T-Bone

Great thread, JumpinJive - and in a weird philosophical wannabe sorta way I LOVE these kind of discussions...And in keeping with my philosophical wannabe-ness I have to also ask myself why I enjoy these discussions. I think it's because of a couple of reasons: I enjoy hearing/learning about other points of view and it gets me to analyze my own viewpoint. So, what I'm about to share is in response to your initial post and is totally my humble opinion. For me the hardest time I had with matters of faith was in the first couple of years after leaving TWI. And that was over reconciling some of my beliefs with reality...As I kept thinking about how I perceived God's involvement with His creation through either TWI teachings or my interpretation of the Bible - I, for lack of a better description, would try to look past these "intellectual embellishments." So, when I read of Adam and Eve in the Garden I see an account of God as a parent letting His kids become responsible people. Even if that meant they royally screw things up. He had them work in the Garden. He let Adam name the animals. I'm not saying God is aloof - uninvolved with His creation. I'm saying He really put a lot into it - and again for lack of a better description - let's it run it's course... ...On another thread when someone stated "you can't go beyond what you're taught," I then debated that point by asking what if the student goes beyond the teacher or better yet how are discoveries made or technology improved upon or even invented. The person's response to the source of discoveries and technological advancements was they either got it by revelation from God or the Devil. I asked for scriptural references for their assertion and still have not received any. I mention the debate here - not to belittle the poster - but to reveal a little more of my opinion on the subject [the subject of critical thinking and creative thinking]. Great discoveries and technological wonders [coming from "saint and sinner" alike] attests to man being made in the image of God - and this amazing thing He made - our brains! ...Again - just my opinion - but God strikes me as someone that often operates very subtly when He does get involved in the affairs of His creation. I think sometimes we want Him to be so overt - like in man's redemption. "Okay, God - just come on down to earth - strike this tree over here if you want me to believe." I wonder if that's how a lot of people were thinking the Messiah was going to come on the scene - with a powerful entrance - a king. Instead, a lowly carpenter shows up. I think about in the gospels where Jesus described how the Holy Spirit would work in our lives: like the wind blowing through the trees. You can see, feel, hear the effect of the wind - but you can't see the wind, can't see the source. I used to think the Bible was all about revealing the inner workings of the universe - where I could learn the secrets to have more power in my life. Now I think it's about the inner workings of the Spirit, of the heart, of the soul, etc. I tend to view the Bible as something that touches my soul as well as intellect. Since we are fallen creatures I think the Bible is more about giving us moral guidance than revealing "trade secrets of how to control reality." ...So, thinking about reducing my belief system down to a core of beliefs: I subscribe to the intelligent design theory, I believe this intelligent Designer also had the Bible written, I believe my top priority is to love God and my neighbor as myself...And this top priority is about relationships - with God and other people. So in my opinion - I think God chooses NOT to overpower us, or to come on strong. You know how some relationships can be: subtle, complex, profound, etc...To answer your question [finally after all that ] when I think "what if there is no God," the only thing I can come up with is: life is then meaningless - and wow what a fantastic orderly chain of events - I am one lucky dude - sure glad chance took a chance on me ! ...Again - thanks JumpinJive - great thread.

Dear Alfred Hitchcock, Thank you for your convenient offer - however I must decline for two reasons: I have grown quite fond of the Tribbles and according to City Code I would have to get a permit for each of your winged creatures with attached pedigree listing...I swear - sometimes I feel like giving Permit Clerk 25 the bird! Sincerely, Permit Clerk 1007

Dear Lady of soon to be manor and company, As we said to another Blissful resident here, "well, maybe one day your concerns will be addressed." Sincerely, Permit Clerk 25

Tom, were they personal pets of yours?....If so, why would you do something like that?

My favorite is the silent treatment - oops was I not supposed to come in here?

Okay, you all wanna just knock it off with the jokes about my personal ghost-writer editor - I'm starting to feel sub-conscious...I'm at work right now and shouldn't hafta feel like I gotta speak gooder english or something. I think some of you are envious of my crap craft - I guess some people have a way with words - and some people - - - er- - ahhh --- mmmm -not have a way.

National News Briefs FDA issues ‘Mark and Avoid’ label By Zipp BattyLips WASHINGTON – Hot on the heels of an ongoing investigation of Wonders Are Yummy by Ohio state Attorney General Liver MonkeyTush, officials at the Food and Drug Administration are taking an overly cautious approach. Chief FDA spokesman, Dorfus Snickleboob said “Anytime a pill manufacturer refuses to list the sources of their ingredients – red flags start popping up on our radar! That’s why we’re issuing a ‘Mark and Avoid’ label on the Pill for Abundant Living.” Some critics say the FDA is testing the waters with this case and will more than likely persecute other offshoots like the Freedom of Thought Pill or Tequila Rx. Neither one of these companies has released a comment on the FDA’s action – but one consumer who actually claims to use all three products, Slimy Flippin Humperdinck [who was found naked and vomiting over the porcelain throne at the time of his statement] said, “I totally bereeev [sic] this ain’t happen’ – it’s not – that’s my realty [sic] and I’m stinking [sic] to it.”

