Disqus - Latest Comments for Jonathan

Re: Play him off, keyboard cat!

Jonathan — Sat, 09 May 2009 14:13:06 -0000

djurplågeri? Knappast, katten trivs som bara den det ser väl vem som helst.

Re: The miniature earth!

Jonathan — Wed, 01 Oct 2008 14:26:38 -0000

Jag kommer köpa moppe nu i november i alla fall^^

Re: Mat Weddle – Hey Ya cover!

Jonathan — Mon, 27 Nov 2006 14:16:55 -0000

helt klart en underbar cover härlig röst ...

Re: Grundlurad!

Jonathan — Sat, 27 May 2006 12:48:33 -0000

Jag har inte skrattat så mkt på grymt länge!

Re: http://www.hardwarextremo.com/2009/07/opera-se-queja-de-nuevo-la-seleccion-de.html

Jonathan — Wed, 29 Jul 2009 19:53:28 -0000

Que se haga desde la línea de comandos para que no se malinterprete ninguna opción :p

Re: http://www.lagrandt.com/2009/05/fichas-de-partidos-del-viernes-fecha-12.html

Jonathan — Sat, 30 May 2009 01:18:56 -0000

De los jugadores de Huracan muy bien los puntajes, la figura no salia de Bolatti o Araujo, Pastore esta bien un 5, intento mucho pero no le salio casi nada.

Re: http://www.lagrandt.com/2009/09/todas-las-estadisiticas-la-fecha-3-afa.html

Jonathan — Mon, 14 Sep 2009 15:49:46 -0000

alguien me puede explicar que paso con rivarola?

le pusieron puntaje 5, y siendo defensor y teniendo valla invicta tendria que tener 7, que paso con esos 2 puntos? se olvidaronn?

Re: http://www.lagrandt.com/2009/10/puntajes-partidos-el-sabado-fecha-5.html

Jonathan — Sun, 04 Oct 2009 23:56:21 -0000

Fede dominguez 4!!!!!! si miras el resumen y dio como 400 pases en profundidad geniales... q te pasha clarin estash nerviosho?

Re: http://www.lagrandt.com/2009/10/todos-los-puntajes-fecha-8-e-ideales.html

Jonathan — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:54:53 -0000

Pase de ronda en la chevrolet por un punto aguante piatti pero sobretodo el muñe "vamos gallardo"

Re: http://www.lagrandt.com/2009/10/ultimas-noticias-viernes-0300-am.html

Jonathan — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 20:55:27 -0000

siii
tenes que hacewr a si
tenes que mandar un mensaje diciendo dame pin al numero 22922 despues vas a tu equipo y abajo dice cambio transferencia tenes que apretar a donde dice transferencia a sacas el jugador que queres y pones el jujador que queres
ok jonathan dela boca

Re: Top 50 US Fast Food Chains

Jonathan — Fri, 12 Nov 2004 03:32:50 -0000

thanks for the list - had to do a report in school so this was a big help.

Re: http://ahaldrin.blogspot.com/2009/05/because-we-do-have-mail-order-brides.html

Jonathan — Sun, 24 May 2009 12:09:40 -0000

Hahahaha! Kawawang masang pinoy. Kulang sa edukasyon. LOL. Eto namang mga pulitiko, kung makareact, kala mo wala ng bukas. LOL

Re: http://anniehansson.blogspot.com/2009/08/illustrator.html

Jonathan — Sun, 23 Aug 2009 08:40:54 -0000

niice :)

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Sat, 10 Dec 2005 15:48:00 -0000

Dave8,
Consider for just a moment that everything you have said in your previous e-mail is ABSOLUTELY NEW to me.. consider that possibility. Could you at least give me the opportunity LOOK UP and VERIFY the sources you cite, the references you make before I make up my own mind and say - Yes, I agree with what you are saying.

Can I have the opportunity to research to LOOK UP the Ebionites, at least?

Your jumping to the conclusion that I am RESISTING what you say merely because it challenges my faith is ARGUMENTATIVE and it's not helping things.

Am I to accept what you say as TRUTH merely because you said it?

In the same way, I DON'T accept what my pastor says just because he says it. That would be foolish!

I am by nature an analytical person and will do the research that has been suggested. Thanks for getting back to me.

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Jonathan — Tue, 04 Apr 2006 15:56:00 -0000

Webmaster, as a pretty devout christian myself, I just want to take the trouble to comment that your website is highly challenging to people like me. I find it all too easy to understand your personal history as you have set it out. I can easily imagine christians I know responding to you in your different life experiences in the unhelpful ways you describe.
It may not be the outcome which you seek, but reading your thoughts makes me motivated to drive myself and other christians to address the shortcomings which you have so thoroughly set out.

Re: "A Sabbatical?" or "My Anti-Testimony" - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Jonathan — Wed, 05 Apr 2006 05:52:00 -0000

I take it you think I may need it?

Re: How many people have been killed by Christians since Biblical times? - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Jonathan — Wed, 06 Jun 2007 03:06:00 -0000

I found this web site to be very distressing because I know it's all true. If even half of these facts & figures are incorrect, it still amounts to countless millions murdered "for God". What I see happening today by Muslims "for Allah" is not very different, just 300 years late. Just because Catholics committed similar crimes three centuries ago, and are now "civilized", makes them any better than crazy Muslim psychos murdering people around the world today.

I agree with many of Prescott's
statements, and yet I believe in God and have faith in Jesus Christ. I am not Catholic, i.e. I don't endorse a murderous organization of evil. The "Bible" is not what Catholics read, they have their own bible--as do Mormons, Scientologists, and other false religions, er, corporations.

What I find most disturbing is how evil the human race is. We are absolutely without hope and will utterly destroy ourselves. It is inevitable. Human beings are too stupid to survive without murdering ourselves. But, blaming God is misplaced, because God doesn't cause evil. Evil is part of life on Earth, and is not caused or prevented by God. That God allows indescribably violent sins to be committed against innocents is to misunderstand the nature of God. Sin causes horrible death and destruction. Human nature causes this. God hates sin and especially "hands that shed innocent blood". Those that commit heinous crimes against humanity in the name of their god are acting on their own, not with holy blessings.

So, why does God allow countless murders to be committed throughout history, even in "his" name? Einstein struggled with that great question. The answer is...God IS directly involved in the lives of His people, believers (not members of organized corporations masquerading as "religions") but the vast majority of humanity is rife with sin and uncontrollable. God does not CAUSE terrible things to happen.

Those who follow the teachings of Jesus understand--those who are humble, giving up self, forgiving others, loving God, returning love for hatred, praying for those who are abusive and filled with anger or hatred. These are fruits of the spirit which reveal a believer's true nature. God deals with individuals, on an individual basis, not with masses. God is personal. Those who claim to follow Jesus will obey his commandments. Obviously, none of the murderers listed on this web site were truly Christian, but using false religion as an excuse to commit mass murder.

Anyone who expresses the fruit of the spirit in his or her life does not need to proselatize, for anyone who sees the testimony of such a person will WANT that kind of inner peace and that is the true teaching of Jesus Christ. "Convert or die" is the mantra of Catholics and Muslims. It's a shame the word "Christian" has been so confused and abused to the point of it being a useless word.

Re: Unconditional Love... - ExChristian.Net - Articles

Jonathan — Wed, 01 Feb 2006 00:01:00 -0000

I'm sorry, but I'm going to kind of use this article as a response to an advice newsgroup that bore a message of, 'find god and his uncondtional love, he loves you so'. So then hell would be...? I love the article.

Re: http://igorandandre.blogspot.com/2009/10/alexa-chung-harpers-bazaar.html

Jonathan — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:01:16 -0000

a girl from school told me to check out your site. beautiful work.

Re: Aldrig mätt på coola grejer

Jonathan — Fri, 04 Sep 2009 13:02:07 -0000

måste varit efter match, annars har de en hel del att röja på innan match asså;)!

Re: Förlust mot Ukraina och patetisk ursäkt från Ferguson

Jonathan — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 08:35:32 -0000

Sir Alex ursäkt kändes sannerligen lam och frampressad, men han lyckas som vanligt flytta fokus och pressa domarna, alá Mourinho!

Angående Jay Z, självklart bör du gå...fantastiskt

Re: Joost Almost Ready to Go

Jonathan — Thu, 24 May 2007 09:01:00 -0000

Hi. Please send me an invite at my2gfolder[at]gmail[dot]com. Thanks.

Re: Nintendo Virtual Console Games, The Gifts That Keep on Giving

Jonathan — Wed, 12 Dec 2007 20:09:00 -0000

Too bad i kicked your ass at techmo bowl

Re: Yahoo! Talking Merger With AOL, Can Two Wrongs Make a Right?

Jonathan — Mon, 11 Feb 2008 10:25:00 -0000

AOL? Of all companies? Even Microsoft is a better choice. Yahoo should be stay independent, all other options are taking us towards a world with less symbols and a plain monochromatic industry. By the way, this is hilarious: http://www.5min.com/Video/How-to-Negotiate---Ti...

Re: Boy Cries Wolf on FriendFeed. Angry Mob Grab Pitchforks.

Jonathan — Tue, 08 Jul 2008 08:26:00 -0000

Well said.

Re: Photos and Video from EPL Talk tour

Jonathan — Mon, 10 Jul 2006 15:15:00 -0000

Gaffer!!

Fantastic photos from the Queen Mary -- glad you went out there and had a great time...

Hey, keep in touch -- my blog's going back to the music beat, but I'm still gonna keep an eye on world soccer (specifically the EPL). Maybe I'll run into you at the QM or Brogues for some EPL weekend action.

Take care man... this has been a lot of fun...

Jonathan Tully

www.palmbeachpost.com/tully

Re: New Lettering and Numbering Style for EPL Shirts

Jonathan — Wed, 16 May 2007 19:47:00 -0000

I need some info regarding the new EPL lettering. Does anybody know the name of the font or who designed it?
Thanks in advance guys.

