Have you ever met a "flat earther"?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 22, 2018:

I wonder if a study/survey has been done to measure the percentage of flat earthers who are X-tian, or other faith-based religion? My guess is it would be close to 100%! That's not to say there aren't intelligent religious people. I know plenty, but I think they may be predisposed to believe in this type of horse shit.

For the vets! In your opinion, what is the attitude of the rank & file in the armed services about ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 22, 2018:

Interesting question. I completed my service obligation in December of 1983 and have only an opinion on what the current attitude is. My guess is that while the majority are probably still believers, ranks of non-believers is growing rapidly, just as it is in the rest of society. For my part, I can say that when I enlisted in 1979, I was a dyed in the wool believer, sickeningly "witnessing" to anyone who would listen in idiotic attempts to save their "immortal souls." In basic training (Air Force), I recall everyone went to church, mostly to escape the alternative of cleaning toilets or whatever in the barracks. I went too, and I was immensely disappointed at the concert atmosphere. I barely remember what the chapel was like, but there was a stage with a live band. There was no real message or lesson being delivered. It was just entertainment. This was the beginning of the end for me. I wouldn't say I became an Atheist as a result of the experience, but my opinion certainly changed at that time. New information later helped to change my thinking completely.

Im excited, Elon Musk plans to send two supply ships to Mars in 2022 and four more ships in 2024, ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 22, 2018:

That's cool, but his earthly endeavors have more "short-term" potential: Hyperloop

Hello! I'm new here So I thought I'd introduce myself.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 22, 2018:

Welcome Kris! Nice opening post. You have found your people. =]

The 81-year-old Bodybuilder Who Inspires Others To Get Fit [youtube.com]

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 22, 2018:

Awesome. I saw someone share a video on FB not too long ago with a guy who walked into a gym who was clearly in his late 70s or early 80s. He was wearing very bulky clothing and walked slowly and somewhat stooped over. I think he made like he was going to do some bench or something and the gym rats started giving him a hard time. He rips his sweatshirt off and he's this super buff guy who proceeds to do all kinds of impressive lifts and some gymnastics. Totally shuts the riffraff down. LOL! If there's no other evidence for the value of exercise, this is more than enough. Thanks for sharing.

Wine & Beer.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 23, 2018:

Umm, I can't be the only wino here...Beuller?

I'm kind of surprised so many atheists are leftists, but I guess it's the natural need people say ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 23, 2018:

I must be one (Anacrcho Capitalist). I had to look it up. LOL! I agree with the fundamental tenets, but I HATE that term. It negatively connotes it to be an out-of-control system when it would, in fact, be a self-regulating system based on a simple set of laws. I much prefer the term "Laissez Faire" capitalism, which is essentially the same thing.

Feeling a bit lost in many ways.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 23, 2018:

Sounds like you were in GB or Italy, or? (left side driving) I was born in Germany and lived there off and on as a military dependent, and again on active duty during my own hitch in the AF, but I lived in the American microcosm of being on-base, so the cultural immersion wasn't anwhere near living on the German economy. I can imagine how different it would feel if I had though. At least you speak the lingo. =]

My favorite of 13...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 24, 2018:

It's beautiful! And please forgive this but so is the canvas. =]

Have you ever done a good deed and someone assumed it's because you're Christian?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 24, 2018:

Nope, that hasn't happened to me (not that I haven't been good, LOL!). The pervasive presumption that only X-tians or the religious do good deeds sickens me. The attitude is so ingrained. This is one of the things the FFRF tries to change with their "good without god" billboard campaign.

