A Novel Experience

I began reading, "The Lord of the Rings." Heretofore, I have not read many novels but books related to philosophy, theology, and ethics. Since January or the Christmas season, my wife suggested I read some novels to broaden my reading horizons. I've become hooked on novels now.

I especially enjoy reading mystery novels. After reading several by Grissom and Robertson and others, I began to read "The Lord of the Rings." My oldest grandson gave it to me as a Christmas gift and now, I'm into it and loving every minute of it.

This book is one of the recommended readings Introduction to Ethics which I teach. So, now I can be more informed about the novel and the "moral of the story" contained within it. The author of the text book we use and Philosopher Martha Nussbuam both recommend reading novels so as to get a good look at life, the situations people find themselves confronting, and how they deal with them. So far I love my new adventures in reading.

Assumptions

As a Christian minister [retired], I find some Christians to be arrogant in their assumptions of persons. By this, I mean they make a blanket statement that all persons who do not worship God the way they do are in need of salvation. It does not matter if these persons are members of a Christian congregation or not, they are still in need of salvation. How arrogant can one be? Who are we to decide who is a Christian or not? Did God suddenly pass away and put these folks in charge of the "judgment" and "salvation" departments?

Yes, I believe persons need to know Jesus Christ but, I do not assume that everyone I meet or have yet to meet are sinners in need of salvation. Some may be while others may not be. God will lead me to those who need to see and to hear of His unconditional love and acceptance. My daily prayer is that God will enable me to be His witness by word and deed and in so doing He will open the doors or lead me to persons who are in need of His help or salvation.

Let's assume one thing. Let's assume that God will use us as His instruments of unconditional love, acceptance, and forgiveness.

Have a great day rejoicing in the Lord.

Dr. Ron

AIG

Like most folks, I am very upset about the bonuses AIG is paying with the bailout money. Their reasoning is that they need to do so to keep good folks working. What about the good folks who have lost their money and jobs perhaps some of AIG bonus money could be given to them. The leadership at AIG need to come down from their ivory/gold plated tower and work and live like the real folks live--pay check to pay check. As a retiree with no pension or IRA's only Social Security and a part time position at a local community college, I sure could use a bonus. Try living at the poverty level, AIG executives...it is not fun...

Now, I know what AIG stands for: "Ain't It Good?" working here with all the bonuses and perks those poor suckers pay us with their bail out money. Well, we poor suckers now own AIG and the good times are over. As one share holder in the company, I caste my vote to downsize or to terminate your afflication with "my company" effective immediately. And before you leave, you will pay back the perks given to you by our bailout funds. One other thing, don't let the door hit you on your way out....I don't want you to be in too much pain as you explain to your spouse how you lost your job.

That's my take and I'm sticking to it. What's your opinion?

Dr. Ron