Re: New 08/09 Manchester City Home Shirt Revealed

Jonathan — Tue, 24 Jun 2008 04:38:42 -0000

Looks like one of those skin tight Rugby Jerseys.
I thought Mr Cook would have bought out the Le Coq contract and brought Nike in by now.

Re: Didn’t know that didja? Part IIb

Jonathan — Mon, 04 Apr 2005 02:16:00 -0000

ive got to admit, she's really pretty...and also sexy doing this

Re: They really mean it when they say ‘this is the late news’

Jonathan — Sat, 07 May 2005 07:18:00 -0000

the breaking of news is like the way the tv stations used to proclaim "exclusive" or "first in singapore" for shows that were already shown on cable for many months.

i remembered there was another issue with a "remote island" country and china that a certain leader offended. Worldwide news reported it for more than 1 week before it was in the national paper.

Re: Please don’t flambée my backside, the food’s quite good

Jonathan — Thu, 18 Aug 2005 18:01:00 -0000

I agree that Shashlik is the best!

I managed to arrange for a dept outing there once... but my colleagues were shocked by their service..

well.. to me.. i just care about how good the food tasted!

Re: Even More Evidence that the world is ending …

Jonathan — Wed, 14 Jun 2006 03:00:00 -0000

Randy:
Thanks for taking the time to respond to Reverend Foster regarding this issue. Christians have, in my opinion, a clarion call from the Father to treat others, no matter our level of disagreement, with respect and in fact love. Matthew 5:44 from The Message says - "I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer,"
I wonder sometimes if we don't get so caught up in this "us-against-them" drama - winning the war of public opinion or whatever - that we forget that as Christians we are held to a higher standard of love.
I was recently interacting with DL on another site regarding the words of Gandhi who said "I like your Christ. I don't like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." I mentioned that those words should serve as a warning to we Christians because we are the only Jesus some will ever see and if they can't get past our actions to see Christ then we've failed in our mission.
In grace,
j.

Re: Even More Evidence that the world is ending…

Jonathan — Wed, 14 Jun 2006 12:04:35 -0000

Randy:

Thanks for taking the time to respond to Reverend Foster regarding this issue. Christians have, in my opinion, a clarion call from the Father to treat others, no matter our level of disagreement, with respect and in fact love. Matthew 5:44 from The Message says - "I'm telling you to love your enemies. Let them bring out the best in you, not the worst. When someone gives you a hard time, respond with the energies of prayer,"

I wonder sometimes if we don't get so caught up in this "us-against-them" drama - winning the war of public opinion or whatever - that we forget that as Christians we are held to a higher standard of love.

I was recently interacting with DL on another site regarding the words of Gandhi who said "I like your Christ. I don't like your Christians. Your Christians are so unlike your Christ." I mentioned that those words should serve as a warning to we Christians because we are the only Jesus some will ever see and if they can't get past our actions to see Christ then we've failed in our mission.

In grace,

j.

Re: The Religious “ Left ” - Eternal or Social Gospel?

Jonathan — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 02:00:00 -0000

Randy, Frank says he is for "full disclosure" and yet with one very liberal stroke, he paints all on the Religious Left in a way that is not entirely accurate. I fail to see how calling for full disclosure on one front, and being less than accurate on that same front can do anything but negate the message that he's attempting to make.
I grew up in a very conservative Christian household, and while I don't hold nearly as conservative views today, I still hue pretty closely to the views I was raised with. I will say that reading Jim Wallis' book "God's Politics" certainly was an eye opener. Simply being on the "right" side of an issue doesn't make you right anymore than being on the "left" side of an issue makes you wrong?
j.

Re: The Religious “Left” - Eternal or Social Gospel?

Jonathan — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 11:18:34 -0000

Randy, Frank says he is for "full disclosure" and yet with one very liberal stroke, he paints all on the Religious Left in a way that is not entirely accurate. I fail to see how calling for full disclosure on one front, and being less than accurate on that same front can do anything but negate the message that he's attempting to make.

I grew up in a very conservative Christian household, and while I don't hold nearly as conservative views today, I still hue pretty closely to the views I was raised with. I will say that reading Jim Wallis' book "God's Politics" certainly was an eye opener. Simply being on the "right" side of an issue doesn't make you right anymore than being on the "left" side of an issue makes you wrong?

j.

Re: The Religious “ Left ” - Eternal or Social Gospel?

Jonathan — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 02:00:00 -0000

Randy~
Thanks for your comments. I wanted to know a little bit more about the NCC and so I went to their official website. Here is their statement of faith:
"The National Council of Churches is a community of Christian communions, which, in response to the gospel as revealed in the Scriptures, confess Jesus Christ, the incarnate Word of God, as Savior and Lord.
These communions covenant with one another to manifest ever more fully the unity of the Church.
Relying upon the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, the communions come together as the Council in common mission, serving in all creation to the glory of God."
--from the Preamble to the NCC Constitution.
That seems to directly be in direct conflict to what Frank wrote.
j.

Re: The Religious “Left” - Eternal or Social Gospel?

Jonathan — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 07:08:57 -0000

Randy~

Thanks for your comments. I wanted to know a little bit more about the NCC and so I went to their official website. Here is their statement of faith:

"The National Council of Churches is a community of Christian communions, which, in response to the gospel as revealed in the Scriptures, confess Jesus Christ, the incarnate Word of God, as Savior and Lord.

These communions covenant with one another to manifest ever more fully the unity of the Church.

Relying upon the transforming power of the Holy Spirit, the communions come together as the Council in common mission, serving in all creation to the glory of God."

--from the Preamble to the NCC Constitution.

That seems to directly be in direct conflict to what Frank wrote.

j.

Re: Follow Up on a Couple of Blog Posts

Jonathan — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0000

No, you did make it clear...in this post. However, in reading the original post (which apparently garnered you some name calling the likes of which you haven't heard before), I had a very heated, emotional reaction. Usually I don't. It wasn't that I was trying to tell my story...have my own blog for that, just oddly enough had a very strong reaction to the original egg post.
As for my story...it's probably one that needs to be told and one that you might find very interesting (certainly not where I ever expected to be as a Christian). But will it? Doubtful. Like I said, I'm not an activist nor do I have an agenda. I am opinionated though. =)
j.

Re: Follow Up on a Couple of Blog Posts

Jonathan — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 09:45:05 -0000

Randy,

I am glad that you've decided to put distance between yourself and Armstrong's use of Paul Cameron's "research". I heard an interview with Cameron the other day trying to justify his research and it was laughable. What is sad is that some people will embrace his message simply because it gives cover to their message. And they do this without ever verifying the "research" in question.

I read your comments re Easter Eggs and the White House and I will say that it brought out a very heated and emotional response from me. I wrote a whole lengthy comment and then deleted it. Turns out, it was something I needed to sleep on. As a parent; as a gay parent, I do the best I can for my son. I'm not an activist. I'm not about putting my family out on display. I am about trying my best to teach my child that he is every bit as loved as the next person and that he has every right and responsibility as the next. Maybe it is just a sensitive subject for me, but perhaps it was the language you used that was designed to inflame passion. To say that people are "hijacking" something is pretty strong. Given the opportunity, I would take my son to an Easter Egg thing at the White House. Not for political reasons, but because it would be an amazing memory. If my family was showcased in a positive light, that would be cool...but it wouldn't be the objective. I would bet that while there was in fact a political agenda, most parents are not so calculating as to put their children's welfare behind a political statement.

We all struggle to make the best decisions we can as parents. We don't always get it right (my parents, married 40 years next month will tell you they didn't always get it right with me or my 3 siblings), but we try. You wonder why you got some heated responses? Well, I'd say it's because your post was kind of harsh. Which is ok, because it's your post and your blog.

j.

Re: Follow Up on a Couple of Blog Posts

Jonathan — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 10:09:15 -0000

By the way, just because I thought your post was a bit harsh (which admittedly could be me being sensitive) doesn't justify name calling. That's just poor taste!

j.

Re: Follow Up on a Couple of Blog Posts

Jonathan — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 12:04:31 -0000

No, you did make it clear...in this post. However, in reading the original post (which apparently garnered you some name calling the likes of which you haven't heard before), I had a very heated, emotional reaction. Usually I don't. It wasn't that I was trying to tell my story...have my own blog for that, just oddly enough had a very strong reaction to the original egg post.

As for my story...it's probably one that needs to be told and one that you might find very interesting (certainly not where I ever expected to be as a Christian). But will it? Doubtful. Like I said, I'm not an activist nor do I have an agenda. I am opinionated though. =)

j.

Re: Follow Up on a Couple of Blog Posts

Jonathan — Tue, 10 Apr 2007 13:31:10 -0000

BTW...there's a pic of my little one over at my blog if ya wanna take a look-see. I'm kinda proud of him!

j.

http://jbz.blogspot.com

Re: Off to Omaha

Jonathan — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0000

Intollerance? No more than FOTF is intollerant by not allowing advertising that they deem to not fit their image. The company that owns the billboard apparently disagreed with the proposed billboard and decided against it. In a free-market society, isn't that perfectly acceptable? Hmmm...I guess we all practice a bit of intolerance by not promoting messages that we disagree with. Companies like this one (or FOTF or Exodus) should not be forced to advertise products or events they disagree with should they? For FOTF to paint this company as intollerant simply because it wouldn't promote a message it apparently disagreed with (even for $$) is kind of like the pot calling the kettle black.
j.

