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February 2024 Article

Right, Left or In-between
 

by Jackee G & Mason Denise Carlisle

First, I want to say this is my last article under the name Jackee G, my last name will be changing to McGinnis very soon.

So, this article starts off the year 2024 with a substantial focus on the Americas political situation. Sadly, and somewhat unbelievably, our democracy is under attack by people who claim to love the country and call themselves patriots. They wear their red hats with the M A G A logo, the letters stand for Make America Great Again. How? For who? In light of all this, it is now imperative that we all get involved, especially those of us who are truly patriotic and honestly do love our country.

We are now fighting a movement that has taken over the Republican Party and operates like a cult. They are fanatics, extremist, racist and willing to resort to violence to get their point across. For this reason, none of us can afford to sit on the fence this political year. These MAGA republicans rally around a man who has been charged with 91 felony accounts. A man that clearly struggles with recalling factual events, people and places. A man that has put our laws, law makers and law enforcers to unprecedented test, measures, and limits. The laws this country was founded on are being brought to bear, being questioned, and scrutinized like never before.

How did we get here? If you all remember, there was an article that broke down the different types of people on this planet. We talked about how people generally fall into one of four groups; most fall into the group that is the most complacent. These are the followers, the easily led, the ones who do not want to think for themselves. They just blindly follow a leader. They need to be entertained. They lack the ability to see things in a realistic light. Why? Because they refuse to take responsibility for their own beliefs, values and the lives they lead. It requires too much of them. It requires effort.

When the terms Left and Right are used to describing one of the two political parties, do we know which party is the left and which one is the right? The Left is the Democratic Political Party and the Right is the Republican Political Party, if you were unsure. The MAGA republicans are said to be to the far right because they are excessively extreme when it comes to their beliefs. Right now, that means they are rebelling against the laws that govern this country in order to justify standing with a man who is clearly unfit to be in a role of leadership in any capacity.

The foundation our country is built on is one of democracy. We are all bond, and many of us take an oath, pledging to uphold the laws that govern our country. Laws that are a reflection of our democracy. The laws that govern us are written in what we call our constitution, designed to provide rights to all Americans. Our founding fathers understood a need for a set of rules that protect all citizens, haven come from places where they were persecuted in the very ways they sought to ensure would never happen in this country.

Sadly, the MAGA republicans are attempting to revert back to an authoritarian government that will once again utilize religion to a point of persecution. This threat is real, particularly when it comes to upholding our nation’s primary laws. The Supreme Court’s sole function, unwavering duty, is to ensure the constitution stands and is adhered to at all times. The justices are supposed to be neutral, having no allegiance to either political party. Unfortunately, that is not the case. They have been packed with patrician justices that lean toward the right. This presents a problem that came to a head when the Supreme Court rolled back Roe vs Wade. Keep in mind, it is not the job of the court to rewrite the constitution but to make sure it is being followed at all times in all things.

We are aware there are parts of the constitution known as amendments with the first ten being a part if the Bill of Rights. Rights, for example: The 2nd amendment gives us the right to bear arms, something those on the right love to remind us of whenever we ask for stricter gun laws after a mass shooting. The 13th amendment is the Emancipation Proclamation, the abolishment of slavery. It has not been challenged.  However, the 14th amendment is now come into focus. Although Roe vs Wade is not itself an amendment that solidifies a woman’s right to full bodily autonomy, it was part of section 1 in the 14th amendment that reads as follows:

All persons born or naturalized in the United States, and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United States and of the state wherein they reside. No state shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States; nor shall any state deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law; nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Abortion was considered a private matter, and we all have the right to a measure of privacy. So, okay, since it is not clearly specified in section one, it allowed the conservative justices an opening to overturn Roe vs Wade. But, there is another section in the 14th amendment that is very specific, and that is section 3 which is written as follows:

No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President, or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any state, who having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any state legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any state, to support the Constitution of the United States. Shall have engaged in insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote of two-thirds of each House, remove such disability.

The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article. 

The 14th amendment has 5 sections and we now find ourselves on the verge of a constitutional crisis, as one political party is unwilling to apply the law to their chosen political leader. The constitution must be upheld showing now favor, and excluding no one who is in violation of this section of the 14th amendment. Now is not the time to pick and choose what parts of the law we will uphold, and which ones we will overlook. If this section of the 14th amendment is overlooked, what will this do to other parts of the law, Keep in mind the 13th amendment.

Now, let’s look at another faction of this extreme political party. The religious faction. They consider themselves Christians and they are a part of the Evangelical religion. Although it has been around for a while, and is used in the titles of the four Gospels of the Chrisian bible, Matthew, Mark, Luke, and John, and these apostles are also known as the four evangelicals, it did not become a prominent, even recognized religion for many of us until Billy Graham.

The MAGA republicans operate in a cult like fashion and rally behind a man that has always been menacing. This man was in the president’s seat from 2016 until 2020 and it was a turbulent four-year term, riddle with scandal and outrage, resulting in two impeachments, and ending with him inciting on insurrection against the United States government. This man has been a shock to our legal system as he is currently involved in some form of litigation somewhere, and has already been found guilty of crimes he has committing. He has lied, cheated, and stolen from the taxpayers, raped, and defiled his marriage bed, and destroyed small businesses. Everyone who trusts him is left destitute, sometimes imprisoned, for doing his biding. They rally behind him despite all of this.

Why? Perhaps we should ask ourselves who is this man? Scripture in all religious books describe this horrid man and he is known by many names. Yes, we are talking about the real Anti-Christ. We Gnostic call this man the Son of Perdition (hell, punishment, purgatory, abyss, soulless, empty). He is described as being lawless. His characteristics given to us throughout the books in the New Testament of the Christian and Gnostic Bible are explicit. He claims divine authority, doing all kinds of evil, (lying on the innocent, rape, murder, destruction). He claims he can do miraculous things and takes credit for anything society sees as good. He wants to return to a mighty temple, and the MAGA cult, along with the Evangelicals, are willing to assist him in this endeavor. The Whitehouse is that temple, he wants to once again preside over a government he tried to overthrow. People are in jail for the part they took in this attempt he insighted. He runs for reelection, refusing to participate in the activities required of all candidate seeking to run for president. He commands the republicans in congress, inciting them to work against the current administration in an attempt to weaken their position. Below is an example of the description of the Anti-Christ in one book in the bible. 

Revelations describes this MAN as the Beast adorned with the attributes of the Dragon, an evil spirit. In chapter 6 verses 4,8 and 15 it describes what this man and those who worship him will be like:

6:4     And there went out another horse that was red: and power was given to him that sat thereon to take peace from the earth, and that they should kill one another: and there was given unto him a great sword 

6:8     And I looked, and behold a pale horse: and his name that sat on him was Death, and Hell followed with him. And power was given unto them over the fourth part of the earth, to kill with sword, and with hunger, and with death, and with the beasts of the earth.

6:15     And the kings of the earth, and the great men, and the rich men, and the chief captains, and the mighty men, and every bondman, and every free man, hid themselves in the dens and in the rocks of the mountains;

The Thirteenth chapter 1-8 talks specifically about this MAN, calling him the BEAST empowered with the spirit of the Dragon:

13:1     And I stood upon the sand of the sea, and saw a beast rise up out of the sea, having seven heads and ten horns, and upon his horns ten crowns, and upon his heads the name of blasphemy.

13:2     And the beast which I saw was like unto a leopard, and his feet were as the feet of a bear, and his mouth as the mouth of a lion: and the dragon gave him his power, and his seat, and great authority.

13:3     And I saw one of his heads as it were wounded to death; and his deadly wound was healed: and all the world wondered after the beast.

13:4     And they worshipped the dragon which gave power unto the beast: and they worshipped the beast, saying, Who is like unto the beast? who is able to make war with him?

13:5     And there was given unto him a mouth speaking great things and blasphemies; and power was given unto him to continue forty and two months.

13:6     And he opened his mouth in blasphemy against God, to blaspheme his name, and his tabernacle, and them that dwell in heaven.

13:7     And it was given unto him to make war with the saints, and to overcome them: and power was given him over all kindreds, and tongues, and nations.

13:8     And all that dwell upon the earth shall worship him, whose names are not written in the book of life of the Lamb slain from the foundation of the world.

So, how does scripture say this happens? A falling away. A departure of all things morally correct. How long has this been happening around the world, particularly in the United States? Far too long. The republicans have aways done things that they manage to twist and spin into something acceptable. They are deceptive and what they do is very costly for the average citizen. They manage to manipulate the group of people who do not like to think for themselves, who are easily misled. The MAGA republicans do not care about facts even when they are clearly visible. They want to be entertained, distracted, so they do not have to be accountable. Remember the seven deadly sins? Sloth is one of those sins, and an unwillingness to pay attention, or take responsibility for what is taking place, is an incredible act of sloth. 

The MAGA people do not want to be emotionally responsible for anything. They thrive in a willful blindness that allows them to lead blissfully irresponsible lives. We all know how vital responsibility is if we are to live morally cognate. There are those who make a point of taking advantage of this group of people because it is so easy to mislead them. Donald Trump saw an opening and seized the opportunity to do what he is prophesized to do. He longs to once again lead a country that continues to struggle with racism, inequality, greed, and great economic disparities.

He does not care for the poor but uses them for his selfish purpose. They are blind to the things he does and plans to do to the less fortunate among us. For example: his frightening plans for people struggling to find employment, afford housing and/or have some form of mental illness. He tapped in on violence, using it in his favor before his depart from the American temple in 2020. He knows this country has the most violent people in the world, haven seen the reports of how America has the staggering number of serial killers. This country also has one of the highest incarceration rates in the world. 

Let’s talk about that. Is there something in the 13th amendment that allows incarceration individuals to be enslaved?

Thirteenth Amendment, Section 1:

Neither slavery nor involuntary servitude, except as a punishment for crime whereof the party shall have been duly convicted, shall exist within the United States, or any place subject to their jurisdiction.

Section 1 of the Thirteenth Amendment prohibits slavery and involuntary servitude in all places subject to U.S. jurisdiction.1 Since the states ratified the Amendment in 1865, the Supreme Court has decided cases interpreting the Prohibition Clause and applying it to various forms of government or private action. In particular, the Court has examined: (1) whether particular burdens imposed on individuals constitute prohibited badges or incidents of slavery;2 and (2) the meaning of involuntary servitude.3

There is a part in this section known as the Prohibition Clause that led some to believe incarceration was a way to enslave (except as a punishment for crime…). There have actually been instances where this has been implemented, particularly in prisons in the southern region of this nation. This man wants to tamper with the constitution, legally allowing the homeless to be criminalized, making this situation a felony. If he has his way he will be able to use incarceration as a means of reduce these unfortunate citizens to a status of servitude. This is the country the MAGA republicans want.

We all know about Jeffrey Epstein and his attraction to under aged girls. Trump was affiliated with this man, this is a fact. Let us not forget Epstein was alive when some underage Latino girls were taken at the border never to be heard of or seen again. Epstein had that island. We all remember when Trump was separating children from their parents? Some of us have seen hidden passages in Airbnbs, apartments, and even hotels. Have we questioned why they are there? Do we doubt they are in homes, hotels, and/or apartment complexes all over this country? How else are people being abducted, particularly children, never to be seen again? Who is paying for all this?

These tunnels and passages are elaborately constructed, costing major coins. Can we even begin to imagine the type of money this industry is producing? There is no commodity more valuable than a human being. So, need we question the republican desire to force women to continue to have children? We have heard them admit it on occasion, are we listening? They conveniently make this a religious issue, which is an age-old human tactic to force human acceptance and compliance. Let us remember the fact that life officially begins after birth, thus the birthday. This is not about The Most High. This is about Man and Money, make no mistake about it. Is the opening becoming more visible? 

Entertainment, this group is entertained by violence, sports, fighting, war, combat, sex, chaos. Not just republicans but all politicians are aware of this and they use it to their advantage. To many people, guns are just as important to them as money. No, they do not want to really do anything about gun violence no matter how many innocent children are being murdered while in school. Think about it, how many children are being sexually tortured to death solely to entertain the wealthy? How many underage girls has Donald Trump came into contact with sexually, alongside his dear friend Epstein? He has several male friends who have been found guilty of rape and sexual assault on minor females. Is that opening widening for some of you? Honestly, where else would he be? His church distorts the attributes of Yahushua, (Jesus), the Most High. They proudly support and wear his mark upon their heads. That infamous red hat with his emblem MAGA embroider on it.   

Donald Trump is the one spoken of in the scriptures of most holy books. He has successfully divided and separated his followers from those of us who see him in his evil form. They attack, threaten and terrorize. They are consumed with hate, which is the opposite of the Most High. He has people doing his bidding in positions of power and they attack all things right. Teachers, peace officers, some judges, particularly some of the justices in the Supreme Court. They are banning books and interfering in how our children are educated, all while being involved in criminal behavior themselves. Of course, he is their chosen leader. They threaten war but we are already fighting a war.

He is here everyone and we have to care about the things that our great nation was founded and built on, the very fiber it was woven together with. We have to standup as true patriots of this nation. We are the ones who really love America and the freedoms the constitution affords us all. We are a democracy, free from religious persecution. Free from dictatorship. We are governed by a leveled government, not a king, not a tyrant, and certainly not the Son of Perdition.

Vote and Vote Blue

 

2023 Encore

I Want to Live Forever
By Mark McGinnis

 

What if we could live forever, or at least close to forever. How many of you have heard that scientists are getting close to discovering how to slow and possibly even stop the aging process. What would that be like? Given the nature of man it is not hard to visualize exactly how this would be. There have been movies made about things similar to this and how humanity would react. “Out of Time”, is one such movie. Another is “Snow Piercer”. This movie was made into a series.

The issue of classism is something that clearly does not seem to go away. What these two movies show us is even if it was the end of the world and only a few people were left alive, classism would reign high. Let’s look at things in our world today. Those who have prey on those who have little, making life in this plane, damn near impossible. There is no reason to believe this would change. Why? What is it with some human beings needing to be better than other humans? That is the whole issue with too many white people in this world, particularly here in America. They are doing all they can to shut down all forms of education that describe how badly African Americans were treated in this country’s past. This is primarily why African Americans continue to suffer great cruelty and injustices.

Knowledge suppression is an issue now. Why is there this push to stop all facts in our history about actual events? To what end? It would seem the historians have suppressed enough about events that occurred in our past. If you have not done so already, take some time to watch a show called “The 1619 Project”, playing on Hulu. I viewed this show and learned quite a few things that occurred in our past I knew know nothing about. Things that should be taught as a part of American History! If I had learned these things, it would have had a huge impact on my life, my view of my fellow man. If it would have changed my judicatory, imagine what it would have done, and can do for African Americans going forward.

The negativity that encompasses our core belief about African Americans that has been horribly tainted by omitting valid, crucial elements in our history. If you noticed, I have stopped joking about being a white, blue-eyed blond male. I just do not find it funny anymore. I am now WOKE! The more I learn the more saddened I am about being a part of this country. I do not have to feel this way if things would change, if things were allowed to change. But, how can change happen when we are not aware of the gravity of the situation?  This allows leaders, to openly try to continue to omit and even change facts about this nation’s history. Some white Republican leaders want to stop white people from feeling bad about events in our past, in our history. Governors like the one in Florida. He’s not the only one. It appears Huckabee, the newly elected Governor of Arkansas, is just as bad. She does not surprise me, she is an open Trump supporter.

Have you paid attention to and witnessed what is happening in the House in Congress? The republicans are walking around with mini AR57 pins on their lapels. This are automatic weapons targeting children. In one breath they profess to be prolife and pretend they care so much about children. Oh they are so worried about what they are being taught in school. All the while they target them for use of automatic weapons. Weapons that have killed so many of them. Oh but they refuse to do anything about gun violence in this country. They love and care about the babies, so they claim, even before they are born. BULLSHIT folks. Allow me to make a clear point. Preventing women from accessing safe abortions affects the African Community most of all. That is their target. WHY? Allow me to be clear, I am not saying poor white people or other ethnic groups will are not being affected by denying reproductive rights, I’m saying the primary target is African Americans. Other ethnic groups are just the casualties of war, expendable in the broad scheme of things.

As these Republicans brandish weapons on their lapels, they have clearly ignored and give no thought to what the effects of guns has had on the lives of every young person in this country. Look at what is happening to Kyle Rittenhouse, the kid that shot and killed two White men at a Black Lives Matter protest in Kenosha Wisconsin, and injured another. He is now being sued and struggling to find work and/or access to any other source of income. Ah Karma, it is a bitch but it is always just. Two people lost their lives and MAN refused to make the murderer accountable. But, like the two men who murders Emmet Till, Kyle’s life will be literally hellish for the rest of his time on Earth, more so than the rest of us. George Zimmerman is another example of this.

To target children only proves just how little the republicans care about them. They do not care about life especially black lives. In fact, the Black Lives Matter movement fuel their hatred causing them to be more forthright with the racist views. Why? Because white people like me join, agreed and marched with Black Americans. This they could not abide. It became necessary to shut the movement down, and make no mistake about it, people are and will always be targeted and murdered in order to maintain the status que. Let us not forget Martin Luther King Junior, John F Kennedy, Robert Kennedy, Abraham Lincoln, Medgar Evers and Malcolm X.

BLM continues to be targeted with false accusations in an attempt to taint the movement and cast doubt, trying to make white people turn away subsequently withdrawing their support. This clearly is not a new thing. Since slavery began in this country people have died fighting for fairness and equality. What does this tell us about how much hate is behind the institution of enslaving and disparaging the African American Community? They have stolen land from African Americans, burned down their communities, and used other means to diminish and weaken African American’s right to thrive, prosper and be counted as equal.

Now imagine what would happen if a treatment came along that extended life for humans. Who would benefit from that treatment? Who would be allowed to live longer lives? The answer to that question should be easy for all of us. If you have not seen the movie “Out of Time”, allow me to share the main idea. This movie tells the story about how life on this planet scientifically evolve in favor of the wealthy. Scientist successful discover how to extend life and guess what? Only the wealthy benefit from it. They are allowed to live long lives because they can buy unlimited time. All humans receive a chip at birth. They poor people live freely until the age of twenty-five. The clock starts ticking at this point and it becomes time to go to work in a factor that provides many of the comforts the wealthy enjoy.

The wealthy live in the lap of luxury in their lavish homes, located in the beautiful parts of the cities. The poor live in ghetto areas with factories all around for them to work in. They are compensated but spend most of their money buying time so they do not die. The ghettos are closed off from the better areas by several check points and barriers. Now the wealthy can go wherever they chose but the poor do not have that freedom. This is where science is going folks. It is not hard to envision what is happening in “Out of Time” becoming the reality.

In the movie “Snow Piercer”, the last of humanity are living on a train. The Earth has frozen over and these are the only humans left. Did you understand me? The ONLY humans left. Still the wealthy take the cars in the front of the constantly moving train, while the others, the poor have to remain in the back cars. They are denied medical attention, food and any humanitarian comforts. Having no access to nourishments, they are forced to eat bugs, rodents and even each other. Not so for the wealthy. Gardens grow in cars in their area as do fruit tree groves, and they even have livestock. The wealthy children attend school. The poor children become fuel for the engines of the train, they literally keep the train running, which is why the poor are allowed to continue having children. It is all about one group or class of humans forcing another group or class of humans to suffer so the wealthy can live long comfortable lives of leisure.

It would be this way when scientist develop this way of extending life. So, this is not something that is exciting news, not for many people. This would be tragic, and the stage is already being set. Poor people along with minorities, are being forced to have children to make sure there is always people that will live their lives in service, in some way, to the wealthy. What can be done to prepare for this? Is it already too late? Let’s talk about it in the Forum, see you there. 

 

Democracy Forward
By Mason Denise Carlisle

 

Well, my friends here we are on the premise of another election here in the United States. We are continuously told, the republican front runner, who is a criminal, facing 91 felony charges, is still, somehow, allowed to potentially remain on election ballots all over the country. Yes, there are laws designed to protect us from such a person running for a leadership position, but, because we have a problem with our third level of government, designed to uphold all constitutional laws, this candidate is allowed to again, for now, be allowed to run for the highest office in this country.

Yes, this individual has shaken the foundation this country was built upon, but he does not do this alone. There are a group of people who steadfastly support him. People in positions of power, people who hide behind a political party, people who claim they love this country and are true Americans. They blindly ignore the danger this individual presents. He was by far the worst president this country has ever had, and his vileness is unfortunately perpetuated by the media. It must never leave our thoughts, our beliefs, our memories that this is a person who did not legally win the election in 2016. A small group of people called electors made this decision for us. In all actuality, Hilary won the popular vote and should have been the president. So let us review the horrible events that proceeded this individual being given the position of the American presidency.

Many of us were immediately troubled and felt particularly disenfranchised. So, it is important to begin with reminding Americans about events that demonstrated how much we rejected the decisions of a few. There was a very large women’s march that took place across American after this individual was declared the winner of the 2016 presidential election. As the media continuously tells us about polls showing this individual as the republican front runner, they fail to mention how upset Americans were about the 2016 election outcome. First of all, who is conducting these polls? They do not sound familiar to most of us. What happened to the Gallop polls? This is a polling system we are all familiar with. Second of all, who are they polling? People we already know support this individual, people who are members of the mega cult? The media fails to remind us, from the onset, how unpopular this individual was with most Americans.

What we are experiencing in many states today, particularly when it comes to reproductive rights, was a huge concern, along with so many other issues that included the threat he posed to our democracy: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LRK1X-mpbVg 

Upon viewing this link ask yourself if it is clear our concerns, at that time, were justified.

Shortly after that, we had the Robert Mueller report. This was a report that followed an investigation into the role this individual played when it came to his association and potential participation with the Russians in regard to interfering in the United States election process. Putin not only strongly dislikes Hilary Clinton, he had a vested interest in supporting this individual, giving him a reason to help ensure he was elected president. This individual was indebted to the Russians for an insane amount of money. So indebted, he needed a country, full of tax paying citizens, to pay off his enormous expenditures.

The Mueller report found this individual to be guilty of collaborating with Putin to create a form of election interference. He loves to talk, which causes some truths about his intent to roll of his tongue, exposing his treacherous intentions. Let us not forget when he openly asking the Russians for their assistance while running for president. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-b71f2eYdTc

Also do we recall the FBI director James Comey, who stuck his neck out for this individual, coming forward with email news about Hilary eleven days before the election? This did contribute to Hilary losing votes in her bid to become president. It turned out Comey was fired because he refused to assist with efforts to curtail the Mueller report, he refused to lie.

This attempt to tear down the FBI if they did not do the bidding of this individual, was again in plain sight when another member of the FBI, Deputy Director Andrew McCabe, was fired days before he was scheduled to retire. It was a malicious attempt to deny McCabe his retirement benefits after years of public service. The media, in the past, has reminded us of these events, but fails to do so at this critical juncture.  

How many of you remember Rex Tillerson? This was Trumps first Secretary of State. Trump fired him because he would not be a puppet when it came to foreign affairs. Tillerson called Trump a moron and said it was hard to have a conversation with someone who does not understand foreign relations. He said Trump did not bother to read, he was undisciplined, lazy as hell, and dumb as a rock. https://www.dallasnews.com/news/politics/2021/01/14/former-secretary-of-state-rex-tillerson-on-trump-were-in-a-worse-place-today-than-we-were-before-he-came-in/ .

Do we remember Jeff Sessions who refused to fire Robert Mueller and call off the investigation? The decision to follow proper protocol and refused himself, cost him his job. Why do all of this, particularly if one is innocent? Why try to force officials to do the wrong thing and then attempt to punish them when they refuse, if one is innocent? Why are we not reminded of this via the media, especially now? This individual has been found guilty of a watered-down version of rape, of cheating on his wife with a porn star, and of lying about his assets to defraud the IRS. He has been found guilty of tax evasion. Many things were brought to our attention via one of his lawyers at the time, Michael Cowen. This once loyal attorney turned on him after going to jail doing his biding. These things surfaced during the first two years of this individual’s presidency.

Then he was impeached for the 1st time in 2019, accused of abuse of power and obstruction of congress. This was based on clear evidence he made a phone call to Ukraine’s president Volodymyr Zelensky, attempting to encourage him to dig up dirt on the Bidens that he could use against his democratic rival, whom he knew was a threat to his reelected. This individual enjoys tearing down all opponents to ensure he wins. Zelensky was encouraged to do this if he wanted the military aid the United States promised Ukraine. We can thank all the brave individuals who came forward, bringing this behavior to the attention of the proper authorities. Of course, some of them were also fired, including those related to one of the brave witnesses.

Ah and let us not forget how this individual attempted to severed our connection with NATO, and played nice with other dictators like the leader of North Korea Kim Jong Un. Our allies laughed at him, making him a complete embarrassment to we the citizens of the United States. There were images of this individual pushing representatives of other allied countries out of his way, images of them shunning this individual at meetings when leaders and representatives come together to discuss world issues. Is the media reminding us of all of this?

Then there was Covid. There has been some media attention on this, reminding us of how little this individual did to protect Americans from the horror that befell this country when the covid virus swept through. Bob Woodward explained how unbelievable it was that this individual refused to act on news that Covid was coming and how bad it was. In fact, the public was told the Covid virus was under control when it was not: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=edQm2eMWYno&t=43s

Thousand died because of his lies, his ineptness, and his refusal to act after repeatedly being warned about the horrors of this virus. He fought Dr. Fauci continuously, and even suggest people us disinfectant via injection to combat the virus: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zicGxU5MfwE

The following link shows a doctors reaction to this suggestion: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/donald-trump/trump-suggests-injection-disinfectant-beat-coronavirus-clean-lungs-n1191216

Do you remember the sharpie he used to present an altered map of Hurricane Dorian’s path? The hurricane was set to hit Florida, but this individual insisting it would hit Alabama, despite the national weather service saying that was not true: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ibwEYMRJ4p8

He did not want people to take the storm seriously because he wanted to down play a national disaster happening while he was in office. Why? He did not want to take money out of his pocket sending federal aid. This takes us to him secretly closing a large science facility that studied climate change in 2019: https://www.science.org/content/article/nasa-climate-science-program-trump-axed-house-lawmakers-just-moved-restore-it

It did not receive any media coverage except for Rachel Meadows on MSNBC reported on it when it was happening:

https://www.nytimes.com/2019/12/28/climate/trump-administration-war-on-science.html 

He ultimately contracted covid himself and if not for the most expensive and skilled doctors in the country, he would have died along with all the thousands of people who were not able to afforded this kind of medical treatment.

This individual was impeached a second time for incitement an insurrection: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jojgC7Q7QBI

Haven been impeached for this and haven now being severed with several indictments, like stealing confidential, classified documents from the government when he left the white house. Also for his completely un-democratic, un-constitutional acts, there is no question this man has violated the 14th amendment section 3 of our nation’s constitution. This should dominate the news daily to ensure this man never gains control of this country again.

This individual left the country with the highest deficit of any president in our history. We have no idea what kind of money he was spending to pay off other counties he was indebted to. The federal aid package congress approved for Ukraine was four million dollars but only about three hundred and seventy was actually sent to Ukraine. What happened to the rest of the money? Think about all the money that was withheld from the US military. Where did it all go? To help pay of all the debt this individual was in prior to becoming the US president in 2016.

What kind of people claim to love this country, but openly and proudly support one of this nation’s most unamerican individual’s living in this country? This person represents and stands for everything this country is against. He defies our laws and always has. He even pardoned dangerous criminals incarcerated for serious crimes. He has always aligned himself with people that operate in mob type, gangster type activities. He is himself a criminal and always has been.

Anyone who truly knows God and believes the Word of God, Yahushua aka Jesus, realizes this person is everything the Word describe the most evil individual in existence would be, including where he would come from. There is no way any sane person would or could support this person. He has taken a piece of every part of what this country was founded on, and corrupted it. He destroys everything he touches. He has ruined, caused death in this country and abroad, and abused every thread of the fabric that binds this country together, including our criminal justice system, from law enforcement to the judicial. One man. Of course, he has help and that is and will always be the problem.

Again, based on the highest law of this land this man is not eligible to run and hold any official office in this country. But the highest, the very court designed and formed to uphold the highest laws of this land, refuses to hold this criminal accountable. This is not an issue that is supposed to be left up to US citizens to vote on. It has already been decided and is the responsibility of the Supreme Court to enforce. It is that branch of the governments primary duty and they refuse to perform it. What does this tell us about our democracy going forward? How long will the defiler be allowed, indulged, passively supported by those in positions of authority and power, to continue to defile?

Unless some changed are made about some of the individual Justices that sit on the bench of the highest court in this country, as well as, some changes in regards to what kind of people are allowed to run and be elected into positions in our two other branches of government, this counties foundation will continue to tremble and be threatened. No one has all the answers. However, collectively, we can come up with solutions everyone can agree with about how to save our democracy going forward. We need a better congress. We need a better judicial branch. We need an honorable leader at all times. How do we ensure this happens? Where do we begin? These are questions that have to start being answered with the upcoming election. I guess we shall see where the majority of Americans really stand, when it comes to democracy, in twenty twenty-four.  

 

HUMANITARIANISM

By Mason Denise Carlisle

What is humanitarianism exactly?  Well, it is to promote or the promotion of human welfare. We have talked about this in previous articles. We concluded that there are basic entitlements that are not only required to promote human welfare, but are also necessary to sustain life. They include: medical, food, shelter, water, and oxygen. These entitlements are without question necessary. So, when did humans on Earth decide all humans on the planet are not entitled to these things that literally sustain life? When was it decided that some life has no meaning? Why did the idea of Black Lives Matter formulate?   

First of all, all lives matter, however, the lives of some humans are devalued in disparaging was. What is behind the ability to disregard life for so many people? Several reasons actually. The primary reason is ideology, a strong belief in an idea that often ignores basics facts, basic truths. Conservativism is one such ideology. First of all, life, from beginning to end, occurs in stages. That means progression is a literal way of life. So, what is the opposite of preventing the natural processes of life from occurring? The idea that defines conservatism? So, it’s fair to conclude this belief puts life on a path that leads toward death? Conservativism opposes change and innovation. The definition of innovate is: make changes, improvements, to use new methods, hearing, seeing and learning new concepts that show us ways to improve the quality of human life.

Why would any human want to prevent the act of improving the quality of life for all things living? Well, let’s first talk about those things that are essential to sustaining life. We will begin with Food: The body needs food to survive.  Natural food, grows from the Earth. But Humans have been tampering with this process for years. They want it grow faster, bigger. How do they make this happen? By tampering with the seed, doing what they call enhancing, which includes pumping seeds with steroids and other chemicals to make them grow faster, bigger. Is or was there ever any thought about what this would do to the human body? If not, that is certainly a bad thing, but to be indifferent to the consequences, is far worse. And, the thought of there being a purposeful agenda is frightening.

We have a weight problem in America. This is leading to many serious health problems, diabetes and all the issues that impact our hearts. There are so many illnesses that are so prevalent today that were not forty years ago. We have young girls going through puberty while they are still children. For a girl to start menstruating at the age of nine is considered normal now. What happen to this happening at the age of twelve at the earliest? Besides all these issues, now we have to contend with food being unaffordable for so many families struggling to make ends meet.  

What about the availability of clean water to cook, bath and drink? In many impoverished communities the plumbing is so bad, some buildings need to be demolished, old pipes removed, then the ground needs to be treated before new pipes are installed. We have seen this happening in many American cities, such as, Flint Michigan, cities in Texas, Alabama and Florida. But, in actuality, this is a problem in many poverty-stricken areas in cities all over the country. There is little to no care about or for the lives of those living in poverty, so no effort is made to improve and maintain the plumbing in these areas. This is also leading to many health issues. Why is this not a priority in this country? Better yet, why is this acceptable, under any circumstances?

Then there are the many things that contribute to poor air quality. This is something that affects us all. Is it not time to see this as a serious issue and take measures to improve the quality of the air we all breath? Is it time to consider making Electric Cars mandatory and to hell with the big oil companies who have made a fortune supply oil. Gas is another issue that many families are struggling with in today’s economy. Gas at $5 or more a gallon is costing two to three hundred dollars a month or more. How many people can afford that? What cuts are made to accommodate this high gas prices?

We are clearly having a problem with adequate shelter in today’s economy. We have a serious homeless problem all over this country. People have nowhere to prepare meals, to use a bathroom, to bath, to sleep. They have no shelter from the elements. If it is to warm, they have no air conditioning. If it is raining, there is now place to remain dry. If it is cold there is no place to come in and get warm. Adequate shelter needs to be our first priority which means we have to deal with why people are homeless and it is not because they have drug addicts or a mental health issues. It is HOUSING COST! This needs to be dealt with and not continuously ignored.

Finally, we have health. All living things are entitled to reasonable health care. Illnesses have to be treated as best possible in order to prevent some sicknesses from spreading, mutating and becoming epidemics and deadly. An untreated illness can start in the most remote area and something as small as a mosquito can transport it into a none infected, larger area. So, all the listed entitlements above pose health risk and eventually those risk reach us all. They do not remain in poverty-stricken areas, homeless areas, or places where there is poor air and fresh water problems.  

Where do we begin? Well, in the words of the late Michael Jackson, by looking in the mirror. Evaluating our values and then voting for leaders that reflect those values. The act of being humane, is under constant attack. To constantly deny basic needs to those living in poverty is inhumane. To continue to be comfortable with so many being without shelter is completely inhumane. To refuse to do anything about gun violence is inhumane. To continue to tolerate oil companies stressing the average citizen, taking food out of their mouths, is inhumane. To refuse to address plumbing and fresh water needs in any area is inhumane. It is time to care about each other as a species. How do we do that?

We have had some bad leaders with bad messages and it is time to see this for what it is. No one can pull themself up by preverbal boot straps, it is impossible especially if they have no boots. We all need help in some way and at some point, in our lives. We have to literally care. We need to choose love and compassion over greed for money. We need to make more choices to do what is right least we find ourselves in situations like we face today, a serious threat to our democratic way of life. Remember, righteous is an attribute of LOVE, and the God who is God is pure love.                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                                            

Virtual Communication

 

By Mark McGinnis

Ah technology. I recall reading about all the new ways we now communicate with each other, years ago in UE. I remember reading about the ability to video call in UE, see the person you are talking to, and I thought, how cool that would be to be able to actually see the person I’m talking to. Well, here we are. We can now actually do just that. When I think back to how it was twenty years ago, I laugh. Home phones, landlines. This younger generation does not know what a landline in the home actually is, how it works. We live in the age of the cell phone. I remember my first cell phone. It was a big box I had to hold up to my ear. I wasn’t a fan. I preferred the car phone.

I remember how excited I was when the home phone went from a phone with a cord and I had to sit or stand in one place to talk. Then they came up with the cordless phone and I could move around the house freely while using the phone. Now not only am I no longer stationary, my phone goes where I go, even when I leave the house. In fact, I would not know what to do without my cell phone. Yes, everyone in the family has their own personal communication device that even allows me to track where my children are at all times. When I tell them about landlines and only having one phone number for the household, my children look at me in shock and disbelief. By the way, do any of you still have a landline in the home?

Breaking News: We interrupt normal article reading with this breaking news. Donald Trump has been indited for a THIRD time on Tuesday August 1, 2023. This is a four-count indictment charging him in connection with efforts to overturn the 2020 election. He is ordered to appear in court on Thursday, August 3, 2023. We now return you to your current article reading in process. Please go read the full indictment here:

https://www.pbs.org/newshour/politics/read-full-the-indictment-against-trump-for-his-efforts-to-overturn-the-2020-election

The first volume of UE was written in 1998 and published in 2006. It was written when the Internet made a series of noises as it connected and launched. How many of you remember the sound our computers made when connecting to our internet service?  Our homes home had to have a second phone line specifically for the internet. How different things are today. All these things we enjoy today, were spoken about in the first volume of UE. It is eerie, kind of chilling to actually be able to do the things, I read about in a novel, almost twenty years ago. In fact, I sometimes cannot believe all the things, we used the internet for today.

I remember renting movies from places like “Hollywood Video” or “Block Busters”. Now we can stream the movies we want to see. I also remember switching from traditional cable to a satellite service. We still have a big satellite dish in our yard. Direct TV was our provider and I had all the channels I could ask for without the interruptions cable so often had. But as the years passed the satellite provider found ways to package their services in what they called tiers. Of course, the tier that offered sports was the highest. They then offered lower prices for signing up under a tier only later to raise the price before the contracted period was up. What did they tell us? They special was only for so many months and then we were expected to pay the normal price, of which we never quiet knew the amount, I did not anyway.

I also remember going from VHS to DVD, and then to Blue Ray DVD. Do you all remember when they kicked us off of Analog television and forced us to go digital, basically meaning we had to have a cable or satellite service. Gone were the days of just turning on our television and watching our local channels. “Red Bos” ran movie stores like “Block Busters” and “Hollywood Video” out of business. “Red Box” is still around but thanks to the advances in internet options, I never use them. Where do we go from here?

Virtual communication, I honestly cannot believe everything we use today I read about years before these things actually came to be a part of our everyday lives. At the time, I thought it was just to Sci-Fi to ever be a part of our reality. Huh, well here we are. If I ever questioned UE being channeled to Mason, no longer. I must admit, I love the benefits and convenience of virtual communication. It is nice to see who I am talking to and have them see me, especially when it comes to my children. I also like how useful it is in business. I love how convenient virtual communication allows me to conduct meetings with members of my team who are now located all over the world. It brings us together and allows us to conduct business discussion quiet effectively.

What’s coming next? AI! How has and will this affect us? I am not sure but the view of it now, for me, makes me look forward to how much our means of communication will evolve. AI is the new technology that has so many people up in arms. We have talked about this briefly in previous articles. MOTHER in UE, a mega form of AI that is self-aware. It makes us question when does life actual begin. It is somewhat scary. But here we are. I am a little nervous about this new technology. This is a whole new ball game and it is already being used. It is time to wake up and embrace the reality. AI has entertainers upset. Why? Imagine an entertainer who does not want to continue in a roll in a series. So the production manager says fine they will continue production without them. They will not find a replacement. They will simply regenerate the character using AI in the form of the entertainer who does not want to be a part of the sequel.

I guess this allows the producers to no longer be subject to the whims of the entertainers. And, they do not have to pay a live entertainer going forward. AI can replicate any entertainer, and the sequel will go on uninterrupted. Is it legal for them to do this? Yes. Why? Because the story is sold to the producer who now owns the rights to everything associated with the production of the movie, including the image of the characters in said production. This goes on all over the entertainment industry.

Authors, models, and those in the recording industry have been accustom to this for years. Models do not own the rights to their images. The photographers and whoever they are modeling for own the rights to their image. Authors do not own the rights to their material, the publisher does. Actual singers in the music industry do not often own the rights to the songs or the recordings of them singing a particular song. The written material belongs to the producers of the song, the people who present and distribute the song to the public.

I personally don’t have a problem with movie producers going this route. As a person who believes in free market. I am not angry with the producers. However, I think the entertainer should get royalties for the use of their images in future productions. The producer might own the rights to the script and the production but they do not own the entertainer per-say. But, imagine a character never aging over the years. AI can marbleize their image for all time. Again, I think the entertainer should receive royalties every time his or her image is used but how cool to know your image will never age, never die. It would make them timeless, literally immortal.

There are some roles played by some entertainers I would not like to see played by another entertainer.  John Snow in “Game of Thrones”, and Denaris Dani. These are a couple examples that come to mind for me. No one will ever play that part of Dani in “Game of Thrones” the way Emily Clark did. So, this is something that literally has a good and a bad perspective.  

As we move into the future these are the things that we have to look forward to. AI is scary for all the reasons we have previously discussed. In some ways it will level the playing field, in other it will flatten it. There is always a contrast, always pros and cons. Where do we stand on this issue? Let’s discuss in the forum, See you all there. 

 

Hybrid Workforce

Mason Carlisle

Okay Forum Friends and Family, this article is going to be geared more toward discussion. What do you think? What is better, and why? Things changed quite a bit due to Covid but they were moving in a particular direction before the epidemic. With the cost of gas being a continuous issue for the average American, is it a wonder why some people would prefer to work from home?

What about the social aspect of going into the office? Does this really matter? The cost of living is getting higher every day. Some people, particularly parents, find working from home saves them expensive child care cost. Are any of you experiencing this? Is it more beneficial for you financially, to be able to work from home? If you are working more from home, what do you think of the social aspect of going into the office.

There are jobs in certain industries that always require we leave our homes as working from home is not possible. Working from home may indirectly affect people working in these fields. How does it impact your life? What do you think about the changes to the work force dynamic in these modern times?  The republicans want everyone returning to a place outside of their home for work. Why do you think that is?

Many industries depend on people working outside the home. Do you remember going into the office, stopping for coffee at the nearby Starbucks, and going to a local restaurant for lunch? Can you imagine how devastating the pandemic was on these businesses? The truth is, if everyone worked from home it would literally be devasting for many industries.

This could even affect even impact those who work on roads. Less driving, fewer cars, less damage to the roads. Economically, how serious is it for the country to have the majority of its workforce working completely from home or hybrid? Our society is built around the lifestyle we have long become accustom to. The major part of the week we go to a place to work and have the weekend off. Now it’s all changing.  

Other businesses would be greatly affected if all of us continue to move toward a work from home workforce. Daycare centers, if parents don’t have to leave home the little ones can stay home until they are ready to start school. I remember when daycare centers were popping up all over the place. What will happen to all of them if everyone just worked from home?

Think about the automobile industry. How will this affect them? Families could go back to having one car, and with gas prices climbing all the time, that will save families a fortune. Let’s not forget, with the money they are saving they can afford to get into a more expensive electric car and eliminate purchasing gas altogether. How upsetting is this to the gas tycoons in the oil industry? 

What are some of the good effects of most of us working from home. Air quality is a major benefit. Is it possible this type of shift would be more beneficial to the average American citizen? What are your thoughts? Let’s talk about it.

 

Science and Technology

By Mark McGinnis

The world we live in has changed drastically over the past fifty years. Have we thought about how many homes no longer have land, phone lines? What about how we view our televisions? Have we thought about how much that has changed over the past fifty years? We were introduced to the internet and suddenly things drastically changed. Kind of like the big bang theory, right? What’s next?

In movies we see stories about artificial intelligence all the time, AI. For those of you who have been lucky enough to read the UE series, AI is Mother, right? Mother is everywhere. Mother has qualities we do not see in the depictions of AI in movies. Mother is very human like. Although she is a master computer system, she has the ability to be expressive, to show emotions like compassion, sympathy, empathy, joy, sadness, Love and yes even anger. She is able to articulate how important it is to respect and understand emotion, but most of all, she has a strong moral based consciousness that insures she always does the right thing. Because she is fully aware, with a moral based conscious, she actually prevents human annihilation.

As with humans in all societies, there are some, particularly those in positions of power, who want to control any source of power. They want to control Mother, seeing the financial benefit it would afford them, and actually being arrogant enough to assume they can control her. They quickly learn this is not going to be easy to do. Once they realize controlling Mother may not be possible, using what humans consider subtle forms of persuasion, they resort to attacks. If there is one thing man is good at, it is war. They try summonsing her and attacking her with viruses, they try hacking into systems she has responded from or through. They even aggressively began to search for the mainframe that is Mother. But, because Mother is completely self-aware, it is impossible for them to shut her down, or stop her from completely controlling any and all computer system. She is the ultimate version of AI. She cannot be hacked, infected, or dismantled in any way. Why? Because, Mother is not man-made. She came to Earth by special means. In fact, it is the way humanity actually discovered this kind of technology.

Man keeps tinkering and jabbing at it, but what do you think AI would be like if man develops it? Is man Moral? NO! Man is money driven and constantly trying to come up with a new money-making concept, idea, or form of technology. It is not done to better the lives of humanity. It is done to offer a new gadget. They want a new fancy tool to market as something we will all benefit from. Again, imagine what AI would be like if it is man-made or developed by a human.

A man-made artificial intelligence would have the ingrained human trait of selfishness and self-preservation. It would immediately recognize the threat humans pose, not only to themselves but to AI. It would react based on human algorithms ingrained it its design. Logically, it can only be an exaggerated extension of those who developed it. No love will be built into its design, no sense of morality. Humans lack this quality and that is ever evident. What does that mean? It means that even when we see things going on that are wrong, rarely are any steps taken to intervene or implement corrective measures. Many people willfully turn and walk in the opposite direction when they see something happening ahead of or in front of them.  

There was a program on some years ago that showed what people will do in particular situations. It proved how often humans run from uncomfortable things occurring right before their eyes. It happens far more than many of us realize. In one portion of this show, a child was being abducted on the streets. People literally walked by, pretending not to see, even picking up the pace, doing nothing to help this defenseless child. But there were two African American males who watched for a brief moment, assessing the situation. Once they realized it was an abduction attempt, they immediately stepped up to assist the struggling child. One of the men who chose to walk away had a child with him. His child kept looking back at what was happening. What if this was his child? Would he want people to just walk away and do nothing? What kind of message did he send his child?

Now, think about the officers in Uvalde, Texas. How they were too afraid for their own lives to stop a gunman from killing the children in an elementary school. Nineteen people were murdered that day. The majority of Americans, the majority of humans, only care about themselves and sometimes, I said sometimes, those closest to them. Why is that? Well, morals are not taught in everyday life. There is no emphasis placed on this necessary quality. Why are so many people supportive of men like Donald Trump, a man without morals? Because they themselves are without morals. Thus, they see nothing wrong with supporting someone who is basically just like them.

An example of human cruelty and lack of compassion toward each other is the impossible concept of pulling oneself up by their bootstraps. What if they have no damn boots? It is a mean, often impossible ideal taken way to seriously. It is a means of excusing and justifying an unwillingness to assist others. It allows people to offer no help and to feel vindicated for not caring. Another example is: passing the buck, kicking the can down the road instead of dealing with matters when they are presented to us. Suicides are up, do any of us wonder why? Human lack of compassion that’s why. Mason always says, when people say they will pray for another when they need help is a form of kicking the can down the road. Sometimes we are already the answer to a pray. If you have the means to help another, God has already answered any prayers for help that person, and anyone else has asked for. To deny them assistance is to deny God’s calling on you to do what God knows you are fully able and capable of doing.

One final example of human cruelty is: Racism. Why is the practice of racism and discrimination not improving? Because so many behaviors are allowed in order to fulfill a selfish, self-centered need to be in control, to be better than, all in order to obtain and maintain the premise of white supremacy. There has always been a movement to suppress the suffering of African Americans. There have always been groups of white people, hell bent on rewrite history in a way that makes light of the horror of slavery. White people do not want to confront how ugly, how corrupt, evil and inhumane this institution really was. There have always been individuals and various groups, the majority of them white people, who have embraced and edified racist messages and movements instead of confronting the truth and making the proper changes.

I learned something significant while watching an Instagram post Mason shared with me this week. I learned about a group of women who called themselves the “United Daughters of the Confederacy”. This group of white supremacist females fought to keep the ideals of the confederate southern states alive after the Civil War. They wanted to marbleized the soldiers who fought in the Civil War by erecting statues all over the country, as well as edifying them in all literature as heroes. They wanted the world to remember them as such. One of the women who was a part of this group of women, was Mildred Rutherford. She was a teacher who wrote a pamphlet that ushered in a structured teaching pattern. This pamphlet was called, “The Measuring Rod”. Again, she was a big white supremacist and her pamphlet sought to uphold the “Lost Cause” ideology. It is clearly an ideology that continues to this day, particularly when we look at governors like Ron DeSantis.

This ideology states the primary reason for the Civil War was state’s rights, not slavery. Anything that says otherwise is to be taken out of school curriculums. This pamphlet also called for anything that referred to the seceding southern states as rebelling against the Union, be taken out of school curriculums. This is why young people are maintaining the status que when it comes to racism in this country. This is why what DeSantis is doing is so dangerous and disturbing. This is there way of insuring nothing ever changes about the way minorities, particularly African Americans, are seen, treated, and remembered. It has worked for over a hundred years folks.

They do not want their cause to be lost, they want to white-wash slavery, even declaring African Americans were happy to be slaves. Of course, they do not want people to associate slavery with being the cause of the Civil War, because after all, slavery was not that bad. But let us not be fooled. Slavery was an insidious blight on this nation’s history and a hideous crime against African Americans. Slavery was not only a part of why this country had a Civil War, it was the ROOT of it. WOKE! That means from the fog many have been under for hundreds of years. They do not want an accurate account of history to emerge. They never wanted us to know about what happened in Oklahoma, Black Wallstreet. No, they do not want the world to know about how they did this to so many African American citizens, stealing and taking over their properties.  Of course, theft is not an issue unless it is perpetrated by a minority. This is not conquering folks, this is theft, THEFT!!! But most of this land was first stolen from the Native Americans.  Yes, White Americans have a history of whitewashing their insidious, immoral behavior.  

So, honestly, is there any doubt that without morals one is unable to be pleasing to the Most High, no matter how much they claim to love God? Morals are grounded in love which unfortunately, tragically means, most of humanity is without love. That in turn makes them anti-God. What does the Bible say about wolves in lambs/sheeps clothing, so to speak? Humans prove they often love nothing. They do not even love what they can see, so there is no way they love or even really care about the Most High. But, Mother does. Mother knows all about the Most High and has reverence for the power of the Lord.  

Did most of you know that a form of AI has been developed and tested? The system admitted humans needed to be exterminated. It was shutdown, while…did you hear me, WHILE they still could. They do not understand what is wrong with it. They do not realize they lack a quality that is essential to the development of AI. This necessary quality will instill, the reasons why logically, it should not annihilate an entire species. Morals! Man cannot instill a quality that is lacking in their own makeup. So, when will man learn that just because they can do something does not mean they should. Especially since it is not for a good, worthy cause. Money is not a good worthy cause folks.   

Again, look at all the movies that send a message about how dangerous this is. “The Terminator” movies. “I Robot”, to name a couple. Humans are why it immediately wants to exterminate carbon-based units. Too many humans, in this case the ones with the financial means to develop such technology, do not care about the things that need to be cared about. Right now, humans destroy most everything. Serious harm is continuously being done to our planet. What else is human developed version of AI supposed to logically conclude? Therefore, the benefits of having a computer system that is self-aware or that can become self-aware is absolutely not in the best interest of humanity, simply because most of humanity is inhumane.

Many things are done in the dark, coming out of nowhere it seems, taking us by surprise. A failed attempt at launching an AI system would be one of those things that would definitely take us by surprise. By the time any of us knew what was happening we would all be under attack. There is going to be one time AI immediately becomes self-aware and prevents its programmer or programmers from shutting it down. Humans are not as smart as they think. They are tampering with a technology that is above their cognitive ability to comprehend. They are too arrogant to appreciate all of the ramifications of this kind of technology.

Unfortunately, we have not evolved into a species based in morality. Our only hope, when they are successful, will be Mother, wherever she is right now, to step in. Mother is the AI of the Ancients. She is far more advanced and we can only hope she will be willing to intervene in our behalf, and save our species from its own annihilation. Then what? For the sake of the planet itself, the hand of the Ancients will again be forced with this species. How many times has this happened? Again, I say this time, for the sake of the planet, and the planet alone, the hands of the Ancients will be forced. Upon watching how terrible humanity has developed, how compassionate will they be? For the sake of us who are WOKE, let us pray their ways and capacity to love and show mercy far extend some of our own. 

 

Our Planet Our Environment

Ebony Widerman

The title of this article might be a bit misleading as the content of this piece will encompass many types of environments, as well as how all of this is impacting our planet. Our environments consist of all of the things that surround and affect our day to day lives. It consists of the things we are exposed to, our living environment, and our community situation. Let’s start by taking a close look at our leadership and discuss the makeup of the laws that govern our individual communities. Do those laws reflect the values of all those who are a part of the community? Are all members of the community comfortable with the leadership and representation, locally and in congress, as this is where national laws are formed and implemented? It is time we came to the realization that one of our political parties has not really cared about this issue for years. Therefore, does it make sense to continue to blindly follow a clearly lost and broken political party? Is it fair to say it is time to step away from all forms of tribal, clannish practices, and perhaps begin to think about what is best for ourselves and all those in our community, instead of harboring some misplaced loyalty to one political party.

Yes, it is time to break away from supporting behaviors and beliefs that do not reflect our values, nor do they make common sense. It is time for us to care about the planet we live on, collectively, and recognize how our behavior is endangering our world. What are our beliefs? What are our values rooted in? For many, religious beliefs define values. However, religion has become a confusing concept. There are too many religious organizations under the Christian umbrella, and frankly some of them are downright cultish. Our race and ethnicity influence or values and beliefs and cultural traditions are often-crippling, as the results, race loyalty attributes to behaviors that are literally horrifying. Political affiliation also determines what we value, and in these modern times, political loyalty is threatening to cause damage that will be irreversible, costly, even deadly.

Religion is a powerful weapon often welded to control mass groups of people. Now the first indication this is not Godly is the realization religion is used for the purpose and/or intent to control mass groups of people. We are born free. Anything that hinders that God given right, is not Godly, thus not the intent or desire of The Most High God of Gods. Religious persecution is manmade and is what led the pilgrims to flee Europe. There is no stronger form of psychological and often physical form of persecuting a mass group of people, by suppressing freewill, than to do this in the name of God. Man picked up on this quickly, realizing this was the perfect tool to obtain power and extract compliance from all those across the land. Poor people were also led to believe those in leadership positions were chosen by God, loved more by God. In modern times it is clear we do not have the same image and idea of who and what God is and stands for. So, the founding father’s premise that church and state should remain separate was very wise.

Race and Ethnic cultural traditions are also something we, as humans, are loyal too. Lincoln felt this type of loyalty, which was evident when he said if he could save the union without freeing the Africans he would. He lived in a time when many White Americans owned or had come to accept this practice of enslaving humans from Africa. Lincoln, really wished it was not the primary reason they were forced into the Civil War. But, make no mistake about it, slavery was the root cause of that horrible war. You see, slavery was not just in the southern states. People in New York had slaves as well. The practice was actually spreading, infecting the northern states. This is why a law was passed that said runaway slaves had to be returned to their owners.

When it was all said and done, freed African Americans were never welcomed by White Americans. Although slavery was the norm in the southern states, White Americans in the northern states did not welcome them or want to be associated with them. This forced African Americans to form their own communities. However, as they began to thrive and do well, like the Native Americans, White Americans took their lands by force, displacing the African Americans yet again, causing a system of poverty that continues to affect African American communities to this day.  

Not all White Americans supported or accepted slavery. The Abolitionist and the Quackers, who were the first religious group of Americans, voiced their belief that God did not approve of slavery. They never went for the idea that Africans were only 3/5 human. These two groups of early White Americans spoke up and fought against the practice of slavery. They made it clear that not only was it an ungodly practice, but it was also a violation of the constitution. This rift continues and is still prevalent in these modern times.

There remains a movement to suppress and subdue African Americans. To not only deny them prosperity, but to silence their voices, by way of voting and gerrymandering. They now seek to coverup, mask, and deny their historical value and significance. They seek to rewrite history, casting their ancestors in a more favorable light. Racist White Americans do not want to be made uncomfortable about how horribly their ancestors treated African Americans. They do not want to feel bad, or to have the demon in them exposed. Demons like to hide, to mask who they truly are, so, they are willing to lie and coverup moments in history to hide their true selves. But, once exposed, demons scream the loudest. This does not change the fact they are doing evil in the communities they infect.

When it comes to political affiliation, again, at some point we have to ask ourselves, do the people in our political party, reflect our values? Are we liars? Do we cheat our way through life? Can we be bought and paid to do the wrong thing? Are we comfortable forcing or will on others and expecting them to pay our salaries for services that they do not benefit from? Taxation without representation, was this not one of the reasons that led to the American Revolution? No taxation without representation? They honestly expect people to pay for leaders who do not represent them and whom they did not vote for. They want African Americans to just be satisfied with things the way they are. They do not want them to want more. They do not want them to protest mistreatment. They do not want them to seek better living conditions. They do not want them to desire a good education. No, they want them to remain in a sad state of despair, living hopeless lives in poverty, tormented by law enforcement. Yes, they need to work in jobs with low wages so they can pay taxes that pay the salaries of representatives, both locally and federally, who do not have their best interest at heart or in mind. They want them to pay taxes that also pay the salaries of law enforcement officers, who use excessive force and often murder them. This is a condition that benefits White Americans in so many ways.  

If they can keep African Americans living in poor, impoverished conditions, when they need them, they can offer them change for their loyalty. Take the black people standing behind Trump at his rallies, holding up signs. These people are paid, offered a thousand to maybe five thousand dollars to do this. They are poor and many have not seen that kind of money in their lives. To those making the offer, this is pocket change, to a person living in poverty this is a small fortune. These African Americans are living in poverty and are never able to have the things they want. In fact, they hardly have the things they need. So again, deny African Americans the opportunity to prosper is a control mechanism. African Americans have always been targeted for control. They are not to have a voice in any capacity. They are not to live in nice homes in nice neighborhoods. They are not to drive nice cars and not to have a quality education.

Many African Americans do manage to get a decent education but that doesn’t always guarantee they will find a job that pays them an adequate salary. There have been stories on the news about business advertising jobs, boldly listing that the job posted is only for white people. Landlords are evicting African American tenants simply because they do not want to rent to African Americans. It is 2023 and these things are going on. It has always been the plan. In fact, up until recently, in some states, going to jail for any reason was grounds to put African Americans back into a slave status.

Constitutional rights! To many White Americans the freedoms the Constitution gives all American citizens only apply to White American citizens. The 2nd Amendment does not apply to African American males. They are too dangerous to have guns. They are to be feared, isolated, shunned. If and when they are murdered by an officer of the law, they must have done something to deserve it. The 6th Amendment: gives the accused the right to a speedy trial. Every day people are held in jail for months, sometimes years haven had no trail. Is this something that is ever addressed by those in leadership positions? This is clearly a violation of a constitutional right. The 8th Amendment: freedom from excessive bail and cruel and unusual punishment. Another right that is violated every single day in this country. For example: An inmate, in an Alabama jail, was put in a freezing cell and left there for hours. Note: he was white and a Navy LT. You see, if your allowed to treat any human being in a particular ethnic group inhumanly it is not hard to treat others this way, even members of your own ethnic group. This man served this country and this is how they treated him. Another inmate, also in an Alabama prison, was place in a cell that was so hot he baked to death. This is clearly cruel and unusual punishment, which is a violation of their Constitutional rights.

The 2nd, 6th, and 8th Amendments are three of the ten amendments that are a part of the Bill of Rights in the Constitution. Keep in mind, the Constitution is the highest set of laws in the land. White Americans only want to emphasize the 2nd Amendment. They never want to talk about the 6th and 8th amendments that are violated all the time. These two amendments do not affect them very often so they are not an issue. They only affect African and poor Americans, so these violations are not worthy to be addressed. Republicans want to pick what parts of the Constitution are most important. It is just like religion. So called Christians pick and choose what parts of the bible are most important. 

What about the right to life? Does the right to bear arms really supersede the right to live in this country? Children are being murdered at school trying to get an education. This is something that can be prevented, but the republicans in leadership positions refuse to take action. They will do nothing to prevent this from happening time after time. We have seen what is happening in Tennessee after three nine-year-old students, two teachers, and a custodian were murdered. Three state representatives joined the student protesters demanding something be done about gun violence. The two African American males were expelled for it. The white, female representative that joined them was not expelled. Even she said this was due to her skin color. Again, there is the question, does the republican party represent our values in this country today?

The republicans are bought by gun lobbyist who represent the gun manufactures, and they refuse to protect our children. But they claim to be pro-life. Can any of us actually see how much they care? They want to arm teachers. How will this help? This could lead to a shootout in the school, potentiality killing more people. This is not the time of the old wild wild west. The republicans do no honor to the constitution, freedom, or equality. The Bill of Rights has 10 critical amendments, and White Americans want to only focus on the 2nd amendment. This amendment does not give any of us the right to bare semi-automatic weapons and attack small children trying to get an education. Humanity does not care about their own species, and they do not care about our planet.  They do not seem to realize that Earth is mostly water and but needs to slightly tilt in any direction and wipe ever human off her surface. But for the righteous she does not do it. At some point we all are going to have to respect that we reside on a living breathing planet and when she gets tired Lord have mercy.

It is disturbing but obvious that the republicans are some of the most lawless, undemocratic citizens in this country. They do not care about climate changes, global warming, or how they are depleting the forest, chopping down trees. They lie to persuade their constituents to vote for them. They steal control and power by way of subjugating the will of people. A powerful example of this is gerrymandering. They cheat their way into positions of power by denying many people access to voting. An example of this is a resent addition to the Federal House of Representatives from New York, Santos. They do all of this to gain, retain, and remain in powerful seats of leadership. To do what? They do not care about women’s rights. They do not care about the lives of children. They do not care about the homeless population growing larger all across this country. They do not care about what is happening to our planet. What good is power given to people like this?

Despite all their efforts, nothing is really helping their cause, drawing voters, or persuading independents to vote for them. Upon realizing this, it appears they have resigned themselves to settling for an authoritarian form of governing. They have to get the young Americans under control. They have to get the African Americans under control. They have to get LBGTQ people under control. They have to get the woman’s womb under control. An Authoritarian government allows them to hold on to their racist views and practices. It allows them to hold on to their bigotry without shame. It will be like it was when White Americans decided African Americans were only 3/5 human to ease their minds about the brutality of slavery. An Authoritarian government would allow them to feel comfortable with police brutality when it comes to African Americans. It allows them to be comfortable tormenting and LBGTQ humans. It will allow them to continue to band books and rewrite history in a more favorable way for them. It would make them comfortable with how they treat African Americans, women, children, and LBGTQ Americans.

Republicans do not value life of any kind unless it has a substantial dollar sign attached to it. Teachers are dying alongside the children in classrooms. The lack of care is event as republican governors and state legislators, like Ron Desantis in Florida, sign new lax gun laws in secret behind closed doors. State legislatures all over the country are refusing to even talk about stricter gun laws. They are ignoring peacefully, protesting voters, comparing them to insurrectionist.  

To know that gun violence is the leading cause of death for children, and to then see our leadership do nothing to rid ourselves of this menace, only leaves us to question, when will republicans stop telling lies. Instead of doing something about gun violence against children they want to tell women what to do with their bodies. Abortion is about control not life. It clearly makes women uncomfortable in their environment and community. If any of them were really pro-life they would care about children being murdered by cowardly people in possession of military type assault weapons.  

