Christine Smith's Blog

Rebuttal to Pastor Preaching False Message About Freedom & 9/11

In one of the Colorado newspapers I read, a pastor wrote an article which I responded to through the letters to the editor section.  Since the paper’s articles are not online, I am sharing here the letter to the editor I wrote in rebuttal and which was published in the newspaper. My rebuttal also includes quotes from his original article, so I think you’ll get an idea of the type of assertions he made as well as the awful linkage he suggested between those who died on 9/11 and Jesus’ death, suggesting both died as a sacrifice: one for political freedom, the other for spiritual freedom, and then criticizing other people for not being willing to sacrifice or think about the “price” for those freedoms.

Because I find it particularly offensive when someone in the clergy uses their position to spread what I regard as both false and harmful political messages, and even more so when they try to illogically intertwine Christian belief with it, I had to respond.

Here’s a copy of my letter as it was published in the newspaper:

Dear Editor:

I found Pastor ————-’s  article extremely objectionable.

Using the church page to perpetuate the myth and government lie we are hated for our freedom is bad enough, but to make an analogy between 9/11 deaths and the willing gift of the Son of God was worse.

Americans murdered on 9/11 tragically died, victims of spiritually insane individuals who believed vindicating the wrongs suffered at the hands of the U.S. would be achieved by attacking civilians.

The 9/11 attack and other examples (past, present, and those which may be planned) are a result of our federal government intruding upon the Muslim world for the past 50 years. The attack had nothing to do with resenting our freedoms, but vengeance for not being left alone.

We suffered blowback for the suffering and death our government has inflicted upon innocents for decades.

It is an example, as the Bible says, “… they that plow iniquity, and sow wickedness, reap the same.” Job 4:8 (King James Version)

In no way are terrorist attacks upon civilians justified – one evil does not justify another – but there’s a big lesson in it which Americans must understand.

The unjust immoral meddling in the affairs and conflicts of other nations by the U.S. government is responsible for fueling hatred, anger, and violence against us. Our government arrogantly goes worldwide to take and destroy.

A more peaceful, prosperous and safe nation would be achieved by ending cruelty resulting from government sanctions, embargoes, foreign aid, delivery of taxpayer-financed military weaponry to other nations, interventions in the government and elections of other nations, involvement in international conflicts and by closing the hundreds of unnecessary military bases in parts of the world we’ve no business being.

America must influence by example, not force, as John Quincy Adams said, “Wherever the standard of freedom and independence has been or shall be unfurled, there will her heart, her benedictions and her prayers be.

“But she goes not abroad, in search of monsters to destroy. She is the well-wisher to the freedom and independence of all,” but the “champion and vindicator only of her own.”

Victims of 9/11 died unnecessarily because of retribution against the U.S. government for its crimes. Their “blood” was not a “price” paid because of “people from around the globe” envying us “for our liberties” nor was it “required to maintain” our freedom as the pastor wrote.

His suggestion of this is, ironically, woefully disrespectful and void of understanding of their deaths and the death of Our Lord Jesus Christ.

During this season of Lent, we focus upon the willing sacrifice Jesus chose to be. The crucifixion compels us to teach and live love.

It was the ultimate example of returning love for hate. In its acceptance, brings a peace the world can never give.

To suggest “a parallel” between the deaths of 9/11, “our relationship with Jesus,” and the cross he bore for us, misses the gravity of both.

The Real Recovery Plan

Obama has a “recovery plan.” He told us so.

Where to begin? In just a little over one week, so much out of the White House has been utterly disgusting, but totally predictable.

From pointing blame at AIG, drug cartels, and terrorists, Obama and his cohorts seem to effectively deflect identification of the true enemy responsible for the problems of this nation. Adding insult to injury considering the harm they’ve already inflicted, they now intend to try and accomplish a mandatory public “service” requirement of our youth.

What kind of goals are these: the nationalization of private corporations, the taking away of rights in the name of security against drug dealers and terrorists, and the attempt to force young people to “volunteer” to do work for the federal government?

Where will this end, and who is responsible, and if there’s a real recovery plan who has it? We’re certainly going to need a recovery plan to heal this nation from Obama’s “recovery plan.”