Christians argue that the founding fathers had Christ in mind while designing the constitution etc.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 24, 2018:

Read this lovely essay on the topic on the FFRF site (it earned the writer a $1K prize in a contest): https://ffrf.org/legal/item/19257-america%E2%80%99s-toxic-%E2%80%98christian-nation%E2%80%99-claim

What is the issue with Communism? Why is it such a 'bad guy'?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

Communism is the bad guy because it is anti-freedom. It reserves the right of ownership to itself. It owns the fruits of everyone's labor, and all their property. It destroys the natural human desire to produce and feel pride in accomplishment and in earning something for themselves. Capitalism is grossly misrepresented by just about everyone these days. Capitalism is the voluntary exchange of values to mutual benefit. All of the attention being given to "income inequality" is nothing more than an attempt to drive us (as in the US) to socialism and to justify the "redistribution of wealth" (translation = theft). This is patently wrong, IMHO. Are there CEOs out there who do not earn what they make? Yes, and they are the ones who get all of the attention. However, there are many, many more who do, and who are responsible for successfully managing their companies to the benefit of all. They provide affordable products that benefit everyone and jobs. One thing that everyone seems to have lost sight of, or perhaps never understood to begin with is that Capitalism is the engine that has driven the world. It is singlehandedly responsible for raising the standard of living everywhere it is practised. Crony Capitalism is a horrible binding of the government and some businesses (through regulation, favoritism, tax breaks, etc.) that has hurt Capitalism and provided fuel to Socialism (Communism lite, if you will). Very curious to see how my comments will be received here.

I am curious as to how all of you with children, or thinking about having kids, feel about teaching ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

I think you're handling it well. My kids both know what I think (I don't consider Atheism a "belief," but rather absence of it). Along with that, I have always encouraged them to do their own research on the subject of religion, or anything else for that matter, and then making up their own minds. The result is that the apples have not fallen far from the tree. My son (now age 26) is very "live and let live," and at the very least, is highly skeptical of religion. My daughter is my mini-me and has gotten herself into some minor arguments and controversies at school because she's a bit outspoken. (she's a performance artist, what can I say?)

Have you lost friendship once you declare you are a non-believer? I have, even family members.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

Well, ya gotta have'em to lose'em. LOL! I have a LOT of FB contacts. Some of them are locals who I know or have met F2F. They all know about my non-belief, they are just completely silent when I post FFRF items to my wall. At least they aren't rude. At work, my closest co-workers are all aware and again, they're cool, but mostly silent. There are people who work in my organization that I interact with who don't know and I work for the state so there's no need to stir crap up with activism in an environment that is supposed to be secular. That could change if/when I see some blatant prostletyzing. =]

Good morning everyone.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

My emotions on this topic are clear. They are all negative. This pseudo (and not even that) "science" is complete bullshit. As has been said, mediums speak in generalizations that apply to EVERYONE. In your niece's case, she is being told exactly the comforting words she wants to hear.

Hi All! I am finally on a track to get my first ever tattoo.

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

Congrats on taking the plunge. I'm a late bloomer to tats. I have two now, both are pictured in this group (Groot and an elaborate Tiki surrounded by a rainbow, flowers, and above, the cosmos <trippy, right?>. I don't have the issue of having beautiful olive skin and I tan normally, but any colored tat you get will be more difficult to see under a tan, and will become more visible as the tan fades. Not much to be done unless you choose the colors carefully. Your tattoo artist should be able to provide guidance on that. When you're in the chair, relax, drink water, and sit still. LOL!

Are you a romantic?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 25, 2018:

I guess this can be relative, like many things, but I consider myself somewhat romantic. I'm a gentleman and hold doors for ladies, whether I'm with them or not (men too, for that matter). For my partner, I'm pretty good about recognizing key holidays (V-tines Day, Birthday). For those two mentioned, I shop for greeting cards that I think capture my feelings towards them (usually buy 3 or 4) and hide them around the house in places I know they will find them, like under their pillow, on their nightstand, on the bathroom vanity). I like to order Shari's Berries (if they like that sort of thing), or other treat and have it mailed to wherever they will be on their BD or V-tines day. In the past I have ordered Vermont Teddy Bears (is that still a thing?) in different themes. Is that stuff romantic? =]

Is Christianity kind of the same as Capitalism?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 26, 2018:

No, not at all. Capitalism at it's core is nothing more than the voluntary exchange of mutually beneficial values between two entities (a buyer and a seller). In the US, much has been made of "income inequality" which implies there is some organized system working to make this happen. The income inequality argument is nothing more than an attempt to usurp (steal) from "the rich" in the name of "wealth redistribution." Think about it. That's my opinion, anyway.

