posting.

  
On 02/20/2023 President Biden made a reportedly surprise visit to Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, during which he met with Ukraine’s President Zelenskyy and announced a forthcoming half billion dollars of “additional” U.S. aid. The first such Biden visit since Russia launched a full-scale invasion of Ukraine almost a year ago. A visit referred to by some media as being “unprecedented in modern times.”

However, like many things, what is or is not considered “unprecedented” likely rests “in the eye of the respective beholder(s).” And on a personal note—especially in these challenging times— “unprecedented” seems to more aptly apply to a growing list of “other matters.”

Such as, but certainly not limited to: our U.S. National Debt, now exceeding $31 Trillion ($94,000 per citizen; $246,000 per taxpayer); record high inflation; tragedies related to the synthetic opioid “fentanyl”—reportedly now the leading cause of the death of Americans ages 18 to 45; continued invasion of illegal aliens through our country’s unsecured borders; and growing loss of confidence in various aspects of our federal government, election systems, educational institutions, etc.

And then there’s an epitome of—if not “the” epitome of—“unprecedented.” That being our truly unique and most precious U.S. Constitutional Republic! You know, that same republic (not democracy) established some 236 years ago, as the result of “unprecedented” wisdom and sacrifice of “unprecedented” liberty seekers of the times. Yes, that same “individual liberty” enabling republic that (so far) yet stands, despite efforts of countless past and present to—through ignorance and/or intent—destroy it.

Then there’s today’s “unprecedented” America-destructive “inattention” to what made our country “unprecedented” in the first place—its crucial foundation blocks. Such as: our U.S. Constitution, secured borders, common-language English, common-culture founded on Judeo-Christian principles, and a mixed economy constructively weighted with the elements of free market capitalism. Yes, America-destructive “inattention” in many of our homes, businesses, workplaces, government and educational institutions, etc.—fueled by innocent, willful, and/or by-design ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, greed, and fear—especially the human shortfall “greed.”

And, duly labeled “unprecedented” will be the heartbreaking consequences of our failure to soon wake-up to the fact that—when it comes to our much too often taken for granted and/or abused republic—there really doesn’t exist a “Plan-B.” For, it takes not, so-to-speak, a rocket scientist or a great deal of truly rational pondering to look around this much troubled world—and at the endless numbers craving legal and illegal entrance through our borders—for one to readily grasp that . . . this is it!

Yes, and contrary to the self-serving propaganda spewed by our country’s foreign and domestic enemies, this truly unique and ever-so-precious constitutional republic is indisputably the one and only last best hope for the inalienable (God-given) rights of life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. A most precious hope founded through “unprecedented” wisdom and sacrifice—a hope that likewise cannot continue to survive in the absence of same. 

                                                     —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 3 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, March 4-5, 2023 Edition.]

“FUTURE OF WORLD’S MOST FAMOUS SLED DOG RACE AT RISK”

Yes, declining participation, economic woes following a global pandemic, climate changes, and rising inflation, are among the massive challenges for the iconic “Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race.”

One beginning with a ceremonial start Saturday, March 04, 2023, in Anchorage, Alaska, and followed by the competitive start Sunday about 70 miles north in Willow.

But some may ask . . . what the heck is the “Iditarod Trail Sled Dog Race”? And to such hopefully of serious interest inquiry would be the following most brief, general, and grossly incomplete answer:

The “Iditarod”—the most prestigious sled dog race in the world—is a race where the “competitors” are “Mushers (Sled Drivers) and their respective Dog Teams.” Not just any dogs, but truly awesome "canine athletes" of between 12 and 14 in number—of which at least 5 must be on the towline at the finish. And Mushers not made up of just any human being, but of persons of typically unthinkable stamina, skill, talent, and determination.

Because, “the Iditarod” is a truly extraordinary challenge that takes the competitors about 10 days to traverse nearly 1000 miles through two mountain ranges, the frozen Yukon River and treacherous Bering Sea ice, often in blizzards or sub-zero temperatures, before ending in the old Gold Rush town of Nome, Alaska. 

Yes, often through blizzards causing whiteout conditions, sub-zero temperatures, and gale-force winds which can cause the wind chill to reach some -100 degrees F (-73 degrees C).

A race first undertaken in 1973, and created "to save the sled dog culture and Alaskan huskies, which were being phased out of existence due to the introduction of snowmobiles in Alaska; and to preserve the historical Iditarod Trail between Seward and Nome."

A race that this year (2023) will likely include only Thirty-three teams; the smallest number in Iditarod history; down from a 2008 high of 96; and behind the 34 who participated in the inaugural 1973 race.

A grossly under-publicized and media/public-slighted event—where the cost of competing (“running the Iditarod”) can now entail Mushers spending some $250,000 at a shot at winning a $50,000 (before taxes) championship. Hence a reason many Mushers supplement their income by offering uniquely Alaska experiences to cruise ship passengers, etc.

Yes, an Iditarod race where each competitor (Musher & Dog Team) is called upon to display an indescribable level and nature of personal strength, stamina, and conviction—under the most unthinkable and unforgivable nature of often truly life-threatening conditions.

All while—as through innocent/willful ignorance and/or media-design—much of America continues to remain oblivious thereof.

AND THEN, THERE’S THE “NFL,” “NBA,” AND “MAJOR LEAGUE BASEBALL; ETC. - - - Where the often millionaire (or otherwise exceptionally wealthy) competitors are paid big bucks to “play games.” Such as NFL games that have 60 minutes of game clock time, but can take 3 hours to complete, while only delivering some 11 minutes of actual play. 

And NBA games requiring only 48 minutes of play, but often entailing some 2.5 hours to complete. And then there’s Major League Baseball games entailing 9 Innings that can typically stretch a lot of waiting mixed with a bit of activity into more or less 3 hours of time.

Yes, and in the starkest contrast to the Iditarod . . . “games” played in far from life-threatening environmental conditions, with the best of medical attention close at hand, using the latest of high-tech protective gear, and fueled by an abundance of money as well as an extreme level of emotional/irrational attention often at times reaching that of hero worship.

All while everything related to the "game" (past/present/future) is sliced, diced, and otherwise analyzed—through the commentary of an array pre/post/real-time talking heads and other media functions, to the point of what is to some among us, painful nausea at best. 

