Month: October 2025

Thoughts On A Theological Smugging

Back in this post, kindly linked by Sarah A. Hoyt over at Instapundit, a response was left taking issue with the fact that a prayer I shared dared mention Mary the Mother of God/Theotokos. Since there was no response to the questions I asked in the comments (or to any comments), I e-mailed them and was unsurprised at the responses/non-responses.

It seems the person is in the habit of depositing such nuggets of what they deem wisdom in various punch bowls around the blogosphere. So much so that they can’t be bothered to keep up with all of them (according to one response). Apparently it is a busy life bravely dropping these nuggets on the fly (without even a glance in the rear view mirror).

However, what they regard as nuggets of wisdom can be seen as something else floating in the punchbowl. I also find the response to an old and much used prayer a bit churlish, inconsiderate, and even somewhat ignorant. My amusement at the refusal to answer the questions asked and bidding me “Good Day!” (I’m really surprised given the apparent dudgeon that I didn’t get the full “I said Good Day Sir!”) has sparked an idea for a series of posts.

What follows is not a refutation of the comment, per se; rather, it is an opportunity to lay out for your edification and my clarification some points about early Christianity and traditional faiths and how they differ from non-traditional Christianity. Given how many people there are out there today for whom history begins and ends with their own lifetime, it is good to review real history and how a number of things developed within it.

Please note that I am not a theologian and don’t claim to be one; rather, I am laying out some points and concepts for my own use and growth — a process previously started here and here. If these happen to help others, then that is a happy coincidence for which I am very glad.

Today, I want to look at the Bible, it’s development, and a bit on it’s use — along with other sources — in understanding Christian faith and the teachings of Jesus. Along the way, I think you may pick up on why I think it would be easy to make the case for Sola Scriptura as a heresy; but, I instead see it more as an idiocy. Some may see that as a bit harsh, but I think I can make a good case.

Let’s start with an honest question for you the reader: When did the Bible as we know it come into being? Was it extant before the Passion? Was it created immediately after? Was it created and accepted in the first century after the Passion? Was it created and accepted almost three hundred years afterwards? Was it created and accepted five hundred years afterwards? Is this a trick question?

The answer to the last question is: sorta. It’s not really a trick question except that it would depend on which part, Old Testament or New Testament, is being referred to above.

The proper Old Testament, as I have been taught of late, is the Septuagint. This is the Greek translation of the Hebrew Bible, and was the Bible from which Jesus preached in the Temple and elsewhere. It has books not contained in the current Hebrew Bible because the Hebrew faith changed versions of the Old Testament because of the rise of Christianity.

While it is a bit of an over-simplification, what happened was that since Christianity claimed and used the Septuagint, the Hebrew faith elected to switch to a different version of the Old Testament. Of course it’s much more involved than that, but it’s a (fun) rabbit hole that is not terribly germane to the current discussion.

I will note for the record, however, that there are sources (mostly online, caveat emptor) that have different accounts of this. Not having taken formal courses on such (yet), I admit there could be some error in this presentation. It is one reason I very much would like to attend formal seminary training, though I note that given my history geekiness that if I get in and have the chance to dig into this to my heart’s content, you may need to use a nuclear shaped charge to get me out again.

As for the New Testament, it took a bit over three hundred years for a version to be formally accepted. Up until then, the different Churches and bishops used a variety of different sources. That said, I will note that one of the early Apostolic Fathers (the first generation of Church leaders trained by the Disciples) pretty well nailed the books that became the New Testament some 200 years before such was formally ratified.

Side Quest/Note: At least one book of what is currently accepted as the New Testament has never been formally ratified by the Eastern Orthodox Church (and possibly others). It also has not been formally rejected. That book is the book of Revelation. Make of that what you will.

Now, as for those works not included in the New Testament, some were rejected as not being canon. Others were rejected as not rising to the level of Gospel. A category not often discussed (IMO) are the books deemed duplicative. While they might have unique insights and information, the key points were duplicative of the other gospels. As such, they were not included, though some continued to be used as supplementary texts.

Keep in mind also that there were two levels of costs involved with adding texts to the Bible. One was the cost of production. Given that such had to be hand-written and/or illustrated, a single book of the Gospel could cost the equivalent of a year’s wages for a family. The second is the cost of memory, as most scripture was memorized.

