My Letter To The Editor

On Sunday December 11, 2016: the San Diego Union-Tribune published a letter to the Editor I wrote to them.  However, they did edit it. It was under the heading: "Debate over Christmas celebration goes on." The following is the letter I sent them in it's complete form.  Here is the unedited letter:

 

"Regarding Mr. Singer's letter posted on 12/5, I just want to say that it is the Christmas season.  The Christmas season does not have anything to do with discrimination against African Americans, foreign nationals Native Americans or Jews. Christmas is all about peace, joy and love for all.  Yes, there is a Christmas spirit.  It is not a "Winter" or "December" spirit.  Yes, it is a "Holiday" spirit.  But, mainly because it is the celebration of the arrival of the King of kings and the Lord of lords, the Messiah.  It affects many people, in a positive manner, including non-Christians.  Does not every holiday have a reason for being a holiday?  Well....."Jesus is the reason for the Season."  This event is  powerful.  It should be, it is the fulfillment of God's Prophet, Isaiah in Chapter 9 verse 6.  Check it out. God is a spirit.  He chose to manifest Himself in the flesh.  Why?  Because God is love, and that is what He does.  Merry Christmas!"

 

Robert Dominguez

Chula Vista

Celebrities Are Not Political Experts

Most Celebrities, particularly movie stars, want to be liked.  They want to be popular, or continue to be popular.  Therefore, when they are asked about a particular political issue, they tend to answer in a way that they think is the most popular.  Actors are experts in their craft, or should be. They have a following.  They are liked.  They are payed well.  Good for them.  They have worked hard to get to where they are.  I commend them.  I do not hold their fame or wealth against them.  But to glom on to their opinions regarding politics, candidates, and political issues is not wise.  They are not experts.
Do some research.  Study the issues.  Ask people who are in the know.

Politics And Respect

Can I respect you and not agree with your politics?  Of course I can.  Are you not entitled to your opinion?  You are part of a political movement that I do not agree with.  It is immoral.  Have you ever heard of a political movement that does not have opposition?  I am opposed to your political movement.  Please do not be angry.  There is much more to life than politics.  I am commanded by God to love you.  So I do.  I just do not agree with everything you do.  You say what you do is your business. If that were true..........we would not be having this conversation.

A Political Movement Involving Sex

The LGBT community needs to understand that not everyone is riding their bandwagon.  It is nothing but a political movement.  Political movements have opposition.  That is just the way it is.  And it has nothing to do with hatred or intolerance.  Most members of the human race do not agree with such conduct.  That is a fact.  The goal of the LGBT community is to foster and gain power and legitimacy.
What else is new?  That is the nature of a political movement.  But this political movement involves conduct that is immoral.  It is not sanctioned by God.  Perhaps many think that if they yell loud enough, and call certain people plenty of unkind names, that they will automatically cause this type of conduct to be legitimate.  It does not work that way.  It never will.  Can we all get along?  Of course we can.  Just do not expect everyone to agree with everything you do.

The "Needs" Of Certain Students

I wrote the following letter to a news outlet several months ago.  It is a response to an article written about LGBT students and their "needs."

So……… “Addressing the needs of gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender students” is necessary. I can simplify their needs. What is it they “need.”? They need to get an education. They need to quit bothering people. They need to quit being so selfish and getting caught up with these destructive trends. They need to decide that their personal problems are not the problems of everybody else. They need to realize that the four stated groups are not new to society, and that they need no special recognition or attention. They need to know that they were not “born that way.” They need to know that they have been lied to. They need to know that the average person has, at times, felt a same-sex attraction, but most have decided to not make it their lifestyle. They need to know that the four groups can do damage to society and the family. There is more, but I will finish with this……They need to change.  Is it possible?  Of course it is. They just need to want to change.

Being Told To Lie

Sometimes, in a court of law, we may be asked to avoid the pursuit of justice when we are instructed by a lawyer to basically  lie and to deny ourselves the right to draw conclusions based on what we perceive.  This all amounts to certain lawyers who lack scruples, seek some lucrative paydays based on ridiculousness, self-centeredness, big profits at any cost, and  a betrayal of reality fueled by an absence of moral parameters.

Don't Normalize The Abnormal

Here is the problem: A guy has a personal problem that he needs to keep personal. He does not need to involve the government or society. His problem is his. He needs to seek help. He does not need to attempt to legitimize a personal problem, thereby attempting to normalize the abnormal. If his wishes were granted, crime and sexual perversion would probably double within one year throughout society.