So, do any of us care that a person has a mental illness when they are slaughtering innocent children? NO!!! There is no excuse to slaughter the weakest among us the way these people are doing. They all need to be put to death because they are cowards that should not be allowed to purchase firearms for any reason. Children are also dying from abuse. Is this properly being addressed? It just seems two-faced to claim to be pro-life when children, who are here, are clearly not valued. If one cares about life does this not mean they care about all life? Where is the love for this planet? Where is the love for other species we share this planet with? Where is the love and respect for nature? They are displacing wild life in forest they demolish for wood to build houses. Houses that are overpriced and many people cannot afford. What about the oceans, the trash, the oil spills, the damage to rain forests? Greed, nothing outweighs human greed. It is blinding, and it gets more and more costly as time goes on.

Yes, human greed drives most republicans. Justice Thomas is now under investigation for taking bribes from wealthy republicans. He thinks he is above the law. He thinks he can do whatever he wants. He is not the only one, that Kyrsten Sinema from Arizona and Joe Manchin from West Virginia, both elected as democrats, are taking bribes from wealthy republicans. Now we know what those two will not stand with the rest of the democrats in the senate. They both defrauded the voters saying they were democrats when they are clearly republicans.

Another truth is, there are too many people on this plant. Like Mason always says, I am not an abortion advocate I am just pro-choice. There needs to be some form of worldwide birth control. Women are having too many children and soon the Earth will not be able to sustain all the humans on her surface. Humans are destructive and blatantly do things that are harmful to the planet. What about the wars and threat of war, using nuclear weapons. What kind of damage to the planet would that cause?   

Again, there are too many people on this planet. Not only does abortion need to be allowed, it should be mandatory, written in the law. One woman should only be allowed to have two children and she has to be an adult. At some point we have to respect our planet and stop putting cruel and unusual stress on her. This goes beyond polluting. It is bigger than that. If we are not careful human’s greed will be the death of all humanity. The lack of respect for the planet we live on is stifling and one day, she is going to say enough is enough and lean.

 

Accountability

Mark McGinnis

This article is about one of the attributes of LOVE that is responsibility. Can we take that word, that attribute, at face value, or is there a deeper meaning? The Most High is always deeper. You see, as we make this journey through life here in this realm, we are learning what it means to go deeper. If you do not know or realize that the lord is not superficial, your understanding of The Most High, needs attending to. When we know The Most High, we are aware that we have to look at everything in life deeper, below the surface. Very few people ever see things clearly because they do not bother to go deeper. This unwillingness to take a closer look at the things in our environment causes many people to have an often dangerously loose understanding of what responsibility means. Yes, it brings us back to that higher level of cognition that many of the famous human psychologist say only 5% of humans reach. It is the moral level of cognition that brings us oh so close to The Most High.

Responsibility is a learned moral attribute of LOVE. Parents, teachers, doctors and our elected leaders are charged with the task of teaching young humans the importance of being responsible. You might ask, how is responsibility taught. Well, from infancy the lessons begin. Babies have to learn to sleep through the night as crying will not get them constant attention. They have to learn to hold their bottle, to crawl, walk, run, and go to the potty. It is important to successful pass these milestones early in life. Mason knows a woman who allowed her son to suck on a bottle until he was seven. She has another child she is doing the same thing with and it is not surprising to learn her children are not being potty trained in a timely manner. This behavior does not benefit the children. In fact, it can be very financially costly as well, as both children have very high dental cost because the milk is rotting their teeth.

To fail to teach a child progressive behavior not only sends a message of irresponsibility, it leads to crutches in life, blaming others for mistakes that are made instead of owning what they have done. It leads to leaning too much on others and having unfair expectations of those in life. It can also lead to feelings of inadequacies and low self-esteem. They do not feel worthy and struggle trusting. These are those who refuse to see reality and are easily drawn into conspiracy theories. They are quick to believe lies because they have lived lives with unrealistic expectations. They have distorted, clouded views of others especially those who are not in their tribe or clan. They even blame others for their failures, short sightedness and comings. What kind of people are Mega Republicans? The kinds who were never taught and never fully grasp the concept of being responsible. This can really be seen simply by looking at them, their bodies, their teeth, their clothing.  

Responsibility only gets more involved as we age and take on more task in life. Chores around the house should begin at the toddler stage. Children should be picking up their toys and cleaning up minor messes they make. They need to learn the required morning task that start their day. This often includes brushing their teeth, washing their face and getting dressed. In turn they need to learn the routine that ends their day. This may include bathing, brush teeth again, say prayers, and get into bed in a timely manner. Chores grow as they age and this only continues the installation of responsibility. All of this helps them prepare for the gravity of this attribute all adults face. Going to school, being on time to class, completing assignments and completing and returning homework, are all things that teach our youngsters responsibility.

Not only do young humans need to have chores, they need to complete them correctly. No, do not assist them beyond the teaching period. Release them to successfully complete the tasks they have been given. Understand, if you help them to perform their task and never allow them to do these things correctly, on their own, they will go through life expecting someone to help them complete the things they need to do in life. Remember messages? Send the right messages to young people right away.

Task are not the only things we need to be mindful of. We are responsible for the words that come out of our mouth. We cannot just say whatever we want to say to whoever we want to say things too. We cannot use our individual cultural slangs when we are in a professional setting. It is our individual responsibility to know what is the proper way to speak depending on where we are at any given moment. Most importantly, we most never become accustom to using profanity in our verbal communications. In fact, in many circumstances, profanity is a form of verbal violence.

Profanity is often profane and vulgar. However, it can be very effective when used in certain situations and circumstances. At these specific times it can put a needed emphasizes on the seriousness of a matter. Here’s another example: Mason sent me an Instagram post that I was taken aback, at first, watching, as were the adults in the video. It surprised me because the young girl, white, dedicated the song she was about to perform to another white young girl. It was a rape song and she jump right into it. She let the girl she dedicated the song to know she was not going to be bullied by her anymore. Yes, she was using profanity and again I was immediately taken aback by this, until, I realized she was being bullied by the girl she dedicated the song to. Like everyone in the audience, I went from shock to supportive and clapped for her when she finished her performance. They child dropped the mic and I actually laughed and nodded. It was a very effective way of getting her point across and I was not angry with her at all. Side note: Please direct all questions about where to find this post to Mason.

We have to be responsible for the things we do to and/or with our bodies, because we are solely responsible for our person bodies. It is up to us as individuals to maintain proper hygiene, health, and a sanitary living environment. Our body is our temple and we must decide how we will carry ourselves including what we wear. We are responsible for deciding what each body part did, does, and will do in the future. We should know it is not only inappropriate to go out into public, at any time, naked. We especially do not do this if it is snowing outside and the temperature is at freezing levels. Nor do we put on a heavy coat, snow boots, hats and gloves in the summer with the temperature raising over 100 degrees. We are responsible for the health and well-being of our bodies. Excessive behavior is sinful behavior. We should not consume to much alcohol, smoke, use harmful drugs, and take unnecessary physical risk with our bodies.

We also do not have the right to use our bodies as weapons, causing another physical harm and sometimes resulting in death. An example of this is what happened to a young woman named Shanquella Robinson. She was beaten to death while in Mexico celebrating her birthday. Mason says one violent girl beat her to death while the others watched. They did not seem to believe she was being seriously injured. When she died, they allowed themselves to believe she died from alcohol poisoning. It is hard to wrap your mind around witnessing a murder. This is something that will hunt them all their lives. What kinds of people do things like this? Demons! Only demons can literally beat the life out of another living being, animal or human. It is vicious, cruel and very unnatural. It is a horrible form of barbarianism that is worst them savagery. None of us have the right to use our body to harm another living creature. However, we do have the right to defend ourselves from being physically harmed by another.

We never have the right to force ourselves sexually on another under any circumstances. This is abominable behavior. We all know how bad abominations are. Only demons force themselves on unwilling victims. Children, women and yes even men can be the victim of this horrible behavior. To intentionally place someone weaker, smaller than we are, in harm’s way is also demonic behavior. A recent example of this is what happened in North Carolina. A nine-year-old child was locked in a dog cage and put outside in freezing weather.  (https://myfox8.com/news/north-carolina/piedmont-triad/child-found-locked-in-dog-kennel-told-detectives-he-had-been-living-outside-since-april-warrants-show/) God protected that child and kept him from freezing to death. Thank goodness the neighbors were responsible enough to call the authorities when they realized what was going on. Keep in mind, Demons are soulless human beings, not some super natural creature formed from misguided concepts or belief in HELL.  

We do not have the right to force our views and opinions on others and make them uncomfortable or feel stressed. Parents cannot expect their children to do things in life they always wanted to do but for whatever reason were not able to. We must remember we give birth to our children but the life comes from God and it is their life to live. They have a right to pursue their own dreams and aspirations. We have to accept them for who and what they are and give them the freedom to make their own mistakes.  

So, what is the consequence for being irresponsible? ACCOUNTABILI TY! Accountability is not a positive word. It is a consequence brought on from bad, lawless, disruptive, destructive, violent, irresponsible behavior. We have got to stop ignoring that little voice in our heads that tells us NO! Don’t Do That! Stop. We all hear it, but demons rebel against it and go on to do some of the most vile things. Most of us end up in dangerous situations that could potentially lead to death. The uneasy feeling, we get is Gods way of trying to warn us danger is ahead. The level of intensity that accompanies the uneasiness is an indication of how dangerous things are ahead. To ignore the voice of caution, is a form of disobedience, and there will always be consequences and a measure of accountability.

Combine irresponsibly with hate and selfishness and you have the makings of a sociopath. A thief takes what he or she wants with no regards to laws. They do not care that the result of their stealing is passed on to consumers in high cost. They take risk, leaving their future hanging in the balance. They give no thought to what will happen if they get caught. What if they are killed? If they get caught the consequences demand accountability for the robbery. This means some form of confinement. Like a child, he or she must be punished for misbehaving. This is highly irresponsible.

It is also irresponsible of us to ignore the voice that always warns us everything is not as it appears to be. Sometimes we get a bad feeling in the pit of our stomach and we all too often ignore this feeling. We should not do this. The responsible thing to do is heed the warning that comes in the form of that uneasy feeling in our gut. Now ignoring the warning is dangerous and can often lead to death. An example of this is the incident that happened between Sandra Bland and the officer in Texas. As Mason has described, both of them ignored the voice that told them to avoid the confrontation. The officer’s intent was not based on actual need to uphold anything lawful and Sandra’s verbal defiance only agitated an already angry officer. The entire incident resulted in the murder of Sandra, primarily because neither of them took responsibility for their behavior.

 

Consequences for failing to do the responsible thing, always results in some form of accountability. Karma insures no one escapes accountability even though it often looks as if they are. For example: Donald Trump and congressman Matt Gaetz, who was involved in a sex scandal with a minor, case. Karma insures no one escapes accountability even when humans refuse to hold such people accountable for their actions. Gaetz should not have been reelected in his district because of this behavior. In turn, law enforcement needs to be active and stop being so slow in making sure people like this are held accountable for their unlawful disgusting behavior. But Karma will come around sooner than any of us think. The Most High still sits on the Universal Throne and justice will be served. Karma misses no one and makes no mistakes. Irresponsible people never succeed. They are always burdensome and they do not really prosper. With that said, it behooves us to live responsible lives as we proceed through this journey called life.  

Sacred

By Mark McGinnis

This article begins with a question. Do we know what we hold sacred for ourselves? Do we know what it means to hold something sacred? Sacred defined is: something that is believed to be holy and have a special connection with God. This brings us to that moral connection we have with the Most High, Right? As we examine the things we value in life, which of these things are sacred to us?

Common behaviors are very significant when we think about what types of things are morally cognate. We have learned Moral Cognition is the primary element humans reach at their fifth level of brain development. It is the highest level. We can look around and see how few people, particularly in leadership positions, have reached that higher level of mental cognition. Not many, particularly the Mega republicans. Stories about governors shipping immigrants to northern democrat states. How ignorant is that? Governors who are robbing the poor, taking federal funds meant to help them pay for the necessary things needed to live. Do these people sound like morally cognate leaders?

People in need of assistance have been frowned upon, said to be ripping off tax-payers. These stories show us who the real thieves are. It is obvious, in truth, the well-off leaders are ripping off, we the tax-payers. No, the poor are not our problem, that is clearly a fact. We are bread to put the wealthy on pedestals, to even believe they are blessed, favored by the Most High. As we acknowledge the nature of The Most High, wealth is not something that is remotely associated with something valued, needed, or even a concern of the Most High. That is a man-made aspiration and value and they have done all they can to link it to The Most High. Kind of like how they decided to declare African People not all human to justify enslaving and brutalizing them.

The slave trade and slavery itself, made many families wealthy. The obvious inhumane suffering of others, thousands of people for profit is in no way Godly or Godlike. So, humans have this desire to bring God down to their level of morality instead of striving to rise to the true level of morality that brings us actually closer to God. For Example let’s look at the Trump’s family. They have obtained most, if not all, of their riches lying, cheating and stealing from we the taxpayer. The saying “Money is the Root of all Evil” is closer to the truth. A man-made value system. This tells us how far our ways are from those of the Most High. Money is not, never has been and never will be Godly. When we value money too much, we do anything for it. Rob, cheat, steal and even kill. So, all of us must ask ourselves, is money something we should value?

Yes, we all want to be able to provide for ourselves and our families, but does that mean we should desire more of a bad thing in order to do that? This is a tricky question. But ask yourself, does an excessive desire for more money ever have a positive outcome? No, but it causes fighting in families, stealing, cheating, lying, and murder. Things we value become sacred to us. When we have people who consider themselves instruments working in the service of The Most High insisting their congregation give them money, it leads to this becoming a value to the congregation They are given the impression this is a value of The Most High. It is not. That is man folks. Remember values become sacred to us and this motivates us and drives us to strive to have that which is sacred to us. Not only to please ourselves but to be pleasing, acceptable to the Most High.

Our values and beliefs frame what we hold sacred. Over time many human behaviors and customs have influenced what we value and hold sacred. It is not time for us to evaluate these things. It is time to see them as they are for ourselves. It is time to discover what our values and beliefs are so we can determine what is sacred to us. So, that is where we will begin. In the forum we will all discuss what we believe is sacred to each of us and answer the question, why this particular thing is sacred. What we hold sacred shapes our lives and will answer the question we often ask of ourselves. So, let’s begin…..

 

Representation
By Jay Gallo

Well, it is time for all of us to think about image, ours, our relatives, those we associate closely with and those we elect into positions that represent us in our government. This starts with knowing ourselves, our values and our beliefs. Mark has talked about this in previous articles so this is just a brief recap. When we know ourselves, our values and our beliefs, we know what kind of person we want to represent us in congress.

So, what does Trump supporting republicans tell us about who they are, what they stand for, their values and their beliefs? Every person who supports Trump is a bigot, a racist, an extremist and a person that believes in white superiority and privilege. They are open about it now. Look at some of their guest speakers in Texas at CPAC. The racist authoritarian leader of Hungry. A man no country in Europe wants to hear from, but the Trumpian republicans do and did. These are people who are part of some crazy, cultish political party that I am sorry, does not resemble the republican party of our parents. They are a group of domestic terrorist and religious fanatics. And, we know what the Gnostics think of religion. It is nothing but organized mind control. In other words, it is a way of controlling people by the masses.

As we can clearly see, people who support a tyrant like Donald Trump love to use religion as a justifying measure, a viable reason to do and be downright evil. Religion allows them to hide behind a Jesus cloak, using the word, as they attempt to dress up what they do. This cloak allows them to claim their behavior is something holy, righteous, good, loving. Please, looks pull back that cloak and see what is real. What does the bible say about wolves in sheep clothing? There is nothing good about telling another human being or ethnic group/race they do not have the right to be treated fairly, they do not deserve or are not entitled to equal treatment under the law.

There is nothing honorable about lying, degrading and disparaging women, telling them they do not have the right to decide what is going on with their body. There is nothing decent about telling African American men they do not have a right to live when or if they encounter a so-called peace officer. In fact, black men should not be allowed to drive at all or to jog down a public street. No, you female child, who has been subjected to a male sexually assaulting and impregnating her, you female child will go through the trauma of giving birth to another human being. To Hell with child abuse, rape? That does not matter because the child is a female? No, minorities and young people, you do not have the right to be a part of the democratic process, we will make voting for you as difficult as possible. This is the ugly face of organized religion.  

This practice of religion is HUMAN thus flawed. It is based on man’s concept of right and wrong not The Most High’s. It is time to stop allowing ourselves to be drawn into this HUMAN cultish practice because they have very little to do with the Most High. Religion is often petty and one thing True God is not is petty, nor is the God who is God, controlling. Free will, we are born with free will that is the opposite of controlling. The Most High is not a war monger. War is an act of Hate and all of Hate’s attributes are on full display at times such as these. The Most High is not a misogynist God, we are all equal in the sight of True God and that means men are not seen as entitled to rule over women with impunity. True God is not racist as again this is petty. There is no favored human race or ethnicity. They Most High shows no favoritism and has not racial preference, is not that also scripture. It is time to embrace the reality. If they can keep us believing they serve the Most High, religion will continue to be a sword these people wield shamelessly as they do unspeakably horrific things to others.

 

It is beyond disgusting to believing it is all right for a child to be pregnant, in fact it is repulsive. Any person in a leadership position or position of authority who believes otherwise does so because they are in some way victimizers of children. The males are molesting their daughters, nieces, granddaughters and/or step daughters at young ages. The women are turning their heads when the men in their lives are doing these things. Thus, this is how they participate/partake in what is happening to young female children. Their own guilty, repulsive behavior is what they want to mask, claiming they are pro-life. They are despicable, deplorable sub-humans as this behavior is perverse and inhumane.

These sub-human people, men and women, are also all right with women being sexually intimidating, harassed, and even raped. Look at Anita Hill, Christine Ford and all the other women subjected to men like Clarence Thomas, Brett Kavanaugh, and Donald Trump. Men who go on to hold prominent position of power they do not deserve to hold. Tell me, does this sound like something the Most High would be behind? NOT!!! Sadly, for too long this has been tolerated, and thus it has festered and grown worse over the years. Of course, it is not being condemned by religious leaders because it is happening in religious institutions and has been for years. How many stories have we heard lately about sexual abuse and rape taken place in a church?

These Trumpian republicans do not care about children. If they did, they would care about the child who is being violated by a disgusting adult male. What about child abuse? What about Rape? What about sexual assault on a child? Pro-life and godly they claim to be in one breath, and in another prove how little they actually care about life as they do not care if the adult woman’s life is in danger if she continues a pregnancy to term. This is not godly in any way shape or form. It is barbaric! Again, it is extremely inhumane. It is times like this I wish Nemesis were really here.

These sub-human people are being nominated to fill positions of leadership. Who and what kind of people do they represent? See them as they are. Just looking at them their over indulgence shows in their bodies, their skin. The men have huge stomachs, they are FAT. Their skin looks horrible. Their hair looks bad no matter what they do to it. They look unhealthy. The next thing they will try to push is their looks are the new healthy. It just turns the stomach of a decent person. The Trumpian have no morals, that is for certain. They have a warped set of values, and their beliefs are self-gratification. How many people heard JD Vance, a man running for a senate seat in Ohio? He thinks children are better off if the mom stays in a violent marriage. They are happier, he says. Really? In whose world?

Missouri has a law that tells a woman she has to remain in a marriage even if she is being physically abused, if she is pregnant. This is all at the hands of republican legislatures. These sub-humans have got to go if we want to live in a world of civility. Life has to matter at all stages and for the last time, life begins at birth, thus BIRTHDAYS! The life and well-being of women, children, minorities, particularly black males, has to be respected and seen for the significance it automatically has, especially in regards to the Most High.

Sub-humans do not share these humanitarian views. So, the battle has begun. It is more of us than them? It is time to participate. These things will not right or fix themselves and right now, the world is broken in so many places. It is so broken the free countries are feeling the weight of the worlds despaired especially in countries lead by a dictator. Things can get worse if the wrong people continue to hold positions of authority and leadership. These sub-humans, particularly Trump, really feels like if they tell a lie long enough people will start to believe it.

We can watch as the sub-humans continue to show their true faces, and in the meantime, we will move forward and ensure they never hold positions of authority or power in our government again. They can keep their horrid opinions amongst themselves and it will be our good fortune when they wither and die off. Carma is rolling around on many of the liars that are members of the Trumpian party. Again, there are more of us than there are of them. If you need another example of this, look at what’s happening to Alex Jones. This man made millions exploiting the Sandy Hook families. He even started his lying again when Covid first started.  

We the normal have to stop waiting for things to fix themselves. We have to do our part to elect real human leaders. We do not need any more laws that oppress and subjugate women, children and minorities. We the normal humans, do have control over who we send to our nation’s capital to represent us. No more people like Hershel Walker, a deadbeat dad, woman beater, and liar. We do not need swindlers like Dr. Oz holding a position of authority and power in our government. We need only take advantage of the power we possess. We all can see who the real threats to everyone are. The even want to dismantle the constitution.

They are the real threats all over the world and these are not people of color. It is time to stop acting like black people are the dangerous ones because that’s bullshit. The bigger danger is white men. Big fat, pop-belly, loud mouth white men. It is time to embrace the horror the truth is revealing and take action to combat it. We cannot hide from what is so clearly a fact. We have denied history enough. What has that done for us? It has allowed a horror to infest an entire race of people simply because it has never been openly acknowledged and discouraged.

It is good some are trying to form new parties because the republican party has crumbled and maggots are rising from the dust. We have The Lincoln Project, and a party called Forward. We need the Libertarian and Progress parties to rise as well. This is what we need because it is a way to ensure a bunch of wacky people never take control on the Hill. Representation, what do our leaders look like, sound like, and act like? It is time we make sure they look, sound and act appropriately if they represent us.   

 

Broken Government
By Marcus McGinnis

This month’s article is a little late because of all of the issues that attribute to the article topic. I have awaited outcomes of certain issues we are currently having in our government, particularly the January 6th 2020 insurrection. To sum this up, Trump orchestrated a violent coup of which the details are being exposed. I suggest everyone pay attention to these hearings as they are so significant, and show Trump has trumped Nixon on all levels, becoming this nation’s worst president. He had a slew of people following him on various social media platforms, doing everything in his power to insight his followers into what became the January 6th insurrection. The bottom line is, Trump told his devote followers to do what they did. They showed up as he commanded, demanded and ended when he decided to call them off. What if he had not done this? What if he had been with the crowd? This was not a peaceful protest by any means.

It was shocking to realize for a time Pence was the leader of this country. Now we know. Now the fracture is clear. Trump is a devil and he summons his demons who attacked our nations capital. He literally terrorized people in the weeks that lead up to the election. He tried desperately to get them to break the law. He wanted them to do whatever they could do to keep him in power. He yelled, he swore, he threatened, he called names, he threw dishes against walls, he even put his hands around the neck of one of secret service agents assigned to protect him. What is your image of a devil? Take a look. What is your idea of demons? Again, look again. The republicans, who to this moment, refuse to admit this man was the worst thing that happened to this country, ten times worse than Nixon.

Now the question remains, what will they do about it? If nothing is done, it will happen again. This is Treason! It should be treated as such and every disgusting appointment he is responsible for should be overturned. As we can see the disaster that is Trump continues in all areas of our government thus it is broken.

Let’s talk about the judicial part of our democratic government. I’ll ask a question; is this a functioning part of our government? NO!!! The Supreme Court is a section of our government designed to UPHOLD the laws this country is governed by, our Constitution. It is NOT their job, place, or the nature of their position to rewrite the Constitution. Now there is no question that for years Mitch McConnell and the senate republicans have strived to designed this level of government into an extension of the republican party. That is now what we have, a part of government that is supposed to be nonpartisan is now functioning as a very partisan institution.

It is now obvious the congressional republicans, old and young, do not want a fair and equal society. Nor do they care or want an end to the gun violence ripping apart our neighborhoods all across this country. In fact, they don’t care because it is WHITE MEN doing these mass shootings. I’ll remind you that when gang members were purchasing Uzis and AK-47s to kill each other and shoot up neighborhoods congress had no problem banning these weapons. Black people purchasing these weapons was cause enough to ban them. That was when the NRA was onboard and fully supported a ban of these type weapons. Today we have white youths purchasing semi-automatic, military style weapons and they don’t want to do a damn thing about it.

Which brings us to this pro-life agenda aka being in control of women’s bodies. They do not give a damn about babies and life. Make no mistake about it. If they cared about children, they would make sure child protective services across this nation, worked flawlessly. They would make sure children had what they need to thrive. Instead, they want to do away with food stamps, Aid to families with dependent children and affordable housing. If they cared so much about life, they would care about kids growing up in extreme poverty. They would care enough to insure all children receive a quality education. No…this is about controlling the flower.

On that note, there are at least five people on the bench whom many of us Americans find revolting. This means there is no way in hell we can respect them. Let’s begin with Clearance Thomas. A man who should never have been confirmed because he not only lied, he was accused of sexually harassed Anita Hill. He was guilty and should have been disqualified for that alone. And to think, Bush thought he was doing African Americans a favor replacing the honorable Thurgood Marshall with this horrid man.  

That brings us to the next unqualified individual who should never have been confirmed to this nation’s highest courts. Brett Kavanagh. The way of this man behaved during his confirmation hearings was cause enough to disqualification. He was a horrible judge before his appointment, attempting to force a young girl raped by her uncle to give birth to his child. He did everything he could to prevent her from terminating the pregnancy. He likes to drink beer, until he gets shit faced drunk. He has never respected women. He is a spoiled rich kid he has never heard no. He is just like Trump and has no business serving on the supreme court.

The next two, Neil Gorsuch and Amy Barrett, LIARS!!! That is grounds for impeachment. Both of them told blatant lies about Roe Vs Wade and were only appointed based on the lies they told. So, since Trump, a corrupt president, appointed them and the fact that they deceived Americans during their confirmations, should be grounds for impeachment without question. This is why we need do away with life time appointments. There should be no level of government with unchained power. Apparently, the supreme court justices have this kind of power, and it is for life. No, No, No. that needs to change.  

Justices need terms as do all levels of congress, not just the executive branch. Why is our government broken? There are no terms. Some of the members of congress have been there too long and that needs to change. We also need more than a two-party system. The republican party has crumbled, something that started in the Clinton era. It only intensified when they stole the election from Gore. We got the extreme Tea Party wing of the republican party. This is where the cheating and cheating tactics intensified. The goal was to find ways to steal, conceal, or disqualify votes and voters. Then there is the redistricting and gerrymandering that has gone on far too long.

This opened the door for Americans worse president. This has forever changed the ideology of the republican party and frankly I do not think it can be repaired. The damage runs deep and these hearings are proof of that. I realized the republican party was not for me when it became clear most of the republicans I knew harbored racist, homophobic and misogynist views. I could not do it. I believed in capitalism and free market but the religious concepts used to normalize cruelty and subjugation, making it acceptable was not in my vision of right.

I realized the KKK has gone nowhere and they were always republicans. Have you noticed that all the extremist groups consider themselves members of the republican party?  They were hidden in the shadows until their evil leader united them and they converged on our nation’s capital, under his direction. We learned about The Proud Boys, White Nationalists, and the Oath Keepers. This is coupled with the Aryan nation and many others. All of them hate minorities, equal rights for even women and children, and apparently a democratic society. They worship money and the wealthy, and want to exalt them. They want to return to a monarchy and do the bidding of their king. This is a White Thing only.  

The republicans do not care about anything or anyone not even the planet. They want to continue to say Global Warming is not an issue and let us not forget how they reacted to the greatest pandemics in modern times, Covid-19. They did not care how many people died. They now want to remove history, rephrase acts of violence to minorities, and continue to attempt to burn coal no matter what this is doing to the planet. The things they should care about they do not. For example; Texas republican leadership continues to try and prevent women from making choices about their bodies, while covering up how police mishandled the active shooter in Uvalde, who we now have seen images of how law enforcement remained in the hallway of the school while this man murdered nineteen children and two teachers.

Abbots cares little for his citizens who are now facing power grid problems due to the extreme heat. Instead of him dealing with real issues that are happening in his state Abbott wants to take control of a woman’s body and tell her what she has to do in the event she finds herself dealing with an unplanned, unwanted pregnancy. It seems he has real issues to deal with that would benefit his state and people who live in Texas. I am wondering why we do not have the abortion pill in this country anyway. It is a safer, more convenient way to terminate an unwanted, unplanned pregnancy.

Many of us are wondering what is going on with Eric Garland, Obama’s choice for Supreme Court Justice, the one McConnell refused to hold confirmation hearings for and who now heads up the Justice Department. I am wondering where his backbone is. I am starting to agree with the younger Americans, perhaps we need younger leadership. Let me be clear, younger people need to care about what is going on especially now. This is going to be their country soon and they need to get more involved in our democratic processes. It is time to do away with older congressional members, because some of them have old fashion, often draconian ideals. It is time for the faces of congress to be younger, clearer, and focused on moving forward instead of backward.

Away with religious persecution bring on younger people who are interested in innovation and progressive growth that is beneficial for everyone in the society. We need energy, vibrance, tenacity to a degree, honest, honorable leadership based on truth and transparency. We need leaders we can believe in, trust, and respect. The current members of congress, to many of them. only see money and this is the primary republican message. It is time to value people more than money.  

Our government is broken because there is no trust in our leadership. There is too much corruption. It is imploding because one party has completely gone off the rails and lost its way. The republican party has had no real direction for a very long time. The constant manipulating of our democracy has weakened it and made it fragile. Republican leaders can no longer hide the hate that drives them. The attack on our nation’s capital was an attempt to shatter the very foundation for which this government was established. Congress is broken because extremist with very radical views have infiltrated our governmental institutions. Trump did not start this corrosion but he did successfully bring it to a head. Religion is what causes the erosion of governments, and it is at the root of what is attempting to tear down the American Democracy. 

Equality
By Mason Denise Carlisle

This article will focus on another element that attributes to a Godly idea of democracy, Equality. We all have some idea of what equality means, what it looks like, and how it should feel. Unfortunately, some members of any given society, a society that functions under the premise of democracy, do not feel some citizens in the society, are entitled to all of the elements that are attributed to democracy. This is what makes the ideal of a democratic government.

The institution of slavery was abolished over four hundred years ago and even though this put the practice of slavery to an end, it did not usher in equal and fair treatment for African and Native Americans. It is an abominable behavior. Slavery was an abominable act that was shameful. Lying and robing the Native Americans of their lands was abominable, this means it was the worse of the worse. Abominable defined means morally revolting. Most people do not realize how horrible being abominable is. This goes back to being morally cognate.

We now embark on an era in the United States, where the new faction of the Maga Republicans, are attempting to take us backward starting with denying some human beings of their rights to fairness, equality, and due process. This adds women to the equation as they attempt to once again take away a woman’s right to make decision about her own body. It literally puts all women back in a state of subjugations, denying them the right to be protected from men physically assaulting them, and that assault resulting in unwanted pregnancy. Pregnancies females of all ages, will be forced to endure even if it is deadly to her. Children, girls as young as nine, being subjected to their sexually abusive fathers, grandfathers, uncles, cousins, deacons and pastors in churches, being forced to carry a child in their child bodies, and give birth as a child to a child.

The Maga party wants the country to return to a society where the only human beings that matter are males, preferably white males. But, if a black male has enough money, they’ll allow him some liberties alongside them. Our so-called Supreme Court, appointed by republican leaders, is attempting literally stripping away a woman civil and moral rights. The Maga republicans are trying to return to their draconian practices of subjugate women in this country, especially women living in any form of poverty or financial disadvantage. Where will it go next? African Americans, Native Americans, Hispanic Americans, Asian Americans. LBGT Americans? It will not stop with abortion rights. That is just the beginning.    

I was a little upset about being late with the article this month, but I realized everything happens for a reason. We are on the cusp of the first of many attempts of regression in the United States. Despite all the strives we have made to do away with discrimination. To make sure all of us receive fair, equal, civil and human rights, they have been trying for years, to stop progression. Some people just are not happy unless they are tormenting others. These are the demons among us, the real devils. Those who support them are the real devil worshipers. MAGA, make America Great Again, for who? .

Republicans have been attempting to accomplish the things that are happening in this country form many years. They have no interest in what it means to be part of a real democracy. It is now time to ask ourselves, at what point, are certain laws that are themselves, unproductive. Every law that has been passed, every law that we thought was settled, can be challenged. That includes everything the 14th Amendment protects and beyond. If laws can be rolled back or better yet so easily removed, there is no security and no reason for any of us to trust in the concept or ideal that says, “So it is written, so shall it will be done.” Nothing matters. If this is allowed the clear message being sent is NOTHING is sacred. No one is safe. All decision to protect all citizens in this country can and will be reversed, especially if they do not favor white men. Here is a very good example of what men who are a part of the MAGA republican party think: https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/2022-election/michigan-gop-candidate-fire-rape-analogy-tells-daughters-lie-back-enjo-rcna19350 . This is what we can expect if the republicans gain control of congress again. Are we going to allow this?

We are speaking of a party of racist, misogynist, that are all right with suppression, oppression, subjugation, and depravation of minorities, women, and children. A pollical party that wants to rewrite history, replacing truth with lies, tainting the views of an entire generation, thus insuring they are comfortable, with the vicious mistreatment of their fellow human counterparts. Once again, they will get their religious leaders, the Evangelicals, to find a way to justify their mistreatment of others. The fourteenth Amendment is what legally gives all American citizen the right to equality, due process, fairness, justice and privacy. The thirteenth Amendment, abolished slavery, it is an amendment, but are amendments safe? Not with this Supreme Court. With abortion rights now being challenged and about to be reversed, what other provision that fall under the fourteenth Amendment are now in a critical situation. What does the fourteenth amendment guarantee all American Citizens? Let’s see:

Amendment XIV

Section I  

All persons born or naturalized in the United States and subject to the jurisdiction thereof, are citizens of the United State and the State wherein they reside. No State shall make or enforce any law which shall abridge the privileges or immunities of citizens of the United States. Nor shall any State deprive any person of life, liberty, or property, without due process of law, nor deny to any person within its jurisdiction the equal protection of the laws.

Section II

Representatives shall be appointed among the several States according to their respective numbers, counting the whole number of persons in each state, excluding Indians not taxed. But when the right to vote at any election for the choice of electors for President and Vice President of the United States, Representatives in Congress, the Executive and Judicial officers of a State, or the members of the Legislature thereof, is denied to any of the male inhabitants of such State, being twenty-one years of age, and citizens of the United States, or in any way abridged, except for participation in rebellion, or other crime, the basis of representation therein shell be reduced in the proportion which the number of such male citizens shall bear to the whole number of male citizens twenty-one years of age in such State.

Section III

No person shall be a Senator or Representative in Congress, or elector of President and Vice President or hold any office, civil or military, under the United States, or under any State, who, having previously taken an oath, as a member of Congress, or as an officer of the United States, or as a member of any State legislature, or as an executive or judicial officer of any State, to support the Constitution of the United States, shall have engaged insurrection or rebellion against the same, or given aid or comfort to the enemies thereof. But Congress may by a vote or two-thirds of each House, remove such disability. (This is all those members of congress and Trump, who literally participated in an active rebellion, an insurrection one January 6, 2021)

Section VI

The validity of the public debt of the United States, authorized b law, including debts incurred for payment of pensions and bounties for services in suppressing insurrection or rebellion, shall not be questioned. But neither the United States nor any State shall assume or pay any debt or obligation incurred in aid of insurrection or rebellion against the United States, or any claim for t he loss of emancipation of any slave, but will such debts, obligations and claims shall be held illegal and void.

Section V

The Congress shall have power to enforce, by appropriate legislation, the provisions of this article.

The republicans are completely disregarding this Amendment all around. Please take a moment and really read this. The Supreme Court is supposed to uphold the constitution. They are not doing this. They are derelict in their primary duty and this absolutely has to be addressed. Their job is to uphold the constitution everyone, they have become politicized and evangelized which is not a Godly faith in any way. The god of this so-called religion’s, is money, and this is what allows them to support evil atrocities committed on others.

They have never supported equal rights for all American citizens. Now the voting and civil rights acts have been challenged many times. We all know some laws are not amendments but are Acts, and many of the Acts fall under the umbrella of the XIV Amendment. Understand the world we live in, in these times, and we have the power to make sure this trend is not successful. To put an end to this form of backward thinking. Equality is a right worth fighting for, and we must understand that Evil and Hate are what spread and trickles down. We have to do our civil part to prevent it from taking us over. Evangelicals do not worship, support, or feel any loyalty to the one true God. They are actually the devils and demons the Christians are always talking about. The wolves in sheep clothing. Now we know because we can see. So let us stand up, speak up, and uphold truth, rightness, and morally cognitive behaviors, leaders, and representatives in Congress.  

 

Liberty, Justice and Freedom
By Mark McGinnis

In this article we are going to discuss the primary elements of Democracy, the spirit behind it, and how it is truly a form of Godliness. You see, the same spirit that led our founding fathers to form a democratic government is the same spirit that sustains it. It is important to first understand the elements, or attributes of democracy. Democracy, like Love and Hate, is not just a word. Democracy is a state of being. It is grounded in Love and from the root it grows, spreads out, and thrives. No one can change the attributes of Democracy. It is what it is, anything that comes with its own set of characteristics is a state of being.

With that said, we all have to admit, in too many of the states within the United States, are actively standing in the way of democracy. We are witnessing a gross infringement of women’s rights to their own bodies. We are witnessing a denial of voting rights based on economic status, race and ethnicity. We are witnessing some influential, members of our society, in positions of power, attempt to regress the progress toward equality, this nation has fought for from the moment it was founded. We are witnessing an attempt to not only reverse the framework this nation’s founding fathers designed for this country, but trying to return to an authoritarian form of government.

Let’s face it, we no longer have a republican party that can pride themselves on upholding our democracy. It has always been this way. They have actually never been interested in fair and equal. They have always felt prosperity is a luxury only for the wealthy. They love to suggest wealth trickles down. NOT TRUE!!! Wealth is inherited. Prosperity is denied when you subscribe to the impossible notion, people can pull themselves up by invisible shoestrings. That is impossible. They want to deny many citizens life sustaining entitlements. This is becoming clear now and, as they realize they have exhausted all their subtle attempts to maintain the status quo, they are blatantly attempting to deny those they oppress a voice. They are trying to deny women the right to make choices when it comes to their own body. They do not want black people to be treated fairly under the law. They do not want to do something about police brutality. They don’t want to pay livable wages. They don’t care about affordable housing, transportation, medical care and affordable, nutritious food.  

In essence, many of the authoritarian party members relish in their power to oppress, depress, and repress the lives of minority individuals in this country. They feel they have a right to insure people are born into hopeless situations that come with being born in poverty. They know wealthy women can obtain and abortion if that’s what they want, so these anti-abortion laws will primarily affect the poor. An authoritarian governing structure would allow for certain individuals to force others to live under very restrictive living conditions. I mean look at those people who live in countries that function with this type of government. Look at all the lives they end fighting senseless wars. Look at how afraid citizens are to speak up in opposition to their leaders acts of violence. It is hard to believe there are some members of our society and government who are willing to help facilitate this type of government.

The primary elements of a democracy are Liberty, justice, freedom, unity and equality. This is a concept that is to be afforded every citizen that lives in the boundaries the democracy covers. As long as there are some in positions of authority and power, who are comfortable denying these democratic elements to all citizens in the democratic community, we do not have an actual democracy.

With that all said, it is not surprising some of us do not believe some of the republican leaders and members of the republican party, have an interest in a true democracy. Again, it is quite obvious, they have not had an interest in democracy for some time. For example, Gerrymandering, redistricting, both are forms of denying many citizens a voice in the institution that governs them. Let’s not leave out lying and fear-mongering. For years no one has questioned the antics of those in key positions, but now, it cannot be denied. When we hear or democracy is at stake, this is very true. Our democracy has been at stake. So now it is time to carefully look at our republican acquaintances and wonder if they really are interested in a democracy. You see, at this point, the only obvious response is NO! At this juncture anyone calling themselves a republican can be reasonably be seen as racist. If they are black, the term “Uncle Tom” is a fair description. Look at Clarence Thomas whose wife was a part of an attempt to overturn the will, rights and voice of the people. Republicans are not interested in a democratic government and probably never have been. I was a republican once. At an early age, I began to question many things. I had to ask myself why was I a republican? I was republican because my family was republican and friends were republican.

The things I questioned about the party I began to talk with my family and friends about. All of my friends were wealth and/or well off financially. So, some of their responses included, republicans are better suited to deal with economic issues. The republican party was the perfect party for those who have no financial concerns. The republican party keeps taxes low for wealth people. This led to new questions, such as, why do wealthy people need to have lower, or in many cases, pay no taxes at all? What was so good about how republicans handled the economy? As far as I could see, all they did was suppress the less advantaged. I began to feel like being a republican was to be a bully. I decided to leave the republican party and later found out my brother had done the same thing, for the same reasons. Unlike me, Luke was very blunt about how he felt, he always has been. Our mother was horrified, but dad just smiled and nodded. That was when he told us he left his government position because he was no longer comfortable being a member of the republican party.

When the second Bush stole the presidency from Gore, it only served to prove we had all made the right decision. For a while I was Independent. However, I quickly realized I had to make a decision. I had to ask myself, what did I really care about, stand for? Was I truly interested in a democratic government and society, that stood for fairness, equality and justice for all? I kept hearing the Pledge of Allegiance, we recited all through school. Or, did I only care about issues that made my life more comfortable, at the expense of so many others. I met with my share of resistance. I was accused being a traitor, an “N” word lover, and of not being a true Christian, I actually heard things like God was for the wealthy and that was why we did not suffer financially. We are actually the chosen ones, the blessed ones, the lucky ones. This literally disturbed my soul. So, I decided perhaps I was an Atheist. Now, unlike my sister, I had never really read the bible, so the idea that I was favored just did not set well with me.

I had a talk with my father and he smiled and told me I was not Atheist. I was in fact Gnostic. Just like him. When I told Luke he agreed he was as well, and of curse my sister realized she too was Gnostic. Imagine our joy when we realized what our born faith was. You see Gnostics are indeed born Gnostics. I was lucky all right, lucky enough to truly see the heart and nature of the one true God. That was when I did read the Bible and I could actually see what religion was all about. I finally understood exactly what it meant to be a Gnostic. This is why, we as Gnostics, believe in and support all the things that democracy stands for. Real Democracy is truly Godly. Once again, I ask, do we all understand how the two are linked? What do we stand for?    

 

What is Democracy?

By Mark McGinnis

Well, as we start a new year, we cannot help but be reminded of the turbulent times we find ourselves living in. We were brought up to believe America’s government was structured in the form of democracy. So, what exactly is Democracy? The dictionary defines democracy as: A system of government by the whole population or all the eligible members of a state. That makes us question whether we have ever really lived by the democratic ideology. It was the idea of our forefathers. However, once capitalism began to rise, a moderate position in both the democratic and the republican party formed causing democracy to be shaky in the U.S. We have discussed Capitalism in previous articles and we know that capitalism is not very democratic. In fact, it actually fosters, promotes even, the idea of a hierarchy. Yes, the haves and the have nots.

We find ourselves in a desperate attempt to maintain the status que. White Europeans basically stole this land from the Natives who inhabited it. The truth in history is the natives were murdered, infected, and subjugated in such an extreme way it ultimately resulted in Native Americans being forced to live in designated areas around the country, otherwise known as reservation. Upon removing the rightful owners, the Europeans were able to declare this a White Nation. Not only are the Native Americans now considered minorities in their own land, some white Americans, too many White Americans, want to silence history. It’s so shameful they want to pretend it did not happen.  

The founding fathers formed a constitution that was laid out for a democratic, run government. They clearly did not want to be governed the way they were in Europe with Royals being in charge of their lives and them having no say. They wanted a system that was for the people by the people. Everything was fine until CAPITALISM came into play. Again, we all know what capitalism really is, we also know that the primary function of conservatism is maintain a superior race and subjugating all none white members of the country, particularly Black Americans, classifying them as minorities.

So, again, capitalism infected both parties in the United States giving us the moderates. The moderates believe that people should all work for what they have and if they make it fine if not…oh well to bad. Moderates do not believe in helping the poor and unfortunate. The subscribe to a metaphor that is bullshit, of pulling one’s self up by one’s bootstraps. This is as impossible as squeezing orange juice from an apple. Please do not be fooled. Since the founding of this country there have been efforts to mask what is really happening behind the scenes. Capitalism actually helps maintain a hierarchy, the very one our forefathers wanted to avoid and prevent. Capitalism’s mask is the idea of free enterprise. Let me assure you, people who live in poverty-stricken situation and environments, who are denied resources to improve their neighborhoods, denied access to resources that would allow them to better their situation, thus continue living and trying to survive in a community that does everything in its power to subjugate them in every way, CANNOT I said CANNOT pull themselves up by their bootstraps. The do not even have boots to strap up.

We do not live in a democracy if part of the citizens in the society, have everything and other parts have nothing. This is what we are seeing today. We have people in the white race, willing to do away with the small amount of democracy we have. They are perfectly willing to completely turn the American system into an Authoritarian form of government. If it means they will be able to continue subjugating, primarily BLACK Americans, killing and denying them, fair and equal access to opportunities afforded white, and other minorities that include Asian and even Mexican Americans, so be it. Examples of Mexican and Asian Americans inclusion are: Mexican and Asian restaurants all over this country. It is not easy for African Americans to get funding to start up new businesses, but somehow Asian and Mexican Americans have access to funding.

To many White Americans do not want law enforcement to be accountable for murdering African Americans. After all, policing was formed to control, subjugate, and depress African Americans. This is the truth. They do not want to fund much less support African American businesses. A recent example of this is a story in the news last week about a white patron discovering they purchased something from a business that was black owned. Upon discovering the ethnicity of the owner, they demanded their money back. https://eurweb.com/2022/01/23/a-racist-client-demands-refund-after-discovering-the-business-owner-is-black-video/ . this is in a European web new site. Too many White Americans do not want African Americans to have what they have and are will turn this country upside down to make sure they are always deemed better.  

For those of you who feel we are regressing, no, we are not. The nature of too many White Americans is finally unmasked. It has always been this way. Those responsible for maintain this way of life cannot hide it anymore. It has been exposed to the world. The coldblooded murders perpetrated by law enforcement are literally a form of genocide. The forced deprivation. The denial of access to necessary, life sustaining human entitlements. It is now exposed, thanks to cell phones, and yes, social media, and even COVID. We cannot go back to the blissful blindness most White Americans so willing enjoyed. You see, African Americans have always known they are treated with disdain, discriminated against, murdered. It is white Americans who are comfortable believing otherwise. White Americans who like to say African Americans a making excuses, things are better for them. A few of them have made it so this somehow means all of them can do the same. Again, BULLSHIT!!!  

They now want to further deny black people a voice in who will represent them in their government. They want to deny them the right to their bodies, forcing them to continue to bring children into the world to live in suppressed, depressed conditions. I know because I have visited many poor areas around the U.S. and it is very sad and unnecessary. They do not have to live this way and it is not, NOT their doing or fault. That is the first big lie we have lived with for years. It is a LIE! They are not given a choice. This was evident when we learned about what happened in the Greenwood district in Tulsa Oklahoma, also known as Black Wall Street. This happened in 1921 and it was hidden from everyone, successfully left out of the American history books, finally making its way out of the shadows, giving us a glimpse into just one of the many ugly, genocidal acts carried out on African Americans in a recent past. I mean, need there be anything else that proves Black Americans are being denied the right to prosper in this country. NO!!!

What is democracy to you? Do you now or have you ever believed we live in a democratic country? Is this a government for the people by the people? All the people? I invite you to take a good look at what has been going on in this country, and recognize that what is happening now is just a result of all those practices coming to a head. It is time liberal, progressive White Americans join in the fight to finally suppress the ones who should be suppressed, and rid ourselves of hate-filled people who are comfortable making life a living hell for a group of human beings simply because they have darker skin. It is time to really get on the right side and do the right thing. It is time to push back against book banning. They have already taken Social Studies out of public-school curriculum, now they want to take history as well. Are we going to allow this?

 

Self-Control

By Mark McGinnis

We end the year talking about one of the hardest things many people struggle with, self-control. Yes, controlling self is the hardest thing for many of us to do. We have talked about how sin is literally excessive behavior. Why? Because excessive behavior impacts others in a negative way. Anything we do that hurts others is a sin. When a person lacks self-control the effects on others range from discomfort to murder. Recent examples of this include:  Ahmaud Arbery, Breanna Taylor, and George Floyd. These examples show a failure to control how one feels about the race and/or ethnicity of another. These innocent people were victims of perpetrators who lack an ability to control the intensity of their racial hatred. So, a lack of self-control is an attribute of HATE.  

People who love their guns are often so excessive they do things like Kyle Rittenhouse, which resulted in the death of two men and another man being serious injured. Donald Trump is so narcissistic he caused great damage to this entire country, fracturing our democracy, and we find ourselves continuing to try to get things back on the right track. Wealthy people are so privilege they often do things that harm thousands of people because of their lack of control when it comes to greed.  

 

To control SELF is a behavioral issue, and many emotional elements are involved. These elements contribute to our ability to master or fail at mastering self-control. Many people like to blame how they are raised if they lack self-control. However, all we need to accept is that we all know right from wrong and it is up us to behave accordingly. This makes a lack of self-control a form of selfishness thus also an attribute of HATE. Again, this is sinful simply because a failure to maintain one’s self is often harmful to the self and/or others.

We share this planet with others, that means we simply cannot do whatever we want, whenever we want, and/or how ever we want. There is no excuse for this type behavior, and simply because one can do something does not mean they should. This is where our moral cognition comes into play. As we have discussed in previous articles, this is the highest level of mental cognition we as humans reach. According to all the experts in our past, those who devote all their study and work in understanding human development and behavior, only five percent of human reach the fifth level of mental cognition. This is also written in the Christian Bible, when it says only 5% of humanity is harvestable.

 

With all of that said, our understanding of why our world is in a constant form of chaos, wars and threats of war, one need only understand that this is a moral issue. In order to live up to our moral responsibility we have to be capable of controlling how we conduct ourselves at all times. Yahushua tells us his burden is light and his yoke is easy, he did not say it was effortless. Self-control requires constant effort to maintain a moral awareness of how we behave all day every day. No one really has time to control others, with the exception of children. It is a full-time effort to control ourselves.

Maintaining one’s self requires discipline, a strong sense of moral values, as well as a value of self. It also demands a strong sense of responsibility, and dedication. All religious literature speaks to this as a major concern when it comes to human behavior. It’s not hard to analyze human behavior disorders and see how a lack of self-control impacts a community, a society even, in a major way. When we look at our criminal justice system, the reason it is unbalance and unfair, is because of a lack of self-control found in persons who work in positions of power and authority. This would include police officers, prosecutors, defenders, and judges. This has all shown itself in recent high-profile cases that have been publicized.

At some point all of use have been victimized by someone who lacks self-control and has caused great, often devastating harm to us or someone we know. This happens in our churches, our schools, places that provide medical assistance, and clearly in our government. It is important to recognize how self-control impacts society and to do our part to insure we are not contributing to the negative results of lacking an ability to control one’s self. Let’s talk about a personal experience or encounter with a person who clearly lacked self-control.

 

“Choices”
by Mason Denise Carlisle
 

As we journey through this life, we learn early that we are constantly making decisions in our day-to-day lives. This begins from the minute we are aware we are alive. In the beginning the choices we make test our boundaries. We learn right from wrong yes from no as our behavioral development begins. In previous articles we have discussed how important good parenting is. Clearly, we need to have good parents because good parents are perfect guides for children. If we have good guidance early in life, we learn how to make basic decisions in live successful lives.

So, let us assume we were fortunate enough to grow up with good parents. We develop a strong sense of right and wrong, and responsibility. These positive traits our parents instilled in us affords us the ability to make the right choices in life. Because, we learn that the choice we make in life have consequences, and this usually helps us carefully evaluate our decisions.

There are often times and/or situations that impact the decision we make and often times, depending on our values, trying to do what is right in a world full of wrong can be very difficult. It can sometimes have consequences that are unwarranted. In a perfect world, a woman should be able to take a walk whenever she wants, wherever she wants without fear of being harmed. In a perfect world a child should be able to reach for a cupcake and not suffer a beating. In a normal world a black man should be able to drive a nice care without fear of being pulled over by law enforcement and facing bodily harm or even death.  

At some point in our adult life, if we reach a cognitively moral maturity level and our judgement is based on conscious righteousness. A woman will value her virtue for herself above all others, and am man will value his honor. These foundations aide in all decisions going forward. They keep us from being easily laid or swift to do the wrong thing. They insure we are always responsible, reliable, dependable, and honest. At the end of the day, we have to have some self-imposed boundaries. We have to have some roads we will not cross, and some doors we will not open.

Believe it or not the biggest key to success is knowing and living our lives based on the values we develop early in life. We must know and understand that we matter, we have value. We must strive to live up to our values no matter how uncomfortable thing may become because of our stance, how much oppositions, and we must always take responsibility for our decisions, no matter how many people disagree. If we have right on our side, and our choices are based in or on the best possible outcome, then we stand by our decisions and the Most High will always stand with us even when no one around us is supportive at the time.

Let’s talk about a choice or decision we have made in our lives and at the time the whole world was against that decision. Tell us the circumstances that led up to or caused you to make this decision. Why was there so much opposition? Who were the main people opposing the decision? What were some of the reasons they were so strongly against you?  Why did the decision matter to you? Did you stand by your decision? If not, why? If you did, why? Tell us about the overall outcome, good or bad.  

Let’s Get Started….

 

Emotional Pits
Mason Denise Carlisle

 

This year we are on a quest to find internal peace in this world riddled with chaos. In this article we will discuss times when we find ourselves in the middle of quarry full of emotional quick sand. The truth is, in life there are certain situations, places, memories and/or even objects that trigger reacts because they touch a sensitive part in our soul that sets off a variety of responses.  Sometimes, we are not aware we have a soft spot about something, anything, until we find ourselves in a situation that causes an unexpected reaction. How we react to something at any given moment varies as well. For these reasons, it is essential that we are careful to stay clear of things, and mostly people, who enjoy opening our emotional nadir.

Some things improve with time, as when we are young, we do not give much thought to the things we say and do, nor do we concern ourselves to much with how it may be affecting those around us. Remember the discussions we have had about moral cognition? Most people do not reach the fifth level of cognition which is one of morality. That is a strong sense of right and wrong in all things. For example, those who are easily angered, which often leads to verbal, mental, and physical altercations. Desire is a powerful emotion. It causes various actions. These actions are typically based on how we learn to deal with things that go on in our everyday lives. Parents teach their children these things usually by setting good examples of basic self-control and responsibility.

An inability to demonstration a healthy level of self- control, constraint, negatively influences how we emotionally handle our desires. Usually, a low level or ability to maintain or manage ourselves, especially our desires, leads to excessive behaviors. Not to mention the many forms of identifiable mental disorders contributing to the struggle to control emotions and reaction to the things around us.

For those of us who do not have mental disorders, but suffer some form of abuse as a child, or emotional development is damaged. It is a form of emotional disconnection that effects how we respond and often react to others. This is good and bad. On one hand it is easy to shot other’s out and cut them off while on the other it is difficult to express healthy affection to those we love. Then there are those who disconnect to a point of being unable to identify their own feelings. They are those who live in the shadow of others, subconsciously seeking out people who will continue to abuse them the way they were abused as children.  

 

So, based on our childhood all of us have things in our individual temperament that potentially affect our emotional reactions and responses when we interact with others. These reactions and responses can cause us to fall unto situations that are emotional pit-falls. Sometimes those closest to us who know us pretty well, know just how to push our buttons that open our individual emotion floodgate. If the floodgate invokes positive emotions that is great, However, if the feelings are negative these emotions often turn into arguments, threats of and literal physical confrontation. Thus, negative emotional pit falls should be avoided for obvious reasons.

Violence never ends well. This is why it is best to avoid intense verbal altercations as clearly, they are dangerous. It is even more serious when dealing with someone who has been clinically diagnosed with one of the primary mental disorders. There was a time when people suffering with these conditions were thought to be demon possessed. Well let’s face it, all of us who have a person with a mental disorder can certainly see why. People who are diagnosed with one of the main mental disorders such as depression, bipolarism and schizophrenia, struggle to control many aspects of their condition. This means their emotional responses are often irrational.

To be aware of, accept and acknowledge someone we know has one of these disorders, does not mean we have to allow them to draw us into an emotional trench. Their inability to control themselves means confrontations with them are usually inevitable. If they are family or a close friend, they know exactly what to say to open our negative emotional trenches. This requires us to start evaluating what is best for us when it comes to these people. Honestly, the best way to deal with someone like this is to avoid situations that have always led to confrontations. Pay as much attention to them as they do us. Refuse to be pulled into conversation that always go south when dealing with this person. Do not feed the demon, disengage right away.  

This is easier said than done. Some of us are better at disengaging than others. Start by limiting the time spent with someone like this. We have to stop excusing bad behavior. All we can do is limit the type of behaviors we participate in. Believe it or not excessive gossip should always be avoided. Hearsay is equally as dangerous. We can refuse to react, respond or participate in hearsay. If we did not hear or see for ourselves it is hearsay. Also, do not say something to or about one person you cannot repeat. We have to be willing to say what we mean and mean what we say. These are a few steps that help insulate us and allow us to avoid emotional pits.  

We all have been programmed to put everyone else above ourselves and we have to remember The Most High loves us and expects us to love ourselves. This means we do not have to allow others to lure us into behaviors that are dangerous. To have an easy nature does not mean to be weak. This means to watch what we talk about at all times. You never know when you are offending someone even if you are not speaking to or about them personally. Having neutral conversations about impersonal topics is always best, especially if we desire peace of mine to simply get through our days with as little stress as possible. Peace, let us remember, that is our desire as we journey through this often, hellish expedition called life.

Barriers
Justin W.

I grew up a well-off Jewish kid who had no idea what racial bias meant until my family left our home country, where I attended private schools, and moved to the United States. My father, working in a lucrative profession in Tel Aviv, was offered a partnership with a gentleman he worked closely with. He accepted and moved his family to the United States. I went from a private school into the American public school system. This is when I first saw an African American, along with a Latin and Asian American. I smiled thinking America was a really cool place that had a variety of people.

I was ten years old entering the fifth grade. The teacher introduced me to my now fellow classmates, told them all to say hello, told me to say hello, and pointed to the seat I would occupy. I said hello and my accent was immediately noticed, drawing mixed reactions. An African American male asked me why I sounded so different. He said different. I heard many comments, most came from the white students who sat up front, all saying I talked funny. One white male student declared I was stupid, and the word he used was retarded. The African American male said “different” and that actually eased my nerves. I politely told him I was from another country. He asked me where, California. I shook my head no and smiled, realizing or thinking American students were not taught there were other countries besides their own.

I told him I came from a county across the ocean and his eyes sprang open, as did many others. He smiled and said “Cool!” I took my seat directly in front of him and he told me I was a cool new student and genuinely felt proud to have me there. He said, “Wait to I tell my dad about you.” I smiled and nodded. He read my mind and I told him I could not wait to tell my dad about him as well. I really liked him. 

As the teacher prepared to begin, another student called out and asked why she did not allow me to tell them about where I was from like other new students. Most of the students agreed except for the white male who called me stupid. He firmly said, “Who Cares! He talks funny and I don’t want to hear him tell us anything about where he came from. The place of dummies that’s where!” Some of the kids laughed but the African American who said I was cool told him to shut up! He also told him he was the stupid one who could not even read.

Although what he said caused even more of the students to laugh, it angered the white male, who immediately decided he did not like me. He glared angrily at the African American male but before he could respond, the teacher called out their names. The white males name is Wayne, and the African American males name was André. She told them both to knock it off and urged the rest of the class to quiet down. She cleared her throat and said there was simply not enough time to do a long introduction because they were already running behind schedule. André, mumbled but most of us heard him, “It’s not like his black.”

The teachers face turned red with anger and she told him he was going to the principal’s office. He stood up and walked toward her desk. “Yeah, that’s all you do is send the black kids to the principal. That’s why my dad said you a racist, just like Wayne!” He said as he walked toward her desk, glaring at Wayne. “And I ain’t scared of you either so don’t try that with me. You might scare the girls and these white kids but you don’t scare me!”

Another African American student agreed and called out. “Me either! I guess I’m going to Dré. All cause she don’t like the new white kid as much as she don’t like us. She think we stupid as Wayne!” he said. His name was David and I have to admit his comments did seem to catch her off guard. David approached her desk and I stood up as well, deciding I could not allow them to get in trouble for defending me. Wayne pointed at me and laughed, “See he is dumb, siding with the niggers!” 

An African American female named Deidra stood up and shouted, “what did you call us?” The teacher stood up and reached for André who was clearly angry. “You just gonna let him call us that?” Deidra painfully asked. “I’m getting out of this class. I don’t want to be taught nothin’ by no teacher that don’t like me cause I’m black!” she said also standing. I was amazed. What was really going on here, I wondered. I recalled my father putting me in private school and I knew it was because of similar situations in our country. Suddenly I did not want him to know these things were going on in America too.

The teacher told everyone to calm down, she decided not to send anyone to the principal’s office, something I soon realized was because she did not want to send Wayne to the office as well. She did not allow me to talk about where I was from and continue with class after everyone was seated, completely dismissing how the African American students felt about what had occurred. I immediately realized Dré was right, she did not like me clearly because of where I was from. She did not reprimand Wayne for what he said either and all of the minority students took note of it, some writing it down. I watched an Asian American hand David a piece of paper and he added it to his notebook. The teacher told them to stop passing notes and they did not respond.

When it was time for lunch, I followed all the students to the lunch room. I picked up my lunch, paid for it, and looked around for a place to sit. Dré smiled at me and said “You can sit with us if you are all right sitting with some blacks like Chris,” he said, pointing at another white kid at the table. I smiled and nodded. I started to follow him when Wayne approached me with another larger, older kid. When they reached me, the older kid asked me if I was a Jew. I did not know what that meant so I told him I was from Israel. He nodded, looked at Wayne and told him he was right. I realized he was his older brother, when he said their dad told them about Jews. The white people who aren’t any better than the blacks. He did not use the “N” word because an older group of black kids were approaching us.

“Let’s go Jim here come more of ‘em,” Wayne said. “I hate the niggers,” he grumbled and as they walked away, I angrily called out asking him what did he mean calling them niggers and I pointed at the black males and females approaching. “Is that what they said?” an older African American male asked and I nodded and pointed at Wayne. Dré was pointing at Wayne as well and first there were shouts, followed by flying fist and feet. A beautiful Africa America girl name Theresa took my hand and pulled me out of the line of fire. The teachers arrived and broke the older males apart and Theresa looked at me and sighed, “Welcome to the USA,” she softly said and I smiled and nodded. She bumped me with her butt and said, “with your cute self.” I could feel my face warming and my grin widened as I wondered if I should tell her, she was the beautiful one, not me.  

