Friday, February 12, 2021

 

Ottavio Lo Piccolo

ONCE UPON A TIME IN AMERICA 

LETTERS TO AMERICA

The Land I Love

Letters from my Diary; Reflections & Essays from an Immigrant, a Retired US Veteran, an Artist and a teacher (Last updated 10 March, 2021)

Above: The Emigrant. Oil painting on wood board.

Above: Me in front of a mural I painted at the Stratton Air National Guard Base Dining Hall

© Copyright Ottavio Lo Piccolo. All rights reserved. No part of these writings, and artworks essays, may be copied or reproduced in any manner whatsoever without the authors’ written permission. Classroom teachers may copy individual articles, essays, reflections, and images, but only for instructional purposes, and only for their classroom students. For permission to publish contact me at ottaviolopiccolo5@gmail.com and explain in writing what you intend to do with my writings. 

Introduction  

This is a collection of writings, artworks, and images (some are mine, others are Google images), that I have taken from my diary. They are my thoughts, my fears, and frustrations, and my hopes for America and the world. These writings cover 2020 and 2021. The artworks are older- they were made much earlier. Some of these thoughts/letters were also shared on my Facebook page and many letters were published by the two major newspapers in the Capital Region; the Albany Times Union and the Schenectady Daily Gazette. In these writings, I share my concerns, my hopes, my knowledge, my wisdom, my faith, my beliefs, and my love for the United States of America, the land that has adopted me and given me a better future. 

What are my objectives? First, support/work for social and environmental justice, support of life on Earth, truth, peace, economic prosperity, equality, and my duty to inform and educate (me included), and to defend immigrants. Second, those who read my writings and see my artworks, may be inspired/moved to action in building a better world; even small acts of kindness will suffice, in addition to consideration, love, and respect toward all living beings and our planet.

The themes included in this collection are culture, the environment, politics, religion/spirituality, films, books, etc. 

Who am I? I am an Italian immigrant who has been in the USA since his mid-teenage years. I arrived in the USA with my family in 1974. I am married and have two children, now adults. I served on active duty with the US Air Force for 4 years and with the NY Air Guard for 31 years, as a part-time airman. As a civilian, I worked as a food worker, mechanical draftsman, technical illustrator, and graphic artist. And I am a retired US Veteran and retired school teacher.



PLEASE NOTE THAT I am an independent thinker and voter, who does not care for party politics, but cares for the well-being of all Americas, and our planet. Some of you may disagree with me, and others may get upset because I am not politically correct! However, my intentions are good because my objectives are peace, prosperity, equity, and social/environmental justice. So, I'm very upfront, and I'll always speak up and support; the whole TRUTH, support all LIFE (at all levels, from conception to natural death- not only in the womb), in addition to; FACTS, REASON, SCIENCE, RESPECT, HONOR, LOVE of GOD, the US Constitution, our COUNTRY, FAMILY, our PLANET, and most of all the defenseless, the NEEDY, honest IMMIGRANTS and REFUGEES in search of a better future. Finally, I promise that I will try my best to make my criticism constructive, positive, never vulgar, and neither vicious nor unfair/racist.

Above: Me in front of a mural I painted at the Stratton Air National Guard Gym. 2015


SHOULD TEACHERS PREACH RELIGION IN PUBLIC SCHOOLS? FB post 5-19-21
Some people think that we should teach/preach the Christian religion in school because America is predominantly a Christian nation.
Although I am a practicing Catholic, I love God and my faith, I disagree, I say no; we should not teach religion in public schools because there are many cultures in one classroom- with different types of religion.
If we are going to teach religion, then we should teach all major faith beliefs, and let students attend their particular course of interest- if they like- but it should not be imposed, because there are those who do not believe in God and/or any other religion. So, we must let people be free to choose- even not to observe/learn a religion- if that's what they want. freedom of choice must always be allowed in a democratic/fair/respectful/civilized society.
For well over 20 years I taught ESL, English as Second Language, to children of immigrants and adults who migrated from many countries, and also Asians had no religion. Of course, you cannot preach in public schools, but even if it was allowed I wouldn't have done it, because we have to respect everyone's cultural background.
However, I also believe that teaching religion to my students isn't important as my actions- because my actions and attitude are more powerful than preaching! I can have a better/stronger and more meaningful/positive impact on my students when I am kind to them, I respect them, I am considerate, loving, etc.. In other words, by modeling good/positive moral behavior in class; through my actions and demeanor, and showing/modeling the virtues of honesty, respect, responsibility, patience, forgiveness, love, etc., to all my students- those of other faith, and those without faith- is the best thing for me.
I believe that this is what God wants me to do; show love and respect throw my actions, not just my words. I truly believe that we can change others for the best through our good/caring actions. In fact, the saying ACTIONS SPEAK LOUDER THAN WORDS, applies to our faith too. What good is it to preach, unless you show love yourself?
-Ottavio
May be an image of text that says 'DON'T LET YOUR FAITH BOIL DOWN TO JUST GOOD INTENTIONS. SHOW ME, DON'T TELL Actions Speak Louder Than Words JOHN 3:17-18 YFA'
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                                       My granddaughter Isabella, at 7 months. I dedicate this posts to her.

FAITH, HOPE and LOVE. Which one is the Most Important? And why? FB post 5-24-21
Being positive is a good skill and/or trait to have, but that's not enough in life. We all need other qualities, in addition to the three mentioned in the title, in order to be successful. We also need good health, drive, stamina, perseverance, patience, and many others.
However, now that I am in my 60s, I think that without the three virtues of faith, hope, and love we won't be able to sustain our life on earth. And without kindness, concern, care, and love from others, we can't really succeed in life. In fact, there is a saying that says: "No man's an island." No one can survive alone- even if you are rich and you have all you need to nourish and protect your body- that will not be enough, because the song by the famous track band Queen said: "We all need somebody to love."
This is a fact that I've learned in over 65 years of my life on earth.
Love is indeed the most important thing, and so is loving God and others; our families, our relatives, our friends, etc.. Because without love life would have no meaning and no flavor!

The 3 virtues in the title are answers to life's difficulties. We can't just depend on ourselves alone. Its reality- God designed it this way- so that we can interact and love each other. As a matter of fact, the Bible tells us that in the end love is the only one that will remain.

I have seen and felt love; through my family and my friends, and now I feel it when I look at my granddaughter Isabella: when I hold her and kiss her when I play with her, and/or simply think of her. And for this, I thank God every day.


DENYING THE LOVE OF A PARENT AND A CHILD to LGBTS is IMMORAL FB post May 21 & 22, 2021

I say, why deny any adult, who is a mature, independent, and capable person; who wants a child, the adoption of a child? Who are we to judge who can, or can't, adopt a child? And why shouldn't LGTBs have the right to adopt a child? Is it because we don't agree with their sexual preferences? Is this a valid and /or good moral reason to deny this right? Others may say: "Maybe LGTBs don't know how to love/raise and protect their children? Some others may say, "They'll raise them LGBT!" But are we so sure? There are millions of children without parents; without a family who loves them, and they are waiting and dreaming of someone who takes care of them, who loves them, and who respects them. Let's think carefully about these two points. First, this issue is not just about LGBTs, but also about the happiness of the children. Don't get me wrong, I don't share LGBT sexual preferences, but as a free and Catholic man I don't think I have the right to impose my views and/or morals on anyone - not even my children - but I can only guide and encourage them the way that I believe is right. Aren't love, compassion, charity, tolerance, freedom, and respect the things, the values, that Jesus Christ taught us? - Ottavio, 20-5-21 DON'T JUDGE BUT LOVE Jesus taught us this, in fact, he said that the HEART of the LAW - the most important thing - is LOVE. And therefore denying a human being the right to raise a child, and/or a child to have a parent, a person who loves him - is not love, it is discrimination. Because he denies adoption to a person who is LGBT. If we do this, then we must also discriminate against criminals, prostitutes, violent people, drug addicts and/or alcoholics, and many other categories. In fact, if a criminal family adopts a child; doesn't mean that child will grow up a criminal too! Maybe the son can change his parents for the better, and make them change their ways. The ways of the Lord are INFINITE, his MERCY is immense! We are the cold/insensitive ones! Of heart and mind! Reflection 5-21-21 I understand the motives of some who are against the adoption of LGBT couples. But as I said before, the point is LOVING your NEIGHBOR - IT IS a FUNDAMENTAL THING - the most important and essential thing in our life here on earth. EVERYTHING ELSE IS SECONDARY. In fact, the law, the commandments of God, cannot be applied without love; that is, without understanding, without tolerance, without charity, without kindness, without brotherhood and without respect, etc. etc. The law will become too heavy a burden, too unbearable, unless it has love. Jesus himself asked us this question: WHAT IS MOST IMPORTANT? RULES? THE LAW? OR MAN? The answer is in the Gospel, when the Pharisees protested, Jesus asked them: “Is it lawful to do good or evil on the Sabbath? To save life or to destroy it? So, Jesus made it clear to everyone that the law is made for man, not man for the law. We all know that children come from two human beings of different sexes, and that they need two parents, but life isn't always that perfect, or that flexible; in fact it presents us with many situations - often tragic, and therefore we must adapt - we must be flexible, but only with the aim of doing good. Let me explain. How many children are there in the world who live alone without a parent, or live with grandparents or with someone who has adopted them? Millions unfortunately. AND WHAT's so BAD IF A PERSON, EVEN an LGBT, ADOPTS A CHILD? If that person wants to dedicate his life, his love, his attention, his care and his affection to that child... who has no one! It seems to me an unfair and merciless thing TO DENY A PERSON AND/OR A CHILD THE LOVE OF ANOTHER HUMAN BEING. Here's my point. DON'T DENY LOVE! Do good! This is what Jesus teaches us! Yes, I KNOW, the Bible has so many rules! Jews had over 600! And Jesus showed them that their daily activities, in following all those rules, were useless! Why? Because rules ran their life! Their life had no room for love and God- because they lacked compassion and MERCY. But Jesus taught us to use the heart, even before the rules, and even before our brain! I advise you to read the article titled: What does it mean that the Sabbath was made for man and not man for the Sabbath? Which deals with the subject of law and man - you can find it on my FB page. Happy reading and good reflection. Reflection of 22-5-21 We are all sinners. Jesus did not come for the righteous, or the saints, but for us sinners, and because of us he suffered a bestial death - giving his life for all of us! So, LET'S NOT FORGET this basic fact: Jesus sacrificed himself for us. And during his life he taught us how to act; with words through his parables, and His teachings, like the beatitudes. Jesus taught us with his actions; forgiving the prostitute, whom the crowd wanted to stone. JESUS ​​showed us tolerance when you heal the centurion's servant - a pagan! etc., Jesus also, but above all, taught us his immense compassion, with his works; the miracles of him - who made so many - the first by changing water into wine, and healing many SICK and CONVERTING hardened sinners... like us! Hard headed! Who want to deny dignity to others because they are great sinners, like LGBTs, since according to some, they do not have the right to adopt a child because they are not suitable, they are not worthy. What are they monsters? Human beasts? Just because their sexual preferences aren't the same as ours! But how much filth and cowardice do we heterosexuals do? Ah, we don't see those! IPYCRITES! This is what we are! If we deny the dignity of living in peace, having work, and even having a family of their own! If we disagree on these points, on compassion and dignity - which all living beings deserve- then let's look in the mirror and ask ourselves which is the most important thing in life. I believe it is love, compassion, respect and mercy towards God and towards one's neighbor. True or not? Yes, I know, we don't like the way of life of the LGTBs, but we must consider that there are also many things, many actions that are also bad and immoral (in addition to LGBTs) that God detests. Such as deception, violence, indifference, wickedness, hatred, jealousy, wars, bad gossip and / or gossip, abuse, mistreatment of human beings, etc., and many other categories of people and other horrendous things that are wrong, but we bear them, in fact we often turn the other way, we put our heads in the sand because it doesn't suit us. In other words, we act as hypocrites! We are GOOD and fast in pointing the finger, in condemning others, but we do not "see" our sins, our mistakes, our filth! But Jesus told the crowd that he wanted to stone the prostitute: "WHO IS WITHOUT SIN, SHALL THE FIRST STONE." Hearing this, all the accusers went away, without saying a word, and without throwing their stones LET'S NOT FORGET THESE EXAMPLES FROM JESUS'S LIFE! OR WE WILL RISK BECOMING HYPOCRITES TOO, WITH HEARTS OF STONE! 😉 Children should be taught that all living beings, both animals and people, have dignity. And therefore certain universal rights should not be denied and /or taken away from others; such as the right to work and receive equal pay and benefits, to have health care, an education, etc.. Children should also be taught (with the good example of adults) not to discriminate against others (such as LGBTs), and do not deny them the right to adopt children. Why refuse this right to a human being who is responsible, independent, mature and sensitive? And has only the good of a child at heart? Denying this right is a wickedness and an injustice!



DOUBTS ABOUT THE AFTERLIFE? OTHER WORLDS and DIMENSIONS?                

FB post 5-14-21, and 5-7-21 in Italian

I do believe in the afterlife because of my faith, because of logic and because of the many testimonies and scientific evidence now available. Forgive me if I contradict some of you- the skeptics- those who do not believe in life after death. Because I think that you are wrong.

And I tell you why - but not only on the basis of my Christian faith, and not only on reason and / or common sense; but also based on the most recent research on the field of NDEs, Near Death Experiences, or the near-death experiences of many people. In fact, if you do a little research online, you will find tons of resources, books, videos, films, etc.

I am mentioning some books, which I have read, and some videos and / or films, which I have seen - which are based on true stories.

I also want to add that, for the most part, these resources, on NDEs, have been written, and / or filmed by doctors and experts on the subject.

The first, LIFE AFTERLIFE, written by Dr. Raymond Moody.

Second, THE PURPOSE OF LIFE, by researcher David Sunfellow.

Third, HEAVEN IS FOR REAL, by Todd Burpo, a Protestant pastor.

Watch his interview on Youtube, 6-22-15 (40 min)

"Heaven Is For Real" Interview with Todd and Colton Burpo

https://youtu.be/mmNrQ7Smung


MIRACLES FROM HEAVEN, this is a movie (true story).

A series on Netflix about NDEs - I believe the title is:

DEATH and BACK, NDE EXPERIENCES (Return from Death, Near-death Experience).

So if the topic interests you, you will find lots of information online. In fact, it is said: He who seeks finds!

I have provided many interesting sources/links here, at the bottom of this post. Check them out!

Other things to consider are these. First, man is a very intelligent being, but he uses only a small portion of his brain’s capacity. So we do not know, we know a lot of things. Our intellectual abilities are limited. In fact, there are still so many things unknown to us in the universe. And therefore, we can be sure that there will be many things, many dimensions (physical and spiritual), many worlds unknown to us. And closing our eyes, or our minds, does not mean they do not exist.

So I believe that as wise/caring people, we must open our minds and our hearts, and be open to all possibilities, because the universe is infinite, as it is also infinite the mind and heart of God.


