Why I Will Never Be a "Good" Christian

Wait...this is not as depressing as it sounds.

There are some reasons why according to some I will never be a good Christian.  I listen to secular music.  I occasionally drink a wine cooler.  Talk about some Christian subjects do not excite me (such as "end times" stuff).  In a weird way it sends my anxiety level up.  I don't actively try to convert people unless the subject comes up and even then I prefer to have a conversation and listen to the person.  I think that sometimes we miss the point of treating people as individuals loved by God.  So what does all this make me?  Someone who has faith in Christ but someone who is human.

I am opinionated.  I check everything I hear, even if it comes from a Christian source.  I believe that God expects me to discern right from wrong not just follow the teaching of another human.  I don't believe that following more rules makes me more a better person, if not done in the right spirit.  I can never prove to God that I deserve his love.  Truth is none of us are deserving of that.

I could never become a hardcore Christian that shuns society.  I believe that I make my biggest impacts on society when I am actually participating in society.  When I did Habitat for Humanity I experienced God more in doing that than I ever have trying to live a strict Christian life, with all the "rules."  I finally knew what it was love your neighbor in action.

Although I am far from an ideal, striving is my goal.  My faith does waiver at times.  I have never lost faith even during times when it was weak.  There was a strange sense that God wanted me back.  I can't describe faith as something that I generated because there were times in my life when God was the one pulling me back.  I couldn't bear the thought of never communicating with God again.  When I read the Gospels I knew those were for me.

Sure I don't put up Christian facebook statuses everyday or try to convert everyone I meet, but I am not looking to be a "good" Christian.  There is no such thing.  I may listen to secular music and drink wine coolers but I have faith, although imperfect, that I couldn't stay away from God if I wanted to (and I wouldn't!).  There are no "good" Christians.  There are only those that put their faith in Christ and live their lives according to that.  Faith is something that is only real when you apply it to real life.

To me this means that my decisions are based upon what God would want.  Everyday I pray for the strength to do the right thing no matter the situation and everyday I fail in some way.  This is not meant to be discouraging but rather shows the mercy that God has upon us.  Everyday I ask for guidance in my decisions and how I can be a Christian to those around me.  I will never forget the time someone told me that I the first "real" Christian that had met because I spent more time caring rather than condemning.  Of course, I can only do this by the grace of God but sometimes I recall that when I struggle in my faith.  I hope that they remember that when they meet another Christian and it will help them to see a small portion of the love of God.

Well, there you have it.  I am not a "good" Christian.  I don't follow all the rules.  All I know is God loves me and everyone else and my sins have been taken care of.  All I have to do is have faith, which God supplies me with everyday.

Snow Update and Myths about Conservatives

Well, the big "nor'easter" was a total fail.  Our predicted 4-6 inches of snow was more like an inch, and is already melting.  The less snow, the less I have to shovel!

Now to my real point.  Myths about conservatives.

Myth 1: Conservatives are racist
Truth: Conservatives want race to become less of an issue.  When it comes to affirmative action, we view that as increasing the focus on race rather than merit.  We want a system where everyone can succeed based on their qualifications.  The most level playing field is one where, as Martin Luther King Jr. would say: "not be judged by the color of their skin, but by the content of their character." Or in this case,  qualifications.    

Myth 2: We don't care about the poor.
Truth: Conservatives don't want more government involved in people's lives and yes that means less welfare.  We believe that handing people money does not solve the problem.  People must be provided with jobs and have the incentive to go after those jobs.  When welfare in some states pays more than minimum wage jobs, we have a problem.  We believe that people want to be self-sufficient and are capable of bettering themselves.  Of course, conservatives want a safety net, and conservatives are big supporters of private charities that help people to get back on their feet.  In fact, even the nytimes has to admit that conservatives are more charitable!

Myth 3: We want a Christian theocracy
Truth: Yes Christians are more likely to be conservative, so maybe this is where this myth stems from?  Conservatives have always been champions of religious freedom.  Liberals are the ones that want to restrict religion by taking it out of everyday public life.  Such as the extremists that want to take "under God" out of the pledge of allegiance and take "In God We Trust" off of our money.  Many of these people are atheists that want to take away the freedom of everyone else to openly practice their religion.

