C.S. Lewis and Evangelicalism

I am currently re-reading C.S. Lewis' "Mere Christianity." After reading a biography by his adoptive son (see book review here), I became curious about who he really was as a Christian. You see, there is some debate about Lewis, in some evangelical circles, about whether or not he should be considered a true evangelical. The short answer, in my estimation, is no. But that isn't necessarily a bad thing in Lewis' case. It's sort of like saying, "Is C.S. Lewis a real Baptist." Perish the thought!! He probably wouldn't be caught dead in a typical Baptist church. Let me explain.

First of all, Lewis came from an atheistic background. He had no real interest in religion until later in life. Like most of the intellectuals at Oxford (and later, for him, Cambridge) Christianity had already had it's day. It couldn't solve life's ills in the past, so why should it (or how can it) in the future? That all changed for Lewis when he was "magically" converted. Yes, there was the intellectual ascension, but there was also the spiritual awakening as well. After being "born-again" Lewis felt compelled to express his faith in various forms of writing. He maintained his position at Oxford (as professor of Medieval and Renaissance Literature) and joined the Church of England. The world that he found himself in (after becoming a Christian) was totally different than anything that you and I can relate to. His unique position, as a professor at Oxford, ended up playing a crucial role in his apologetic ministry. I am reminded of the Apostle Paul's position as a Pharisee and as an expert in Jewish law. God used this (background) in Paul's life to write much of the New Testament. Who else but Paul could have summarized the teachings of Christ and reconciled them with the Hebraic Scriptures? Lewis was, likewise, used to reach his time and culture in a unique way. He is now looked upon as one of the most important Christian writers of the 20th century.

He had a "high" view of the New Testament and passionately argued against the liberal leanings of his contemporaries. He did not, however, share this view of the Old Testament (though he admitted that he could be wrong). The Old Testament, according to Lewis, was filled with "myths" and legends, but these myths culminated into the "true myth" of Christ. Christ was the true myth, while all other myths were just whispers of Him. Lewis firmly believed in Christ, both as the Son of God, and as God incarnate. He argued for the miracles of the New Testament, but somehow couldn't believe in those of the Hebrew Scriptures. Why he came to this conclusion, I do not know.

There were other issues with Lewis, but all in all, he believed in the essentials of the Christian faith (as defined in evangelicalism). It could be argued that if he were born in a different context (let's say, perhaps, Kentucky) he would have been your typical evangelical. Though I lament the fact that he had some erroneous beliefs, I do believe that he shared in the heart of evangelicalism. He trusted in Christ for his salvation, he was "awakened" spiritually, and he shared and practiced his faith. He doesn't fit the mold perfectly, but he is a kindred spirit. More on Lewis and "Mere Christianity" later.

Return of the Redneck

Nothing much to say here, except for the fact that these are authentic Rednecks indulging in authentic Redneck behavior. There is no trick photography. There are no actors here. These are true and dedicated Rednecks caught in the act of sordid and twisted Redneck behavior. Species of the underworld...warriors of the bizarre...mercenaries of vulgar realities---the American Redneck lives on!!!!

$100,000 Deer

Interesting picture. This "management" deer was (and is) one of the most unique deer in the world. When this buck finally died, it's mount went for over $100,000. It's a one of a kind deer because of it's odd antlers. Deer antlers, overall, have increased in value over the last fifty years or so. E-bay currently has them available--prices range from $5.00 to $1000.00 for a set of deer sheds.

The Humbling of Mankind

As I was finishing up the Book of Job, for my morning devotional reading, I was once again struck with a sense of astonishment on how the book ends. Yes, Job's fortunes and family are restored (thus, a happy ending), but God goes to great lengths, from chapters 38 to 42, to pound in one point and one point alone--He is God and we are His subjects! He loves us and sympathizes with us, but He alone is sovereign over the universe and we must humbly submit to that plan. We are not to question or second guess the Creator--nor are we supposed to doubt His plan for the world. He controls the heavens, the earth, the winds, the seas, the beasts of the earth, even calamities and blessing--all fall under His sovereign control.

