And we're off and running for Benghazi 2.

KKGator comments on Mar 25, 2019:

SMFH The republicans have gone off the rails.

wordywalt replies on Mar 25, 2019:

They have been off the rails for at least 20 years.

Trump will remove new North Korea-related sanctions because he 'likes' Kim Jong Un [cnbc.

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

What a damned fool! Day by day Trump is proving to be a real threat to our country, our people, our democracy,.

wordywalt replies on Mar 25, 2019:

@Bobby9 You continue to try to find my hot buttons to egg me on to continue a fruitless charade of a dialogue. It won't work.

You recently saw my garden pictures.

Cast1es comments on Mar 24, 2019:

Sounds like the beginnings of a spring salad .

wordywalt replies on Mar 24, 2019:

I think my first green bean recipe will be Hoisin glazed beans with tofu. The next will be good old-fashioned greenbeans and skillet cornbread.

The text below is taken from a longer article (well worth the read!): [salon.

F-IM-Forty comments on Mar 24, 2019:

He's high functioning though. Trump may present himself as deranged, but he has the second biggest support network in the country working for him. What could possibly go wrong? ... ... ... ... ?

wordywalt replies on Mar 24, 2019:

With Trump, anything and everything can and will go wrong.

Trump will remove new North Korea-related sanctions because he 'likes' Kim Jong Un [cnbc.

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

What a damned fool! Day by day Trump is proving to be a real threat to our country, our people, our democracy,.

wordywalt replies on Mar 24, 2019:

@Bobby9 Civility and tact are not your strengths.

Trump will remove new North Korea-related sanctions because he 'likes' Kim Jong Un [cnbc.

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

What a damned fool! Day by day Trump is proving to be a real threat to our country, our people, our democracy,.

wordywalt replies on Mar 24, 2019:

@Bobby9 Sir, you lie and distort.

Trump will remove new North Korea-related sanctions because he 'likes' Kim Jong Un [cnbc.

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

What a damned fool! Day by day Trump is proving to be a real threat to our country, our people, our democracy,.

wordywalt replies on Mar 23, 2019:

@Bobby9 I have no further interest in responding to such a a pedantically opinionated point of view.

Trump will remove new North Korea-related sanctions because he 'likes' Kim Jong Un [cnbc.

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

What a damned fool! Day by day Trump is proving to be a real threat to our country, our people, our democracy,.

wordywalt replies on Mar 22, 2019:

@Bobby9 You are dead wrong, We are a republic, but -- via the Constitution - we are also a representative democracy. Don't ever forget that.

Have you seen any of these birds?

wordywalt comments on Mar 22, 2019:

I have seen red-headed woodpeckers, yellow warblers, Cardinals, eastern bluebirds and blue jays. When I was a kid in north Florida we had many red-headed woodpeckers. Now they are almost gone in Florida.

wordywalt replies on Mar 22, 2019:

@LiterateHiker Also, I have not seen a flicker in Florida for almost 20 years. They used to be common.

Atheism is just another religion.

wordywalt comments on Mar 21, 2019:

I am a confirmed atheist, and none of your purported points describes or applies t me. Ergo, you are dead wrong. 1. God does not exist, ergo is irrelevant. I do not waste a second of my day on the concept. 2. I have the right to believe as I choose, and so does everyone else. My wife is a ...

wordywalt replies on Mar 21, 2019:

@Jacar I should have used the phrase "doubt-free" atheist. I am totally convince of my stance.

The regressive left is just as bad as the religious right.

wordywalt comments on Mar 21, 2019:

Pure reeking horse mnure! Atheism is the rejection of all religion, including Islam. Your rant rings hollow.

wordywalt replies on Mar 21, 2019:

@TheDarkNolanite I have NEVER heard any liberal atheist say anything of the sort. And, I have been politically engaged for over 50 years. Again, pure horse manure.

Each and every day Donald Trump becomes more and more an incessant, , almost bed-wetting whiner.

beenthere comments on Mar 21, 2019:

It appears as though he is playing the same game as the other politicians.

wordywalt replies on Mar 21, 2019:

No, I shave never seen anything like Trump's flailingly desperate behavior in my 80 plus years.

A question for strong supporters of the state of Israel.

wordywalt comments on Mar 19, 2019:

I believe in Israel's right to exist -- but only as a truly democratic state, with no ethnic group treated as second class citizens. That is is a proble with a state which mixes politics and religion. Also, I do NOT support Netanyahu, as he is an arrogan thug and boor.

wordywalt replies on Mar 20, 2019:

@Storm1752 You evidently read selectively to fit your attack. The first thing I said on this post was that I believe in Israel's right to exist.

