Christine Smith's Blog

The Light Has Come – Welcoming Christ and the fruit of the Spirit

Let us love the Child of Bethlehem. Come souls and love a God who has become a Child, poor and so lovable, in need of our tender love, who has come down from heaven to give Himself entirely to you. If we but ask for pardon and salvation, He has come to pardon us and to save us. — St. Francis of Assisi

The sun is brightly shining this moment even as snowflakes are falling ever so gently. It has been a most beautiful morning, of prayer and worship and song, and as the afternoon comes, I look forward to cooking a delicious Christmas dinner which my father and I will share together. Today is a happy day, and there will be good food, music, and joy continued to be shared with those both close and far to me.

As the year draws to its close, I look back filled with gratitude. So many experiences, so many ways and things I could not have anticipated or made happen, and especially through a few others and the gifts they are whom were brought into my life this past year, I have learned so much.

This Christmas, more than any other in my life, is the most joyous. For this Christmas, I know in my heart the Light has indeed come into this world, in Jesus, our Lord.

My heart is filled with gratitude for the grace shown me and all who come to Him.

For God’s gift there is great joy surpassing anything I’ve ever experienced, I pray with a happy heart. And I live with a happy heart, wishing to bring happiness to all those I encounter.

All my life Christmas has been special, with a deep gratitude for the gift of my beloved father in my life and all other blessings, but now somehow in a way I find words not really capable of fully describing there is a peace, the peace given by God our heavenly Father, as with all my heart and soul I embrace and accept His gift of love. It is what I have been spiritually seeking, was always there, ready for the moment when I would have the willingness to accept…and in that moment I knew. Doubt and discouragements are gone. A moment of faith has been rewarded with a daily faith where my spirit has courage, resolve, and above all – joy!

Christ came to cure our wounds; but since all do not search for the remedy, therefore, He cures those who are willing; He does not force the unwilling. God, for His part, really wills us to be save; otherwise, it would be impossible for us to obtain health and eternal life.– St. Alphonsus Liguori

My desire is that as my love and understanding has deepened from God, that I will likewise consciously deepen in the love for others in my life, both friend and foe and stranger, so that my actions reflect His love. Through God, I seek to be a light for others. For all of us must endeavor to love others as He has loved us. In service to others, and in all the work I do, my first priority is that it serve His will. Then my life will be a blessing to others.

I leave you with a few Scriptures which I wish to share today, Christmas Day 2008:

Stand fast therefore in the liberty wherewith Christ hath made us free, and be not entangled again with the yoke of bondage. (Gal. 5:1, KJV)
For all the law is fulfilled in one word, [even] in this; Thou shalt love thy neighbour as thyself. (Gal. 5:14)
But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith,
Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law.
And they that are Christ’s have crucified the flesh with the affections and lusts.
If we live in the Spirit, let us also walk in the Spirit.
Let us not be desirous of vain glory, provoking one another, envying one another. (Gal. 5-22-26, KJV)

In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God.
The same was in the beginning with God.
All things were made by him; and without him was not any thing made that was made.
In him was life; and the life was the light of men.
And the light shineth in darkness; and the darkness comprehended it not. (John 1: 1-5, KJV)

He was in the world, and the world was made by him, and the world knew him not. (John 1:10, KJV)
…But as many as received him, to them gave he power to become the sons of God, even to them that believe on his name…(John 1:12, KJV).

and from The Nicene Creed, “…For us men and our salvation He came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit, He was born of the Virgin Mary , and became man…”

I wish you a blessed Christmas. May the joy of Christmas remain with you always. It can if you so choose.

Merry Christmas!

Peace.

Give a Gift For Freedom This Christmas

People often ask, “The problems are so great, what can I possibly do?”

I always reply that if each of us do what we can – right where we are – with what we have – good will be achieved. One must never doubt the far reaching results of every action that is taken for liberty. In addition to what each individual can do on our own, I a firm believer in supporting the work of those whom we trust will use it for the things to which we are dedicated.

