Caprock Patriot December 2019 Edition

Merry Christmas and a Very Blessed New Year from the Caprock Patriot!

DECEMBER 2019 VOLUME 1 | EDITION 12

INDEX Commentary 1 Military Salute

16

2nd Amendment

26

The Word

33

» TRUE STORIES OF A VIETNAM RECON RANGER

CAPROCK CONSERVATIVE

SEE PAGE 19

PATR IOT CHRISTIAN

COMMENTARY

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For the People By the People

Today in the town of David a Savior has been born to you; he is the Messiah, the Lord. Luke 2:11

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IF WE REALLY CARED ABOUT LIFE

BY MITCHELL COCHRAN

S

ix million. That’s the death toll of the Holocaust, perhaps the most well-known genocide or mass killing in recent history. Take a moment to consider six million people. Can you even imagine that many people? Each one with a story and a history. Each one with goals, dreams, passions, loves, hates. Six million lives lost to mad man and to those too scared or too brainwashed to defy him. However, that six million fits over 10 times into the sixty-five million (65,000,000) unborn babies who have been murdered since the Supreme Court decision, Roe v. Wade.

Mass killings are usually thought of as a bipartisan issue. No one likes senseless and pointless brutal killing

right? After all, the House of Representatives just voted near unanimously to officially recognize the Armenian Genocide, and most of those who voted against the issue did so for diplomatic reasons. They did not want to upset Turkey who still denies the genocide during this politically delicate time.

However, when it comes to abortion (i.e. the murder of an unborn infant), mass killing is indeed a partisan issue generally speaking. Now, abortion is not the only problem of our time. It can be viewed as a larger outcropping of Right versus Left, of Republican versus Democrat, of the generally Conservative versus the generally Liberal, and this is a correct perspective. Yet, SEE CARED ABOUT LIFE | PAGE 14

BY DONALD R MAY

N

ot much has changed since Christ’s birth. Mankind remains in desperate need of God’s help. Evil people kill. Tyrants disarm those whom they rule.

We are still heavily taxed, and the decisions of government direct our actions, our healthcare, and our education. Evil men still enslave and murder anyone, including children, in order to maintain their power.

The same basic simple choice still faces humanity – do we love life and worship God, or do we glorify death and Evil and worship man and Satan?

Christ demanded accountability and

SEE HOPE OF ALL MANKIND | PAGE 14

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COMMENTARY

DECEMBER 2019

If the Court Limits Congress and the President, Who Limits the Court?

BY CHARLES JOHNS

T

he short answer to that is We the People. The term SOVEREIGN is defined by Webster’s dictionary as, “Having supreme rule or authority as a king.” Checking into this nation’s founding we see the Founders put “We the People” in bold type at the top of our Constitution, to show the world the PEOPLE are sovereign in these United States.

Our job is to limit the court, and our power is absolute. In recent decades liberal Democrats have turned that concept on its head to gain power and get their anti-conservative ideas passed into phony law. Liberals have been unable to get their far-left ideas passed into real law, so they use the court to make faux-law. The Defense of Marriage Act and Roe v Wade are two examples of so-called “settled law” that have not been passed Constitutionally by Congress, but average citizens believe they are the law of the land. NOT SO! “All legislative action shall be vested in a Congress, consisting of a senate and house of representatives” That is what our Constitution says. ALL means complete and total and legislative means lawmaking. So, the court is not allowed to make law, but Congress is required to do so, and only Congress.

The supreme court can make all the rulings it wishes, but when the ruling relates to a passed law, that ruling is directed at the law-making body…

NOT WE THE PEOPLE. We can’t change a law, only Congress can. If we must answer to a court for breaking a law, we are allowed to ask what LAW we broke. Rulings are for the legislative body, not citizens. That is the way our Founders set things in motion, but liberals have turned things upside-down and inside-out, using the court to make

phony laws. If we believe liberals, the court can make laws “We the People” must follow, but our Constitution says only Congress can make laws the people must obey.

This is what happens when the Constitution is not followed AS WRITTEN, but liberals are allowed to make “modifications” to wording to fit their agenda. Liberal Democrats think our Constitution is a “living document” to be changed with the times. In a way they are correct, but that way must be done as set down in our Constitution, by the amendment process.

If your city, county or state has not passed a law, making marriage between same-sex persons legal, you are not required to abide by a court ruling forcing you to marry them. At least, that is the original thinking of our Founders. State legislators make law, not their courts, just like federal legislators. The problem Democrats have created is by-passing the Congress and using the court to tell the people what is law. United States courts have stolen power with help from liberal activists, and now they are trying to remove an elected president with phony charges and back-room tactics like communist-socialists. Elections have consequences, but liberals think they know best and they do not care what the voters say. If you think that is a stretch, look at the past three years of attacks by Democrats and the media on President Trump. He is called a racist, misogynistic, a Putin operative, and much worse…without proof. The Muller report didn’t help liberals, so they invented other problems to keep the narrative going. Three years with zero proof and now we have Schiff. Wow! The economy is booming, and unemployment is the lowest it has been in decades for minorities. I thought Democrats were pro-minority…maybe

that too is a lie. Women in the workforce are up along with their wages.

I thought Democrats were the only pro-women party. That too is a lie.

Obama said those manufacturing jobs Democrats sent overseas would never return, unless Trump had a magic wand. He must have waved it because he got many to come back. If a person has a 401K retirement plan, it has increased under Trump’s changes. The wall along our southern border is being built in spite of Pelosi and democrats, and illegal crossings are down.

The list goes on, but Democrats demand impeachment. Why? Submitted by Charles Johns, Abilene, TX. Charles is a Navy Veteran that served on 3 carriers, spent 20 years as a TV tech, 50 years building cars, and 10+ years as a shop superintendent and Police Department armorer. He graduated from Elkins Institute in Dallas, (the same school Rush Limbaugh attended).

He holds a Federal Firearms License as a gunsmith, with his own 100-yard gun-range for 21 years. Charles can be reached at chasj43@gmail.com or 325-704-4872.

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DECEMBER 2019

TEXAS ANTI-GANG CENTER (TAG)

STOP LUBBOCK GANGS Report Gang Crime Tips Anonymously

BY LUBBOCK COUNTY SHERIFF’S OFFICE

T

he Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office continues to work with The Texas Anti-Gang (TAG) Center to assist the public with reporting gang related criminal activities in the Panhandle and South Plains.

The primary goal of this website is to: report criminal activity

anonymously, educate the public regarding the threat of illegal gangs, inform young people of the dangers of joining a gang, assist parents with identifying children behavior that may indicate gang interest and how to respond if they suspect gang involvement.

This is a multijurisdictional website supported by local, state and federal agencies which allows the

public to submit anonymous gang related crime tips and wanted gang fugitive tips within the counties of Bailey, Cochran, Crosby, Dickens, Floyd, Garza, Hale, Hockley, Kent, Lamb, Lubbock, Lynn, Motley, Terry, and Yoakum.

We must remember gangs are involved in thefts, burglaries, assaults, sexual assaults, “Gang violence and crime continues to be one of our

most serious concerns in Lubbock County”, said Lubbock county Sheriff Kelly Rowe. “The Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office will continue to work with multiple agency partners to render these criminal gang organizations ineffective. “ For m ore i n for m at ion , v i s it StopLubbockGangs.org Submitted by Cpl. Patricia Holbert, Lubbock County Sheriff’s Office Family Owned Since Since 1963!

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COMMENTARY

What is Dhimmitude?

Part Two of a Three Part Series

PAINTLESS

BY VICTOR SHARPE

P

ropaganda and subversion are the very means now bei ng employed aga i nst the West and Judeo-Christian civilization, and Islamists have shown themselves to be brilliantly adept at manipulating the gullible West in pursuit of their aims of world domination.

As I have written in previous articles, non-Islamic lands are considered the dar al-harb, the “house of war,” until they submit to Islamic rule and enter the dar al-Islam, the “house of Islam.”

Moslem authorities perceive that enemies of Islam fall into three categories: those who resist Islam with force, those living in a country that has a temporary truce with Islam, and those who have surrendered to Islam through the ultimate foolishness of exchanging land for a so-called peace or by welcoming huge numbers of migrants who have no intention of being loyal citizens.

The belief that Moslem Arab powers respond to overtures of peace by ending their aggression is but a

mirage in the desert. This is proven time and again to be a delusion and is, in fact, a classic example of the mindset and behavior of the dhimmi.

A non-Moslem community forced to accept d h i m m itude is condemned to live in a system that will only protect it from jihad if it is subservient to the Moslem master.

In return, it is guaranteed limited rights under a system of discriminations that it must accept or face forced conversion or death.

In the early years of the Islamic conquests, the “tribute” or jizya was paid as a yearly poll tax, which symbolized the subordination of the dhimmi. Later, the inferior status of Jews and Christians was reinforced through a series of oppressive regulations that governed the behavior of the dhimmi.

Jews and Christians were awarded a different status than other faiths.

They were considered to be under protection as ‘people of the book.’

People of non-monotheistic faiths, pagans, or atheists were simply to be exterminated.

SEE WHAT IS DHIMMITUDE? | PAGE 15

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DECEMBER 2019

Largely It Is Media Creating “Darkness” in Our “Democracy”

BY ROBERT PRATT

I

f the pretentious slogan of the Washington Post, “Democracy Dies in Darkness,” has any real meaning it lies in the idea that in a representative republic the sovereign, the Citizen, needs to be well informed in order to properly exercise that sovereignty through voting on issues and lending authority to representatives.

But how does that work if members of the press and press organizations, specifically protected in our Constitution, generally side with one interest or another purposefully providing a generally one-sided account of political happenings when partisan interests are at stake?

“Although Trump hasn’t been impeached or tried, voters are drawing

some conclusions. To the question, “Based on what you know, do you think that Donald Trump has taken actions while president that justify his removal from office before the end of his term?”

43% of registered Texas voters say yes and 44% say no,” reported the Texas Tribune from a poll it commissioned with the University of Texas.

Not only had Trump not yet been impeached by a simple House majority, much less tried and convicted by the Senate, at the time of the poll, there had been no credible evidence presented that the President had engaged in anything approaching what the framers meant by “high crimes and misdemeanors.”

There are plenty of folk who disagree with the opinions, policies, and manner of President Trump. However, none of that disagreement or objection, no

matter how appropriate, justifiable, or emotionally and deeply held, means Mr. Trump has done anything worthy of removal from office.

So how do you get as many people favoring impeachment as opposing it?

You have a media, Washington Post included, that is engineering a “darkness” of a type by withholding coverage favorable to Trump while repetitiously promoting innuendo and hearsay that suggests little but negative of him.

Submitted by Robert Pratt who is the host of Pratt on Texas which can be heard in the Lubbock-area weekdays 5pm to 7pm on KFYO 790AM or 95.1FM. www.PrattonTexas.com.

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COMMENTARY

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7

Can we come back together?

BY GARY W MOORE

L

ast week I penned a column saying that I wanted to be known for what I am for. Our nation has snowballed into a population who are equally divided and against everything. This negativity and anger at each other are tearing at the very fabric that binds us together as a nation and threatening our standing in the world.

HOW DID WE GET HERE? I am not a political columnist. I do not choose sides in my writing, but I have a theory of how we got here, and it happened with irreversible damage inflicted by impeachment.

W hen the House voted to impeach Bill Clinton, Washington DC changed. It began a slow boil that has brought us to the raging eruption of anger today. Let’s start with the “Special Counsel.” Giving this kind of unlimited and expansive power is wrought with the potential to damage the nation. Want to investigate our President for what is suspected as shady real estate investments in Arkansas? Fine. But arming a Special Counsel to dig into any person’s past and human imperfections, even if it had nothing to do with real estate in Arkansas guarantees a negative conclusion. No President, no person … not me and not you … can withstand that type of scrutiny. The truth is that impeachment on both sides of the aisle is about overturning the will of the American People at the ballot box. Period.

The Democrats are hell-bent on overturning the 2016 results and I guarantee you, the Republicans are thinking ahead to the next Democrat to hold the Whitehouse and how they will destroy and remove that person from office, even though we have no idea who it may be. I thought the American people alone held the

power to decide who our leader is for each four-year cycle, but our partisan politicians have decided we are not smart enough to choose our leader.

So, it began with the negative and damaging impeachment of Bill Clinton. Then, President George W. Bush was treated with a disrespect I had never seen in my lifetime. Followed by the disgraceful treatment of President Obama and now President Trump. Every President since Clinton has been treated worse than the President before. How can it get worse? Trust me … it can and will unless we, as decent law-abiding and respectful Americans, say enough is enough!

ANYTHING DONE IN ANGER RARELY HAS A POSITIVE OUTCOME. Bill Clinton became more popular after impeachment. George W. was re-elected even though the left tried to convince us he was stupid and unfit to lead. Then, Barack Obama entered office with a firestorm of hatred by his opponents and again, was re-elected. In my lifetime. We have never experienced a President like Donald Trump. He entered office with fists swinging and his opponents were screaming impeachment before he was inaugurated. I believe the result will be the same. Impeachment is a futile exercise by a partisan House. I have no doubt Trump will be impeached.

Then it goes to an equally partisan senate, where I equally have no doubt that impeachment will be defeated. And in the end, impeachment will almost guarantee the re-election of our current POTUS, which verifies my premise from last week. Positive actions attract and negative actions repel. Work hard and strive to achieve “what you are for” rather than “what you are against.”

THE NEGATIVITY OF DC POLITICS IS NOW FILTERING INTO LOCAL ELECTIONS. In the not too distant past, the local red and blue parties had little connection to the national organizations. It wasn’t unusual for a red community to elect a blue mayor or the opposite, but not today. The anger and vitriol have seeped down from DC into the smallest of communities. The Mayor of our county seat has been a target of hatred since the moment she was elected. She has never had a chance to govern or serve because her opposition will not allow it. They fear that if she succeeds in governing, and the city wins, then she’ll be re-elected. The thought of winning an election is more important to her opposition than the success of their city. Yes … read that again. They would rather see the mayor fail than their community succeed. And you know what? This same scenario is playing in almost every community in the USA. We deserve better … or do we? If we support this kind of political hand-to-hand combat, we deserve what we get. But if we can shed the red and blue jersey’s we are wearing long enough to work together for the betterment of our communities … we have a chance of becoming “one nation” again.

Join me. I am no longer a Republican nor Democrat. I’m an American.

I am a citizen only concerned with the well-being of our nation and communities. I am for charity, fairness, unity, and love of my neighbor regardless of their political leanings, color of their skin, or religious beliefs.

I want to “Love, Serve and Give.”

We must stop the anger and vitriol that’s tearing our nation apart. If not, what kind of nation and world w ill we leave our children and grandchildren?

We are better than this. Our children deserve better and it is up to us to make sure they are left with better.

Be fair. Do not allow Sean Hannity or Rachel Maddow to tell you how to think. Think for yourself.

Love. Give. Serve.

Gary W. Moore is a freelance columnist, speaker and author of three books including the award-winning, critically acclaimed, “Playing with the Enemy.” Follow Gary on Twitter @GaryWMoore721 and at www. garywmoore.com

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8

COMMENTARY

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DECEMBER 2019

What if They Knew!

BY T.R. HENDRICK

T

he Constitution cannot be changed. Or can it? Certainly, it has been modified by amendments. But what if there were a rewording of what our forefathers have penned? Wikipedia shows the Constitution provides that an amendment may be proposed either by the Congress with a two-thirds majority vote in both the House of Representatives and the Senate or by a constitutional convention called for by two-thirds of the state legislatures. One must believe this means it would be an extensive undertaking to amend our country’s leading governing document. I will note here that we currently have 27 Amendments. The last being ratified in 1992. Let me add that this specific Amendment was written by one of the Constitution’s original signers, James Madison of Virginia, 230 years ago, and presented as the second amendment proposed in 1789.