Resources on the afterlife and NDEs, Near Death Experiences

THERE IS NO DEATH / NEW BOOK SHOCKED THE WORLD

By Robert Lanza

https://www.robertlanza.com/is-death-an-illusion-evidence-suggests-death-isnt-the-end/?fbclid=IwAR1MSVxWvJUEHJLqppfluL6p7OT-U3k8wBD3TtbxEUxcsmc26UPqk_3xp3Q

ARTICLEs

1.        Is there life after death?

https://www.gotquestions.org/is-there-life-after-death.html

2. An Analysis of the Possibility of Life After Death 

APR 22, 2021  by GLENN STOK

https://owlcation.com/humanities/life-after-death-theory

 

VIDEOS

Jesus/Christian/NDE
(Near Death Experiences)

Testimonies/Video Stories

1.    What Happens After Death REVEALED!!! - w/ David Ditchfield 411,148 views Oct 27, 2020 (46 min) https://youtu.be/jy5fnU87agA

2.  I Saw Jesus and Was Terrified |This Is What He Showed Me

Mar 11, 2021 (14 min)  https://youtu.be/SAql-vsXS2U

3.  What Jesus Warned Me About in Heaven Will Shock You

Oct 8, 2020 (10 min) https://youtu.be/CyYHlYPEpfQ

4.    Dinner with an Angel - It's a Miracle 2,107,444 views Jul 11, 2019 https://youtu.be/s6BTvsQbWxw

5.    I DIED AND VISITED HEAVEN! URGENT MESSAGES FROM JESUS! 24,216 views Premiered Jan 12, 2021 https://youtu.be/u9gPpDPNYdQ


6.   Pronounced Dead for 20 Minutes - What He Saw and How it Changed His Life Forever May 27, 2020 (19 min) https://youtu.be/a8jcNBVWJyE


7.   Child Prodigy Paints Visions from God | SuperHuman Geniuses | Only Human (8 min) 1-8-18 https://youtu.be/11z9aGw_iEs

8.   Akiane Kramarik said this about Jesus (2.3 min), 9 Feb, 2020

https://youtu.be/4q3v7lj8Ujw  Akiane Kramarik interviews on CBS 2 Chicago to talk about love and her painting 'Prince of Peace.'

9.   ''The Light'' by Akiane (5 min) https://youtu.be/MqjGLFNmorg

Here is my new painting and film ''The Light'' based on my recent vision. Hope you all enjoy!

10.   How Jesus Saved His Own Portrait...The True Story of Akiane's Lost Masterpiece (7 min) 12-7-19. The true story of eight-year-old Akiane's Prince of Peace painting~ https://youtu.be/2B86y4XRCHg

11.   Bomb Attack, 35% Body Burned... "but God had a plan." (10 min) 12-2-20)  https://youtu.be/Eiv8bOZKclg

12.   Near-Death Experience put Her Face-to-Face with God 167,975 views Nov 3, 2020 https://youtu.be/2iw7sRiZGc8?t=68



REMAINING SILENT is NOT an OPTION if we want to Protect ourNation   FB post & Letter to the Albany Times Union, 5-13-21

When we see something wrong, unjust and/or violent, we must not look the other way, or put our head in the sand. No, we must have the courage to speak up; if we care, otherwise, we will become complicit and appease bullies, selfish/crazy/violent people, dictators, the ignorant, and liars. We must not be afraid, for the sake of our nation’s freedom, and justice.

That is why I admire the words of Liz Cheney, one of the few Republican women in the US House. Several days ago she said: "Remaining quiet emboldens the liar. I will not participate in that."

Party does not matter to me- I am an independent- I vote only for leaders who have a good moral character, intelligence, courage, and skill. And Liz Cheney has shown all of these qualities.

She had the courage to go against the current, the way of the fanatical/authoritarian Republican Party, which in the last 6-5 years, thanks to former President Donald Trump, has become incoherent, intolerant, liar, dull, racist, and merciless towards the defenseless, the weak, the poor, people of color and against the environment and any logical reason of common sense and decency. They have backed a President who incited a coup, caused a riot and 7 deaths, and has yet to apologize, and continues to propagate his election fraud lies.

In short, the majority of the US Republican Party has become Donald Trump's puppet, a "pupazzo" as we say in Italian; something to be manipulated for personal gain.

For more information on Liz Cheney’s criticism of former President Donald Trump, and his true motives, please click on the following videos. Thank you!

1.      Liz Cheney slams Republican colleagues for backing Trump (1.5 min) 5-12-21 https://youtu.be/sdvUql1YhjA US representative Liz Cheney, speaking in the House a day before her expected ouster from a Republican leadership post, chastised her party colleagues fornot standing up to former president Donald Trump and his false claim that the November election was stolen. ’Remaining silent and ignoring the lie emboldens the liar. I will not participate in that,’ she said.

2.      Rep. Liz Cheney Voted Out Of GOP Leadership Position (3 min) 5-12-21     https://youtu.be/dEFpxh8sdTU

Wyoming Rep. Liz Cheney has been ousted from her House leadership position following a voice vote by her Republican colleagues. This comes after she condemned former President Donald Trump’s falsehoods about the 2020 election and voted to impeach him. NBC chief White House correspondent Kristen Welker reports for TODAY.

3. Timeline of the U.S. Capitol Attack on January 6, 2021 (5 min) https://youtu.be/M4B8FYQq6rM

On January 6, a pro-Trump mob attempted a coup at the U.S. Capitol, resulting in several deaths — here's the timeline of how that day erupted into chaos.

4.     McConnell says Trump "provoked"deadly Capitol attack (7 min) 1-19-21                         https://youtu.be/748sY5ouQLI

Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell is directly accusing President Trump of provoking his supporters to attack the U.S. Capitol on January 6. CBS News chief White House correspondent Nancy Cordes joins CBSN with more on McConnell's comments and the impact they may have on the upcoming impeachment trial.



5.        Governor Schwarzenegger's Message Following this Week's Attack on the Capitol (7 min) 1-20-21  https://youtu.be/x_P-0I6sAck

This is my message to my fellow Americans and my friends around the world after January 6, 20

Ex-Trump official shares his prediction if Trump loses 2020 (10 min) 901,749 views Aug 20, 2020 https://youtu.be/KuqhhrmhfCI Former senior Trump administration official Miles Taylor says he is concerned that President Donald Trump will use litigation to make the 2020 race difficult for electors to certify.

Why Trump's Agenda Is Anti-Christ | Opinions | NowThis (6 min.) Oct 13, 2019 https://youtu.be/-VIx7xX5tdQ White nationalism in America is not just racism, it isanti-Christ.’ — Preacher and author Jim Wallis lays out what it really means tobe a follower of Christ in Trump’s America. In US news and current events today, preacher and author Jim Wallis,Christ in Crisis, spoke to NowThis News about what it means to be

 

 

 

FEAR IS A NATURAL EMOTION, THAT WE NEED TO CONTROL FB post, 4 May, 2021
Fear is a natural emotion that everyone experiences. However, we must learn to control it. And one way to do so, is to give our worries and fears to God.
God is a Loving Father, who is always available to assist/guide and love us. I truly believe this. And I don't say it only based on my faith, but also on my life experience and reason.
DO NOT BE AFRAID. TRUST/CONFIDE IN GOD, and He will not abandon you!
- Ottavio

The image below is: First Breath. Acrylic on canvas by Ottavio LoPiccolo. © 2008


HELP OUR PLANET STAY CLEAN AND SAVE MONEY ON YOUR UTILITY BILLS! SWTCH TO A CLEAN ENERGY CARRIER!
FB post 2 May, 2021
To do so is easy! To connect to a utility company (that carries clean electric electric energy from renewable sources is a piece of cake! Super easy! All you have to do is go online and find the most convenient/cheapest/efficient company for you by signing up! Click on the link to choose the utility you want:
(You can also do a Google search, enter the following words: clean energy carriers”, and shop for the best deal)
WHY SWITHCHING TO RENEWABLE SOURCES? Because it’s better for the Earth- you’ll reduce CO2 emissions and will save money too! SIMPLE!
TO FIND OUT MORE ON WHAT IS HARMING OUR PLANET, READ THIS FROM MY EARTH DAY LESSON
WHAT THINGS HARM (hurts, damages) PLANET EARTH? Part II
1. Our planet faces many threats (dangers) that are manmade- created by humanity. The first most dangerous threat is nuclear war, the second threat is pollution from several sources; CO2 emissions (smog, air pollution from auto vehicles and factories), herbicides (plant killers) and pesticides (bug/insect killers), single-use plastic trash (things we use once, and then we throw away, as plastic bags, bottles, cups, silverware, dishes, cips, lids, swabs or q-tips, straws, etc. And the third threat is deforestation the cutting down and/or burning of forests because of development (for agricilyure/farming, and/or to build roads, factories, etc.)
2. There is so much plastic pollution in the world because the USA, and many other countries, do not recycle enough; farmers use harmful (damaging) chemicals to grow their crops, people throw their plastic waste in the trash, and some even throw it outside, in the environment, on the ground or in the sea. In fact, 79% of plastic waste (trash, litter, garbage) is accumulating (going) in landfills (dumps)- and as it sits (stays) in the natural environment, it contaminates (poisons, spoils) the soil and water sources, our drinking water. Lots of this plastic waste gets transported (carried, moved) to the sea by the wind, sewer systems and water bodies- creeks and rivers. In addition, micro plastics (tiny pieces of plastic, 1/5 of an inch) are also released from motor vehicle tires, which get washed to the oceans- by rain- into the sewer system! And micro plastics from electric clothes washers/driers when they wash/dry synthetic clothes (made with polyester/plastic fibers)!
3. No wonder why scientists are continuously (constantly, always) warning us. They tell us that if present trends (these destructive ways) continue, by 2050, there will be 8 billion metric tons of plastic in the oceans! This means that every minute that passes, the equivalent of a rubbish (trash, garbage) truck full goes into the world’s oceans! This pollution is poisoning our drinking water and killing millions of marine (ocean) animals.
4. So, it is evident, that everyone, me, you, our families, our communities, our neighborhoods; schools, stores, parks, hospitals, businesses, corporations, and the governments must do more to reduce (decrease, lessen) and eventually stop this enormous (huge, very big) amount of waste (trash, pollution) that is filling and destroying our planet earth.
For more info on climate change visit/click on the link below by NASA: The Effects of Climate Change https://climate.nasa.gov/effects/
This lesson is also in my personal blog online at:
From: Earth Day ESL Lesson © Ottavio Lo Piccolo, 4-26-17, Rev. 5-2-21. Teachers have permission to make copies for their own students. Written permission required from author to use/quote any of this content. In FD9
EARTH IS OUR ONLY HOME. WORK TO PROTECT IT FOR OUR SELVES AND OUR CHILDREN.
THANK YOU!



THE TRUTH WILL SET US FREE! FB post 3-27-21
There are news sources that do more harm than good! And there are people who also churn out nonsense, who unfortunately have their followers... who unfortunately believe them.
This creates other problems, such as confusion, fear, and sometimes even depression and/or violence.
It is therefore essential, that for everyone's' good and safety, we must avoid spreading alarmist, conspiratorial and/or false news and opinions.
We must collaborate, and be wise. But for what reason? To do good and do the right thing; alleviate suffering, and therefore absolutely be sensitive, and not put everyone in the same sack! As we say in Italy.
Everyone is corrupt or dishonest! The cynics say; that the state and medical experts are lying, that vaccines are not efficient, they're not safe, and unnecessary.
It is not so, because most people, all over the world- including Italians- are overwhelmingly honest and capable of doing well- especially medical personnel. Although, in the the honest category, I would exclude many politicians!
May God help us, open our hearts, and enlighten our minds.
Ciao! Everyone! Stay safe! Get vaccinated! And have a good weekend!
Jesus I trust in You!




LET US NOT BE MANIPULATED BY EVIL, BUT BY GOOD! FB post 3-26 & 3-27-21

Arrogance, wickedness, selfishness, cynicism, wickedness, hatred, envy, ignorance, infidelity, deceit, lies, and intolerance, are all vices and faults. degrading, unpleasant, negative, destructive of the soul and body!

INSTEAD... LET US FIGHT VICES WITH HOPE, FAITH, LOVE, RESPECT, TOLERANCE, CHARITY, FORGIVENESS AND TRUTH!
One thing is certain; we must all work to achieve peace in our families. God cannot do everything for us - he certainly cannot work miracles, unless there is admission of one's own faults and taking one's own responsibility.

And then obviously mutual respect must not lack, and also collaboration, compassion, humility and courage (especially on the part of those who make mistakes and / or do wrong) to admit their mistakes, and then try to remedy them. And finally, forgiveness and the intention not to make mistakes again.

There are so many things that we must all do for this holy peace! But we are not alone, there are those who love us and guide us, and let's not forget, the FATHER OF ALL - Almighty God - who can help us, if we humbly ask and trust in Him.

Because I believe that without the support and guidance from God it is easy to get lost among the many voices and paths of life. Also because we are human beings; weak, insecure and sometimes even foolish! (The last 4 paragraphs added 3-27-21) 



                                        Below: Detail from Flowers for Jesus.
Image# 22. Flowers for Jesus. Acrylics on canvas, 2’x5’. Donated to Memorial Hospital in Utica, NY. 1983.


CUDDLES, DISCIPLINE AND RESPONSIBILITY. Three ingredients needed to raise children well.
CUDDLES are fine too, and they are necessary, but only occasionally and needed more by children.
But it is absolutely necessary to teach children moral and civic responsibility as they grow up!
Things like respect and sincerity, collaboration and generosity, charity and patience, compassion and forgiveness; they are first essential things-first of all/at the forefront- that need to taught to children; in addition to honesty, duty and sacrifice toward family, toward work, toward the community, towards everyone, toward everything, towards the earth, and obviously toward God! 🥰😁😉
Obviously all our efforts will be useless and in vain without a good dose of these virtues! And, unless parents and family lead by example; all can be lost - including children
Image of my first granddaughter.