A question for strong supporters of the state of Israel.

wordywalt comments on Mar 19, 2019:

I believe in Israel's right to exist -- but only as a truly democratic state, with no ethnic group treated as second class citizens. That is is a proble with a state which mixes politics and religion. Also, I do NOT support Netanyahu, as he is an arrogan thug and boor.

wordywalt replies on Mar 20, 2019:

@Storm1752 I did not say that. I do not approve of the theocratic control of their countries either, but I also do not deny their right to exist either.

These are the pictures of my spring garden in Tampa, Florida.

Jessej4974 comments on Mar 19, 2019:

I so wish I lived in your neck of the woods, I would have a garden year round, lol. Maybe someday I will be there. Beautiful garden. You have done a lot of work, be proud!

wordywalt replies on Mar 19, 2019:

Thank you.

These are the pictures of my spring garden in Tampa, Florida.

Robecology comments on Mar 19, 2019:

Good job on the Pineapples! I've been trying to sprout the tops from store purchases..any advice?

wordywalt replies on Mar 19, 2019:

That is the way I started mine. Simply keep them watered and fertilized. Give them time. It will take about 5 years before you will get your first pineapple.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

Byrd comments on Mar 18, 2019:

If you want a group where people who are for and against these things can discuss issues why not create one or who knows, there may already be one? If they want to talk to you cool, if not no worries. Not everyone is going to want to discuss every issue with every person.

wordywalt replies on Mar 18, 2019:

That would be a good idea once the self-reinforcing ideological echo chambers were completely eliminated. This should be a site for agnostics and atheists, not such echo chambers.

"The commitment to living beyond a narrow view of our own interests makes us different from animals ...

wordywalt comments on Mar 17, 2019:

Such atrocities are commented when a true, consequence based morality is replaced by blind adherence to demagogic political and;/or religious ideology.

wordywalt replies on Mar 18, 2019:

@Matias We are also responsible for the unintended consequences of our decisions and actions.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

indirect76 comments on Mar 17, 2019:

What exactly are you calling for?

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

@indirect76 They can disagree on interpretation of the data. But, other than that, no it is not possible. And, even then, data driven study of the issue will eventually reveal which interpretation of the data is correct.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

skeptic11 comments on Mar 17, 2019:

I’m very confused as to what this is directed at and why

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

Then you have no concept of what is happening in our country and in the entire world today.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

indirect76 comments on Mar 17, 2019:

What exactly are you calling for?

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

@indirect76 I should have said without opionions lacking a factual and/or rational basis.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

indirect76 comments on Mar 17, 2019:

What exactly are you calling for?

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

@indirect76 I said that I want open discourse and debate, based on reason and facts, not simply opinion and bias. What do you not understand.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

indirect76 comments on Mar 17, 2019:

What exactly are you calling for?

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

I think that my words are more than clear. I am calling for open exchange and debate so that reason and data can rule the day, not for self-reinforcing echo chambers.

In light of the rapidly escalating white supremacist terrorism in our country and throughout the ...

JackPedigo comments on Mar 17, 2019:

There are ideological groups on all sides of the spectrum. Should we not interact with environmental or humanistic groups. For me, this direction is a direct result of the crumbling of our natural resources. Too many of us chasing too few resources. Any person in the field of population ...

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

''there is a huge difference between exclusive groups for political ideology an as opposed to issue-oriented groups. I am not speaking of the latter.

"The commitment to living beyond a narrow view of our own interests makes us different from animals ...

wordywalt comments on Mar 17, 2019:

Such atrocities are commented when a true, consequence based morality is replaced by blind adherence to demagogic political and;/or religious ideology.

wordywalt replies on Mar 17, 2019:

@Matias No. more existential. Our decisions, choices, and actions are to be judged by the effects they create.

My spring garden here in Tampa is off to the best start ever.

Nightshade1313 comments on Mar 13, 2019:

Oh pineapple bloom pics plz?

wordywalt replies on Mar 13, 2019:

I'll send them within the next few days.

We tend to think of medical conditions as maladies.

HippieChick58 comments on Mar 11, 2019:

People who have Cystic Fibrosis are likely immune to cholera. At one time that may have helped them survive, however now it has no useful purpose. There are a few other conditions that are like that, necessary from an evolutionary standpoint, but no longer useful or needed, and indeed harmful. I ...

wordywalt replies on Mar 11, 2019:

Good for you. I urge you to make sure that you find a way to fit the exercise in, as the result will serve you extremely well. No matter what (unless I am ill or have an injury) I go to the gym and work out with heavy weights three days a week. and the weight training has doubled my heart strength.