2 choices Italian food or Chinese?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 26, 2018:

Italian over Chinese Mexican over Chinese Thai over Chinese But Chinese is okay. LOL!

What's the worst job you've had? Why?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 27, 2018:

A temp/manual labor job I had because I needed something to keep some cash flowing. It was basically moving stuff (debris) from one place to another. Real grunt work. Second worst, another temp job working for a guy who owned a small window washing business. Spider-man I'm not.

How important is physical attraction?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 27, 2018:

I agree, appearance isn't everything, but it's something. There has to be some physical attraction in the mix. ?

How many times have you posted while drinking?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 27, 2018:

Drinking? Or drunk? Have posted while having some wine, but completely sober.

Would you want to be popular on YouTube?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 27, 2018:

If it turned into a big, fat paycheck, hell yeah!

2 days till my birthday I wish I could invite Everyone of you out with me on Saturday night to ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 27, 2018:

HAPPY BIRTHDAY! Make it great!

If you were a trip advisor for where you live, what would you highlight as the best attractions in ...

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 28, 2018:

If this doesn't have you packing your bags, then I'll quit my job as a trip planner...Wait! Um... I live in the seat of California State Government, Sacramento. While there is plenty to see and do in the greater Sacramento area, I am also: 90 minutes drive from Lake Tahoe (all the natural beauty you could ever ask for, and casinos too!) 2HRs from the SF Bay (which has numerous tourist sites including Fisherman's Wharf, but in the East Bay you can visit Marine World Africa USA <Vallejo>, Disney/Pixar Studios <Emeryville>) 4 hours from Monterey/Carmel/Santa Cruz 7 hours from Southern CA (Disneyland and many other recreational parks and tourism sites, endless beaches) In Sacramento itself, there's the Capitol, also a tourism site. The Crocker Art museum. Old Sacramento. The Sacramento Delta (boating, fishing). Folsom Reservoir (Camping, boating, swimming). Downtown Sacramento has numerous and diverse restaurants, clubs, theaters (as in musical) I am not coming close to doing this justice. There is so much to see and do within reasonable driving distance of where I live it's INSANE. OH, I didn't even mention vineyards.

A Message To Your 18-Year-Old Self

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 28, 2018:

Use your head, stupid. THINK!

What’s your favorite medium for music? I’m into original vinyls myself

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 29, 2018:

Back in the day, I had a pretty nice turntable and everything was on vinyl. I also transferred many of my albums to cassette tape (ya, I'm that old), and made lots of custom tapes for myself. Now I have stuff I want to keep permanently on CD and use my iPod Nano for playing back, making lists. Same with movies. Everything's on Blu-Ray and I use streaming services. I get the appeal of records tho and know some people who collect and maintain their music that way.

What ice cream flavor would you be ?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 29, 2018:

Same one I eat, French Vanilla. ?

What ice cream flavor would you be ?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 29, 2018:

Same one I eat, French Vanilla. ?

Any advice on working upper extremities?

IAMGROOT comments on Mar 30, 2018:

Hmm, dodgeball to me, while probably requiring some endurance and stamina like B-ball because I imagine you're running around a lot, is not so much a strength sport. I think I would be more focused on throwing technique. Never hurts to build strength, and the things you're doing will help. How long will you have to train?

How do u handle holidays?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 2, 2018:

Although both of my parents were raised in different religions, neither of them were practiced in our home when I was growing up. We never attended any church and neither of my parents attempted to provide any spiritual guidance. We celebrated Xmas in the commercial way with a tree, gifts, sometimes we would connect with the larger family (my dad had two brothers and everyone was in the same area) and have a much larger gathering/gift exch. Easter was for hunting for the hidden easter baskets (I have two siblings). After I grew up and had my own family, easter was typically celebrated by going out to brunch (and no, nobody said grace, LOL!).