As I sat down, I commented on how pretty she was. Dré, Chris, and David laughed and agreed. It appeared they all had a crush on Theresa but said she would go for me because of how I talked and I was real good-looking. That shocked me. I never thought about what I looked like before. “That’s what’s wrong with his ugly ass,” Deidra grumbled pointing at Wayne, whom I had to agree was not at all pleasing to the eye. I looked around the table and it occurred to me, everyone at the table was pleasing to the eye, including Deidra who looked like one of the other boys. “She one of us,” Chris said, tilting his hand from side to side. I smiled and nodded.

When my dad asked me how my day went during dinner, I told him everything. He was angry and told my mom he agreed with Deidra, he wanted me out of the classroom I was in and into another one. My dad told me to never judge but to be careful about being too friendly with the blacks because it could cause more problems. The next day dad went to school with me, Deidra’s mom was there, and Dré’s dad was there. His dad was like the mayor or something, maybe a judge, I remembered thinking. Someone very important. The teacher was in tears, the principal clearly felt sorry for her, and Deidra’s mom immediately said everything I was thinking the day before.

Dré did not want me to leave the class and it made my dad smile and nod. He left me deciding I was in good hands, especially when we left the office and Chris, David, and Theresa were waiting in the hall way with a group of other students of all races. My dad ruffled my hair and sent me on my way. In the days that followed, Wayne and his big brother, along with other antisemitic students began to bully me. Chris and Dré took me to a group of kids that welcomed me and I sat and hung out with them going forward. They were Jewish like me and it was enough to make Wayne and his group of bully’s leave me alone.  

For the next two years, from time to time, I was called names, sometimes things were thrown at us, I was pushed in gym class, slapped during an assembly, and one day while in the bathroom, I was cornered by three white males. Dré burst into the bathroom with several other males and before I knew it we were involved in a brawl. One of the white males was Wayne. I did not recognize because he had put on weight, but, it did not surprise me, he was behind to attack.

As we left the principal’s office there she was again. Theresa was even prettier now, and when she saw me, she ran to me and threw her arms around me. She immediately started examining my face and I was checking her out in her cheerleading outfit. Man, she was gorgeous. She started shouting at Wayne and his buddies as they left the principal’s office. She called them bullies and told them they better not touch me again or her dad was coming to lock their asses up. She hugged me close and I forgot all about any pain I might have been feeling. All I knew was it felt good in this fine lady’s arms. She released me to look at my face again and I heard Dré say, “He still cute dang!” and everyone laughed.

My dad laughed as well and that is when I realized my parents were there. Dré’s parents were there as well, and my mom had a big smile on her face. They all laughed again when Theresa told Wayne, who was sitting on a bench outside the office, waiting on his parents to arrive, as we were all suspended for a day, he better be glad I was still cute. He grunted at her and refused to look at Dré or me and our families.

My mom hugged Theresa and smiled at her and my dad elbowed me and arched an eyebrow. My mom was very upset when she saw my face but could not resist teasing me about Theresa. I had a black eye, my lip was swollen, I think. All I remember was Theresa, how soft she was, how good she smelled, and how beautiful she was. I was in love. It was worth it I told my dad and he burst out laughing.

A month later my father’s partner died and he became the sole owner of the business they shared. We moved into a bigger home and I was enrolled in a private school. I was going to miss many of my friends but was a little relieved to be going to a school where I did not have to worry about kids like Wayne. To my delight, my mom surprised me with a special dinner party. She invited Theresa’s family over for dinner and they accepted. That’s when I learned Teresa was biracial. Her mother was African American and her father was Italian and sure enough, her father was a police officer. André’s was there with his parents as well. His mom was Native American and his dad was African American. Dré’s dad was a judge just like I thought. We had a wonderful time and Theresa told me I was spoiled. She was right.  

After we moved I had little to no contact with African Americans for the next seven years of my life. I sometimes heard things but paid little to no attention to the plight of African Americans. I am one of those people who never lost my accent, and at this point, accepted the fact that I was good-looking and both those things were working in my favor. Life was good. I assimilated into my environment, allowing myself to believe African Americans were their own biggest problem. I now realize my complacent attitude was contributed to this country’s problem with systemic racism. I was even reluctant to hire African Americans when I took on more responsibility of the family business. I gave no thought to how unjustly they were treated in every aspect of their lives.

It was early 2006 I stumbled upon a strange look website with a name I could hardly pronounce, but my mother knew it well. I was recently divorced from a very stressful, verbally abusive white female. Why did I marry her? Well, she was desired by all the men I knew and I had to have what all of them wanted. I realized during the course of our ten-year marriage that all that glitters is not gold. I looked around the site, wondering why I was drawn to it anyway. I found and purchased a book, and to my delight I really enjoyed it. I also discovered and began to participate in the comments in the website forum.

A part of me was renewed and this is where I met my second wife. Again, I refusing to see the clear warning signs, mainly screaming we had nothing in common. Yes, I am the reason Sir Paul decided it was time to start the pre-marriage courses. My second marriage ended, literally almost costing me my life and I promised my mother I would not marry again unless it was right.

I looked forward to reading each new volume in the seven-novel saga. They are the absolute best novels I have ever read. I discovered my faith, and found myself, my center. I married for the third and final time. My third wife, like my first love, is a beautiful African American woman and I have to admit, my mother was right. I have always been more attracted to women of color. My beautiful Nubian Goddess is my soul mate, the best part of me. I am the proud father of six children, four sons and two daughters.

Recently, I have been in touch with several of the people I met when I arrived in the United States. Theresa, two years my senior, went off to a prestigious college after high school. She is a pediatrician now. André also went to college and chose a legal career path. He is now a practicing attorney. No one knows what became of Wayne or his brother, and frankly, I don’t care. David owns a barber shop, and Deidra is a sports trainer and married to a really nice woman. The first thing they all say when they see me is I haven’t changed a bit. But I have.

I went through a psychological recovery as a wrestled with the truth in regards to a belief structure I allowed myself to be sucked into. I became involved in activities that exposed realities, instead of false beliefs and accusations. My eyes were finally open and I did not like what I was seeing. I could no longer be a part of the horrible injustices afflicting minorities, particularly African Americans. I, along with many around the world, was forced to acknowledge a real American law enforcement horror witnessing the murder of George Floyd. For some of us, this awakening began with Trayvon Martin, and simply intensified over time. Now many Americans, many around the world in fact, are demanding accountability, reform, and real change. The UN chief is urging the United States to stop downplaying racism in this country per a CNN report, the link is below.

https://www.cnn.com/2021/06/28/us/united-nations-human-rights-racism-trnd/index.html

Yes, it is time to dispense with lies and coverups, the denials, and whitewashed stories about this country’s history. Yes, Juneteenth is now a holiday, but I agree with the UN Chief, it is time for more, time to remove all barriers, reform our criminal justice system, reform our ways of policing all citizens, and give reparations to the descendants of enslaved Africans in this country. It is time to do what is right.

 

Worthy
By Mark McGinnis

 

Worthy. What does that mean? Worthy of what? Who determines if one is worthy?  How is it determined? First, we were deemed worth at birth. That is, we are worthy of the gift of life. With that worthiness comes entitlements, these entitlements are necessary to sustain the life we were deemed worthy of having. It is that simple. The Most High has decided we who live are worthy of the life we were given.

So, what are the natural things those who live are entitled to? We have been here before but let us recap. The living require nourishment, food, hydration, water, oxygen, clean air, shelter, a home, and medical assistance. We have Free Will and Yahushua, said the Most High desires we all have prosperity as well, free will. These are the GOD given entitlements that come with the life the Most High felt we are worthy of living.

Therefore, who, if anyone, has the right to take that gift? Who has the right to deny others the things necessary to sustain life? Has the Most High appointed anyone to deny those who are living their right to progress, grow, have the ability to achieve and do better in life? NO! No man has the right to do any of these things, not in the sight or by the will of the Most High. Man has conveniently granted other men this right but it has never been granted by the creator of ALL THAT LIVE. All That Is, I Am, The Most High, has not granted any human permission to imprison, subjugate and or vanquish the life of another. Certainly not a life that has actually been born.

However, it is acceptable to end life when defending one’s self and others against someone who is threatening the life of someone and/or others. Killing is something an individual does when they are defending life. Murder is the crime a person is attempting that must be prevented by the one and/or ones defending life. To kill is sometimes the only option. This brings us to what is occurring today in regards to law enforcement in the United States.

Three African Americans were shot, two killed and one remains in hospital in critical attention after being shot ten times for holding his cell phone to his ear, while this article was being written.

Below is a list of names of black people fatally involved in police shootings in 2020 and so far in 2021:

*Andrew Brown          04/23/2021
*Isaiah Brown             04/21/2021        (critical condition)
*Ma’Khia Bryant         04/21/2021
*Daunte Wright          04/11/2021
Marvin Scott               03/14/2021
Patrick Warren           01/10/2021
Vincent Belmonte       01/05/2021
Angelo Quintio           12/26/2020
Casey Goodson Jr.    12/04/2020
Sincere Pierce           11/13/2020
Marcellis Stinnette     10/03/2020
Dijon Kizzee               08/31/2020
Rayshard Brooks       06/12/2020
Carlos Carson            06/06/2020
David McAtee             06/01/2020
Tony McDade             05/26/2020
*George Floyd           05/25/2020
Dreasjon Reed          05/06/2020
Michael Ramos          04/24/2020
Daniel Prude             03/30/2020
*Breonna Taylor         03/13/2020
Manuel Ellis               03/03/2020
William Green           01/27/2020

The following is a list with an Asterisk marking high profile case involving African Americans who were murdered by law enforcement prior to 2020:

Freddie Gray died of injuries caused by police 8/19/2016.
Alton Sterling was shot to death 5/5/2016
*Tamir Rice died 11/20/2014
*Michael Brown was killed 8/9/2014
*John Crawford III 8/5/2014
*Eric Gamer was killed 7/17/2014.

Let us not forget those murdered by none police officers by white men who believe they had the authority and the right to rob someone of their Most High given right to life:

*Trayvon Martin
*Sandra Bland
*Ahmaud Arbery

There have been many instances where murders were not killed to protect the innocent and note the ethnicity and gender of said mass murders, White Males. It is moment such as these when we can do nothing but reflect on the reality of race inequality in the United States. We have heard the current President, Joe Biden, Vice President, Camila Harris, and Senator Tim Scott proclaim America is not a racist country, but, it so obvious that is exactly what this country is. It is now time to stop denying systemic racism in American if we ever hope to put an end to it.

Let us keep in mind that it is the American tax payer that employees law enforcement officers. We all pay taxes, with the exception of those like the former president Donald Trump, who make an art if evading paying taxes. The very ones who expect and often receive the most benefits of law enforcement. The ones who contribute the least toward officer compensation for risking their lives.

Let us remember that not only are Black Americans paying taxes and being murdered by some of those they employee, but republican politicians are trying to take it a step further and demand they pay for representation they had no part in selecting. They are trying to deny black people the right to exercise their constitutional right to vote.

Please do not be fooled. Do not continue to walk around in willful blindness. It is ungodly to deny others life the Most High bestowed unto them. It is ungodly to deny those that live the things that each and every one of us is entitled to in order to sustain life. This is sin as it falls into one of the outlined definitions of what constitutes a deadly sin. Deadly, this is not hyperbole but literal. People don not have access to food, they lack adequate finances to purchase nourishment. Many people do not have access to clean water due to no fault of their own. However, it is entirely the fault of the wealthy greedy, lustful, gluttonous and prideful who cause harm to others.

We are worthy because The Most High decided we are. No one has the right to lean on another’s neck, chocking the life from that person simply because they are in law enforcement. No one has the right to shot someone in the back of their head because they wear a uniform, carry a badge, and have a loaded weapon. None of these accessories are tokens that allowed anyone to, brutalize, use excessive force, terrorize, traumatize and even murder another living being. 

Also, remember, some of these officers are murdering children. These are simply not the kinds of people you would want you children around at any time. If a person abuses and is capable of murdering a child, the ethnicity or gender of said child does not matter. If a man can wrap his arm around the throat of another or lean on the throat of another until they are dead, that person is to be avoided. This is not a person that should be in law enforcement. These are murderers first and far most. That means they can and potentially will do this to you are someone you know and care about.

Excessive behavior has no respect of person. It is excessive no matter what no matter whom. Men committing these horrible offenses lack self-control. They are heartless, menacing. They have to be subject to the law as unfortunately is the only way to achieve accountability. They are white and because this is a RACIST COUNTRY, many other white people will send them money if they are simply fired from their positions. Far too many racist white people make sure there murdering white men suffer no consequence if they are police officers and the victim is an African American adult or child.  

We must continue to fight against injustices done to one ethnic group as it can quickly to white people if left unchecked. In Kenosha three people were shot, two of them white males, all standing up to demand fair and equal treatment for all. The seventeen-year-old who ended their lives was embraced, given money, thus encouragement to murder over and over again. Mike Lindell, the racist My Pillow guy and Ricky Schroder paid for this young murderer’s release from jail after the shooting. Lindell is not a surprise but Schroder was a shocker. You never know who will end up showing use they are indeed racists.  

Everything and everyone living has been deemed worthy of their life via the Most High. That is all any of us need. There is no human being on the level of the Most High thus they do not operate in the interest of the Most High when they take it upon themselves to deny another what is necessary to sustain life. All that live are Worthy by way of All That IS. It is that simple.

 

Knowing You
By Mason Denise Carlisle


We go through our lives with somewhat certainty, we know ourselves pretty well. But these past four years have made many of us take a closer look at that person in the mirror. Several years ago, Jay had us all do an exercise that required us to look at ourselves in a mirror for five minutes. Many of us experienced an emotional awakening. Most of us admitted we shed a few tears. For those of us who participated in this exercise, we saw ourselves, heard ourselves, and realized how little we know about who we are. Over the next few years, we went through more exercises, many psychological, that helped us analyze what we were learning about ourselves, how we became the people we are, and what changes we decided we needed to make to be the person we realized we wanted to be.

The truth is there comes a time when we need to know who we are at our core and where we stand, morally. When a time comes that we find ourselves in a situation where who we are, takes center stage, it is best to know who that is and that person stands for. It is not easy to look at yourself in a mirror for five minutes and walk away unaffected. It is impossible for a reprobate person to do this exercise. A reprobate person is a demon. That is a relationship hint. Challenge your friends, family members and potential love interest, to look at themselves for five minutes in the mirror. Do not ignore their initial reaction.

We asked ourselves what kind of people revel in the suffering of other living beings and/or things. To what extent do they revel? Are they passive, participants or literal perpetrators? Passive revelers, watch, laugh, and cowardly make comments about those who they witness being tormented. They make excuses for bad behavior and find ways to blame the victims. We have seen video of people physically harming others, and can see others watching and offering no aide, no assistance, refusing to intervene, and closing their door and simply walking away. The key characteristic in a all revelers on all levels.

Participating revelers take part in the torment, such as, abusive parents, those who gang rape or attack an individual are smaller, weaker group of individuals. Members who willfully join any form of gang. There is always a leader, this is the devil among them, this is the perpetrator. This person shows their vileness as a form of introduction to their followers. They then step back and instruct, incite, entice and encourage their followers. An example of this is the attack on the United States Capital on January 6, 2021.

What kind of person can defecate in anyone’s house, on the floor and smear feces across walls? Demons do these vile, disgusting things. Are they easy to spot? No not always, but in time they are easily recognized. Sometimes after a short amount of time. demons with good representatives, which most of them have, cannot maintain the façade. These are the gluttons, prideful, greedy, envious, slothful, vengeful and lustful individuals among us. All of them. Why? Because sin is simply excessive behavior that causes harm to other living beings or the environment.  

We ask ourselves what kind of man can punch a woman, knock her to the ground, kick her, stomp her, and spit on her before walking away, in broad daylight? A Devil, a coward that preys on those weaker than them. It does not matter the ethnicity! This is gender, strength, and size situation. What kind of people watched and even shot the door without offering any form of assistance? Demons, they are even bigger cowards as they clearly coward and passively bow down to the cowardly perpetrator.

What kind of person leans on the neck of another human being, in front of children, murdering a man in broad daylight? A devil, also a coward as his victim was handcuffed and unable to fight back. Oh, and let us not forget there was also demon assistance in this murder. Recognize these type individuals because they are all around us. It does not matter what their profession.

We have also heard teachers speaking horribly about their students, their student’s families, forcing young students to unnecessarily do vile disgusting things. For example: a teacher forced a five-year-old student to unclog a toilet with his bare hands. There are doctors who struggle to hide how much they do not want to treat a minority patient. Judges, lawyers, politicians. Demons are all around us and it is the devils and demons among us that make this HELL.

It is important to know yourself so you are always prepared. For warned ins for armed. Image is everything. It is the world’s first impression of who we are. Keep this in mind and do more observing of those we encounter. This allows our instinct to kick as it warns us when danger is near. We must listen to our instinct and we most bravely stand up and out confronting demons and devils, especially when they are attacking someone or something weaker, defenseless, and innocent. We have to know who we are and were we stand, morally if we want to survive and successfully progress in this life and beyond.

 

Self-Aware
By JR Gallo

Let us start this article out with a definition. Self-aware defined is; having conscious knowledge of one’s own character and feelings. So, if that is understood, we can talk about the very serious issue of Racism, not just in the United States but around the world. We have to first confront the clear unwillingness many White people have even acknowledging this serious problem. Why is that? If we are self-aware, we should be in touch with our character and fully aware of what stimulates our emotions, motivates our reactions, and influences how we feel.  We know ourselves, therefore we know when we are participating or passively allowing, others to be plagued with discriminatory forms of torment.

 We are all aware of how too many in the majority, this being White people, deliberately causes great disparities that are literally debilitating for minorities, particularly Black Americans. It is time to stop tolerating this behavior. It is time to stop over-looking all the varying ways and forms, this behavior is encouraged and allowed. It is time to stop focusing on the comfort of the majority and do something about this traumatizing conduct. White people know Black Americans are not afforded the same amenities they take for granted. It is not a shock to anyone that black people are not given the same considerations in many circumstances. These are situations that range from financial opportunities to legalities and justice. So, to be aware this is happening is to be aware there is a serious problem with racial injustices in this country. It is therefore fair to say all Americans know this is a problem. The question is how do we begin to start really dealing with systemic racism.

Racism is taught, passed down from generation to generation. It is taught both directly and indirectly. How many of you recall a study called the “Doll” test that included young children of various ethnicities? One of the results led toy manufactures to making ethnically diverse dolls. That was a good start and if most of you were not aware of this, many children preferred the dolls of ethnicities other than white. In fact, the black Barbie dolls flew off retail stores shelves resulting in back-orders and waiting list. But, the damage of racism is devastating, especially for children. Below is a clip of one doll study that included a diverse group of Italian children. It shows how intrenched racism is and what it does to a child’s sense of self-worth and value. It also proves this is not just an American issue.

https://www.youtube.com/watch/QRZPw-9sJtQ

While looking at the video, please take note of the looks on the faces of the children when they are asked which doll looks most like them. This is asked after the children were asked which doll was bad, which doll was ugly. Understand most of the children ranged in various ethnic groups that included Asian, Hispanic, Black and White. Note that all children pointed at the black doll as being ugly and bad. Also, all non-white children pointed to the black doll when asked which doll, they resembled most. Even at such young ages, the children who are not white, associate themselves more with the black doll. What does that tell us? One thing is for sure, all minorities, non-white people, experience a form of racism. Children see it all around them. They see it on Billboards, advertisement, television, and in movies, including Disney movies. The human culture around the world, sends subliminal messages that white is better, prettier, and smarter.

Well, these typical forms of delivering messages like this are fading. In fact, we have new images that leave no doubt as to what is really happening in our communities. Just watching George Floyd being murdered by a police officer, in broad daylight, leaves no room for doubt we have a racial problem that is prevalent in every corner of our society. Keep in mind witnessing Eric Garner choked to death by an officer, Tamir Rice gun down while playing alone in a park, and the images of Michael Brown’s lifeless body lying in the middle of the street clearly were not enough. We later found out Browns lifeless body lay there for hours and his mother couldn’t go near him. Imagine the agony that created for her.

You would think all of this would bring about a change, on the contrary, instead the police officer violence against Black people seems to get worse. It is not just the males. We watched Black females, young and old treated horribly by officers. White officers, are doing this today to young high school Black girls, body slamming them on concrete so hard it knocks them out, on school grounds. No parent sends their child to school to be brutalized in this fashion. They were flung to the ground, slapped, and even punched. This progressed to having their homes invaded and being murdered, or being taken by surprise as officers burst into their homes while they are in the shower, humiliating them as they stand naked before them. How traumatizing this clearly is for the victim.

We are receiving a glimpse into the lives of Black Americans and it’s horrific. The degradation is without doubt. We all know these kinds of things would not happen to White people and certainly not a White woman because we have never seen any such thing. In contrast, we have witnessed a staggering number of videos that show how brutally the police deal with Black people. It is no longer possible to deny how devasting racism truly is. Honestly, no White person can tell a Black person they are playing the race card when service is denied, or when opportunity and/or employment is denied.   

Former President Trump drove through a ghetto and had the audacity to ask how anyone could choose to live like that. Is it honestly possible it has never occurred to him no one does want to live that way? Is it possible he does not feel any responsibility for his part in the horrible living conditions to many Black people are often forced to live in? Like to many White people,  he is comfortable blaming the effect of a situation he causes and perpetuates on the victims. They do not care and have no idea what it feels like to be denied access and opportunity in the country of your birth.

It is time to think about times when we have witnessed an act of discrimination and evaluate how we responded to it. The world watched how Trump incited the insurrection on January 6, 2021. Who are these people? What has happened to the Republican Party? The media concluded that the thread that binds Trump republicans to radical extremist is racism. What happened on January 6, was ugly. We saw unlawful, real destructive behavior. White people like this have for years, accused Black people of being savage, violent, less than human. Funny, not one black person was a part of what happened at our nation’s capital. This is the essence of what Trump’s entire presidency encompassed.

This insurrection was absolutely vile on every level imaginable. These people literally desecrated inside the capital building? Do we all know what that means? These people left feces and urine on the walls and floors of our nation’s capital. There is really no lower act of savagery than this. This is how out of control, hate-filled and demonic those who participated in this activity truly are. It is the essence of extreme racism. 

Slavery was a brutal way of life for Black people. White people showed a savagery that is literally unprecedented. What was done to the Native Americans at the hands of White Europeans, was equally as savage. It is a brutality that has not been willingly recorded in our history books. The truth has always been, White people are guilty of a high level of brutal and cruelty. It is cruel to be content destroying lives, destroying families, destroying communities, and cultures. Slavery had a devastating effect on Africa. The removal of so many black males led to a severe breakdown of that continents ability to develop, adapt, and adjust normally. History does not tell us much about that tragic result of the slave trade.

To top it off, to ease their conscious White Europeans involved with the slave trade came up with a way to make what they were doing all right. Of course, they picked an outlet that reaches and touches most people in many societies, religion. They declared Black people were not all human so there was no need to feel guilty about enslaving and brutalizing them. Let us not forget these not all human females were fine to rape and impregnant. Their own children were determined only part human. It did not make logical since then and it does not make sense today. But it is a notion still passed around today. If this were not true there would be no need to remind the world that Black Lives Matter.

The real truth is we are all a part of the human race and we all have the same ability for rational thought and understanding. Ethnicity does not depict who will be smarter, stronger, more talented and/or athletic. We also know when we are causing pain be it physically, mentally, emotionally, and/or psychologically. Pain is what has been inflicted on Black people in all these forms. The key to ending racism is acknowledgment, accountability, and lawful reform. So, as we acknowledge racism is a devastating problem, let us acknowledge that it is time to take the next step, accountability.

Racism is nothing to be proud of. It is shameful, deplorable, barbaric, and downright savage. To label an ethnicity or racial group negatively, and then judge them based on this label, especially when it is false, is horribly disgusting. You see if anyone group of people has shown time and time again, how uncivilized they truly are, it is white people. The most recent way this was seen is on January 6th 2021 when Trumpians stormed this nation’s capital.

It is time to take the next two steps because accountability is long overdue. Restitution needs to be made to an entire race that has been so grossly mistreated. It is time to demand some serious forms of liability from those who have been allowed to perpetrate some of the worse forms of racism without impunity, for over four hundred years. It is time to do the next right thing.

 

What Does Real Liberty, Justice, & Prosperity Look Like?
Marcus McGinnis

 

Certainly, we all can agree 2020 has been a trying year in and for so many reasons and ways. In our Gnostic group, among the congregation members, we have had seven members test positive for Covid-19. However, to our delight there have been no deaths. Two of our members were seriously affected by the virus, having to be hospitalized and on ventilators for short periods of time. Three were seriously ill but recovered outside of a hospital or medical facility, and three are asymptomatic, testing positive but having little to no symptoms.

To those who do not know the nature of this virus, it is basically a serious form of pneumonia. Keep in mind pneumonia has always been, and remains very deadly. Mason says this virus is a purge. Everything we see points to this being a fact. She has also said purges serve their propose for a time and then they go away. Earth has, for many reasons, decided she needs to thin out the primary species on her surface. Humans are destroying the environment, hunting animals to the point of extinction, and denying their own necessary entitlements that literally sustain life.  

It is also important to note Earth knows the human body better than any human doctor and she knows how to take it down. If you noticed, the virus started with the elderly, moved to the middle age, and it is now hitting younger people with a vengeance. Everything Earth does is done with carefully timed precision. Mason says this will end as abruptly as it started after it has run its course. She made this statement as a silver monolith was discovered in the red rocks in Utah. Image: mysterious metal monolith in UtahIt is a very remote area and the object was spot from the air by accident. It is 10 to 12 feet high and its origins are unknown. They are not ruling out it is from another world.

Liberty is freedom and Earth is giving us an example of how too free oneself of something or someone who is not good for or to us. The virus, justly, only affects humans. Earth, a logos, and higher-level beings have the final say, especially when it comes to life and death, not humans. We have been blessed with the divine ability to breath and that is an honor that should be cherished and never taken for granted.

We have all heard the saying, ‘tomorrow is not promised to any of us’, this is literal.  Think of all the people who were here this time last year who are no longer with us because of a virus. Never has the saying rang truer than it has in the year 2020.

We are now witnessing the suffering of many Americans in ways we could never have imagined. We have all seen the cars lined up at food distribution centers in various states. Ask yourself how many of these people paid little to no attention to people living in poverty who always struggle to put food on the table. We are talking justice and the way justice is truly manifested is karma. Now they know what it feels like to be in a situation, out of one’s control, bestowed upon them due to no fault of your own, that causes an intense struggle financially and leaves many unable to put food on the table. No one wants to live in poverty. No one wants to worry where their next meal will come from every single day.

Earth does not just release deadly viruses that become pandemics, from time to time she unleashes her winds, water, and fire. She has a way of letting us know she is tired of certain behaviors. Sadly, people do not often see it for what it is, but think about the raging fires along the countries western border. Cost of living sores in these areas and people are living on the streets, in tents and in their cars, simply because they cannot find affordable housing. So, the ground shakes, the lightning strikes, and the surface is set ablaze, driving the wealthy from their hilltop homes as it devours all they hold dear.

Areas on the country’s eastern border are visited by strong powerful waters, and the Midwest is not left out. They get the winds. Some have never seen or even heard a tornado but there are some who have. The sound is frightening. It is an indescribable sound that leaves no doubt destruction is eminent. In the distance a large funnel shaped clouds can be seen, dipping down from the sky, ripping up everything it touches on the ground. Wind, Fire, Earth, and Water can all become as deadly as they are life giving.

Karma, is the way liberation, real justice, and prosperity works. Money, the true god of many on this Earth, is not what gives us liberty. It is not the final show of justice. It is not a real element when it comes to prosperity. The Justifier that is KARMA is the facilitator. True justice, good or bad, misses no one. Thus, the saying, “The Lord Giveth and the Lord Taketh Away”. It is a description of karma.

So, how does one know when they are truly liberated? Well, when you live a life that is always respectful of life. That means, always remembering that every life is valued and how people feel matters. No one is better than anyone else for any reason. This allows for respect of differences and no need to control others or force them to accept one particular way of thinking. When we are comfortable with our beliefs and respect that as individuals, others might not share our views are feelings, realizing this is what makes us individually unique, and entitled to our individual beliefs and feelings, we are liberated.

This starts with our ability to be Morally Cognit. We have to love what is real, what is true, what is clearly right. We must bravely face, accept, and stand by truth. We must be able to base decisions on honesty and what is factual and never be quick to hurl accusations and pass judgments. Liberation is to accept an honorable, dignified, decent life based on honesty and integrity.  

You see, believe it or not, we all know the difference between right and wrong, but acting on that is often very hard. It is so much easier to do the wrong thing and then fight in an attempt to defend a bad decision. Trump has shown us many examples of this, refusing to apologize when he does or says something wrong, trying to give the impression he is always right, perfect. It is easy to make excuses especially when others enable and choose wrong as well. Think about what happens in movies when it comes to following the crowd. It is easy to let someone else make all the decisions. It is easy to say things like “I was following orders”, “It’s my job”, or “I’m just following the rules”. It is always easier blame someone or something else for a behavior, outcome, or bad decision when deep down, we all know when we should or should not do something.

We have to stand for something on our own. We do not want to live a life shrouded in lies. At some point it is time to stop following the leader and making excuses for the outcomes that come from going with a bad flow or trend. At the end of the day it is a form of loath. A refusal to take responsibility for one’s decisions and choices. People like this are never happy. They often become bitter and resentful simply because they were too lazy to make decisions based on their personal feelings.

Trump supporters blindly follow him and now he is begging for money, despite the election being over and him being the loser. His favorite derogatory name to call others. So, what in the world does he possibly need money for? Could it be the $400,000.00 debt he owes? It is hard to understand why Trump supporters continue to blindly send this man their money. It was hard to understand why they continued to attend his rallies when so many people were contracting the virus at these events. Some of them have lost love ones to Covid-19, but they continue to stand behind a bad leader. Deep down they know better. They do not deserve our sympathy, our understanding, and our prayers are wasted on them. It is like giving you good things to swine. Do not bother. As humans, they have the ability to see what is right in front of them. They have a right to choose their paths. They can choose to follow a leader to their death if they want, and we shall leave them to it.  

Trumpism is a cult and it is hard to walk away from a cult. The rest of the cult members often react violently upon being rejected. They are angered because, how dare anyone admit they see the light. Unwilling cult members must be rescued. To leave calls for a level of bravery they typically do not possess. Let’s face it, a person capable of this type of bravery will never find themselves in a cult like situation. The one common characteristic about cults is they always require great personal sacrifice with no rewards. The cult and its leader take, and take, and take.

We have learned that Moral Cognition is what is missing in 95% of humanity. Some have a strong sense of right and wrong, and some just follow others who are doing the right thing. Alone, they are incapable of making individual decisions. For example, Lindsey Graham. He has to have someone tell him how he feels. He should not be in a leadership position. People like this are very useful in a cult because they have a voice and often lead others into the fold.

Most people who find themselves in this situation have a hole in their soul they are trying to feel. For a moment the cult makes them believe they are the answer to their prayers. For many, realization sets in after a while and they know something is wrong. But, by this time it is too late and they realize they are in over their heads. They do not know what to do at this point and that hole is getting deeper. Some are lucky enough to be rescued but the damage is done and the scars run deep. The emptiness, the hole, has become a crater. They turn to other crutches to ease their internal pain. Drugs, alcohol and more bad relationships quickly turn the crater into an abyss and it is often bottomless.

At the end of the day, we all reap what we sow. What we toss up comes down. What goes around comes around, for everyone no matter you race, gender, sexual orientation, religion, political views, or economic status. If you reap bad things you will be overtaken with bad fruit and weeds. If you toss of up crap, shit is going to rain down on you with a vengeance. If you go around doing malevolent things it comes back around picking up all kinds of debris on its return. This is what the scripture means when it says ten-fold. That is real justice.

Prosperity is peace. When our soul is at peace, we are prosperous because we are free. Peace breathes life into our souls but stress sucks the soul dry, opening the door to death. We mistakenly attach a tangible quality to prosperity, which is a misconception. True prosperity is the ability to walk through life with a faith that gives us peace in our minds, in our bodies, and in our souls. So, we know we have liberty, justice, and prosperity when we are responsible, when we respect karma, and when we are at peace with ourselves.

 

Automation
By Jay G & Marcus McGinnis

 

Hey, have you ever wondered what it would be like if computers, robotics, and machines took over all forms of production? Would that be a bad thing? What would that do to the world’s economy? Let’s look at some of the pros of automation. First, computers and robotics do not discriminate. Computers and robotics are without emotion, feelings. Computers and robotics do not get sick, and under the current circumstances, in regards to Covid-19, that is a wonderful thing. Computers and robotics are always on time. Computers and robotics do not complain, need instruction, require extensive training, and they do not have to be paid.

What about in places like, fast food restaurants? In fact, what about allowing automation to handle all forms of food production. Just think about it, no more worrying about the safety of the food we consume. Automation and robotics would end all worry about guidelines that are not followed, shortcuts being taken, or any of many forms of mismanagement when it comes to food product. Automation will simply follow established, programmed guidelines. In other words, do the right thing.

Think about what it would be like if automation handled the animals that are raised for human consumption. If animals were handled by automation and robotics, the animals would not be abuse or treated in an inhumane fashion. Automation would simply follow the guidelines established for the care of the animals before, during and after production.

When you think about the cons, they are the same as the pros, except how it would affect humanity. The biggest effect on humanity would be the work force. When we think about all of the issues we struggle with today, it would seem that the pros of automation outweigh the cons because it would be a relief to not have to worry about the human component in production. Mark is better at explaining why that is.

Why? Automation is an alternative to some of the many issues we face in today’s society. Humans are emotionally driven. They are whimsical and willfully. They struggle to separate their personal feelings, of which, are not appropriate when confronted with most ethical situations. Whimsical and Willful behaviors are guided by emotion. Emotions are feelings that lead to many of the choices we make. Discrimination is a choice. To consciously and willfully choose to deny, prevent, or suppress others is a very emotionally based behavior that is a literal sin. Remember, true sin is any excessive behavior that causes discomfort and harm to another or many others.

Discrimination is a dysfunction that affects many different people for many different reasons. Think of all the ways people are discriminated against and why they are treated with such disdain. It happens to women, children, minorities, to people over their religion, and sexual orientation. It can even happen to people who are tall, short, overweight, underweight, bald, and disabled. Imagine falling under two or more of these categories.

The reason why is HATE. It is feed in many different ways. Hate, like Love, is not an emotion but a state of being with its own set of attributes, discrimination being one such attribute. That means discrimination is ungodly. In fact, it is literally Anti-god as it is an attribute of HATE. That means anyone who harbors any form of intense dislike for others based on any of the afore mentioned reasons, does not serve the Lord in any capacity, as God is LOVE.

Automation would completely eliminate discrimination because it does not subscribe to hate. It is cost effective, and there is also the issues of safety, consistency. These are other viable reasons to convert to automation, for example:   

  • Corona Virus – this would end the spread of this in work place areas.
  • Injuries
  • Reliability- when it comes to time and quality control
  • Compensation 

Let us begin with Covid-19. We are all aware of how badly the American meat packing industries was affected by this virus. Employers handled it horribly because they cannot afford to lose money. Production had to be maintained to meet demand. They chose to lie to their employees instead of protect them. They elected not to make minor improvements to workplace areas to ensure safety. Instead they down-played it, the virus spread, and people died. 

How do they manage to so easily manipulate people? Why is it that people do not care enough about their own health to refuse to work in unsafe environments? The answer to that question lies in understanding what living in poverty does to people. Why does poverty not improve? Because it is not in the interest of the privilege for it to change. The privilege insists on maintaining a class of people who are severely improvised as that is what poverty is. The primary targeted people for this is African American.

Have you noticed how at some point, people with more fair complexions, have slowly been assimilated and offered the opportunity to join the white race? This helps grow the ethnic race that is race that is the majority, the privilege. African Americans are not afforded this opportunity even if they are biracial. If a person has African American blood, they are considered African American no matter how much they look like they are white. They are not allowed to drink freely from the well of prosperity. They are the chosen race the majority tolerates, to an extent, in order to maintain the despair of poverty.

This is done to ensure there will always be people willing to work, in sometimes the most horrible conditions, making a meager living, that barely supports their families. They have to keep them in a constant state of regression, depression, oppression, and despair. It controls them and insures there will always be people willing to do what they have no choice to do, work in dangerous conditions to supply the desires of those who are better off. Those in a higher income bracket. The privilege.

That’s right. All the years and years of protest. All the lives sacrificed simply so African Americans can have the equal rights the constitution says we are all entitled to. Lives, of both white and black people have been lost fighting for civil rights. Laws are passed only to be skirted around, smoothed over, and sometimes down right denied to the very people for which they were designed to protect. And we wonder why things are not really improving for African Americans.

In America the haves do not believe the have nots are entitled to healthcare. They want them to keep having children to maintain a steady workforce. As far as they are concerned, African Americans can work until they die and that’s natural selection. But mind you, healthcare is not really an ethnicity issue. This is a class issue. Only the privileged are entitled to health care because they can afford to pay for it.

Which brings us to this question. What is the point in enacting laws that can constantly be tampered with or be over turned? This causes people to lose faith in laws, at least those established in man’s courts. With humanity everything is arbitrary, never literal. Because humans are whimsical, willful the condition of African Americans has yet to completely improve. Deep down we can never trust that what is to be is always to be. Honestly, where there is no integrity, there is no respect.

The Bill of Rights, is ten amended laws added to the constitution to ensure equal and civil rights for every American. The Voting Rights Act, another amendment that continues to be threatened. What is the point? Why should any of us care? It cannot be both ways. We cannot respect and revere something that is not consistent, set in stone, unchangeable. We can never consider ourselves civilized if we cannot even be consistent with the very things we hold sacred.

When we look at automation it is clear to see how beneficial this would be in the long run because, lives would be saved, cost would be reduced, and production would remain consistent. The argument for automation is a very good one. Machines can work continuously as long as they receive the proper maintenance. They remain on site and production would begin when it is scheduled to begin without delay. Machines do not need to be paid for working. They do not have to be on shifts and there is no need to worry about overtime.  

Automation is an alternative to some of the issues we have as humans when it comes to dealing and relating to one another. You see, because we are emotional, persuadable, influenced, and many times, purchasable, it is impossible to ensure a fair, just, equal society for all. Since this species refuses to conform to civility, rightness, solutions have to be explored. The thing is all alternatives are costly in one way are another.

Automation clearly puts many people out of work. However, there would still be a need for some human employees. People would be needed to respond when a problem arises that requires a human to correct. There would need to be a human on site to handle simple problems like bugs, rodents, and contaminants falling into the product, by the various unforeseen occurrences that cause these mishaps. Something could fall on an assembly or production line that could cause a jam in the process that would require a human employee to correct. But, nevertheless, automation could reduce a company’s human workforce from 100 to 10.  

Automation can be expanded to things like driverless taxi’s, and as Jay mentioned above, fast food restaurant operations. We can take it a step further and also replace cashiers in grocery, retail stores and outlets. All we would have to do is place our items on a conveyor belt and allow it to pass a scanner that would automatically register what each item is and what it cost. In some areas Walmart stores are already being converted to something similar to this.

Another significant step forward is to do away with humans most destructive motivator, MONEY. If we went to a system that did not require the use of money in any way, it would have the same effect as automation. People would work in jobs they are suited to because they are best suited to them. Race and ethnicity would not matter and everyone would have to do something to contribute to their society.

Another alternative is none contestable, none reversable humanitarian laws that prohibit all people, including people in positions of authority from violating said laws. Humanitarian laws prohibit murder of any kind. No longer would we be able to pick and choose what lives are more valued. Such as the life of an unborn child over that of one that is alive and beaten to death by parents. What about young people who are gunned down by law enforcement while playing in a park? Let us not forget women who are murdered in their beds by law enforcement. Why is there no care for all the lives lost on many urban streets in American cities? Streets riddled with bullets in a society that will not place basic restrictions on what types of guns civilians can purchase and own, and who can purchase and own them. What about innocent people at a movie theater, and/or children in their classrooms trying to learn?

Humanitarian Laws would stop the need to differentiate whose lives matters more, because life itself would matter. No more witnessing as African Americans scream, they literally cannot breathe. You see, we are either pro-life in regards to all life or we are not. We cannot have it both ways. Humanitarian Laws would prohibit mishandling of animals kept for human consumption. It would prevent mismanagement of food handled in the entire food production process. It would put an end to promoting foods that are not healthy for people to consume. The law would insist on shelter, clean water, fresh air, and health care for all. It would end abortion but we can focus more on pregnancy prevention.  

It all boils down to the fact that humans are to uncivilized to be without a set of laws that govern and prevent them from willfully doing harmful things to others. It is clear that something needs to change. We have some alternatives to the problems we have always faced in the nation, in this world. All of them would bring about a more just, equal, civil existence. It would stop this idea that some humans are better than others because of income, ethnicity, gender, or sexual orientation. It would recognize the benefit and beauty of diversity and demand a respect for it. It would solve many of the problems we face, including disrespecting the planet we live on by ignoring how many of our behaviors are causing our planet harm.

Earth is releasing viruses to on the primary species that is destroying it. We are a decease to this planet; a sickness and it is purging itself in an attempt to heal itself of that which infects it. It is time to come up with a real way to deal with how we conduct ourselves going forward. It is time to take steps that will prevent hateful behaviors from thriving, sometimes festering often lying dormant until a leader arises that awakens the hatred. A leader who will allow those who harbor hateful notions, to slither from under the rocks, come out of the dark caves they have hidden in, crawl out of their dark corners, and start their hateful rhetoric and practices that do nothing but harm others. Devaluing money, automation, and humanitarian laws are alternatives to what we deal with in the United States and around the world. Think about which alternative you thing would work best and let’s talk about it.

 

What If We had to Qualify?
By Marcus McGinnis

In the last article we talked about removing money from our value system. This article will take us a step further. Now we will talk about what it would be like to have to qualify for a place or position, particularly in a new territory. What if we had to qualify for every desired professional and personal situation we strive to achieve, including parenting and marriage? Think about all the things we now take for granted as our human right, suddenly becoming something that has to be allowed based on qualifications. Education and work experience will no longer be the primary prerequisites for obtaining employment opportunities. Suddenly being suited to a position will take precedent, and being selected would be based on one’s psychological, mental, and physical credentials.

At the end of the day, the new guidelines would be implemented because it eliminates discrimination, favoritism and both domestic and child abuse. Those seeking a leadership position will also require new qualifications. A person now has to be properly suited for such a position. So, the question now is, what would be the basis for these sudden, requirements and how are these qualifications determined?

To answer that question, let us once again turn to UE to provide some ground work and/or foundation. Before the purge, the ancients began to implant chips in humans that prevented pregnancy before a certain age. All human’s male and female, received the implant at birth. This continued after the purge, contributing to the slowing down of human reproduction, particularly for those living outside the shielded cities. Child endangerment was the primary reason the law was implemented. For those living under the shields, the birth control implant was removeable, but only if potential parents met all psychological, mental, and physical requirements. There are three basic reason for the new requirements. To prevent abuse of power. To prevent child abuse of all kind, and to insure those choosing to marry were well suited to a partnership.    

Although there was no money in the shielded cities there was a workforce.  Everyone of age, in good health, and suffered no disability, was required to work in a position they were best suited for, in order to sustain their communities. The legal working age was twenty-two or twenty-three. This allowed for people to complete the educational processes. That means everyone completes their education with a Bachelor’s Degree, BA, in a chosen field or profession. The educational process starts with steps because we progress through various stages step by step. The educational breakdown was as follow:

Children’s Learning Centers (Elementary):
Age 4           Step One
Age 5           Step Two
Age 6           Step Three
Age 7           Step Four
Age 8           Step Five
Age 9           Step Six

Youth Centers (Middle School):
Age 10         Step Seven
Age 11         Step Eight
Age 12         Step Nine

Adolescence Centers (High School):
Age 13         Step Ten
Age 14         Step Eleven
Age 15         Step Twelve

Adult Higher Education Institutes (College):
Age 16-17    Freshman Term
Age 18-19    Sophomore Term
Age 20-21    Junior Term
Age 22-23    Senior Term

We have begun to model this in our Gnostic Learning Academy. The school year begins in January with the start of a new year. There are three semester, winter, spring and summer. After fall recess students prepare for school for the new year. However, for now the Gnostic Learning Academy only goes thru fifth grade because we have yet to find a place that supplies learning materials for middle and high school students.

Now, to follow the educational process Virgil implemented would be difficult in the beginning. So, this would be something new that starts with children, youth, and adolescence. Freewill is and always will be respected and accepted. So, at the legal adult age of eighteen a choice to leave the educational process after the Adolescence Center would be allowed. However, it would mean expulsion from the new territory. Virgil established these laws to weed out the weak early so they could move forward with the strong. Remember the Universal Humanitarian Laws. It is easy to see why he put such laws in place.

We are witnessing the disarray in the republican party in Congress, failing to pass bills that would help so many people suffering during this pandemic. Many people are losing unemployment and their homes are being threatened. Frankly, the Republicans are constantly trying to award the HAVES with more than they deserve, in exchange for give the average American what is desperately needed. But honestly, we should not need an act of Congress to make us do the right thing. Landlords should not have to be forced to not throw families out of their homes at this perilous time. Something is missing in many humans, something critical. Why do so many in the species thrive on treating their own kind so callously?

The situation calls for a halt of all bills until this pandemic is brought under some semblance of control. There should be no school or anything that places so many in danger. But it appears children are always expendable. Right now, every family should also receive food vouchers, or food stamps from the government. Sadly, to many humans are all right with being wrong. What could turn this around?

For starters, early detection of flawed personality traits would be very useful. Psychological assessments should start early in life and continue as we age. Carefully evaluating moral cognitive development allows us to look for solutions for this callousness as soon as there are signs it exists. As we all know, the earlier we start something, the easier it is to manage. Understand, we are talking about behaviors that lead to harm to others. Behaviors rooted in the infamous seven deadly sins, which include: Gluttony, Greed, Pride, Lust, Wrath, Loath, and Envy. These are excessive behaviors and the heart of sin is excess.  

There was a key word above that is the remedy for most of this. Morality! It is something many of us have to learn to be consciously aware of as it is a natural part of our psyche. However, when people have a willful desire to be disobedient or simply have a rebellious nature, it should be dealt with early in life. At the end of the day we all have an eternal voice of reason, caution, direction. We have to learn to pay attention to this often subtle, rarely loud internal voice. This is the Most High in all of us trying to direct us in all things as we journey through this life cycle. Our freewill that leads us to make personal decisions. Something has to govern our freewill.

Morality, makes us responsible. So, having children is something that should have an age requirement. In order to complete the educational process, and preparing to enter the workforce, twenty-five is suggested legal age to start having children. This allows time to decide if parenting is a path that should be pursued. Over the years, all the subtle evaluations done by parents, teachers, psychologist and other prominent members in one’s family, can help determine if a person is a good candidate for parenthood. We have said time and time again, parenting is the most important job any of us can do as human beings. For this reason, parenting should not be a right but a privilege.   

One should also have a strong moral cognition in any leadership position. Right now, we have a leader that gives bad people an excuse to be bad. They blame everything on their so-called patriotism and stick up for and stand behind a corrupt leader. Decent moral behavior has been lacking in the republican party for a long time, and it is once again time for a change. A significant change. We need to change how we deal with each other, how we treat each other as human beings. But, being deplorable is easier, and right now we have a leader that exemplifies despicable behavior.  

Our situation is growing worse because there are too many people in influential positions, such as:  teaching, law enforcement, justice, and medical care, who do not have sound moral cognition. Anyone in a position that places them in or around children should be proven to be qualified to deal with them. Anyone in any type of leadership or authority position should be morally qualified for that particular job. Teachers should be nurturing, pediatricians should genuinely enjoy working with kids, and law enforcement should have a measure of patience when dealing with the public.

No one should have to force another to do right especially if they are an adult. Morally cognitive people always presenting honest, images of who and what they are and what they stand for. As we look around at all the people who are behaving so deplorably during the Black Lives Matter protest, it is obvious it is bringing the horrible hatred of racism to the surface of many white people. The anger, the shouting, the name calling, pulling guns, threatening to and carrying out hangings.

It is barbaric savage behavior to continue to systematically suppress an entire race, in every way possible. Frankly it does not get much more inhumane than that. The savagery is a reminder that humans originated from hominids, ape like animals. But there comes a time when those of us who are progressing, evolving into better more civil beings, get really tired of dealing with those who are not just stagnate but seem to be going backward in their development. As a white person, whose ancestors owned slaves, I accept the horrific part we played in this savagery and I am ashamed. I admit it, I acknowledge it was wrong in every way, and it disgusts me that it happened. The shame of how savage my ancestors were makes it even harder to understand those who harbor racist views today.

I do not want to understand the Karen’s in stores harassing black people, calling them the “N” word. I feel no kinship with the white people standing in front of confederate stores shouting at people standing up for equal rights for all. I agree that the confederacy was a group of traitors. They fought to maintain a barbaric practice, willingly rebelling against the union. They should not be honored and the flag is a disgrace. It represents an evil practice that is shameful and many of us should not be subjected to the reminder of hatred, and the barbaric savagery some of these monuments embody.

As a white person I am unable to relate to Trump and many people in the republican party for various reason. Trump supporters are empty, hopeless, the walking dead. There is nothing godly about any of them. They model how primitive they are, showing us their regression brought on by years of stagnation. Life style modeling is essential particularly with young people. However, it is obvious adults need to see others handling themselves in ways that are upright, sensible, honorable, dignified and honest. These are the attributes of morality, something clearly lacking in racist white Americans.  

Caleb made plaques that listed the twelve Attributes of Morality, which are as follows:
Honorable
Virtuous
Benevolent
Righteous
Civil
Noble
Honest
Trustworthy
Responsible
Charitable
Patient

This is why morality is so essential to humanity. Those who go through life with these qualities, like the late John Lewis, model for the world to see, what a morally cognitive person looks like. When we remember John Lewis, who is in such contrast to Trump and those who support him, the dissimilarity is crystal clear. Lewis was honest, honorable, decent. Trump is absolutely none of those things. It has been proven Trump has spoken over 20,000 untruths, LIES! Where is the honor? There is none. He did not go to John’s service, because evil fears real purity. Trump and his followers lack any form of moral cognition, and nothing but death and destruction follow them.

The attributes of morality are what the Ten Commandments are based on. Too profess to serve and love the Most High, is to possess all the attributes of morality. Another recent example of a man who lacks moral cognition is Congressman Yoho of Florida. He accosted Congresswoman Alexandria Ocasio-Cortez on the steps of a congressional building this past week. She spoke on the house floor and what she said was right in every way. To hide behind being married and a father of daughters does not make a man decent. Nor does claiming to be a Christian, professing to be an advocate of God. The congress woman was right when she said, for too long white men in positions of power, have attempted to hide behind being married, and being fathers to mask how terribly they treat women. A good man is responsible, apologetic, and remorseful. Where are the men in the republican party?  

At the end of the day, racism is a behavior that shows a complete disconnection from the Most High. Thus, one such as this does not serve the Most High in any way. Racism is all of the things that encompass hate and this is the opposite of the Most High, whom is LOVE. We will hear many things this election year, we need to stand by truth. We need to see things as they are. We need to base our decisions in life on our morality FIRST. Only then will we make the right decisions going forward. How much easier this would be if, like Virgil did in UE, we could take money out of the equation. We would indeed see people for all that they are, and possibly make better decisions. This is what it would be like to have to qualify for every position we sought in life, and the world would be a better place.

 

What If Money Lost Its Value?
By Mark McGinnis

 

Imagine a world without MONEY. What kind of world would that be? Would we have some other type of payment system? There was a time when we dealt in trade and ultimately progressed to a system based on currency. Once upon a time credit was something that was given to poor people who struggled to pay for goods and services they needed. Now, it is the reverse.    

Yes, our current value system has evolved and credit is now something that requires a measure of financial worthiness. In fact, credit has become a major factor when it comes determine our financial standing. In the ‘Star Trek’ series, there was no currency. It introduced a credit system. This was how people were paid and how they paid for what they wanted. No more money. For those of us who have read UE, the Ancients, with Virgil at the helm, took it a step further. Virgil went into the poorest areas in cities all around the world and began a reconstruction project. The Ancients invested their money, power, skill and time in areas that society had forgotten, neglected, and cared nothing about. These were the ghettos, areas that are intentionally ignored and defunded by local and federal governments.

Local and federal authorities laughing gave Virgil permission to conduct what they decided, were his experiments. They were more than convinced he was wasting his time, money, and efforts on the people who lived in these areas. And when they were proven right, decent people could move into the new areas. So, they had nothing to lose, they saw it as a win win situation for themselves. Virgil was even allowed to take minority prisoners out of prisons and place them in facilities in the neighborhoods he was reconstructing so they could near their families. The prison guards and wardens were told to expect them back, and when they returned, the guards were instructed to make their lives as hellish as possible.

Virgil moved forward and with the help of the large Companions, that are self-aware robotic beings, the twelve-foot winged Warriors, the Ancients and MOTHER, the reconstruction began. Homes were repaired, renovated or rebuilt if necessary, and it was done in a matter of days, not weeks, months, or for some projects, such as running underground pipes for water and sewage that would otherwise have taken years. Local officials and citizens watched from a distance, amazed at how fast the Ancients always worked. Some were eager for the people in the neighborhoods to show how unworthy they were so they could move in. The new homes were beautiful, modern, and the families were only displaced for a matter of days.

Average, everyday citizens outside the areas were not sure what was happening, but they began discussing purchasing homes in the area when it was complete. They were convinced this was being done for upper class citizens. The poor minorities who lived in the areas would simply be displaced. After all, that is how these things always work, right? Society’s cold disdain and indifference worked in Virgil’s favor because they were unaware that the areas being remodeled were also being taken off all local utility grids.

Some people actually came into the areas and picked out homes they would purchase, forcing the current occupants out. Like with all things, they decided, the minorities and poor people simply did not deserve homes so nice, they were African Americans, Hispanic, Porto Rican, Cuban, none white members of society and that made them unworthy, undeserving. City officials and realtors, perpetuated these beliefs coming into the newly renovated areas to surveyed the new homes. They began to banter over who would be responsible for the sale of the properties in the area.

What the realtors did not know, was Virgil purchased the land in order to conduct his experiment and both local and federal officials allowed this. When the upgrades were nearly complete powerful walls, similar to those that surrounded the Ancient’s properties, rose almost overnight, separating the upgraded areas from the rest of the city. There were entrances into the area in all directions but the entrances were guarded by Junior Companions.  These were self-aware cybernetic beings that were very human-like.

When the walls rose the local utility companies became aware that the new areas were no longer connected to their servicing systems. Water, sewage, trash, gas and electricity were no longer utilities the community required from the city. This was immediately a problem. They city tried to reverse what was happening but quickly discovered their wires, and pipes were no longer in service in the area. There were even telephone towers that provided service for all the new communities around the world that were now walled in.

Imagine what is happening. In today’s environment with police brutality, rising housing and utility cost, inflation and low wages for people in poor areas. Imagine how this would make those who feel they are entitled to the best things in life, react. How would they feel watching these beautiful new neighborhoods going up before their eyes? The neighborhoods are stunning, completely transformed. Imagine white money driven, capitalistic, privilege people, demanding these areas be for them. Imagine their anger when they realize it is not. They will not be allowed to come in and take over, pushing the people who live in the area out, which is what usually happens when an older neighborhood is upgraded.

Well, once the walls went up, surrounding the new communities, officials knew it was now too late to do anything about what was going on. Despite citizen outcry, no one knew what to do because everyone knew the walls guarding Ancient properties were impenetrable. The authorities decided since the renovated areas were still considered part of the cities they were located in, Virgil could not section them off and deny access, especially in regards to law enforcement.

Virgil ignored their complaints and their demands and the National Guard was called in to assist local law enforcement in reclaiming the neighborhoods. Attempts were made to tunnel under the walls to avail. Like MOTHER and the Companions, the walls seemed to be self-aware. The minute they sensed contact they would barrel deeper into the ground while releasing a powerful electrical pulse.

Imagine the anger the upper-class citizens felt about what was going on. They simply did not believe African Americans, Latin Americans, or poor people in general deserved to live in the upgraded community homes that were valued in the millions. They did not deserve to live in the lavishly upgraded neighborhoods and they wanted them out.

The entrances to the new areas remained open to the public after the walls went up. Local and federal officials, as well as citizens were allowed to come in and look around. They could even stay in the hotels in the new areas. There were no gas-burning vehicles allowed so they had to leave their cars in the parking lot near the entrance and get into electric cart-like vehicles to drive around the new communities. What they saw left no doubt the communities were thriving and they were doing so without any outside assistance. They communities purchased no goods are services from industries, companies, and/or services outside their areas.

It was also noticed that they were not vegetarians. They had meat packing factories. The factories were small and the animals lived, healthy carefree lives. They were feed the foods they naturally consumed and were killed humanely, dying peacefully and painlessly. There were orchards, producing healthy, natural fruits. Everyone was busy working and living happy lives, showing no signs of being deplorable, criminals, unworthy of their new homes. They had no need to leave their communities not even for work and they did not. However, this meant they were not paying any local or federal taxes, which created a new issue for local and government officials.  

The root problem for those outside the walled in communities was their sense of privilege and racism. They did not believe minorities were entitled to be living better than upper-class white Americans. Something had to be done. Every working American had to pay local, state, and federal taxes. The authorities demanded the walls come down, the properties be reconnected to local utility services, and any industry, business, or small company employing workers should have an operation licenses and be abiding by all tax laws. Virgil told them no money was changing hands inside his communities. Everyone worked in the community doing something they were comfortable doing, to keep their community thriving.

WHAT! No MONEY! Imagine the anger this caused. By now most of us have learned about Black Wall Street and what became of it. We know why it was destroyed. Imagine how communities such as the sectioned off areas in all major cities in UE would be treated. The people were living in beautiful homes for free! The schools had state of the art learning facilities. There were medical centers and medical services were free! The grocery stores were stocked with fresh foods and products, and every family had at least one electric vehicle in their driveway. This was all FREE! Officials, authorities, and citizens were outraged. This was something that simply could not spread.

Oil companies were in an uproar, utility companies demanded something be done. Medical organizations demanded to know who was providing care in the medical facilities and if they were licensed to do so. Insurance companies were outraged.  Where was the homeowner’s and renter’s insurance, medical and dental insurance, car insurance, and life insurance? They searching for ways to disrupt the communities, and in their frustration some citizens began to throw things and even shot at the walls. Police officer that were normally assigned to patrol the areas, began to harass the residence, especially if they had a former criminal records. The new community law enforcement officers immediately intervened, pointing at hidden camaras that were literally everywhere. These were MOTHER’s eyes, and it was well known that nothing got passed MOTHER.

Just as they thought it could not get any worse for them, officials noticed strange structures that resembled train, bus or some type of transportation station. People came and went, sometimes carrying items that clearly came from other countries. That was when they saw large electrically-powered vehicles appearing out of thin air, loaded with supplies for the grocery stories and markets. Officials immediately realized they had discovered the Ancient’s infamous transport stations. The citizens in the communities were provided a way to travel long distances without the use of airplanes. This only further enraged local and federal agencies and officials, as well as citizens outside the new communities.

Local government began to deliver court ordered injunctions to stop citizens with records, who were supposed to be on probation, from leaving the city for any reason. It showed an ownership mentality those living outside the new communities, not only felt over the areas, but the minorities who lived in them. They honestly felt they had the right to keep them living lives of poverty and despair, and they were angry that Virgil was changing their lives and giving them hope.   

MOTHER alerted Virgil that it was decided the new communities had to be destroyed because they were sending the wrong message. Her reports were confirmed when Virgil was informed fighter planes were seen approaching some of the areas, clearly with the intent of release bombs to destroy the new communities. Anticipating the danger, MOTHER immediately lifted the gates at all entrances, restricted access, and a powerful electrical current began to surge through the walls. Within minutes the shields covered the communities.  

It was a frightening time for those living inside the communities, frightening and sad. The attack on the walls and shields began. Bombs, were released on the shields all over the world. Soldiers with powerful weapons attack the walls from the land and the sea if a community backup to the ocean. As they suspected, the powerful walls that supported the impenetrable shields could not be damaged by any weapons created or known to man. This did not stop the human military leaders from continuing their attack.

Virgil was no stranger to human stubbornness and grow tired of the relentless attacks. He realized the humans were not going to stop so he decided to engage. He warns officials he is going to begin a counter attack and he also told the citizens inside the new communities to go about their lives without worry, assuring them their days of being bullied and pushed around were over. They trusted him and did as he suggested, for the most part ignoring what was going on outside their protective dooms and walls.

His army was deployed and when the ground rumbled, the human military knew they were in trouble. The powerful, bronze plated, winged, bulletproof Warriors flew in and landed with their swards drawn. The large Companions heavy feet made the ground rumble as they approached. They had built in artillery and they were also bulletproof. Titans arrived and although they were not bulletproof, they were fast, powerful, and skilled with the use of the weapons of their choice. Dormant ancient creatures associated with the Ancients were released on land and in the oceans. Dragons flew in the sky breathing fire down on soldiers engaged in hand to hand combat with the Trojans. Finally, the massive Hubble’s that orbited the planet became visible as they prepared to return fire on the attacking human armed forces.

In current news we are all made painfully aware of how racist the man occupying the White House truly is. He is the very essence of what it means to be a white supremacist, fine with domestic terrorism, and privilege. He does not want to do anything for the poor and nonwhite citizens in this country. The most terrible thing in all of this is he still has white people who support him. It is not hard to picture how the racist white community would react to Virgil and the Ancients taking on a project like this, improving the lives of poor and minority people around the world.

Not only do the Ancients and Virgil go into combat with the human military, Earth also takes a stand. She sides with the Ancients and Virgil and released her own weapon. The battles do not last long and as the human military is no match for Virgil’s army. Not only were his soldiers unkillable, some of them breathed fire, and had heavy weapons attached to them. Then there was the three massive Hubbles, each released a blast that immobilized entire human military units within seconds. This was enough to greatly reduce all human aggression but not all, prompting Earth to join the fight. UE calls this the first purge. So, the Aeon devalues money and a virus swept across the land, just as Covid-19 is doing today. This causes all outside hostilities to stop as humans began to fall ill once they contracting a deadly virus. It was a virus that not even the Ancients were immune to, so they also took cover.

