Review: Greyhound

I will give you the ending first: if you have no other choice, and the flexibility to travel one or more days early to a location, and not have any timeline on your return, Greyhound will work. Otherwise, I suspect one would be far better off walking or hitchhiking.

The trip down was not bad, nor was it particularly good. Because of their service schedule, I traveled down a day early. That was a good decision and in fact I might consider two days early if I ever travel with them again. More on that in a minute. The pros of the trip down: we made it, and reasonably on-time. The cons of the trip down: narrow and uncomfortable seats, interesting subset of passengers made it interesting for everyone else, and “terminals” when actually terminals and not a bus stop somewhere were limited. When we stopped at a restaurant or such, there was an immediate dash for the restrooms. Bus conditions varied throughout the trip, with one bus having no working overhead services (lights, vents, etc.).

We made it down, and that is what counts. I will note that the Knoxville “terminal” is literally a bus stop in an apparently interesting part of town. I did note that Greyhound paid to have an armed security guard present whenever busses arrived. I also noted that the busses seldom stayed more than ten minutes before leaving. The guard left right after as well.

The trip back was not fun. I was dropped off in plenty of time (and in style even) by Old Paratrooper, only to find out about ten minutes later when the Greyhound agent pulled up in her car that the incoming bus was running more than four hours behind schedule. No clue why, but instead of a 6:15 departure it likely would not arrive until after 11 pm. So, five hour wait with no facilities and such. Thankfully, a nearby restaurant allowed some of us in to sit and relax as much as circumstances allowed. I was very glad I had started dehydrating myself earlier in the day given the restroom situation.

When the bus arrived, we got our luggage stowed (you have to put your suitcase into the cargo bay yourself FYI), got onboard, and got going. The driver let us know that he was a relief driver, that the bus was late when he got it, suggested we call customer service if we could and if not don’t worry Greyhound would likely have the missed connections rebooked by the time we got to Nashville. Right.

In Nashville, the customer service crew acted as though they had no idea the bus was late, and the customer service agent got mad at the passengers (in part apparently because we had missed our connections like it was our fault) and all but threw little sheets of paper with the customer service number on it at everyone. Short version, no help, call the customer service number and don’t speak to her.

The customer service number starts with a several minute long legal disclaimer, then I think one or two other things, before putting you in line to eventually talk with a customer service agent. Who, of course, wanted info off the app on the phone you are using to call them. Sigh. Eventually did get a person, get the info, and got rebooked though it was not what I had hoped for. Earlier, a young gentleman and myself had looked at rebookings and it shoould have been possible to get back faster than I did. Instead of getting back at 0430 hours Sunday morning, I didn’t make it in until after 10, and in fact it was about 11 as I started walking away from the terminal.

I should use a proper phrase here, but I don’t feel like it and in fact feel like it is well worth having to confess saying that Greyhound customer service at almost every level sucks big fat hairy warty ones. You will encounter more Cartmans at Greyhound than in all the seasons of South Park combined. Seems to be a thing for them, and I suspect some of it comes from having to deal with that special class of passenger that makes life so interesting for everyone. The class that results in signs up next to terminal locations stating that said passengers are not allowed to stand, sit, etc. in front of neighboring businesses or the cops will be called.

I will note that I did meet a number of nice and interesting passengers, but that special class makes it interesting for all. It is why the terminals have a bit of a ripe reputation.

The lack of interest in timely response, timely rebooking, and the attitude that seems fairly prevalent in terminal employees means that no one is going to be trying to get you rebooked if they screw up, much less in a timely manner. Hence, I would plan any future trips I do to get me to where I needed to be one to two days early; and, not count on getting home as scheduled either.

Greyhound will, eventually, get you there. It just will not be comfortable, pleasant, or enjoyable. They did get me there and back, and that is sadly the best I can say.

Quick note: the highlight of the oh-so-interesting trip back home was pulling into a Buc-ees. Those of us who knew dashed inside with delight to the clean, clean restrooms, which after dealing with Greyhound were very much appreciated. Also, decent food and other delights truly made it the highlight of that 12+ hour bit of joy.

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. 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.

Lightning Strike Conference Report

Before I do anything else, I want to thank everyone who encouraged me to go to this event despite the difficulties, and who donated to help make it possible. On the former, I particularly need to thank my Godfather for his push/kick there near the end. On the latter, I can’t tell you how much I appreciate the gifts that helped me to get there. I may be a while paying off the rest, but it was more than worth it to get there.

I’ll cover general transport in another post, but also want to thank Old Paratrooper for his extreme kindness in picking me up in Knoxville and getting me to the conference, and for then picking me up at the end of the conference and driving me back to the bus. Riding in a convertible through the mountains was a thing of beauty. It was great to finally meet him in person, and we had fun sharing tales and stories. Thank you my friend! Also, thanks to Instapundit, Prof. Glenn Reynolds, for joining me for breakfast one morning. It was good to see him in person and to catch up a bit. More on that soon in another post (or three, we covered a lot of ground).