—William James Moore

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Links:

 https://iditarod.com/

https://faces.iditarod.com/?fbclid=IwAR3BDZXRVXZm9UavUzFWtc2l1skMtxfT_9GG-3KPhX7r-0DbIP8apRFAA40

 

“IN CASE YOU MISSED IT”

Yes, just in case you missed it . . . CBS (i.e., Compromised Bull Shi*) News (i.e., Left-Wing Propaganda) has recently been broadcasting “LIVE” from a U.S. aircraft carrier “somewhere” in the Western Pacific Ocean.  So-called “reporting” on China’s close relationship with Russia, as well as the rising tensions over Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Chinese spy balloon; etc.

And what better way to take one’s mind off of the ongoing nation-destructive failures of the Obama Puppet-Masters-Administration [OOPS, Excuse Me] . . . rather of the “Biden Administration,” than to have CBS Anchor Norah O’Donnell — at times almost overwhelmed with self-absorbed excitement and giddiness — spewing the so-called “news” from the deck of one of our country’s “truly awesome” aircraft carriers!

With that eye and mind boggling background flashing before you, how can any rational and responsible being have their mind on, for example, an out of control $31 Trillion National Debt; Record High Inflation; Deaths attribute to the synthetic opioid Fentanyl; Uncontrolled Illegal Alien Invasions through our Unsecured U.S. Borders; and Confidential Documents discovered at various of Biden’s residences; Etc.; Etc.; Etc. Or, of the day when we are then told that it is time for “the U.S.” to fund the “re-build” of war-ravaged Ukraine!

And of course we can rest assured, that the cost of CBS O’Donnell’s travel to and from the carrier, and accommodations while thereon — as well as that of her accompanying staff — are being paid for by “CBS” . . . and NOT by the U.S. taxpayer-funded public purse! 

And hopefully so, because said taxpayer funds are presently otherwise pretty much committed . . . to a seemingly endless flow of billions upon billions of U.S. dollars into the hands of the historically corrupt government of Ukraine! 

                                     —William James Moore    02-25-2023

“UNPRECEDENTED IN MODERN TIMES”

Just in case you missed it . . . on 02/20/2023 a physically and mentally failing Joe Biden made a so-called surprise visit to Ukraine. Yes, America’s corrupt liar-in-chief and self-professed savior of our country’s soul was able to (at taxpayer expense) travel to Ukraine’s capital Kyiv, meet with and shake the hand of Ukraine’s in-kind corrupt leader Zelenskyy . . . and while at it, announce a forthcoming half a billion dollars of “additional” U.S. aid. 

Yes, “additional” aid . . . added to earlier billions upon billions of U.S. dollars for an array of “Ukraine’s government needs” — even including payments for “Ukraine’s” pensions, social welfare and healthcare costs, etc.!  While same such U.S. programs (e.g., Medicare, Social Security, etc.) are going broke!!!

How’s that for taking one’s mind off of—say for example—ponderings about “Confidential documents” discovered at various of Biden’s residences, “China Spy Balloons,” etc.

Yes, a “Biden Ukraine visit” various media talking heads have described as being “UNPRECEDENTED IN MODERN TIMES.”

Personally, and in much contrast to the above—when old senior citizen MAGA-hopeless-me comes upon the words “UNPRECEDENTED IN MODERN TIMES,” a few other things come to mind. Such as, but far from being limited to, the randomly-listed following:

(1.) How the so-called wealthiest and most powerful nation on Earth (i.e., the U.S.) is able and willing to safely arrange a meet and greet between Biden and Zelenskyy—some 5,680 flight miles away—in an under-Russian-invasion Ukraine . . . while lacking the ability and willingness to, say for example: protect our school children from the threats of evil doers; secure our nation’s borders from illegal alien invasions; protect our country from surveillance by China Spy Balloons; protect U.S. citizens from the increasing flood of Fentanyl and other deadly illegal drugs; and secure our nation’s capital from the breach, chaos, and property damage of a (likely FBI infiltrated) mob on January 06, 2021; etc.

(2.) Record high inflation; U.S. energy “dependence”; wide-spreading crime; indoctrination as opposed to education of America’s youth; Marxist-infestation of U.S. government; a $31 Trillion National Debt; a U.S. Constitution under serious threat; fraudulent and perceived-fraudulent elections; unsecured U.S. borders; and nation-destructive invasion of illegal aliens; etc.

(3.) The increasing threat posed by Radical-left anti-conservative biased so-called big tech (e.g. Facebook, Amazon, Google, etc.), as well as a so-called prime time news media infested with radical-left Democrat Party-biased “political activists” posing as news journalists; etc.

(4.) And, in pondering “UNPRECEDENTED IN MODERN TIMES” . . . for some reason the following keeps coming to mind:  a “we the people,” and our “elected” and “unelected” occupants of government, increasingly consumed with ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, greed, and counter-productive fear . . . especially greed.

Yes, while what is or is not considered to be “UNPRECEDENTED IN MODERN TIMES” can of course be as they say “in the eye of the beholder” . . . again, personally, I just can’t get the herein noted mutually self-serving meet and greet between two corrupt beings (i.e., Biden & Zelenskyy) to measure-up to said esteem-inspiring label. 

                                             

                                                    —William James Moore

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PS - And, if you think there is an "end" to corrupt Biden's flow of your tax dollars to the corrupt government of Ukraine . . . likely already in planning is U.S. aid for one day "rebuilding" war-ravaged Ukraine, as America's infrastructure and other long-standing needs continue to deteriorate! 

A MATTER OF “INNOCENT IGNORANCE” OR “WILFUL DESIGN”?

It has often been written that, at the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, a lady asked Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s Founding Fathers, “What have we got, a republic or a monarch?” Reportedly, his response was, “A republic if you can keep it.”

And some “236 years later”—early on and at no more than about 274 words into his 02/07/2023 lies and propaganda packed State Of The Union Address, Joe Biden makes reference to “our democracy.” Yes, the same Biden who has essentially spent his entire adult life feeding off of the taxpayer-funded public treasury—in high profile positions such as U.S. Senator, U.S. Vice President, and now U.S. President—joins the ranks of “countless others” in failing to proudly and responsibly acknowledge that our country is NOT a pure “democracy,” but rather, and purposefully so, a constitutional “republic”!

Yes, it would seem far beyond just worthy of note or somewhat puzzling—but rather at least a bit concerning—that so many among us continue to use the misleading term “our democracy.” Especially those within the ranks of our federal/state/local government, our educational institutions, so-called mainstream media, etc. Especially since there is very sound reason why our United States Pledge of Allegiance refers to our country as a “Republic” and our Declaration of Independence and Constitution DO NOT mention the word “democracy.”

