Super 6-1, twenty years later

 

I tire of hearing "The Battle of Mogadishu" (aka "Blackhawk Down") labelled as a defeat.  As a bloody, black eye, on the history of our Military Operations.  People forget that the military, at least in this country (and many, many more around the world), does not operate on its own.  It does not just up and decide to go into places like Mogadishu to beat up on some mean old warlord who is starving his own people.  Military operations are supposed to be, the extreme last resort of political interactions.  This operation was the very same one where the first teams coming ashore were met with TV News cameras because of "leaks".

This raid was a rousing success!  The rangers and other special operations teams inserted and obtained their objectives.  When this helicopter was shot down, while a heartbreaking experience for the families of those men, is a part of war.  People are shooting at you!  They intend to do harm to you!  Warfare is not an even exchange where we are trying to make sure everyone goes home with a trophy. Thomas J. "Stonewall" Jackson said it best with this sentiment, "The time for war has not yet come, but... ...when it does come, my advice is to draw the sword and throw away the scabbard."  It is the objective of any armed force, to inflict as much violence upon their enemy so as to break their will to fight back.

This country has forgotten what the true toll of combat is.  World War II was the last time the U.S. truly appreciated, and SUPPORTED their troops.  It began to wane after that, through the Korean War, and then even more so during the "Police Action" known as Vietnam.  It has gotten so that the American population is revolted by the casualties we have sustained in Iraq and Afghanistan.(1)While i have personal issues with the 'causes' of heading into Iraq, people have obviously forgotten the 'why' we are in Afghanistan... for those confused about the latter, please review your history of 11-September-2001.

Our politicians are too flippant in their unleashing of the "hounds" of the U.S. Military (arguably, THE best military the world has ever seen to date).  While i disagreed with the "whys" for the Iraq "II" involvement, and still do today, once those boots hit the ground, the only option in "Supporting our Troops" is to let the leash loose, and let the "Dogs of War" do what they are trained to do - within the rules outlined in the Geneva Convention(2) of course.  But, it HAS to be understood that once the bullets start flying, people are going to die - and THAT is why 'armed conflict', so casually tossed around needs to be held so much more sacred.  War devastates all involved.  From the men and women at the tip of the spear, to the locations where the engagements are fought, to the support systems of both sides - to include the very families of the men and women on the ground.

The engagement now known as "Blackhawk Down" is, to me, a resounding success story of our elite special operations teams.  These men swooped in, obtained their objective in efficient and spectacular fashion, and - even after "the shit hit the fan" and the battle plan went out the window - they regrouped, secured the prisoners, the wounded, and the dead, and managed to get all but six (four crewmen from 'Super 6-4', and the two Delta Snipers, Randy Shugart and Gary Gordan) of their fellow soldiers, back to base.  Yes (approximately) 100 of the 160 (and again, approximately) were either dead or wounded, but they fulfilled that promise to never leave a man behind (they eventually secured the bodies of the Delta Operators and bodies of the crewmen, and later obtained the release of CWO Durrant), but considering the numbers of enemy combatants they were constantly engaged against while they were out there, this is an AMAZING feat.

The "failure" of situations like Mogadishu, Iraq, etc., is not in the soldiers, sailors, airmen, or marines - it is the men and women who put them in those situations, and then failed to "support the troops".  They allowed political positioning, image, and pride, to interfere, not realizing that they failed them before those combat losses ever took place.

If you are going to commit the lives of men, women, and engage in combat operations, don't give them an empty clip to put in their weapon, or impede their ability to fight and defend themselves by ludicrously complicated "rules of engagement.(3)

I encourage everyone to take the time, read the first hand reports, and learn the details of how things went.

 

A Special shout out of thanks to the teams at SpecialOps.Org (they brought the 60 Minutes YouTube footage to my attention via Facebook) and 11Bravos (they shared the 'Grunt' picture above), for their tireless support of our men and women in uniform.

1. I am not dismissing, or diminishing, the sacrifices of these men and women, and/or their families.  Their deaths, and lingering injuries, are not 'little' things.  I truly believe the saying, "The ultimate sacrifice", because that is exactly what it is.  One can simply not give more than their futures, either in severe injury or in death.
2. I am not a fan of using Wikipedia as a source, but it can be useful, so long as one checks the sources, etc. that they cite.
3. Please do note assume that i believe in just shooting and blowing everything up.  That is NOT the case at all.  But take the time, try and think through the eyes of the "boots on the ground" and try and get just a fragment of a picture of what they have to deal with, all the while there are people shooting at you.