The short version is that I wish I had been able to attend one of these Lightning Strike and Electrical Shock Survivors conferences very much sooner. As in not long after I was hit. The amount of information I got was almost like being hit with a firehose. Even better was talking with other survivors and finding out I’m not alone and not crazy (well, not in terms of the after effects of the strike anyway).

The longer version is that the life I had is gone, and it’s not coming back. In the words of the song, it’s the end of the world as we know it, and I feel fine. In fact, I feel more than fine. There is a part of me that is sad and other emotions at knowing that life is not ever going to come back. My mind and body are never going to work the way they did, and I will never be able to do some of the things I used to do. I’m still a pilot, though I will likely never fly again. If I can adjust to that, I can learn to deal with needing grab bars in the shower.

Fact is, on many levels I had already accepted that and begun moving forward. For parts of my old life, I was and am glad to see them gone. I prefer to see it as a chance to start over, to build a new life, and hopefully a better one, despite the difficulties. While I was never one who worked at Elon-speed/level, I did okay in certain areas. I can still work through certain types of problems, it just takes me longer to do the work. As I noted to Glenn at breakfast, what used to take me 30 minutes to write back then now takes me four hours (or more to be honest).

I can still look at data and spot patterns and trends, it just may take a bit longer. On the physical side, I’m doing a lot better than I was right after the strike and the conference gave me some ideas on how to work to step up my game mentally and physically. It would be nice to be able to do full prostrations, and get up again afterwards. One thing I realized during the conference is that I’ve been viewing, and gaming, my recovery as yet another experiment — one I’ve not bothered the human subjects committee about (think Les Geddes may have rubbed off on me more than I realized).

Which is probably a good thing, as I sure can’t count on the medical field to do much on a holistic level, much less within specialties. The fact is, lightning strikes and high-voltage electrical shocks are a niche field. There is no ICD (ICD-10-CM) code for lightning strike, and few in the medical field are prepared (or even interested in) dealing with the multiplicity of problems that crop up over time in survivors. And we are survivors, as I was quickly corrected when quoting a medical provider involved in my case who did refer to us as victims. Long-term readers of this site know my aversion to the use of victim as a term anyway. You can be a victim, or a victor. Know where I’m going to put my time and money on that one.

I was incredibly fortunate back when we first figured out I had been hit (I thought at first it was a near miss, having missed the hole in the bottom of my foot as it wasn’t bleeding), in finding Dr. Mary Ann Cooper who was gracious and kind enough to give myself (and my GP) some information and guidance. One of the things she did was to recommend my joining LSESSI, which I did. Finally starting to take full advantage of the resources they offer.

One of our speakers was a counselor who’s presentation included information on EMDR 2.0. Having been a previous beneficiary of EMDR, I was intrigued at what he reported and will be using the EMDRIA.org website to find someone here in Indy trained in it. Short version is that in addition to dealing with trauma, EMDR may also be effective in helping to deal with some of the side effects (including second and third order effects).

I have some upcoming cognition/neuropsych testing which may help me with that effort. Mr. Interruptus interjected during my introduction that I was going to be disappointed in what came out of it. Bullshit. I am not expecting a lot out of the whole follow-up in terms of direct help from the neurologist. I’m looking for indirect and to prevent avenues from being blocked. I pushed as I need real data, imaging and otherwise, to plot the next parts of the experiment on myself, and to lay the background needed to see how much I can get insurance to cover of treatments like the EMDR, physical therapy, and other needful things. One thing I have learned over the last (almost) four years is that you have to play the insurance game, which can be a delicate dance.

It is a delicate dance especially given that many medical practitioners (and I strongly suspect most neurologists) think survivors are crazy because of the issues and symptoms reported. Add in that a number of things pop up over time and don’t happen all at the first adds to that. Finally, keep in mind that under the current system, a number of insurers and providers (sometimes the same) could/can make lots and lots of money off you by putting you into home health care or assisted living even if you don’t need (or want) it. Getting the help you do need while avoiding being used to milk the government teat (and lose your freedoms) is yet another dance. As I’ve said before many times, you have to be your own medical advocate, as no one else is going to do that for you. Get informed, push, find new doctors at need — they are not going to care about or look for your best interest, that is up to you.