I am going to ask you to do something I have never asked people to do during the Christmas season.

We are all busy with plans to visit with friends and relatives, cooking, enjoying delicious meals and treats, gift giving, and involvement in community activities.

But regardless of anything else you may do for others at this time of year, I hope you will do this, because I think it’s one of the the most important actions you can take for liberty. It’s quick, easy, and will help some of the most powerful work for advancing liberty in America.

Make a donation to the Future of Freedom Foundation.

It is a (501)(c)(3) non-profit foundation which advances the freedom philosophy of libertarianism.

Now I’ve got other charitable causes I contribute to, as I’m sure you may as well. And I am very selective in whom I give to. But never have I asked people to contribute to any of those because I figure we all have certain causes which we particularly wish to support for reasons personal to ourselves.

But the Future of Freedom Foundation is the exception because I believe the FFF accomplishes far more for the advancement of liberty and the libertarian philosophy in this country than any other organization (even those which are much larger). This is due to its uncompromising commitment to freedom – on every issue – no exceptions.

The work of the FFF benefits all, and I believe its work is instrumental to the ultimate restoration of real freedom in our nation.

I am impressed with the organization’s consistency and creativity in sharing the freedom message. They offer a free daily email update consisting of the very best articles from the libertarian perspective; a wonderful free Internet classroom (view some of the best speeches on liberty by notable speakers/writers at their online audio/video section) and lectures/film showings; subscriptions to their monthly journal, Freedom Daily – an “uncompromising journal of free-market ideas”; and exceptional foreign policy and civil liberties conferences. And, their op-eds are published in newspapers nationwide. Talk about spreading the philosophy of libertarianism!

The FFF is doing a tremendous amount of work I appreciate. I have faith in their mission and integrity. I hope you will show your appreciation and support as well because it’s about you and me together – all doing what we can – to achieve liberty in our lifetime.

Supporting the FFF is supporting the advancement of liberty.

Links:
About the work of the FFF and how to support.
and
the FFF Subscribe and Support page.

In addition to the work you do throughout the year for liberty, make a donation to the FFF. They need our end-of-the-year support now.

Give a gift for freedom this Christmas, make a donation to the FFF.

Thank you,
Christine Smith

The Nazis: A Warning from History

No matter how extensively you’ve read, or the number of other documentaries you may have seen, I think this documentary is something you will gain much from viewing. My review/recommendation:

For years I have read of and viewed materials regarding Hitler and Nazi Germany. Books have included The Rise and Fall of the Third Reich, Hitler’s Mein Kampf, and others. Videos over the years have been numerous with several in my personal library.

However, approximately a year ago, I first viewed and was deeply impressed with an exceedingly interesting documentary.
This weekend I again viewed this excellent 2-dvd set, and more than any other film I’ve ever viewed on this topic, The Nazis – A Warning from History , is by far the best.

No matter how much you may have studied the rise to power and atrocities of the Nazis or of Hitler himself, I think you will find this documentary covers and explores facets of this sad part of history you have never heard or at least not with the detail provided here.

In addition to archival footage I’ve not seen in previous documentaries, one of the most powerful parts of this film are the first person testimonials from those who worked with/around Hitler who share what he was like when out of the public eye, members of the Nazi Party, SS, and most importantly and what I wish many Americans would have the opportunity to view: interviews with people who were participants to differing degrees, some whom to this day rationalize and condone their support of Hitler, including in this documentary discussion of personal commission of murders. To listen to their stories of the murder of innocent civilians (as in Lithuanian & Polish massacres), to hear someone discuss how they shot men, women and children, to see lack of any apparent expression of remorse or repentance for coldblooded murder is striking. Others dismiss gain they received from the plight of those imprisoned in the ghettos. Such complete dis-attachment to humanity is rarely seen but these interviews with those who committed or accepted such atrocities are a harrowing warning. Whether perpetrators of persecution, witnesses, or victims – the personal interviews make this documentary extraordinary.