Wednesday Wickedness - 20100729 (Thursday edition)

Hi and welcome to Wednesday Wickedness. We are like other memes in that we will ask you ten questions each and every Wednesday. But our little "twist" is that each week we will pick a famous person and pick ten of their quotes. Each of our questions will be based on the quotes. Got it? Great! Let's begin this week's meme!

Today we picked Mick Jagger. Here's Wednesday Wickedness!

1. “A good thing never ends.” Have you ever had a good thing in your life that never ended?

My marriage to my Beloved.  We are going on eighteen years, and they really are getting better as each day/week/month/year roll by.  God uses her in my life to help reveal sin in my life, He uses her to show me His care and love, she is my soulmate, my helpmate, my lover, my best friend, my best advocate, my confidant, she really is my bestest buddy in the whole world.

2. “I got nasty habits, I take tea at three.” Do you have an nasty habits?

'Nasty' is truly a relative term (from a human perspective).  It all depends on what you view as 'nasty'.  I do have some bad habits though.  I tend to not follow God with my whole heart, mind, and soul day in and day out.  8/  This in turn contributes to all of the other 'nastiness' in my life.

3. “I'd rather be dead than to be singing Satisfaction at 45.” He obviously changed his mind. What is something that you still do that you thought you' outgrow?

I thought i would have outgrown being as selfish and impatient as i am.  I am humming along, thinking i am doing really well and then BAM!

4. “Lose your dreams and lose your mind.” Have you lost any of your dreams as time went by?

Actually i have.  One was to be a Preacher/Teacher.  For many reasons, many still not fully known by this author, this is not one that has come about.  Overall i think this is a good thing because if it were to become a reality, i need to be more concerned with His glory being proclaimed, and not mine.  The other... i've wanted to know how to play an instrument, either the keyboard or Irish whistle or both, for as long as i can remember.  Life just conspires to defer this dream ever onward.

5. “I haven't had time to return to the scene because I never left it.” As you've grown older, what ways are you still act and think the way you did as when you were younger?

I have a really hard time thinking of myself as getting older, so i tend to not think about things long term.

6. “Patriotism is something that fades when the war starts.” How do you react to this quote?

I think most people don't really understand what it takes when it comes to 'drawing the sword'.  War is supposed to be the last resort when politicians fail.  "Supporting the Troops", in my opinion, means that helping give them the tools, the time, and the goals to complete the mission.  Thomas Jonathon Jackson (aka Stonewall) said it best, "The time for war has not yet come, but it will come, and that soon; and when it does come, my advice is to draw the sword and throw away the scabbard."

7. “The past is a great place and I don't want to erase it or regret it, but I don't want to be its prisoner either.” Is there a person in your life who still treats you as the same person to when your were younger? Do you like it?
I cannot think of anyone like that in my life.

8. “It's all right letting yourself go, as long as you pull yourself back.” Have you let yourself go in any aspect of your life?

My physical fitness.  When i was younger i loved to work out, i especially loved to run long distances.  As i've gotten older though i've not allotted the time that it takes to keep maintain it.  Now i have gained enough weight that it hurts to run now... But, my Beloved has purchased an eliptical for me to use... very easy on the knees... but again... i've not allotted the time it takes...

9. “My mother has always been unhappy with what I do. She would rather I do something nicer, like being a brick layer.” How do you parents feel about what you do?
My mother passed away in 2000, and i am not really sure what she thought.  My father approves (i am pretty sure), but again i am not really sure.

10. “Anarchy is the only slight glimmer of hope.” How would you categorize your political point of view?

I have always leaned to the "right", even when i was earning minimum wage and under-insured, etc.  But of late i am getting more and more disillusioned with the system of government here in the U.S.. Any system of government that is above the very laws that they pass for the general populace, and continues to spend beyond its means, and i could go on, needs some revamping in my opinion.  While it is not a perfect party, i am becoming more and more affiliated with the Tea Party of America.  This country at the very least needs a successful third (and maybe even a 4th) political party to truly balance out the power.

