Wednesday, December 28, 2005
As you have noticed, it is Christmas break.
That means there will be a rather extended hiatus (well, according to my usual posting schedule).
To fill you in:
I am working 8 hour days at the Catholic bookstore that I love.
I am going swing dancing in Chicago for New Year's Eve.
My birthday is January 3rd - which means it's this coming Tuesday. Get excited now. :)
I got an A- in that class which is very exciting.
And everything else is pretty much hunky-dory, although I burn, I pine, and I perish when it comes to thinking about being back at Loras (I know, egads!).
That's all I have for you.
That means there will be a rather extended hiatus (well, according to my usual posting schedule).
To fill you in:
I am working 8 hour days at the Catholic bookstore that I love.
I am going swing dancing in Chicago for New Year's Eve.
My birthday is January 3rd - which means it's this coming Tuesday. Get excited now. :)
I got an A- in that class which is very exciting.
And everything else is pretty much hunky-dory, although I burn, I pine, and I perish when it comes to thinking about being back at Loras (I know, egads!).
That's all I have for you.
Friday, December 16, 2005
finals are over. hurrah.
I never have to go to *that class* again.
My heart swells with happiness.
However, here is something that came across the wires today which does not make my heart swell. It makes my brain swell, trying to imagine how some people can be so stupid, heartless, and just plain wrong.
And here it is.
Umbilical Stem Cell Legislation Arrives as Surprise, Goes Down to Harkin's Objection
By Kate Schuler, CQ Staff
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist angered Democrats Thursday by attempting to bring an umbilical-cord stem cell bill to a vote.
Frist, R-Tenn., took members by surprise when he tried to get a unanimous consent agreement to consider legislation (HR 2520) that would encourage the collection of stem cells from the placentas of newborns, for use in treatment and research.
Iowa Democrat Tom Harkin objected, demanding that it be considered only in tandem with a more divisive embryonic stem cell measure (HR 810). That bill would expand federal funding for research on stem cells taken from surplus embryos at in vitro fertilization clinics, a process that some conservatives liken to abortion because embryos are destroyed.
The House passed the cord blood bill, 431-1, in May. It has broad backing in the Senate, but that support belies the furor Frist's move aroused in Democrats.
Supporters of the embryonic stem cell bill have accused House and Senate leaders of trying to muddy the issue by offering an umbilical cord bill as an alternative to the embryonic stem cell measure.
Spokeswoman Allison Dobson said Harkin objected to bringing up the cord blood bill because he did not want "to give them an excuse to say they did stem cell legislation when then haven't."
"I want to make it very clear that I support the cord blood bill," Harkin said on the floor. "But I've said we should consider cord blood at the same time as HR 810."
Well, of course. I mean, when you've got something that works, why not go for something else that doesn't, and kills people too?! Gee, that's brilliant.
Harkin then asked Frist for a date certain to debate the embryonic stem cell bill next year. Frist said that was impossible to predict with the vagaries of the schedule.
The stem cell issue is personal for several senators. Frist's first remarks on the floor drew some of the Senate's major players out of their offices to join the debate. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., one of the chamber's most vocal social conservatives and possible 2008 presidential candidate, arrived with poster-sized photos of children who had been saved by a cord blood procedure.
After Harkin blocked the bill, Orrin G. Hatch, R-Utah, put his hand on Harkin's shoulder, apparently trying to persuade him to drop his objection.
Hatch, who opposes abortion rights but nevertheless supports embryonic stem cell research, has worked closely with Harkin to move both measures forward and expressed disappointment. "I think we should take the majority leader's word that he'll bring [the embryonic bill] up," Hatch said, noting that Frist said in a July floor speech that he would vote for such a bill.
Well now there's another brilliant statement. That train of thought must look something like this: "I oppose abortions because they kill unborn babies. But I approve of embryonic stem cell research because it kills unborn babies."
Goooood one.
The cord blood measure would authorize $79 million to collect and store stem cells from umbilical cord blood. It also would establish a database to help physicians and researchers access the cells and bone marrow for use in treatment and research.
Disgusting. Let's use our nations financial resources to kill unborn children, rather than spend the money on something that might not only let the unborn children live, but save other lives too!
Sick sick sick.
This is one of those times I'm proud I'm not from Iowa, but fom Illinois, until I find out they're just as bad.
Tennessee, here I come.
I never have to go to *that class* again.
My heart swells with happiness.
However, here is something that came across the wires today which does not make my heart swell. It makes my brain swell, trying to imagine how some people can be so stupid, heartless, and just plain wrong.
And here it is.
Umbilical Stem Cell Legislation Arrives as Surprise, Goes Down to Harkin's Objection
By Kate Schuler, CQ Staff
Senate Majority Leader Bill Frist angered Democrats Thursday by attempting to bring an umbilical-cord stem cell bill to a vote.
Frist, R-Tenn., took members by surprise when he tried to get a unanimous consent agreement to consider legislation (HR 2520) that would encourage the collection of stem cells from the placentas of newborns, for use in treatment and research.
Iowa Democrat Tom Harkin objected, demanding that it be considered only in tandem with a more divisive embryonic stem cell measure (HR 810). That bill would expand federal funding for research on stem cells taken from surplus embryos at in vitro fertilization clinics, a process that some conservatives liken to abortion because embryos are destroyed.