"Where were you when I laid the foundations of the earth? Tell me, if you have understanding." Job 38:4

This simple statement summarizes over a hundred verses in the last part of the book. Like a Drill Sergeant, He rams this into you over and over and over again. Just when you think that He is done, He starts it again. And when you think that you just can't take anymore...He states it yet again. As a result of God's statements, Job repents of his sin and declares himself "vile." (Job 40:4)

The popular "feel-good Gospel" of our culture starts with, "You are special and God has a plan for your life!" The true Gospel of the Bible starts with, "I am vile...have mercy on me Lord!" He humbles both the king and the peasant and shows us all that we are sinners under His hand of wrath. This makes Grace so much more precious!! When we see ourselves for what we are, then we can truly experience the full weight of His Grace. As Job learned, not even righteous living can make us worthy. It is by His grace and His grace alone!

Pray for John Piper

For those of you who have been blessed by the ministry of John Piper-- please be in prayer for him regarding his recent cancer diagnosis. Piper has written on this subject probably better than any contemporary writer that I have read. His absolute trust in a sovereign God (even in pain and suffering) will certainly be a great testimony for the Body of Christ. Don't expect Piper to be one of those who "shakes his fist at God" demanding "why!" He (Piper) already knows why. You can read for yourself how he is handling this problem (go to: http://www.desiringgod.org).

One's theology does matter! If God is not in control of pain and suffering (sickness) then we are in big, big trouble. We all get sick, we all die. It is a fact of life. If we are not grounded in good Biblical teaching on the subject then we will find ourselves vulnerable to despair and a loss of faith. The Trinity Broadcasting Network and other "word-faith" proponents have done a lot of damage, to the church, in this area. But the errors in the church don't just stop in the Pentecostal and Charismatic churches--it is also prevalent in other segments of the broader Evangelical Church. Thank God for Piper's clear and thoroughly Biblical teaching on the subject!!

The Democrats Bad Week

Last week ended up being a bad week for the Democrats. Unfortunately, the Martin Luther King holiday became the "Republicans are all racist" holiday for the Democrats. I don't know who embarrassed themselves the most, Hillary Clinton, or Ralph Nagin. The talk shows were loaded with embarrassing clips of prominent Democrats putting their foot in their mouths-- at least it makes for great campaign video for the 2006 and 2008 elections. Even Saturday Night Live got in on the fun (DOWNLOAD - .WMV).

While the Democrats continue to "talk" about good race relations, they don't seem to care about what their irresponsible comments will do to those relationships. Race baiting is not the way to govern, nor will the electorate be very impressed with it. I wonder what King would think about the state of racial affairs in 2006?

Updated Picture of the Mills

As promised, an updated picture of the Mills family. The family has grown some, but the Mills still look...rather interesting granted their fascination with....hair. Be that as it may, we are happy to report that the Mills family are reproducing and have proven to be productive members of society. Carrie has given up smoking, while Brad has been taking theology courses at Uncle Jim's Bible Barn of the Holy Ghost Church of the Living Disciples (hey, you've got to start somewhere).

Carrie had rightly pointed out, in my previous post, that the "wedding" picture was somewhat outdated (see previous post: http://realpyro.blogspot.com/2006/01/brad-and-carrie-mills.html . Sorry Carrie. This photo might be somewhat outdated as well (keeping up with long distance friends is so difficult--there are rumors of another child). Anyways, we are proud of the Mills and we look forward to their paternal and theological evolutionary process.

If I can find a more "updated" photo, then I promise to post them. Let me know, Carrie, and I'll make sure to keep current. Being one of the few blessed families who actually read my blog, my aim is to please!! I'll have to look through our Christmas cards and such for more pictures.

Grace and Peace

In the writings of the New Testament, particularly, the writings of the Paul, Peter, and John, we see the need of God's grace before any spiritual blessings or actions of believers. Before we can have the peace of God, we need to experience the grace of God. Before we can have salvation, we first need grace. Before we can do any work for God, we first need the grace to perform that task. That's why the Apostle Paul starts out with this grace and peace salutation in all of his epistles. John uses the same salutation in the Book of Revelation (Rev 1:4). Peter, likewise, starts with God's "abundant mercy" and then proceeds with praise (I Peter 1:3-6). Most notably is Paul's method of teaching doctrine in his epistles like Romans and Ephesians. The first part of the epistles start with Christ and what He has done for us, while the last part of the writings deal with what we should do as a result. If we are struggling with our service and devotion to Christ, then perhaps we need to take a fresh look at who He is and what He has done for us. God's grace must proceed any work that we do. It is the most distinct part of the Christian religion.