HOW IS PEACE OBTAINED? FB Post, inspired by a relative's comment 3-17-21
There are many people we can count on for family peace. Often they are the ones who brought us into the world; our parents, and our loved ones - those who love us - and besides our parents, we can count on our grandparents, our brothers and sisters. And although some of them sometimes hurt us - they are not all the same! There are those who believe, support and work for peace. I love all my family and relatives! And they can count on me! In fact, I pray for them too - even for those who are wrong! And I hope God will open their minds and hearts to them, and let them know when they're wrong... before it's too late. But obviously the miracle of peace in our families becomes reality only if we are all willing to admit that we are sinners - that we are wrong - and therefore repent and apologize to the neighbor we have offended and / or mistreated. Only in this way, with the good will of all, can God work the miracle of peace in our families, our community and in the world. Not because God is unable to work miracles, but because He is love, compassion, respect, mercy and tolerance! And therefore he is not an overbearing Being. He can't do something if we don't want it! If God was a bully he would have destroyed the world! Other than sending your only child to earth, among the wolves! But a loving father would never do such a thing to his children! There is evidence that despite our wickedness and violence, God is patient with us! The story of the prodigal son is another proof of his love for us sinners, false, selfish and often also ruthless and violent. Jesus told the story to his followers. The father who forgives everything to a son who, wasting all the inheritance his father gave him, returns home empty-handed like a beggar, but WELCOMES him with open arms! God can work the miracle of bringing peace to any family, but only if the people who have made mistakes in that family realize their mistakes, and repent and ask for forgiveness from their loved ones who have offended and / or mistreated. . And those offended must be to forgive. I want to be clear, God cannot grant our will - do the miracles of peace, unless we desire it with all our hearts and are willing to ask for forgiveness and to forgive. 🥰😉 I know I made it a bit long, but I tango a lot for peace, because without it Mon you can do nothing! And so I love him, as I love my family. So let's work and PRAY for peace in our hearts, in our families, in our community, in the country and in the whole world. Because without peace and health we are screwed! 😉 Obviously there are our relatives and friends of good will - willing to apologize or forgive, and to forgive when it is necessary to safeguard peace. And also we have God, His Mother and our Mother Mary, and there are saints and angels - all our allies - ready to defend and help us achieve peace in our hearts, our families, our communities, our country and the whole world! We ask them to assist us in this goal of peace! But let's do it with humility, with prayer, with good attitudes and works of charity. OLP 3-17-21
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THANKS POPE FRANCIS FOR YOUR EXAMPLE!
Please continue working to cleanse the Church of the corrupt and the scandals - to restore her dignity and credibility. FB Post 3-17-21
I have always been a practicing Catholic, that is, I always went to Mass on Sunday, I always tried to do my best, that is to be faithful to God's commandments and to respect the Church and everyone. I'm not perfect, I also have my flaws! I'm not saying this to brag, on the contrary I'm saying this because this is what my family taught me. And in fact, I thank and appreciate everything my family has shown and taught me about the Christian faith with their good example. Without them I would not have arrived here today. I speak above all of my parents, my grandparents, my uncles, in short, all my relatives, and of course I have learned a lot from the priests and all the popes.
And Pope Francis for me is a special man because his faith is very practical and humble and also friendly. I mean, he's an open pope who talks about almost everything in public. but the thing that attracts me most about him is his simple and straightforward humanity! So in the post I shared some of the phrases of him most dear to me. There will be some who will possibly not share my views on Pope Francis. There will be those who accuse him of being too libertine, that he wants to revolutionize and destroy the Church with his socialist and or communist ideas, etc., etc. And they also criticize Pope Benedict accusing him of being too dogmatic, more attached to doctrine than to the good of the faithful. To these people I tell him that there were those who criticized and attacked Pope John Paul II, now a saint. They said he was too severe! And I imagine that for these gentlemen, today Pope Francis is a libertine. To these gentlemen who criticize the popes I say that no man is perfect, in fact the Bible tells us that we are all sinners, popes included! But if we are Catholics and we believe that the pope has been chosen by the Holy Spirit, why do we accuse him of being libertine or / and too severe? Who are we to judge the popes? Are we better than them? Do we know more? And what would Jesus say, and / or think of our often divisive criticisms? What would the Virgin Blessed, Mother of Jesus and of the Church say? I don't think Jesus or Mary would appreciate these criticisms. I understand that the Church in the last 20-30 has been covered with scandals. I understand that we need to improve, but I don't think that improvement will come with negative and divisive criticism.
I think the improvement will come when the criticisms are made with love; for a good purpose, in a positive way, with constructive and non-destructive criticisms, which have as their goal love, forgiveness, cooperation, charity, and the commitment to put our faith into action with concrete works towards the common good, towards respect for all, for all creation and towards faith in God and His commandments of him. I would also like to remind these critics and accusers what St. Matthew tells us: Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them:
“Any kingdom divided into itself will be ruined, and any city or family divided into itself will not stand. (Matthew 12:25, New International Version).
We were also reminded of this by one of the great American presidents Abraham Lincoln. He said: "A house divided in itself cannot stand." HOWEVER, THE CHURCH MUST SET THE EXAMPLE! THE POPE MUST APPROVE AN ANTI-CORRUPTION AND SCANDALS POLICY
WHEN RELIGIOUS SEXUALLY ABUSE CHILDREN, and / or anyone else! This article in English deals with this topic. https: //www.latimes.com /.../ la-fg-pope-francis-abuse ...



SOME WANT THE CHURCH AGREE TO EVERYTHING, BUT IT DOESN'T WORK THAT WAY! YOU CAN'T HAVE IT BOTH WAYS! Reflection, 3-16-21 Several days ago the Whitehouse has expressed disappointment in Pope Francis after he officially stated that Homosexuality is a grave sin and the Church cannot bless sin. The Congregation for the doctrine of the faith makes it clear that it is impossible for homosexuality to be ordered to God and the church has no power to bless same sex unions. I am sure that there will be others who will criticize the Catholic Church because it will not marry gay couples. These individuals do not realize that the Church can't simply go along with all of government's wishes and rules simply because many laws- although legal- aren't morally acceptable to God. The Church can't simply go along with all of government's wishes and rules because many laws- although legal- aren't morally acceptable to God. Take for instance the death penalty and the support of abortion on demand- at anytime during pregnancy and for any reason. Other immoralities that the Church cannot support are: lying, taking away from the poor (e.g. withholding social services like health care and food stamps) and taxing the needy and the middle class workers and giving huge tax breaks to the wealthy. Other legal actions by governments, which are also grave sins; are the neglecting of the environment and allowing corporations to pollute and usurp the earth for selfish profits, and finally spending billions on weapons/defense when million of people live in poverty! And finally starting/fighting regime change wars like the Vietnam and Iraqi wars. The Church cannot be forced, and shouldn't be criticized and or attacked for defending its core beliefs, which are the respect of Gods moral law and the dignity of all human beings and all creation. ADDITIONAL INFO. ON VATICAN'S EXCLUDES GAY UNIONS - PLEASE READ; 1. Vatican excludes gay union blessing as God 'can't bless sin' Mar 15, 2021, by Nicole Winfield, The Associated Press Vatican ROME — The Vatican decreed Monday that the Catholic Church cannot bless same-sex unions since God "cannot bless sin."
The Vatican's orthodoxy office, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, issued a formal response Monday to a question about whether Catholic clergy can bless gay unions. The answer, contained in a two-page explanation published in seven languages and approved by Pope Francis, was "negative."
The decree distinguished between the church's welcoming and blessing of gay people, which it upheld, but not their unions. The Vatican holds that gays must be treated with dignity and respect, but that gay sex is "intrinsically disordered." Catholic teaching holds that marriage between a man and woman is part of God's plan and is intended for the sake of creating new life. Since gay unions are not intended to be part of that plan, they cannot be blessed by the church, the document said. "The presence in such relationships of positive elements, which are in themselves to be valued and appreciated, cannot justify these relationships and render them legitimate objects of an ecclesial blessing, since the positive elements exist within the context of a union not ordered to the Creator's plan," the response said. God "does not and cannot bless sin: He blesses sinful man, so that he may recognize that he is part of his plan of love and allow himself to be changed by him," it said. Francis has endorsed providing gay couples with legal protections in same-sex unions, but that is in reference to the civil sphere, not within the church. His comments were made during an interview with a Mexican television station, Televisa, in 2019, but were cut by the Vatican until they appeared in a documentary last year. Source: https://www.ncronline.org/news/vatican/vatican-excludes-gay-union-blessing-god-cant-bless-sin?fbclid=IwAR1s03QFYjIa8uUtIb_Il1CM-dC9Bb1R1GcLLFk3ySYlA17QR5mVd_ItiYo SEPARATION BETWEEN CHURCH & STATE 2. What Does Separation of Church and State Mean? Premiered May 25, 2020 (6 min video). Source: https://youtu.be/K_yS0X5s0lo 3. The Real Meaning of the Separation of Church and State BY James Lankford, Russel Moore, Updated Jan. 16, 2018
Source: https://time.com/5103677/church-state-separation-religious-freedom/




CUOMO- NOT GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY!

LETTER to US Senators Kristen Gillibrand, Chuck Schumer, and US Congressman Paul Tonko. 3-14-21  Also posted on my FB page.    

                       

I agree with President Biden that an independent investigation should be carried out before we declare Governor Cuomo guilty as charged.

 

I also disagree that you and a lot of other people, from both parties, are asking that Governor Cuomo resign or face impeachment. I believe that it is also important to remember that both the NY State Republican leadership and the vast majority of Republicans in Congress never said a word about former President Trump's immoral behavior and actions. Republicans did not utter a word when President Trump committed his many, many grave, actions/crimes, and yet they did not ask for the same treatment- that he resign!

 

 

NY State Senator Jim Tedisco recently said that the liberal newspaper, the Albany Times Union, is also asking that Cuomo resigns. However, he failed to mention that many major US newspapers asked the same thing of former President Trump- to resign- when he was on trial for impeachment- both the first and second time. But as we all know, he refused, and his Party also failed to do justice and decided to let him off the hook!

 

Below you will find a link from editorials of some of the major US newspapers that requested former President Trump's resignation, which never came, even after his despicable act of treason on January 6!

 

The same standards must be applied to all, not only to seek revenge, but only to seek justice and fairness! I agree with President Biden that an independent investigation should be carried out before we demand that Governor Cuomo resign and/or declare him guilty as charged. Isn’t it still Americas' premise that NO ONE IS GUILTY UNTIL PROVEN GUILTY?

 

The editorial below will refresh anyone’s memory. I hope that you, and all political leaders, even those Republicans who still support former President Trump, will have the courage to do what is right, just, and decent for our country, not what is politically convenient.

Wall Street Journal, New York Times and More Call for Trump's Removal or Resignation   By Virginia Chamlee January 08, 2021

https://people.com/politics/wall-street-journal-new-york-times-washington-post-call-for-trumps-removal-resignation/?fbclid=IwAR1OPPgsykGQjAOHL0hp7FUAtzFvtIKIMFdc2pKTm_m_kM6j71eS2ep6DX4






WOMAN
Posted on FB on the occasion of International Woman's Day-March 8, 2021

You are my mother, my sister, my wife, my friend and sometimes even my enemy! Because you love me! But you are also my rock, my refuge in the inclement weather of life.
Woman, you are also the mother of my Lord and Savior Jesus, my Mother and of the world!
Mary, you are my guide, my north star in the immense of infinity! You are my compass, the one that leads me to Jesus!
                Che la nostra donna/madre celeste sia la nostra guida verso Gesu'!
                    May our heavenly woman / mother be our guide to Jesus!

DONNA (this is the original version- written in Italian, 8 Mar 2021)
Tu sei mia madre, mia sorella, mia moglie, la mia amica e a volte anche la mia nemica! Perche' mi vuoi bene! Ma tu sei anche la mia roccia, il mio rifugio nelle intemperie della vita.
Donna, tu sei anche la madre del mio Signore e Salvatore Gesu', Madre mia e del mondo!
Maria, tu sei la mia guida, la mia stella polare nell'immenso dell'infinito! Tu sei la mia bussola, quella che mi porta a Gesu'!



COUNTRY OR POLITICAL CONVENIENCE?

AN OPEN LETTER TO NY STATE SENATOR Jim Tedisco Posted on my FB page and emailed to the Schenectady Daily Gazette. 3-7-2

 

Senator Tedisco is requesting that Governor Cuomo resigns. I think that he is not being fair, although I agree with him that the governor should resign. I also thought that President Trump should have resigned on January 7, of this year, but he did not. And unfortunately, Mr. Tedisco has never said a word about former President Trump's immoral behavior and actions.

Now he says that a liberal newspaper, the Albany Times Union, is also asking that Cuomo resigns. However, I want him to be aware that many major US newspapers asked the same thing of former President Trump- to resign- when he was on trial for impeachment- both the first and second time. But he refused, and his Party also failed to do justice and decided to let him off the hook!
 
Here, in the links below, you will find an article that shows some of those newspapers, that requested former President Trump's resignation, which never came.

But now you expect Governor Cuomo to listen to you? Why should he do so? You and most Republicans never listened to the American people before when it was President Trump time to leave his office for good for his many crimes and for acts of treason of January 6! 

Please read this article to refresh your memory. I hope that, you and all the Republicans who support former President Trump, will have the courage to do what is right, just, and decent for our country, not what is politically convenient.


There are those who say:  
WHOEVER IS SILENT AGREES
FB post 3-3-21
But it is also true that sometimes we must not remain silent, especially when it comes to defending the truth, or fighting other evils, such as wickedness, hatred, injustice, violence, etc. If we have to be silent; then, the least we can do is PRAY!

C'e chi dice: CHI TACE ACCONSENTE
(originally written in Italian)
Ma e' anche vero che a volte non dobbiamo tacere, specialmente quando si tratta di difendere la verita', o combattere altri mali, come la cattiveria, l'odio, l'ingiustizia, la malvagita', la violenza, ecc. Se dobbiamo state zitti, il minimo che possiamo fare e' PREGARE!

NO ONE SHOULD BE ABOVE THE LAW

FB post 2-28-21 and letter emailed to Albany’s Times Union

I agree that an independent investigation should be carried out to discern if Governor Andrew Cuomo broke the law, and if found guilty, he should be held accountable.

However, justice has becoming increasingly difficult to get in America. An American president just got away with telling lies about this pandemic, mocking scientists and inciting an insurrection, which produced the ransacking of the Capitol and 7 deaths. And although he was impeached and got away with his crime because his Party did not have the moral courage to punish him.

And some people are demanding that Cuomo resign.  But did President Trump resign? Did he show any remorse for the damage he caused to our country? Did he apologize to the families of the dead and the wounded in the Capitol attack?

Others want Governor Cuomo impeached, and he should also be denied his state pension. But if we are fair people, we must ask ourselves: Did Trump get his just punishment for what he did?

No one should be above the law, not even a governor and not even a president. In fact, they should be held to higher standards!

But let us not be hypocritical and defend those that we like and/or agree with, even when they break the law!

Our nation is in trouble, our state is too, because of MORAL DEGRADATION at the helm. While millions are suffering!

Let us not be hypocritical, and instead have the courage to hold all political leaders accountable and to the highest ethical standards! No matter their Party affiliation. Justice must be carried out justly so that corruption, and bad leaders, can be extricated from our government.


POPE'S ENEMIES WITHIN THE CHURCH
Letter to the Schenectady Daily Gazette, by OLP 2-27-21

Some high-level Catholic leaders, cardinals, and bishops, have committed/covered up sexual scandals, money fraud, and some even criticize and attack the pope! They accuse him of being too liberal!

While in the past, others accused Pope John Paul of being too strict! Today these accusers have the audacity to refuse the Eucharist to faithful who commit grave sins. Lately they have turned against President Biden for his pro-choice stance- so they criticize and attack him and claim that he is not worthy of the Eucharist.
However, I wonder if these religious leaders ever criticized and/or refused the Eucharist to their fellow corrupt bishops and cardinals. I also wonder if they ever scolded former President Trump- the first president in 130 years- who enacted the federal death penalty and sent 17 inmates to death. Former President Trump also lied, derided people and institutions, and even countries! He also cut food stamps and social services from the poor to save money! While giving huge tax breaks to billionaires!
Catholic pastors have forgotten Jesus words about accusing others and questioning authority: "Who is without sin, can throw the first stone."- John 8:7
“You hypocrite, first take the plank out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye. - Matthew 7:5
“Every kingdom divided against itself is brought to desolation, and every city or house divided against itself will not stand.” – Matthew 12:25
It is obvious that these high-profile Catholic accusers are HYPOCRITES!