T.R. Hendrick’s book What If They Knew, takes an entertaining, fictional history look at a few of our forefather’s thoughts on America today. This is no fireside chat of what they think America will turn out to be. What If They Knew creates a way for a select few of our nation’s builders to walk

among us, learn our history, successes and failures, and understand the need to change the written words of our country’s highest law. Intuitively, time travel is only a tool used to allow for a few historical statesmen to see the political polarity within our nation’s Congress. While their time in their future allows them to witness the marvelous technological advancements, they also become emotionally distraught as they wonder if the words in the Constitution have truly created liberty, or if the Congresses following them have taken liberties to change their original intent.

Appalled at the onset of governmental welfare, trillions in national debt, no respect for citizenship and the socialist values encroaching into the White House, they return to their own time in 1787 and take their education with them. In their views, the republic they penned into existence has eroded. They must make a decision and answer the question, ‘What parts of the Constitution should be changed’?

The book asks the readers to see the ‘writing on the wall’ in the political turmoil and clear polarity between parties. Will the reader take an inward view and realize their own divisive or self-destructive decisions which cause a dependency on the government? Will the readers join together in clarifying

Democrat Puppies

D

id you hear about Bernie out jogging one day and came across a little girl with a box full of puppies? He asked the young girl what they were, and she replied... “Democratic socialist!!”

Well, he just couldn’t wait to tell AOC. Later, Bernie and AOC were out for a jog together and came across t hat sa me l itt le g i rl w it h t he

puppies. Bernie just had to have AOC hear what she had said. So, he asked her again, “What are they?”

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The young girl replied, “Yes, but that was before they had their eyes open!!”

Submitted by AJ, Lubbock, TX

the words of Constitution to better reflect the intent of our forefathers and eliminate the citizen’s dependency on the government?

What parts would you change?

Would you abolish the Electoral College? Would you limit the powers of the Supreme Court? Would you change the ever-popular rules of ‘term limits’ or

When you hear liberals using the Constution in an argument!

Submitted by BL, Lubbock, TX

the presidential ‘line-item’ veto?

I believe a vast majority of citizens would agree that the four governing documents which created our republic are not the best they could be. The framers themselves weren’t sure they had done an adequate job. However, the Articles of Confederation, the Declaration of Independence, the Constitution and the Bill of Rights are what we have today.

T.R. Hendrick’s question remains as the book title, What If They Knew.

Submitted by T.R. Hendrick, author, B.A. Texas Tech University. Purchase paperback or download What If They Knew online at Amazon.com, Apple iTunes, Kobo and Barnes & Nobles in January. Hardback book signings are being scheduled! Look for announcements in the Caprock Patriot. God Bless America!

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Dear Texas Transplants: Remember What Drew You to the Lone Star State

BY LEYLA A. PIRNIE

F

ew people are prouder of their home states than Texans, and while it rings true that southerners are known for their gentility and hospitality, don’t be surprised when you see tee-shirts boasting phrases like, “Don’t California My Texas.” With its affordable cost of living, job growth, and absence of a state income tax, it’s no wonder that within just one year, the Lone Star State saw a population increase of 187,545 people. People are pouring in from New York, California, and all over the United States hoping to benefit from policies legislated by previous administrations. The problem is that many move here without realizing why such advantages exist, and when election day comes, they vote for policies that oppose the very reasons they chose to move here. Due to such progressivism, the largest state in the contiguous United States is in the midst of an economic, cultural, and political shift, and native Texans aren’t happy about it. If those relocating here want to continue enjoying Texas for all that it is, they should remind themselves of what attracted them to the state in the first place, and vote accordingly.

I moved to Dallas in February 2019 after my roommates in Boston searched my bedroom without permission and discovered my legally-owned guns.

My landlord at the time threatened me with a $6,000 monthly rental fee if I didn’t move out or get rid of the firearms, so I packed my bags and moved to a place where people know how to mind their own business. A southerner from Alabama, I had grown tired of the constant whining from my fellow peers at Harvard. I was surrounded by people that attend arguably the most competitive school in the nation, and yet they

complained about how marginalized they were despite their acceptance into an Ivy League school. I was fed up with the victim attitude, and craved an environment where people pull themselves up by their bootstraps, rather than whimper in their safe space.

You see, Texans are tough. They’ve been firing their warning shots since the beginning of time, shouting, “don’t mess with our guns, don’t mess with our religion, don’t mess with our way of life, don’t mess with our values, and definitely Don’t Mess with Texas. We’re proud to be Texans, and we’re proud for a reason.” But I shudder to think what will become of the Texas we all know and love if it’s overrun by those who don’t fundamentally understand what makes Texas, Texas.

Companies move here for a reason: it’s cheaper to operate here than it is in other states. These companies also bring along with them their employees, who willingly relocate because they no longer have to pay state income taxes and they get the benefit of enjoying a lower cost of living. While these newcomers marvel at how grand it is to have more money in the bank, they simultaneously vote for policies that raise taxes, just as they did in their home states. They don’t realize that consequently, we all have less money in hand because of the way they’re voting.

It’s not just potential economic problems that Texas is at risk of facing, but also social issues that have been plagued by progressivism. Last month, I attended a judge’s hearing in Dallas for a case surrounding a mother’s legal ability to transition her seven-year-old son into a girl without the father’s approval by the use of hormone suppressants and counseling. I couldn’t count how many times I heard people exclaim that they couldn’t believe this case was happening-- and in Texas of all states.

I was shocked too, and not because I have a disregard for the transgender community, but because I couldn’t believe our society had moved so far as to argue against a father’s equal say in his son’s life-altering medical decisions.

Fortunately, these Texans did as Texans do, and got straight to work, fighting for what they know is right.

They called their state representatives, their state Attorney General, and anyone they knew in the media. They showed up to the trial and to the judge’s hearing by the bunches. They weren’t going to be silenced. Instead, they were going to take action—and take action they did. The judge ruled in favor of the father having joint medical conservatorship, granting him equal say in his son’s medical decisions, despite 11 of the 12 jurors ruling against him.

Not shockingly, the mainstream media used this as a virtue-signaling tool, touting articles with titles like “Texas is afraid of a 7-year-old Transgender Girl.” Clearly, the author never got the memo that Texas isn’t afraid of anything, and it definitely isn’t afraid of protecting children from bad parenting. There is no doubt in my mind that this judge’s decision was directly impacted by the people that showed up in support of the father, and by our great state leaders like Senator Ted Cruz, Governor Greg Abbott, and Attorney General Ken Paxton who spoke out about the matter.

This is the beginning of an awakening for the state of Texas. Time will tell if it will give way to the policies and social changes being brought in from the outside. But if there’s one thing I know about the people of this state, it’s that they won’t go down without a fight (See: The Alamo). I caution newcomers moving to this state to keep in mind that Texans are prouder to be Texans than many Americans are to be

Leyla Pirnie, Board Member for the Boots for Warriors Foundation

Americans these days, and Texas will remain Texas as long as the people of this state continue to pull themselves up by their bootstraps and fight for their values and principles.

Leyla Pirnie is a graduate student at Harvard University. She serves as a Board Member for the Boots for Warriors Foundation, as the Liaison to the Texas Federation of Republican Women for the Texas Young Republicans Federation, and serves as an Ambassador for Turning Point USA. 4320 50th Street

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DECEMBER 2019

Outsider’s Perspective: In Your Heart Shall Burn

BY DAVID JORGE

E

veryone who is close to me k nows I a m a big fa n of Bioware’s videogame series, Dragon Age. This videogame series renders a world that mirrors in a fun and bizarre way almost every anthropological concept one could imagine. Among the rich lore created by the developers, there is a “bible” of sorts, a sacred scripture that guides in-game religion. One of the verses written in said virtual book presents an interesting view on human nature. This text refers to the fictional creation of humanity and attempts to describe it from the perspective of the creator at the moment of creation: “In your heart shall burn An unquenchable flame All-consuming, and never satisfied.”

Now, leaving aside my now established nerdiness and plug to the game, let’s delve into the real subject of this article: the nature of Truth. In these post-modern times, truth is becoming ever more relative. In the age of personal computers and political correctness, truth has become ever more individual. Let me attempt to prove this hypothesis. During the last decade we have observed an increased proliferation and general acceptance of genderbased ideology. As a result, a majority of higher education institutions have embraced it as part of their humanities curricula.

Gender ideology defends the notion that our gender identity is socially constructed. In other words, we (individuals) are the sole ruling authority over the definition and meaning of our own gender. Forget about the old trusty male-or-female, chromosome defined gender. Gender ideology has gotten so out of hand that even popular left-leaning figures have come to criticize it. One example is Piers Morgan

who “identified” himself as a penguin on live television in order to mock the contemptuousness of having so many so-called genders out there. The last time I checked on Facebook there were 58 different options.

The fact that gender ideologies allow for such ambiguity also represents the advent of individual truth. Individual truth is the assumption that if you feel a certain way and the matter is perceived to affect only you directly, best represented by the common assertion “I live my truth” or any of its variations. According to the article from the Huffington Post “What is Your Truth,” the necessity for creating one’s own truth arises from the abstract nature that has been placed historically to the concept of truth and the need for a more tangible concept that benefits the individual in his/her (xi? their?) life. This assertion looks at truth as an abstraction, a concept to be harnessed and made subservient to the individual will. If truth itself can be bent in order to make oneself comfortable then why not gender, right?

It is no surprise that this has created great amounts of contradiction lately.

On one hand, there is us retrograde

barbarians who prefer to keep a simple vision of the world in which you either have two X chromosomes or an X and a Y chromosome, and then, you go on living your life however you wish. On the other hand, there is a current of thought that states that there is no such thing as gender, and you can identify with whichever you desire and whoever violates your truth is committing violence against you. This situation begs the question: Who is telling the truth?

Is truth an unmovable reality? Postmodern advocates will tend to say no, and to a degree they are not wrong.

Isaac Newton scientifically described and studied gravity. A couple hundred years later Albert Einstein disproved this theory with his own theory of relativity. Does that make Newton’s work untrue? The answer is unequivocally no. Newton discovered laws that applied to the environment (Earth) in which he studied them. However, Einstein’s environment (The Universe) was much larger than Newton’s. Now, if we stop right here, we risk falling into the postmodern trap that dictates that truth must be adapted to ourselves as we evolve. The reality is that Truth itself goes deeper than that.

As many of the problems that recurrently pester our modernized western societies, this is a matter of semantics.

If we take truth to be relative to circumstance, then the truth becomes a slave of the pass of time, just as we humans are. Then what today is the truth tomorrow might not. This presents a great problem: What happens then to the concept of “Self-Evident Truth?”

You know, like in “We hold these truths to be SELF-EVIDENT…” If truth is just a pragmatic concept we model after our convenience, then there is no Self-Evident Truth. Think about it. That means that there are no inherent human rights. There is no good, nor is there evil. There is only me and what I deem to be convenient for a determined time-bound situation within a time-bound existence.

Does that sound familiar? This version of truth is justified only by power; you have rights because they have been bestowed upon you by another man, and those rights might be taken away by whoever is more powerful than you… like, for example the government. Do you see how easily could all go south?

A different semantic interpretation of Truth follows a different path. It is not tied to our temporal existence but to an atemporal being: God. This is why there is no “Self-Evident Truth” without “Endowed by Their Creator.”

God’s atemporality means that there is no beginning nor end. Just existence.

This makes God’s truth a Self-Evident Truth that is not subjected to human convenience. This is the kind of truth that defends the right to life, expression, freedom, property… everything that is inherent to the human existence or earned throughout it.

Many people believe that science is in and of itself contradictory when compared to this version of Truth.

Newton and Einstein cannot be right SEE OUTSIDER’S PERSPECTIVE | PAGE 11

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at the same time, right? If so, truth progresses and evolves as we discover new information… right? What if the only Self-Evident Truth in science is the never ending, never satisfied search for The Truth?

Now this is where my nerdy citation comes into play. There is a reality to our temporal existence; however, we are always in movement. Time itself is movement, and if truth is not subjected to it, then we are condemned to always search for it. In other words, we must attempt to move ever closer to it. Our time-bound humanity is an unquenchable flame, always consuming knowledge, never satisfied in the search for truth. Like perfection itself, we can get closer to it, but never really achieve it. Yet, we try.

Postmodernism accepts the impossibility of really achieving truth and with nihilist resignation surrenders to the dictatorship of the ego; thus, attempting to quench the flame by making the individual into an incarnation of Truth.

For that reason, you can be whatever you desire, as there is neither an ultimate Truth, nor perfection. There is only you and whatever you can experience.

If you follow down this path you will not only turn yourself into a god (since you have become your source of truth) but the price paid for such “awakening” will be the extinction of your natural impulse to move forward and search for the real Universal Truth.

What is the consequence of turning ourselves in to god? It does not sound so bad right? It might even sound like the ultimate freedom. If you determine your truth, then nobody can judge you or say you are wrong. It sounds amazing right? The reality is that we cannot become gods because we change with time, and we are very well aware of our insufficiencies and imperfections even by our own standards. Everyone has felt negative emotions towards themselves at some point whether it be regret, resentment, guilt… take your pick.

COMMENTARY

www.CaprockPatriot.com If we take postmodernism to its full extension then your status as self-imposed god, dictator of truth, would allow you to absolve yourself from your sins and determine that your behavior is “alright.” Since we cannot stop failing, because we are human, we can fall into a downward spiral of failure and self-absolution; thus, becoming slaves of our own nature, or what postmodernists might call, our own personal truth. That is why we need a more solid Truth to search for, and what better Truth than one that it is perfect?

If God is the source of stable, unmovable, and atemporal Truth, and we are compelled to pursue truth, then we are naturally inclined to search for God. In the Christian Bible, Jesus of Nazareth claims to be “The Way, The Truth, and The Life.” This is a very interesting choice of words. “The Way” implies a path to follow, an action bound to the temporal existence. It suggests a struggle, a challenge, in order to reach the Truth, and only in truth can we find freedom, and ultimately life. That is why Jesus, the Word made flesh, lived among us, to show us the Way to the Truth within the confines of our mortal, time-bound existence. This Way to the Truth is to always to attempt to follow God, not ourselves. This is a complete divorce with the postmodern assumption of personal truth. If God is The Truth, then we ought to search for Him whilst denying ourselves in order to get as close as possible to Truth.

This is a faith-based assumption, and you can easily disregard it, but think about which path can take you further in life: following your own impulses and indulging your desires with no regard for a higher truth, or harnessing the endless potential of the unquenchable flame that is your soul and embark on a life-long journey in the search of something bigger than yourself? But hey, what do I know? I am just an outsider.

David Jorge, Cuban-American immigrant and LCU student, Lubbock, TX. djorgegalban3523@lcu.edu

The Camel in the Tent

O

ne cold night, as an Arab sat in his tent, a camel gently thrust his nose under the flap and looked in. “Master,” he said, “let me put my nose in your tent. It’s cold and stormy out here.”

“By all means,” said the Arab, “and welcome” as he turned over and went to sleep.

A little later the Arab awoke to find that the camel had not only put his nose in the tent but his head and neck also. The camel, who had been turning his head from side to side, said, “I will take but little more room if I place my forelegs within the tent. It is difficult standing out here.” “Yes, you may put your forelegs within,” said the Arab, moving a little to make room, for the tent was small.

Finally, the camel said, “May I not stand wholly inside? I keep the tent open by standing as I do.” “Yes, yes,”

said the Arab. “Come wholly inside.