Hillary Fans: Get Over It

Political enthusiasts: Please do not get too zealous  for a political candidate.  No need to cry.  She lost.  No need to cry.  We move on. It is not the end of our nation, society, culture or future.  Make changes in your own life.  You.....yes you.....be the best you can be. Do not try to live your life through someone else.  Do not expect that some political leader is a panacea for society's ills, or your personal frustrations and shortcomings.  Move on.  Support your new President.  Yes, Trump is YOUR new President.  The people have spoken.  The system still works. It is not broken. Improve the World.  "Improve the World"?  How, you ask?  I'll tell you.  If you want to make a better world, make yourself a better person. Because if you make yourself a better person, the World is automatically better.

New Ideas? Not So Fast

It may be new to a particular individual, but it is not new to the human race.  Are there any new ideas?  Yes and no.  It was thought of before. We just did not know about it. So.....it is new to us.
Please remember:  "There is nothing new under the sun."  (Ecc. 1:9)

Freedom Of Speech Must Continue

Many countries do not have it.  Many journalists have lost their lives for speaking the truth in nations that do not enjoy this particular freedom. Others have lost their jobs.  (I know, I know. Sometimes we just need to "play ball" with the bosses)  Nevertheless, freedom of speech must continue in our great nation.  It must.  It is the right of a citizen.

The War Inevitable (Patrick Henry)

The following short speech is a contributing reason for why we live in the most free, and the greatest country on the planet.  The immigrants who came, and continue to come, know that there is a hope here that does not exist in the country of their origin.  The United States is not a perfect country. It never will be.  But it sure is attractive to those who want to survive and improve their quality of life. That is just the way it is.    RD

"It is only in this way that we can hope to arrive at truth, and fulfill the great responsibility which we hold to God and our country. Should I keep back my opinions at such a time, through fear of giving offense, I should consider myself as guilty of treason towards my country, and of an act of disloyalty toward the Majesty of Heaven, which I revere above all earthly kings. ... Are we disposed to be of the number of those who, having eyes, see not, and, having ears, hear not, the things, which so nearly concern their temporal salvation? For my part, whatever anguish of spirit it may cost, I am willing to know the whole truth; to know the worst, and to provide for it. Let us not, I beseech you, sir, deceive ourselves. ... Is life so dear, or peace so sweet, as to be purchased at the price of chains and slavery? Forbid it, Almighty God! I know not what course others may take; but as for me, give me liberty or give me death!"

Patrick Henry (1736-1799) US Founding Father "The War Inevitable" speech to the Virginia Convention, March 23, 1775

His Name Was Pete Plaza

They thought he was their friend, but actually, all he turned out to be was a guy who needed a place to stay, a ride to the airport, a home cooked meal, someone to pick up his mail, (or run other errands) someone from whom to borrow a car, someone to help him move, and someone who would invite you for a drink and then have you pick up the tab. He had a car, but he always wanted others to use their  cars.  Since he treated them like  servants, he spoke to them like servants.  Sometimes, they shared secrets with him and thanks to him, the secrets would be the topics of conversation at the next party or social gathering. Since he thought he was better than people, he would speak condescendingly to people. He thought he was intelligent, but his actions did not reflect it. He thought he was witty, but too often, he used his wit for the sole purpose of insulting. And insult he did, but only his friends. (so called) Practicing disrespect and insult were very important to him since he tied it to his sense of masculinity and cultural identity. He apparently thought it was a sign of weakness to be courteous and/or friendly. That was the crux of his problem, considering: "If you want to have a friend, be a friend." But it was hard for him.  He was too selfish, too much of a cheapskate and too worried about his image. He tried to remain a private person, but wanted the benefits of not being a private person.  He asked many questions, but did not like to answer any. The success of some of his contemporaries caused him grief, because he turned out to be an insanely jealous person. This is when things got difficult for some of those individuals because they realized that his jealousy was to be avoided like the plague.   That was his most serious weakness. He just could not accept it when some of his friends were successful.  It was the last straw.  So they bailed.  His name was Pedro Rigoberto Plazas. He changed his name to Pete Plaza.  It was a fake name, just like his friendship.

Bad Men Cannot Make Good Citizens

"Bad men cannot make good citizens.  It is impossible that a nation of infidels or idolaters should be a nation of freemen.  It is when a people forget God that tyrants forge their chains.  A vitiated state of morals, a corrupted public conscience, is incompatible with freedom.  No free government, or the blessings of liberty, can be preserved to any people but by a firm adherence to justice, moderation, temperance, frugality, and virtue; and by a frequent recurrence to fundamental principles."       Patrick Henry

Who Demonstrates For Steven Owen?