Re: Off to Omaha

Jonathan — Fri, 13 Apr 2007 13:34:29 -0000

Re: Gay Theology Billboards in Indy Defaced

Jonathan — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 03:00:00 -0000

Hmmmm...
I'm not particularly sure I agree with the interpretation of these particular billboards. Then again, I don't particularly agree with the message that Exodus billboards put out either. I add to what Mike Ensley said as I think they probably both prey on the rampant Biblical illiteracy in and out of the church.
Wasn't that the universal Jesus for Anglo-Americans for many years. Certainly if you look in a lot of pictorial Bibles, you'll find that Jesus gazing back at you.
Mike, are you sure CS Lewis described Jesus as a cat? Unless you are alluding to Aslan, then I'm certain I don't get it. A nun sent Lewis a copy of the Shroud of Turin and this is his response...
"Thank you so much for the head of Our Lord from the shroud. It has grown upon me wonderfully. I don't commit myself to the genuineness. One can never be quite certain. But the great value is to make one realise that He was a man, and once even a dead man. There is so much difference between a doctrine and a realisation." - Volumn II, Collected Letters.
j.

Re: Gay Theology Billboards in Indy Defaced

Jonathan — Wed, 25 Apr 2007 14:08:12 -0000

Hmmmm...

I'm not particularly sure I agree with the interpretation of these particular billboards. Then again, I don't particularly agree with the message that Exodus billboards put out either. I add to what Mike Ensley said as I think they probably both prey on the rampant Biblical illiteracy in and out of the church.

Wasn't that the universal Jesus for Anglo-Americans for many years. Certainly if you look in a lot of pictorial Bibles, you'll find that Jesus gazing back at you.

Mike, are you sure CS Lewis described Jesus as a cat? Unless you are alluding to Aslan, then I'm certain I don't get it. A nun sent Lewis a copy of the Shroud of Turin and this is his response...

"Thank you so much for the head of Our Lord from the shroud. It has grown upon me wonderfully. I don't commit myself to the genuineness. One can never be quite certain. But the great value is to make one realise that He was a man, and once even a dead man. There is so much difference between a doctrine and a realisation." - Volumn II, Collected Letters.

j.

Re: Take Action Against Thought Crime Legislation

Jonathan — Wed, 02 May 2007 03:00:00 -0000

Interesting that Mr. Bauer failed to mention who Sen. Kennedy's co-sponsor is on this bill. I won't argue the merits (or demerits) of the Bill. It doesn't look good though when Bauer, et al, attempt to make this a liberal v everyone else kind of a deal. Growing up in my home, willful ommission of the facts provoked the same punishment as bold faced lying. My mother called that punishment "applying the board of wisdom to the seat of knowledge!"
I recently read where another of the "coalition" against this Bill completely mischaracterized part of the debate. One of the most disturbing things to me of late is this attitude in Christendom that the ends justify the means. Why resort to twisting of facts, shading of truth if you've got THE TRUTH on your side? I think Christ must look down and shed a tear!
j.

Re: Take Action Against Thought Crime Legislation

Jonathan — Wed, 02 May 2007 13:09:45 -0000

Interesting that Mr. Bauer failed to mention who Sen. Kennedy's co-sponsor is on this bill. I won't argue the merits (or demerits) of the Bill. It doesn't look good though when Bauer, et al, attempt to make this a liberal v everyone else kind of a deal. Growing up in my home, willful ommission of the facts provoked the same punishment as bold faced lying. My mother called that punishment "applying the board of wisdom to the seat of knowledge!"

I recently read where another of the "coalition" against this Bill completely mischaracterized part of the debate. One of the most disturbing things to me of late is this attitude in Christendom that the ends justify the means. Why resort to twisting of facts, shading of truth if you've got THE TRUTH on your side? I think Christ must look down and shed a tear!

j.

Re: American Idol - Final 4

Jonathan — Thu, 03 May 2007 03:00:00 -0000

I'll be honest, I was happy to see Phil leave. Something about him was a little creepy to me. Can't put a finger on it. It wasn't that he was a bad singer...just...hmmm...
I was sad to see Chris go, but I do think it was the right decision. I differ with you on who will be in the finale (are you surprised I differ...LOL). I kind of think it will come down to Melinda and Blake. I love LaKisha and have really warmed up to Jordin, but I think that the two I mentioned for the finale are the strongest and have the most universal appeal.
j.

Re: American Idol - Final 4

Jonathan — Thu, 03 May 2007 09:39:19 -0000

I'll be honest, I was happy to see Phil leave. Something about him was a little creepy to me. Can't put a finger on it. It wasn't that he was a bad singer...just...hmmm...

I was sad to see Chris go, but I do think it was the right decision. I differ with you on who will be in the finale (are you surprised I differ...LOL). I kind of think it will come down to Melinda and Blake. I love LaKisha and have really warmed up to Jordin, but I think that the two I mentioned for the finale are the strongest and have the most universal appeal.

j.

Re: Take Action Against Thought Crime Legislation

Jonathan — Thu, 03 May 2007 09:45:07 -0000

Maureen, you made me laugh with that comment. Your point makes a heckuva lot of sense.

j.

Re: American Idol - Final 4 Singing

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 03:00:00 -0000

I dunno! I really like all four of the finalists, however, last night was just a bore from start to finish...at least for those at my house. We can't even remember Jordin's first song and thought her second one was shaky. We liked LaKisha and thought she did better than the judges gave her credit for, but also figure she is the most vulnerable. Blake, for once, just sucked. Weird because he's an amazing talent. Even Melinda, who I think has one of the more amazing voices was boring.
As for Daughtry...we really did think it was a travesty last year. Then again, he had kind of gotten stale what with giving the same exact vocal performance each and every week. He came out all right though. His new CD is pretty good! Out of all the past seasons and winners, give me Fantasia!
j.

Re: American Idol - Final 4 Singing

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 13:01:44 -0000

I dunno! I really like all four of the finalists, however, last night was just a bore from start to finish...at least for those at my house. We can't even remember Jordin's first song and thought her second one was shaky. We liked LaKisha and thought she did better than the judges gave her credit for, but also figure she is the most vulnerable. Blake, for once, just sucked. Weird because he's an amazing talent. Even Melinda, who I think has one of the more amazing voices was boring.

As for Daughtry...we really did think it was a travesty last year. Then again, he had kind of gotten stale what with giving the same exact vocal performance each and every week. He came out all right though. His new CD is pretty good! Out of all the past seasons and winners, give me Fantasia!

j.

Re: MSM Ignore Horrific Newsom/Christian Case

Jonathan — Fri, 18 May 2007 03:00:00 -0000

Much more newsworthy than ANS or PH (who I saw driving her Bentley the day before her last court appearance). A conspiracy by the MSM? Here in LA, we have horrific crimes that happen every day. Some don't even make it on the local news much less gain national coverage. Simply because a story doesn't gain national attention like we think it should, doesn't mean some conspiracy is afoot. Then again, the blog world is full of people (liberal and conservative) who see shadows behind everything...often where shadows don't exist. Still, if I were running the newsroom, this is a story I would feature because it is truly heinous

Re: MSM Ignore Horrific Newsom/Christian Case

Jonathan — Fri, 18 May 2007 11:25:22 -0000

Re: I Don ’ t Live an “ Alleged ” Life

Jonathan — Wed, 30 May 2007 03:00:00 -0000

Thanks for your reply Randy!
I guess I understand what you are saying. But, don't you think that a gay person, when reading or hearing you say "gay identified" might draw the conclusion that you are in some way suggesting that if they didn't "identify" as gay, then they wouldn't be gay. And, if they drew that conclusion, wouldn't that run awfully close to being "alleged?" Seems to be a fine line.
Here's what I mean. I am a Christian, or as you would say, Christian "identified." I certainly don't go around saying I'm Christian identified. I don't know...seems an awful much like semantics. And semantics can screw with a person's head. LOL.
j.

Re: I Don’t Live an “Alleged” Life

Jonathan — Wed, 30 May 2007 09:11:19 -0000

Hi Randy!

David ... over at ... has a very interesting article regarding this particular post. In it he talks a bit about your feelings re the reporters use of the word "alleged" in response to your assertion as to your orientation and your use of the word "identified" when you talk about gay people. It's a very interesting point and I would be very interesting in hearing your thoughts on what he wrote. I can understand that it might be uncomfortable for you but I think it might be very informative to many of us to hear your response.

Thanks and blessings to you!

j.

Re: I Don’t Live an “Alleged” Life

Jonathan — Wed, 30 May 2007 11:14:55 -0000

Thanks for your reply Randy!

I guess I understand what you are saying. But, don't you think that a gay person, when reading or hearing you say "gay identified" might draw the conclusion that you are in some way suggesting that if they didn't "identify" as gay, then they wouldn't be gay. And, if they drew that conclusion, wouldn't that run awfully close to being "alleged?" Seems to be a fine line.

Here's what I mean. I am a Christian, or as you would say, Christian "identified." I certainly don't go around saying I'm Christian identified. I don't know...seems an awful much like semantics. And semantics can screw with a person's head. LOL.

j.

Re: Rejuvenated

Jonathan — Mon, 31 Dec 2007 22:23:00 -0000

hahah welcome back from your loooong 1 month hiatus. :)

Re: Rejuvenated

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Jan 2008 13:23:00 -0000

hahah welcome back from your loooong 1 month hiatus. :)

Re: Obama’s Messaging

Jonathan — Wed, 09 Jan 2008 14:10:00 -0000

I find him to be very compelling. I too have doubts as to whether his actions can live up to his rhetoric. Frankly, after watching him, he "seems" more Presidential than anyone else out there. Of course, looks can be deceiving as someone keeps reminding in relationship to my Bush votes.

j.

Re: Obama’s Messaging

Jonathan — Thu, 10 Jan 2008 05:10:00 -0000

Re: Optaros joins open source integration effort

Jonathan — Fri, 11 Mar 2005 15:53:07 -0000

SourceForge is well established but who will IT turn to when there's a problem? IT needs one neck to squeeze when things go wrong and these companies are putting themselves out in the firing line...for a fee, of course.

Re: Caller ID - a cell phone saga | A View from Judi Sohn

Jonathan — Fri, 22 Apr 2005 15:30:56 -0000

A guy at Cingular Data Support (866-490-2666) said that I had to split my family account to have separate caller IDs. When I called Cingular Customer Support (800-490-2666), they changed it for me in just a few minutes, without splitting my account.

