Carreterus Linnæas

Thanks, Blogger! You Were Wonderful...

2005-05-19T23:54:00.000-07:00

RudyCarrera.com, with the help of Brad of Tangelo, is finally up and running. There is a lot of work that needs to go into the basic site, but at least the blog is going. I will be leaving this blog, and will link to it as a permanent archive of my work left here since last December or so. Blogger is a wonderful company, and I enjoyed my stay posting here. I suggest any new person try this out! But I needed a lot more flexibility, and I feel that perhaps Tangelo has provided me with what I need. Please update your links!

We May Be Moving The Blog...

2005-05-19T01:55:00.000-07:00

Well, as much as I love this blogspot site, I think it's time for me to move on. I'm experimenting with a blogging program which should set itself up into my personal page, and I'll be able to link things like pictures, podcasts, et cetera, a lot easier. We'll see what happens, but for the time being, I won't be doing much blogging here.

Sweatie MP Lies To Our Congress

2005-05-17T14:30:00.000-07:00

In this story from the BBC, dear old George Galloway, Scottish Liberal MP and visitor of Saddam Hussein stammers about how Don Rumsfeld visited Iraq to sell Saddam guns, where he only visited to bring an end to suffering. Unfortunately, facts don't pan out that way. Galloway still has the taint of being at the very least an appeaser to the Iraqi dictator, and at worst, may have taken money for his acquiesence. If this is the case, and I hope for his sake it isn't, he will (or should) be made to pay dearly. Let's see how this pans out...

Violent Uprising Breaks Out in Uzbekistan

2005-05-13T01:27:00.000-07:00

The citizenry of the Central Asian republic have had enough, apparently. This article came originally from Yahoo! News, and caught me by surprised as I was ready to finish my day. I'm sure Publius Pundit will have much on this event in Uzbekistan tomorrow, so either check his blog out or stay tuned to mine for further details.

UN Dispatch Attacks Roger L Simon

2005-05-12T23:59:00.000-07:00

This come's from Captain's Quarters... Why some dolt would pick on Roger L. Simon, blogger extraordinaire, is beyond me. He calls trash for what it is. If that's a crime, hang him. But until that happens, Kofi and the gang need to be tarred and feathered. Let them set up shop in Brussels for all I care! The UN is continuing to lose it's welcome here.

How We Would Fight China

2005-05-12T23:53:00.000-07:00

This article comes in from Robert Kaplan. The thought of going to war with China is a daunting one, especially considering their massive population of over 1.3 billion people. Thankfully, for the time being we have a technological edge and military dominance over them, but for how long? This is excellent analytical work by Kaplan and worth a good read.

Might the Saudis Blow Up Their Oil Infrastructure?

2005-05-12T23:40:00.000-07:00

Daniel Pipes comes in with excellent analysis on the strategies played by our so-called friends in Riyadh.

Awards For World Music: Faiz Ali Faiz

2005-05-10T14:18:00.000-07:00

Although a man of remarkable vocal talent, it must be an absolute nightmare to follow in the footsteps of the greatest Qawwali singer of his generation (or any, for that matter), Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan. But Faiz has done it, and was properly awarded. Heartfelt congrats go out to him, as do they go to all the Radio 3 winners, who brighten up my listening each day.

Oriental Star Agencies, Ltd.

2005-05-10T14:02:00.000-07:00

If you happen to like music from India and Pakistan, this is the label for you. Quality CDs and DVDs from all the big names, like Nusrat Fateh Ali Khan and Talvin Singh. This will get you popping your head from one shoulder to the other in no time!

Celiberal - The Righties

2005-05-10T13:49:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Allison for this one. Patronize these famous folks if you can. Challenge the idiots of course, but help out the good ones, as we need more patriotic types in Hollywood. Creeps from the radical left of "Starville" have to go now, as they've maligned this country enough. Someone needs to tell them that The Sixties are done, and the anti-American song-and-dance doesn't fly too well these days. It's as bloated as Barbara Streisand (nice airbrush, Babs!). If our radical Leftie friends want obese cows telling them what's wrong with everything in this country, that's their right. What these pro-Socialistic infantile brats tend to forget is that it is I (and many like me), with my conservative Christian views, who PAY THEIR BILLS!!! Although they fancy themselves as political philosophers, actors should not pretend to be more than a service provider in the vein of a teenager working at McDonald's or a servicer of patrons at a red-light district in your favorite decadent Western European country. When they learn this and start becoming more humble, they will be forgiven. Until then, it's open season on the fruitcakes, I say.

- Rant Over -

Back to regularly scheduled blogging.

Three Peaches From My Peach

2005-05-10T13:43:00.000-07:00

These articles are always amusing to read. The little woman has good taste, eh? Enjoy! http://attesa.blogspot.com/2005/05/just-dont-curse-around-him.html Anyone stupid enough to tarnish the name of Our Lord and Saviour deserves at the bare minimum to have a ton of legal problems. http://attesa.blogspot.com/2005/05/one-smart-fast-food-chain.html Wendy's serves the best fast-food by far. I was a fan before I decided to trim off some excess garbage a year ago, but if I had to go bonkers, that's the place to do it (sorry, Shams!). http://attesa.blogspot.com/2005/05/yet-another-reason-conservatives-have.html This is stating the obvious, preaching to the choir, yadda-yadda-yadda...

Arab-South America Summit Under Way

2005-05-10T13:31:00.000-07:00

From the BBC. Just what the doctor ordered. A bumch of bumbling, corrupt leaders for the morass that is South America tag-teaming with the despotic bozos from the Arab World. People like Lula and Chavez have just given themselves enough rope to hang themselves with. Every day, our enemies become clearer and clearer. Apparently, the US was told it could not even send observers to this "event." Very stupid, amigos, but you never were very good at picking winning horses (Chile and Costa Rica excluded).

Critical Flaws Found In Firefox

2005-05-10T13:10:00.000-07:00

This article is from BBC News. Even a good thing has its faults. I love using Firefox, as do most of my friends and co-workers. Sad to see there's a flaw here, but that's what happens when you get popular. Ask Microsoft.

Pro-Israel Palestinians

2005-05-10T12:56:00.000-07:00

Commentator Daniel Pipes writes an article I found hard to be surprised with. Considering the corruption in the Palestinian Authority, it would seem obvious, even to Arab Christians in the area, that living under Jewish rule is infinitely better than toiling under the foot of an incompetent regieme. Perhaps this is a signal of some more honesty instead of the usual bravado we're used to hearing from the so-called "Arab Street." It would be a nice change, wouldn't it?

Ah, To Be Immortal!!!

2005-05-08T21:23:00.000-07:00

Last week, on the same day as Orthodox Easter (Pascha), I had the pleasure of visiting after Liturgy my dear friend Ekke, a mate of mine from Austria. It had been a long time, and I had been wanting to go down to the Santa Monica area to see how he was keeping. That same weekend, another good friend, Robertas from Vilnius (a respected author, musician and editor of "Tango," a Lithuanian language magazine for experimental music and culture), was also around. We decided to make an evening out of hanging out together. The last time Robertas was in the Los Angeles area, he was writing a book along with his friend Algimantas. So this go-around, Robertas brings me a present of Lithuanian chocolate, two cassettes from Vilnius noise musician Darius Ciuta, and a book titled "Mirtis Amerikoje (Death In America)." I make note of this as the novel is based around a Lithuanian and his experiences in Los Angeles, who happens to have a friend called, wait for it...Rudy Carrera. I'm now immortal, at least in print. It doesn't get much cooler than that, does it?