What would Shakespeare say about Trump if he were alive?

wordywalt comments on Mar 8, 2019:

Also, Trump " is but a walking shadow, a poor player who struts and frets his hour upon the stage, then is heard no more. Tis a tale of sound and fury, signifying nothing."

wordywalt replies on Mar 9, 2019:

@LucyLoohoo A perfect description of the intellectual and moral idiot Trump.

What would Shakespeare say about Trump if he were alive?

wordywalt comments on Mar 8, 2019:

Also, Trump " is but a walking shadow, a poor player who struts and frets his hour upon the stage, then is heard no more. Tis a tale of sound and fury, signifying nothing."

wordywalt replies on Mar 8, 2019:

@Closeted Amen, brother.

A former federal district attorney predicts that Mueller will issue new indictments and possibly his...

DenoPenno comments on Mar 6, 2019:

Let us hope but the world is more uncertain now than it ever was. Trumpty Dumpty has made sure of that.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@misterinvisible Only if lunacy is appropriate.

It's interesting how the Kremlin felt it necessary to weigh-in on the investigations into 45's ...

wordywalt comments on Mar 5, 2019:

Valid questions which must be pursued.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@powder Either you are oblivious or choosing to be ignorant. Of the 17 investigations that are underway, only one has to do with Ruaais. You an protest all you want to, but the truth stands.

A former federal district attorney predicts that Mueller will issue new indictments and possibly his...

DenoPenno comments on Mar 6, 2019:

Let us hope but the world is more uncertain now than it ever was. Trumpty Dumpty has made sure of that.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@misterinvisible Your irrational sloganeering is irrational and meaningless.

A former federal district attorney predicts that Mueller will issue new indictments and possibly his...

DenoPenno comments on Mar 6, 2019:

Let us hope but the world is more uncertain now than it ever was. Trumpty Dumpty has made sure of that.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@misterinvisible I hope that the result is the legal removal of a totally corrupt administration, and a restoration of democracy. What we have now is chaotic and destructive attempt to establish an oligarchic system of authoritarian exploitation.

A former federal district attorney predicts that Mueller will issue new indictments and possibly his...

DenoPenno comments on Mar 6, 2019:

Let us hope but the world is more uncertain now than it ever was. Trumpty Dumpty has made sure of that.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

True. But, by concerted action, we can reverve the damage he has caused.erse

It's interesting how the Kremlin felt it necessary to weigh-in on the investigations into 45's ...

wordywalt comments on Mar 5, 2019:

Valid questions which must be pursued.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@powder You miss the point entirely. The vast majority of the current investigations into Trump's activities have nothing to do with Russia, but are probing into his long history of corrupt business practices and illegal activities. There is no valid reason why Russia should weigh in in on these investigations unless there are continuing to try to meddle and intercede on Trump's behalf. To your response, I say horse manure.

It's interesting how the Kremlin felt it necessary to weigh-in on the investigations into 45's ...

wordywalt comments on Mar 5, 2019:

Valid questions which must be pursued.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@powder What does "bollocks" mean? I have never seen the expression before.

What do you do for aerobic exercise?

wordywalt comments on Mar 5, 2019:

For over 20 years I walked from 3 to 5 miles day. Today, I just do heavy weightlifting 3 days a week. The heavy weightlifting has doubled my hart strength.

wordywalt replies on Mar 6, 2019:

@Bendog As a matter of fact, I had a heart attack and had a pacemaker implanted 13 years ago -- BEFORE I start the weight lifting regimen. As I said, my heart is much healthier today than it was 20 years ago.

The well-being of our nation depends , not on the accumulation of wealth, but on the human capital-...

BD66 comments on Mar 2, 2019:

The economic boom was because the USA had the majority of the Earth's industrial infrastructure and capital. All the other countries had their industrial capacity bombed out. The G.I. Bill made a whole lot of sense because as the troops came home, it was impossible to absorb them immediately ...

wordywalt replies on Mar 2, 2019:

We need to get rid of Trump's absurd and phony tax cut, cut back on corporate welfare, and reduce the huge military waste. That would leave room for what needs to be done.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

wonderer4343 comments on Mar 1, 2019:

I guess whatever floats their boat, but small towns are usually nice if you look past their racism, sexism and every ism and phobia there is out there.

wordywalt replies on Mar 1, 2019:

Yeah. Those are all existing in Lee. As a matter of fact, there were no Blacks in Lee because they had all been chased out of killed by a KKK gang led by a man named Rowe in the 1920s

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

BrentMBA2004 comments on Feb 28, 2019:

I think there is always a certain percentage of people who will never leave where they were born on raised. Now the interesting thing you established was the 2 - 3 generation "family cycles". So who is moving in????

wordywalt replies on Feb 28, 2019:

To a large degree those moving in those who have encountered some degree of failure who are looking for a place to enable them to lick their wounds and try to get a new start without being looked down upon..But, you are also right, in that there are a few family names that seem to persist throughout time -- though not due to economical of educational success.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

Dandewine comments on Feb 28, 2019:

I moved from NYC to Fort Myers (Lee County) and this is a nice little city. No way does it compare to NY but not what you describe...where in Lee are you talking about?

wordywalt replies on Feb 28, 2019:

Lee is s very small town on US 90 in Madison County. It is not in Lee County.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

St-Sinner comments on Feb 26, 2019:

Just to be sure, are we talking about the United States?

wordywalt replies on Feb 26, 2019:

Of course. Towns like Lee are scattered all throughout the rural south. I say that as a native southerner.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

maturin1919 comments on Feb 26, 2019:

I never really think of Florida as the 'south'.

wordywalt replies on Feb 26, 2019:

North Florida is as deep south as it gets. Even though I grew up there, I would never live there again.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

dahermit comments on Feb 26, 2019:

The fact that automobiles may be the present answer. The town may have become a "bedroom community", where in there are no local jobs or sources of employment but nevertheless, people can buy the existing homes there and drive some distance each day to their source of employment. However, this is ...

wordywalt replies on Feb 26, 2019:

The automobile doesmake some difference, but not much. There are damned few good paying jobs within a 60 mile raius. To, some degree, I think is a matter of people struggling in some other locale, and settling in towns like Lee where they will not be looked down upon for their lack of success.

I find it interesting how some small, rural, hard-scrabble southern towns like the one I grew up in ...

callmedubious comments on Feb 26, 2019:

if i were poor in the US i'd prefer to be poor where the climate is decent.

wordywalt replies on Feb 26, 2019:

Yes. I grew up without air conditioning in Florida heat and humidity.

OMGoodness, 45 looks downright evil.

wordywalt comments on Feb 22, 2019:

He not only looks downright evil, he IS downright evil.

wordywalt replies on Feb 22, 2019:

@AntaresRose The Mueller report is coming and will see the light of day one way or another. And, other cases against the Trumps will be passed on to other federal and state jurisdictions, if they have not already been passed on.

No Mueller report yet. [reuters.com]

KKGator comments on Feb 22, 2019:

It's going to be a while, IF we see it at all. It's likely that Congress will subpoena Mueller, and subpoena the report. Whatever Barr releases will be so heavily redacted, it'll be meaningless. It's highly unlikely that the Mueller investigation will be what brings 45 down. Perhaps the SDNY...

wordywalt replies on Feb 22, 2019:

Have faith, KK. I am convinced that even if they attempt to withhold the Mueller report, that we have enough patriots in government that someone will kleak the entire report. And, Trump is such a criminal and so stupid that he will eventually get caught red-handed at something terribly illegal.

I predict that next week will be the worst week in Donald Trump's life to date -- and that is only ...

CallMeDave comments on Feb 21, 2019:

AG presents summary of the report to Congress. It could be pure fluff.

wordywalt replies on Feb 21, 2019:

@CallMeDave He could try, but I do not think he will. And, if he did, do you think that someone would not leak the entire report? One way or another, that report will get out.

I predict that next week will be the worst week in Donald Trump's life to date -- and that is only ...

Trajan61 comments on Feb 21, 2019:

I think you are delusional.

wordywalt replies on Feb 21, 2019:

We will see who is delusional.

I predict that next week will be the worst week in Donald Trump's life to date -- and that is only ...

gater comments on Feb 21, 2019:

lol yeah? how accurate are your predictions?

wordywalt replies on Feb 21, 2019:

We will see.

I predict that next week will be the worst week in Donald Trump's life to date -- and that is only ...

CallMeDave comments on Feb 21, 2019:

AG presents summary of the report to Congress. It could be pure fluff.

wordywalt replies on Feb 21, 2019:

Not the chance of a snowball in hell of being fluff.

Alabama newspaper editorial calls for the return of the Ku Klux Klan's infamous night rides - CNN

Beowulfsfriend comments on Feb 19, 2019:

And, trumps rhetoric still has nothing to do with any thing like this.

wordywalt replies on Feb 19, 2019:

Trump's rhetoric reeks of racism misogyny and xenophobia and actively encourages all three.