---

The easy road to rambling

The days are just packed... and in order to get something posted i am using a fellow blogger's "Random Dozen".

1. If you could compete in one Olympic event (not necessarily winter sports) what would it be? ~ I've always had a thing for Archery.  I've never been all that good at it per se, but i love sport of it.  Robin Hood was one of my all time favorite movies as a kid, and i am looking forward to the "modern" vision of it coming out later this year with Russell Crow.  I hear the BBC series is very good.  I have a friend who owns it and has offered to lend it to me... i really need to take them up on that offer.

2. Do remember a specific Olympic moment from the past? ~ For me the one i remember the most is when America won the gold for Hockey back in the early '80's against the Russians.  Lame i know, but i've never really been a avid viewer of the Olympics. 8(

3. Have you ever known anyone who competed in the Olympics? ~ The closest i have ever come is the coach of one of my son's athletic teams was the brother of an Olympian.  I never did meet her though.

4. If everyday activities were Olympic-worthy, which activity would you have a gold medal in? ~ Phuleeze... i am not so good in any one thing so as to think i would even be in the same league as the "best of the best".  God's grace has allowed me to have such a good career, but it is truly not of my own ability or doing.

5. Do you know anything about your ethnic heritage? ~ Yes... i know i am a typical 13th generation American.  I am a mutt!  8)  Some English, French, Spanish or perhaps Native American (there is an empty line for a mother on a birth certificate), etc.

6. Do you enjoy sleeping late? ~ Not really.  I can sleep in some, but once i get to a certain point it, it actually becomes a little uncomfortable.  Unless i am sick... then i sleep pretty much 24x7 until i feel better.

7. Have you ever performed CPR on anyone? Do you know how? ~ Never have, although i have held a certification on two separate occasions.  I still remember the smell and taste of the antiseptic on the rescis-Anne.

8. Name one country you'd like to visit and explain why. ~ I have two actually.  I would love to visit both Ireland and Australia.  Both of these countries spark my imagination greatly.

9. Have you ever fixed up a couple romantically? ~ Nope, and i hesitate to even consider getting in the middle of such a thing.

10. What is the last book you read? ~ Finished?  Hmm... i don't remember.  They are sort of blurring all together... and i in the middle of three books currently.  Stonewall Jackson: The Man, the Soldier, the Legend (an really good book IMO), Proclaiming a Cross-Centered Theology (i have just barely started this one), and to scratch my sci-fi fix - Cadian Blood.

11. Do you enjoy sleeping late? NO, YOU write the question! How's that for random?? Me??? Um... pass...

12. What is your favorite meal at your favorite restaurant? ~ Currently it is the Chicken Fajita Burrito at my favorite local Mexican Restaurant.  My mouth is watering just thinking about it right now.

Welcome to my 750th post!

