While his effectiveness as president is something of incredible debate, his humanitarian character is something that I have always admired.  I think he is a wonderful man who has done some wonderful things.  This proves it once again...

Losing my religion for equality

* Jimmy Carter
* July 15, 2009


I HAVE been a practising Christian all my life and a deacon and Bible teacher for many years. My faith is a source of strength and comfort to me, as religious beliefs are to hundreds of millions of people around the world. So my decision to sever my ties with the Southern Baptist Convention, after six decades, was painful and difficult. It was, however, an unavoidable decision when the convention's leaders, quoting a few carefully selected Bible verses and claiming that Eve was created second to Adam and was responsible for original sin, ordained that women must be "subservient" to their husbands and prohibited from serving as deacons, pastors or chaplains in the military service.

This view that women are somehow inferior to men is not restricted to one religion or belief. Women are prevented from playing a full and equal role in many faiths. Nor, tragically, does its influence stop at the walls of the church, mosque, synagogue or temple. This discrimination, unjustifiably attributed to a Higher Authority, has provided a reason or excuse for the deprivation of women's equal rights across the world for centuries.

At its most repugnant, the belief that women must be subjugated to the wishes of men excuses slavery, violence, forced prostitution, genital mutilation and national laws that omit rape as a crime. But it also costs many millions of girls and women control over their own bodies and lives, and continues to deny them fair access to education, health, employment and influence within their own communities.

The impact of these religious beliefs touches every aspect of our lives. They help explain why in many countries boys are educated before girls; why girls are told when and whom they must marry; and why many face enormous and unacceptable risks in pregnancy and childbirth because their basic health needs are not met.

In some Islamic nations, women are restricted in their movements, punished for permitting the exposure of an arm or ankle, deprived of education, prohibited from driving a car or competing with men for a job. If a woman is raped, she is often most severely punished as the guilty party in the crime.

The same discriminatory thinking lies behind the continuing gender gap in pay and why there are still so few women in office in the West. The root of this prejudice lies deep in our histories, but its impact is felt every day. It is not women and girls alone who suffer. It damages all of us. The evidence shows that investing in women and girls delivers major benefits for society. An educated woman has healthier children. She is more likely to send them to school. She earns more and invests what she earns in her family.

It is simply self-defeating for any community to discriminate against half its population. We need to challenge these self-serving and outdated attitudes and practices - as we are seeing in Iran where women are at the forefront of the battle for democracy and freedom.

I understand, however, why many political leaders can be reluctant about stepping into this minefield. Religion, and tradition, are powerful and sensitive areas to challenge. But my fellow Elders and I, who come from many faiths and backgrounds, no longer need to worry about winning votes or avoiding controversy - and we are deeply committed to challenging injustice wherever we see it.

The Elders are an independent group of eminent global leaders, brought together by former South African president Nelson Mandela, who offer their influence and experience to support peace building, help address major causes of human suffering and promote the shared interests of humanity. We have decided to draw particular attention to the responsibility of religious and traditional leaders in ensuring equality and human rights and have recently published a statement that declares: "The justification of discrimination against women and girls on grounds of religion or tradition, as if it were prescribed by a Higher Authority, is unacceptable."

We are calling on all leaders to challenge and change the harmful teachings and practices, no matter how ingrained, which justify discrimination against women. We ask, in particular, that leaders of all religions have the courage to acknowledge and emphasise the positive messages of dignity and equality that all the world's major faiths share.

The carefully selected verses found in the Holy Scriptures to justify the superiority of men owe more to time and place - and the determination of male leaders to hold onto their influence - than eternal truths. Similar biblical excerpts could be found to support the approval of slavery and the timid acquiescence to oppressive rulers.

I am also familiar with vivid descriptions in the same Scriptures in which women are revered as pre-eminent leaders. During the years of the early Christian church women served as deacons, priests, bishops, apostles, teachers and prophets. It wasn't until the fourth century that dominant Christian leaders, all men, twisted and distorted Holy Scriptures to perpetuate their ascendant positions within the religious hierarchy.

The truth is that male religious leaders have had - and still have - an option to interpret holy teachings either to exalt or subjugate women. They have, for their own selfish ends, overwhelmingly chosen the latter. Their continuing choice provides the foundation or justification for much of the pervasive persecution and abuse of women throughout the world. This is in clear violation not just of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights but also the teachings of Jesus Christ, the Apostle Paul, Moses and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views.

OBSERVER

Jimmy Carter was president of the United States from 1977 to 1981.
 