One thing I want to try came from another survivor. We had a presentation on various therapies to help with some issues (mostly biofeedback, meditation, etc.), which prompted a survivor to talk about something she had used with a student she counseled. Short version, when reading or trying to learn (memorize and more), do something tactile with your hands. Play with a stick, use a fidget spinner, etc. and it can aid in retention. Worked for the student, so I’m going to experiment with it a bit. My basic retention has improved, but if this can help with memorization and recall…

One more thought to share on medical types that was brought up more than once: they don’t deal well with intermittent. Quite a few of the things that can pop up in the life of survivors are intermittent. I’ve had it suggested to me that I’m lazy or crazy when noting that I do well overall but have occasional glitches. If the medical types can’t see it happen, or test for it, it’s all in your head. And they are very quick to make that jump. It’s why you have to advocate for yourself. It’s also why though I am glad to have the latest MRI of my brain, I do wish I could have gotten a functional MRI or even some PET data as those would be far more revealing and useful. But, that’s not likely to happen under the current system as the medical types and you both have to play the insurance game and insurers want to save those dollars…

Outside of EMDR 2.0 and physical therapy, one thing I do want to do is get some regular massage/deep-tissue massage. There are some interesting reports on such helping with those second and third order effects, so figure it is worth a try. Have already found a place near me that says they do deep tissue, so may be checking it out soon. Be great if covered by insurance, but not going to wait for that. Not sure how, but will find a way to pull a visit or two out of the budget.

Before I forget, for all of you who have helped with the guitar and lessons, and voice coaching, thank you! Turns out, I’m not the only one who has had to relearn how to sing. Had a great visit with another survivor who also had to do it. Relearning is needed, fun, and great therapy. I will be pressing on with that. In fact, I will admit that I am enjoying singing again on levels I can’t describe.

It was also very interesting meeting multiple-hit survivors. While there are several theories as to why, reality is that each time you are hit the odds of you getting hit again go up. I really do hope to avoid it, but it was eye-opening to talk with people who have been hit four and five times.

One of the last things we did was to break off into survivor and caregiver groups. I really need to do a full post one day soon on caregivers and how important they are. Please remind me. In the survivor group, the two of us who were new to the conferences went over what was going on with us, our action plan, and related. Those who have been around a while asked questions, made suggestions, and offered advice. All within the framework of not everything works for everyone, and I will note that LSESSI does not endorse any products, services, providers, etc. The roundtable was worth the pain of getting there all by itself.

Finally, I will note that those there noted the importance of Faith in recovery. There is a lot of data showing that success rates go up rather dramatically when one has Faith. Given some of the miraculous things that have happened to me in my recovery, especially after my Baptism, I do believe it.

In short, it was well worth the cost, fiscal and physical. Even with your help I had to pull a good bit out of what I had set aside for moving. Worth it. Boy howdy was it worth it. So, again, my thanks for your encouragement, your gifts, and your support. I’m working on an action plan for the near-term and even long term. I’m also more than half considering biking to either this conference next year or to one in Arizona this September. I think it possible I could do a hundred miles a day, which makes it less impractical, and it would be far better and more reliable than the bus.

There is more I could share, but that’s enough for today. Just remember that if you see typos and incorrect word use here, be gentle as it just means I’m having an off day (one of those intermittent glitch things). More soon.

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. 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.

Quick Aside On Memorial Day

Been trying to decide what to say about part of Memorial Day, as I ended up very disappointed and only half surprised at something that happened. For years now, I’ve bought a beer for ‘the guys’ and never had an issue. In fact, the Oaken Barrel in Greenwood has been glad to host them and one staffer there has even saved all the lists.

This year, I couldn’t get down there so decided to try my luck in downtown Indy. I should have had a clue from the lack of American flags, though there were an abundance of trans/pride flags around. Short version is that no one would host them, and one place even copped some attitude at being asked if they would. That was strike three for them (shame, like a couple of their brews but they have issues that even I can’t ignore).

There is a divide in America and it is getting worse. The true ‘woke’ are doubling down. Increasingly they are turning to violence, and encouraging it. They are turning their backs on civility, and the things that make our Republic, and civilization itself, possible. Back in 2007, people could not do enough for the troops. Today, it’s honor those who gave all on Memorial Day? Are you nuts/right-wing/etc? The most neutral answer I think I got when asking was an admission that all that mattered were the dollars and any space in the place not being used for that was a loss, so no.

Next year, will find a way to get back down to Oaken Barrel if they will host the guys again. And, I will not be spending any of my limited funds at the places that said no.

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. 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.

Headed To Pigeon Forge

I’m headed out to the Lightning Strike and Electrical Shock Survivors annual meeting, thanks to your help and encouragement. I’m not taking the laptop with me, so probably not a lot of posting until I get back. May have a couple of surprises to share, looking forward to being back in the Knoxville and Pigeon Forge areas.

More soon.

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. 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.

