tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-59753656374962216652024-03-04T22:28:29.128-06:00The Altruistic HeathenDisagreement Is Not Disrespectful! Question Everything!Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.comBlogger97125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-33620030170950882652012-06-27T00:20:00.001-05:002012-06-27T00:20:13.044-05:00I've recently learned of <a href="http://freethoughtblogs.com/pharyngula/2012/06/26/bravo-germany/">Germany's decision to ban religiously-based circumcisions</a> on male children. I applaude this decision and mentioned it to my husband who is, appallingly, in complete disagreement with me. He is of the opinion that we should not in any way trample upon the religious liberties of parents.<br />
<br />
When I asked him whether or not is was okay for Muslims to cut off the labia, and sew up the vaginal opening, of their female children...he thought for a second and said...Yes! OMG. Really?!?<br />
<br />
What the hell has FauxNews done to his brain. I understand that he considers himself spiritual and the fact that I am an atheist has nearly destroyed our marriage (on his part) several times, but I am truly confused by this line of reasoning from him. How can anyone possibly think that it is okay for a parent to mutilate their child for any reason at all?<br />
<br />Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-65339024994113349112012-01-31T23:41:00.000-06:002012-01-31T23:41:59.850-06:00I know I've been gone for awhile....I know I've been gone for awhile, but I've been swamped with homework, and I apologize.<br />
<br />
My rant for today:<br />
I'm a poor college student, so I have to wait for movies to come out on the $1.00 rental kiosks before I can actually watch them. If you've already seen "Contagion", please forgive my outdated rant. <br />
<br />
I just finished watching "Contagion" and was very disappointed. There were two things that really bothered me and if I am wrong on my assessment, please correct me.<br />
<br />
First: The digital depiction of the so called virus in the movie was actually a protein (if I've paid proper attention in basic biology class). <br />
<br />
Second: The mention that babies actually get half of their immune system from the father is completely wrong (if I've listened to my immunology lectures correctly). From what I understand, infants are not born with an immune system at all. Infants are initially given antibodies from the mother (through breastfeeding) initially and then develop an immune system, over time, based on the vectors that the mother has been exposed to.<br />
<br />
Maybe I'm completely wrong, but I thought that the director, or producers, of the movie might have actually consulted an immunologist before proceeding with the screenplay. <br />
<br />
The only good thing about the movie, besides all of the cameo appearances, was the complete denigration of the 'anti-vaccination' - 'homeopathy' movement in the piece. Homeopathy is such a crock of shit, as is the anti-vaccination movement. Kudos to the directors/producers for that point.<br />
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Otherwise, the movie was just an entertainment, but not anything to take literally. Don't take what you hear from me, or anyone else as absolute fact. Do your research and trust in the 'scientific method'.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-11246250321639189912011-12-24T20:35:00.000-06:002011-12-24T20:35:50.933-06:00Don't Give In To The Annoying Bell Ringers<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: right; margin-left: 1em; text-align: right;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirNXsKh_kDNi-Fq5yvrkwW0BNZBCRADjOE2NeLKngQI9Hql4AKHXDhxi4sP4KbmVeGyMfSPsSVQkvk_XGbHQUzPEla03Ryv6YraXjW8TLqAgtv0xDD4QOKG3DHE53n15LgcB0sQiKAcLkU/s1600/what_is_christmas.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="128" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirNXsKh_kDNi-Fq5yvrkwW0BNZBCRADjOE2NeLKngQI9Hql4AKHXDhxi4sP4KbmVeGyMfSPsSVQkvk_XGbHQUzPEla03Ryv6YraXjW8TLqAgtv0xDD4QOKG3DHE53n15LgcB0sQiKAcLkU/s200/what_is_christmas.jpg" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-text-dynamic-arrays/4A2D2520606517C4802573F5005661DB?openDocument">Source</a></td></tr>
</tbody></table>Did you know that the <a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-local/About-us">Salvation Army</a> is an "<a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-local/About-us">evangelical part of the universal Christian Church</a>"? <br />
<br />
Did you know that they abhor the idea of abortion, and claim that in instances of unwanted pregnancy, the "<a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/B6F3F4DF3150F5B585257434004C177D?Opendocument">situation should be accepted</a>" and "<a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/B6F3F4DF3150F5B585257434004C177D?Opendocument">the pregnancy [should] be carried to term</a>"? I wonder: if you are raped, will they also expect you to accept the situation? What f**ktards!<br />