An older piece of work ,I've been retired awhile

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 2, 2018:

That's gorgeous!

Hi Just wanted to introduce myself to the group :) I'm bi and new to this app

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 3, 2018:

Welcome! Jump right in like you just did. =]

Anyone here read the DUNE series of books by Frank Herbert?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 4, 2018:

I read the series some time ago and loved it. I like the film as well.

What is better than sex?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 4, 2018:

Not much! LOL! Seriously, sex IS great. It's like pizza. Even shitty pizza is pretty good cuz who doesn't like bread with melted cheese all over it? Amiright? With that said, being in a romantic love relationship with someone you love deeply, passionately, endlessly, and completely upgrades sex to "making love" (as has been mentioned already). That, is da BOMB!

Delicate Procedure; Un-Brainwash

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 4, 2018:

Whew! This is a tough one. Complicated by dad, who is evidently a believer. I have been fortunate in my situation to not have had to have dealt with the type of brainwashing your daughter is being exposed to. She has the misfortune of being the victim of being a good girl and believing in the authority of the adults apointed over her (dad, minister, congregation. All those she interacts with at church). You seem to be the sole voice crying out in challenge to an overwhelming amount of mysticism being almost force-fed to your daughter. I guess the best advice I can give is to try what I have done with my kids. I have told them that they can believe whatever they want to believe, but also to NOT just take people at their word. Do their own independent research and get answers and then make their own decisions about what they want to believe. This might place your daughter into a more questioning mindset and could get her to where she at least takes what she's hearing with a grain of salt. I'm very sorry you're having to deal with this situation and hope this helps.

How to respond to a proselytizing sibling?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 4, 2018:

This really comes down to you and how well you know your sister. Is your position on religion already known? If so, then she might not be so surprised when you tell her that you respect her right to practice any religion she chooses to believe in, but you feel that imposing her beliefs on others in any way is wrong and that you disagree with what she is doing. You could also set up a Nonbeliever's table near where she is doing her thing and print up a bunch of FFRF handouts. I agree with you that what she's doing is wrong. I hate it when I'm at a mall and see a table with a pious-looking grandma sitting there handing out religious shit (and I do mean shit). Over the holidays, I attended an outdoor Xmas thing (I'm not a believer, but I love all the pretty lights, m'kay?) and there were a few people there standing in front of a large (like 10' tall) white cross, large home-made signs telling people to repent and come to jesus. One of them was shouting through a BULL HORN for crying out loud. I wanted to smack them. Especially bullhorn dude. Anyway, hope this helps.

I just thought I'd introduce myself to the group.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 4, 2018:

Welcome to the site/group. Me so jealous! I love HI, and particularly Oahu and the Waikiki area. I'm a total tourist. I'm long overdue for a Teddy's Bigger Burger!

What does it take to quiet your mind?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 5, 2018:

Which ocean/beach are you visiting? I'll be right over! =]

What's been the best and worst part of your week thus far?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 5, 2018:

First, a comment about you not hitting the gym - THE WEEK AIN'T OVER YET! =] For me: Best - Tomorrow's Friday Worst - Visited my tax guy today LOL!

Admitting when you’re wrong..

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 5, 2018:

I agree with you that this is a human condition. I also think that not wanting to admit being wrong has had much more devastating consequences when someone knows they're wrong and lets things move forward anyway, regardless of the result. When I am wrong, I always try to own it and make corrections/make it right if it's possible to do so. I have definitely made my share of mistakes.

XTC - Dear God (1986) - YouTube

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 7, 2018:

Love this song

Hi very skeptical about this site. I hope someone can prove me wrong here.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 7, 2018:

Skeptical about what regarding this site? Prove you wrong about what? You assert nothing and throw out a vague statement. I suggest you communicate more clearly if you want to get serious and clear responses.

I need a work from home job. Any ideas??