Of course, our country’s founders were very aware of the failures of prior democracies, such as ancient Athens and Rome. They feared creating a government having too many similarities to a pure democracy. They especially recognized the importance of ensuring the right of political dissent and protecting minority groups and individuals from the tyranny of the majority. They knew that a pure democracy could result in mob rule, where fifty-one percent of the people could take away the rights of the other forty-nine. And, through their experience, insight, and great wisdom, they put in place a one-of-its-kind constitutional “republic”—not a pure democracy.

In so doing they passed to us a very special form of government where sovereignty [so far] deliberately rests with we the people. Where we may act on our own or through our elected representatives to deal with issues, where our government is (meant to be) a servant of its people—where (it is crucial that) our government’s power comes from and is limited by its citizens.

Of course of our Constitutional Republic does include some likeness to a democracy, such as our use of democratic processes to elect our representatives, pass new laws, etc. However, as opposed to a democracy, our U.S. Constitution limits our government’s power and spells out how our government is to be structured. As a result, our Constitutional Republic is divided into three separate but equal branches of government. The Executive (Presidency), Legislative (Congress), and Judicial (Courts). Our Constitution establishes that no branch has absolute power, therefore providing special checks and balances on our government system and protection for the “rule of law.”

Hence, our U.S. Constitution is the life-blood of our truly unique and ever so precious “Republic”—especially designed to recognize and protect our unalienable (God-given) Rights of Life, Liberty, and pursuit of Happiness. An “individual liberty” safe-haven we must unfailingly protect and preserve. A most crucial responsibility that must begin with our having a fact-based understanding of, and due appreciation for, the true by-design nature and intent of—not “our democracy”—but, rather, “our constitutional republic.”

Yes, our individual liberty protecting “constitutional republic”—that is, if we the people and our elected government representatives at all levels have the wisdom, courage, and “intent” to keep it! As opposed to the historically-proven/predicted and present-day-demonstrated unspeakable human disaster of death and other suffering being unrelentingly marketed by the Marxist-infested radical-left.

Hence, and especially so in a very active “cancel history/culture” atmosphere, the following would seem to be among the questions worthy of a bit of very serious pondering . . . is the widespread failure to be aware of and duly acknowledge our country’s crucial roots mostly a matter of “innocent ignorance” — or, in some cases, of “willful design”?

                                  —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, Feb. 11-12, 2023 Edition.]

BIDEN’S (02-07-2023) SPEECH . . . RADICAL-LEFT "LIES & PROJECTION" ON STEROIDS:

Personally, didn’t watch Biden’s so-called State of the Union address last night (02/07/2023) — just find him and his Marxist-infested puppet masters repulsive beyond the point of bearable. They being the epitome of self-serving corruption and other evil.

However, and using the “LINK” inserted below, did this morning read the text of speech. Which in my MAGA-biased view is of course loaded with lies, distortions, and other propaganda. All targeted at the ever-so-gullible self-perceived and/or radical-left defined “victims” of the also radical-left-defined “oppressors.”

Nation destructive propaganda spewed from the lips of the indisputable liar-in-chief, as he continues to babble on about his “saving America’s soul” and “uniting our Nation” intent. A prepared-for-him speech loaded an arsenal of “divide and conquer” weapons (us against them / them against us).

All delivered via the radical-left’s highly-effective years-in-cultivating “Super Weapon” — that of course being “Projection” . . . which is, accusing others of that which the accuser(s) actually are and/or do. As they (the Marxist-infested radical-left march on with their unrelenting aim to “destroy” our country’s middle-class, thus rendering the nature and mix of “victims” and “oppressors” essential to the feeding and survival of their self-serving lust for so-called endless/unthreatened power and control.

                                                                  —William James Moore

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LINK TO BIDEN’S SPEECH:  https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/speeches-remarks/2023/02/07/remarks-of-president-joe-biden-state-of-the-union-address-as-prepared-for-delivery/?utm_source=eloqua&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=newsbytes&utm_content=NEWSBYTES-20230208

HOW TO PROTECT THE U.S. AGAINST CHINESE SPY BALLOONS-101:

The following is a simple three-step plan for protecting the U.S. against the threat posed by Chinese Spy Balloons:

1.  Under no circumstances, ever use latest technology reportedly long in place for detecting an enemy launch of fast-traveling ballistic missiles from thousands of miles away - - - to likewise advance-detect, and accommodate destruction of, Spy Balloons “before” they enter U.S. sovereign airspace;

2.  Instead, wait until “a day after” Chinese Spy Balloon is flying over the state of Montana before holding a February 2, 2023 Pentagon briefing acknowledging U.S. tracking of said Spy Balloon;

3.  And then, and only then, on February 4, 2023, shoot down Spy Balloon “after” it is safely off North Carolina’s coast - - - that is “after” said Spy Balloon has collected and transmitted to China all information gained during its safe passage over an otherwise distracted U.S.  Yes a U.S. being self-destructively led to be “more concerned about” Trump’s tax records; care and comfort of illegal aliens; legally armed law-abiding citizens; hurt feelings of selectively determined victims; an ever-growing list of gender types; and saving the planet Earth; etc. 

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SOME RELATED THOUGHTS TO PONDER: As reported in the Parsons Sun, Feb 4-5, 2023 edition, Montana and Oregon are among states with a bit of “prior” experience with “balloons” launched by U.S. adversaries: “Japan, in World War II targeted the western U.S. with incendiary ‘balloon bombs’ that were floated over North America with plans to harm people and start forest fires.  More than 30 of the bombs made of "rice paper" landed in Montana, according to the Montana Historical Society.”  “In Oregon, five children and a pregnant woman on a church picnic were killed in 1945 when they found one of the bombs and it exploded.”

But as my good friend ALH has earlier and so aptly noted in his most fitting post, our adversaries would NEVER consider using balloons as a delivery vehicle for a nuclear or biological weapon, or a devastating Electromagnetic pulse (EMP) blast.  Of course they wouldn't . . . even though in today’s world bomb technology has reportedly long passed the use of Japan's “rice paper” - - - and especially since deeply corrupt, China-compromised, Woke-focused Biden is presently the so-called commander-in-chief of the most powerful military on Earth. Yes, rest ever-so-peacefully, America! 

                                                 

                                                       ---William James Moore.

"DEFINING OUR FEARS"

Page 4 of the Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, January 14-15, 2023 edition of our local newspaper, the Parsons Sun, includes a notable article titled “The Kansas GOP cannot define what it fears.”   Not only read-worthy, but also warranting some fair and balanced scrutiny.