Myth 4: Conservatives are against women's rights
Truth: Oh yes, the old stereotype about conservatives wanting women to stay in the kitchen barefoot and pregnant.  How is it then that females are entering the GOP race for president?  It seems it is liberals that want to limit women.  They are the ones that put down stay at home moms, and call it "oppressive."  Conservative believe that having a strong family means that wives and mothers are very important for this country.  The things that have become women's rights are actually very destructive.  Things like abortion, sexual "freedom", and the right to be a single mother.  Conservatives believe in the rights of women to be respected for being wives, mothers, and yes whatever else they choose.

Myth 5: Conservatives are against immigration
Truth: This relates back to the first one.  Conservatives are against illegal immigration because of the fact that it reflects poorly upon those who came here legally.  We are concerned about the safety of our country and want to know who is coming in and out.  We want to keep our jobs and benefits for our citizens so we can have a strong country.  Once someone becomes a legal citizen they are an American, period.

Those were the ones that came to mind.  There are ton more and I just came with some new blog ideas, I think.

Nor'easter in October!

A little different post from normal, but I am kind of a weather enthusiast.  I am a resident of the northeast, so we are expecting a big snow storm.  It seems like we didn't even have fall, and now we are being forced into winter.  Of course, in the northeast we are not immune to long winters and lots of snow.  From the forecasts it looks like 4-6 inches, maybe more with possible power outages.  We will have to wait and see about this unusual storm.

A nice mix of fall and winter.  Bundle up everyone!

Occupy Wall Street

I thought this video summed it up pretty well.

I would also like to point out that many conservatives, especially tea part conservatives were against these bank bailouts just as these self-described socialists are.  I realize that not all these people are socialists or even far left liberals, although I would argue that anyone who wants to redistribute wealth falls into that category, no matter what they call themselves.  I have even read articles that describe the movement as conservative.  Obviously, I do not totally agree with that but there are some similarities that they would not be so fond of mentioning:
*Both are not happy with the way government and business have become intertwined.  Both believe the government is neglecting the needs of the people.
*Both have staged protests.  Of course the tea party protests were never this big, but both movements have been affected by sweeping generalizations.  Who hasn't heard: Tea Party= racist, or fascist and Occupy Wall Street= hippies and anarchists.
*Both believe that things must change because Americans are becoming fed up.

Of course, ideologically these groups are far apart otherwise.  Occupy Wall Street wants more redistribution of wealth while the Tea Party wants less government involvement in individual finances.  Now before you think I have grown soft about this Occupy Wall Street thing, I will say that I have seen some pretty bad behavior come from this crowd, and I am having a hard time seeing how these protests are actively doing anything productive.  As much as I respect anyone willing to stand up for what they believe in, I think this is the wrong idea.  The fact that they are being supported by unions to basically be homeless is something I find ridiculous.  They are asking for donations when there are legitimately homeless people.  I understand it is to make a point, but when they take from others in need I can't support that.

Surely, every group has its "bad apples" or those who do not represent the group well.  But my, oh my, have these occupiers had some interesting, shall I say, moments.  From invading banks to debating whether to police public sexual behavior these occupiers keep us "interested."  Apparently, they provide their own "basic medical care," and handle rape allegations themselves.  Sounds good.  For all the signs people didn't like at Tea Party rallies, I think this is worse.  At least the Tea Party rallies had an actual organization to them and were peaceful.  Wonder how long this will last?

Lying About Military Medals

That is right folks, there is actually going to be a court case about whether lying about obtaining military medals is a crime.  Here it is for your reading pleasure.

I will summarize, with my commentary of course.  A man from California is going around saying that he won the Medal of Honor.  Did I mention this guy is a public official?  The 9th Circuit U.S. Court of Appeals thought that his free speech rights were being violated, of course veteran's groups were outraged.  But it also clear that they think the guy is not right in the head.  Even better, the guy has a history of lying about himself.  He went around and told people that he was a professional hockey player and a police officer.  I don't see the problem with this unless he impersonates a police officer.  Thin line there, I know.

That is the very short synopsis.  Interesting case if I do say so myself. In the past, it seems that the Supreme Court has been split over cases concerning whether false statements like this are free speech  so I guess we will have to wait and see.  Of course I think this guy is off the rails.  Makes me wonder if there is some type of mental disorder here?  Of course, I think it is offensive at best to claim that you are a war hero when you are no such thing, but on the other hand the guy might be protected under the First Amendment.  Never thought I would see a case like this.