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 9, 2018:

Well, I think it'd be cool to be a blogger. No idea if I have the writing chops to do that, plus you have to build a following and then hope to draw in paid advertising, so unless you are able to blog for an established site and get paid by them, that ain't gonna be your ticket. So I did a quick Google search for "work from home jobs." and this article came up: https://www.thepennyhoarder.com/make-money/career/work-from-home-full-time/ It talks about some legit companies offering work from home jobs (real ones), and sites that promote work from home jobs. I hope this is helpful. =]

Does anyone feel uncomfortable defining "transmen/transwomen" a different gender than "women/men" in...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 9, 2018:

I don't really have an opinion on this, but my guess is the site creators are just doing their best to be all-inclusive. If you have suggestions to improve on how things are set up provide constructive feedback to the Admin. They are pretty responsive here and want everyone to be happy.

From the bottom of my heart, thank you all.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 9, 2018:

This place is far more than a forum. It's like coming home to your real friends (mostly). =]

Beware Misinformation: Hey all.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 11, 2018:

I think it's perfectly ok for folks to share what they do and what works for them in the area of fitness, but agree that this should not be presented in the context of advice.

Just finished reading "The Virtue of Selfishness" by Ayn Rand.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 11, 2018:

I have read most of Rand's works and happen to agree with the Objectivist philosophy. I think her fiction does a great job of illustrating that philosophy. She uses pure archetypes and obviously many people have an issue with that, having been spoon-fed "flawed" heroes their whole lives. I think they are missing the point. Rand was a Russian immigrant who went on to become a screenwriter for Cecil B. Demille so I think she deserves some props. Her works have had an impact to this day.

It seems that if you don't post a lot people forget you're here.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 13, 2018:

LOL! HI! =] (waves hand enthusiastically)

Does anyone on this site own a fully electric car (Tesla, Chevy Bolt, BMW I3, Nissan Leaf...)?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 13, 2018:

I think the biggest issue with fully electric cars is battery degradation. As the battery degrades you lose range. Also, I think electric car owners drive very conservatively to preserve battery life. I have never seen anyone on a Tesla out their foot into it.

What movie marathons have you done?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 14, 2018:

Godfather Matrix Star Wars Indiana Jones Die Hard Harry Potter Star Trek All great film series. I watched The Mummy and Mummy Returns recently. And NO, I am not a couch potato. LOL!

Your dream career if money wasn't an issue.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 14, 2018:

You first!

Your dream career if money wasn't an issue.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 14, 2018:

This is a hard question for me because I still don't know what I wanna be when I grow up. Like many, I am doing a job I don't love, but that pays me enough to keep me. At this stage of my life, I think I would enjoy doing a simple job in support of the vacation/resort industry. That would keep me around people who are traveling and having fun. This is going to make you laugh, but I love Disneyland and WDW, and I think a fun job for me there (which does not really capture the fantasy nature of your question, but whatevs, LOL!) would be as one of those geezers in the white hats. They are part security, part Park Ambassador, part Walking Information Kiosk. They are always providing directions. I'd be good at that. LOL! As for fantasy jobs (and these also don't fit your question) I think it would be great fun to operate a pub (where everybody knows your name). Maybe I should buy a Cheers franchise? Or, I wouldn't mind owning/operating a gym/health club. After doing a lot of wine-tasting (cuz that makes me an expert, don'tchaknow) It might also be fun to be a winemaker. I realize that this is a science and would have quite a learning curve (especially for me). Well, there it is.

How do you spend your Sunday mornings?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 15, 2018:

My Sunday is not too different from yours. Sleep in until around 9 (I've been up about an hour). Then coffee and a lighter breakfast (I'm home alone today so the big breakfast was yesterday). I plan to exercise later and have a project at home I need to get behind me. I have a teen aged daughter who is big into musical theater and am a parent "volunteer," so my weekends and some weekday evenings often involve chauffering her around to reherasals and classes supporting this activity.

