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Iraq and Syria blighted by terrorism: United States failed state domino system
Iraq and Syria blighted by terrorism: United States "failed state domino system"
Murad Makhmudov, Boutros Hussein and Lee Jay Walker
Modern Tokyo Times
The United States led invasion of Iraq and the dismantling of the main political party created many enormous vacuums. Over one hundred thousand citizens have been killed since this period and like usual the United States enters a conflict and then after creating "forces it can't control," it then leaves by putting enormous spin on reality. However, the United States learns little because today individuals like Hillary Clinton and Susan Rice are on the frontline in spreading disinformation about Syria in order to unleash fresh carnage on this secular nation.
In Washington and within many so-called "think-tanks" which do little apart from "think," they can't get past the "Iran bogeyman" which is largely invented by hysterical individuals. Alongside this are Saudi Arabia and Salafists which are spreading their negative influence throughout the Middle East. Indeed, given the fact that major players like the Russian Federation, China, Iraq, Iran, and many others, are all against the belligerent parties in Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, which are spreading terrorism to Syria. It just highlights the enormous "blinkers" on powerful individuals and "think-tanks" which are blighted by decades of self-made delusions
The military armed forces of Syria are dying in order to protect the independence of their "beloved country." However, the armed forces of America have been betrayed by their own government and media outlets which don't question reality. Military personnel in America and Syria joined the armed forces to protect their respective nations from outside nations which threaten their respective sovereignty.
Yet in Iraq the biggest international Sunni Islamic jihadist networks came from Saudi Arabia. These Islamists entered Iraq in order to kill American soldiers, kill Shia Muslims, persecute Christian minorities, and to spread a draconian version of Sunni Islam which deems other thought patterns to be un-Islamic. Similarly, American forces were "lambs to the slaughter" in Afghanistan because Sunni Islamic terrorist networks had countless bases in north-West Pakistan. Therefore, just like September 11 was mainly done by Saudi nationals, American civilians and military personnel were mainly being killed because of their so-called allies in Saudi Arabia and Pakistan.
However, despite everything, nothing is learnt because Saudi Arabia and Qatar are funding terrorists, mercenaries, and covert operatives, against secular Syria. Strangely, if the Sunni Islamic nations of Turkey, Saudi Arabia, and Qatar get their way, then the winner will be radical Sunni Islamic networks which will impose new draconian laws on the people of Syria. Therefore, the Sunni Islamic networks which fought against the military of the United States in Iraq are now being supported by a strange alliance of America, France, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Israel, the United Kingdom, and Turkey.
The losers in Syria will be all Syrians who support independence, religious freedom, modernization, and a strong powerful nation state. Alawites, Christians, and other minorities, have much to fear and the same applies to women who will suffer greatly. In Free Syrian Army (FSA) held areas minority communities have fled their brutality in order to be protected by the armed forces of Syria. Indeed, the FSA which is a terrorist/mercenary fighting force is even using Christian churches for being military stockpiles. This will not concern Saudi Arabia which supports killing all apostates from Islam to Christianity but it should raise serious issues outside this most draconian nation in the world – however, just like September 11 and the reality of Iraq, everything will probably be swept under the carpet.
In Iraq this nation is still blighted by various Sunni Islamic terrorist networks which just like in Syria are a threat to mainstream Sunni Islam and all progressive forces. Islamists are opposed to all forms of moderation, critical thinking, and thought patterns outside their fundamentalist mind-set. Therefore, mainstream Sunni Muslim religious leaders are also attacked and killed by Islamists. This can be seen by Islamists who have killed moderate Sunni Muslim individuals in northern Nigeria, southern Russia, Iraq, Pakistan, and in other nations like in Somalia.