The House passed the cord blood bill, 431-1, in May. It has broad backing in the Senate, but that support belies the furor Frist's move aroused in Democrats.
Supporters of the embryonic stem cell bill have accused House and Senate leaders of trying to muddy the issue by offering an umbilical cord bill as an alternative to the embryonic stem cell measure.
Spokeswoman Allison Dobson said Harkin objected to bringing up the cord blood bill because he did not want "to give them an excuse to say they did stem cell legislation when then haven't."
"I want to make it very clear that I support the cord blood bill," Harkin said on the floor. "But I've said we should consider cord blood at the same time as HR 810."
Well, of course. I mean, when you've got something that works, why not go for something else that doesn't, and kills people too?! Gee, that's brilliant.
Harkin then asked Frist for a date certain to debate the embryonic stem cell bill next year. Frist said that was impossible to predict with the vagaries of the schedule.
The stem cell issue is personal for several senators. Frist's first remarks on the floor drew some of the Senate's major players out of their offices to join the debate. Sam Brownback, R-Kan., one of the chamber's most vocal social conservatives and possible 2008 presidential candidate, arrived with poster-sized photos of children who had been saved by a cord blood procedure.
After Harkin blocked the bill, Orrin G. Hatch, R-Utah, put his hand on Harkin's shoulder, apparently trying to persuade him to drop his objection.
Hatch, who opposes abortion rights but nevertheless supports embryonic stem cell research, has worked closely with Harkin to move both measures forward and expressed disappointment. "I think we should take the majority leader's word that he'll bring [the embryonic bill] up," Hatch said, noting that Frist said in a July floor speech that he would vote for such a bill.
Well now there's another brilliant statement. That train of thought must look something like this: "I oppose abortions because they kill unborn babies. But I approve of embryonic stem cell research because it kills unborn babies."
Goooood one.
The cord blood measure would authorize $79 million to collect and store stem cells from umbilical cord blood. It also would establish a database to help physicians and researchers access the cells and bone marrow for use in treatment and research.
Disgusting. Let's use our nations financial resources to kill unborn children, rather than spend the money on something that might not only let the unborn children live, but save other lives too!
Sick sick sick.
This is one of those times I'm proud I'm not from Iowa, but fom Illinois, until I find out they're just as bad.
Tennessee, here I come.
Tuesday, December 13, 2005
A Gallery of Images of Saint Lucy, for your visual pleasure. (har har)
Mostly because anybody can post plain pictures. I just have to be different.
Mostly because anybody can post plain pictures. I just have to be different.
"St. Lucy Before the Judge", wood panel, 1532, Pinacoteca Comunale, Jesi (Ancona)
Last Communion of St Lucy
1747-48Oil on canvas, 222 x 101 cmSanti Apostoli, Venice
TIEPOLO, Giovanni Battista
(b. 1696, Venezia, d. 1770, Madrid)
Domenico Veneziano. The Martyrdom of St. Lucy. c. 1445-48. poplar. 26.5 x 29.5 cm. Predela panel of the Altarpiece of St. Lucy of the Magnolias. Gemäldegalerie, Berlin, Germany.
The Burial of St Lucy
1608
© Scala
Yay St. Lucy. Happy Feast of St. Lucy everyone!
Feliz dia de Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe (ayer)!!
Me gusta mucho la Senora de Guadalupe. Yo aprende algo nuevo cada ano, y este ano yo aprende el simbolismo de su ropa (las estrellas, los colores de su vestido, la cruz en su cuello, etc.). Es bellisima!
Nuestra Senora de Guadalupe, ruega por nosotros!
P.S. No uso caracteres especiales porque la computadora me odio. Boo.
Monday, December 12, 2005
Because it's the perfect way to procrastinate...