Memorial Day 2025

I am hoping to go raise a glass to/with them in just a bit. Meantime, enjoy the day but do take a minute to think about, remember, and pray for those who gave all for this country, from our founding until now. I pray for them all, and I especially remember:

ENS Albert Foster Powers, MIA 1945 Japan
LCPL Bill Stelpflug, Beirut
COL Rick Rescorla, NY 9/11
SPC Ryan Dallam, Iraq
PFC Damian Lopez, Iraq
SPC Marieo Guerrero, Iraq
CPT Anthony Palermo, Iraq
SPC David Behrle, Iraq
SPC Joseph Gilmore, Iraq
PFC Travis Haslip, Iraq
SGT Jean Medlin, Iraq
SSG Christopher Moore, Iraq
PVT Alexander Varela, Iraq
LCPL Jeremy W. Burris, Iraq
SSG Brian Cowdrey, Afghanistan
MAJ Andrew Olmstead, Iraq
CPT Carroll LeFon, CONUS

Thank you Lord that such men lived, and heeded the call to protect and defend. We are all the richer and the better for them and their brothers and sisters who lived the words “No greater love…” You are remembered. You are not forgotten. You are missed. God Bless.

Into The Light: Michael Ledeen

His is not a name well known to most, which is a shame in some ways. Some people have an outsized impact on history, and Michael Ledeen is one of them. I never met him in person, and wish I had done so.

I think I’ve mentioned before that it took a while for Heinlein and others to kick in, and in my early years I was a touch blue as it were. In fact, I have to admit, Reagan (or at least the media reports about him) scared me a bit when he was first elected. That said, by the time he left office, if he had asked me to get something out of Satan’s desk for him, I would have done my best to pull that off. While that change was mostly him (another I would have liked to have met in person, didn’t get to at the Shuttle landing), part of that change and the change in my view of the world came from Michael Ledeen.

It was Michael who was behind part of the strategy that brought down the Soviet Union, and he was involved in many more things beyond that. His take on Iran is one I hope is being well studied and utilized by the current administration. He was not a fan of military intervention, but worked tirelessly to help dissidents around the world achieve freedom and liberty on their own.

His work in ending the Cold War without things getting hot is not likely to be fully known or appreciated, nor will his many other contributions to this world. Godspeed Sir!

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. 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.

The Gathering Storm

Before I get going on a complex (and possibly convoluted) post, allow me to commend two resources to you. I plan to add them to the recommended box in the upper left here soon.

First, if you have not already heard about her and her work, meet Data republican (small R, profile on X). She has been doing an absolutely amazing job on tracking the money, the networks, and much more behind “the blob” aka the world-wide swamp. Not just content to assist DOGE, she’s dug in and done much, much more. There are a lot important people very unhappy with that, especially since some of her work has shown interesting things: like how many of the judges currently abusing nationwide stays and such have a financial interest in getting money to the NGOs, either directly or through family members. In fact, at least one formal complaint has been filed about failure to acknowledge a major conflict of interest.

Unrelated to today’s post, I also enjoyed her posting of a essay by her pastor on the historical case for Christ. I also want to explore her work that cross-references Bible verses with the Ante-Nicene Fathers. Here’s a link on X to a video showing how to use that tool. In my free time I’m reading those writings in full, and if you haven’t read Clement, St. Justin the Martyr, and others, you truly are missing some good works.

She is a fascinating lady, and my hat is off to her given all the challenges she faced before having so many people go after her for shining a light. Also, her mother has joined X and is a hoot! Her husband supports her and is running a small but growing business that I would love to support via some purchases. That’s a family I would not mind meeting.

Second, if you are not already familiar with Mike Benz, currently of the Foundation For Freedom Online and the self-described monstrosity Weapons of Mass Deletion. His work on the origin of Soros is worth the time to watch (X link to videeo) and read. In fact, if you want what I call the recent-past backgrounds on several things underway, you need to check into his work. I note recent past as he is covering a lot of things that have developed over the last decade or two, with a few going back further.

Keep in mind, a lot of what we are dealing with — particularly in terms of our current (so-called) “elite” government with all the best people — truly got started under that loathsome creature Wilson. In fact, much of what has turned into “sex inc.” started to step into the light about that time. Those efforts set the stage for what came in the mid- to late-1940s when it truly went public with things like the Kinsey Institute, and began the normalization process underway today. To me, right now, it appears that those initial efforts predated (spit) Gramsci, who both took advantage of them and may well have been taken advantage of by those behind them.

The history of sex and sexuality I will leave for later. History is fascinating, enlightening, and sometimes something that will make you sick to your stomach. I will say that I am thankful for Christianity as it put a stop to a number of things that today we find extremely horrific. Which is why I think so many in power hate it, but that’s also a post for another day.

Now, back to the gathering storm. I want to thank both Data republican and Mike Benz as they did a lot of hard work, and provided the data and analysis that is helping me sort out some of the patterns in the data. I think they are now tag-teaming the National Endowment for Democracy (NED) and its many tentacles. That is truly one to watch as it ties Soros and more into what’s going on in the U.S.