Rudycarrera.coom Lives

2005-05-08T20:41:00.000-07:00

It's back. Finally, thanks to a correcting in name forwarding, and Infiniology.com's excellent service, the website is back to normal, and the layout is a bit more functional, if minimal. Any comments on the design would be appreciated.

rudycarrera.com has crapped out for the time being

2005-05-07T22:35:00.000-07:00

Hi kids. Problem with the personal site. It'll be back up shortly.

The Sinister Spread of Terrorism

2005-05-07T21:33:00.000-07:00

Here's a nice article from The American Thinker that I forgot to post last month. Enjoy!

Bush denounces Soviet domination

2005-05-07T21:04:00.000-07:00

Vladimir, Vladimir, Vladimir... Poor Mr. Putin. He's looking worse and worse as the days pass. First, he makes a comment to the effect of the fall of Communism being a great travesty for Russia, then he angers his neighbors by refusing to again apologize for the Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact of 1939, which partitioned away the sovereignty of the Baltic Republics, as though the Soviets had the right to do so. George W. Bush has delivered an effective rebuff to Putin's defiant stance against the Baltics. Putin's beginning to look like an enemy more and more, which is a shame as I actually liked him a lot. I hope, for everyone's sake, I'm wrong.

Harold Budd

2005-05-06T13:57:00.000-07:00

Harold Budd is one of the most interesting musicians to hail from Southern California. He is a composer of great dexderity, and has worked with such luminaries as Hans-Joachim Roedelius (who I had the pleasure of managing for an all-too-brief six months), Brian Eno, and XTC's Andy Partridge to name but a few. I had dinner with Budd and Roedelius many years ago, and he struck me as an absolute gentleman (in the company of another gentleman in Joachim). It was quite a special moment for me. Reading this article with Budd talking about his final album, Avalon Sutra, makes me feel a bit nostalgic for that passed moment. I'll be purchasing the album soon enough, and will one day spend time reviewing it. I just wish Harold a very nice retirement. He's earned it. But I'm sure he knows he'll be missed by many. Hopefully, he'll pull a Michael Jordan and come back once again. He's sure to give us a higher-quality comeback, that's for sure! Nice article provided by Total Music Magazine.

4. Międzynarodowy Festiwal Sztuki Mimu

2005-05-06T13:54:00.000-07:00

File this under: art / random I am freaked out by mimes, but as part of my therapy, I figured I'd post of Polish link to a festival. Why? Well, because I can, kids. Because I can...

Tajik opposition leader Makhmadruzi Iskandarov became a political refugee in Russia

2005-05-06T13:13:00.000-07:00

Is this the new face of Tadjik leadership? I hope so. They need a fresh infusion of good leadership. Heads-up to Ferghana.ru for the article.

Incoherence as a Political Strategy

2005-05-06T13:09:00.000-07:00

Robbbbb's Random Ruminations provides this amusing article. Thank God John Kerry isn't our president, folks.

Rupert on Blogs

2005-05-06T13:00:00.000-07:00

Rupert Murdoch has some rather positive things to say about blogging. I'm surprised, but pleasantly so. Let's see what Cuckoo Ted Turner says about it... Thanks to Tim Blair for the heads-up.

Waiting for Armenia? Don't Hold Your Breath

2005-05-06T12:47:00.000-07:00

I have a soft spot for Armenians, despite their brusqueness in business dealing, and their insistent shouting (yes, I'm generalizing - I can do that here, so deal with it). But I don't see their people stepping up to the plate to better their lot in their home country. Democracy Guy comments on the situation, and I thank Publius Pundit for originally showing me the story on his incredible blog.

Vile France: Fear, Duplicity, Cowardice, and Cheese by Denis Boyles

2005-05-06T12:10:00.000-07:00

Here's book review of Boyles' work against our Gallic friends, provided by the Claremont Institue, who are in fact near-neighbors of mine. Check their blog out often. I have to agree with CI's premise. The French are not the giant villains or friends we make them out to be. They're, en masse, just another group of jealous types who pine for their glory days. We shouldn't forget that. It's a bit like grandpa stating something to the effect of, "I remember when..."

The Encyclopedia in Cyberspace: Wikipedia Makes Every Man an Editor

2005-05-06T11:37:00.000-07:00

The link is provided by Orthodoxy Today, but the article is originally from New Atlantis. I'm extremely happy that OT has recognized the importance of the wonderful tool that is Wikipedia.

Glad I'm Not Him

2005-05-06T11:17:00.000-07:00

Food for thought...

Sudanese demand death for editor

2005-05-06T11:06:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love Sharia? Here's a wonderful example of it working well in Sudan.

The Devil's Advocate: Christopher Hitchens

2005-05-06T11:01:00.000-07:00

He's an atheist, but he's our atheist. I despise his take on religion, showing himself to be a know-nothing (and a proud one at that) about religion. I won't bother speculating on what childhood issues caused his fallout with God, but that subject's for another time and place. He makes his arguments against the religious right here. Again, I don't agree, but he makes points interesting enough to force oneself to reaffirm his faith.

China tells new Pope to break ties with Taiwan

2005-05-05T01:20:00.000-07:00

I'm hoping the next part is when Pope Benedict XVI tells China to jump in a lake.

Serbia Losing Its Cinematic History

2005-05-05T01:10:00.000-07:00

This is a tragedy for film buffs and fans of Eastern European classics. It's one of the reasons I'm starting my foundation, CLCX; to stop crimes like this!

Congratulations, and a Hip-Hip-Hurrah For The Ol' Lady!

2005-05-05T01:05:00.000-07:00

My Allison was accepted into Kennesaw State University (oh, she'll [rightfully] kill me if I get that wrong!) yesterday. A heartfelt "woohoo!" from her man and the family on the left side of the country for her. Congrats, hun. I'm very proud of you.

Sicialians Dish Up Anti-Mafia Pasta

2005-05-05T01:00:00.000-07:00

Another old article (I'm making up for lost time, folks), and one that my dear Allison would enjoy (despite her not being a Sicilian, thank God!). They're finally getting it right in Palermo, so may the townsfolk and entrepeneurs chase the scum away.

Hating The "Religious Right"

2005-05-05T00:53:00.000-07:00

This is an oldie and a moldy, but a goodie. Just in time for the controversy with the Air Force Academy's alleged pushiness with religion (read: Christianity). The Air Force needs to grow a set of cashews and tell the Americans United for Separation of Church and State to stick it where the sun don't shine.

Surprise, another Mexican Political Blunder Just Waiting To Occur!