We do not live in a perfect world.  Unkind, unfair events occur. Sometimes, when an injustice takes place, demonstrators take to the streets.  Well, several days ago, a dedicated, law enforcement officer, a 29- year veteran of the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department, was killed "execution style," by a gunman with a stolen gun.  The gunman had been arrested 12 times before.  There were no demonstrations in the street for this injustice.  However, I am sure that there will be plenty of people attending the funeral services for Sergeant Steven Owen, 53. Rest in peace, Sergeant Owen.  Rest in peace.  Also, thanks for the 29 years of service you gave.  Perhaps, the individual who shot you may not be forgiven by some, however, he will be forgiven by God........if he repents, and asks for forgiveness.

Don't Worry About Your Image

Image is passing.  It is temporary.  Be more concerned about your reputation.  Be more concerned about being a person who is not cruel, jealous, furious, bitter, injurious,  or a hater.  Some people have a hard time growing up. They get stuck in a period of adolescence that they cannot undo.  They need help, encouragement, guidance and reality checks.  But they will not seek the aforementioned.  Why? You guessed it. Because seeking same, they worry that they will tarnish their image. Image?  Image, image, image. "Image is everything".  No way!  It is a poor substitute for the real thing.  Give it its due, but do not allow it to control you.  Let it stay where it truly belongs:  in art and photography classes. Enjoy the images in the various museums and other places of entertainment.  Enjoy movies, fireworks and the various art forms. You are not an art form.  You are a real human being.  Of course, for some, that is more than reason enough to project an image.  A mannequin does the same thing. For the same reason.

Authority Requests Power

Authority and power are two different things:  power is the force of means  of which you can oblige others to obey you.  Authority is the right to direct and command, to be listened to or obeyed by others.  Authority requests power.  Power without authority is tyranny.
 
Jacques Maritain

Hello, September!

Hello, September!  You are the best!  You are the best because I love football.  I know it is still a little hot at times.  I know that technically it is still Summer, and yes I love summer too.  I am a Summer time guy.  I plan to continue to be.  But September brings me traces of Autumn, football and fun times. The first day of Autumn is September 22nd this year.  Bring it on!  Lets go SUHI Red Devils, Southwestern Jaguars, San Diego State Aztecs, San Diego Chargers!  And much, much more!  I have football fever, man!  Post season awaits, one game at a time!

Crimes And Vices

  I have thought about this so many times, but I never realized that in trying to protect people, 
government was invasive of freedom.  However, another thing to consider is this: if your lifestyle
causes sickness, is the government then responsible for your treatment?  The answer is yes and 
no.  At least that is how it has been historically.  By "government," I really mean the taxpayer.   
Freedom is the issue.  The question then arises:  Is government responsible for the consequences 
of poor choices?  Again, the answer is yes and no.  Here are 3 quotes regarding this matter.  RD

 "Prohibition goes beyond the bounds of reason in that it attempts to control a man's appetite by 
legislation,and makes a crime out of things that are not crimes."     
Abraham Lincoln  (1809-1865) 16th US President

"In Europe, when tobacco was first introduced, it was immediately banned.  In Turkey, if you got 
caught with tobacco, you had your nose slit.  China and Russia imposed the death penalty for 
possession of tobacco."          Andrew Weil, MD   (1942- )  American author and physician                 

"Vices are those acts by which a man harms himself or his property. Crimes are those acts by 
which one man harms the person or property of another. Vices are simply the errors which a man 
makes in his search after his own happiness. Unlike crimes, they imply no malice toward others, 
and no interference with their persons or property. In vices, the very essence of crime—that is, the 
design to injure the person or property of another—is wanting. It is a maxim of the law that there can 
be no crime without criminal intent; that is, without the intent to invade the person or property of another.
 But no one ever practices a vice with any such criminal intent. He practices his vice for his own happiness 
solely, and not from any malice toward others. Unless this clear distinction between vices and crimes be
made and recognized by the laws, there can be on earth no such thing as individual right, liberty, or 
property, and the corresponding coequal rights of another man to the control of his own person and 
property."             Lysander Spooner   (1808-1887) Political theorist, activist, abolitionist



= =

Piety, Religion, Morality (Pt. 2)

So, what/who  is that "something" or "someone" that is the perfect guide?  It is the Word of God.  It is God Himself.  Only He is perfect.  His Word is perfect.  The Word of God is God.  (see John 1:1)  If you want perfection in your life, find God.  If government wants perfection in it, then let it be guided by God.  The United States government never has been , nor ever will be, a theocracy.  This does not mean that it has not been, or may continue to be, guided by God.  There is much more, pertinent to this.  However, I will finish my words with the following  quote:

"It is impossible to govern a nation without the Bible."       George Washington

Piety, Religion , Morality (Pt. 1)

"The happiness of a people, and the good order and preservation of civil government, 
essentially depend on piety, religion, and morality."           
Fisher Ames       (American statesman)