For example, according to referenced article, during a recent January 2023 press conference the KS House Majority Leader and KS Senate President were asked to define what they meant by references to “woke ideology.” And, apparently from what the author considers to be insufficiently definitive responses to such questioning, his article—by way of title and content—declares “the KS GOP” incapable of defining its fears.

Yes, a “KS GOP” that, according to September 2022 KS Secretary of State Voter Registration Statistics, entails some 874,446 registered Republicans—all being “group-characterized” by the author’s dissatisfaction with press conference responses expressed by an obvious “very limited few.”

Furthermore, a bit of fair and balanced scrutiny will likely find that, nowhere within referenced writing did the author elect to explain—in clear and definitive terms—what woke/woke ideology “actually entails.”  That is, a fact-based explanation likely considered of special interest to the many among us—not only statewide but also nationwide—who continue to seek credible understanding regarding this very controversial subject, as the spread and real/perceived consequences are witnessed throughout many of our institutions and other aspects of society.

Nevertheless, and not to be unappreciated, herein referenced article does exemplify the expression of ever-so-crucial U.S. Constitution (First Amendment) declared freedom of speech and the press.  While, and most unfortunately so, much of the article’s content and tone also demonstrate the use of counter-productive “projection”—that is, accusing others of that which the accuser(s) often actually are and/or do.

Such as, the article’s declaration that the intent of the KS Republican lawmakers’ herein referenced January 2023 press conference was to ... “instill fear about vague concepts that even they don’t understand, to manufacture lies out of thin air and to stir anger among the easily disillusioned;” and that their whole idea is to ... “keep low-information voters angry, but unsure what they’re angry about.”

Personally, I am among the many whose fears for our country suffer not from vagueness or disillusionment.   Fears—more aptly threats—such as, but by no means limited to: (1.) an out of control and now exceeding $31 trillion U.S. National Debt; (2.) a failing U.S. economy plagued by record high inflation, energy dependency, etc.; (3) unsecured U.S. borders and ongoing illegal-alien invasions; (4.) an ever-growing and increasingly intrusive federal government; (5.) fraudulent and perceived-fraudulent U.S. elections; and (6.) wide-spread crime and drug abuse.   Fears rendered no less real or less relevant by what may be considered by some to be an inability to properly articulate them.

Fears likely to continue unresolved until confronted by a nature of responsibility not limited by political leanings, nor undeterred by ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, greed, or . . . by fear itself.

                                    —William James Moore   01/16/2023

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SPECIAL NOTE: The above article was also published in the Public Mind section on page 3 of the Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, January 21-23, 2023 Edition of our local newspaper, the Parsons Sun.  With due and sincere appreciation for the community service offered by way of the Sun’s Public Mind feature, I also fully recognize that any/all printings therein are totally “optional” on the part of the Sun, an established publisher.  Nevertheless, posted above is my “Original” 01/16/2023 submission . . . with “red fonts” used to denote areas that were, for unexplained reasons, omitted from the newspaper printed version via the Sun’s editing function.  Omissions that are unfortunately “message-changing” in nature, and were undertaken without my (the originating author’s) advance knowledge or concurrence.    —William James Moore.

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"Click" on the below image to view the Rod Haxton article to which above "Defining Our Fears" is responding to:

AN OPEN MESSAGE TO THE CONGRESS & EXECUTIVE BRANCH OF “OUR” U.S. FEDERAL GOVERNMENT

SUBJECT: “OUR” U.S. NATIONAL DEBT—AND THE PENDING DEBT CEILING (LIMIT) CRISIS.

Dear Representatives within “our” U.S. Congress and Federal Government Executive Branch,

Joining countless others in voicing serious concerns on the subject, about five years ago (2018), self-absorbed vanity-driven me self-published a little book titled . . . “Our” U.S. National Debt—101: A Shameful Liberty-Threatening Legacy Being Passed To America’s Young Children, Grandchildren, & The Not Yet Born.”

As you well know, at the time (in 2018) said debt had exceeded $21 Trillion.  It now exceeds $31 Trillion . . . that’s more than $94 Thousand per U.S. Citizen, or $247 Thousand per U.S. Taxpayer (re: https://www.usdebtclock.org/ ).

Obviously, the voiced concerns of countless nationwide did not lead to a resolve of our long out-of-control National Debt.  Nor did the spewing of fact and opinion in the format of above referenced book accomplish much other than an all-too-brief soothing of a shameful overblown ego.

As will of course be the in-kind fate of this via Facebook exercise in utter futility.  A nevertheless most sincere message, including the following doomsday “prediction” . . . one I and others hope you—our representatives in government—swiftly and responsibly prove to be wrong.

And considering the subject of this message, a “prediction” that begins with a very apt memory-jog regarding:

(A.) THREE DEFINITIONS: (1.) GREED—Intense and selfish desire for something, especially wealth, power, or food; (2.) DEBT—Something, typically money, that is owed or due; and (3.) OUR—Belonging to us.

(B.) PRESENT CIRCUMSTANCES: In brief, the U.S. Constitution grants you, our Congress, sole authority to borrow on behalf of the U.S. An authority you, Congress, delegated to the Executive Branch (President), but, in doing so, placing a limit on total debt that can be outstanding at any one time . . . a debt limit that we are told is currently slightly below $31.4 Trillion.  A limit reportedly expected to cover federal borrowing needs until early part of 2023, with precise date depending on “actual federal spending” and “revenue (e.g., tax) levels” over the coming year.  Whereas, failing to raise the debt limit can cause several things, such as: increase in interest rates; decline in dollar’s value in the long term; general disruption of financial markets; potential inability to pay obligations; costly federal government shutdown; etc.  Nevertheless, the magnitude of our out-of-control U.S. National Debt, and the current U.S. Debt ceiling (limit) and expected expiration time frame, have been long known, and hence no excuse exists for last minute wrestling with yet another “created crisis.”

BUT, NOW BACK TO A “PREDICTION” THAT BASICALLY GOES AS FOLLOWS:

(1.) Democrat Party leadership understands, from historical experience, that “all politics is local and personal,” and in the end what overwhelmingly (so-to-speak) floats a growing number of our individual “we the people” boats is ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, fear, and greed . . . especially “greed.” Hence, the Democrat Party will (once again) join hands in unity and unrelentingly demand an “Increase” in “both” the National Debt limit and Federal Government spending!

