When Traditional Wisdom Doesn't Suffice - Just ask God for a Plague!

In the beginning, God created the heavens and the earth.... and then He had to screw it all up by adding people. smile

I would like to give the old Israeli rabbi a break. All are aware of the reverse order of operations with human growth and development. There is the return to diapers and soft food which can be gummed in delicate manner. The decline into elderly oblivion can also include the propensity to say anything and to hell with the world!

Those who achieve the mark as octogenarians are very comfortable in their own skin and feel they have earned the right to blow the cork off the bottle in same manner as the average two year old. What moves from brain to vocal cords can be amazing indeed. Hence, we have Rabbi Ovadia Yosef, tottery little 89 year old guy, filling the trenches with water and calling down fire from heaven on the prophets of Baal.

I would like to give the Rabbi a break but really can't bring myself to excuse a man who believes an epidemiological catastrophe the best available solution for Israel and her close-as-a-bedbug neighbor. Calling down biological warfare from the seat of heaven against the Palestinians is not a workable solution. God intended us to get our hands gritty to resolve issues which "plague" the human race. It is not within the grand design of things to relinquish ultimate power to a chosen few when it comes to maintaining orderly communities. For that, we have been bequeathed with brain cells.

But perhaps the old scholar should reflect on the words of God to Jonah:

"You have been concerned about this vine, though you did not tend it or make it grow.... But Ninevah has more than a hundred and twenty thousand people who cannot tell their right hand from their left, and many cattle as well. Should I not be concerned about that great city?"

Perhaps the rabbi needs a gentle kick? Israel's security is dependent on their government. That is one of the duties of government. But unleashing nature's fury and majesty remain in the domain of God. We can harness some of the power, but it remains limited and on finite scale. Let the old man have his say. In less than a month he will reach his ninetieth year. He will probably need help to blow out the candles on his cake. smile

But let the rest of us deny a "solution" which is really no solution at all. And then may wisdom prevail.

Asking God for a plague

Tammy Swofford

Katrina: Five Years and Counting...

*Category 4 Katrina made landfall on August 29, 2005, at 8:00 a.m.
*Average swells were 12 ft, but reached up to 27 ft
*The official death toll was 1,836
*705 people are still missing
*600,000 animals died or were left homeless
*275,000 homes were lost
*400,000 estimated jobs were lost
*Over 15 million people were in some way affected
*Cost to the government was around $110 billion
*Federal Assistance fraud is estimated at $1.4 billion

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Hurricane Katrina brought the best and worst out of people. You got to know exactly what kind of person you were dealing with during that time. I have often wondered why FEMA got all the heat, when Mayor Nagle pronounced the city as in “great shape” right after the storm hit. It was about 3 days later when he was screaming for help from the flood. Immediately FEMA came under attack, as did the President, for not being prepared. Prepared? How on earth could anyone be prepared for something like this, especially when told that everything was OK?

Never in our lives have we seen a natural disaster quite like this. Then the looters got the guns and ammo and started shooting, etc. You know the story. I am not likely to change your mind about the city of New Orleans or Hurricane Katrina. One thing I will brag about is the response that we Texans gave. I am no big fan of Rick Perry, but he certainly handled the Texas side of the equation very well. In Dallas, there were thousands of refugees that came to the city. I was privileged to be able to work a shift at the convention center for those with spinal pain. I also saw Mayor Nagle and his spin machine at work. Suffice it to say that there are a lot of people to blame for the lack of preparedness for this. But if you decide to build a house 5 feet below the sea level, be sure and buy a boat and flood insurance.

Jeff Cunningham

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While the federal branch floundered with reaction time to the Katrina Hurricane it must be remembered that nature's fury unleashed in an unanticipated manner. By the time the canal drainage systems and levees were breached to create the worst engineering disaster in our history, it was too late. Who can forget the yellow bus "graveyard"? The school bus queue unable to move forward to ferry precious cargo was just one visible presentation of the regional paralysis which overcame the affected areas. As the flood waters quickly mounted in wave-by-wave assault Americans were quick to respond to absorb the massive diaspora of those displaced by deluge. Tens of thousands of people were transported to the Dallas-Fort Worth and Houston areas. Church parking lots became staging areas for the new arrivals.

Busloads of people were unceremoniously dumped onto our church lots in the middle of the night to find sleepless citizens awaiting them to provide assistance. The state of Oklahoma also absorbed the hit in hard manner and many Americans dug deeply into their personal savings to assist the residents of New Orleans. There was a beehive of activity in the initial days following the Katrina disaster. It was most certainly disjointed at the grassroots level but within the activity, a mighty display of American heart.

Tammy Swofford

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I can tell you about earthquakes, but I haven't weathered a hurricane. I remember watching the satellite images and wondering where Katrina would land. We have no control over natural causes, but The Storm wasn't the sole problem. Our defunct infrastructure caused the greatest damage. The levees in New Orleans didn't hold. What The Storm didn't destroy, the water did.

Thank God for the strong will of the Gulf Coast people, who clung as long as they could to their land. Families began squatting in their own homes, with no electricity or running water. A few restaurants re-opened and didn't charge, just to help their neighbors to stay a little longer. We hear about the Harry Connick, Jr., the Marsalis family and Brad Pitt efforts, and God bless them for bringing aid and attention to this American plight.

N'awlins is a city that has roots deeply engulfed in our history. A lot of cultural history was lost during The Storm. It is like a war-torn region, ravaged and looted. Senior citizens and infants died in the streets. In hindsight I understand why the decision was made to not take pets aboard military vehicles. I was pissed off at Sean Penn for carrying a rifle and floating along the streets in a fishing boat, but... Yeah, I'm still not happy about that.

There is no good ending to this story, because the levees have not been reengineered. Let's get the main system rebuilt, but [CBS News] better. Let's give families fair market value for their homes. Let's get families all the help they need, including care for lingering medical concerns and counseling for PTSD. We can all dish out a few tax dollars for Haiti and Pakistan, why can't we help our own neighbors? Shouldn't we have seen more progress in the infrastructure in the Gulf states by now?