The following below, are the last parts of an editorial article published by NCRONLINE on Feb 26, 2021, by Michael Sean Winters. It is titled: Anonymous bishops take potshots at pope.
Maier's anonymous bishops also apparently need a refresher course in canon law. "Several voiced irritation with Washington's Cardinal Wilton Gregory for undercutting conference leadership on the issue of Communion and President Biden's problematic sacramental status," he writes. The conference has no juridical role in deciding who should, or should not, be barred from the Communion rail. Gregory is the bishop of the church of Washington, D.C., not anyone else. The irritation of the unnamed bishops is of no consequence.
Cardinal Gregory and President Biden are in good company, as Maier has some choice observations for the pope too. He writes:
All of the men I spoke with expressed a sincere fidelity to the Holy Father. Many praised his efforts to reshape the Roman curia toward a more supportive, service-oriented posture in dealing with local bishops. But many also voiced an equally vigorous frustration with what they see as his ambiguous comments and behavior, which too often feed confusion among the faithful, encourage conflict, and undermine bishops' ability to teach and lead.

So, they thought he was a nice guy when they visited with him during their ad limina meetings, but they think he is not a very good pope, is that it? The canard about ambiguity in teaching and confusion among the faithful has been around since the dubia cardinals launched their attack on Pope Francis in 2016. It is a staple at rightwing websites like LifeSiteNews, First Things and the EWTN-owned National Catholic Register. If the bishops with whom Maier spoke can't grasp Francis' good faith effort to do more by way of pastoral ministry than hurl a copy of the catechism at the lay faithful, then I think we can question just how "sincere" their fidelity to the Holy Father is.

Maier is part of a cabal of conservative lay Catholics who have become influential with certain churchmen. Last month, it was George Weigel's opportunity to attack Biden, and last year, he published a book, The Next Pope, that was one long criticism of Francis. This month, it is Maier's turn. Fr. Raymond De Souza was quick to praise Cardinal Robert Sarah after the cardinal's resignation was accepted, and the cardinal sent out a churlish tweet with "The only rock is Christ." The Register's Edward Pentin, who broke the news about the Viganò testimony calling on Francis to resign, is another part of the anti-Francis brigade.

Who is Fran Maier? He is the longtime amanuensis and senior advisor to former Philadelphia Archbishop Charles Chaput. A gifted writer, Maier is now a senior fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center and a research associate in Constitutional Studies at the University of Notre Dame.
Maier penned a column on First Things, strangely, even creepily, entitled "Somebody Needs to be Dad" that presents the results of confidential interviews he conducted with 28 U.S. bishops in recent months.
Maier relates some unexceptional observations: The revenues of most dioceses have been affected by COVID-19 but not as badly as feared; sacramental participation rates continue to decline; administrative tasks tend to overwhelm the daily routine.
It stands to reason that different people would warm to different popes, as they warm to different political parties or to different kinds of entertainment. What is most remarkable, however, in the writings of the anti-Francis cabal is the fact that they make no effort to cover-up the palpable sensation that they are behaving like children who have had a toy taken away from them. How dare the American people elect Biden. How dare the cardinals elect Francis. That tone emerges in all their writings. Every time.
In this instance, the problem is more than one of tone, however. Some may think that hiding behind anonymity doesn't matter, and maybe it didn't when Maier was ghosting for Chaput. But when you are affiliated with a modern research university, presenting the results of a series of interviews as significant implies a certain veneer of social science. You can't just call your buddies and suggest they are a representative sample. Maier should release the names of the bishops he interviewed. He need not connect any particular bishop with any particular statement. But if we are to accept his conclusions as meaningful, we have a right to know if his sample was representative or not.
Besides, what is Maier's qualification to be involved in a program on constitutional studies? He used to work down the street from the Liberty Bell. Does that count? And what does this foray into the views of his former boss' allies among the bishops have to do with constitutional studies? Certainly, nothing he writes here answers those questions. Nothing he writes here answers any questions really.
Nor does relating cowardly anonymous attacks on the pope and leading members of the American hierarchy cohere with the mission of America's flagship Catholic university, even if it is standard fare at First Things. Fr. John Jenkins: Call your office!
Archbishop Gomez, who would know Maier from their time together in Denver 20 years ago and is now the elected leader of the U.S. bishops, should call his office also. Does this article reflect the views of the bishops as a body? Are they all, or at least a majority, "frustrated" with the pope and, if so, what is Gomez planning to do about it? Is the U.S. hierarchy committed to exercising their ministry sub Petro et cum Petro or not?
Copyright © The National Catholic Reporter Publishing Company
To read the whole article, click on this image below or this link https://www.ncronline.org/.../anonymous-bishops-take...


DEATH IS NOT THE END. FB post, 21 February 2021

I want to share with you some books, videos, and films, and online articles that talk about life after death, or NDEs (Near Death Experiences), of people who have died temporarily (due to accidents, heart attacks, illness, and/or coma, etc.), who have come back to life, and have revealed/talked about their experiences in the afterlife. And there were others who did not die but went into a coma and then (some after many years) returned to normal.

I believe in eternal life based on four points; my Christian faith, my reason and my knowledge. 

My Christian faith and Holy Scriptures tell me that I was born because I am a product, a being, a soul created by God, who loves me very much. 

Reason and knowledge give me proof of the existence of life after death. Reason and knowledge are both part of our intellect, which make us understand many things. For example, creation; that is, the earth with its laws, all its living beings, and the entire universe, and these cannot be the result of coincidence, or rather of a random creation caused by the Big Bang and/or evolution. No, creation was set in motion, created, generated by God. However, reason also tells me that my mind's capacity is limited; therefore I can't see/understand everything in the universe. So, if I can't see something- it doesn't mean that it cannot exist!

I often ask myself: How is it possible that a planet as fantastic as the earth came out of the chaos of the Big Bang? With its laws of physics, its power but also its fragility, its indescribable beauty, with its myriad beings, also incredibly beautiful, intelligent, and fantastic. How is this possible? Why is the earth unique? Why did God make it for us? And he told us to enjoy it, but also to take care of it - as a sign of love and respect for the gift he gave us. And of course, we must also take care of all creation, all that God has done for us, including ourselves, living beings - man! We, his children.

Life after death continues, and not only on the basis of our faith, our reason and knowledge, but also on the basis of our experiences - which can give us strong evidence regarding the existence of life after death. I would call these experiences spiritual, and/or inexplicable/supernatural experiences.

I personally have gone through some real personal experiences. I call them spiritual and/or inexplicable experiences. They happened when I was a teenager, after my mother's death (when I was 13), and later in my life, when I was a young father. In these experiences mother made me feel her presence many times. Immediately after her death, my mother often came to me in my dreams, especially at times of difficulty. And afterwards, twice, her presence was much stronger- very palpable. Obvious and very strong! Those two times that I felt close to her, it was an internal feeling - that is to say, I felt it in my soul. I do not know how to explain it; I didn't see her, but I felt her presence close to me! The first time I felt her presence was when my daughter was born. I felt her unmistakable/palpable (real) presence, again with my daughter, when I was taking her to visit a college to start her master’s course.

Science also makes me believe in life after death. We will find the evidence in these videos, books, and articles. 

Below I have provided a list of books, videos, and online articles about NDEs, life after death. I hope these stories are of comfort and hope to everyone, especially those of you who have recently lost a loved one, and/or have a family member who is ill gravely and may have little time left, or someone in a coma who has little hope of regaining faith and love. As we can see in the first two videos; they show us that there is always hope- even for those who have faith but are persistent- they do not give up.

So let's not be afraid and/or embittered and have faith in God, because death is not the end!






NDE VIDEOS & MOVIES

1.    Life to Afterlife Death and Back Full Official Movie (96 min)Feb 8, 2021 https://youtu.be/Hm-IGeVpJ-

Life to Afterlife Death and Back Full Official Movie from the official creator. In this episode of Life to Afterlife, Craig McMahon interviews four people that died but came back to life, or also known as NDE, Near Death Experience. Their amazing stories will shock some and comfort others. Erica sees heaven, Ingrid communicates with beings of light, Howard visits hell, and Tricia witnesses three spiritual beings assist surgeons on her spine.


2.    Surviving Death (2021) Netflix Documentary Series Review(5.4 min) Jan 6, 2021  Surviving Death, the new Netflix documentary series, explores questions that have been contemplated throughout time: What does it mean to die, and is death the end of our existence? Is this documentary series worth the watch? Thanks for checking out my review of Surviving Death! https://youtu.be/HaoM6GUP66o

3.    Surviving Death | Official Trailer | Netflix (1.3 min) Jan 4, 2021

What does it mean to die, and is death the end of our existence? Weaving together innovative new research with firsthand accounts from those who’ve been close to—and even experienced—death, this series takes viewers on an extraordinary journey into a world beyond human existence as we know it. https://youtu.be/Cq5V9SgO1_A



4.    Beyond Death (Full Episode) | The Story of God with Morgan Freeman (50.18 min) Dec 27, 2020  https://youtu.be/wZORPVmXN7k

Host Morgan Freeman explores how different religions of past and present answer the question: What happens when we die?


Article

What does the Bible say about death?

https://www.bibleinfo.com/en/questions/what-does-bible-say-about-death

It’s a question that has crossed everyone’s mind, because death happens to everyone, regardless of age, race, gender, religion, or status. Death is the unconquerable foe that has taken over the likes of Alexander the Great and Julius Caesar. Postulates or theories by minds like Einstein or Stephen Hawking can never be proved upon this subject. So what does the Bible say?

YouTube Videos IN ITALIAN

1.    Si Sveglia Da Un Coma Di 27 Minuti, ECCO COSA HA VISTO

(10 min) Nov 6, 2020 https://youtu.be/GpcWFiWuHfo

 

2.   Undicenne Finisce in Coma, si Sveglia dopo 4 Anni e Svela un Segreto Agghiacciante "Sentiva Tutto"(10 min) 10 giugno 2020

https://youtu.be/pwWPFs98aJk

Undicenne Finisce in Coma, si Sveglia dopo 4 Anni e Svela un Segreto Agghiacciante "Sentiva Tutto"

 

3.    Sara, la bimba che ha sognato la Madonna prima di morire (33 min) https://youtu.be/m1_1IZOJkYo

Sara, la bimba che ha sognato la Madonna prima di morire. Il racconto in studio a Bel tempo si spera della mamma Anna Armentano.

 

4.    Salvatore: "Ero morto da 16 ore, poi ho riaperto gli occhi" - La vita in diretta 20/12/2018 (13 min) https://youtu.be/ygxJUflGHFs

Un caso di morte apparente? Salvatore ci racconta la sua storia. Di quando, da bambino, si risvegliò durante la sua veglia funebre.

 

5.  Cosa c'è dopo la MORTE? (5 min) 16 aprile, 2017

https://youtu.be/uDzsPwA-JCg


6.    Torna in vita dopo 20 minuti di morte: ecco cosa ha visto (2 min)

23 Ott. 2017 https://youtu.be/h3HAn_21tVg

L'incredibile storia di Zack Clements. Si risveglia dopo 20 minuti di morte cerebrale e racconta un'esperienza incredibile

 

7.   Dott. Carlo Cipolla: La Vita Oltre la Vita (Credere, Sperare, Pensare...) (18 min) Dec 22, 2013    https://youtu.be/uJrtGrGOVlM

Una notte in terapia intensiva, due donne in arresto cardiaco a poche ore di distanza una dall'altra, di estrazione sociale diversa, di cultura diversa, una religiosa una laica, due donne che più diverse non potrebbero essere... il Dott Carlo Cipolla, Direttore della Divisione di Cardiologia dell'IEO di Milano ci racconta cosa successe quella notte e cosa gli raccontarono le due donne a distanza di circa un anno su ciò che avevano provato mentre erano in arresto cardiaco, e cioè un'esperienza molto simile nei loro racconti di vita oltre la vita, in quel tunnel di luce che molti hanno testimoniato di aver visto e che rimane uno dei misteri più affascinanti della mente umana (o per chi è credente della conferma che esiste un "dopo") ma che comunque emoziona e fa pensare...

 

8.    Voyager Vita dopo la morte, intervista a Eben Alexander (proof of heaven).avi (38 min) Feb 8, 2013 https://youtu.be/P1RWOKdC8zw

Articoli /ARTICLES IN ITALIAN

1.    Cosa succede dopo la Morte? Cosa dice la Bibbia? Da la Luce di Maria 18/03/2015https://www.lalucedimaria.it/cosa-succede-dopo-la-morte/

Una domanda che tutti si pongono è: Cosa accade dopo la morte? Dove si va quando si muore? L’anima, il cielo, l’inferno… cosa c’è di vero? Nel corso dei secoli l’uomo ha cercato di darsi delle risposte cercando nella filosofia e nelle tradizioni religiose, nel tentativo di sottrarsi al timore generato da quegli interrogativi.

In questo studio daremo brevemente uno sguardo alle principali idee umane e religiose su questi argomenti, e infine vedremo cosa dice la Bibbia in proposito.

2.   Vita dopo la morte - Cristolibera.it

Dalla Bibbia sappiamo molte cose su questo argomento. ... Cosa significano la Sua morte e la Sua resurrezione? ... Che cosa ci aspetta nell' aldilà? ... In Daniele 12:1-4, Daniele parla della fine dei tempi quando dice, “molti di quelli che ... Cristo, il Figlio di Dio, ha fatto in modo che anche noi fossimo vincitori sulla morte. https://www.cristolibera.it/Vita_dopo_morte.html

Di Betty Miller. Al giorno d’oggi, la maggior parte delle persone fa fatica a capire il fatto che lo spirito è eterno, immortale. Persino coloro che si dicono “religiosi” spesso credono in una sorta di vita dopo la morte. L’unica cosa è che non sono sicuri di ciò che sia; altri ancora non lo vogliono neanche sapere. L’Inferno non è un argomento molto di moda. Gli insegnamenti della New Age (Nuova Era) hanno introdotto nella nostra società un concetto vago e molto “comodo” della vita dopo la morte.

 


PEACE CANNOT BE BUILT ON ARMS ONLY!
FB post 2-18-21







I realize the world is unstable with many crazy fanatics ready to destroy us! We need weapons to defend stability and peace in order to keep at bay those who seek to annihilate us.
I also realize that the world's richest countries need reduce our military spending because it is unsustainable! We cannot afford to continue spending billions, while people are starving, have no food, no health care, no education, no hope!
It seems that we have not yet learned our lessons! Look at us, humanity is on its knees! The covid19 pandemic has killed millions! And yet, most of our tax money, here in the USA (59 cent for every federal tax dollar we pay), is spent on defense! That's way too much! It is simply immoral! And unnecessary! We are enriching the already rich defense industry, the defense contractors, and arms dealers! But it's taking away needed funds from health care, the infrastructure (roads, bridges, the antiquated US railway system), from education, from research, from the protection of the environment and of badly needed social services; we have over 50 million poor in the USA, close to a billion poor in the world and over 75 million refugees all over the world! etc., etc.!
Reducing our defense budget by 10-20 percent, or even freezing it for a few years- won't threaten our military security! But keeping on spending this outrageous amount of money on armaments isn't making our planet any safer!
Please, write your elected officials at the national level and demand a reduction in the defense budget! Do it for our children and their future on this planet! Thank you!

                    8 Doves in Space. Acrylic on canvas board.

Petition calls for Archbishop Naumann's removal as bishops' pro-life chair

More than 20,000 individuals signed a petition calling for Archbishop Joseph Naumann to be removed as chairman of the U.S. bishops' pro-life committee after he signaled hostility towards President Joe Biden over his position on abortion.