I agree with Carter. The southern baptist convention has a pretty bad attitude towards women. I used to worship with a local group because a good friend of mine was the youth pastor over there. I eventally tired of their sexism, legalism, and extreme right wing social views.

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Wait,

I understand that women need to be viewed rightly and respected, but did he, an apparent Christian and Bible teacher, just hint at the legitimacy of islam?

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

Originally posted by MarleVVLL

Wait,

I understand that women need to be viewed rightly and respected, but did he, an apparent Christian and Bible teacher, just hint at the legitimacy of islam?

Oh, no.  Here comes the Christianity vs Islam commentary.

Is it always going to be this way?  Are we ever going to move away from this ancient battle?  Personally, I'm kind of getting sick of both of your sides.  You've both got a history (and a current status) that is very undesirable to me.  And apparently the numbers of people giving up on your "choose sides" agenda are growing.

It's really not productive for anyone.

Seriously, out of that whole written statement that is what you got out of it? 

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by MarleVVLL

Wait,

I understand that women need to be viewed rightly and respected, but did he, an apparent Christian and Bible teacher, just hint at the legitimacy of islam?

 

Is it always going to be this way? 

ofc not, i see alot more Athiesm vs Christianity then islam vs christianity. Although i doubt you have the same opinion of both of them.

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

I agree with gnome here for the most part. People should always be listened to never ignored, especially because of age. I however don't quiet understand why you denounce ageism then immediately type out the highlighted part.

I as a Canadian find Carter to be my favourite US president in recent history. I never had to live under his policies (my age would stop this let alone my country) so I can’t comment on the presidency itself but judging him from his actions post presidency he seems to have hit the ball, using his status to promote equality and other humanitarian things.

What’s with all the constant Islam bashing I read from the US as well? It only proves that those who say racism and intolerance is not a significant problem in the US anymore are way off.

Originally posted by Trizic

 

I agree with gnome here for the most part. People should always be listened to never ignored, especially because of age. I however don't quiet understand why you denounce ageism then immediately type out the highlighted part.

I as a Canadian find Carter to be my favourite US president in recent history. I never had to live under his policies (my age would stop this let alone my country) so I can’t comment on the presidency itself but judging him from his actions post presidency he seems to have hit the ball, using his status to promote equality and other humanitarian things.

What’s with all the constant Islam bashing I read from the US as well? It only proves that those who say racism and intolerance is not a significant problem in the US anymore are way off.

 

 

In the US we have a tradition of former presidents staying on the sidelines.  They can raise money for charities but they shouldn't be meddling in foreign policy or criticizing the current administration.  Carter is the absolute worst is this respect. Worse than Regan, both Bushes, and Clinton.

We loved Carter so much that we replaced him with his opposite in a landslide.   I know alot of people think George W Bush was the worst president of modern times don't remember what it was like under Carter.   A recession and high inflation coupled with a nation in paralysis over the Iran hostage crisis doesn't do much for a legacy. 

Islam is an intolerant religion.  Read the Koran a lot love thy neighbor in there.   As for racism I hate all people who want to force their religion on others no matter what shade of brown they may be.

Originally posted by Zindaihas

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 

I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Carter is not an idiot.  Are you saying that because of his tenure in the Presidency?  If so then I do not think that you are looking at the man's entire life and accomplishments.  And besides that, I do not think it takes an idiot to get elected as President of the U.S.  He may not have been one of the most effective Presidents of the U.S., but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Carter is a very moral man.  The position of President has become a place where you almost have to be immoral to function.  And personally, I find that appalling.

I think that if you take a look at the man's entire life you will find a very kind, compassionate, and important man in a lot of peoples lives.  Even when he was not President.

Originally posted by tvalentine

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by MarleVVLL

Wait,

I understand that women need to be viewed rightly and respected, but did he, an apparent Christian and Bible teacher, just hint at the legitimacy of islam?

 

Is it always going to be this way? 

 

ofc not, i see alot more Athiesm vs Christianity then islam vs christianity. Although i doubt you have the same opinion of both of them.

Overall, I find that battle more of a philosophical battle.  It could change, but I think it's going to be more of a peaceful transition.

I really do not know of too many atheists though.  Are you sure you're not getting them mixed up with agnostics?  I do know a lot of those.  Sometimes, I have to admit, I do find myself leaning into that category.  It's hard for me to trick my mind into "believing" as they call it.  Anyone being honest with themselves can't help but wonder what the word "belief" means to a lot of religious folk.  It seems lately it means following just to take the easiest socially acceptable stance.