Now BP's catastrophe has halted the income of many small businesses in the Gulf. Less income taxes from that area, right? These folks can't catch a break, and will not be able to contribute to our economy until we repair the region. Let's not put a band-aid on an area that needs full surgery. They've already been anesthetized, I mean how much more can you ask a citizen to endure? Let's rebuild the region and get back to normal.

-Blackfoot

Miller vs. Murkowski: Post-Election Animosity

I have not yet met an Alaskan from any party who approves of the way Lisa Murkowski first gained her seat in Washington. When her father Frank stepped down from the Senate in 2002 to rule (read: iron fist) Alaska as Governor, he appointed Lisa to his unexpired seat. A few months later, Alaskans voted for a ballot measure that provided for a special elections vote, a clear sign that such nepotistic appointments would not be tolerated in the future. Lisa ran as the incumbent against (D) Tony Knowles in 2004. She won by a mere 4 points, but she fairly won.

With the fall of political giant Ted Stevens, Alaskans uncharacteristically voted (D) Mark Begich into office in 2008. He won by 1 point. This is a decision that will likely be remedied in 2014. (We thought 2012 sounded far away.) In the meantime, Lisa has been gaining experience, earning respect from her constituents in her own right, and gaining clout among her fellow senators. In short, I don't agree with all of her viewpoints, but I think she's doing a satisfactory job for Alaska.

The two campaigns were very different. Murkowski seemed a bit complacent. She has name recognition. Her approach was to cite a few of her accomplishments and to confirm her love for Alaska. She gave a local interview from the back of a personal vechicle (presumably her own), that had grimy, dog-nose-imprinted windows. Miller was a virtual unknown in the state. His TV ads began with photos of Sarah Palin and the Tea Party logo, with just a glimpse of him at the end. He concentrated on criticizing Lisa's voting record, sometimes presenting misinformation as fact. I don't mind a bit of mudslinging in these kinds of competitions, but only if it is accurate.

Alaska's primaries were held on August 24. The race is close, with Miller leading by about 1,700 votes. The Division of Elections is busy counting absentee ballots. There are more than 20,000 absentee and questioned ballots left to count. Both sides have brought in legal teams. It might be a while before we know who will be representing us.

In the meantime, the hostility continues. This is Joe Miller's Twitter post (since deleted) from Friday morning:

Murkowski's response

“Alaskans deserve better. This type of statement is inexcusable from someone who wants to represent our state. While I have been focused on the remaining ballots, the Miller campaign has launched yet another smear campaign against me. They lied about my record during the primary and now they have resorted to name-calling--it’s disgusting. Alaskan values have never included a complete disregard for the truth or a lack of common decency. Mr. Miller owes all Alaskans, women and my family an apology.”

Miller's Twitter apology:

Please accept my apologies. Staffer trying to encourage Libertarians not to sell out. http://bit.ly/93kXBr via web

Miller's telephone interview response to a local news channel on Friday evening:

"Let me make this very clear that that statement was not directed at her and, again, I do not believe a fair and objective review of the statement along with the link that was included with it could be reasonably construed to be directed at her. Again, I absolutely regret if she feels offended in some way by it, that it was not in any way directed toward her personally."

This tit-for-frat is a follow-up to a dispute regarding the NRSC being involved in the election process. Miller (an attorney and former federal judge) hired Palin's attorney Thomas Van Flein, who has filed a protest with the Division of Elections against Murkowski's ballot observer.

Miller:

NRSC needs to stay on the sidelines

http://bit.ly/bT4kp2 via TweetDeck

NRSC lawyers vs. your vote

http://bit.ly/dDAnaN via TweetDeck

Murkowski:

"We want to make sure that every Alaskan’s vote counts in this election. Mr. Miller shouldn’t be afraid of what the voters still have to say about this race. We have volunteers at polling sites observing the process and anticipate that when the final numbers are tallied we will prevail.”

Murkowski may perhaps not prevail. I wouldn't be surprised either way. Incumbents have been shaken up on both sides of the aisle in the past couple of national elections. Thanks, Obama. (Said both sincerely and sarcastically.) Since there are no term limits, difficult times like these serve to wake up Americans to take a closer look at what is happening inside the grand halls and quiet back rooms of Capitol Hill.

If Murkowski retains her seat, I hope she has realized that (for argument's sake) half her constituents are not in total agreement with her. If Miller takes over the reins, I hope he can keep his team of horses from driving him over a suicidal political cliff. Diplomacy and civility will take you far, Mr. Miller.

-Blackfoot

*On a side note: Joe Miller was involved in a [Fairbanks News-Miner] 3-car accident in Fairbanks at around 7:35 a.m. on Friday. According to the timestamps on his Twitter posts, [youtube] this video was posted very close to that time. FYI: Texting While Driving is a Class A Misdemeanor in Alaska.

Dr. Khurram Syed Sher, M.D.: Canadian Idol Terror Suspect

The news is emerging. But the profile is not one which is emerging, rather the new order of things.

Psychological Profile:

Pakistani educated in the West.

Family man raising children in the West.

In this case, the pathology has entered a pathologist. Do you understand? Z q m

As I finish up the copy edit on "Gestalt" I am adding a monograph titled "Dream Weavers" and including a section on the Islamic movements across the globe and their forward propulsion into the West.

Our foreign policy was asleep at the switch during the decade of the 1980's.

I will move back into geopolitical Islam and Islamic extremism and how various dynamics are presenting the asymmetrical threat we face today. Stay "tuned". Z q m

Link to article


Tammy Swofford

George W welcomes the troops

This morning I asked a friend, "Will you see George W. today?" I always ask him to convey my respectful regard. Anyway, no "George W" visit today but my fellow officer did send along a video clip. smile

Weekly tradition at DFW International Airport


Tammy Swofford

tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Corrupt Karzai Aide on C.I.A. Payroll

"K" is for "korruption". "C" is for "corruption". No matter how it is spelled "quorruption" is morally abhorrent.

Members of the Karzai administration and the C.I.A. have the appearance of a quasi-legal arrangement. Unfortunately, the barrels of cash program run by our intelligence agency in seeking to secure a few "friends" in Afghanistan is counterproductive to universal laws of governance. This is especially true with new administrations within conflict zones. By rite of passage, all governments must hobble along on sticks until there is national confidence in leadership. Corruption knocks the sticks right out from under the cripple.