Perhaps it will be better for both of us.” So, the camel crowded in. The Arab with difficulty in the crowded quarters again went to sleep. When he woke up the next time, he was outside in the cold and the camel had the tent to himself.

After reading the proverb we get a better understanding of the illustration. Liberal ideologies like abortion, LGBT, anti-gun, and socialism have been trying to gain more rights and acceptance for years. One could compare this to the nose being in the tent.

Over time through liberal politicians, entertainment, marches, and the media they have made their presence known.

Sadly, it seems now these liberal camels are wholly in the tent.

Submitted by LK, Lubbock, TX. Author unknown.

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ifty-one years ago, on Christmas Eve 1968, the crew of Apollo 8 entered orbit around the Moon.

When the crew of Apollo 8 called home that Christmas Eve, they spoke to more than one billion people back on Earth. William Anders began the Christmas greeting, “We are now approaching lunar sunrise, and for all the people on Earth, the crew of Apollo 8 has a message we would like to send you.”

“In the beginning God created the heaven and the earth.

And the earth was without form, and void; and darkness was upon the face of the deep.

And the Spirit of God moved upon the face of the waters.

And God said, let there be light: and there was light.

And God saw the light, that it was good: and God divided the light from the darkness.”

Jim Lovell continued, “And God called the light Day, and the darkness he called Night.

And the evening and the morning were the first day.

And God said, let there be a firmament in the midst of the waters, and let it divide the waters from the waters.

And God made the firmament and divided the waters which were under the firmament from the waters which were above the firmament: and it was so.

And God called the firmament Heaven.

And the evening and the morning were the second day.”

Frank Borman added,

“And God said, Let the waters under the heavens be gathered together unto one place, and let the dry land appear: and it was so.

And God called the dry land Earth; and the gathering together of the waters called he Seas: and God saw that it was good.”

Borman then concluded, “And from the crew of Apollo 8, we close with good night, good luck, a Merry Christmas, and God bless all of you – all of you on the good Earth.”

As they were speaking, the Earth was rising over the Moon.

Man had begun his journey beyond Earth and into the Universe in the pursuit of our Greater Destiny.

Submitted by Donald R May, Lubbock, TX

Thanks be to God for his indescribable gift!

2 Corinthians 9:15

Submitted by ML, Lubbock, TX

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13

Peace… A War Zone Gift

BY LEO JALOSZYNSKI

F

reedom from war or a stopping of war is the definition of Peace found in my Webster’s dictionary. In the shadow of the ever-longer Christmas season, as adults and children, we reflect on sad Christmas memories made or hope for better Christmas memories this year. Christmas memories are not always great and happy, like a Hallmark movie. Many children remember Christmas with great sadness. Adult choices and brokenness sometimes leave scars on the minds and hearts of children in the Christmas season. Adults, too, can find it difficult to discover the “Peace on earth” announced by angels long ago, as Jesus made His arrival on earth in an animal manger.

O n e o f m y m o s t m e m o ra b l e Christmas moments is the night of December 25, 1968. I was on guard duty in Vietnam. I was 21 years old. And as the artillery flares lit up the nighttime sky, there was peace on earth, for one night, in a war zone. Family relationships can seem like war zones. Communities can exhibit hostilities toward one another that are deeply harmful.

Our nation’s speech with people of different skin colors, cultures or political parties has become too often ‘weaponized’. So many voices have lost a tone of civility. Conflict not conversation has become the norm in our interaction with fellow citizens. Can Peace be found in such ‘war zones’?

The American Constitution was authored for the purpose of guiding and directing how “We the people” would govern ourselves throughout the history of our republic founded in 1776/1789. In 2019, America ignores the warnings of God’s word…”A house divided against itself cannot stand” (Book of Mark 3:29). The willingness

to deal constructively with political differences has been lost when words like “resistance” are used to label one another’s position on divisive matters.

Our common understanding of the first two amendments to the American Constitution is no longer ‘common’.

The plain reading of “freedom of religion” and “freedom of speech” stirs powerful emotional responses to longheld understandings of the protections these Constitutional amendments are to provide for all American citizens.

These two amendments are under grave attack by fellow-citizens who oppose their original intent.

I recently questioned a college student at the church I attend here in Greensboro, North Carolina. I asked this question, “Should ‘hate speech’ be protected speech?” His answer reflects the thinking of a large number of people who claim American citizenship. “No, hate speech should not be protected. And it should be punished.”

Wow, I said. And who is it that decides what is “hate speech”? The student shrugged his shoulders. As he prepared to leave our conversation, I reminded him that such thinking will finally be decided as right or wrong by ballots or bullets. I challenge readers to ask the same question of family, friends, their Pastor and co-workers. If we cannot agree on the “First Amendment” to the Constitution, we best be ready to exercise and defend the “Second Amendment” to the Constitution. If, God forbid, American citizens must defend the freedoms endowed by their Creator with firearms, the political effort to make the rights of ‘the many’ override the rights of the ‘one’ will have sparked true “civil war’ once again.

The heart of this message is finding Peace in a war zone. Peace with oneself, with others, with our fellow-citizens, and with our Creator can be found only with supernatural help. Peace that befuddles all human understanding is a gift to be found in the Christmas

story. So many of the introductions of the New Testament letters begin with “Grace to you and peace from God our Father and the Lord Jesus Christ”. In Luke’s Gospel book, chapter two verse fourteen, the angels are quoted as saying, “Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace among those with whom He is pleased!”

Peace on earth is foremost a heart issue. We cannot change the heart or thinking of another person. Only God can reveal and convict another of ‘the truth’. Agreement about the original meaning and intent of the first two amendments to the American Constitution requires a supernatural

move of God. Deceit about any issue only divides and makes both parties defensive.

Jesus died on a killing tree to make peace on earth a reality, not just a dream. If America is to survive, all citizens must open the gift of Peace found under the tree Jesus hung on in a place called the Skull.

A blessed Christmas greeting to all of my fellow-Americans!

Submitted Courageously by Leo Jaloszynski (aka Pastor Ski), Re-fired Pastor (will never retire from serving the Lord), U.S. Marine - Semper Fi, Greensboro, NC (previous Pastor and friend of the Caprock Patriot Publisher)

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CARED ABOUT LIFE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

abortion is different. Unborn baby murder is just that, state-sanctioned murder.

Some say that it’s fine. Others say it’s immoral and illegal by God’s laws.

This debate strikes at our very first liberty… Life. This is not new news.

But the baby murder debate is different for another reason. It’s already going on! In case you missed that devilishly large number, sixty-five million babies have been slaughtered on the altar of convenience. We still have a chance to protect free speech, gun rights, and the other conservative values under attack from leftist ideology, but this is all meaningless if we cannot protect the right to life of the most innocent and helpless subgroup of American people, the unborn.

The right to life is the cornerstone of our civilization and national culture.

It’s not just about your right to life.

It’s about everyone’s because if even the murderer of the unborn himself

www.CaprockPatriot.com is denied life without a fair trial, you have no basis to claim your own right.

Remember the iconic quote about the Holocaust and the deportation of the Jewish people in Nazi Germany originally said by German Pastor Martin Niemöller: “First, they came for the socialists, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a socialist.

Then, they came for the trade unionists, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a trade unionist.

Then, they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out— Because I was not a Jew. Then, they came for me—and there was no one left to speak for me.”

The unborn have no voice. They have no weapons to bear. They are the closest thing to innocence in this existence.

They are denied they’re God-given rights. If unborn babies are denied their rights to life, you can be denied yours.

We as a society don’t care about the rampant murdering and violence because we don’t hear from the victims.

Gift Best Christmas on the Planet tive

onserva if You Love a C te a Liberal! a it rr I to t n a W or SUBSCRIBE to the Caprock Patriot Subscribe to get REAL Conservative, Christian and Patriotic commentary delivered to your mailbox monthly! Complete the form below and mail to: Caprock Patriot PO Box 65443, Lubbock, TX 79464. Include $60 check/money order ($40 within Lubbock County) payable to Caprock Patriot.

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DECEMBER 2019

We cannot hear the screams of the unborn as we could hear the protests of brave Black Americans and American Women who demanded equal rights.

Who will demand for the unborn? If the unborn have no voice, will you be their voice?

“But we’ve made progress,” you may argue. “Our senators and representatives claim they are working on this stuff,” you may push back. We don’t have time to wait until legislation can be passed at the national or even at the state level with the goal of eventually challenging Roe. The unborn killed today certainly didn’t. Think of it like this. Would we ever have allowed sixty-five million born people (whether two, twenty-two or ninety-two years old) to have been murdered by a single movement just because they were an inconvenience to someone else? Just because they were “burdensome”?

Pro-lifers say they care about the unborn. Talk is cheap. If we cared, we would have ended this. We would have demanded it. We would have shut

down every state-sanctioned murder farm in this country. We would have fought, in any way, for the lives of our most innocent. We aren’t fighting. We don’t care. Afterall, this doesn’t really affect us. It’s much easier for me to condemn abortion and then to go on my merry way.

First, they came for the unborn, and I did not speak out – Because I was already born.

Then, they came for the elderly, and I did not speak out – Because I was not yet old.

Then, they came for the sick and the impaired, and I did not speak out – Because I had no intention of being sick or impaired.

Then, eventually, they came for me – And I realized that if I had not the courage to speak out for the least of these, how could I speak out for myself?

Submitted by Mitchell D Cochran, Lubbock, TX, Psychology undergraduate student at Lubbock Christian University. mcochran2325@lcu.edu.

HOPE OF ALL MANKIND

and women who serve in our military and the militaries of our Allies. May God be with them and defend them as they move into harm’s way around the World in the defense of freedom and the pursuit of peace.

May God grant to the American people the wisdom to understand and to appreciate what He has entrusted to us and the courage to defend it.

May God grant us the courage to keep the hope and promise of Christmas.

May God grant us the courage to defend Jews, Christians, and others who are increasingly under attack because of their religious beliefs.

May God’s blessings and His peace be upon us, upon the United States of America, and upon all people of goodwill.

Submitted by Donald R May, Lubbock, TX, retina surgeon, farmer, medical economist, decorated Air Force Veteran, and former medical school professor, department chair, and dean.

CONTINUED FROM PAGE 1

responsibility for self, for family, for community, for leaders, and for nations. These Judeo-Christian principles of the Ten Commandments and the Golden Rule remain the foundations of our Republic and our Constitution.

Just men and women of all religions still hunger for Liberty, for peace, and for righteousness. They desire to work hard, to provide for their families, to help others, and to not be harassed and killed by madmen or their government.

May our beacon of Liberty shine encouragement and hope to a desperate World that is still falling further into darkness.

May the freedoms that our Founding Fathers secured for our benefit one day be the freedoms enjoyed by all. May God grant us sufficient courage, so we do not falter in our duty.

May God watch over the brave men

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WHAT IS DHIMMITUDE? CONTINUED FROM PAGE 5

According to Mitchell G. Bard, who has written extensively on the subject and produced the excellent rebuttal to Arab and pro-Arab propaganda in his book Myths and Facts writes: ” … dhimmis, on pain of death, were forbidden to mock or criticize the Koran, Islam or Muhammad, to proselytize among Moslems or to touch a Moslem woman (though a Moslem man could take a non-Moslem as a wife).”

Dhimmis were excluded from public office and armed service and were forbidden to bear arms. They were not allowed to ride horses or camels, to build synagogues or churches taller than mosques, to construct houses higher than those of Muslims or to drink wine in public. They were not allowed to pray or mourn in loud voices as that might offend the Moslems.

COMMENTARY

www.CaprockPatriot.com The dhimmi had to show public deference toward Moslems, always yielding them the center of the road.

The dhimmi was not allowed to give evidence in court against a Moslem, and his oath was unacceptable in an Islamic court. To defend himself, the dhimmi would have to purchase Moslem witnesses at great expense.

This left the dhimmi with little legal recourse when harmed by a Moslem.

Dhimmis were also forced to wear distinctive clothing. In the ninth century, for example, Baghdad’s Caliph al-Mutawakkil designated a yellow badge for Jews, setting an odious precedent that would be followed centuries later by Nazi Germany.

By the twentieth century, the status of the dhimmi in Moslem lands had not significantly improved. H.E.W. Young, British Vice-Consul in Mosul, wrote in 1909: “T he attitude of the Muslims

toward the Christians and the Jews is that of a master towards slaves, whom he treats with a certain lordly tolerance so long as they keep their place. Any sign of pretension to equality is promptly repressed.”

The concept of jihad is not something now discarded by Islam as a quaint belief appropriate to the distant past. On the contrary, it is

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a cardinal belief in the 21st century for Moslems based upon Koranic injunctions.

Read the January issue of the Caprock Patriot for Part III. Victor Sharpe is a freelance writer and author of several books including The Blue Hour, a collection of short stories, and Volumes One, Two and Three of Politicide.

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MILITARY SALUTE

www.CaprockPatriot.com

DECEMBER 2019

Old Salt: How’d Ya like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island?

Christmas circa 1958, I had received a package from home. Mom was diligent in staying in touch with all her children. For this Christmas, Mom sent a nice package including one of her, don’t laugh, famous fruit cakes and a little battery-operated blinking Christmas tree. For me, this was the perfect reminder of the season. For as long as I could remember Mom made this fabulous fruit cake. As I recall she made her fruitcake sometime in November and aged them in rum, added every few days. People make jokes about fruitcakes as gifts and I would agree most of those are not fit to eat. Mom’s fruit cake was to be cherished. In our Missile Shop, we shared all bounty from home. In this case, the shipmates quickly devoured half of this delicacy to the point I had to

BY DOUGLAS MCARTHUR

I

had intended to tell you a tale of Christmas on the U.S.S. Forrestal circa 1958ish, but Caprock Patriot Publisher Paul McArthur suggested an article on the Battle of Midway Island. His suggestion was in response to a caller to the radio “Caprock Live” regarding the soon to be released movie “Midway” and some points the caller made.

So, I will summarize my Forrestal Christmas tale, talk of my memories of Christmas Island, then morphing into The Battle of Midway; plus, a review of the new Midway movie followed by a bonus, TEXAS HERO of MIDWAY. CHRISTMAS ABOARD THE U.S.S. FORRESTAL Aboa rd t he U.S.S. For resta l,

U.S.S. Forrestal

SEE OLD SALT | PAGE 17

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OLD SALT CONTINUED FROM PAGE 16

lock the remainder in my shop locker.

The cake was very large, perhaps ten pounds. Sweet little Mom was a character. In the part I finally locked up, I discovered Mom had hidden three mini bottles of Old Granddad bourbon. I continued sharing sparingly with my shipmates but saved enough for a Christmas celebration.

As I recall, by Christmas, we were in the Port of Naples loosely known as the butthole of the world. From what I understand, these many years later Naples still holds this title. One particular year Bob Hope was on board and acknowledged the Naples butthole title in his very funny Christmas show meant for our ears only.

I mentioned the little battery-operated Christmas tree. Batteries of the day were not long-lasting, but our shop enjoyed the blinking decoration until we arrived in Naples. On a day when I could not go ashore as I had the duty, one of my co-workers and I were bored so we spent the day reengineering the little tree with its blinking lights. We mounted the components in an aluminum chassis with the lights arrayed on top to look like a nuclear radiation detector device. We could start the lights blinking with a button on the side. It looked very convincing.

I manned the device and my buddy manned a clipboard to document radiation readings in roentgens (a measure of radiation pronounced (rent-kens).