Thoughts?

My High School Self

Who was I in high school? Pretty much the same person that I am today (with a little more maturity I hope!).  Probably could have called me a geek, dork, or perfectionist.  I was that shy, reserved person with the good grades, yet totally oblivious to social happenings.  I had a small groups of friends that were sort of like me, although most were probably more socially aware, shall we say.

I was the person that always made the honor roll and freaked out about grades below an A.  Yet, no matter how well I did it was never quite good enough.  My friends were always so much smarter than I was.  Unfortunately, I am much the same in college.  If I don't make dean's list it is awful for me.  I know, so dramatic, right?  I kind of take this as being a part of who I am.  Perfectionistic, uptight me.

Socially in high school, well I think you can guess from the description above, I was in my own world.  Didn't really notice guys too much back then, and if I did it turned out they were gay.  What luck!  Being socially awkward, I guess these things were bound to happen.  Somehow I managed to make friends, despite my shyness.  Dating was out of the question, although I doubt I could have found someone that matched me in many important areas.  Conservative Christians are not as plentiful as you would think.  Yes, sadly I still have this problem.  Don't know why talking to guys is like rocket science to me.

The one thing I loved about high school though was cross country.  When I first started I was the slowest person on the team, not having any other athletic experience.  The people on the team were really great people and I felt myself getting better and better with every practice.  I admit, I was in a lot of pain for the first couple weeks of training, but I loved it.  I went on to actually place in a race senior year and made states for the mile in track.  I also did many other races, including once walking/running 35 miles.  Yeah that hurt.

What was the point of all this?  I guess just so people could get a better view of me from a personal perspective.  I am not just some heartless conservative ya know :P.

What do you remember from high school?

Protect Life Act

You know the bill otherwise known as "Let Women Die Act." When I saw Nancy Pelosi on CNN saying that I couldn't help but think how dramatic that sounded.  Despite what the left may say this bill would not leave women to die on the floor in emergency rooms.  The whole point of the bill is not to "let women die" but rather to control how federal funds are spent.

To put a few things straight this bill still contains exemptions for incest, rape and health of the mother.   This bill just makes it so federal funds cannot be used to cover abortion in elective cases.  Like it or not, taxpayers should not have to cover elective medical procedures, especially ones they may find immoral.  I totally back not having federal funding for abortion.

Further more, I think it is great that this bill does not allow federal funds to go towards health care plans that would cover abortions, except in the cases mentioned above.  Also, it allows for physicians to maintain their own personal beliefs on abortion.  A physician should never be forced to perform a procedure they would have ethical and/or moral opposition to.

The bill also states that the insurers must provide the same coverage they would have otherwise, only without the elective abortion coverage.  So it's not like people are going to get ripped off on actual healthcare because of this bill.  If anything, this bill protects people's health and yes women's health without paying for not medically necessary abortions.

As far as pro-life legislation goes this is a bill that I could support.  I think that it is both fiscally and morally responsible, no matter what Nancy Pelosi says.  Obama says that he will veto this bill if it comes across his desk.  Kind of makes you wonder what happened to his promise that Obamacare wouldn't cover elective abortions.  If he doesn't veto it then he goes against his pro-choice stance.  Quite a conundrum he has there I would say.

Thanks to: http://sistertoldjah.com/archives/2011/10/13/dear-nancy-pelosi-kiss-my-grits/ for writing such a well thought out piece.

A Little Political Humor...

How to be a good...