How do you like your spuds?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 16, 2018:

What? No mashed? No fried? That's why "other" has a commanding lead. LOL! I do like fries, but I think mashed w/gravy is my fav. Also like tater salad.

Well in my humble opinion, of course without intending to offend anyone who thinks differently from ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 16, 2018:

HUMPH! Well, I NEVER! LOL!

It's been a pretty wet spring here.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 16, 2018:

I don't have to be "out" in it much, or for long. I work in a cubicle, park my car in my garage at home, and in a large parking structure at work that's only a short walk from the building I work in, so all I really need is a light jacket with a hood. Weather here is totally schitzo! We went from 40s to 80s, back down to 60s, then today we just had a massive hailstorm and temps dropped into the 40s. I am SO ready for Spring and Summer. Bring on the heat!

Dating while separated

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 17, 2018:

When you say separated, do you mean legally separated, or merely physically separated? Ultimately, if the relationship is over (by mutual agreement) and you just haven't split up legally, no, it's not wrong in my opinion.

So I have these new neighbors in a rental house next door.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 17, 2018:

You are the one being imposed upon. I see nothing wrong with another polite visit and a reminder that the issue still exists and you'd really appreciate their help. I get your hesistation after that last experience. Sorry you're having to deal with this.

Who makes the best French fries?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 17, 2018:

None of the above. There's a Mexican place in my area called El Jardin who make some really yummy fries. The Flaming Grill, a gourmet burger franchise has similar fries. I will admit that McD's when they're fresh and hot are pretty good.

Klein Bottle Beer Glass - Ideal for anyone experiencing topological boundary issues with ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 18, 2018:

Ok, that was worth the price of admission. LOL!

Long long long shot! Is there anyone here who falls into all catagories here: 1) you live in ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 18, 2018:

Three strikes and I'm out! LOL! (I don't dislike UH, but don't think that qualifies as a "like.")

Is there a way to like profile pictures?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 18, 2018:

That's a no. Not possible to like images.

So you're invited to a masquerade party! What statement would your costume make about you?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 18, 2018:

Nerd. I'd go as Capt. Picard.

LOOK AT ME, MOM! I'M LEVEL 7!!!! Lesser Mortals Beware!

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 19, 2018:

Thanks for all the love, everybody. (starts scribbling his acceptance speech for level eight) =]

Sexy pics or not?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 19, 2018:

Only if you think posting sexy pics of yourself will attract the kind of people you don't want to date. Seriously. =] It's up to you.

What is your number one favorite food? I love Indian.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 19, 2018:

Um, Mexican, wait, er, Thai...ah, German...Italian. DAMMIT! They are all so good. Why'd you have to make this so hard?

Am I the only atheist that doesn’t smoke pot?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 21, 2018:

Nope

I'm a newbie

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 21, 2018:

Welcome Newbie!

In your opinion what is the most likely thing that could halt human progress?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 21, 2018:

"Halt" Human progress? That is a mighty big statement. I think it would take a great deal, but obstacles impeding/slowing progress, IMHO include: Government Religion The current infusion of religion into the US administration Global thermonuclear war Nationalism I don't subscribe to technological doomsday scenarios we see played out in film (Terminator, etc).

How come most people don't feel sorry when a fish dies?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 21, 2018:

Clearly, you haven't met my daughter.

I think it's appalling that religion is taught at schools, brainwashing young children.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 22, 2018:

Agree with @geko. As long as religion is taught informationally and not as literal truth, it is useful information. When public (or any) school teaches religion as truth/fact (in the US this would be a direct violation of church/state separation as it would effectively establish the Christian religion as "official" in this country), that is when the brainwashing occurs.

My wife and I are retired, full time rv'rs, and , although we have a legal residence in South ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 22, 2018:

I would jealously call you "happy nomads." Welcome!

I have three tattoos.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 22, 2018:

My Groot tat was done at an expo. 7 hours, done in one sitting.

I received an interview offer today.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 22, 2018:

If she is just an employee it's probably not an issue. I'd go for it.