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

gater comments on Feb 17, 2019:

European leaders dont like Trump because Trump is fighting for America - duh.

wordywalt replies on Feb 18, 2019:

@gater Oh, I am delusional about Russia? You seem totally ignorant of the facts that (1)Kruschev threatened to start WW III if we did not get out of Berlin by June or 1959 (but decided not to when we and NATO stood up to him, and after we had the entire Atlantic fleet waiting just off the European Coast, (2) that Kruschev again threaten war in 1960, (3) Russia swept through Eastern Europe in 1945 through 1948, established communist puppet governments in those countries, and placed Russian troops in those countries without the consent of the people, (4) the Russians installed offensive missiles in Cuba in 1962 to threaten us, (5) under Putin, Russia has attacked Georgia and the Ukraine and annexed territory from those countries( 6) Russia is again threatening the Baltic countries and other East European nations, (6)Russia in attempting to interfere with our internal affairs , 7 (Russia is interfering in Syria and Iran use to see how much chaos they can create for the West.. And you say that Russia is not a problem? Either you are a Russian troll or a damned fool.

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

gater comments on Feb 17, 2019:

European leaders dont like Trump because Trump is fighting for America - duh.

wordywalt replies on Feb 18, 2019:

@gater Your willful ignorance is both astounding and dangerous.

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

gater comments on Feb 17, 2019:

European leaders dont like Trump because Trump is fighting for America - duh.

wordywalt replies on Feb 17, 2019:

@gater No. turkey. I served in the US Army in West Berlin at the height of the Cold War. I understood then and understand now that our protection of Europe was even more in our interest than in those of the European nations themselves: If we had allowed Russia to take over Europe after World War II, it would have made Russia such a juggernaught that it would have been almost impossible to contain and stop them. Russia still wantw to threaten Europe today, and would do so if it were not for our commitment of money and troops.. I also studied international relations in graduate school and was offered a fellowship with the second ranked specialist in the area. I speak from knowledge and experience. What in the hell asre you talking from? R

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

gater comments on Feb 17, 2019:

European leaders dont like Trump because Trump is fighting for America - duh.

wordywalt replies on Feb 17, 2019:

He is NOT fighting for America. He is destroying our country in collusion with Russian oligarchs and destroying our relationship0s with other nations around the world. .

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

Trajan61 comments on Feb 17, 2019:

Trump is for America first. He told Europe to foot their part for defense. Now they’re mad at him because they’re like spoiled rotten kids who have had their allowance cut off. We don’t owe Europe anything. So what in the hell are you babbling about??

wordywalt replies on Feb 17, 2019:

Trump is a babbling idiot who has ZERO understanding of either international relations or national defense. He really does not give a damn about us or our country -- only his sociopathic ego and his pocketbook. Your defense of him is nothing short of sheer will ful ignorance and stupidity..

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

Merseyman1 comments on Feb 17, 2019:

Apparently some are trying to do so...

wordywalt replies on Feb 17, 2019:

Hopefully more of them will decide that serving our country and people is more important than anything else.

I am greatly encouraged by the absolute disdain with which European leaders treated Trump (in ...

HippieChick58 comments on Feb 17, 2019:

Drumpf and the Republifucks are too tone deaf to hear it.

wordywalt replies on Feb 17, 2019:

The Republicans hear it, but are too araid of their truly base base to act on it. They are more interested in holding office than in serving our country.

Trump declaring national emergency... [youtu.be]

wordywalt comments on Feb 14, 2019:

We must thwart this damnable, corrupt sociopath at every turn. Make his life a nightmare of failure.

wordywalt replies on Feb 14, 2019:

@morlll It is gonna happen.

What does "freedom from religion" mean (compared to "freedom of religion")?

wordywalt comments on Feb 13, 2019:

To me, freedom of religion means having the publicly sanctioned permission to choose to accept or deny any or all religions. In Turn, freedom from religion means, as a matter of public policy, not any and all religions thrust upon me in any sense. That includes not having religious tenets enacted...

wordywalt replies on Feb 13, 2019:

@TheAstroChuck If there is broad agreement across the population about a course of political action advocated by a religious group, using reason and evidence to reach that agreement independent of religious ideology, I agree -but only if the action benefits all people, not just the religious ideologues.

What does "freedom from religion" mean (compared to "freedom of religion")?

wordywalt comments on Feb 13, 2019:

To me, freedom of religion means having the publicly sanctioned permission to choose to accept or deny any or all religions. In Turn, freedom from religion means, as a matter of public policy, not any and all religions thrust upon me in any sense. That includes not having religious tenets enacted...

wordywalt replies on Feb 13, 2019:

@Matias Majority rule is only one facer of a true democracy. A true democracy is also built on the underpinnings of a belief in the dignity and worth of all people, a free and open exchange of information and ideas, all ideas and ideologies being open to discussion and challenge, and equal and fair treatment under the law. Religiously based legislation and policies do not stand up to any of those standards unless they stand up and prove themselves independent of the religious ideology. . ,

Wow! Totally clueless! Local grocery store company stirs controversy with ad mailer ...

wordywalt comments on Feb 13, 2019:

The store owner did not sound very bright.

wordywalt replies on Feb 13, 2019:

@Science-guy That is because he lives in a local culture which does not force him to confront and analyze his beliefs and their effects. I grew up in just such a culture in the bible belt of north Florida.