The upshot of meddling in Afghanistan and supporting radical Sunni Islamists in the 1980s and 1990s can be seen by September 11 and the creation of the Taliban. If this was the "right side of history" then something is wrong. After all, supporting and training pathological killers in Afghanistan in the 1980s only furthered the cause of the most dangerous and reactionary ideology on this planet. However, in this period of history the Taliban, Al Qaeda, and other unsavory movements, were supported by policy makers in America, the United Kingdom, Pakistan, Saudi Arabia, and other nations.
September 11 was about an organization which wanted to bite the hand that had trained it and fed it in the past. Nobody can doubt that the CIA and other operatives from nations like the United Kingdom and Pakistan had trained radical Sunni Islamic networks in Afghanistan. Yet after September 11 "the two convenient forces" now clashed in Afghanistan and Iraq despite America being open to political dialogue with the Taliban.
However, under the "Obama doctrine" the United States is once more on the side of terrorist networks. Therefore, former Libyan jihadists who went to Iraq to kill American forces were now supported against Gaddafi because of a "marriage of convenience." Not surprisingly, many Gaddafi loyalists and black Africans have been massacred in this nation and today Libya is nothing more than a patchwork of various militias whereby the central state is extremely weak.
Despite this, the same Sunni Islamic networks and Western political leaders in America, France, and the United Kingdom, are once more working in tandem against secular Syria. Of course, these Western nations know that Christians, Shabaks, Yazidis, and Mandeaens have suffered greatly along with the entire population in Iraq. Similarly, outside meddling in Afghanistan in the 1980s is still the main factor behind the crisis in this county today and the same applies to the destabilization of north-west Pakistan. Therefore, it is essential that Syria is supported in order to stop the "failed state domino system" from weakening another nation.
In the last few days in Iraq many Shia Muslim pilgrims have been slaughtered because of several terrorist attacks. These people were just innocent Shia Muslim pilgrims who wanted to visit important mosques and pray to God. Sunni Islamists didn't care if they killed innocent Shia Muslims or Sunni Muslims during these terrorist attacks despite the sectarian nature. In their world, all Muslims and non-Muslims are deemed to be infidels if they don't follow their rigid path based on indoctrination, persecution, enslavement of women, and denying all forms of liberty. However, these very same Islamists are now being used against secular Syria because of "a new marriage of convenience" but just like in Afghanistan in the past, you can't just "switch off" this "marriage of convenience."
Political leaders in Iraq fully understand this deadly reality because the threat of terrorism is a daily reality. Not surprisingly, the leadership of Iraq is against outside meddling in Syria. After all, in the last five days over one hundred Shia Muslim pilgrims have been killed by the "Islamic State of Iraq" which is a patchwork of various terrorist groups, including al-Qaeda.
In the Shula district of Iraq innocent Shia Muslim pilgrims were killed by the brutal forces of Sunni Islamic terrorism. Ahmed Maati, a police officer who saw the carnage, commented that "We rushed to the scene, there were dismembered bodies, shoes, plastic bags, women's robes left all around, and people were screaming everywhere."
This same evil is now being supported by Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and Turkey, against secular Syria. Statements in Washington, London, and Paris, are instigating this mayhem along with major media organizations. Therefore, another "marriage of convenience" threatens to overwhelm Syria and its rich mosaic of various Muslim, Christian, and Druze communities.
Hundreds of thousands of people have been killed in past meddling in Afghanistan, Iraq, and Libya. Now the same nations and patchwork of "axis of evil" are intent on dismantling Syria. In each case the scenario is more terrorism, sectarianism, persecution of various ethnic/religious groups, deterioration of the rights of women, and failed states which no longer have complete sovereignty over the whole of the nation state. Despite this, the same nations that belong to this "axis of evil," along with the same media outlets and institutions involved in covert areas, are all clambering to destroy the rich mosaic of Syria.
Iraq fully understands the pain and suffering caused by terrorist networks and for this reason the political leaders of this country are against outside meddling in Syria. It is time to end the "failed state domino" and to protect diversity rather than supporting the forces which seek to enslave diversity.