2005-05-05T00:31:00.000-07:00

This one will be sure to tick off her American neighbors. Manuel Lopez Obrador, fruitcake leftist, a not-so-distant relation politically to Hugh Chavez, and up until today, a person under investigation for contempt has just been cleared by the Mexican Government to run in the next presidential election, which he will most likely win, given the lackluster performance shown by current President Vicente Fox (who I do actually admire in some respects). If reports are true about Mr. Lopez Obrador, then America will have a Chavista as a next-door-neighbor. Day by day, Mexico wavers into dangerous water and risks having a very large door slammed shut in her face. Despite the lunatic ravings of many who think that this country would die without a poor, unskilled workforce of millions just ready to be abused by multi-national corporations, please do remember that we lost hundreds of thousands in wars, and somehow, the country always managed to bounce back. We don't need a war here, just a sorting of papers for those who came legally, and a huge boot to the duff for those who didn't, including stringing up coyotes who flaunt our immigration laws. I hope Governor Schwarzennegar is serious about the Minuteman Project. It works just fine in Arizona. Woe to the company stupid enough to hire illegals of any stripe after this! What I also hope for is that Mexicans learn to stand on their own two feet, string up the devils who have kept their economic heel over the rest of the country's collective necks, and sort out their own problems. It shouldn't be too hard, considering the bounty of natural resources Mexico has access to. Let's see an Orange Revolution in North America (and I don't mean in the US, my dear leftist chowderheads - but keep dreaming!).

Heartbreaking Photo

2005-05-05T00:27:00.000-07:00

This link was pilfered from Hugh Hewitt's site, and it utterly broke my heart to see it. Michelle Malkin, one of America's great political commentators, says all that needs to be said in her comments.

You've Been Missed!

2005-05-05T00:24:00.000-07:00

Yes, I miss my wee readership very much. I've been swamped with teaching projects, the sale of my house in Rialto, a large move to Rancho Cucamonga, and now the next haul off to Atlanta, as well as waiting patiently (hah hah) for the results of the Foreign Service Examination. No time for blogging in between this mess, obviously. But now, I hope to regroup and have a bit of fun with the blog. Stay tuned...

The Friesian School

2005-04-27T12:42:00.000-07:00

There was a young gentleman spouting about the beauties of Marxism, writing from his native ex-Yugoslavia on the microsound list. In response, I post this site, for anyone dumb enough to think that trash such as Marxism is considered good philosophy. The post-Kantian Friesian School will have people like these for lunch. Unfortunately, some people won't listen, and will end up acting like that quaintly strange relative a lot of you have, who drools on himself and thinks he's Napoleon. This is what Marxism will reduce you to, guaranteed. A special thanks to Alan Erkkila for hipping me to this quite wonderful site.

4th Century Church Revealed – There is no such Temple in Europe

2005-04-26T10:22:00.000-07:00

Because the country is so poor, archaeology has been limited, but Macedonia is hiding plenty of treasures, such as this Church just found April 12, 2005. Utrinski Vesnik provides the story, and Culture In Macedonia has the archive.

Enough Is Enough!

2005-04-26T10:11:00.000-07:00

Continuing the Macedonian theme, here's an article from the Skopje and national daily, Vreme, and archived at Reality Macedonia.

Source: Vreme, #369, April 19, 2005 (Direct link) Enough is Enough By Jason Miko Whew! There is an absolute flurry of activity going on in Europe and the United States regarding the name issue these days. It seems that our Greek friends have taken the initiative on this one, lobbying everyone including grandma on the issue. I’m not entirely sure what stoked this mad-dash as the finish line doesn’t seem to be out there. Granted with September 13 coming up quickly in the rear view mirror (ten years since Macedonia signed the interim agreement with Greece for UN recognition), and rumors about Macedonia perhaps getting the green light to start talks with the EU this fall, perhaps that explains the urgency. But you know what? I just don’t see a solution, other than what Macedonia has proposed: international recognition of Macedonia by its constitutional name – The Republic of Macedonia – and a double-name formula for bilateral relations between Greece and Macedonia. However, this is not palatable to our Greek friends. Of course their argument – that the name implies territorial pretensions on northern Greece – is ludicrous and laughable. But let’s face it: their politicians have their backs against a wall. For years, they’ve either sidelined the issue thinking time is on their side – which it never was – or they have told the public that they will prevail in the end. With the United States’ recognition of Macedonia’s name last November, they’ve realized that this position has been disastrous for them, hence the urgency. So, since their backs are against the proverbial wall, there really is only one solution: an imposed one. We all know that the world community frequently imposes solutions on other countries. After all, that’s the way the world works. Just look at the Framework Agreement. And in this case, it would be much easier, and far less messy, for the international community to say to our Greek friends, “enough is enough.” And actually, truth be told, it is just the European Union that needs to do this. Three out of five permanent members of the U.N. Security Council already recognize Macedonia under her constitutional name (the U.S., Russia and China), so it is up to the United Kingdom and France to do so. (It is worth pointing out that 109 countries, out of 192, recognize Macedonia by her constitutional name too). (I had a look at the NATO web site to see if the U.S. decision affected NATO documents and see, sadly, it has not. For years, NATO documents, when they have referred to Macedonia, have referred to her as FYROM with a footnote which reads “Turkey recognizes the Republic of Macedonia with its constitutional name.” Now, with the U.S. recognizing Macedonia as well, the U.S. should join Turkey as a footnote at the bottom of all NATO documents referring to Macedonia – though me thinks that the United States of America does not want to be a footnote). With the two of them taking the lead, as many leaders in the U.K. have already asked, they can simply will it into being. The Germans will go along as many of their politicians also want this. If the EU were to do this, then the Greek politicians could simply tell their constituents, “look we tried to do something but the solution was imposed on us.” The Greek citizens might get mad at the EU, but hey, who is in the driver’s seat? And Javier Solana might take a little heat, but he needs some heat – it builds character. In the meantime, the Government of Macedonia must stay the course. All indications are that it is. Statements from various Government officials all point to the fact that they are willing to keep talking, but that recognition of the name by the international community and a double-name formula for our Greek friends is the only way forward. It would help, of course, if some Government officials – especially Macedonian Albanians – came forward and started forcefully talking about this as well. It should be in their interests and they can help solidify the public’s perception of them by doing this. Greek claims that this must be solved soon are empty. This has been going on for almost ten years now and Macedonia has survived. It can keep going forward and as it does, time is on Macedonia’s side. More and more countries will recognize the idiocy of the Greek claims and their shrill demands and more and more countries will come to see Macedonia as being victimized by Greek bullying. The claim by our Greek friends that they will put a hold on potential NATO and EU membership too is simply hollow: no such legal conditions exist for such membership. Macedonia has already changed its constitution and flag in deference to Greek concerns. Enough is enough. The international community must take the next step by imposing a solution on Greece, recognizing Macedonia by her constitutional name and telling our Greek friends to accept a double-formula for bilateral relations with Macedonia.

The Former Turkish Occupied Colony of Greece (FTOCG) Annoys Us Again

2005-04-26T10:06:00.000-07:00

I love the Greeks, except when they interfere in Macedonian politics. They are beginning to look like horses' asses now as they continue to stop the unstoppable: the recognition of the Macedonian Republic under its constitutional name. As they say in Skopje, "Don't You FYROM Me!"