Yes, things have changed.  But some things will never change.  I am fully aware
that there are no perfect people, governments or nations.  But all of the
aforementioned are wise to seek perfect counsel, and perfect counsel only
comes from God.  Several weeks ago, 10 immigrants were interviewed by
the local newspaper.  Basically, all of them said the same things when asked
why they left the country of their origin.  However, 4 of them, all from the
same country, stated that they left their country because the government was
so corrupt.  So, is the government of the United States corrupt?  No.  Is there
corruption in it?  Yes.  Why?  What do I mean?  There is a difference between
a corrupt government and a government that has corruption in it.  The
government is run by human beings.  That is the problem.  It is quite simple to
me.   Since human leaders are imperfect, they need to be guided by
something/someone that is perfect.    (RD)

High School Football "Fever"

On August 26, high school football season starts.  It marks the first day of a 10 game season.  I am looking forward to see the Sweetwater High School football team play their best.  I look forward to a great season, and much, much fun.  I will be at every one of their games.......that is the plan.   There is no need to utter platitudes.  All that is necessary for them to succeed is to prepare and play their very best. May the good Lord bless the players, coaches and all connected to Sweetwater football.
Go Red Devils!

"He Ain't Heavy, He's My Brother"

Father Flanagan was in charge of an orphanage named "Boys Town" in Nebraska.  There is a famous drawing that we usually see around Christmas time.  Originally, in 1921, there was a young boy at Boys Town who had difficulty walking due to leg braces.  Other boys would take turns giving him a ride on their backs.  There is actually a well-known photograph of this young boy, together with another one of the boys giving him a ride

Potential

Every athlete dreams of having his or her "best game."  I believe every athlete that achieves a superb performance generally thinks: "I could have done better."  Yes, I think we can all agree that eventually an athlete  arrives at the conclusion that he or she will not improve a time or score more points or runs.  However I believe that a real athlete can be happy and grateful for certain accomplishments.  Nevertheless, most athletes, at the end of the road think: "I could have done better." Or, "I could have worked harder."  That is just the nature of an athlete.  Satisfaction guaranteed?  Maybe.  But probably not.

"Honor Killing" Is Just Wrong

Recently, I read about a man who strangled his sister while she slept.  It happened in Pakistan.  Why did he do that?  He felt that she "dishonored" the family.  His sister had 40,000 followers on Twitter and 700,000 on Facebook.  Her postings were a symbol of female empowerment.  A video of her dancing to a popular rap song was viewed by many.  Her brother was embarrassed by her actions so he murdered her.  We must never handle our problems by murdering people.  It shows a lack of moral responsibility.  It is a lack of moral parameters.  It demonstrates a lack of education and reason.

The Health Of Our Society

Lately, We have been hearing a great deal about American Society being "sick."  Many changes have taken place.  More are on their way.  I tend to be a pragmatist.  If something works, if something works well, why change it?  I am not pleased with some of the things that are going on.  Believe me, I am a firm believer in freedom.  But like I have said before: "freedom is a tough customer."  However, we desire its business.  I am convinced beyond a shadow of a doubt, that the United States is a great country because it has been influenced by the Word of God.  There is much more to say about that subject.  It is my plan.
On September 14, 1958, the 33rd President of the United States, Harry Truman, made this statement as a part of  the recognition of Jewish High Holy Days.  Harry Truman was a Baptist, therefore, he had a respect for the Word of God.
"The health of our society depends upon a deep and abiding respect for the basic commandments of the God of Israel."  The "God of Israel" is the God of all people.  Why?  Because there is only one God, and His Word is for all people.

What A Game It Was!

Yes, it was a beautiful Saturday night.  It ended 18 minutes ago.  Sandy and I went to watch the San Diego Padres play the New York Yankees.  She packed us some snacks, but we also had dinner there at Petco Park, before we heard "Play ball!"  What a game it was!  We had happily taken the trolley to the Downtown San Diego ball park.  The game started at 7:05 pm and ended around 10:20 pm.  It was a good game.  It was tied 1 to 1 until the Padres came to bat in the bottom of the 9th inning.  I really did think it was going to go into extra innings.  Melvin Upton Jr. was the very first batter. I told Sandy,  "If Upton hits a home run, the game is over, and we win."  Then this happened, on the very first pitch thrown,  Upton hit the ball over the left field wall, 400 feet, for a home run.  Wow!  Did the Padre fans ever go wild.  So did the Padre team.  The whole bench rushed to home plate to meet him there.  He got a Gatorade bath.  What a game it was!  Final score: Padres 2, Yankees 1.  After the game there was a laser light show, with an emphasis on the 4th of July.  Truly enjoyable as well.  What a Saturday night!  What a game it was!