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"Let Me In" - TV-14-DL - Monday, April 1, at 9 p.m. (ET/PT)
A conspiracy emerges intent on keeping Christopher to blame for recent events and to cripple Ewing Energies. The Ewings' investigation into this conspiracy brings revelations in line with J.R.'s masterpiece and introduces a new adversary into the mix. John Ross and Pamela bond as he helps her comes to terms with a personal issue just as Christopher and Elena's relationship takes a turn. Meanwhile, Ryland makes a move against Drew to protect Emma.
Directed by Millicent Shelton
Written by Aaron Allen

subset: commoncrawl


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Flash Draw Created Jul 27, 2008 470 x 338px Unless noted Copyright 2008 IIII.
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This is so Great!! 5 Big hearts collect
love this..5/5..
Mew Two lol, the title reminds me of the Pokemon. I love how the cat looks like it is the boss in this one. Its enlarged face through the bowl looks so silly. I adore its large, grayish eyes and how the fish looks so calm and clueless. 5/5 and faves.
Very nice work!
cat dreams ...:)nice drawing!!
"Here fishy fishy!!!! It will be quick I promise! Is it lunch time yet?" Great work! :D 5++++++++++
Here kitty kitty 5/5


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Diane Lane Gossip
Diane Lane gossip, latest news, photos, and video.
Serenity is absolutely INSANE
Oh boy, is this one of the craziest movies I've seen in recent memory. I mean, we're talking Book of Henry levels of insane. There will be spoilers, because to fully appreciate how bugf-ck bonkers Serenity is, you have to know the twist. It is almost indescribable, but I am going to try because Serenity is not just a movie, it is an EXPERIENCE. Full Story
Diane & Josh over
Not Kruger and Jackson, no. Lane and Brolin. US Weekly has confirmed that they're done. Another source tells the magazine it's "amicable and not ugly". Well, would they say otherwise? This comes just a few weeks after Brolin was arrested for being drunk and disorderly on New Year's Eve. Full Story
Best SAG Hair for a Bad Dress: Diane Lane
Frazer Harrison/Jason Merritt/Getty
As Kelly Osbourne said last night, and repeated by Duana, pulling off a ponytail with a one shoulder is not an easy accomplishment. Diane Lane did it so beautifully. Always so beautiful. I just really... don't care for this dress.It's OK, I guess. And, well, not much more. It's not imaginative. It's not memorable. Full Story
All's well with Josh & Diane
6 weeks ago the tabloids caught him with a woman's legs wrapped around his waist in New Orleans, there on location shooting Jonah Hex. Josh Brolin's rep denied any wrongdoing on his part but the photo –and the thigh – speaks for itself. Click here Full Story
Cheater in costume?
In Touch Magazine claimed last week that Josh Brolin cheated on Diane Lane in New Orleans with some local piece at a bar. They ran the story with a photo of Josh comfortably ensconced between the woman's legs. Click here Full Story
Brolin cheater?