I went to see "The Color Purple" musical this evening, and it was good.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 23, 2018:

My teenaged daughter is heavily into musical theater. Recently, her company performed Addams Family, which was very good. The theater company she belongs to is pretty big and occasionally split the kids up and do two different shows. They did that this time and the younger ones did Lion King. These are all Broadway versions, and always good. So I spent Saturday evening watching that, striking the set, and then last night was the cast party. It's always a roller skating event and I really enjoy that too. =]

Parents: Do you use punishment?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 23, 2018:

You should define the meaning of "punishment." I think you mean corporal punishment (spanking/hitting). If that is what you mean, I did not practice this. I have two children, one is grown, the other is 16. With my eldest, when he was young, on one occasion, I spanked him, but only because I had threatened to do so after repeat violations for the same thing and in order to maintain credibility, I had to follow through. In retrospect, I think that hurt me worse than it hurt him. There really is no need to spank your kids. When they are younger, using time-out is very effective when done properly. This is a method of control (because that's what we are really talking about anyway) that doesn't involve excessive force. If you have an especially unruly kid you may have to hold them in the chair, physically, until they accept that you are in-control. When they get older, suspension of privileges is effective, but again, you must follow through.

Any Westworld fans here?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 23, 2018:

I love, love, LOVE WW. I got a late start on the S2 premiere last night and had to bail before the end, but I'll finish it tonight.

On being out of touch.

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 23, 2018:

I wish I had some advice or helpful knowledge here, but I don't. I think it's awful that you have to worry about this at all. Shows just how primitive Humankind is. Religion poisons everything.

What are your favorite courtroom movies of all time?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 24, 2018:

I really like A Few Good Men too. My Cousin Vinny is also very good. There are lots of great courtroom dramas.

Are there others in the community who are dancers, or enjoy dancing?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 24, 2018:

I like the night life (well, I used to), I like to Boogie (and that's about the extent of it). LOL! But my daughter is a bit like you. She has been doing some form of dance since age 4 or 5. She has turned into quite a tap-dancer and is taking some advanced tap, and also jazz. She even took some hip-hop at one point. Recently, she was in a community theater production of Addams Family that had a big tango number in it (no surprise there!). Next Spring, she'll perform in a production of Newsies with the same company. You probably know this is a very dance-intensive show. The B-way version has some nice tap in it as well. You guys should become buds. =] Oh, she's 16 now.

Is anyone else sick and tired of all the Superhero movies?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 25, 2018:

Nope, I love them. I think the genre is coming into its own because of CGI, and Disney/Marvel do a marvelous (sorry) job of bringing these stories to the big screen. DC is trying, miserably, to emulate their success. SH films are fantastical and CGI makes that aspect of it believable. I loved the comix as a teen ager and love the film presentations being done now.

snort .... sigh

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 25, 2018:

Cuz that never happens. =]

I have always deemed people who go to church on sunday in fresh costumes have been up all night long...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 25, 2018:

I'm sure there are plenty of hypocrites (Catholics, mostly) who do exactly as you say; sin like crazy during the week and confess in order to receive forgiveness on Sunday. But there are a lot of "true believers" who faithfully attend church (often far beyond only on Sundays), and honestly try to live their lives "for Christ" or whoever. So not everyone is purely motivated to attend church out of guilt, but guilt and fear are surely prime tools of religion to keep their masses in-line, and subjugated.

What are your thoughts on sleeping in the bed with multiple pets?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 25, 2018:

It's a no from me. See your example.

What kind of driver are you?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 26, 2018:

I chose option 2, but I consider myself an aggressive driver. Not always in a hurry and don't have to get ahead of everyone, but not tolerant of indecisive drivers or drivers who have no business in the #1 lane. LOL!

Why are atheists not willing to form a coalition?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 26, 2018:

Atheists better get organized. Although we are a minority when compared to all religions combined, we are a very large, and growing "category" since us freethinkers don't wanna be in a group. LOL! X-tians have a political stranglehold on US politics now despite their shrinking numbers. Freethinkers, while maybe not necessarily organizing to take control of the US government, could, and I think, should, do what we can to spread ideas of reason and individual rights. The religious are already becoming enlightened. It's just not happening quickly enough, IMO. This site is one of those things that will help.