Obama’s feigned anger over the AIG was so obviously false, as was those in Congress who tried to also act as if they identified with the American taxpayer. I found Obama’s remarks on March 16 particularly telling of the deceptive man I believe he is. Who is the enemy of the people in this situation? Obama wants you to think it’s AIG.

His remark after he coughed, “Excuse me, I’m choked up with anger here,” was so obviously indicative of his lack of respect for the anger of the American people as he continued with his feigned indignation. True indignation would never mock those who actually feel it. But how can one be angry about something which should be expected?

Things like the discussions of AIG back last November, SEC filings, and corporate policies of retentive payouts aren’t big secrets, and if anyone should know, it should be Obama and his administration. Yet, Obama remained conveniently silent on the subject when he was selling his bailout to the public. The American taxpayer was told of every so called benefit, but not one mention of a detail like this which they might immediately reject.

It’s such hypocrisy for Obama to speak of this issue being about our “fundamental values,” when his plans are the antithesis of those values.

Moreover, for Obama in the same speech to presume to call the corporation one of “recklessness and greed” is the height of arrogance. Who is calling who “reckless” here? Obama and this Congress has propelled our nation way closer to economic collapse, obligating millions of our children and those even yet to be born, to financial duress for years to come. That’s what I call reckless.

Obama should have just told the American people, “Get used to it! This is what bailouts are about. There’s more to come.”

Instead, he and his cohorts, try to cover themselves from the wrath of the people by behaving as if so surprised and as outraged as anyone else. Can anyone believe this? Apparently, so. I’ve not seen any of those so enthralled with Obama renounce their adoration of him yet.

This wasn’t something he should be trying to find a fix for with taxation (a very dangerous precedent), but something he should have owned up to as part of his plan. He could have even used his words to rationalize it as necessary to those who would buy that line, but no, he prefers to act the part as an innocent bystander who is just as disturbed about it as anyone else. Truth is, I believe nationalization of corporations and our banks, is what he’s after. I don’t believe it’s some reluctant action he sincerely thinks justified, I believe it’s what he wants.

As for his “budget” Obama on March 25 at a fundraising event challenged his critics to “show me your budget,” and “show me your ideas.” Once again, disingenuous remarks meant to appear as if he’s open, when in reality I believe Obama is set on doing exactly as he pleases without regard to the best interest of the American people. If truly receptive to other’s ideas, especially when it comes to the budget, he’d heed Ron Paul and others who raise serious questions.

As Congressman Paul said in a March 3 interview on Bloomberg TV, “For a government that’s totally broke, I can hardly see that these are reasonable requests to spend trillions and trillions of dollars more in the biggest budget effort…We should be cutting spending…”

Regarding the president and Congress saying they plan to cut it down by 500 billion, Paul answered, “…I don’t know whether they brainwash themselves or what, but the odds of cutting the deficit in half by stimulating by running up a deficit of 1 or 2 trillion dollars is beyond me…it’s a fairytale, it’s just silliness.”

And yet the American people give their consent, in their apathy, to this grand illusion Obama has drawn for them.

The outrage rather than against Obama and Congress, is directed against a corporation as AIG and its executives. But it is a misplaced rage. It’s wasted rage. The culprit is not some corporation which should have been allowed to fail if fail it must, the responsibility for this situation is with Obama and every member of Congress who voted for this and previous bailouts. The disgust should be with those who voted to do this.

Similarly, as Obama’s Secretary of State Hillary Clinton blames assault weapon sales in the States and the drug cartel leaders for violence on the border, she doesn’t mention that it is the U.S. government’s influence which caused Mexico to make an enormous “drug war” just as we did here with the same resulting violence. Instead, she lets all know that the U.S. will give them 80 million more dollars to further militarize their drug war by buying Blackhawk helicopters.

Yes, it always comes back to money…throw money at it…appear compassionate…make money from it…and then declare the resulting increase in violence as justification for the money you threw at it and all the more reason to increase militarization of the border..which of course will require more money. Nice set-up there for those who benefit from it. It’s another “war” that never ends. It brings only more suffering.