It's an In Touch Weekly story, and as you can see from their cover this week, it's not like they hit the right spot very often, especially as it relates to the Brange, who most certainly did not throw down on the carpet in Cannes (!!!), but their Josh Brolin exclusive with a seemingly incriminating photo just might be true. Full Story
Best Oscar couple: Josh Brolin and Diane Lane
He flew way under the radar this awards season in a category dominated by Heath Ledger. Best part about Josh Brolin however is that he didn't seem to mind. They were chill last night he and Diane. Very relaxed, enjoying the moment, knowing there was no chance, totally free to celebrate with their friends. Full Story
Best SAG Red: Diane Lane
Good example of who is wearing it, how she wears it. This was pretty much Freida Pinto's dress in red. But Diane Lane is not a delicate woman-child. Diane Lane is fire and experience, looks her age and her age is just right, a total sex pot who just celebrated her 44th birthday a few days ago…which means she too is older than Granny Freeze Nicole Kidman. Full Story
Adult Romance
Diane Lane is on my husband's Freebie Five. A rare moment of enlightenment for him…it must be rewarded. Here is beautiful Diane at last night's premiere of Nights in Rodanthe in New York with Richard Gere. She has a softness to her…something so sensual… and she looks sexy as all hell in the trailer. Full Story
The Other Josh & Diane
It was a packed house in the Best Supporting Actor category this year and Josh Brolin was the odd man out. But nomination or not, 2007 was a banner career year, as Josh turned in American Gangster and, of course, No Country For Old Men. Unfortunately he happened to be acting opposite Javier Bardem who just might rank in the list of top villains for a long, long time. Full Story
Career Year Quiver
It's been a career year for Josh Brolin thanks to his scene stealing turn in No Country for Old Men. Josh has indeed made mention of it in recent interviews, describing his long, patient ride to recognition and how it feels to finally be known not for who his father is married to, or who he's married to, but who he is on his own. Full Story


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Coralli Camping and Serifos-related links
Below is a list of Coralli Camping and Serifos-related links.
Coralli Apartments
Apartments and Studios in Livadakia, Serifos island.
Krinas Travel and Tourism
A contemporary travel agency, Krinas Travel, to help you plan your vacation in Serifos or any other island.
Open Seas
The most reliable guide for your trips in the Greek Islands. All ferry routes, info for ferry companies and travel agencies, booking services for ferries and hotels.


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App Review: Cute Math by Bokan Technologies
January 29, 2009 by Rob
Filed under Daily App Reviews, Educational, Games, Kids
Cute Math is very much just what it's name says. It is a cute way to approach math with very young children. It consists of 6 different games. Each game has a specific aim and ability level in mind, and each one is harder than the one before. They all use numbers 1-10 exclusively (nothing higher and no zeros). The first two games, Apple Harvest and Baby Penguins, concentrate mainly on counting and number recognition. In Apple Harvest, the game speaks aloud and asks the child to put a certain number of apples in the basket. Baby Penguins asks the child to line up the baby penguins, each of which has a number between 1 and 10 on their tummy, in order. The next two games, Happy Birds and Fruit Fall, introduce addition and subtraction using fun animation and visual aids. The final two games, Balloon Bounce and Parachute Jump, work on mastering addition and subtraction without the use of visual cues. The child must now figure out the addition and subtraction problems in their head or using their fingers. Parachute Jump even adds a time limit within which the child must solve it. There are minor quirks in the program that bothered us a little. The voice that speaks in the first two games is sometimes hard to understand and in half of the games there is no way of correcting a mistake. You only get one chance to solve each problem.
We tested the game on a four-year-old. None of the things that bothered us seemed to make a difference to him. He had no trouble understanding the voice. He enjoyed the games and the simple animations and even seemed to be catching on quickly to the math concepts. We did have to sit down with him and explain what he needed to do in each game because it was not readily apparent what he should do and there were no explanations given. Once the games were explained, though, he caught on quickly.
This program is very simple, but it seems to do the job, at least as far as kids are concerned. We as adults weren't too excited about Cute Math until we saw that it could indeed provide what it promised. This app is a pretty good one for introducing youngsters into the world of math in a fun way.
CuteMath is $1.99 in the iTunes App Store.


text: Being POTUS makes you age prematurely, and Lady Gaga is stuck in a 360 deal that takes a cut of everything she does. Screw that, I wanna be CEO. The Wall Street Journal has listed the top paid CEOs of the last decade, which is topped by Oracle CEO Larry Ellison at $1.84 billion. Steve Jobs comes in fourth with $749 million, and Capital One's Richard Fairbank is fifth at $569 million. The WSJ also notes that "four of the top 25 CEOs worked at financial companies, two on Wall Street." [More]


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La Baïonnette No. 41
Paris: Editions Française Illustrée, 1916.