Before I forget, always remember that even when the data lies (i.e. most corporate media reports), the patterns in and around that data rarely do. The patterns matter, and I find it interesting that even with bad data included, the patterns seem to flow around it for those looking. Just something to keep in mind as you look at things yourself.

If you look at what Data republican and Mike have put together, it’s drawing the lines between points many never knew existed. It’s documenting the incestuous relationship between progressives, the NGOs, and others in what I’ve taken to calling The Fraternity. That’s the families (dynasties) that have been involved with modern governance since Wilson, and especially after FDR. Note how they intermarry and act much as royalty did (and still does).

The interesting thing about their work is that a lot of points (and people) most had no idea were a part of things have been exposed. I suggest you download the data where you can, as if efforts aren’t made to take it out I will be surprised. Side note, I’m glad both have security. Cockroaches do NOT appreciate having a light shone on them and their activities.

While much of that work involves people in the United States (and it is worth noting how much of the money to NGOs to help others elsewhere stayed right here in the U.S.), there is a fair bit on Europe as well. In fact, you there appears to be a good bit on Klaus Schwab and the other members of SPECTRE, er, the World Economic Forum rather. It is quite a web.

Thing is, you need to have at least a general idea of that web for some of my analysis to make sense. It provides background and also allows some potential future to be examined with more accuracy. It’s also important because it helps you to understand certain things happening now, and that are probable in the near future.

The group that has in many respects run most of the world since Wilson is like any other group that has come to power. We had the founders, who took the lead and built up the system; the first generation after who maintained and pushed the narrative of that the system was the best, enlightened, and proper for society and the world; and, the generations that followed who don’t truly understand history (especially their own) and incapable of restraint or self-sacrifice. It’s a story old as time and many a dynasty has seen it.

The current generation of the so-called elites, unlike previous generations, has no fallback. They really were bred and raised to fill certain slots in the machine, and are now facing a question most of us outside that fraternity have faced at one time or another: now what. Our job has gone away, outsourced to a mortal enemy (China, etc.), eliminated for a .ooo5 cent increase in profit, changes in the market, etc. Most of us have picked up and found something else to do, may have even had some training in that before. Most of the current elite do not have any marketable skills outside their current jobs. Many of which are going away with the cutting off of the NGO and related spigots.

It’s no wonder that the mommies and daddies of The Fraternity who are judges are so busy tying Article III into pretzels in an effort to stop the Executive (Article II powers), even though they are acting outside of the Constitution. And, yes, a good case can be made for that. As I noted here, Roberts is all-in on expanding the power of the Courts, and I’m not sure he would reign in the lower courts even if the rest of the Justices held guns to his head. And, yes, it would be extra-Constitutional to expand said powers — but have you looked at how much current government power is de facto and not de jure?

Also, again, it is well worth noting the number of judges involved in these cases that have ties via family to the NGOs and other things being defunded. Start taking names and plug them into the various searches and databases. Very interesting, as Arte would say.

No dynasty wants to see it’s time end. The current dynasty is no different. It wants and needs to be seen as the natural leaders of the world, of civilization, and of all that is right and good. Their forefathers knew that you had to throw a bone to the peasants (and make no mistake, that is how pretty much all of them see us), while most of this generation just want to bone the peasants. Literally even.

So, what’s going on in the courts right now is a fight to stay in power. It’s but one part of the efforts, and I suspect we may see an active riot season this year. George Floyd served them well, such that the last few riot seasons have not been active. I expect that to change this year, and this post (and related) are but one indicator of that. There are a lot of such indicators and individually they don’t mean much. Put them together and you get a picture of groups trying to mobilize: and to normalize violence against political enemies. Look around (anti-) social media and see how much is out there.

Then look at Europe and what is going on there. Germany has done many interesting things, including trying to outlaw the populist party AfD. Romania abrogated its elections because the wrong candidate won. France tried to do to LePen what was done here to Trump. The EU is striking out at member states who won’t fall into line in many ways and on several levels.

And it’s not working. The people are not taking it. In Ireland, there’s been more than a month of protests at what it’s government is doing. France saw a huge pushback against the government (which has refused to acknowledge that a new government was elected) that has them rocked back a bit. Italy, Hungary, and others are defying the EU on several fronts. In fact, look up who Meloni just endorsed in the new Romanian presidential election. That is a finger to the EU…

Now, the next layer on top of this involves the mass migrations underway. Leaving all else aside, look at how many countries have agreed, or been forced, to accept huge numbers of military-aged Islamic males into their borders. Look at how they, and those that came before the latest, are pushing for Sharia and demanding upon violence that their will be done. The imams that have popped up with them are openly saying that they intend to take over, that they will take power by any means. I want you to look up those speeches to be sure you believe it, for you should believe what they say. It’s being tried here too, right now, and yes you should consider within that equation the battalion or so of military-aged Islamic males that came across our southern border under the Biden Regency.