We then amused ourselves moving all about the ship announcing ‘X’ number of roentgens as dutifully recorded on the trusty clipboard. We ended in the forbidden Officer’s Quarter area where a Lieutenant Commander stopped us, saying “What are you men doing?” I stated, “Taking radiation measurements Sir”. The Lieutenant Commander responded, “Carry on men”.

As we got to a safe distance I shouted “Holy cow! 9,000 roentgens! Let’s get the heck outta here! As we quickly exited, we could see the puzzled look

www.CaprockPatriot.com of the Lieutenant Commander. That was part of the fun supplied by Mom. I am sure the Officer got the joke and had a good story to tell. We realized we had come close enough to brig time and needed to stop our charade.

FYI; In those days we did frequent nuclear attack drills in which an Officer periodically announce ship-wide radiation reading in roentgens. Perhaps that explains why the above Officer and others fell for our prank.

The final joy from Mom’s package was on Christmas Eve. A few of us adjourned to our 02 Level battle station Missile Shop where we all enjoyed the remainder of the fruitcake chased by a little shot of Old Granddad.

All this occurred while at anchor off Naples, so no harm done. Thank you, Mom! MEMORIES OF CHRISTMAS ISLAND In truth, never been there! However, the name congers up related memories. Anytime the U.S.S. Forrestal was in port at Norfolk I frequently hitchhiked or drove my trusty 1941 Cadillac convertible to the old family farm near Clinton, NC. That farm holds many great memories. One that just won’t go away is “Christmas Island”. After WWII My Aunt and Uncle had moved back to the farm in 1945 to take care of Grandma and opened a Philco Appliance Store in Clinton.

My family had left for big city life in 1939. After the War, people having been deprived of many niceties, my Uncle immediately acquired a big Philco console radio / record player for the farmhouse. One of the 78 rpm records was “Christmas Island” by the Andrew Sisters with Bing Crosby. On a 1946 visit, I was enamored with the device and the many records, especially “Christmas Island”. Abbreviated lyrics as follows; How’d ya like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island? How’d ya like to spend the holiday away across the sea? How’d ya like to spend Christmas on Christmas Island? How’d ya like to hang a stocking on a great big coconut

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Christmas Island: an Australian territory in the Indian Ocean, lying south of Java, Indonesia. tree? How’d ya like to stay up late, like Christmas Island, contrary to the the islanders do? Wait for Santa to sail song, has never been a happy place. in with your presents in a canoe. Etc, The Japanese desire for this island, etc. etc. being on the very outer reaches of If you want to hear this Christmas the Japanese interest in WWII, was song just go to Google or YouTube and dwarfed by places in the Coral Sea, enter Christmas Island. You can hear like the Solomon Islands and Marthe original Andrew Sisters with Bing shall Islands, where eventually, so or dozens of other artists as the song many fierce battles were fought, and has been recorded by many such as brave Americans died driving out the Leon Redbone, Ernest Tubb, etc. After Japanese. It is amazing to look at the the original, I like the New Orleans history and see the vast and dispersed sound of Leon Redbone. number of islands, thousands of miles All these many years since 1946, from Japan, the Japanese grabbed on visits to the farm, I fired up the leading up to WWII. For Christmas old console and played “Christmas Island, the Japanese seized the Island Island”. It inspired me to want to go to from the British after several attempts. such an exotic place. It was maybe one Interestingly, they never succeeded of the many influences that pointed in getting a single shipment of phosme to join the Navy. phorous off the island. In the seizure Christmas Island in the Indian and subsequent occupation, the loss Ocean, just south of Java, is now of British and civilian life was a tragic an Australian territory. This tiny fact. dog-shaped island was named on I would still not consider Christmas Christmas Day, 1643 by an English Island a happy place. Today it’s a lush, sea captain. About the only strategic off-the-beaten-path tourist destinavalue of the place is a vast deposit of tion, 1500 miles from Australia, famed phosphorous that was mined by Chi- for its caves and coral reefs. The island nese conscripts over many years. The is home to an Australian Penal facility Japanese had a mild interest in seizing this asset at the beginning of WWII. SEE OLD SALT | PAGE 18

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similar to Guantanamo.

If, in your youthful imagination, you are driven to visit someplace called Christmas, may I suggest Christmas, Florida? It’s roughly 30-miles from either Disney World or a visit to Kennedy Space Center. If all else fails, you can mail your Christmas Cards postmarked at the famous Christmas Post Office.

BATTLE OF MIDWAY As I mentioned, scores of bloody battles were waged to drive the Japanese out of otherwise mostly insignificant Islands. Some were major sea battles; others were land and sea battles. The Battle of Midway was a major turning point in the campaign against the Japanese.

My goal here is not to do a comprehensive history of the battle, rather the intent is to review the latest

Battle of Midway, Pacific Theater of World War II, June 4-7, 1942

Hollywood production called “Midway”, released November 7, 2019. To understand the greatest sea battle in Naval history it helps to know a little of the background leading up to this event, the battle, and the aftermath leading to victory over Japan. Once that picture is painted, we will review the movie and evaluate its worth.

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Anybody alive December 7, 1941, remembers Pearl Harbor. I know I do, having been 20 days short of my 4th birthday at the time. The canvas the war with Japan is painted starts with the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor and a same-day attack on tiny Wake Island just 2200 miles southwest of Honolulu. Almost due north of Wake Island is little Midway Island just 1300 miles northwest of Honolulu. Midway was not yet under attack. At the same time of Pearl Harbor and Wake Island, the Philippines’ were under attack. To put the vastness of the Japanese expansion in some prospective the battle for the Philippines’ was 8500 miles from Honolulu, and the aforementioned Christmas Island is another 800 miles further than the battle for the Philippines’. Battles to be fought in the Coral Sea, Gilbert Islands, and the Marshall Islands were roughly 3200 miles westerly from Honolulu while Guam is 3,700 miles and neat Japan.

Japan is 4,000 miles from Honolulu.

Japan had seized and expanded all over this vast territory, not to mention China and was not about to stop there.

Japan had created a vast war machine including an awesome naval force, all to lord over millions of enslaved people.

Getting to the Battle of Midway, Pearl Harbor had been badly wounded, Wake Island fell after valiant resistance from December 7th falling on December 23, 1941. The Philippines

DECEMBER 2019

had fallen. At Pearl Harbor the only surprise for Japan was our carrier force was way out to sea, a quirk of fate. In the intervening time, leading up to Midway, the U.S. Navy had augmented our aircraft carriers’ fleet to some degree. Shortly before Midway, May 4-8,1942, the Japanese were fought to a draw in the Battle of the Coral Sea. The Battle of the Coral Sea was important for several reasons. It was the first pure carrier-versus-carrier battle in history as neither surface fleet sighted the other. Though a draw, it was an important turning point in the war in the Pacific because, for the first time, the Allies had stopped the Japanese advance. In less than 30 days the Midway battle would be on.

In the few months after Pearl Harbor and leading up to Midway U.S. Navy Code Breakers, handpicked by Navy Lt. Cdr. Joseph Rochford, worked around the clock to break the Japanese code. Fleet Admiral Chester Nimitz and his intelligence team had determined the Japanese were planning a big attack. But where? With just days before Midway, these heroes were able to determine the date and location of the planned attack, enabling the forewarned U.S. Navy to prepare its own ambush.

The Battle of Midway took place between 4 and 7 June 1942, six months after Japan›s attack on Pearl Harbor and one month after the Battle of the Coral Sea. The U.S. Navy under Commanding Fleet Admirals Chester W. Nimitz along with Admirals Frank J. Fletcher, and Raymond A. Spruance defeated an attacking fleet of the Imperial Japanese Navy near Midway Atoll, inflicting devastating damage on the Japanese fleet that proved irreparable. Military historians called it “the most stunning and decisive blow in the history of naval warfare” while others called it “one of the most consequential naval engagements in world history.

The Japanese operation, like the earlier attack on Pearl Harbor, sought SEE OLD SALT | PAGE 23

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True Stories of a Vietnam Long Range Recon Patrol: Part V

BY HAROLD WAYNE HAMLIN

Part five of a 12-part series sharing the very personal and boots on the ground account of one Green Beret’s time in Vietnam.

I observed everything up and down the road; including the two men and their location. One was standing, leaning against a tree, and turned slightly away from the man who was sitting on a log. The man on the log was sitting with his headgear off his head and with his back turned to me.

I crawled, slowly and carefully, aside the edge of the road to a position where I had the best shot at the two men.

From my hip holster, I removed a 22 caliber automatic and, ever so slowly, pulled a silencer from my blouse chest pocket and screwed it onto the barrel of the auto. I took aim at the head of the man sitting and slipped the safety lever off.

I took a breath. Held it a moment and squeezed the trigger. I moved the auto to the right side of the chest of the standing man and squeezed the trigger in a fraction of a second. The standing man slapped his chest as if he had been stung by a bee. I shot him again. He slapped his chest again. I saw blood on his hand as he ran uphill into the heavy brush without his pack or rifle. Never ever take your hand off your weapon in combat.

Photo Courtesy of TTU Vietnam Center

I ran across the road and grabbed the dead man. The front of his forehead was blown away. I drug his body uphill and into the heavier brush. I don’t know how far I had traveled before I hung his body on a fallen dead tree limb.

As I started searching the dead man, I could hear the rest of the team as they came behind me. I knew one of the men had removed any evidence of our crossing and that all equipment had been picked up and carried away.

I searched all pockets of the body and stuffed everything I thought might

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reveal intel down the front of my blouse: papers, note pads, etc.

I removed the grenade from my blouse and lay it on the ground. Then I unscrewed the silencer put it back in my pocket, reholstering my auto.

The One-Zero was standing close watching as I secured my equipment.

I held up one finger indicating, “Give me a minute”.

I quickly grabbed the electrical tape from the pocket on my leg and reattached the grenade back to my shoulder strap.

I gave a thumbs up to the One-Zero and he moved out to take point. The team filed by and put the NVA gear near the body. The lieutenant took the magazine out of the NVA’s AK-47 weapon and pitched it to me. As I removed three rounds from the magazine and dropped them on the ground with the AK 47 magazine, the lieutenant removed four AK-47 rounds from his leg pocket and placed them near the magazine I had put on the ground.

We both then took our place in the column and followed as bamboo sticks signaled the trackers were still seeking us, like bloodhounds hunting deer. The only difference was our antlers were more deadly by far.

Operation Green Light… the AK-47 rounds the lieutenant had placed on the ground were packed with C4; a high explosive at least 100 times more powerful than gunpowder.

The objective was for an NVA to find the rounds and use them at some point.

When the C4 round was fired it exploded like a small bomb blowing the weapon to pieces and blowing metal parts back into the face of the NVA killing or permanently injuring him.

The intent was to create distrust of the NVA equipment in the ranks.

My attempt to take a POW had failed, but it appeared we had done everything right and got away with it.

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DECEMBER 2019

When Military Suicides Become Personal

BY THE FATHER OF A SOLDIER

“

I’m goi ng to k i l l mysel f.

Tonight.”

This wasn’t the first time I’d heard my son, a mid-level Army NCO, say he wanted to end his life. The previous time was right after the divorce when his wife moved away and took their daughter with her. After some anxious hours, that incident had ended on a hopeful note, to the relief of all involved.

This time was different. He stated clearly that he was going to do it that night. Why? To escape his troubles.

Was it another episode of his PTSD after multiple combat deployments?

What alarmed me was his determination. He was at emotional rock bottom, looking for an escape from his demons and not seeing a path

forward in life. Hearing him speak that way frightened me to the core of my being. My wife and daughter were hearing my side of the conversation and quickly became alarmed. Over the next hour and a quarter our phone connection was broken several times and each time I feared he was taking the action he was threatening. I took advantage of those interruptions to call the local police and when they arrived one of them took his phone to ask me some questions and help determine the seriousness of his threat.

Our prayers for his rescue had been answered.

I am happy to report that our son is on the upswing and becoming hopeful for his future. Unfortunately, for a large number of families, including one several doors down the street, the ending is tragic. Military leaders

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by the Obama administration, and how wildly it is still promoted and defended by liberal politicians. PC has directly and substantively attacked the foundational principles of Judeo-Christian teachings that form the emotional underpinnings of individual self-worth. Weaken those underpinnings and a person is left emotionally disarmed and less able to see past any trials confronting him. At the same time, I also place a portion of the blame on the faith communities in America that have become shells of tradition rather than promoters of actual faith in God that helps a person survive trials.

How has the promotion of political correctness directly impacted the military? I see four primary ways.

are trying to find solutions. Each year another report is written about it and soldiers must participate in suicide prevention classes but the suicide rate remains high.

What is driving soldiers to kill themselves? I think the psychologists and other analysts have put their finger on a number of contributing factors.

Even so, speaking as the father of a soldier who has served honorably and is suffering the scars of war, I see a causal factor heightening the impact of all the others. Worst of all, it is something the analysts are prohibited from identifying and commanders are powerless to correct because their hands have been tied by the rules and regulations imposed on them.

I blame the high military suicide rate on political correctness, how severely it was imposed on our nation

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MILITARY SUICIDES CONTINUED FROM PAGE 20

First is requiring the military to teach and enforce “progressive” social concepts. This has particularly impacted promotions where, while they are not listed criteria, all of a candidate’s other skills and qualifications can be negated if someone has complained that they have done or said something that offended them. Thus, the leadership skills of an NCO or officer that are essential for unit cohesion and combat effectiveness have been reduced in importance. This inversion of priorities has facilitated the promotion of individuals into positions of greater responsibility who are more politically correct instead of effective and degraded the larger capabilities of the military to effectively wage war, which is why we have a military. This has even had a dispiriting impact on some special forces units.

Dispirited troops have a reduced sense of purpose and accomplishment and become more likely to abuse alcohol and illegal drugs, which increases the probability of someone committing suicide.

Second is the requirement that any allegation of offense filed by a member of an identified or protected racial or ethnic group against another service member or civilian must be regarded as factual even when they have an obvious agenda because of their sexual orientation or racial attitude. The accused have no recourse but to accept the punishment that is decided for them. One such complainer in any unit can utterly destroy the trust fellow soldiers have in each other as they act defensively to keep from being that person’s next victim.

Facing such a situation one year into a four-year enlistment means a soldier will have to tolerate the politically correct abuse until he or his accuser is transferred to another unit or discharged. This promotes a feeling of entrapment and the desire for escape can make suicide seem more appealing.

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The third impact of political correctness I see is diverting mission purpose away from combat effectiveness against our nation’s enemies. After the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, our nation was galvanized in support of the Global War on Terror. Then the politically correct began accusing us of waging war against Muslims instead of the radicals in their midst who were seeking to destroy us. They took advantage of the growing numbers of those soldiers killed and wounded in combat to question if what our military was doing was worthwhile or moral. While support for the military remains high, it has been significantly diminished and morale has paralleled that decline. It has become easier for soldiers to view their enlistment as just a job instead of serving the higher purpose of defending their homeland against our enemies. The risks, burdens, and sorrows of combat are more tolerable when war is fought for a noble purpose, but when a person is sent into combat without this sense of purpose it becomes easy to think his nation views him as worthless. This diminishes the collective dedication of soldiers to carry out their assignments, so they train with less intensity, complex weapon systems are no

Dept. VA

longer maintained in peak operating condition, and unit effectiveness diminishes. Soldiers who derive little satisfaction are at greater risk of getting drunk, getting high on drugs, and committing suicide.

The fourth impact is the unapologetic PC attack on anyone who professes any faith in God and the restrictions placed on chaplains, limiting their ability to teach belief in God. Christianity and Judaism have been the focus of the PC war on faith, while Islam has been unchallenged, if not promoted. Faith in God and trusting in the forgiveness He offers those who ask for it is a powerful factor in helping soldiers cope with the horrible memories of combat. Making it difficult

for a person to practice their faith or preventing them from finding faith leaves them less equipped to deal with PTSD and thus leaves them at greater risk of suicide.