Republicans , the super-wealthy, and those aspiring to be super-wealthy are screaming bloody murder ...

Paul4747 comments on Feb 9, 2019:

You don't have to be that old to know history. Republicans have always said that raising the top rate stifles growth, and cutting taxes stimulates the economy. The top individual rate in the '50s was 91% and corporate profits were taxed at over 40%, yet we had average GDP growth around 5%. The ...

wordywalt replies on Feb 9, 2019:

Yeah, I am :that old: -- almost 30 years older than you.

Republicans , the super-wealthy, and those aspiring to be super-wealthy are screaming bloody murder ...

48thRonin comments on Feb 9, 2019:

Hmmm not all of the wealthiest people are republicans so what about those people?

wordywalt replies on Feb 9, 2019:

@48thRonin Buffett and Gates advocate paying a higher tax rate. I don't trust Zuckerberg.

Republicans , the super-wealthy, and those aspiring to be super-wealthy are screaming bloody murder ...

48thRonin comments on Feb 9, 2019:

Hmmm not all of the wealthiest people are republicans so what about those people?

wordywalt replies on Feb 9, 2019:

All of the super wealthy

Amazon founder Jeff Bezos says National Enquirer publisher tried to extort him - CNN

wordywalt comments on Feb 7, 2019:

Exactly what I would expect from one of Trump's friends.

wordywalt replies on Feb 8, 2019:

@thinktwice Agreed! Trump is out of his league in trying to take on Bezos. He already has more trouble than he can handle, and now he is stirred a hornet's nest that is going to bite him in the ass many times.

Right wing demagogues who are trying to promote an oligarchic society in our country are decrying ...

bigpawbullets comments on Feb 7, 2019:

All very interesting responses to a good post. I saw in one response the word "qualified" used in relation to "free" college. Depending on how you feel about that, it makes great sense, or, it's the antithesis of "equality". To me, since I believe that "nothing is free", I'd say that I'm more ...

wordywalt replies on Feb 7, 2019:

I think that we are in basic agreement. I do not call for a "free" college education -- only for a capable student to have the opportunity for a college education by working hard and be able to complete a college education without being saddled with debt when he or she graduates.

Tonight Stacey Abrams showed herself to be a woman of intelligence, courage, honor, and compassion ...

KKGator comments on Feb 6, 2019:

She was completely robbed of the governorship of Georgia. Kemp stole that election.

wordywalt replies on Feb 6, 2019:

Absolutely correct.

Average worker to CEO

wordywalt comments on Feb 4, 2019:

Disgraceful. No CEO is worth that much!

wordywalt replies on Feb 5, 2019:

@bigpawbullets Your comment still does not justify the hugely exorbitant pay of business executives.

Average worker to CEO

wordywalt comments on Feb 4, 2019:

Disgraceful. No CEO is worth that much!

wordywalt replies on Feb 5, 2019:

@bigpawbullets My work was in the e3ducational sector. There, we did not have CEOs who were paid far more than they were worth. We generally had quite competent and effective leaders who werde compensated adequately, but, by comparison, modestly.

Average worker to CEO

wordywalt comments on Feb 4, 2019:

Disgraceful. No CEO is worth that much!

wordywalt replies on Feb 5, 2019:

@Biptu So what? It still is an obscene practice which, unfortunately, has become part of our culture. We can, and should, change that practice.

I find it interesting that most of the people I really agree with on this site are mature and ...

PalacinkyPDX comments on Feb 4, 2019:

Hey, no fair, what about us who are immature and borderline ignorant?!

wordywalt replies on Feb 4, 2019:

I think that you have placed yourself in the wrong group. You fit in my group, not that one.

I find it interesting that most of the people I really agree with on this site are mature and ...

AstralSmoke comments on Feb 4, 2019:

I'm hoping I fall into the crusty codgers, or else I'm left out in the cold.

wordywalt replies on Feb 4, 2019:

You are also on my "good guy" list. I said most, not all.