<br />
Did you know that the they think that persons who are suffering greatly under the cloud of a terminal disease should not be allowed to end their own lives, in order to end their own meaningless suffering? (Not to mention, ending the seemingly never-ending string of billing statements from the hospitals, doctors, nurses, pharmacies, etc. that will put their family into bankrupcy.) Because we have absolutely no rights over what we do with our own damned bodies (as of right now), but, hopefully, that will change with time.<br />
<br />
Did you know that, under their creed, $5 poker night with your buddies is out of the question? Gambling is a sin, don't you know.<br />
<br />
Did you know that the Salvation Army thinks that, if you are a homosexual, you should abstain from having a sexual relationship with your partner? No nookie for you.<br />
<br />
Did you know that they "<a href="http://www.salvationarmyusa.org/usn/www_usn_2.nsf/vw-dynamic-index/B6F3F4DF3150F5B585257434004C177D?Opendocument">oppose pornography in all of its forms</a>"? Damn, I like a little erotica now and then. =) What about me, dammit?!?<br />
<br />
These people are spreading their intolerant, bigoted views in the guise of charity, and have been getting away with it for too long. Next time you see a bell ringer in front of your local shopping center this season, tell them what you really think of their position and, perhaps, admonish the bell ringers for working for such a hateful organization.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-52429655451697720722011-12-22T14:27:00.000-06:002011-12-22T14:27:31.378-06:00Pat Has Got It All WrongTypically, I love <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/patcondell?feature=watch">Pat Condell's YouTube videos</a>; his snarky, godless attitude is usually brilliant, but now he's decided that American atheists have gone too far on the 'war on Christmas'. He apparently thinks that it is wrong to push for a christian nativity scene to be removed from the secular, public grounds of city government. <br />
<br />
I like the holiday season as much as the next person. We put up a Yule tree and recognize the Winter Solstice (which the Christians ripped off of the pagans, btw). I have no problem with Christmas songs (in moderation, because too much will make your head explode) or private citizens decorating their private property with the nativity or other types of religious paraphernalia. To see these things does not make me feel "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IolHgMf_nbw&feature=g-u&context=G2931b52FUAAAAAAABAA">excluded</a>" or "<a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IolHgMf_nbw&feature=g-u&context=G2931b52FUAAAAAAABAA">intimidated</a>", but when a government body advocates the displays of one religion over all others on taxpayer funded property, then, yes, I have a problem with that. <br />
<br />
Pat claims that those who are in opposition to these types of governmental preference are trying to "stamp out harmless aspects" of Christianity. That is not the goal at all. The goal is: if government bodies decide to allow the public display of the nativity on taxpayer funded property, then representations of all religions (and lack of religion) should also be displayed - or none should be displayed.<br />
<br />
I am glad for Pat that he lives in a country (UK) where he can be free and open about his lack of religious belief. It would be nice if that were the case in America.<br />
<br />
Has he seen how the theocrats have been trying to take over completely? Has he seen the political candidates that we have to choose from (slim pickings, indeed)? <br />
<br />
In my country, it is political suicide to admit that you have no faith in the supernatural. Additionally, if you come out of the closet, as godless, in some areas of the country you might have your property vandalized, be fired, be beaten up, etc. <br />
<br />
The theocrats are trying to inject their creationist bologna into the science classroom, are trying to make it legal to bully a kid into suicide so long as it is done in the name of religious morals, are trying to pass underhanded laws that make it difficult or impossible for a woman to have complete control over her reproduction, etc.<br />
<br />
By preventing the pious from having their government sponsored religious display, we who do not feel as they do are fighting against the autonomy that Christianity has enjoyed for so long. We are not a Christian nation, we are a secular nation, and we will not allow the theocrats to continue to hijack taxpayer funded property for their proselytizing, at the expense of all others. It violates MY constitutional rights, and it violates YOURS. <br />