1. Copy and post in your blog.
2. BOLD anything that is true.
3. Leave plain anything that is not true.
4. Add something.
001. I miss somebody right now.
002. I watch more TV than I used to.
003. I love olives.
004. I love sleeping.
005. I own a home.
006. I wear glasses or contact lenses.
007. I love to play video games.
008. I've done something illegal.
009. I've watched action movies.
010. I have been in a five-star hotel.
011. I have been the psycho-ex in a past relationship.
012. I like my handwriting.
013. I have acne-free skin.
014. I like and respect Al Sharpton.
015. I curse frequently.
016. I have changed a lot mentally over the last year.
017. I have a hobby.
018. I've been to another country.
019. I carry my knife/razor everywhere with me.
020. I'm really, really smart.
021. I've never broken anyone else's bones.
022. I have a secret that I am ashamed to reveal.
023. I love rain.
024. I'm paranoid at times.
025. I would get plastic surgery if it were 100% safe, free of cost, and scar-free.
026. I need money right now.
027. I love sushi.
028. I talk really, really fast sometimes.
029. I have fresh breath in the morning.
030. I have semi-long hair.
031. I have lost money in Las Vegas.
032. I have at least one brother and/or sister.
033. I was born in a country outside of the U.S.
034. I shave my legs.
035. I have a twin.
037. I couldn't survive without Caller ID.
038. I like the way that I look.
039. I have lied to a good friend in the past 6 months.
040. I know how to do cornrows.
041. I am usually pessimistic.
042. I have mood swings.
043. I think marijuana should be legalized.
044. I think Britney Spears is pretty.
045. I have cheated on a significant other.
046. I have a hidden talent.
047. I'm always hyper no matter how much sugar I have.
048. I've been to a foreign country.
049. I am currently single.
050. I have kissed someone.
051. I enjoy talking on the phone.
052. I practically live in sweatpants or PJ pants.
053. I love to shop.
054. I would rather shop than eat.
055. I would classify myself as "ghetto".
056. I'm bourgeoise and have worn a sweater tied around my shoulders.
057. I'm obsessed with my Xanga!
058. I don't hate anyone.
059. I'm a pretty good dancer.
060. I don't think OJ killed his wife.
061. I'm completely embarrassed to be seen with my mother.
062. I have a cell phone.
063. I watch MTV on a daily basis.
065. I have passed out drunk in the past 6 months.
067. I have never been in a real relationship before.
068. I've rejected someone before.
069. I currently have a crush on someone.
070. I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life.
071. I want to have children in the future.
072. I have changed a diaper before.
073. I've had the cops called on me before.
074. I bite my nails.
075. I am a member of the Tom Green fan club.
076. I'm not allergic to anything deadly.
077. I have a lot to learn.
078. I have dated someone at least 10 years older or younger than me.
079. I plan on seeing Ice Cube's newest "Friday" movie.
080. I am very shy around the opposite sex.
081. I'm online just about 24/7, even as an away message.
082. I have at least 5 away messages saved.
083. I have been rejected by someone.
084. I have a green sweater.
085. I own the "South Park" movie.
086. I have avoided work to play on OD.
087. When I was a kid I played "the birds and the bees" with a neighbor or chum.
088. I enjoy country music.
089. I love my best friends.
090. I think that Pizza Hut has the best pizza.
091. I watch soap operas whenever I can.
092. I'm obsessive, anal retentive, and often a perfectionist.
093. I have to advance my career in every position I take in the professional world.
094.I love Michael Jackson, scandals and all.
095. I know all the words to Slick Rick's "Children's Story".
096. Halloween is awesome because you get free candy.
097. I watch "Spongebob Squarepants" and I like it.!!
098. I have dated a close friend's ex.
099. I'm happy as of this moment.
100. I have gone scuba diving.
101. I've had a crush on somebody I have never met.
102. I've kissed someone I knew I shouldn't.
103. I play a musical instrument.
104. I strongly dislike math.
105. I'm procrastinating on something right now.
106. I own and use a library card.
107. I fall in "lust" more than in "love."
108. Cheese enchiladas rock my socks.
109. I think The Lord of the Rings is one of the greatest movies ever.
110. I'm obsessed with the TV show "The O.C."
111. I am resentful that I have to grow up.
112. I am an entirely different person around different people.
113. I think the world would be a better place if people just smiled more often.
114. I think ramen noodles is one of the best foods in the whole world.
116. I am a nerd.
117. Sometimes, no matter where I am or who I'm with, I seem to be lonely.
118. I am left-handed and proud of it.
119. I try not to change who I am for someone.
120. My heart resides below my feet.
121. I have seen a live birthing.
122. I enjoy smoothies.
123. I have had major surgery.
124. I have adopted a pet from SPCA.
125. I am listening to Radiohead right now.
126. Some people call me by a nickname.
127. I once stole a music stand.
128. I like pumpkin pie.
129. I love NASCAR!
130. I own over 200 CDs.
131. I work 5 days a week.
132. I have mono.
132. I don't have the ability to make decisions without changing my mind.
133. People tell me I have a horrible sense of humor.
134. I'm still in my PJs.
135. I'm looking for love in all the wrong places.
136. I have a tendency to fall for the wrong guys, or have them fall for me.
137. I'll try anything three times.
138. I'm tired right now.
139. I sometimes have trouble sleeping.
140. I am a cuddler.
141. I love John Waters films.
142. I have made a home videotape.
143. Sloth is my favorite deadly sin.
144. One of my feet is bigger than the other.
145. I know all the words to the "Firefly" theme song.
146. I am abnormally obsessed with all things Buffy/Angel.
147. I love comfort food.
148. This question made me mad.
149. I'm Catholic.
150. I can walk a mile w/o feeling like im going to die.
151. I am a college student.
152. I love to cook.
153. I hate vacuuming with a passion.
154. I'm addicted to photography and picture frames.
155. My brother is one of my best friends.
156. I want to lose weight/tone my body.
157. My daughter means more to me than anyone.
158. I listen to foreign music.
159. I'm a hopeless romantic.
160. I've changed so much since high school that I'm almost unrecognizable.
161. I want to run a foster home in the future.
162. I enjoy listening to news talk on the AM radio.
163. I get random urges to dye my hair, and I follow them.
164. I have a tattoo.
165. I can touch my tongue to my nose.
66. I am in love with the Counting Crows.
167. I would be lost without my planner.
168. I sleep with five or more pillows.
169. I own an iPod.
170. I drink coffee everyday.
171. I hate being in arguments.
172. I am high maintenance and I like it that way.
173. I dream of being our nation's president someday.
174. I have brown eyes.
175. I love Subway!
176. I think Tupac Shakur was the best rap artist to have ever lived.
177. I have lied to my parents in the past week.
178. I listen to public radio (NPR, PRI, BBC).
179. I am a neo-soul head to the grave!!!
180. i currently have natural hair.