Christianity was not based on written tradition; rather, it was based on oral tradition as were most academic and theological undertakings of the time. The fact is, most people — often including priests, Bishops, and others — were illiterate. It does not mean they were stupid, far from it. It simply means that they were not able to read or write. When you read the epistles in the New Testament, find a version and translation that includes the salutations and conclusions as these will have discussion of who wrote the actual letter and how to know it was a faithful rendition of what was said to them. Interesting note, often the actual writer was sent with the letter so they could be questioned and the recipients satisfied as to the accuracy of the epistle.

The fact is, most of the instruction of new priests, bishops, and such was oral. Which is why the Didache was created: it was the written supplement to the oral teachings of the Disciples and Apostolic Fathers. It is also worth noting that a good bit of time is spent reminding the readers (or those to whom it was being read) how to spot False Prophets, which came in two types. One spread false gospel and did not preach the gospel of the Lord, and the second would be described today as grifters, who were in it for money and other riches (including power). I would note that the tests provided can be applied to drive by smuggings even now.

It is also why a number of the epistles included in the New Testament were written (as were a number of those not included for being duplicative). When you look at them, many boil down to: diplomatic greeting; polite description of problem; discussion often about no that is not what the Lord said/meant, that is not what we said/meant, you young punks need to put back those who you removed from being over you and apologize, this is what we are supposed to do, this is how we are supposed to do it, and this is what we told you (did you even listen?); and, a polite conclusion inviting the recipients to get it in gear, straighten up, and fly right.

Such letters were necessary because of the oral teachings. Again, let me emphasize that being illiterate does not mean being stupid. In fact, I would put the average member of the Church then (and even many priests who were not literate) up against most current Christians in their ability to quote, analyze, and discuss Scripture and other related teachings. Fact is, many of them could, would, and did quote not just passages, but entire books of what became the New Testament as well as the Old. They could also chant or sing hymns and prayers that went with them.

One reason for the elaborate decorations in the early Churches was that they created in effect a picture Bible. Each picture sparked the appropriate scriptures, hymns, and prayers associated with the events and people depicted. You still find this in many Greek and Eastern Orthodox Churches (Coptic too I think), and even some Roman Catholic Churches. It was all there to support the oral teachings and traditions of the early Church as memory aids.

Now, those oral teachings and traditions included a lot of discussion not simply on what Jesus said, but what it meant. Just as Jesus explained many of the parables to the Disciples (and in the process to those who heard said teachings later as they were chanted/sung during worship), the Disciples and the Apostolic Fathers also explained meanings, symbolism, and more to their audience. And again, these were handed down in oral tradition for centuries.

Even after Gutenberg revolutionized Western printing, books remained expensive and it actually took some advances in paper making to get prices down where books could be afforded by a wider section of the population. Even so, memorizing large chunks if not whole books of the Bible continued to be a significant factor until roughly a hundred years ago.

When you look at it, Sola Scriptura is based off the idea of everyone having access to the printed word, and that word alone — without any of the supporting words, writings, hymns, and other inputs of the Disciples and Apostolic Fathers (or even major theologians since) — and that such is sufficient for people to find their own special meaning in scripture.

I find that a conceit on more than one level (and meaning). Among other things, it is the idea that only now are we sufficiently advanced to truly understand the Word (all on our own!) and, by implication, that all those who came before were not true recipients of God’s Grace and Salvation because they lacked the intellectual and moral sophistication of their betters who are only now arriving on the scene. Think about it a bit.

As a final thought for the day, consider also that from the original Bible every schism has removed books from both the Old and New Testaments. For that matter, with at least one schism underway now we are hitting a point where it appears line-item exclusion is in process. So, again, which version of the Bible are you using for Sola Scriptura? The entire and complete version? If not, which edited version of the Bible are you using?

Also, which translation as that very much matters. One of the things I enjoy about our Bible study class, as I’ve mentioned before, is that our Sub-Deacon often presents different translations of the same text so we can hear and/or see the differences. Some of those differences can be profound. Again, which version are you using? It does make a difference.