Osama and the Democrats

Please don't get the impression that I am trying to compare Democrats to terrorists. I am not one of those "extreme" individuals who go around comparing Presidents and politicians to Hitler and other evil people. No, no, no!!! I am simply trying to compare their rhetoric with what the leading Democrats are saying. That's an important distinction to be made. Democrats mean well (I think) but they are playing politics (in my estimation) with the war in Iraq and with our war on terror. I wasn't the only one to pick up on this. Since my post last night, MSNBC had this interesting segment (DOWNLOAD - Video Here). It's a large file, so you may need DSL or some patience to let it all download. The liberal argumentation is certainly similar to what Osama Bin Laden states. Should we accept his truce? Believe it or not, there are already editorials and columns suggesting just that! One editorial called Osama's offer a "sliver of hope". More on that later.

Which Comes First?

Which comes first, the chicken or the egg? I've come to peace with that age old question (the answer is the chicken), but I am genuinely confused about something else. You see, we have just received another friendly message from our good Muslim friend (DOWNLOAD - Video Here) Osama Bin Laden. After listening to his message, the thought crossed my mind, "Which comes first, Osama's propaganda or liberal, left-leaning propaganda? Does he create the talking points for liberals, or do liberals create the talking points for him? Listen to this message and you'll find yourself popping up images of Al Gore, Howard Dean, and Michael Moore. It's even more scary when you consider that the Democratic Party is now as left as they have ever been. Will the Democrats continue their leftward shift, or will the electorate keep them more centered? We'll wait and see.

Book Review: "Jack's Life"

Douglas Gresham's new book "Jack's Life: The Life Story of C.S. Lewis" was an attempt by the author to paint a more intimate portrait of his adoptive father, "Jack". Gresham has been dissatisfied with many of the biographies on Lewis, mainly because they don't show the "greatness" of the man apart from his intellectual achievements. "Jack is truly the greatest man that I have ever known," insists Gresham and his biography tries to show that side of him.

Weaknesses: The first part of the book is simply bad. There is no way around it. Gresham does an inadequate job, as a biographer, in taking you through the first part of C.S. Lewis' life. He tends to give you unnecessary comments about his own personal feelings on subjects (see my review on Tolkien's biography--the exact opposite was true with his biographer). From his loathing of war to his feelings on father-son relationships--these comments weren't appropriate in that portion of the book. They would, however, become appropriate later on when, as a young boy, Gresham became intimately involved with Lewis. In an attempt to give his "two cents" he actually interrupted the natural flow of the narration. We were constantly reminded that the author was there breathing down our necks.

Strengths: The closer you get to the story of Joy Gresham, the better the book gets. Here, Douglas Gresham shines through. His insights into this love relationship between his mother and Lewis are well worth the read of the book. I especially liked his inclusion of Lewis' views on Love. I never knew that his book "The Four Loves" was actually put into practice and realized with his relationship with Joy. You can see this story in the movie Shadowlands. (the Anthony Hopkins version). This subject of the four loves is brought up in the movie briefly, but this writer gives it a clearer meaning. What amazes me is just how right Lewis was on this subject.

In the book, he points out how the English language is inadequate in defining love. There were different types of love as defined in the Greek language (ie. agape--the love of God, the highest love). The eros love (romantic love) finally happened between Lewis and Joy only after she was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He realized just how big of a hole she filled for him and when he saw that she was dying, he suddenly knew that he was in love. This was an important point of Gresham's book. Lewis did, indeed, practice loving others and made it an important part of his Christian life. He took an important commandment in the scriptures and applied it. By this fact, Gresham regarded Jack as the "greatest".

I Corinthians 13:13: "And now abide faith, hope, love, these three; but the greatest of these is love."

Three Stars (out of Five)

I'm Giving Up The Colts!