Source: moyana.org (Direct link) Making Greece Happy By Chris M. Purdef April 18, 2005 The latest news sources have alluded to a "New Greek strategy" in the on-going negotiations in the United Nations. But there are some of us who believe there is nothing new here other than a raised bar on emotional flare-up in international politics. Equally, after US recognition of the Republic of Macedonia, Greek attaches have not the integrity to handle their obvious diplomatic defeat and insist on changing the rules of the game to better suit their temperament. In an outright blitz of global- power pandering, Greece is now cutting their losses by secretly trying to move the negotiations away from New York and into Europe. Astoundingly, one scheme in Greece’s new strategy is to attempt to “revise” the Copenhagen Criteria for EU admission, but only for Macedonia. It has been reported that Greece is going to insist that Macedonia not only fulfill the Copenhagen Criteria but also be forced to reach a compromised solution for its name within the EU institutions before it would be allowed to enter the European Family. New speculations have cropped up from a statement given by the government in Luxembourg in which they apparently have come to an agreement with Greece to be the mediating entity in the “new deal” to reach an “acceptable compromise” on the name dispute between Greece and Macedonia. Other sources have speculated that Greece will institute a national referendum on whether or not Greece should give their vote for Macedonian admittance into the EU. But as of now, these reports remain speculative, and early Macedonian reaction to this news is not positive. While, the Macedonian Orthodox Church, probably the only reliable voice of Macedonian citizens home and abroad, has come out with this statement: "The Macedonian Orthodox Church, along with its believers at home and abroad, doesn't accept any concessions related to Macedonia's constitutional name." As I wind back my thoughts on yesteryear, rewriting the rules of the game is not a new bag for Greek Diplomats. However, Hellenes continue to amaze and entertain us with their unrelenting “temper tantrum diplomacy.” I believe in some circles it has been stated, “Hell hath no fury like a Greek scorned.” To make this point, we must remember that soon after the US officially recognized the Republic of Macedonia the world was eyewitness to an unhappy display of emotional outbursts, frantic protests with burning US and Macedonian Flags, and talks of regional demise by our Greek brothers and sisters. Yes, Greek reaction left few jaws positioned, while many of us who have been dealing with Greek nationalism for God only knows how long, were now assured that the rest of the world finally understood us. Greece was not as romantically, prophetic as once believed, for not only did they not “love their neighbors,” they really didn’t want or care for a stable Macedonia whatsoever. A position they continually maintain in international forums. On the contrary, it has been analyzed by experts, that Greece wants total dominion in the Balkans by control of the Caspian Gasline. How better to do this by isolating and renaming of the geographical “crossroads” of east and west, the Republic of Macedonia? Without a doubt, current Greek diplomacy has rekindled a Macedonian nightmare; let’s remind our reader that it was Greece, way back in 1994 that first insisted on changing the rules of the game with special criteria for Macedonian admission in the UN. Anyone else notice a pattern here? Not only that, with the help of the UN, they managed to coerce overwhelmed, Macedonian representatives into negotiating their identity with Greece within the ranks of the UN. Thus, it is no surprise that after all this has backfired, they are now trying to institute this tactic once again, unfortunately for all involved, now a little more vindictively. When in doubt, change the rules of the game. Or as the Greek Government recently showed, use international mediators to make Macedonia look like the uncooperative, bully by forcing negotiations outside the agreed upon “turf.” But will the United States and the European Union bite? Nevertheless let us not hash words here, as life is too short to spend on petty identity disputes. God intended us for different purposes. Since Greece is the only country in the world that has a problem with the constitutional name of Macedonia, their strategy of “annoyance” could eventually sway some delegates if Macedonia plays it too cool. To review, because of this Greek annoyance, the Republic of Macedonia has already given up its flag and revised its constitution to appease Greek nationalism. Today, Macedonians have come up with the only compromise that would not only please Greece and Macedonia, but would take in account the rest of the world’s God-given right to address Macedonia as they would like. This new proposed solution for the name dispute is called the Double Formula. Essentially what this proposed agreement states is that the constitutional name, Republic of Macedonia would be used around the world, while there would be another, compromised name for Greek/Macedonian bilateral relations. Looking to move on and renew relationships with their brothers and sisters, most Macedonians don’t even care what Greeks call them as long as they have the freedom to communicate with the world in their own terms. Therefore, one would think that with this Double Formula all sides would be happy, right? Not even close. Greece has vehemently denounced this proposal and has insisted on an “acceptable compromise;” apparently, a compromise only acceptable to them, and one that would set out to defy our God-given freedoms not to mention international norms. Alas, Greece will only accept a process that would make everyone equally miserable and unhappy. I guess this is the only way to make Greece happy. To post your comments to this article, please visit http://www.upsaid.com/macedonia74/ Chris M. Purdef graduated from Ohio State University with a degree in Political Science and International Studies in 1997. Two years later he went on to be a US Peace Corps Volunteer in the municipality of Kriva Palanka, Macedonia. In the summer of 2004, Chris joined the Macedonian Orthodox Youth Association of North America as their youth coordinator for the West Coast Region – Arizona. He is also the Vice President of the non-profit Friends of Macedonia. Chris may be reached at macedonia74@yahoo.com

Circle of Pneuma: Jesus In Chinese Art

2005-04-26T08:24:00.000-07:00

Wow, I love the web! You run into the most curious things. This is a collection of artwork depicting Jesus Christ in Biblical situations, done in a gorgeous Chinese style. Makes you wonder about how non-European people may think about and identify with the Messiah. Circle of Pneuma provides this very interesting link.

RIP: Niels-Henning Ørsted Pedersen (1946-2005)

2005-04-25T23:36:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Cayetano Lopez who posted this story (you need to be logged in to read his post) at the jazz_sp mailing list at Yahoo!. I love the sound of the Double Bass, and NHØP was one of the best practitioners of this art. He mastered his instrument, and managed to perform with all the major giants in jazz over his very long career. At 58, he was obviously way too young to be sent up to the sky. Rest in peace, dear sir. Now you have time to jam for an eternity.

José Miguel Carrera

2005-04-25T23:25:00.000-07:00

A history lesson on one of Chile's founding fathers, a Galego, and maybe a long deceased relative? Who knows?

Carthage Film Festival

2005-04-25T23:18:00.000-07:00

Here's something you don't see everyday. A film festival from the home of Hannibal! Cool! Tunisia, despite having its fair share of kooks, is a wonderful place. Remind me one day to bore you with my Tunisian story, eh?

Bidoun

2005-04-25T23:10:00.000-07:00

During one of my many trips to the local Border's Bookstore near my place of work (and I'm afraid they're now calling me by my first name - a sure sign I'm there way too much), I ran into a magazine called Bidoun. It's a magazine that covers arts and culture from the Middle East. I took a long read, and enjoyed it a lot. It's a pretty fresh perspective of what's going on culturally in the area. Great to find out info on things like Lebanese art museums and Iranian metal bands and the like.

Another Shining Example of "Shut Up And Sing"

2005-04-25T22:42:00.000-07:00

My dear Allison has taken the only techno chump to be dissed on a silver disc permanently by Eminem, the pathetically P.C. Moby, to task. The little lady is as acerbic as ever, and if you feel like getting your grouch on, that's the blog to check out.