In the next post, unless I get a flash of inspiration to do something different, I plan to go into more of the oral tradition and even (I hope) share some of those early items for your consideration. Until then, God Bless and Keep you.

He’s Right You Know

Over at Instapundit this morning, I saw this post in regards the sleeper cells in the U.S. There have been some comments, and even a bit of pressure to deny them and to derail/deride the idea that four battalions of such may have found their way into the U.S. I stand by the four battalions, and in fact will be most pleasantly surprised if that is all that came in from various places (including the “Orient” cough cough). That none have activated so far is miraculous IMO.

Do not forget about them, or that they may coordinate with other interesting people and groups including domestic. The ideas in Kurt Schlichter’s The Attack are not yet off the table. For all that a number of ideologies and such are on the ropes does not mean they are harmless and a lot of damage can still be done — especially if we are complacent.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

A Car Owner Yet Again

Well, this morning the BMV was indeed open and I set out upon my quest to get the title changed to the car I have been gifted. The lady I dealt with started out with ‘there is supposed to be other paperwork already done!’ type comments, and then transitioned to ‘well, I will see what I can do and if a legal review will approve’ and then on to ‘let’s do this and this and all should be good.’

She ended up creating and having me sign about five different forms, including one noting it was a gift and not sold to me, and the legal review was rather anti-climactic (the look on the person’s face was very much ‘you’re bothering me with this why?’) and I am supposed to get my title and a new tag within 21 days. Yee-hah. So, for now I have a paper tag and am hoping for not a lot of rain until the new tag gets here.

I did go do a bit of grocery shopping and while I was at it, picked up appropriate oil, brake fluid, power transmission fluid, and even wiper-washer fluid (my Godfather already had antifreeze in the trunk) just to be safe. If anyone cares to hit the tip jar, want to get a new fire extinguisher, general first aid kit, and a small trauma kit to keep in the vehicle. Also plan to pick up a new jump pack and some other items as I get the chance.

So, not exactly something I would love to take across country, but for getting me to Church and the grocery store, should be good. Makes a lot of interesting noises, and know there are some things it would be nice to have worked on. Thing is, it runs and the rest can wait. Onwards.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Time To Catch Up A Bit

Okay, sorry for the long silence but last week was hectic. As I mentioned, I’ve been gifted a car and last Monday I went and got insurance for it so I could transfer the title. By waiting to activate the policy until today, I saved app. $200 in fees. Got a good deal, as I think I said last week, even though I am paying cash up front, it works out to about $55 a month for insurance.

I went today to transfer the title only to find out that Indiana BMV is now closed on Mondays. So, I will go early tomorrow and get it transferred (hopefully no problems or delays).

Spent a lot of time last week at Church, as we had multiple services and special events. Think I’ve mentioned that I am getting trained in how to plot out various services, and found myself helping to do that at Wednesday vespers. In fact, with our Deacon out, my baptism brother (we were Baptized on the same day) and I found ourselves drafted into doing the Chanter/Deacon part and got it mostly right. Thank goodness our priest could come over for part of the service and help us with the various tones and music. Getting the tones memorized (there are about 20) will be a challenge but is needed.

I also went Tuesday for massage therapy (such a blessing and has really helped with my mobility), then went over to an office supply store (more in a bit), and then to the outdoor outfitter to see if the Osprey pack I was given could be used for the pilgrimage next year. Sadly, the answer was no. The pack frame is a small, and if you’ve met me in person I am not a small-framed person. It literally was too small for my body. However, we figured out what I did need and they talked me out of getting a very large pack (100 L) and instead going with a 70-litre Osprey pack (plus a bit).

The frame is a Large/X-Large, and we now have it fitted to me. Need to do some smaller adjustments, but those will wait for load-out tests. I’m going to start practicing loading it for the trip, working out best placement for various items, and then going for some long walks with it to get things worked out. My goal is to have everything I take come in at about 40 pounds, as there is a 50 pound weight limit and I want a margin. As I progress, and work out at the gym, the outfitter is going to do more adjustments and help me get it dialed in as precisely as possible.