Source:
https://www.ncronline.org/news/people/petition-calls-archbishop-naumanns-removal-bishops-pro-life-chair?fbclid=IwAR3EVcVIFqV63m9eymctTJ9NjpK1rlRG3hSkZ5Aa4ZbDxe0WmsaAT3rskgc



The CLERGY SHOULD ALSO BE ASHAMED OF SEXUAL CHILD ABUSES AND FINANCIAL ABUSES! FB Post 18 March, 2021
Antwerp Bishop Johan Bonny said he felt "shame for my church" at the Vatican statement against blessing same-sex unions and added: "I want to apologize to all for whom this is painful and incomprehensible."

BRUSSELS — A Belgian bishop has lashed out at the Vatican over its decree that the Catholic Church won't bless same-sex unions since God "cannot bless sin."

Antwerp Bishop Johan Bonny wrote in an opinion piece Wednesday that he feels "shame for my Church" and "intellectual and moral incomprehension" after Pope Francis approved the "negative" response to a question about whether Catholic clergy have the authority to bless same-sex unions. The official response said God "does not and cannot bless sin."

The Vatican holds that gay people must be treated with dignity and respect, but that gay sex is "intrinsically disordered." Catholic teaching says that marriage is a lifelong union between a man and a woman that is part of God's plan and intended for creating new life.

The orthodoxy office's document argued that same-sex unions can't be blessed by the Catholic Church because they are not part of that plan.

God "does not and cannot bless sin: He blesses sinful man, so that he may recognize that he is part of his plan of love and allow himself to be changed by him," the note said.

In his opinion piece published in Belgian newspaper De Standaard, Bonny countered that "sin is one of the most difficult theological and moral categories to define, and one of the last to pin on people and their way of living together."

The Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith issued a similar decree in 2003 that said the church's respect for gay people "cannot lead in any way to approval of homosexual behavior or to legal recognition of homosexual unions."

Belgium has historically been a staunch Roman Catholic country with strong ties to the Vatican. But the number of believers and attendance at church services has shrunk over the past decades.

The nation is dotted with churches great and small, but their death announcements almost invariably outnumber those for baptisms.

Source:
https://www.ncronline.org/news/justice/belgian-bishop-lashes-out-vatican-over-gay-unions-decree?fbclid=IwAR0qB4KW0AJXpuB7ugybIA4drAJrhS-fPh4LYpFWEp2poGb5FD61-t2aiek



I DESPISE HYPOCRISY FB post 2-17-21

On February 13, in an interview published in the Catholic World Report.com Archbishop Nauman, the Archbishop of Kansas City, and of Kansas, the current chairman USCCB’s Committee on Pro-Life Activities, discussed the March for Life and other pro-life work, controversy over vaccines, and why he stated that Joe Biden is “usurping the role of the bishops and confusing people."

I have been a lifelong devout Catholic and I can tell you that Joe Biden is not “usurping the role of the bishops and people." Joe Biden isn't confusing me either, because he has said clearly that he is personally opposed to abortion, but cannot force his Catholic beliefs on women.

Therefore, I think that it's not President Biden who is “usurping the role of the bishops and people," but rather some bishops and cardinals who are questioning the moral authority of the Church and the pope- with their rogue immoral behavior! I am referring to those bishops who accuse President Joe Biden and others, of being bad Catholics, and they say this in public! This certainly against Church teachings because they are breaking the wow of silence. No priest has the authority to divulge peoples' sins. This is one of your requirements as a Catholic priests.

It seems to me that many Catholic pastors have forgotten Jesus words about accusing others: "WHO IS WITHOUT SIN, CAN THROW THE FIRST STONE."

Some of these high-level Catholic leaders also think that it is Ok to deny the Eucharist- only because people support freedom of choice. But shouldn’t they also deny the Eucharist to those who commit other horrible sins? Like sexually abusing minors, and stealing money from the Church's coffers?

Is this a habit of yours, to accuse others of their sins in public? What about past Presidents? Did you accuse former President Trump of some of his sins? We know he had many! He told over 35,000 lies, mocked others, as the desperate immigrants and refugees. Did you accuse him of cutting food stamps from the very poor? (over 700,000!).
Did you accuse him of enacting the federal death penalty (after 130 years!) and executed many inmates in the last years of his presidency (see the sources at the end of this post), he also slammed doors on immigrants and refugees, and he separated immigrant families and put their children in cages. telling lies/deceiving voters, and cutting food stamps and social services from the poor, spending billions on armaments, supporting and the death penalty.
Did you accuse/scold former President Trump of his abuses of power and being arrogant, offensive and degrading? Did you accuse him of inciting hate and many lies, including election fraud (without any evidence)! And finally, did you accuse him of fomenting violence with his big lie of election fraud and inciting a mob on January 6 into "fighting like hell" and attack the Capitol in order to stop the peaceful transfer of power in our nation?
I don't think that you accused former POTUS even once! Why? Is it because he claimed to be a pro-life president? But was he really? And what about the adult lives he destroyed with his hatred, his lies and deceitful ways and policies that undercut the needy, the environment, health care, etc.. While his policies benefitted himself and the wealthy!

What about former President Trump's sins of neglecting poverty, abuse, persecution, wars, hunger, droughts, environmental disasters? These are mostly human actions/disasters that have contributed to over 75 million of refugees throughout the world! Thanks also to the shockingly enormous amount of money/resources that the top 10 RICHEST NATIONS spend annually on armaments. These countries include the USA, which is the biggest defense spender! It spends as much as all of them.

I have been a faithful Catholic all my life. I'm in my mid 60s, and I despise HYPOCRISY. And with all due respect archbishop, I must say that there's lots of it in our own Catholic Church! Why are you, and other bishops and cardinals, accusing President Biden of being a bad Catholic in public- isn't this against Church teachings? Aren't you supposed be quiet about the sins of other people? Aren't you supposed to keep the wow of silence? Isn't this one of your requirements as a Catholic priest? Of course it is!
However, you think you have the right to criticize and/accuse anyone in public? Even the the current POTUS! What about the former one? What about the sins of your own brother cardinals, bishops and priests who have committed ugly/grave sins?

Dear archbishop, I do not hate anyone! Don't worry, I am only an independent thinker and a pacifist, who rejects evil and violence, and believes in kindness, in truth, freedom of conscience. In addition, I love and trust Our Lord! And His Mother, our Mother Mary, who is the Queen of the Church, therefore I'll always be faithful to God.
But I am upset at these injustices and hypocritical behaviors! Which, unfortunately have been with us a long time. I see high level of Catholics religious, including priests, who are jealous of other priests, even the pope and the saints! Like Saint Padre Pio of Pietralcina! Some of his own brother priests accused him of being a con! A fake! And a deceiver! That his stigmata were fake, a fruit of his imagination! And our Church believed some of these lies! Hence, Padre Pio was forbidden to say Mass for 10 years!
But that's not all the hypocrisy I've seen, and I want to tell you about. Please, forgive me, if I continue, but I must. Why? Because the truth shall set us free! And because I care for the Church, which sadly has become arrogant, divisive, selective, judgmental, insensitive, hypocritical and sinful!

I met a priest about 30 years ago who was upset at Pope John Paul II! The priest vehemently complained that John Paul was to strict! And now many high level Catholic religious, even some cardinals and bishops, attack and criticize Pope Francis for being too liberal!

If we believe that popes are selected by the Holy Spirit, why do they attack and accuse him unjustly/erroneously and blame him of destroying the Church? Isn't the Pope the vicar of Christ? Didn't the cardinals chose/elect him? So, why do some of them, the black sheep of the Church, attack and accuse him him of perverting the Church and its doctrine? Certainly, this is a rebellion! Don't you think?
So, in all humility and due respect, I'd like to remind you and all other Catholic leaders, that the Bible tells us that we're all sinners. In fact, there are also high level sinners in our Catholic Church. Aren't they? We've heard of cardinals and bishops, who have committed horrendous sins, and therefore should have been fired and/or at the very least excommunicated. What kind of sins am I talking about? Sexual and financial abuses! And then covering these disgusting crimes!
So, I again respectfully remind you what the Bible says, about judging others: BEFORE YOU TAKE TAKE THE SPECK OUT OF YOUR BROTHER, TAKE THE LOG OFF YOURS!
I understand that you're a leader, and I think that good leaders should at least be consistent- therefore you should point the finger at all sinners! Not just the ones you disagree with on political/moral matters! And/or political Parties! Because no US political party is fully, truly pro-life! In fact, both are supporting a culture of death! The republicans forbid all abortions, but yet they are for the death penalty, for cutting funds from the poor, the middle class, the environment and many other social programs! While they give huge tax breaks to the wealthy, spend enormous amount of our tax dollars on defense/armaments, and on regime change wars! And when it comes to curbing gun violence, they say: WE DO NOT PULL THE TRIGGERS!

While innocent citizens are murdered in mass shooting in our cities and our schools! And Republicans still continue refusing to pass common sense gun legislation! I'm not proposing to ban all guns, but to have at least some controls in order to reduce the suffering and the number of murders, which are over 33,000 annually!
Then we have the Democrats; who have very permissive, or should I say, radical abortion laws? That encourage abortion on demand anytime during a pregnancy. And most democrats say: WE DO NOT FORCE WOMEN TO HAVE ABORTIONS!
Both political parties are right in a way! They do not force anyone to use/kill with guns and or abortions! And they do not force any women into having abortions! However, their policies encourage and support this culture of death! So, both parties act like the roman governor, Pontius Pilate! They wash their hands! They refuse to take responsibility!
Then we have religious people like you, who only see abortion as the evils of society. You are right, you should speak up, but what about all the other evils I mentioned above? Don't they make people suffer and die too?!? Of course! Life isn't only in the wombs!
People who are sensitive, informed and concerned can see that the problems in our society are many, it's not just abortions. So, how can we prevent these huge problems/issues that are destroying the heart and soul of our nation? What do we do?

I think that as Catholics, we need to pray and ask for God's forgiveness. Second, we must ask God to illuminate our minds/hearts, so that we start being understanding and considerate toward everyone, even those we disagree with. Third, we must find common ground and work together in reducing societies' ills; suffering (often caused caused by ignorance), by poverty, which often brings women to abort because they can't afford a full term pregnancy!

And then there are many other poor people who resort to crime and guns! Poverty, abuse, persecution, wars, hunger, droughts, environmental disasters, all of these ills have contributed to over 75 millions of refugees throughout the world! And yet the top 10 RICHEST NATIONS still spend enormous amounts on armaments. These countries include the USA, the biggest defense spender! It spends as much as all of them combined! I agree with pope Francis when he says: LET'S NOT be SELECTIVE of ONLY CERTAIN SINS, BECAUSE ALL ARE EVIL!
I'm sorry for being long in this response, but I needed to respectfully vent! Because I love and care for the Church; and my objective isn't pointing the finger at anyone, and/or accusing anyone. No, but I hope and pray that you and all Church leaders listen and stop being selective in your opinions/criticism and/or accusations, and instead try to be fair, and criticize all sin and sinners- not just abortion on demand.
I'm not a theologian, I'm a simple person. I am a married father of 2 adult children, a school teacher, and a retired US veteran, who loves all life, not just the life in the womb. I also believe that abortion is wrong, but banning abortion and guns, won't work in reducing suffering and death. We need compassion and regulations to protect life from those who abuse the system, the liars and cheaters.
As you can see from my response, I'm a not a confused Catholic, I just despise the HYPOCRISY, especially when it comes from religious and political leaders. Additionally, I think that we, Catholics, can't force our religious views/beliefs on the population because of Church-State separation laws, and because there are millions who aren't Catholics. America is a multi-cultural society; there are Buddhists, Protestants, Jewish, Muslims, Hindus, atheists etc.. We are also a minority. Would you want them to force their views/beliefs on us? If we impose our belief on others, then we're going to incite misunderstanding, resentment, hate, which are things that usually lead to violence.
I hope that you will not get upset since I disagree with you, and I hope you'll appreciate my frankness, and finally, I also hope that you will pray about all points I made here.



Here are is proof that Trump isn't pro life! He's executed many people during his failed presidency. By BBC.Com
In Trump’s final days, a rush of federal executions. By Holly Honderich
Five people have been executed in the run-up to President-elect Joe Biden's 20 January inauguration - breaking with an 130-year-old precedent of pausing executions amid a presidential transition.
They make Mr. Trump the country's most prolific execution president in more than a century, overseeing the executions of 13 death row inmates since July of this year.

Trump administration has executed more Americans than all states combined, report finds. This article is more than 2 months old. By The Guardian. The execution spree was a first in US history and stands contrary to the declining trend in death penalty practices
Donald Trump has added a morbid new distinction to his presidency – for the first time in US history, the federal government has in one year executed more American civilians than all the states combined.
In the course of 2020, in an unprecedented glut of judicial killing, the Trump administration rushed to put 10 prisoners to death. The execution spree ran roughshod over historical norms and stood entirely contrary to the decline in the practice of the death penalty that has been the trend in the US for several years.
The outlier nature of the Trump administration’s thirst for blood is set out in the year-end report of the Death Penalty Information Center (DPIC). In recent years, the annual review has highlighted the steady withering away of executions, all of which were carried out by individual states.

VIDEOS ON THE Jan 6, 2021 US CAPITOL TERRORIST ATTACK
Please watch these videos and tell me if this isn't sinful.
1. The warning signs before the Capitol riot (6 min) 1-16-21
https://youtu.be/hqvOcr0uu9o No one should have been surprised.

2. Unpacking the Capitol Riot & Four Years of Trump’s Bulls**t | The Daily Social Distancing Show (11 min) https://youtu.be/j2CTK14LbvM Jan 19, 2021
The Daily Show with Trevor Noah. New information comes out about the Capitol riot, Fox News pundits defend the rioters, Lindsey Graham takes a stand against President Trump but then backtracks, and Republicans call for unity.

3. The Capitol Riots: An Hour-By-Hour Timeline
https://youtu.be/jXAv2cDkWAA Supporters of President Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2020, causing Congress to suspend proceedings to confirm the election of Joe Biden as president. The riot turned deadly when a woman who was shot by police died. The outbreak of chaos led to a historic day in America. Here's a timeline of the U.S. Capitol breach, the riot that ensued, and how U.S. lawmakers returned to confirm Joe Biden's victory in the electoral college.

4. Timeline of the U.S. Capitol Attack on Jan 6, 2021
Supporters of President Trump stormed the U.S. Capitol on Jan. 6, 2020, causing Congress to suspend proceedings to confirm the election of Joe Biden as president. The riot turned deadly when a woman who was shot by police died. The outbreak of chaos led to a historic day in America. Here's a timeline of the U.S. Capitol breach, the riot that ensued, and how U.S. lawmakers returned to confirm Joe Biden's victory in the electoral college.

5. Jordan Klepper Sees It All at The Capitol Insurrection | The Daily Social Distancing Show (6.5 min.) Jan 12, 2021
Pitchforks, Proud Boys, and a one-man “Tyranny Response Team.” Jordan Klepper saw it all at the Capitol insurrection.

6. Inside the Capitol Hill Riots (3.4 min) •Jan 9, 2021
This is what it was like to be inside the Capitol Hill insurrection.