The Mexican drug cartels are as powerful as they are because the Mexican government, spurred by the U.S. government, made them so. Want to see the violence come to a significant halt, a major decrease in all the violent crime Clinton and Obama would have you believe disturbs them so? Stop the drug war. Stop prohibiting that which human beings have always and will always engage in. Take away the criminalization of drugs, and those using violence for their ends no longer prosper. They won’t be needed. With the illegality gone, buyers and sellers will do what they do. No one to hide from, nothing to kill for, no reason for a black market.

But, no, Clinton doesn’t blame our government. She blames guns…and the answer she essentially says is bring on bigger guns…and the violence continues, and the profits continue (and not just for the drug cartels). At every level, the state benefits greatly from the drug war, so they’re not about to stop it. They made it, they want it, they’ll maintain and grow it because they profit from it.

And, also this week, Obama makes good on what I considered one of his worst campaign promises to require mandatory “service” from America’s youth. Why this wasn’t challenged by everyone during his campaign gives one pause. Have the American people really become so complacent as to allow their children’s lives to be exploited? How could a Senate comprised of American citizens approve by way of a 74 to 14 vote such a bill? Nothing seems so blatantly un-American as mandatory service, and yet this idea is making progress in the House. Why would any American vote for this?

So far, in Obama’s presidency, the economic futures of a generation are put at risk or destroyed, and now he wants to take their labor as well. Next will be taking control of our healthcare, regulation of the food supply, and any number of more government power grabs. America under Obama’s plan ceases to be America as we know it, the America we have honored, and rather becomes a socialist, if not communistic, dream…and a nightmare for the citizens.

Despite the U.S. government holding the blame for all of these problems, few yet identify it as such. For some reason, Obama’s followers continue to praise him, condemning those of us who disagree with these destructive actions and who expose his warmongering (as bad as Bush), defending him with the “Give him a chance” line.

Well, in such a short time in office, he’s already proven what we libertarians all suspected: He’s a big spender (remarkably even more so than Bush) and a warmonger with his needless wanton killing of civilians with more drone attacks in Pakistan, his own surge in Afghanistan, and continuation of business as usual in Iraq.

His lack of knowledge becomes evident when floundering to answer challenging questions; his supposed eloquence (of which I’ve never regarded his speeches) ends when he must speak extemporaneously. I believe he got where he is by being a figurehead for the left (many of whom, like Obama, give lip service to peace but are no friends or true advocates of it), one with an an agenda which means no American well (but which will put vast amounts of money into the government coffers for the parasites to feed upon), a liar who (unlike Bush) has a style which lets people’s guard down.

For the most part, he has adhered to the policy of his predecessor, with “change” merely in terminology he uses to describe what he does.

His attempts to appear as “one of us” would fail miserably if not for some strange cult-like following he has developed of those who have pushed independent thought aside in favor of a false hope consisting only of “feel good” rhetoric. But even those caught up in a cult can get to a point where they begin to feel exploited, and it is then they question.

Unfortunately, it appears tyranny in this nation will only increase in ways the American people never thought possible under his presidency.

Be it the AIG matter, the violence at our border with Mexico, or the insecurity of a nation whose government has enraged and continues to enrage millions worldwide, the responsibility for all of it lies with our out-of-control government. Out of control of the people, it benefits and prospers those who hold political office or those who do business with it. It has long since stopped being accountable to the people. It, comprised of every political office holder who uses their position to further any agenda other than representing the people, has become the power holder…not the people.

But do we hear the people outraged over that? Beyond the liberty movement and its libertarian writers and speakers, we don’t.

The rest of the people get upset over some executives receiving their contractual bonuses, while the country’s economy and moral upstanding in the world has been destroyed by its own government, and while their own liberties are taken away. The human cost of everything this government is doing, with Obama’s approval and support, is more death, suffering and misery. Where is the outrage over what really matters?

As for this libertarian, I view this as a very sad, yet dark comedy taking place in America. Sometimes it’s hard to believe these things are really happening in this nation. It seems so obvious as the wrong path to take, but yet so many still cling to some sort of “hope” in Obama and this Congress to rescue them.

But I do not lapse into despair. I see this as all the more reason to fight harder.