Reversing the damage done by political correctness to our military requires that we reject it with vigor and aggressively uproot it. Doing this will not be easy. It has been around long enough to become dyed into the fabric of how the military operates, so eradicating it will be a long-term challenge. Unless we do this, I do not expect the suicide rate in the U.S. military to decline.

By the Father of a Soldier as seen in AmericanThinker.com. This article has been printed with their permission.

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"You Gotta STOP EM, Before they MULTIPLY!"

Spiders

I still didn’t understand why an extraction of the team had not been called. I didn’t see how much more intel we could get.

The One-Zero led us up the mountain about 50-yards then took a 90-degree turn which put us traveling parallel to the road with the bamboo sticks louder to our rear and to the east. We were traveling west but I heard no bamboo to the west. This worried me.

We traveled west about 100-yards and then the damn One-Zero angled back toward the road. That SOB was going to get us killed. I wanted to travel higher up and get away from the road.

There was nothing I could do but DO OR DIE! Probably the latter.

It was getting into the late afternoon and it was time to think about going into a RON (Rest Over Night). I did NOT want to be spending the night near the road.

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This was my first mission. True the Team Leader smoked and did things I had been taught not to do. It was my inexperience that had me judging my One-Zero and that was a mistake. In fact, he was very good at what he did. In hindsight, I think that he and the OneOne had become complacent after having been on so many missions. Later, after I had become a Team Leader, I was better able to understand why my current One-Zero did what he did. HQ had been radioing their orders to my One-Zero and he had been following those orders; doing the best he could to keep us alive as he did what he was ordered to do. And me, the damn new guy… I had training and I was good because I had excelled in all my training. I was a sponge that soaked up all I had been taught. Where I had the latest and best training, I did not have what everyone else on the team had...

EXPERIENCE We angled downward traveling closer and closer to the road.

The team halted then the One-Zero signaled for the team to set up an ambush. The One-Zero remained in the middle while half of us went to his right side and half to his left side. When I got into position for the ambush, I was just able to make out the road in front of me. I crept forward on my side of the One-Zero and placed a Claymore mine facing the road but in front of a tree - to protect us from the backblast if it was detonated. I crawled backward, stringing the electric wires behind me.

Once I was back in position, I attached the wires to the small hand-cranked electric generator and lay it close by my left hand.

I then rolled over on my back with my pack slightly angling up a tree that was about 2 feet in diameter. My head was about 18-inches above the ground, but the electrical generator was still by my left hand.

The Vietnamese Lieutenant had placed his Claymore mine on his side.

It’s important to understand that a Claymore mine is a high explosive SEE TRUE STORIES OF A VIETNAM | PAGE 25

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a surprise attack on Midway. This time surprise was on our side. Japan had recently been caught off guard by the shock Jimmy Doolittle air raid on Tokyo. The Japanese hoped another demoralizing defeat would force the U.S. to capitulate in the Pacific War and thus ensure Japanese dominance in the Pacific. The result was the opposite with what was left of Japans Naval Air Ships limping home to Japan.

Four Japanese and three American aircraft carriers participated in the battle. The four Japanese carriers, part of the six-carrier force that had attacked Pearl Harbor six months earlier were sunk, as was a Japanese heavy cruiser. The U.S. lost the carrier Yorktown and one destroyer.

Japanese Naval airpower was never to be seen again by the war end. The Battle of Midway, along with the later Guadalcanal campaign, set a turning point in the Pacific War as Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz led the way to the surrender on board the Battleship Missouri off Tokyo.

THE JUST RELEASED MOVIE Overall a good movie considering it relates a complicated historical time reduced to just over two hours. It’s much better than other recent movies on WWII such as Pearl Harbor.

The movie accurately retells the action and events in the months

leading up to Midway. From Pearl Harbor until the Battle of Midway many battles were fought on land and sea. The movie does a good job of reviewing those. The Doolittle raid on Tokyo, sending a message to Japan, is retold along with the Battle of the Coral Sea. The fierce attempt of the Japanese to invade Midway as the sea battle raged is covered. Of course, grabbing the island was the Japanese objective. In addition to the heroics of our aviators and officers, the vast heroics of enlisted men was covered.

Real people of the battle were played by good actors whose performance respected heroes such as Admiral Nimitz and enlisted hero Bruno Gaido. Dennis Quaid is great as Admiral Bull Halsey. Bull Halsey was not at Midway as he was incapacitated at the time. Halsey was the heroic and brilliant leader of the Coral Sea Battle and many other battles.

I thought the importance of the Code Breakers was accurately and sufficiently covered given the brevity of the movie.

You will enjoy the fact the movie did not waste time with a bunch of schmaltzy side love stories.

TEXAS HERO of MIDWAY Fleet Admirals Chester W. Nimitz Commander of the U.S. Pacific Fleet during World War II and one of the navy’s foremost administrators and strategists, he commanded all land and sea forces in the central Pacific area, Chester W. Nimitz, a Texan, was

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born Feb. 24, 1885, in Fredericksburg, Texas. His Father died 6-months later of natural causes. He was significantly influenced by his German-born paternal grandfather, Charles Henry Nimitz, a former seaman in the German Merchant Marine, who taught him, “the sea – like life itself – is a stern taskmaster. The best way to get along with either is to learn all you can, then do your best and don’t worry – especially about things over which you have no control”. His grandfather’s hotel is now the Admiral Nimitz State Historic Site. His grandfather became a Texas Ranger in the Texas Mounted Volunteers in 1851. He then served as captain of the Gillespie Rifles Company in the Confederate States Army during the Civil War. Originally, Nimitz applied to West Point in hopes of becoming an Army officer, but no appointments were available. His congressman told

23

him that he had one appointment available for the United States Naval Academy and that he would award it to the best[qualified candidate.

Nimitz felt that this was his only opportunity for further education and spent extra time studying to earn the appointment. He was appointed to the Naval Academy from Texas’s 12th congressional district in 1901, and he graduated with distinction on January 30, 1905, seventh in a class of 114.

If you want to learn more about this great man please visit The Admiral Chester W. Nimitz National Museum of the Pacific War located in Fredericksburg, Texas, the boyhood home of Admiral Chester W. Nimitz.

Submitted by Old Salt, Douglas McArthur, Arlington, TX, with Tarheel roots, USS Forrestal Ship’s Company, USS Saratoga VA-34 Blue Blaster Squadron, U.S. Army Reserves.

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ball bearing channeled grenade type ordnance. It is a slightly curved device about 10-inches long, 6-inches wide and 1-inch thick. It is convex on the front and concave on the back. Inside the front is filled with ball bearing about the size of peas. Inside the back is a high explosive. When the Claymore mine is detonated the ball bearings are blown forward in an arc pattern that expands into a wide killing zone in front of the mine.

We stayed in that position as the sun sank low in the west. Not dark but much less light due to the dense overhead treetops.

Ratarat tat tat!

Ratarat tat tat!

Ratarat tat tat!

Damn, I was startled back awake. After dozing off. My ears heard first, then my eyes saw leaves and brush dancing a foot over my head as bullets stripped

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www.CaprockPatriot.com bark from trees. I rolled to my left, with my left hand on the electrical generator ready to detonate the Claymore Mine if I saw movement advancing toward us.

More bullets flew over my head. I pulled buttons off the front of my uniform so I could get closer to the ground.

The team was well disciplined and did not return fire because there was no charge of the enemy. To the east there was firing. Then firing about 50-yards to our west. Those that had been firing over my head had moved down the road to the west. In a little while, there was more firing to the east followed by firing to the west of our position. The firing getting farther away from us.

This told me the trackers did not know exactly where we were but they impressed the hell out of me because they guessed exactly where we most likely were.

I have no doubt whatsoever that had we returned fire none of our team would have remained alive.

We were so close to the NVA HQ it is only by the grace of God and the prayers of a special girl left behind that I live to write of my first mission.

I heard the engine of Covey coming from the north... higher up the mountain.

A Covey was a small two-passenger plane that checked on the team each morning and each evening. The Covey did not fly anywhere near the team’s actual location so as not to give away the Team’s whereabouts. The plane only gets close enough to make radio contact. This is why I had not heard the plane the first three days.

Soon after I heard COVEY was also when I heard engines of trucks coming from the east.

Slow but steady coming up the road going west. Coming toward us.

To be continued next month.

Submitted by Harold Wayne Hamlin, Lubbock, TX. Harold was a Sergeant in the US Army during Vietnam, serving

25

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16 missions with as Long Range Recon Green Beret while serving with the Military Assistance Command, Vietnam – Studies and Observations Group (MACV-SOG) and Command and Control North (CNN); where he was awarded a Purple Heart. Harold is also a retired Lubbock Fire Fighter.

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2ND AMENDMENT

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DECEMBER 2019

A Landmark Non-Decision!

BY JOHNNY ROWLAND, CACTUS CHRONICLES

I

n the past 60 plus years, the United States has veered away from its founding as a Constitutional Republic, to become more and more ruled from the judicial bench. In many cases, judges who have been appointed by corrupt and unscrupulous political hacks, have been able to usurp powers supposed to be delegated to representatives elected by the people. With an amazing propensity for imagination, various judges have somehow dreamed up and instituted quite a number of detrimental and societally damaging pronouncements.

Our Constitution and Bill of Rights are written so the average literate adult citizen can understand what the sentences mean. Unfortunately, in more recent times, our modern experts in “legalese” have become adept at reading and writing between the lines of our Founding Documents to expound about whatever is politically or globally expedient. These “legal eagles” — some would say vultures— somehow found forced busing of school children, the crime of abortion paid for by tax dollars, quota systems of race and gender coerced on private businesses, control of energy resources, public education, health care, immigration and border

control, the environment, preferredgender-of-the-day bathroom rights, and a whole host of other matters, to be under jurisdiction of the bench, rather than that of elected legislators.

(If yo” can’t win by ballot; jus’ buy off da’ judge!!.. as Al Capp’s Lil’ Abner might have put it, for those of us who remember “Dogpatch.”)

One of the latest travesties coming from the so-called Supreme Court is an outright failure to quash a ludicrous lawsuit brought against one of America’s oldest and most revered gun manufacturers (Remington) by an anti-gun lawyer on behalf of

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several families of victims killed

by Adam Lanza at the Sandy Hook School in Connecticut. The aforementioned Lanza murdered his own mother, stole a couple of her guns, and proceeded to go to a local school and shoot innocent children. So now, some of the parents of the victims, aided by their attorney, are suing Remington (owner of Bushmaster Firearms) for damages caused by a deranged and murderous thief, committing his heinous acts while using a legally manufactured and sold firearm which just happened to be made by a company owned by Remington.

Gun manufacturers are supposed to be legally protected from frivolous lawsuits related to misuse of their products by criminals or irrational persons, but here is a case of a political agenda, combined with greed, overriding the law and logic in an effort to destroy the American firearms industry. The Connecticut Supreme Court is certainly on board to do just this, and a majority of justices— some would say clowns— on the US Supreme Court refused to stand against this contrived and nonsensical suit.

(Next, this same bunch will be suing the maker of the automobile Lanza stole to drive to the school, and the manufacturer of the shoes he was wearing which enabled him to have better traction in the school hallway!

Makes just as much sense!)

Realize that there are some on the US Supreme Court who don’t give a rip about what the Constitution or the Bill of Rights says, and in their zeal to nullify the 2nd Amendment by this disgraceful non-act, the court has opened the door for the literal destruction of not only the gun and ammo industry in our country, but that of any other manufacturer who has ever made any instrument, machine, or substance which has been legally or illegally used to injure anyone in history! In other words, this bunch of judicial imposters has potentially set up the demise of all American industry, food production, and professional services, by kowtowing to the insatiable lunatic desires of the anti-gun Liberals and promoters of a One World Government.

What we are witnessing now, with this sham “impeachment” nonsense being theatrically produced by power-hungry radical anti-Americans masquerading as “public servants,” is clear justification for our 2nd Amendment. Here we have an obvious and outright power struggle between treasonous leftists and those of us who lawfully elected Donald Trump in an attempt to rein in an out of control federal bureaucratic monstrosity. The Founders rightfully allowed for the possibility that our government might be co-opted or taken over by scoundrels, so they enshrined a means in our Bill of Rights by which We, the People, could clean our governmental house by force, if that became necessary. Remember that a “double-standard” really SEE A LANDMARK NON-DECISION! | PAGE 27

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A LANDMARK NON-DECISION! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 26

means “No-Standard” when one political entity can literally get away with murder (can we spell Benghazi?) and ignore trainloads of criminal acts by its own players while persecuting the opposition for potential thought crimes!

The American firearms industry is among the most heavily regulated commercial enterprises in existence.

Federal permits must be adhered to for the manufacture, storage, and sale of guns, while prospective purchasers must pass a federally mandated background check— the problem is that laws are only observed by the law-abiding and the criminal determined to hurt others simply ignores legal restraints. Of course, truth and reality are not serious considerations for our socialist/ communist/globalist adversaries.

www.CaprockPatriot.com Their modus operandi is: attack, overcome, enslave, and destroy!

-At this point, I can’t say whether Remington corporate has the will to stand and fight this court sanctified blackmail. Unfortunately, many in the firearms manufacturing industry have no real 2nd Amendment commitment and would just as soon be building door stops or buggy whips if they had a market for them. I hope this is not the case with the folks at Remington, but we will just have to wait and see. In the shorter term, I would suggest that if one wants to add to his or her collection of semi-auto firearms, that one should immediately begin budgeting to do so, as this will be the first class of guns to be proposed for confiscation via massive media vilification. Of course, other types of firearms and weapons won’t be far behind, including those using black powder; knives, bows and arrows, and air guns won’t

2ND AMENDMENT be exempt either. (If you don’t believe me, just check out regulations in London and the UK; these would only be a starting point for weapon restrictions which our would-be slavers have in mind.) Other pertinent recommendations would be for one to join as many pro-gun organizations as one can afford, consider getting into handloading one’s own ammo, and find a genuine Bible-believing church; please stay tuned!

If we wait until the “Come and Take It!” stage, it will be too late to preserve our country as we have known it. We, as patriotic citizens have to begin acting NOW and stand against those who would steal our Liberty, dilute and poison our Faith, and destroy our Future. This is not just “a line in the sand,” but is more correctly a “gash in the political battlefield,” and it is past time to choose sides!

Johnny Rowland is a media professional and lives with his family in the

27

Northern Sonoran Desert near Tombstone, Arizona. He is a founder of www. hararifle.org and can be contacted at johnny460rowland@gmail.com

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2ND AMENDMENT

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29

What Does Christmas Mean to Me?

BY SHARP SHOOTERS SAFE & GUN

C

hristmas: the ancient holiday that seems to be experienced in about as many ways as the days that come before it. From shopping malls and coffee shops to business offices and homes across the country, Christmas is something that seems to be embedded in our culture and priority number one as soon as all the Halloween monsters and ghosts slither back to their cobwebbed caves. We really know the season is here around 4:00pm on Thanksgiving Day when all the Best Buys and Walmart’s of the world begin their Black Friday deals. College students start to feel the “season’s greetings” when all the project due dates are upon them and finals begin. While we are all familiar with these early signs of the Happy Holidays, are we familiar with Christmas? Not

Submitted by CK, Lubbock TX

just the day of December 25th, and not just the cold crisp in the air, but are we familiar with the tradition? Do we know what it means and what we’re doing?