Re: Bloggerific!

Jonathan — Mon, 08 Jan 2007 11:10:00 -0000

You should totally use spell check when representing the company. My GOLLY.

Re: Ommegang, Ommigosh

Jonathan — Mon, 29 Jan 2007 12:28:00 -0000

P.S. Ladies, Simon IS available.

Re: Hefe help!

Jonathan — Thu, 08 Feb 2007 12:13:00 -0000

That Weissguy thing has some legs to it... I like mobsters. And gangsters. Myeah, see?

Re: The Weiss Guy

Jonathan — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 10:05:00 -0000

Ummm... this might just be me, but I don't think Hitler is the way to go on this one...

Re: First Monthlial Beer Blogging Day!

Jonathan — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 10:57:00 -0000

Ummm... Stan at Appellation Beer? Follow the link, yo.

(I can be mean to "nate" because I have a sneaking suspicion that he's my brother)

P.S. Thanks for helping out with the original Blogger template!

Re: Martin Luther’s wife was a homebrewer

Jonathan — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 20:21:00 -0000

Hey, nothing against the papists. And you're right about the Prohibition. That one cuts deep.

For what it's worth, I apologize for my non-Papist predecessors.

Re: Myeah, see here, copper.

Jonathan — Sun, 18 Feb 2007 11:19:00 -0000

"We had a dim premonition that power-mad gangsters would one day use art itself as a way of deadening menâ€™s minds." â€“ Jean Arp

"You can get much further with a kind word and a gun then you can with a kind word alone." â€“ Al Capone

Re: Later Tonight on Fairhaven…

Jonathan — Mon, 19 Feb 2007 10:51:00 -0000

That reminds me of the time when I was at a pub in London and was told by the barkeep that the darkest beer they had was an ESB. Lame.

Re: Help us name our bitter!

Jonathan — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 11:06:00 -0000

What about these tasty gems:

"Flagon Slayer"

"Grandpappy"

Re: A Quite Nice Weiss

Jonathan — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:38:00 -0000

Well anonymous,

We buy glossy round stickers from a sticker supplier online and then print them on a color laser printer. Fairly primitive, but it works for us at this stage in the game.

BTW, I'm not saying we HAVE to make a strawberry kiwi cooler. We could just add some strawberry flava to our hefeweizen. I'd be cool with that.

Re: Help us name our bitter!

Jonathan — Thu, 22 Feb 2007 11:40:00 -0000

What about "Ryan Seacrest will be a bitter old grandpappy"?

Re: A Quite Nice Weiss

Jonathan — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 16:05:00 -0000

Thanks Eli! We're doing all we can to hasten our journey into microbrewery-hood.

Re: Help us name our bitter!

Jonathan — Tue, 27 Feb 2007 15:49:00 -0000

I like Bitter Old Maid. Also like the military theme, though I think Captain (Morgan) is out. Maybe Lt. Bitter.

Re: Mmm…Skunky Porter…

Jonathan — Wed, 28 Feb 2007 16:29:00 -0000

Most of our bottles are brown, but we've also used green ones when they've been given to us (or scavenged from local college recycling bins).

Re: We bitter name this thing

Jonathan — Thu, 01 Mar 2007 16:24:00 -0000

Don't worry, we're Colbert fans. I don't think it made it through the screener because it wasn't tightly connected to a "character" like a pirate. The closest would be a politician, but who wants to drink a political beer?

Re: Monday Night Brewery | Bringing great craft beer to Atlanta, Georgia » Blog Archive » The Polls

Jonathan — Fri, 09 Mar 2007 22:21:00 -0000

Seriously. Joel is a douche bag.

Re: Monday Night Brewery | Bringing great craft beer to Atlanta, Georgia » Blog Archive » Lagers Coming Soon

Jonathan — Wed, 14 Mar 2007 08:26:00 -0000

I don't like lagers. You can't make me drink them.

Re: Monday Night Brewery | Bringing great craft beer to Atlanta, Georgia » Blog Archive » Dissent in the ranks

Jonathan — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 15:20:00 -0000

Good call. I'm actually working on a version with an axe. I'll post it in a day or two.

Re: Monday Night Brewery | Bringing great craft beer to Atlanta, Georgia » Blog Archive » Lumberjack Stout (the label, not the beer)

Jonathan — Mon, 19 Mar 2007 17:17:00 -0000

While we're at it, I don't think Lumberjack is the strongest name we have. I like the idea of a lumberjack, but perhaps we're being too upfront about it?

Re: The Race-Baiter Won the Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas Primaries

Jonathan — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:15:00 -0000

Obama should not change the way he fights - with one exception: it has now become clear that in the 2-3 days before primaries he has got to keep out front in in the news cycles and not let the Clintons fill the air - and newspapers, via certain columnist pals - with crap uncontested. There must be Obama-brand media product (preferably positive) to compete with it, and draw the attention in those crucial days.

The other thing is, and it pains me to say this in a way b/c it's almost too big a pill to swallow: The "subtler" provocations floated by the Clintonistas have to be let slide. Because part of their intended consequence is: exactly what happens here - they draw a reaction, the word gets around, and you end up doing the Clintons' work for them. Simple as that. Kerry didn't respond, but Kerry could have, because Kerry didn't have to worry about being the Angry Irish Man. Obama does have to worry. Let. The. Shit. Slide. Don't give them what they want. The "doctored photo" is a prime example. You put stuff that really is, by and large, way too subtle to be visible outside the community out on the clothesline like this, it gets around and it only hurts Barack's chances. Dirty fact of life. Adjust, b/c it's going to get worse. Barack is winning because he is a visionary leader. Stay on offense. Pay the thunder no mind.

Re: The Race-Baiter Won the Ohio, Rhode Island and Texas Primaries

Jonathan — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 02:29:00 -0000

Sore is right. Lies work, mr. anonymous. They've been working for 20+ years. We want them to stop working, or at least to stop being the operating principle of political life.

Bill Kristol said "I recommend to Senator Clinton the politics of fear" to "puncture" Obama's "wave of euphoria." And Clinton took that recommendation: red phone, Rezko & NAFTA hypocrisy. And -surprise- it worked! Late deciders broke for Clinton in yesterday's primaries. Chalk up another grand day for unreconstructed politics as usual. Makes you proud to be a Democrat, don't it?

Pay the thunder no mind.

Re: Howard Dean On The State of the Campaign

Jonathan — Wed, 05 Mar 2008 22:54:00 -0000

Thank god there is someone high up in the DNC that will articulate the simple truth that there are rules that everyone must follow. Thank you Dr. Dean.

If Dean gets bigfooted aside and those delegates are seated, i will have lost a big chunk of faith in the electoral process.

But that's unlikely. Far more likely is that Clinton picks a choice moment - say, shortly before the Pennsylvania primary - to put it to Obama that they campaign in those states for a revote. If she does that, he's pretty much going to have to take her up on it, barring some unequivocal ruling by the credentials committee that that cannot happen.

Re: My Take on Geraldine Ferraro

Jonathan — Wed, 12 Mar 2008 23:51:00 -0000

Olbermann spoke some truth today.

http://www.crooksandliars.com/2008/03/12/countdown-special-comment-sen-clinton-this-is-not-a-campaign-strategy-this-is-a-suicide-pact/

Re: Geraldine Ferraro and the Clinton Campaign’s Strategy

Jonathan — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 01:10:00 -0000

Dear Bag'O Health,

I canvassed, phone banked, and donated to the limit of my means for Obama in California.

I have one question to ask you: Would Dr. King want a blacklist? Would he approve the public listing and ostracization of every person, black, white, asian and latino, on that list?

I share your outrage. But this step you are taking is the one that takes a movement for hope and for good and cleanly removes its soul. I have no right to silence you and absolutely no power to stop you. I am asking you please not to take it in this direction.

Re: Geraldine Ferraro and the Clinton Campaign’s Strategy

Jonathan — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 02:10:00 -0000

"The real cult is in the Hillary campaign. Outreach is possible, but pretending everything is okie doke and never happened ain't the way."

All true. But blacklisting underlings is a couple of steps beyond calling it out. You don't know who on that list made these decisions. My guess is, nor do most of the people on that list.

The campaign they have participated in should (and will) fail on its own demerits. Obama has taken the high road, and the rewards of that path should be undiluted by stuff like blacklisting. The contrast between him and Clinton is now screamingly stark.

Re: Trying to Attack Obama Through His Church

Jonathan — Thu, 13 Mar 2008 23:12:00 -0000

I don't see where belonging to a religious community with someone constitutes a kind of "accepting support" that is politically relevant. Religious communities are - communities. They are NOT monoliths. Obama has already said in several ways and on numerous occasions that he disagrees with some of what Rev. Wright says. I think it is clear from the body of Obama's public and written speech what those portions are. If you're seriously going to float the idea that Obama doesn't support America, that is going to require some actual evidence, which this most definitely is not.

Re: Trying to Attack Obama Through His Church

Jonathan — Fri, 14 Mar 2008 22:38:00 -0000

b-serious said:

"I'm telling you. The way to take the sting out of all of this is to open the doors of the church.

As long as the media gets to portray the church as some amorphous mob of black militants, Obama will continue to get dogged by the questions.

You open the doors of the church. And you do the very thing that best undercuts those fears of the unknown: You give it a face. You give it a name. You give it a culture; life and context. You take away the mystery. Why? Because ignorance feeds off of that mystery."

<<

This is still the truest answer yet given in this thread, and it is the one that will be the most effective.

Wright and his contemporaries sometimes spoke and speak from a place of pain because that pain is real, and it has been and still is caused by structural impediments to justice. And America -the majority of it- is ready to see reality.

Obama's statement that he strongly condemns Wright's comments - but will not repudiate the man himself and the totality of his life's work - is the honorable path. It is also the path that, as is usual with Obama, takes the risk of actually trusting the American people instead of trying to corral them into believing some particular thing. Let the people see the church, and see the truth. America is ready, to quote the frontrunner.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 12:38:00 -0000

nmp wrote:
"I've always felt deprived not to be a child of the 60's, to be an eyewitness to greatness. Not any more. I just witnessed greatness in my lifetime."