Dear Lady of the soon to be Manor, There is no way I can ever repay you or thank you for your patience and generosity. I am working at a feverish pace to come up with accommodations for all these Tribbles. Since you mentioned your architect was Inigo Jones I had him submit a design proposal for my Tribbles Wing. I guess it comes down to one's personal likes and dislikes. His design was a little too frou-frou for me – sort of like the Queen's Chapel at Saint James' Gang House of Holy Guitars and Such. You have been an inspiration for me to think outside the box [i'm probably going to pay heaven for doing this later] – I have tracked down the Ninth Corps of Engineers. Yes – that wild bunch of rag-tag architects and engineers, booted out of the City Planner's Office eons ago. They may be cut-ups and rebellious – but are endowed with one heaven of a creative spirit – in my humble opinion! I am looking forward to their design submittal. I must confess, as our dialogue continues I grow increasingly weary of this place and my stifling co-workers. This morning was such a double-edged event for me. Imagine my joy upon entering our office and being overwhelmed by all those comforting little Tribbles [i'm holding several right now as I write]. Then old stuck-in-the-mud Permit Clerk 25 starts snooping around my desk and finds your latest letter. After reading it, he informs me I must apply for the permit I've-got-more-freakin'-pets-than-you-can-shake-a-stick-at Form # 1,507,976 MFP. He grabbed the Permit Thesaurus off my desk, mumbling things that only Gene Rodenberry would understand as he hurriedly thumbed through the enormous text – finally stopping with a big "Aha!" exclamation. "Tell your Lady friend she'll have to apply for the Making Multiple Sci-Fi Cross References permit Form # 270,470,333,000,001.5 SFC." After which he walked off strutting like some proud hunter that just bagged a big one. Hoping this will all work out – for both of us, Permit Clerk 1007

Welcome to the Cafe, JWitt - here's a big cup of French Vanilla Cappuccino...I think you might like it here - relax - think out loud - don't worry about fitting' in here and you'll fit in just fine!

Dear Eager Homeowner, I will cancel Alley Oop and his crew of one Woolly Mammoth since you seem to have matters under control. However, your plans do touch upon several other permit requirements. Since you prefer a contractor of your choice, you will have to get him registered at City Hall . As you may have gathered already, our permits are very specific in addressing situations – so details are important. For registering Chewbacca you will need to use the permit My Contractor is a Wookie Form # 487,486,290 CIW. And please take note – DO NOT – I repeat – DO NOT confuse that with the other permit My Contractors looks like Leon Russell Form # 487,486,290 CLR. Sub-contracting is permissible in our City – but again that is governed on a permit specific-basis. For instance, if Chewbacca would like to sub-contract the roofing portion of your re-modeling project to say Santa Claus for example – he will need to apply for the Santa works for a Wookie permit Form # 487,486,295 SWW. Not to be confused with a similar permit, the Santa works for Leon Russell Form # 487,486,295 SLR. In all the excitement of my getting the 1,507,770 PWP Form signed by my "parents" and being caught up in the elaborate design of your San Diego Zoo-like home I neglected to point out something to you – a trivial oversight on my part – so sorry. The permit Form # 1,507,776 RFP does stipulate you have the right to resurrect ONE favorite pet. Your continuous adding of creatures to this Noah-esque mansion is cause for concern – I do not wish to rain on your parade – but do indeed offer you hope! Our permit generating department prides themselves on having a permit for everything. When I first started working here, I jokingly said, "I bet you dudes could get an atheist a backstage pass for the Heavenly Choir every Thursday," – and someone yelled out from a nearby cubicle, "Form # 42,320,482 ABP." You may apply for the I've-got-more-freakin'-pets- than-you-can-shake-a-stick-at permit Form # 1,507,976 MFP. Directions to Permit Office: City Hall is at the corner of Street of Gold Avenue and Street of Gold Street. Enter through the Front Pearly Doors and follow the "Permit Office" signs toward the back of the building. You will pass several doors: the "Ancient, Revered and most Esteemed Texts Commemorative Hall" Door, the "Book of the Month Club Hall of Higher Learning" Door, and the "Ineffable, Unfathomable, Inexhaustible 'THE' Thread" Door – after which is the "Permit Office" Door. Wishing you the best with your project, Permit Clerk 1007

Whoa Abigail, my heart goes out to your family - that includes your dog...These wonderful creatures become part of our family - like one of our kids. I think THEY think they're one of our kids. A Great Dane/Aussie Mix sounds like a big dog - and to be 15 years old. I often hear big dogs don't live as long...We had a Lab/Springer Spaniel. Sweetest dog in the world - when getting shots at the Vet's office she'd lick him....SHe got to be 14 years old, had tumors, problems controlling bowels, etc. It was hard to do - but my son [she was a Christmas present to him] finally decided the most loving thing to do was have her put to sleep...

Mr. Pipes, I for one would be interested in reading your letter [when ready to share] and even hearing some of the verbal responses. A lot of times they [verbal responses] can be more revealing - people tend to be a little more free with their thoughts than when committing something in writing.