Accept No Substitutes

Accept no substitutes. Religious organizations who make rules and then call themselves “the Church” are not adequate to take the place of the authority of the Word of God. This is why an organization that wants to control people will prohibit them from knowing, reading and studying the Word of God. Rules, doctrines, dogma, canons and so forth must match the Word of God. If they do not, then the organizations that teach them are in error. The Word of God is the final authority. It is the highest authority. The Word of God is God. It is our guideline for living. So, is Church membership okay? Of course, as long as that Church preaches the Word of God. If it does not, bail out and find one that does. The Word of God makes one free, free to choose the truth.

Orlando, Florida

What happened in Orlando, Florida several days ago was pathetic, unfortunate, hideous and insane. When people do not agree with the way other people choose to live their lives, murder is not the answer.  Massacre is not the answer.  One might ask: "what is the answer?"  There are several.  One of them is just leave people alone.  Let them work out their own destiny.  Another answer is pray for them.  Another answer is talk to them.  If you believe there is a better way, share it with them.  Talk to them about the consequences of certain life choices.  Persuade them.  Care about them.  Do not murder them.  Murder is the way of the coward.  It is the way of the confused, misinformed, ignorant, desperate, angry, possessed and disillusioned.  Murder is not the answer.  There exists a better way. One more thing: If you want to make a better world, make yourself a better person.  If you make yourself a better person, the world automatically improves.

As Of June 1: I Am 41

On June 1, 1975 I died and was buried.  I was buried in a "grave of water" in Jesus' name.  I came out of the water a brand new person.  I was born the same day I died.  I came out of the water a brand new man.  I will never return to the "old man."  Those days are gone.

A Trans Masculine Teacher

If she is so "private," stay out of the public eye.  This whole issue is about her and her selfishness.  It is about me, me, me and me.  Where is the love for others?  Where is the consideration for others? Where is the concern for being genuine?  Where is the maturity/ morality? Where is the professionalism? Where is the burden to properly teach students and guide them to areas of non-confusion? Where is her lawyer?  He or she has not left her side.  The lawyer picked up the scent of a serious payday. (About $40 K, plus peripherals)

A Security Guard Does Her Job

Recently, a female security guard removed a man dressed as a woman from a women's restroom located inside of a store.  They fought. The guard's name was not given. She should be honored and given an award for doing her job: “above and beyond the call of duty.” Why that? She acted with common sense, and regarded the health and safety of women and children. We must not be taking chances of this sort. We must not allow perverts free reign. We do not live in a world where everyone is kind, considerate and respectful of others. What if on Halloween (or any other day/night) voyeuristic men who claimed to be transgender, dressed as women, and invaded women’s restrooms? This whole scenario regarding allowing men in women’s public restrooms is a misapplication of the word “discrimination.” Discrimination is not always a negative term. If a man is unable to discriminate between a toadstool and a mushroom, he can die if he eats the toadstool. With some rare exceptions, a person who is color blind (unable to discriminate between colors) is not eligible for military service, and other occupations. There is much more. Give that security guard a pay raise. She exercised proper discrimination.

"Envy" By Menander

"Everything is destroyed by its own particular vice: the destructive power resides within. Rust destroys iron, moths destroy clothes,  the worm eats away the wood;  but greatest of all evils is envy, impious inhabitant of corrupt souls, which ever was, is, and shall be a consuming disease."          Menander (342 BC-292 BC)


Menander is so right.  I have seen the practice of uncontrollable envy destroy friendships and other types of relationships.  It is definitely a human weakness.  Intelligent men and women are not immune from it.  RD

Another Letter I Wrote

This was my response when I read about a college president who was forbidding certain types of political expressions on the campus of the school. The letter was written quite a while ago.  I do not remember the college or the specific political expression.  In some ways, I guess it does not matter.
Freedom of expression must be preserved ........for the left AND the right.

 I just want to say that freedom is a "tough customer." Particularly freedom of speech and of the press.  It must be watched, nurtured, and allowed to flourish. Especially because too many people in higher academic circles seem to purport to know "what is best for everyone."  Do you know what students would really like to hear?  I am convinced I know what they want.  They want the truth. They want to know the advantages and disadvantages of this or that.  Unfortunately, what I am seeing is academic tyranny and thuggery.

The Washington Redskins' Name

Good, 90% of Native Americans are okay with the Washington Redskins name.  Now, let us move on to some more important issues.  Issues that are not a waste of time.  Issues that will continue to defend the freedoms of all American people, including those who run legitimate businesses.

 "The business of America is business."   (Calvin Coolidge)

Sanders In The Park

Bernie Sanders is running for President of the United States.  He is a Democrat.  At this stage of the process, he is competing against Hillary Clinton, for the Democratic Candidacy.  Politics is full of surprises.  I do not know who I will vote for.  However, one thing for sure, I have never heard of a Presidential candidate visiting Kimball Park in National City.  Nothing wrong with it....just kind of surprising.  I was born and raised in National City.  As a kid, Kimball Park was my playground.  Also, National City is one of the least populated incorporated cities in San Diego County.  Apparently, Bernie Sanders knows what he is doing.