It's hard to believe that it has almost been four years since my first blog (6-Jan-06). This humble blog has not stormed the world wide web by any means (nor was that my intention). It has maybe a dozen visitors from random web sources from various search results, and only a handful of "faithful" followers. But that's ok. I mostly write for me, and i enjoy writing, and if God uses it for whatever reason, then that is awesome. It started out pretty slowly... just text, but as time has gone on i've learned how to link sites, insert pictures, and even spruce up around the edges. I even have a friend who has offered to help me spice it up even more. I am very grateful for his offer. He commutes over 3 hours a day, he is heavily involved at our church, not to mention the every day tasks of being a husband and father - so whenever he has time - i am very grateful. That reminds me... i've had a couple of people tell me that they enjoy my ramblings and have been encouraging me to not stop. I actually do like to post several thoughts so... i guess that format will continue on for a while. For today i am taking a turn from the "2nd Cup of Coffee" blog. For your reading pleasure i present this week's Random Dozen: 1. Which physical trait do you now accept--maybe not love, but accept--and no longer feel extremely self-conscious about? ~ Wow, what a way to start it off! For me it's the fact i have a voice that is, well... let's just say not as deep as i would prefer. 2. This week Meredith Baxter Birney, best known as the mom on the favorite 80s sitcom "Family Ties" came out of the closet, which led me to formulate this question: Who do you think is/was the best TV mom? ~ To be honest... i never gave it much thought... since i have been put on the spot i would have to say Kim Brown from 'The Unit.' She's smart, tough, and does what she needs to do for her family. 3. Do you speak any foreign languages? Are there any you'd like to learn? ~ To my shame i do not. I know a sprinkling of phrases or words from several languages, but i could not find a bathroom in any non-english speaking country in the world. 8( I would like to learn Spanish, and Japanese. Just not sure i am disciplined enough to actually do something about it. 4. Who is your personal hero? ~ I have three. One living, and two long dead. The living one would be CJ Mahaney. I admire this man for his humility, his humbleness, and his willingness to laugh at himself. He has overcome his own personal lack of higher education and set himself to study and verse himself in all things Christ. One of the long dead hero's i would like to present is Thomas Jonathon Jackson, aka "Stonewall". This man also over came the loss of his immediate family and lack of educational opportunities to rise up and make something of himself. And like CJ once God awoke his heart and mind to the things of the gospel he "sold out" heart-mind-and soul. The last person who is my personal hero is the First on the list. He is Jesus Christ, my Lord, my Savior. He literally is my all. While we aspire to be like our hero's, until He called me i never gave Him a second thought, and now He is working with His Father in heaven to make me into His image more and more everyday. 5. What is one holiday food that you find extremely difficult to resist over- indulging in? ~ This one is easy. Pumpkin Pie. Especially my beloved's homemade pie (made with Libby's pie filling). I could eat that until i get sick. I will eat her pie in place of breakfast, lunch AND/OR dinner! 6. Tell me about a Christmas decoration that has special meaning or sentimental value. ~ I am not a really sentimental kind of guy. I cannot think of anyone ornament that stands out above the others. For me the one i care the most about is the star we place at the top. It is always placed last. 7. How do you feel about snow? ~ Snow is a mixed bag for me. I hate being cold, but i hate being wet AND cold even more. But as i've gotten older (i.e. wiser - i hope) i've learned how to bundle up and dress in layers better (another benny from being in the Guard). When i was on active duty i grew to enjoy being out in it. While colder, it is a lot like being out in the rain... which i love. 8. On average, how many hours of sleep do you get each night? Not that I'm jealous of any number over three or anything. ~ Hmm... this is a hard one since it's hard to keep track. In general i believe it's about 6 hours total, but usually in 2-3 hour chunks. 9. Tell me about your first crush. ~ That would be my beloved. Ok, no one is buying that? Um... it was the daughter of one of my mom's "friends". It didn't last very long, or get very serious. 10. You're stuck in a room for 2 hours with only a chalkboard and chalk. What will you write/draw? ~ I honestly have no clue! 8) It all depends on my mood, things that i am currently thinking about... things i was doing prior to be locked away... etc. 11. Do you dress for the current temp or for the day's forecast? ~ Another thing the Guard taught me is you do not dress for the current temp, but the temp it will be at later in the day. This is because it was not possible to change the layers, etc., and you had to economize loads. The only thing that i will do regarding current weather is to make sure i am dressed for rain/snow, etc. 12. Favorite Christmas movie is? ~ Another easy one for me: A Christmas Carol. I like the story of how Ebenezer Scrooge changes once he sees his life in perspective. I have been known to watch almost any version of this classic, but my all time favorite is the one Patric Stewart has done for A&E. Mr. Stewart is excellent in this rendition of the movie. I've always wanted to see his one man show version, but money and distance are the biggest factors. That is all i have for today. I pray that this finds each of you enjoying God's Amazing Grace.