The Karzai administration has been riddled with corrupt officials serving under a man who prefers nepotism and political favors to integrity in leadership. As for our C.I.A. the degradation of the use of field operatives and reliance on HumInt that began during the Carter administration reduces the relevance of the organization.The use of influence pandering to gather actionable intelligence is surely less effective than good old-fashioned leg work.

Naturally, I cannot back up my contentions with facts. I am not awash in illicit wealth and the only secret aspect of my life is the chocolate stash in my lingerie drawer. But where there is smoke there is fire. And the smoke has been billowing out of Afghanistan for quite some time. Is it possible for an intelligence apparatus to function with a higher level of integrity while still achieving operational goals? I can't answer that question. But the fact remains. My core Navy values bind me to *honor, *courage and *commitment. Where does courage find place amidst corruption?

Article Link

Tammy Swofford

The Best of Tom Gordon: Farewell to a Friend

Last week I received a sad telephone call, one which was not totally unanticipated but seemed too soon. I received a request to come to Tom Gordon's house to see him one last time. The visit was all about saying good-bye and reaching deep inside for that final thought and soulful remembrance.

It was October 13th of 2009 when I received the initial news from my friend and our fellow blog team member. A diagnosis of cancer had been received two months prior. In typical fashion, radiation had been weathered and months of chemotherapy were on the horizon. Yet Tom remained a practical man. Not a fuss and bother kind of guy he delivered the news with no more fanfare than the local pizza delivery is slapped unceremoniously into one hand with the other hand snaking out for a tip.

Tom and I shared a couple more meals and a few cups of coffee in the months which remained to him. When he couldn't tolerate the coffee, we both moved to drinking tea, and then water. At the beginning of summer I asked Tom if he should vacate work and take a vacation. His response? "I don't think the barge is here to pick me up yet." That made me smile. Tom never was one to indulge his feelings. He was a fairly private person.

He worked until the last day of July and then immediately entered hospice care. I paid my respects and became more a nurse than journalist as I gave my "Bon Voyage" speech. Those setting sail need to be reminded their presence will be missed. They also need to be told they are loved. Less than three days later, Tom Gordon passed away. This Navy gal will miss her surly Marine Corps friend who taught her the true meaning of free speech. The blog members are in agreement that we should pay tribute to a man who graced the masthead with us. There was only one Tom! He kept the rest of us on our toes, and at times, hopping mad! Continue reading!

Tammy Swofford

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Tom and I didn't agree on anything except one principle: Freedom of Speech was huge to Tom and he used that principle to the fullest. He could be a very thought-provoking person when he wrote. You knew that he didn't just throw a couple paragraphs together and try to make people mad. He documented his issues and he then challenged you to have a different view with the same type of proof of your opinion. In short, he reminded me of high school/college debate team members in taking a position and provoking what you say. He would cross examine you like a lawyer. In fact, I thought he WAS a lawyer. He could be difficult and abrasive at times. Few times would I call him "charming", but I suppose you could say that to me and make it stick. I never met Tom, at least face to face. Probably was better that way. I know his last days were miserable, but he left behind one strong statement: You may shout, scream, whatever you want. I still have my right to speak. And, I suppose, that might be the one thing that he and I agreed on.

Dr. Jeff Cunningham

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I'm not sure I feel safe hanging out in the Swofford patch very often any more. It was the death of another, dare I say shared, friend that Tammy and I met. That was five years ago. Very much the anti-Tom, "Ben" Mike Carter probably better-balanced the social conservative side of Tammy's blogworld from Tom than I ever could. Yet I so often looked forward to having Tom try to shred my stuff. It made me work harder to prepare supporting information. I found myself setting little traps to catch him. He made me a better writer and debate foe.

Don't get me wrong, Tom didn't debate. He just expected everyone else to. It's a little like driving to get your stubborn dad one day to apologize for the first time in your life. It's like pulling teeth, but about the moment it would happen you would feel this huge sense of loss. It's the same with Tom. I knew he would never give ground, even when he knew he was wrong...which was "always". I think if he ever did admit to such a thing I'd have no doubt felt dirty and alone.

I'm not sure I can get myself to read any of "the best of Tom Gordon". First, it's an oxymoron. :) Second, I'd be compelled to respond...and then there's this enormous chasm in my gut that realizes he will never spontaneously...ever...piss me off again.

It's not right... Can't do it. Can't read 'em. Most importantly, we both cared little for the Bush presidency...though for far different reasons.

I'll always pray that somewhere in his final moments he pondered the possibility of a Savior's offer...shared with him so many times by Tammy and others. But then also respecting his dry wit and popcorn fart of an attitude, I know he'd prefer the word "dirtnap" to be used to describe his whereabouts.

Rest in peace, Mr. Gordon...

Bob Miller

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Being invited to participate in Tammy's blog was an incredible honor. I didn't realize then how intellectually and emotionally involved I would later become. Most people claim they support Freedom of Speech, but here I found a guarded refuge for 1st Amendment rights. I also didn't realize then that I was joining a family. Yes, the Swofford Team has at times been somewhat dysfunctional; but underneath the disagreements and verbal challenges, we have always (well, most times) respected the forum and the opportunity to take part in profound discussions.

As most of the team members come from more Conservative points of view, Tom Gordon's contributions were often head-spinners. It's not that he was seldom right. To the contrary, Tom could get you to reconsider your own interpretations, through solid facts he presented. Tom probably enjoyed seeing the rest of us "spar" with readers who come into the comments section as much as we enjoyed seeing him defend his opinions. At the end of the day, though, I believe there is a true sense of brotherhood (and sisterhood, Tammy) among the Team. I am truly saddened to know that this great thinker's writing will never again grace the page. Rest in peace, Brother. Condolences to your family.

-Blackfoot

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Here are what we consider to be some of the best of Tom Gordon's blog entries. However, the list is far from complete. Regular readers may have your own favorites; please feel welcome to add your memories and sentiments in the comments section. Tom was well-educated on most topics and had solid opinions about each. You can agree or disagree with what he wrote, but one thing remains true:

Tom Gordon was steadfast in his convictions.