A Quote By Ronald Reagan

"You and I are told we must choose between a left or right,
but I suggest to you there is not such thing as a left or right.
There is only an up or down.  Up to man's age old dream,
the maximum of individual freedom consistent with order,
or down to the ant heap of totalitarianism.  Regardless of
their sincerity, their humanitarian motives, those who would
sacrifice freedom for security have embarked on this 
downward path.Plutarch warned, 'the real destroyer of the
liberties of the people is he who spreads among them 
bounties, donations and benefits.'"        Ronald Reagan

Amos Alonzo Stagg's Letter To His Son

In 1900 Amos Alonzo Stagg wrote a letter to his 14-month-old son.  Part of it is as follows:

"Your father wants you to detest evil.  No curiosity, no conversation, no story, no reading which suggests impurity of life is worthy of your thought and I beg you never to yield for an instant but turn your attention to something good and helpful.  Never use liquors, tobacco, nor profane language."

No football coach in the history of American football coached longer than Stagg.  He retired from coaching at the age of 98.  He died four years later.

About Taxes: A Quote By J.C. Watts

"The government taxes you when you bring home a paycheck.
It taxes you when you make a phone call.
It taxes you when you turn on a light.
It taxes you when you sell a stock.
It taxes you when you fill your car with gas.
It taxes you when you ride a plane.
It taxes you when you get married.
Then it taxes you when you die.
This is taxual insanity and it must end.

J.C. Watts Jr.

Your Politics

Can I respect you and not agree with your politics?  Of course I can.  Are you not entitled to your opinion?  You are part of a political movement that I do not agree with.  It is immoral.  Have you ever heard of a political movement that does not have opposition?  I am opposed to your political movement.  Please do not be angry.  There is much more to life than politics.  I am commanded by God to love you.  So I do.  I just do not agree with everything you do.  You say what you do is your business.  If that were true..........we would not be having this conversation.

"The Passing Of Common Sense"

I do not recall the date.  It was actually  published in the obituary section of the London Times.  "The Passing Of Common Sense."

Hate Crime?

Hate crime? Bigot? Gun control? Liberal, progressive? They all tend to be unimportant. They all tend to be unimportant in light of the fact that someone was murdered. So……what is the solution? It is simple: don’t murder people. But this must be taught.

I sent the above short letter to a newspaper after reading a commentary about a murder that took place.

Immigrants

The USA is not a perfect country with a perfect history. Nevertheless, it is still the greatest country on this planet. It is a place of opportunity and freedom. In most instances, the price one must pay to succeed is work hard, don’t give your employer a hard time, be punctual, have a good attitude, know your job, and get along with your bosses and fellow workers. Do we live in a great country? Of course we do. I have talked to immigrants who have told me that they would rather be in prison in the United States than to go back to the country of their origin. They all said they would starve to death. What do most immigrants have in common? They are either Roman Catholic or Muslim. How many Muslim Presidents have we had? How many American Presidents were atheists? The facts are the facts. Reality faces us. Some will not acknowledge reality. Some will not give credit where credit is due. We still have great potential here. We need not blow it. (Written as a response to an article I read about Muslims complaining because they were not allowed enough "prayer breaks.")

San Diego Padres 2016

I have been a Padre fan since 1948 (Lane Field).  I hesitate to say that this is the worst Padre team I have ever seen.  It is too early for that claim.  I am a die-hard fan.  I have been with them through the valleys and through the mountain tops.  However, I must admit, there have been more valleys than mountain tops.  Many, many things are possible........including a winning season for the Padres.  Lets go Padres....lets go....you can do the job!  Go Padres!

"The Greatness Of America" A. Detocqueville

I am very interested in the writings of Alexis de Tocqueville. The following is just a portion of one of my favorite writings of his.  I am sure I will be quoting and writing some more about him.  RD

"I sought for the key to the greatness and genius of America in her harbors; in her fertile fields and boundless forests; in her rich mines and vast world commerce; in her public school system and institutions of learning. I sought for it in her democratic Congress and in her matchless Constitution. Not until I went into the churches of America and heard her pulpits flame with righteousness did I understand the secret of her genius and power. America is great because America is good, and if America ever ceases to be good, America will cease to be great.

The safeguard of morality is religion, and morality is the best security of law as well as the surest pledge of freedom."

"The Americans combine the notions of Christianity and of liberty so intimately in their minds, that it is impossible to make them conceive the one without the other."