What is your favorite TV-Series ?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 27, 2018:

I'm a big fan of Walking Dead and Game of Thrones. Also love the various Marvel SH series, but my #1 fav right now is Westworld, on HBO.

Mistaken Identity

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 27, 2018:

Once when I visited Universal Studios, Hollywood, while entering the Waterworld ride, I was told by a ride attendant that I looked like the Deacon (Dennis Hopper's bald, eye-patched bad guy). I look nothing like DH. LOL! But I AM bald, so I got that goin' for me. LOL!

What movie comes to mind that you can watch over and over and it still makes you cry every time you ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 27, 2018:

Schindler's List Toy Story 3 (yes, seriously)

God and the State

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 30, 2018:

No, I don't believe that to be the case. It assumes real collusion. I do believe, however that religions of all kinds who take advantage of their tax exempt status in the US are gargantuan parasites leeching wealth and retarding the process of learning. This is, of course, beyond their base function, the controlling and manipulation of their flocks (of sheep).

Hey everybody, I recently updated my collage of famous atheists, agnostics, skeptics, freethinkers, ...

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 30, 2018:

Who was added?

As an atheist/agnostic, what would you do if the Dark Ages were to come back?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 30, 2018:

We can't let that happen.

Star Trek Discovery fans?

IAMGROOT comments on Apr 30, 2018:

First, congrats on your home purchase. I bought a house myself last October. =] So I am a HUGE ST and Sci-Fi fan but I absolutely despise CBS for using this method of marketing. It's as bad as Don King "pioneering" PPV for boxing. What an effing rip! With that said, I think CBS has the balls to do it because they know they have a great product. I'm sorry, I refuse to pay for it in that manner. I may buy the series on Blu-Ray if/when it is released. And BTW, ALL cable companies and telecoms play that game with your service. There is no escape from the colluding collective. ;)

What’s your source for morality?

IAMGROOT comments on May 1, 2018:

Well, for me, morality is an individually determined set of rules by which a person lives their life. More simply put, morality is a sense of right and wrong. This, I believe, is unique to human consciousness on this planet. We invented it. Survival mechanism/instincts is a completely different topic, IMO.

Is anyone else sick of watching nothing but people behaving badly on TV?

IAMGROOT comments on May 3, 2018:

I'm with you on the reality TV. My daughter loves performing arts and when Dancemoms was big, she was a fan. That was just how I referred to it (adults behaving badly). Most of those shows are like that and I can't stand them. Survivor held my interest for a while because it really is an interesting social experiment. I prefer my TV entertainment to be fantastical. Right now I'm enjoying HBO's Westworld. I'm also a fan of The Walking Dead and Game of Thrones. These shows have fantastic premises (well, Westworld may be not so far-fetched). I have also enjoyed Breaking Bad, Dexter, and Sons of Anarchy. These shows all have believable characters doing interesting things.

Are you a snob? With what subjects/topics? . I am, here are mine: Movies, Coffee, Toilet Paper.

IAMGROOT comments on May 4, 2018:

Coffee, maybe wine to an extent. I'm not sure how you can be a movie snob. LOL! Not wealthy enough to be snobby about much else. =]

Wine lovers?

IAMGROOT comments on May 4, 2018:

I love spicy, peppery, or jammy Zins, and some others. Also enjoy some whites (not Chard). I have a nice, big 7 Deadly Zins glass from Michael & David winery, but also have a couple of long-stemmed, hand-painted glasses. Super tacky Hawaiian themed ones.

What are you listening to?

IAMGROOT comments on May 7, 2018:

And now this: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX-QaNzd-0Y

What distopian world would you choose to live in?

IAMGROOT comments on May 9, 2018:

The Matrix. I would negotiate one hell of a deal for myself. LOL!