Rosenblog.com writes up CL!

2005-04-25T22:33:00.000-07:00

Being a vain bugger, I decided to check out Technorati to see if anyone has bothered (outside of my family and girlfriend, of course) reading this little labor of love, much less my personal website crammed with links (which is due for an overhaul, because it's frankly ugly). To my surprise, Matt Rosenberg of Rosenblog.com gave it a read, and said some flattering things about it. Matt's already been on my Blogroll for a while, as he's one of the most erudite writers hustling on the blogosphere these days, and he, along with Hugh Hewitt, Publius Pundit, and of course Mark Steyn, make for crucial daily reading. Plus, he has excellent taste in music. If I were Catholic, I'd nominate him for sainthood. Hat tip to the boyo.

Noster Amicitius habeum novum Papem! Long Live Benedictus XVI

2005-04-19T12:49:00.000-07:00

What a joy this is! Perhaps this is the "olive branch" referenced in the Book of Malachi that the Churches have been expecting. The former Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger was the right arm of the dearly departed and beloved John Paul II. Ratzinger, a German, is the first in over 900 years to serve as Pontifex Maximus for the Church of Rome, one of the original Christian Churches. As an Orthodox, I see Pope Benedictus XVI as a bishop worthy of all respect, and it is my sincere wish that he be the man who heals old wounds. The Church, in my estimation, was ripped by a German called Luther. May a German be its healer this time. Thanks to Yahoo!'s links to major news stories about the new pontiff.

The Hell of Israel is Better Than The Paradise of Arafat

2005-04-18T13:58:00.000-07:00

Columnist Daniel Pipes comments on the surprising notion that a good deal of Palestinians, despite showing bravado against Israel, would rather live under Jewish rule than under the despotic and corrupt administration of the Palestinian National Authority and Mahmoud Abbas.

Kinda Beige

2005-04-14T23:44:00.000-07:00

This is a plug for a dear friend of mine. Jeff always was a creative boyo, and I had no idea he started blogging a year ago. Besides his blogging capabilities, Jeff also has an impeccable taste in music that rivals my own. In other words, it's pretty sick. Add to that a most charming and graceful wife, plus a Renaissance woman of a daughter, and I have to count myself lucky to have such a good friend. He suggests Other Music to shop for freaky records, and after sampling some of the wares, so do I. It's nice to see the words and hear the voice and enjoy the similar tastes in music of an old friend again.

KAZAKHSTAN: Special report on ethnic Germans

2005-04-14T23:01:00.000-07:00

IRINews.org has a report on the plight of ethnic Germans from Kazakhstan. They've been abused for decades, and are stuck between their ancestral culture, the current dictatorship and Russian influence. May God make life easier for them, please!

Why Progressive Westerners Never Understood JPII

2005-04-14T22:44:00.000-07:00

Mark Steyn's acerbic pen (or typing fingers in this case) go into action against the secularist lefties on Western Europe on their missing the point of the Pope's leadership decisions.

Let Fathers Be Fathers

2005-04-13T23:40:00.000-07:00

Nicholas D. Kristof's article is on the money. The Roman Catholic Church should allow priests under the Cardinal to marry. It has worked in the Eastern Orthodox Church since the beginning, and for some reason, it hasn't fallen apart yet.

Death Rite Unnerves Romanian EU Bid

2005-04-13T23:30:00.000-07:00

My, my, the EU are no fun. A country is seen as "creepy" because their death rites are a bit, well, odd. So what? It's part of the charm of a country. Of course, the bureaucrats in Brussels know better than the religious and superstitious bumpkins, don't they? It's a wonder Iceland isn't in yet, considering they have roads that are positioned as to not disturb elves. Cool.

Videoletters restore Balkan bonds

2005-04-13T23:24:00.000-07:00

After a decade of tragedy in Bosnia-Hercegovina, this story comes as some nice news. The BBC provides this article on how a couple of enterprising Europeans have started a program to reunite friends and family split up by the war which destroyed the former Yugoslavia.

Postcards from Iran: Tehran party

2005-04-13T23:18:00.000-07:00

As in Lebanon, Iran's youth will be the ones who lead the country out of their current morass. The majority of the population is under age 35, has little to no recollection of the revolution which sent the Shah of Iran out of the country and installed the Khomeini gang, wrecking a burgeoning democracy. They have a chance to regain their dignity, and they'll do it to the beat of good old American Pop (hey, I wish it was free jazz, but I'll take whatever we can get!). I like the fact that they're partying against their handlers. Let us hope that afterward, they can make a responsible democracy.

Iran dissident faces death again

2005-04-13T23:14:00.000-07:00

Hashem Aghajari, a socialist, is not someone I'd normally support, but if he wishes to stick an eye to the Mad Mullahs, who issue fatwahs against anyone who looks at them cock-eyed, then hey, I'm all for it! May this gentleman get off the hook in Iran.

France embraces commercial film

2005-04-13T23:12:00.000-07:00

I have three words for the French Film Industry: O-ho-ho! Three more: our films are still better. Nice try, though. From the BBC.

Sony Invention Beams Sights, Sounds Into Brain

2005-04-13T23:06:00.000-07:00

Technology is getting scary. Johnny Mnemonic, watch out! Thanks to Kim Cascone and the .microsound. Mailing List for this intriguing, if creepy, article.

Podcasts' explore universe of topics

2005-04-13T22:58:00.000-07:00

My wonderful dearie Allison provides this most wonderful of stories, melding three of my favorite subjects: religion, music and technology. It's nice to have a lovely person keeping her peepers open on my behalf! Anyway, when funds allow it, I do plan on torturing my readers with both my taste in music and the cackling of my voice, probably reading Borges or something.

Analysis: Moscow-Vatican rivalry

2005-04-13T22:52:00.000-07:00

I must be exceptionally cranky today. This article burned me up seeing it. The head of the Russian Orthodox Church inside of Russia, Patriarch Alexei II, has the nerve to play politics with the Catholic Church and his laity. It is a sad tale to tell that the Church of Russia is too afraid to allow Catholics to come into the country, fearful of Rome poaching souls, as if this were possible. The reality is that the Russians (and by extension, the Ukrainians and Belarusians) have a strong and vibrant Christianity, and the Catholics want to work with the German, Polish and Filipino minorities who maintain their creed. Alexei II will have much to answer for in Heaven if he blows unification opportunities with the next Pope, considering what a poor job he did with his fellow Slav, John Paul II. May God open his eyes soon before it's too late.

D.R. Congo's Atrocious Secret

2005-04-13T22:48:00.000-07:00

In a sickening twist to the story, mercenaries are now eating victims in the most lawless of countries. This pathetic patch of land is sure to burn now. What a waste. This story from the former Zaire comes to us from the BBC.

Did Spain Sell WMD To Hugo Chavez?

2005-04-11T11:37:00.000-07:00

Captain Ed busts the Spanish government for making the idiotic faux pas of selling WMDs to a chimp like Chavez. How far will Zapatero send Spain's moral compass into a tailspin?