(2.) Whereas, Republican Party leadership (void of RINO support) will begin with a strong demand for a responsible decrease (tightening of the belt) in Federal Government spending, tied to truly responsible handling of any consideration of an increase in National Debt limit.  But in the end, will cave-in to pressures from “we the people,” and join their Democrat counterparts in as needed numbers to raise the debt limit, increase spending, and continue the flow of earned/expected benefits and so-called “free stuff.”  Pressures fueled by 24/7 media-spun fears of the horrors of halted or reduced Social Security Checks; reduced Medicare/Medicaid benefits; and other painful disruptions of the status-quo.

(3.) And, most unfortunately, the above (1.) and (2.) behaviors will likely continue to be the “Shameful Liberty-Threatening Legacy Passed To America’s Young Children, Grandchildren, & The Not Yet Born”!

Until, one day, “the wheels truly come off the wagon,” and this great nation, this precious and unique constitutional republic, this “liberty’s last stand” . . . is lost as the result of ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, fear, and greed . . . especially “greed.” Greed fueled by self-destructive disregard of the inescapable fact that—in the world of “stuff”—there is no such thing as “free.” For, eventually, all is at some point and in some manner paid for, or becomes the otherwise burden of . . . someone.

Nevertheless, and on a more optimistic note, the opportunity (and earlier herein expressed wish) remains for the above historically-founded “predictions” to one day (hopefully soon) be proven wrong through at least some serious consideration of a survivable balance between “greed” and “responsible sacrifice.” (Of course, and in keeping with a bit of much to realistic satire . . . just as long as “sacrifice” applies never to “me,” but always entails the responsibility of “others.”)

Most Sincerely,

William James Moore & Like-Concerned Others

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PS - The above message has also been sent verbatim directly to the state and federal level Representatives and Senators representing my voting districts in Kansas, via e-mail and/or their respective websites. Didn't, however, waste time sending such to the present puppet-occupant in the people's White House.

WHAT!!! . . . AND NO FBI SWAT TEAM RAID YET???

Reportedly there have “so far” been at least “three” separate discoveries of various U.S. Government “Classified” documents at Biden-owned and/or connected facilities---including but not limited to within boxes stored in “Biden’s garage” at his personal residence in Wilmington, Delaware.


With the first such find reportedly discovered on November 2, 2022 (some six days before our 2022 Mid-Term Elections)! Discovered in Biden’s old office space at the Penn Biden Center for Diplomacy and Global Engagement---a so-called foreign policy-focused think tank. A discovery including an envelope containing roughly 10 documents with “Classified” markings---and including intelligence about Iran, Ukraine, and the United Kingdom—as well as “sensitive compartmented information.”


Yes, why no heavily armed FBI Swat Team Raid yet on, as a minimum, all three of Biden’s personal residences??? You know, like the highly media-spun FBI raid carried out on Trump’s residence—including a deep search through the former First Lady’s closets and other personal belongings, etc.


And, you of course “did note” that the above mentioned “Classified” documents included those concerning “Ukraine”---yes, the same “Ukraine” that (in my view) Biden sat back and encouraged Putin to invade---the same “Ukraine” now being sent billions upon billions of U.S. tax dollars---the same corrupt “Ukraine” government who not so long ago was paying big bucks to a guy Biden once declared to be “the smartest man he ever knew”---that of course being his corrupt, Biden-influence-peddling son Hunter (owner of the infamous “Laptop from Hell”).


That’s right, the same Hunter Biden “Laptop from Hell” likely evidencing Biden family corruption. Evidence safe in the trusting hands of a U.S. Justice Department unrelentingly consumed with “protecting the Swamp” by aiding those determined to “destroy all things Trump”!


The important thing is to not be distracted. And never forget that the problem is “Trump” and his deplorable supporters! As we bask in a failing economy, illegal alien invasion, divisiveness, wide-spreading crime, indoctrination of America’s youth, energy dependence, woke-focused military, threatened U.S. Constitution, and other benefits of (in my view) a Biden administration executing the Marxist-infested agendas of his power-and-control craving puppet masters.

                                                                ---William James Moore.

“Our U.S. Constitutional Republic”

Beyond just worthy of note, it would seem it should be a bit puzzling (if not concerning) that so many among us continue to use the misleading term “our democracy.”  Especially those within the ranks of our government.  And especially since there is very sound reason why our United States Pledge of Allegiance refers to our country as a Republic and our Declaration of Independence and Constitution do not mention the word democracy.

Yes, our country’s founders were very aware of the failures of prior democracies, such as ancient Athens and Rome.  They feared creating a government having too many similarities to a pure democracy.  They especially recognized the importance of ensuring the right of political dissent and protecting minority groups and individuals from the tyranny of the majority. 

They knew that a pure democracy could result in mob rule, where fifty-one percent of the people could take away the rights of the other forty-nine.  And, through their experience, insight, and great wisdom, they put in place a one-of-its-kind constitutional republic—not a pure democracy. 

In so doing they passed to us a very special form of government where sovereignty deliberately rests with we the people.  Where we may act on our own or through our elected representatives to deal with issues, where our government is a servant of its people—where our government’s power comes from and is limited by its citizens.

Of course of our Constitutional Republic does include some likeness to a democracy, such as our use of democratic processes to elect our representatives, pass new laws, etc.  However, as opposed to a democracy, our U.S. Constitution limits our government’s power and spells out how our government is to be structured. 

As a result, our Constitutional Republic is divided into three separate but equal branches of government.  The Executive (Presidency), Legislative (Congress), and Judicial (Courts).   Our Constitution establishes that no branch has absolute power, therefore providing special checks and balances on our government system and protection for the “rule of law.” 

Hence, our U.S. Constitution is the life-blood of our truly unique and ever so precious “Republic”—especially designed to recognize and protect our unalienable (God-given) Rights of Life, Liberty, and pursuit of Happiness.  An “individual liberty” safe-haven we must unfailingly protect and preserve.  A most crucial responsibility that must begin with our having a fact-based understanding of, and due appreciation for, the true by-design nature and intent of—not “our democracy”—but, rather, “our constitutional republic.”  One we must not let fall prey to foreign and domestic threats—none the least, that of an ever-growing government too often loaded with self-serving, self-perpetuating, power and influence craving officials.

It has often been written that, at the close of the Constitutional Convention of 1787, a lady asked Benjamin Franklin, one of America’s Founding Fathers, “What have we got, a republic or a monarch?” Reportedly, his response was, “A republic if you can keep it.”     

                                                        

                                                         —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 3 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, November 19-20, 2022 Edition.]

School Crossings—a “safe space” or “hazardous zone”?