Softcover. Very Good Condition. Item #046863
ISBN: NoISBN
Light foxing, generally bright.
The satirical weekly was founded in 1915 by Henri Maigrot, La Baïonnette featured art by the finest illustrators of the day and was merciless in their caricatures and attacks on the war and the Kaiser. The name comes from the command "charger à la baïonnette".
Size: Octavo (8vo). Quantity Available: 1. Shipped Weight: Under 1 kilo. Category: Art & Design; Inventory No: 046863.
Price: $30.00
See all items in Art & Design


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1. Make the system secure by default.
The problem with most security systems is NO ONE turns them on. NO ONE increases the security of their system.
Now while these are exaggerations, I would bet you that 99 % of SELinux users never turn on confined users, or disable the unconfined module . There are large numbers of people who run SELinux in permissive mode or even disabled. If we shipped Fedora and RHEL with SELinux disabled, I would bet the number of people who would enable it would be infinitesimally small. So when I add a feature, I always think about how it would help the vast majority of people. Will this boolean make my Wife's computer more secure.
2. Keep the unconfined domain unconfined...
Read the blog for why uses expect things to just work, especially from their logged in accounts, especially if they are the admin.
Should deny_ptrace be on by default????
Well deny_ptrace actually confines the unconfined domain, so it conflicts with #2, but if I don't turn it on, for the most part people will not take advantage. Most users would not see the benefit. Right now I am going to turn it on by default (Of course I reserve the right to change my mind, or be beaten into submission.) Any person who wants to disable it permanently can execute.
# setsebool -P deny_ptrace 0
Programmers and system admins if you get a "permission denied" or "Operation not supported" error with ptrace, strace or gdb, it is SELinux causing the problem, and if you need to debug a problem, you can turn the boolean on temporarily.
# setsebool deny_ptrace 0
And do your thing.
Since sysadmins and programmers understand Linux best, it would be easier for them to toggle the security feature.
Now some questions about this feature.
What happened to allow_ptrace boolean in RHEL versions and older Fedora's?
I originally thought about extending allow_ptrace, but I thought I had better just create a new boolean and remove the old.
allow_ptrace only effected confined users. But since hardly anyone used confined users, I thought I needed a better way to describe the feature, and change its name. I have removed allow_ptrace and now deny_ptrace will remove all ptrace, sys_ptrace that I know about from the system.
Does deny_ptrace guarantee no domains on my system can ptrace another domain?
If you load a custom policy with an "allow XYZ self:process ptrace", this boolean will not effect it. So it only effects actually policy shipped by Fedora or Red Hat.
deny_ptrace does not effect permissive domains, or permissive mode (obviously), so if you want to make sure no processes can execute ptrace, you need to disable permissive domains.
After you turn on the deny_ptrace boolean, you can check if any domains are still able to ptrace by executing
# sesearch -A -C -p ptrace,sys_ptrace | grep -v ^D


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Discover all of the latest clothing and accessories and showcase your own unique style with fashionable jewelry, shoes, handbags and so much more. Looking to shop for all the latest apparel from the convenience of home? Explore trending looks for women at New York & Company online or in-store today.


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Will Unilever's sustainability leadership pay off?
The Gunther Report
Will Unilever's sustainability leadership pay off?
[Editor's note: It's a busy week for Unilever. Aside from releasing its sustainability progress report, discussed in this article, on Tuesday, the food and beverage giant also is having its 24-hour Sustainable Living Lab today. And CEO Paul Polman also spoke at an event in London this week, saying that climate change is costing the company €200 million per year.]
Since launching its ambitious Sustainable Living Plan in 2010, Unilever is buying more sustainable palm oil and cage-free eggs, putting less salt and fat in its tomato sauces and spreads, selling water purifiers to poor people in the global south and rolling out climate-friendly freezers for its ice cream.