Ramblin' Bloggin

What a whirlwind of a week. I took a few extra days off to enjoy with the family over the Thanksgiving break. It was busy, but nice. When i came back to my regular routine things were a crazy mess. The result is that my ADD brain is having trouble keeping everything sorted out. For the most part i am keeping up, but i have to compartmentalize practically everything. 8) Not to long ago i came upon a new blog. Well, not new, but new to me... you get the idea. "Brain Cramps for God" (I love that mental picture... one of a finite human being, like me, 'wrestling' over the things of God mentally. So much so that i get a "brain cramp"... i think this was the same mental picture that the author has, but i've never verified that.) Anyway... the author has made some really good points about how the "church" (the generalization of the church in America anyway) really has lost sight of exactly what we are supposed to be doing. Instead of focusing on the gospel of Christ, and loving our "neighbors" as Christ loves the church. I am not saying that abortion or homosexuality is ok in the sight of God, just that we have lost sight of so much within the body of Christ. Love the sinner, but not pointing out that sin is sin. i really need to roll this over in my mind more, but i find myself agreeing with this man and the pastor he often quotes. We as a "church" need to wake up and preach the gospel to ourselves more. We need to disciple within the body more... we need to get the church back on her knees, praying to God, we need to be merciless in our own examinations and willing to stamp out sin on our own lives. Then, as the fruit of the Spirit is lived out in front of the world, only then will we be able to show Christ's true love to the world around us and then He will make a real difference. Just like Jesus said, "For you always have the poor with you, and whenever you want, you can do good for them. But you will not always have me." (Mark 14:7, ESV) We will also always have sin in the world... until Christ returns and the victory complete within creation. You cannot legislate morality, but you can influence each other. We need to start with ourselves to put ourselves in a better position to be used of God, as He moves - not as we move. Ok, the only other thing i have on my "slate" to share with others is regarding my train of thought on "Stonewall" Jackson. I recall thinking, as i was reading Stonewall Jackson: The Man, the Soldier, the Legend (this is an EXCELLENT book by the way), that he might have actually been an 'Aspie'. A lot of his characteristics are strikingly similar to what i have learned to be 'identifiers' for Aspergers. He had difficulty in social situations, he had trouble relating with others, and quite a few things struck me as familiar in this regard. Well, recently i came across an article that seems to indicate that he did indeed, most likely, have Aspergers. This is no way tarnishes my opinion of this man. I still admire him for his incredible faith in the "Almighty Creator", for his amazing skill as a leader of men, and now for one more thing that i can relate to regarding him as a human being. He was by no means perfect, but a man who was devote in his faith. (I relate to him on so many levels... one of which is that i think i am in the wrong "denomination" - but that would be of my own pursuit... and i am confident that i am where God has placed me.) I hope that anyone who stumbles upon this blog a blessed and grace filled weekend.

Friday the 13th - and other unlucky ramblings

I believe i have mentioned this before, but i don't take stock in a whole lot of superstitions. Breaking a mirror, picking up a tails-up penny, a black cat crossing my path, none of that means anything to me. (I wonder if that is why i am a fan of the Carolina Panthers... now that is a BIG Black Cat!) My mother was VERY superstitious. We once made it halfway back to our car when she walked all the way back to the store front and walked back around a pillar because i refused to say "bread and butter". If that was my only rebellion as a child i probably would not have dropped out of High School. For whatever reason though... i've never researched why people don't like Friday the 13th. DS1 has just completed a Social Studies Fair project where he discusses the Knights Templar. There is a train of thought linking the Friday the 13th superstition to them. Something about them being betrayed and killed or some such thing. I also read somewhere that it may be related to Christ being crucified on a Friday, and when you add in the twelve disciples it equals thirteen. Who knows. In any case it is nonsense. Ultimately the only one that controls our 'fate' is God. We liked to think that we do, i mean Science Fiction has many references (No fate but what we make - Sarah Connor), but even then we do not influence outside sources. While we can put our selves in a position to better, we do not control all of the factors - and to say that just because a cat happened to cross your path you are destined for bad luck... you are more likely to put yourself in a bad position because if a defeatist attitude. I have reached where the Author is talking about Thomas J Jackson's time at VMI in the book, Stonewall Jackson: The Man, the Soldier, the Legend. I am eating this book up. Professor Robertson holds nothing back in filling in the details of the various periods of this man's life, blemishes and all. For example he describes on how fearless he was in battle, but how bad of a teacher he was. I am seeing things that help me understand why he did things like keep subordinates in the dark in regards to his intentions. Why he had a hard time making friends. Maybe it's because i am more sensitive to it, but i think it is possible that the man had Asperger's long before it even had a name. What i am admiring most about the man is his incredible dedication to the things of God. He did not rush to join any one denomination, but read the Bible with a completely open mind and then investigated the churches that he came in contact with to see if they were up to what he was reading about. His faith was very dear and important to him and it affected practically everything he did. As i've mentioned before, he was not a perfect man, nor a perfect Christian. But in regards to being a man of faith, in many ways he is one that can be looked up to. I am also enjoying the fact that he entered into the Army upon graduation from West Point as an Artilleryman. This weekend the Panthers host the Atlanta Falcons, and the Panthers are 2 point underdogs in their own house! Well, to be fair, the panthers have been playing very poorly the first six games this year. The last two i have been very happy with their performance. Very few turnovers, and a great ground game, not to mention the defense has been playing very well. They still haven't been able to get very much production out of the passing game, but that might be because they are a little gun shy of the 13 interceptions Jake has tossed this year. Still - i like Carolina's chances this Sunday. Geaux Panthers!