Civilian participants in the persecution of Jews and others, apathetic acceptance of the horrors going on around them, exploitation of their plight for personal gain, and as I mentioned even to the extent of those who murdered fellow citizens or exploited their situation in occupied territories, is casually discussed when sentiments and attitudes of (and I paraphrase): “It was the thing to do,” “You just go with it because everybody else is” or “What could you do?”

Poignant interviews with victims of persecution throughout those years are included…very sad.

The growth of the Nazi Party is fascinating to examine. Massive debt, inflation, and suffering of the people all set the stage for the people to look toward someone who promised a return to economic prosperity. The appeal to national pride in view of the turmoil the German people had endured for so many years became increasingly popular. The power Hitler gained was not taken but given him by a people who wanted to believe that their nation was being “saved” by this man and his vision was one they could share.

Non-conformists, those who were unconventional, were reported as suspicious in what was called “denunciation” by fellow neighbors and citizens. Institutionalized murder, sanctioned by the society, began in the acceptance of the murder of retarded children. After that, more and more human beings were deemed exterminable.

And another most interesting point I learned was that the image of a meticulous, efficient, methodical organization was far from the reality of the way the Nazi Party operated. The reality of the disorganization and bitter infighting was most interesting.

The Nazis did not simply impose their evil; they were of the people. To view and listen to those many civilians who knowingly not only supported the evil which was being committed but when they could – participated – is a chilling realization on the heart of man. Often, it is not that people are morally beyond commission of evil, but only refrain from it because it is not socially acceptable to espouse certain hatred. But once hatred of a particular people becomes acceptable, it is more than just not ignored, it releases the inhibitions for committing such evil amongst people who would consider themselves civilized and even god-fearing. This social acceptance of hatred makes great evil possible.

One man could never have accomplished what Hitler did without massive support. Tyrannical government doesn’t occur overnight, it develops gradually. It is allowed to happen. It can be lauded, enthusiastically embraced, and heralded as hope by the masses.

This is a most comprehensive documentary examination of the political rise of Hitler and the Third Reich, and how “ordinary” citizens condoned and collaborated with the evil.There is so much more in this very well made documentary.

Again, I emphasize this 2-dvd disc set is by far the best documentary (being the most informative, detailed account of those years) I have ever seen. Organized into 6 parts (approx. 45 minutes each, with a total of about 5 hours in length), I watched it over two nights. I highly recommend it. No matter how extensively you’ve read, or the number of other documentaries you may have seen, I think this documentary is something you will gain much from viewing.

Visit its Amazon page for more details & reviews

Photos of My Winter Wonderland – 2 1/2 feet of snow today

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Best of the week recommendations (with my comments)

I occasionally come across articles that are so good, or news items which are particularly interesting, I want to share them. Those below are links to a few I found of particular interest and some I forwarded to friends this past week, and which I also share here along with a few brief comments myself.

Topics: Iraq, welfare, on being a Christian and a libertarian, an interview with Laurence Vance, troops used domestically, and more on the death of immigrant detainee Hiu Lui Ng in a immigrant detention center.

Regarding Iraq:

A couple weeks ago I shared my reasons on a radio show as to why I believe regime change has always been the goal from the start of the U.S. government in Iraq. I spoke of the numerous changes in the government’s “reasons” (making the point that IF the U.S. actually felt threatened it wouldn’t wait months to try and get U.N. agreement, nor would it claim “democracy” building), and discussed the apparent plan already in place before Bush II took office for invading Iraq. So many lies were told the world in order for Bush and his gang to try and justify their invasion and occupation. On the show, the opposing speaker was stuck on the WMD “argument” which was easily deflated, as it was mere repetition of what has been used from the beginning.