LOL - That's pretty funny, 2fortheroad!!! [Now is that an Over-the-Counter drug that puts you under the counter? I wonder what happens if you take it with the Pill for Abundant Living mentioned further down in Silly?]

Good topic, Belle....I have a distinct memory soon after we left TWI. I was in a supermarket - the "outside world" was still scary, foreign, strange - I felt naked outside of some protective bubble. As I looked at people while strolling up and down the aisles - I was fighting back tears . The reason I was getting all choked up - I was beginning to notice how beautiful - and non-threatening everyone looked. I may have been holding back tears of shame - at the attitude I held about everyone outside of TWI.

Wow- Belle- is this the same lady that got the mammogram?....This one was funny and scary.

Okay - one more thing while I've got my soap box here [so what if I am short]...I have mixed feelings about TWI or any ORGANIZATION that says it's providing a genuine Christian service...If the organization is really trying to help people live the Christian Life - I say more power to 'em! It's something worthy of people's best efforts....Sometimes - sometimes - sometimes [a rare triple emphatic figure of speech of my own choosing] - I tend to think people are talking about saving the Body of Christ....Here's my personal theology showing: Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church - the invisible church - all those that belong to him make up this invisible church. Any denomination, church, organization, whatever visible grouping of people you name - is NOT the invisible Body of Christ. Some in the visible group may be also part of Christ's invisible group....

Welcome to the Café, Mr.Pipes...Now this is just my opinion of the effect of way-corps training on me - and please any Corps reading this don't take this wrong - I became a "mesmerized flunky for the man." Looking back on my TWI years I tend to think a lot of the people I admired for how they handled life never went in the Corps....SO, any corps reading this - please don't take this to mean I'm saying the corps training made everyone dullards....I think it's an individual thing - and my personality/thinking process and the Way Corps training ARE NOT a good mix....I knew a lot of very sharp people in the corps. In my opinion, their [TWI] mode of operation tends to suppress thinking [you've got to be especially Strong-willed to survive]. When I walked in a room there would be a hush over the crowd - I could hear someone whisper "The Kool-Aid is strong with this one." .......In my opinion - anyone in TWI who strives to change things for the better - is fighting an uphill battle because the organization is so encrusted in practical error as to nullify any minuscule attempts.

Thelonious Bone becomes Crusty Potty Dunkin...sounds like some dreaded skin disease contracted from a toilet, a new French Pastry or part of a song: "...on the third day of Christmas my true love gave to me a Crusty Potty Dunkin..."

Belle - excuse me for laughing at your woeful tale - but I wanna tell yah! You've got a knack for story-telling. That's like something you'd read in a Reader's Digest...I take it you did not sustain any physical injuries - hope your pride has a quick recovery!!!! Thanks for the laughs - you have set the tone for my day!!!

Happy B-Day Bagpipes!!!!!!!!!

Dear Nice New-Floor-Plan Type Person, Our legal department happened to catch wind of your abundantly zoological plans and wanted me to pass on to you a couple of necessary items. 1. Both you and Mr. Cousteau will have to sign the City's standard Waiver and Release Form # 0003 WAR, relieving the City of all responsibility/liability in the event of any shark/croc altercations. 2. A $h_t Happens Containment Structure MUST be in place no later than 90 days from when aforementioned critters are placed in close proximity to each other - out of consideration and concern for the safety of the rest of the City's fine residents. Also, to let you know the City is currently backlogged on modifications to existing mansion structures and is having to contract out further projects. With that being said, we can have Alley Oop and his Woolly Mammoth come by your mansion this Friday between 8 and 5 to begin excavating. Sincerely, Just-Doing-My-Job Type Person

'fraid not Dmiller, - we were both at work when the spirit of stupidity just whelped up inside me! I know I done wrong - sorry :(

Oh geez - where's my manners?!?! I'm sorry TwiNot - there I go zeroing in on a making a joke I totally forgot about welcoming you...Anywho - please - please - pahhleeeeeez allow me to offer you a very special cup of French Vanilla Cappuccino.[from my private stock - - well....er...from Sam's] - Welcome, Welcome, Welcome - and I'll teach you the secret handshake tomorrow.

TopOfTheWorld and TempleLady - you two are crackin' me up!!!!!!!! :lol: What a come-back TempleLady!!!! I tell yah - I just thought of this dumb thing as a solitary post - had no idea any Café folks would extrapolate it all out of proportion! :) This is like Who's line is it Anyway gone wild! ...I'm gonna have to keep the GSC Patrons in mind as I think up this stuff - leaving it open ended when I start....Thanks mucho!!!!!

Dear Happy Pet Lover but Troubled Gardner, Since the Glory of God illuminates our fine City and every wall is Crystal Clear Jasper - it really doesn't matter where your cats are sitting - ain't no sun going down! However, you may want to re-position your Garden to the east wing - instead of having your fish, mouse, etc. there. The west wing of the adjacent mansion is occupied by Jacques Cousteau and he already has his pet shark Lucky on that side...Things could get a little dicey if Lucky were to get a bead on something moving in your east wing. And the City of God cannot be held liable for such catastrophic events [we're not sure if the crystal clear jasper walls are unbreakable].