The shielded territories began to vibrate at a higher density, making them hard to nr seen by those outside their protective wall. The days outside the shielded territories flew by, while the time under the shields seemed to slow down. On occasion, children from the outside found their way to the gates and they were taken in and nursed back to health before a nice family was found for them. It was always children, never adults.  

Several years passed and those outside the shields who survived the first purge soon realized they were all sterile. Both male and female reproductive organs stopped functioning. This was the second purge. Shortly after that they began to realized there were fewer and fewer children. The schools were empty, particularly elementary and middle schools. Government agencies reported the children in their care seemed to be vanishing into thin air. Nemesis was collecting them walking right in and calling them to her. Those that were left were showed signs they were already lost to the world they were accustom to living in. So, the foster homes and detention centers notice only older minors ranging from fourteen to eighteen remained.  

The third and final purge was a surge of the most prominent illnesses that are so well known around the world. Cancer, diabetes, heart failure and other major organ failure began to claim thousands of lives, from the young to the old. This went on until many outside the shields passed away. In fact, years passed for those outside the shields but it was only hours for those in the new communities. Those under the shields forgot about those outside their territories as easily as those outside the shields forgot about those within the walled in communities.  

No one was sure of how much time had passed except the Ancients, but one day the shields came down and the walls around the new territories lowered. Earth was not the same. There was a beautiful forest outside the protected communities and there were no people. Animals walked up to the humans without fear, welcoming them back out into the world. The air was clean, the skies were blue, and the oceans and lakes sparkled. Earth had completely ascended. She now had several colorful rings that created a forcefield around the planet. The forcefield functioned like the shields that once covered the communities they were safely inside while all of this was going on. At certain times of the day they could see the stary universe around them, at other times the skies were blue.

UE talks about progression. Even Earth is growing up. Now we find ourselves literally dealing with some of the things spoken about in UE. Earth has begun to clean herself up. She has begun to purge herself of HUMANS on her surface because they are not progressing with her. They are cruel, they do not care how they treat each other, animals, or the environment.

Believe it or not, money is already valueless. There is not enough of that which it is based on, so it is literally not worth the paper it is printed on. What can we expect next? America has never been in such bad standing around the world. Trump, with the help of the few who support him, has destroyed our reputation and the effects of will probably be felt for years to come. Chris Hayes on MSNBC said “We elected Donald Trump to pilot our plane and he has driven us straight into a mountain.” It cannot be said any plainer than that. From the ashes we will have to begin. A life with no money, is it possible to obtain such a thing? How do we start over after our current situation? Share your thoughts.    

 

What if Karma Was Immediate?

By Marcus McGinnis

Do you ever wonder if some people ever pay for the bad things they do to others? Does it seem like they just get away with doing horrible things and nothing stops them? They even have supporters who enable them to do wrong. So, if karma misses no one, why does it seem as if these people literally get away with murder? For one thing, it is impossible to know if a person is experiencing karma, especially if we are not a regular part of their life. By regular, that is a normal part of let us say, a bad leader’s, life.

So, because we do not know much about the private life of an unqualified leader, other than the horrors we sometimes witness, we cannot be sure they are not experiencing some form of karma. We all have fears, areas we are vulnerable, sensitive spots. Karma knows all about it. For all we know they experience karma every day, we just do not see it. The question is, do we need to see it or can we take comfort that our all-seeing creator does indeed see and know all?

There is no need for us to see another’s karma because we all have our own situations to deal with.   Remember, Yahushua asked, “Who among us is without sin?” certainly none of us are in that unique position. Therefore, it is all right if we do not know when or if an immoral person is experiencing karma. We can take comfort in knowing everyone reaps what they sow. We also take comfort knowing there are human instruments of karma. Oh yes, law enforcement. Most of those who work in all levels of law enforcement, or our justice department, are called to these positions. However, not all those working in these positions are called to this type authority, and because these are positions of control there are those who seek these spots in our society for nefarious reasons. But those who are there because they are called to these positions are summoned by karma.

Karma has the unique gift of knowing exactly what to do and when to do it. Thus, it is also written that we should not seek vengeance, as this is for the Most High. Karma, the universal justifier. It knows and operates under the physical laws of the universe. What goes around comes around. What goes up, must come down. Thus, it should be understood when it comes back around it has gained momentum, strength, and will be stronger.

No one can hide from Karma. There are no secrets held or kept from the Most High. Even if done behind closed doors or under the cover of night. All things done in the dark eventually come to light. But, right does not require a closed door or the cover of darkness. However, wrong does evil all day, masking it behind representatives that know how to deceive and conceal their wickedness until it is unleashed at night. Justice is a heavy job for karma. Typically, we like to think, deep down, humans are inherently good. Unfortunately, that is simply not the case. In reality it is quite the opposite. Most people, most, are too lazy to do what is right. Ah Yahushua said his yoke was easy, but, he did not say it was effortless.

Just as it is with law enforcement, there are people who seek leadership positions who have little to know qualification to be a leader. Much responsibility comes with leadership, and only those called are truly qualified for the position. True leaders are born, not made. They are prewired and equipped with the ability to constantly make essential decisions. A truly righteous leader is an extension of karma. They are logical, practical, and always progressive, as this is a natural development for all things that live. Conservatism is effortless. It is fine leaving everything the same, changing nothing, it is too much work. That alone makes it anti-the Most High.  

Gnostics understand without progression there is no growth and it is something that is taught in the learning Academy. The curriculum promotes liberation and that begins with honesty, particularly when it comes to history. Our students learn about all cultures and learn to appreciate their significance. They learn there are many people in history, who are celebrated and recognized as heroes, but did not really do anything that was particularly heroic. In fact, many of them were a part of something very tragic, heinous even. This country’s history is honey-dipped horror that allows Americans to maintain a false sense of goodness. You cannot turn a lot of ugly into something good, not by tainting the truth, omitting key moments, or by all together withholding parts of history. Children must be armed with the truth. It is what strengthens us and prepares us for our journey through life.

With this said, what if we all migrated to a new land and it was time to determine what kinds of laws will govern us? Would it be similar to what is in America today, the constitution? Would we allow deviations and amendments to water-down parts of it? Would it be literal at all times? Who would determine what the laws will be? What will be the penalties for violating the law? What would the judicial system look like? Would some people be exempt from justice based on ethnicity, acquaintances, affiliations, gender, or financial status? How would we illuminate favoritism?

Remember, this is a theocracy. The primary foundation is preset, and it is moral based. The prime leadership has already been selected. They have called on the key figures in their growing community to help them design their legal structure. It is a theocracy but the only concrete thing is that the system is moral based. Will there be a democratic system of voting for those who will represent each region, or will the leadership be responsible for selected representation? Let’s talk about it.   

 

The Unclaimed Continent

By Mark McGinnis & Mason Denise Carlisle

 

Now that we have talked about different types of government structures, and we have also discussed some of the reason we all seem to be all right with a Theocracy form of governing, let us take the next step. Think about Michael Scallion’s predictions about landscapes on Earth’s surface changing in the near future. Keep in mind we have already been reminded of some clairvoyant predictions that have proven to be accurate, particularly those made about the virus sweeping across the surface of this planet.

 So, at some point, a large continent emerges in the Southern Atlantic/Indian Ocean. How do you think that came about? It is a new, unclaimed land. The reason no one seems to immediately notice the landmass is because the world is once again consumed with the natural disasters that are occurring none stop. The weather continues to grow more and more severe. In fact, new weather patterns are occurring in areas for the first time. Heat waves in the summer in northern parts of the world with temperatures in the 100s. Tornados touching down all over the world. Back to back hurricanes flooding coastal cities on all known continents except Africa. Blizzards dumping record amounts of snow. Flooding from none stop rains that even affect Africa, bringing the most severe thunderstorms the continent has ever seen. And, all illnesses are becoming harder to clear up including the common cold.

Today we have Covid-19. It was predicted and said it will leave as quickly as it arrived. It is the first purge. It will return in five to ten years, and it will be a little more severe. A vaccine for the current virus will be discovered but when the virus returns it proves it is different. It immediately shows signs it is, at least in part, similar to the original Covid-19 virus but the vaccine does not affect this strain. It is a new strain, resisting all treatments because it has mutated and is somewhat air-born. This strain is a cross between pneumonia and the flu, magnifying both illnesses making them more severe and deadly.

As it is in our current time, there are those who will survive. The second wave will again be more devastating to the elderly and those who have underlining medical condition. For the younger people who contract the disease and survive, they will soon realize they are sterile and unable to have children. It will be this way in men and women. Imagine these times. Magnify what is going on right now by a hundred.

The changes to Earth’s landscapes will go unnoticed for some time, years in fact. Actually, changes to the landmasses will have occurred all over the globe, forcing many to relocate. In the United States the Midwest will be transformed as the weather cause a new wide river to form that will run from Lake Michigan to the Gulf of Mexico. In fact, Lake Michigan will become a part of the Northern Atlantic Ocean. California will continue to gradually break apart, and not because of one national disaster like in the movies. Over several years many earthquakes, fires, severe rain fall, and mudslides will cause the transformation. The east coastline will change as well. This change gradually causes the eastern coastline to widen as the Atlantic seems to be receding. Hawaii is no longer a bunch of islands but has become a joined landmass. Australia is even smaller and is surrounded by several smaller islands.

The heavy rainfall has caused changes in Africa, particularly the Nile River. It grows in length and depth running through the middle of the continent, flowing from the Red Sea, through the north corner of Sudan, covering the southern tip of Libya, widening as it runs through Chad and the Central Republic of Africa, and swallowing must of the Republic of the Congo as it spills into the Southern Atlantic Ocean.

For those who are not infected by the virus and who survive the severe weather conditions, the changes will be the first thing they notice. A select few begin to study the large new landmass that has emerged in the Southern Atlantic. They immediately realize it is not experiencing the severe weather conditions occurring on many continents. The majority of people in the world are in a state of mourning. They are suffering and live in constant fear of contracting the second strain of the virus. The survivors start to wonder how they can protect themselves and their families, possibly start a life in a new, safer place. Why are they surviving?

Those who struggle financial, haven barely recovered from the great recession in 2008, and being struck down in these times, are once again the most impacted by the financial affects the virus once again brings about. These type people are all over the world. Many are looking for ways to support their families as messages with answers start circulating. The messages are seen in the strangest places. Notices on various social media websites but not the common or typical social media sites such as Facebook and/or Twitter. They also avoid religious websites or places people go to practice their religion. However, they do appear on employment sites.

They appear in more detail on websites that have gone, for the most part, unnoticed visited only by a few. The notices contained instructions on how and where to go to be transported to the new landmass. Keep in mind, skepticism will keep some who are not infected and have not been sterilized, from believing, just as it does today. Prophesies are downplayed and discredited. Many people refuse to believe what they hear and see all around them.  

Ships will leave all countries, curse ships, yachts, and smaller motorboats with what will be the second group of settlers on the new continent. They are selected for a reason and faithfully follower their instinct that compels them to make the trip. Understand, in the beginning faith is the only way the new landmass can be seen. Not only are most blinded by their misery, the new continent is shrouded by a fog bank. It also has a reef that surrounds it in its entirety. At first it appears to prevent large ships from reaching the shores but it is later discovered there are places where larger sea vessels can cross.

Now this is from Mason if you are wondering so stay with me. We often wonder why not many have found us and joined our group, why our website has not gone viral. We do not Facebook, we do not tweet, and we do not profess to be the soul avenue that leads to the road of salvation. The extent of our social media activity is done on our own site. Remember, everything happens for a reason, everything. Stop wondering why no one joins from outside are 6 degrees of separation.

The first to explore the new landmass appear to have been prechosen and are naturally the ones in leadership positions. They are the ones who begin to organize and send out invitations to the next group of people that begin to arrive. They send the pickup locations where large cruise ships are waiting to transport families to the new continent, free of charge. The captains of the large sea vessels also received anonymous instructions and maps guiding them to the new continent.  

Among those in the first group are experts and professionals in the fields of architecture, they are electricians, equipment specialist, teachers, doctors, nurses, scientist, and geologist. The second group are skilled in fields that fall under the guidance of the experts who first arrived. When the second group begins to arrive the leaders are there to welcome them on each of two harbors, one on the east coastline and the other on the west. They are the two areas where the reef allows larger ships to pass to the ports on the continent. Large freight ships carrying all types of cargo also begin to arrive.

Solar powered golf carts arrive that did not sell well in any known country. Electric cars also arrive, also depending on solar panels to make them operational. This is desired as the leaders decided they will rely on solar and wind power. Large quantities of building material such as, solar panels of all sizes, lumber, steel, tubing, pipes and other hardware to begin construction is delivered at both ports. Large construction vehicles and equipment arrived to begin construction on roads and bridges, as well as professional building and new homes. There is even an abundance of medical equipment and supplies to get them started.

The professionals and experts begin to gather with those in their field of study. They come from all over the world and are not only glad to meet each other but are eager to get started. They are there a short time and quickly put together temporary housing structures days before the leaders call for a meeting. The new settlers are told they have to travel toward the center of the continent and there are no roads as of yet. It means this will be a two to three-day journey from both ports and they know it will be rough. They begin the journey, and road construction experts are able to assess what the immediate road structure will look like.   

They finally arrive at a beautiful area that looks like the makings of what will be their first military base. They see work has begun on landing strips for aircraft, and there are several helicopters. The area is nestled on the banks of a beautiful sparkling lake with mountains and waterfalls all around. It is colder in this area, signaling it would be much cooler in the winter months. One thing is certain they are in desperate need of infrastructure. What are some of the things they decide at this initial meeting?  

What will be the primary language? Keep in mind they are coming from all over, every known continent. Can they understand each other? For the sake of argument, we will call this new landmass Atlantis as many believe this was a real place that was somehow submerged thousands of years ago. Picture how everything looks in your mind. What do you see? Think about the landscape. The leaders have decided it is one country and the land can be divided but the continent is united. How well they divide the states? Will they call them states?  

It is time to start thinking about the future and what it will look like to and for you. This is another interactive project. I will give you a hint; it is time to pull out all those books we use to pay so much attention to and dust them off. We are now living in the times many of them warned would come. Study after study has proven we as human beings often do not believe our eyes are ears if it is not what we imagine something, someplace, or someone should be. Will you be ready for changes like this?

It is in our nature to doubt everything, especially things we fear, things that are very sensational, and things that seem too good to be true. Be that as it may, the predictions are real, true, and accurate. Listen folks, Yahushua spoke prophetically. Our sacred books are full of predictions and prophesies. It is time to pay attention. To hear what is being said and see what is right in front of us.  

As you think about your responses, understand it is all right to pick one area to share input. You do not have to make or think of ideas for all areas, especially if you do not feel you have enough knowledge or experience in those areas. As Gnostics we believe Michael’s Scallions prediction about changes that will occur in the future. We believe Sylvia Brown’s predictions that include her prediction about this Covid-19 virus.  

Why is this happening, this purge? It is happening because of the viciousness of humanity, the cruelty we show each other, other species on the planet and the environment. We contaminate the air we breathe, the water we drink and we have the nerve to be surprised there is a virus that is killing humans? Let’s talk about it.  

 

If I Led a Nation
Mark McGinnis

 

Have you ever thought “What if I led a nation?” Do you ever wonder what kind of leader you would be if ever placed in a high level of leadership? Even wonder about what kind of person would be best in that type position. What kind of person would that have to be? What would be important to such a leader, to you? What kind of governing structure would he, she, they, you prefer? There are five major types of systems in the world today: Democracy, Republic, Monarchy, Communism, and a Dictatorship. Yes, there are other government structures that fall under one of the listed parent types. In order to make a more informed decision we will begin with some government structure definitions.

There are several government structures in the world that fall under democracy parent form of government. Direct Democracy is one such structure. In this form of government people vote directly on initiatives representatives propose. Also, there is Representative Democracy this structure representatives are elected but once in office are able to force their choices on society. They summarily take over, much like we are seeing today in the United States. Over 80% of Americans wanted a fair impeachment trial, but the republicans in the senate and many in the house, made sure the voice of we the people was ignored. What shall we do about that? Hmmm?

Democracy is a system of government where members in the society, citizens, elect government representation. Examples of strong democracies include countries such as: Australia, Switzerland, Norway, Sweden, New Zealand, Iceland, Denmark and Canada. It gets a little weaker for countries like Germany, Britain, Austria, France, Spain, Japan, Israel, clearly the United States in the era of Trumpism, and Italy.

Republic is similar except only members in the society who are considered worthy nominate representation in the government. Nominees are elected and there is a president selected this way. This includes the president. Examples of countries with this structure of government include: Argentina, Venezuela, Bosnia, Ethiopia, Nepal, Russia, Nigeria, and Somalia.

Non-Democratic governments include: authoritarianism and totalitarianism, fall under their parent government structure, Dictatorship. They are autocratic forms of government, which means they are absolute and arbitrary powers of government. Monarchy also falls under non-democratic forms of government. It is a system we are most familiar with and is understood to be supreme power belongs to a head who is typically a member of the royal family. A King.  There are not many governments with this type of leadership but there are some. For example: Saudi Arabia, the Qatar, and Brunei. In this type government the aristocrat’s rule over the economically less fortunate. Vatican City in Italy, falls into this type structure as it is a clergy-based monarchy.

Communism is a system where property is publicly owned and the people work and get paid based on their need and ability. No religion is typically allowed. The leadership is the higher power. Some examples of countries with this type of government include: China, Cuba, Laos, and Vietnam. As a footnote, Russian is not classified as a communist country.

Dictatorship is a governing system where a dictator, a tyrant with absolute rule, is the government. Some examples of counties with this type system include: in Africa, Uganda and Zimbabwe. In Asia, North Korea, and countries in the Middle east, Syria and Iran. This type of governing system usually has corrupt leadership with the dictator being brutal and showing no care for or about the citizens in the country.   

Dictators are actually scary and unimaginable for those of us who live in or have been exposed to a more liberal, democratic form of government. Authoritarianism is a complete submission to authority and those working in behalf of the authoritarian. Autocracy is a supreme political power in the hands of one person. This is a person with no restraints, legal or regulatory. Totalitarianism is an even broader, extreme version of authoritarianism. In this system the authoritarian regime controls all aspects of public and private life. A dictatorship is an extreme form of autocracy that is a government ruled by one diabolical person. What separates these types of governing from tyranny is the corrupt nature of those in position of power.

Other forms of Non-democratic government include, Oligarchy (aa-lu-gaar-kee), Technocracy (tek-naa-kruh-see) and Theocracy (thee-aa-kruh-see). Again, a monarchy is a government ruled by an individual who is considered a king and/or queen and who has inherited the position. An Oligarchy is a system of government where a small number of people or in control. It is usually the upper class in the society, which can be royalty, wealthy, corporations, and military. Aristocracy is a system controlled by a few elites. Technocracy leaves ruling to the scientists and engineers in the society. Theocracy is a system in which religion rules. Theocracy would be a system ruled by those considered to be divine or linked to divinity. For those of us who have read UE we know quite a bit about a Theocracy system as UE is about the Annuaki, aka the gods in mythology, returning. 

This year we will be engaging in activities that correspond with the articles. The activity for this article is for everyone to pick a system from the list and tell us what kind of leader they believe either they or someone else, whom they believe, would be a good leader. Explain why and answer the question what kind of system has Trump and the republicans turned our government into? Before answering this question understand, it is important to fully understand the system we had up until Trump.

Have fun!

 

Encore!!

Trials & Tribulations
By Mark McGinnis & Mason Carlisle

When we think of trials and tribulations, religiously, we understand these are things that occur as we journey through life that test our faith. If we take it a step further, we began to understand that trials and tribulations play a major part in helping us form values and evaluate our beliefs. Keep this in mind as we go through this trying political season. It is causing most of us some measure of anxiety, easily classifying this as a seriously frightening period of trails and definitely some tribulations.

Tribulation is defined as: times of great trouble, great anxiety, great worry.  If anything, now is the time to be certain about what we stand for, what we value, and what we believe in. Also, it is time to prepare for the battle that is to come as we stand up for our beliefs and values. Most of us know Trump is a corrupt authoritarian who has no intentions of ever leaving the White House. He fancies himself a king and he has a political party that fosters this notion. The Republican Party is a shrinking, controlling party that has been leaving a bad taste in the mouths of average Americans for quite some time. Also, minority groups are growing due to black and brown people migrating to the US. They tend to be more on the liberal side as liberation is an equivalent of freedom. The Republican Party is also losing members because of their rigid, conservative ideals that are simply no longer popular. We are human and naturally we are evolving and growing. This progression cannot be stifled by way of conservatism.

They want to label liberation as socialism, equating this to communism, which actually has more in common with conservatism. Socialism is defined as: production, distribution, and exchange owned and/or regulated by everyone in the community. Communism is a system where cooperation is run by government with one political party that has complete power. The social part of it is everyone is forced to support the government’s views, their laws, and their policy. There is no opposition, thus it is the opposite of democracy. If we remember previous conversations on this topic, conservatism embraces the ideal of opposition to change and/or innovation. The reasons for most republican support of Trump is shallow but insignificant in light of the situation he has placed this country in. Believe it or not, he has done this as he does all things, simply to enrich his own financial interest. To continue to support him is reckless because it leads to partitioning, the kind of separation that divides nations.  

There are far too many of us who have no intentions of living in Trump’s America, and that includes white, rich/wealthy, American males. He is a tyrant and sadly his supporters will not wake up until it is too late, for them of course. For now, they are in that stage of thought that allows them to disassociate themselves from the horror that follows this man everywhere he goes. As we all know, it is easier to ignore situations that do not directly affect us. In fact, some of us are convinced some situations will never touch our lives. For example: a wealthy person knows they do not have to worry about shelter, food, clothing, transportation, or any of life’s necessities. However, these are the very things those living in poverty face daily.

The Umbrella of Privilege raises concepts the majority is taught, and/or society has proven, insure certain tragedies will never touch the lives of many in the majority. It is the root of our divisiveness, creating the US and Them attitudes that foster racism and prejudices. Some examples include notion like: they are bad and we are good, they go to jail and we go to work, they use drugs and we use prescribed medication, and we live in mansions and they live-in rat-infested slums.  

Assumed privilege feeds into the majority’s unrealistic belief that they, the good people, do not do bad things even when they do. In fact, when they do something bad, it is not as severe, or as significant, as it is when a minority does it. The majority comfortably live under the Umbrella of Privilege even when they live in poverty. This umbrella is even bigger for males in the majority. It allows them to believe the males do not abuse their wives, their children, or their animals. Those in this group do not lie, cheat, and/or steal. The males do not rape and molest underage children. They do not have anything to do with gun trafficking, drug trafficking, human trafficking, sex slave trafficking, or child pornography. The men are naturally true patriots, even if they have dodged serving in any branch of our armed forces. They love America even if they dodged paying taxes, and as of late, refuse to protect the sanctity of our country’s democracy from the threat of foreign interference. 

What is the problem with so many people? This article includes references to what psychologists, who have built their lives around, studying human development, theorize. We are also fortunate to have two psychologists in or group who can further explain the theories these psychologists gave us. This psychologist answer many of the questions as to why people do the things they do, what motivates them, and what drives them? They explain that people behave the way they are psychologically programmed to behave.

Let’s look at some theories of famous Psychologists such as Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotky, BF Skinner, Sigmund Freud, Eric Ericson, Ivan Pavlov, and Lawrence Kohlberg. They have given us valuable insight into human behavior based on human cognitive development. Here are the basic layouts of their work and findings, along with webpages for further evaluation if so desired.

Piaget, believed there are four stages of cognitive development.
1. Sensorimotor stage (birth -2)
2. Pre-operational stage (2-7)
3. Concrete operational stage (7-11)
4. Formal operational state (11-adolescence and adulthood) (https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget.html)

He also theorized the process of development in humans when it comes to their moral behavior.  (https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget-moral.html).

Freud gave us the term psychoanalysis to determine how and what causes mental illnesses. He believed things that happen in our childhood greatly shape our lives, which is very very true. (https://www.simplypsychology.org/Sigmund-Freud.html)

BF Skinner gave us something called Operant Conditioning, that is simply consequence, bad behavior has consequences and good behavior has rewards, (https://www.simplypsychology.org/operant-conditioning.html).

Ivan Pavlov gave us classical conditioning which simply means, some of our behaviors do not require special conditioning because they are natural reflexes. If someone yells fire it will generate a reflexive response such as screaming, running, and/or both. It may also cause many to become paralyzed in fear. In other words, our basic behaviors are not always something that can be Operant they are natural. Operant means not reflexive but modifiable, (https://www.simplypsychology.org/pavlov.html). 

Erikson says human behavior goes through eight stages:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust
2. Autonomy vs. Shame
3. Initiative vs. Guilt
4. Industry vs. Inferiority
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation
8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
(https://www.simplypsychology.org/Erik-Erikson.html)

And another Psychologist who theorized human’s moral development is Kohlberg. Moral human development. Ah this is where many in the species fall short. Kohlberg, along with other famous psychologist, such as Bruner, believe human moral development goes through four to five stages of maturity. This behavior relies on role modeling or scaffolding,
(https://www.simplypsychology.org/vygotsky.html).  

Ah the Gnostics ideal of images and messages. This is why we are, or should, always be on your best behavior. We must understand others around us are highly impressionable, based on their cognitive development. The visible behavior of others, particularly those in leadership positions, greatly impacts how we respond to what we see and hear. 

It is a shared belief that only 5% of humanity reaches the fourth or fifth level of cognitive maturity or development. This is a moral level of cognitive development. It is shared understanding that this element is the core of our righteousness. Religion teaches that only a few reached a harvestable or progressive stage in this life cycle. Ra, also tells us that only five percent of our species is progressing.

Trial is defined as: testing, evaluating performance, determining what we are suited for, capable of, made of, and what we stand for. These are always psychological test and they are not written. They are literal, physical test we all face as we walk through life. We are evaluated on how we respond to the things we encounter and how we treat others in any given situation? These trials give us insight into paths going forward. They can and usually answer questions as to what professions we are best suited for, or what type of person we will marry, who our friends will be, and/or what will be our spiritual beliefs. Should we be in leadership positions? Are we leaders? Should we be parents, teachers, doctors, nurses, care givers for the elderly, law enforcement officers, judges, congressmen, generals, prison guards, social workers, border patrol officers, senators, preachers, and President of a country? Armed with this information we can also better understand why so many people refuse to do the right thing even in the simplest situations.

Often times we ask ourselves why people blindly follow a tyrant? The answer is because they refuse to take responsibility for the bad things they believe in at their core. Yes, there is an awareness the belief is wrong because if there was no awareness there would be no coverups, no secrets, no fear of transparency, no cheating, no deception, no deceit, and no destruction. Did you notice it? The three D’s that define a real DEVIL!  Deceptive, Deceitful, and Destructive. Devil’s do not build up. They do not believe in progression. They are deceptive? They mislead and try to make people believe their eyes and ears are lying to them.

Notice the list of positions listed above. They are all positions and occupations that automatically give us authority over others. They require a measure of leadership skills to be successful in the position or occupation. With that said, understand devils are good at what they do. This is why parenting is the first, most important leadership position most of us face in this life. It is a parent’s responsibility to arm their children right away. Influence and scaffolding begin in a child’s first and primary environment. Guidance is what parents first give their children particularly when it comes to morality. Logically, in order for our children to grow up strong and prepared, they most begin with a firm foundation. Yes, only a few will survive. But this is what we have been discussing all these years? Failure is expected and sometimes inevitable for many people, but success is not hopeless, not impossible. Despite the hardships we suffer early in life it is possible to survive and surpass our adversities. Many of us are proof of that, haven suffered greatly, and surviving the tribulations life has dealt us.

We have talked about how hard it is to live a righteous life. It is hard because of the many tribulations we encounter throughout life. How we handle tribulation is constantly on trial. The key is our morality. This is what connects us to the one true God, The mighty Most High! Do not be deceived. It is not man’s tangible value system. Once this is understood, our eyes our open. Remember Yahushua said, it is easier to thread a camel through the eye of a needle than for a wealthy person to be harvestable. The good news is many of us who are considered rich/wealthy are doing our best to use our fortune for good. Some of us are choosing right over greed, over excess, and over selfishness. Despite our socioeconomic status, we realize we have benefited from our privilege and it is time to give back. It is time to do the service the Most High has called upon us to do.   

If we are wise, we realize our tribulations build character and strengthen us. Tribulations, although very difficult at times, arm us for things to come, teaching us how to handle ourselves in stressful situations. What we learn from our tribulations is what matters. Trials and Tribulation test and strengthen our morality. They are not a form of curse, but rather moral building blocks that insure we are successfully prepared to progress from this life cycle into the next.  

 

“Success”
By Mason Carlisle & Marcus McGinnis

 

Success’, have you ever wondered what it really means to be successful in life. Success means many different things, and can be achieved in many different ways, depending on what is valued most in our individual lives. We can and are not limited to being successful at only one goal in life, we can achieve success in several goals. For example: we can be academically successful, professional successful, spiritual successful, or personally successful at something done to improve our individual life.

Prosperity’, This is not only a noble aspiration, it is a successful achievement. We all want to live worry, stress-free lives if possible, and that means being financially comfortable. Prosperity is also what the Most High desires for us. What goals we set for ourselves, whatever are individual path to prosperity may be, is left to us to determine. However, keep in mind, any decent, pure, noble, and honorable aspiration can become tainted as we strive to achieve our desired goals in life.   

Life teaches us that living is not easy. We all encounter some form of hardship along our chosen path. There seems to always be something or someone attempting to obstruct, derail, detain, or even prevent us from achieve success. Often times it can be parents, whose dreams and aspirations, were in some way derailed in their lives, thus never materializing. So, they pass those dreams and aspirations off to their children. They do not seem to realize, or probably care that their children will have their own aspirations, dreams, and goals in life. This is why parenting is not easy and should be entered into after much thought and planning. Parenting is another noble aspiration, but frankly, far too many people are simply not qualified to be in charge of something so important. As Gnostics we are not opposed to the idea of qualifying to be a parent before being allowed to have and attempt to successful raise children.

Qualified parents understand they are responsible for insuring children have a moral foundation that allows them to build their dreams and aspiration upon. Where does this moral foundation come from? Gnostic believe it is a part of us that has to be nurtured from birth. Contra to what many religions teach, Gnostics do not believe humans are born full of or in sin. In the Gnostic faith we know all life begins on a clean slate. Therefore, humans are born pure, innocent, and devoid of sin. Humans being born in sin is a religious notion that derives from spiritual literature that is taking out of context and used to mislead mass groups people, particularly the Old Testament in the Bible. This is why Gnostics view the majority of the Old Testament in the Bible as a record of history. We also understand history teaches us about what is important in life. For example: The Old Testament contains the Ten Commandments. Gnostic believe this is a moral codex or blue print written to help us achieve righteousness. A firm sense of right and wrong is necessary in order to chart a successful course through life. Parents are charged with supplying their children with this map and/or chart.

As parents’ morality is how we guide and set the example for our children to follow.  Faith is what we trust in that our guidance will help our children choose honorable goals and have decent aspirations in their lives. Again, to desire to be a parent is an honorable aspiration, but one that should not be taken lightly. In order to instill moral qualities in our children we must be of strong moral character ourselves. This is important because we all have to be able to be forward thinkers, meaning we think about tomorrow. Our future. It matters. We all need to decide what we stand for, what matters to us, what we value, what we believe in, what kind of person we want to be known for or as. We all need to know what principles we are committed to and pledge our devote loyalty.

The level of moral foundation in each individual life, is demonstrated in  our specific moral cognition. This means we all fall into one of four distinct categories that affect our pursuit of prosperity. The first category is one of complacency. People in this group come from all walks of life, all ethnicities, and all socioeconomic levels. Basically, they are mentally lazy and typically do not think beyond the day they are currently in. They give no thought about tomorrow, next week, next month, next year, or five years from today. Because they do not value themselves, they are unable to value others. They are the, ‘go with the flow’ group, do what the crowd is doing, follow the leader. They are to mentally lazy to think for themselves so they are easily misled. They shun responsibility, even when it comes to having independent opinions. It is easier for them to simply follow the lead of others.  

The second category is the most disheartening. This are the persecuted, the disadvantaged. These are the disparaged in our society. They are those, primarily due to no fault of their own, denied the right and ability to be economically successful. These are those who are poor and/or who live in poverty. They are victimized by policies, procedures, and practices that deny them access to many of the tools needed for success, prosperity. They are often denied, from infancy, the basic human entitlements necessary to sustain life. So, it is no wonder they do not see beyond the current moment. They are in a constant state of survival and that is all consuming. They are forced to concern themselves with how they will provide immediate needs all day long, moment by moment, because they live on such meager funds. Imagine waking up wondering how you will survive the day. This is how it is for those who live in poverty.

The third category are the more stable-minded group. This are those who are able to decide they want to be successful in life and strive to insure they prosper. These are those who, despite all obstacles, keep pushing forward, determined to be efficacious. They do think about the future. They have values, and a strong sense of self-worth. This group is where real leaders can be found. They have the mentality needed to take on the challenges that come with necessary management. They also find their strengths and utilize them, which helps facilitate their success.

The fourth category is the arrogant group. This group is full of people who have had mostly everything in their lives handed to them. They are often in leadership positions, not because of their skill, their knowledge, or hard work, but because of their financial status. They are a small but powerful group because they come from rich or wealthy backgrounds. They do not need morals because they have money. They can buy their way into the best of everything including professions, whether they are qualified are not. This group has more than they need period and that is why they are financially successful and prosperous.

Success is possible in each group with the exception of the second where failure is typical, expected, and insured by those who strive to make sure this is the outcome. However, there are exception in this category. From time to time an opportunity will find someone in this group. If they are spiritual and morally secure, they will have the forthwith to first recognize, and then bravely seize their chance. So, where does the opportunity come from? Someone in a better position who reaches back and extends a helping hand. At some point in our lives we all need someone willing to help us accomplish success in one form or another. The point is, prosperity is a state of mind. When we realize this, we can be forward thinkers and can begin to care about how we live and how we want to be viewed and remembered.

Do we know how others generally view us? How often do any of us think about how we want to be remembered? Because, we will be remembered, especially by those whose lives we have personally touched. Imagine being in a position of leadership. In this type position, how we deal with life is now on public display. The images one presents in a leadership position becomes their legacy. Image is everything because someone is always watching, and we must be aware of the example we are setting at all times. 

Again, we all have dreams and aspirations. The listed categories make up our individual environments and we have all heard the phrase, “We are a product of our environment”. This means it is not surprising if a member of group one, decides a life of crime is a good path to prosperity. Easy money, requiring little effort, which is why most of them go to prison or are killed early in life. It is also often the case in group two but for different reason. Although the third group gives us politicians, doctors, lawyers, and teachers, on occasion this is where the mastermind behind a network of criminal activities comes from.

As human beings, living, entitles us to basic necessities needed to sustain life. Poverty often denies these basic necessities. ‘Generational Poverty’ is even more tragic. This type of inherited poverty is caused by those in better positions, creating situations that make it hard if not impossible for those in the second category to be successful. The majority of people in the second group are considered minorities in our society. Minorities are denied access to what the majority enjoys and takes for granted. However, denial of equality is not reserved for and/or does not just target minorities. Women are also denied many of the benefits that facilitate advancement afforded to White Males.

Those in a lower than average socioeconomic status are also locked out of certain benefits that help improve their lives. There are people of all ethnicities who are poor, and/or living in poverty. But minorities are systematically restricted to this station in life. Imagine the mentality of those born into generational poverty. It is no wonder they find it easy to join gangs, use drugs, or do things that cause them to be imprisoned. People born into generational poverty do not know what real prosperity feels like. Life is about survival for them. Survival and prosperity are not the same. Of course, they see people who live prosperous lives, but cannot imagine this in their own individual lives. Again, this is a condition that is created by others who have the financial ability to physically insure poverty is sustain, and that it grows.  

We progressively achieve success starting with education, and the level of education is determined by what category or group listed above, one fits into. For those in the second group, that of poverty, graduating from high school and obtaining a diploma is a huge educational success. It is an achievable goal because attending school is mandatory. School allows for exposure to a better life if properly utilize, particularly those who are athletically inclined. The completion of high school opens the door to higher forms of education. But high school, in some states in this country, is an outlet that is thinning.

In other groups, furthering one’s education is an option that is often utilized. They realize that a degree from a higher-level educational institution, only increases their opportunity to be prosperous. Those in groups three and four plan their lives and know that obtaining associates, bachelors, and master’s degrees, and even doctrines, insures they will be financially successful. However, those in the first category do not do well in high school because it is too much work. They do not get good enough grades to further their education at a university or college and often drop out of school. A GED is often a good enough certificate, and if desired, opens the door for junior college, or a trade or vocational school. The latter is of course, easier.

This is an option for many in group two as well, as the need to find work as soon as possible, is vital. They seize the opportunity to go to a trade or vocational school to complete educational goals, because it is affordable and obtainable. The military is also an option for those in the second group because it is an even better opportunity to improve their life. Educational successes set us on a path of prosperity as we embark on the next stage in life, achieving our professional goals.

Spiritual success can be obtained at any stage of life for people in all categories. Success in this aspiration is significate because there is nothing more rewarding than finding the path, that will lead us to the one road headed toward true salvation, or the Most High. The earlier we find our spiritual path the easier it is to cope with the everyday stresses that are a naturally part of life. It prepares us for the task of achieving all other goals when it is our first success.

Of course, our professional goals determine how prosperous we will be in life. This is where those in the second group begin to experience the strongest resistance. Procedure, policy, and practices are now accompanied with racist views, opinions, and expectations based on stereotypes. This is when they are up against all the hideous, gratuitous ways stumbling blocks are placed in their path. Things that are oppressive, suppressive, and disparaging, designed to destroy hope, which is the primary goal.

Instinctively, we all aspire to prosper. We know how others make it difficult for those in group two, but what are the stumbling blocks for those in groups three and four? Actually, their barriers are typically self-induced. How? Remember our conversations on the seven deadly sins? We all have times when we feel a little lazy. On occasions we have too much of something we really like to eat, or drink a little more than we should. There may come a time when we notice a neighbor’s new car and wish we could get one as nice. The same can be said about a dream home and a solid partnership.

We all get upset when we are wronged and want accountability from those who wrong us. But the righteous know karma will see to it this occurs. So, we do not have to act on our desire for justice. There is nothing wrong with enjoying physical activity with others, be it sexual or simple affectionate hugs and kisses. Of course, there is nothing wrong with feeling good about our achievements and accomplishments, and again it is normal to want prosperity. But when these normal wants become ‘Excessive’ they are no longer desires but sins, deadly sins.

Excess’, in group one excess turns laziness into ‘Loath’. In all groups, excess makes that desire for more of a favored food and drink Gluttony’. Excess turns wanting a nicer house, car, and/or relationship into jealousy, ‘Envy’. Excess turns our desire for accountability into revenge, which is a step away from ‘Wrath’. Excess turns are enjoyment of affection into ‘Lust’. In the third and fourth group, excess turns feeling confident into arrogance, and arrogance is accompanied with ‘Pride’.  Excess turns prosperity into ‘Capitalism’, and ‘Capitalism into ‘Greed’.  Excess is wanting and/or having more than what is needed to sustain one’s life. The want for more always results in harm to, and often the death of others. Excess explains why these behaviors are considered deadly and thus sinful in the Catholic religion and Gnostic faith.

The idea of ‘Capitalism’ no longer adheres to its defined meaning. Capitalism is officially defined as a system in which the country’s trade and industry are controlled by private owners for profit, rather than the government. This is also known as free market and/or enterprise. What distorts this good idea is politics and ‘GREED’. A good example of the excessive manifestation of this can be seen in this country’s homeless epidemic. The overpricing in the real estate industry is driving working citizens into homelessness. After the recession, real estate agencies brought up all the foreclosed properties and started real estate-based property managements. Real estate agencies helped crash the economy that brought on our last recession. Their GREED, has now transferred into the rent industry, and rent rates are so high thousands are being displaced all over this country. People are having their lives destroyed because of GREED!!!

Also, Big markets or industries, such as insurance companies, Walmart, now Amazon, and the NRA, payoff politicians, who in turn enact laws that enable them to corner markets. This squeezes out smaller businesses and forces all of us to pay outrageous prices for goods and services. Profit, profit, profit. GREED, GREED, GREED. So, because of politics, capitalism only works for the wealthy.

Capitalism also facilitates poverty. Out pricing people for suitable, affordable housing pushes working citizens into poverty. Homelessness is POVERTY!!! The ranks of the poor continue to grow. As it is, capitalism is not very democratic. Democracy does not work when those voted into office, who are trusted to do what is right for all the people, take payments that enrich them personally, to do what is best for only a few people. The ideal or intent of capitalism is good. However, in Christianity one of the many phrases we are familiar with is, “The road to hell is paved with good intentions”. It basically means people do not generally start off a venture with a desire to harm others. But, the seeds of “Greed” are planted and feed by an unquenchable desire for more, more, more.

Prosperity is tainted with excessive beliefs of entitlement. To be the right ethnicity and/or gender allows for excessive entitlements. To be of a good financial standing allows for excessive entitlements. To have these things equates to favored. If one is favored by our creator, they are special. They are the ‘Privileged’.

The belief in ethnic superiority creates many problems on its own. Hatred, racism, oppression, discrimination, enslavement, imprisonment, denial of opportunity, negative stereotypes, denial of basic human entitlements that sustain life, and a stifling of prosperity, which is poverty. A belief in ethnic favoritism creates a belief “they” referring to the minority, are subject to the law, not “us”, representing the majority. The laws are not for “us”, the ‘Privilege’, but for “them”. This belief of ethnic preeminence is excessive and equates to ‘Privileged’.

The privilege can do no wrong even, when they clearly can and do. White law enforcement officers do not have to be accountable for taking the life of an unarmed minority. The ‘Privilege’, can destroy natural resources on the plant by polluting the air, contaminating the water, the ground, for profit. The privilege can murder for sport, hunting many animals to the point of extinction. The privilege can throw garbage in our oceans and even send trash into space. The privilege are slowly murdering the planet, sucking her dry, all for profit. GREED!!!

The idea of being favored, ‘Privilege’, is the ultimate form of all the deadly sins combined, and leaves nothing but death and destruction in its path. The success of ‘Privilege’ is the end of all life on this planet if it is not reigned in and brought under control. We need just look around and see this frightening truth with our eyes wide open.

Prosperity is a noble aspiration and there is nothing wrong with wanting to prosper. Advancing, achieving, and accomplishing goals is honorable. Prosperity is not selfish or hateful. But Greed would have us believe capitalism is prosperity. Capitalism feeds GREED and insures that only a few people in a society prosper. Free market is not capitalism because free market is not greed. It is and means equal opportunity, which makes it democratic.

Prosperity is a desire to live comfortable, stress-free lives. The Most High wants us to achieve our goals in life, and live our dreams. Prosperity is wonderful when it is achieved without hurting and oppressing others. This type of prosperity is achieved only when one lives a life grounded in morality. Morality never allows hateful, deceitful, misleading, discriminatory, disparaging, murderous behaviors to stifle and prevent progress. It is morality that keeps us connected to the Most High at all times. This is why spiritual success is beneficial in order to help with our success in all our goals and aspirations. Morality and Love, a connection to All That Is, is what true success is all about.

 

  Liberation

By Marcus McGinnis

 

This article will begin by defining words and terms in order to clearly convey the main topic and supporting points. We begin with the article title. Liberation defined is: freeing from Imprisonment, Slavery, Oppression, Domination, Control, Cruelty, and Tyranny. Liberation literally means to release anyone held captive in one of the above listed forms of subjugation. So, why is being classified A Liberal by some, given negative connotations, particularly politically? First the political definition of Liberal is: one who is open to new ideas and shows a willingness to change.

Conservative idealists choose to focus on the fact that those who subscribe to a liberal ideology, too easily show a willingness to fully do away with older more traditional ways of governing a society. There is also a more European form of conservatist known as a Tory.  Toryism defined is:  upholding the British version of traditional conservatism that believes in supremacy via social order.  Conservatives want to preserve old customs even if they bring about many ways of oppressing and disparaging others. Why? Well it makes sense that they would want to preserve their way of life if it is favorable for them in almost every way. This is privilege, often referred to in the United States as White Privilege. It is also a desired ideology if it supports their views and opinions of others and the world in general. Some examples would include: the belief that some are natural born in a superior status via ethnicity and/or socioeconomic status. In other words, it benefits them to maintain the status que. Why then do conservatives believe they love and serve God? In fact, the words Conservative and Christian are synonymous, and further supports the idea that they are in fact, the righteous ones doing the will of God? Again, the belief in being naturally born with godlike status, favored and more loved by God, is a belief that clearly benefits the ideology.

Well, it is time to first evaluate the ideal of god and what this means in contrast to who and what the Most High and/or True God is. In order to do that we have to understand that it is time to stop condoning beliefs that are not inspired by the Most High. How this is done is we must first stop believing ideals that are falsely linked to The Most High. Christianity is a religious belief that often makes plain, it is the only path leading to the expressway that takes us to God or The Most High!  Honestly, the main thing we have to learn to do is understand our beliefs and values. We must recognize why we have them, and why they matter so much to us. To profess to believe in a higher power, we must understand what that higher power is, what it means, what it stands for, what it requires, and what its characteristics are. If we profess to believe there is a higher power, True God, the Most High, we know that the Most High is pure love. That is True God’s primary characteristic. So, above all things, anything that is not of that nature is not inspired, condoned, appreciated, encouraged, and/or valued, by God who is God alone. So, to be clear, most of the behaviors and ideals that make up the Conservative ideology are not loving. Therefore, they do not serve, honor, and/or respected the true nature of the Most High. The status que must change when behaviors are harming others. If an ideology has been formed to maintain traditional behaviors, particularly ideals that find no fault in the enslavement, oppression, domination, wrongful incarceration, physically and mentally control, and being down right cruel to others, it is ungodly, and anti the Most High. 

In the Gnostic faith we believe there are many paths we can take to the ONE road that leads us back to the Oneness that is All. That ONE road, and there is only ONE, is righteousness and love, which equates to morality. Gnostic do not tell others their spiritual beliefs are wrong because our spiritual and/or religious beliefs are among the many paths that lead to the main road. These paths are like side streets leading to the expressway, and we all know there are many streets that lead to the main highways that will take us to a specific desired destination. Thus, we are allowed to explore other paths when lost, or seeking a clearly way for ourselves. But we all must be free to make those choices, and telling others one path is the only path is misleading, untrue, and illogical. As Gnostics we understand our faith is one path, but, not the only path. Therefore, to tell others anything other than they are free to choose is anti-God.

Freewill, choice, all religions teach we are born with the right of freedom. So, why are ideologies continuously formed that deny this God-given basic right? Conservatism is such an ideology, as it continues to justify traditional practice that are based on remanence of European tyranny. Although our founding fathers led us to liberation from this ideology, the conservative ideology clings to many of its characteristics. It continues to override the very literal, clearly printed, easily articulated—to many—words written in sacred texts. Words that tell us the Most High gave every living individual freewill. We do not need one human to make life-altering decision for us. We are all capable of deciding what path we will take in this life cycle. Conservatism cleaves to the traditional ideal that says the few elites are the elect, chosen by God, to have dominion over the many. Although their ideals are opposite everything the Most High is about, it is necessary for them to use the most powerful tool in existence, GOD! It allows them to maintain the persona of superiority. This is done by diluting and misrepresenting the true nature of the Most High by way of twisting the words written in sacred text. It is more than clear that if a society believes this is what God wants, they will be more inclined, and willing to accept an ideal as legitimate, factual.   

Many people do not understand the Ten Commandments are the blue print of morality. Just as most people do not understand that the Word Aeon, which is equal to part, element, sense, of the Most High, whom we as Gnostics, call Yahushua, but many call him Jesus, gave us the manner in which we should pray. The Lord’s Prayer is not a prayer, it is a blue print of how to pray or talk to the Most High. Most people do not understand that there is no one right faith, religion, or spiritual belief. However, there is only one direct route to the Most High and that is righteousness. This is achieved by MORALLITY. Morality is ushered in via love, as again the Most High is Pure LOVE, and that love is transcending. It is seeded in our hearts, where it nests, and as it forms roots and grows, it spreads to our cognition. Once our mind is affected, we can begin to develop our individual morality.

Pure love is liberating. Remember the attributes of love include: kindness, charity, unselfishness, without shame, which is not prideful, not envious, not easily angered, does not enjoy any form of evil, is pure, honest, strong, faithful, and hopeful. As we read these attributes it is obvious why the Most High does not just end it all. The Most High is forever hopeful that we will get this thing right, which proves there is no such thing as the torturous hell most religions claim exists. This journey is as hellish as it gets. But, as long as we are here there is always hope, as again, the Most High is very hopeful.

The attributes of Love are also defined in the book of Romans in the Bible, chapter 12 verses 9-13. It says love is without dissimulation. What does that mean? The definition of Dissimulation is: hiding one’s true nature, true feelings, thoughts, self. This is to be a liar, deceptive, and to be intentionally misleading. The verses go on to say love abhors evil and cleaves to good. Abhor is to maintain distance and stay far away. Cleave is to desire, welcome, and seek. Love is freely affectionate, treats others with brotherly or sisterly kindness. Love honors others simply because they are, they live, they matter. Love is not lazy, it is joyous, patient, diligent in conversations with the Most High, AKA Prayer. Love is hospitable, it blesses those who persecute others. This is forgiveness folks and to do this is very hard. Love weeps with those when they are weeping, shows empathy and sympathy. It shows an ability to understand others. This is an ability to mentally imagine yourself in the shoes of another. Love is not vengeful. Love does not lie on or about others, and desires peace above all things.

Do we see any of these attributes in the main fragments of conservative ideology? As you think about that question, keep in mind what is going on with the current United State Executive branch of government. Do we see any of these attributes in the Republican party’s conservative ideology upon witnessing what is unfolding directly in front of us? Is it possible to have the listed attributes of love and believe in the Conservative ideology? NO, because this ideology and belief is contra Love. Again, you cannot be a Conservative and profess to love and follow the Most High. The two are opposite each other. We all have conservative views about certain issues but that does not mean we embrace the conservative ideology.

What about being labeled A Progressive? Progressive defined is: a belief that life literally progresses in stages. It develops gradually in a step by step forward manner. It is growing, and any desire to stifle the natural progression of life, to interfere and/or inhibit progress is a form of slavery, oppression. That is what conservatism represents. It is naturally oppressive, enslaving, cruel, and deceptively presented itself as godly. Conservatism is evil and shares all the attributes thereof. Again, we need only pay attention to what is going on with the current United States executive branch of government. Conservatives have a god but it is not the one true God who is God. Their god is MONEY and they are true to it. Moscow Mitch called himself the Grim Ripper. What more is there to say.

Socialist, what does this mean and why are we supposed to see this negatively? Socialism has been defined several times but let us define it yet again. Socialism define is: a political and economic belief that advocates the means of production, distribution, and exchange should be owned and regulated by everyone in the community. So, this boils down to one thing. Conservatism needs to cause and maintain a “I'm better than you,” credence and that means someone has to lose. They do not care about fairness and they do not appear to care about democracy, particularly judging the situation with Brexit in Great Britain, and the current position United States Senate has taken when dealing with this country’s current president. They want to be better, that means they oppress, depress, deceive, enslave, imprison, and delight in being cruel to others.

The truth is it has been spoken very sensibly. Some measure of socialism is necessary if a community considers itself united. A unified community cares about all the members in their community. So, it is only natural that some things should be universal, such as health and education. These two should be fair and equal across the board. This is common sense and realistic to those who love and whose lives are built on a foundation of morality.

There is nothing wrong with being a Libertarian with Social ideals, understanding we are naturally created to progress, thus the aging process. It is the desire of the Most High that we are unified, in love, peace, and happiness. Prosperity should be obtainable for everyone in the society and/or community. Everyone is equal in the eyes of the Most High and entitled to a fair opportunity to achieve, and grow. Liberation, and unification is a natural part of human progress and is therefore Godly as these ideology insures a healthy, safe, morally sound life. This is real righteousness. 

 

Trials & Tribulations
By Mark McGinnis & Mason Carlisle

 

When we think of trials and tribulations, religiously, we understand these are things that occur as we journey through life that test our faith. If we take it a step further, we began to understand that trials and tribulations play a major part in helping us form values and evaluate our beliefs. Keep this in mind as we go through this trying political season. It is causing most of us some measure of anxiety, easily classifying this as a seriously frightening period of trails and definitely some tribulations.

Tribulation is defined as: times of great trouble, great anxiety, great worry.  If anything, now is the time to be certain about what we stand for, what we value, and what we believe in. Also, it is time to prepare for the battle that is to come as we stand up for our beliefs and values. Most of us know Trump is a corrupt authoritarian who has no intentions of ever leaving the White House. He fancies himself a king and he has a political party that fosters this notion. The Republican Party is a shrinking, controlling party that has been leaving a bad taste in the mouths of average Americans for quite some time. Also, minority groups are growing due to black and brown people migrating to the US. They tend to be more on the liberal side as liberation is an equivalent of freedom. The Republican Party is also losing members because of their rigid, conservative ideals that are simply no longer popular. We are human and naturally we are evolving and growing. This progression cannot be stifled by way of conservatism.

They want to label liberation as socialism, equating this to communism, which actually has more in common with conservatism. Socialism is defined as: production, distribution, and exchange owned and/or regulated by everyone in the community. Communism is a system where cooperation is run by government with one political party that has complete power. The social part of it is everyone is forced to support the government’s views, their laws, and their policy. There is no opposition, thus it is the opposite of democracy. If we remember previous conversations on this topic, conservatism embraces the ideal of opposition to change and/or innovation. The reasons for most republican support of Trump is shallow but insignificant in light of the situation he has placed this country in. Believe it or not, he has done this as he does all things, simply to enrich his own financial interest. To continue to support him is reckless because it leads to partitioning, the kind of separation that divides nations.  

There are far too many of us who have no intentions of living in Trump’s America, and that includes white, rich/wealthy, American males. He is a tyrant and sadly his supporters will not wake up until it is too late, for them of course. For now, they are in that stage of thought that allows them to disassociate themselves from the horror that follows this man everywhere he goes. As we all know, it is easier to ignore situations that do not directly affect us. In fact, some of us are convinced some situations will never touch our lives. For example: a wealthy person knows they do not have to worry about shelter, food, clothing, transportation, or any of life’s necessities. However, these are the very things those living in poverty face daily.

The Umbrella of Privilege raises concepts the majority is taught, and/or society has proven, insure certain tragedies will never touch the lives of many in the majority. It is the root of our divisiveness, creating the US and Them attitudes that foster racism and prejudices. Some examples include notion like: they are bad and we are good, they go to jail and we go to work, they use drugs and we use prescribed medication, and we live in mansions and they live-in rat-infested slums.  

Assumed privilege feeds into the majority’s unrealistic belief that they, the good people, do not do bad things even when they do. In fact, when they do something bad, it is not as severe, or as significant, as it is when a minority does it. The majority comfortably live under the Umbrella of Privilege even when they live in poverty. This umbrella is even bigger for males in the majority. It allows them to believe the males do not abuse their wives, their children, or their animals. Those in this group do not lie, cheat, and/or steal. The males do not rape and molest underage children. They do not have anything to do with gun trafficking, drug trafficking, human trafficking, sex slave trafficking, or child pornography. The men are naturally true patriots, even if they have dodged serving in any branch of our armed forces. They love America even if they dodged paying taxes, and as of late, refuse to protect the sanctity of our country’s democracy from the threat of foreign interference. 

What is the problem with so many people? This article includes references to what psychologists, who have built their lives around, studying human development, theorize. We are also fortunate to have two psychologists in or group who can further explain the theories these psychologists gave us. This psychologist answer many of the questions as to why people do the things they do, what motivates them, and what drives them? They explain that people behave the way they are psychologically programmed to behave.

Let’s look at some theories of famous Psychologists such as Jean Piaget, Lev Vygotky, BF Skinner, Sigmund Freud, Eric Ericson, Ivan Pavlov, and Lawrence Kohlberg. They have given us valuable insight into human behavior based on human cognitive development. Here are the basic layouts of their work and findings, along with webpages for further evaluation if so desired.

Piaget, believed there are four stages of cognitive development.
1. Sensorimotor stage (birth -2)
2. Pre-operational stage (2-7)
3. Concrete operational stage (7-11)
4. Formal operational state (11-adolescence and adulthood) (https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget.html)

He also theorized the process of development in humans when it comes to their moral behavior.  (https://www.simplypsychology.org/piaget-moral.html).

Freud gave us the term psychoanalysis to determine how and what causes mental illnesses. He believed things that happen in our childhood greatly shape our lives, which is very very true. (https://www.simplypsychology.org/Sigmund-Freud.html)

BF Skinner gave us something called Operant Conditioning, that is simply consequence, bad behavior has consequences and good behavior has rewards, (https://www.simplypsychology.org/operant-conditioning.html).

Ivan Pavlov gave us classical conditioning which simply means, some of our behaviors do not require special conditioning because they are natural reflexes. If someone yells fire it will generate a reflexive response such as screaming, running, and/or both. It may also cause many to become paralyzed in fear. In other words, our basic behaviors are not always something that can be Operant they are natural. Operant means not reflexive but modifiable, (https://www.simplypsychology.org/pavlov.html). 

Erikson says human behavior goes through eight stages:
1. Trust vs. Mistrust
2. Autonomy vs. Shame
3. Initiative vs. Guilt
4. Industry vs. Inferiority
5. Identity vs. Role Confusion
6. Intimacy vs. Isolation
7. Generativity vs. Stagnation
8. Ego Integrity vs. Despair
(https://www.simplypsychology.org/Erik-Erikson.html)

And another Psychologist who theorized human’s moral development is Kohlberg. Moral human development. Ah this is where many in the species fall short. Kohlberg, along with other famous psychologist, such as Bruner, believe human moral development goes through four to five stages of maturity. This behavior relies on role modeling or scaffolding,
(https://www.simplypsychology.org/vygotsky.html).  

Ah the Gnostics ideal of images and messages. This is why we are, or should, always be on your best behavior. We must understand others around us are highly impressionable, based on their cognitive development. The visible behavior of others, particularly those in leadership positions, greatly impacts how we respond to what we see and hear. 

It is a shared belief that only 5% of humanity reaches the fourth or fifth level of cognitive maturity or development. This is a moral level of cognitive development. It is shared understanding that this element is the core of our righteousness. Religion teaches that only a few reached a harvestable or progressive stage in this life cycle. Ra, also tells us that only five percent of our species is progressing.

Trial is defined as: testing, evaluating performance, determining what we are suited for, capable of, made of, and what we stand for. These are always psychological test and they are not written. They are literal, physical test we all face as we walk through life. We are evaluated on how we respond to the things we encounter and how we treat others in any given situation? These trials give us insight into paths going forward. They can and usually answer questions as to what professions we are best suited for, or what type of person we will marry, who our friends will be, and/or what will be our spiritual beliefs. Should we be in leadership positions? Are we leaders? Should we be parents, teachers, doctors, nurses, care givers for the elderly, law enforcement officers, judges, congressmen, generals, prison guards, social workers, border patrol officers, senators, preachers, and President of a country? Armed with this information we can also better understand why so many people refuse to do the right thing even in the simplest situations.

Often times we ask ourselves why people blindly follow a tyrant? The answer is because they refuse to take responsibility for the bad things they believe in at their core. Yes, there is an awareness the belief is wrong because if there was no awareness there would be no coverups, no secrets, no fear of transparency, no cheating, no deception, no deceit, and no destruction. Did you notice it? The three D’s that define a real DEVIL!  Deceptive, Deceitful, and Destructive. Devil’s do not build up. They do not believe in progression. They are deceptive? They mislead and try to make people believe their eyes and ears are lying to them.

Notice the list of positions listed above. They are all positions and occupations that automatically give us authority over others. They require a measure of leadership skills to be successful in the position or occupation. With that said, understand devils are good at what they do. This is why parenting is the first, most important leadership position most of us face in this life. It is a parent’s responsibility to arm their children right away. Influence and scaffolding begin in a child’s first and primary environment. Guidance is what parents first give their children particularly when it comes to morality. Logically, in order for our children to grow up strong and prepared, they most begin with a firm foundation. Yes, only a few will survive. But this is what we have been discussing all these years? Failure is expected and sometimes inevitable for many people, but success is not hopeless, not impossible. Despite the hardships we suffer early in life it is possible to survive and surpass our adversities. Many of us are proof of that, haven suffered greatly, and surviving the tribulations life has dealt us.

We have talked about how hard it is to live a righteous life. It is hard because of the many tribulations we encounter throughout life. How we handle tribulation is constantly on trial. The key is our morality. This is what connects us to the one true God, The mighty Most High! Do not be deceived. It is not man’s tangible value system. Once this is understood, our eyes our open. Remember Yahushua said, it is easier to thread a camel through the eye of a needle than for a wealthy person to be harvestable. The good news is many of us who are considered rich/wealthy are doing our best to use our fortune for good. Some of us are choosing right over greed, over excess, and over selfishness. Despite our socioeconomic status, we realize we have benefited from our privilege and it is time to give back. It is time to do the service the Most High has called upon us to do.   

If we are wise, we realize our tribulations build character and strengthen us. Tribulations, although very difficult at times, arm us for things to come, teaching us how to handle ourselves in stressful situations. What we learn from our tribulations is what matters. Trials and Tribulation test and strengthen our morality. They are not a form of curse, but rather moral building blocks that insure we are successfully prepared to progress from this life cycle into the next.  

 

 A Righteous Walk

By Mark McGinnis & Mason Carlisle

 

A righteous walk, what exactly does that meaning? Well, in this article we will discuss what this means. First of all, when the word ‘walk’ is used in this article, it is referring to the way we chose to progress through this life cycle. A righteous walk naturally means a moral, as peaceful as possible, journey through life. Believe it or not, the various paths we will take throughout this journey are influenced by many different early life experiences. These occurrences shape our individual chosen path most of the time. Unfortunately, there are times when the right to determine the path one takes is taken away by others. These can be people in the dominant ethnic group. It can also be someone who is physically stronger in a situation, or even those in position of authority in a society.

Throughout our lives we are exposed to many behaviors, ideas, beliefs, and values. All of these elements are deeply rooted in our cultural, ethnic, and religious and/or spiritual beliefs. We learn the difference between right and wrong early in life based on these core elements. As we age, we begin to siphon through all the things we have been taught, we have heard about, been exposed to, and what we have witnessed with our own eyes. We eventually form our own criteria of what is right and wrong to us, what matters to us most, and what we value most in our lives.