‘A watershed moment’: Trump faces crossroads amid mounting threats on all sides

wordywalt comments on Feb 3, 2019:

I hope that the pressures break the sociopath!

wordywalt replies on Feb 3, 2019:

@freeofgod Oh, yes. But if you do, his personality crumbles and his response is unpredictable. It might make slink off in the shadows in humiliation, or he might try to destroy everything in sight.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Very shortsighted of you. You will miss out on the wave of the near future. That is what being closed-minded will do for a person.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Evidently you are not aware of new energy technologies under development, such as production of carbon based fuels from cellulose without having to extract and add fossil fuels. And You need to be looking ahead, not backward.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Technologies already exist that can make the production and distribution of renewable energy economic and quite feasible. All fossil fuels and the extractive production methods are hugely polluting and should be discouraged with speedy public support. If coal, gas, and petroleum producing companies had any long term vision, they would see themselves as energy producers and would see their mission as production of the least expensive cleanaest forms of energy production and consumption the most desirable. But they have tunnel vision,

Active shooter drill at my grandkids school.

wordywalt comments on Nov 29, 2018:

It is a shame that we even have to have active shooter drills simply because the NRA promotes an irresponsible arming of people in public places.

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@zesty Yet more bizarre inanity.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 It is you who shows his deliberately chosen ignorance. Adjusted for inflation, the three presidents presidents who increased the national debt the most, as a percentage of the GNOP have been Reagan (with his "voodoo" supply side economics), Bush with his senseless Iraq War and beginning of an economic collapse caused by his policies, and now the idiot Trump. That statement is backed by real facts. YOur rebuttal has no substance or truth.

Trump has been a lot better president for business than Obama ever was as Obama was a regulation nut...

wordywalt comments on Jan 29, 2019:

Your understanding of economics and business is worse than bad.Your facts are wrong, and you ignore the fact that Obama inherited a crash from Bush. He was not a regulatory nut, but put in regulations to protect people and the environment in legitimate and valid ways. . Wait until Trump is ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 30, 2019:

@Trajan61 Either you are ignorant of the facts, or you are deliberately lying.

Wow ... so much hate

wordywalt comments on Jan 28, 2019:

The problem you face is that most people equate the idea of universal consciousness with belief in a supreme being. I tend to agree with them. To me, an existential point of view is more realistic.

wordywalt replies on Jan 28, 2019:

@WilliamFleming If it is consciousness, it is not consciousness. Consciousness is mental.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear Factory farms don't help, either.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin When you can't have your way, you disparage. I have an IQ of 145, and had a successful career of originating, designing, implementing, and evaluating effective e programs of action, and a record of writing over 20 professional articles and two training program with full materials for dissemination across the country. Again, it does not work that way. You cannot just say what you want and demand that it stand.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear I hate seeing that happen to too many good rural towns which were fine places to live and grow up.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin So you can assert something in public space and I cannot? It xoes not work that way.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin if, based on evidence and experience, I feel that my point of view is valid, I have full right to do so. If I get feedback which provides clear evidence that my perspective wrong, I will be glad to concede the point and apologize. Until then, I will maintain my perspective.

Now you guys can't tell me you don't have any DIY projects.

wordywalt comments on Jan 27, 2019:

I grew up poorand in a rural area, so do it yourself was a way of life. For me, it still is for many things, even at the age of 81.

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@kgoodyear I understood that. As a teenager in a rural area, about the only way to make any money at all was farm labor. That meant long hours in Florida heat and humidity for very low pay. I swore that I would never live or work on a farm when I grew up..

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

@mzbehavin Don't misquote me. I did not say that people have a right to do as they please. I did say that people have a right to make valid criticisms.

Bill Maher Doubles Down on Comic Fans

mzbehavin comments on Jan 27, 2019:

Here's why Bill's wrong. It has nothing to do with comic books. Not his business and never was what other people choose for entertainment. My choice is just as valid as his no matter the choice. I don't choose to smoke, pot or otherwise but I do not denigrate those who do. Not my business. Bill ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 27, 2019:

You are wrong about two things. First, Maher was showing knowledge of the medium and of many adult drawn to that medium. Second he has a full right to express disdain for the lack of maturation shown in the choice of that medium and in other behaviors of some people who remain fixated on that medium. I was a comic book over until the age of about 19, "Wen I was a child, I sake as a child and did as a child. When I became a man, I put away childish things."

Provoked By Trump, The Religious Left Is Finding Its Voice : NPR

wordywalt comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Interesting. It is about time that some christians finally spoke out on how completely Trump is violating their theology.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@goldenvalleyguy I do like your honesty and the fact that you know that about yourself.

Provoked By Trump, The Religious Left Is Finding Its Voice : NPR

wordywalt comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Interesting. It is about time that some christians finally spoke out on how completely Trump is violating their theology.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@goldenvalleyguy We all have our Achilles' heels, our feet of clay. Other than their religious beliefs, more than a few Christians are quite intelligent, quite concerned about the well-being of people. I really don't like how you seem to put others down so easily.

The reactionary talking empty heads like Laura Ingram, Rush Limbaugh,, Ann Coulter, and Sean ...