The picture above perfectly communicates my current feelings for the Colts right now. I have been a faithful fan since their arrival in Indianapolis (over 20 years ago) and I am now cutting my ties with them (at least until my sulking stops). Linemen win football games. They also lose them. Manning was sacked 5 times today and that wasn't even the worst part.

I am sad, sick, and disgusted with the Colts. Contributions for the betterment of my sanity would be greatly appreciated....I'm going to go shoot my dog now...goodbye.

The Colts First Big Test

Well, the Colts big day is tomorrow. Will the extended break be a blessing or curse for them? Though the Colts pretty much controlled the Pittsburgh Steelers in the regular season, the Steelers have been playing good ball going into this game. The Colts, however, have not played a meaningful game in almost a month. Here are my predictions for the weekend: Colts over the Steelers, Patriots over the Broncos (I hope that I am wrong on this game), Seahawks over the Redskins, and the Panthers over the Bears. If I am wrong then I hope to be wrong about the Bears, Redskins, and Broncos. I don't want them to lose, but the odds are they will. Of course, anything can happen in the playoffs--it will be fun to watch!

Stupid In America

Once in a blue moon, the mainstream media gets something right. Case in point-- the ABC 20/20 program entitled, "Stupid in America: How We Cheat Our Kids" delivered an honest and rather frank discussion on the reality of Public Schools in America. I'm indebted to Brad and Carrie Mills (Happy Mills) for pointing me to the program. Teacher's Unions, liberal-based education, and low standards have sucked the very life out of the majority of Public Schools. I found this out the hard way as an education major at Ball State University. It was a known fact amongst the faculty, there, that Public School kids scored decidedly lower than Private and Home-schooled children. While there, I became extremely dissatisfied with the status quo approach to public school education. This has always been the "elephant in the room" reality for them. How do they defend against this fact? "Not enough money...not enough political influence...not enough resources..." Yet study after study have disproven these assertions. What is the solution?

Teacher-Student Relationship. A telling moment in the program had one kid stating: "Teachers just don't care." Though this is certainly not the case with every teacher, there is more to that "simple" statement than meets the eye. Traditionally, the relationship between the teacher and pupil was more intimate. In the modern Public School setting, you have one teacher per 20-30 kids. It is physically impossible to attend to the needs of the kids in that kind of setting. Having taught in the Public Schools, I can attest to that fact. Also, many teachers approach their careers in a "what's in it for me" mentality. Though there is nothing wrong with securing your future (in terms of health benefits and salary), this cannot be the primary motive for working with kids. ABC did a great job of pointing these things out.

Teacher's Unions are yet another factor--they have made teachers the main focus, not the kids. They are also extremely liberal and disconnected with most in America. They typically don't share the same values of your typical American. Liberalism has become the creed of the Public Schools, rather than a more well-rounded approach to education.

Low Expectations. You shoot for the dirt and you typically end up with dirt. While substitute teaching in the Louisville area, I was horrified as I watched kids cussing out teachers, sexually harassing fellow students, and refusing to do their work. What was the punishment for such behavior? A trip to the office, a pat on the back, and back to the classroom they go! What was their justification for allowing such behavior? "We need to deal with these kids where they are!" Which, of course, is in the dirt. Dust we came and to dust we shall go!

Bravo to ABC for giving an honest and balanced look inside America's Public Schools!

Alito Triumphs

It seems that Judge Samuel Alito has prevailed in his confirmation hearings. It doesn't seem that the Democrats even have enough votes for a filibuster--which, at this point, would be their only course of action to stop him. Hopefully, President Bush has learned a valuable lesson from all of this. There are plenty of well qualified and respected Conservative Justices out there to choose from. Never make a choice out of fear (like Harriet Miers).

In the end, the Democrats looked like a bunch of drunken McCarthyites. Alito looked like an honorable and intelligent judge. Who said nice guys never win?

Kennedy Gets Desperate

In an apparent desperation move, Ted Kennedy decides to put on a show for his far left constituency by "demanding" that he receive the records of William Rushner's writings for the Concerned Alumni of Princeton group (in which Alito joined in protest of Princeton kicking out the ROTC from campus). The records have already been closely analyzed by the New York Times and even they (who are very good at creating controversy out of thin air) found nothing to report on. You can watch Senators Arlen Specter and Ted Kennedy fight it out here: Download the video (.wmv file/over 9.0mb so you'll need a good download speed). The Democrats (mostly Kennedy) have tried in vain to portray Alito as a racist and a sexist. As the Democrats see this one slipping away from them, what act of desperation will they try next? Perhaps Alito's 1st grade report card will be subpoenaed. Ooopps!? He got straight A's there too. Try again Teddy!