"Christianity is the companion of liberty in all its conflicts-the cradle of its infancy, and the divine source of its claims."

A Letter To Dear Abby

I wrote the following letter to "Dear Abby" today.  I was offended because she called a person "intolerant" due to her opinion of same sex marriage.  I did not agree with Abby's response.

Dear Abby:   I seriously disagree with the tone and word usage contained in the response to the mother of the man who donated his sperm to the black lesbian couple.  When a person disagrees with same-sex marriage, "intolerance" is an inappropriate word to use to describe that person. Please remember that Judaism and Christianity contain doctrines inspired by the almighty God.  God forbids lesbianism and homosexuality.  Most people who are against those 2 lifestyles are not against them because of hatred, or "deep-seated bias," as you stated in your response.  They are against them because they want to obey God.  One other thing I want to make perfectly clear:   Just because one does not agree with someone's lifestyle does not mean that he/she hates that person(s).  Hatred is serious business with God.  He equates it with murder.   (I John 3:15 and 4:20)     There is much more.

Street Preacher

"Hatred Is Not A Family Value"?

Today I saw a car sticker on a bumper that said "Hatred is not a family value."  I agree. Hatred is neither a family value, nor is it of any value. I have seen that statement before.  It is usually quoted by those who think that they are hated because they are gay, lesbian, bisexual or transgender. I am none of the aforementioned.  I  disagree with those lifestyles.  I disagree with same sex marriage.  My points of view have ABSOLUTELY NOTHING to do with hatred. Nothing! Hatred is not part of the picture. The Word of God speaks against such conduct.  The greatest commandment in the whole Bible is the following:  "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the first and great commandment.  And the second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments hang all the Law and the Prophets."(Matt. 22:37 NKJV) Those are the words of Jesus. And there is much, much more.  So, who is my "neighbor"?  In the sense that Jesus was using that term, the answer is everyone.   I refuse to hate anyone.  I will not do it.  But I do not agree with everything people do/say or with every lifestyle they choose.   Do you?

A Letter To The Newspaper

Mar 14 at 4:46 PM

I wrote the following letter on March 14 to the San Diego
Union.

In response to lee Galloway's letter published on March 12,
where the writer mentions that "our appreciation of the
worth of every human being has evolved."  Really?  I would 
just like to state that since 1973, at least 58,586,256
developing human  beings have been aborted.  This is  
not a pretty picture literally, figuratively or morally.  These 
aborted ones did not have a chance to do anything, let 
alone ponder the meaning of the Constitution.

Robert Dominguez
Chula Vista

About Freedom And Democracy

Freedom and democracy are not the same thing.  Below is a quote that talks about it a little bit.  (RD)

"To include freedom in the very definition of democracy is to define a process not by its actual characteristics as a process but by its hoped for results. This is not only intellectually invalid, it is, in practical terms, blinding oneself in advance to some of the unwanted consequences."   (Alexis De Tocqueville)

My Response To An Erroneous Idea

Recently, Richard Carranza, Superintendent of the San Francisco Unified School District proposed to distribute condoms to middle school students.  Eventually the idea was not put into action.  Here is my response to his idea.

I believe in freedom. I believe in education. I believe in common sense. I believe that guidelines for living exist. I believe in marriage. I believe that educated people in high places, who have the responsibility of making important decisions, and make them, while ignoring moral parameters, are capable of doing more harm than good. Particularly when those decisions are unfortunately directed at children, adolescents, and teenagers who are in public schools. Do I have a suggestion? Yes. I know it may sound crazy to some. Nevertheless, here it is: Teach that sex is only for marriage. Ridiculous, you say? It can be taught. I am not saying it will be obeyed or practiced, but it can be taught. It can be taught like Math, Science or English are taught. Our education comes to fruition when we are older.

An Interesting Quote By Hitler

"We are socialists, we are enemies of today’s capitalistic economic system for the exploitation of the economically weak, with its unfair salaries, with its unseemly evaluation of a human being according to wealth and property instead of responsibility and performance, and we are determined to destroy this system under all conditions."       

 Adolf Hitler      

A Beheading (Pt. 2)

Also, Nolen stated he is “not afraid to die.” It appears he is afraid to live. Why not give him the opportunity to attempt to live with others in a social setting. Prison is a penal institution. Indeed it is also a social institution. Men do learn there, and most prisons offer opportunities to earn high school diplomas and college degrees. One may also learn a trade there. Therefore, prison can also be considered an institution of learning/education. Give him an opportunity to live with others in prison. He can also practice his religion there. He can learn to permit others to practice theirs. One may think that there is no freedom in prison. There is freedom in prison. Only the body is confined. The mind and heart are not. America is all about freedom. Prison is a “little America” with limitations. America is the greatest nation on earth because it is the most free. It is the most free because the truth has been preached here extensively. Truth produces freedom. However, some who do not believe this try to steal freedom from those with whom they do not agree. This is extremely wrong. I know of one man who spoke the truth. He influenced many people. He was sentenced to, and experienced capital punishment. No problem. He arose from the dead. He lives forever. He is the truth, the truth is eternal.