Nice thing is, for all I hated having to spend the money, it will work for this pilgrimage and any future such (really would love to get to the Holy Land one day), as well as for actual backpacking and camping. Again, an ouch but one worth taking. It also doesn’t hurt that they updated the frame system since the other one was bought and it does make a difference in keeping weight off the artificial shoulders.

I was also able to get an eye-doctor appointment set-up through my new (this year) insurance. That will be this week, but if things work out I should be able to get new glasses if and as needed this year, and then get prescription sunglasses for the trip next year for cheap or free. That’s the goal at any rate.

The office supply store visit had two purposes. One was to check out a TSA PRE option for next year, and to get a decent binder and some page holders (nicknamed page condoms at NASA a while back) for holding music and various other needed things at Church. As a Chanter I need the music not just for the liturgy, but also for some of the special services. I’m also dividing it up into sections for each service as I work on learning how to plot out those services.

I also met with my priest a couple of times last week on doing some of the prep work for the Saturday Vespers and Matins. I’m going to be learning how to get the right info into our standard form for handouts so that those are ready to go on Saturday afternoon.

We also had a Church cleaning day on Saturday, which was well attended and we even got some things done that hadn’t been done in a while. One of the people who volunteered was very enthusiastic to the point of dusting architectural decorations and other locations up high that have not been done in years. And it showed, and he even went and vacuumed in the sanctuary and other places that needed it after his work. I did a small bit, and managed to get my lower back very upset with me. Since my Godmother reads this blog on occasion, won’t admit to all I did, but I will say that I do enjoy making OSHA inspectors cry. Nothing too dangerous, but needed to get to a few places that hadn’t been done in years as well. Worth it though, as the sanctuary gleamed Sunday morning.

So, hope to get more regular posting done this week even with a few things going on. Most of the Church things are towards the end of the week, though I will be meeting with the priest of the local Romanian Orthodox Church on Thursday as he just got back from a sabbatical in Romania. He’s going to be showing me what apps were used there for payments and more; going over some of his lesson’s learned; and, he’s even even helping me with a Church to attend while I am in Romania (even though it won’t be for long). Friday, Saturday, and Sunday will be filled with services, so might not be posting much at the very end of the week.

More soon, and thank you for your patience! As always, your suggestions, prayers and kind gifts towards the pilgrimage, the “new” car, and life in general are very much appreciated.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Doing Fine

This morning has been spent at the doctor’s office, with a side trip to Costco. Courtesy of being hit by lightning, every six months I get a pretty good check up. Today’s went very well with the bloodwork very good overall. My blood glucose was one point higher than the average, and the doc said he wasn’t going to ding me over that. (smile). The important things were all in range and/or excellent in some cases. Hoping that getting to the gym will make things even better.

Also, yesterday I was gifted a car that had belonged to my Godfather. Not pretty, but mechanically sound and runs well. This despite being stolen at one point by people who did not know how to drive stick-shift and abandoned it. (grin, equipped with millennial anti-theft protection system)

My Godfather had a bunch of work done on it earlier this year, so should be good for getting to Church and back, and occasional trips to the grocery store. I go tomorrow to sign paperwork on insurance, and once I have proof of insurance will transfer the title. Doing a yearly bill as it drops my insurance cost to $55 a month at full coverage. The bill is an ouch, being unbudgeted, but long-term worth it.

My doctor being across the street from a Costco, walked across to take care of some things. When I joined, I had a high-pressure guy who got me to try the Executive membership. Didn’t do much for me, so knowing renewal was coming up, went in and asked to downgrade the renewal. They had me shop first, then came back. Long-story short, they did the downgrade now, refunded the difference, and used some other goodies to renew me for the year at the regular membership price for no additional charge, so I’m good until the end of December 2026 without any payment. That was excellent customer service.

More to come!

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Prognostication, Pt. 2

A while back, in this post, I offered the start to some prognostications of the future — at least in Europe. Now what I was doing ties into this post and this post on NATO and the need for a new non-military NATO. I stand by my comments on the need to get out of NATO, and why we need to be looking at a new approach and even location.

While I had intended to do detailed run-downs on several countries, and to note some potential inflection points, I fear the time for that has passed. At least it has passed for me and where I am headed on my own personal journey. That said, I want to look at some of the possible futures I see while noting that there are things that can happen to prevent or change the direction of events. These deflection points are going to depend on individuals and their actions, as such has the power to change the world.