Fasten Your Seat Belts (June 2005 - Economy)

Should we Worry about Militant Islam? (Jan. 2006 - Geopolitical Islam)

Bushonomics (Feb. 2006 - Economy)

Your Money, or...Your Money (Sept. 2008 - Bailouts)

A "Coward" Speaks (Feb. 2009 - Racial Issues)

The Road Not Taken (July 2009 - Domestic Policy)

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We all know how Tom felt about Reagan, but this is how Reagan felt about Tom:

Some people spend an entire lifetime wondering if they made a difference.

The Marines don't have that problem.

-President Ronald Reagan (in 1985)

If the Army and the Navy ever look on Heaven's scenes,

They will find the Gates are guarded by United States Marines.

-Sgt. Bill M. Brower, USMC

Farewell, Tom Gordon. Fair winds and following seas.

IED-istan: Troop Losses in July 2010

It is quite the cottage industry. And it is in IED-istan that we are seeing a mounting number of losses. The loss of sixty-six U.S. military troops in July made this the deadliest month in the nearly nine-year-old war. There is a concurrent proliferation of videos showing basic IED construction. Most videos are 2-3 minutes in length but one in my archives is extremely detailed and short-film length. The top photo reflects basic IED construction and instruction. In the second photo the instruction for "thermal grenades". The fuel is being dispensed from the standard banquet coffee percolator. The third picture shows the careful sewing of the wicks. After the small sleeves are sewn they are carefully ironed and the final product is a white wick which looks like a scalene triangle. Continue to pray for our troops. They are being killed by primitive devices. This is a growth industry of a domestic product in IED-istan.

Tammy Swofford

Indiana Ruling Shows the Strength of America

The memory still stings as I remember an episode which occurred when I was a new R.N. at John Peter Smith hospital in Fort Worth. The charge nurse was a lovely registered nurse with beautiful dark skin. She approached me visibly shaken. In a low voice she recounted entering a room to start an I.V. site on a client. The lady told her she would not let a black woman "stick a needle" in her arm. I was asked to intervene for this simple task.

When I entered this client's room it was with deadly calm that I slipped the angiocath into her vein and hooked up the intravenous fluid. I then delivered my message with the same deadly calm and sense of purpose. The exact words expressed to this uneducated white woman are not remembered. But I can assure you it was a scathing indictment against her prejudice. Luckily, that was the only case ever encountered with a white patient demanding a caregiver of the same race.

Encounters with the care preferences of the elderly in nursing homes are disappearing as the generation of those who actively pursued the prejudice of their youth are entering their final years. Once a prejudice is nurtured and harbored it is difficult to lay to rest. Our elderly grew up in a culture which the greater part of younger Americans no longer support. Thank God for progress!

Each American has the right to a safe level of healthcare which meets national standards. But patient rights should not be confused with patient prejudice.

Link to article

Tammy Swofford
tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Dr. Laura Schlessinger: Using the "N" word

Laura, Limbaugh and Hannity. What adjectives come to mind? Do you think of a support group environment with a box of Kleenex? Perhaps you will locate your inner child. Do you call in and get the feeling of lying on a beach with the waves gently nipping at your toes? Of course not!

Do you adore entering the media arena to be mauled by lions? Then do make the call. But don't cry like a baby when the jaws snap shut on your opinion.

Laura, Limbaugh and Hannity are pithy and unforgiving with their audience. I am not a fan of the LLH Team, but I do support their right to freedom of expression. The text to the "N" word dialogue can be found at James Oppenheim's site.

Oppenheim Arts and Letters

Tammy Swofford

From Cordoba House to Park51: The Media Shell Game Continues

The beginning point of the Ground Zero mosque was in 2003 when Imam Feisal Rauf established a non-profit organization, The Cordoba Initiative. Since December 2009 the battle has been raging regarding the wisdom and underlying reason for acquiring property to construct a towering mosque structure in near proximity to the site where thousands of Americans lost their lives to acts of Islamic extremism.

Initially the embers of dissent smoldered quietly. But soon a spark within the psyche of many Americans began to stoke a bonfire. Following the media coverage of the event is like dropping a slinky on a step and watching it "walk" its way down a flight of stairs. Most articles seek a middle ground which presents both sides. That is the safe course of action and lacking in journalistic conviction. But within the last couple of weeks, an intentional media shift which removes the title "Cordoba House" from the project to replace it with "Park51" is readily apparent. Unfortunately, the lexicon shell game does not change the nature of the problem.

Our President boldly declares the Constitutional right to freedom of religion. He aligns himself with people who would declare all who are opposed to the mosque project as religious bigots. Am I a bigot? Or am I a sensitive soul? I have found that asking the wrong question always produces the wrong answer.

Here are two questions which do require consideration:

*Is this an idea born out of season?

* Is the project insensitive to a majority of Americans?

Here is a third question for contemplation:

*Do attempts to redefine word usage resolve problems?

The Cordoba Initiative can spin the news as "Cordoba House", "Park51" or a bridge-building endeavor. For many of us the plan is not only insensitive, but arrogant. We still see a dead priest being carried away on a chair by firemen. We see a hole in the ground and lists of missing without nary a corpse to bury. The Twin Towers became a massive crematorium. Pardon me for being emotional, but my humanity has its own demands. One of the demands is to honor the dead with my remembrance of what happened on 9/11/2001.

The plan needs to be ditched. Our President needs to learn to identify with the greater sentiment attached to 9/11. But call it not bigotry which opposes this mosque, rather call it a gaping wound which is scraped and bleeding to the tune of 100 million dollars. I oppose the project. For all the right reasons. And to my Muslim friends, I offer no apology for the view into my own psyche. But I do send along a hug for the law of unintended consequences. We can choose our course, but we cannot choose the consequences. Should any readers choose to comment please direct your words toward the effect of 9/11 on your psychological well-being.

Tammy Swofford

The Duggar Family: What Lies Behind the Mask?

By the time Jim and Michelle Duggar announced the arrival of their sixteenth baby in 2005, I considered it unhealthy for media to give interview time and print space to this couple. The latest cover of People magazine sent me over the edge.

I harbor a few concerns. Mr. Duggar makes sure all the children are bequeathed with names which begin with the letter "J". His wife has a name which begins with the letter "M". There are not any children named Mark or perhaps, Mary.