...Democrat:	...Republican:
You have to believe that the AIDS virus is spread by a lack of federal funding.	You have to believe that the AIDS virus is spread because people are evil and should be punished.
You have to believe that the same teacher who can't teach 4th-graders how to read is somehow qualified to teach those same kids about sex.	You have to believe that evolution is a myth (despite the evidence of biochemistry and the fossil record) but that Intelligent Design theory should be taught in schools.
You have to believe that guns in the hands of law-abiding Americans are more of a threat than U.S. nuclear weapons technology in the hands of Chinese & North Korean communists.	You have to believe that there is no causal link between legal, easily-obtainable handguns and high murder rates.
You have to believe that there was no art before Federal funding.	You have to believe that unfunded arts and school programs are still subject to government control.
You have to believe that global temperatures are less affected by cyclical, documented changes in the earth's climate and more affected by soccer moms driving SUVs.	You have to believe that global temperatures are completely unaffected by fossil fuel emissions, that the best way to save the national forests is to allow logging companies to cut down old-growth timber, and the best way to save endangered species is to allow trophy hunters and wildlife traders to import more of them.
You have to believe that gender roles are artificial but being homosexual is natural.	You have to believe that homosexuality is evil (despite the fact that it occurs in nature) and that women should stay at home to cook and bear children.
You have to be against capital punishment but support abortion on demand.	You have to be against abortion but support capital punishment.
You have to believe that businesses create oppression, and governments create prosperity.	You have to believe that corporations never purposely hurt anyone to make money.
You have to believe that hunters don't care about nature, but loony activists who have never been outside of San Francisco do.	You have to believe that hunting requires an automatic rifle.
You have to believe that self-esteem is more important than actually doing something to earn it.	You have to believe that middle class income should be taxed, but capital gains and inherited wealth should not be.
You have to believe that the military, not corrupt politicians, start wars.	You have to believe that war is an acceptable solution to any economic or social problem.
You have to believe that the military is another political porkbarrel for wealthy campaign contributors of certain politicians.	You have to believe that everyone should support the troops - except when it comes to pay or benefits.
You have to believe the NRA is bad because it supports certain parts of the Constitution, while the ACLU is good because it supports certain parts of the Constitution.	You have to believe the NRA is good because it supports certain parts of the Constitution, while the ACLU is bad because it supports certain parts of the Constitution.
You have to believe that taxes are too low, but ATM fees are too high.	You have to believe that taxes are for poor and middle class people, not the rich.
You have to believe that Margaret Sanger and Gloria Steinem are more important to American history than Thomas Jefferson, Gen. Robert E.Lee, and Thomas Edison.	You have to believe that Oliver North and Monica Lewinsky are more important to American history than Martin Luther King and Robert Kennedy.
You have to believe that standardized tests are racist, but racial quotas and set-asides are not.	You have to believe that affirmative action is wrong, because everyone knows there's no more racism in America.
You have to believe that Hillary Clinton is normal and really a very nice person.	You have to believe that Ann Coulter is normal and really a very nice person.
You have to believe that the only reason socialism hasn't worked anywhere it's been tried is because the right people haven't been in charge.	You have to believe that the only reason supply-side economics hasn't worked anywhere it's been tried is because the right people haven't been in charge.
You have to believe conservatives telling the truth belong in jail, but a liar and sex offender belonged in the White House.	You have to believe liberals telling the truth belong in jail, but a liar and draft-dodger belongs in the White House.
You have to believe that homosexual parades displaying drag, transvestites, and bestiality should be constitutionally protected, and manger scenes at Christmas should be illegal.	You have to believe that all Americans should be white heterosexual Christians.
You have to believe that illegal Democratic Party funding by the Chinese government is somehow in the best interest of the United States.	You have to believe that illegal Republican Party funding by corporations is somehow in the best interest of the United States.
You have to believe that this letter is part of a vast, right-wing conspiracy.	You have to believe that the media are biased toward liberals, despite the fact that all the major media outlets are owned by ultra-rich conservatives.

Feminism: A Criticism

Yeah, I am gonna go there.  Just so people don't get upset, I do actually understand the meaning of that word.  I understand that feminism is supposed to be about equal rights for women, but does it benefit women as much as it purports to?  As a whole, I think that the modern feminist movement is focused on left wing/socialist causes.  I hear all the time about how the right is "anti woman."

I think that women should be educated and even have job skills.  I mean I go to school and will have a full time job once I get out.  This is not the issue.  I also understand that some women must work full time for various other reasons that cannot be easily solved.  What I am saying though is that there are women that leave their families all day, especially young children.  My personal opinion is that young children should be cared for by their own mothers, if possible.  Of course, there will always be exceptions but that is the general point.  You will never have back the time with your children no matter how much you provided for them in terms of material things.  And for the record, I don't believe that women should be chained to their houses, and it wouldn't hurt men to help out with housework.