For despite the harm Obama and all those in Congress who make his agenda possible are doing, this also is an opportune time to disseminate the truth.

For example, in the past few weeks, I’ve had several opportunities to share libertarian views on several issues both as a caller on several different national talk radio shows, as well as through the publication of letters to the editor in newspapers, thereby reaching many thousands who may not otherwise have been exposed to matters such as the true history of Argentina (a great capitalist success story before they went down the path the U.S. did); the reasons we’re hated by so many worldwide with elaboration into our intervention in the Muslim world for the past 50 years; the misplaced anger against AIG rather than outrage against Obama and Congress; the ironic increase of violence due to the drug war; and a couple other topics in which I challenged spurious statements made by others. Often, my comments spurred lively debate and discussion, and guess what – I even heard from listeners and readers who expressed appreciation for the view I’d shared. Others, already in agreement, have told me my willingness to express my views has led them to begin to do so also.

It’s such responses which reinforce my belief and devotion to sharing the libertarian philosophy. I know it makes a difference to share what I have learned whenever opportunity presents itself.

Without a doubt, I know there are those ready to hear our libertarian solutions. For once, some are actually fed up with what is happening, but still at a loss as to what to do.

Thus, even in the midst of this dour situation, the are ample possibilities for each of us to share the libertarian perspective. Sometimes it is when someone is most down and out, when they feel most hurt and vulnerable, when they feel confused about not only what will happen but who is responsible for the bad things they see happening…sometimes that’s when they will actually question themselves and their knee-jerk party line or candidate loyalty. Sometimes, it is just then, in such moments, that they might actually listen and consider the libertarian perspective as only you could share it with them.

Let people know, yes, there is a recovery plan, and it starts with limiting government power every time. I don’t think we’ve ever had more simultaneous issues proving the point that government makes every single problem worse – indeed those in it often make the problems worse so that they can continue and even expand their power and gain – so now is the prime time to help people begin to question the idea that the one who causes these problems would ever want to “solve” them. But it’ll only happen if you share it every chance you get. And, with the way the nation is headed, you currently have abundant chances to do so.

Oppression, scarcity, and suffering will result from Obama’s economic “recovery plan” and his continued warfare state. Liberty, prosperity and peace will result in direct proportion to the degree we implement libertarian ideas.

So, while Obama is talking about his “recovery plan,” libertarians should be all the more diligent in attracting more people nationwide to join us in preparing to provide the real recovery plan – the one we need, the one only libertarianism can provide, for after what appears to be an imminent and painful fall. Much “recovery” will be needed, and the more of those of us who love liberty, the faster the healing. Let us begin now…and with your participation, because the real recovery plan needs each and every libertarian.

Thought/quote during this warm & sunny March

A quote I wish to share during this sunny (relatively) warm spring-like time in Colorado (usually March is the snowiest month here, not this year at all – so far!) :

“To find the universal elements enough, to find the air and the water exhilarating, to be refreshed by a morning walk or an evening saunter… to be thrilled by the stars at night, to be elated over a bird’s nest or a wildflower in spring — these are some of the rewards of the simple life.” – John Burroughs, 19th century naturalist & essayist.

Wherever you live, take time to experience the natural beauty around you. In the city, or in the country, open your eyes to the natural world, as life blossoms all around you during this season. Nature is there, just look and see! For it brings a happiness and solace which soothes, rejuvenates, and inspires!

Economic Liberty Resources

Economic Liberty Resources (Monetary policy/ manipulation & the economy)

Since I’ve again received several requests for my recommendations of educational resources regarding economic matters, I thought it a good idea to share them here on my blog as well.

These are the several online resources I email to those who inquire. They are articles, books, and websites I’ve learned much from! My understanding and knowledge continues to be greatly enhanced because of them:

Monetary Central Planning and the State
- an in-depth series by Richard M. Ebeling
published at the Future of Freedom Foundation (FFF).

Articles at the FFF regarding Monetary Policy.

The Austrian Economics reading list at the FFF is excellent.

The Foundation for Economic Education.

The Mises Institute.

and Hayek:
“Choice in Currency- A Way To Stop Inflation”
& selection of other pieces by Hayek at “The Hayek Center Taking Hayek Seriously” webpage.