Church's Influence Waning in Once Fervently Catholic Spain

2005-04-11T11:28:00.000-07:00

Evidence, as if more was needed, of Spain's decline into hedonism. There is a spark of conservatism rekindling, however, after the Pope's passing. Let's hope the current Socialist President falls on his face while he pushes anti-Christian bills on Spain's apathetic populace.

Four Gifts of the American Church to the Universal Church

2005-04-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

I just ran into this rather old writing by Roger Haight, a rather interesting Christian writer.

John Paul The Great

2005-04-11T09:59:00.000-07:00

Richard John Neuhaus is the editor of First Things, a magnificent Catholic magazine. This is an op-ed piece at the New York Post which makes a case for the sainthood of Pope John Paul II.

Al Qaeda In The Balkans

2005-04-11T09:43:00.000-07:00

Dr. Miroljub Jevtic's analysis on the dangerous role Balkan Muslims are playing in the young democracies which sprang up from the former Yugoslavia.

Governor Moonbeam Makes Good

2005-04-11T09:35:00.000-07:00

Oakland Mayor and former California Governor Jerry Brown has not only become a blogger, but one of pretty high quality. Don't mistake these kind words for our dear Zen Fascist Thank the Dead Kennedys for that wonderful line) politico for complete sympathy, but he's a brave man for placing his words out bare for all to see. It would be nice if all public officials maintained their own blogs to show they're willing to be accountable to their constituency.

They Hate the Church More Than They Hate Life Itself

2005-04-11T09:32:00.000-07:00

Gerard Van Der Leun's stunning article at the American Digest discusses how bad the MSM and liberals in general just don't get why the religious are the way they are. Beautiful work.

Hungarian Composer Ligeti to receive Frankfurt Music Prize

2005-04-11T09:27:00.000-07:00

György Ligeti is one of my favorite composers, and I never thought he'd be so honored. It's about time. "2001: A Space Odyssey" would not be the same film without Ligeti's "Lux Aeterna," "Requiem" and "Atmospheres."

North Korea stages Mass for Pope

2005-04-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

Even in the face of Hell, there are still good souls praying for the departed unifier, JPII. Provided by the BBC News Website.

The Great Unifier

2005-04-11T00:27:00.000-07:00

You'll have to subscribe to the New York Times, a normally biased rag, but this article makes it worth it. Dr. Jaroslav Pelikan, a Yale Professor and devout Orthodox Christian, waxes poetic on the passing of Pope John Paul II, and how he strived to unify Christendom.

Aliens In This World

2005-04-11T00:18:00.000-07:00

I stumbled onto this blog for Russian fantastica (science fiction, if you will). Great stuff, run by a Catholic, and something for the literati that visit this spot. A side note here. I had no idea there was a Croatian science fiction scene. I love Wikipedia!

Mark Steyn on the Pope, the incompetent American media coverage of the Pope, and the vertebrae-challenged Republican Senators

2005-04-11T00:08:00.000-07:00

The Great Sage speaks (no, not Larry Elder, who is also a sage in his own right), and we now have a record of it thanks to Radio Blogger. I agree with Hugh Hewitt's assessment of Steyn's commentary skills; the major networks have no excuse for not hiring this man. His words cut deep, and should be heard by an even wider audience. Daily, if possible.

Legal fight over 'The Girl from Ipanema'

2005-04-11T00:05:00.000-07:00

This is a travesty. The Universal Music Publishing Group has shown poor taste in trying to rip off the Jobim Estate of their rightful earnings by doling money to writers who translated the lyrics from the original Portuguese which Jobim preferred to write in. Jobim was known in this country for penning the music to "The Girl From Ipanema," although I prefer his seminal solo album, "Stone Flower," a disc I highly recommend purchasing for it's sultry, dark sound. A perfect bossa nova album for me.

Back from Atlanta

2005-04-10T23:48:00.000-07:00

Sorry for the long silence, but I was enjoying myself in the company of Allison and her friends in Atlanta, Georgia. I met a gangload of wonderful people, and spent quality time with Allison, although sleep was at a premium! I look forward to blogging again, and it's good to be back in some small measure.

Bob's Back!

2005-04-03T01:13:00.000-08:00

Mark Steyn is on the warpath again! He destroyes Robert "Crazy Bob" Mugabe, the drooling imbecile posing as a president in Zimbabwe after sham elections (makes me wish Rhodesia was still around). What's funny is that Ian Smith, the "racist" mentioned in Steyn's article, is actually better liked by Zimbabweans than Crazy Bob is. Charming.

Hannity & Colmes: Slow Burn

2005-04-03T01:08:00.000-08:00

This article made me sick. From bashing Alan Colmes (despite me actually liking the guy and almost feeling sorry for the ridicule he endures)? No! From making me laugh so hard my sides felt like they were being ripped apart by mad dingos. I'm not a big Hannity fan by any stretch of the imagination (although he can be amusing, and at times, decent), but poor Alan... Ah well, he's a lib. Too bad.

Karol Wojtyla, Pope John Paul II (1920-2005)

2005-04-02T15:41:00.000-08:00

The Great Pope has passed. His stewardship of the Roman Catholic faith was perhaps the most important event of the 20th Century. Between he, Aleksandr Solzhenitsyn and Ronald Reagan, you had the triple threat of Christianity (the Catholic, the Orthodox and the Protestant), they, as Saint George did, slayed in unison the Communist beast. He was a bishop to me as an Orthodox, and a brother and friend to those who wanted to reunite the One True Holy Universal Apostolic Church. Some day soon, this will happen. For now, may the gentle Pole sleep well with the Lord and meet his maker knowing that his friends and faithful send him away with all the love we can muster. Memory eternal!

What's Left? Shame.

2005-04-01T01:48:00.000-08:00

Charles Krauthammer lays down the law, putting the left in this country is a position of shame. If they ever wish to win again, the Democratic Party could learn something from this article.

Hushed Rape of Timor

2005-04-01T01:46:00.000-08:00

I'm late on this one, but it's tragic that the poor Timorese continue to be abused by creul practitioners of the religion of "peace." It makes good Islamic folks look very, very bad.

The Strange Death of the Liberal West

2005-04-01T01:42:00.000-08:00

Mark Steyn is my favorite wordsmith. I'll be posting many of his articles here for your perusal. The title says it all. Also read his article (here) on the death of Argentine tinhorn dictator Leopoldo Galtieri and Britain's decision to protect the Falklands.

Lack of Charity

2005-04-01T00:39:00.000-08:00

The Holy Father of the world's Catholic Christians, Pope John Paul II, is preparing to enter the next life with our Savior. He will go without doing something he so desperately wanted to do: visit Russia. I, for many years, was against it, as it would have allowed Roman Catholics to make attempts to "poach" Eastern Orthodox souls and change the face of Russian Christianity. I did this without thinking of the long-term implications. I don't agree with some aspects of Catholicism, namely the Filioque and Papal Infallibility which was never agreed to by the myriad of Christian churches who used to do everything by synod (and still do in the East, for the most part). But Patriarch Alexei II, leader of Russia's national Orthodox faithful, chose to make a mountain out of a molehill. JPII did have a right to see his faithful, namely the Poles, Germans and Filipinos who live within Russia's borders and who have kept their faith without converting large swathes of Orthodox Christians to Papism. Alexei II should have shown more grace to his counterpart in Christianity, a fellow Bishop (I see him as the Bishop of the Western Christians, and afford him all honors I would bestow on Bartholomew I of the Ecumenical Patriachate in Turkey, our Patriarch in America). Instead, he showed the same paranoid tendencies that this Communist plant has proven to be famous for amongst the Russian Orthodox Church Outside of Russia, who have kept themselves apart from Alexei's rule for this same reason. Alexei II has blown a serious chance to heal a thousand-year-old schism within our Churches. The Pope will soon die, failing in this unification. May Alexei not blow his next opportunity, or may God see fit to brush him away and provide Mother Russia with fresh leadership.