First up, the EU is an evil organization and, to my mind, represents the face of the yoke of the godless authority. It is anti-freedom, anti-nationalism, and anti-individualism. It is also a drain on it’s member nations and is doing all it can to destroy them as individual countries. It is a group of WEF communist/socialist flunkies who crave power and wield it like a junkie after a fix. Possibly harsh, but keep that in mind as I go through the following.

England, whatever you call it, is lost. As I’ve noted in previous posts, the still-increasing number of mainly Muslim migrants who are not assimilating but seeking to make it a Muslim country are outgrowing and out-breeding the natives. Law enforcement has gone all-in on promoting and protecting that effort and those behind it, and all-in on persecuting if not terrorizing average citizens who dare object in any way, shape, or form. The courts have gone all-in on a two-tier system of justice where native Britons/average citizens are given harsh and even draconian punishments for not being willing serfs while the new masters of Britain are given slaps on the wrist at worst for far more horrific crimes like rape and murder. Speak up against it and you will be in jail for years, where the rapist or murderer you objected to gets little or no jail time.

Demographics are against England. So are the politics as while the current Labor government is cracking down as hard and fast as it can (and even trying to censor Americans and American companies), the rest of the lot including Reform isn’t much better. While Tommy Robinson may be a viable alternative, I suspect the current government will succeed in killing him within a year via more trumped-up charges and false imprisonment where the dirty work can be done by others. Hope I’m wrong on that, but not going to put a bet that I am.

With elections still several years away on the normal cycle, I don’t think they offer much of a chance. In fact, if things keep going as they are, I don’t think such elections will matter at all. See some of my previous writings for my thoughts on why an uprising is not likely to succeed. Absent arms and other supplies, a revolt against tyranny is not in the cards. If we are not laying the groundwork and making plans to secure England’s nukes when it falls, the staff at the Pentagon is failing at their jobs.

Germany is in much the same boat. The government is continuing the immigration policies started under Merkel but adding their own thuggish touch to them. They are looking to outlaw the growing AfD party and I note with interest the recent sudden deaths of six or so members of the party who were already on ballots but also who could not be replaced before the elections, preventing any AfD victories. Add in a two-tier justice system on the English model, and much tighter governmental controls, and the deck is stacked against the native citizens of Germany. Also, again, demographics is a bear with a declining birthrate on one hand and a rising birthrate on the part of the immigrants not painting a good picture.

While Germany has not yet internalized and accepted the industrial-level of grooming and rape of children as have the English (and it is worth remembering that members of law enforcement and government were paid off with use of the children for years, as well as by political votes and support), it is still tolerated by the courts (and to a lesser extent LE) though not by the citizens. There is a reason for the growth of the AfD…

That said, Germany looks to fall just as England has. If the public suddenly stands up against the government, they may have a chance. Again, however, the odds are against it and, again, they have given up any and all means to revolt against a tyranny. I think Germany will hold on longer than England, but face the same fate absent sudden, radical change.

Now, let’s turn to France. In some respects, France is further along the fall than most realize, thanks to Macaroon and company. France has a huge immigrant problem, and Paris is not the only city that has large-and-growing no-go areas. The French Government and French media for the most part have waged a fairly successful effort to keep bad news suppressed, especially to external audiences. I more than halfway suspect that Macaroon’s shameless pandering to Hamass was an effort to curry favor with the majority Muslim invaders.

Keep in mind that Macaroon and company are still in power because they have refused to accept election results that would put them out of power and Ms. LePen and her populists into power. They are also doing all they can to trump up charges to keep her out of power in the mistaken belief that if they block her the rest will fall away. They would rather see France fall, to the point of becoming a Muslim nation, than accept the will of the people.

Which means France may have a chance. More than once the people of France have taken pragmatic action themselves when the government would not. Given the laissez-faire attitude of many of the citizens of France to various laws (including weapons laws), they may deal with the problem such that the government is handed a fait accompli which can be regretted in public while celebrated in private.