7. A Reporter’s Footage from Inside the Capitol Siege | The New Yorker (12.31 min) https://youtu.be/270F8s5TEKY
Luke Mogelson followed Trump supporters as they forced their way into the U.S. Capitol, using his phone’s camera as a reporter’s notebook.

8. Governor Schwarzenegger's Message Following this Week's Attack on the Capitol (6.4 min) Jan 10, 2021. This is my message to my fellow Americans and my friends around the world after January 6, 2021.



GOOD PEOPLE MUST DENOUNCE AND REJECT ALL EVIL; ESPECIALLY HATRED, VIOLENCE, COMUNISM, FASCISM, NAZISM AND RACISM. We have all experienced some of these here in the USA, but I also have close family members, in Italy, who experienced the effects of Fascism! 2-16-21


How can we say that we are good people is we support any of the evils above? No one who says I try to be a good person should have anything to do with the evil ways I mentioned above. If anyone uses those methods, then we know that they are naïve, and/or ignorant, hence they deceive us and themselves too. People who claim to be good, but then resort to evil ways, are false prophets- they are the opposite of goodness.

Did Jesus ever encourage and/or supported violence against the establishment of his time? He never did! He never instigated and/or tell His followers to fight the leaders of the time. According to history we know that the main authorities during the life of Jesus, were Tiberius Caesar (Roman Emperor), Pontius Pilatus (Roman governor), Herod Antipas (King of Judea), and Joseph Caiaphas. Although they exercised control over the economy, military, civil law, and the religious establishment, their power faded, and their influence was only temporary.

So, what do we do when we see evil? Not too long ago, Americans witnessed it on 9/11/01, and just recently we saw the ugly/violent events of January 6, 2021. The terrorists attack of 9/11 was carried out by foreigners; people who thought that they were acting on God’s behalf to punish America for its imperialism and evils all over the world. The terrorists killed 3,000 people that fateful dark day in our history.

Those who inspired and carried out the US Capitol insurrection and attack were white Americans “patriotic” who thought too that they were acting on God’s behalf to save America, When in reality they were listening to former President Trump’s false claims of election fraud. The former president fallowers resorted to violence and humiliation of our nation, in order to prevent the peaceful transfer of power- the certification of the election results- Joe Biden’s lawful win.

Nevertheless, the Americans who ransacked the Capitol were Americans who believe that they are good people. And yet, they caused the death of 7 people.  Theirs was a humiliating and degrading  act because our president incited it, he lit the fire by spreading the big lie; a fraudulent election- without any proof- even his own AG, confirmed that there was no election fraud whatsoever! And close to 60 judges (Republicans and Democrats) told former President Trump that there was indeed no fraud anywhere in the USA during the 2020 presidential election. In addition, there has never been any major/serious election fraud anywhere/anytime in the US’s history. 

My family in Italy experienced the effects of Benito Mussolini’s Fascist government. My dad was 8 years old, poor, hungry and without shoes, when Mussolini (called “il Duce”- the leader) was in power. My dad often tells me of those ugly and difficult times. He said that he was hungry every day, and he ate all kinds of greens he could find in the countryside. One time he was so hungry that he dared to steal a loaf of bread from the German soldiers camping outside our hometown in Sicily. He also tells me, that at that time, people were not allowed to congregate in public places, if two were seen talking by the “camice nere”, the black shirts (the Duce’s policing teams). The people they harassed  would get arrested, others would be sent away, “al confine”, to the border- away from everyone they knew. Many got beat up and killed by the camice nere.

So, what is my point? My point is that Fascism, Nazism, Communism and Racism are all violent ways that good/decent peace-loving people cannot even think to support because they are evil; they all resort to violence to reach their sick, perverted, deadly ways. So, let us not be deceived and allow evil political leaders/dictators to take office, because they will sooner or later resort to abuse, deceit,  lies, hate, violence, wars, aggressive confrontations, with threats, torture, murdering in order to get what they want and stay in power at all means. We can find better ways to get them out than murdering them,

Do good people have to obey the governments? What does the Bible say? I found the answers in Got Questions Your Questions Biblical Answers, an online article titled, Do Christians have to obey the laws of the land? Here are the major points.

Romans 13:1-7 tells us,   “Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”


The above passage is obvious- we either obey the rulers appointed over us, or sooner or later God will punish us. But that is not all Genesis 9:6 says: “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.” 

Is God telling us to seek revenge? Or use capital punishment (the death penalty) as a form of justice. I do not think so, because Jesus warned us not to seek revenge. Have you heard the saying: "Live by the sword, die by the sword"?

This is a phrase that comes from the Gospel of Matthew 26:52)- it says: “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.

No, God wants us to be obedient, in fact Jesus gave us plenty of examples on how we should behave when dealing with the authority of the government. In Mark 12:17 Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” His reply completely amazed them.

1 Corinthians 14:33 says: "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God's holy people."

Romans 12:8 says: "if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."

So, it is clear that we are to obey the government; when paying taxes, obeying rules and laws, and showing respect. If we do not, we are showing disrespect towards God, for He is the One who placed that government over us. When the apostle Paul wrote to the Romans, he was under the government of Rome, which was very vicious. However, Paul recognized the Roman government’s rule over him. Should we do otherwise, hence cheat, or rebel and/or resort to violence?

But what if the government and/or leaders appointed over us are corrupt? Can we intentionally- freely disobey their orders and/or laws?  The Bible has also an answer in this regard. Acts 5:27-29 says, And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us.”  But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.

I invite you to learn about the lives of the world’s most violent dictators- not to imitate them- but to remind us that violent human can cause much suffering. I have listed some sources below. I also pray that we will never let anyone influence us (not even presidents and/or military leaders). We must stay clear; stay away from those who think and resort to violence and try to convince us that they we are doing something good for our country, and/or that they are following God’s ways.

God would never tell His children to hurt and/or kill another human being. God cannot and will not do that, because God is Love and Mercy. He is the One who gives life and the One who can take it away. God would never condone and/or accept violence. If someone tells you that violence is necessary to solve/stop a problem- do not believe them- there are many better non-violent ways to fix problems.

We must learn and follow the example of the world’s peacemakers like Jesus Christ, Cesar Chavez, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, Pope John Paul II, Francis, and many others. These are some of greatest leaders who have done good by building understanding, tolerance, peace, and justice.

And we must restore and return to duty, honor, respect (all people have dignity) responsibility (civic- choosing good leaders, doing what is best for our communities and the world),  respect/honor all peoples cultures and religions.

And finally,we must never resort to violence to solve our differences and/or problems. We have seen what dictatorial systems of Communism, Fascism, Nazism, and Racism have done to our brothers/sisters in the world.

For more info. on peace and social activists, on obeying the law/governments, on the evils committed by dictators, by Communism, Fascism, Nazism, and Racism see the following sources.

Social Activists- peace workers!

1.     5 non-violent activists you may not know https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/

 

2.    Most Famous Activists in History

by BRITTANY MCSORLEY 3 years ago in ACTIVISM / HISTORY / POLITICS / LIST History is shaped by those who take a stand and fight for change, such as the most famous activists in history. https://vocal.media/theSwamp/most-famous-activists-in-history

 

3.  The Fifty Most Influential Progressives of the Twentieth Century. The radical ideas of one generation become the common sense of the next. Here, Peter Dreier honors the people who moved progressive ideas in America from the marginal to the mainstream. https://www.thenation.com/article/archive/fifty-most-influential-progressives-twentieth-century/


4.  US Civil Rights Activists https://www.biography.com/people/groups/civil-rights-activists

5.  Top 10 Activists Who Made A Difference (video, 5.5 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el9lIgKFMpA

Top 10 Activists Who Made A Difference. We here at Babble Top have put together a list of the top 10 activists who made real historical differences in our world.


American Heroes & Social Activists

1. Mother Cabrini https://www.mothercabrini.org/who-we-are/mother-cabrini/

Saint Frances Cabrini, was also known as Maria Francesca Cabrini. She was an Italian immigrant and a catholic nun. She helped poor immigrant children by providing (them a home to stay, and by building many hospitals and orphanages throughout the USA. She was born in a small Italian village on July 15, 1850. She opened Columbus Hospital in New York. In 1909 Mother Cabrini became a U.S. citizen. She died on December 22, 1922. Pope Pius XII canonized her (declared her a saint in 1946 and named her Patroness, the protector of immigrants. She was the first U. S. citizen to be declared a saint.


2. Mother Cabrini - Official Trailer (1.3 min) 10-28-18https://youtu.be/KoTXo4yUzp0


3.  Cesar Chávez Cesar Chavez was born near Yuma, Arizona, on March 31, 1927, Cesar Chavez employed nonviolent means to bring attention to the plight of farmworkers, and formed both the National Farm Workers Association, which later became United Farm Workers. As a labor leader, Chavez led marches, called for boycotts and went on several hunger strikes. It is believed that Chavez's hunger strikes contributed to his death on April 23, 1993, in San Luis, Arizona.

 

4. Cesar Chavez - American Civil Rights Activist | Mini Bio | BIO  (2 min) https://youtu.be/Ns5NMHTk-yY?list=PL1q4nS4tiDfVzBYK8iFbuG0kMqDNBgfoH&t=2

5. Cesar Chavez - American Civil Rights Activist | Mini Bio | BIO (4 min) https://youtu.be/Ns5NMHTk-yY?list=PL1q4nS4tiDfVzBYK8iFbuG0kMqDNBgfoH&t=1

6. Cesar Chavez-Movie trailer (2 min)

Michael Peña stars as Cesar Chavez in this empowering biopic. Chavez inspired millions of Americans from all walks of life to fight for social justice. Also starring America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson and John Malkovich, this film chronicles Chavez' triumphant journey and is a testament to the power of one individual's ability to change the world. https://youtu.be/q81a7KBEMVs?t=12

7. Francis:The Pope From The New World - Full Documentary (51 min)

Francis: the Pope From the New World unveils the personality, passion, and extraordinary faith of the new Pope. Shot on location in Buenos Aires, and featuring interviews with close friends, collaborators, and his official biographer—this documentary paints an indelible portrait of a towering figure of our time.

https://youtu.be/aImytGrpoaY?t=1


8. Pope Francis Arrives In U.S., Rides Off In Fiat | MSNBC (4 min)

Anne Thompson reports on Pope Francis' departure from Joint Base Andrews in a small Fiat after saying goodbye to President Obama and the First Lady.

https://youtu.be/NnuXc-FWyEI?t=1

9.  NELSON MANDELA Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid revolutionary, political leader, and philanthropist (helper/donor) who served as President of South Africa from 1994 to 1999. He was the country's first black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election. Wikipedia Born: July 18, 1918, Mvezo, South Africa. Died: December 5, 2013, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, South Africa.

Nelson Mandela: Civil Rights Activist & President Of South Africa | Biography (6.5 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqoYmx_L-Xs

Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a nonviolence anti-apartheid activist, politician and philanthropist who became South Africa’s first black president. Find out more about his life in this short biography.


10.    Martin Luther King Jr. was an American Christian minister and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. BornJanuary 15, 1929, Atlanta, GA. Assassinated (killed): April 4, 1968, Memphis, TN.


BBC Face to Face| Martin Luther King Jr Interview (1961) 31 min.

Firs transmitted in 1961, Martin Luther King talks about his childhood experiences and the incidents that led to the Montgomery bus boycott. These events shaped King's life and led to him becoming a national figurehead and civil rights leader. He is questioned on whether he feels fear or loneliness in his position, as well as his own feelings on his adequacy as a leader of the civil rights movement in America.

https://youtu.be/Df4fycfda10?t=3


HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS BEHAVE TOWARD THE GOVERNMENT?

1.  Do Christians have to obey the laws of the land?

https://www.gotquestions.org/laws-land.html

TOP 1

2.       Political Leaders After Jesus –   4-10-18 BY  

https://drivethruhistoryadventures.com/political-leaders-jesus/#:~:text=In%20the%20kingdom%20of%20man,their%20influence%20was%20only%20temporary

 

VICIUS LEADERS/DICTATORS

1.     Top Ten Most Evil Dictators of All Time (in order of kill count)

You can read the whole article at the bottom of this post. Some people make horrible decisions, others are just bad presidents, a few are bloodthirsty, many are extremists, a couple are warmongers, and all of these guys are a mix. Ten of our political leaders in the last 130 years have been the architects of the most horrific genocides, systematic murders, blockades, brutal wars, and policy reforms history has ever recorded. http://www.popten.net/2010/05/top-ten-most-evil-dictators-of-all-time-in-order-of-kill-count/

2.      TopTen Most Evil Dictators of All Time (in order of kill count). Some people make horrible decisions, others are just bad presidents, a few are bloodthirsty, many are extremists, a couple are warmongers, and all of these guys are a mix. Ten of our political leaders in the last 130 years have been the architects of the most horrific genocides, systematic murders, blockades, brutal wars, and policy reforms history has ever recorded.

https://www.jcpe.tv/top-ten-most-evil-dictators-of-all-time-in-order-of-kill-count/

3.  Racism - A History (Part 1 of 3) - YouTube (54 min)

A documentary about the origins of racism. https://youtu.be/GcrcflTCu4Q

4. After 100 years, Mussolini’s fascist party is a reminder of the fragility of freedom / The Conversation/ March 12, 2019 · 12:15 PM EDT

By Richard Gunderman For more than two decades, when he came to be known as “Il Duce,” or “the leader,” Mussolini wielded broad powers. At the end of World War II, he was shot by a firing squad for his crimes. His body was publicly hung upside down.

https://www.pri.org/stories/2019-03-12/after-100-years-mussolini-s-fascist-party-reminder-fragility-freedom


5.  Black Brigades – From Wikipedia

War crimes The Black Brigades were frequently involved in support of German units during anti-partisan operations which resulted in massacres of the Italian civilian population, like at the Vinca massacre where 162 civilians were executed where the 40. Brigata near “Vittorio Ricciarelli” di Livorno was involved.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_Brigades

6.  Adolf Hitler ORIGINAL: OCT 29, 2009 / UPDATED: AUG 30, 2019

Adolf Hitler, the leader of Germany’s Nazi Party, was one of the most powerful and notorious dictators of the 20th century. Hitler capitalized on economic woes, popular discontent and political infighting to take absolute power in Germany beginning in 1933. Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939 led to the outbreak of World War II, and by 1941 Nazi forces had occupied much of Europe. Hitler’s virulent anti-Semitism and obsessive pursuit of Aryan supremacy fueled the murder of some 6 million Jews, along with other victims of the Holocaust. After the tide of war turned against him, Hitler committed suicide in a Berlin bunker in April 1945.

https://www.history.com/topics/world-war-ii/adolf-hitler-1

7. 2004: The Murder of Emmett Till (25 min) 6-20-20

https://youtu.be/fjr6XLcCXgU

In 2004, 60 Minutes correspondent Ed Bradley reported on the 1955 murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till.


FULL ARTICLE OF THE…

8.      Top Ten Most Evil Dictators of All Time (in order of kill count)

http://www.popten.net/2010/05/top-ten-most-evil-dictators-of-all-time-in-order-of-kill-count/

MAY 04, 2010by JUAN CARLOS PINEIRO ESCORIAZAin FEATURED

Article: The 'morally grave' reasons this member of Congress is voting for Biden 

10-30-20

https://www.ncronline.org/news/opinion/morally-grave-reasons-member-congress-voting-biden?fbclid=IwAR1YED562MxjXhnazLkCRrqeldh__OBnqJfUeFFzAyB7B7zPsRHtOBybUtc

Image# 1- below: Crucified Nature Oil & collage on canvas. NY City. 1977.