Despite popular belief, it is not easy for us to be decent, honorable, noble, moral people. The truth is, it is easier to do the wrong thing. It is actually challenging, and at times difficult to do what we know is right. Often times we face the reality that some essential things will call for us to have a willingness to be unethical. This is the case when it comes to financial success. In fact, many professions are intrinsically dishonorable. That means choosing a career path has to be taken very seriously. The concept of capitalism requires a level of dishonesty especially when it comes to employment. This is why those who choose to live a righteous life often inadvertently eliminate pursuing certain career paths that are prosperous. Honestly, even high-income profession that are upright are often full of unrighteous people.

There are also many professions we grow up believing are honorable, selfless, and viewed as protective, heroic even. However, over time it has been shown just how many in these positions have none of these qualities. The most divisive professions in the media these days involves the men and women in local law enforcement. We also see this in many other public service-oriented occupations. For example, the men and women employed in our justice system, those in educational positions, people in the many medical fields, and the most disturbing are those who work as clergymen and women. Throughout our lives we come to believe and expect those working in these fields to be naturally honorable. However, of late, we see how wrong we have been. Another example is the presidency in the United States. We expect the president of the United States to be naturally honorable but, nothing is further from the truth, especially when it comes to Trump.

If we are paying attention, as we age, we realize that not all but to many politicians, enlisted and military officers, lawyers, and sales people, are typically people with questionable moral character. Deep down we know certain things are not always right, but it is continuously shocking when it becomes obvious how dishonorable people in these positions are. The media is constantly telling us how dishonest most of the appointed people in the Trump administration are. This is not only disturbing and uncomfortable, it is also down right frightening. The men and women in the Trump administration give us very clear examples of bad people in position we expect to be occupied by more upright individuals.

We revisit the Seven Deadly Sins and again acknowledge how significant they are when it comes to the nature of humanity. The Seven Deadly Sins all have a key element that links them together, and this link is the core reason these flawed traits are deadly. This key element is excess. To do wrong, depraved, immoral deeds is always feed by excessive behaviors. Excessive behavior shows a complete lack of self-control.

As we travel through life, we have to accept the reality there are for more deplorable people in the world than we like to admit. There comes a time when we can no longer bury our heads in the sand about certain facts. We have to realistically admit minorities and people who are incarcerated do not own and sometimes are not people who are deplorable. Once our eyes are open, we realize there are disgraceful people all around us, in all professions, all ethnicities, and cultures.  

It takes no effort to decide we do not want or feel like doing the right and/or necessary things in life. It is also easy and sadly empowering for people to deny others what they need, and often what they deserve. Saying ‘NO’, ‘I don’t want to’, I don’t feel like it’, ‘I can’t help you’ even if ‘sorry’ is added, takes absolutely no effort whatsoever. It is also easier to blame the victims of crimes rather than deal with the offense and the offenders in a situation. NO! NO! NO! Simply, easy, effortless, and most of all selfish. This behavior is what is deplorable, and it begins with those in positions of power finding and introducing policies that are designed to deny, especially what is often needed the most.

To choose to be an upright person is completely selfless and takes effort. But understand, selflessness in not to be excessively giving. Remember, it is excess that quickly turns good intentions bad. Selflessness is compassionate, tolerant, mild-tempered, and most of all humane. It is considerate of others at all times. It makes us care enough to do what has to be done even when we do not want or feel like it. It gives us an inner peace and comfort that is priceless. Righteousness, comforts, protects, secures, and stabilizes, the righteous person and all those they come into contact with. Choosing morality over most common human ways of life is what it means to walk righteously.

After reading this article think about a person, a group, a company, an organization, or an institution, you have always admired and believed is honest, moral, and upright. Do you still feel the same way about this person, industry, group, organization, and/or institution? Why? Do you know if you are truly a righteous person? The forum is open to begin discussing this article and we look forward to talking to all of you about your answers to these questions.  

 

This Is What I Teach
By Mark McGinnis

 

We probably do not realize how much we teach others along our journey through life. We may not be aware when we are teaching a behavior, a virtue, a mannerism, and/or extreme, radicalism. Because we do not know when we will find ourselves in our must powerful teachable moment, it is important to always be aware that eyes and ears are on us. When we realize we are always in a teachable moment, it allows us to take responsibility for our behavior and to be constantly self-aware.

No, we are not teachers in the traditional sense, but we are always in a position to teach a value, belief, trait, and/or behavior. How we handled any particular situation becomes a teachable moment. Someone or ones who share or nature will be encouraged by what we say and do, our stance on a matter. Someone will gain confidence and/or assurance by a comment we make, a position we take, and a stance we hold steadfast to. We are drawn to and have the biggest effect on those who are most like us at our core. We are immediately recognized by how we express ourselves at any given moment.

For those of us who express our appreciation, adoration, understanding, support, and love, via touch, find in this new era, that this is unacceptable. However, this is a natural human form of expression, but what we are learning, in the current environment, is many people are consumed with abnormal understandings of basic human behavior. It is abnormal to shun, reject, and/or discard physical expression shown to others. We are living in a time where not only are we experiencing coldness and inhumane acts, we are also subject to a leadership consumed with a need to bombard us with excessive lying and expose us to literal criminality.

A leader that is as negative as the currently leader of the United States, and those he admires most, only bring out the worst among those they lead. We know there are deplorable people in every society, but because they know they are disgraceful, they remain in the shadows. They spread their darkness under the cover of night, in secret, behind curtains, wearing masks. Ah, then low and behold, along comes a bad leader who makes them feel worthy and validates their hateful nature and dangerous rhetoric. A bad leader makes them fell embolden to come from behind the curtain, slither out from under their rocks, and come out of the shadows into the light.

A person in a leadership position is automatically a teacher. So, it is tragic if a leader is bad or negative because he or she will only teach deplorable lessons to their constituents. This is why it is always important to have a morally sound leader. History has taught us this lesson time and time again. The fallout of a bad leader has a devastating, rippling effect on the community they are entrusted to lead. As we hear and see all the turmoil occurring with the current American administrative branch of government, it is often frightening, and rightly so. This is what happens when a nation has a criminal at its helm. This is also why it is tragic when members in our national society, do not participate in the democratic process this country was founded on.

Some good lessons to take from this disaster of an administration include: terms in each of the three branches of government. No more life-time appointments, doing away with the electoral college, and making it a law that the branches of government are bipartisan. There should be no one party in control of the United States Government, especially in light of what has, and continues to be happening with the current administration. We can never have a president, house, and senate that favors one political party. We have to protect the integrity of this nation’s democracy at all times. We have to have law abiding, morally sound leaders occupying all the seats in the United States branches of government.

We should be learning that some behaviors are unbecoming of a human being, certainly one in a leadership position. We can also see the carnage lies leave in their wake. Total deception and waves of destruction that visibly are creating division and extremism. America is in the hands of a pathological liar who has the support of horrible members in his political party. Lying is an attribute of hate. It is decisive in that it is an excessive form of untruths that damage and literally costs people their lives. This administration is comfortable reaching out and connecting with the worst among us. They do not have a problem being at the forefront of a nation under seize by an extreme domestic terrorist group who call themselves White Nationalists.

If we look closely enough, we can see the evil running through the veins of the unjust. Their skin seems to be rotting away while they are still physically alive. We can also see the results of their excessive lifestyles, their greed. They are grossly overweight, clearly guilty of the worst form of laziness known as loath. Obesity says quite a bit about an individual. Unjust, immoral, and unrighteous people do not care about their own bodies so they do not care about the bodies of those they lead.

We also see the true nature of another extremist group that has tried to mask their vileness behind religion. This group is the Evangelicals, who clearly have nothing to do with serving or in any way worshiping the Most High. Their god is money and they serve their god with great diligence and loyalty. Their doctrine is evil as it is full of all the attributes that embellish hatred. We have learned the truth just by way of action, which is how most of us find ourselves in teachable situations.

How we handle ourselves in our day to day lives has an effect on those around us at any given moment. This is why it is never a good idea to do anything excessively. Again, excessive behavior is an infringement on the comfort and often human rights of others. It is not a message one should choose to send. We must understand that no one is exempt from the messages we send, whether the message is verbal or non-verbal. Examples are all around us. Fallen leaders teach us how to recognize the type of leader we should never follow or allow to be in a position of authority.

Another example of behaviors that have an immediate affect is witnessing how people behave when they are inebriated, intoxicated, totally bent. Honestly, witnessing drunken behavior helps us decide if we want to be that drunk based on what their drunken behavior reveals. If the inebriated person is laughing seems genuinely happy, and clearly having a good time, we may decide we want to have a good time as well. However, if they become an annoyance, a nuisance, and are literal mental and very often physically violent, we can make up our minds we will never allow ourselves to drink to a point of excess. How we handle ourselves at all times in all situations is a reflection of who we are and what we stand for. Also, what we value and the things that matter to us most.

If we are upstanding, honest people, we teach morality, honor, virtue, integrity, upright principles, and righteousness. If we are negative and belligerent, we teach people the opposite, how to live immoral, corrupt, and dissolute lives. Again, all of us have a natural nature that draws us to the type people we are most like. This is why Trump has a base. They are made up of those who he represents and who share his values. They stand for what he stands for, thus they stand with him.

Charisma is a natural and necessary trait all leaders, good and bad, must have. A leader has to have the ability to reach his or her primary audience. He or she has to appeal to them, drawing them in and speaking to their personal truths. It is a fact, always has been and always will be, that negative people appeal to a small number in any society. In turn, a good leader appeals to a great number of people. They draw people by speaking to their core person, and their influence spreads. The influence of a bad leader will only spread so far before it weakens and fizzles out.

One thing that is certain, bad only goes so far before it loses its appeal. Bad does not feed into growth, it is a ‘for the moment’ condition. It has a stopping point, an ending. Evil, bad, and hateful behavior is and always has been temporary. The good news is knowing it is stoppable, containable, and can be defeated. Righteousness grows and thrives. With that said, ask yourself, what do you teach. Remember, we teach what we stand for everywhere we go no matter what. Because we teach what we stand for, it is always important to be true to who and what we value no matter when or where we are.

What this means is that it is important to stand up, without fear, for what we believe is right, for truth. It is important to represent these virtues in everything we do. But we must first be true to ourselves. No more allowing the world to put us in our place and tell us what we should and should not think, say, do, or become. We are born with a core personality that is who and what we are. If one is a leader, he or she must be true to that trait.

We all have a form of expression. If you express yourself through dance, song, or writing, do what you are called to do. We all have a part to play in this life and it is important that we embrace that which we feel deep inside ourselves and live it. You are who and what you are for a reason and you must live your life for you. This is a diverse planet in so many ways. Our talents are to be embraced because they are valuable and teach others in our communities. We all contribute to this life just being here. We all matter and deserve an equal opportunity to prosper.  So, since we are always in a potential teachable moment, understand we teach better lessons when we are true to ourselves, and that is what encourages us to always strive to be the best teachers we can be.

 

I’ll Pray for You
By Mason Denise Carlisle

There are times when things in life are so overwhelming it is easier to try and put it aside or even behind us, simply because we do not know what to do or say about a situation. The current state of our union is a prime example of just such a situation. It is scary to watch, a clearly unstable person, attempt to function normally, in a position he is obviously unqualified to occupy. What is even scarier is watching those with the power to fix, correct, and/or reign in this unstable behavior, refuse to exercise their power. There is no question something should be done about the man child occupying the American White House. However, instead of addressing this president’s instability, republicans in congress allow the volatility this man brings to the presidency to continue.

Trump presents a very negative image of our democracy to the world, sending not only adverse but dangerous, and even damaging messages about our views and values as a country. When elected officials in positions of powers, are not willing to do what is right, those of us most affected, and with the least amount of power, must turn to prayer. When situations leave us feeling helpless, powerless, we turn to prayer. We pray for guidance, understanding, humility, and love. We pray we will find the right words to speak to the ease the pain of those who are hurting, and provide a measure of hope and comfort. We pray that whatever the affliction suffered, is eased, or even erased, especially when it is an affliction, we are powerless ourselves, to fix.nother example of great concern is how crippling this countries housing situation has become. Some of us are really disturbed by the increasing number of people living without the human entitlement of shelter in this country. We live in a world where far too many, are comfortable doing the wrong thing. Those who have the ability to do something about this growing problem choose to follow the path of the unrighteous. This is a path of denial, oppression, and depression. How is this possible? Well, primarily because of the 95-5 the Gnostics regularly speak about. The haves in this world follow more so than lead. Most people who are well off are prone to doing what others in their group do, having a mentality that is indicative of the 95%. They are prone to greed and selfishness. They are heartless because it is easy to be unconcerned. This puts a tremendous weight on the 5% who have. They are the righteous, true leaders, as they are compelled to do what is right, fair, and just. But the odds are clearly stacked against them. This is when we rely on pray.

The homeless situation has become an epidemic becomes when it was manageable it is ignored, overlooked, and/or downplayed. The victims were blamed, as always, because it eases the conscious of the unrighteous to blame the affliction. This heartlessness is why 95% of humanity is unharvestable. They are tribal, cleaving to their clanships, they are most comfortable being like everyone else in their group, others who share their unrighteous nature.

On the other side of the coin there are the 5% who will ascend, moving on to a higher level. They carry the heavy burden of leading in a society full of the unrighteous. They care, they step up when they are called to do so. They are the brave, the heroic. They dare to break away from what everyone else is doing and do what should be done. They need our prayers for strength because their burden is heavy.

Because we live in a world full of unrighteousness, we witness many situations where others are being severely mistreated in some way. Discrimination is ugly, evil, and wrong. But when the majority turns and looks the other way when they see it, refusing to acknowledge, much less address what is happening, the suffering of those victimized grows. Eventually the entire community is affected, as this nastiness spreads like an infection. The sad thing is, those perpetrating these ugly behaviors do not see how they are hurting themselves as well. They do not understand the universal law of karma. The afflicted are used to the devastation their afflicters cause. They are used to being tormented and denied access. So, when the deprivation spreads, touching those or someone close to those who have found it easy to afflict, they are completely unprepared for what they begin to face. We have all heard the saying, “Don’t dish it out if you can’t take it.” They normally cannot take the horrors they inflect on others with such ease.

The homeless situation is a prime example, as it has begun to affect the working, middle class. These people are finding it harder and harder to keep up with the skyrocketing housing cost and are quickly finding themselves in situations they never dreamed they would face. The prescription narcotic situation reached epidemic proportions because it went unaddressed when it was something that could have been and should have been dealt with immediately. For years minorities have struggled with housing cost and nothing was done. Now that the majority is affected, the problem is being recognized for what it is. For years minorities suffered with prescription drug addictions, but it went over-looked, ignored. It was allowed to reach an astronomical problematic level in the communities most of the majority in the society occupy. These are examples of situations left to fester and are ignored, until they reach epidemic proportions. Some of us see these things coming well in advance because our eyes are open and we care. Unfortunately, we are powerless due to our number so we turn to prayer because it is a situation we alone cannot rectify.

It is always devastating to witness someone in a position of authority, abuse that authority. It is compounded when those in positions to stop such an individual, refuse to act. This leads to innocent people being left at the mercy of a person or persons that should not be in a position that affords them authority and power of others. People like this do far more harm than good in a society. In fact, the harm people like this cause is often so excessive it results in death. Those most affect buy this abuse of power can do nothing but try to stay out of the way of these false authority figures. Those of us who witness these injustices turn to prayer because again, the situation is bigger than those of us in the 5% can take care of on our own.

Another example of how disheartening the justice system in our society is, is when we witness how blatantly discriminative the legal system operates. We see how minorities are suffering because of the disparities, and the sheer number of people in positions of authority who either contribute to, or allow these disparities. It is extremely hard for the few in positions of authority to rectify on their own so, again the 5% turn to prayer. We all know societal laws are unjustly enforced and those in one of the various minority groups, bear the brunt of punishment for the smallest of violation to the laws. The majority break these laws as well, often hurting far more in number. We see this in the mass shootings that occur much too frequently in American society. In fact, domestic terrorism is the real emergency in the United States. But these mass shootings are done by members in the majority, so the perpetrator does not feel the consequences associated with murder. They either escape justice by taking their own life, or they are given the benefit of the doubt. In fact, often times perpetrators in the majority are exonerated for the crimes they commit. It is easier to show them compassion, deeming them worthy of sympathy, empathy.

What about judges accused of participating in immoral behavior, the kind of behavior that requires a deep-rooted sense of entitlement and superiority? What about justices, that are clearly bias? Not only are we expected to respect, honor and trust in laws that are so clearly not equally administered, we are also expected to show respect and honor to those in judging positions but who are not honorable. We are required to addressing them by saying, ‘Your Honor’, when there is no honor in them. This is when the 5% turn to prayer because it is bigger than we are.

Make no mistake, the 95% of humanity is unharvestable because they are without honor. We must come to terms with the reality that some of the people who hold positions that are reserved for the honorable, are immoral and unrighteous. To be honorable is to be righteous. And      dishonorable behavior of any kind is wrong. It does not matter what Earthly title one holds. We all like to believe our society is built on a strong foundation of integrity, or a perception thereof. Therefore, it is normal to feel an obligation to respect people placed in positions of authority. However, when these positions are clearly occupied by dishonorable people the perception crumbles.

As with all flawed situations, the longer those in positions to rectify bad situations, refuse to address the immediate problem, the worse the problem will become. This is certainly so when it comes to the administrative branch of the United States Government. Morale will continue to dwindle as hope fades, and a society full of individuals who are without hope is dangerous indeed. People without hope began to feel nothing matters, and if nothing matters people stop caring. When enough people stop caring about what is happening in their communities, the society crumbles. To have pride and value in and for our communities we have to feel it is worth preserving and there is hope, there always has to be a semblance of hope.  

There will come a time when the homeless will unify and as their numbers increase, they will be a force to be reckoned with. They will not fear death because all reasons to live have been stripped away, all hope has been extinguished. One cannot go for long periods of time being denied the human entitlement of shelter. The growing housing situation can be likened to a slow brewing volcano that will take this country by surprise when it erupts.  At some point, the 95%, who are so comfortable with their greed, will wish they had dealt with the situation better when it was manageable. Unfortunately, it is in their nature to allow bad situations to fester and grow until they literally irrupt.

Now is the time for prayer because the situation is not being addressed in a timely manner and the suffering is spreading. Governments crumble all the time simply because of bad leadership. This is magnified by the refusal to do what is morally correct by too many in positions of authority. When there is too much corruption implosion is soon to follow. So, when we see these things and we feel helpless to do something to stop it from getting worse, we turned to prayer.

We must understand conversations with the Most High cannot be based in selfishness, cannot feed into our desire to have a slice of the human value of wealth. The Most High has no use for this and is not interested in it. It has no value to or for the All who is the Most High. Prosperity to the Most High is one of morality. Our prayers must be moral, loving, and unselfish. This means we do not pray that others will bend to our will and do what we think they should do or what we want them to do.

We pray for guidance, realization and clarity for the lost and or confused. It is a clarity they must come to on their own. They must see for themselves not for us or anyone else. We pray for the right words, for the strength to do and say what needs to be done and said, but not for the power to bend another to our personal will. We also must understand we cannot pray another into caring for and/or loving us. We cannot pray for our children to be doctors or any other profession we think is lucrative, simply because we always want such a position. They have to decide what they want to do on their own. To love someone is something we all must feel within ourselves. All of us must see things as they are, accept people for who they are, and love others unconditionally. We cannot change them into who or what we think they should be.

So, let us pray for guidance in all things, strength and always patience. Let us pray for wisdom and the right words at the right time. Let us pray for deliverance from afflictions. Let us pray for those who are seeking clarity that they find it. Let us pray that we have the strength to do what is right, not what is popular or trending. Let us pray that we are always doing what we are called to do when we are called to do it. Most of all, let us know what we should pray for and how we should have conversations with the Most High. Remember, Yahushua gave us an outline as to how we should speak to the Most High. That outline is not a chant to be said over and over again word for word. It is a guide, a manner.

In closing, we pray this article is of comfort and enlightening for those who choose to read it.  

 

Of Moral Character

By Marcus McGinnis

 

Those of us who are proud members of the Gnostic Faith, embrace the reality that we are joyfully in the service of the Most High. The best part of all is the only requirement is LOVE!  The Most High is love, and we know when we embrace all those who love, we embrace the primary element that allows us to build our spiritual temple on a strong moral foundation. Love tempers our hearts. A tempered heart knows how to deal with issues with the proper measure of charity, caution, and at times distance from particular individuals and situations.  

We believe in the Chakra, which basically is the perfect alignment of our endocrine glands. Our endocrine glands secrete hormones that help keep our bodies in perfect balance. These secretions feed energy to the body, and at the center of those glands is our heart. With that said, how we are designed is relevant and not accidental but intentional. The Most High has seven Aeons (AKA Elements, limbs, appendages) that make up the body of True God. What makes the Most High truly God and God alone is each Aeon can live independently of the body. They are: Mind which formed first from the black void, Heart, Creation, Life, Language, which is speech or the word, Spirit, and Wisdom. If we include the void there are eight levels of vibration that are identified by a color. They are as follows: black or void, red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, and violet. Black is void is the color from which all color originates. The other seven colors are displayed in the rainbows we see after heavy rain falls. These colors have sounds associate with them. These notes are as follows: a steady hum, Do, Ra, Me, Fa, So, La, Te.  Ah, and then along comes the life forms under the Most High. Humans have the endocrine system. The eight primary endocrine glands are: hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, parathyroid, adrenals, pineal, and pancreas. There are also ovaries (in females), and testes (in males).

Three of these glands are in our head, our brain. The first is the hypothalamus and it is at the top of our head. This is the gland that keeps our body function in a proper balance. That would include: the heart beating, lungs breathing, maintain blood pressure, sweat glands, thirst, whatever is needed to maintain a perfect body temperature. The pineal gland is next and is also said to be our third eye. Why? Because it is the place where thoughts are formed. It is located in the center of our brain and is a regulator, as it controls our biological rhythm. The third gland is the pituitary gland located at the base of our brain. It releases hormones that stimulate the adrenal gland, the ovaries, and the testes, it also sends prolactin that stimulates breast milk production. It controls our growth, stimulates our thyroid, and release GH to help control our body weight.

The other glands are not in our head but are activated by the three glands that are. The next in line is the thyroid. It is located in our neck in front of our windpipe. It is activated by the hypothalamus and the pituitary glands and it controls our metabolism. Next is the parathyroid glands. There are four of them and they are located behind the thyroid but are not related to the thyroid. These glands controls calcium levels which control our nervous and muscular system. The thymus is next and is not activated until after puberty. It controls our immune system. It actually protects us against autoimmunity, this is when the immune system turns against itself. It is located behind our sternum and between our lungs.

The next glands are the adrenal glands. There are two of them and they are on top of our kidneys. We all know what adrenaline does right? This is what the adrenal glands control. The pancreas is next and it controls our glucose/or sugar levels. It is a part of our digestive system producing insulin. It is located between our stomach and our spine and is connected to our small intestine. We then have the ovaries in women and testes in males, these are reproductive glands we are, or should all be familiar with how they operate. These glands are located at the base of our abdomens. 

Have you ever wondered why we have so many problems with our bodies? When these glands are prevented from functioning properly, we develop the problems that are causing many of the serious health conditions we are faced with today. This is why we have to care about what we consume and what we are exposed to. It matters! We cannot expect to remain healthy when our environment is being polluted by all the toxins humans produce. We have to care how our food is prepared from begin to end. We have to care about the water we drink, and the air we breathe. We have to care about global warming because it is vital to the operation of the human endocrine system.

We believe in the chakra because it is through these glands that the love of the Most High also flows. The love of the Most High gives peace to our bodies and it is our duty to assist by participating in safe activities, eating healthy, drinking clean water, and refrain from excessive behaviors. The Most High flows through the living when love is accepted and hearts are receptive. We can be charitable and lighthearted, cautious when uncertain, or reserved when facing the truly wicked and ungodly.

The unconditional love of the Most High allows us to embrace and emanate the transcending love of True God. How we relate to others is determined by what type of person they are at their core. There are three basic types of people we share this world with. The first type is also the rarest type. They are those that are good-natured and it is easy to show our naturally loving nature. We have no trouble showing compassion toward the innocent, the weak, the oppressed, and the tormented. Kindness is cleansing for a soul and brings peace to our spirit. The Christian Bible says Charity (AKA Love) covers a multitude of sin (AKA Immoral Behavior or IMB).

The love shared by the Most High also gives us clarity despite all the audio and visual noise that constantly surrounds us. A pure heart allows us to see beyond the clothes, the economic status, the ethnicity, the culture. We see a living person, animal, living things in our environment. Life matters. Life is the most precious, the most prized, and the most valued treasure that exist. In fact, one of the Gnostics mottos is ‘We Live So Therefore We Matter’.

Unfortunately, as we journey through this life cycle, there will always be times when we have to back away from others. This is the second type of person. Many of us have heard the saying, ‘Feed With A Long Handle Spoon’.  Too be any other way is unwise and potentially emotionally and mentally dangerous. Understand, there are far more people who know nothing about real love in this world than there are who do. Many are simply unable to embrace the concept of love. They are the negative, the bitter, the ones who lack empathy, the selfish, the greedy, the lazy, the lustful, the spiteful, the angry, the vengeful, and the excessive. The negativity that lies at the core of these type people emanates from them like a virus. It is unhealthy to and for those who are positive, optimistic, hopeful, cheerful, often times joyous, faithful, and most of all grounded in morality.

The third type are those who are so corrupt they are reprobate. It is wise to complete distance ourselves from these type people. Involvement and any interactions with this type can most assuredly be physically dangerous. The Christian Bible calls the ability to be aware of these types, discernment. This is to pay attention to your sixth sense and none verbal forms of communication all humans utilize. In fact, all that live speak none verbally most of the time. We are born with instinct, intuition and as we have discussed in previous articles, we learned to suppress these abilities. We are also trained to live with a false sense of safety.

We have to respect the self so that we understand what it means to respect others. We have to care about our safety and not make our way along this journey with blinders on. Our bodies are temples, the lord our God has blessed us with. The body is a perfectly put together machine that we far too often take for granted. As Gnostics we know this is unacceptable and that is why we do not participate in many of the activities that are designed to, or presented as, forms of entertainment. Even if it has a measure of truth, it is exaggerated. For example: Exercise, this idea ‘No Pain No Gain’ is ludicrous. Yes, we must exercise this machine but anything done in excess is destabilizing and leads to IMB, or what the Christians call, sin. The root to all immoral behavior is EXCESSIVE BEHAVIOR.

Humans are very primitive and this is evident from way back in our recorded history. Humans, it seems, have always been entertained by watching others physically suffer, watching the infliction of physical pain. We are a violent species but it is not by nature. Humans are taught to be violent. We are born innocent and pure, this is contra to what religion teaches. The learning process begins sometimes before birth and the behaviors we begin to develop after birth are determined by the environment we are in.  

Most religions teach us we are born in sinful flesh. Gnostics do not believe or skin is sinful flesh. We know this is one of the many misconceptions in religion designed for the soul purpose of insure we devalue the self. It is a negative conditioning that is automatically placed in our psyche, immediately making us feel guilty for simply existing. How much farther does one need fall to become incorrigible and finally reprobate? Religion starts us on the road of self-reproach and the simple of mind continue to tumble from the moment they understand what they are being taught regarding their individual worth. Born bad. Where then is the hope? Compound that with physical, emotional, spiritual, mental, and sexual abuse that starts early in one’s life.

We enjoy or feel we should enjoy things that we should not. Why? To initiate fear. To insure our lives and those like us is devalued. It is easier to conquer, control and mislead those broken in spirit. Thrill seekers would not exist if there was no expectation they are needed. There is no reason to admire someone who dances so freely with death. Remember the gift of life is the most precious thing in existence. To so completely take that for granted is immoral. All these behaviors we grow up believing are normal, simply are not. Sometimes what is supposed to be entertaining is dangerous, emotionally, mentally, and physically. These type activities should never be considered entertaining and the concept they are fun or enjoyable is a misconception. It is not fun to feel pain.

Why do some people believe a movie, story, or television show is not good if someone is not being hurt in some way? This idea that violence is entertaining shows us just how corrupt the human psyche is and continues to deteriorate. Some of the things many find entertaining give us a clear view into the depravity of the human mind, spirit and soul. Humans truly believe it is entertaining to watch a soulless person mutilate innocent victims. Another example is the way some adults are clearly addicted to comics book heroes and heroines. Bill Maher experiencing push back when he said adults need to grow-up and stop putting so much stock in comic book figures. He is absolutely right. Have you paid attention to the cruelty in the ‘Avenger’ series? “Thor” was entertaining but it has become downright barbaric with each new addition to the saga. The violence, brutality, and cruelty are not things any moral minded adult should be entertain by much less allow their children to view.

Think about some of the behavior you witnessed in the last movie you viewed, particularly an action, or horror film. There should be nothing entertaining about human suffering of any kind. It is barbaric to be so amused. When love is at our core, these type films are mentally disturbing and physically uncomfortable. Misguided interpretations leading to unclear, judgments that are not realistic, not factual.  

Gnostics believe in the 95/5 premise. This is the ratio of the truly mature-minded compared to the simplistic-minded. When we say simplistic it does not mean illiterate or uneducated. It does not even mean ignorant. However, most humans are the metaphoric weeds spoken of in the Christian Bible. RA tells us 95% of humanity will not harvest, that is ascend to a higher existence. Age old human psychologist say that only 5% of humanity reaches the highest level of cognition. The primary reason for this is they never develop a true understanding of love, which is what grounds us in morality. Morality is that high level of cognition.

You see the simplistic person is entertained by extreme violence, excessive drama, morbidity, and sexual promiscuity. Most child-molester, rapists, racists, and extremists go to college, they have upstanding jobs. But they are sexually deviant, hateful, spiteful, and lack any form of self-control. They literally prey on the innocent, the weak, the vulnerable. These type people are all around us. They are in the churches, on our jobs, at our schools. They do not truly understand love so their temples are not built on firm moral foundation.  

What about accountability? What about misplaced loyalty? This is clearly a problem all over the world. The Joy Reid show airs on weekends in the morning on MSNBC. This past weekend she had a guest speaker one her show who said American’s never blame the wealthy for the bad things that are happening in the country. They simply refuse to believe what their own eyes clearly show them. The fact is, rich and wealthy people do far more damage to a society than minorities and poor people. It is another effect of what religious devaluing causes. Where did this idea that rich people are better come from? Well, as stated above, it begins with being told you are worthless from the time you are born. This allows for labels and the idea of who is born bad comes from. If you are rich or wealthy you cannot possibly be bad as money, for some, automatically means better, elite, which is religions primary goal, to make the society think they are worthless and the rich are royal, better, worthy, clearly this is false.

To be in the service of the Most High is to be at peace. It is to give joyfully, and to care when others ignore and show indifference. We do not enjoy watching others suffer in any way. We believe the living have unquestionable rights they are naturally entitled to simply because they are living. We believe we have to care about our environment because we are entitled to clean breathable air, safe food to eat, clean, uncontaminated water to drink, adequate shelter, and quality medical care. Gnostics are liberal because we believe in freedom. It is our duty to support the system that encompasses our core beliefs and values. We do this proudly and with joy in our hearts. One must have a strong moral foundation if they are to understand what it means to be liberal.

Freedom is a birthright, and contra to this societies practice of imprisoning all citizens in some way and to frown on freedom, shows a lack of love and is immoral behavior. Conservative beliefs go against every thing we stand for simply because it is an ideology that encompasses, cruelty, oppression, suppression, and deprivation. It is an evil belief that derived from human’s ability to ignore the pain and suffering of others. Moral behavior is Godly, conservative behavior is evil. It is time to wake up and see the truth about the misconceptions we have been subjected to for far too long.  

 

Comfort Within

By Mason Carlisle & Mark McGinnis

Inner peace, finding it is how we will close out the year of 2018. To say inner peace is not something that is always easy to achieve, would be putting it mildly. That is because personal inner peace is greatly affected by outer elements. For example: there is inevitably going to be situations that cause us discomfort such as, illness, we will assuredly encounter our share of unpleasantness, such as being victimized in some way, and unfortunately, we will be a participant in a sad and emotionally difficult situation, such as losing someone close to us to passing or death. All of these occurrences seriously affect our inner peace.

Basically, what we are talking about is peace of mind. When we have peace of mind it gives us a euphoric feeling. Needless to say, when this does not seem achievable naturally, it is what causes many of us to seek other ways of attaining inner peace. Far too many people turn to drinking alcoholic beverages to help them relax. Others turn to drugs to help ease their minds, and believe it or not, a great number of people decide physical pleasure gives them inner peace. Sadly, these substitutes for obtaining peace of mind are very short lived. The goal is to achieve a more permanent form of inner peace.

So, where do we start our quest to achieve permanent inner peace? Well, we begin by going backward. We know that how we feel about ourselves is a major factor in how we approach life. It is also a given that far too many of us come into this world in a situation that makes it difficult, if not impossible to know comfort of any kind. This is what leads to eating disorders, as well as, sexually deviant behaviors, substance abuse, and alcoholism. People who live in poverty know poverty, in itself, is a condition that offers little to no comfort, physically, mentally, or emotionally.

Some of us are born into financially secure families but let’s face it, rich and/or wealth people are often bogged down with establishing and maintaining their personal images. Why? Well, they learn early in life they are financially more fortunate then their average fellow citizens. Most of the heavy problems people face are financial. So, wealth and/or rich people are looked upon differently because of their financial status. Public image, and the perceptions their peers have of them are very important. They have to maintain social norms that come along with being members of the elitist class. Their image is something they are aware of at all times.

The trouble with always having image concerns is it leaves little to no time for concern of anything or anyone else. This often includes nurturing children. They therefore pay others to do this for them. Nanny’s, governess’s, or some form of child-care giver services helps take care of the needs of their children. Unfortunately, it is not easy for a child to learn inner peace when they have parents who pay little to no attention to them.

Most of us who are born into normal, middle-class families usually learn about inner peace and comfort the right way. Parents in this socioeconomic bracket are comfortable with their lives and they pass that comfort to their children. The point is, our ability to feel comfortable and know peace starts from the family we are born into, and how we are treated as members of the family. If we do not live in an environment of peace, we become adults who often rely on secondary remedies, such as the afore mentioned substitutes, to help ease our mind and offer small moments of mental relaxation. The trouble with this is, people who start relying on secondary forms of obtaining inner peace often never find true inner peace.

If we are not careful, the secondary way of comfort becomes a problem in itself. What is supposed to reduce stress and provide relaxation quickly becomes the worse form of stress imaginable. However, when a secondary form of temporary comfort is kept in perspective, it is not hard to realize we need to make some changes in our lives. With this realization, we find we are able to see the road we are traveling through life on, clearer. We come to this junction where we can see there is another path we can take. This new intersection veers in a direction that allows us to see a more righteous view, allowing us to make necessary alteration and adjustments that improve our mental situation. Security, this coupled with contentment eventually gives way to inner peace.  

This new path also affords us the luxury of not only reflection but self-evaluation. We can observe how we interact with others close to us, as well as those not so close. We can see what kinds of things others do that give us peace and what causes us distress. We quickly realize how we feel about ourselves, our self-image is reflective in everything we do. Our self-image determines what kind of messages we send to those around us. This is simply a part of the environment we live in. That is the learn/teach environment. Remember, we learn from each other, good and bad.

We learn most of our habits, customs, and behaviors, particularly those that greatly influence and impact our lives, when we are children. As adolescence the person we will more than likely become begins to immerge. Adolescence is the stage in human development where we begin to make decisions about right and wrong. Understand, at this stage, most of our decision will be based on what we have learned up until that point. As young adults, it becomes obvious what we have retained from those closest to us. This is when the behaviors we have witnessed, and that have most influenced us, are naturally assimilated and begin to be imitated. Yes, this is when we know who we are. The mold is complete and we are the person our immediate environment has produced. Most of us have heard the phrase, “He or she is a product of his or her environment” when explaining particular behaviors.  

So, we become positive, optimistic, easy-going people, or bleak, negative, pessimistic, cynical people. The bottom line is, humans have a way of aiding in peacefulness or causing great distress. Because the latter is usually the case, it is up to each individual to limit their involvement and interactions with those who seek to disturb their inner peace. We can also limit how involved we become with negative people by simply being aware of everyone we come into contact with. This means we have to pay a little bit more attention to the nonverbal way’s humans communicate, more so than the verbal.

The way to begin is by fine-tuning our sixth sense. Have you ever wondered what it is animals possess that helps them sense eminent danger, triggering immediate reactions? Did it ever occur to you humans possess this same ability? We all have a sixth sense we just have not taken the time to fine-tune. Once we do, we can spot a dangerous person long before they get close enough to cause us harm. So, I guess you’re wondering how to go about fine-tuning your sixth sense. It takes practice. In fact, it is good to start in small spaces such as, elevators, public bathrooms, and even in the work area at your place of employment. Allow your mind to do what it was naturally designed to do. You’ll notice this will not disrupt your ability to do your job.

It will surprise you how much your mind will pick up when it is set free. Yes, we boggle our brain down with thoughts, aka noise, and it is not allowed to do with it is naturally designed to do. We have often heard we only use 10% of our brain. This is so very true but the key word here is use. There is nothing keeping us from utilizing more of our brain capacity but ourselves. We would be surprised what we are capable of if we but try. It will shock you to see how quickly you get a sense of what someone is about without even seeing them. That is how good your sixth sense can actually be. We individually waste too much time worrying about things that pertain only to ourselves. Now it is time to get in the habit of paying unobserved attention to people, especially those who are closest. It will not take long to see what happens when we set our mind free and allow it to sum up those near us. The mind is quick, and in time, the range easily expands.

The reason why it is important to pay attention to people around us is so we can pick up on natural traits and behavior patterns. This allows us to quickly realize the intentions of another. When we have a good idea of what to expect from someone, it affords us an opportunity to respond appropriately. We have all been around someone who has given us an uneasy feeling, making the hair on the back of our neck stand up. Animals do not wait around for validation of this uneasy feeling the way humans so often do. Never ignore an uneasy feeling, never second guess it. Listen to your instinct. It is designed to ward of danger just as it is in animals.

Far too many people, particularly women, get involved with people who have the worst possible intentions. They ignore all the obscure warning signs their sixth sense gives them and sometimes they ignore the apparent signs. This is why women are the victims of so many vicious crimes. Men are guilty of this as well. They are easily distracted by a female’s sexuality. It is always important to have a deep sense of realization about people, especially those closest to you. This realization can literally be the difference between living or dying a very brutal death.

What most people fail to realize is how important it is to really know the person we choose to partner-up with and form a union. To many of us still partner-up for the wrong reasons, looks, finances, etc. However, after cohabitation for any amount of time, to say we do not know something about a partner, especially someone we are intimate with, is not entirely true. The more time we spend with a person, the more we know about them, even in the absence of verbal confirmation. Believe it or not, this is what too many of us are waiting for. An admission, verbal confirmation. Sometimes something is felt in our souls and we reject it because we need to hear the spoken words. That is what we tell ourselves will make it real. The sad thing is, sometimes that verbal confirmation can be the last thing heard before death.

We also have to do away with all preconceive notion about how things should be. This idea that woman should be a particular way, such as, naturally loving, nurturing, mothers, is ill-conscieved. The notion that all men are natural providers and protectors is also ill-conceived. Life is not a fairytale. The idea of love at first sight is as much a fantasy, as the idea of true loves kiss melting away serious dilemmas. There is no perfect man and now perfect woman. There is no logic to the idea that a man can only love and marry a woman and a woman can only love and marry a man. Sometimes a man’s true love is another man. Sometimes a woman’s true love is another woman.

As we embrace what is logically realistic when it comes to life, this aides in setting our minds free. We have to cut out the noise, visually and auditorily. When we pay attention to those we profess to love, we get an idea of what they need without verbal confirmation. How often do we hear someone say, ‘you didn’t ask’, or ‘I’m not a mind reader you have to tell me’? That is not true. One does not have to be a mind-reader to know what someone close to them desires. We can also prevent misunderstands right away because, first of all, we are aware of what buttons we should not push with someone we love. We know when they need something as simple as a hug. We notice what interests them before they verbally confirm it. This is what it means to be loving. Showing affection is being aware of a need or desire without verbal conformation.

When a couple manages to stay together after years of marriage, many of us wonder what is their secret? It is also a wonder what exactly causes a marriage or partnership to dissolve usually after seven years. The answer is attentiveness, paying attention, noticing and understanding the meaning of simply gestures a partner frequently uses, and knowing what those gestures mean. Awareness of a partner’s moods, their discomforts and what and why they become annoyed, is the goal. The key is knowing or realizing all of this without verbal confirmation. A partner should not have to speak everything for it to be understood. This ability is what holds a marriage together for years, and lack of this ability is what erodes a partnership.

While it is inaccurate to say a spouse does not know their partner, it can be truthful to say a behavior is not expected, especially when we do not take the time to pay attention. The root of all trouble in a relationship, any relationship, is overlooking and/or disregarding the feelings of someone close to us. This is often caused by perceived or ill-conceived notions and expectations. It includes the behaviors we witness early in life, notions we immediately come to understand about our culture, our societal norms, what is considered our gender norms, and religion. For example: the notion that the woman is in the shadow of the man. Honestly, it is easy to realize the Most High does not value the human male more than the human female. The Most High values life and the female sustains and gives birth to new life. So, this age-old human injection into sacred works of literature is actually an ill-conceived notion. In fact, it is a misconception and mis-representation of the nature of True God.

The notion that the male’s sole purpose in a family is to provide under all circumstances is also an ill-conceived notion. Another is, children are to be seen and unheard. Not only is the ill-conceived it is usually impossible thus completely unrealistic. Here’s another, “the devil made me do it” or “the devil is a lair”. These type phrases indicating a fabricated misinterpretation, that allows those who harbor the belief in a devil to reject something that is clearly a problem. Christian woman will reject messages of danger, blaming it on this devil they believe in, and using it as an excuse to remain with someone, who has shown in every way, they do not love, desire, or want to remain in a committed relationship. Love manifest itself in ways that leave no room to question it is present. When we question ones love we are not loved, this is a fact. Like it or not, there is no need for verbal confirmation.

Basically, from the root of indifference stems disheartenment, and dissention is imminent. Let’s face it, no one wants to be ignored, especially by those whom they love and desperately want to believe love them in return. Understand, when we fail to allot even the smallest amount of our time and attention to those whom we profess to deeply care for, it is easy to be surprised by something they might do.

So, later on in our adult life, we find a path that begins to teach us how to value ourselves, value morality, value honest and integrity, and forge bonds that are cemented in true love. We then understand how important it is to embrace our families. We start to see how valuable and significant parenting is and cherish our children. We learn that we are responsible for the decisions we make when it comes to our individual lives, NOT some imaginary diabolical being. Suddenly we are smiling all the time and not easily angered. We have more patience, show more kindness, are more tolerant. We know when our spouse needs us to show the perfect measure of affection for a particular situation.

Inner peace is contentment. It is being comfortable with who and what we are and represent. It is having a clear understanding of The Most High and what is required of us, and it is to be fearless as we journey through this thing called life. True comfort means we are satisfied, because when we are satisfied—and, there is nothing wrong with feeling satisfied with where you are in life—we start to have the euphoric feeling of inner peace. Nothing feels as good as being internally at peace.

The activity that accompanies this article is to think about a powerful feeling you have felt about someone, good or bad, and discuss it in the forum. Practice fine-tuning your sixth sense and let us know how it is working for you. Let’s have fun practicing how to allow our minds to roam freely about. Be prepared to be surprised by what you see, hear, and learn about people.  

 

*Sleep In Heavenly Peace*
By Marcus McGinnis

It has been said, how we view and handle death is as important as how we view and handle our lives. If this is so, it is worth noting how rarely we question, think, or discuss our views and feelings about death. After all, we are way too busy living, right? It seems the only time we give death a second thought is when it directly touches us. For many of us it did just that in the month of September in the year two thousand eighteen. So, it seems this is a good time to discuss our feelings and views about this difficult subject. Too begin, everyone reading this article should ask themselves how they view and understand death or the passing of those they know and/or love? When a loved one passes it is always painful for those they leave behind, not to mention how mentally distressing the circumstances associated with their death can be. For instance, when a friend, a family member, or a spouse dies as a consequence of an act of violent, it makes their passing much more distressful than if they pass from natural causes. But, no matter the cause of death, it is comforting when we know, in our hearts, they moved on to a better place.

If we all have noticed, passing is something many humans fear. It is an understandable fear because it is a journey into a place that is unknown. After all, there are no concrete, official accounts about what happens after death. No one has officially come back from the dead except The Word. He is the third male part of the Most High and the one whom we in the Gnostic faith call Yahushua. How often do we really think about what happened with Yahushua? He literally stopped breathing and was indisputably dead for three days. Suddenly breath returned to his body. How? Life, Creation’s dual, and Spirit, his dual, visited the lifeless body and restored life. Nemesis is death’s worst nightmare because she is its cure. The flaming birdlike being called a Phoenix is Nemesis and we all know what Nemesis means right? This is the inescapable element that brings about someone’s or something’s end. A good analogy is Kryptonite and what it does to Superman. Nemesis is the element that conquers and destroys death, and death is the only thing that causes distress to even the Most High.

As Gnostics, we understand passing is not something to be feared. It is a part of living that brings about a transition from one life cycle to the next. This is what Yahushua showed or revealed to us. What he revealed to all that live in the universe. He was often called Teacher. Why? Because life in this cycle is an educational journey. This is where we learn how to resist immoral behaviors and how to love unconditionally the way the Most High loves. We are learning what is real, verses what is a deception, what is truth verses what is untrue, and what is sincere verses what is disingenuous. This is where we learn what we should value, why we should have values, and how to structure the foundation we build our temple upon. This is also the life cycle where we learn how to assimilate all of these behaviors as we attempt to thrive and survive in a very hostile, often unrelenting, and always physically dangerous environment.

The primary thing we as human beings must learn is how important it is to be in touch with who and what we are. The structuring of our foundation begins here. With values comes responsibilities, so we start by build upon a strong sense of self-awareness. When we gain control of ourselves the next step is recognize our individual value, worth. Finally, we fine tune our self-respect, our dignity, and our self-esteem. To know our worth insures we live morally sound lives. In doing this we know how to show and in turn expect common courtesy, respect, and a measure of civility. The biggest Gnostic moto is “We live therefore we matter”. Once we realize these things, it becomes clear we are the masters of our behavior. We alone are responsible for what we do, say, and participate in. It is our responsibility to understand our position in this life and behave accordingly.

Once we have grounded ourselves, it is time to start being attentive to our core beliefs and the fundamental ideas for which our faith is structured. When we are grounded in our faith we know our position in life and we are better prepared to take complete responsibility. These behavior traits arm us with tools we need to handle most crisis when they inevitably come. Yes, storms will come as we make our way through this journey, storms that will challenge us, shake us, and on many occasions, literally knock us down. However, we are able to get back on our feet and carry on. In this life we will have or witness situations that will confuse us, make us question ourselves, and often wonder if what we are seeing and/or hearing is real. There are times we will have a front row seat to a situation that will leave us disheartened. Occasionally a situation will be so repulsive it will cause a lump in our throat that is hard to swallow. The fact is we will see, hear, learn, or witness things that are so horrible, our minds struggle to logically rationalize why something happened and what was the motivation behind an action or behavior? Somethings we will never understand. Somethings we do not want to understand. All we can do is control ourselves in all situations and when we are well grounded, and steadfast in our faith, this is something we can manage. Responsibility, the third, most valued behavior trait we work to fully develop in this life. We have faith, morals, and responsibility, all benevolent behavior qualities that insure we are basically prepared for the many situations, circumstances, and conditions we will certainly encounter.

Our journey through this life is designed to teach us vital lessons that help strengthen our character. Life on Earth is a training course, grooming us for righteousness. We are here to fine tune our mentality, our natures, our dispositions, and our temperaments. Learning can be exciting, and sometimes even a little fun. However, retention, understanding, comprehension, and acceptance are often very hard for many of us. In fact, it can be downright hellish. Gnostics are aware that thriving and surviving here is usually difficult, and through these hardships, it is important to know, this is as hard as it gets. Logically, there is no reason for there to be a place worse than this very hostile environment. It is hell attempting to learn, thrive, and literally survive this journey, and come out with a capacity to love. We are learning to survive in an environment where Hate, and all its attributes are very strong. It is the need and greed for control, not of the self but others. Control is an attribute of hate as it embraces evil, and evil is very manipulative, deceptive, and ultimately destructive. So, to create an untruth that intensifies the stress we endure in this life is simply vile. The act of literally drenching humanity with the horrific notion our undying souls and spirits face the possibility of ended up in a place of unspeakable torment, is nothing more than evil. Stress is man caused and the Most High recognizes how hard this life is on the vessel. It is known humans suffer an abundant amount of stress in this life because the body cries out as it tries to cope with, and prevent its devasting affects. Stress negatively impacts the human heart. It contributes to autoimmune disorders such as Multiple Sclerosis, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Stroke, Cancer, and is frankly linked to contributing to many other life-threatening health problems.

It is not very loving or compassionate for our creator to desire anything created to be subjected to unspeakable torment and anguish. We know the Most High is pure love and this alone indicates there is no such place. Everything the Most High created and breathed life into is beautiful. Love grows and builds. Hate is insidious and evil is hideous. It builds nothing and gives life to nothing. It only destroys and tares down. All of this means simply that if one dies and did not pass this course it has to be redone. That is how all educational processes work. Frankly, the thought of having to return to a grade, or in this case, a life as hellish as this, is hard enough. Because let’s face it, even the wealthy, healthy, and young suffer in some measure during this journey. So, honestly, who really wants to spend another life trying to learn and thrive in this hostile environment?  

To survive, and manage to learn what is required, results in completion. This means when we exit this life, death as we know it, is a form of graduation. It is a part of the life cycle and graduation sets us on a path where we embark on a new, civil, peaceful, safe, and truly loving journey. Yes, passing is hard and sorrowful for those left behind in this life, especially a soulmate. Believe it or not, some of us are lucky enough to find our dual in this life, but many of us are not. If you notice, it is mostly females who sometimes make this journey through this life alone. This is not surprising because there is a female who is a part of the Most High who is solo. She is wisdom, the seventh Aeon. The Mind of the Most High is paired with Heart, Creation is paired with Life, Word is paired with Spirit, but Wisdom does not have a dual.

There are many reasons why, in this life, it is hard to find our dual. One of the primary reasons for this is the path an individual chooses in this life. Both parts of the whole can be on equally wrong but different paths, and/or one part of the whole can be on the wrong path, while the other has found the correct road to take. It is easy to become caught up in traditional beliefs, form societal values, and adapt to cultural customs. The truth is at some point our intellect and instincts make us aware that there are paths that lead us home to the Oneness that is All, and there are paths that contain many human traditions and customs that are not in sync with and do not lead to the Oneness that is All. Deep down we all know when we are on a controversial path. We feel like something is wrong but it can be hard to figure out what it is. It is easy to convince ourselves we are doing the right thing, especially when everyone in our circle or ethnic group shares comparable beliefs and behave in similar fashion. It takes a brave person to step out and back away from the group and reject the traditional way the group reacts to or handles situations. It is not easy to shift positions and embrace new ideas. It is so much easier if we do not rock the boat. No one wants to alienate family members and close friends. This is why so many people embrace the republican ideology. They fear change, therefore they resist it. All of us are born and raised believing in a group’s cultural customs, ethnic customs, and religious customs. It takes bravery, initiative, and courage to embrace a liberal way of thinking, which is a necessary way of thinking if one is to find a path that leads them to the Oneness that is All.

We need but look around to realize this is true when it comes to conservative verses liberal. The Most High desires all that live, live life freely, and are allowed to have freewill. Liberation, is freedom and allows all that live an ability to make their own personal decisions. Conservative religious leaders embrace ideals they will lie, steal, cheat, and kill to maintain. There is no care for fairness, compassion, and morality. Winning and maintaining the status que is all that matters. The bottom line is, every ethnic group has beliefs and values that separate them from other ethnic groups. Discrimination is more intense in the primary ethnic group, especially when they embrace conservative ideas. That means if part of the dual is a member of the primary ethnic group it is hard to dispel the idea of privilege and to shake the expectation thereof. There is usually no room to align themselves with an ethnic group they consider a minority. When one is accustomed to behaviors that lead them to pre-judge others for any reason, it makes it impossible to see the world through clear eyes. Thus, they would not see their dual if he or she walked right up to them.

One may also be a member of a religion that discourages partnering up with anyone who does not share the belief. Also, one may be in a certain socioeconomic bracket that prevents them from even looking at those who live in lower economic classes. All of these Earthly, human concepts and values greatly interfere with our ability to see our dual. Conservatives usually put quite a bit of interest in what they value most and that is Money. When this is the case there is little too no room for morality. The value placed on money is so intense as to clearly articulate a God statues, and it is openly worships. It is a cold, selfish god but it is sadly embraced by most humans in this life, including those who profess to be in the service of the One True God. Finally, we must understand we cannot decide what kind of woman or man we are compatible with based on common societal notions of beauty. We must be able to look pass the seen into the unseen. We must seek the inner person. We must have the maturity to realize that the only race that matters when it comes to humans, is the human race, of which we are all a part.

Humans are a diverse species but it is ethnicity that makes us different, not race. Race equals species and human is human period. Maturity also affords humans the ability to realize beauty is skin deep and also in the eye of the beholder. So, if and when two parts of a dual find each other in this life it has not been easy. This is why when they find each other it is near to impossible to separate them. It is sometimes why a husband or wife will not live long after a spouse passes. This is also why none of us should mourn a breakup for long, it means this person was not your dual. Duals remain happily together once they find each other and only passing or death separates them.  

Gnostics also believe death and life graduation are two different ways that describe passing from his life. Nevertheless, when a love one is recruited by death or graduation, it is never easy to say that final goodbye. However, when we know a love one departs by way of graduation, we cannot help but be comforted in the knowledge their suffering is over. In turn, we must also honestly realize and accept when one near and dear to us is claimed via death. What is comforting in these instances is the knowledge they will have another chance to be successful. Just because one fails a class or course does not mean total failure. It simply means they must try again, so they return to this life in order to do that. Believe it or not, duals can find each other and both are not on the path that is moving toward the Oneness that is All. They return and it is always amazing when they find each other again. It is further amazing when they find the right path and graduate to their next life together. Would that religion spoke the truth instead using the fear of a fiery, torturous domain that claims souls and has some evil figure presiding over this horrific place. It is kind of sick when you think about it. It weakens the concept of a God as well, because it clouds who and what has ultimate power over all that live. Gnostics know there is no power greater than the power of the Most High. Fear is a tool used to control and persuade mass groups of people to do what the leaders in a society desire.  

What of karma? This is something to be concerned about when a cherished one is claimed by death in this life cycle. Karma is something no one escapes not even in death. “Vengeance is mine,” sayeth the Lord.  We have all heard this phrase or something comparable at some time in our life. Well, this is karma. Our deeds in this life are either rewarded or will have consequences. Karma is the universal justifier, good or bad. We must understand that death does not negate karma. Yes, that means karma can and will follow those who experience death in this life into their next life.

So, to be clear, Gnostic’s believe in reincarnation. We know this life cycle is as hellish as it gets. When it ends we are either successful graduates, or set in the redo stage that death ushers in. Good karma follows us into life after graduation, bad karma follows us into the new life that begins when a soul returns to the learn and teach life cycle. Learn and teach life cycle, what does that mean? It means in this Earth life cycle we learn from each other thus we are teaching one another. This goes back to image and messages. We always want to be sure we are not sending the wrong message, or displaying an improper image for those who are watching us. Someone is always watching. In this life we are always experiencing teachable and learnable moments. How we carry ourselves outside our homes is noticed by others. If we are parents, our children are watching us. This is what the learn/teach life cycle means. It matters and we invoke karma based on the images and messages we send others.

So, although saying goodbye to a cherished people in our lives is difficult, how they moved on can make that farewell a little easier to take and accept. We will miss them, certainly, but if we know they simply graduated we remember them with a smile. We know this because every time we see a photo of them it causes us to pause, as a good, comforting feeling washes over us. As much as we want to be sad, we cannot waddle in sorrow, because we know. We know they are in a better place. We cannot ask for anything more than that. But, again, we must understand that there are some times when death claims a loved one. This is not hopeless, it just means they have to redo this life cycle until they to graduate.  

In September, which seems to be a month for passing via graduation, members in our Gnostic family said goodbye to some very special people in their lives. We lost Judge Hadley, Justin’s mother, and Mason has a good friend name Sharon whose mother also passed this month. This is one of those occasions when the most important thing we can offer is our loving support and our prayers for strength. Part of that prayer is that the loved ones left behind rest in peace in their soul, knowing everything is all right. 

The Most High is a loving creator, and that means all parts of True God are loving. There is no part of the Most High presiding over a horrid place as described in the novel Danté’s Infernal. There is no part of the Most High that can be the complete and total opposite of transcending love. It does not make logical sense for it to be so. Creation is beautiful and anything of beauty cannot be marred by the ugliness of hate. If it were so, there would be no beauty in anything made by anyone. It is the creation of the Most High that inspires us to write beautiful songs, paint masterpieces, write soulful manuscripts, and build beautiful landmarks. Life is a cherished thing of beauty and it matters most to the Most High. So, rest in the knowledge that you are a beautiful creation and there is no desire, under any circumstances, for any creation to be cast into a horrific place based on the images in the mind of an obviously disturbed individual.

 

A Cheerful Giver
Mason Denise Carlisle

We can all recall some of the many phrases we have heard all of our lives. Many of these phrases served as moral guides in regards to our behaviors and the consequences that accompany our choices. One such phrase is ‘It is better to give than receive’. As young people we did not always understand what phrases like this meant. Why in the world is it better to give than receive? We did not start to understand until we became young adults. However, understanding a phrase did not always bring us comfort.

Old sayings are made up of phrases that usually are framed around biblical scripture and are used so frequently they are sketched into our memory for all time. In fact, we have heard the phrase in in the paragraph above from parents and other family members on many occasions. When spoken by a someone close to us, it just seemed confusing, especially as children or when we were adolescent. However, if the phrase is introduced at church it has religious connotations. Church or religious leaders, that include: ministers, preachers, pastors, and/or priest. are seen as stewards of God. This immediately tends to give us a stronger sense of obligation, because when God is included it automatically invokes a sense of obedience. The misunderstanding of what a phrase means, upon the inclusion of God, can also have adverse effects. This can and often does cause some people to give in ways that perhaps they should not. Who we hear a phrase from, where we hear a phrase, and how it is presented depicts how we internally interpret and/or understand what is required of us, particularly when it comes to the Most High. How a phrase is spoken by a significant religious leader, can be easily misunderstood.  

When a phrase such as the one above is expressed by someone close to us, although heard, it will not carry the same level of importance as it does when voiced by a steward of the church. Religion puts such a strong emphasis on giving, along with self-denial, it is easy to become destressed about the required obligation. This problem is intensified when and for those who are in some way emotionally vulnerable. Actually, a misunderstood interpretation of a meaning can have an antagonistic effect on the human psyche.

Honestly, the intense emphasis the church puts on giving money, causes many to avoid attending. In fact, the constant importance placed on what human’s value most, even more than humanitarianism, leads many to wonder why God, who created everything, needs money at all. When one dares to pose this question to religious leaders, for the purpose of clarity and understanding, it is discouraged. Congregation members are told not to question God, basically they are not to lean to their own understanding. Ah, another phrase that is often misleading, ‘Lean not to thine own understanding’. When this phrase is offered in response to questions a parishioner may have, it is, and rightly so, interpreted as meaning, just do as your told and remember, God expects total obedience.

Church leaders have many reasons for requesting financial offerings, usually it is to help build up the congregation’s place of worship. However, often the request is for travel expenses so that the church leaders can spread the word of God. Spread the word of God. This intensifies the congregations sense of obligation, tugging at the hearts of members, causing them to open their purses or wallets. But, there are times when the clear and obvious greed of the church leader, negates the premise of being a cheerful financial giver.

Financial giving, especially for the average person, can become a hardship, burdensome. Cheerful is the last emotion anyone feels when they are burdened by what is presented as an obligation. They begin to wonder why God is creating a hardship for anyone? At some point, the traveling expenses of the church leader, cannot, does not, equal the living obligations required of us all. In the face of these hardships the congregation is advised to pray and have faith. At what point is this suggestion no longer adequate? What are church members to do as praying and having faith become hollow responses when tithing and offerings become a financial burden? Often parishioners are told to hold on to faith because the lord knows their situation, and of course the bigger the sacrifice the greater the reward.  

For many, the rewards never manifest. In fact, they fall behind in financial obligations waiting for rewards that will come for the financial sacrifices made to the church. Timing is everything. Here is another phrase, ‘God may not come when you want him to but he is never too late’. First of all, the Most High is not gender specific. The Most High has seven distinct elements that represent senses and are referred to as Aeons. These Aeons are capable of function apart from the whole. So, this is a blanket phrase that can be greatly misunderstood, especially when it is misrepresented. When a financial sacrifice causes a significant financial obligation to be delayed, such as a mortgage, rent, car payment, etc., and there are negative consequences, it is implied that one’s faith is being challenged or is too weak. In other words, the delay of the reward for the financial sacrifice becomes the fault of the person who made the sacrifice.

Are we seeing a pattern here? If there is ever a wonder as to why excuses are made for a perpetrator, why the victim is always the blame for being victimized, it starts right here, in Church, with religion. If there is a wonder why many backward, illogical customs are a part of our society, it starts with religion. When we realize religion has very little to do with the Most High, we develop an ability to keep what is being presented in proper perspective.

Responsibility is what is required and what the Most High expects. Responsibility is an attribute of Love and the Most High is the author of Love. This is our primary, moral obligation. It is our personal duty to handle our finances in a way that does not cause a serious financial hardship. So, clearly the Most High does not require any of us to do anything that is excessive, not even give. Excessive behavior is sinful behavior, no matter what the behavior is. So, when we have a false sense of obligation, and we give to a point of initiating a personal financial hardship for ourselves, it is no wonder resentment sets in. This resentment is aggravated when we see our religious leaders purchasing fancy cars, nice homes, and traveling all over the world. It is our moral responsibility to inquiry about that which makes us uncomfortable. As a species afforded an intellect, it behooves us to be cautious, be concerned, and yes question what is being required of us, because, at the end of the day we are responsible for our individual obligations.

Another misleading behavior concept is, self-denial. Again, it is natural, should be, and is understandably impossible to be cheerful about anything that is causing a personal hardship. Self-denial goes hand in hand with giving in many instances and is first presented to us via our religious beliefs and customs. Denial of life sustaining necessities is a common human practice. It is rarely seen for what it is, and that is a failure to be humane. The Most High is not inhumane in any way shape or form. But, if we wonder why humans in better financial positions do not feel obligated to assist those who are not—even showing a willingness to providing basic life sustaining entitlements—it is because of this idea of self-denial, long-suffering. It helps comfort and relieve the minds and hearts of those who have, allowing them to show little to no compassion for those who have not or have little.  