Thomas Jonathon "Stonewall" Jackson

For some time now i have had an interest TJ "Stonewall" Jackson. His character, his success, and his faith have all intrigued me. My interest started back in grade school when i first learned about the American Civil War and the Battle of Bull Run specifically. Over time i grew to learn more about the man, and the soldier, and the legend.

When i was still commuting 2 1/2 hours a day i checked the book "Stonewall in the Valley: Thomas J. Stonewall Jackson's Shenandoah Valley Campaign, Spring 1862", on tape. What a fascinating achievement. During that campaign Jackson pushed his men to their limits. He has been quoted as saying;

"I yield to no man in sympathy for the gallant men under my command; but I am obliged to sweat them tonight, so that I may save their blood tomorrow."

They became known as Jackson's "Foot Cavalry". Jackson was masked his intentions so well that he often did not reveal his full intention to his subordinate commanders. This often caused friction between them, but when victory was achieved it all was forgotten. There are two quotes that i think sum up my impression of the man as a military leader:

"Always mystify, mislead, and surprise the enemy; and when you strike and overcome him, never let up pursuit."

"To move swiftly, strike vigorously, and secure the fruits of victory is the secret of a successful war"

But for me the quote that endears me to this man more than any other has to do with his trust in God and that "all things work together for good" (Romans 8:28) is:

"My religious belief teaches me to feel as safe in battle as in bed. God has fixed the time for my death. I do not concern myself about that, but to be always ready, no matter when it may overtake me."

That is the same sentiment the samurai hold. To not fear death and to serve their lord. Only then can one be completely free to serve.

For my last birthday i requested the book, "Stonewall Jackson: The Man, The Soldier, The Legend" from my beloved and i've only recently started reading it. It was recommended to me by a good friend who earned his Master's degree on Civil War studies, and written by Professor James I. Robertson Jr. This book has been hard for me to put down. I often have to switch hands as the 900+ page book is a heft to hold for any length of time, but well worth the read. I cannot recommend this book enough to anyone who wants to know more about Gen. Jackson. This book is a true biography in that it is a work on the man himself and not just his military exploits or idiosyncrasies. (I did learn that the sucking on lemons thing is a myth and not a proven trait. Gen. Jackson was very fond of citrus fruits in all flavors, but he never took to sucking on lemons in particular.)

So far i have only gotten to the end of the chapter concerning Lieutenant Jackson's time in Mexico. It was their he learned that he had the fortitude to stand and command with a clear mind in the din of battle. At one point he was commanding his two cannons practically single-handedly, while under intense return fire. It was said that at one point a cannonball actually passed between his legs. How much is true, and how much is hype is a matter of time and unverifiable by me, but what is true is that his recognition for actions under fire where known Army wide at the time.

Just as with any man, TJ Jackson was not a perfect man. I have not read as to why he chose to fight for the South yet but while i admire men like Jackson, Lee, and Longstreet, i have no doubt in my mind that the end result of the American Civil War was just as it should have been. I am enjoying reading about such details that he was friends with few, often mirthless, and strict in the execution of his duties. There is still much to respect about this man and i am thoroughly enjoying reading this book. This is a work, along with "Stonewall Jackson's Book of Maxims" (by the same author) is one that i am confident that i will read a few times over.

On a personal note, and having an "Aspie" of my own, i think it may be possible that Thomas Jonathon Jackson may have had Aspergers. He has very similar mannerisms. How he approached his tasks, how he could have a single minded focus, how he did not always grasp humor, and how he was incredibly loyal to those whom he did call friend. I will never know for sure, but i am confident of one thing... i will be singing praises to the "All Providential Savior" with him.