'Tis not enough. The children don't perform chores, but they do have "jurisdictions". There seems to be a "J" fetish afoot.

All of the children play the violin and a bit of piano is mixed in. What if a child wants to tackle a big band or wind instrument instead? My guess is one of the pack would love a set of drums and secretly likes the sound of rock n' roll.

Michelle has rarely had the opportunity for her pregnancy hormones to disappear and her frame to readjust between pregnancies. Should any brave soul dare consider how long her spouse allows her pelvic rest prior to embarking on making the next child in his own image? The average obstetrician is hopeful his client will be allowed six weeks for recuperation from the hard production and labor a woman endures to bring the fruit of the womb to life. It would also seem a bit hard to enjoy the wonderful toddler years of a child when the next baby is in the arms and another in the oven.

Undoubtedly Jim's smile is genuine. But what about some of the photos with the children showing plastered smiles for the latest photgraphy session? But most of all, I wonder about the life Michelle might have enjoyed had she never met Jim. Will she look back on her life as completely malleable to the demands of a husband yet incomplete in other aspects which make it worth the living? It is hard to believe the fairy tale adorned with Biblical admonitions.

Tammy Swofford

tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Gestalt: Nearing the Finish Line

My previous brief, "Al-Qaedah: Deconstruction of the Deen" was a work of tactical poetics directed against a terror organization and distributed into a network of Islamic scholars, military conduits, the imam community, et al.

The brief "Gestalt" is written for a Western audience. I will finish it up this week and put the manuscript to bed. This will allow a couple of weeks to review the document against my files and strengthen the writing a bit. Unsure of the release date yet, but it will travel to the east coast for an initial look by a professional peer. After that it will travel via a distribution list of my contacts. The brief is a presentation of condensed monographs:

*Coming up over the Berm

*Introduction

*The Qur'anic Sciences as Cryptograph

*Urdu Ghazal

*Jihad: The Transaction for the Soul

*Islam: Origin of Ironclad Mentorship (Advance Party)

*Islam: Origin of Irondclad Mentorship (Main Body)

*Sayyid Qutb

*The Minotaur's Labyrinth

*Drawing Muhammad

*Jews, Christians and Munafiqeen

*Mother Goose and the 3 D's of Islam

*Limitations on Freedom of Expression

*Stability and Containment of Cauldrons

*The Falcon's Nest



Please direct any query for a copy of the brief to my primary email account:



tammyswofford@yahoo.com

President Zardari: Fiddling in France with Flooding in Pakistan

President George W. Bush did it right. We were hit with a catastrophic man-made disaster on Sept. 11, 2001. By the evening of the same day Americans crowded around their television sets hanging onto every word of our Commander-in-Chief. Seated at his desk in the White House we knew our leader was both at the helm and in the home on a day in which the nation was in desperate need for a word of guidance. To this day, I remain appreciative that Mr. Bush made the decision to speak from the Capitol instead of from inside a fortified bunker deep within the bowels of a mountain. He was a part of the people and showing himself to be amongst us in our desperate time of need.

The disaster still evolving in Pakistan is an act of nature. Yet perhaps a lack of understanding of a basic principle of leadership evades President Zardari. As soon as the flock perceives a dramatic change in the environmental landscape the shepherd must be visibly present within the pasture to calm the sheep. The shepherd's crook is the rod of authority but it is the shepherd's presence which restores the restive flock. The people of Pakistan had a growing sense of alarm as the devastating losses faced with monsoon rains and swelling rivers mounted. The domestic front became more important than the international scene. The calendar should have been cleared and the world at large would have awaited the return visit of a head of state at a later date.

Sandals floating down the river will document the toll of human misery in Pakistan. But the perception of a president detached from the misery of his countrymen will increase for every hungry belly gnawing at a backbone.

Commander in Chief George W. Bush



Tammy Swofford

Usama Bin Ladin: Ramadan Message

Ramadan messages abound. But none is quite so lengthy as the video posted with English translation of Usama bin Ladin explaining the Battle of Tabuk through the eyes of Ka'ab Bin Malik. Nothing incredibly new. The text and Hadith is on my shelf. But interwoven into the tale, a message of jihad.

In actuality, the Battle of Tabuk gave rise to various jurisprudential rulings including a fifty day ostracization period imposed against those men who along with Ka'ab Bin Malik engaged dereliction of duty. It was damn hot, the journey was one of approximately 200 miles toward the Syrian border and the opposing force was considered a powerful adversary. The mutiny consisted of approximately eighty men. They were allowed to stay behind and dealt with on the return of the Muslim army.

The message is extremely strongly worded, delivered in commanding style and the English translation is quite good. Offered as a "Ramadan Gift" it remains unclear when the actual video was filmed.

Tammy Swofford

Dokka Umarov: Political Bifurcation

The news coming out of the Islamic Caucasus Emirate continues to be one of mixed signals regarding the resignation of Amir Dokka Umarov. One flank of analysts point to the recent addition of Mujahideen Abu Usman to the State Department list as a designated global terrorist as the reason for the sudden resignation. I believe that there was a prior event which brought about this announcement. This resignation is less about our State Department and more about a crisis of confidence within the ranks of the Chechen insurgency.

March 2010. Dokka Umarov created a political bifurcation within his ranks. His approval to release female suicide bombers to accomplish an attack on the Moscow subway system came back on this man in huge manner. The site which I monitor (not KavKaz, which is the mother ship) experienced a grass-roots revolt against this act. While the webmaster did not back down in his approval of the use of female combatants, later weeks showcased articles on family values. In schizophrenic manner, one article spoke of men being the guardians of women. Figure that one out.

The August 2 resignation was almost as quickly refuted with a letter declaring the prior announcement null and void, stating that Umarov would continue to lead. Yet the rumbling still continues. On August 6, an open letter and appeal to the Amir to please continue to steer the ship. So the political situation must still be considered fluid.

Part of the hullabaloo does have to do with an understanding of Islamic jurisprudence. A famous discourse between Prophet Muhammad and an appointee as governor of Yemen comes to mind. Dokka Umarov is scrutinized based on such precedents.