<br />
Sorry, Pat, but this time, you've gotten it all wrong.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="259" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/IolHgMf_nbw" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-7647150687043082012011-12-16T11:09:00.002-06:002011-12-16T15:56:34.620-06:00In His HonourI won't say too much about Christopher Hitchens (the internet is filling up with wonderful articles about this one-of-a-kind man's life that you can read at your leisure). He was someone with whom I would have liked to sit down and argue; I most certainly would have had some key political disagreements with him. But, I loved and admired his absolute and unrelenting passion for life and his ideals; I loved that he thrived on conflict and inspired fiery passion in others, and in myself. <br />
<br />
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rv0D7fGuEXc/Tut6Y4ofLOI/AAAAAAAAAFc/c9CMe4K81G8/s1600/booze.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-rv0D7fGuEXc/Tut6Y4ofLOI/AAAAAAAAAFc/c9CMe4K81G8/s1600/booze.png" /></a>How do we pay tribute to this unique individual, who was not afraid to feel strongly about the beliefs he held, and was equally unafraid to change his mind about those beliefs when circumstances changed? I say, lift a glass of your favorite alcoholic beverage in his memory; hell, make it a double! <br />
<br />
<br />
<br />
For those two people in the world who aren't aware of who Christopher Hitchens was, see below for a nice collection of 'Hitchslaps'.<br />
<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="335" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/mQorzOS-F6w" width="450"></iframe><br />
<br />
Hitch will be missed; he will continue to live on through our memories and the legacy he left behind.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-23982841992478793712011-12-14T17:48:00.000-06:002011-12-14T17:48:21.714-06:00I Like It!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQx-QMYcnZk/Tuk1Y7XF8-I/AAAAAAAAAFU/5of0O3BueN4/s1600/billboard.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-KQx-QMYcnZk/Tuk1Y7XF8-I/AAAAAAAAAFU/5of0O3BueN4/s400/billboard.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-84494044847268780792011-12-14T17:18:00.000-06:002011-12-14T17:18:45.050-06:00PerspectiveYesterday, <a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/12/12/why-are-anti-christian-bigots-so-eager-to-prey-on-tim-tebow/">FauxNews replayed their story about poor Tim Tebow being 'picked on' for being very visual about his faith</a>. First of all, this is such a non-story...that network is using Tebow as a poster child for the supposed 'war on christianity' waged by the godless. They are just upset that we are questioning their faith, and in doing so, we are insulting and rude (WhatEver!).<br />
<br />
Anyway, saw this floating around Facebook, so I thought I'd share. It puts the whole issue in perspective.<br />
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duhHxk_bgDQ/TukrDn6-tDI/AAAAAAAAAFM/AALZOhFgfT4/s1600/TheLord.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-duhHxk_bgDQ/TukrDn6-tDI/AAAAAAAAAFM/AALZOhFgfT4/s320/TheLord.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div align="left" class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />
<a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/DarkMatter2525?feature=watch">YouTuber, DarkMatter2525</a>, makes an even better point in the following video:<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="259" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/9IKkfBKLApY" width="450"></iframe><br />
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Tebow seems like a really sweet and sincerely nice guy, but this kind of coverage because someone made fun of his signature move, after they sacked him, is not news; it's just fodder for the FauxNews, Xtian right, propaganda machine.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-88880393337127045642011-12-14T02:12:00.001-06:002011-12-14T02:27:43.495-06:00Can't We All Just Accept One Another?We all come to see the light of skeptical reason in our own unique way. We all label ourselves in different ways, as well: freethinkers, skeptics, humanists, secularists, secular humanists, atheists, agnostics, non-theists, etc. When it comes to our interactions with believers, some of us are argumentative, antagonistic, angry, exasperated, pushy, etc., and some are not (some are able to be in the middle and use appropriate tactics depending on the situation and the person - but that usually comes with experience).<br>
<br>
What really gets my goat is when we, as non-believers, who fight for the right to be ourselves and question the status quo, bicker about tactics. <br>
<br>