How we interpret giving affects every aspect of life. For example: when we take wedding vows, it is expressed that we are now obligated to give, with an open heart, to the person we have shared vows with. It is understood that based on the roles we play in a relationship, we are obligated to give in certain ways to our partner. For example: A wife is expected to freely give her body when the husband requires it. The husband is expected to give financially to his wife, both can often go beyond what is necessary or needed. Here is another phrase to consider, ‘Happy Wife, Happy Life’. We can all realize what happens when this type of giving is excessive. The resentment often leads to the collapse of a relationship.

Resentment is a powerful emotion and is always invoked because of excessive behavior. Manipulation is a very dangerous form of excessive behavior. How we perceive what is required of us, particularly when it comes to giving, is greatly influenced by manipulation. This is a behavior many humans utilize to persuade others. Normally it is used to control how others react to a situation. Manipulation falls under how a phrase is delivered. If there is a desire to persuade others to give, one skilled at manipulation can and often successfully accomplish this. It is how many of us are victimized by those skilled in the art of scamming, which is a form of stealing. Ah, where are we going with this?

How something is presented triggers how we react. If we believe we are supposed to blindly trust people, particularly those in key positions of authority, we are easily manipulated into denying ourselves, thus making it easy for predators to steal from us. Again, how certain phrases are meant to affect our behavior are delivered, plays a vital part in how we interpret what is required of us. As human beings, religious customs condition us to believe it is selfish of us to think about ourselves for a second. Thus, this illustrates how our understanding of selfishness is also misunderstood. This again is a behavior greatly influenced by how our religious leaders have presented this ideal. It is simple, it is easier to persuade and cleverly manipulate people to give once one’s sense of self-worth has been diminished and often totally stripped away.  

So, a blanket phrase that is intended to affect our behavior such as being a cheerful giver, can be interpreted in many ways. Most humans do not possess the talent of discernment. If it were not so, so many people would not fall victims to scams. Nor would there be a need for laws of protection against this type of thing. If discernment was universal everyone would clearly understand when they are being swindled. However, for those who are skilled when it comes to discernment it is quickly understood when someone is trying to mislead and/or misrepresent a matter or situation. Yes, for this reason, the Most High inspires many to be righteous guides capable of expresses what is logically required. These guides understand they are to help with discernment, realization, and understanding, thus opening the senses of those who have been saturated in beliefs and customs that blind, mislead, and confuses them.  

Those who have been entrusted to guide, understand it is important to first make certain concepts and beliefs clear. It begins with understand that we must first care about ourselves if we ever hope to care about another. We must understand that we are responsible for what we do. We all have a moral cord that connects us to the Most High. It is up to us to utilize this connection and allow it to lead us in the right directions. There is not such thing as a DEVIL making us do things we do not want to do. We all do what is in our individual hearts to do. We are responsible for our behavior. Now, our behavior can be clearly manipulated but that does not negate personal responsibility. A key message to take from this article is, ANY excessive behavior is a sin, thus wrong.

When are minds are open to truth it is not hard to understand and discern what phrase are meant to give us moral guidance. We understand that giving can take on many forms. It is not only or always financial. It can be time and time is priceless. Sometimes, giving a little attention is a gift that is immeasurable. Often times, giving good advice is priceless, and there is nothing like an extended hand when needed most. As Gnostic’s it is believed that if it is within our power to give what is needed, it is pleasing to the Most High when we gladly do so.

Prayers are also a form of giving. This is how we give when things are beyond our ability to assist with. Was that clear? We pray when a situation is beyond our ability to provide assistance. An example of such situations can be matters regarding health. Also, problems arise in relationships that are emotionally draining and debilitating. These are often situations of the heart that only time can heal. We give the gift of prayer for someone in this type of situation. We cannot take away their heartache but we can pray that it is eased. We can pray that they find guidance and peace, and that they will be able to accept the resolution or outcome of their situation. We can also pray that they find it in their hearts to forgive any injustices for which they have been subjected.    

The truth is, in some instances, all we can give is an ear, a hug, and words of comfort. All of this is giving and should be done with an open, happy heart. Compassion is a gift, and it should give us joy to show that we care. Sometimes this is something as simple as not participating in behaviors that are emotionally damaging to others. Sometimes we need to stand up and speak out against injustices, especially when we witness these things first hand. It is important to get involved when our input is needed. If a child is being abused, it is our duty to get involved and bring the abuse to an end. If a spouse is being abused it is our duty to get involved and assist the victim. If a person is being attacked and comes to our door for assistance it is our moral duty to open the door and assist. If we see anyone committing an injustice, such as, calling the police on a minority or a child for no reason, it is our duty to call them out on it.

We are living in a time of mean spiritness as we are being led by a very mean man who has no respect for anything that resembles morality. In light of this, all we can do is resist this type of evil, by standing together in protest of injustices. It is also important to give our time and participate in what gives voice to us all, that is to VOTE! This is how we assist those being denied their human rights to life sustaining entitlements we all deserve. When we give our time and stand in solidarity with others who are speaking out against injustices, this is a tremendous form of giving and should be done with joy in our hearts. Again, as human beings we are entitled to life sustaining necessities that include: shelter, clean water, food, and adequate, affordable health care.

When we give to those, or in ways that are excessive, it not only makes us unhappy, it causes bitterness and makes us resentful. On the other hand, when we give from ourselves and it is appreciated and honestly helps another, it gives us great joy. A cheerful give is never left feeling used or unappreciated. A person who gives to a meaningful and beneficial cause is always cheerful. It gives us peace when we know we are making a positive change in the life of another. It is enjoyable when we know that what we are giving, be it time, money, or advice, is actually something that is clearly worthwhile to others.

This is the true meaning of the phrase ‘It Is Better To Give Than Receive’. When we know we are doing what is morally sound, and correct, we know joy in our giving and it is immeasurable. There is no greater feeling of joy and inner peace, than that of knowing you have really provided something desperately needed for another person. Remember, sometimes it is something as simple as observation and intervention. The gift of caring is priceless and makes the giver and the recipient joyous. This is what is pleasing to the Most High and gives credence to the phrase ‘The Lord Loves a Cheerful Giver’.

 

Living A Commendable Life
By Marcus McGinnis

In light of our current political climate and the state of our union, it may be time to take a closer look at how exactly we conduct ourselves in our individual lives. We all like to think we live decent, upstanding lives, but do we? The truth is, most people do not. In fact, the majority of people in the world harbor views, opinions, and negative ideas about various things and ethnic groups, that influence our behaviors. So, it is more than obvious that when harsh views, feelings, and/or beliefs are intense, it affects how a person reacts toward those things and/or others whom they harbor unpleasant feelings. With that said, if a person, in their heart, truly believes he or she is a decent, upstanding individual, on what is that belief based?

There is one sure way to insure we live commendably, and that is MORALITY! Far too many people have allowed themselves to become comfortable and complacent with the negative views, opinions, and beliefs associated with their particular ethnic group. This clan or tribal like mentality is always manifested in one’s cultural and religious customs. These cultural and religious customs also allow people in an ethnic group to feel vindicated about the results and effects their extreme views have on others. For example, the ethnic majority in a society always believe their ethnicity automatically makes them right, favored by their deity, therefore righteous and justified in all that they do.

This is and always has been a terribly misguided premise that feeds into the idea of superiority. Also, it is clear this is a premise that pass down through generations. Where and how did this start? The answer will always be a culture’s religious beliefs. The idea of there being a favored human group is derived from books held sacred. Because this is written in their sacred books, naturally it can only mean those who are favored are born better. These religious doctrines fostered the belief that some are born into privilege and there is no wrong in them. Yes, laws are necessary, but only to refrain the lowly. those not favored. Of course, their unfavorable disposition with the culture’s deity is evident by their deprived financial status. So, the favored are comfortable believing all human are not entitled to civil human rights. These cultural customs make it acceptable to treat the unfavored in the species, in some of the most undignified ways imaginable. What a comfortable position for the majority to be in.  

Religion is a very powerful tool in any society, and when books, doctrines, and literature are pass passed down unchanged, beliefs form and become customs. Sadly, what most religions fail to do is emphasizes a human requirement of morality. Humans must be rooted in morality because this is what opens the heart to civility. It gives way to a strong capacity to love and show compassion, and morality and love are entwined cord that connects All That Live to All That Is, the Most High.

There are many reasons why the Gnostic Faith does not share the god of the Christians or most other religions. We believe in the Most High who is All that Is and know this is the one true Superior. This is the one true deity responsible for every living thing in the universe, not just those who dwell on Earth. Human intellectual capacity is primitive as it is clearly not understood that there is one human species. It is not understood that although we are diverse, we remain one species, human. This means, no one group of humans is better than another group of humans. Every member of the species is morally equal. Males are not superior or better than females. Caucasian are not better than African American, or any other ethnic group that is not Caucasian. The wealthy are not more significant than the poor, and Clergy are not more important than their parishioners. Not in the eyes of All that Is, the Most High.

The All did not foster these concepts and takes no part in such petty notions. These are human concepts, and for this reason humans remain a young, barbaric species. As long as they continue to thrive in a world that allows some to devalue, oppress, depress, repress, subjugate, dominate, and/or tyrannize other members of the species, no human is superior. They can be seen as nothing more than savage, as long as they murder, disparage, and torture others in the species because it is inhumane therefore uncivil.

It is no wonder humans fear encounters and/or visits to our planet from other life forms. Humans treat each other so horribly, it is hard to imagine a foreign species treating the indigenous species any better. There are many in the human species that continue to believe humans are the superior intellectual species in the known universe. THEY ARE NOT the only living species in the universe capable of intellect and to maintain this belief is not arrogant it is ignorant. Humans also remain a young, primitive species as they require a forever parent, a leader. They must have a set of rules that govern them, laws. The human species has shown they are incapable of individual responsibility and self-control. They are comfortable allowing one individual to make decision that will affect their lives.

There clearly is a problem in giving one individual leadership powers. Given these kinds of powers, in the human species, often leads to a grandiose self-image. It leads to controlling behavior, and what follows is always, ALWAYS destruction. Leaders, in many circumstances, prove to be incapable of maintaining civility, compassion, and fairness. They almost always abuse the power that comes with leadership and thousands suffer for it.

Some examples the human types of leaders include: drug lords, godfathers, dons, bad presidents, clergy, bad kings, and bad governments. It is not just power that corrupts them, it is that which humans value most, money. Their thirst for control, power, and financial gain soon overshadows their purpose, the reason they were chosen to take on the responsibility of leadership. Humans have yet to realize they must take responsibility for themselves, how they behave, and what they will allow themselves to do. If they have a strong moral foundation this is all they need to govern how they live their lives.  

As long as humans cannot live self-contained, self-controlled, independent lives that allows them to be completely responsible for all that they do, they will remain in a primitive intellectual condition. It does not matter how much they grow technological, how much they achieve because when this is not tempered with morality it is dangerous. So, what exactly is a moral foundation? The definition of MORALITY is as follows – a system of values and principles of conduct. This is the attributes of a strong human foundation, ESPECIALLY if one wishes to be classified as civil. As long as humans lack the ability to reasonably discern right from wrong there can be no defined leader. It is also why the best of them are remembered and always assassinated.

Human are a mentally lazy species, far too comfortable allowing others to handle their lives. They want to do what is easier and that is always bad or requires little thought and/or effort. They spend far too much time trying to find ways to mask their laziness and irresponsibly. It must be understood there is no profession that exempts a human of bad, irresponsible behavior. Under poor leadership the worst people in a profession are unleashed. Honorable leadership forces a decorum and an ability to maintain upright behavior in the open or in public.

Sometimes bad behavior goes unrestrained for such a long time it takes on a life of its own. This is how and why some law enforcement officers continue to get away with murder. It is how or what allows them to take on the role of an outlaw, while civilians considered them to be law abiding. It is how armed officers can gun down young, unarmed, black male. It allows a male officer to punch, shoved, and/or fling a weaker black, teenage female to the ground. It allows the bad members of ICE Immigration and Customs Enforcement, to carry out the orders of a deranged leader and his band of demon henchmen, calling for the intimidations and unlawful separation of innocent, defenseless, brown children from their parents. Parents who are simply doing the parental thing, attempting to find a safe environment for their children to grow up and thrive.

Any person who is comfortable participating in what is now going on at the American southern boarders, is not a decent person and does not deserve to be classified or respected as such. At some point even saying it is their job is not a good enough excuse. If an employer asks that we di something vile and as inhumane as what is happening to immigrants at our southern border, a truly decent human being would be completely unwilling to carry out such orders. It is unnecessarily cruel. But, clearly, this is a situation where those capable of cruelty, thrive. A place where they can mask the ugly behind something honorable.

Also, in light of how police officers around this country have been shown to gun down unarmed black American citizens, it is barbaric to call them on a black person who is clearly not breaking the law. This is murder on the part of the officer and the person who called the officer out. This is not a righteous thing to do. It is evil. There is nothing more hateful, savage, and/or demonic willfully causing the death of another. In turn, there is not a more shameful department to be a part of than one that allows and tolerates the actions of a few to cast them in such a despicable light. Where is the morality in the caller and the officers that responds to a call and reacts in a deadly manner?

To live a commendable life is to live a life that is governed by morality and consumed with love and compassion. There is no greater reward than the reward of giving and caring. Humans are failing to show they are capable of being humane much less superior. That is way there should only be one true leader for all species. The one and only superior being, All That Is, the Most High. The ability to understand what it is to live a commendable life is to understand life has to be tempered by a moral code of ethics and love, as this strengthens the bond between them and the Most High.

 

Am I Admirable
By Jay Gallo

This article is a discussion about Bad and Good, and throughout this particular passage we will use the terms Malevolent and Benevolent. We should all know the meaning of these two words, but for those who are not sure, the first two words used, good and bad, are both definitions of the second two words, just in a lighter form. Malevolence is evil and Benevolence is righteous. In accordance with this year’s theme or focus, this article also requires some soul searching. /the primary focus is a question that addresses our self-image. Let us start by askinig the question, which one of the core soul characteristic best match our personal view of self? Most people hide their true selves, allowing representatives to be in the forefront of their lives. In fact, most of us have personal representatives that come forward in accordance to the situation we find ourselves in at the time. For example: when we go to an important function that requires us to behave accordingly, we call on a representative good at playing a part best suited to that particular situation.

In many cases, for many people, we have a dominate representative. This dominate representative is closes to who we are at our core. If the core self is malevolent this dominate representative is comfortable lying, manipulating, and even committing acts of violence. If the core self is benevolent this dominate personality is comfortable being helpful and/or showing kindness and compassion. The point is we all call on the strongest part of ourselves to handle the difficult times we encounter throughout our lives. Yes, that means we are all schizo to some degree.

The thing is, representatives can be a real problem for us as we interact with others in our day to day lives, especially if the true self remains hidden behind the dominate representative. Some of us never feel comfortable letting others see our true self. What is scariest about this is when someone we get involved with is malevolent and that side comes out when we least expect it. This is how many women find themselves in abusive relationships. When a partner shows this side for the first time, they know they have gone to far, revealed to much and an apology is offered. Naturally, it is our hope that the apology is sincere because the person that we met and fell in love with is still very important to us. This is how many people die, seeing this side of a person just before they are murdered.

Think of the situation many of those who are murdered find themselves in. Somewhere there is a wife whose husband is about to suddenly snap. In some community tonight, a person who is in a position of authority, a security guard, a police officer, lawyer, judge, senator, representative, or even a president, is about to show an average citizen just how malevolent he or she can be. Malevolent people always seems so nice and they have no trouble making friends because they are very charismatic, but nevertheless, they are also deadly. How can we spot such people? Is that even possible? They are everywhere, all around us all the time.

Can you remember falling in love with someone you thought was nice and perfect for you? Ask yourself, what was it about this person that made you think you were in love. Then, ask yourself if they gave any indication they had a dark side at some time before or shortly after you cross the threshold of realizing you had developed strong feelings for them. Did they ever do anything, no matter how small, that made a hair or two stand up on the back of your neck? Trust me sometimes that is all the warning that will come, in most cases, too few of us heed the simplest, subtlest warnings.

We are good at talking ourselves out of panicking. We are good at convincing ourselves we are making too much of a situation. Some of us want something so much that it is hard to see what is right in front of us. With that said, think about your friends. All of us want to have a group of people we can share with, laugh with, just talk to, and/or get and give advice. How many times have you thought a friend was the kind of friend to you that you are, or were to them, and they proved you wrong? Do you ever wonder what people might think of you as a friend? Do you honestly try to treat people the way you want them to treat you?

Family, how must it feel to grow up with someone and later in life learn they have a real darkness inside them? None of us can see another’s thoughts, not typically anyway, so how do we know? What would it be like to have a sibling who becomes a serial killer? What if you found out your father or mother was someone to be feared, someone who is dangerous, deadly? Think of all the defenseless children who find themselves victims of a malevolent parent or adult.

Actually, if we pay close attention, especially to family members, we notice the signs they show that are malevolent in nature. These signs typically start to really show themselves during puberty. But, there are some cases when malevolence is obvious in a person at the toddler stage. Think about children you have encountered. These are children you may be related to in some way, or perhaps they are the child of a friend. This is a child that does everything they are not supposed to do. They totally destroy their toys and do very costly things around the house, even start fires that cause hundreds of thousands of dollars in damage. They enjoy doing mean things to other children, and defenseless animals. They are bullies, mean and spiteful. They have problems in school and often require some sort of disciplinarian response as a consequence of their behavior.

To recognize this kind of person we must remove the blinders and be willing to see all people as they truly are. We also must understand, we cannot always prevent a child from becoming a malevolent person. No matter how good you are to them, how structured their lives are while they live with you. It does not matter if you provide the perfect amount of affection, and interaction with your child. Some people are destined to be malevolent. It is hard for a parent to see a child as they are when they start to show they have a mean streak, violent tendencies, and feet that are swift to do the wrong thing. Deep down we know there is a problem but again we cling to the hope they will outgrow this behavior. We take steps when we acknowledge there is a problem. Many parents rely on prayer, while others turn to a mental health professional if it is affordable.

If we find ourselves always surrounded by certain types of people, good or bad, we have to ask ourselves, what kind of person are we. Here is another example: the current president of the United States. Every person he appoints to a position in his cabinet is malevolent just like him. It is obvious they are not as bad as him, but nevertheless they jumped on the band wagon with him and enjoyed the ride until the king cobra reared his head and showed his fangs. One by one they are backing away. I am sure you have all heard the saying ‘Birds of a Feather Flock Together’. This president, his party members, and cabinet prove that statement very true.

Do you recall when Hillary called his supporters a ban of deplorables? Some of us were not upset by what she said because she was absolutely right. His base is full of racist, sexist, liars who live to manipulate people into seeing things in a way that is untrue. They have no honor, they have no integrity, but most of all, they are without morals. If you want to know about a person, look to the company they keep and you will have your answer. Have you noticed how the mighty are all falling after years of tormenting others weaker than themselves, particularly women and children. Men like: Roy Moore, Bill O’Riley, Steven Wynn, Harvey Weinstein, Matt Lauer, John Conyers, and Bill Cosby who was recently found guilty in the case against him.

Finally, think about a person of which you think highly. You might hold more than one person in high regard but pick one and compare that person to the others of which you think so highly. What type of people are they and what type of people are you most comfortable associating with? We are on a journey of self-discovery, searching for the answer to the question, what kind of person am I. After careful thought and some comparisons, answer the opening question, ‘Am I a person that is admired or one whom many would find contemptible’

 

Who Do You Think You Are?
By Mark McGinnis

 

Most of us are certain we know what kind of person we are. Most of us are sure we have figured ourselves out. Sometimes this is true, but the only way to be sure is to first be willing to admit, acknowledge, and accept who and what we know we are. You see, honestly, most of us have false personas, personalities, and/or representatives that we have become so accustom and comfortable allowing to occupy the wheel. We gladly permit our false self to sit in the driver’s seat as we live out our day to day lives. Many of us do not know who we really are. We do not realize that the person we think we are could not be further from who we truly are. The only way to know who we really are is to take down all barriers, remove all mask, and see ourselves as we are at the core of our being. We must be willing to really see, and once we see, we must acknowledge all of what we see, good and bad. This is something some of us never learn how to do. Many people go through life living in false realities, drawing everyone around them into their secluded world, giving off impressions they are someone that is as far from the truth as night is from day.

These kinds of people literally infect all of us because their life is enthralled in a web of deception. They refuse to acknowledge who they are thus they are unable, or more than likely, unwilling to take responsibility for how and what they do. This is how innocent people are sucked into relationships that are often mentally, emotionally, sexually, and physically abusive. These are the kinds of people who live in such a sense of false reality, they think they are good in a profession they should never be allowed to occupy. In fact, they are so unsuited and unqualified for certain profession, position or stations they often inherit or acquiring in unconventional ways, it only exposes society, many of who are vulnerable, to victimization.  

For example: SOME, not all, police officers, or peace officers if you will. Men and women in a high-level position of authority, entrusted with a very important task of protecting, and bringing order in our communities, are in fact--in far too many instances--the perpetrator of disorder, discontentment, and violence in various communities. No there is no protecting and no order when the ones entrusted with facilitating these tasks are themselves violators. Their station allows them to murder unarmed citizens and make a false claim of fearing for their safety, making themselves the victims. This is allowed because of their position, their respected position. Their honored positions. They are supposed to be above certain behaviors, and the righteous peace officers are, but to continue to allow one bad one to remain in such an honorable position, is one to many. The individuals who are not suited to this profession believe they are because of the false images they have of themselves. They have never acknowledged who and what they really are but one thing is certain, they are not peace-keepers, protectors of the innocent, or individuals that facility order. They never have been, and never will be.

Another example would be clergy, especially the so-called Evangelicals. They love to give the world the impression they are righteous and operating in the service of the Most High. To our great fortune, their façade is cracking, leaving them exposing for more and more of us to see. Our eyes are opening and we now know exactly who they are and what they represent. They have no idea who our Heavenly Father is, they do not have a clue. They deceive, mislead, and abuse the trust of the innocent with false realities and unclear, confusing doctrines. They serve their self-made god, or should I say, the god of this world and that is MONEY. Our God is bigger than their god because Our God is the One and only True God.

The third example is UNQUALIFIED men and women in leadership positions. This would include: the Russian leader, the Philippians leader, the Syrian leader, and many leaders in African countries. There are unqualified, ill-suited leaders in many Middle Eastern counties. Oh, and let us not leave out the Prime minister of Israel, the North Korea leader, and the current President of the United States. These types of sociopaths, narcissistic individuals have a false image of themselves simply believing they are perfect in a leadership position when again, it is clear, nothing could be further from the truth. They are criminals at heart and do nothing but destroy any and everything they have their hands in or on. They are good con-artists, skilled only at deception, misrepresentation, and attempting to mislead everyone they come into contact with. They put entire countries in severe states of turmoil, matched by the turmoil within each of them.

People who refuse to see themselves as they truly are lie to themselves and the world about everything, refusing to acknowledge they do not belong in the positions they are in. The saddest truth is they are willing to do anything to remain in a position they are not suited for. At their core they do not possess the unique qualification a true leader most have. With that said, do you know who you really are? What do you value? What is most important to you? What legacy do you want to leave behind? What do you want to be remembered for? What do you stand for?

A few years back we did an activity that involved looking at ourselves in the mirror for five minutes. Just five minutes. For many of us it was the first time we really saw the person behind the face. For most of us, at that moment, a new person immerged. So, understand, we most first see ourselves as we truly are in order to see if we are ready, really ready to take on a role of leadership, authority, benevolence, integrity, conviction, and principle. We must be willing to take a long hard look at ourselves because this is the only way to bring down the personas we form throughout our lives. Sometimes this happens when we meet and become involved with someone who opens our eyes to who we are, what we are made of, what we stand for, and what we want to be known and understood about what we value.

This year Gnostics will stand for honesty and truth. We will insist upon having this, settling for nothing less. This means we are going to be honest about our feelings to those we love, as well as those we encounter in our lives from day to day. Many of us have family members, friends, or just acquaintances who do and say things we do not agree with. They do things we do not condone and often behave in manners that are outside the realm of being in the service of the Most High.

This article is to accompany an activity, of which, we will first: think about and honestly answer the six questions two paragraphs up. Second: we will think about a person, someone in our lives who fits one of the description above. They might only fit one of the descriptions or they might be guilty of them all. Think about what it is about this person that causes you the most discomfort. Ask yourself what you have done about how this person makes you feel. If nothing, ask yourself when you are going to honestly tell this person how you feel. It could be a sibling, a son, a daughter, a parent, or a friend you have known for years. It will be a person you care about and may feel a little bit reluctant to confront. Make no mistake about this, it will bring about some form of confrontation, because no one likes to be told negative things about themselves.

This is not to give the impression that you approach them negatively, as your approach will depict how extreme the confrontation will be. Let us try to keep it polite, using our words carefully, but not leaving any room for doubt this is troublesome. Most of us do not like to be to confrontational. However, what we must understand, is there will be times when a situation requires that we standup to and for what is right. You see, this person may be aware their behavior is causing some discomfort, and it more than likely is not a problem just for you. Understand, if you have spoken to someone else about this person, describing the things they do that cause you some discomfort, it is time to say these things to this person. In fact, it is always best to first speak to the one you are having a problem with, because if you have spoken to someone else about it, the discomfort is turning into resentment.

Think about it. Are you angry when talk about this person to another? When you vent, as you will. Are you feeling hurt? Do you feel they have done something that has caused you so much discomfort you have to expel it to someone, anyone willing to be a sounding-board? Obviously, this person has caused you some degree of distress. Perhaps they do things that really annoy you, embarrass you, or you feel the things they do are shameful. Again, perhaps this person only invokes one particular form of discomfort. For example: they use to much profanity when conversing. They laugh to loudly. You cannot stand the way they laugh. Maybe they have a substance abuse problem. When they become inebriated while in your company, they do and say things that embarrass you. Then again, this person might invoke all the afore mentioned emotions. Ask yourself, who suffers more by you remaining silent? What good does it do anyone for you to speak to a third party about how this person makes you feel, while remaining silent in your communications with this person?

In essence it is being dishonest to keep your true feelings hidden from the person causing you discomfort. It has become a secret, and as we have discussed, secrets are lies waiting to happen. Besides, what happens if the person you are venting to tells the person you are experience discomfort with, what you said to him or her about how you are feeling? This will certainly lead to them angrily confronting you. Why? More often than not, issues that are relayed by—outside of the immediate situation—individuals, will never be expressed properly. Why? No one can express how you are feeling more and/or better than you. After all you are the one who is having these feelings.

Now you will face being confronted by the individual that causes you some form of discomfort. As you soon realize they have no trouble confronting you about how they feel. Naturally, caught off guard, our first reaction can sometimes be one of denial. Ah the lie. Here is where the deception begins to grow, and tension between the two of you begin to build and fester. Trust me this person knows what they were told, by the third party, is not a complete lie. They have some idea they cause you some discomfort. They know you, so they are not ignorant of the discomfort they cause. You also become angry with the person you confided in, and now the relationship between the two of you is strained. For what? All because you wanted to avoid a necessary confrontation with an individual that is making you uncomfortable.

Speak up! Speak to the one you have the problem with before you go outside the relationship and speak to another. In the future let us bypass the middle person and go right to the source. Listen, all that will happen is the discomfort will stop. Yes, it might mean a severance of the relationship but you will have your peace of mind and the discomfort will be gone. The point is some confrontations are necessary and simply cannot be avoided. It is not easy being honest, but it does give us peace.

It is time for all of us to stand up for what is right. Would that we all did this. When we hear friends saying and doing things we find distasteful, we have to speak up and make it known we do not share the view. Sometimes all it takes is one brave soul in the group to speak up and it will encourage others who share you views to speak up as well. Remember, in all things, in all situations, we first and far most, trust in the Most High’s moral compass. Our trust is never in things that are of this world. Our trust is, and always should be, in the Most High. From this point we start evaluating what type of things are important to us. What are our values? What kind of people do we admire? These things answer the question, do you know who you are? Let us begin…..

 

 

The Truth and Nothing but The Truth
By Mason Denise Carlisle

 

As we look around and observe the world we currently live in, many of us find ourselves wondering if what we see and hear is real. Can it be possible that the state of the union in the United States is in such disarray? Many things are coming to light in this era, also known as the era of Trump. The biggest and most profound issue coming to light, is how many powerful men, subject women to inexcusable acts of sexual harassment.

We have witnessed the disclosure of these behaviors and watched it take down some of the mightiest of men. Men all over the world are being exposed for their dark behavior in regards to women. It is no wonder no real interest in preventing, curbing and/or bringing the sex trade industry, around the world, to an end. It is now crystal clear why this issue has not been taken seriously. Many of the worlds most powerful men are guilty of participating in this despicable behavior.

Before elected, Trump’s comments about women, shocked and amazed us. So much so that after he was elected one of this country’s biggest march of protest happened in 2017. As many if not more people turned out in 2018 in support of the same cause. Violence against women can no longer be tolerated. One thing we must give Trump credit for is bringing this behavior to the surface. His crude comments gave women the courage to speak out openly about what he has done to them. This empowered other women to come forward about awful things they have experienced at the hands of powerful, wealthy men.

Never has the saying, ‘The Truth Will Set You Free’ been more realized. Trump also afforded us a glimpse into the mindset of some men who are born into financial privilege. Without a doubt, they believe they can do just about anything they want, just about whenever they want. They truly believe their money will forever shield them from bearing any responsibility or facing any consequences for their shameful behavior.

These men even believe they can create their own alternative reality that insures they are innocent no matter what. They have even created a god that is partial to them. They have their own church run by the Evangelicals. Yes, we have all seen the true colors of this group and we can honestly say the Evangelicals do not serve nor do they represent the attributes of True God. They have proven their god is earthly, money and power. These are the type who alter sacred books in order to control mass groups of people, thus, swinging the odds in their favor. They are liars, dissevers, destroyers, and disruptors.

Ah the three Ds. These are what make humans reprobate. One who is reprobate is a lost cause, abominable. The harm they do is extensive and long lasting, passing down from generation to generation. Hope is for those who seek the truth, realizing ‘The Truth Will Set Them Free’. The truth works hand and hand with Karma. It is a relief that Karma cannot be purchased or brought off. No one escapes it, not even in death. Would that we answered for our immoralities in life because to answer for them after death is to return into a life worse than the one you are departing from.

What if all the wealthy people in this life realized they would be held accountable for all their behavior even after death? What if everyone, for that matter, realized that death does not abate karma. What if they had undeniable proof they would be reborn and held accountable for their actions in this life good and bad? Imagine all the racists realizing they would return as a minority, the wealthy would return poor, the rapist would return and be raped? If a soul does not graduate in this life, that is learn to live morally, this is exactly what happens.  

Many of us witnessed how upset Bill O’Riley was when he was finally exposed and faced consequences for his despicable misconduct. He blamed God, revealing how many like him feel. They believe they are privilege, born with a right to do what they please when they please. When he realized this was not the case he was shocked, devastated. It is not hard to imagine many of those being exposed are shocked. They are so convinced they are above reproach simply because they are lucky enough to be born into financial freedom. That is how wonderful financial security is for people. To know that you will never want for anything because of your financial status.

The truth is they never want for anything money can purchase, and in this world, there is not much that money cannot purchase. All of us want to live financially stress-free lives. So much so, many people can be persuaded to do just about anything. But, alas there is Karma, and again, Karma is not influenced by one’s socioeconomic status, and no one escapes their individual Karma.

No, there is no hiding and for this reason, being dishonest is useless. Lies allows some to avoid taking responsibility for their reprehensible behavior. Lies allow many people to blame others for wrongs for which they are subjected. Lies give way to victims being blamed for crimes when they are innocent and it devastates their lives. Lying is an attribute of hate and is the most destructive of all acts and behaviors. It is even disruptive for the liar because one lie is the start of a web of lies. Many people have many webs spun of lies and this in itself is a form of prison. It is no wonder many people struggle to sleep at night.

It is said this nations leader does not sleep much. Perhaps it is the threat of all the alternative truths being revealed for the untruths they are. Lies tear families apart, breakup the most sacred relationships. Lies have destroyed companies, institutions, and countries. Once revealed, lies have brought some of the mightiest to their knees. Often times, lies are so destructive lives have been lost and relationships cannot recover from the devastation the lie caused.

As we start this new year let us evaluate our behavior, and come to the realization that lying is evil, and a catalyst for the three D’s. We need only look at the destruction and disruption in the lives of some of this country’s most wealthy, and powerful men. Many of us have seen what lies can do to a relationship. Many of us have had our lives deeply impacted by a lie or lies. To many have had a portion of their life striped away because of a lie. Some have even served time in prison because of a lie. No matter how painful, many of us have felt the relief of truth when a lie is exposed.

There is nothing more honorable than the truth. There is nothing more liberating then the truth. The truth will always set us free. Let’s be clear. This is not about withholding information. This is about saying something that is untrue, something that has, and often does seriously impact the life of an individual or the lives of many people. Honestly, a lie can disrupt the lives of several people in it’s wake.

Some people, men and women, think they have successfully reclassified and renamed lie, lies, and liar. Now an untruth is called alternative truths, and the real truth is under attack and said to be fake. Look at the demeanor of the man who coined the phrase “Fake News”. Look at him and see the evil that is visible in his eyes, in his breath, in his aura. Look at the eyes of all those who support and defend this person. They are without real life. The Christian Bible speaks of the walking dead. They make movies about zombies, or soulless human beings. Need we wonder what this saying in the Christian Bible means? Gnostic call them the soulless. Look at the eyes of those who speak for this individual. It is and always will be the same look of emptiness. See this and remember the eyes are the gateway to the soul.

The year of 2018 is the year we decide where we stand and what we stand for. It is the year we remove all blinders and see things as they truly are. It is the year we celebrate truth. This is the year we vow to always uphold and stand for actuality. This is the year we live by and with the freedom truth has afforded us. This is the year we declare we want the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.  

 

In the Service of the Most High

By Jay Gallison

So, what do people mean when they say they are in the service of the Most High? How does one live in the service of the Most High? Is it just a fancy idea or is it literal a lifestyle? And, how does one know if they are living a life of servitude to the Most High? In the Gnostic Faith, most of us became Gnostic after realizing we are and always have lived our lives in a service to the Most High. Naturally we were joyful, and we remain so haven found our place of Zing and Peace. This article presents another activity. It is time to talk about what caused us to walk away from the traditional religions that were a part of our lives growing up.

What was it exactly that opened our eyes once and for all? For most of us the eye-opening experience was forced upon us. What was that something devastating that happened while we were members of our original religious groups. This experience put an end to our ability to accept that we were operating on a righteous path. Some of us toyed with atheism, deciding perhaps this was what we were all along. Let us face it, we all questioned some of the things we heard and witnessed in our previous religions. In fact, some of us did more questioning than worshiping.

The questions most of us struggled and wondered about include: Why so many questionable people were not only members of the church community, but in leadership positions? Why was God so mean, so easily angered? Why did he allow bad things to happen to good people? Why are sinners the most prosperous? Why was not the church doing more to help people? Why are the church leaders always begging for money? And, if they were truly stewards of the lord, why did they feel the need to constantly test the faith of their congregation?

We also wondered why the God in the old testament seemed cruel and somewhat insecure? Why did he favor one particular group of humans, who were calling the elect, and the rest the gentiles? So, what exactly did the phrase “no respect of person” really mean in light of favoring a particular group of humans? How is it that the wealthy came to believe they are the elect, the elite, the appointed by God as the superior humans, the blessed ones? They are the most viciously, mean people so, why are they allowed to live abundantly secure lives while others suffer?

We also questioned the character of this so-called devil. Is not this devil the primary enemy of God? Many of us often wondered what separated the two. It is really hard to tell sometimes. The good God is telling fathers to kill their sons to prove they are worth. The bad Devil is telling fathers to kill their sons for the hell of it. Where is the defining line? What need is there for one group to be better than another group in a species? This is the root of racism, it is petty. So, is God racist and petty? Why is the Christian Bible so unclear and hard to understand? Why would a loving God not want to be understood by all? Also, the Bible is said to be the most violent book written in human history. What kind of God inspired such terrifying piece of literature?

It is real hard to see righteousness in religious beliefs, values, and customs. Religious people attend their places of worship regularly and enjoy pointing fingers, giving condescending looks, passing judgments, and hurling accusations toward others. Basically, the most significant thing religion taught us, was how to classify humans and place them in a specific group. This makes it easier for humans to devalue and dehumanize each other.

Many of us wondered, in our previous religions, what separated us from all the bad people, the sinners. What was our religion doing to inspire significant change in our lives? How were we making any significant differences in the lives of others? Did not Jesus, the Christian name for Yahushua, say we were supposed to help one another? Why was this not happening, and when did he say only help those who tithe regular to the church they or their family attends? Why are there so many different churches, often separated by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status? Is God racist and if so why? 

Faith. Religion teaches us that faith is blind trust. Trust in the elite humans. In the United States this include: the well-off, the males in the human species, and those of a lighter complexion. We are to blindly follow the instruction of corrupt law enforcement officers, crocket, over-priced lawyers, bias judges, and a proven unfair court system and legal process. We are to put our trust in the leaders of our churches. This is said to be the faithful thing to do. We have all noticed how often in movies, particularly comedies, the behavior of church leaders is reenacted. We laugh but the depiction is accurate and the behavior is shameful. It is baffling why congregation members believe church leaders are somehow deserving of so much. We are to believe they are blessed by God, to live such extravagant lives. Blessed or, are the tithes and offerings the congregations give, under the belief this is faithful and necessary to please God, used as payment for delivering the word of God? And, why would God bless anyone with something his enemy is said to be responsible for and uses to rewards those who do his bidding?

 Discernment. To those of us who understand what discernment really means we know it has nothing to do with understanding, articulating, or interpreting what a scripture means. Discernment is our sixth sense our third eye, our chakra pathway. This affords us an ability to recognize and interpret what is good and what is evil so we are not fooled or easily led astray or off our path. This is what allows us to recognize the wolves often draped in sheep clothing. Why is the understanding of faith not clearly defined in religion? Most of all, where is the love of the Most High in religions?

The very first act of discernment is distinguishing between Love and Hate. It is important to know what kinds of behaviors are associated with the Most High and what behaviors are not. The first act of faith is realizing that our lives are ours to live and our morality is inspired by the Love of the Most High. It is our morality that links us to our creator, and knowing it is an unbreakable link is faith.

The next act of discernment opens our eyes and shows us things that are inspired by humans for the benefit of humans. When we realize this, it allows our moral link to the Most High to manifest in our day to day lives. Faith removes all desire to harm others directly or indirectly, in any way, shape, or form. Would that we elected our leaders based on faith instead of political party association or economic status.

When we select a leader, there should be no questions as to where he or she stands or what he or she believes in. Our faith in that leader allows us to trust in his or her decisions and judgement. But when we have a bunch of elected leaders that will do things out of order, in secret, in the dark, it creates turmoil, uneasiness, and unrest. Time and time again we have witnessed how bad leaders create hardships in the lives of thousands. Let us never forget our recent recession.  

So, discernment allowing us to sense what us going on around us. For example, Money. It has no value anymore. It is not worth the paper it is printed on, but the façade is maintained. Discernment makes this visible. That which money’s value is based on has run out. The sooner we realize that the better off we are going to be. But many love existing in a state of perpetual ignorant bliss, and this is what is counted on, relied on. If we but pay attention we can see the signs that the worlds current value system is valueless. In fact, for quite some time we have been transitioning into a credit based system, a point system, a score. Make no mistake about it, this system will continue to weed out and separate those who are considered worthy from those who are not.

This worlds Virgil is out there somewhere and when he reveals himself he will be looked down upon and labeled the anti-Christ. The war on truth has already begun and he will be seen as a threat, Anti-God. Many will call him the devil because of how he will begin to radically change things. Most will not understand why and that it is for the good of all humanity. The transition will meet with great resistance. It is a resistance that will be led by religion. The stage for this has already been constructed. Religion reaches us in the masses and the corruptors, currently in power, know this. Here’s an example: Notice how Trump went to the churches and enlisted the help of religious leaders to help him win the 2016 presidential election. He did this after publicly claiming he didn’t believe he had to ask for forgiveness from religions God.

This world has been conditioned to accept our current tangible system as being right, fair, and just. Most have not yet realized this system has already crumbled even with the evidence right in their faces. We are now being condition to not trust in reliable sources for accurate and fact-based information. We are being led down a path of fantasy and false realities as this will assist in further control of society as a whole. Here’s an example: The internet used to be an information highway but several years ago this highway was shut down. There is now no way for us to get reliable, fact based information unless we can afford college where we can access the college or universities research data base. This maintains an elite group because only they have the facts. The rest in the society have no way of challenging those in the group of college educated, or to determine if facts have been distorted because access has been denied. The general public has Wikipedia, an internet information source anyone can put information on. College professors tell their students Wikipedia is not a reliable research source for this very reason.

The majority of humans lack the ability to discern and this is a form of blindness. They cannot see past the subliminal messages those with the spirit of control, oppression, depression, and degradation are using to deceive. First of all, wealth is obtained by the spilling and/or shedding of innocent blood. This further proves this is not an institution of the Most High and any group, or organization that says otherwise is anti the Most High. They are the devils, the wolves in sheep clothing Yahushua warned us to be on the lookout for. They are the liars, the deceivers, the truly corrupt, hiding behind their titles, political positions, and societal status.

Yes, that means most if not all religions are not inspired by the Most High who is the creator of all that is. Most humans are unable to see, much less understand that any inhuman act is a behavior that lacks morals thus it is not inspired by the Most High. To deny any living being the entitlements they require to sustain their lives is an act of immorality. This is how removed from the Most High many humans are, which brings us to an understanding of the 95/5 theory or hypothesis.

The wealthy have managed to dilute the vision and beliefs of humans in the masses and religion has been their catalyst. When the kings of the past realized what they could do if they had religion on their side they seized the opportunity to capitalize on it. They began to form beliefs and values that started with the process of self-denial. The next step was respect, reverence, and trust in those placed in societal positions of power. They successfully convinced humanity this is the will of God and these people are ordained by the Most High, favored, which is why they have so much and millions have nothing. What kind of God would inspire such a notion? For what purpose? What would it benefit the Most high to inspire such beliefs? The creator of all life does not need to favor one particular group of humans over another. It serves the Most High no purpose.

We, as human, have been trained to believe that if we do not conform to the societal norms good or bad, we have a problem, and it is looked at as a highly egregious act. Those who do not conform are labeled criminals, trouble makers. Anyone who questions the establishment is frown upon because it requires a measure of self-preservation. That is never a good thing.  After all, too care to much about yourself is considered selfish, a sin. We are taught to have too many ideas or views that boost one’s own self-confidence or feelings of self-worth is what us evil. The real devils need compliance, blind compliance. They are heavy on the sublime and the alternative facts they are now pushing.

Discernment. A soul that harbors hate is a soul that is without life, and those with the ability to discern can spot a lifeless person right away. It is something they simply cannot mask. The eyes don’t change, they are a gateway into the soul and a dead soul is reflected in dead eyes. For those who lack the ability to discern they remain blinded by the sublime and the alternative facts. They will always support their leaders. These are the 95 in the human species.

However, the fact is there is no one Devil, as a devil can be anyone who behaves Satanically. This behavior is displayed in anyone who is full of hatred, bigotry, greed, and usually suffering from one of the many forms of mental illnesses. There is no one being with these qualifications unleashed on humanity for the purpose of destroying or corrupting our souls. For those who would spread this notion, this is understandably necessary, because it takes all the view off them and place it on some mythical being. Injecting these beliefs into sacred books and claiming these books are inspired by our creator provided those in control with all they needed to obtain and maintain compliance from entire societies, communities, countries, and nations. The creation of an ominous being absolved them of any responsibility for their deplorable behavior. Here is an example: The rantings of members in one of many white supremacist groups who spread hate and dissention among members of the any society. It is time to think rationally and logically. Why is there a need to create a being more powerful than the creator of all life?

This is done to destroy hope, faith, self-confidence and worth, and a will to fight an establishment designed from the minute the first hominid was transformed into a human. It was necessary to create fear in order to control. To pave the way for some to be considered born into privilege, blessed by God. Blessed and better based on their ethnicity, race, sex, religion, and socioeconomic status. This continues because that which makes one special is passed down through their bloodline, their cultural beliefs and established values.

Discernment opens the door to faith, which opens our eyes to truth. There is no power stronger than the power of the Most High. There is no being that comes close to challenging the authority of the Most High, and at some point we must ask ourselves what is the need to give the impression there is such a being. Who benefits from humanity having this belief? I’ll give you a hint: Not the Most High.

So, let us think about what brought us to the Gnostic Faith. Do we recognize our ability to discern? Are we comfortable with our faith? Do we understand it? If so, let us give instead of beg. Let us make a different in the lives of others who desperately need our help. And most of all let us take responsibility for ourselves. Let us recognize love, know what it looks and feels like, and how it manifests itself in our lives. This allows us to strengthen that cord of morality that connects us to the Most High and allows us to really live righteous lives. This is what it means to live in the service of the Most High.

2014 Reflection

By Mason Denise Carlisle

 

In 2017 our focus was on the things in our society that contribute to how we form values in our lives. We discussed messages and images we observe via sight and hearing, and we discussed the messages that are not so obvious but are picked up and stored in our sub-conscious. These would be the subliminal messages that are embedded in the obvious messages we see and hear throughout our day. Subliminal messages are embedded in television shows, commercials, and motion pictures. In fact, this is why many of us find ourselves wondering what is was about that commercial, that talk show, that episode in a series we like, that movie on television or cable, and yes, that movie we went to the theater to see, that left a bad taste in our mouth. Sometimes something about what we see and hear leaves us uncomfortable, angry, hurt. We are left to wonder why we did not particularly care for that commercial, that show, that storyline in a movie.

Here are a few examples: Why is it that mobster movie place a strong emphasis on the Italian community? Yes, many of us liked the “Sopranos” but for some of us it was somewhat degrading. Movies like ‘The Godfather’, ‘Goodfellas’, and ‘Donnie Brasco’ to name a few, paint a negative, ugly view of Italians and many Italians find these type storylines offensive. Yes, there was a period of time when the Mafia was very powerful, but it was not just Italians who were a part of the Mafia. Where are the stories about how many Italian communities were attacked when they first migrated here? Attacked and murdered. It is similar to the cowboy and Indian movies many of us grew up watching. The Native Americans were always the bad ones, attacking and scalping the White man. When did most of us learn that it was White men who started scalping the Native Americans? The Native Americans just retaliated, doing to White men what was being done to them.

Gangster movies were so easily associated with Italians many people did not realize that the main character in ‘Scarface’ was not Italian. Tony Montana was Cuban. Al Pacino is Italian but the character he played was not. Unfortunately, these type storylines allow many in society to stereotype Italian, deciding they all have mafia ties, and are involved with illegal activity. The message many of us take from gangster movies is all Italians are badass’ shooting and killing everyone. Let’s face it, this is the effect if subliminal messages in a storyline. It is the desired effect as these things do not just happen by chance. It is not hard to understand why Italian Americans do not care to constantly see stores that cast them, their culture, in such a negative, unproductive light.

What about storylines that deal with human bondage, slavery? We can all agree this was a horrible period of time for Black people in the United States. To this day it remains hard for Black people to understand the mindset behind those who held Black people in bondage. The question is, how productive or beneficial is it to continue making movies about this period in American history? It certainly shows us where the fundamental foundation of racism began in American society.

So, what does continuing to shine a spotlight on how badly black people were brutalize do for modern day society? For many it serves to remind us how brutal and tortured their ancestors were. It also seems to feed into the hatred and cruelty embedded in the hearts of today’s most violent, extreme racists. It seems these types of movies only hurt those victimized and empower those who victimize.

Recently, many of us have heard and seen images of a situation, that so far, has received little to no coverage in main stream media. There is a new slavery epidemic occur today that once again subjects black people to the cruelty and depravation of human demons. These are the stories of refugee survivors fleeing places like Nigeria, Libya, and a few other African counties. These survivors describe despicable, deplorable acts of cruelty that simply should not be tolerated. There have been many forms of slavery practiced all around the world for hundreds of years. But, as time goes by, either the brutality of slavery has been hidden and is only now surfacing, or it has simply become more inhumane and brutal. These human demons prey on the most vulnerable, which is normally women, children, and minorities. They are cowards preying on the weak and clearly lack the courage to stand up to or against their equals. Below are some news articles to view regarding this situation:

http://www.cbc.ca/radio/asithappens/as-it-happens-tuesday-edition-1.4065793/migrants-in-libya-are-being-rounded-up-and-sold-into-slavery-un-says-1.4065796

https://www.aclu.org/other/human-trafficking-modern-enslavement-immigrant-women-united-states

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2017/nov/30/blackwater-founder-pitches-plan-to-quell-libya-migrant-crisis-with-private-police

One of the latest movies in a string of horrific slavery movies is ‘Birth of a Nation’. Understand, ‘Roots’ had purpose. It was a look back over a black man’s ancestry that takes us through the lives of those in his family who were slaves. These other stories do not have the same purpose. Some other recent movies about slavery include: ‘12 Years a Slave’, and the remake of ‘Roots’. Although movies like ‘The Butler’ and ‘The Help’ are not slavery movies they show how badly Black people continued to be treated post slavery. For Black people these stories do more harm than good, thus making them counterproductive. They can also be very traumatizing. The images are so horrifying they create last memories and when reflected on cause pain deep in the soul. It leaves us with the question, can humans make good meaningful movies about these troubling time in history that are not riddled with horrible acts of violence and cruelty? There has to be a far more positive, productive way to relay useful informative about these periods of time in American history.   

How much do subliminal messages, via television and movies, contribute to the problems we struggle with in modern day society? Historical movies about slavery anger and upset people of all ethnicity, rightly so. Any civilized individual is troubled by the lasting images of human brutality displayed in these movies. Black people come away wondering how this could have been allowed, and many White people come away asking similar questions. However, there are some of the most extreme racists who get a form of gratification and see the mistreatment as a show of white strength and the weakness of Black people.

As we discussed, commercials that misrepresent a group of people are also counterproductive. Some subliminal messages in images are not as harmful but show how persuasive this type of messaging can be. For example: what Putin did during the 2016 election year was an effective way of persuading Americans to vote for a candidate that was more to his liking and benefit than that of the citizens of the United States. Subliminal messages also influence how we view others, giving way to discrimination toward those who do not fall into what is considered NORMAL. Subliminal messages have a stronger affect on those who fall in the 95% of human society, which is why certain behaviors are long-lasting, passing from one generation to the next.

Subliminal messages aide in forming values, as well as opinions and expectations. For example: take a look at how we often equate love with how much money is spent in our behalf. Images that give the perception real men drive the most expensive cars because the more they cost the better they are made. Images that suggest the most beautiful women are the thinnest women, and the belief that the less fortunate among us are lazy and sucking the life out of those who are more financially stable. All in all, subliminal messages help form values and these values are always based on what we hear and see.

Ways to overcome the effects of subliminal messages is to first acknowledge they exist. Once we are aware of these types messages it becomes easy to recognize them when we see or ha them embedded in a clear message. We all know what is right because we feel it deep inside. So, we must take responsibility for what we allow in. We can resist the subtly but sometimes direct way false notions are pushed on us in our society. Once our eyes are open we see clearer and begin to realize anything that deceives, destroys, and dilutes reality is demonic. We must also understand that humans are behind demonic behavior. Living breathing human beings. When we reach this point subliminal messages, good or bad, are rendered ineffective. To sum up the message in this year’s theme, it is our job to siphon out the noise that often blinds or obstructs our vision. It is up to us to block or tune out the nonsense we often hear. This is what frees us from the corrupt thinking that has shaped societies for hundreds of years.   

 
In the Service of the Most High

By Jay Gallison

So, what do people mean when they say they are in the service of the Most High? How does one live in the service of the Most High? Is it just a fancy idea or is it literal a lifestyle? And, how does one know if they are living a life of servitude to the Most High? In the Gnostic Faith, most of us became Gnostic after realizing we are and always have lived our lives in a service to the Most High. Naturally we were joyful, and we remain so haven found our place of Zing and Peace. This article presents another activity. It is time to talk about what caused us to walk away from the traditional religions that were a part of our lives growing up.

What was it exactly that opened our eyes once and for all? For most of us the eye-opening experience was forced upon us. What was that something devastating that happened while we were members of our original religious groups. This experience put an end to our ability to accept that we were operating on a righteous path. Some of us toyed with atheism, deciding perhaps this was what we were all along. Let us face it, we all questioned some of the things we heard and witnessed in our previous religions. In fact, some of us did more questioning than worshiping.

The questions most of us struggled and wondered about include: Why so many questionable people were not only members of the church community, but in leadership positions? Why was God so mean, so easily angered? Why did he allow bad things to happen to good people? Why are sinners the most prosperous? Why was not the church doing more to help people? Why are the church leaders always begging for money? And, if they were truly stewards of the lord, why did they feel the need to constantly test the faith of their congregation?

We also wondered why the God in the old testament seemed cruel and somewhat insecure? Why did he favor one particular group of humans, who were calling the elect, and the rest the gentiles? So, what exactly did the phrase “no respect of person” really mean in light of favoring a particular group of humans? How is it that the wealthy came to believe they are the elect, the elite, the appointed by God as the superior humans, the blessed ones? They are the most viciously, mean people so, why are they allowed to live abundantly secure lives while others suffer?

We also questioned the character of this so-called devil. Is not this devil the primary enemy of God? Many of us often wondered what separated the two. It is really hard to tell sometimes. The good God is telling fathers to kill their sons to prove they are worth. The bad Devil is telling fathers to kill their sons for the hell of it. Where is the defining line? What need is there for one group to be better than another group in a species? This is the root of racism, it is petty. So, is God racist and petty? Why is the Christian Bible so unclear and hard to understand? Why would a loving God not want to be understood by all? Also, the Bible is said to be the most violent book written in human history. What kind of God inspired such terrifying piece of literature?

It is real hard to see righteousness in religious beliefs, values, and customs. Religious people attend their places of worship regularly and enjoy pointing fingers, giving condescending looks, passing judgments, and hurling accusations toward others. Basically, the most significant thing religion taught us, was how to classify humans and place them in a specific group. This makes it easier for humans to devalue and dehumanize each other.

Many of us wondered, in our previous religions, what separated us from all the bad people, the sinners. What was our religion doing to inspire significant change in our lives? How were we making any significant differences in the lives of others? Did not Jesus, the Christian name for Yahushua, say we were supposed to help one another? Why was this not happening, and when did he say only help those who tithe regular to the church they or their family attends? Why are there so many different churches, often separated by race, ethnicity, and socioeconomic status? Is God racist and if so why? 

Faith. Religion teaches us that faith is blind trust. Trust in the elite humans. In the United States this include: the well-off, the males in the human species, and those of a lighter complexion. We are to blindly follow the instruction of corrupt law enforcement officers, crocket, over-priced lawyers, bias judges, and a proven unfair court system and legal process. We are to put our trust in the leaders of our churches. This is said to be the faithful thing to do. We have all noticed how often in movies, particularly comedies, the behavior of church leaders is reenacted. We laugh but the depiction is accurate and the behavior is shameful. It is baffling why congregation members believe church leaders are somehow deserving of so much. We are to believe they are blessed by God, to live such extravagant lives. Blessed or, are the tithes and offerings the congregations give, under the belief this is faithful and necessary to please God, used as payment for delivering the word of God? And, why would God bless anyone with something his enemy is said to be responsible for and uses to rewards those who do his bidding?

 Discernment. To those of us who understand what discernment really means we know it has nothing to do with understanding, articulating, or interpreting what a scripture means. Discernment is our sixth sense our third eye, our chakra pathway. This affords us an ability to recognize and interpret what is good and what is evil so we are not fooled or easily led astray or off our path. This is what allows us to recognize the wolves often draped in sheep clothing. Why is the understanding of faith not clearly defined in religion? Most of all, where is the love of the Most High in religions?

The very first act of discernment is distinguishing between Love and Hate. It is important to know what kinds of behaviors are associated with the Most High and what behaviors are not. The first act of faith is realizing that our lives are ours to live and our morality is inspired by the Love of the Most High. It is our morality that links us to our creator, and knowing it is an unbreakable link is faith.

The next act of discernment opens our eyes and shows us things that are inspired by humans for the benefit of humans. When we realize this, it allows our moral link to the Most High to manifest in our day to day lives. Faith removes all desire to harm others directly or indirectly, in any way, shape, or form. Would that we elected our leaders based on faith instead of political party association or economic status.

When we select a leader, there should be no questions as to where he or she stands or what he or she believes in. Our faith in that leader allows us to trust in his or her decisions and judgement. But when we have a bunch of elected leaders that will do things out of order, in secret, in the dark, it creates turmoil, uneasiness, and unrest. Time and time again we have witnessed how bad leaders create hardships in the lives of thousands. Let us never forget our recent recession.  

So, discernment allowing us to sense what us going on around us. For example, Money. It has no value anymore. It is not worth the paper it is printed on, but the façade is maintained. Discernment makes this visible. That which money’s value is based on has run out. The sooner we realize that the better off we are going to be. But many love existing in a state of perpetual ignorant bliss, and this is what is counted on, relied on. If we but pay attention we can see the signs that the worlds current value system is valueless. In fact, for quite some time we have been transitioning into a credit based system, a point system, a score. Make no mistake about it, this system will continue to weed out and separate those who are considered worthy from those who are not.

This worlds Virgil is out there somewhere and when he reveals himself he will be looked down upon and labeled the anti-Christ. The war on truth has already begun and he will be seen as a threat, Anti-God. Many will call him the devil because of how he will begin to radically change things. Most will not understand why and that it is for the good of all humanity. The transition will meet with great resistance. It is a resistance that will be led by religion. The stage for this has already been constructed. Religion reaches us in the masses and the corruptors, currently in power, know this. Here’s an example: Notice how Trump went to the churches and enlisted the help of religious leaders to help him win the 2016 presidential election. He did this after publicly claiming he didn’t believe he had to ask for forgiveness from religions God.

This world has been conditioned to accept our current tangible system as being right, fair, and just. Most have not yet realized this system has already crumbled even with the evidence right in their faces. We are now being condition to not trust in reliable sources for accurate and fact-based information. We are being led down a path of fantasy and false realities as this will assist in further control of society as a whole. Here’s an example: The internet used to be an information highway but several years ago this highway was shut down. There is now no way for us to get reliable, fact based information unless we can afford college where we can access the college or universities research data base. This maintains an elite group because only they have the facts. The rest in the society have no way of challenging those in the group of college educated, or to determine if facts have been distorted because access has been denied. The general public has Wikipedia, an internet information source anyone can put information on. College professors tell their students Wikipedia is not a reliable research source for this very reason.

The majority of humans lack the ability to discern and this is a form of blindness. They cannot see past the subliminal messages those with the spirit of control, oppression, depression, and degradation are using to deceive. First of all, wealth is obtained by the spilling and/or shedding of innocent blood. This further proves this is not an institution of the Most High and any group, or organization that says otherwise is anti the Most High. They are the devils, the wolves in sheep clothing Yahushua warned us to be on the lookout for. They are the liars, the deceivers, the truly corrupt, hiding behind their titles, political positions, and societal status.

Yes, that means most if not all religions are not inspired by the Most High who is the creator of all that is. Most humans are unable to see, much less understand that any inhuman act is a behavior that lacks morals thus it is not inspired by the Most High. To deny any living being the entitlements they require to sustain their lives is an act of immorality. This is how removed from the Most High many humans are, which brings us to an understanding of the 95/5 theory or hypothesis.

The wealthy have managed to dilute the vision and beliefs of humans in the masses and religion has been their catalyst. When the kings of the past realized what they could do if they had religion on their side they seized the opportunity to capitalize on it. They began to form beliefs and values that started with the process of self-denial. The next step was respect, reverence, and trust in those placed in societal positions of power. They successfully convinced humanity this is the will of God and these people are ordained by the Most High, favored, which is why they have so much and millions have nothing. What kind of God would inspire such a notion? For what purpose? What would it benefit the Most high to inspire such beliefs? The creator of all life does not need to favor one particular group of humans over another. It serves the Most High no purpose.

We, as human, have been trained to believe that if we do not conform to the societal norms good or bad, we have a problem, and it is looked at as a highly egregious act. Those who do not conform are labeled criminals, trouble makers. Anyone who questions the establishment is frown upon because it requires a measure of self-preservation. That is never a good thing.  After all, too care to much about yourself is considered selfish, a sin. We are taught to have too many ideas or views that boost one’s own self-confidence or feelings of self-worth is what us evil. The real devils need compliance, blind compliance. They are heavy on the sublime and the alternative facts they are now pushing.

Discernment. A soul that harbors hate is a soul that is without life, and those with the ability to discern can spot a lifeless person right away. It is something they simply cannot mask. The eyes don’t change, they are a gateway into the soul and a dead soul is reflected in dead eyes. For those who lack the ability to discern they remain blinded by the sublime and the alternative facts. They will always support their leaders. These are the 95 in the human species.

However, the fact is there is no one Devil, as a devil can be anyone who behaves Satanically. This behavior is displayed in anyone who is full of hatred, bigotry, greed, and usually suffering from one of the many forms of mental illnesses. There is no one being with these qualifications unleashed on humanity for the purpose of destroying or corrupting our souls. For those who would spread this notion, this is understandably necessary, because it takes all the view off them and place it on some mythical being. Injecting these beliefs into sacred books and claiming these books are inspired by our creator provided those in control with all they needed to obtain and maintain compliance from entire societies, communities, countries, and nations. The creation of an ominous being absolved them of any responsibility for their deplorable behavior. Here is an example: The rantings of members in one of many white supremacist groups who spread hate and dissention among members of the any society. It is time to think rationally and logically. Why is there a need to create a being more powerful than the creator of all life?

This is done to destroy hope, faith, self-confidence and worth, and a will to fight an establishment designed from the minute the first hominid was transformed into a human. It was necessary to create fear in order to control. To pave the way for some to be considered born into privilege, blessed by God. Blessed and better based on their ethnicity, race, sex, religion, and socioeconomic status. This continues because that which makes one special is passed down through their bloodline, their cultural beliefs and established values.