The safety of our school children is dependent upon many things. Including extra-special attention to and compliance with the special signs, speed limits, and flashing lights, etc., at all so identified School Crossings. A responsibility that all drivers should need no special motivation in order to “voluntarily” respect.

And, in a perfect world, the “routine presence” of law enforcement at our School Crossings should not be necessary in order to protect the lives of our school children.  However, given the reality around us, “irresponsible driving behaviors” continue to sound a not to be ignored warning that the need for “enforced” law-abiding behavior too often exists!

Especially at threatening locations, such as that posed by northbound and southbound traffic approaching and passing through the School Crossing at 16th & Dirr in Parsons, Kansas. Time and again, while personally adhering to the signs, speed limits, and caution lights during active crossing times at this location, I and my husband have often been swiftly “passed” by drivers demonstrating gross and dangerous disregard of applicable law and the threats they pose to others. A most troubling observation very likely experienced by many concerned others.

Therefore, as the result of the irresponsibility of a most dangerous few, the lives of our school children seem more and more dependent upon how our crucially important law enforcement chooses to daily allocate increasingly challenged and limited resources.

As we all, by way of our individual roles and behaviors, determine whether our School Crossings are truly as intended “safe spaces”—or in reality, life-threatening “hazardous zones.” 

                                                            —Ann Moore
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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, October 29-30, 2022 Edition.]

Why vote?

U.S.-born or naturalized citizens, 18 years of age or older, thus far have a most precious—and much too often taken for granted or otherwise abused—U.S. Constitution-protected right to vote. A “liberty-essential right” under ongoing threat by enemies foreign and domestic. One also endangered by the many faces of “voter irresponsibility.” Including, but not limited to, votes cast in an uninformed, misinformed, or otherwise irrational manner. And also by the “least effort option”—i.e., simply not voting at all, and thus leaving one’s fate, and that of their loved ones, city, county, state, and country, to the wishes of those who do vote (responsibly or irresponsibly).

Our U.S. “mid-term” elections are scheduled for Tuesday, November 8, 2022. At stake, many positions at federal and state levels. Such as, the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. Senate, state and territorial governors, state legislators, and various other state and local positions. With billions of dollars spent in an effort to retain or gain positions of power, influence, privilege, and responsibility. As millions strive to prepare themselves and others to be informed, rational, and otherwise responsible voters. While others let irrational thinking and time-worn excuses determine their voting (or not voting) behavior.

To aid those yet struggling with “Why vote?”—a source of ample motivation should be found in rational consideration of any one or more of today’s many life and liberty threatening realities. Such as, but certainly not limited to, record-high inflation; wide-spreading crime; rampant smuggling/use/abuse of addictive drugs; unsecured U.S. borders; illegal immigration; education issues; health care costs; American cultural deterioration and divisiveness; national security threats; disregard of U.S. Constitution; and an ever-growing and increasingly intrusive federal government; etc.

If one is still in need of a bit more justification to engage in some responsible voting, how about “our” U.S. National Debt? Yes, that truly shameful life and liberty destroying burden that we so-called adults are passing on to the backs of our nation’s youth and the yet unborn. A rapidly growing and unsustainable debt now exceeding some $31 Trillion (i.e., more than $93,000 per U.S. citizen; over $247,000 per U.S. taxpayer)—not including the rapidly increasing “interest” on said debt.

Of course the aforementioned National Debt does not include our so-to-speak “real ticking time bomb”—Unfunded Government Liabilities. That is, other federal debt obligations that do not have sufficient funds set aside for subsequent payment. Obligations such as Social Security, Medicare, federal public-held debt, federal employee and veterans benefits, etc. Yes, a U.S. Unfunded Liabilities debt burden now totaling more than $172 Trillion (i.e., over $516,000 per U.S. citizen).

As “we the people”—through our elected government representatives and un-elected bureaucrats—just keep on spending for that which someone else must at some point pay for, or otherwise suffer the unthinkable consequences.

While, in spite of it all, continuing to be absent in the lives of many will be a rationally determined and responsibly handled answer to—Why vote?

                                                             —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, October 22-23, 2022 Edition.]

"ABSOLUTE POWER-101"

 

During the past 150 years or so, “hundreds of millions” of deaths are attributed to world dictators. The unthinkable legacy of truly reprehensible beings, such as China’s Chiang Kai-Shek and Mao Zedong; Russia’s/Soviet Union’s Vladimir Lenin and Joseph Stalin; Germany’s Adolf Hitler; Japan’s Hirohito and Hideko Tajo; Congo’s King Leopold II; Turkey’s Esmail Enver Pasha; and North Korea’s Kim II Sung; etc. Not benevolent leaders, but Communists, Fascists, Marxists, etc. who ruled with absolute power.

Dictators whose contributions to humankind include lost liberty, murder, starvation, genocide, wars, massacre, enslavement, labor/death camps, death marches, and other unspeakable atrocities. A legacy of unimaginable suffering and destruction, and by no means erased by their passing—but one ongoing at the hand of like intentioned others.

And for most of my life I have been among the long-puzzled — about "how" any such heinous and malicious-intentioned beings can ever find the required level of support to establish and retain themselves in their self-serving positions of absolute control over the masses. However, the unprecedented nation dividing/destructive agenda of the so-called Biden administration has given rise to some painfully enhanced understanding on the subject!

Yes, an alarming awakening to the fact that “it” (lost liberty at the hand of absolute power) can in fact happen anywhere—even in America! A reality check revealed to me and others by simply opening our too often presumptuous and inattentive eyes and ears to what is happening around us!

To the long unthinkable reality that the precious liberty-enabling Constitutional Republic designed by America’s ever-so-wise Founding Fathers is now under serious and unprecedented threat!

However, and as opposed to the lies and other nation-dividing propaganda being spewed from the striving-to-be-dictator now occupying the People’s White House — NOT threatened by former President Trump, his Make America Great Again (MAGA) agenda and supporters, other conservative-leaning patriotic citizens, and anyone else who does not agree with and support the Marxist-infested radical-left’s agenda.

But instead, threatened and under ever-more unrelenting siege by a Communist/Socialist/Marxist movement that—in addition to now occupying the people’s White House—has also, over the years, critically infested the U.S. Congress; government agencies such as the FBI, IRS, CDC, etc.; so-called mainstream media; Google, Facebook (Meta), Twitter, and other big-tech; big-Pharma; Administration and other staff of our educational institutions; Hollywood elite; U.S. Military; etc.