<a href="http://altruisticheathen.blogspot.com/2011/12/cant-we-all-just-accept-one-another.html#more">Read more »</a>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-16777261365868046962011-12-13T11:28:00.000-06:002011-12-13T11:28:17.353-06:00The Thinking Atheist Says "Merry Merry XMas"I just love this guy. Seth, the <a href="http://www.thethinkingatheist.com/">Thinking Atheist</a>, has a very informative site, a podcast, and a host of videos posted on <a href="http://www.youtube.com/user/TheThinkingAtheist?feature=watch">YouTube</a>. If you aren't familiar with his work, I would definitely suggest that you check him out. And have a happy pagan sun festival! <br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="259" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/7T8Y1-VLjGQ" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-60609480519520968932011-12-12T20:39:00.000-06:002011-12-12T20:39:38.136-06:00Got nothing to do with football....everything to do with waaaahhhh!Okay, it seems that the 'anti-xtian bigots' are picking on some football guy, Tim Tebow. (apparently he plays for the Bronco's, or something)<br>
Actually, fauxnews is using him as a poster-child for being picked on. (poor babies)<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/12/12/why-are-anti-christian-bigots-so-eager-to-prey-on-tim-tebow/">It’s become something of a sport to attack Christians in this nation.</a> </blockquote>Really?<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/12/12/why-are-anti-christian-bigots-so-eager-to-prey-on-tim-tebow/">In recent days a cross was removed from a Christian chapel on an Army base because it violated regulations.</a> </blockquote>Yes, it violated regulations. What's the problem? Regulations are there for a reason.<br>
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><a href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/12/12/why-are-anti-christian-bigots-so-eager-to-prey-on-tim-tebow/">Symbols of the Christmas season have been removed from public squares and public schools because they might offend non-Christians. And in Washington, D.C., Christian teenagers were forced to pray in a gutter after police told them it was illegal to pray on a sidewalk outside the</a> <a class="r_lapi" href="http://www.foxnews.com/opinion/2011/12/12/why-are-anti-christian-bigots-so-eager-to-prey-on-tim-tebow/"><span style="color: #183a52;">Supreme Court</span></a>.</blockquote>Yep, there's this thing called the 'seperation between church and state.'<br>
<a href="http://altruisticheathen.blogspot.com/2011/12/got-nothing-to-do-with.html#more">Read more »</a>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-12420257776774417112011-12-12T16:56:00.000-06:002011-12-12T16:56:27.367-06:00OMGawd! I am so exhausted! But Free!Hi everyone!<br />
So sorry it's been so long since I've blogged. <br />
<br />
Like I mentioned in my Info page, my GPA comes first, and that certainly has applied this semester (and probably all other semesters.... :)<br />
<br />
My college decided to be funny and schedule every single one of my finals for today. I've spent the weekend cramming, finishing two papers, and not sleeping. But, it's all over. I have a month to chill, play Call of Duty: MW3 and Skyrim, and blog to my heart's content. I am going to go to sleep now to recharge, but you'll be hearing from me soon. Soooooooooo much in the news that will keep me busy for awhile. <br />
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Thank you for sticking around and being patient with me.<br />
Mary B.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-55439452810003577042011-11-16T22:36:00.000-06:002011-11-16T22:36:55.695-06:00No one ever said life was easyI know that college is my dream; I've wanted to go for the last 15 years and now I'm doing it, but damn! it's consuming all of my time. My GPA is still rockin' so it is totally worth it, but I've been so neglectful!<br />
<br />
Rest assured my dear friends...as soon as finals are over for this semester, I'll have a full month to spew my ill informed and petty comments about the rethuglicans, religion, the general apathy and stupidity in the world, and maybe some funny stuff too.<br />
<br />
For now, I'm wasting away writing papers that are of no interest to me. BUT, there is a bright spot on the horizon. In three days, I'll be in Springfield, MO for Skepticon!! I'll have two days away from the hubby to soak in all kinds of heathenistic, atheistic, scientific, and just plain terrific speakers. Wish I had funds; I'd purchase a camcorder or, at least, a digicamara to document my experience, but alas I am poor and barely scraped up the dough for the hotel and gas. I might even be able to eat while I'm there, but it's not a sure thing.<br />