Memory Eternal: Terri Schiavo

2005-04-01T00:36:00.000-08:00

After a horrible struggle, Terri has finally passed on. I'll write more in-depth about this in a day or so, as work and the illness of the Pope, Jerry Falwell, and a few other decent people, have taken a heavy toll on my mind. R.I.P.

The Resurrection. Did it really happen?

2005-03-27T21:57:00.000-08:00

I had Easter dinner with my folks today, and this topic came up. I stand by the belief, mentioned in the article, that if the Resurrection of Jesus Christ didn't happen, there is no point to faith. The liberal "Christians" and Jesus Seminar sorts here have done much to damage faith in Christianity as much as the so-called Enlightenment did to quash Faith in post-Renaissance Europe. Christians need to be more assertive in their faith and defend it against not only the anti-Christian, but the lukewarm as well. The article is from Sign On San Diego.

Rate Your Music

2005-03-27T21:53:00.000-08:00

This is a cool little site for rating albums.

The Fire in Iran

2005-03-27T21:17:00.000-08:00

Provided by Regime Change Iran. Nice work from Michael Ledeen (see Blogroll for his link) imploring our President to get off his duff and do what he promised; stand by the Iranians who are revolting against the Mullahs!

My Woman...

2005-03-27T20:23:00.000-08:00

...in a word, rocks. I love her and have been taken good care of. Thanks, hun. For her rather, ahem, spirited opinion of the world, read Allison's Stream of Consciousness (The Site) and her blog, listed in my Blogroll.

The Iranian People's SHOCK & AWE in Tehran!

2005-03-27T20:21:00.000-08:00

This HAS to be supported at all costs! The Iranian people are finally rising up, even though the MSM has done an atrocious job of reporting it. Nothing left to do but support them and spread the word as loudly and as far as possible. Thanks to Regime Change Iran and their wonderful blog for the info.

Whither The Female Bloggers?

2005-03-26T17:24:00.000-08:00

From Willisms.com. An article wondering why women don't post as much about politics as men do. They thankfully ask a couple of women their opinion on the subject rather than making potentially suicidal assumptions on what women think, a la our dear Lawrence Summers at Harvard.

Perspectives in Health: Don Francisco Gives Back

2005-03-26T17:07:00.000-08:00

Everyone in the Spanish-speaking world knows Don Francisco, the Chilean host (and son of German Jewish parents who immigrated to South America in the late 1930s) of Sábado Gigante, a now 40 year old variety show. What they may not know is that, despite being a payaso on television (a ham, more or less), he's also quite a nice person off the set, as this article points out. Good luck and many more good years to him.

Institute For War and Peace Reporting (IWPR)

2005-03-26T17:05:00.000-08:00

Though I don't care too much for their left-of-center slant on the majority of their stories, they are actually a good resource for recent events in Central Asia, Afghanistan, Belarus, and parts of Africa that are in tumult these days.

Feast Day of the Holy Archangel Gabriel

2005-03-26T02:25:00.000-08:00

May your Holy Saturday be wonderful. Thanks of course to Nick Cobb's Orthodox-Theo Mailing List. Bishop Nikolai Velimirovch The Prologue from Ohrid © Serbian Orthodox Church Diocese of Western America

March 26

1. THE HOLY ARCHANGEL GABRIEL

Gabriel is the announcer of the Incarnation of the Son of God. He is one of the seven archangels who stand before the Throne of God. He appeared to Zacharias about the birth of the Forerunner. Gabriel said of himself, "I am Gabriel, who stand before God" (St. Luke 1:19). His name Gabriel means "Man - God." The Holy Fathers, in speaking about the Annunciation, interpret that an archangel with such a name was sent to signify who and what He would be like, who must be born of the All-Pure One. Therefore, He will be Man-God, mighty and powerful God. Some of the Fathers understood that this same Gabriel appeared to Joachim and Anna concerning the birth of the Virgin Mary and that Gabriel instructed Moses in the wilderness to write the Book of Genesis. The Holy Fathers think that Gabriel has pre-eminence in the first and greatest order of heavenly powers, that is, the Seraphic Order, since the Seraphims stand closest to God. He is, therefore, one of the seven Seraphims, closest to God. The names of the seven are MICHAEL, GABRIEL, RAPHAEL, URIEL, SALATHIEL, JEGUDIEL, BARACHIEL. To this number some even add JEREMIEL. Each one has their own particular service and all are equal in honor. Why did God not send Michael? Because Michael's service is to suppress the enemies of the Faith of God while Gabriel's is the mission of announcing the salvation of mankind.

2. THE PRIESTLY-MARTYR IRENAEUS OF SREM

It is thought that Irenaeus was a Slav. He was married and had children prior to becoming a bishop. He suffered for Christ during the reign of Maximian. At the time of horrible sufferings, his relatives stood around him crying and begged him to spare himself and them [that is, to deny Christ]. But this wonderful priestly-martyr loved the wounds of Christ more than all the riches of this world. At the same time Seren, a certain gardener in Srem, also suffered at the hands of Prince Probus, as did Afrius suffer in Regia. Because Irenaeus did not want to deny his faith, Prince Probus ordered that he be hurled from a bridge into the Sava river, where this shepherd of Christ's flock died and took up habitation among the citizens of heaven. He honorably suffered in the year 304 A.D.

3. THE VENERABLE MALCHUS

Malchus was a farmer from the vicinity of Antioch, and from his youth his entire soul was directed toward God. The Arabs enslaved him and while in slavery forced him to take a black woman for a wife. He converted her to the Faith of Christ and they lived together as brother and sister. Conspiring with each other, they escaped from bondage. The Arabs almost overtook them. They found shelter in a cave in which they saw a lioness with her pups, and they became frightened. But God protected them. The lioness did not harm them but killed an Arab who wanted to enter the cave to apprehend the runaways. Arriving at their destination, his wife entered a convent and Malchus entered a monastery. He lived many years, mortifying himself, and took up habitation among the citizens of heaven in the fourth century.

4. VENERABLE BASIL, THE NEW

At first Basil lived in the forest without shelter or hearth. When he was captured, they questioned him saying," Who are you?" He replied, "One of the living on earth." They suspected him and thinking that he was a spy, tortured him. In the end, he lived for many years in freedom in Constantinople. He discerned all the human mysteries of man, perceived the future and worked great miracles. His maid was the elder woman Theodora who, when she died, appeared to Gregory, Basil's novice, and described to him the twenty levels of judgment [Mitarstvo] through which every soul must pass. On March 25, 944 A.D., St. Basil peacefully died and took up habitation in the wonderful heavenly family. After his death he was seen in great glory by a citizen of Constantinople.