Reminder: Migration, and mass movement of refugees involves men, women, and children. The mass movement of military-aged males is, and always has been, an invasion. Invasions are hostile things, and should be treated accordingly.

Now, there are several reasons for encouraging mass invasion by The Fraternity and related. SPECTRE, er, I mean the World Economic Forum types have several, and keeping the peasants in line and the gravy train going figures large among them. At this point, the reasons are in many ways irrelevant as circumstances have caught up and passed the original plans.

Now, two other parts to consider are Russia and China. I’ve talked about Russia, Russkiy Mir, and the horrible demographics for a while now. Russia is desperate to not just regain the empire it had, but to bring in new areas. They have to as they (Rus) really are a minority in their own country, and they have in many respects a negative birth rate. Their economy blows, and I’ve outlined some of the many manufacturing and other problems they have. What surprises many is that China has some huge economic problems that are frantically being papered over. They also have demographic and other problems, and right now they stay afloat and a threat mainly because it is far cheaper to keep buying and/or blackmailing foreign politicians than it is to bite the bullet and fix the causes of the problems. Xi, like Putin, can’t afford to admit to the core problems as to do so ends their runs.

Finally, let’s not forget Iran, Pakistan, and India. I’m beyond glad that things got shut down fast in the latest between the latter. No, it’s not all good now, as there is a long history there that isn’t going to magically go away. No more than the issues between Indian and China (and the low-level war underway there) are going to go away. Iran is well on the way to the bomb, if they don’t have it already. If you missed it, I mentioned a seismic event in Iran in this post, and while I am trying to get more data on it, it is indeed worrying, especially when you look at some officially non-related things going on. Keep in mind that Iran is a powder keg and close to going up. As with The Fraternity, Putin, Xi, and others, they see the clock ticking and will do anything to stay in power.

There is more, but those are the major chunk of the background for my current thoughts. Right now, I see the gathering storm as being in three phases.

First phase is pretty much The Blob Strikes Back. The Fraternity and related are not going to go quietly. Expect an energetic riot season here and abroad. Also, even if they lose in the courts, they may win in that right now Roberts and the judges are shredding the stature of the Court. The public already sees that there is a two-tier (or more) system of justice, and that the current Court and courts are acting well outside the “norms” of which we are used to. The Republic, and the greater society represented in the Social Compact, depend on voluntary compliance and to some degree illusion. Erode that trust, strip away the illusion, and things fail. We need all three legs, and we need them at full strength.

Now, I will say here that even if The Blob wins, I think it will be temporary. I think that forces are in play historically that will bring them down again and hard. Problem is, if that happens, I think it could be hard enough to put us below the level of maintaining our current civilization. We are already on the path of a birthrate such that it can’t be sustained. It’s one of several reasons I would love to see Elon succeed and get us off this mudball. See this for some further discussions on that topic.

That said, I’m also worried about the more than three battalions of military-aged males that came over our southern border. In addition to the Islamics already mentioned, it seems that one of those battalions was of military aged males from Syria, Chechnyia, and other interesting places, all of which do not wish us well. I suggest you read Kurt Schlicter’s book The Attack. No, I get nothing from the link, I depend on your gifts as I want you to know that if I endorse a product, it’s not because I get paid to do so. Now, the first group I mentioned is part of a take-over effort. What this group can do is not just terror, but infrastructure attacks in support of outside powers as well as possibly The Blob/The Fraternity.

Oh, and that third battalion? Have you looked at how many military-aged Chinese men came across? Some of them very fit and of military bearing? What do you think could happen if we get tangled up with China? Keep it in mind.

So, energetic riot season with the possibility of some extra severe events is a possibility. Also, don’t forget the amazing amount of anger out there among the public. While they are often disparaged as “normies” they are well aware of what is going on, and in that our so-called leaders are not leading. In fact, they are getting even more angry as they watch Congress fritter away what they gave them via the vote in Uniparty Games (which may be like one version of reindeer games). Also, the current “Game of Lies” by corporate media is not helping. The public saw the decline of Biden and recognized the Regency, of which corporate media was a willing part. To claim now they were deceived is getting reactions such that “pull the other one” is one of the more polite.

Now, the progressives view violence (like riot season) as a rheostat, that can be dialed up or down at need. Lenin used it well, and it’s been used very effectively here since the 60s. Problem is, most others view it as a binary switch. The cute games being played with calling for the assassination of Trump via semi-deniable routes like “86” is not going over well with a majority of the public. If anything does happen, it will no longer be riot season and what happens will not be pretty. I really do wish certain people and groups would get that and not try to force us to slide down the razor blade of life into a shark tank. We do NOT want to go there, no matter what grifters on all sides push.