Problem is, once again, demographics. The French are being out bred even as more and more immigrants pour in on top of that. Given the actions of the current French government in fighting their political enemies, there is a very real chance that they will focus on them and not on the larger threat. So, while I think there may be a greater chance there than in England or Germany, I don’t see it happening outside a significant and unexpected event or events. Also, again, we need to be laying groundwork and making plans to secure French nukes when it happens.

Spain may have a chance, if the current group of loons is voted out and someone with some sense voted in. The mood in the Spanish public does seem to be shifting far faster and far greater than those in power realize. However, I think it likely to fall as it is a prime target for the Islamists who want it for historic reasons (and propaganda). Lot going on there now, largely out of view, but it is one of the few countries I think could end up holding on for a while.

Italy is one of the few countries I think has a chance of survival, though it may be in parts. Given both internal Italian politics and the outsized role of the EU in blocking Italian government efforts to control immigration (and more), I have the suspicion we may see the Risorgimento rolled back with mostly the region from Rome north holding. As for Sicily, it may hold out by dint of going full-Sicilian on all immigrants.

As for Portugal, Belgium, the Netherlands, etc., even if they hold out at first, they will be overwhelmed by numbers. Absent a fanatic defense requiring a LOT of outside assistance, they will fall soon after the larger countries.

Switzerland should be able to hold, though outside aid will be needed long-term. In fact, I can see the mountainous regions of Germany, France, Austria, and Italy being a redoubt around it if and when the rest of same falls. I can see the mountains of Spain being a no-go zone for the Caliphate, and portions of the Scottish Highlands and isles as a redoubt in England. The problem will be sufficient agriculture to feed the population, and sufficient manufacturing of weapons and other needful things. Absent ground logistics, air will be a poor alternative. Sea logistics will be interesting for most of the areas save England.

Which is why I think it would be wise to go with a new, non-military NATO as I discussed in the linked posts above. If we build up Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Slovakia, Hungary, Romania, Bulgaria, Serbia, Bosnia, Slovenia, and Croatia. Yes, I know there are some issues with some of the countries, but I also think that such can be dealt with. Fact is, if you have most or all of those countries, you have a solid bulkwark to contain the new Caliphate and provide ground logistics to northern Italy and Switzerland.

You would also have some Sea Lines of Communication (SLOC) which are going to be essential. Of course, those are contingent on keeping the straights of Gibraltar open, but again it can be done. I wouldn’t count on the Bosphorus as right now I would put my money on Erdogan going all-in on the side of the Islamists. That again is a good reason to beef things up in the traditional areas that have opposed invasions from Istanbul for a thousand years or so.

There is a lot more behind what I have proposed, but I lack the time to get into all the details. It’s not as off-the-wall as some might think, and there are some historic details hidden beneath the surface. Besides, it’s not a battle I’m likely to fight; so, I put this out for others to consider.

Thing is, the future is not yet written. I can already see some things that could happen to prevent the worst case, which is what my discussion centers around. Thing is, many of those events are as likely to be as catastrophic as the individual countries falling. In a majority of the cases where native citizens rise up not only against their own governments, but to repel the invasion of the immigrants, it will likely be the bloodiest event(s) in human history. It’s why no sane person wants Civil War 2.0 here.

While there are a few chances for a more peaceful resolution of things, the odds are that even if they survive and survive as a Western government built on the foundations of Western civilization, it will not be the country we once knew. If they don’t survive as a Western government built on the foundations of Western civilization, they will be so far removed from what they were as to be unrecognizable.

It’s why we need to start now working to save not only our own Republic (an effort already well underway), but to reform and/or replace those governments that have turned against their own people. The best way for that to happen is from within, by the people and through the ballot box. If we do anything, it should be to ensure free and fair elections do take place and to stomp hard and fast on efforts to push censorship, legislation, and unrest from abroad. We need to use our economic clout to reward governments that do right by their people and their treaty obligations, and to punish those who do not. Some of that is already underway, the only question is will it be enough and in time.

What I present here is the worst case, but it also what I see taking place before us. I truly do fear England is lost, but hope that it may yet save itself without losing itself. All it could take is that one spark, that one unexpected person and event that opens a door for events. Otherwise, I fear that most of Europe will live out Tom Kratman’s Caliphate. Pray that we, and the rest of the world, don’t.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Dear Vladimir,

I write this to you sincerely, though I doubt you know me or remember me from Adam’s housecat, as what may be one of the last overtly political posts on this blog. For all that I plan to talk about politics in some different contexts, my time in other discussions of politics is at an end as I move into a truly new life of Faith.