HYMN OF PRAISE

THE ARCHANGELS

Seven golden-headed of angelic rank,

Seven archangels, the highest spirits:

Michael, the sword for adversaries, is the first;

By the sword, he renders payment to those who wage war against God.

Gabriel, the herald of God's incarnation

And all wondrous recorder of human salvation.

Raphael, as a sun, is the servant of the Trinity;

Of vast human afflictions, he is the physician.

Uriel is the radiant light of God,

Of human souls, the enlightener.

Selathiel, the intercessor, prayers he presents,

And prayers of the people before God, he brings.

Jegudiel, glorifier of God the Almighty,

He, the willing man, to glory encourages,

Barachiel, dispenser of the blessing of heaven,

From God, he gives what men need.

REFLECTION

When a miracle occurs, do not be confused by it, rather, rejoice. God has placed His finger there, either to reward or to punish or to encourage His faithful or to lead the sinners on the path of salvation. People frequently compare this world to a fiery chariot. When you see a locomotive or another steam engine, you know that an engineer is hidden from view. That does not surprise you, does it? If the engineer puts his head out of the cab, waves his hand, extends a rod, waves a handkerchief, or tosses out a letter, or makes some other sign, you know that this does not interfere with the travel of the locomotive and does not damage one pin in it. Why, then, do the faithless say that God with His miracles interferes with the movement of these earthly chariots? Why? Because the faithless are unreasonable. The faithful rejoice at God's signs. A child is frightened before a fiery chariot but rejoices when a man, resembling himself, appears from the chariot. O, how dear it is to us when, from this mute universe which hurls around us, someone appears resembling us and that someone is one who recognizes and loves us! When a miracle occurs, know that He Who resembles us greets us and says, "Do not be afraid, I am beyond all of this." St. Basil the New worked many miracles. Through prayer he healed the sick and discerned the fate of people like an open book. Through His chosen ones, God, as always, demonstrated His love and power to men in order to firmly establish the faithful in the Faith and to shame the unfaithful and to return them to the Faith.

CONTEMPLATION

To contemplate the Lord Jesus crucified on the cross:

1. How He used the last breath of life and saves a thief on the cross;

2. How He commends His soul into the hands of the Father "Father, into Your hands I commend My Spirit" (St. Luke 23:46).

HOMILY

About the impending advent of the Lord

"Behold, I am coming soon"(Revelation 22:7).

The unfaithful and the slayers of the spirit will say, "Nearly two thousand years ago He promised that He will come and He has not come yet!" This is how they, who ridiculed Him, will lament in eternal torment. But we who are prepared for happiness in His Kingdom know that He will come in power and glory just as He promised. We know that He has already come countless times and showed Himself to His faithful ones. Did He not come to John the Divine [the one who saw God] to whom He spoke these words, "Behold, I am coming soon?" John saw Him in power and glory and felt His hand on him when he was frightened and fell before His feet as dead, "And He touched me with His right hand" (Revelation 1:17). Did He not come to Saul when in the beginning he breathed hatred against the Christians and when on the road to Damascus fell on the ground, seeing the Lord and hearing His voice saying, "Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting me?" (Acts of the Apostles 9:4). And again, did He not enter into the heart of the Apostle Paul when he recognized that "Yet I live, no longer I, but Christ lives in me!" (Galatians 2:20). Did He not come to the countless martyrs, both male and female, who suffered for His Name, to encourage them, to heal them, and to have mercy on them? Did He not come to Anthony the Great, Theodore Stratelates, St. Haralambos, St. Marina, St. Sylvester and many, many more? What are we saying? Did He not return from the Kingdom of Death on the third day and appeared before the apostles? Did He not come to the aid of the Church many, many times and, as out of the dead, resurrected it whenever her enemies rejoiced, thinking that they had given His Church over to death forever? Did He not appear in His power in the Church at the time of Nero as well as at the time of Constantine; at the time of Julian, as well as at the time of Justinian; at the time of Arab tyranny, as well as at the time of the Turkish and Mongolian oppression over Christians?

O, my faithful brethren, do not submit to deception. He came countless times and comes even today. He comes to every soul to whom He can, regardless of impurity. However, we are all waiting for Him to come for the last time in power and glory. We know that His coming is certain. O Lord Most Gracious, before You come, make us worthy to recognize Your face and to be ashamed of our faces, darkened by sin.

To You glory and thanks always. Amen.

Pet My Monkey!

2005-03-26T02:00:00.000-08:00

Well, Stern was always a bit of a fruity magazine posing as "kultur und kritik." They're nothing of the sort, just a pack of pseudo-intellectual prats who dance around like "Dieter" in Saturday Night Live, screaming "Pet My Minki," looking a bit light in the loafers. At least that's what I'd like Germans to look like. Who'se closer? Go to Berlin's Love Parade and find out. What sick idiots the German socialist-run press have become. Davids Medienkritik provides the translation for this insulting "description" of America. I hope there are still Germans of sense left there, because you will be run over completely by garbage shortly, if it hasn't happened already.

Oh, Do I Love Being Tall!

2005-03-26T01:53:00.000-08:00

The New Yorker Magazine's Burkhard Bilger writes this article on the benefits of having height. We apparently get more money, more chicks, and live longer, by the jist of the story. Hmm...

Ennio Morricone

2005-03-25T09:04:00.000-08:00

Two wonderful articles and discographies are provided by Perfect Sound Forever Magazine. Morricone was the scorer of such films as "The Good, The Bad and The Ugly," as well as "The Mission," two of my favorite films ever. He was also a trumpet player of note, and even worked in the experimental project Gruppo di Improvvisazione Nuova Consonanza. I ran across these links at the zorn-list Mailing List this morning, so a hat tip goes to Diego Gruber for these: http://www.furious.com/perfect/morricone.html http://www.furious.com/perfect/morricone2.html

Searchin' For Shakes - The Garage Rock Compilation Database

2005-03-25T08:45:00.000-08:00

For garage rock, beat and psych music aficianados, this site is essential! I just came across it today at the fuzzflowers Yahoo! Mailing List. This site is brought to us by Ugly Things Magazine, the best mag for the genre going today.. My brother and I used to work garage rock clubs for over a decade, and are devotees to the music (me not so much these days, as I still prefer to deal with jazz and classical). The bands we had the pleasure of working with were amazing at the old Tiger Mask Club. Those were some fun days. This site rekindles the nasty habit of digging through record store bins to find some rare gems.

Jubilant News From Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan!

2005-03-24T06:13:00.000-08:00

Askar Akayev, "president" of Kyrgyzstan (another Central Asian tin-horn despot in reality) has been chased out of the country's capital, Bishkek, by protesters who started in the southern city of Osh a few days ago. The Central Asian "Silk Road Revolution (or "Tulip Revolution" has hopefully begun. President Bush may have unleashed what is the opposite of Pandora's Box, and I can't possibly be happier to see these developments. I'm sure Publius Pundit will have much to comment on this soon.