Despite the many perspect ives of how t he holiday began, I think Christmas has a deeper meaning and carries more significance than we often realize. To me, Christmas offers a lot to the people that celebrate it. It allows us the opportunity to pause, no matter how difficult that may be, and to be present, not just to open presents. It allows us to take a step back and appreciate what we have and what will come to be in the New Year. As a Christian, it also allows me the time to recognize the greatest news the world has ever known, that Christ has come once and that He will come again. It reminds me of the calling I have as a disciple of God. It reminds me, forces me even, to stop and look, and to smell the roses.

There are the cliché, but no less valid, Christmas appreciations like family, friends, food, and gifts. However, I

think Christmas also affords us the opportunity to do better, to be better, while it also reminds us that we are enough.

So, this Holiday season, remember that no matter what you have or who you are, you are more blessed than you think and are enough just as you are. So, I encourage you to welcome this Christmas with that mindset, to be thankful for all you have and to

really stop and celebrate you and your family and friends’ joy, no matter what form that may take.

Merry Christmas to you and yours, from us here at the Sharp Shooters family!

Submitted by Sharp Shooters Safe & Gun, Lubbock, TX, www.ssguns.com; and by Lubbock Shooting Complex/ Hub City Clays, Lubbock, TX, lubbockshootingcomplex.com

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30

2ND AMENDMENT

www.CaprockPatriot.com

DECEMBER 2019

Is the Second Amendment worth it?

BY ALAN J CHWICK & JOANNE D EISEN

I

t is without a doubt that our country will elect a Democrat President sometime in the future.

Folks, the Democrats are good at promising cheap trinkets to the lazy, and they are great at frightening people into making decisions against their own interests. We know for sure that the Democrats will eventually get back into the White House.

That’s the way US politics has worked in the past.

After Trump, though, we are in uncharted territory.

For decades, the Dimwits, aka the Democrats, ignored the benefits and magnified the disadvantages of civilian-owned weapons. They tried to frighten gun owners and non-gun owners alike into making poor choices based on emotion, and not on the facts.

The Dimwits tried to fool us into peaceably giving up our weapons.

Instead of giving up our weapons, we gave them Trump.

After Trump, will we peaceably disarm?

Now that the Dimwits realize that their lies failed to stampede us into disarmament, as has occurred in other countries, they are demanding that we “sell back” our so-called “assault weapons,” and whatever other classes of guns they fear. The Dimwits claim that our Founders never imagined the effect of technology on personal weapons. But our Founding Fathers did have full knowledge of the arms possibilities. They had knowledge of the Puckle Gun (considered one of the first machine guns ever built-in 1718) and others like it.

Our Founders gave us the Second Amendment fully understanding, and expecting, improvements in firearms and weapons technolog y. Logic Note: If the Second

A mend ment does not apply to modern technology, then the First Amendment should NOT either.

Those who wrote the Constitution wanted to limit government; they did not want to hinder technical genius.

The Dimwits plot to pass the Universal Instant Check System. If it were to be signed into law, rest assured that lists of firearms owners would be made, and used to confiscate weapons and ammunition.

They are so eager to disarm us, that they can hardly wait for RED FLAG LAWS to accomplish that task one by one. The Dimwits are also too lazy to collect the 4473 documents from FFL Dealers, who must retain the 4473s for not less than 20 years, per § 478.129(b) Record retention: Firearms transaction record.

The Dimwits believe that when new gun bans become the law of the land, house to house searches will occur and we, the law-abiding citizens that we are, will quietly and happily disarm.

With all the new rights the Dimwits have normed into our culture, one would think that one has retained the right to safety in the home. So we would not expect government agents

to swarm our homes, endangering our families, and take our property.

But that seems to be their plan.

The Dimwits should surely remember that past gun bans have not been fully obeyed.

Crazy Dimwits are finally telling us the truth when they promise voters that the next time they win the White House, forcible disarmament will follow. After all, according to Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-CA), who not so jokingly reminded us about who would be controlling the atomic weapons, “It would be a short war…”.

If even thinking about nuking our land and our people isn’t insane, what is?

Although Swalwell was quickly shushed, the proverbial cat was fully out of the bag. But the Dimwits could no longer restrain from hiding their madness, Beto also made the confiscation claim.

The Dimwits, of the San Francisco Board of Supervisors, labeled our NRA as a “domestic terrorist organization”! Can you imagine that a Civil Rights Organization, who helped train the freed slaves and promotes safety, is a domestic terrorist organization?

Our Second Amendment, and our

Constitution, are under attack by lunatics, liars, and idiots. They are mean, nasty, and extremely destructive. They have a selfish streak, and can not be trusted.

Some of these loonies may be family. We may love them! But how can we ever trust them in the future?

The political path they chose is not necessarily a peaceful path.

Why have we not seen most of the Democratic party apparatchiks flee their party’s massive lies, not only about the benefits of disarmament and socialism but about Republican subversion against the very Constitution we love?

Millions of Dimwits should have renounced the hatred of our country and spoke out against the damage that recent Dimwit policies have done to our Constitution, the country, our Presidency.

How many in the Dimwit Party really believe that we firearm owners are eager to sell out our beloved country to the enemies of freedom?

Our souls are wrapped in the flag of freedom! Are their souls? Is the Second Amendment worth it? Is it all worth it?

And the answers are: No, Yes, and Yes!

By Alan J Chwick and Joanne D Eisen, DDS (Ret.) Alan J Chwick has been involved with firearms much of his life and is the Retired Managing Coach of the Freeport NY Junior Marksmanship Club. He has escaped from New York State to South Carolina and is an SC FFL (Everything22andMore.com). AJChwick@ iNCNF.org | TWITTER: @iNCNF Joanne D Eisen, DDS (Ret.) practiced dentistry on Long Island, NY. She has collaborated and written on firearm politics for the past 30+ years.

She has also escaped from New York State but to Virginia. JoanneDEisen@ cs.com Reprinted with permission from Ammoland.com

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We the People Liberty Celebration: a twelve part educational series

The Declaration of Independence... and that as Free and Independent States, they have full Power to levy War, conclude Peace, contract Alliances, establish Commerce, and to do all other Acts and Things which Independent States may of right do. — And for the support of this Declaration, with a firm reliance on the protection of Divine Providence, we mutually pledge to each other our Lives, our Fortunes, and our sacred Honor.

Celebrating Our Economic Liberty

In the closing words of the Declaration of Independence, relying on Divine Providence in mutual commitment to one another, our Founding Fathers affirm, along with the others listed, that to establish Commerce (to exercise economic liberty) is a Creatorendowed unalienable right of We the People.

How do we relate to God and one another? Through need. We are created equal in our human nature to reason and to work/labor to meet our own needs; this is why we establish commerce. Our attitudes and actions originate from this nature. We can choose to live by the just principle of individual responsibility or to live by the unjust principle of entitlement - unrealistically expecting to be given the fruit of someone else’s labor. The redistribution of wealth by the government is unjust and only feeds this erroneous reasoning.

The Founding Fathers knew that if America was to be truly free and independent in meeting our needs individually and as a nation, then we must separate forming a government whose laws are in agreement with the Laws of Nature and Nature’s God in order to protect We the People’s Creator-endowed unalienable right of economic liberty so we can freely sow, grow, reap and work our own commerce garden.

Economic Liberty is the Creator-endowed unalienable right to reason and work to meet our needs. To live within our means in accepting our individual responsibility to freely exercise our private rights of property. To labor/work for profit. And to be charitable in freely choosing who, what, when, where and how much we will give to those in need. Although being equal in human nature, there will always be income inequality. Because our individual capabilities, talents, giftedness are different, this results in different outcomes. Therefore respecting the differences of others that result in different outcomes, we recognize that when need is not being met through individual responsibility, charity is to be completely voluntary, not mandated or manipulated as an entitlement. For truly being in agreement with the Laws of Nature and Nature’s God, there is no Creator-endowed unalienable right to equal outcome. However, there is the Creator-endowed unalienable right to produce our own individual commerce through reason and working to meet our own needs.

For more information email don@donbebee.net or visit www.donbebee.com/calendar • © Liberty Enterprises, LLC

Opportunity is missed by most people because it is dressed in overalls and looks like work. ~ Thomas Edison ~ American Inventor

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32

2ND AMENDMENT

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DECEMBER 2019

Too Bad About the Lone Ranger

I

n California... Is nothing sacred?

The Lone Ranger was arrested in Lone Pine, California for the crime of illegally transferring silver bullets. The famed masked man had just apprehended an armed felon after shooting the gun out of his hand. As was his practice for the last eighty years, he gave a silver bullet to the outlaw’s victim.

She was a kindly old widow who was robbed and held captive by the desperado. This lady, grateful that her life and property were restored, treasured the silver bullet as a symbol that justice was done.

The trouble started when she showed the bullet to her weekly garden club.

Upon seeing the gleaming memento, one lady fainted. Another lady gasped that they were all going to die. A third lady, who was also a member of CHA

(California Hysterics Anonymous), warned that where there was a bullet, there had to be a gun. During the shocked silence an attendee desperately summoned the Sheriff on her cell phone.

When the Sheriff heard their story, he struggled to stifle a laugh. He knew the old gentleman on the big white horse. He also appreciated how many criminals the Lone Ranger had captured over the years. However, since California voters passed liberal and anti-gun Proposition 63, he had to uphold the law.

Predictably, he found the masked man enjoying a beer at the Dry Gulch Saloon back in town. Thanks for helping old widow Smith,” he said, “but did you really give her a silver bullet?”

“Yes,” replied the Lone Ranger, “after all that’s my trademark.?? Got a

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problem with that?”

“Well, yes,” hesitated the sheriff.

“Ya see under Proposition 63, you’ve got to be a licensed firearms dealer to give anyone a bullet.”

“Are you kidding?” asked the Lone Ranger.

“Wish I was,” said the embarrassed sheriff, “and to boot whoever receives the bullet has to be registered with the Department of Justice.”

“Holy guacamole!” exclaimed the masked man. “Did I do anything else wrong?”

“Well,” said the sheriff, looking even more sheepish now, “there’s the little matter of you shooting a gun out of the outlaw’s hand.”

“What!” said the Lone Ranger. “If I hadn’t done that, the skunk would have plugged me for sure.”

“I know that,” admitted the Sheriff, “but he’ll probably sue you for failing to retreat and using unnecessary force.

If they convict you, they’ll take your six-shooters away for good. Which reminds me, according to California law, your pistols have too large a capacity. If I were you, I’d convert those six-shooters into five-shooters as quick as you can.”

“Jumpin’ Junipers!” exclaimed the Lone Ranger. “I’d better tell this to my faithful Indian companion, Tonto.”

“Hold on,” said the Sheriff. “I need to remind you that Indians are now referred to as Native Americans. We privileged male palefaces have got to remember that.”

As the Lone Ranger sat in shocked silence, the sheriff explained his rights and proceeded to take him in.

Postscript: Upon being provided an attorney at state expense, the outlaw successfully sued the Lone Ranger. He claimed that he could no longer work since he had suffered the permanent loss of his trigger finger.

Governor Gavin Newsom urged imposing the maximum sentence for possession of illegal ammunition and

a firearm that exceeds lawful capacity.

The desperado received a huge monetary award, forcing the Lone Ranger to sell the silver mine.

Tonto was deemed innocent but victimized by virtue of being a member of an oppressed minority. He was given land by the state and now operates a very profitable casino.

After getting out of jail, the Lone Ranger could not find a job since he was now an ex-con. Fortunately, Tonto lets him do light janitorial work at the casino and sleep in the basement.

Following the passage of Proposition 63, violent crime in California has steadily increased. Governor Newsom advises troubled property owners to protect themselves by posting signs that say, “Keep Out! Gun Free Zone!”

Submitted by JR, Lubbock, TX. Author unknown.

Published by Rockin’ M Media, LLC, dba Caprock Patriot, Lubbock, TX 806-831-7366 • CaprockPatriot.com info@caprockpatriot.com Paul McArthur • President & Publisher

The Caprock Patriot publishes once each month and is available to pick up for free at select stores across Lubbock. Mailed subscriptions are available at www.CaprockPatriot.com for the price of $40 annually within Lubbock County and $60 annually outside of Lubbock County.

Legal Stuff: Rockin’ M Media, LLC does not guarantee and is not liable for: the absolute correctness of information presented within the printed pages or website of the Caprock Patriot, unintentional errors, omissions or inclusions. The opinions expressed in user-submitted commentary, articles, cartoons, etc, may or OR may not reflect the opinions of the publisher, staff or advertisers. Based on our editorial guidelines, Rockin’ M Media, LLC reserves the right to edit and/or refuse content submissions. Articles are intended for informational purposes. All opinions expressed by authors and quoted sources are their own. Advertisers have no advance knowledge of editorial content, except as is publicly available through published editorial calendars and promotions. Advertisers cannot influence editorial content or advertising policies. Reproduction and/or use of any photograph or written material without written permission is prohibited.

Copyright 2019 with all rights reserved.

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THE WORD

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33

America Desperately Needs Our Shepherds to Rise Up PETER ADAMS

SMITE THE SHEPHERD AND THE SHEEP scatter… Matt.26:31. Another way to look at this in today’s time is, if there is no Shepherd, or… if the Shepherd refuses to lead the flock, there is chaos, no vision, no unity, and nothing being accomplished.

Here in America, we have so many churches and denominations that it becomes a chore to decide where to go and worship. The problem is that we don’t have many Shepherds to guide the flock and lead them. Many Pastors are afraid to get involved in the politics of today for fear of losing their 501C tax exemption. They fear losing their congregations if they get the church involved in politics and getting the people to actually, “do something” other than just come and sit in church.

PAIVI RASANEN, A MEMBER OF FINNISH Parliament, is under investigation for committing a “Hate Crime.” She posted a Bible passage on Social Media aimed at Finland’s State Church for its promotion of the LGBTQ lifestyle. She posted Rom.1:24-27 for what it says about the homosexual lifestyle.

Rasanen said, “Because of the repercussions happening to me for posting the truth and trying to help save lives, it is not time for me to jump out of a sinking boat in the church, but to wake up the sleeping ones in the church.”

If convicted, Rasanen could face a fine or even jail time. But the main thing is how the “precedence” of this case could affect every believer in Finland. Rasanen said, “I am afraid and I’m worried that this case, the criminal investigation, might frighten some Christians to hide and to keep silent.”

RIGHT HERE IN AMERICA, Planned Parenthood is suing the Investigative Journalists who did undercover investigative reports, with videos on Planned Parenthood’s selling of

aborted baby parts for money. If the Investigative Journalists are found guilty, they could incur fines of hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Can you imagine that a Court would even give merit to a lawsuit from a Company to sue investigators who reported illegal activity of said Company? If the investigators are found guilty and fined or imprisoned, this will set a precedent for others to keep quiet out of fear when they see a “wrong” being done or any illegal activity.

This, in itself, violates a Christian’s

right to follow his/her religious beliefs. In Leviticus 5, it tells the Christian what to do if they see a wrong; (paraphrased) “If you see a wrong, and you know it is wrong, and you don’t raise your hand or your voice to stop it, you are just as guilty as the one who committed the wrong AND you will incur the same judgment.”

If we don’t want to be found guilty and incur judgment from Almighty God according to Lev. 5, what can we do or what should we do?

Most would answer, “pray,” but is that enough? Leviticus 5 says to raise

your voice and your hand to stop the wrongs. These are action words, not passive words. Yes, we all are to pray for God’s help and intervention, but we are also called to action… to physically “do something.”