Regarding who will come out on top - Dhul Qa'dah 6 A.H. and Al-Hudaibiyah come to mind. The bifurcated ranks will determine to whom is owed their Bai'a. They will make these pledges under the trees of the forest, just as was done with Prophet Muhammad and his ranks as Ma'qil bin Yasar held up the branch of the tree. (Qur'an 48:18)

While the recent State Department designation against the Amir Dokka Umarov may play a part in this recent turn of events, the man is too wiley and has survived too long to be easily moved by our policies. But mutiny within his ranks? He may be a man who is marked by his own former loyalists. My concern? The forest fires in Russia could prove the necessary cover for Dokka Umarov to mount a spectacular attack to regain a measure of respect and status. If so, the attack will be mounted by a cadre of men. Women need not apply.

Tammy Swofford

George W!

This photo came into my email from a member of MOAA. My local chapter membership is an important part of my life .

One of our ladies volunteers for the USO. Several of our members make the weekly trek to meet and greet the troops at DFW airport. What a joy for returning troops to be greeted with the warmth of personality for which our prior Commander-in-Chief is remembered. Yeah, I admire George W. He is the real deal.

Click here.

Tammy

America: The State of the Union will Remain Strong

During the last presidential election cycle I spent quite a bit of time discussing issues with professional peers. One friend in California simply said, "Tammy, the State of the Union will remain strong." I took great comfort in his perspective. As a decorated combat veteran and Army Reserve Ambassador his love for this land runs deep.

It is amazing to reflect that during the early years of our nation there were citizens who also harboured fears for the dissolution of the state. Our first president, George Washington, was a commanding public figure and popular amongst the vast majority of Americans. After turning down a third term, it was John Adams who became the second president of our nation. During his term was a season in which government assumed what were considered excessive powers. The Alien and Sedition laws strengthened a centralized government at the expense of the individual American and his liberty. Americans were uneasy regarding the course of our nation. Sound familiar?

But then Thomas Jefferson took the helm. In comforting manner he spoke these words during his inaugural address:

"If there be any among us who would wish to dissolve this Union or to change its republican form, let them stand undisturbed as monuments of the safety with which error of opinion may be tolerated when reason is left free to combat it."

To this day we retain the gift of freedom by which reason combats error of opinion. In a sense, we must allow the error. The nature of truth is that it rises up in the face of error. So the dynamic of error is that it is the keyhole to truth. "We hold these truths to be self-evident...."

Truth in the end. That has always been the manner in which Americans act and react. We weigh opinions but we seek the truth of a matter. We are patient to sort things out and let things run a natural course. We await the graceful rise of truth in our midst.

It is good to be an American. It is good to come from such good stock. The State of the Union will remain strong.

Tammy Swofford
tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Taliban Executes Pregnant Widow

Tiny fingers reached out slowly into the dark warmth of the environment seeking out small pink lips and the sucking reflex of small tongue. Familiar with her mother's voice the tiny head with tight wet black curls turned ear toward sound of voice. Three days had passed and her mother no longer sang a familiar little song. The tiny ear listened to a new sound, a sob which echoed like miniature waves rippling across water.

The small girl moved toward the hand resting on swollen belly. This was a comforting sensation which slowed the heartbeat and gave a sense of drowsiness. Kicking out a leg a bit in her tight compartment, she soon curled back up, small knees against chest and with a thumb in her mouth.

Screaming awakened the small hidden gift of God and little arms and legs flailed out in a startle reflex. Tiny toes flexed and spread repeatedly and hearbeat quickened.

The tiny life winced and the amniotic fluid became contaminated due to fetal distress. Small capillaries in the eyes burst right along with fragile tympanic membranes. Contusions and signs of battering multiplied across the almost translucent skin. Although the small bundle of life could not count the lashes it was near the end when the placenta began to rupture and bradycardia led to death.

A few moments later, her mother joined her in paying the price for being a female under Taliban rule.

Sadly,
Tammy

Prisoner in Afghanistan Kills two U.S. Marines

The blog title reflects how the news broke regarding the death of two Marines in Afghanistan. The official press release reads as follows:

"The prisoner escaped a room where he was observing prayer time, acquired a rifle and subsequently engaged Afghan and coalition forces. The Marines were killed while trying to subdue the prisoner," said NATO in a statement.

Unfortunately, the news came to me via a website run by the Taliban. The title had a few choice adjectives attached and was the usual communique which I merely call a rant-a-thon. Still, the need to scout for pertinent words and phrases. Ahhh, here it is:

"We ask Allah to accept our brave Muslim brother among martyrs in Eelleyeen" (high rank in the paradise).

I actually use a different spelling for Eelleyeen and its counterpart. These terms are: Illeyeen and Sijjeen.

The Qur'an, Surah 82 begins the story of these two concepts and Surah 83 nails it down.

Qur'an 82:10-12 tells that all events in a life are written down by guardian angels.

Qur'an 83: 7- 9 tells of Sijjeen - a prison record (a written record of hell) which is placed into the left hand of the unbeliever.

Qur'an 83:18-20 tells of illeyeen - the register of the righteous (preserved in Paradise) given into the right hand of the believer.

The Talib's message with their word usage is two-fold. A Muslim prisoner in custody escaped his earthly "prison record" and attained to the register of the righteous. He took a couple of our Marines out in the process.

Tonight Muslims across the world will spend the night in prayer at their mosques. (Tarawih) This is the beginning point for the Ramadan fast which begins in the a.m.

But in what manner will the news be delivered to the families of the Marines who lost their lives? An accomodation for daily religious rites in a war zone needs to be reconsidered. Troop safety supercedes need for religious observance. Ethical treatment of prisoners, but the securest measures for custody.

Tammy Swofford

Levi Johnston: Just Another Useless Sperm Donor

Am I the only cranky American who is beginning to dread the coming political season? Levi Johnston's attempt to go the candidacy-to-wealth route is nothing new. Ask some of our incumbents how they moved from middle-class Americana to entitled public officials. Ask Rep. Maxine Waters. She knows the drill.

But is Levi Johnston really much different than our standard slate of sperm donors gracing the halls of our Capitol?

"I love ya' baby, really I do!"