Amen, amen amen.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 20:45:00 -0000

@ anonymous 4:55

You (or someone you copied/pasted, i'm not sure which,) wrote:

"Obama attempts to plant one foot firmly on either side of the divide but ends up failing because in the end, he must be who he is: a black man who, while not agreeing with Reverend Wright’s toxic words, nevertheless understands and agrees with the underlying reason he spouts them."

This perfectly illustrates what has and will be the primary error committed by those who misconstrue this speech:

You have conflated understanding with agreement; or you beleive there is no valid distinction. In both, you are wrong. Understanding is not agreement. If you are unable to parse the difference, then nothing -at all- that Obama says will ever satisfy you with regard to Wright. And you may as well admit that up front.

As for the thrust of the rest of that opinion, Obama has repeatedly indicated respect for and willingnes to use conservative ideas - but real conservative ideas, not this market-fundamentalism-while-

somehow-managing-also-to-be-

a-unitary-executive-constitution-

shredding-authoritarian hoohaa that has been dolled up as, and mistaken for, "conservatism" for the past seven years or so.

And if you can't parse that, it's obvious who you were going to vote for regardless.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 21:37:00 -0000

Eagle said:

"I still suspect that Hillary will win Pennsylvania, the demographics are pro-Hillary there."

You're right. I grew up in Pennsylvania and know it well. I would caution you strongly against buying into any version of the Clintons' game regarding high expectations for this state. There's a reason Pennsylvania instantly became the next "benchmark state" for the Clinton campaign, and you know what that reason is. Obama is unlikely to win there.

I may be surprised. PA may have changed a great deal since I last lived there. That western two-thirds may have become more liberal; more Iowa-like and less Ohio-like.

But if Obama actually outright wins the state, that will be a very big surprise. He can and should do well there if he campaigns hard, but at the very best, I think we can expect a Texas nailbiter minus the caucus, and probably a result a bit more like Ohio. Which of course means the Clintons (and the media, gotta sell those papers!) are going to be ginning up Pensylvania as though it decides the whole election. Don't walk into that trap.

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 22:56:00 -0000

@ anonymous 7:46

That's quite a prophetic statement there, with which I do not agree. Do you mean it turned *you* off? Why?

Re: Transcript Of Obama Speech: A More Perfect Union (Now With Video) - Update 2

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 00:35:00 -0000

@ anonymous 8:14

It seems to me like rikyrah's post above answers you straight on without even trying. But since i typed all this in response i'll post it.

What puzzles me about your reaction is this: You say the subset of Pastor Wright's remarks that are being endlessly looped on the news were wrong. Obama goes you one further - he called them "inexcusable" and "divisive."

What he then asks you to do - at great political risk to himself, as your final judgment makes evident - is follow him in a (brief) accounting of the reality of race in American history through to the present. You are challenged not to excuse specific remarks, but to understand. You are asked to believe that this history provides reasons for Pastor Wright's remarks that allow a person of goodwill to put them in the context of his whole life -which includes a great deal of good works and great sermons, by anyone's measure- under conditions which you may not be familiar with firsthand, but which the body of the speech is intended to give you a sense of.

I'll say again that if you cannot discern the difference between understanding and agreeing, i.e. between knowing, understanding, feeling solidarity with, and loving someone, vs. being in lock-step agreement with them on every single issue, then this may be lost on you. If, for you, there is no airspace at all between principle (being the best person you can be under the circumstances you are given) and practice (never, ever breaching a certain list of things that must not be said), then this distinction will be lost on you.

But I would put it to you that if you think about it, that's not really the case. You judge people within the context of what you know about their lives; you love imperfect people. This speech asks you, if you are not black, not from southside, not familiar with the prophetic history of black charismatic preaching, to make what has to be an imaginative leap - to understand why Obama feels this closeness to Wright and the community he serves, and to understand why Obama can declare that love while being aware of "the contradictions - the good and the bad" of the community and of Wright himself, and why it is important enough to him that he makes this speech - the speech he actually gave - instead of a safer one.

There's a reason that many are already saying that this was not like most political speeches. Most political speeches neither give you that much nor ask you to do that much work. If you truly distrust Obama and think he is being disingenuous then none of this will matter. I put it to you that someone who has made the choices he has made, run the campaign he has run, written the books he has written when he wrote them, and given the speech he just gave, has not earned that mistrust but its opposite.

Re: Mark tests Roomba

Jonathan — Thu, 25 Jan 2007 03:20:37 -0000

Silly question: Scooba isn't available AT ALL in Italy yet? I am surprised as I think it has been out in the US for quite a while. Just curious...

Re: Gizmo SMS: strange phenomena

Jonathan — Sat, 10 Mar 2007 13:38:47 -0000

Luca,

I just wanted to say thanks for the great articles! Also, I tried out the GizmoSMS after your first post on it. It worked fine for me. I received it in < 5 seconds and it looked like any other SMS I receive. However, I am in N America (Cingular). I wonder if their service is geared to the technology used by mobile operators in N America only (as one of the other posters indicated).

Have a great weekend!

Jonathan

Re: Get Rid of the Office Shortcut Bar | Windows | Tech-Recipes

Jonathan — Wed, 28 Jul 2004 05:40:07 -0000

I followed all the above directions, but the Office Shortcut Bar is still there when I boot up. Any ideas?

Thanks!

Re: OhGizmo! » Archive » WaterField Designs Introduces All-In-One Sling Tote

Jonathan — Mon, 16 Apr 2007 11:13:03 -0000

I too think Watefield stuff is the best of the best. I have to disagree with Mathew on this one. I could use a lighter-weight bag for toting around gym stuff and clothes, etc. for quick overnight trips. I think the brown and silver look quite classy. Will choose from one of them. Thanks for the tip, Andrew.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 12:47:13 -0000

We are all Wall Street. Blaming Wall Street for your problems is like blaming "society" for racism. If you demand that all of your investments make negative returns (and perhaps, as a socialist, you do) then you should be assembling like-minded investors and buying up newspapers. Nothing prevents you, unless the work you do is so inherently valueless that you can't earn enough to buy a company. Which should be yet another wake-up call.

And why should a newspaper's editorial page tolerate only one point of view? That all but guarantees that no new truths can be refined in the crucible/marketplace of ideas. And why would you feel threatened by a requirement to print a minimum of one (1) conservative editorial per day? That's extremely telling.

If you truly want to serve the public, dedicate yourself to reporting all news, regardless of whether it conforms to your somewhat blinkered worldview. If the general public could trust you to report all the news (e.g. Rathergate, Kerry's Christmas in Cambodia, the UN's numerous, perpetual and ongoing scandals) we'd be less inclined to ignore you.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 12:57:25 -0000

Do paid bloggers consider themselves reporters? I'd love to see where you're getting that idea, though I suppose it makes sense in the context of Hot Air, or people like Michael Yon and Michael Totten who are going where "real" reporters refuse to. In which case, yeah, they're definitely functioning as reporters.

People like Glenn Reynolds are pretty up-front about considering themselves commentators vs. reporters.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 13:15:54 -0000

Boyd is not technically a "moron." I don't think Mr. Boyd is stupid in any cognitive sense, and I don't think it helps our cause to make that claim. I think it's safe to say that he's terrified of a world of individual accountability in which the global marketplace is getting more and more efficient at pricing out the values of what we all do, and in which people unwilling to make wise decisions about behavior and career increasingly feel the direct and painful impact therefrom.

If I were him, I'd be terrified too.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:27:43 -0000

Totally unaware. I haven't hung around the Lefty side of the blogosphere ever since getting banned on Kos for politely but firmly injecting missing elements of the truth into their conversations. I'm pretty much down to CNN, MSNBC, Instapundit, the Corner and Lileks at this point. If you have a link to the story, please share it.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:40:13 -0000

FoxFalsehood I defy you to prove that Fox is any less factual than CNN, MSNBC or any news outlets on the left side of the mainstream. I've actually seen research that indicates Fox is the closest to the center based on the number of times Senators and Congressmen of both parties quote Fox vs. other major news outlets in support of their political agendas. If the existing media, particularly taxpayer-funded NPR, were doing their job and reporting fairly and honestly, there would be no market demand for Murdoch to pitch to.

I hope you're not actually suggesting that political commentators who disagree with your leftist perspective are automatically "dishonest."

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 02:56:39 -0000

Kos bans when losing. I would never use any permutation on "John" as a screen name. Like most Jonathans (and most people generally) I dislike having my name misspelled if it's avoidable.

Are you sure this John character didn't say that Kerry fragged himself (though probably on accident vs. collecting purple hearts) and that he lied about having spent Christmas in Cambodia, a faked memory that was ostensibly the reason he turned against the military and began supporting the anti-war effort? Because he's on pretty solid ground with both of those assertions.

Kos bans all conservatives who disagree with leftist party orthodoxy. If you're polite but persistent in marshalling your facts, you get banned just as fast because it's more embarassing to lose a rational discourse than a blathering insult-fest. I must say, though, that in the window of time during which I was allowed to participate, a number of leftists responded to my comments with well-reasoned and insightful replies that made for an enjoyable exchange. I hope they, and not the majority of angry Kos posters, represent the future of your side of the spectrum.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 03:19:31 -0000

Since when was Bush a conservative? I'd invite you to read back through my post. I don't think you were responding to what I wrote. A few thoughts in no particular order.

1) George W Bush is not a conservative in any meaningful sense, hence the term "compassionate conservative." Global market trends have less to do with him (his wise, Clintonesque low-tariff policies notwithstanding) than with the growing willingness of China and India to embrace free market principles vs. command-and-control.

2) Jesus advocated serving people from our own resources, not the use of progressive taxation to steal and redistribute wealth, or any kind of on-earth revolution (do you remember him healing the slave's ear in the Garden?) His directives are to us individually, not for us to control others.