NEVER WAS IT MEANT FOR the Shepherds/Pastors to do it all, nor the Congress and its elected officials, nor the President of the United States. The Congress, Senate, and the President were all elected to do the will of the people. The Pastors/Shepherds are to lead their flock in unison, in one voice, in one vision to, stand against immoral laws being forced upon us all, to break the yoke of bondage preventing the people from standing up for God and all that is Holy.

What power do we have as Christians? Just look at the story of the Tower of Babel. They were a wicked people with a wicked plan. But God said because they were of one voice, one vision, and all in unity, there was nothing that would be impossible for them. So, He confounded their language so that they were scattered, no longer in unity.

Now, we are a righteous people.

SEE A SHEPHERDS TO RISE UP | PAGE 38

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A

s Christmas approaches each year, stores hope and prepare for an onslaught of shoppers who will create not only record-setting “Black Fridays,” but Decembers that will allow for a profitable year.

Rarely will you ever see a store go out of business until the “HolyDay” season has ended. Financially, all other months pale in comparison to December because in no other month is there as much gift-giving.

People approach buying gifts for others from multiple perspectives. For some, it is an opportunity to find the most special thing imaginable that will bring joy to another. Others may not know the “perfect” gift and go the way of cash, check, or gift cards. Some people start their Christmas shopping the day after Christmas for the following year. Others begin and end on Christmas Eve. Some see buying gifts as a reflection of their love. Others see it as an arduous task.

There are also questions related to finances...how much should be spent... what will be the cost?

“Does it look like I spent the same amount of money on both of my two

nephews?” “Did we get a better gift for my mother-in-law than we did for my mother?” “I wish I knew how much she was going to spend on me so I would know how much to spend on her.”

“Last year my sister and her husband spent a lot more on our kids than we spent on theirs...don’t you think we should make up for it this Christmas?”

These and countless similar questions add to the stress and subtract from the meaning of this extraordinary day.

When we “exchange gifts,” does one person or the other feel badly because they got “taken” or feel guilty because of the great disparity in price. An exchange is defined as “an act of giving one thing and receiving another (especially of the same type or value) in return.” If THAT is our mindset, however, then our “giving train” has been hijacked and we are on the wrong track.

As a kid, I grew up with parents who were models for giving to others.

“When you do something for someone or give something to them, do it and never talk about it”, my mom would often say, while one of my father’s admonitions was, “Don’t do what other people do, do what’s right!” Indeed, they did countless things for other SEE EXCHANGING GIFTS | PAGE 46

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35

LUBBOCK! Grace Campus Needs Your Help! there is no “cookie-cutter” way to address homelessness. It requires all of us working together, looking for creative solutions, and contributing what we can to the cause.

Grace Campus is a 6-month transitional shelter and has been designated as “Transitional Housing” by HUD and the Texas Homeless Network. We choose to receive no government money. We operate thanks to the generous donations of individuals, groups, churches, and businesses. We provide homeless individuals access to basic necessities/resources so they can focus on getting back on their feet: showers, laundry, clothing, hygiene items, meals, mailing address, shelter, etc. And, we are supported by over 100 volunteers a week who serve the

BY CHRISTOPHER MOORE

T

his is the most difficult thing that I have ever written as the executive director of your homeless shelter, Grace Campus.

The mission of Grace Campus is to inspire hope, instill value, and equip the homeless in our community. It is our desire for every person that comes through out gates to realize their life has purpose and meaning. Grace Campus not only provides temporary shelter for the homeless in Lubbock, but also comes alongside these individuals helping them realize their potential and ability to live an independent life that positively contributes to society.

Grace Campus serves a critical need in the Lubbock community. The population we serve is diverse and our clients have a variety of needs! We believe

Grace Campus Executive Director, Chris Moore and Program Director, Jerri Ann Moore

SEE GRACE CAMPUS NEEDS YOUR HELP! | PAGE 44

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www.CaprockPatriot.com

DECEMBER 2019

Quit Looking at the Wind

BY DR. ROBERT OWENS

T

he talents we have are God’s gifts to us. What we do with those talents is our gift to God. Paul told us, “Test yourselves to make sure you are solid in the faith. Don’t drift along taking everything for granted. Give yourselves regular checkups. You need firsthand evidence, not mere hearsay that Jesus Christ is in you.

Test it out. If you fail the test, do something about it.”

As believers, we don’t just know about God. We not only personally know

the Master of the universe. He’s in us.

We’re wall-to-wall Jesus filled with His Spirit. And it’s that dynamic union that makes us who we are. Like the energizer bunny, we’re filled with power but ours doesn’t come from the copper top it comes from the Creator of everything. What we do, we do in and through Him and without Him we can do nothing. If we attempt to build our lives without Him, we’re building castles in the sand instead of a fortress on the rock.

John told us, “Live in me. Make your home in me just as I do in you.

In the same way that a branch can’t

I Am a Christian

W

hen I say, “I am a Christian,” I am not shouting that “I am a clean living.” I’m whispering, “I was lost, but know I’m found and forgiven.”

When I say, “I am a Christian,” I don’t speak of this with pride. I’m confessing that I stumble and need Christ to be my guide.

When I say, “I’m a Christian,” I’m not trying to be strong. I’m professing that I’m weak and need His strength to carry on.

When I say, “I’m a Christian,” I’m not bragging of success. I’m

admitting I have failed and need God to clean my mess.

When I say, “I’m a Christian,” I’m not claiming to be perfect. My flaws are far too visible, but God believes I am worth it.

When I say, “I’m a Christian,” I still feel the sting of pain. I have my share of heartaches, so I call upon His name.

When I say, “I’m a Christian,” I’m not holier than thou. I’m just a simple sinner who received God’s good grace, somehow!

Submitted by P.R., Lubbock, TX

bear grapes by itself but only by being joined to the vine, you can’t bear fruit unless you are joined with me.

I am the Vine; you are the branches.

When you’re joined with me and I with you, the relation intimate and organic, the harvest is sure to be abundant. Separated, you can’t produce a thing. Anyone who separates from me is deadwood, gathered up and thrown on the bonfire. But if you make yourselves at home with me and my words are at home in you, you can be sure that whatever you ask will be listened to and acted upon. This is how my Father shows who he is—when you produce grapes, when you mature as my disciples.”

How do we test our lives? How do we know whether or not we’re allowing God to work in and through us? Are we allowing Him to guide us? Or are we insisting on being the pilot instead of the co-pilot on our brief flight through this world? We can easily test this by asking, “How fruitful am I?” If we’re producing fruit, we’re united with Christ. If not, what are we doing?

Are we waiting until the time is right? Are we waiting until we’re fully prepared? Are we waiting until we have all the provisions we need to face any eventuality?

The time is always right. God is always ready to act, to be, to do because He is the great “I am” not the will-othe-wisp “I’m going to be.”

We don’t need to worry about being fast enough, strong enough, or smart enough because God delights in using the ordinary to do the extraordinary.

He took a bunch of nobodies from a backwater and turned the world upside down. Or as my favorite band Casting Crowns puts it, “I’m just a nobody trying to tell everybody about somebody who saved my soul.”

Our God hasn’t changed. He still delights in using the weak to confound the strong. Just look at the history of faith. You don’t have to look very deep, Jacob, Joseph, David, Paul to see the obvious God deliberately “chose men and women that the culture overlooks and exploits and abuses, chose these nobodies to expose the hollow pretensions of the somebodies.”

Therefore being a weak and foolish nobody isn’t a disqualification. In fact, it might be why He chose us to do what He’s called us to do. What has He called us to do? Maybe we should ask Him? And then allow Him the space and the time to tell us. In prayer as in life, we need to listen more than we need to speak or as James put it, “let every man be swift to hear and slow to speak.” If we listen to Him and let Him lead us we can be assured He will show us where we should go and what we should do.

Often when I say to people, “The SEE QUIT LOOKING AT THE WIND | PAGE 37

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DECEMBER 2019

QUIT LOOKING AT THE WIND CONTINUED FROM PAGE 36

Lord told me to do so this or that, to go here or to stay there” they look at me as if I have two heads. Many have looked at me that way and said, “Do you mean God talks to you?” In such cases, I always look at them the same way and ask, “Do you mean God doesn’t talk to you?”

God is always there. He’s always guiding us. If we don’t hear Him, the odds are we aren’t listening.

Are we waiting until we have all the resources? Do we think we need to wait until we have enough money? Do we think we need to wait until we have enough time, or skill, or opportunity?

I can tell you when all that will occur, never.

When God called Moses from the burning bush and told him he was going to go to Pharaoh and lead the chosen people to freedom Moses

37

protested saying he wasn’t strong enough, smart enough, and that he didn’t have a silver tongue. Did all that fear dressed up as humility impress God? No, it made God angry.

So, let’s do our best not to make God angry. Let’s leave the objections that we aren’t the ones He called to do what He has told us to do and come to the realization that where God guides God provides.

If He calls us to walk upon the water, we can walk upon the water. Let’s quit looking at the wind and the waves and step out of the boat.

Dr. Owens teaches History, Political Science, Global Studies, and Religion. He is the Historian of the Future @ http://drrobertowens.com © 2019 Contact Dr. Owens drrobertowens@ hotmail.com Follow Dr. Robert Owens on Facebook or Twitter @ Drrobertowens or visit Dr. Owens Amazon Page / Edited by Dr. Rosalie Owens

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DECEMBER 2019

SHEPHERDS TO RISE UP CONTINUED FROM PAGE 33

If our Pastors come together in one voice, one vision, making a plan to LEAD their congregants to the Capitol of every State in the U.S. all at the same time in unity, there would be absolutely “nothing” impossible for us to accomplish with God’s help.

We could change the laws passed making immorality legal. We could stop abortions, pornography, and same-sex marriages. We could bring the teachings of God and morality back into our Schools. We could remove grossly immoral Judges in our land.

We should no longer allow our freedom of speech to be denied or made illegal. We should no longer be suppressed in our outward and public expression of our love and belief in Jesus Christ, God, and the Holy Spirit.

We should no longer sit by while certain people are voted in and sworn

into our government administration by placing their hand on a Quran or a Satanic Bible.

AMERICA IS ONE NATION UNDER “GOD,” not under Allah or Satan.

Our Pastors know what should be done and if they don’t rise up and band church congregations together for a time like this… then the blood of the innocent will be on their hands.

The people need the Shepherds to lead them in battle.

We can accomplish all that we set out to do, with God and His Shepherds leading us in one voice, one vision, and in unity.

Peter Adams worked for Brown & Root offshore and Drafting at Chemical Plants, Representation in Arbitration Cases for the Fed. Government, a Published Author, newspaper columnist, Church Elder many years, now a retired Rancher. Email: MacRanch@windstream.net

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39

“Who Will Tell Your Story”

BY ANN BIRDSONG

H

ow many of you saw the play Hamilton, or know the songs? My daughter went through a “Hamilton Phase” a few years back to where I knew every song and just about every lyric from hearing it so much. One of my favorites is “Who will tell your story?” It makes you think.

Who WILL tell your story? Who knows your story? Have you told your story?

Storytelling has earned its place as the most important tradition humans possess. The most important reason for this being that every story contains a lesson to instruct the audience. Stories teach us to love, to forgive others, to be just and to strive for better than we have. Sharing our testimonies with others is just that – us telling our story. One definition of testimony is “proof or evidence that something exists or is true.” In a sense, testimonies can be used to prove God exists when others try to disprove His existence. 1st Peter 3:15 says “but in your heart honor Christ the Lord as holy, always being prepared to make a defense to anyone who asks you for a reason for the hope that is in you; yet do it with gentleness and respect.” There are different ways to

explain our faith, but testimonies are one of these forms.

We often believe that testimonies only refer to the first moment they become saved. However, the word today is used to describe the story of the ways God has worked in our lives and how we’ve grown since we first

accepted Jesus as our Lord and Savior.

Testimonies also include describe God’s faithfulness and recognize who he is. Jesus called the people listening to his Sermon on the Mount in Matthew 5:14-16 to be a light to the world and glorify God through the way you live their lives. In the same way, let

your light shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your Father in heaven.

My testimony describes all those moments that took place over the years, those events where God took a mess of clay and molded it into a beautiful jar that still retains its shape when outside forces crack its exterior. My story also includes the ways God has steadfastly supported me and remained faithful, even when I lost hope and doubled his power.

Testimonies encourage others in their faith and that is why it is highly crucial for Christians to share their testimony, even if they are new believers. You never know how sharing your experience can help others facing the same obstacles, or how the new person you have become can inspire others to seek and discover God the same way.

These incredible stories don’t have to be spoken in a crowded room over a speaker but can simply arise during a conversation over a cup of coffee. Don’t be afraid to divulge the messy details of your life with others – they may ultimately lead others to a relationship with God, one person at a time.

Submitted by Ann Birdsong, Evangelism and Engagement Director, Munholland United Methodist Church, Metairie, LA; sister-in-law of the Caprock Patriot.

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41

Why Did You Stay Among the Sheep Pens?

BY PASTOR JERRY MASTON

T

he fourth chapter in the Book of Judges relays an account of a brave woman who refused to sit by and do nothing when her land was being invaded. Mentioned among the twelve judges of Israel, Deborah seems to rank among the top three. Her experience, like so many of our own, was not charted among her list of things to do. That which made her so prominent among Israel’s trusted leaders was the fact that she was willing to do all she needed to do, no matter what that may be.

Following another relentless account of Israel’s backsliding, Deborah tried to talk her trusted friend, Barak, into leading Israel against Sisera, who was leading the Canaanite army. Barak would not lead, but he pledged to follow this woman who was also ranked among the prophets, a preacher, if you will.

We discover three things recorded here in the Book of Judges. One, the inhabitants of Israel would not fight.

They stayed home and remained idle.

Secondly, it is documented; “Not a shield or a spear could be seen among forty-thousand warriors.” These men were unprepared to fight. Thirdly, for twenty years this nation cried out to the Lord for deliverance. But when God raised a deliverer, they were too afraid to respond to His call.

In her song Deborah proclaims; “They held back until I, Deborah, arose”. The men held back, the ones who were designated as warriors, forty thousand of them. Asher remained on the coast. Dan lingered by the ships.

Gilead stayed beyond the Jordan. In the tribe of Rueben, there was great indecisiveness.

One of the most captivating questions in the entire chronicle of scripture is found in Deborah’s song; “Why did you stay among the sheep pens?” Like;

“How many of you does it take to watch sheep?”

If there is significance in scripture that goes beyond the surface to a deeper and broader meaning, then there must be a message here for the Church today.

I read a report in the third quarter of 2017 which stated; “4,000 pastors sent requests to President Trump to NOT reverse the ‘Johnson Amendment’. The Johnson Amendment is the amendment that was covertly added to a bill during the night before it was to be voted and accepted by Congress in 1954. This was done by Lyndon B. Johnson in order to constrain pastors from speaking against him in his

campaign for office that year. It has since limited the interaction of pastors in public affairs.

It is hard for me to believe the numerical claim made by this report, but what if it were only 400, or 40, “Why are you staying among the sheep pens?”

If this is your hiding place, will you not be taken when they come to take your sheep?

So! What about the sheep pens? Let’s take a look at David’s life. At one time he was a shepherd. He knew what it was like to brave the elements and spend much time alone. I’ve met and observed shepherds in Romania. The photos on these pages are taken from

there. Through the coldest and embittered nights and to the loneliest of places, the shepherds endure hardships that very few others are willing to bear.

David exemplifies the best example for us as pastors, or anyone else, to follow. When the lion or the bear attacked his sheep, he arose and fought until he won. When the enemy challenged the nation, again, he arose and fought until he won. It was only when he was personally attacked that he refrained and allowed the Lord to vindicate for him.

As a pastor/shepherd, we should rise to protect the sheep congregation, and we should also arise to help our nation.