Originally posted by Trizic

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 

I agree with gnome here for the most part. People should always be listened to never ignored, especially because of age. I however don't quiet understand why you denounce ageism then immediately type out the highlighted part.

I as a Canadian find Carter to be my favourite US president in recent history. I never had to live under his policies (my age would stop this let alone my country) so I can’t comment on the presidency itself but judging him from his actions post presidency he seems to have hit the ball, using his status to promote equality and other humanitarian things.

What’s with all the constant Islam bashing I read from the US as well? It only proves that those who say racism and intolerance is not a significant problem in the US anymore are way off.

 

 

I put it there as a contrast.  Kind of like holding a mirror up to someone.  Good question though. 

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Zindaihas

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 

I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Carter is not an idiot.  Are you saying that because of his tenure in the Presidency?  If so then I do not think that you are looking at the man's entire life and accomplishments.  And besides that, I do not think it takes an idiot to get elected as President of the U.S.  He may not have been one of the most effective Presidents of the U.S., but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Carter is a very moral man.  The position of President has become a place where you almost have to be immoral to function.  And personally, I find that appalling.

I think that if you take a look at the man's entire life you will find a very kind, compassionate, and important man in a lot of peoples lives.  Even when he was not President.

When Zindaihas said "I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot", I didn't interpret it to mean that he was talking about Carter.....

Originally posted by olddaddy

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Zindaihas

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 

I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Carter is not an idiot.  Are you saying that because of his tenure in the Presidency?  If so then I do not think that you are looking at the man's entire life and accomplishments.  And besides that, I do not think it takes an idiot to get elected as President of the U.S.  He may not have been one of the most effective Presidents of the U.S., but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Carter is a very moral man.  The position of President has become a place where you almost have to be immoral to function.  And personally, I find that appalling.

I think that if you take a look at the man's entire life you will find a very kind, compassionate, and important man in a lot of peoples lives.  Even when he was not President.

 

When Zindaihas said "I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot", I didn't interpret it to mean that he was talking about Carter.....

Oooooh.  Okay. 

English language is a tricky thing sometimes.  hehe.

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Oh, no.  Here comes the Christianity vs Islam commentary.

Is it always going to be this way?  Are we ever going to move away from this ancient battle?

Not until one ceases to exist.

Personally, I'm kind of getting sick of both of your sides.

That is okay :)

You've both got a history (and a current status) that is very undesirable to me.  And apparently the numbers of people giving up on your "choose sides" agenda are growing.

It's really not productive for anyone.

Seriously, out of that whole written statement that is what you got out of it? 

Of course not, but if I read it correctly, more and more main stream leaders in Christianity are losing their stand on the *BASIC* core beliefs of Christianity; and moving towards the aspects of the faith of which all religions cater to.

Originally posted by olddaddy

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Zindaihas

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 

I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Carter is not an idiot.  Are you saying that because of his tenure in the Presidency?  If so then I do not think that you are looking at the man's entire life and accomplishments.  And besides that, I do not think it takes an idiot to get elected as President of the U.S.  He may not have been one of the most effective Presidents of the U.S., but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Carter is a very moral man.  The position of President has become a place where you almost have to be immoral to function.  And personally, I find that appalling.

I think that if you take a look at the man's entire life you will find a very kind, compassionate, and important man in a lot of peoples lives.  Even when he was not President.

 

When Zindaihas said "I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot", I didn't interpret it to mean that he was talking about Carter.....

While I might be an idiot it's an absolute certainity you're an ahole. 

Originally posted by olddaddy

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Zindaihas

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Porfat

I'm going to get flamed for this but ...  I just wish Jimmy Carter would find an old peanut farm and fade away.   Call me cynical but I think he left the S. Baptists to get briefly back into the limelight.   How are they treating women different today then they ever had?  And if they are not why he wait so long to leave the denomination?   

The old hypocrite should be railing about how the muslim women are treated.  Instead the spouts BS like this  --   "and the prophets, Muhammad, and founders of other great religions - all of whom have called for proper and equitable treatment of all the children of God. It is time we had the courage to challenge these views"     I wonder if Muhammad concubines thought they were treated equitably.

Edit: I see where he did criticise certain practices in Muslim countries.   Bravo for him.    But still like to see him fade away like good ex-presidents should.  

Why should he fade away?

This is one of the things that I feel very strongly about.  Your comment (and I'm sorry if I'm wrong) suffers from so much of a discrimination called ageism.  And I feel that is hurtful to our society.