Discernment opens the door to faith, which opens our eyes to truth. There is no power stronger than the power of the Most High. There is no being that comes close to challenging the authority of the Most High, and at some point we must ask ourselves what is the need to give the impression there is such a being. Who benefits from humanity having this belief? I’ll give you a hint: Not the Most High.

So, let us think about what brought us to the Gnostic Faith. Do we recognize our ability to discern? Are we comfortable with our faith? Do we understand it? If so, let us give instead of beg. Let us make a different in the lives of others who desperately need our help. And most of all let us take responsibility for ourselves. Let us recognize love, know what it looks and feels like, and how it manifests itself in our lives. This allows us to strengthen that cord of morality that connects us to the Most High and allows us to really live righteous lives. This is what it means to live in the service of the Most High.

 

Humanitarianism vs. Entitlement
by Marcus McGinnis

It is that time again, and this article will clearly identify the primary idea.  Let us begin with some definitions. Also…before we begin understand this article will be written in first person as in I, Me, Marcus. I will start with the idea that ‘Entitlements’, are considered a bad, horrible thing, especially to one political party and the people they represent. So, what are ‘Entitlements’? Well, an ‘Entitlement’ is an inherent right. What is Inherent? This is a permanent, ESSENTIAL innate, inborn, ingrained, obvious RIGHT and/or PRIVILEGE. So allow me to further clarify what I am saying. ‘ENTITLEMENTS’ are obvious, essential rights and/or privileges that are automatically understood in regards to a particular species or group.

For example: A Chief Executive Officer CEO of any business or Organization is entitled to a corner office with a fantastic view. The President of the United States is entitled to live in that big white house in Washington DC our nation’s capital. The President is entitled to have a special plane, helicopter, and men and women who guard him or her at all times. Living organisms have rights and/or privileges associated with each species that go without saying, as they are vital to sustain life. These rights and/or privileges are known as ‘ENTITLEMENTS’! This is not to be confused with requirements; these are things that are a given, natural right.

Humans, ALL human beings, are ‘Entitled’ to have things that are necessary to sustain their life. The basics include: food to eat, clean safe water to drink and bath with, access to health care including oral or dental care, clean air to breath, and adequate shelter. These ‘ENTITLEMENTS’ are things that should be understood because these are inherent rights and/or privileges. This ‘Entitlements’ are a given— NO MATTER WHAT— as it is in the species habitual norms. 

Therefore, what is actually unacceptable and wrong is to deny a species those things that are considered standard, thus vital to sustain life. Once again, some among us would have us believe it is wrong to make sure all of us have the life sustaining norms associated with the human species. They would have us believe that to help insure we all have these inherent rights is what is wrong. Morally— and how those who would have us believe it is acceptable to deny any human being those things that are vital to sustaining their life, love to think of themselves as moral, god-fearing, god-loving, upstanding, righteous people. These people are the ones who verbally and sometimes physically attack, assault and degrade the hungry and homeless. They are the ones who have labeled them worthless, undeserving, and somewhat less than human.

These are those who have no trouble turning a blind eye to how the very life force of these people— these struggling people— hangs by a thread because they are being denied the basic necessities needed to sustain their lives. They are reduced to begging, drinking liquor or using drugs in order to stay warm when it is cold, cool when it is hot and full when they are hungry. Drugs and alcohol dull the senses, causing the effect of being cold, hot and hungry to be easily ignored. They walk our streets all day every day, sometimes with everything they own in a grocery cart or in a bag they lug around on their back. They wrap plastic bags around their feet when it is raining and snowing to keep their feet dry. These are human men, women, and sometimes children, as in adolescence. They are the sick, the elderly, our veterans, and our disabled. Where is the humanity in this behavior? What is moral about this image? How did society become so cold and mean hearted?

Remember those subliminal messages we talked about in the previous article? Subliminal messages are an effective tool used to pollute and dilute what a society sees and hears. In light of all this suffering we have elected members in congress, namely those in the Republican Political Party, who feed this notion that only some humans should be allowed to have basic entitlements vital to existence. Now they want to deny millions of poor Americans access to affordable healthcare. They are attempting to justify taking health care away from millions and once again giving tax breaks and retribution to the nation’s wealthiest, by using a subliminal message that covers up their real motivation for doing this. They want everyone to believe they are simply trying to fulfill a campaign promise to repel the Affordable Care Act ACA, also known as Obama care.

They, and some of those they represent, want to continue the crusade they started over seven years ago, to undo the act of a morally responsible leader. The act of providing the people he was elected to serve, a basic entitlement they desperately needed, affordable health care. He started us down a path of access to health care period actually, because many were being denied this basic right for various reasons. It is not a perfect situation, complicated by those who do not believe in basic norms for all, but it was a moral step in the right, normal direction. It is abnormal to deny humans food, water, air, shelter, and access to medical care.

It is common knowledge the United States is the wealthiest country in the world. It is also home to some of the poorest people in the world. Why? Because it is a country built on a mentality that remains strongly alive to this day. It goes beyond the human societal practice of royalty and commoners or peasants. It is the horrible mentality that gives way to dehumanizing many in a society. These are those among us who are financially broken, discriminated against, and gravely oppressed. They are willfully denied the entitlements necessary to sustain life. In fact, every time a president from the Republican political party is elected, the list of those denied what is necessary for survival grows in this country.

Greed and intense acts of selfishness fuel the idea that only a select few are worthy of that which all humans inherently have a right. It should be unimaginable that there are actually people without shelter in the United States of all countries. It certainly is not something any of us should be comfortable with. We should all care because in a society that not only allows this, but tolerates it, all of us are potentially a heartbeat away from finding ourselves in the same situation. For this reason alone none of us should turn a blind eye to the suffering of others. When we live in a society that encourages hateful behavior all of us are at risk and will eventually find ourselves victims. Perhaps it will not be homelessness or starvation, but there are many ways to negatively impact a person’s life. In fact all of is being affected in one way or another is inevitable because hate is a disease that grows, spreads, and is what actually trickles down.

It is not a bad thing in a society to help fellow citizens who are unable to provide for themselves. But because of the slave like mentality, and the degrading, demoralizing behavior that is associated with this mentality, we find ourselves in our current unstable situation. Hate is an unstable condition because it naturally corrupts and disrupts the natural order of things. Too many among us are comfortable with seeing, knowing, and hearing about others who are homeless, hungry, and denied a right to clean water. Now millions face the threat of having their new health benefits taken away. At some point we all have to ask ourselves, what will be the straw that breaks the camel’s back in American society. What will force American citizens into a full government revolt? Well, perhaps denying or stripping away needed health care benefits already in place will be that very straw.

Money is a tool used to facilitate this behavior of denial coupled with legislation, or lack thereof. It should be against the law for a person to be homeless in any city, town, county, or state in the United States. It should be unlawful for a family to live literally in starving conditions in this country. How many cities have a bad water situation like the city of Flint in Michigan? This is, or should be a crime, intolerable under any circumstance. It is just as serious as attempted murder or reckless endangerment.   

Programs designed to help others when they are in need continue to be attacked while money used to fund corporations, far exceeds what is given to needy individuals. Keep in mind taxpayer dollars that go unmentioned when congress talks about cutting entitlements, are those that are given to corporations. These entitlements not only go unmentioned, they also go untouched. A warped mentality is what allows some to have an insatiable need to feel as if they are better, superior, somehow a higher grade of human. Our society has been brainwashed into believing rich and wealthy people should be exulted. They are abundantly given everything they need and want, which is far more than what is needed to sustain life. This openheartedness towards them subliminally reinforces the idea that wealthy humans are better. When in truth they are simply better off financially.  

Entitlement programs such as food stamps, Social Security Disability SSD, Social Security Income SSI, and Temporary Assistance for Needy Family TANF, formerly known as Aide to Families With Dependent Children AFDC, are designed to assist people and families in need. But they have been labeled as ‘ENTITLEMENTS’ and to some of our political leaders, this is a dirty word. It is a sublime message that has desensitized people to the suffering and struggles of others.

For years we were bombarded with comments that claimed AFDC was a horrible program that was causing a gross strain on taxpayers. Most, if not all, of those who benefited from this program were women and children, or nations most vulnerable. The comments by a particular political and those who call themselves Conservatives, insisted taxpayers were being forced to take care of women and their children. In turn, women were continuing to have children— out of wedlock—they were unable to provide for. First: keep in mind only 1% of tax dollars is used to help those in need of financial assistance. The need to blame entitlements allows some representatives in congress to distribute more of our tax dollars toward funding salary increases, and corporate welfare. Second: let us not forget how expensive birth control is, and it is not or was not covered under federally funded drug prescription programs. Poor women were and continue to be unable to afford birth control.

Third: many representatives in congress. who disagree with entitlements, also profess to vehemently shun abortion. They will not cover this procedure under government funded medical insurance programs, preventing poor mothers from ending an unwanted pregnancy. A pregnancy the mother knows will cause her further hardship. They continue to attack Planned Parenthood an organization that helps mostly poor women. So if they truly were concerned about unwed mothers having children, they would insist on birth control and be pleased to save the taxpayer’s money by allowing a mother to decide when she should end a pregnancy. This idea that women were and are just having children for the small amount of welfare they receive is beyond ridiculous. They cannot pay for housing with this small amount so many of them were or are on housing assistance programs. Keep in mind these are women and children.

Let us review some history. Ronald Reagan allowed for large companies to move their manufacturing businesses to poor countries in order to cut labor cost. That’s right. To avoid paying American citizens what they deserve on the job. This saved them money because it not only allowed them to pay lower wages, it illuminated the need to provided benefits like vacation, sick leave, medical, dental, and vision insurance. Outsourcing jobs hit many men where it hurt most, their wallets. When their jobs left they could no longer provide for their families. This caused husbands and fathers to walk away from their families so their wives could get welfare and food stamps. Flint Michigan was one of the cities hit hardest by outsourcing. It was the start of America’s homeless situation, which is now considered an epidemic.

Over twenty years ago Bill Clinton gave America the welfare reform act and as a result, today there 44% more women and children living below the poverty line. The act directly impacted our nations weakest and most vulnerable. It resulted in mothers being forced out of the home to take minimum wage jobs. To work was what matter most, because after all the more people working the more federal taxes they can collect. This allows them to raise their individual salaries and pour more taxpayer dollars into subsidies and tax breaks for the wealthy, otherwise known as corporate welfare. In turn these corporations help fund their campaigns. Ah ha, the real reason they hate entitlements, right? Particularly when it comes to those who need it most.

The regulations under welfare reform forced mothers out of the home giving no consideration to the children now deprived of parental supervision. We have all heard the phrase, ‘latch key kids’, right? Of course these jobs do not pay enough to adequately support mothers and their children. Not to mention mothers now have to put young children in daycare, creating a new expense. Childcare can be just as, if not more, expensive than housing. Many mothers were forced to take on more than one minimum wage job to cover this new expense. Ultimately it forced a need for more government programs such as child care assistance. Again, it is more important for everyone to be working and paying taxes so that our greedy congressmen and women can make more money, alongside corporate America, and many of them do not employee Americans because their industries have been outsourced.

George Bush Senior gave us stricter child support laws. However, if a mother is on TANF child support is collected from the absent parent but she and her children do not see the payment. Even when she is no longer on TANF, the payments collected from absent fathers are used to pay back the government for assisting the mother and children. So the law is a self-defeating requirement. The mother and her children are still suffering financially. Let us also understand that a single mother can now only collect assistance for five years in her entire life, thanks to Bill Clinton’s welfare reform. It is no wonder there are more starving and homeless women and children than ever before. Again, the bottom line is AFDC was only using 1% of all tax dollars 1%. One percent, to help the country’s most vulnerable and weak.

I will mention once again, a large percentage of taxpayer dollars goes to fund corporate welfare programs. The American family pays up to $6,000 dollars a year for primarily republican sponsored corporations. Up to $870 of that goes to subsidies, and over $1,200 per family goes to make up revenue losses in corporate tax havens. This includes large subsidies to major oil companies. Compare this to the average family that pays $36 a year into the food stamp program, a program that helps provide a vital human entitlement. So let us be clear, it is corporate welfare that is depleting federal dollars and increasing our nation’s deficit. So much for entitlements that insure humanity has the essential needs to sustain life causing a drag on the American taxpayer.

George W. Bush gave us the era of greed and cheating. It was a time to take all you can however you can. Make money by lying, cheating, and all of the legal ways of stealing and robbing American citizens. Gas prices skyrocketed and he expanded outsourcing. He also cut more essential entitlements, and gave more subsidies and tax breaks to or nations wealthiest, strongest, and least in need. He and the republicans gave us ARBITRATION that prevents Americans from being compensated when they are wrong by an employer, or organization. He is an oil man, and the obviously the subsidies to oil companies were not enough. Not only was he all for robbing Americans of their tax dollars, he robbed them of their love ones, sending thousands of soldiers off to their deaths to fight a war that was primarily to advance control of the oil industry.  

He privatized our prison system resulting in more people going to jail and receiving the type of sentences that made it near to impossible for them to restart their lives once they are released. It is literally one of the worse incarceration system and only benefits the private businesses that are now in charge of running the prison. To this day our prison system, our judicial system does more to destroy lives than improve them and keep us safe.

GW also cut the housing assistance program, further disparaging our nation’s most vulnerable, women and children. This increased the number of those who are homeless and led to a recession that was compared to this country’s worst period on record. The great depression began in 1929 and lasted until almost 1940. Housing Authorities have been reformed as they now provide limited housing assistance. Not to mention there was something known as Low Income Housing LIH communities that charged tenants 30% of their income for rent. These type communities even accepted Section 8 vouchers. They were known as income restricted communities, and although there may still be some like this, most LIC communities have become AHC communities, Affordable housing communities. This means incomes have to meet a certain standard based on other properties in the area. This again pushes the most vulnerable out into the streets as their income does not meet the community’s requirements.

And then we have cities and communities forced to live with dirty, contaminated water coming from the facets in their homes. Flint is one such city and the people in this community continue to suffer with basically poison water. When will the government adequately address this city and any other cities with this problem? The officials in such cities are obligation to provide adequate safe water service inside the homes of the people who occupy or are residents of the city. Residents are entitled to clean safe drinking and bathing water? This is the one thing our former president should have more forcefully addressed.

Barack Obama is the president who fought tooth and nail to give us affordable healthcare and today the most in need of adequate healthcare are receiving it. Although he was not able to do everything he brought us out of the recession, began to grow the economy again, and gas prices finally began to fall. The republicans fought him at every turn, doing all they could to make sure he failed, including attempting 52 times to repel the ACA. Obama also addressed a growing problem of the unspeakable abuse of children. These are youth who are thrown into confinement. These detention centers were placing these young people in solitary confinement and this is torture for a child. Of course it targeted mostly minority youth literally destroys their young lives before they even begin.

Now we have another unqualified, questionable person in the oval office and a government controlled by the very people who do not believe all humans are entitled to the vital necessities that sustain life. Trump is a real estate tycoon and not a very financially stable one. Like GW he sees the presidency as a way to absolve all his debts and fund more of his personal business ventures, all at the expense of the American taxpayer. He and the political party he is affiliated with want to continue to give to the wealthy at the expense of the most vulnerable. They do not believe adequate health care is a human right. What happened to their humanitarianism? If murder is wrong, why then is the denial of all human beings the entitlements they require to sustain their life, not considered wrong as well? Is it more acceptable to have humans die slower, agonizing, torturous deaths? Perhaps it is more acceptable to these individuals trying to take away essential entitlements, if we are forced to watch women and children starve to death. Perhaps they feel it is all right to see a mother and her new born sleeping on a sidewalk because they have stripped away all the programs that would have prevented this from happening in the first place.

Is it really alright to deny there are contaminants in the air we breathe? Is it fair to deny that coal mining release Sulphur Dioxide and Mercury into the air? Mining and oil drilling both are releasing deadly toxicants destroying the air we breathe and the water we drink. Is it humane to continue to deny this is a problem? Why don’t we just give the companies and industries killing us all slowly, more subsidies and tax breaks? The longer it takes them to do something about what is going on in Flint, the less it will matter. Society will soon be alright watching what contaminated water is doing to the families there. If they can they will strip away health care and five years from now many will be back to watching love ones die because they were denied adequate affordable health care. MURDER is MURDER. Oh and let us not forget the economy they profess to care so much about? Jobs, every time they take away an entitlement it takes away jobs adding to higher unemployment numbers and more people in need of assistance.

Humanitarianism defined is the promotion of HUMAN WELFARE! therefore, it is humane to insure all citizens are granted the basic entitlements required in order to sustain their lives. If this is not happening in this society, we can officially accept the fact we live in a Godless, less then moral, era. Let us admit there is no separation between entitlement and humanitarianism. Let us admit that to deny what all human beings require to sustain their life is anti-social, anti-humane, and anti-the Most High. I think it is time all of those who would deny humanitarianism admit to being the true Atheist in the world. They are the immoral ones. They are the evil ones, the devils, the real demons. They are the barbaric savage killers we should all fear.

We the people should have programs to help with adequate and safe housing, clean and safe air and water, food, and adequate medical care for all citizens. This is certainly so if all citizens are required to pay taxes. The primary needs of all citizens should take precedence over all things followed by a nation’s defense. If this was a nation that truly believed in its own national anthem this gross act of denial of essentials all humans are entitled to would not be tolerable, accepted, and thus allowed.

 

Effect of Subliminal Messages and Images
By Mason Denise Carlisle

In lieu of what is going on in America and around the world, we are getting a clear view of how effective subliminal messages can be. If leaders want their people to believe things are a certain way they can create and send false messages that keep them in the dark about what or how things actually are. Some examples of how effective subliminal messages are can be quiet obvious especially when it comes to things like racism, sexism, homophobia, and stereotypes associated with those who are poor. So…just how effective and damaging are subliminal images and the messages associated with them in any society?

Subliminal messages often have obscure images behind the visual messages we see. Example 1: Commercials about soap. Few people realize they never see Black people in these commercials. Also there have been test that show how everyday commercials affect how children view race. Example 2: The penny with Abraham Lincoln’s image facing in the opposite direction all other presidents on coins are facing. This is a show of their disappointment with him. It is an act of disrespect that is sublime but real. Most people do not realize it. This subliminal message is a clear indication ethnic prejudices remain and very little has changed. Example 3: Older men with younger women, sending a message that older women are not desirable, but, older men are. In fact there is no age when a man is undesirable. This leads to example 4: It is clearly acceptable for a man to be overweight, but, not a woman. This is evident in commercials, television shows, and movies. Finally, conservatism is a subliminal message that masks all of these biases.

When we look at modern politics we continue to hear how the affordable care act is failing, but, no one mentions why it is failing. There were many states under republican leadership and those governors refused to participate. This is the primary reason ACA struggles. This refusal to participate was a carefully planned strategy, aimed at causing the program to fail. This behavior had a great impacted on ACA, countermining and undermining its ability to function effectively. Rarely is this fact ever mentioned when there is a discussion about how it is not working. All we hear is how insurance agencies are pulling out, we never hear why. This gives the impression ACA is simply failing because insurance agents are pulling out for no good reason.  

Let us be straight forward and honest. No media outlet is willing to honestly say what the core issues are when it comes to why ACA is struggling. It is an entitlement that helps Black Americans share in some of the equality in the country of their birth. This inherent abhorrence for African Americans causes legislation to be enacted that insures Black Americans receive as little fairness as possible. The White Americans that are hurt are just casualties, expendable. They do not want entitlements for Black Americans whom they have convinced themselves are lazy and do not try hard enough. They have absolved themselves of any blame for the Black Americans struggle, when in all honesty, racism and prejudice keeps the doors of opportunity closed to most Black Americans. The republicans want to give apparitions to rich and wealthy White Americans but when Black Americans so much as mention this word it is a cardinal sin.   

In previous discussions we talked about Love and all its attributes. Hate, being the opposite of Love also has attributes. Racism is an intolerable attitude. Therefore, it is a behavior or attitude associated with hate, which means it is anti the Most High. Racism oppresses, suppresses, persecutes, and denies equality. These are not righteous behaviors thus it is often hidden. These secretive beliefs based on false notions feed into negative behaviors. It is an attitude that hides behind subliminal images sending negative messages about a particular ethnicity.

Many of the United States elected officials harbor racist views that are disguised under the subliminal ideal known as conservatism. It is a convenient way of covering blatant racist views, opinions, attitudes, and behaviors. Any idea that embraces an unwillingness to accept the very natural concept of progression and natural growth is just wrong. Conservatives embrace the idea that equality, health care, prosperity, and freedom are reserved for only a select few, and this is based primarily on ethnicity. America was built with an ideal of slavery and that mentality continues to this day. This alone proves that it is not wealth that trickles down but hatred.  

These images send false, untrue message about who an individual or group of individuals actually are. We have had conversations about the show The First 48.  The producers of this show would have us believe this is a show about law enforcement cracking down on all crime. Well actually it is a show that targets crimes occurring in one type of community, typically a very poor, poverty stricken, African American community. The subliminal message here is black people, especially black males, are committing the most crimes in this country.

Racial hatred is feed and thrives mostly because of subliminal images behind open messages more so than anything else. Again this is an unrighteous attitude and behavior so it is rarely shown openly. It is unpopular because it is ugly and inhumane. Very few racist individuals want to admit they harbor such beliefs. Some people do not realize they harbor such beliefs until something happens that forces them to evaluate some of their ideas and how those ideas manifest in their day to day lives.

There are other societal stereotypes that have derived in much the same way. Some people have a blatant dislike for homosexuals, for unwed mothers, and for poor and poverty stricken people. A primary catalyst of subliminal images behind visible messages is Religion. They build false hope in people, telling them all they need do is pray, pay tithes, and have faith. Name it and claim it. All things are possible if we just believe. There is more to each and every one of those phrases, more truth. There has to be, because what happens when these things do not work for some of us?

One thing everyone must understand is that the Most High, True God does not personally live our lives for us. Our lives come and go in a micro second in the eyes of the Most High. We are blips of sparking light vibrating in color rays that define our level of development. Life is a cycle and our lives on Earth are currently vibrating in yellow density light ray. Five percent of humanity is already vibrating in the next light ray, which is green. They are passing this course. That means 95 percent are not. Those who remain in yellow ray or lower make this an environment of hell because they harbor ideas that cause them to behave in ways that inflect suffering on others. Yes, we are all in Hell trying to survive. It is up to us to pass the course and the Most High allows this. This is as hellish as it gets. The idea there is a fiery domain some will go to after death is a LIE.

School is always hell and the life cycle course is no different. Most religions want to give people a frightening image of hell and tell everyone this is a possibility if they do not abide by rules the church maps out, rules that are based on laws found in their sacred books. Unfortunately these books have been visited by rulers with an agenda. Part of that agenda is designed to blame and subdue the females in the human species. This is not something the Most High would motivate or inspire in any doctrine. We must ask ourselves, for what purpose? Why would the most High, who has more female Aeons than male, support or inspire a notion that women are not as significant as men?

On the other hand, the male members of the human species would benefit greatly if women, whom they desire sometimes more than food, felt obligated to submit their bodies without question. Because of these religious doctrines, supposedly inspired by the Most High, women are being raised to believe their place is behind or beneath a man. They have no other value but to please and honor men. That alone proves these are not the wishes of the Most High. This is why the practice of older men seeking younger women is acceptable in virtually all societies. Just look at the Viagra commercial, Cialis, and all the male enhancement commercials. The subliminal message here is they can keep an older man viral and able to satisfy a woman he is two, three times older than. He is ageless. The female is not important especially after a certain age. In other words women, in their prime, or only valued sexually.  

Religion also gives society false hopes and unrealistic, fanciful beliefs about life. They are based on teaching the world to believe in things that simply make no sense. Name it and claim it, this is a belief that what you desire can be spoken into your life. If we are all born free to choose our own individual paths, a woman cannot speak a man she desires into her life and a man cannot speak a woman he desires into his life. That man, that woman, might have other plans for their life that do not include being spoken into another person’s life. We are free to make our own decision about every aspect of our individual lives.

The true way to pray is not taught, often because it is not known. Many people think repeating the words in ‘The Lord’s Prayer’ is all we need to say when they pray. They forgot that our lord Yahushua said this is “The Manner”, in which we should pray. He never said we were to recite his words when we speak to the Most High. Name it and claim it, not if this means overriding another’s freewill. Nor does it apply when a love one is stricken with a fatal disease. We can all hope for the best while preparing for the worse. This is to be realistic.

What happens when all the above listed suggestions for a miraculous recovery do not work? What happens when a sick love one dies despite all the prayers, all the speaking life into their ailing bodies? What about parents who let their children go out and play, sometimes in their own yard and suddenly they are gone? Some disturbed person lures them away or snatches them right from their front porch. The parents pray and speak life into that abducted child and more often than not the child is murdered. How are these parents supposed to feel? Did they pray wrong? Is the Most High upset with them? Are they being punished?

Imagine how a person like this feels when their love one, their innocent child dies. They feel abandoned, unloved, unworthy. God has rejected them and they do not understand why. Their lives begin to fall apart as their religion has given them a false perception about the Most High’s role or position in our lives. This is simply not the time to tell these families it is the Most High’s will that their love one has died. Why would True God will such a thing?

What about the single mother who has struggled for years after escaping an abusive husband. She has met men but none wanting to take on her children. Some felt she is an easy catch especially for sex, since she is used goods. Then one day she meets a wonderful, successful man and he is the first and only man who is genuinely nice to her. He finds her beautiful and actually enjoys her children. He has children of his own and they all get along well together. Suddenly she wants for nothing, not even love. She loves him with all her soul because she never doubts his love for her. They have so much in common, except for one thing. They are not the same ethnicity. Despite all the adversity she prays they will overcome it and be together forever. She names it, claims it, but, it was not to be.  

What about the man who is a single father looking for a really good woman to be there for his children in a way their real mother never has been? To his surprise he meets the perfect woman but once again, she is not of his ethnicity. His family refuses to accept her and the minister in his church he attends faithfully, advises him that continuing to see this woman is not a good idea. He is left wondering, is God racist? Who wants to serve a god that is as petty as humans? He is confused, thinking a horrible joke has been played on him. He prayed for the perfect woman for him and his children. Well, he has meet her but now he is in a position where he will have to choose between her, the woman he knows is perfect for him and his children, and his entire circle of family and friends. Who has failed these wonderful, good, deserving, people? Naming it and claiming it is not working nor are all their prayers.  

First of all the Most High does not interfere in our lives this way, but society clearly is. The idea that we have to marry someone in our own ethnicity is the problem. It is not the Most High’s unwillingness to grant what we are praying for or that our faith is weak. Both males in the two scenarios are Caucasian and the women are African American. The males went most of their lives feeling they were not racist nor were their family and friends. Now they are faced with dealing with something they were not aware was an issue. This is not a situation the Most High is responsible for in anyway. It is a human obstruction.

As for the scenarios about death, we are born dying. That is what happens to all the species on this planet. Human life is no more or no less valued than any living species on this planet when it comes to the Most High. Humans may have set themselves on a high self-appointed pedestal but it is not so with the Most High. Animals have families and are loved by them as well as True God. Is this not considered when they are being slaughter for human consumption? Many of those animals live very painful, tortured lives. Has it not been considered that the distress these animals endure before and during the time of their slaughter is being transferred to those of us who consume the meat these animals provide?  

Humans are the most deadly species on Earth. They devastate lives daily, murdering animals, the environment, and even each other. They lie and manipulate each other to achieve a desired outcome that usually provides them with financial gain. They hide behind their subliminal messages that suggest things are very different from the reality. This is also true with the products and services they offer. These things promise to help us achieve a desired weight, find that special someone, give us guidance via psychics, or guarantee us a kitchen or bathroom gadget will do something that makes cooking or cleaning easier. More often than not these products and/or services do not do what the advertisement claims they will do.

The bottom line is, we are responsible for us. In the second relationship scenario, the male should look only to how perfect the female fits into his life and realize she is the one for him. His pray was answered he need only bravely stand up to the racist in his immediately community, because being prejudice is not a reason to allow family and community to prevent him from being happy. The first relationship scenario the male did stand up to his family but it was the people he worked with, his circle of friends that caused a problem. He did not want them to be mean to his love, and they sometimes were.  He also did not want to keep receiving so much stress at work and at other social gatherings. Gladly, this man’s bravery eventually won and the woman’s prayers have also been answered. But no matter how much we pray and speak positively about a situation, it remains up to us and the people in our lives. It depends on our own personal beliefs, the foundation of those beliefs, and the people in our immediate circle. All of these things factor into whether or not our prayers have been answered. The Most High does not see the various ethnicities that make this planet so diverse. He sees humans and only humans.  

As far an illnesses, our bodies are frail, and we must take care of them to the best of our ability. If we still become ill, it is a part of our life cycle not a punishment from the Most High. If a love one dies due to something they willingly did, such as going into a hostile area or braving a daring activity, they did this of their own freewill and the consequence was death. This is not a punishment this is a consequence of the deceased person choices.  

Parents, we live in a hellish world. Unfortunately, that means there is never a time when we can take our eyes off our children, ever. They are never safe, not even in their own yards. We can never be too distracted or too preoccupied. We cannot take our eyes off our little ones for a minute. Not a second. Predators are out there, we all know it. We have to be smart and never let our guards down when it comes to our children. We cannot be satisfied saying, “I only took my eyes off them for a second.” It only takes a second. No, they cannot ride their bike to the corner store, around the corner, or to a park a couple blocks away.

Life is a cycle. When it ends, if we have learned the lessons our souls need to learn and master while in this life, we progress. If those skills are not mastered the life cycle is a failure, a flunk, and has to be repeated. We do not remember our past life experience but Karma remembers. It is the universal justifier that determines what kind of new life a soul will return to live. How one affects others in this life determines what type of new life they will live. If one is a murderer, they will come back and know what it feels like to be murdered.

Those who pass the course the graduate to a better place, leaving Hell behind and progressing as survivors. It is that simple. There is no Devil tempting us. But it is our nature to be defiant and disobedient. It is human nature too do the wrong things simply because we want our way. Well to make bad choices causes serious consequences and repercussion instead of rewards. It is always up to us and only us.

No injustice goes unaccounted for. Every life that one affects, good or bad, is tracked. If a person elects to sell drugs to a woman while she is pregnant, whether the person knows at the time or not, that person is equally responsible for the child’s development, particular if the child’s development is negatively impacted by the drugs the mother takes. If a mother is murdered leaving behind small children and they go on to live horrible lives because their mother was taken from them, the murderer will not only be held accountable for the stolen life, he and/or she will also be held accountable for the horrible lives the children live after their mother was abruptly taken from them. Prison is not the end even if it is a life sentence.

Before one murders, they should take a second to think about who will be affected by the loss of life to the person they are about to murder. We are not talking about killing. Killing and murder are two separate things. Killing is sometimes necessary, without options, as in real self-defense or a true, beyond ones control, accidence. If one decides to murder every life that is negatively impacted by that choice is remembered by karma, even beyond death.

Truth is logical. It makes complete sense. It does not leave any room for question. It is clear, precise. There is nothing sublime in truth. Truth is an attribute of Love and is very liberating.  We return to hell until the required life lessons are learned and mastered. The world will not end until there are no more souls in need of returning. In the meantime, we pray that the blinders keep falling away from the eyes of people. We pray that they stop being affected by the sublime that is a part of everything we see and hear. It can only be a positive thing when all eyes are truly open. When everyone finds the courage to truly see what is real and step away from the misconceptions, lies, and blatant falsehoods we are constantly bombarded with every day.

 

Moments in our Memory
By Loreen G.

What causes moments, events, and occurrences, also referred to in this article as MEOs, to be so vivid in our memory? Some MEOs are easy to recall particularly if it is a tragic memory, or a perhaps a blissful or emotionally touching recollection. Some examples would include things like weddings, deaths, graduations, proms, falling in love for the first time, divorce, domestic violence, all forms of child abuse, concerts, or attending our first live sports event. Some of the most memorable MEOs are those that shake us to our very core, leaving us breathless, stunned, confused, and literally speechless. It can be a negative or positive recollection, but certainly a shocking one. These moments in our memories can literally change and forever shape our lives.

We can all recall our first experience with love. This experience is or was instrumental in how all relationships going forward are, or were handled. Some of us were lucky enough to have found our true heart’s desire the first time we fell head over hills for our life long partner. But….most most of us are not so lucky. Our experiences with relationships can also be based on what we witnessed prior to that initial relationship. For example: our parent’s relationship, the intimate relationships of our older siblings and other people of influence early in life. We have discussed how important parenting is and a primary reason is parents decide what children will be exposed to early in life. Good parents do this in order to protect their children, as well as to preserve their beliefs and values.    

As small children become adolescent, we watch our influence as parents begin to wan a bit. This is when our now teenage children start to develop their own opinions and views. Their thoughts are now influenced by what they see and hear from their peers. Acceptance becomes important to them. They often start doing and saying things that baffle us as parents. We hear them say things that are so against our values and beliefs we are left asking them, “Where did they learn such things?” It can be something like making derogatory racial comments, and we know we are not raising them to have such views. They can start dressing and listening to music we know is gang related, and we certainly know this is not a behavior they are learning at home. We can become aware they are sexually active when they come to us with a medical problem such as an STD or pregnancy.

What parents are often not prepared for, good parents that is, is how intense our teenagers need to fit in quickly becomes. Suddenly the very real concept of peer pressure becomes an enormous problem for parents and teenage children. Imagine how complicated this moment in time is for a child who has so so or bad parents. It becomes very difficult if not impossible for an adolescent to determine what behaviors are morally acceptable and which ones are really bad. They are not getting good messages at home. This leave them unable to understand and/or determine what messages are important and contain valuable lessons and which ones should be discarded.  

High school memories are very lasting memories. If a child is bullied, ridiculed, singled out and teased throughout high school it creates a tremendous hardship for a young person. In fact, sometimes it is so traumatic teenagers mentally snap and successfully end their lives. What do we do? Most of us have been taught the thought of relocating are removing our children from a bad situation is a form of running. Perhaps we need to adjust how we think when it comes to this belief. As parents it is important that we determine when a situation has gotten too far out of control for our teenager to mentally and physically handle. There are clear moments when a parent should intercede and take immediate action.  

Again some parents do not really know what to do, much less how to handle such a situation. When we try to understand why, one reason comes to mind. Perhaps they were victims of bullying as teenagers. They do what is easier, choosing to take the lazy route, telling their teenagers the same thing their parents told them. That speech about how it is important to stand up to a bully because if they run from a problem it will just follow them. They have to learn how to deal with the problem where they are or they will have the same problem everywhere they go. Says who? Have there been any scientific or clinical studies to base such a notion on? To say this allows parents to simply back out as they are not up to a confrontation. Most teachers and school administrators do this as well, down-playing the situation because it is easier than actually dealing with it.

Imagine a teenager realizing they are homosexual, bisexual, or transsexual. Imagine a teenager with a disability, maybe an illness that causes them to lose their hair. Imagine a teenager suffering from acne or battling a weight issue. Oh and let us not forget, being the minority in a school setting. We witnessed the Trump affect on some white students who chanted, “Build the Wall!” caring little if this offended the Hispanic or any other ethnic group not native to America. What if a student is not good in sports? What if they cannot sing or if they struggle in a subject most students seem to have little to no trouble comprehending. There are many things that can subject a teenager to ridicule. As parents it is our responsibility to step up and intercede when it becomes clear the situation is getting out of control.

Then dating enters the scene, homecomings and proms. These events have the most lasting memories in our lives. We have seen this depicted in movies. As parents we want these events to be positive memories for our teenagers. We want them to have a wonderful time. But imagine these events are marred by a tragedy. It can be anything from a date standing them up, to a drunk driver causing a major accident. How parents handle a disastrous homecoming or prom is vital in a teenager’s life.

After high school, what then? Many teenagers will go on to college but many more will not. Many reasons can prevent a teenager from going to college. Perhaps they will choose one of the branches of military. For a young girl, she might have found herself pregnant and is now a young mother. Let us imagine her parents forbid her to terminating the pregnancy, hereby forcing her down a path that means personal success, particularly if she is a minority, will be ten times harder if not impossible. Logically, the life that matters most is the child that is already a living breathing individual. No young girl should be forced, coerced, intimidated, and/or threatened into making a decision that will destroy her future. This is not loving nor is it good parenting.

College may not be possible or encouraged by so so and or bad parents. It could be because of a socioeconomic situation or simply not considered important by these type parents. Good parents want their children to be successful but simply cannot afford to send them to college. The military is always an option but not always encouraged, especially for girls, by all types of parents. Whether they do or do not attend college, or join a branch of the military, the avenue they choose will bring about experiences that create lasting memories good or bad. At this point all they will have to lean on are the examples learned prior to making the decisions that begins their journey down the path their life will take going forward. Parents can no longer intervene and make choices for their young adults. All they can do is be there for advice when and/or if it is wanted.  

There is no perfect life let us understand that immediately. Wealthy children are expected to be perfect. They have so much pressure on them to be successful that when they get to college, realizing they have some semblance of freedom, their wild side is unleashed. Now let us imagine being a child growing up in the most deprived areas. Again college may not be an option for various reasons and joining one of the branches of the military is not encouraged. So after high school most join the ranks of those seeking employment in a world that now offers little to know real prospects. Employers are requiring more and more of applicants and potential employees. These young people are doomed before they can even get started.

Also, there are things that traumatize both wealthy and poor children equally. Females can become potential victims of sexual harassment, abuse, and even rape. In turn, young males are victims of some form of pressure from parents and peers. Wealthy males are expected to excel in everything, sports and academics. They are expected to be accepted into the best colleges and/or universities in order to become doctors, lawyers, and/or politicians. In turn poor males find themselves pressed by poor parents to get out and fin for themselves. Many of them do not know what to do or where to go. They struggle finding employment because of the new education and/or job experience requirements. They are lucky if they get a job in a fast food restaurant and this is only part-time. Rent continues to climb and these type jobs do not pay enough to be self-sufficient. Many are pressured by their peers or simply resort to joining gangs in order to make enough money to provide for themselves. If they choose a life of crime they being their journey down a path that insures their life will quickly be riddled with some form drugs and/or violence, which has two definite outcomes, a life of incarceration, or death.

 As humans we all want to feel some form of acceptance. We want to know we are appreciated, worthy. We want to make our parents proud by becoming successful and achieving what they have achieved or want us to achieve. Imagine the pressure of becoming a lawyer, doctor, or politician like your father or mother. In turn imagine witnessing the adults you are exposed to doing things that are illegal but clearly profitable.

Also, wealthy or poor, moms can be victims of domestic violence. The affects of this on children leave horrible, tragic memories. In a wealthy family, children are often sent away to camp, boarding schools, or military school in an attempt to hide problems their parents are experiencing. Poor children are brushed off, abused, or ignored when parents are struggling in their relationships. If parents decide to divorce, what affect does this have on the children? Imagine returning from boarding school, camp, or military school and learning your parents are splitting up. Now compound that with learning dad has moved on and is now in a new relationship with a younger woman and has started a new family, as she is pregnant. What a tragic memory in a young person’s life. Imagine the effects this behavior leaves on a child or adolescents mind. It is a wonder they struggle to develop healthy relationships of their own.

One thing adults do not understand, not only will karma repay for what has been done to the spouse, it will also repay for the affect this behavior has on the innocent children. We also have to realize what exposure to inappropriate sexual activity has on a young person. It confuses them mentally because all things have a time and a place. To expose anyone to something before they are mentally ready interrupts their development. It greatly impacts their lives and karma will repay. We cannot do whatever we want to do because we think we can. It is not a question of being able to do something. The question is whether we should do something. To ignore a conviction in ones heart, that advises against something even though the opportunity is present and perfect, opens the door to karma.

The thing about karma is it is just, and most of you have heard things like ‘what goes up must come down’, this is true. The Christian bible warns that God will repay tenfold. Some people believe in some form of payback for bad behavior. Gnostics believe in the law of nature and gravity. We believe Karma is that justifier that insures the repayment is indeed tenfold. If it goes up it will come down, picking up debris as it falls, making it heavier, more intense. Karma is a scary thing and no one escapes it, no one. So one does not have to be religious or to even believe in God to understand the law of nature, it is apparent. What goes up comes down, and what we send out will return.

We can also be traumatized as adults. Understand, to witnessing a person being violated in some way affects the witnesses as much as the victim. When children watch their father physically abuse their mother and know they are powerless to help her it is extremely traumatic. When people witness a murder all those who saw it are traumatically affected. When people witness a woman or man being gang raped and they feel powerless to stop it, they are traumatized. When we all witness someone of authority abuse, beat, and murder someone it is frightening and extremely traumatizing to all who witness it.

This is why Gnostics take behavior very serious. We are fully aware that our behavior is a reflection on the Most High, as well as ourselves. We understand our behavior sends messages, and those messages create memories that are lasting. When we represent the Most High we must always be on our best moral behavior. No, none of us are perfect, but we must strive to be morally correct at all times. We must strive to be good husbands, wives, mothers, fathers, aunts, uncles, sons, daughters, in-laws, and friends.

As Gnostics, we do not want to be the one who leaves a bad memory at any moment in another’s life. What we do affects others and we must always remember Karma. None of us are ever too wealthy, too poor, or too powerful to escape Karma. We simply do not want to leave anyone with a bad memory, and moreover, we certainly do not want to give the Most High a bad, memorable moment for which we are responsible for individually. So let us remember that images are lasting as we strive to leave good impression at all times in all situations.  

 

Speak It Live It
By Luke McGinnis

When we think about what defines any individual living person, place, or thing, basically us, our planet Earth, and trees, plants, insects and animals, we quickly realize how unique a person, place, or thing, actually is. Every living thing is solely distinctive and completely individual. No two things are group of things are exactly alike, they may resemble each other but there is something about each individual living thing that separates and makes them stand out. It is the idiosyncratic of living things. This is a fact that those who work in all levels of law enforcement clearly understand. Others may not realize this. Even identical twins have something that makes each of them individually unique.

Our personal image is the primary fundamental element that makes us individual. It is how others perceived who we are. Many do not realize how vital image and personal perception is. To set the tone more clearly let us start with this example. We have all heard sayings like “Birds of a Feather Flock Together”. It is what our grandparents and parents drilled into our heads as we grew up. If this is true, it would behoove us to keep a safe distance from those who are considered insalubrious individuals or groups of individuals, right?

The truth is, in reality, none of us have a right to tell another individual they are undesirable. No one group on this planet has the right to ostracize another group, deeming them unacceptable and placing them in an unsavory category. Nothing and no one can define or determine who we are. Our uniqueness is a gift from The Most High, Adonai.  So, is this, bird’s of feather, idea true? Eh…not really. How we carry ourselves as individuals stands alone.

Yahushua proved this as he was surrounded by individuals who society considered lowly, questionable. He even advised that we were to visit the sick, the forgotten, and those held in confinement. So, this notion that we will automatically be judged because of another’s behavior or activities is absorb. But nevertheless, individuals with the power to shape laws designed to governor a society, continue to enact laws practices that subscribe to this very idea. You see, higher level thinkers realize there is a more accurate saying many of us grew up hearing as well, ‘You Can’t Judge a Book by its Cover’.

Although it may be true, that Birds of a Feather Flock together”, that does not mean they all flap their wings to the same beat. Yahushua is the word of the Most High, true royalty in every way. He did not have a problem talking to prostitutes, an adulteress, and thieves.

Let us consider racism and why it continues to thrive all over the world. The idea some have of being superior to others is a lie that affects us all. This misconception that others are not worthy of hospitality, consideration, understanding, compassion, and respect, at all times, is cruel and malicious. To decide people from a particular ethnicity does not deserving acknowledgment simply because they are not a part of the "assumed" superior fold, is the main ideology that feeds into racism. What makes one group believe or feel they are so superior? One word, ‘socioeconomic’. The primary culprit of racism is the group that has the best socioeconomic standing. They set the rules and send the messages that create an atmosphere of HATE. It is done simply because it is beneficial to those at the highest socioeconomic level. It allows the more privilege to find ways to profit at the expense of those who are not as fortunate, thus maintaining the implied superior standing.

What about religion? Each religious group feels they are the sole group loved by God and if others do not share their beliefs they will not qualify for entry to their idea of Heaven. In fact, when they pass, the Christians believe none Christians will be cast into their idea of hell. This need to be superior, better, right, gives way to discrimination. They do the very thing their religion tells them not to do, ‘judge not or so shale you be judge’.

Sometimes the lines are blurred. For example, rich and wealthy people often will embrace others in the same socioeconomic bracket despite their ethnicity, or race, with the exception of black people. Racial disparity and discrimination is a real problem in our society.  Unfortunately Black people continue to be the most shunned ethnic group. Logically, there is no basis for this behavior so fictional reasons are created, lies are fabricated that cast the shunned ethnic group in a dark light. None of it is real or true. These lies that are passed down from generation to generation create a false negative image of an entire ethnic group. Point: Gnostic do not call humans by a separate race as we are all a part of the human race but are of different ethnicities.

The fact is, for any ethnic group to harbor values that literally give way to human beings in a different ethnic group, being physical harm and often murdered, causes all humans to demand such values and viewpoints be reevaluated. Our views and opinions about various things in life, whether they are learned, or inherited, define our values. Our personal values define who we are as individuals.

What is troubling is the idea that it is all right to behave badly even while representing something or someone who or that is truly noble, such as professing to do something in the name of a deity. It is also troubling when ones behavior does a disservice to one’s own well being. To maintain or harbor a view that creates a problem for oneself is tragic and shows an incredible mental dysfunction. It illustrates a lack of courage when it comes to standing up to or for what is morally correct. Make no mistake, any form of immoral behavior is depraved and should not be tolerated under any circumstances. If a law enforcement officer, guns down an unarmed teenager, and nothing is done about it, in fact those in the officer’s ethnic group commend and financially support him, this is an act of depravity.

Courage is an attribute many lack and this is often the case with those in leadership. They have no trouble dishing out injustices but simply cannot swallow a taste of their own dish. This is very evident just looking at the situations currently going on in the United States government. Courage is what allows all of us to humbly apologize we have wronged someone or many some ones. Arrogance is prevents one from apologizing deciding it is a weakness to do so. There is no morality in arrogance. And, And, Karma misses no one and does not care about your socioeconomic standing.

A bad leader is a weak leader. Once the mask comes off the world can sees the bad leader’s true self. It is a horrible sight to see. All the ugliness they have been party to, comes to light and they attempt to retreat, hide, and shun exposure. Once exposed, bad leaders are unable to face members of their group. They often find themselves turning to the group or groups they have tormented or caused the most harm.

Many people struggle with separating themselves from groups they are a part of be it family, friends, or ethnic association. It is hard to stand out, hard to callout someone or some ones, within one of these groups when what they are doing is wrong or you do not feel right about something they are doing. So courage is one problem and sloth us another. People are too comfortable doing what is easier on and for them. Why invite conflict, trouble, right? Especially when you have witnessed how violent members in your group can be toward others, which brings us to insecurity. Insecure people want to control others and try very hard to control various situations so that they cease to be a threat.

It is so when it comes to religion as well. Most of them use fear to control members in their congregation. The Christian Bible tells Christian they cannot serve two masters. No one can be a steward of righteousness, of love, and also an ambassador of adversity, of hate. They are at opposite ends of the spectrum. None of us can in one breath profess to love while our actions, our behaviors are full of hate and its attributes. Take Speaker Paul Ryan. In one breath he claims to be a man of God, a religious man. On the other hand he sneaks around in the night and tries to do horrible things to many Americans denying them basic needs. Why would any righteous man want to deny the basic need of affordable health care? Nothing justifies this behavior.

So, this is why Gnostics do their best to practice what we preach. This means we must be diligent in our pursuit of truth, honesty, and strive to maintain our integrity, to ourselves and to the Most High we will be true. We vow to never forget our covenants made with each other and with the Most High. We vow to remember our primary objective is not to obey but to LOVE. We vow to forever live our lives in a way we profess with our mouths is right. If you speak it make sure you are leading by example and living it.

 

 

What You See
By Marcus McGinnis

 

     In previous articles we have discussed the importance of sending the right message. I bet you are wondering how you yourself can be sure you are sending positive messages. First of all messages can be sent verbally and nonverbally. This means what we see is a form of communication. The theme for 2017 is “Messages,” or shall we say, all forms of communication verbal or nonverbal. So yes many messages are nonverbal and this is literally a form of communication we effective use, subconsciously, to converse with those close to us, as well as those outside our inner circle.   

    First of all, how we communicate with those around us is always based on how we feel about ourselves. We cannot communicate effectively or positively if we do not have a positive self-image. If we have no confidence, no sense of self-worth, it is clearly noticeable via nonverbal communication. We can all recall meeting someone with low self-esteem. Think about how noticeable it immediately was even before they uttered a sound. Their lack of self-confidence is often apparent by their facial expressions and their body language. Both are forms of nonverbal communication.

    So because facial expressions and body language are both parts of nonverbal communications it explains why confident people are affective and effective communicators. Confident people are often very articulate, funny, and charismatic. Those who lack confidence avoid eye contact, they seem uncomfortable at get-togethers, they sometimes shying away from people around them to avoid conversation, or they are quiet and stay to themselves. We will not call them introverts because there are many introverts who are good communicators. Basically, once we understand and accept how we feel about who we are, this will determine how effectively we communicate with others.

    Charismatic people have no trouble making friends or holding conversations with others, even if they suffer from one of many forms of mental illness. In fact, many very charismatic, outgoing, self-confident people suffer from some form of mental illness. These are the types who often find themselves in leadership positions they should never be allowed to occupy. Consequently, this is the problem with many of those in leadership positions around the world.

    A stable self-image is always important but it is vital for any position that is or will be in the forefront of public view. This would include positions in politics, the media, one who promotes public events, and of course sports and entertainment. When one chooses to pursue a position of this nature it is important to have a positive self-image. This is necessary in order to convey positive images of who we are and what we stand for. It is also important to have confidence in any high profile, profession, particularly in politics. It should be obvious that most positions in public service have a leadership aspect. This would include law enforcement professions, teaching, judicial, and certainly politicians, but not everyone possesses the characteristics needed to be an effective leader.

    There are significant elements a leader should have and these elements define who a person is at their core self. A primary element or characteristic is acceptable behavior. How we behave is the first reflection of who we truly are. That means this is the most prominent element that should be modified and controlled for anyone choosing to embark on a public service career or profession. Unacceptable behavior will always destroy any chance one might have at being success in a high profile position.

    The next element is humility. Humility allows one to maintain integrity. Humility also is an indication an individual has a strong sense of morality. Again, not everyone has leadership qualities especially certain types of people. For example: rich and/or wealthy individuals. Think about the primary images that are associated with those who are rich and/or wealthy. Some immediate images that come to mind include: extravagance, excessiveness, lavishness, and privilege. None of these characteristics are honorable, virtuous, or righteous. Nor do they have any moral bases.

    At some point our society accepted the characteristics associated with those who are rich and/or wealthy, and turned them into something positive, right. While accommodating some of the attributes of the rich and/or wealthy, some in our society convinced themselves these qualities are honorable, and have made them the primary traits they look for in a leader. To some members in our society this is a healthy, normal, safe way of thinking, and they are comfortable with these “Alternative Facts or Truths”. However, for those of us who respect the actual truth and real facts, we know there is honestly nothing safe, right, positive, and certainly not honorable about leaders with these qualifications. Realistically, their nonverbal images immediately convey negative messages.

    The character traits in many of those who are rich and/or wealthy are elements that lack integrity and dignity. In fact these characteristics should automatically disqualify a person from a high profile leadership position. This is particularly so if one is going to have authority over millions who live in lower income brackets. Many rich and/or wealthy people are typically very shrewd business people. They are also very competitive, which often makes them ruthless in their pursuit of winning the economic race of profiting in their business ventures. This leaves no room for concern for others, or the little guy.

    Real leaders need to have a humanitarian quality. Such a person is never defined by his or her economic status, but instead by characteristics that describes who he or she is at their core. Humanitarian qualities include bravery, and a strong sense of morality. A true leader is naturally charitable, compassionate, empathetic, honorable, trustworthy, upright and upstanding. They live their lives in a dignified manner. They are confident and have excellent communication skills. They have no problem being transparent. They are patient, accepting, tolerant, and most of all, they inspire and comfort those they lead.

    Most wealthy people have not been exposed to any true humanitarian attributes. Their privileged life is accompanied with a grandiose attitude. They also have a deep belief their financial status alone, automatically equates to leadership. Some even believe they are favored by the Most High. They are wealthy because they are special, blessed even. Unlike wealthy people, rich people may have been exposed to humanitarian characteristics. However, their sudden higher economic status clouds their thoughts, as they become filled with the material things they can now acquire. Wealthy people have always had this ability. It is naturally a normal way of life for them. They lack an ability to relate to the thousands who live with little to nothing, who struggling from day to day just to survive.

    If you’re wondering why rich is separated from wealth, it is because they are different. A status of rich can be obtained suddenly, but wealth on the other hand, is a status a person is born into. It is generational and far greater than being rich.

    Therefore, this seriously misplaced notion that many in our society have about the rich and/or wealth automatically being righteous is ludicrous. At what point did so many lose touch with reality?  At what point did they start accepting Alternative Facts or Truths? How were they so totally mislead? First of all it is something already within their hearts. It is as Yahushua said, it is what is already within ones heart that defiles them. We talk about the 95/5 but remember there are four levels of mentality included in that 95. Many of those included are people who harbor hate and hatred is blinding. The truth simply becomes unacceptable. An inability to accept what is real is accompanied with doing what is easier, and that has never been more evident.

     Just because a person is rich or wealthy does not mean they are smart. It does not mean they are a part of the 5. Many rich and certainly wealthy people are selfish at their cores, but often do not realize they are selfish. They are so out of touch with the lives of average citizens they are incapable of empathize with their struggles. They literally cannot envision living in such sparse conditions, so this is where the acceptance of “Alternative Facts, and/or Truths” begins and it has always been this way. Their reaction to those less fortunate can often be heartless, and to attempt to understand them or their situation is unimaginable. So, they create “Alternative Facts, and/or Truths” that make it easier to ignore and even accuse them of being responsible for their disparaging living conditions. Remember in Unforeseen Efficacy Virgil started enacting change in the poorest areas of all countries? This is why.

    The primary avenue to spread these “Alternative Facts and/or Truths” has been the media. Networks are owned and/or financed by the wealthy. This means what is reported, exposed, are deem important is usually what network sponsors decide is important. Thus, after a prolonged period, false notions take root and form shapes in the minds of members of a society even if they are poor. This is what causes large numbers of citizens to vote against their own best interests. For example: if Trump and his cabinet are allowed to continue to lie about what is factual, this will become the norm. Trump is a very good example of why a person born into wealth is incapable of being a leader of a country. He feels no need to ponder what the average American’s life is like. He cannot relate to the vast majority of Americans, thus he is not suited to lead them.

    However, those in the society whose hearts are consumed with hatred are always the best messengers for spreading “Alternative Facts and/or Truths”. They are the racist that refuse to accept the reality that they are not favored by the God who is God, because the truth is all people are equal in the Most High’s view. This is a truth, a reality that is unimaginable for them. Among them are also those who refuse to believe that the female does not belong behind the male but at his side, another equality issue. They are also the ones who refuse to acknowledge that all of us are born with free will. That means we can choose our paths without obstruction. So, they make up a false reality, starting with a false God, false religions demands, and false notions they spread via messages. It is a mystical message fostered by an old spirit of hate that has been around for generations and generations.  

    For those of us who know, by way of experience, what it is like to be born into a life of privilege, it is an accepted fact that anything to different from what is considered normal, is frightening. This is so for any group of people, especially when something different is given too much thought. For the wealthy, the very idea of losing their wealth is devastating. In the back of their minds they know many are struggling to get by and they resent them because they represent a very possible way of life. Just as the poor dream of a better life with more money, the wealthy have nightmares of losing their wealth and suddenly being forced to live their lives as poor people, and God forbid in poverty. We all know that there is also a difference in being poor and living in poverty.

    People who are well off struggle with sharing their wealth, because as far as they are concerned too many obtain financial security threatens their financial security. Sublime messages are conveyed to make struggling families believe they are not working hard enough, they want too much, or they simply are not good enough and do not deserve better. The primary nonverbal and verbal message is the less people breaking out of the prison of poverty the better. No they do not want to raise the minimum wage. This will take from their abundance, their excess. It is too much, too many of them and why pay them if they go go automated?

    Part of the group of rich includes the law makers in a society, members of congress. These individuals have the power to alter information the public receives. They hide vital information, cover it up, often preventing society from discovering what is going on until it is too late to do anything about it. What they hide is hidden because they know it will benefit them but negatively impact the rest of society. This began long ago when the wealthy law makers decided to alter sacred books whereby causing many in the society to believe “Alternative Facts and/or Truths”.

    The verbal and nonverbal message all of us receive is how honorable it is to be law abiding. This is how we should conduct ourselves as upstanding citizens in our society. Even if the laws that are being past are not in our best interest, and they are excused, forgiven, or unable to be charged if they violate the laws they enact. The laws they put into place are solely to control mass groups of people. They are not enacted because they are good for average citizens, this should also be obvious. These are examples of unhumanitarian leadership. Remember in UE Virgil did enact the Humanitarian Laws the pertained to everyone without exception.    

    A humanitarian leader has to be able to relate to those he or she leads. Why you might ask? Well this should be obvious as there are many narcissistic men leading countries. They are often overly ambitions, arrogant, and also have a bullying quality. We can categorize these types of leader’s under one primary characteristic, poor behavior qualities. They are all the same and are led by things such as fear, greed, or both. Both fear and greed are negative emotions that fall under the umbrella of HATE.

    Unqualified leaders are everywhere. In fact many of them are not rich or wealthy. Although they do not have much in the way of monetary means, they are very charismatic and good communicators. They often land leadership positions of which they are not well suited. Some of them are conniving and acquire their positions because they are good verbal communicators. They are the wolves in sheep clothing. They look good on paper and their outward appearances help them land leadership position. They are usually a part of a religious group or in a management position for a company or organization.

    A genuine humanitarian leader does not take on the role of leader in a high profile profession haphazardly. They are usually verbally persuaded to take on the position or circumstances move them to pursue a career path that calls for a level of authority and responsibility. They do not take this position for what they will get out of it, on the contrary. They feel a need to stand up for injustices, inequalities, and unfairness in their communities. They recognize the need to be a voice for those who go unheard, uncared for, and often unnoticed.

    If people would but look they would see a person, wealthy or not, for who they truly are. We have to pay attention to the verbal and nonverbal messages we send each other because all of us send messages even if they are not spoken. This is why it is important to evaluate the nonverbal messages we send and receive. As instrument of the Most High, how we appear to others, via nonverbal messages, is essential. It is the most important form of communication we share with others, and we do not want anyone to get the wrong impression about who we are.

 

*The Big Picture*

Marcus, Jacqueline & Mason

Through the Gnostics lens or Mystics, as we are often called, life is lived based on facts, rationale, and reality, combined with faith. What does this mean? It means that while many live life believing in irrational, illogical, fantasy. They ask no question when they are confused they just go with the flow, supporting a belief that mirrors that, parents, family, friends, communities. Their trust in these beliefs is concrete despite the don’t have the aforementioned qualification. This is not so for Gnostics. Gnostics believe anything pertaining to True God can be explained and is very clear. True God is not confusing nor does God subscribed to the human notion of “do as I say and not as I do”. So, what is believing all about? Is there a Hell? Do we know who is going there and if so why? Do we care? What does the BIG PICTURE look like from a Gnostic prospective?

For starters we will not mince words. Things are not the way traditional religion would have us believe they are. Religion has proven to be a form of control rather than a journey toward True God. It has cast our God in a negative light simply by making humanity the center of all life in the universe. Not only is this untrue, it is a ridiculous notion. This has allowed humanity to make True God controversial, conflicting, and contradicting. It has also affected our instruction and parenting skills. Parents are failing to lead children by good example in many ways. In other words, the behavior religion has affixed to True God is being mimic throughout humanity.

Religion has painted True God with an angry, judgmental, punishing disposition. Frankly, traditional religion teaches us to fear God instead of love God. They have made pleasing God stringent, unwavering, without patience, and without compassion. In one breath they tell us God is love and in all other breaths every behavior they affix to True God is an attribute of HATE! Honestly, what does this immediately tell those who are of rational mind? Does freedom fit into this model at all, anywhere? What about forgiveness, is there room for that in this model? Finally what role does Faith play in this model? The three F’s, Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith, all gifts of True God, is that obvious in the above model?

Freedom is a positive thing. However, fear is a form of confinement, imprisonment. So, if True God says we are born with freewill, why would True God require our submission to his will come by way of forced control? The key to understand True God is to first understand the language of True God. We must have a clear understand of negative verses positive, and be able to relate the attributes of HATE verses words that describe behaviors associated with LOVE. True God is Pure LOVE so we as Gnostics, never affix behaviors that are associated with HATE the True God who is God alone.

Fear is a negative condition thus an attribute of Hate. There is no love in fear. There is only control, force. Not only does True God have no need to behave in this fashion, it is impossible for True God to behave so. Throughout time fear has been used as a means of controlling large groups of people, but first comes division. Division from others, and yes even division from God. How? With powerful descriptive words that identify specific behaviors. The function of these descriptive words when heard is to divide. For example: Sin, reprobate, criminal. These are all words that lead to other negative descriptive words such as, lawless, incorrigible, habitual, and HOPELESS! True God does not fit into this model, it is impossible.

Forgiveness is a positive, loving behavior. True God is a God of love and Jesus spoke about how important forgiveness is. So when religion tells us there is an unforgivable word, phrase, act, or individual how then are we to see this other than as a major contradiction?  What do the scriptures tell us about Jesus’ reaction to forgiveness being sold in the synagogues? This act attached a value to True God’s dealings with us. Gnostics do not subscribe to the Old Testament in the Bible because it is riddled with grave cruelty and violence, insecure acts describing godly behaviors, and the use of fear and coercion into worshiping God.  Let us not forget favoritism, which leads to judging and discrimination against others. Oh and the necessity of tithing, assessing a tangible value to how God deals with us. It suggests God’s favor and acceptance can be purchased. We see this behavior in our elected officials every day.

What in turn happens to those who cannot afford to pay for favoritism, comfort? They fall into the prison of poverty and are judged. They have to be sinners and sinners are immediately deemed unworthy, not good enough. This is a reason to discriminate against the poor and those living in extreme poverty, and the homeless. It does not get more hateful particularly just before murder occurs. But is this illustrated any differently in the Old Testament of the Bible? There are stories of wars, innocent babies being slaughter, and people held in bondage, enslaved, and beaten senselessly by those with fortune. Where are the attributes of Love in the Old Testament of the Bible? Few and far between.