So! What about the sheep pens? As pastors, so many times, we tend to spend our time with the sheep. But, is that really true? Overall, it appears too many pastors spend no more time with their sheep than what their sheep spend in church on Sunday morning.

This was Deborah’s plight; “I know you are aware of the situation facing Israel, but you are afraid to fight and you embrace too many excuses.” As we ponder Deborah’s story it begins to sound like the American Church more and more.

One of the most captivating parables in the four Gospels of Christ is found in the twenty-fifth chapter of Matthew.

This is where Jesus tells the story of a man burying the talent his master entrusted him with. The master indicts him on three charges, being wicked, being lazy, and being afraid. I wonder if any American pastors find themselves in one or more of these categories.

One of the most captivating statements of Jesus Christ was given when he said; “I will build my church”. Another captivating statement is when he instructed his disciples to make disciples of every nation. These two scriptures arouse a captivating thought; why do pastors endeavor to build their own church and leave God to go to the SEE AMONG THE SHEEP PENS | PAGE 45

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Changing Lives One Cycle at a Time

The Rock and Roll Cycle

BY PAUL MCARTHUR, THE CAPROCK PATRIOT

W

hen I met Joe Tarver from Cycle for Life Project from Lubbock, I instantly knew I had to help – and ask for your help!

Kids like to play. It’s part of being a kid! For some children, many forms of play can be difficult, if not impossible. For example, imagine if your child could never feel the freedom, joy, and independence of riding a bike! For most kids their first bike and their first solo ride is a milestone of joy and pride, for the child and the parent.

With physical limitations ranging from poor balance and unsteady gait to the complete inability to even walk, many kids with special needs are simply not able to enjoy activities that other kids take for granted.

Most children with special needs have never been able to have that joy. Until now!

For kids w ith Cerebra l Pa lsy, Down Syndrome, Visual Impairments, Spina Bifida, Orthopedic handicaps and Paralysis, the Cycle for Life Project is the answer.

T he Cycle for L i fe P roject

(endorsed by Texas Tech University Health Science Center) provides kids with special needs a unique, patented handlebar mechanism that allows a rider to power a cycle, in many cases on their own, with a forward and backward “rocking’ of the handlebars. This is the key to the cycle’s significance, and its success. It allows a child, who otherwise couldn’t ride a bike, to have that joy and independence.

THE ROCK AND ROLL STORY Joe Tarver, along with his wife Nona and son Brad, began manufacturing this unusual cycle in their garage more than 30 years ago.

The unique design that they have perfected over the years allows individuals with a variety of special needs to participate in the simple activity of “riding a bike”. The special handlebars, and in some cases, a combination of handlebar power and foot pedal power, allows the rider to get valuable therapeutic exercise while having fun.

Although the cost of these incredible cycles is about $2000 (depending on the specifications SEE THE ROCK AND ROLL CYCLE | PAGE 43

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THE ROCK AND ROLL CYCLE CONTINUED FROM PAGE 42

and needs of the rider), the actual value soars to an estimated $40,000 when the therapy value is taken into consideration.

In add ition to mobi l ity (A N D FUN!) for the rider, the cycle provides a cardiovascular workout, strengthens hand grip, and provides a nearly full-body exercise. The effect is overall strengthening and development of muscles as well as motor skills.

Add to that the benefits of fresh air, socializing with other kids, and the freedom to enjoy the same activities other kids do, the value becomes immeasurable.

And, did I mention FUN?!

Every cycle is customized for each child and their individual needs.

And, the cycles are built with adjustments for growth, to last, and to grow with the child.

Working with local school systems, local civic groups, and local government offices, the Cycle for Life Project identifies children in need and ships these amazing bikes to kids all over the United States, Asia, Europe, Canada, South America and beyond.

HOW CAN YOU HELP? When a child is identified in need, Cycle for Life Project jumps into action. But each bike can take up to four months to manufacture and

THE WORD

www.CaprockPatriot.com ship. In the life of a special needs ch i ld (a nd thei r pa rents), fou r months can feel like a lifetime.

What if they could have an inventory of bikes on hand and deliver that joy to a child in days instead of months?

Having that inventory on hand requires financial resources. That’s where you come in! You can actually buy the cycles for the project in advance and Cycle for Life will buy them from your inventory (held

by Inventory Associates, LLC) as needed and at A PREMIUM for you.

When you buy a batch of cycles, this allows Cycle for Life to act quickly to help kids in need!

This is not a ‘donation’! In addition to knowing your inventory purchase will help a child in need, you’ll even earn a financial return on your purchase!

Inventory Associates, LLC, will store the cycles for you and Cycle for Life, Inc, will buy them from you - AT A PREMIUM - as individual needs arise!

There’s no work for you to do.

Inventory Associates, LLC, does all the heavy lifting. You’re simply acting as an inventory provider (since you bought the cycles).

Then, as each cycle is placed with a child, Cycles for Life buys one of your bikes in inventory from you – again, at a premium so you earn a return.

What a unique opportunity to do

something good for special needs children who deserve to feel the joy and independence of their very own bike. And, I have personally never seen a program where you could do something so powerful AND earn a return on your money!

If you’d like to get involved or

43

learn more, please consider calling 806.474.8111 or visiting InventoryAssociatesLLC.com.

Your help can literally change lives!!

Submitted by Paul McArthur, the Caprock Patriot, Lubbock, TX

YOUR HELP CAN LITERALLY CHANGE WILL YOU LIVES HELP? Buying cycles in advance allows Cycle for Life, Inc., to fill a person's dream in days rather than months!

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The Cycle for Life program gives joy, fun, recreation and therapeutic value for special needs children, Wounded Warriors and Peace Officers who have been left with special needs because of amputation, PTSD, and other conditions.

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GRACE CAMPUS NEEDS YOUR HELP! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 35

homeless on campus grounds.

This has been our fullest year since July 1, 2015 (the date that we received ownership of what was then called Tent City). Typically, we average around 50 people staying at Grace Campus on any day during the summer. This

www.CaprockPatriot.com summer we have consistently had over 80 people each day.

This, obviously, requires more resources of every kind. Unfortunately, this has happened during the year that our financial support has been at its lowest. I’m sure that there are many reasons for that, but I am going to tell you a few that I think are key.

First, charitable giving is down across

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the country and is expected to decrease further next year. I won’t pretend to know all about the reasons for such a decrease, and I hesitate to speculate.

What is most important is the fact that giving is down. Obviously, this affects every nonprofit out there, but I can only speak about Grace Campus. We do not apply for or receive government money, which makes us completely dependent on the people of West Texas. Our reasons for operating this way are centered around the restraints that come with government money, as well as the belief that Grace Campus ultimately belongs to the citizens of Lubbock.

The second reason that I believe giving is down is that I have not done a very good job of publicizing who we are, what we do, and who we help.

The buzzword of the day is housing first. It’s all over the news. It is touted as THE way to combat homelessness. It is a model that believes in giving someone a home in order to cure their homelessness and surrounding them with services for the rest of their lives. Yes, housing does end homelessness, but for how long? Is permanent supportive housing sustainable? I believe it is not.

The adage “Give a man a fish and feed him for a day, teach a man to fish and feed him for a lifetime” comes to mind.

I do believe that housing first is necessary for a small percentage of the homeless. However, it is costly and unnecessary for a majority of the homeless population. First, for a person to be considered for housing first, they must be chronically homeless (which

DECEMBER 2019

includes the caveat that they are on disability). Across the nation, the number of homeless who can be categorized as chronically homeless is estimated to be about 24%. In Lubbock, estimates put that number at around 12%. Obviously, this is a smaller part of the homeless population, yet a place where the government is putting most of its money to combat homelessness.

Unfortunately, when the government focuses on one area of or solution to homelessness, most homeless shelters will follow. This leaves a great deal of people to fall through the cracks. Most people at Grace Campus (about 95%) are situationally homeless and are not on disability.

They are mostly people who have had a hiccup in life. These are people who do not need services wrapped around them.

The typical person that comes through our gates has experienced unforeseen circumstances like job loss, house fire, inability to pay bills, or abandonment. They simply need a place where they can recollect themselves and get back on their feet in an environment that is safe with people who care about them and will motivate them when needed.

Grace Campus is a six-month program (most stay about 4 ½ months) that requires people to work if able.

Last year we had 325 people stay at Grace Campus with 78 moving into unsubsidized housing (getting back on SEE GRACE CAMPUS NEEDS YOUR HELP! | PAGE 45

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THE WORD

OCTOBER 2019

AMONG THE SHEEP PENS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 41

nations. When you think about it, this is very fascinating. I wonder if God would be more fascinated if we, as pastors, would actually go to the nations and actually let him build his church.

That would mean we could no longer stay, or hide, among the sheep pens.

God expects us to engage the culture. This is why he told us to disciple (change the culture) the nations. At one time the church set the cultural standard, but because of lack of engagement, or the lack of interest, the church

has become a sub-culture and is on the verge of becoming a memory instead of being the standard for a nation.

This nation, the United States of America, is on the verge of winning a war it almost lost. In 2016 pastors began to engage. We are making a difference today, but we haven’t changed the culture yet.

Any Bible scholar, as well as any relatively young novice in Bible study, knows with the greatest certainty that Israel was founded as a nation in a miraculous way. No other nation is recorded in history in like manner.

Maybe America comes close, an exodus from England, pursued by a stronger militia and then, somehow, gains its independence with a constitution that so far has escaped the ridicule of scrutiny and also the elements of time.

You might be enlightened if you compare the scriptures and the promises of God to a constitution. The truths of scripture has outlived the disdain

45

of mockery and contempt held by individuals and even entire nations. This is not by accident but by purpose. Psalms 119:111 “Your statutes are my heritage forever; …”

Remember the words in Deborah’s song; “They held back until I, Deborah, arose”. She rose up! Our influence can only become overshadowed by SEE AMONG THE SHEEP PENS | PAGE 46

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GRACE CAMPUS NEEDS YOUR HELP! CONTINUED FROM PAGE 44

their feet). This year we have already had 324 people at Grace Campus, and 82 who have moved into unsubsidized housing.

This could not have happened without you and it cannot continue to happen without you.

With that said, I am asking you, as a supporter and partner, to please give financially now for us to be able to continue to help people transition out of homelessness. I also am asking if you could see fit to support us monthly, even if just $10 or $20. We appreciate all donations and use them to help as many people as possible.

You are the key to Grace Campus and helping people transition out of homelessness.

Last year we spent an average of $711 per person who stayed at Grace Campus. Also, please know that our financials are open to the public as well as any other aspect of what we do.

If you find that you are wanting to help right now, please go to our website, www.gracecampus.org, and click on the donate button, or if you prefer, you can send a check to PO Box 53891, Lubbock, TX 79453.

Thank you so much for reading this and for everything that you do for those who need Grace Campus. Please feel free to contact me at any time if you have any questions or comments.

Submitted by Christopher L. Moore, Executive Director, Grace Campus Lubbock, TX. Email Chris at chris@ paulsprojectlubbock.org or call him at 806-544-3365. For more information visit www.gracecampus.org

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THE WORD EXCHANGING GIFTS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 34

people who never realized the origin of the gifts they had received. Jesus said similar things many years before...In Mathew (6:1) He said “take care not to perform righteous deeds in order that people may see them; otherwise you will have no recompense from your heavenly Father” and adding when you give “do not let your left hand know what your right hand is doing.” (6:3) Mom would tell me, as many parents tell their children, to not be concerned if people are ungrateful for the things that you do for them because God sees everything, and He will reward you.

Indeed, continuing in Mathew (6:4) we read “and your Father who sees in secret will repay you.” Many, many times throughout my life I have said this same thing or variations of it to others to help them believe that their acts of love will result in great benefits to them someday. But not any longer.... not that there won’t be.

That is because there is something else that I have repeatedly said throughout the years and that is “Never give something or do something for someone and expect something in return”...no desire for an “exchange of gifts.” Only you know whether or not AMONG THE SHEEP PENS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 45

our doubt. Arise! Let me list the three elements of “Arise!” First, you must show up. It’s simply amazing the difference you can make by just showing up. Let your face be seen. Then you must stand up. Stand up for what you believe. Thirdly you must speak up. A man without a voice is handicapped.

One who refuses to use their own voice is a coward. Your voice counts. Your vote counts. Your opinion counts.

Your influence counts, but that is only measured by whether you show up, you stand up, or you speak up.

The precedence from scripture is set by the more prominent individuals in scripture. Moses was a shepherd

DECEMBER 2019

this is true for you. And, once again, we can turn to the words of Jesus. In Luke 14:13-14, He declared “Rather, when you hold a banquet, invite the poor, the crippled, the lame, the blind; blessed indeed will you be because of their inability to repay you.” BUT, if the only reason we do something is because we expect to be “repaid” someday in heaven, are we really doing what God asks of us?

The reason why we should help and be giving of ourselves to others is because Jesus “commands” us to “love one another.” Doing good is its own reward.

Pleasing our Heavenly Father should be our only thought...not what we can get out of our acts of kindness and mercy in this life or the next. Instead of thinking about the gifts God will give us in heaven in exchange for the ones we give others on earth, perhaps we might look at things from a different perspective. What can we do to repay HIM for the gift of his Son...what can we do in “exchange?”

There certainly is no chance of us giving Him something of equal cost... unless, of course, it is our lives.

Submitted by James R. Sulliman, Ph.D. Individual, marriage, and family therapist in Abilene, TX. “Live life courageously” but was promoted to be a leader who directed a nation to a new land. Joseph was a shepherd but became the administrator of a nation. David was a shepherd and became the King of Israel.

Now! How can you forget Jesus, who came as the ‘Great Shepherd’, but will at the end return as the ‘King of Kings’?

If this is a precedential factor throughout scripture, shouldn’t it be regarded as validated theology for today?

Never be afraid. As Winston Churchill said, “Never be afraid. Never, never be afraid!” As the Bible states in Phil 1:27-28; “Whatever happens, conduct yourselves in a manner worthy of the gospel of Christ. . .” I know that SEE AMONG THE SHEEP PENS | PAGE 47

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THE WORD

DECEMBER 2019

AMONG THE SHEEP PENS CONTINUED FROM PAGE 46

you will stand firm in one spirit, contending as one man for the faith of the gospel, without being frightened in any way by those who oppose you.

This is a sign to them that they will be destroyed, but that you will be saved — and that by God”. If I may try to say this in the way someone from West Texas would say, let me say it this way; “Watch them squirm, but never let them see you sweat.”

“Why do you stay among the sheep pens?” Allow these scriptures and explanations to benefit you and encourage you. When we have no reason to hide, we have every reason to arise.

“Watch them squirm, but never let them see you sweat.”

CONCLUSION: Whether you are a pastor, a leader, a father or someone who is considered to be an ordinary, everyday man, you are challenged to enter the fray. Never

allow someone else to fight your battle for you.

The scriptures allude to our description as being overcomers and being more than conquerors. David’s song of deliverance, Psalms 18, states that God “arms us with strength”, “trains our hands for battle”, and “He gives his king great victories”.

There is a time to watch the sheep pen, but, when the time arrives to engage the battle, make sure you are prepared to stand and not turn back. Make sure you never lose a fight when you were on the verge of winning the war.

Submitted by Jerry Maston, Eastland, TX. Jerry is a devoted husband, father, and pastor. Jerry works tirelessly and enthusiastically trying to enlighten the people of this nation regarding their constitutional freedom of religion, freedom of speech and their obligation to make a difference in the world where they live. He can be reached at jerrym@ leadershipalways. com or 254-631-9438.

For we walk by faith, not by sight. 2 Corinthians 5:7 (NKJV)

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