Devotion to God

He who desires anything but God deceives himself, and he who loves anything but God errs miserably. - St. Phillip Neri

Sharing a few thoughts & feelings of today…

This past week began observation of Lent. I am taking the time to observe, and read, and think about Jesus’ gift in a way that differs from ever before in my life. This has been my experience for many months now, beginning and becoming more so since about a year ago when I began to “see” truths I didn’t fully grasp before. Prayer is what brought this understanding. But in this season of Lent, a time to which we devote its observance in various ways, I am so aware of the change within myself of more spiritual understanding and insight. My desire is to live it at all times, and thereby share what is significant for my life through the love I can give others.

During Mass, I find myself yet fragile (sensitive and tender in spirit, contemplative), in awe, and grateful for its beauty and joy. It affects me deeply.

A newfound feeling of awareness and tranquility remains with me and is enhanced in personal devotion of morning prayer. I particularly have discovered meditation upon the Mysteries has brought a peaceful understanding never before experienced. It has directed my attention to qualities I seek to improve, enhance and develop within myself, making me more aware when I err, and more consciously aware to maintain certain qualities of spirit (manifested in my personality and ways I treat others). I say this as objectively as I can be, that my faith has made me far more conscious of each moment and how I am being in that moment. This is something I’ve always sought to do, but am more effective now.

Mary remains a focal point of my understanding and devotion. She is the perfect example of living one’s life for God, and is always there for me comforting and guiding me as I seek to grow. She is very important to my faith, bringing me here and strengthening me.

Courage, strength, and perseverance in service to what is good, to what is loving – all traits I have valued highly for years and sought to develop in myself and which I most appreciate when I see in others – are developed through devotion to God. And therein, true happiness.

A few quotes I believe convey Truth and which I wish to particularly share with you today:

God does not love our imperfections and venial sins, but He much loves us in spite of them. We must draw from them submission, humility, and distrust of ourselves, but never have distrust of the love of God for us. Well now, that is enough; live joyous! — St. Frances de Sales

Consider God’s generosity towards you rather than your own unworthiness in His sight, and live in His strength, rather than in the thoughts of your own weakness.
– St. Vincent de Paul

Don’t give in to discouragement. If you are discouraged it is a sign of pride because it shows you trust in your own powers. Never bother about people’s opinions. Be obedient to truth. For with humble obedience, you will never be disturbed.– Bl. Mother Teresa of Calcutta

And lastly, I wish to share a Biblical scripture of this the first Sunday of Lent, a scripture which is both a prayer of humility, praise, and a reminder of His mercy and guidance:

Shew me thy ways, O LORD; teach me thy paths.
Lead me in thy truth, and teach me: for thou art the God of my salvation; on thee do I wait all the day.
Remember, O LORD, thy tender mercies and thy lovingkindnesses; for they have been ever of old.
Remember not the sins of my youth, nor my transgressions: according to thy mercy remember thou me for thy goodness’ sake, O LORD.
Good and upright is the LORD: therefore will he teach sinners in the way.
The meek will he guide in judgment: and the meek will he teach his way.
-Psalms 25: 4 – 9 (KJV)
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A note to those who are not believers:

If you do not pray any longer, if you are uncertain whether God will hear or perhaps you have no belief in God, if afraid, discouraged, or disheartened, I recommend that you simply begin to communicate as to God – even if you are uncertain – as then I believe you may find yourself not only heard but communicated with by God. Simply have the humility to seek. Resistance only comes from your pride. Relinquish pride, and pray. Regardless of the reasons which brought you to this point in life, just seek and I believe you will find.

For me, everything miraculously and wondrously changed upon such a prayer to Mary, Mother of Jesus, and mother to us all. Ever since, for a year now, there is a peace and joy far beyond my understanding (as the Bible says), as I have an experience of communion with God as never before in my life. The first intercessory prayer I made to Mary, was one of seeking to know, one asking to be led, help to learn, and as I was aware immediately of Mary, and of God’s presence, it became a prayer of contrition. She opened me to God’s grace, as I asked for her intercession on my behalf, to pray for me and with me to God, and guidance back to Christ, all of which I received.