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Anyway, I can't wait and I hope to meet some really interesting folks there this weekend!! Maybe I'll see you there! =)Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-61432696623731087472011-10-10T21:36:00.000-05:002011-10-10T21:36:19.433-05:00Why Do Men ... ?Why do men feel it necessary to yell at the television screen during sporting events? Do they honestly think that their heroes can hear them? <br />
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Here I am, sitting on the couch, laptop in hand, trying desperately to critique my own paper, whilst my husband screams at the tube. I can't concentrate, I've run out of earplugs, and my vodka is running low.<br />
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Sanity wanes.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-45082662166602933652011-10-10T21:24:00.000-05:002011-10-10T21:24:22.343-05:00I Know....I Know...I know that I've been negligent, but it has been unavoidable. With three research papers to research and draft, my time has been completely swamped. The only reason that I am updating now is that my brain is on overload and I deserve a much needed break. <br />
<br />
My local <a href="http://www.secularstudents.org/">Secular Student Alliance</a> club at school is up and running with an "Ask An Atheist" table in the works (so excited!). I'm thrilled, also, that we have a room scheduled for meetings for the rest of the semester. Funny story...<br />
<br />
To begin the semester, we couldn't get a room booked for our meetings at all. In desperation, I tried several contacts at school for help. Eventually, I was recommended a conference room in the faculty offices (keep in mind that I'm just a club member, not an officer, but I know people in the Honor's Club). When I spoke to the secretary that was in charge of the space, she seemed to be totally cool (considering that we are meeting in the late afternoon, every other Friday - when nobody is on campus). She asked me for the name of the club, so she could write it in on the calender. I told her....she asked questions (had no idea what the SSA was).... I told her we were an atheist/agnostic club.... her body language immediately changed.<br />
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Imagine, a little old woman who is hunched over her desk, taking notes, when she hears the word, "non-believer". She instantly leans as far back in her office chair as possible, tells me that we will all find out the truth when we die, and tells me (in so many words) that she is NOT a "non-believer". <br />
<br />
Well, I knew we were in trouble. She mentioned the department chair and the dean (who we may have to go through for approval) even though we are a recognized group on campus. Sufficed to say, I contacted the President of the group immediately. Luckily, he was able to meet with the department chair, and (thanks to his suave personality) we have the conference room for the remainder of the semester. Whew! <br />
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I have to tell you. If this is the kind of reception I should expect for the "Ask An Atheist" table next week, I'll have my work cut out for me. My problem is public speaking. I am really hoping to get a great deal of experience from the indignant believers first hand. I need it!<br />
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Well, I suppose that I should get back to analyzing literature (how exactly this will help me in my psychology career, I'm not sure). Cheers!Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-27308384318024040512011-09-26T19:07:00.000-05:002011-09-26T19:07:08.423-05:00BacktrackingYa'll probably know that, last week, Pat Robertson gave advice to a man whose wife was suffering from Alzheimer's; he told him to divorce her (F%CK "for better or worse; in sickness and health). Well, now he's decided to backtrack and be the hypocrite that we all knew he is. <br />
<br />
In the video this week, he says, "I never would tell anybody to leave their sick spouse," although that is exactly what he did last week. What a liar!<br />
<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="259" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/rSW0l7LdCg8" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-52715804018513271692011-09-26T18:56:00.000-05:002011-09-26T18:56:53.715-05:00I Get To Breathe!Wow, I actually have an evening when there are no homework assignments to do. I am amazed! Maybe its because I just had exams in 4 of my 5 classes and my instructors thought we all needed a break. Whatever the reason, I'm glad. <br />
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Just chillin' on my couch, catchin' up on my favorite bloggers and loosening up with some 100 proof. <br />
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Gotta enjoy it while I can; I'm sure that tomorrow evening, I'll be bogged down in more work. =)<br />