Then there is the issue of abortion.  Being pro-life I have heard all the arguments in favor of abortion.  This does not change the fact that I find it morally reprehensible.  Go ahead and call me "anti woman,"  but I value life that is not able to defend itself.  I think that as a Christian this is a fine example of protecting the most vulnerable.  And yes, I believe in helping the children after they are born, not necessarily in the big government sense that liberals often mention but helping is important.

My final point about feminism is about how they seem to embrace a sexually promiscuous lifestyle as a positive.  They want women to feel free to not have sex or have a lot of sex without shame.  The Bible is clear that the only time sex is permissible is after marriage with that one person.  Of course, I think that the world would be better off if everyone followed this, but this is not realistic.  Feminists support comprehensive sex ed and birth control but obviously this has not solved the problem.  I think what we need is a cultural change not more birth control.  If people viewed sex as a serious thing that needs great consideration then things could turn around.  People, especially young people, deserve better than having birth control thrown at them like they are animals that cannot control their urges.  Anyway, I could go on with this all day.

Well, those are just a few things that I think about modern feminism.  Yes, I realize that feminists are credited with giving me the right to vote, go to college and work but this does not change the fact that I cannot agree with modern feminism in either its social or political goals.

Anybody like to add anything?

What I Think About the Purity Movement

Anyone heard of those purity balls, you know the ones where the fathers and daughters dress up and go on a "date"?  Yeah I think it's odd.  Some of these girls are not even teenagers.  This is coming from a person who doesn't believe in premarital sex for religious and moral reasons.  Why the requirement that the father "guard" their virginity?  Can they not make a decision about this when they are older?
Now let's make one thing clear: I do not embrace the whole modern hookup scene.  I think that it is destructive and pointless.  I could go on and on about this but the point is that the purity balls are an extreme swing in the other direction.  I have nothing against purity pledges but they are not necessary.  This is something someone must have a desire to do.  No authority figure can make you follow through with something if it is not in your will.
Then there is the whole not touching the opposite sex before marriage if you are not related.  I know that Orthodox Jews follow this.  I would be interested if someone could explain how this is achieved?  As conservative as I am I have already broken this.  Does shaking hands in a formal situation count?  I guess you would just explain it to people.  Anyway, I guess the point of my rambling was that following God's laws about sexuality comes down to your desire to please God not that of your father.
Also, I do respect anyone who can do the no touching thing, I applaud you, having never been in a relationship, I cannot imagine what that is like.

Shyness and Introversion: The Same Thing?

I would like to start off with a resounding: No!  Although I consider myself to be both there is a difference. Introversion has to do with how much time you like spending with people.  For example, I have few friends and I like it that way for the most part.  I enjoy time by myself and feel tired after meeting with lots of people.  How can you find out if you are introvert?  One test I found really interesting: http://theadventurouswriter.com/blog/test-introverted-personality-traits-introversion-signs/.  Now if you are anything like me you can't stand large crowds, noisy, crowded places and people that never stop talking!  I think I will stick with my nice, quiet life thank you.
Now about the shyness, that is a whole other issue.  Meeting new people is sometimes stressful.  Not knowing what to say, being easily intimidated, making small talk can all be difficult.  I used to be petrified of public speaking, but now that I have been forced to do it, I have a reasonable level of nervousness that I can handle.  Calling strangers on the phone, not fun, but I have learned that skill as well.  Walking into a room full of strangers or dating are still huge challenges.  I consider it a good day when I can have a short conversation with a cute guy!  Hmm maybe this would explain my lack of dates lol.
Anyway, I guess I was trying to say introversion is something innate whereas shyness is learned and can be overcome.  I am sure that even if I weren't shy I would not be dying to socialize with everyone and anyone.

Introduction

A little more about me...I go to a state college studying sociology and criminal justice.  I have no idea what I want to do with my life but I think that no one really, truly does.  I would consider myself a conservative Christian meaning that I believe in all the fundamentals of Christianity such as the death, resurrection and salvation of Jesus.  I don't consider myself a fundamentalist in lifestyle, necessarily.  I am also politically conservative, both fiscally and socially.  I hope to cover subjects like that on this blog.  Some people will undoubtedly not appreciate my opinions but such is life and plus I love a good debate, as long as it doesn't get out of hand :).  I will probably think of some more things to say as I go along but if anyone every has a question I will see if I can answer it.