It seems like everything in our culture revolves around the youth and I personally think that is just plain wrong.  Honestly, what exactly have the youth contributed that they deserve so much attention and respect?  Is it their lack of discipline?  Or maybe it's their great wisdom that they think they have accrued in their few years here.  Or maybe their great propensity at ignoring common sense and making age old mistakes over and over again?

I don't get what the fascination is with youth in the western world.  It's not like that in the eastern countries.  They respect their elders and their wisdom.  They don't toss them off to the side or expect them to accept their age and fade away.

I plan on going and going until the last minute I'm on this planet.  I want to express everything I've learned in my life and hope that it can help someone else.  And when I'm old that gift of knowledge is going to be even bigger and more valuable.

The only thing I can figure is that we have become such a consumer based culture that the only thing that matters is how much potential you have to bring in some money.  But in the process we've forgotten, or maybe ignored in most cases, the absolute fact that there is so much more to life.  Things in life that really matter.

I think Carter has a lot to give.  And he should not be ashamed of anything.  Good for him for not fading away.  He's done a lot in his lifetime and I'm sure he can do a lot more.

And I hope you do not give into the societal norm of feeling like you need to fade away when you get to be elderly.

 I don't think Porfat's opinion has anything to do with Carter's age.  I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot.

Carter is not an idiot.  Are you saying that because of his tenure in the Presidency?  If so then I do not think that you are looking at the man's entire life and accomplishments.  And besides that, I do not think it takes an idiot to get elected as President of the U.S.  He may not have been one of the most effective Presidents of the U.S., but I think a lot of that has to do with the fact that Carter is a very moral man.  The position of President has become a place where you almost have to be immoral to function.  And personally, I find that appalling.

I think that if you take a look at the man's entire life you will find a very kind, compassionate, and important man in a lot of peoples lives.  Even when he was not President.

When Zindaihas said "I think it has more to do with the fact that he's an idiot", I didn't interpret it to mean that he was talking about Carter.....

Just to clarify my post here, I was referring to Jimmy Carter, not Porfat.  Porfat's posts by and large have been the jam.  I have nothing but respect for him.  I was probably a little harsh when I called Carter an idiot, but he does at the very least have a big mouth and a warped sense of reality.  I mean any guy who would embrace a Hamas terrorist and lay a wreath at the gravesite of Yasser Arafat is a disturbed individual.  He also could take a lesson from the guy he couldn't stop criticizing, George W. Bush.  Bush has been silent about Obama since leaving office despite being trashed by him constantly.  Carter couldn't keep his mouth shut despite having one of the worst foreign policy records ever as president.

Originally posted by Sabiancym

More and more people are seeing the craziness that os Christianity and all religions every day.

The less deity based religion we have in the world the better.

Yes we should worship material objects and ourselves instead.  Actually lets just make it all about us.

As far as women go, they probably shouldn't be allowed to vote.  Democrats have such a easy time getting the female vote.  They pick candidates that look like retired soap opera rejects and throw in a heavy dose of media spin.  A few repeats later and women are lining up to vote for them.

Originally posted by Chieftan

Originally posted by Sabiancym

More and more people are seeing the craziness that os Christianity and all religions every day.

The less deity based religion we have in the world the better.

 

Yes we should worship material objects and ourselves instead.  Actually lets just make it all about us.

As far as women go, they probably shouldn't be allowed to vote.  Democrats have such a easy time getting the female vote.  They pick candidates that look like retired soap opera rejects and throw in a heavy dose of media spin.  A few repeats later and women are lining up to vote for them.

Wasn't there a large turnout of the female voters for McCain because of a certain woman from Alaska on his ticket?  I think she drew in more than a few bunny seeking Republican males as well.

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Chieftan

Originally posted by Sabiancym

More and more people are seeing the craziness that os Christianity and all religions every day.

The less deity based religion we have in the world the better.

 

Yes we should worship material objects and ourselves instead.  Actually lets just make it all about us.

As far as women go, they probably shouldn't be allowed to vote.  Democrats have such a easy time getting the female vote.  They pick candidates that look like retired soap opera rejects and throw in a heavy dose of media spin.  A few repeats later and women are lining up to vote for them.

Wasn't there a large turnout of the female voters for McCain because of a certain woman from Alaska on his ticket?  I think she drew in more than a few bunny seeking Republican males as well.

I want to keep my right to own a gun.The choice was very easy for me.
 