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Cheers!!!!Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-79717356284732388162011-09-15T20:25:00.000-05:002011-09-15T20:25:22.991-05:00Why Do People Waste Their Money?Well, let's see...<br />
We are into our fourth week of the semester and, on average, half of my classmates are gone. The only exception is my Biology class (more on that below). Do these kids say, "Hey, I know, I can't find a job at MacBurgerFlippinJoint, so I'll go to college"? Then they enroll, pay their tuition, buy their books, then find out that they actually have to work at it! Oh my gawd!!!! Who would have thunk it?<br />
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On the facebook app that my school has available for its students, one guy writes, "Looking for other students who are taking college algebra to study with. my first two quizzes wasn't that good. : (" This guy might need to find an English tutor. In fact, my English (Comp II) class has about 10 remaining out of the 30 who started. So sad. My Honors World Civ course (which only seats 15, tops) is now down to 10 (33% reduction), with Psych and Philosophy following suit. <br />
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I just don't get it. Why do they even bother? If it's their parents sending them there, the parents should know better than to throw away their money on brats who can't have shown any initiative previously.<br />
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Surprisingly, though, my Biology class has only lost 2 out of 30 (so far). One of the girls is even home schooled (she wants to be a missionary when she grows up - how cute). I think it's because it's a relatively easy course so far, with a teacher who says things like, "I'm going to teach evolution in this class and if you don't ascribe to that way of thinking, all that I ask is that you learn the material." (Arghh) So the Prof is an accommodationist. I'm sure that makes it easier on the bible belters here.<br />
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Anyway, this penny-pinching, money-grubbing, can't waste a cent on what I can't use non-believer is going to do some more homework. I'm done complaining. =)Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-4699852813183534872011-09-06T19:24:00.000-05:002011-09-06T19:24:37.840-05:00Some Funnies to Tide You Over<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="283" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/4zJWA3Vo6TU" width="450"></iframe><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="283" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/cQ9sJVJMiYM" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-2797328067111512582011-09-02T18:56:00.000-05:002011-09-02T18:56:22.455-05:00Just Checking In<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHYSt8HSOEI/TmFsEvgRjSI/AAAAAAAAAFE/i1MpYUvqWUA/s1600/buried.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-hHYSt8HSOEI/TmFsEvgRjSI/AAAAAAAAAFE/i1MpYUvqWUA/s1600/buried.jpg" /></a></div>Man, this week has been hell. I've had a boatload of reading assignments which took hours and hours and fairly lengthy writing assignments to do (in all five of my classes). Sheesh!!! And I'm not done yet. Even though this will be a three day weekend, most of it will be taken up by more reading, analysis and writing. My eyes are so dry, my fingers feel like they want to fall off, and I have a knot the size of a grapefruit in my neck. But enough whinning.<br />
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Last semester, being my first, was an adjustment period for me and I didn't get involved with any clubs or activities at school, but I've made a special point to get involved in at least one group this year. The group that I put first and foremost is the Secular Student Alliance affiliate at my college. This afternoon, I was able to go to our first meeting, get to know the president a little better and help brainstorm some nifty activities for this year.<br />
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The president of our group is friendly with the president of our college's chapter of Baptist Collegiate Ministries and we are hoping to have at least one joint venture with them as a transfaith collaboration. My suggestion was a game-show type event where a couple of people from our respective groups would play bible trivia to see who knows best. We'll see if we can't get it approved by the BCM; who knows, it might be fun! Besides, the believers will draw a much bigger audience than we will alone which will allow for more non-believing, community outreach.<br />
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Our first excursion into the public this year will be an "Ask An Atheist" table and I was all over that. I looks like we will brainstorm some more on fund-raising events for charity and we also are going to try to raise $$$ for a proposed trip to Skepticon this November. Of course, I already have my hotel room booked for that, but it would be awsome to have some homies come along and raise 'hell' with me. lol Looking forward to getting within the aura of PZ, even if it is for just a minute. =)<br />