The piece by Jacob G. Hornberger on this topic this week is one I think would be good for all of us to disseminate widely, since the old argument still persist and is made by those who attempt to offer “good” reasons for the death and destruction our government has inflicted upon Iraqis. They rely upon the use of fear to persuade people to accept the evil our government has done in our name, but the truth is apparent. The U.S. government has committed the act of unjustifiably invading and occupying Iraq resulting in the death and maiming of tens of thousands, used torture, and abusing civil liberties here in the States not for any defense of human life whatsoever…but for its own power and control.

I recommend readers share the Hornberger article link through your blogs/postings/etc. It expresses well, and succinctly, the truth of this government regarding Iraq:

Chemical Ali and U.S. Hypocrisy in Iraq
by Jacob G. Hornberger (December 5, 2008)

Welfare:
Another Hornberger piece, powerful, with a conclusion pinpointing straight to the solution. A gem of a blog entry (as it’s one of the most important messages libertarians can share with others, I consider this a classic which libertarians would do well to share widely for some time) with an ending I particularly appreciated.

Welfare-State Dependency in America
by Jacob G. Hornberger (December 4, 2008)

On being a Christian & libertarian:
I’ve had a few people question my Christian belief in two ways: 1. Wondering why I would return to my faith after years of being a “free thinker”? and 2. Not understanding how I reconcile my faith with my libertarianism? They often imply that the two are mutually exclusive. Well, first of all, I have never felt as free as I do right now in my life. There is a peace, a joy, I experience at all times that cannot be described with words. True freedom isn’t just a state of mind or body, it is a state of one’s spirit. I am more than just a “free thinker,” for I am free within due to God’s grace. Choosing to believe, by faith, in the Divine and His plan/guidance is yet another (though the most important personal) choice, entirely consistent with the essence of what libertarianism is predicated upon: freedom. By my own free will I believe (and that belief has been strengthened and confirmed in my life this past year). I respect the freedom of all others to believe (or not) as they so choose. As a Christian and as a libertarian, I choose what is right and moral for my life, and respect the rights of all others to live as they so choose as long as it harms no other. I respect the free will of all.
Thus, it was most interesting to read a recent interview with Laurence Vance, and I recommend it to you:

‘God trumps the state every time.’
Written by Angela Wittman, editor
An Interview with Dr. Laurence Vance, author of “Christianity and War and Other Essays Against the Warfare State (December 3, 2008)”

Troops used domestically:
This item in the news did not surprise me at all, though it is alarming. Are we to become a nation in which we must jump at the words “Your papers, please,” as we produce the acceptable government ID; a nation whose military will use arms against its own citizens; a nation whose people are not allowed to make many a choice we once were free to? I am more concerned about the stationing of military troops domestically than I am about any disaster. In my opinion, the greatest domestic threat is not some terrorist attack or natural catastrophe, it is the ever increasing power of the federal government. For it is the government’s use of force against the American people which can take away our greatest security: liberty. A “homeland” without liberty need not be secured against anything, for it is already lost. I think the stationing of this brigade establishes a dangerous precedent, with the possibility of future misuse/abuse of such power as more such brigades are established. Such troops, as with all our military, can be used at the whim of a president, and by a federal government which thinks of itself and its agenda first – not the best interest of American citizens. This is far different than troops being called upon, this is the advance stationing of a brigade assigned domestically. What would the majority of such troops do if ever ordered, in the name of “crowd control” or something to that affect, to fire upon fellow Americans? Is this the road we really want to continue go down in the name of “homeland security”?

Pentagon to Detail Troops to Bolster Domestic Security
By Spencer S. Hsu and Ann Scott Tyson
Washington Post Staff Writers
Monday, December 1, 2008; Page A01

Death in an immigrant detention facility:
And another disgusting result of what has become a “war” on immigrants – the death of 34-year old Hiu Lui Ng

Detention Center Facing Inquiry Will Get No More Immigrant Detainees
By NINA BERNSTEIN (December 5, 2008 story)

and an older story about the case by same writer:
Ill and in Pain, Detainee Dies in U.S. Hands
By NINA BERNSTEIN