Carter admits, “They print all the Southern Baptist literature, and I had some influence with them as a member of the Baptists’ Brotherhood Commission.” During the North Carolina primary, he had his sister, Baptist evangelist Ruth Carter Stapleton, write a letter “to her extensive network of religious friends and contacts around the country” in which she declared:

My reason for writing you is to acquaint you with an important facet of Jimmy, one that couldn’t possibly be pursued with any depth by the press and television, and that is his quality of deep personal commitment to Jesus Christ and his will to serve Him in whatever capacity he finds himself…please pray for Jimmy. And if you share my feelings that he is the best candidate, I urge you to actively support him.

After finding people responded positively to the term “Born Again,” Carter wore his religion on his sleeve as he snookered evangelicals into enthusiastically supporting his campaign.

Pat Robertson, Tim LaHaye, and the vast majority of “fundamentalists” Carter now derides campaigned tirelessly for Carter in 1976. Carter may have conveniently forgotten; the evangelicals certainly have not. Carter actually won the Southern Baptist vote in 1976 and 1980.
 

on New Year’s Eve 1977, Carter would toast the Shah’s Iran as “an island of stability in one of the more troubled areas of the world…[due] to the respect, admiration and love which your people give to you.”

Eight months later, the CIA issued the report Iran in the 1980s, in which Carter’s spooks surmised, “Iran is not in a revolutionary or even a ‘prerevolutionary’ situation.”

As tensions mounted, Carter withdrew U.S. support from the Shah, turning Iran into a beacon of hope for jihadists around the world. Before admitting the exiled Shah to America, he accepted Iranian guarantees they could secure our embassy, one of the costliest miscalculations in the history of American foreign policy.
 

Guilt drives him now,mixed in with some sham,what he does is for political reasons only,He has much to account for...

Originally posted by Scubie67

 

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Chieftan

Originally posted by Sabiancym

More and more people are seeing the craziness that os Christianity and all religions every day.

The less deity based religion we have in the world the better.

 

Yes we should worship material objects and ourselves instead.  Actually lets just make it all about us.

As far as women go, they probably shouldn't be allowed to vote.  Democrats have such a easy time getting the female vote.  They pick candidates that look like retired soap opera rejects and throw in a heavy dose of media spin.  A few repeats later and women are lining up to vote for them.

Wasn't there a large turnout of the female voters for McCain because of a certain woman from Alaska on his ticket?  I think she drew in more than a few bunny seeking Republican males as well.

I want to keep my right to own a gun.The choice was very easy for me.
 

I really hope you're not putting your faith in the Republican Party to protect your Constitutional rights.  I say that to you as a fellow gun owner.  Neither one of these two major parties could give a damn about the Constitution and what it means.

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Scubie67

 

Originally posted by gnomexxx

Originally posted by Chieftan

Originally posted by Sabiancym

More and more people are seeing the craziness that os Christianity and all religions every day.

The less deity based religion we have in the world the better.

 

Yes we should worship material objects and ourselves instead.  Actually lets just make it all about us.

As far as women go, they probably shouldn't be allowed to vote.  Democrats have such a easy time getting the female vote.  They pick candidates that look like retired soap opera rejects and throw in a heavy dose of media spin.  A few repeats later and women are lining up to vote for them.

Wasn't there a large turnout of the female voters for McCain because of a certain woman from Alaska on his ticket?  I think she drew in more than a few bunny seeking Republican males as well.

I want to keep my right to own a gun.The choice was very easy for me.
 

I really hope you're not putting your faith in the Republican Party to protect your Constitutional rights.  I say that to you as a fellow gun owner.  Neither one of these two major parties could give a damn about the Constitution and what it means.

Yeah I know that either can fail you ,but I figure in this case where the candidates on the opposite side have voted against gun rights every chance they have had that it is still a safe bet to go with the ones that support the NRA

Originally posted by Porfat 

 

In the US we have a tradition of former presidents staying on the sidelines.  They can raise money for charities but they shouldn't be meddling in foreign policy or criticizing the current administration.  Carter is the absolute worst is this respect. Worse than Regan, both Bushes, and Clinton.

We loved Carter so much that we replaced him with his opposite in a landslide.   I know alot of people think George W Bush was the worst president of modern times don't remember what it was like under Carter.   A recession and high inflation coupled with a nation in paralysis over the Iran hostage crisis doesn't do much for a legacy. 

Islam is an intolerant religion.  Read the Koran a lot love thy neighbor in there.   As for racism I hate all people who want to force their religion on others no matter what shade of brown they may be.

 

Go read the Qu'ran. Islam has been, and will probably always be, the most tolerant monotheistic/abrahamic religion.

And us brown folks aren't the only one's who try to push religion on to others.