181. i love everything 80s
182. I have friends from other countries.
183. I've had my wisdom teeth out.
184. I'm a shameless admirer of Oprah Winfrey.
185. I'm a martial arts fanatic
186. I laugh myself silly.
Edit:
TAG!
I tag: Elizabeth at E-Notes, Beth at Dream Without Limits, Dance Without Cares, and Victoria at Laugh and Grow Strong.
1. Copy and post in your blog.
2. BOLD anything that is true.
3. Leave plain anything that is not true.
4. Add something.
001. I miss somebody right now.
002. I watch more TV than I used to.
003. I love olives.
004. I love sleeping.
005. I own a home.
006. I wear glasses or contact lenses.
007. I love to play video games.
008. I've done something illegal.
009. I've watched action movies.
010. I have been in a five-star hotel.
011. I have been the psycho-ex in a past relationship.
012. I like my handwriting.
013. I have acne-free skin.
014. I like and respect Al Sharpton.
015. I curse frequently.
016. I have changed a lot mentally over the last year.
017. I have a hobby.
018. I've been to another country.
019. I carry my knife/razor everywhere with me.
020. I'm really, really smart.
021. I've never broken anyone else's bones.
022. I have a secret that I am ashamed to reveal.
023. I love rain.
024. I'm paranoid at times.
025. I would get plastic surgery if it were 100% safe, free of cost, and scar-free.
026. I need money right now.
027. I love sushi.
028. I talk really, really fast sometimes.
029. I have fresh breath in the morning.
030. I have semi-long hair.
031. I have lost money in Las Vegas.
032. I have at least one brother and/or sister.
033. I was born in a country outside of the U.S.
034. I shave my legs.
035. I have a twin.
037. I couldn't survive without Caller ID.
038. I like the way that I look.
039. I have lied to a good friend in the past 6 months.
040. I know how to do cornrows.
041. I am usually pessimistic.
042. I have mood swings.
043. I think marijuana should be legalized.
044. I think Britney Spears is pretty.
045. I have cheated on a significant other.
046. I have a hidden talent.
047. I'm always hyper no matter how much sugar I have.
048. I've been to a foreign country.
049. I am currently single.
050. I have kissed someone.
051. I enjoy talking on the phone.
052. I practically live in sweatpants or PJ pants.
053. I love to shop.
054. I would rather shop than eat.
055. I would classify myself as "ghetto".
056. I'm bourgeoise and have worn a sweater tied around my shoulders.
057. I'm obsessed with my Xanga!
058. I don't hate anyone.
059. I'm a pretty good dancer.
060. I don't think OJ killed his wife.
061. I'm completely embarrassed to be seen with my mother.
062. I have a cell phone.
063. I watch MTV on a daily basis.
065. I have passed out drunk in the past 6 months.
067. I have never been in a real relationship before.
068. I've rejected someone before.
069. I currently have a crush on someone.
070. I have no idea what I want to do for the rest of my life.
071. I want to have children in the future.
072. I have changed a diaper before.
073. I've had the cops called on me before.
074. I bite my nails.
075. I am a member of the Tom Green fan club.
076. I'm not allergic to anything deadly.
077. I have a lot to learn.
078. I have dated someone at least 10 years older or younger than me.
079. I plan on seeing Ice Cube's newest "Friday" movie.
080. I am very shy around the opposite sex.
081. I'm online just about 24/7, even as an away message.
082. I have at least 5 away messages saved.
083. I have been rejected by someone.
084. I have a green sweater.
085. I own the "South Park" movie.
086. I have avoided work to play on OD.
087. When I was a kid I played "the birds and the bees" with a neighbor or chum.
088. I enjoy country music.
089. I love my best friends.
090. I think that Pizza Hut has the best pizza.
091. I watch soap operas whenever I can.
092. I'm obsessive, anal retentive, and often a perfectionist.
093. I have to advance my career in every position I take in the professional world.
094.I love Michael Jackson, scandals and all.