In my opinion, no big company is doing more to limit its environmental footprint while improving health and well being and growing its business. Unilever's commitments are wide and deep. It's no wonder that the firm and its CEO, Paul Polman, have become darlings not just of corporate-friendly NGOs like the World Wildlife Fund, but also a favorite of hard-charging activists from Greenpeace and the Humane Society of the U.S.
But even as Unilever on Tuesday reported making good progress towards its sustainability goals, questions remain about its strategy: Will consumers -- and investors -- notice and reward Unilever for its efforts?
It's obviously too soon to say whether sustainability will drive growth at Unilever, but the early evidence appears mixed. Eco-efficiency efforts in factories have reduced waste and saved money. Unilever revenues have grown nicel, to $46.5 billion in 2001, up from $44.2 billion in 2010 and $39.8 billion in 2009. But the company's share price is up by less than 2 percent in the last year in the U.S. market, slightly trailing the Standard & Poor's 500. (Its stock is doing better in European markets, where currency factors don't come into play.) Meanwhile, Unilever's corporate identity is all but hidden behind consumers brands like Lipton, Skippy, Ragu, Bertolli, Hellmann's, Suave, Dove, Ben & Jerry's and Breyers, at least here in the U.S. That makes it hard to win over those consumers who care about companies that do good.
On Tuesday, I attended a Washington event, with company execs, partners and NGOs, where Unilever's president for North America, Kees Kruythoff, released a progress report on the company's sustainability efforts.
"Broadly speaking, we feel like we've made good progress," he said, citing gains around agricultural sourcing, waste reduction and energy efficiency, among other things. Some highlights:
- 24 percent of the company's agricultural raw materials, including palm oil, soy beans and soy oil, paper and wood, tea, fruits and vegetables, were sustainable sourced last year.
- 48 million people in poor countries were reached with Lifebuoy soap's handwashing program aimed at curbing disease.
- 100 percent of the electricity that Unilever buys in Europe comes from renewable sources.
- Pure-it, a water-purification technology, is expanding from India, where it already has reached 35 million people, to Bangladesh, Mexico and Brazil.
This week, Unilever also said that it will build a $100 million palm-oil processing plant in Indonesia to accelerate its efforts to buy palm oil from sources that can be certified as sustainable. Palm oil is used in many products -- soaps, detergents, shampoo, potato chips and ice cream -- but expansion of palm-oil plantations can destroy forests, threaten biodiversity and increase climate pollution. The move is part of the company's commitment to source all of its palm oil sustainably.
More impressive than any single accomplishment, though, is the scope and seriousness of Unilever's plan, as well as the thinking behind it, as I've written before. (See my 2011 blog post, Unilever CEO: Don't stay on the sidelines) To see for yourself, you can download Unilever's progress report here.
During his presentation, Kees Kruythoff said that sustainability is being embedded into all of Unilever's operations -- its procurement and supply chain, its manufacturing, its marketing (more slowly) and even in its efforts to influence the way consumers use its products.That's partly because the world's big problems create big opportunities for business.
"We live in a world where the population is growing, climate change is accelerating, water is scarce and 1 billion people are hungry. And another 1 billion are overweight," Kruythoff said.
"Companies," he said, "can no longer sit on the sidelines waiting for governments to take action on the huge environmental and social problems that face us."
He said there's no turning back from the company's commitment to sustainability: "It drives growth. It drives efficiency. It drives innovation…This is how we run the business."
But -- aside from the obvious eco-efficiency gains -- what's unclear is how the effort will pay off with consumers. It costs more for the company to source sustainable palm oil or cage-free eggs, executives said. But will consumers pay more, for example, for Hellman's Real Mayonnaise because it is made with cage-free eggs?
Kruythoff told me that, outside the U.S., brands that have been showcased as sustainable have performed well. Lifebuoy soap, concentrated laundry detergents that use less packaging and water and Comfort One Rinse fabric conditioner, which saves water, all have performed well. "These brands have all grown by double digits, faster than the average of the company," he said.