Second phase is a different form of societal spasm or collapse. It is demographics and Islam. Many imams are quite open about outbreeding and seizing power that way, even if quieter about the use of violence towards that end. In Europe, if you look at the demographics and the “flexibility” given to various Islamic populations, Germany, France, England, and Spain are pretty much gone. In England, Labor and other governments cheerfully traded their girl children (and some boys) to them for votes and political power, never realizing that the Islamics were playing a longer game. Similar situation in Germany, though not as open. France is a little different in background, but not in outcome. If there is a way to deal with this peacefully, I think the window is well on the way closed if not already closed. I don’t see any way for any of them to deal with it without the use of force. And, I don’t see any of those governments having the will to do so.

However, I agree with something Tom Kratman said a while back about the people of France. If their government won’t do it’s job, the people may do so. In fact, I think he mentioned the bloody practicality of the French people, and if they do move to deal with the problem (and there are signs of that level of unrest if you are paying attention), it will not be pretty. In fact, given the thoughts of the public about Macaroon and company going after LePen, some of the politicians might just want to hope they stop with dealing with the Islamic problem. That one could get very interesting. By the way, if you haven’t read Col. Kratman’s book Caliphate, it is a good read in this context.

I see Italy having a chance thanks to Meloni. She’s doing what she can on immigration and is trying to deal with the various problems caused by the EU. The leadership of the EU, of course, does not care for her and her recent endorsement of Simion in Romania is a finger in their eye as noted earlier.

Part of what went into my post on what I suggest replace NATO with is that I see Italy, Romania, Serbia, possibly Bulgaria, Hungary, Poland, and the Baltics as an eastern rampart to hold the line against the new Islamic republics in Germany, England, etc. They are defying the EU on “migration” and holding fast borders. I also think they may be the best hope for keeping Western Civilization alive in Europe. Post for another day, but it is a factor in my thinking here. For those interested in my thoughts on NATO, see here and here. Oh, and for saying that I am not a serious person for suggesting we leave NATO or consider nuclear Eastern Europe? I wear that as a badge of honor, and will be glad to let history show who got more things right in the prediction game.

Now, do I see such happening here? Yes. In fact the outbreed and take over slowly is well underway. Just look at the city attempt down in Texas. Don’t forget all the military-aged Islamics who came over the border. I don’t think the normal violence will work (in fact, think it will backfire rather spectacularly long run), but it doesn’t mean they won’t try it. Also, our own reproduction demographics are not good, despite all of Elon’s efforts to personally make up for it. We need to change that, seriously.

Third phase of potential storm relies on countries like Russia, China, Iran, etc. As long as we have the current administration, I think Xi will hold off on Taiwan and such. He’s desperate, but the long game offers good odds to him. I think China will not survive a war, even though they are likely to destroy current U.S. forces in the region. Economically and otherwise I don’t think they can sustain the current system and situation through a war. There are a lot of fractures within the current system, and they could either push Xi into foolishness or he may can hold them together long enough for them to become someone else’s problem. Time for a Reagan-style push I think.

Iran has plans, but no longer have their patsy in the form of the Biden Regency. They are very well aware that if they push, Trump will push back. The last time they pushed, a certain Mr. Soleimani got to go meet his 72 Virginians. If The Fraternity manages to make a comeback, this could change. Which is why we need to end their efforts to become a nuclear power. I would prefer a mostly peaceful way, but if necessary the facilities need to be taken out hard. Also, the Biden Regency turned its back on some opportunities to help the people of Iran. I hope the current administration would support any such opportunities that came their way.

As for Russia, see my previous writings on same. That is a complex topic and I think efforts to bring about peace between Russia and Ukraine are needed and important. The key will be ensuring security for Ukraine, as doing so tends to trigger Russia. Keep in mind that as a reader pointed out a while back, they are not the eastern-most part of the West, but rather the Western-most part of the East. They have a different history and perceptions, and frankly plans. Those need to be taken into account. So far, again, the current administration has respect in Moscow and I hope that this can be leveraged to the good of all.

There may well be a storm or storms. Thing is, if you look at the data and the patterns, and operate on a realistic basis, you can avoid them or minimize the damage they can do. The storms will gather, but with good leadership and individual preparation, much can be avoided. For the former, start local and build upwards. I think we got lucky in the last election, but good leadership needs good support, and that is sorely lacking. I still say Vladimir will not nuke DC and surroundings as he wants to hurt us, not help us. Build the leadership and lets get back to a solid, small-government Republic. Don’t fall for all the games and grifters — be of good cheer, good faith, and solid actions.

As always, keep your friends and family close, and your things where you can find them in the dark. Prepare for the worst, hope for the best, and take what comes. Have Faith. And hang in there, as there is a lot more light out there right now than darkness.

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. 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.

Thank You!