Image23- Below:  The Man and the Machine. Oils on canvas. 3’ x 5’. Manhattan, NYC, 1976. © Ottavio Lo Piccolo.




President Trump isn't totally pro-life

Letter to the Schenectady Daily Gazette, NY 8-22-20  

President Trump claims to be pro-life and pro-guns, however, the Catholic Church condemns greed, the exploitation of the poor, and degrading God's creation. It is especially troubling to see him claim that his support of the Second Amendment should endear him to Catholics specifically.

I did a small research on the topic of abortion, in order to find out which political party actually reduces the number of abortions. Let me share three articles on this issue. 

The first one: The sharpest drops in abortion rates in America have been under Democratic presidents. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in the last three decades, abortion rates have fallen the most under Democrats, and remained flat or at best decreased marginally under republican administrations; starting from Ronald Reagan to Barack Obama. The abortion rate is now the lowest on record since 1971, two years before Roe v. Wade a became law.

The second article: Explainer: If Joe Biden wins, what does that mean for abortion policies? By James T. Keane August 19, 2020. Online post by America The Jesuit Review.

And the third one: Sharpest drops in abortion under Democrats.

So, it’s obvious that so far, the way to reduce abortions is economic stability, affordable family planning/birth control, and quality health care. The things that Trump and Republicans oppose and fight against. It’s also obvious that voting Republican will not necessarily reduce abortions.

Something to think about if we truly care about life and not empty words!

GOOD PEOPLE MUST DENOUNCE
AND REJECT ALL EVIL - FB post, 2-16-21
All people should do that and totally reject hatred, violence and any form of ism; Communism, Fascism, Nazism and racism. We have all experienced some of these here in the USA- we all saw a violent act on January 6, but I also have close family members, in Italy, who experienced the effects of Fascism!
How can we say that we are good people if we support any of the evils above? No one who says, "I try to be a good person"- should have anything to do with the evils I mentioned above. If anyone uses those methods, then we know that they are naïve, and/or ignorant, hence they will deceive us and deceive themselves too. People who claim to be good, but then resort to evil ways, are false prophets- they are the opposite of goodness.

I am a Christian, and I often ask myself; Did Jesus ever encourage and/or support violence? Was he violent against the establishment of his time? He never was! He never instigated and/or tell His followers to fight the leaders of the time.

According to history we know that the main authorities during the life of Jesus, were Tiberius Caesar (Roman Emperor), Pontius Pilatus (Roman governor), Herod Antipas, the son of Herod the Great, became tetrarch of Galilee and ruled throughout Jesus of Nazareth's ministry, and Joseph Caiaphas (religious leader). Although they exercised control over the economy, military, civil law, and the religious establishment, their power faded, and their influence was only temporary.

So, what do we do when we see evil? Not too long ago, Americans witnessed it on 9/11/01, and just recently we saw the ugly/violent events of January 6, 2021. The terrorists attack of 9/11 was carried out by foreigners; people who thought that they were acting on God’s behalf to punish America for its imperialism and evils all over the world. The terrorists killed 3,000 people that fateful dark day in our history.

Those who inspired and carried out the US Capitol insurrection and attack were white Americans “patriotic” who thought too that they were acting on God’s behalf to save America, When in reality they were listening to former President Trump’s false claims of election fraud. The former president fallowers resorted to violence and humiliation of our nation, in order to prevent the peaceful transfer of power- the certification of the election results- Joe Biden’s lawful win. Nevertheless, the Americans who ransacked the Capitol were Americans who believe that they are good people. And yet, they caused the death of 7 people. Theirs was a humiliating and degrading act because our president incited it, he lit the fire by spreading the big lie; a fraudulent election- without any proof- even his own AG, confirmed that there was no election fraud whatsoever! And close to 60 judges (Republicans and Democrats) told former President Trump that there was indeed no fraud anywhere in the USA during the 2020 presidential election. In addition, there has never been any major/serious election fraud anywhere/anytime in the US’s history.

My family in Italy experienced the effects of Benito Mussolini’s Fascist government. My dad was 8 years old, poor, hungry and without shoes, when Mussolini (called “il Duce”- the leader) was in power. My dad often tells me of those ugly and difficult times. He said that he was hungry every day, and he ate all kinds of greens he could find in the countryside. One time he was so hungry that he dared to steal a loaf of bread from the German soldiers camping outside our hometown in Sicily. He also tells me, that at that time, people were not allowed to congregate in public places, if two were seen talking by the “camice nere”, the black shirts (the Duce’s policing teams). The people they harassed would get arrested, others would be sent away, “al confine”, to the border- away from everyone they knew. Many got beat up and killed by the camice nere.

So, what is my point? My point is that Fascism, Nazism, Communism and Racism are all violent ways that good/decent peace-loving people cannot even think to support because they are evil; they all resort to violence to reach their sick, perverted, deadly ways. So, let us not be deceived and allow evil political leaders/dictators to take office, because they will sooner or later resort to abuse, deceit, lies, hate, violence, wars, aggressive confrontations, with threats, torture, murdering in order to get what they want and stay in power at all means. We can find better ways to get them out than murdering them.
Do good people have to obey the governments? What does the Bible say? Here are the major points.
Romans 13:1-7 tells us,
Everyone must submit himself to the governing authorities, for there is no authority except that which God has established. The authorities that exist have been established by God. Consequently, he who rebels against the authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and those who do so will bring judgment on themselves. For rulers hold no terror for those who do right, but for those who do wrong. Do you want to be free from fear of the one in authority? Then do what is right and he will commend you. For he is God’s servant to do you good. But if you do wrong, be afraid, for he does not bear the sword for nothing. He is God’s servant, an agent of wrath to bring punishment on the wrongdoer. Therefore, it is necessary to submit to the authorities, not only because of possible punishment but also because of conscience. This is also why you pay taxes, for the authorities are God’s servants, who give their full time to governing. Give everyone what you owe him: If you owe taxes, pay taxes; if revenue, then revenue; if respect, then respect; if honor, then honor.”
The above passage is obvious- we either obey the rulers appointed over us, or sooner or later God will punish us. But that is not all Genesis 9:6 says: “Whoever sheds the blood of man, by man shall his blood be shed, for God made man in his own image.”
Is God telling us to seek revenge? Or use capital punishment (the death penalty) as a form of justice. I do not think so, because Jesus warned us not to seek revenge. Have you heard the saying: "Live by the sword, die by the sword"? This is a phrase that comes from the Gospel of Matthew 26:52)- it says: “Put your sword back in its place,” Jesus said to him, “for all who draw the sword will die by the sword.”

No, God wants us to be obedient, in fact Jesus gave us plenty of examples on how we should behave when dealing with the authority of the government. In Mark 12:17 Jesus said, “give to Caesar what belongs to Caesar, and give to God what belongs to God.” His reply completely amazed them.
1 Corinthians 14:33 says: "For God is not a God of disorder but of peace, as in all the meetings of God's holy people."
Romans 12:8 says: "if it is to encourage, then give encouragement; if it is giving, then give generously; if it is to lead, do it diligently; if it is to show mercy, do it cheerfully."
So, it is clear that we are to obey the government; when paying taxes, obeying rules and laws, and showing respect. If we do not, we are showing disrespect towards God, for He is the One who placed that government over us. When the apostle Paul wrote to the Romans, he was under the government of Rome, which was very vicious. However, Paul recognized the Roman government’s rule over him. Should we do otherwise? Hence cheat, or rebel, and/or resort to violence?
But what if the government and/or leaders appointed over us are corrupt? Can we intentionally- freely disobey their orders and/or laws? The Bible has also an answer in this regard. Acts 5:27-29 says, And when they had brought them, they set them before the council. And the high priest questioned them, saying, “We strictly charged you not to teach in this name, yet here you have filled Jerusalem with your teaching, and you intend to bring this man's blood upon us.” But Peter and the apostles answered, “We must obey God rather than men.
I am a retired US veteran, and I'm very familiar in obeying orders; but I only executed those that were legal and morally correct. Most military personnel do, because we are trained well; we know that if a commander, or even the President, gives us an illegal order- like for instance- shooting armless civilians, we are not obliged to obey it- we can refuse to carry it out!! Because if we do, we will be incriminated! Why? Because one of the rules of engagement (fighting) in the military tells us not to shoot innocent civilians. And no one has the authority, not even the POTUS (President of the US), has the authority to order us to do something illegal and/or ethically unsound.

The people who attacked the Capitol were executing an illegal order from the Commander-in- Chief, our own president! Too bad if they were not aware that their action was unlawful! They will have to face the consequences, and pay for their crimes. I'm sure some of them may have realized their mistake, and have repented, but many still think that what they did was necessary. These people don't realize the damage they have done to our nation. They simply are not mature to see that a divided house will fall. And it's sad to say, they may not care because they are following a selfish and deranged leader.
I invite you to learn about the lives of the world’s most violent dictators- not to imitate them- but to remind us that violent humans can cause much suffering and harm. I have listed some sources below. I also pray that we will never let anyone influence us (not even presidents and/or military leaders). We must stay clear- away from those who think and resort to violence and try to convince us that what they are doing is something good for our country, and that they are following God’s ways.
God would never accept and/or inspire, nor tell His children to hurt and/or kill another human being. God cannot and will not do that, because God is Love and Mercy. He is the One who gives life and the One who can take it away. God would never condone and/or accept violence. If someone tells you that violence is necessary to solve/stop a problem- do not believe them- there are many better non-violent ways to fix problems.
We must also learn and follow the example of the world’s peacemakers like Jesus Christ, Cesar Chavez, Gandhi, Martin Luther King Jr, Nelson Mandela, Pope John Paul II, Pope Francis, and many others. These are leaders who have done much good by building understanding, tolerance, peace, and justice. And many have even given their life for the cause of peace.
Let's restore, respect, civic responsibility (by choosing honest/compassionate leaders who are willing to do what is best for our communities and the world, and respect/honor all peoples/races, cultures and religions.
And finally, we must never resort to violence to solve our differences and/or problems. We have seen what dictatorial systems of Communism, Fascism, Nazism, and Racism have done to our brothers/sisters in our country and all over the world.
Biblical sources: Got Questions Your Questions Biblical Answers. Do Christians have to obey the laws of the land? https://www.gotquestions.org/laws-land.html


For more info. on peace and social activists, on obeying the law/governments, on the evils committed by dictators, by Communism, Fascism, Nazism, and Racism see the following sources below.

SOCIAL ACTIVISTS- peace workers!
1. 5 non-violent activists you may not know https://www.globalcitizen.org/en/content/

2. Most Famous Activists in History
by BRITTANY MCSORLEY 3 years ago in ACTIVISM / HISTORY / POLITICS / LIST History is shaped by those who take a stand and fight for change, such as the most famous activists in history. https://vocal.media/theS.../most-famous-activists-in-history

3. The Fifty Most Influential Progressives of the Twentieth Century. The radical ideas of one generation become the common sense of the next. Here, Peter Dreier honors the people who moved progressive ideas in America from the marginal to the mainstream. https://www.thenation.com/.../fifty-most-influential.../

5. Top 10 Activists Who Made A Difference (video, 5.5 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=el9lIgKFMpA

AMERICAN HEROES AND SOCIAL ACTIVITS
Saint Frances Cabrini, was also known as Maria Francesca Cabrini. She was an Italian immigrant and a catholic nun. She helped poor immigrant children by providing (them a home to stay, and by building many hospitals and orphanages throughout the USA. She was born in a small Italian village on July 15, 1850. She opened Columbus Hospital in New York. In 1909 Mother Cabrini became a U.S. citizen. She died on December 22, 1922. Pope Pius XII canonized her (declared her a saint in 1946 and named her Patroness, the protector of immigrants. She was the first U. S. citizen to be declared a saint.

2. Mother Cabrini - Official Trailer (1.3 min) 10-28-18

3. Cesar Chávez Cesar Chavez was born near Yuma, Arizona, on March 31, 1927, Cesar Chavez employed nonviolent means to bring attention to the plight of farmworkers, and formed both the National Farm Workers Association, which later became United Farm Workers. As a labor leader, Chavez led marches, called for boycotts and went on several hunger strikes. It is believed that Chavez's hunger strikes contributed to his death on April 23, 1993, in San Luis, Arizona.

4. Cesar Chavez - American Civil Rights Activist | Mini Bio | BIO (2 min) https://youtu.be/Ns5NMHTk-yY...

5. Cesar Chavez - American Civil Rights Activist | Mini Bio | BIO (4 min) https://youtu.be/Ns5NMHTk-yY...
6. Cesar Chavez- Movie trailer (2 min). Michael Peña stars as Cesar Chavez in this empowering biopic. Chavez inspired millions of Americans from all walks of life to fight for social justice. Also starring America Ferrera, Rosario Dawson and John Malkovich, this film chronicles Chavez' triumphant journey and is a testament to the power of one individual's ability to change the world. https://youtu.be/q81a7KBEMVs?t=12

7. Francis: The Pope From The New World - Full Documentary (51 min) Francis: the Pope From the New World unveils the personality, passion, and extraordinary faith of the new Pope. Shot on location in Buenos Aires, and featuring interviews with close friends, collaborators, and his official biographer—this documentary paints an indelible portrait of a towering figure of our time.

8. Pope Francis Arrives In U.S., Rides Off In Fiat | MSNBC (4 min)
Anne Thompson reports on Pope Francis' departure from Joint Base Andrews in a small Fiat after saying goodbye to President Obama and the First Lady.

9. NELSON MANDELA Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela was a South African anti-apartheid, revolutionary nonviolent activist, also a politician and philanthropist who became South Africa’s first black president from 1994 to 1999. Find out more about his life in this short biography. He was the country's first black head of state and the first elected in a fully representative democratic election. Wikipedia Born: July 18, 1918, Mvezo, South Africa. Died: December 5, 2013, Houghton Estate, Johannesburg, South Africa. Nelson Mandela: Civil Rights Activist & President Of South Africa | Biography (6.5 min) https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UqoYmx_L-Xs
10. Martin Luther King Jr. was an American Christian minister and activist who became the most visible spokesperson and leader in the Civil Rights Movement from 1955 until his assassination in 1968. Born: January 15, 1929, Atlanta, GA. Assassinated (killed): April 4, 1968, Memphis, TN. BBC Face to Face| Martin Luther King Jr Interview (1961) 31 min. First transmitted in 1961, Martin Luther King talks about his childhood experiences and the incidents that led to the Montgomery bus boycott. These events shaped King's life and led to him becoming a national figurehead and civil rights leader. He is questioned on whether he feels fear or loneliness in his position, as well as his own feelings on his adequacy as a leader of the civil rights movement in America.