I got nothing important to say today

Ok, I have no idea what to write about today. I was going to do a review of the movie 'Good Soil' (picture and link on the right bar), but I wanted to watch it one more time and take some notes first - and with VBS this week - that didn't happen, so... I guess I will just talk about my flair. While I was growing up I loved Grover and Cookie Monster from Sesame Street, and I saw this piece of flair while I was just browsing looking for some thing to send to other Facebook friends. I almost had Dr Pepper coming out my nose when I saw this one! So of course it is now in my 'collection'. Anyone who has had to call a help desk about some web page that you are having to access, but can't, I am sure has had to delete the 'cookies' from the web browser. :) Currently I have 44 pieces of flair on Facebook. I won't share them all here, but these are some of my favorites... The piece here on the right was one I picked out for myself. I felt that it captured the passion I have for my beloved. I know that might sound weird, but hey... if I was perfectly normal would I be blogging about mundane things, and collecting flair on Facebook, and then blogging about it? ;-) When growing up 'Wolverine' was one of my all time favorite comic book heros. I felt like I could relate to him - anger issues, doesn't really know his past or where he's going, and I really wanted to be a kick @$% kind of guy (that never happened, but hey). Well, my beloved has gorgeous red hair, which I love. I saw this button and added it immediately. This piece of flair was added (by me) because I really like Jethro Tull's music. As I have matured as a Christian I have become more... selective... in the pieces I listen to regularly from this band, but I love the flute being incorporated into their music. Their Album, "A", had a lot of more classical instruments. I especially remember a synthesized violin in one of the videos. I have no idea if it was real, but it sounded terrific. The very first piece of flair I ever had was a gift from one of my Facebook friends - it is also what got me hooked on that App! She sent it to me as an encouragement because I like to write (blog, and short stories). Besides, who doesn't like Snoopy writing about a "...dark and stormy night..."? :-) The same friend sent this piece... it's a little fuzzy so in case anyone else has eyes like mine it says, "you're a great friend but if the zombies chase us I'm tripping you"! LOL Wow... at least I know where I stand with her. I'm just glad there are no such things as zombies. ;-) I hope 8/ I love the Carolina Panthers Blue "alternate" jerseys. When a good friend's wife, who is also a football fan (Washington Redskins, but she's nice so...), sent this to me it went up on my flair board immediately. My recurring birthday and Christmas gift request is one of the custom jerseys in Carolina Blue with John Kasay's number and name on it. Over time I have received a couple of Autism buttons. I picked this one because it was from a friend who has not been directly affected by Autism, but has been a good friend and supporter. It has been frustrating, and rewarding, trying to be there for my son (DS2). Just this week one of the VBS volunteers asked, "is there something wrong with him". :-( 'No, he just processes things differently than you do' is what I thought. I don't do well in crowds (not even NFL stadiums), especially loud noisy situations, but I try and volunteer with his classes at church because I know that one of us (his parents) needs to be as close as possible to help him. This piece was sent to me by a friend who we've known since my beloved was in college. We have a lot in common... be both enjoy Petra, we both have children with Autism, we both love American football, etc. He had seen me add a Thomas J. Jackson button and sent this to me. This young man, along with the husband of the Panthers button giver above, and I all have a desire to learn more about the Civil War. We are planning on a week(end) getaway up to Gettysburg for just us guys - some day. All we need now is the money saved up. :) Ok, the last one I am going to share with you all today - before I totally bore you all and lose you - is another one that I added for my own enjoyment. One of the call signs I had for a time during my twenty two years of National Guard service was "Thunder". I have always LOVED thunderstorms. There is something about the coolness of it, the refreshing nature of the rain, the rumble of thunder, and the impressive display of power in the lightning. There are times when I feel so close to God that I could almost 'touch' him - and it is almost always in the midst of a Thunderstorm. If I was to ever come across a large some of money for a painting it would be one of such a thing. Verse for today: Mark 4 : 37-41, ESV And a great windstorm arose, and the waves were breaking into the boat, so that the boat was already filling. But he was in the stern, asleep on the cushion. And they woke him and said to him, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” And he awoke and rebuked the wind and said to the sea, “Peace! Be still!” And the wind ceased, and there was a great calm. He said to them, “Why are you so afraid? Have you still no faith?” And they were filled with great fear and said to one another, “Who then is this, that even the wind and the sea obey him?”