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HoHum....my textbooks are calling out to me, telling me I'm a lazy sot.....back to the grind.<br />
Enjoy your weekend everyone!Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-44314652410044858802011-08-28T11:59:00.000-05:002011-08-28T11:59:24.362-05:00Not Yo' Mamma's Sunday School #005The Ten Commandments.....hmmm, which should we choose from? There are three sets after all:<br>
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There is the set in <a href="http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/ex/20.html">Exodus 20</a>....<br>
<table border="0" cellpadding="5" cellspacing="0"><tbody>
<tr> <td><b><u>1st</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="3">20:3</a></b> <span class="i">Thou shalt have no other gods before me.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><u>2nd</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="4">20:4</a></b> <span class="c">Thou shalt not make unto thee any graven image</span>, or any likeness of any thing that is in heaven above, or that is in the earth beneath, or that is in the water under the earth. </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><a href="" name="5">20:5</a></b> Thou shalt not bow down thyself to them, nor serve them: for <span class="i">I the LORD thy God am a jealous God, visiting the iniquity of the fathers upon the children unto the third and fourth generation</span> of them that hate me; </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><a href="" name="6">20:6</a></b> And shewing mercy unto thousands of them that love me, and keep my commandments. </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><u>3rd</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="7">20:7</a></b> Thou shalt not take the name of the LORD thy God in vain; for the LORD will not hold him guiltless that taketh his name in vain. </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><u>4th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="8">20:8</a></b> <span class="c">Remember the sabbath day, to keep it holy.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><a href="" name="9">20:9</a></b> Six days shalt thou labour, and do all thy work: </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><a href="" name="10">20:10</a></b> But the seventh day is the sabbath of the LORD thy God: in it thou shalt not do any work, thou, nor thy son, nor thy daughter, thy manservant, nor thy maidservant, nor thy cattle, nor thy stranger that is within thy gates: </td></tr>
<tr> <td><b><a href="" name="11">20:11</a></b> <span class="sci">For in six days the LORD made heaven and earth, the sea, and all that in them</span> is, and rested the seventh day: wherefore the LORD blessed the sabbath day, and hallowed it. </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>5th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="12">20:12</a></b> <span class="g">Honour thy father and thy mother</span>: that thy days may be long upon the land which the LORD thy God giveth thee. </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>6th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="13">20:13</a></b> <span class="g">Thou shalt not kill.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>7th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="14">20:14</a></b> <span class="g">Thou shalt not commit adultery.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>8th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="15">20:15</a></b> <span class="g">Thou shalt not steal.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>9th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="16">20:16</a></b> <span class="g">Thou shalt not bear false witness against thy neighbour.</span> </td></tr>
<tr> <td valign="top"><b><u>10th</u></b><br>
<b><a href="" name="17">20:17</a></b> <span class="c">Thou shalt not covet</span> thy neighbour's house, thou shalt not covet <span class="w">thy neighbour's wife</span>, <span class="i">nor his manservant, nor his maidservant</span>, <span class="w">nor his ox, nor his ass, nor any thing that is thy neighbour's.</span><br>
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<span class="w">Then there is the set in <a href="http://skepticsannotatedbible.com/ex/34.html">Exodus 34</a> (which is very different).... <a href="" name="1"><strong>34:1</strong></a> <span class="c">And the LORD said unto Moses</span>, Hew thee two tables of stone like unto the first: and <span class="c">I will write upon these tables the words that were in the first tables, which thou brakest.</span></span><br>