3) The Global marketplace wants to provide you with a product or service and get paid for the effort. Where water enters into this picture is unclear to me.

4) I like the scary brown men, generally. We import many of our best Americans from overseas. It's the grabby white liberals I have a harder time with.

5) I don't really spend much time in Starbucks, and I think that's more of a stereotype of liberals, isn't it?

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 07:05:14 -0000

What an unusual selection of questions. It appears as though the questions chosen by the researchers were custom-tailored to draw attention to traditional logical blind spots of conservatives. Does it concern you that they didn't ask any questions about the differential fatality rates of Iraqi civilians during Saddam Hussein's rule vs. after, the rates of US combat fatalities in Iraq vs. training fatalities in peacetime, or the fact that though there is no proof of direct operational ties between Hussein and AQ in support of 9/11, they had an extensive and well-documented history of general collaboration?

...Or more general leftist blind spots like the correlation between increases in minimum wage and job destruction, or the net benefit to American families of Wal-Mart's depressive effect on product prices? I listen to a lot of NPR, and the complete truth about these and most other two-sided issues is seldom if ever discussed.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 07:22:16 -0000

That may be... ....but Jonah is pretty sharp, and I think he holds his position at NRO on merit. He's one of the most consistently nuanced, reasoned and persuasive debaters of any stripe that I've read, though I think he errs on the side of being entertaining vs. persuasive in his columns.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 12:47:13 -0000

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 12:57:25 -0000

People like Glenn Reynolds are pretty up-front about considering themselves commentators vs. reporters.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 13:15:54 -0000

If I were him, I'd be terrified too.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:27:43 -0000

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Wed, 09 May 2007 17:40:13 -0000

I hope you're not actually suggesting that political commentators who disagree with your leftist perspective are automatically "dishonest."

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 02:56:39 -0000

Kos bans when losing. I would never use any permutation on "John" as a screen name. Like most Jonathans (and most people generally) I dislike having my name misspelled if it's avoidable.

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 03:19:31 -0000

Since when was Bush a conservative? I'd invite you to read back through my post. I don't think you were responding to what I wrote. A few thoughts in no particular order.

3) The Global marketplace wants to provide you with a product or service and get paid for the effort. Where water enters into this picture is unclear to me.

4) I like the scary brown men, generally. We import many of our best Americans from overseas. It's the grabby white liberals I have a harder time with.

5) I don't really spend much time in Starbucks, and I think that's more of a stereotype of liberals, isn't it?

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 07:05:14 -0000

Re: On ‘Codpieces’ and Community: Strib’s Boyd Discusses Editorial Page Shakeup

Jonathan — Thu, 10 May 2007 07:22:16 -0000

Re: The Work-Around for Work

Jonathan — Fri, 16 May 2008 17:19:00 -0000

Wow. I would hate working such a long day unless it was something I really really loved. And at this point there is nothing in my life I can see loving that much. Diversity and variety are what keep me going. But I totally agree that you get so much more productive when you stop worrying about time and start concentrating on just DOING SOMETHING. Do anything, complete it, and move on to the next task is def. the most productive thing to do. If you are stressed about something work related, then just sit down and get it done rather than planning (I will do it tues at 3pm). I found when I write something down on google calendar, its almost like a small commitment and a way a gauge my expectations (i expect to get this much done) with the reality of my work. Last night I was super productive and accomplished almost everything I set out to do. Cool post, you are a workaholic! Get some sleep! :)

Jon

Re: Amy Sullivan: In Good Faith

Jonathan — Sun, 01 Oct 2006 05:22:19 -0000

Well said, Billy. Thanks for putting into words what I was wanting to write anyways. I grew up in a home/church/environment that was and is very much a part of the "religious right", and have in recent years began to grow very dissatisfied with much of the conservative agenda and rhetoric. Sojourners and the like have certainly peaked my interest as I've begun my search, but I have been a little displeased with the US vs. THEM mentality of the God's Politics blog. This is quite often what Satan wants. If we grow disgusted with something, he tries to pit us so deeply against it that we grow blind to the that which we originally may have stood for.

I just wonder at this point...am I going to go my whole life with an "other" political identification?>

Re: International Football - World Cup Qual Update

Jonathan — Thu, 31 Mar 2005 04:10:00 -0000

Only 2-0 to England? Pfff. Pathetic.

I done a post about it on my blog if you're interested.

Re: The Daily Twelve

Jonathan — Sat, 17 Mar 2007 20:36:00 -0000

I had never heard of consumerist until now.

Re: Sondage : EeePC 900 Linux 20Go ou Windows 12 Go ? - By Pierre Lecourt - microsoft, sondage, xandros, xp - Blogeee.net

Jonathan — Fri, 25 Apr 2008 18:02:56 -0000

LINUX POWAAA
Grace a xandros, j'ai découvert linux et par la suite j'ai intallé Ubuntu sur mon pc de bureau. Fini les bugs et virus !
Sur mon 701, mes 4go me suffisent amplement pour ce quej'en fait^^.

Re: C’mon Yuney!

Jonathan — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 15:35:27 -0000

I definitely look for a strong year from Yunel this season. He's definitely out to prove the doubters wrong that the Braves shouldn't have traded away Renteria in the off-season. I look forward to seeing what he's got full-time.

Re: C’mon Yuney!

Jonathan — Sat, 15 Mar 2008 15:35:27 -0000

Re: 2008 Outlook: The Lineup

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:07:17 -0000

I definitely agree on us having a dominant Top 5 in the lineup. I look to see all of them around .300 this season. I'm not too sure on how the back 3 in the lineup will pan out yet as far as ordering but I'm excited to see where it goes. I agree with one thing that I won't miss is the Andruw Jones double play balls. Let's just hope someone doesn't pick up the slack where he leaves off in that category. Good analysis BH. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: 2008 Outlook: The Lineup

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:07:17 -0000

Re: 2008 Outlook: The Lineup

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:07:17 -0000

Re: 2008 Outlook: The Lineup

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 13:07:17 -0000

Re: Hampton Pitches Five, Looks Strong

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:12:52 -0000

I have a hard time believing he'll make it to the regular season as well. I really want him to, I really do . . . but I fear that at any moment, he could break his hand while brushing his teeth or opening the refrigerator. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Hampton Pitches Five, Looks Strong

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:12:52 -0000

Re: Hampton Pitches Five, Looks Strong

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:12:52 -0000

Re: Hampton Pitches Five, Looks Strong

Jonathan — Mon, 17 Mar 2008 17:12:52 -0000

Re: The Art of the Scorecard

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 17:35:02 -0000

You're not the only one JB. One of our writers and I are the ones you'll catch scoring the games as well. We're hoping to put scans of our scorecards on BravesBlast this season to go along with our game recaps. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: The Art of the Scorecard

Jonathan — Tue, 18 Mar 2008 17:35:02 -0000

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:27:52 -0000

I made little secret of my distaste of Mark Redman last season. I dreaded going to games that he was pitching or watching them on TV, just because I knew I'd get upset and angry. I look to see a consistently solid pitching staff out of the Braves this year, or at least much more so than we have seen in the past couple of years. Hampton still remains the big X-Factor is.

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:27:52 -0000

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:31:16 -0000

Oh, and as for young guys, I'm going to have to agree that I'd like to see Jair get a chance at the role, at least until Chuck is ready to give it another shot in the majors. I think Jurrjens has great potential. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:31:16 -0000

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:31:16 -0000

Re: Was the 2007 Rotation So Bad? Yes.

Jonathan — Wed, 19 Mar 2008 18:31:16 -0000

Re: Oh No, Jo-Jo

Jonathan — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:38:01 -0000

Jo-Jo pretty much packed his bags for the bus trip to Richmond after the start tonight. I don't want to see him on the hill in Atlanta any time soon unless a lot changes. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Oh No, Jo-Jo

Jonathan — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 00:38:01 -0000

Re: Leading Off, Playing Second Base…Kelly Johnson

Jonathan — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:01:30 -0000

I think we'll see consistent solid performance out of KJ this year at second. I think the transition from Renteria to Escobar as the infield duo will be no problem for him given Yunel's performance. Hope you're watching the Tigers game right now...Chipper tied the game up with a solo shot just now as I'm typing this. We're headed down to spring training tomorrow so I'll do my best to keep an eye on the site while we're gone. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Leading Off, Playing Second Base…Kelly Johnson

Jonathan — Thu, 20 Mar 2008 21:01:30 -0000

Re: You Might Be a Braves Fan If…

Jonathan — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 10:36:26 -0000

All I have to say is . . . Dale Murphy should be in the Hall. Good list . . . brings back a lot of good memories.

Re: You Might Be a Braves Fan If…

Jonathan — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 10:36:26 -0000

All I have to say is . . . Dale Murphy should be in the Hall. Good list . . . brings back a lot of good memories.

Re: 2008 Outlook: John Smoltz

Jonathan — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:48:49 -0000

Good analysis of Smoltz. He's in his waning days, so I would like to see him go out on top of his game. Just some news to keep an eye on though, Smoltz has been scratched from starting today because of a sore shoulder: http://www.bravesblast.com/2008/03/21/smoltz-scra... -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: 2008 Outlook: John Smoltz

Jonathan — Fri, 21 Mar 2008 12:48:49 -0000

Re: Cuts Made. Javy and Schafer among them.

Jonathan — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:09:16 -0000

It's definitely sad to see Javy go. I was hoping to get the chance to see him on the field today, but it just wasn't meant to be. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Cuts Made. Javy and Schafer among them.

Jonathan — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:09:16 -0000

Re: Cuts Made. Javy and Schafer among them.

Jonathan — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:09:16 -0000

Re: Cuts Made. Javy and Schafer among them.