I hope you will get this, intact even, as there is still at least one person in the Kremlin openly reading me pretty much daily. And, yes, I know that was a bit of a message too. I was and am actually glad of it as I hope some of my messages got through, at least in part.

This letter is sparked in part by Stephen Green at Instapundit, who wrote that “This would be a great time for peace, Vladimir.” And, he is right: this would indeed be a great time for peace.

As you know, I’ve opposed the current war in Ukraine and thought it to be a major mistake. However, I also know that a number of your friends and advisors felt otherwise but history has shown their words to be empty and false, a village built on lies worthy of a Potemkin. Very few people have had the courage to tell you to your face that those words were wrong and to oppose the war. You would do well to consider that they may be your true friends and some of the only honest people around you.

Yes, I do know that Russkiy Mir, and your legacy in regard it, is a driver of and for you. I’ve also been most honest in my opposition to it. I would, however, make the case that a voluntary union for such would be far stronger and more capable than a restive and rebellious forced conglomeration. I would further note that most major Christian denominations posit that forced conversion is not only invalid, but immoral and an abomination. I would then note that the Eastern Orthodox Churches have never been all that big on forced conversion. It has happened, but such is both an aberration and an abomination before God.

God is granting you the opportunity to be a truly great statesman and not only accept peace, but to forge new pathways for the betterment of all in the process. If my small and insignificant voice can help in that, and perhaps bring some thoughts from outside the circle of those constantly around you, I will be glad to do so in person. All I would ask is safe passage, and — if possible — the chance to visit the graves of St. Xenia of Petersburg and St. Seraphim of Sarov, and for us to do so together with prayers for guidance.

My words are as those of a lone wolf far in the distance of the wilderness. I doubt you will hear them or even of them, and I especially doubt you will hear them whole as I have presented them. Such is not mine to control, but if they are just and proper I must have the faith that they will indeed reach you.

May God guide you to do what is right now and in the days ahead, and may his mercy be upon you, your people, and all the peoples of the world. It is time Vladimir for peace. Go with God and the Theotokos on this new, and even scary, path.

In Christ,

LW

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, and to start a truly new life, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

Still Here

Sorry for the lite posting, but I’ve been busy. We’ve had some form of service (or even more than one) at the Church every day since Saturday. I’m going back down again today, but for something other than services.

Every year, we do a Christmas Village as both a fundraiser and as a community event aimed at the nearby neighborhoods. There are vendors who do everything from homemade Christmas ornaments to homemade soaps, along with a bakery and restaurant (both done by our Church, and the food is good!). The Lamp Post, our coffee bar that is a reproduction of the bar from the Eagle and Child Pub where Lewis, Tolkien, and the other Inklings met, sells warm beverages to ease the cold. It’s a fun thing to do, and to attend.

Today, we will be going around the neighborhoods around the Church distributing flyers that not only advertise the event (later this year) but also give people a chance to order wreaths and other decorations from one of the vendors. Then, we will return to brats and other delights cooked on the grill by one of our grillmasters and enjoy some good fellowship.

I’m going down early both to get the grill up out of the basement and ready for our grillmaster, and to go ahead and try to get some work done on the candles and lamps for Saturday. May try to get a couple of other things done while I can. Our Deacon has been teaching me not only how to do certain things, but also instructing me on how to put together some of the non-liturgy services. All I can say is that the more I learn, the more I learn I have to learn. Cheat sheets are wonderful, though at least one of mine makes him laugh. A few thousand repetitions and I may have memorized ten percent of what he has memorized in his head.

I’ve also been dealing with a situation involving a friend. I would ask you to keep “Standup” uplifted in your prayers. Things are more hopeful than they were, and I pray that he finds peace of mind and soul.

More soon I hope.

Getting hit by lightning is not fun! If you would like to help me in my recovery efforts, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. If you want to know some of what it is going for, read here. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. Thank you.