The voters walk away inspired with hope, bearing an increasingly difficult tax burden, and give birth to political progeny with names like "Democrat", "Republican" and "Tea Party".

I remain a part of the anti-incumbency movement. There is one exception. I am a campaign staffer for an incumbent and am working to craft his message to obtain a wide point spread against the opponent. He is an honorable man. Other incumbents on my party ticket may not receive the same vote of confidence in the coming election. We should all vote wisely.

But let's vote out the sperm donors.

Tammy Swofford

Article Link

Anwaar Hussain: For the Good of Pakistan

Dear Readers,

Please take the time to read the latest commentary from Anwaar Hussain's site.

Tyranny's Worst Form

Societal homeostasis is dependent on sound domestic policy. Concepts of governance must be activated through theoretical models which actually work. Any policy which polarizes extremes, targets a vulnerable minority or sustains and gives privilege to a special class is detrimental to the common good.

May common sense prevail amongst all of us. smile

Tammy Swofford
tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Pakistan Floods: Monsoon Rains and Mounting Misery

Each wave of news is worse as Pakistan continues to be battered with some of the worst monsoon rains and flooding in eighty years. Approximately 500,000 people have fled the flooded regions. According to Pakistan, an estimated 13 million citizens could be directly affected.

Let's place this number within a different frame of thought. I reside within the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex. The July 2009 Census Bureau placed our population at approximately 6.5 million inhabitants. Double it and consider the misery in Pakistan today.

After Hurricane Katrina every hotel, motel and nook and cranny in the Dallas-Fort Worth area harboured the flooding victims. The city of Houston also absorbed a large portion of the Katrina flood diaspora. FEMA trailers later provided additional housing for families from New Orleans and outlying areas. Debit cards for families to make clothing and food purchases were distributed and many citizens also assisted the victims in hands-on manner during the initial influx. Pakistan has no comparable infrastructure for catastrophic natural disasters.

Next week Muslims across the globe will begin the commemoration of Ramadan. During this time the wealth-cleansing tax of zakat will be distributed. Within zakat administration, eight separate allowable conduits to distribute financial gifts. Of these, the first two categories go to *the poor (faqir) and *the indigent (miskin). Although the jurisprudential schools bicker a bit regarding the status of each, the fact is the bottom two categories represent members of society who do not possess enough to make do and are immobilized by lack of any goods or means to better their lives. Zero cannot be multiplied.

The flooding in Pakistan will cause a new category requiring zakat. I am not sure what the word would be in Arabic, but "paralysis" comes to mind. A refugee population suffering malnutrition and distress will also fall prey to vector-borne disease. For some the paralyzing reality of this situation will lead to death.

Have you taken a moment to pray for Pakistan today?

Tammy Swofford
tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Dying for Love

The photo above is from a jihad site in support of Chechen insurgents. It accurately portrays the goal of such groups, a dominance of Islam over Christianity. The opportunistic spokesman for the Taliban opined that Americans in Afghanistan returning from a medical mission were killed for spying. The second unpardonable act? "Preaching Christianity".

What does Christianity preach? Love the Lord thy God. Love thy neighbor as thyself. The sum total for the survival of humanity was expressed by Jesus in two simple commands with one dominant theme.

Love.

What a beautiful choice.

Article link to death of American civilians in Afghanistan

Tammy Swofford

Raising Children

There is a great Mongolian grill a few miles from our home. For about thirty bucks our family can have an all-you-can-eat experience and leave with a fortune cookie in hand. So we all disembarked from our vehicle a few days ago to allow me a reprieve from the kitchen.

Trotting along at a quick pace like hounds scenting a racoon were "The Swofford Boys". Towering walls of courage I can proudly attest to the truth: strong as apes and half as smart. Who would have thought that anyone could survive raising boys?

The eldest is all thick skull, backbone and knuckles. Imagining him a mathematical and literary genius at the time of his birth I slowly come to the realization that he settles all scores with his fists. Specimen no. 2 has small deeply recessed eyes and low set ears. We all know what that means. He also has the personality of a squid.

Christians love naming their progeny after the Biblical patriarchs or the disciples of Jesus. So boys end up with names like Jacob, Matthew or John - which in Texas are shortened to things like Jake, Matt or J.J. I should have named my guys Judas and Beelzebub.

Last month I was whipping up a birthday cake for the son considered the first sign of a man's strength. I briefly considered poisoning the frosting. Instead, a more noble course of action was chosen. I reached for a jar of maraschino cherries.

The book of Proverbs declares, "Sons are a heritage from the Lord, children a reward from him." (Proverbs 127:3)

Children remind us of things we know about ourselves but perhaps have forgotten with life's passage. They remind us of the gifts of the Creator.

*We are gifted with free will. Our children show this gift when they are about two years old and face off their forty pound frame with an adult frame three times their size and weight. As soon as their little vocal cords can yell the word "No!" the gift of free will is in full throttle and unadulterated destructive mode.

*We are gifted with freedom of expression. As our children question our authority and form opinions it reminds us that we also retain such choice today.

*We are gifted to be free moral agents. Human growth and development of our progeny brings us to the fearful season where hormones and brain cells can be a mismatch. These are the years where knees are bent in prayer for our children. The transition from immaturity to full-fledged maturation can take years.

As I was baking for my son Wayne Watson's song "Watercolour Ponies" was playing. It is one of my favorites. The link is below and the actual song starts at the 2:50 mark. Enjoy!

Watercolour Ponies

Lisa Turkki: The Nature of Evil

The emergence of any small factoids regarding the vicious knife attack on two young girls in their own home is really irrelevent in the end. The nature of evil becomes clearly visible in the aftermath of such things.

Evil is predatory yet prefers to work in secret.

Evil has little regard for age, weakness and vulnerability.

Evil regards other humans as targets as opposed to companions.

Evil crouches until making calculated leap.

I don't give a double damn if Ms. Turkki suffered any disability, was off her medication, or merely harbored a long-standing and seething family resentment. Her actions denote evil. This is the thing to be remembered when seated on a jury and pondering the nature of violence.

The duty of the jury panel is to mete out justice based on the preponderance of evidence shown that a crime has been committed. Two bloody knives, a kitchen bathed in blood and two little girls recovering from multiple stab wounds should suffice.