He also told me that the Unilever brand and its sustainability commitments will become more prominent in U.S. marketing soon. Lipton Tea, for example, will be positioned as a brand that is healthy and good for the environment.
In an interview today with the Guardian, Unilever's Paul Polman said many in the financial markets still don't understand that the company has moved beyond old-style corporate social responsibility:
With Unilever, the Sustainable Living Plan is our business model. So we spend an enormous amount of time explaining it to our investors.
Does everyone get it in the City [and Wall Street]? No, and to expect it will ever happen is wishful thinking but investors will increasingly value our business on the basis of what we are doing.
Still, Polman also said Unilever's sustainability strategy is creating waves across the corporate sector: "We are showcasing a different business model that shows how you give to society and the environment rather than just taking from them."
It will be fascinating to see where Unilelver's bold approach will spread.


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Beyond the Mirror, Part 2, Paradise Awaits
by Jesus Puppy
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Beyond the Mirror
Part Two
Paradise Awaits
Once more, in a haunting dream of destruction and reflection of days passed, flames rose from a house before him. Crackling sounds, as loud as thunder, drowned out everything but the devil's laughter. Jason watched the silhouette between him and the burning home--the youth for whom he had been searching--holding a child in the air by the foot; a knife raised for a killing plunge.
"Where is your God?" Jason heard the young man shout at the child's parents as they knelt in front of him. The arm began to come down.
He listened to the pleas of the mother and father, who were being held back by force as their daughter was made ready for the slaughter. The girl's screams of fear and pain were more than he could bear. Anger stirred up within him, lending him strength to act--a movement so bold and quick that no-one could stand in his way.
Out of the shadows he ran, clearing the ground in front of the house in seconds. After knocking out the guards that were holding the parents, he continued on; his speed still unchecked.
Jason's hand shot out in a blur, taking the blade away from the man and slapping an open palm across his face. The madman staggered and dropped the child, turning to view his assailant.
"Who do you think you are?" the man shouted, hysteria carving his appearance into a demonic mask, scarred by disease and plague.
"A Levite of God, come to send you where you belong," Jason replied, thrusting out the man's own knife in an action so fast that it was not seen, until the handle was protruding from his chest.
Lifting the young girl, Jason turned back toward the parents, who were just standing to their feet. Still moving rapidly as he passed, Jason saw the dazed look of surprise and fear on the father's face. Jason motioned him on, without slowing to see if the family followed.
Reaching the roadside, Jason sat the child inside a waiting van which was barely noticed in the dim light of the flames. Only then did he turn to find the others right behind him.
"Get in and stay down," he ordered, glancing back in the direction of the carnage of the burning home. As he opened the driver's door, Jason could make out the forms of the two guards running towards them. Even as the engine roared to life, he could hear the demonic laughter shrieking from the inferno. Driving away, Jason thought he caught sight of a shadowed form dancing in the blaze, screaming out in hate of mankind.
The nightmare changed but slightly, as the scene became one of wider-spread destruction. Cities at war within themselves, looting and killing on every side, bodies left to rot in the streets. Again the vision moved, this time to a large valley, armies gathered, bombs falling, flames and smoke rising into the air. In the depth of his dream, words were spoken, calling out to his troubled heart, yet bringing no comfort.
The world's children play in their greed,
Casting lies and curses as if they were stones,
Their willfulness, as it were, laws to themselves.
They know not the fires that burn against them.
They feed the flames in haste to seek the world,
Lusting for more, never satisfied, shouting in their greed.
With mocking laughter, the devil hands them dead seed,
And they feed from the woe of his hand.
Slowly the trumpet rises, the servant prepares to sound,
The earth stands still for a moment's time,
Silence felt in a heart's beating.
A flaming spark is set to the fuel heaped high,
Yet the soulless dance on, heedless of their despair,
Mindful only of their merriment, desire, and lust for more.
The warning sounds, but they hear it not,
For the laughter of their evil way mocks on.