So it now is . . . after America’s Founding Fathers and others going to unprecedented effort and sacrifice to establish a government by and for the people — one void of positions of absolute power — there now is a self-serving, power abusing, corrupt, chronic liar, historically-demonstrated bigot/racist, in the people’s White House.  A career practitioner of "projectionism"— accusing others of what he actually is.

One now publicly spewing that I and likeminded others are “A Threat to Democracy”! Yes, this Trump and MAGA supporting old senior citizen and like-intentioned others are now branded and targeted as a blemish on America’s soul! Yes, we who just happen to also consider the crucial foundation blocks of our liberty enabling Constitutional Republic to be not Communism, Socialism, and Marxism, but, much to the contrary . . . our U.S. Constitution, Secured Borders, common language-English, and common-culture founded on Judeo-Christian values.

And now back to "how" the seekers of absolute power achieve their aims . . . seems very likely they do so by demonstrating an exceptionally special proficiency at being self-servingly responsive to our human weaknesses of ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, greed, and counter-productive fear. 

                                                         ---William James Moore
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“Power corrupts; absolute power corrupts absolutely”—Lord Acton (John Emerich Edward Dalberg-Acton, (1834-1902), a leading 19th-century historian.

“THE BATTLE FOR AMERICA’S SOUL RAGES ON!!!”

Yes, the Bigot/Liar/Tyrant/Incompetent-in-Chief now infesting the People’s White House is scheduled to deliver a prime-time speech Thursday night, 09/01/2022, at 8 p.m. (ET), from Independence Mall, Philadelphia, PA—before (of course) an invitation-only crowd—for what he calls “a battle for the soul of the nation.”

In reality, however, this so-called address to the nation will be a most shameful spewing of more anti-Trump, anti-Trump supporters, anti-conservatives, anti-American Patriots, anti-U.S. Constitution, anti-secured borders, and otherwise anti-America First rhetoric! As Biden and his Marxist puppet masters clamor—ahead of 2022 and 2024 elections—to maintain their destructive power-grip on our much threatened Constitutional Republic.

No, said speech will not just be another “divide-and-conquer” weapon targeted at any/all opposition to the radical-left’s Marxist agenda! This frantic endeavor of Democrat Party leadership will have the intent of labeling Trump and his supporters as essentially being “domestic terrorists”! While, with the aid of a corrupt and weaponized FBI, Media, and Big Tech, they—the radical-left accusers—strive to conceal that it is actually “they” who are our Country’s true existential threat “from within!”

Of course Marxism’s survival depends upon a lower-class ruled by an all-powerful upper-class, with no room for a thriving middle-class. And, for many years the Marxist-infested Radical-Left’s utter contempt for middle-class America was a bit more subtle. But then . . . along came Trump and the unrelenting promise of his America-first agenda. Hence, in the face of such threat to their power-grabbing aims . . . the radical-left’s long held contempt for middle-class America is now void of any resemblance of subtleness!

And so, radical-left puppet Biden will take the stage on September 1, 2022 in an attempt to demonstrate his tyrannical skills of projectionism . . . i.e., accusing others of the evils he and his supporters have in fact personally long been, and continue to be, self-absorbed practitioners and promoters of! 

                                                       ---William James Moore

"A Simple and Time-tested Solution"

When I and many of my dinosaur generation peers arrived in this world, Franklin D. Roosevelt (FDR) was about midway through his third term as U.S. President.   And while the search has been long and challenge-filled, I and no doubt countless others have at last come to realize that there exists—readily at hand—a truly simple and time-tested solution to most all of our needs and desires. That solution of course being—“more government.”  And not just any government, but one ever-growing and duly proficient at being self-servingly responsive to humankind’s self-destructive basking in ignorance, apathy, complacency, greed, denial, and counter-productive fear.

Yes, think student loans are unfair—just have “the government” forgive such debt.  Beginning to be inspired by all those unpursued “Help Wanted”/”Now Hiring” signs displayed across our nation—simply motivate “the government” to continue subsidizing unemployment.  Fed up with the weather and have an unrelenting craving to take charge of the ever-changing climate of our some 4.5 billion years old planet Earth—then merely encourage “the government” to pass billions of dollars of Climate Change legislation (as China, India, etc., march on with their fossil fuel powered energy sources).   And believe that large and small for-profit businesses don’t (by necessity) include “all” costs of doing business in the price of their respective products and services—then just have “the government” increase their taxes, and while at it hire thousands of additional IRS Agents to ensure payment thereof.

Furthermore, since the recently passed Inflation Reduction Act of 2022 will, in addition to other aspects, reportedly include a cap of prescription drug costs at $2,000 out-of-pocket annually for Medicare recipients—why stop there?   Yes, why not encourage “the government” to simply also legislatively decree a duly generous out-of-pocket cap on, for example, housing, food, clothing, utilities, all medical/dental services, transportation, communications, education, legal services, entertainment, etc.

Of course at this point some of the more trivia-inclined among us may be pondering just who in the heck will ultimately be called upon to pay for, and/or otherwise suffer the consequences of, all this so-called “free stuff”?  That is, “in addition to” our rapidly increasing and long out of control U.S. National Debt of now over $30 Trillion (some $92,000 per citizen; $243,000 per taxpayer).  To which there of course exists yet another very simple, long underway, and likewise shamefully pursued solution—that being, we so-called adults in the room just keep kicking the can of responsibility down the road to America’s now youth and the yet unborn.

                                                       —William James Moore 

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, September 3-4, 2022 Edition.]

"ELECTIONS DO HAVE CONSEQUENCES"

As responsibly reported by the Parsons Sun’s July 7, 2022 edition and elsewhere, the Kansas Labette County Primary Election will be held August 2, 2022.  And in spite of overwhelming past and present evidence that elections “do have consequences,” history much more than suggests that responsible voter turnout will likely again be most apathetic.

Yes, history such as the approximate 33 percent of “eligible” U.S. citizens who reportedly chose not to vote in our nation’s 2020 general elections.  Or, a little closer to home: (1.) those among our city of Parsons population of “about” 9,400 or so, who chose to let a total of some 1,074 (771 Yes; 303 No) voters decide the fate of a sales tax issue during a November 2021 election; and (2.) the some 3,071 (68 percent) of the reported 4,506 eligible voters in the 2nd Commission District of Labette County, who chose to let some 1,435 (844 Yes; 591 No) voters determine the outcome of a December 7, 2021 Recall Election.  These of course being but a few from a shameful many of nationwide examples of voter-apathy.

Of course the consequences of our elections are certainly not alone influenced by the level of turnout.  But also by the extent of factually informed and otherwise rational behavior entailed in (or absent from) votes that are cast; overall integrity of our elections processes; and ultimate aims and performance of persons elected; etc.