Alito Gets Smeared

Well the opening day of the Samuel Alito hearings got off to a "bang" with Ted Kennedy mispronouncing Alito's name (he called him Alioto) and then preceded to misrepresent Alito's previous rulings with charges of racism. You can watch Kennedy yourself Download here (.wmv file).

Kennedy said: "In an era when America is still too divided by race and riches, Judge 'Alioto' has not written one single opinion on the merits in favor of a person of color alleging race discrimination on the job. In fifteen years on the bench, not one."

If we can't trust Kennedy to pronounce Alito's name right, can we trust him to represent the facts correctly? Like I said in a previous post, don't count on the mainstream media to correct these kinds of distortions. Here are some rulings by Alito that directly relate to race and discrimination:

* In Zubi v. AT&T Corp., 219 F.3d 220 (3d Cir. 2000), Judge Alito dissented from the majority's holding that a man who claimed he was fired because of his race could not sue in federal court. According to Judge Alito, the plaintiff was entitled to sue because a longer statute of limitations applied. The Supreme Court later vindicated Judge Alito's dissent. See Jones v. Donnelly & Sons Co., 541 U.S. 369 (2004).

* In Goosby v. Johnson & Johnson Medical, Inc., 228 F.3d 313 (3d Cir. 2000), a race and sex discrimination case, Judge Alito reversed the district court's decision to grant summary judgment to the defendant employer. The Third Circuit ruled that the plaintiff, a black woman, had introduced enough evidence to call into doubt the employer's explanation for why she was given lower-quality assignments.

* In Smith v. Davis, 248 F.3d 249 (3d Cir. 2001), an African-American probation officer brought a claim of race and disability discrimination in violation of Title VII and the Americans with Disabilities Act. Judge Alito joined a unanimous decision to reverse the lower court's grant of summary judgment for the defendant employer.

* Judge Alito's dissent in Sheridan v. DuPont, 100 F.3d 1061 (3d Cir. 1996) (en banc), is a principled balancing of the interests of employees and employers, and the Supreme Court later vindicated it.

* Judge Alito interpreted the Supreme Court's holding in a previous case as requiring that a Title VII plaintiff who produces certain evidence ­ i.e., that the employer's stated reason for the employment decision was false ­ should "usually" but not necessarily "always" be permitted to go to trial.

* The Supreme Court agreed with Judge Alito's Sheridan dissent in Reeves v. Sanderson Plumbing Products, Inc., 530 U.S. 133 (2000). Reeves was a unanimous opinion signed by Justice O'Connor ­ whose seat Judge Alito is poised to take.

* In Bray v. Marriott Hotels, 110 F.3d 986 (3d Cir. 1997), Judge Alito would have affirmed the trial court's ruling for the employer because the plaintiff, an African-American woman, had failed to meet her burden of proof under relevant Supreme Court precedent.

* Marriott explained that it promoted a white female instead of the plaintiff because the white female had a higher objective employee rating, had superior experience, and had participated in more seminars and training sessions.

* Judge Alito argued that discrimination claims of require evidence of actual discrimination, not just evidence that an employer failed to comply with its own internal procedures.

* Judge Alito has held that prosecutors' efforts to exclude African-Americans from juries is unconstitutional discrimination.

* In Jones v. Ryan, 987 F.2d 960 (3d Cir. 1993), an African-American defendant was convicted in Pennsylvania court of robbery and criminal conspiracy; at trial, the prosecutor used peremptory challenges to exclude three African-Americans from the jury. Judge Alito joined a unanimous opinion holding that the prosecutor had discriminated against the potential jurors on the basis of race, and granting the defendant habeas relief.

* In Brinson v. Vaughn, 398 F.3d 225 (3d Cir. 2005), an African-American defendant was convicted of first-degree murder in Pennsylvania court and sentenced to life in prison. The prosecutor had used 13 out of 14 peremptory challenges against African-American potential jurors, and Judge Alito held that this pattern raised an inference of discrimination.