BBC Face to Face| Martin Luther King Jr Interview (1961) 31 min. First transmitted in 1961, Martin Luther King talks about his childhood experiences and the incidents that led to the Montgomery bus boycott. These events shaped King's life and led to him becoming a national figurehead and civil rights leader. He is questioned on whether he feels fear or loneliness in his position, as well as his own feelings on his adequacy as a leader of the civil rights movement in America. https://youtu.be/Df4fycfda10?t=3


MLK Talks 'New Phase' Of Civil Rights Struggle, 11 Months Before His Assassination | NBC News (26.5 min). In 1967, at the Ebenezer Baptist Church inAtlanta, Georgia, Martin Luther King spoke with NBC News' Sander Vanocur about the "new phase" of the struggle for "genuine equality."     https://youtu.be/2xsbt3a7K-8?t=73

HOW SHOULD CHRISTIANS BEHAVE TOWARD THE GOVERNMENT?
1. Do Christians have to obey the laws of the land?
2. Political Leaders After Jesus – 4-10-18 BY TITUS KENNEDY

VICIUS LEADERS/DICTATORS
1. Top Ten Most Evil Dictators of All Time (in order of kill count)
Some people make horrible decisions, others are just bad presidents, a few are bloodthirsty, many are extremists, a couple are warmongers, and all of these guys are a mix. Ten of our political leaders in the last 130 years have been the architects of the most horrific genocides, systematic murders, blockades, brutal wars, and policy reforms history has ever recorded.
3. Racism - A History (Part 1 of 3) - YouTube (54 min)
A documentary about the origins of racism. https://youtu.be/GcrcflTCu4Q

4. After 100 years, Mussolini’s fascist party is a reminder of the fragility of freedom / The Conversation/ March 12, 2019. By Richard Gunderman For more than two decades, when he came to be known as “Il Duce,” or “the leader,” Mussolini wielded broad powers. At the end of World War II, he was shot by a firing squad for his crimes. His body was publicly hung upside down.

5. Black Brigades – From Wikipedia
War crimes The Black Brigades were frequently involved in support of German units during anti-partisan operations which resulted in massacres of the Italian civilian population, like at the Vinca massacre where 162 civilians were executed where the 40. Brigata near “Vittorio Ricciarelli” di Livorno was involved.

6. Adolf Hitler ORIGINAL: OCT 29, 2009 / UPDATED: 8- 30-19
Adolf Hitler, the leader of Germany’s Nazi Party, was one of the most powerful and notorious dictators of the 20th century. Hitler capitalized on economic woes, popular discontent and political infighting to take absolute power in Germany beginning in 1933. Germany’s invasion of Poland in 1939 led to the outbreak of World War II, and by 1941 Nazi forces had occupied much of Europe. Hitler’s virulent anti-Semitism and obsessive pursuit of Aryan supremacy fueled the murder of some 6 million Jews, along with other victims of the Holocaust. After the tide of war turned against him, Hitler committed suicide in a Berlin bunker in April 1945.

7. 2004: The Murder of Emmett Till (25 min) 6-20-20
In 2004, 60 Minutes correspondent Ed Bradley reported on the 1955 murder of 14-year-old Emmett Till


TRUMP’S CONVICTION WILL MAKE OUR DEMOCRACY SAFER Letter to the Albany’s Times Union, 2-8-21

In a recent Facebook post by Senator Bernie Sanders caught my attention because it “hits the nail on the head”, it gets to the heart of the problem. Here is what it said.

"Why do we want to IMPEACH and CONVICT a president who is out of office? Because it must be made clear that no president, now or in the future, can lead an insurrection against the government he is sworn to protect."

Trump has betrayed his oath of office many times, and his latest attempt of January 6, 2020, was the most obvious; on that day he committed the most egregious, most dishonorable act; that of inciting the attack on the US Capitol, which so far has left 7 people dead. He showed the whole world what he is, a traitor!

But yet some of his staunchest supporters still defend him! Even some in Congress! They say that to impeach a president, who is no longer in office, is unconstitutional!

However, Trump's crimes were committed while in office! Therefore, he should be held accountable! And at the very least, he should be forbidden to run for any political and/or public office for life!

Trump is a threat, not only to our freedom, but also to our physical and moral wellbeing. America’s democracy will be doomed if he is allowed to walks away and return to politics as usual. 



REMEMBERING MLK

Letter to the Albany Times Union, 1-17-21

Dr. King didn’t believe in violence- he thought that non-violent ways/methods- were the best and most just/compassionate way to get our government to get rid of disgraceful racist laws, so that African- Americans and poor people would be treated with dignity. 

In fact, his activism and inspirational speeches, brought about the end of the legal segregation of African American citizens in the south, and the creation of the Civil Rights of 1964 and the Voting Rights Act of 1965. 

In these last 4  years, I have often wondered about his reaction, to the racial turmoil of police brutality, immigrant intolerance, and the divisive/offensive rhetoric and dishonest actions of President Trump.

Today ML would have been 92 years old- if he were alive- I am certain that he wouldn’t have been silent! His emotional/powerful voice would have echoed again! In condemning the brutal police killings of blacks. Let’s remember and honor him- he deserves no less from all of us!


TRUMP'S CAPITOL'S THUGS SAY THEY FOLLOWED HIS ORDERS- THEY BROKE THE LAW AND NOW THEY ARE ASKING TO BE PARDONED. Playing dumb? Or bucking responsibility? Posted on FB  1-16-21 and emailed to the Albany T.U. 

This evening ABC news reported that some of Trump's aficionados, violent  fanatics, who stormed and ransacked the Capitol Building, stated that they were following the Presidents' orders. But now they are asking to be pardoned.

Didn't they know that what they did wasn't a good idea? That it was illegal and unlawful? They may have not known, or maybe they knew, but now that they are in trouble and in police custody and realizing that they were foolish in following President’s Trump's orders- to attack the Capitol on January 6.

They most likely be incriminated, because they can’t plead ignorance of the law and say that they were following orders. In fact, no one, not even the President of the US- has the authority to oblige/force anyone- not even the military- to obey and/or carry out an illegal and/or immoral order.

Some people do not know that no one is obliged/required to follow an illegal/immoral order- even if given by the US president. If anyone follows/carries out an illegal/immoral order from the President, and/or by the officers (military or police) above them- they will be held responsible and could be incriminated if found guilty.

I am a retired US veteran and I'm familiar with the Military Code of Justice; shooting/harming innocent civilians and/or or attacking civilian buildings like hospitals, churches, museums, that didn’t pose a threat- is against rules of engagement. Even in the military you cannot shoot/attach a target- unless it poses a threat! Only then can we defend ourselves and/or return fire. 


TEACHING HISTORY ISN'T ENOUGH to RESTORE DIGNITY, RESPECT and THINKING WISELY

FB Post/Reflection by OLP, 1-31-21!

Some people believe that if history was taught well in schools, then there would be no ignorance, no racial injustices, and many other evils would disappear. But I think that this is naïve. Let me explain why I disagree.

I am a schoolteacher, a father of two adult children, and a recent grandfather.

I guarantee you that history is taught well in American schools; the problem is ignorance! Unwillingness to learn, to know, to question and to explore. In addition, if these skills, and/or ways of thinking/living are not supported at home, within the family, history will not stick! Will not make much difference! Furthermore, morality, what is right from what is wrong, respect, honesty, and the knowledge of history (past facts/lessons), must also be supported and taught at home.

I also wonder why some people; although they have a high school diploma, and some even have a college education, are racists, believe in fake news and or leaders who lie and are corrupt! I believe, this is so because they do not reason, and they are not being guided wisely by their families, and their community.

Lastly, schools, like governments, cannot do everything. This fact and reality reminds me of the Italian saying:

PUOI PORTARE L'ASINO (o il cavallo) ALL'ACQUA, MA NON PUOI FORZARLO A BERE!

Meaning: YOU CAN LEAD A DONKEY, or HORSE, TO THE WATER, BUT YOU CAN'T MAKE IT DRINK!

             The Astronauts' Dilemma. Drawing by Ottavio Lo Piccolo.


DEFENDING TRUMP IS FLAWED THINKING 

Shared on FB 2-4-21

Why do some people, still defend an ex-president who committed treason? I fail to comprehend their reasoning. But I suspect their insistence is based on flawed thinking.

Do they truly think that Trump is the only honest person in America? And everyone else are liars? Most Americans are decent and would never accept this thought.

We all know that during his 4 years in office Trump lied over 30,000 times, offended people, women, children, veterans (dead and alive), ridiculed institutions (even those of the US government), mocked nations, cultures, and religions, and repeatedly abused his power and betrayed the US Constitution and American values of decency, honesty, integrity, countless times.

Trump has therefore, failed as a moral leader, this was most apparent, most obvious, on January 6, 2020, when he blatantly showed his true self, and he condemned himself to commit the most egregious, most dishonorable act; that of inciting the attack on the US Capitol, which so far has left 7 people dead. He showed the whole world what he is, a traitor!

Anyone who truly loves peace, justice, respect, and dignity should not support him. He is a threat, not only to our freedom, but also to our physical and moral wellbeing.

But yet some of his staunchest supporters still defend him! Even some in Congress! They say that to impeach a president, who is no longer in office, is unconstitutional!

However, Trump's crimes were committed while in office! Therefore, he should be held accountable! And at the very least, he should be forbidden to run for any political and/or public office for life!

Reflection by me; an independent voter, who does not care for party politics, but cares for peace, justice, honesty, respect, the wellbeing of America and the common good.



DOES IT MAKE SENSE TO HAVE FAITH? AND DO GOOD? EVEN IN BAD TIMES AS THESE?

Shared on FB may 14, 2020


          There is much injustice and also lots of selfishness and cynicism going around in these times of the pandemic covid19. So, how should those of us who believe in good behave? Should we also get carried away by the wave of evil?

          ABSOLUTELY NOT! We must be focused on the example of Christ and his faithful disciples. Just as the many people who have done good in the past, including saints like St. Francis, and more recent times, as Mother Teresa and Mother Cabrini, Martin Luther King Jr., Gandhi, César Chavez, John F. Kennedy, Bill Gates, and many others, and thousands of missionaries and volunteers around the world to alleviate suffering.
          THEREFORE, WE MUST CONTINUE TO FOLLOW THE EXAMPLE OF THESE COURAGEOUS, KIND AND GENEROUS PEOPLE!

A note about Bill Gates
          Some people will doubt his goodness and / or true motivation. And in fact, some will say that profit- making money- is the real motivation for Bill Gates. But I say that we are all sinners, nobody is perfect. It may be possible that Gates is trying to make a profit, however, I haven't seen proof of it. What I have noticed- are his many good works so far- even though I have followed a little of all the good he's done for the world's needy so far.
          I also have listened to his words, and read about his reasons. So, his real motivation, in my opinion- seems to be CHARITY. I do not believe that his projects- have as the ultimate goal- making money or a political seat.
In the end, only God can read in the heart of man- only God knows gates' true motivations. And finally, I also think there are many people who make money honestly - both millionaires and ordinary people like us. We certainly "cannot make a bundle of all the grass" as we say in Italian. We can't put all bad apples in the same basket! It's not right!

 

HOW CAN I BE SO RELAXED IN THIS PANDEMIC?   

FB post 11-7-20

This image was taken last fall in one of the schools I serve as an ESL/ENL teacher. The beginning of the school year is always stressful because we, teachers, meet new students; and for me it also means meeting new colleagues, since I am an itinerant teacher who travels between schools; to help children and adults learn/improve their English skills, so they can succeed in school and in life, here in the USA.

Teaching last spring felt like starting my career again; the pandemic forced me to stay home and teach online. It felt like my first-year teaching! It was like starting all over! At times I felt overwhelmed, and I often felt like quitting! And retiring early!

But I am still here; teaching in school and still teaching online, whenever needed. I had to adjust, we all had to, if we wanted to survive!

I often ask why we had to go through this pandemic, which has taken millions of lives, bankrupted many businesses and placed millions on unemployment. I think that, although it's been a horrible situation, we're learning many things.

The first lesson for me is cooperation and considerations for others. I learn this lesson every day form the school children I teach, and also my adult immigrant students. I see their sense of civic duty in all the schools I work. They wear their mask and follow social distancing rules gladly and with responsibility!

I also learned and saw how important my family was during the lockdown. Without their love and care, I could not have made it! And without my afternoon walks at Central Park in Schenectady. Nature certainly restored my sanity every day!

And saying my prayers while admiring mother nature, it helped me feel God's love. I admire school children! I look up to them! Besides, they are so kind, humble, and often sweet too. And thank God for them in my life! They have turned hard days into happy ones! God bless them!

We will make it if we stick together and take all the precautions and doctors' advice. Soon a vaccine will come out and everyone will be protected against this terrible virus. By next fall it will be history! And hopefully we will have learned some important life lessons; that will help us grow, make our world better with compassion, and with peaceful and respectful cooperation.

With responsibility, goodwill and with God's help, we shall overcome!


WHAT IS HUMILITY? WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO BE HUMBLE?                                 12- 9-19, FB post

Humility, in my opinion, is when we begin examining our conscience and admit our mistakes. So, humility may possibly the hardest virtue to enact in life. Courageous people try it often, however, malicious individuals will call humble ones: stupid and/or foolish.

So, the questions for me are two:
First, will we have the courage/faith to be humble, even in the face of ridicule from the arrogant ones, who will mock the humble ones?
And second, where do humble people draw their strength/faith; to acknowledge their faults, weaknesses, and their sins?

I believe the answer, the source of their strength, to be humble, rests/originates with the Lord. Yes, I believe that it is He who gives us strength to endure, even when we are mocked for our goodness and humility.

May we draw our faith from the Son of God, the GREATEST example of humility.

So, my prayer is that Jesus’ manger, (his birthplace, his first bed, which was made of wood and straw) and His cross, be forever impressed in our hearts and minds, so that we may remember Jesus humility/love, and hence have the courage/faith to be humble for the rest of our life.

What the Bible says on humility, watch this YouTube video:
PHILIPPIANS 2 | "WHAT DOES HUMILITY LOOK LIKE?" •Sep 2, 2016
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hb11LAK8Y3s

 

Below is my passport photo, at the age of 17 –

just before I migrated (came) to America.


                        Below, some of my first artworks as a teenager







Image# 4- Above: Central Park. Manhattan, NY City. Oil on Canvas board painting. 7-1976.


Below- Image 5.  Flowers in the City. Oil on canvas. Manhattan, NYC, 7-1976.


                 Below, me in my early twenties. Behind my house in Astoria, NY.







                Below- Image 26. Four Doves in Space. Acrylics on canvas. 2007



Below- Image 28.  Halloween. Pen and ink drawing on poster board, 1981.






All of these artworks were done while I was serving in the US Air Force, 1981-83

Above: Flights Over Italy's Flag. Acrylic on canvas.



                           Below: 5 Felt tip marker studies/illustrations.











Below: Colored Pencil Illustration. Accomplished at The Air Force's Graphic Specialist School, Lowry AFB.


Below: Tempera Illustration.


Me in front of the mural, on the right, that I painted at Griffis Air Force Base, now an industrial park. 1981, 


Pen and Ink drawing.


Below: Art Exhibit at the Niskayuna Star Bucks.



Below: Satellite Repair. Pencil & Lithography.


Below: Flights in Space. Acrylic on canvas.

Below: The Astronaut. Plaster and acrylic paint sculpture






Still life. Oil colors on wood board. 

Soccer Players. Acrylic on canvas. 3' x 4'

Soccer Players Study. Pencil on paper. 


Below: Flights in Space Series. Acrylic on canvas. This is 3' x 4'



Me, during an outdoor art show in Syracuse, NY1982.






























Me, several years ago during a personal art exhibit at the Niskayuna Public Library, NY.

















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