Pray for the children today. My lips will not utter a prayer for the accused.

Lisa Turkki

Tammy Swofford

Taliban Revenge and WikiLeak Documents

The news is certainly not good coming out of Afghanistan. The turn of events with the Taliban sending out threatening letters with their first follow through against a tribal leader is supportive of primary source documents of Islam. Military traditions were established and expanded under the first four Caliphs - Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman and Ali.

The Qur'anic Sciences offer up standard operating procedures regarding warfare. Long before we considered the issue of base allowances the Abbasid Dynasty had put such things in place. They even considered the issue of support for the warrior's children.

Exchange of prisoners and treatment of female POW's? Regulations in place.

Use of scouts, coded messages and women in the battlespace? A female courier with a message hidden in her hair comes to mind. Existent during the time of Muhammad, the use of women in jihad runs as a small thread through the historical fabric. Women to support the supply lines, etc. when moving against an invading force is acceptable. Beyond that lies the solid legal jurisprudence and precedence, keys from the Qur'anic commentaries and Hadith which we lack.

Military engagement during time of war and Ramadan? Check the box. Operational tempo is not dialed down during a month of fasting. Again - the contingency plan is put into play.

Military bearing of officers in quarters with their troops? The first Caliph Abu Bakr took care of that issue as he managed a battalion strength force of men.

Care of cavalry assets? Check the box.

Allowances for biological warfare? In certain circumstances.

Possible spin on certain events to justify suicide bombings? Yep.

Dealing with traitors? Brutal retaliation.

Prayer during time of war? Allowed within guidelines, and yes, with weapons by the side.

Regarding the security risk posed by WikiLeaks, existent! "If, while you are united under one man's leadership, anyone tries to break your strength, or to disrupt your unity, kill him." (Sahih Muslim, on authority of 'Arfajah) Amruhum shura baynahum. The inner council has spoken. Now they act.

**********************************************************************************

*Editorial slap: The CIA passing out Viagra to curry favors among tribal leaders is one of the more stupid stunts pulled in a theater of operation. Perhaps it is important to think on a higher level?

Tammy Swofford

tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Freedom of Expression: Gardens of Thought v Walls of Thought

America is a nation gifted with vibrant ideas. The expansive allowance of our Republic for freedom of expression has produced a passionate people who are unafraid to voice their opinions. Yet within our nation there are two distinct groups. The one group prefers gardens of thought. Their counterpart, embraces walls of thought. The status of our current political parties (including the rise of the Tea Party) certainly show our lines of demarcation and the walls we build in a brick-by-brick manner.

My own life actually reflects both styles of expression. My convictions are a wall of thought. A conviction is a belief which is unchangeable and for which I willingly offer up my blood. I believe our nation is worthy of military defense. For that reason I choose to wear the cloth of the nation. I also love chocolate ice cream. My blood will not be shed for it. Preferences require little sacrifice. So regarding convictions, a wall of thought. Regarding my preferences, a gentle sense of humor.

The greater part of me embraces a garden of thought. I prefer to pick a flower and offer it to you. In return, pick one for me from your own garden. Having an easy conversational style with others speaks of friendship.

In the post below you will readily distinguish the manner of freedom of expression employed by the speakers of a global online conference. They are men who have walls of thought. They would prefer to rip a brick off their wall and throw it at your head.

Keep your own freedom a garden. Make your neighbor smile. And live in peace with all men.

Tammy

Radical Islam and the War Against the West

Solutions or sedition? That is the question.

Abdullah bin Laden, director of the U.S. branch of WAMY was quietly escorted to an aircraft and sent home after 9/11. Seditious. Time to head home, Abdullah.

As there is a continuing push to marginalize certain voices there is an equal attempt to keep the drumbeat of sedition moving along.

Take for example Omar Bakri Muhammad, with his chatty little talk on "Conquest of Washington". He is a schizophrenic type of individual. With a "Good Riddance" stamp on his passport he still tried to make his way back to the United Kingdom via a Royal Navy vessel dispatched to help British citizens seeking to leave Lebanon in 2006. Why did he seek to return to the land of the Union Jack? Love of fish and chips? No. Just a mere desire to build his next hornet's nest of radicalism.

Swofford's wish list for such men as the conference speakers?

*Passports without stamps - geographic marginalization.

*Denial of platforms and voice magnification. These are issues of exploration as I continue to write on freedom of expression and volatile societal rims.

*A rising recognition by the Muslim community residing in the West that such men have no place in a democracy. Many are doing their part to moderate these issues.

Solutions or sedition?

Tammy Swofford

tammyswofford@yahoo.com

Book Review: Genghis: Birth of an Empire

My life has intersected with the sea of grass along the steppes of Mongolia. The time I spent with a medical team from the U.S. working out of three gers next to a river provided a rich addition to my memory bank. To this day the thought of the lovely Mongolian people and their rich traditions brings a smile to my face. Each morning I step out of bed and onto a small area rug with the face of Chinggis Khaan. (The preferred spelling used in Mongolia) It reminds me that women hold a bit of power too. The novel by Conn Iggulden is a selection which was not written at the time of my trip to Darkhan. My venture into a great land which remains virtually untouched by modern technological advance would have had added meaning.

The novel begins with a raid by Yesugei at the time of the birth of his second son, Temujin. Born with a clot of blood in his hand, this is the son of the khan who will pass through the furnace of hardship to become the very essence of his name which acceptably translates as "iron".

The story is seen primarily through the eyes of the protaganist. The early childhood with the protection of a father who is feared by all is shattered by an act of betrayal. Temujin grasps the nature of men and power with a clarity which does not keep him from killing his own brother to ensure family survival.

The novel ends with Temujin changing his name to Genghis Khan. He is consolidating the tribes into one great people, "the silver people". The appeal in this selection is the ability of the author to show principles which are necessary for command leadership. He also shows the humanity and vulnerability of the tribes which require the ruthlessness of the warriors to assure their bloodlines will not die.

The novel moves as quickly as the gallop of the horse and the approximately 400 pages of reading left me with a sense of longing to read the next novel in this series. Surely, it will soon make its way to a publisher!

Tammy Swofford
tammyswofford@yahoo.com