Hence, throughout our life journey and regardless of what we Americans choose to do with our right to vote, it would seem especially noteworthy that the first three words of our U.S. Constitution read — “We the People.”  Such being a not to be forgotten or marginalized affirmation that our constitutional republic was designed and established to serve its citizens.   And a further validation that it is by way of our elections processes that “We the People” not only voice and duly administer—but also protect and preserve—our U.S. Constitution declared Sovereignty. “Not” sovereignty over “the” government” . . . but rather sovereignty over “our” government!

And, just in case our U.S. Constitution established aims of our government should ever escape our ever-more-distracted and otherwise increasingly challenged minds—the following “first 52 words” (i.e., Preamble) of said Constitution offer us a crucial memory-jog: “We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America.”  Truly consequential “life and liberty sustaining” aims . . . too often compromised or otherwise threatened, however, by humankind’s age old shortfalls of ignorance, apathy, complacency, denial, greed, and counter-productive fear.

                                                      —William James Moore

                                         
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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, July 23-24, 2022 Edition.]

“RECIPE FOR HAPPINESS”

Being a recipient and/or donor of “wishes for happiness” seems to be a relatively common experience.  However, “how to actually achieve such” appears not so universal.

I first met herein spoken of friend and co-worker many years ago.   An at the time very respectable married lady; blessed with a young son and daughter, and like many parents, proud of them to a fault. 

At work we occasionally shared some self-proclaimed bits of wisdom (or youthful naivety) about life.   And knowing she was stretched rather thin between employment, family, church, social activities, etc., at times I would in jest suggest in her “spare time” she might determine and share the “meaning of life” and “recipe for happiness.” 

If my dear friend ever locked in on the “meaning of life,” I don’t recall her bringing such to my attention. However, what she did do one day was hand me a very special little note she had written which read: “The recipe for Happiness: (1.) Something to do; (2.) Someone to love; (3.) Something to hope for.”

In a most respectful effort to add a bit of perspective to her little note and recipe therein—it was written and shared by a lady whose life-challenges included, but were not limited to—the deaths of her husband and thereafter a most special soul mate; considerable workplace pressures; special single-parent child-rearing challenges; and a life-threatening battle with breast cancer. Throughout which she never seemed to lose her faith, hope, sense of humor, work ethic, or desire to pursue her . . . “Recipe for Happiness.”

Early one morning long ago she died suddenly and unexpectedly, at home, at a relatively young age.  And, knowing her as I did, my bet has always been that—if given the opportunity at the time of passing—her parting thoughts were very likely spiritual in nature and about her children’s wellbeing.

It seems that regardless of the aspects of good or poor health, wealth or poverty, fortune or misfortune, or other life circumstances—some of us will forever consider our glass to be only “half-full,” while others will choose to see theirs as being only “half-empty.”  As we seem to be surrounded by overwhelming evidence that much of what many of us pursue in our respective gift-of-life journeys, falls notably short of being a true and lasting “Recipe for Happiness.”

And, after all is said and done, it is likely that Abraham Lincoln touched upon a universal fact-of-life when he long ago reportedly expressed . . . “Most folks are about as happy as they make up their minds to be.”  

Of course, the merit and wisdom of Abe’s words also come with an often difficult challenge—“making up our minds”—“making the right choices.” 

Nevertheless, our ever so unique human design appears to include a very special tool to aid our doing so . . . a tool we have long ago labeled “free-will.” 

                                                             —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, July 09-10, 2022 Edition.]

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[Photo of "Original" Note referenced in "above" writing.]

“COMMONSENSE SCHOOL SECURITY”

Historically, our local newspaper in SE Kansas, the Parsons Sun, has responsibly included Public Mind articles and other publications concerning humankind’s struggle with an array of tragedies. None the least, the unspeakably horrific massacre carried out on May 24, 2022 at Robb Elementary School in Uvalde, Texas.

And as various political leaders and others choose to use such pain and suffering for self-serving gain, growing numbers of others (especially within younger generations) fearfully, hopelessly, but nevertheless “mistakenly,” consider such atrocities to be an unpreventable norm. While others among us hold the view that murder of our school children “is not” in America’s DNA, and we so-called adults-in-the-room should have long ago insisted—and must now demand—that “commonsense security” be established and unfailingly enforced at “all” of our educational institutions.

Yes, we must immediately cease leaving the lives of our school children and others at the mercy of Gun Free Zone signs; unrealistic promises of preventing evil-doers’ access to their weapons of choice; and other ill-conceived “thou shall nots” which evil-doers care less about. Instead, we must employ commonsense security including an effective mix of unrelentingly enforced “pro-active” and “reactive” measures. Security acknowledging and responsibly addressing the basic “Rules of Survival.” That is, one must be willing and able to: (1.) timely “recognize” true threats to one’s survival; and (2.) not only “have,” but also “timely execute” effective pro-active and reactive defenses against such.

Common sense further dictates that responsible design of effective school security can also benefit from lessons-learned by way of various related and long-standing human behaviors. For example, when faced with real and/or perceived threats, it is noteworthy that most if not all surviving nations, many successful businesses, an array of political leaders, as well as countless private citizens, etc., have long responded with both “preventative (pro-active)” and “defensive (reactive)” measures that include properly trained and equipped “armed personnel.” Supplemented of course by available and as deemed applicable use of state-of-the-art security systems technology, etc.

It is further noteworthy that not so long ago the curriculum of many of our schools responsibly included gun use, safety, marksmanship, etc. Seemingly much simpler days, since replaced by times when a simple hand-drawn picture of a weapon has been the basis of expulsion efforts. As generations are now increasingly overwhelmed with access to legal/ill-legal drugs that are not only mood/mind-altering but often life-threatening; dehumanizing video games entailing make-believe terrorism; and social media technology that can encourage the most anti-social and otherwise destructive sides of humankind.

And also worthy of our special concern, the false security depicted by the Gun Free Zone signs on doors of our schools has not only served to encourage the evil-doers, such void of common sense signage has also served as a “daily indoctrination” of attending youth and adults with the anti-U.S. Constitution Second Amendment message that “guns are bad.”  Yes, the same generations that will one day occupy the seats of political power and otherwise responsibility throughout our ever-so-challenged nation. —William James Moore

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[The above was also included in the Public Mind section on page 4 of the Parsons Sun’s Weekend, Saturday-Sunday, June 11-12, 2022 Edition.]