095. I know all the words to Slick Rick's "Children's Story".
096. Halloween is awesome because you get free candy.
097. I watch "Spongebob Squarepants" and I like it.!!
098. I have dated a close friend's ex.
099. I'm happy as of this moment.
100. I have gone scuba diving.
101. I've had a crush on somebody I have never met.
102. I've kissed someone I knew I shouldn't.
103. I play a musical instrument.
104. I strongly dislike math.
105. I'm procrastinating on something right now.
106. I own and use a library card.
107. I fall in "lust" more than in "love."
108. Cheese enchiladas rock my socks.
109. I think The Lord of the Rings is one of the greatest movies ever.
110. I'm obsessed with the TV show "The O.C."
111. I am resentful that I have to grow up.
112. I am an entirely different person around different people.
113. I think the world would be a better place if people just smiled more often.
114. I think ramen noodles is one of the best foods in the whole world.
116. I am a nerd.
117. Sometimes, no matter where I am or who I'm with, I seem to be lonely.
118. I am left-handed and proud of it.
119. I try not to change who I am for someone.
120. My heart resides below my feet.
121. I have seen a live birthing.
122. I enjoy smoothies.
123. I have had major surgery.
124. I have adopted a pet from SPCA.
125. I am listening to Radiohead right now.
126. Some people call me by a nickname.
127. I once stole a music stand.
128. I like pumpkin pie.
129. I love NASCAR!
130. I own over 200 CDs.
131. I work 5 days a week.
132. I have mono.
132. I don't have the ability to make decisions without changing my mind.
133. People tell me I have a horrible sense of humor.
134. I'm still in my PJs.
135. I'm looking for love in all the wrong places.
136. I have a tendency to fall for the wrong guys, or have them fall for me.
137. I'll try anything three times.
138. I'm tired right now.
139. I sometimes have trouble sleeping.
140. I am a cuddler.
141. I love John Waters films.
142. I have made a home videotape.
143. Sloth is my favorite deadly sin.
144. One of my feet is bigger than the other.
145. I know all the words to the "Firefly" theme song.
146. I am abnormally obsessed with all things Buffy/Angel.
147. I love comfort food.
148. This question made me mad.
149. I'm Catholic.
150. I can walk a mile w/o feeling like im going to die.
151. I am a college student.
152. I love to cook.
153. I hate vacuuming with a passion.
154. I'm addicted to photography and picture frames.
155. My brother is one of my best friends.
156. I want to lose weight/tone my body.
157. My daughter means more to me than anyone.
158. I listen to foreign music.
159. I'm a hopeless romantic.
160. I've changed so much since high school that I'm almost unrecognizable.
161. I want to run a foster home in the future.
162. I enjoy listening to news talk on the AM radio.
163. I get random urges to dye my hair, and I follow them.
164. I have a tattoo.
165. I can touch my tongue to my nose.
66. I am in love with the Counting Crows.
167. I would be lost without my planner.
168. I sleep with five or more pillows.
169. I own an iPod.
170. I drink coffee everyday.
171. I hate being in arguments.
172. I am high maintenance and I like it that way.
173. I dream of being our nation's president someday.
174. I have brown eyes.
175. I love Subway!
176. I think Tupac Shakur was the best rap artist to have ever lived.
177. I have lied to my parents in the past week.
178. I listen to public radio (NPR, PRI, BBC).
179. I am a neo-soul head to the grave!!!
180. i currently have natural hair.
181. i love everything 80s
182. I have friends from other countries.
183. I've had my wisdom teeth out.
184. I'm a shameless admirer of Oprah Winfrey.
185. I'm a martial arts fanatic
186. I laugh myself silly.
Edit:
TAG!
I tag: Elizabeth at E-Notes, Beth at Dream Without Limits, Dance Without Cares, and Victoria at Laugh and Grow Strong.
Thursday, December 08, 2005
Happy Feast of the Immaculate Conception!
Get thee to Mass! And Confession! And pray for the Pope's intentions.
P.S. This is the grotto here at school. :) It looks nothing like this right now, as it is covered in about 7 inches of snow.
Tuesday, December 06, 2005
In case you were wondering...
Tomorrow is Pearl Harbor Day, and consequently the memorial of the death of Father Al Schmitt, a priest from Dubuque who was killed on the USS Constitution.
Loras College has put together a video about him, and it will be shown on EWTN. And about the title - that's our school motto: "Pro Deo et Patria"
We have his breviary in the vestibule outside of our chapel. Set for the feast of the Immaculate Conception.
Watch it if you get a chance, k?
DECEMBER 7 ~ PEARL HARBOR DAY ~ U.S.A.
FOR GOD AND COUNTRY (30:00)
Documentary about Fr. Al Schmitt, the first Catholic Chaplain killed in World War II.
Wednesday
December 7, 2005
5:00 PM
Ah, some gooood stuff from our Papa. Check this out.
Abortion is crime against society, says Benedict XVI
Abortion is a crime of aggression not only against the unborn, but also against society, Pope Benedict XVI said in a Dec. 3 meeting with the presidents of Latin American bishops' committees for the family and for life.
[...]
"Children have the right to be born and to grow in the midst of a family founded on matrimony, where the parents are the first educators of children in the faith and where they can grow to full human and spiritual maturity," the pope said Dec. 3.
He urged them to work together, sharing the programs and approaches that are most successful in their countries.
"Children are the major richness and the most precious good of a family," he said.
Amen to that!! Enough of this malarky about "Oh, but Joe Schmoe and I are happy together. We have nice jobs, a nice house, and a vacation spot in Cancun!" Barf.
"For this reason, it is necessary to help all people to be aware that the intrinsic evil of the crime of abortion, which attacks human life at its beginning, is also an aggression against society itself," the pope said.
A great restatement of our point all along. Something about the human family and our actions affecting one another... :)
Legalized abortion has laid the groundwork for acceptance of the destruction of embryos in scientific research, he said.
What gets me is how many people - seemingly good, normal people - are completely OK with this sort of thing. Excuse me - what the heck are you thinking?!
The result is that human life is reduced "to an object or a mere instrument. When it reaches this level, society itself suffers and its foundations shake, with all classes at risk," he said.
Ah, sounds like Ethics class. I love it. Keep it comin'.