Jonathan — Sat, 22 Mar 2008 20:09:16 -0000

Re: Yates Traded for Some Other Guy

Jonathan — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 12:57:18 -0000

I for one am not sad to see Tyler go. His appearances in preseason left a lot to be desired and didn't really show any positive change from last season. We'll see how Redmond pans out, but as I see it, we're not losing in the deal.

Re: Yates Traded for Some Other Guy

Jonathan — Wed, 26 Mar 2008 12:57:18 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:51:35 -0000

Frenchie grounding out on a first pitch . . . shocking! -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:51:35 -0000

Frenchie grounding out on a first pitch . . . shocking! -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:51:35 -0000

Frenchie grounding out on a first pitch . . . shocking! -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:51:35 -0000

Frenchie grounding out on a first pitch . . . shocking! -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Any other bounce off of the wall, Brian would've made it....probably shouldn't have tried to stretch it however. Good relay by the Nats nonetheless. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 21:57:35 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Heh, I'm not going to lie, I'm hurting pretty bad seen as how my knee was hurting before the race. But all the more reason to lay on the couch and watch some Braves baseball. We need to stop losing base runners like this! -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:05:49 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Great fielding by Yunel. I'm looking forward to seeing him out there all season. 2-3-4 coming up, time to get the bats going. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Re: Enlightening Chinese proverbs and a question from a quote

Jonathan — Tue, 03 Feb 2009 12:19:04 -0000

Author,

Thanks Ian, for that great little contribution to my post, I appreciate your insightful answer. Initially, I wasn’t sure if there could be a simple answer to my question regarding spirituality and religion. But you seemed to sum it up so easily and accurately; I am thankful for your response. Hope you will stop by again and find something to share…
Pura Vida
Jonathan

Re: Enlightening Chinese proverbs and a question from a quote

Jonathan — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 22:31:53 -0000

Author,

I was hoping that my questions would spark a little debate over Spirituality vs Religion. Are they the same? Is one more significant then the other, or are they one and the same?

All feedback and comments are welcome. Even if your mean-spirited…

Re: My response to Ed Varney’s poem titled Happiness

Jonathan — Fri, 30 Jan 2009 17:15:51 -0000

Hey Nath, that is one of my all time favourite comments posted here; so thank you.
First off, I think it was awesome that the original author found my response to his poem and left me a comment. The life I was trying to describe was the life of an artist who is free to live the life he wishes, and that is the life I strive for everyday. Sometimes I hit the mark, other times I miss, but I will always strive to be free of the boring and mundane rat-race others don’t have the courage to even question.
Cheers

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 12:55:00 -0000

My childhood was in many ways similar to that of some of the other testimonials I’ve read online. My parents were devoted believers in Christ, and going to Sunday school for me and my brothers was not optional – it was a mandate! As I grew into my teens, I remember enjoying the fellowship of the church more and more, but also I started to see a lot of hypocrisy. I saw my friends act one way in church, and act completely different outside of the church. My father, who was an elder in the church, also conducted himself in a very un-Christian way at home, sometimes engaging in very ugly fights (verbal, not physical) with my Mom. He was a stern disciplinarian and had a difficult time expressing love toward his children. Still, he held a high position in the church. In my teen years, I gradually drifted away from the church and decided to “do life” on my own.

I am now 36 years old and I can understand why a lot of people feel resentments or are critical of Christianity, having been “burned” one way or another by the church. Televangelists certainly have not helped the cause of Christianity any, as they are all-too eager to hold out the collection plate to people who are truly financially strapped. There is no shortage of bad church or bad religion or bad Christianity testimonies… one might even suspect that we’re in the midst of some kind of campaign to discredit and disqualify and disprove the whole Christianity thing.

Consider the way God establishes his church: “God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong.” God asks that we mere men (sinners) – having believed in the sacrifice of Jesus on the cross as “payment” for sins – that we must now go and tell people about Him, and feed the hungry, and take care of orphans and widows and those in need. In other words, He chooses to use people who are faulty, who are damaged, who have baggage, who have been burned by the church, burned by their parents, etc. Where then does this expectation come from, I wonder, that the church (the body of believers) be perfect? Nowhere in the bible does it say the God chooses perfect people to advance his cause. Not at all. From Joel Osteen to Jerry Falwell to Kirk Cameron to C.S. Lewis to King David and Abraham and Moses and all the rest, the bible says “there is none righteous. Not one.”

There will always be opportunity to point out where Christians have fallen short, have not measured up, have not answered the call, or have even mis-represented the truths of the bible. But does that make biblical truth any less true? Consider nations like China or India where there is limited knowledge, limited “broadcast” of the Christian bible… consider places where people have never even heard the name Jesus Christ. Because they haven’t heard, does that make His sacrifice on the cross any less real?

Yet we in America, who have heard, who have read scripture, why do we focus so much on the messenger(s) – as if they’re to be held up to a standard of perfection – and then feel justified in discarding the message?

It is a tall order to ask someone who has been burned by the church to pick himself/herself up and try once again to re-establish a relationship with God. It is a tall order, if you think of it in those terms. But consider the simplicity of the bible: All have sinned (Romans 3). We have all offended a perfect and holy God. The wages (penalty) of sin is death. God shows his great love for us by sending Jesus Christ to die for us while we were still sinners (Romans 5). If you believe that Jesus died for you, you will be saved. (Romans 10).

God has gone to great lengths to gather his children to him. Even the most well-intentioned preacher will not do for you even half of what Christ has already done, will not care for you even half as much as Christ does. Even the most well-intentioned Christian will disappoint you. That is why Jesus said about Himself “I am the WAY, the truth, and the life. No one can come to the Father except through me.” Jesus did not come to start some religion, or to get you to church once or twice a week, or so that you could act religious and behave properly and not swear as much. Not at all. Jesus came to RESCUE. Plain and simple.

As for my Dad who recently passed on, I can only say that I’ve had to re-assess some of the feelings/resentments I’d harbored toward him. I thank God for giving me a Dad who, despite his faults/his humanity, tried very hard to teach me about Jesus. He didn’t always act like a follower of Christ should, but he tried… and a lot of children today don’t even have that much! I consider myself incredibly blessed. Thanks for hearing me out.

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Thu, 08 Dec 2005 16:05:00 -0000

Kevin,
Thanks again for sharing your heart, man. Your testimony is an honest one and I think I understand some of the choices you've made. Of course, I can't fully understand your position, but I respect your honesty.

The ONLY thing I would take issue with is your use of the word "improvement."

You say "I am finding that the power for improvement lies within yourself." That may be true, but "righteousness" is NOT something that you or I can achieve on our own.

That is why there was/is a need for Christ. As our sins were placed on him and he took them to the cross, in essence he takes the blame for our sins, conversely we get the credit (albeit unmerited) for his righteousness.

There are some very good people in this world, very smart and intelligent people out there, true. But for "righteousness" (right standing with God), Jesus said "no one comes to the Father except through Me."

Jim Earl,
I appreciate your taking time also to read my comments and to respond. Thank you for your encouragement, Jim - I do want to research the Bible more. Most of materials I read are from a Christian perspective, but I understand that there are learned authors and scholars on BOTH sides of the argument.

Reason and logic are not necessarily enemies of faith.

I'm glad I do NOT come off as judgmental, because it really is not my intent. I recognize what my life used to be, choices I used to make (and sometimes still do), people I've hurt, and I recognize that God's love is available to me IN SPITE OF all of that. The Bible says by the measure that you judge, so you will be judged.

I am no more righteous than anyone, and I am no less of a sinner.

I do want to research and dig deep and probe and find out more about this amazing God that loves us so much. But you know something I have already learned? And there really is no getting around this.

If I want to have a relationship with God and really get to know Him, it's going to have to be ON HIS TERMS, not mine.

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 12:19:00 -0000

Dave8,
You overlook several important items in your comments concerning the messengers carrying the Gospel message of Christ.

You are incorrect in your supposition that Christianity began as a "second hand revelation via the Apostle Paul."

First-hand eyewitness accounts are provided in the four gospels (Matthew, Mark, Luke, John), as well as Peter's writings. Peter was, of course, one of Jesus' disciples - another eyewitness. And what of James, Jesus' brother?

Ask yourself a question: What would compel these men, after witnessing their friend Jesus (who they'd hoped would establish a new kingdom) be beaten and crucified, what would then compel them to go out and basically put their lives in peril by speaking about Jesus and this new kingdom. Perhaps because they saw this man crucified and then RESURRECTED?

It makes sense - if you think about it. Even today, people want signs. They want something they can see and touch.

Jesus said to his disciples that they would do "greater things" in their ministries than even He did, and when you consider how to this day, hearts are stirred to repentance, lives are turned around 360 degrees, and people are saved not because of HAVING SEEN, but HAVING HEARD the word of God.

You know, sometimes I think we can be too smart for our own good. Dave, you've psychoanalyzed Jesus, Paul, the Roman Church fathers, Rabbinical Jews, and all in an effort to discredit? undermine? the reliability of biblical truth.

EVEN IF I were to find your argument somewhat compelling (which I'm sorry to say, I do not) your characterizations are flawed. Jesus as passive agressive? Jesus who called the Pharisees "white-washed tombs" and "sons of Hell"... you describe Jesus as "subtle, indirect, and seemingly passive," and "not confronting others directly." This is Jesus you're talking about, right? The One who said "Do not suppose that I have to come to bring peace, but a sword..." This is the one you're suggesting was so subtle and indirect that multiple times the Pharisees and jewish elders sought to stone him.

Paul - borderline personality disorder? Hmmm. Disrupted relationships. Emotional reasoning. Mood swings. Well, I can only speculate that having God Himself appear in a flash of light and actually speaking audibly to a person JUST MIGHT disrupt their ordinary lifestyle a bit.

I am stupefied that you would reach (and I do mean "reach") to try and psychobabble an argument concerning Paul in an effort to what? undermine the reliability of scripture? Even if Paul were raving. Even if he were John the Baptist, walking around like a madman, screaming at people, eating locusts, etc... his testimony does not stand alone. His testimony is corroborated by other writers. His characterization of God is corroborated by the Old Testament and New.