A Beheading

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2. Recently, I wrote a letter to a news outlet regarding a Muslim convert who beheaded one of his co-workers.  He requested capital punishment for himself but the court is not sure if they will grant his request.  I presented a "different spin" about dying.  The name of the accused man is Nolen.
3. First, I consider beheading someone to be cruel and unusual punishment.  But, in this case, it is flat out murder.  What Nolen did is morally wrong.  I will use symbolism to make a point.  Yes, Nolen has an accurate “general” concept regarding faith and God. Yes, he must die (repent). Yes, he must be buried after he dies. (in the water, in Jesus’ name) He must be filled with the Holy Spirit. “Now if any man have not the Spirit of Christ he is none of His.” (Rom. 8:9) He is now born again. “Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation; old things have passed away; behold all things have become new.” ( II Cor. 5:17) Beheading has nothing to do with it. If you are seeking a new mind, then seek Jesus. “Let this mind be in you which was also in Christ Jesus.” (there is much more, check out Philippians Chap. 2) We know everyone is going to die. However, please be assured, only Jesus Christ gives eternal life. No other option exists.
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Reflections On The 50th Super Bowl

I guess it was more of a shocker to me than anything else.  I seriously thought that the Panthers were going to dominate the Broncos.  I mean a serious whipping.  I mean a "blowout."  I guess I thought Cam Newton was a greater player than he is.  This game brought me down to earth.  Its all good.  Football is football.  The NFL Super Bowl is unique.  It always has been.  It is generally the best football played on the planet.  I enjoyed today's game. But I would not call it tremendous.  Simply stated: the Panthers offense could not deal with the dominant and powerful defense of the Broncos.  I am not being sarcastic when I say that the highlight of the Super Bowl was Lady Gaga's rendition of the National Anthem.  I have never heard it sung so well.  I have never been a fan of Lady Gaga.  But I find it necessary to give credit where credit is due.

Lawyers Warn Of Possible Lawsuits

Recently I read an article online about some public schools in Oregon.  They are ready to defend any female who "thinks she is a male" and vice versa.  Lawyers warned parents of students that schools could be sued if the schools did not comply for allowing transgenders to use the restrooms and locker rooms of "their choice."  Here is my response to that article.

“Lawyers warn” is the key part to the title of this article. Our society is a “wounded animal.” I respect the legal profession. Some lawyers are heroes. But, might some lawyers be like vultures? The wounded animal is kicking in a societal desert of ridiculousness and ignorance. Are the vultures circling? There is absolutely no reason to defend the “right of a male” to use a restroom intended for females. And vice versa. Lawyers, please stay away from this issue unless you are defending decency and common sense. It is an old non issue. Please read the Epistle of Paul to the Romans Chapter 1 and particularly verses 18 to 28. Who is the author of righteousness, correctness and appropriateness? “It is impossible to govern a nation without the use of the Bible.” (George Washington) Am I intolerant? No. I just do not agree with everything people do. Do you? “He who stands for nothing will fall for everything.” Incidentally, A person’s gender was assigned to him or her the day he or she was born.

The Tyranny Of Many (Voltaire)

"The tyranny of the many would be when one body takes over the rights of others, and then exercises its power to change the laws in its favor."    Voltaire

A True Friend Will Never.....

A true friend will never embarrass you in front of others.  A true friend will never humiliate you in front of others.  A true friend will never use you as some kind of receptacle to transfer frustrations from him/her to you.  If your so-called friend constantly upsets, angers, frustrates or saddens you, then you need to take a good look at the relationship.  Are you that desperate for a friend?  This is a good year.  This is a good month to get rid of friends who are prohibiting you from unleashing your potential.  Get rid of that friend.  He/she is capable of defrauding you in more ways than one.  Move on to greater experiences!  Get rid of that "friend"!

Nothing But The Newspapers?

I am not sure what Thomas Jefferson meant by the following quote.  But I do know one thing for sure:  sometimes newspapers (and other news media) do not report/publish news that I believe to be both relevant and important.  I wonder why?  If it is news, it is news, and fit to be published/released/shown.  I have a feeling Jefferson was referring to news that was not released due to a purpose related to special interest, therefore keeping some people "in the dark" and ill-informed.  (RD)

"The man who reads nothing at all is better educated than the man who reads nothing but newspapers."
 Thomas Jefferson   (1743-1826)