The key to addressing the situation, he said, is to strengthen and defend the traditional family, which is the first place in society where human life is welcomed and treasured.
And we're back to the traditional family. It gets better...
"Your task as pastors is to present with all its richness the extraordinary value of matrimony which, as a natural institution, is the patrimony of humanity," he said.
The pope said the entire church must focus on efforts to "safeguard the fundamental values of marriage and the family, which are threatened by the current phenomenon of secularization, which prevents the social conscience from discovering the identity and mission of the institution of the family."
Once again, a wonderful point. Seems like the polar opposite of that which I have learned in my Christian Sexual Morality class. So that means it must be Truth.
The family must be defended from "the pressure of unjust laws" that do not recognize the rights and needs of the family and "disfigure it with false understandings of marriage and the family that do not respect the original plan of God," he said.
And another "Amen!" for the "original plan of God" statement. Gosh, I love it. I just truly love it. He's so great, and he states everything so plainly. This is not complicated, people. You complicate it. God has designed a plan for us - we follow it becaust it's beautiful, it's right and it's good. End of story.
Saturday, December 03, 2005
Read post below.
It seems to me, some things are/should be, well, quite obvious.
In Honor of World AIDS Day yesterday, and the conversations humming and thoughts brewing on campus, I offer you this September 24, 2005 issued ZENIT article.
I used it today in class when a professor of mine tried to get us all worked up about dissent in the Church.
It pretty much stopped all conversation. Mostly because it's Truth, and the information being presented was a Lie. And lies, though they may be attractive and easy, never win.
Condom Conundrums
Evidence Shows Wisdom of Catholic Doctrine
NEW YORK, SEPT. 24, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Critics continue to assail the Catholic Church's refusal to endorse condom use in treating the AIDS problem. Among recent attacks was in the medical journal The Lancet. "[F]aith seems to present insuperable obstacles to the prevention of disease," asserted an editorial dated March 12. "Nowhere is this problem more acute than in HIV/AIDS." The editorial was highly critical of Pope John Paul II for his opposition to condom use, accusing him of being ignorant of African history, culture and the realities of daily life in the continent. On May 8, New York Times editorial page commentator Nicholas Kristof accused the Church of having cost hundreds of thousands of lives due to its refusal to endorse condom use. Kristof expressed the hope that the recently elected Benedict XVI would not only change the Church's position on this issue, but would indeed "encourage the use of condoms," affirming it would be a "courageous choice."
Ah, yes. Courageous. Continue on, O Wise NYTimes writer.
[...]
More Catholics, fewer infections
Abundant data exist, however, to show the severe limitations of relying on condoms to solve the AIDS problem.
Think so?
A letter from Australian-based bioethicist Amin Abboud, published July 30 by the British Medical Journal, noted that any change in the Catholic Church's position on condoms would be detrimental for Africa. According to Abboud, a statistical analysis of the situation in the continent shows that the greater the percentage of Catholics in any country, the lower the level of HIV. "If the Catholic Church is promoting a message about HIV in those countries," he added, "it seems to be working."
Now, when I told this to my professor, her ignorant comment was "So, then, if you don't want to get AIDS, convert to Catholicism?"
Yes, actually. When you are baptized Catholic, you are immune!
Idiot.
They're called The Teachings of the Magisterium. And FIDELITY to them.
Data from the World Health Organization puts the figure for HIV infection in Swaziland 42.6% of the population. Only 5% of the population is Catholic. And in Botswana, where 37% of the adult population is HIV infected, only 4% of the population is Catholic. In Uganda, however, where 43% of the population is Catholic, the proportion of HIV infected adults is 4%.
Amazing. I didn't realize it was such a strong statistic. That's really great.
Abboud commented that since the death of John Paul II there has been a "concerted campaign ... to attribute responsibility to him for the death of many Africans."
Wow. So evidently Evangelium Vitae is an illusion? Only we delusionals have seen/read it?
But, he continued, "Such accusations must always be supported by solid data. None has been presented so far."
Nor will it/could it.
Recognition of the value of promoting abstinence, instead of just relying on condoms, came in a commentary published in The Lancet last Nov. 27. Written by a group of medical experts, and endorsed by a long list of health care experts, the article noted that when campaigns target young people who have not initiated sexual activity, "the first priority should be to encourage abstinence or delay of sexual onset, hence emphasizing risk avoidance as the best way to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections as well as unwanted pregnancy."
Written by a group of medical experts? Ok, this is where our real issue lies. The Pope=easy to shut down, as he's a religious man and all religious are fanatical wackos. However, when someone with an M.D. says it - well, hell, it's got to be true.
Explain that one.
The article did support condom use, but also pointed out that even for those who have already engaged in sexual activity, "returning to abstinence or being mutually faithful with an uninfected partner are the most effective ways of avoiding infection."
Obviously problematic. And the reason it was probably supported more widely than Vatican documents. Leaves wiggle room. People like that. Situational ethics make everything easier, right? (barf)
[...]
Questioning orthodoxy
[...]