I want to thank the anonymous donor who donated $300 to my trip next week to attend the lightning strike survivors annual meeting. It helped cover some of the upfront transportation costs and travel lodging, and is very much appreciated.

I also want to thank the anonymous donor who made a cash donation to me through an intermediary. That too is a huge help, and is being set aside to cover some specific costs that are coming up. It is very much appreciated as well. My thanks also to the intermediary.

Things are moving along, though I did have to get a new suitcase along with some smaller items. Nice thing about being prepared is I already had pretty much everything else that I could need, from packed toiletry bag(s) to some religious items.

If anyone is in the Knoxville area and would be willing to give me a ride from Knoxville to Pigeon Forge Thursday (29th), or back on Saturday (31st) let me know. More than happy to pay for the ride.

Any and all help is appreciated, as this is way out of my budget range. Also, thanks again to my Godfather for the push and encouragement to go. More soon.

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. 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.

Two For Your Consideration

Thanks to the wonderful Sarah A. Hoyt over at Instapundit, two very different but good reads for you. One quite serious, and one very humorous but that also has some good points and food for thought buried within.

The first up is in Discourse Magazine, and looks at morality versus politics. While the author doesn’t discuss it directly, it sheds a light on what others (including myself) view as the new secular religions that are intended to draw people away from Christianity. By equating political struggles with being moral, confusion reigns for far too many. I do love her line “Morality is personal, and it’s all about action, not talk.” very much. Some very good food for thought, as real morality is indeed about actions, not talk.

The second is a funny piece about 12 things the author has learned from living in Portugal. It’s based off a similar article by a different author living in France. It is funny, fun to see the comparison and differences, and a bit of a reminder of why some things are said and done the way they are. In fact, suspect there are a number of potential rabbit holes there for the unwary. From France and other parts of Europe, allow me to agree wholeheartedly that every man, woman, and child driving a scooter is a homicidal maniac. I also believe that in some cities the zebra stripes are a designated target zone, not a designated crossing.

Enjoy, enjoy the food for thought, and there is more to come. Working on a larger post that I hope to have up later.

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. 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.

Future Thoughts

Back in this optimistic post, I mentioned that I was doing some discernment. For those who prayed for such, my fullest thanks! I’ve been doing a lot of thinking, and trying to figure out a number of things, including what I am supposed to be doing with my life.

One of the few things I’m sure of right now is that — for now — this blog is supposed to be part of what I am doing. While preparedness seems to be the driving part, some of the other things I write about are important as well. If any of you have thoughts on this, sing out in the comments. One caveat to what is below is that I have always tried to point out things happening here and there that I think are important, and intertwined in ways not readily apparent. I plan to continue that almost no matter what.

On the subject of preparedness, I’ve always tried to push the mental focus as being key. Yes, having x number of y widget is important; but, what is truly important is realizing that things happening on the other side of the world can have an impact here, and that an ounce of preparedness is worth a pound of cure. The better prepared you are mentally and physically (and fiscally too), the less you face disasters and only deal with inconveniences.

And, yes, I’ve been told that if I had true Faith I would not bother with preparedness, as I should trust in God to provide everything in need. That doing and teaching preparedness indicates I don’t trust God. Far from it, and as of now I don’t see that mindset as being scripturally or theologically sound.

In point of fact, there are a number of times where God has pointed out bad things are about to happen and to prepare. Noah being one such most people have heard of… The mindset reminds me a bit of the joke: A man was up on his roof as flood waters approached, and a neighbor driving by stopped and offered him a ride; he declined, saying “God will save me.” Then a National Guard truck came by as the water got even deeper, and again the response was the same. Then a boat came by, and again the response was the same. Finally, a helicopter came by, and the man again refused saying “God will save me.” Shortly after, the house collapsed and the man drowned. Standing before God, he angrily demanded to know why God had not saved him. God replied, “I sent a car, a truck, a boat, and a helicopter, what more did you want me to do?”

I suspect God wants us to be smart enough, independent enough, to look after ourselves in the proper ways, and to have the wisdom to turn to him and let him handle the important things. Sometimes large, and sometimes small, as I’ve seen both in my life.

If you’ve got thoughts on this or on what you would like to see more of, let me know. Keep in mind, however, that my journey in Faith and in the Church may limit time and ability. I’m looking at both what I do within the Church and in some things outside but related. I’m also starting to look at doing a pilgrimage that would take me to visit the Church founded by my patron (name) saint if possible, then on to our mother Church and then down ultimately to Mount Athos for a time. Would love to tour the Holy Lands, but that most likely would be another trip. There has also been some discussion of some possible lay ministry via a cafe/restaurant.

So, again, your thoughts and prayers for discernment are appreciated, as is your thoughts on what I do here. In some ways I write for myself; but, I’m also wanting to write things you want (and like) to read. Sound out.

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. 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.