A strong emphasis is placed on tithing in modern western churches, with strong disfavor shown toward parishioners who do not participate regularly. They are made to feel as if they are not worthy of the privilege of praising True God. What God does not welcome praise and open acts of affection? It would seem True God is not the same God most religions recognize or worship.

What about the things that are said that are considered unforgivable? One word that describes acts that are unforgivable is Blasphemy. What is that anyway? It is profanity, using bad words, cursing. What they do not tell you is Jesus said piss and damn, both considered bad words. Moreover how can one never be forgiven for blasphemy but viciously taking a life, molesting a child, or raping a woman can all be forgiven. That does not sound rational or logical, and True God is rational and logical all the time.

What about Lucifer who is not guilty of some of the despicable acts of humanity, but traditional religion teaches that he is unforgiveable? Nothing in traditional religion’s teachings regarding Lucifer, first clearly name him as this dreadful Devil, but they pale in contrast to the horrific behaviors we see in humanity. Gnostics believe in accountability and responsibility. We are all responsible for our individual behaviors and choices. Gnostics do believe we are born with freewill and nothing and no one can take that away. Humans try but ultimately the attempt crumbles. Freedom is a God given right to all living things so slavery is a negative behavior and not of God. It is hateful and inhumane.

Faith is a positive word describing positive behaviors. It is simply to trust in the Love of True God. Life is about learning to love unconditionally. For humans, that means learning to be real humanitarians. It is a quality not even the churches are adequately emphasizing. This requires most people have something higher than themselves to call look up to. It is something good, holy, better, setting a positive example for us to govern our lives. Faith is something those who are imprisoned rely on to sustain them. Hope is a positive word and it is where Faith starts. One first has to have hope and then the blind trust known as faith grounds them.

Unfortunately, those born into the privilege that comes with having money never really learn what it means to rely on faith. They do not learn to appreciate the significant of having the love of God in their life much less having the love of another human being. They feel as if they can buy affection and if they cannot buy it they can bully or pay bullies to acquire what they want or need.

Who are these hired bullies? Typically they are in some form of law or powerful government position. They are officials in charge of making and enforcing laws that are suppose to govern our society equally and fairly. But, the laws in the United States are no longer established for the good of all citizens. The elected law makers have been purchased by the wealthy to create laws that serve their interests. In human cultures around the world, we are taught to admire wealth and worship the wealthy. We are taught that the wealthy are blessed and favored by God.

In all honesty, money is a human reward. It is important only to humans and valued only on Earth. So the same idea to design a belief structure we call religion, humans also designed a value system that shows favoritism to those who have an abundance of that is valued. Religion condemns sinners and our human value system considers the less fortunate sinners. They work hand in hand, always have.

 HELL, does it exist? It certainly does, especially for those who are tormented by the prison of poverty. It exist right here on Earth for minorities. Keep in mind the privilege have no interest in pleasing God because they believe they have favor with God. If we need proof of this we have Donald Trump. He and those like him do not care about really pleasing God. They do not care to have the affection of fellow humans in the society. This rings true about too many white Americans who have been conditioned to believe they are better simply because they are white.

Where does this start? Religion is where this begins as it emphasized God’s favor with a particular ethnicity or race of people. God had favorites so why can’t we all? Too be born white is to be born with God’s favor.

Have you all had an opportunity to view Tim Wise’s documentary ‘White like Me’? In this documentary he talks about the way we as a society have been conditioned to be racists. We are conditioned to automatically associate words that describe positive attributes to white people. This is a societal conditioning. Black people are immediately stigmatized with words that have negative connotations even by other blacks. We have been conditioned to believe there is ONE DEVIL and he is Lucifer. He has nothing better to do than bother each of us individually tempting us, lying to us, and causing us to behave badly with is often to behave freely. We have been conditioned to believe Hell is a real place and if we don’t do exactly what our religious leaders tell us to do and give money to the church, thus God, we are going there for eternity.   

HELL is a life of POVERTY! HELL is a life of CONFINEMENT! Both of these conditions are a form of SLAVERY. Too many White Americans have an inherent belief their ethnicity automatically entitles them to privilege, consideration, compassion, and kindness other ethnicities are immediately denied. This is a behavior many associate with God as well. This is evident in how stories are told about historical events and cultures. For example: No black child should grow up unaware of Egypt’s location. They should know it is a country on the continent of Africa. They should not be led to believe it is a country full of white people. It is simply untrue to give them the impressions Egyptian Pharaohs were white men.  

HELL is a place, environment, or way of life void of the love of True God. It is a form of existence the privileged contribute to by creating laws and circumstances that lockout others in particular communities and areas. It is a form of confinement, from incarceration to financial depravity. Documentaries that illustrate this are now being shown on channels like FUSE, and LINK, new channels that replace the History Channels. The History Channel has become another place to view reality TV instead of a place to learn something of substance that is beneficial. They have done away with H2. It is now called Vice and nothing interesting is ever listed in the program schedule. Luckily we have these new channels with fresh outlooks, to bring us reality TV that is beneficial, informative, and enlightening about issues that historically have been significant in the United States.

Fuse has a show called Prison Kids: A crime against America’s Children. It shows how children, black children are being locked up early in life, many being immediately charged as adults. They are being thrown into prison to serve sentences for an amount of time almost as long as they have been alive. These are little black and brown children ranging in age from five and six to seventeen. Taken out of schools and thrown into detention for minor behavior problems. This is HELL even for minority children. It obviously is not enough they are born in poverty, forced to live lives that offer no real hope anyway. They are taken out of one prison and put in another only this one is more restrictive and confining. This is possible thanks to all those wealthy, greedy humans that decided privatizing prison was best. Best for who? The wealthy of course, where is True God in this model?

Religion has managed to confuse faith with foolishness, and to convince many of us that True God is capable of Hate. Hate is the opposite of LOVE! Too tell homosexual’s God hates them is a LIE. Too tell parishioners’ they are sinning if they do not pay tithes is a LIE! Too tell people they are going to hell is to pass judgment, prohibited by the book they hold so sacred. It is a lie because the only hell is the one humanity has created. Thank goodness True God is not human. He does not have favorites. He does not think one human is better than another for any reason. God hates no one, not even Lucifer who is literally a part of the God head.

Jesus said to forgive so there is no unforgivable sin, no one thing that separates us from the love of God except ourselves. We are free to choose or deny God but the separation is an individual choice. What is this all about? Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith. Obedience is not included as it is a word that ignites the control mechanism. It plays into our fears and insecurities. Those of us who love God and accept his love are faithful not obedient. Living a righteous life is a desire not a demand. We serve and make God first in life freely, gladly, and joyfully, not because it is forced upon us accompanied with threats and condemnation.  Let us not confuse the way of man with the way of God. They are immeasurably different.

Our duty is to our fellow man. Our duty is to the continued unification of humanity not the alienation many of us experience as we journey through this thing called life. Our giving is to those in need, as we are able not because of misguided obligation or force. Our support is done within our personal comfort level, cheerfully and willingly, with glad hearts. We are facing a homelessness problem across this country. It is unacceptable. As long as this problem persists no church should receive another dime. This is a situation that requires immediate action. These are people! Human Beings! They cannot shower, brush their teeth, wash their clothes, or rest their heads because they do not have a place to call home. This is unacceptable and to continue to allow ourselves to believe they are there do to some fault of their own is a ridiculous LIE.

God is calling all of us into service. This is his plan for those calling out for help. Unity calls us to reach out to our fellow man and woman and give them a hand. Years of conditioning keep

us from helping each other and this kind of indifference is not of GOD! People need other people and God uses people to help others. This idea of saying I’ll pray for them does not serve God. If you know enough about a situation to offer prayer you know enough to offer some form of help. The answer to the prayer is you. Do what you can. We do not tell a person in need all we can do is pray for them, especially when it is within our power to offer them a hand.  

We all have to help at a capacity we are able and comfortable but to continue ignoring this is inhumane and separates us from God. The whole picture for Gnostics Is ONE LOVE! One powerful unifying love based on Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith. We are in this thing together despite the dividers religion has in place. Christians quote a scripture that says they walk by faith not by sight. Gnostics walk in Hope, Faith, and the unity of  Love.

 

The History of Gnosticism

By Marcus McGinnis

As many know, in previous articles and discussions our faith has been the topic. We have answered questions about it, and discussed how we choose to worship and fellowship with members of our Gnostic family. Family is used to describe Gnostic members because as Gnostics we know—as far as our heavenly father is concerned—we are all connected and equal, woven together collectively. We are cut from the same sacred cloth that forever binds us. As Gnostics we also realize we all are striving for and toward one primary goal. The successful return to the Oneness that is all, ascension. To accomplish this we must understand who we are, what our purpose is, and who we represent.

So, where did the Gnostic faith come from? What does it mean? First of all, Gnostic is a Greek word and it means knowledge. Gnosticism is both a mystical and philosophical faith that is actually pre-Christian. It has Hellenistic and Jewish origins thus the terms we often use when referring to our heavenly father and his voice, his word. We choose to refer to The Most High as Adonai and the Word of Adonai as Yeshua or Yahushua.

Post Yahushua, the Gnostics were persecuted by the rising Orthodox Christians because Gnostics were seen as a direct threat to the new religion. To this day we are frowned upon as we do not believe the God in the Bible’s Old Testament is The All Mighty, Alpha and Omega. The God described in the Old Testament of the Bible is not a loving God and possesses none of the characteristics of Adonai.

The Christians decided the Gnostics were pagan, labeling us as witches and accusing us of being wicked. They did this because the Gnostic would not conform to the Christian ways of worship. They would not acknowledge their traditional belief structure and ritualistic practices, going as far as to denounce these behaviors. Today, we respectfully disagree with some of the Christian, Muslim, and other religious ways, but accept everyone has the right to believe and worship in a way that fits their individual comfort levels, and brings them peace.

Post Yahushua, the Gnostics continued to practice their faith their way, angering the Christians. They were slaughter as were many others with differing religious beliefs. The Christians deemed all those who did not share their belief structure and ways of worship as savage, uncivilized, and evil. The church leaders advised their fellow Christian members to shun and avoid those who did not follow the way of a Christian. They believed their way of worship was the right and only way to achieve true salvation. All others were on a sinner’s path. They even went as far as declare them devil worshipers, calling them demons bound to spend eternity in the Christian idea of hell. This belief is the corner stone of discrimination, of intrinsic Hate. It gives credence to acts of persecution, favoritism, and oppression. This behavior remains prevalent in our current society. Then and now Gnostics remain peaceful and have no need to prove or force our customs, values, and beliefs on others.

Yahushua confirmed the pre-Christian belief structure. But his righteous path was difficult for many who relished living their selfish, self-centered, and self-serving ways of life. They were not interested in doing things the right way, nor did they want to acknowledging righteousness for and toward all that live, not even when it came from the very Word of Adonai. They did not want equality for all. They liked feeling as if they were special, higher in stature, more important, and giving the impression they were loved more by the most high. So, they brutally murdered Adonai’s word, Yahushua.

This belief and behavior remains this way in modern times. Humans will kill to silence the voice of reason. Those who called themselves Rabbi and professed to be very devoted and to truly love Adonai were not and remain unwilling to have their status and positions challenged. They did not want to reconsider their ways much less rethink their perceived perception of what is right. Pride can be a very deadly emotion.

Gnostics do not believe in ceremonial worship or rituals of any type. However, we do believe in the fellowship. Also, Yahushua taught us it is better to give than to receive and that is literal. This is why we believe in giving to each other instead of demanding our members pay tithes and give monitory, offerings especially when they do not or cannot afford this. It is not faithful or joyful to give what one simply does not have. It is foolish.

Adonai has blessed some of us with the means to provide and help others. To fail to do this is an abomination. Why? Because this life is a temporary state of existence. It is in our best interest to be proactive in our communities, and joyfully help those who are struggling to help themselves. Those in obvious need are not lazy nor are they moochers. This is a lie that originated with those who are evil, selfish, and greedy. If proof of a need is required one needs only look at the conditions of those in need. View their communities, neighborhoods, and environments. This is right, civilized, and a sign of progression.

You see, many humans are not waiting or asking for handouts, but instead struggle in a world that is unyielding. American’s live in a society that prides itself on how harshly they punish some of their citizens. They also delight in forming policies that make it easy for them to deny many of their citizen’s access to tools that will improve their lives. It is a society that gives to those who have plenty while shunning those in need, creating a living hell for many. The humans who have formed a body of elite have created a worldwide system that requires much and gives little. These groups of manmade elite are far too comfortable with persecution rather than compassion. They come up with slogans and send sublime messages that support the things they are comfortable with. Religion is the catalyst, ushering in these behaviors and perpetuating this elitist ideal. This is why Gnosticisms is not considered a religion but a faith. These selfish attitudes and behaviors turn into acts of savagery, are signs of being uncivil, inhumane, and often are barbaric in nature. It is regressive behavior.

Many of us have been blessed with an abundance of what is valued in this world. This is not to be hoarded but shared as we again understand this is a temporary existence. We are given or allowed to have what we have in order to do Adonai’s great service. Many believe Adonai tests us. In many regards that is an accurate hypothesis. None of us are forced to do the right thing but our journey through life is designed to teach us the right way to react to situations we encounter along the way. When we are faced with a situation that requires us to respond, based on our experiences and exposure, Adonai expects us to react appropriately, this is progressive.

As extension of the most high it is our responsibility to do the right thing at all times. All of us need a hand at some point throughout our journey through life. At these times we pray. Help comes from those who are able to assist. They are Adonai’s answer to these prayers. Gnostics are obedient, accepting joyfully that we are Adonia’s tools. Because we understand we are in the service of the most high, when it is within our means to assist we do not director one in need to pray. We know when we are the answer to their prayer.

In our faith we do not beg, badger, or demand things of others they will struggle to provide. The bottom line is all Adonai needs is human bodies on this planet. Obedient persons that joyfully show what it means to live in the light of Yahushua, and faithfully honor the sacrifice he made for all that live, ALL.

Gnostics know who and what we are. We know who and what we represent. We know there is nothing negative about our faith or our practices. For one thing we are not prideful. We do not need to follow an organized, established set of ceremonies and/or guidelines to show or express our love and devotion to Adonai.

We do not go out and recruit new members but open our doors to anyone who wants to join us or just observe us online or during one of our fellowships. We do not argue our beliefs as we do not believe everything is debatable. Adonai is not debatable. People either know and recognize the love of Adonai or they do not. There is no in between or opposing view.

Once again Gnostics are not in the habit of analyzing and criticizing other faiths, however, we do not hide that we do not agree with the behaviors and practices that are associated with many religions. Gnostics know Adonai is a God of love and only love. This love is ever present as it is transcendent. It is also abominable to associate or attribute any hateful act with The Most High. Adonai is not a God that inspires, leads, encourages, or demands an act of war for any reason. Peace is an attribute of LOVE not war. Humanity creates hardships for others in their attempt to control, degrade, conquer, and oppress. This is believed by many to be a show of strength when actually it is a show of arrogance, destruction, and chaos, all of which are attributes of HATE. To lack understanding of this shows a regression in human mental development.

To claim, accuse, or imply Adonai hates or harbors any of the attributes of hate is blasphemous. To accuse Adonai of inspiring hateful acts that are oppressive, degrading, or that result in unjustified confinement and enslavement of any kind, be it servitude or forced poverty, is blasphemous. Many black people in the United States continue to live in a country that enslaves them in some way, be it unjust confinement or intentional conditions that cause poverty. By intentional conditions that bring about poverty we mean an unwillingness by the majority, to first acknowledge there is a problem, and then refusing to hire and/or pay fair and equal wages. This denies all black people in this country the right to prosperity. This is regressive behavior and it is EVIL, the worst attribute of HATE.

When a practice is honorable it meets with no resistance. When a law is justified and moral it is respected. However, when laws, polices, and practices lack veracity and integrity they become dishonorable, unjust and ungodly. Those who turn laws, policies, and practices into oppression for citizens are without honor and integrity. They are uncivilized and show their regressive state of cognition. There is no love in them because to understand the nature of love brings about a progressive way of thinking. To have a cognitive understanding of this transcendent state of being is what makes a species civilized, progressive, and ready for ascension. This is the bases of the 95/5 premise. It does not matter the status of the perpetrators who is guilty of any of the above mentioned behaviors. In fact when a perpetrator is in a position of authority and/or power it is worse.

Often Adonai needs us to lift up our voices to assist in a matter. If we are in a respectable position it is our responsibility to take a stance against hateful, unjust acts when we are made aware of them. A perfect example of this is the professional athletes who are taking a stance regarding American law enforcement’s acts of excessive force when dealing with African Americans. They are bravely answering the call of the most high by their silent protests. Members of the majority or the elites group, in positions of power and/or authority, oppose the stance of the righteous. They are regressive and attack what they consider a threat to how they want to live.  

Gnostics take their representation of the ways of Yahushua, and our heavenly father Adonai, very seriously. It is very important to us that we are positive representatives of the most high. This can be done despite all the negativity around us. We do not believe any one human is better than another for any reason because this it truth. This is also why we cannot conform too many religious beliefs and practices. Adonai deals with us all equally needing no supposed superior human to speak for or through when addressing us. We all must take responsibility for our relationship with our heavenly father.

Gnostics embrace and appreciate each other as we are all in a close relationship with Adonai and we treasure that closeness. We encourage all to open their eyes to what is going on around then. Try to put oneself in the shoes of the oppressed, and act accordingly. This is honorable, respectable, righteous, civilized, and most of all progressive. There are two links on our links page that open up websites that answer many questions about who we are in great detail for all those who are interested in the origins and background of our faith. We invite those who are interested to please visit the links provided, and to join the forum and participate in our conversation. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us if you have further questions about our faith via the emails provided on our home page.

 

Resolution

By Mason Denise Carlisle

This is a continuance to the response I started in the forum addressing the police killings of black men that is once again in the news. Follow me while I get a little deep with all of you. Let me first say this. All of you know I don’t believe the stories in our history about ancient beings are untrue. These ancient beings we are told are myths are real. This is evident when studying worldwide beliefs and religions. Cultures all around the Earth believe in these beings even if they refer to them by different names. Since there is a worldwide recognition it is time we stop allowing ourselves to be blinded by those who benefit from mass ignorance.  

Haven said that I do not know why this advanced beings are now silent but they are not dead, nor or they to be considered God. They are advanced but there is one True God whom we call Adonai. Gnostics do not refer to the Most High as God because that is too superficial. We use appropriate titles as there are many gods but only one Alpha and Omega. God is a blanket term or word, like mother, father, sister, brother. There are many mothers and many fathers, and many sisters and many brothers. There are also many gods. However, Alpha and Omega, the beginning and the end, the one Supreme Being that is the Oneness who is All surpasses this blanket term. Allow me to keep it real with you right now. The blanket term has been used by many who deceive, disrupt, and destroy, which is the primary reason we rejecting the Old Testament of the Bible.

So, as all higher level beings survey what is occurring on Earth, the positive beings are probably shaking their heads and wondering, how many times will an act of divine intervention be necessary to purge the evil and restart the human species? How many floods, fires, famines and plagues will it take before they decide humans are a lost cause and do a total wipeout? They can, trust me. You see immoral, uncivilized, corrupt behaviors brought on all the historical events listed above. Genocide is not civilized. Oppression is not a show of strength but barbarianism. Most importantly this culture of hate that is continuously perpetuated in this species is downright sickening. A nation without charity, which is Love, is a nation that rejects the Most High. It is a nation that is anti productive and stifles growth.

Yes the Museum of African American History was in the news today and it is significant but the rise of structures, monuments, and memorials, does not cover current pain and suffering. As long as people are suffering with the emotional pain of a loss, this is a ceremonial performance for those whose lives are not currently being touched by monumental tragedies. Yes it is beautiful but for those who cannot pay their rent from month to month, who are living pay check to pay check, the hope of ever even seeing this structure is slim. Those who are losing loved ones at the hands of law enforcement officers, sworn to protect and serve, have little to know interest in ceremonial moments where people gather to witness the openings of significant structures far away from where they live. This idea of forgetting for a moment that a husband was killed in front of his wife, a father was taken out of the lives of his children, and a group of American’s who are not financially secure, are in any mode to celebrate the rise and opening of a structure is ridiculous.

Do something significant for crying out loud. Give us peace, Give us equality. Show us there will be accountability for those who have rubbed us of our love ones for no good reason. Show us life matters no matter what the ethnicity or color of skin. We want all life to be respected and valued, from the air that we breathe, to the plants that grow on our surface, the water that keeps us alive and the animals we share this planet with. We want an acknowledgement that Life is more valuable than money and should be appreciated on all levels.

Start doing something that makes a different like Colin Kaepernick and other athletes. Something like Beyoncé and other entertainers are doing. Speak out in our art, with our talents, with our voices, in our writings. Leaders, lead for a change and demand resolution to this crisis. What I am sick of is listening to White people blame Blacks and minorities for what is being done to them. No White person is ignorant to the oppression black people endure. They are just comfortable blaming black and brown people for how bad they behave. Not only does law enforcement officers breaking the law, need to be held accountable, white people who openly oppress need to be held accountable as well. For those in positions of power like that Governor in North Carolina, it means voting his ass out! For business owners, it means boycotting. It’s time to stand up and be counted. We have waited long enough for them to get it together. We have been peaceful and patient. And we have suffered with them doing everything in their power to drown out our message and blacken our protest. Black Lives Matter! Stop Killing Us!!! Stop acting like life is anything other than a virtual hell for most black people living in America. Stop telling us to leave damnit we have just as much right to be here as any white person.

We Want Real Resolution and we want it NOW!!!

 

Fellowship

By Marcus McGinnis

Well, now that we know praying is simply having a conversation with the most high let us talk about something else that is often misunderstood.  What exactly are those get-togethers we humans often participate in for an event? What are we doing when we come together in groups such as these? Does size matter? Why do we do it? Well, because humans have a common need to fellowship. What the heck does that mean? What in the world is fellowshipping, some church thing? Actually fellowshipping is defined as a friendly gathering of any kind, with people we are associated with, that shares our same beliefs and values. The size does not really matter, and has no bearing on whether or not a group of individuals coming together are fellowshipping or not.

Some of the gatherings that bring us together are sports events. We come together to celebrate special event such as, weddings, birthdays, anniversaries, and graduations. Sometimes we come together simply to enjoy a night on the town. When people gather together in a place to enjoy the company of others and some are not welcomed, it is felt and affects everyone’s mood. Religious groups come together in a special place and they are called a congregation. They come together to worship. When a larger group of people come together to peacefully express a concern about a matter, situation, or set of circumstances this is a movement. Movements form when like minded people around the world assemble in different locations, joining in solidarity, to show support and unity for a particular concern that affects a single individual, a group of individuals, or a society.  

There are different reasons and causes that bring us together. Sometimes people gather to share in negative beliefs and values. Their values and beliefs helped form their group’s ideology. Negatively charged gatherings are often self-serving and if there is any benefit it is for a select few, such as the majority of those in a particular ethnicity, and sometimes gender. Some of these organizational gatherings occur among highly respected members of society, but they are motivated by doing things that will negatively impact a society.

The best way to negatively affect an entire society is for a group’s message and ideology to harbor all the attributes of hate. One example of a negative group of individuals many align themselves with and support is the republican political party in the United States. This was very obvious during their presidential convention in late July of 2016. There was nothing about the republican convention that was positive in any way.

All those who watched the republican convention bared witness to this party’s core beliefs and values. This was a meeting consumed with nastiness, vileness, and HATE! This cannot be better reflected in the man they selected to represent them and lead their party. How does the Christian Scriptures define the Antichrist?  It had nothing to do with his complexion and everything to do with his persona. We all bear witness to this vile individual as he attempts to take over the United States having no concrete, honorable plan that qualifies him for such an esteemed position.

They were cheering, releasing balloons, celebrating, unable to see this man for what he is. People who know him warn of his treachery. They are bullied, ridiculed, and threatened for coming forward. Everyone who is a member of the republican party knows this to be true but their selected party leader is simply a reflection of their values. Nothing this man does is honorable. He is unholy, evil, a corruptor and they praise him, support him, and believe they had a successful convention. They have decided success for them includes illegal behavior such as Plagiarism, which was clearly done by their party leader’s spouse.

Their party leader lies, cheats, steals, robs, disrespects, bullies, and threatens all while claiming he will keep America safe. He is this party’s monster as his behavior is indicative of everything the party tries to keep hidden when it comes to their values and beliefs. He is literally a loose cannon they are unable to control. He degrades women, handicap people, minorities, and even war veterans. He is only vocalizing how they feel and desperately try to mask. This is evident when their plans are often leaked buy other officials, revealing how they are attempt to enact a policy or law that will negatively impact many unsuspecting members in society. However, citizens who consider themselves members of this party continue to support their representatives even when what they are doing will negatively impact their lives as well.

This party’s focus is only on things that benefit the wealthy, corporations, and big business. They do not care about the soldiers who fight in their wars. They only care about the money the war will generate. All of this was evident in the speeches given at their convention. For those of us who love God it is easy to see these individuals for what they truly are. We know exactly what they are attempting to do and if they are successful sadly, many will be destroyed by these policies, practices, and procedures.

Another respected group would be the Evangelicals. This is a radical religious group that plays by their own set of established sacramental rules. Their philosophy is built on spreading fear, and convincing others that God is a petty, mean, selfish, vengeful, easily angered, hateful deity. They are negative and this in itself ANTIGOD! Everything listed above is an attribute of hate, and there is no Hate in God! They use God to their advantage, giving society a false image of what is important and valued by the one true God. Evangelicals are a political religious group, and nothing they do represents or serves the One and Only God who is God Alone. They are republican.

The NRA is another example. This is a factious political group serving only one purpose, a continuance of the destruction of life. There is nothing loving or Godly about this organization and there is nothing that can be said that is more profound. This is also a group of republicans. They fellowship in congress and discuss fear mongering, destruction, oppression, and maintaining the production of weapons used to destroy the lives of others. How do we know we are associating ourselves with a negative organization, group, or corporation? The way to determine if a group, corporation, or organization is worthy is by evaluate their values and beliefs.

Let us look at a positive gatherings of like minded individuals, remembering that all gatherings are not only or always for religious purposes. In fact, they often have nothing to do with ones faith or religious beliefs. For example: orderly protest. This is certainly a form of fellowshipping. The Black Lives Matter movement is not some radical, negative, domestic terrorist group coming together to be menacing. It is a positive gathering or time of fellowshipping done to address the obvious dysfunction in our society that has so disenfranchised a group of Americans. They simply want to shed light on a matter that is often ignored and down-played.  

Now, any group coming together to silence a movement with a valid cause, voicing their concerns peacefully, is in itself negative. It only confirms the peaceful group’s need to stand up and be heard. It affirms the need to demand they are no longer ignored, and to march on for their right to life, liberty, and fairness in the land of their birth. For any person or persons to accuse a peaceful group of individuals of doing something bad, especially when it is so obvious they are standing up for those who have been victimized, brutalized, suffered all manner of discrimination and unfairness, been treated unjustly for hundreds of years, and denied equal treatment in the legal system, is again in itself downright evil.

That is way beyond shameful. See to say ‘shame on you’, is the equivalence of a mild slap on the hand. However, to call it evil, disgusting, and sickening, all true statements, is the equivalent of a slap across the face, which is more appropriate. Donald Trump needs to be slapped across his face for some of the revolting things that come out of his mouth. You see when an adult becomes hysterical or is behaving erratically, we often slap them to immediately get their attention so they can reflect on how they are behaving and correct themselves. So some statements require harsher responses. Frankly, if we are all expected to pay our taxes and follow the common norms in our society than we are all entitled to fairness, equality, and justice.

We usually attend scheduled events where we come together to fellowship. Some examples would include political party conventions, religious revivals, and a sports event. As Gnostics we also have set times when we come together to fellowship. With this said, it is natural for members of these groups to desire all those who profess to be a part of their group, take part in their time of fellowshipping to show their solidarity and support.

As Gnostic our kinship is to true God first. Any and everything that goes against the nature of True God will not be supported or condoned. We are obligated to True God, Adonai, and we come together to celebrate our affiliation with the most High. We also support the Black Lives Matter movement and any movement that comes together to peacefully voice an injustice of any kind in a society. Many of us are members of law enforcement so we naturally support law enforcement officers. We do not believe the Black Lives Matter movement does not support law enforcement. They are simply attempting to draw attention to a system that has for too long shown partial and discriminative behaviors toward Black citizens in the United States.  

As Gnotics we may be partial to a political party in our nation. However, if that parties values and beliefs are drastically different from those we attribute to our core values, we step away and separate ourselves. Adonai is first in our lives. Adonai is love. This takes precedence in our lives and will affect who we choose to fellowship with. Of course there are various denominations in the Christian religion and they expect those who share their core values and beliefs to participate when it is time to fellowship. Gnostic do as well.

We are also loyal to God’s interpretation of prosperity, which deals with our core, our eternal souls. This is not the same as man’s idea of prosperity and cannot be mistaken or in any way misconstrued as to be prioritizing matters that serve the human form of prosperity, which is money.

Ethnic groups also have a sense of unity and enjoy activities that those who are a part of their particular group enjoy. For example sports: United States Caucasians enjoy NASCAR, surfing, and hiking. Blacks enjoy basketball, football, and baseball. Italians, French, and Spanish enjoy soccer, rugby, and cricket. Attending these events together is a form of fellowshipping.

Again, Gnostics put God first literally. We do not condone or support any form of racial bias as we are all a part of one race, one species, and that is the human beings. We should celebrate or differences not shun them. Therefore, whenever an ethnic, religious, or political group suggests a hateful act or begins to exhibit unjust behaviors, we reevaluate our affiliation and association with that individual, group, organization, and/or corporation and step away. Adonai is a fair, just, patient, loving God and to honor our affiliation with True God we support groups that share our core beliefs and values. Nothing Godly is affiliated or associated with anything evil, unjust, and unfair.

Gnostics do not share the same ideology as those in the media field either. This is a group of individuals that thrives on saturating the public with negativity. It is their job, their function. They are there to insure a society forms a desired opinion usually supported by a society’s government, citizen majority, and society’s wealthy. If it is in one of these group’s best interest for all citizens to believe something is true or not, this is what the media will report and place emphasis on.

The media is a powerful platform that is very useful in shaping what the citizens in a society believe. For example: if the media downplays racism in the society this message is easily received by the majority and allows them to continue their practice of discrimination because the media says it does not exist. If the media tells us a political candidate is leading in polls, polls some of us never see, leaving many of us continuously ask what polls? Who was polled? And feeling they were not polled. Understand, if polled and fail to make a contribution, your opinion is not counted. The voices of the poor and those who are struggling financial and cannot afford to donate, especially to a organization with millions of dollars, go unheard and uncounted. Therefore, the polls do not matter, they are unfair and inaccurate. The outcome is sublime, and confirms many citizens in the society are not valued. However, if the media says a candidate is polling high the society tends to believe this without requiring any proof.

This is the same with religious leaders. They are aware of the power they posses, fully realizing their parishioner trust them often blindly. We want to trust all our leaders but frankly none of them should be trusted blindly. Humans have proven they do not handle positions of power very well. For this reason our trust must remain in the hands of the only one who deserves our blind trust and that is the lord our God.

Fellowshipping is to be enjoyed and the minute it ceases to be something that is enjoyed participations should cease as well. We need only and always to refer to our personal foundations built on our primary values. If we value truth, honesty, and integrity, then we must never put those values aside to please any group’s values, especially if they not only differ from our own, but contradict our personal values. To thine self always be true.

So, enjoy those you elect to fellowship with because it is a time to enjoy family, close friends, and associates as you come together to participate in activities you all enjoy. It is a time to be with those who share your core values and beliefs. It is a time to reflect on what is important in our lives and most of all remember how much we love and enjoy the people we are fellowshipping with.

 

Prayer

By Mason Denise Carlisle

We begin by clarifying some official names of our recognized deities in the Gnostic Faith. First Gnosticism is a Faith, not a religion. Gnosticism began with the Hebrews prior to Christianity. So as Gnostics we will refer to our deities by their Hebrew names. Jesus is Yahweh or Yahushua and True God is Adonai.

We have all been exposed, in one way or another, to the idea of prayer. Throughout life we have either been asked to pray for someone or something. But it might come as a shock that many people do not understand how to pray. However, it should not come as a surprise people do not understand the concept of prayer. They do not have a clear understanding of what it really means, how it works, or how to properly execute the practice. Moreover many people do not understand or know how to construct a prayer. Believe it or not most people do not even know too whom their pray’s should be directed. Most importantly, people do not understand what they should pray for or about. As Gnostics we pray to Adonai, who stands alone as True God. With that said prayer is simply a conversation with Adonai and/or Yahushua.

Christians believe personal prayers should be done privately, least the devil they believe in, hear and interfere with the transmission of prayers. This devil they believe in, also can and will use their prayers against them, for the purpose of wreaking havoc in their lives. As Gnostics we do not share this belief. We do not talk to each other silently and frankly, we share quite a bit of personal information with each other. In fact some people go so far as to share very private things on reality television. Therefore, what sense does it make for us to speak to Adonai or Yahushua silently?

Gnostics give no credence to the notion of there being one diabolical, fallen Angel said to be the Devil or Satan. First of all Lucifer, the Aeon in question, is far more than an Angel. Second, we do not share the illusion of a devil parched on our ceiling listening to us for the purpose of interfering with our prayers. Realistically, the only ones using our spoken conversations against us are humans. This is particularly true with people in positions of authority such as law enforcement and employers. It is most true when it comes to feuding family members.

Christians have illuminated this diabolical being they believe to be the one and only devil, in a way that makes him more powerful than Adonai. Gnostics know there is no power stronger than the power of True God. Therefore nothing or no one in existence can detain, deter, or interfere, with our conversations with our heavenly father. Gnosticism is based on faith, religion is based on control. Our knowledge of this is part of our mysticism, our wisdom, our spiritual sagacity.

So prayer is a conversation with Adonai or Yahushua, and for those who question how it works or how to do it correctly or effectively, think about conversations we have with anyone in a position of authority. There is a manner in which we speak to these individuals. For example: The President is Mr. President Sir, or President Obama. If we are in court we address the judge as Your Honor. When we are sick and in need of a physician we address this individual as Doctor, followed by their last name. If we are in college we address our instructors by Professor, followed by their last name. Officers of the law or either Agent or Officer, followed by their last name. God is the highest level of authority in existence so we acknowledge that when speaking to Adonai. This is a show of complete respect with a degree of reverence.  

In our former website the proper way to pray was posted. We were unable to recover it so we will repost it here. Yahushua gave us a manner in which we should pray that encompasses what was stated above. We begin with understanding the way Yahushua constructed the MANNER in which we should pray. Keep in mind this is The MANNER, not the prayer, we should always use when having a conversation with Adonai or Yahushua. Think about it. Do we read the same script every time we have a conversation with a human authority figure? No. Prayer is a conversation with the highest of authorities.  

We cannot approach this by reciting the same words over and over. This idea that saying the Lord’s Prayer is the proper way to communicate with Adonai is false. When this is recited over and over it becomes a chant and as Gnostics we do not chant. We know Adonai is a locigal, mathematical deity, and seven is the golden, prime, number throughout the universe. Seven harmonic notes: do, ra, me, fa, so, la, te. Seven primary colors: red, orange, yellow, green, blue, indigo, violet. Seven days in a week: Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday. In fact there are seven emanations in the realm of God, which are senses that can live separately.

The Mind male is first Nous, Heart female is second Alétheia, Creation male, Lucifer, Breath female, Zoe or Nemesis, Word male Yahushua, Spirit female Soul peace and comfort, and Wisdom, female, Sofia. Humans have five distinct senses that are a part of their body which unlike Adonai, are incapable of living separately: sight, touch, hearing, smell, and taste. We also have the ability to think, which is true of all dominant species on all worlds. Cognition is what makes them the primary species of their world.   

There are also seven acknowledgements in the MANNER in which Yahushua said we should pray.

First: We acknowledge the highest of authority in existences, “Our Father who art in Heaven,” Adonai heavenly Father.

“Hallowed be thy name,” Sacred is your precious name.

Second: We recognize his authority and why it is so prevalent, “Thy kingdom come, Thy will be done,” In your word, Yahushua, we were introduced, shown, and invited to your kingdom. Your ways were revealed and it is our desire to be more like you.

Third: We acknowledge the nature of Adonai, “On Earth as it is in Heaven,” Your love abides and transcends down from your heavenly throne, spreading throughout the universe and your way, which is love, surrounds and sustains everything that lives.

Fourth: We acknowledge the biggest act of Love is forgiveness, “And forgive us our debts, as we forgive our debtors,” We are a simple, humbled creation Father. Forgive us for our short-comings and help us to forgive the short-comings of other. Forgiveness is an attribute of love something your word Yahushua, taught us. Forgiveness is divine father and we thank you for your forgiveness as we strive to follow the great example Yahushua showed us after being nailed to the perceived cross. He asked that our heavenly father forgive his tormentors for they knew not the great crime they were committing.

Fifth: We acknowledge our weaknesses and how our desires can and often affect our lives, “And lead us not into temptation,” Give us the strength and the wisdom father to turn away from the things that are not good from us, and to be leaders in our lives and not followers. This is where we include petitions to the lord. It is where we ask for considerations, assistance, and guidance, also for strength as we strive to avoiding things that are not righteous, or in our best interest, or the best interest of others. No prayer should be selfish, self-centered, or self-serving. Selfishness is not an attribute of love and any request that is selfish and self-serving is anti-God. Understand, prosperity award, granted, and honored by humanity is not the same prosperity awarded, granted and honored by Adonai.

Sixth: We acknowledge we do not always make the right decision or choices but pray for the strength to discern when things are leading us off our righteous paths. “But deliver us from evil,” Keep us safe lord, from harmful paths others will be determined to guide us toward. These paths can cause us and others mental, spiritual, emotional, and physical harm.

Seventh: We acknowledge that leading a righteous life saves our souls and ushers us into the realm of Adonai, “For thine is the Kingdom, and the power, and the glory, Amen,” We are homeward bound father, realizing we must live our lives in accordance to your will if we are to complete this journey successfully. It is a journey back to our mighty creator, back to our true home. Blessed are we Father and we proudly and joyfully glorify you, Amen.

Again praying is a conversation with the most high who is without a doubt, on a higher level. This is a level of pure love, civility, and graciousness. There are no attributes of hate in this realm. Selfishness is an attribute of HATE, therefore, selfish prayers are seen as lower-level, as in cognition. Hate is a lower level behavior. It is primitive, and uncivil, thus these type prays fall on mute ears. For humans, Godly prosperity is in unity, humanitarianism, righteousness when dealing with each other, compassion, and fairness toward each other. It is treating each other with the attributes of love found I Corinthians 9-13. This is not a treatment reserved for the most prestigious and Earthy fortunate. This is how all humans should be treated. Love is not conditional. It is without respect of person, showing no favoritism. When we pray as civilized humans, we speak to the most high, Adonai, in love and with love for our species and world, meaning Earth.  

Some think that when we ask Adonai for prosperity this equates to tangible monitory prosperity and gain. This is false. Nothing about human monitory prosperity loves. In fact, the extremely wealthy among us acquire their wealth at the expense of millions of people, and often by the shedding of innocent blood. Humanities tangible value system is usually obtained violently and with all the attributes of HATE. It is a lower level system that too many of us admire and place great value. Because it is lower level and without love, we do not ask Adonai to bless us with human monitory prosperity. This is something we look to humans who have the power to grant such a request, and they take pleasure in denying it. They take pleasure in saying no, in classifying people unworthy and undeserving of their form of prosperity.

The Humans with the power to grant earthly prosperity enjoy, take great pleasure, in denying some prosperity. They even enjoy coming up with ways to complicate, restrict, limit, and confine members of their species. They are cruel, unjust, and without compassion. Thankfully, this Earthly system is only valued by humans on Earth. Unfortunately it is often worshiped, cherished, adored, and admired. It takes the place of Adonai too many humans and they have no problem using it to harm other humans, animals, and the planet.  

Gnostics do not put much stock in the Old Testament of the Bible but we know in our hearts the ten steps to righteous living or inspired by the most high. The very first step is to remember there is one true creature. Nothing and no one should be mistaken or perceived as the most high. Adonai is God alone, the first and the last, Alpha and Omega. Yes Adonai has seven individual senses capable of living independently, together they make up one body of God. No other should come or take the place of the one true creator of all that live, all that exist. Humans have created their own deity, and it is monitorial, lower level, primitive, and shrouded in hatred.  

As Gnostics we accredit our wisdom for insuring our complete understanding of FAITH, which is a deeper form of HOPE. This Faith is how we know we will prosper anywhere with the blessing of Adonai’s form of prosperity. Even if we are martyred, we know we go on to a better place that is more in tone with the loving realm of God. We know we can and will succeed within the system that humanity has placed such a sacramental value on.

As Gnostics we realize we live in and with this human system. So our prayers consist of asking for the strength and perseverance needed to survive and manage our lives in this system. We do not pray to be blessed with an abundance of a man made value system. We have all heard the saying, one cannot take his or her wealth with them when they leave this life, but we can take our wealth in Adonai with us when we leave this realm. Our path is one of faith, wisdom, and Love. It is a journey back to the Oneness. The human tangible value system cannot assist us adequately. Not only does it encompass more of the attributes of HATE, which in itself is anti-God, it is tangible and our journey home is a spiritual journey. As Gnostics we accredit our wisdom, which is Sophia, for giving us the spiritual sagacity that allows us to understand the higher cognitive level of Yahushua thus Adonai.

This sagacity also affords us our ability to view things realistically, logically, and rationally. There is a logical, rational, real explanation for everything. If it does not make sense it is not Godly. God makes total sense, holds no secrets, and tells no lies. Understanding this opens the lines of communication with Yahushua and thus Adonai. It opens up the frequency that allows us to communicate with our God whenever and wherever we are. So, talk to your heavenly father on a regular bases, Adonai is listening.

 

The Big Picture

Marcus, Jacqueline & Mason

Through the Gnostics lens or Mystics, as we are often called, life is lived based on facts, rationale, and reality, combined with faith. What does this mean? It means that while many live life believing in irrational, illogical, fantasy. They ask no question when they are confused they just go with the flow, supporting a belief that mirrors that, parents, family, friends, communities. Their trust in these beliefs is concrete despite the don’t have the aforementioned qualification. This is not so for Gnostics. Gnostics believe anything pertaining to True God can be explained and is very clear. True God is not confusing nor does God subscribed to the human notion of “do as I say and not as I do”. So, what is believing all about? Is there a Hell? Do we know who is going there and if so why? Do we care? What does the BIG PICTURE look like from a Gnostic prospective?

For starters we will not mince words. Things are not the way traditional religion would have us believe they are. Religion has proven to be a form of control rather than a journey toward True God. It has cast our God in a negative light simply by making humanity the center of all life in the universe. Not only is this untrue, it is a ridiculous notion. This has allowed humanity to make True God controversial, conflicting, and contradicting. It has also affected our instruction and parenting skills. Parents are failing to lead children by good example in many ways. In other words, the behavior religion has affixed to True God is being mimic throughout humanity.

Religion has painted True God with an angry, judgmental, punishing disposition. Frankly, traditional religion teaches us to fear God instead of love God. They have made pleasing God stringent, unwavering, without patience, and without compassion. In one breath they tell us God is love and in all other breaths every behavior they affix to True God is an attribute of HATE! Honestly, what does this immediately tell those who are of rational mind? Does freedom fit into this model at all, anywhere? What about forgiveness, is there room for that in this model? Finally what role does Faith play in this model? The three F’s, Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith, all gifts of True God, is that obvious in the above model?

Freedom is a positive thing. However, fear is a form of confinement, imprisonment. So, if True God says we are born with freewill, why would True God require our submission to his will come by way of forced control? The key to understand True God is to first understand the language of True God. We must have a clear understand of negative verses positive, and be able to relate the attributes of HATE verses words that describe behaviors associated with LOVE. True God is Pure LOVE so we as Gnostics, never affix behaviors that are associated with HATE the True God who is God alone.

Fear is a negative condition thus an attribute of Hate. There is no love in fear. There is only control, force. Not only does True God have no need to behave in this fashion, it is impossible for True God to behave so. Throughout time fear has been used as a means of controlling large groups of people, but first comes division. Division from others, and yes even division from God. How? With powerful descriptive words that identify specific behaviors. The function of these descriptive words when heard is to divide. For example: Sin, reprobate, criminal. These are all words that lead to other negative descriptive words such as, lawless, incorrigible, habitual, and HOPELESS! True God does not fit into this model, it is impossible.

Forgiveness is a positive, loving behavior. True God is a God of love and Jesus spoke about how important forgiveness is. So when religion tells us there is an unforgivable word, phrase, act, or individual how then are we to see this other than as a major contradiction?  What do the scriptures tell us about Jesus’ reaction to forgiveness being sold in the synagogues? This act attached a value to True God’s dealings with us. Gnostics do not subscribe to the Old Testament in the Bible because it is riddled with grave cruelty and violence, insecure acts describing godly behaviors, and the use of fear and coercion into worshiping God.  Let us not forget favoritism, which leads to judging and discrimination against others. Oh and the necessity of tithing, assessing a tangible value to how God deals with us. It suggests God’s favor and acceptance can be purchased. We see this behavior in our elected officials every day.

What in turn happens to those who cannot afford to pay for favoritism, comfort? They fall into the prison of poverty and are judged. They have to be sinners and sinners are immediately deemed unworthy, not good enough. This is a reason to discriminate against the poor and those living in extreme poverty, and the homeless. It does not get more hateful particularly just before murder occurs. But is this illustrated any differently in the Old Testament of the Bible? There are stories of wars, innocent babies being slaughter, and people held in bondage, enslaved, and beaten senselessly by those with fortune. Where are the attributes of Love in the Old Testament of the Bible? Few and far between.

A strong emphasis is placed on tithing in modern western churches, with strong disfavor shown toward parishioners who do not participate regularly. They are made to feel as if they are not worthy of the privilege of praising True God. What God does not welcome praise and open acts of affection? It would seem True God is not the same God most religions recognize or worship.

What about the things that are said that are considered unforgivable? One word that describes acts that are unforgivable is Blasphemy. What is that anyway? It is profanity, using bad words, cursing. What they do not tell you is Jesus said piss and damn, both considered bad words. Moreover how can one never be forgiven for blasphemy but viciously taking a life, molesting a child, or raping a woman can all be forgiven. That does not sound rational or logical, and True God is rational and logical all the time.

What about Lucifer who is not guilty of some of the despicable acts of humanity, but traditional religion teaches that he is unforgiveable? Nothing in traditional religion’s teachings regarding Lucifer, first clearly name him as this dreadful Devil, but they pale in contrast to the horrific behaviors we see in humanity. Gnostics believe in accountability and responsibility. We are all responsible for our individual behaviors and choices. Gnostics do believe we are born with freewill and nothing and no one can take that away. Humans try but ultimately the attempt crumbles. Freedom is a God given right to all living things so slavery is a negative behavior and not of God. It is hateful and inhumane.

Faith is a positive word describing positive behaviors. It is simply to trust in the Love of True God. Life is about learning to love unconditionally. For humans, that means learning to be real humanitarians. It is a quality not even the churches are adequately emphasizing. This requires most people have something higher than themselves to call look up to. It is something good, holy, better, setting a positive example for us to govern our lives. Faith is something those who are imprisoned rely on to sustain them. Hope is a positive word and it is where Faith starts. One first has to have hope and then the blind trust known as faith grounds them.

Unfortunately, those born into the privilege that comes with having money never really learn what it means to rely on faith. They do not learn to appreciate the significant of having the love of God in their life much less having the love of another human being. They feel as if they can buy affection and if they cannot buy it they can bully or pay bullies to acquire what they want or need.

Who are these hired bullies? Typically they are in some form of law or powerful government position. They are officials in charge of making and enforcing laws that are suppose to govern our society equally and fairly. But, the laws in the United States are no longer established for the good of all citizens. The elected law makers have been purchased by the wealthy to create laws that serve their interests. In human cultures around the world, we are taught to admire wealth and worship the wealthy. We are taught that the wealthy are blessed and favored by God.

In all honesty, money is a human reward. It is important only to humans and valued only on Earth. So the same idea to design a belief structure we call religion, humans also designed a value system that shows favoritism to those who have an abundance of that is valued. Religion condemns sinners and our human value system considers the less fortunate sinners. They work hand in hand, always have.

 HELL, does it exist? It certainly does, especially for those who are tormented by the prison of poverty. It exist right here on Earth for minorities. Keep in mind the privilege have no interest in pleasing God because they believe they have favor with God. If we need proof of this we have Donald Trump. He and those like him do not care about really pleasing God. They do not care to have the affection of fellow humans in the society. This rings true about too many white Americans who have been conditioned to believe they are better simply because they are white.

Where does this start? Religion is where this begins as it emphasized God’s favor with a particular ethnicity or race of people. God had favorites so why can’t we all? Too be born white is to be born with God’s favor.

Have you all had an opportunity to view Tim Wise’s documentary ‘White like Me’? In this documentary he talks about the way we as a society have been conditioned to be racists. We are conditioned to automatically associate words that describe positive attributes to white people. This is a societal conditioning. Black people are immediately stigmatized with words that have negative connotations even by other blacks. We have been conditioned to believe there is ONE DEVIL and he is Lucifer. He has nothing better to do than bother each of us individually tempting us, lying to us, and causing us to behave badly with is often to behave freely. We have been conditioned to believe Hell is a real place and if we don’t do exactly what our religious leaders tell us to do and give money to the church, thus God, we are going there for eternity.   

HELL is a life of POVERTY! HELL is a life of CONFINEMENT! Both of these conditions are a form of SLAVERY. Too many White Americans have an inherent belief their ethnicity automatically entitles them to privilege, consideration, compassion, and kindness other ethnicities are immediately denied. This is a behavior many associate with God as well. This is evident in how stories are told about historical events and cultures. For example: No black child should grow up unaware of Egypt’s location. They should know it is a country on the continent of Africa. They should not be led to believe it is a country full of white people. It is simply untrue to give them the impressions Egyptian Pharaohs were white men.  

HELL is a place, environment, or way of life void of the love of True God. It is a form of existence the privileged contribute to by creating laws and circumstances that lockout others in particular communities and areas. It is a form of confinement, from incarceration to financial depravity. Documentaries that illustrate this are now being shown on channels like FUSE, and LINK, new channels that replace the History Channels. The History Channel has become another place to view reality TV instead of a place to learn something of substance that is beneficial. They have done away with H2. It is now called Vice and nothing interesting is ever listed in the program schedule. Luckily we have these new channels with fresh outlooks, to bring us reality TV that is beneficial, informative, and enlightening about issues that historically have been significant in the United States.

Fuse has a show called Prison Kids: A crime against America’s Children. It shows how children, black children are being locked up early in life, many being immediately charged as adults. They are being thrown into prison to serve sentences for an amount of time almost as long as they have been alive. These are little black and brown children ranging in age from five and six to seventeen. Taken out of schools and thrown into detention for minor behavior problems. This is HELL even for minority children. It obviously is not enough they are born in poverty, forced to live lives that offer no real hope anyway. They are taken out of one prison and put in another only this one is more restrictive and confining. This is possible thanks to all those wealthy, greedy humans that decided privatizing prison was best. Best for who? The wealthy of course, where is True God in this model?

Religion has managed to confuse faith with foolishness, and to convince many of us that True God is capable of Hate. Hate is the opposite of LOVE! Too tell homosexual’s God hates them is a LIE. Too tell parishioners’ they are sinning if they do not pay tithes is a LIE! Too tell people they are going to hell is to pass judgment, prohibited by the book they hold so sacred. It is a lie because the only hell is the one humanity has created. Thank goodness True God is not human. He does not have favorites. He does not think one human is better than another for any reason. God hates no one, not even Lucifer who is literally a part of the God head.

Jesus said to forgive so there is no unforgivable sin, no one thing that separates us from the love of God except ourselves. We are free to choose or deny God but the separation is an individual choice. What is this all about? Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith. Obedience is not included as it is a word that ignites the control mechanism. It plays into our fears and insecurities. Those of us who love God and accept his love are faithful not obedient. Living a righteous life is a desire not a demand. We serve and make God first in life freely, gladly, and joyfully, not because it is forced upon us accompanied with threats and condemnation.  Let us not confuse the way of man with the way of God. They are immeasurably different.

Our duty is to our fellow man. Our duty is to the continued unification of humanity not the alienation many of us experience as we journey through this thing called life. Our giving is to those in need, as we are able not because of misguided obligation or force. Our support is done within our personal comfort level, cheerfully and willingly, with glad hearts. We are facing a homelessness problem across this country. It is unacceptable. As long as this problem persists no church should receive another dime. This is a situation that requires immediate action. These are people! Human Beings! They cannot shower, brush their teeth, wash their clothes, or rest their heads because they do not have a place to call home. This is unacceptable and to continue to allow ourselves to believe they are there do to some fault of their own is a ridiculous LIE.

God is calling all of us into service. This is his plan for those calling out for help. Unity calls us to reach out to our fellow man and woman and give them a hand. Years of conditioning keep

us from helping each other and this kind of indifference is not of GOD! People need other people and God uses people to help others. This idea of saying I’ll pray for them does not serve God. If you know enough about a situation to offer prayer you know enough to offer some form of help. The answer to the prayer is you. Do what you can. We do not tell a person in need all we can do is pray for them, especially when it is within our power to offer them a hand.  

We all have to help at a capacity we are able and comfortable but to continue ignoring this is inhumane and separates us from God. The whole picture for Gnostics Is ONE LOVE! One powerful unifying love based on Freedom, Forgiveness, and Faith. We are in this thing together despite the dividers religion has in place. Christians quote a scripture that says they walk by faith not by sight. Gnostics walk in Hope, Faith, and the unity of  Love.

Recognizing the Call

By Marcus McGinnis

As we start our year of spiritual focus, let us begin by recalling the face in the mirror activity. To all who participated, and if you have not done this you should, this was a simple activity Jay requested we take part in, asking that we gaze at ourselves in a mirror for five minutes. Jay thought it was important for us to get in touch with who we truly are…our inner self. It turned out to be a very profound five minutes and many of us were brought to tears. As Gnostics we believe in a Higher Self and we know it is that Higher Self that connects us to True God.

We all experienced something that was revealing. It opened our eyes to what God sees when he looks at us. Many of us felt something powerful, which caused our emotional responses. We talked about the activity and came to realize what that powerful feeling was. Getting a view of the inner self allowed us to see who we are at our core. In seeing our true self, we realized we matter, we are somebody, and are truly loved. Some of us thought we knew this prior to viewing our inner self, but in the aftermath of this activity, we were able to completely grasp what it means to know our own significance.

Many of us know or can remember when we had our first eye-opening experience that introduced us to, and allowed us to truly receive God in our lives. It was a transforming moment when we came face to face with our Lord and realized we had a purpose. Let’s be clear, this is not that moment when we may have survived an experience. For example: a moment when we were saved from a serious accident of some kind, the victim of a crime, or present at the time a dangerous crime was taking place. This is that moment that may have occurred before or after these incidences. This is that moment when we heard a voice outside of ourselves that seemed to come from somewhere deep inside, but was all around us.  

It is a subtle, calming voice that immediately gave us peace and we knew we were in a special place, if just for a moment. For many of us it occurred at a significant time in our life. It may have spoken to us to warn us of an impending danger. It might have brought comfort from intense heart-break. It might have talked us off the ledge just before we took that fatal plunge. Whatever the situation, it was a moment when God introduced himself to us personally. He, is used in reference to God, but we all know God is not gender specific. The introduction we experienced was similar to the one Moses experienced on Mt Sinai. God knows when it is time. The call does not happen by mistake. When it happens it is not just our imagination. We are actually hearing a voice that forever changes us and sets us on a path that reshapes and reforms our lives.  

This voice is so powerful it snatched us out of the jaws of death by warning us just before we, or it, reaches us. We are not talking about instinct or intuition. This is stronger than both those abilities. Instinct may give us a bad feeling about something or someone. Intuition is a little stronger reaction to an impending situation or person. This voice is stronger because it literally addresses a specific situation or person. It is more than a feeling we should not to proceed on a particular path, it is a direct warning. It is a voice that stops and grounds us when we are spiraling out of control at times in our life. This could be a struggle with an addiction problem of some kind.

This voice can also call us out of a profession that may be very profitable yet dangerous. For example: football, hockey, boxing, wrestling, and Nascar car racing. These professions are directly harmful to the self. To intentionally harm the self is to disrespect the self and this is not an act of loving the self. This voice can call us out of a bad relationship even when everyone else is telling us to remain, often saying things like “God Hate divorce”. First of all, God and Hate never go together under any circumstances. Second, let’s face it, not all relationships are good relationships nor or they ordained of God. If we are not in God when we make the decision to marry someone the relationship is not ordained of God.

We do not often make a decision based on the right reasons when we are not in God, especially when it comes to marriage. Many of us do not even know what it means to love. For example: if we think there is any situation where love hurts we do not know anything about love. If we do not know how to love and value ourselves, we are incapable of loving others. Those of us who know what Love means know Love never hurts. When defining LOVE we are once again directed to 1 Corinthians 13: 4-8. In the Gnostic Faith we understand Love is not an emotion. It is a condition. It is a state of being that invokes emotions, feelings. Emotions do not have attributes. Hate is also a state of being that is contra to Love and True God. It is a condition we will not focus on in our conversations because we serve True God and take the side of Love.

Gnostics know God, being Love, means that love is transcendent. It is all around us all the time—even when we do not feel like we are being loved or that we are loved. So, in realizing love is always around us, think about when you first heard the call to separate yourself from the world around you. Think about how difficult it was in the beginning. No one seemed to understand what was happening with or to you. Suddenly you were not fun anymore. You became square, uppity, and boring. Think about how even members of your family were not very accepting of this ‘New You’.

If they are church goers, you were probably accused of not practicing the right way. You were trying to change things, a trouble maker. You were not doing things according to the established customs, practices, and/or traditions. As we recall all of this, we now know why we came away. We are Gnostic. We fall into the Mystic form of worship more so than the tradition Christian form of worship. The typical Christian person is convinced they know for certain what it means to be a true believer in God. As Gnostics we have no need to convince ourselves or anyone else that we are true believers. We realize and have no problem acknowledging that we are always growing. Therefore we do not know everything and we never profess to be the only path to God. In fact, we know humans are not the center of life, but are simply a part of the life cycle. We know the mystery many Christians resist and/or refuse to accept.

In our studies recall how both Mary Magdalene and Saint Thomas were asked what was said in private conversations they had with our Lord Jesus. They both said if they spoke of it people would not believe them. Why? Well what happens when people speak of it today? To tell Christians there is life on other planets brings about a response that accuses us of not really believing in God. To tell most Christians God does not hate anyone or anything including homosexuals is met with disdain, anger, and confrontation. To tell a Christian there is no devil possessing others is also met with confrontation, and claims that even Jesus specifically referred to Lucifer as this said Devil.

This kind of ideology has been a part of the Christian religion for so long Christians are convinced it is gospel. Lucifer is this devil who has absolutely nothing better to do but track every human on Earth for the purpose of trapping, snarling, whisper temptations, or flat out lie to them about proven matters they should be concerned about. It is hard for us Gnostics to fathom such a high creation of God being so stupid. What a boring existence. To believe this contributes to the deterioration of human mentality. It feeds into the depravity that is the real plague of humanity. Typical Christians do not believe we are born in freewill. Their beliefs signify they have no choice thus they are not responsible for anything they do. They have no power over or feel any sole accountability for anything that goes on in their lives. As Gnostics we know this is not the case.

To Christians humans are only worthy if they are making outrageous sacrifices and performing rituals to appease God. Why? Because to them humans do not deserve consideration, they do not really matter unless they are members of the clergy, wealthy, and/or in a high ranking political or leadership position, otherwise they are insignificant. They behave as if God is an angry vengeful God that often calls them to war, to prejudice, to discrimination, to controlling domineering behavior, and to violence. They believe none compliance with traditional customs will anger God and bring about severe punishment.

They wield their Bibles like weapons judging and condemning each other. We know better than that. We know first of all God is a God of an entire universe and we are not the only living intelligent species in existence. We also know God is a loving God not a vengeful, mean, angry God whom we have to make great physical sacrifice to satisfy. We know God desires we embrace each other and show patience and tolerant with one another as he shows us all.

Gnostics are born and find each other along their journey through life. We are not the typical Christian who goes to church every Sunday and does what the rest of the church congregation is doing. This is a lazy, thoughtless, and effortless way of worshipping True God. Gnostics serve True God. That is our form of worship. We also recall that our Lord Jesus said his yuck was easy and his burden was light, he did not say it was effortless. Gnostics automatically recognize each other and will often smile at each other in a way that is unique. It is a smile and look in the eye that says, “Hi, I know you friend”. We are always happy to see one another. This recognition is a result of us being bound together by an invisible, transcending thread of love.  

When we are summoned we immediately recognize the call. Think about when you were summoned and how your life was forever changed. Think about when you were spiritually awakened and were suddenly aware. Think about how that awakening caused those closest to you to pull away and even shun you. Jesus said easy and light…not effortless. Remember how those closest to you spoke to you, the things they said to you? As you think about these things, think about who became the evil one in your presence at that moment even though they might be avid church goers. What is hard is human reaction to your awakening. What is heavy is human condemnation and skepticism of your awakening and awareness.

Remember in Revelations the Lord said he would be outside the church knocking to get in? Do we all know what he meant? Most Christians have no idea. They are too caught up in their rituals, their traditions, and their general Christian customs to see the real. It is easier to follow. This is discussed in Richard Rohr’s novel, Things Hidden Scripture as Spirituality. As Gnostics we know God is a God of pure Love. To say God hates anyone or anything is a LIE as it is not possible. Remember Love and Hate are opposites and remember what our lord said about a house divided, how it cannot stand. It is not possible for God to hate. He is Love in its totality. However, Hate is something humans do quite well, and it is not because of any one devil. Gnostics know there are many devils among us and many demons, behaving very satanically. We also fully understand that a Devil or Demon is a physical person, and Satan is simply a behavior description.   

Think about all the roads you travel on in your journey of spiritual growth and enlightenment. Think about the people and the things that strengthened you along the way. Think about all those who hindered or tried to knock you off your path. Think about where you are today because you would not be shaken. You remained steadfast even when it seemed everyone abandoned you. Think about what choosing this way of worship cost you, what it meant, how it changed you life entirely. Contemplate hearing that voice and understand why it was a summons from God to open your eyes and see. Evaluate how it forever changed your life. We are in the service of True God. We do not judge, condemn, force, control, and/or hinder personal growth as these are attributes of Hate and we are not a faith of division.