A report published Sept. 13 on Aidsmap, a United Kingdom Web site dedicated to distributing information on AIDS, summarized the findings of a study published in the Sept. 1 issue of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. The study demonstrated that while campaigns to distribute and promote condoms in Uganda did increase usage, they did not lead to consistent use. Moreover, men in the group targeted by the campaigns then "went on to have a larger number of sexual partners and were somewhat less likely to use condoms with casual sex partners than the control group." The findings, noted Aidsmap, "raise uncomfortable questions about the evidence base that informs the current international orthodoxy in HIV prevention."
Oh - you mean condoms don't help us to be more moral and less promiscuous?? Who knew?
[...]
Changing behavior
This latest study confirms the arguments made by Edward Green, in his 2003 book, "Rethinking AIDS Prevention." Green is a senior research scientist at the Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies and a member of the President's Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS. Green does not have moral objections to condoms, and, in fact, has worked in the past with organizations that promote contraceptives and family planning programs. Nevertheless, he raises serious doubts about the wisdom of fighting AIDS by relying on condom distribution.
Well, he at least give us somewhere to start.
In Africa, repeated population surveys show that the most common behavioral change in response to the diffusion of AIDS is an increase in the fidelity to one's partner, the reduction of sexual partners, and sexual abstinence. When, in addition to this spontaneous response, this type of change is promoted through campaigns, then we are building on what people naturally do, Green argued. Unfortunately, he added, foreign experts only too often arrive and impose campaigns that ignore the benefits of behavioral changes, preferring to rely on distributing condoms. In addition, Green cites studies showing that condom promotion campaigns do not lead to long-term consistent use. And inconsistent use is associated with a higher risk of sexually transmitted diseases. In fact, the African countries with the highest condom user rates and numbers of condoms available, Zimbabwe and Botswana, also rank at the top of the list for rates of HIV infection. Neither are condoms infallible, particularly those typically available in African countries, Green observes. In fact, condoms are widely held to be one of the least effective methods of contraception, yet paradoxically, are promoted by experts as the answer to preventing AIDS.
Ah ha. Now we're getting somewhere.
[...]
Independently of these debates, the new Pope quickly gave an answer to those pressing for changes in Church doctrine. Addressing the bishops from a group of southern African countries on June 10, Benedict XVI urged them to continue supporting family life and to help those suffering from AIDS. The Catholic Church, commented the Pontiff, "has always been at the forefront both in prevention and in treatment of this illness." And, he added: "The traditional teaching of the Church has proven to be the only fail-safe way to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS."
The key word there being "traditional." Seriously. This is not new. We do not need an MD to tell us this. It's pretty plain according the teachings of the Church.
And ain't no disputing that.
Chalk up another one for Truth.
I'm off to bed.
Caritas et VERITAS.
I used it today in class when a professor of mine tried to get us all worked up about dissent in the Church.
It pretty much stopped all conversation. Mostly because it's Truth, and the information being presented was a Lie. And lies, though they may be attractive and easy, never win.
Condom Conundrums
Evidence Shows Wisdom of Catholic Doctrine
NEW YORK, SEPT. 24, 2005 (Zenit.org).- Critics continue to assail the Catholic Church's refusal to endorse condom use in treating the AIDS problem. Among recent attacks was in the medical journal The Lancet. "[F]aith seems to present insuperable obstacles to the prevention of disease," asserted an editorial dated March 12. "Nowhere is this problem more acute than in HIV/AIDS." The editorial was highly critical of Pope John Paul II for his opposition to condom use, accusing him of being ignorant of African history, culture and the realities of daily life in the continent. On May 8, New York Times editorial page commentator Nicholas Kristof accused the Church of having cost hundreds of thousands of lives due to its refusal to endorse condom use. Kristof expressed the hope that the recently elected Benedict XVI would not only change the Church's position on this issue, but would indeed "encourage the use of condoms," affirming it would be a "courageous choice."
Ah, yes. Courageous. Continue on, O Wise NYTimes writer.
[...]
More Catholics, fewer infections
Abundant data exist, however, to show the severe limitations of relying on condoms to solve the AIDS problem.
Think so?
A letter from Australian-based bioethicist Amin Abboud, published July 30 by the British Medical Journal, noted that any change in the Catholic Church's position on condoms would be detrimental for Africa. According to Abboud, a statistical analysis of the situation in the continent shows that the greater the percentage of Catholics in any country, the lower the level of HIV. "If the Catholic Church is promoting a message about HIV in those countries," he added, "it seems to be working."
Now, when I told this to my professor, her ignorant comment was "So, then, if you don't want to get AIDS, convert to Catholicism?"
Yes, actually. When you are baptized Catholic, you are immune!
Idiot.
They're called The Teachings of the Magisterium. And FIDELITY to them.
Data from the World Health Organization puts the figure for HIV infection in Swaziland 42.6% of the population. Only 5% of the population is Catholic. And in Botswana, where 37% of the adult population is HIV infected, only 4% of the population is Catholic. In Uganda, however, where 43% of the population is Catholic, the proportion of HIV infected adults is 4%.
Amazing. I didn't realize it was such a strong statistic. That's really great.
Abboud commented that since the death of John Paul II there has been a "concerted campaign ... to attribute responsibility to him for the death of many Africans."
Wow. So evidently Evangelium Vitae is an illusion? Only we delusionals have seen/read it?
But, he continued, "Such accusations must always be supported by solid data. None has been presented so far."
Nor will it/could it.