Go to Committee for Justice for complete quotes and more Alito rulings.

Book Review: "Miles Gone By"

William F. Buckley's "Miles Gone By: A Literary Autobiography" was both an entertaining read and an educational course on the so-called "Conservative Movement" in America. For those of you who think that the Conservatism of Ronald Reagan and George Bush is just a natural "reactionary" inclination of some to progressive thinking, then you are way off the mark. Buckley, in many ways, gave the intellectual backbone to the Conservative Movement that was, before the late 1950's, pretty much taboo to most political thinkers. As Buckley moves into the twilight of his life, we just may be seeing the passing of one of the most influential thinkers of our time. You see, Conservatism, as proposed by Buckley, was progressive. It went against everything (and every current) of political thinking of his time. It has now taken deep root in our society, but that hasn't always been the case.

Buckley is an excellent writer who has few peers. This fact alone makes this a delightful read. Most great men are excellent communicators. But when you mix great ideas with great communication, then you get brilliance. Columnist and Editor George Will (who is no lightweight in his own abilities) states, "Bill Buckley is the most consequential journalist and most skillful controversialists of our time." Whether it be in print, speech, or public debate, Buckley took discourse to a higher level--this confounded and shocked most liberals of his time. It wasn't just rhetorical ability that made him fascinating, it was the ideas that he proposed.

As the title of the book suggests, it is a literary autobiography. He paints you pictures and scenes of his life growing up and of the various delights and pleasures that he has experienced. From sailing to wine, to music to fictional writing, Buckley gives you a well-rounded dose of who he is and this style of writing allows him more freedom to express his passion and pleasure in ordinary things. Though some of the book was of little interest to me (i.e. his passions for sailing and music), other elements were very interesting (i.e. his friendships with men like Reagan and Kissinger). Since each section is kind of a snapshot into different areas and subjects, you might find yourself skipping around the book a bit (as I did). It doesn't take away from the book to do so (since it's not necessarily written in chronological order).

If Buckley had enemies because of his "arrogance", it is highly possible that such persons just couldn't handle his enormous gifts in wit and satire. He would consider it disrespectful not to give you that part of himself. He was an actor of sorts--he could act like he really believed in what you were saying, and at the same time, wrap a noose around the neck of your proposition, and slowly watch you die in it. Even in his present day columns (you can read them at National Review) you can't always tell what he actually believes--I've found myself thinking at times, "He surely doesn't believe that liberal line does he?!" This was actually his way of showing respect to even the dumbest of ideas. Arguing from the standpoint of your opponent can be a highly effective device in showing just how wrong the idea actually is. If you become confused by this technique then you have pleasured Buckley even more. He enjoys these kinds of games just as much as he enjoys straight debate.

That isn't to say that he always agrees or defends what most Conservatives would argue for. A case in point is the current war in Iraq. He has traditionally said, "Our military is only for fighting and winning wars, not nation building." George Bush actually campaigned on this tenet of Conservatism, but quickly abandoned it after 911. If history proves Bush wrong then that is fine with Buckley, but if it doesn't, then he will be okay with that too. Buckley is more concerned with ideas than he is with ego. As he has done before, he will simply admit error, revise and move on. Far from arrogance, he actually displays humility in such matters and shows that he isn't above opposing viewpoints. He is satisfied with simply having the right proposition (and the best wit to go along with it). Another sign of greatness, I presume.

Five Stars (out of Five)

C.H. Spurgeon

I want to highly recommend to you C. H. Spurgeon's "Morning and Evening Devotions." You can go to: www.blueletterbible.org to access his daily devotional. Also, if you go to: www.spurgeon.org you can find a goldmine of writings from the Prince of Preachers.

If British Literature wouldn't have booted out Christian writers from their considerations in the early 19th century, then Spurgeon probably would still be required reading at most Universities and Colleges. Spurgeon came just a little bit too late. Writers of his kind were considered "outdated" due to his orthodox view of scripture and doctrine.