As I said in my original post, "God has chosen the foolish things of the world to shame the wise, and God has chosen the weak things of the world to shame the things which are strong.”

If you wish, Dave, you can continue to play character assassination with Paul and other biblical writers, but you're only proving my point better... God has chosen the weak and the foolish. He has chosen sinners.

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 12:52:00 -0000

Jim Earl,
All due respect, J. You were once just like me???

You posed a question: "Have you ever had the joy and contentment that you have discovered the truth about religion?" My answer would be yes. Your wording is a little weird, though. I think you meant to ask me "Have I ever had the joy and contentment that I've discovered the TRUTH?" Yes. I have. I really have.

In my original post, I talked a little about the relationship I had with my Dad, and how now - in my maturity (somewhat) I've had to re-assess that relationship. As I grow and dig deeper and try to understand more, I am open to truth, and that may mean re-assessing some of the pre-conceived notions I'd once held. In all honesty, I don't know if the majority of writers posting on this site are likewise open (or flexible) to assess or re-assess, when needed.

Your statement, Jim, that "righteousness is just doing right." Whose definition is that? And who determines what "right" is? Is it each person's responsibility to determine what is "right" for himself or herself?

If you are correct, Jim, that "righteousness is just doing right," then that would mean the scriptures are lying when they say "there is none righteous."

You say you get mistaken for being a Christian many times.. that is a very interesting statement, because the scriptures also say that while man looks at outward deeds, "God looks at the heart."

In my previous post, I said explicitly "I am no more righteous than anyone, and I am no less of a sinner." You feel the need to remind me of this - why??? It is not an opinion of mine, I'm not trying placate anyone by saying I'm no more righteous than anybody else. I am merely saying what the scriptures say - "there is none righteous."

Even the Apostle Paul (who is much maligned on this website, I've noticed) even he said of himself "I am the chief of sinners." And he said this LATE IN HIS MINISTRY... he realized that men are sinners. We cannot stand in the presence of a Holy, Perfect, Righteous God and not feel (at the very least) unclean. In comparison to God's perfection, the scriptures say that man's righteousness is "as filthy rags."

Please try to understand.. the pursuit of Christ is not to make myself feel "special or good" (although that can happen at times).. but that is not the objective. It's not about puffing myself up. The Bible teaches that I am to consider others better than me. The Bible teaches that I am nothing. Period. The Bible teaches that all men are sinners. The Bible teaches God loved us so much (IN SPITE OF ALL THAT) that He sent his son to live a perfect life, die a savage, brutal death, and then rise, affording us the opportunity to be with the Father (covered under the righteousness of Christ).

Regardless of how it makes you or I "feel," God is worthy of our admiration, praise, and certainly our worship. God will not be mocked. His Word has stood up against meticulous scrutiny over thousands of years.

Christianity has never been (and will never be) about how good a person I am, or how good my life is compared to yours, or how good I'm suppose to feel. Christianity is merely (and ultimately) about God and how good HE is, and how much HE loves us, and the lengths to which HE has gone to afford us an opportunity to be with Him.

Many will choose NOT to be with Him. That is their (and your)prerogative, your free will. Even that speaks of the nature of God, that He loves you so much He will not impose Himself on you.

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Fri, 09 Dec 2005 14:55:00 -0000

Kevin,
Yeah. Things are getting a little testy. Apologies. My intent is not to "impose" my point of view. I think I presumed (incorrectly) there was an "open" invitation for opposing points of view. I should have respected the fact that this specific site is for people have struggled to make difficult choices and - having finally made the choice - are now trying to encourage and empower each other.

I really hope my motive was not to disrupt that. I really hope that was not my motive.

I'm merely hoping that perhaps the faith of those posting on this site has not indeed been, as you say "cracked beyond repair."

There is a presumption sometimes that Christians sharing their faith speak from an emotional space or from blind obedience or indoctrination. That can and does happen, but I try very hard to avoid that. I consider myself not a scholar, but a student of the scriptures, and I too need to hear opposing points of view.

It is difficult to navigate friendly discourse sometimes when someone suggests that Jesus was passive aggressive, or Paul was borderline personality disorder.

For the record, Kevin, I appreciate your hearing me out.. and your WANTING to hear me out. I am not storming off with my feelings hurt, but I will respect that this site offers a safe haven, if you will, from those who have found freedom from Christianity.

Re: On the Path to Recovery - Testimonies of Ex-Christians

Jonathan — Sat, 10 Dec 2005 12:24:00 -0000

Dave8,
I have homework to do. You make interesting arguments and although I do know (a little) about the gnostics and about The Gospel of Thomas, certainly I don't enough to refute what you say. I'm still curious about the varied accounts of "a Jesus" (moral healer, adopted son, etc.) showing up in varied different locales. Is your point then that - although there is documentation of a person who lived by the name of Jesus - that the reliability of the canonical gospel accounts are suspect? We can not be sure of when the canonical gospels were actually written, and by whom, and by how many authors? Am I understanding you correctly? I'm not being argumentative. I just want to be sure I'm understanding what you're saying.

I have to smile, though, Dave8, as you feel the need to underscore the fact that Paul was a liar and a thief. I thought we'd already established that. Most Christians also believe that he was a MURDERER, that he persecuted Christians (prior to his own experience of conversion). You're suggesting that his lies included twisting religious doctrine to invent/suit his own belief system? Okay. It's a valid argument.

I'm not saying I agree with anything you're saying. But you have made a valid argument.

I'm curious about your thoughts on the book of James. My belief is that it was written by Jesus' brother. Your thoughts?

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:10:52 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:16:51 -0000

Great shot by Chipper.....hope to see a lot more of that this season.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:16:51 -0000

Great shot by Chipper.....hope to see a lot more of that this season.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:21:59 -0000

We caught a game in Space Coast Stadium in Viera and one in Champion Stadium as well. I must say, Champion Stadium is a gorgeous facility for spring training.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:21:59 -0000

We caught a game in Space Coast Stadium in Viera and one in Champion Stadium as well. I must say, Champion Stadium is a gorgeous facility for spring training.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

So Joe Simpson doesn't think it's right to compare Mark Kotsay to Andruw . . . well, I hope he doesn't come look at our newest counter feature ;) If I ever see Mike Hampton go after a ball like Hudson just did, I'm going to cry. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:26:51 -0000

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:30:53 -0000

I didn't say I was worried about it ;) I'd say we see Hudson pitch into the 7th.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:30:53 -0000

I didn't say I was worried about it ;) I'd say we see Hudson pitch into the 7th.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:34:25 -0000

Heh, I did nothing of the sort. I just told everyone to watch closely because any pitch could be his last.....I still don't have faith in his durability.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:34:25 -0000

Heh, I did nothing of the sort. I just told everyone to watch closely because any pitch could be his last.....I still don't have faith in his durability.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:43:06 -0000

As of now, I'm pretty sure Diaz is slated to have the position full time. I think he's earned the spot.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 22:43:06 -0000

As of now, I'm pretty sure Diaz is slated to have the position full time. I think he's earned the spot.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:11:27 -0000

I'd like to see Moylan.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:11:27 -0000

I'd like to see Moylan.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:13:38 -0000

Good to see Gregor in the game. I'm glad he's finally getting the chance to play in the bigs.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:13:38 -0000

Good to see Gregor in the game. I'm glad he's finally getting the chance to play in the bigs.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:26:38 -0000

I'm hoping Moylan can pick up right where he left off last season. He proved to be a great setup man.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:26:38 -0000

I'm hoping Moylan can pick up right where he left off last season. He proved to be a great setup man.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:33:53 -0000

Tex only needed about another foot on that one.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:33:53 -0000

Tex only needed about another foot on that one.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:35:10 -0000

Wow did Jeff turn on that ball!

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:35:10 -0000

Wow did Jeff turn on that ball!

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:36:35 -0000

WP!!!!

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:36:35 -0000

WP!!!!

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:38:33 -0000

I'm all for free baseball . . . glad to see Huddy won't get an L for a great outing.

Re: In Game Thread for Opening Day

Jonathan — Sun, 30 Mar 2008 23:38:33 -0000

I'm all for free baseball . . . glad to see Huddy won't get an L for a great outing.

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 20:55:07 -0000

We're blogging live from 437...great night for baseball. We need to stop giving up unearned runs, that's my thought of the night.

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Mon, 31 Mar 2008 20:55:07 -0000

We're blogging live from 437...great night for baseball. We need to stop giving up unearned runs, that's my thought of the night.

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Well, I didn't get quite enough sleep since I got home around 1, but I still say it was a great home opener even though the result wasn't really what we were looking for. We need to stop giving up unearned runs so often, they always seem to kill us. -Jonathan <a href="http://www.BravesBlast.com " target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.BravesBlast.com

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Re: Live, At The Game from Sect 124, JB covers the Home Opener!

Jonathan — Tue, 01 Apr 2008 08:34:15 -0000

Re: I’d Rather Pull My Own Teeth Out Than Listen to Tim McCarver talk for Three Hours…

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: I’d Rather Pull My Own Teeth Out Than Listen to Tim McCarver talk for Three Hours…

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Slammed: C/O Kelly Johnson.

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Francoeur and Patience

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Going for Three in a Row, Four Against Mets

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Broom Time/Game 7

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: I’d Rather Pull My Own Teeth Out Than Listen to Tim McCarver talk for Three Hours…

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: I’d Rather Pull My Own Teeth Out Than Listen to Tim McCarver talk for Three Hours…

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Slammed: C/O Kelly Johnson.

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Francoeur and Patience

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Going for Three in a Row, Four Against Mets

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: Broom Time/Game 7

Jonathan — Sat, 05 Apr 2008 17:59:48 -0000

Good to see some early offense here. Let's keep the inning going. How's the warm couch, JB?

Re: I’d Rather Pull My Own Teeth Out Than Listen to Tim McCarver talk for Three Hours…