Recognition of the value of promoting abstinence, instead of just relying on condoms, came in a commentary published in The Lancet last Nov. 27. Written by a group of medical experts, and endorsed by a long list of health care experts, the article noted that when campaigns target young people who have not initiated sexual activity, "the first priority should be to encourage abstinence or delay of sexual onset, hence emphasizing risk avoidance as the best way to prevent HIV and other sexually transmitted infections as well as unwanted pregnancy."
Written by a group of medical experts? Ok, this is where our real issue lies. The Pope=easy to shut down, as he's a religious man and all religious are fanatical wackos. However, when someone with an M.D. says it - well, hell, it's got to be true.
Explain that one.
The article did support condom use, but also pointed out that even for those who have already engaged in sexual activity, "returning to abstinence or being mutually faithful with an uninfected partner are the most effective ways of avoiding infection."
Obviously problematic. And the reason it was probably supported more widely than Vatican documents. Leaves wiggle room. People like that. Situational ethics make everything easier, right? (barf)
[...]
Questioning orthodoxy
[...]
A report published Sept. 13 on Aidsmap, a United Kingdom Web site dedicated to distributing information on AIDS, summarized the findings of a study published in the Sept. 1 issue of the Journal of Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndromes. The study demonstrated that while campaigns to distribute and promote condoms in Uganda did increase usage, they did not lead to consistent use. Moreover, men in the group targeted by the campaigns then "went on to have a larger number of sexual partners and were somewhat less likely to use condoms with casual sex partners than the control group." The findings, noted Aidsmap, "raise uncomfortable questions about the evidence base that informs the current international orthodoxy in HIV prevention."
Oh - you mean condoms don't help us to be more moral and less promiscuous?? Who knew?
[...]
Changing behavior
This latest study confirms the arguments made by Edward Green, in his 2003 book, "Rethinking AIDS Prevention." Green is a senior research scientist at the Harvard Center for Population and Development Studies and a member of the President's Advisory Committee on HIV/AIDS. Green does not have moral objections to condoms, and, in fact, has worked in the past with organizations that promote contraceptives and family planning programs. Nevertheless, he raises serious doubts about the wisdom of fighting AIDS by relying on condom distribution.
Well, he at least give us somewhere to start.
In Africa, repeated population surveys show that the most common behavioral change in response to the diffusion of AIDS is an increase in the fidelity to one's partner, the reduction of sexual partners, and sexual abstinence. When, in addition to this spontaneous response, this type of change is promoted through campaigns, then we are building on what people naturally do, Green argued. Unfortunately, he added, foreign experts only too often arrive and impose campaigns that ignore the benefits of behavioral changes, preferring to rely on distributing condoms. In addition, Green cites studies showing that condom promotion campaigns do not lead to long-term consistent use. And inconsistent use is associated with a higher risk of sexually transmitted diseases. In fact, the African countries with the highest condom user rates and numbers of condoms available, Zimbabwe and Botswana, also rank at the top of the list for rates of HIV infection. Neither are condoms infallible, particularly those typically available in African countries, Green observes. In fact, condoms are widely held to be one of the least effective methods of contraception, yet paradoxically, are promoted by experts as the answer to preventing AIDS.
Ah ha. Now we're getting somewhere.
[...]
Independently of these debates, the new Pope quickly gave an answer to those pressing for changes in Church doctrine. Addressing the bishops from a group of southern African countries on June 10, Benedict XVI urged them to continue supporting family life and to help those suffering from AIDS. The Catholic Church, commented the Pontiff, "has always been at the forefront both in prevention and in treatment of this illness." And, he added: "The traditional teaching of the Church has proven to be the only fail-safe way to prevent the spread of HIV/AIDS."
The key word there being "traditional." Seriously. This is not new. We do not need an MD to tell us this. It's pretty plain according the teachings of the Church.
And ain't no disputing that.
Chalk up another one for Truth.
I'm off to bed.
Caritas et VERITAS.
Thursday, December 01, 2005
In the news:
This story is WONDERFUL. Santo Subito!!! I can't wait to hear the specifics.
This, however, is just plain sad. What the heck is wrong with America? And where do I find a hand large enough to smack everyone at Hammacher Schlemmer upside the head?
Reeee-diculous.
And this is the worst thing I've read in a long time. Makes me shudder thinking about how casual these women are. And how this doctor sleeps at night is beyond me. Sure he says he helps women to be "reborn" - but he still acknowledges he's destroying human life. I cannot sufficiently express the sorrow and disgust within.
And... this is wonderful. Yay Papa!!
Wow. So this is what Church vs. Secular looks like. So so sad.
This story is WONDERFUL. Santo Subito!!! I can't wait to hear the specifics.
This, however, is just plain sad. What the heck is wrong with America? And where do I find a hand large enough to smack everyone at Hammacher Schlemmer upside the head?
Reeee-diculous.
And this is the worst thing I've read in a long time. Makes me shudder thinking about how casual these women are. And how this doctor sleeps at night is beyond me. Sure he says he helps women to be "reborn" - but he still acknowledges he's destroying human life. I cannot sufficiently express the sorrow and disgust within.
And... this is wonderful. Yay Papa!!
Wow. So this is what Church vs. Secular looks like. So so sad.