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</td></tr></tbody></table><a href="http://altruisticheathen.blogspot.com/2011/08/not-yo-mammas-sunday-school-005.html#more">Read more »</a>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-60409887920072457752011-08-28T10:32:00.000-05:002011-08-28T10:32:55.077-05:00What Would It Take...A question that pops up regularly is, 'what would it take to convince a non-believer to believe in god?' <br />
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<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQT5mJ9vbZc/TlpfAIHnZGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/uY1-D3S1ziI/s1600/Poseidon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-aQT5mJ9vbZc/TlpfAIHnZGI/AAAAAAAAAFA/uY1-D3S1ziI/s200/Poseidon.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>Well, considering that there are over 1000 gods and more than 4000 religions based upon those gods, the questioner would have to narrow down the field a bit. In the case of Poseidon, I might be convinced if a 300 foot, bearded man were to walk out of the ocean and could, with his massive trident, create hurricanes and whirlpools on demand.<br />
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In the case of Yahweh, who is supposed to be ever-present, all-powerful and the embodiment of goodness, I suppose I'd have to go with the complete and utter eradication of cancers and aids by, let's say, tomorrow (or I could be generous and say next week, even). That would be pretty convincing to me. (Btw, this condition is not mine; I hijacked it from PZ, Dawkins or some other author whose name escapes me right now).<br />
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I don't think I ask for too much.Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-35941360924210500082011-08-27T14:53:00.000-05:002011-08-27T14:53:05.674-05:00Flopping in the WindDuring live coverage of Hurricane Irene, some silly boys decided it would be a good idea to run behind the weather anchor, in blowing rain, in their under-roos. One young man has now had his flopping junk preserved for posterity. I'm not going to imbed the video because my site isn't rated for adult content, but I'll provide the <a href="http://youtu.be/pY4gJoKwtAQ">YouTube link</a> for your viewing pleasure. *hint: keep an eye on the guy in the red shorts.<br />
Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-985643205478497942011-08-23T17:32:00.000-05:002011-08-23T17:32:14.795-05:00The Joys of Higher Education<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVfCw08P4cA/TlQqN85XGkI/AAAAAAAAAE8/nid1a513CDY/s1600/buried.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-xVfCw08P4cA/TlQqN85XGkI/AAAAAAAAAE8/nid1a513CDY/s1600/buried.jpg" /></a></div>Well, I'm thinking that this semester is going to be much more labor intensive than the last. I've been officially introduced to all of my classes and I have a feeling I'll be buried, up to my eyeballs, in reading assignments, in addition to all of the research papers and essays that are going to be required of me. (Man, I hate writing) <br />
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Anyway, I am still hugely excited, but I fear that I might have to neglect you, my friends. If that turns out to be the case, I apologize in advance. Though, I will try to say hi every now and then, just so you know that I'm still kickin'.<br />
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Okay, then, I'm off to spend the next several hours reading until my eyes dry out. Weeeeeeeee!!!Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-22106325390506571132011-08-21T08:13:00.000-05:002011-08-21T08:13:00.714-05:00Not Yo' Mamma's Sunday School #004<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="283" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/DCSQg1jteAo" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-5975365637496221665.post-32707639877872091082011-08-19T19:15:00.000-05:002011-08-19T19:15:38.505-05:00Perry Interview ClipI've been a little under the weather the last couple of days, so I apologize for not posting more, but I did happen to find the clip I was looking for the other day.<br />
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This guy wants to run our country, yet he can't figure out that abstinence-only education = higher teen pregnancy and abortion rates. Yeeaaahhhhh.....he's what we need, all right...<br />
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<div style="text-align: center;"><strong><u>if we want to become a third world nation!!!</u></strong></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: left;"></div><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="283" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/eVHhn-c3Kr4" width="450"></iframe>Mary B.http://www.blogger.com/profile/14345927057687336271noreply@blogger.com1