I cannot think of a Christian writer who uses the English language better than Spurgeon. He's doctrinal, but poetic. He's thoroughly Biblical, yet brings things home to the practical. He inspires you to sink more and more into the love and grace of God.

Brad and Carrie Mills

My wife and I wanted to congratulate our friends, Brad and Carrie Mills, on their recent "getin hitched." We are very proud of them.

Despite a few bad habits, we think that they are going in the right direction in their lives.

You can visit them at: www.happymills.com

We do not necessarily endorse everything that they post, nor do we want you to get the impression that they are "close" friends. We love all people just the way they are...because as Pastor Jay always says, "God don't make no junk."

Redneck Humor

As promised, a dose of the Redneck. For those of you who are offended by Redneck Humor, then please refrain from observing the picture that this text is wrapped around. Or, perhaps, you should just learn to laugh some. For those of you who are Rednecks, then please take note that I capitalized the word "Redneck" out of respect for your kind.

Judge Samuel Alito

The Democrats find themselves in a bit of a pickle. The majority of Americans support Judge Samuel Alito's ascendancy to the Supreme Court. They don't. Why? When you boil down the rhetoric, it all comes down to the picture above. Because Alito is possibly the fourth vote against Roe V. Wade, they don't want him to sit on the bench. It's amazing how this single issue can potentially make or break a future Supreme Court nominee. According to the Democrats, you are unqualified if you don't support a women's right to abort and kill her baby. Will the Democrats filibuster Alito, or will they let him pass? Certainly, they will try their best to demonize him, but in the end he has majority support in the Senate. Their only hope is the filibuster. If that happens then all heck will break out! Could we see the so-called "Nuclear" option dropped on the Democrats, or could we be on the brink of something, potentially, historic. It will be an interesting drama to watch.

National Review Online Wit

I got a good snicker or two off of National Review Online's "Symposium On 2006 Predictions". You can go to: http://www.nationalreview.com for the complete thing. I especially liked Ned Rice's offerings. His is reproduced here for your enjoyment:

Ned Rice
Brokeback Mountain becomes the first winner of a new Academy Award category, "Gayest Movie." Winners note that it's fabulous just to be nominated, girlfriend.

George and Laura Bush file their 2005 income-tax returns, listing Cindy Sheehan as a dependent.

In a speech announcing his bid for the 2008 Democratic presidential nomination, Joe Biden accidentally plagiarizes a speech he gave several years ago.

John Kerry announces that he's running for president. Puzzled, a reporter shouts out, "Of what?"

Barbara Boxer says something incredibly stupid.

Federal government scraps Witness Protection Program, starts giving witnesses in need of anonymity their own shows on Air America Radio.

Louisiana governor Kathleen Blanco orders the mandatory evacuation of the city of New Orleans.

With strong bipartisan support Congress calls for a three-month embargo on Angelina Jolie adopting any more kids from the third world.

Americans cheer as Martha Stewart and Robert Blake announce their engagement.

In lieu of lapel ribbons, Hollywood conservatives begin attending awards ceremonies with their fingertips dyed purple.

Elton John's new husband David Furnish announces that he is pregnant.

Barbara Boxer fails to grasp an elementary concept of representative democracy.

European Union members vote to reject a new Iraqi constitution.

Massachusetts amends their state constitution to ban heterosexual marriage.

Mayor Ray Nagin orders the mandatory evacuation of the city of New Orleans.

Lyndon LaRouche issues a statement from prison publicly distancing himself from Air America Radio co-founder Sheldon Drobny.

Astronomers discover a tenth planet, which is immediately declared "non-smoking" by the FDA.

Howard Dean announces, "The idea that the New England Patriots are going to repeat as Super Bowl champions this year is just plain wrong."

Hoping to regain her anonymity, Valerie Plame announces plans to host a prime-time TV show on MSNBC.

Tookie Williams' final children's book — OK, So I Shot Those Four Mo-Fos — is published posthumously and gets a glowing review in the New York Times.

More gloomy economic news for President Bush as thousands of unemployment offices are forced to close.

A grim milestone in Paris as the 100,000th car is torched since the current unrest began. On a positive note, French automakers begin hiring assembly line workers again.

Environmental artist Christo announces plans to wrap colorful nylon panels around Cindy Sheehan.