PBuck0145 comments on Jan 24, 2019:

I have said this before. DJT is easily manipulated. Had he been the Democratic candidate, he could have been a good president.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

He only cares about his ego and his pocketbook. He is too egomaniacal, irrational, impulsive, and sociopathic to EVER be an adequate president.

The reactionary talking empty heads like Laura Ingram, Rush Limbaugh,, Ann Coulter, and Sean ...

AstralSmoke comments on Jan 24, 2019:

Nice thoughts, but I don't see it ever happening. Trump hasn't changed any since I learned about him in the eighties. He only does what is good for Trump and it doesn't matter who he steps on or over in the process. Laws are only speed bumps for him.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

Trump;s popularity has dropped 8 percentage points in the past couple of weeks, down to 34 percent-- an unelectable level. As the negative effects of his actions, including the shutdown impinge onm the daily lives of more and more people, that "popularity" will drop into the 20s. At that level, more and more Republican politicians will abandon him just to save their own asses.

You Gotta Believe In Something Why Not Believe In Me?

wordywalt comments on Jan 23, 2019:

Did you ever read Gunter Grass's THE FLOUNDER? If not, I think you would thoroughly enjoy it.

wordywalt replies on Jan 24, 2019:

@VictoriaNotes You are very welcome. If you read it, let me know what you think It is hilarious, biting satire that is decidedly feminist. I was really liked Gunther Grass's work and his activism.

People prefer to be lied to. Even though deep down in their logical mind they know it's all a lie.

wordywalt comments on Jan 23, 2019:

That statement is absurd. No one likes being lied to. There are people whose sense of being alone and powerless is so great that they are drawn to total system religious and political dogmas to find a false escape.

wordywalt replies on Jan 23, 2019:

@Lillyfield41 Then blame the self-serving demagogues, not the deluded.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@I did not say that they were not educated. More than a few have bachelor's degrees. Still those are locked into true belief in the racist cultural mores, and into the religious and political dogma of reactionary political and religious dogma.. And, is one simply to forgive them for the pernicious effect on themselves and those they wish to discriminate against simply because they choose to e not to know any better?. I think not. And, I did not have any advantage. My family was so poor that they provided no more than $100 dollars to help me pay for college. I earned the rest through work and scholarships. The exposure to other cultures I earned by serving in the U.S. Army in Europe. I also paid for graduate school through the G. I. Bill which I earned by my military service, from work and from a fellowship which I also earned. .I worked for every damned advantage I got. Almost anyone who does not have to face the burdens of racism or ethnocentrism can earn such "advantages" if they are willing to pay the price. I am not better than those poor southern whites. I choose to accomplish something and worked to do it. Again, don't be so quick to make judgmental statements about someone you do not know at all.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

Let me also add that I belittle these people with whom I grew up in the rural deep south. I feel sorry for hem in that they will never become the persons they could be because of the limitations they impose upon themselves by their own ill-grounded beliefs and biases. At the same time I detest he effects of those beliefs and biases on others, and will fight to the death to keep them from imposing those on others. .

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

TheMiddleWay comments on Jan 20, 2019:

"Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, the courage, the will, and the morality to even attempt to elevate themselves. " [steps on soapbox] Well, that would require someone to show them how to elevate themselves. It's hard to combat ...

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

I do not reign derision. I was raised in the rural deep south that encultured me to be a racist, religious, unthinking conservative. It took me many years of study and learning, exposure to other cultures, and experiences which challenged me to think about my behavior and beliefs. The vast majority of rural white southerners are religious, racist, and conservative because they have never had experiences which really caused them think deeply about their beliefs and behaviors. I have many fond memories about growing up in that setting, but also deep regrets about the person I once was in that setting. . I could never live in that setting again. Even when I do visit, I cannot express my current beliefs without provoking anger and derision. Again, I do not deride. I describe real behavior clearly and accurately. Be careful about imputing motive to someone you do not even know.

Donald Trump and his supporters show by their words and behavior that they lack the intelligence, ...

Marine comments on Jan 20, 2019:

Your statements are even more valid when applied to the wealthy who want more than their fair share of the wealth of the nation.

wordywalt replies on Jan 20, 2019:

@Marine He has written at least 23 books. Some of his best include THE SPY WHO CAME IN FROM THE COLD, THE LOOKING GLASS WAR, TINKER TAILOR SOLIDER SPY, SMILEY'S PEOPLE THE LITTLE DRUMMER GIRL,Ihave read 9 idof his books. incidentally, I spent two years in the US Army in Berlin and almost another year on my own. A couple of years later, when I was teaching in central Florida, I got a letter from the CIA laying that someone had recommended me for a position with the agency. Someone who knew me in Berlin was a CIA operative or asset and I did not know it.