A Bleg Of Sorts, Update 1

Back in July, I did a bleg post sharing a bit of what I was facing , and how your kind gifts to me through the Bard’s Jar in the upper right were being used. I think it’s time to update that as some of what was being talked about has changed.

I’ve had the physical therapy, and am still waiting to see what happens with the insurance appeal. An appeal was necessary as the insurance company approved the physical therapy, then decided for reasons they really did not make clear (but may have been paperwork issues) refused to pay for it. I technically could still be on the hook for about $5k, but am hoping that things are now resolved. We will see.

Other things I mentioned have taken place, and the net result has been a very large positive. My mobility and flexibility (and balance/vertigo issues) are much improved as a result of physical therapy, physical activity, and massage therapy. This is particularly true of my lower body, and while there is still a ways to go it is almost like night and day. It has also helped with the edema, and I am hoping to be able to take the water pill “at need” within six or so months. We are already down to every other day on it.

The cognitive is improving as well. The music therapy is really helping with that, and I thank both my voice coach and our music director at Church for their work and patience. My voice still keeps dropping (as opposed to extending my range upwards), but it makes for a great reading voice and the ability to sing low bass/profundo on some things. Why it is still dropping is a mystery, but there are worse things that could be happening.

There have been some other changes in life, and I am looking at some serious changes to my path. Most of those revolve around Faith. I am doing more at Church, and next year I will making a pilgrimage to Bulgaria and Mount Athos as part of a process of spiritual growth and discernment. Most of my time will be in Bulgaria where I have a chance not only to spend some time at a couple of monasteries; but, I will have the chance to learn, worship, and grow at the “home” of my Church. In addition, we are working on my spending several days at Mount Athos in Greece, and I may be spending a week in Romania as well. Not only has my Priest given his blessing and help to this, my Bishop is providing spiritual guidance as well.

So, here is what I need/where your gifts are going:

First, right now every non-designated donation that comes in is going towards the pilgrimage. I’ve bought my airfare and am working on paying it off. Where I can buy train or other tickets in advance for trips to Mount Athos and other locations, I am doing so. I will be arranging housing in Bulgaria soon, and am trying to get as much done and paid for in advance as I can. For long-term readers, you will not be surprised to learn I’ve been able to arrange some cooking lessons, mostly one day events, and I’m looking at trying to pay for them as far in advance as possible. I will also need a new cell phone (and plan) for the trip, as well as some other odds-and-ends. The total budget for the trip isn’t huge for most (excluding the new cell phone, I think it can be done for around $3k), but my small monthly stipend doesn’t allow me much room. Any and all help is appreciated.

Second, I am going to be coming up on the annual payments to keep this blog up soon. Any help towards that (and you can drop me a line and let me know if your gift is intended for that) is very much appreciated.

Third, help with music and massage therapy is very much appreciated. Both are having a large positive impact on me, and again you can drop me a line and let me know if your gift is intended for that. Massage therapy is roughly $100 per session and I get four lessons for $190 from the voice coach. The latter is a small discount, but will take any discount I can get.

Fourth, efforts are underway to gift me a car. It’s far from new or pretty, but it runs and is reliable. Insurance and other costs were not in my yearly budgeting process, so again any help is appreciated.

Fifth, I would love to do some regular personal training at the gym if possible. Not sure what that will be, but it is a “nice to do” as it were.

I want to thank everyone who has sent me gifts, especially those towards the pilgrimage. I can’t thank you enough for your kindness and generosity. I also want to thank those who have kept me in their prayers, as those are very much needed and appreciated.

Life has not gone anywhere close to what I had planned when I first stated the fundraiser on Give Send Go. Rather than moving out West and becoming a bit of a secular hermit, I may be headed towards a more clerical or monastic life. Where that takes me, spiritually or physically, I don’t know other than I am content wherever it takes me. Been feeling that there was something I was supposed to do/be doing ever since I stood up alive after being hit by lightning. This very much feels like the right path, though I know not where it leads. I’m content to simply be walking the path, knowing that God knows where it leads.

Again, my profound and sincere thanks to all who have provided the gifts and prayers that have kept me going since those early days. Words can’t express my thanks, and how much I appreciate you. Thank you. I look forward to sharing this new journey with you.