The trumpet sounds, they pause in fear,
Too late they see the flames rain down.
The trumpet sounds, the heap falls too,
Consuming the blooded wine of their mirth.
The trumpet sounds, and the flames rage high,
The soulless reap the reward of their greed,
Shouting the torment of their eternal pain.
The Trumpet sounds, as the hater mocks on,
Laughing at man's despair.
Fire began to fall from the skies like rain, burning everything in its path, and still the mock laughter came out of Jason's dream, as though to torment his very soul.
Then, loud and strong, a voice was heard above the rest. A mighty call going out, ringing across the heavens, as well as the Earth.
Beware... for when the final trumpet sounds, you shall stand ready....
Sword in hand to do battle for your Lord....
And you shall stand victorious with the KING.
* * *
Jason woke from the dream, startled to find someone standing over him. Drawing back in fear, he protectively thrust his arms before him.
"Jason, it's ok," the man said quickly, stepping away so as not to frighten him more. "It's me, Barry. Remember...Tulsa?"
"Barry...I'm sorry," Jason stammered as he rose to his feet. "I must have fallen asleep."
"It's understandable. You haven't slept in a week."
Jason searched the area for signs of movement; any indication that someone might be following or watching them. Slowly the memories came back to him--securing the family, a week of late-night running, hiding through the day. Although everything now seemed as it should, his haste to reach safety caused Jason to see trouble around every corner and bush.
Miles to the west, the hills came together, and Jason thought he could make out the dip in the land where the outpost was located--a small valley, on the edge of the foothills and canyons, leading to the mountains beyond. In his mind's eye he felt he could see the pass and the colony that was hidden away in the caves below the tree-line of the higher peaks.
Glancing back, he watched the family gathered under the trees on the banks of the stream they had been following for two days. The worry on the mother's face was clear to see, and even the boys were growing fearful. Jason was sure that his dreamtime shouting had not helped.
"How's your daughter?" he asked in a low voice.
As cold as the morning was, the child was drenched in sweat. "The fever is worse," the woman replied. "I don't know how long...."
"The station is not far; we'll make it by noon. They'll have medicine there."
Jason stared down at the child, resting in her mother's lap. Her eyes pleaded with him for rescue--a comfort he was not able to give. Torn between waiting and going on to the desperately needed security of the shelter, Jason reached out in the only way possible. Softly he spoke words of prayer--seeking healing and well-being for the young girl, and strength to go on for another day.
"Across these fields is a farm; you can get help," he said aloud, more to the child than anyone else. "I'll take you there. They'll get you to a colony where you'll all be safe."
The girl's tired eyes held him firm, not letting go. They cried out to him, "Don't leave."
"It's not far now, Kiddo, and you can rest," he replied to the unspoken request, while praying in his heart, "Keep her whole, Lord, just a little longer."
Carol, the mother, rose to her feet, holding the child close for warmth. Barry had offered to carry her, but she would not release her baby. Fear for the little girl was the only strength she showed.
Slowly, the group gathered what possessions they owned, and headed out across the fields. Dew-covered stocks dripped in the cool morning air, pasting wet seeds to their clothing as they brushed past.
* * *
The grain was tall for the beginning of Spring, left to grow unharvested from the previous years, the height worked well to give cover as the family headed to the north along the hills. Even walking in the warm afternoon sunlight, the wet stalks made for a cold damp day. The nearest road, no more than an old back highway, unused as the land passed unnoticed in the last gathering seasons, but still unsafe for those in hiding.
To the untrained eye, the whole country seemed abandoned, and the farm appeared as a ruined group of old buildings. Viewed from the air, it would seem as though no one had checked the crops in several years--possibly not since the disappearances. However, as a guide familiar with the area, Jason knew better. Even in the bright light of day, he sensed something out of place; a danger that he couldn't see openly.
As the family took a break beneath a large, twisted oak on the edge of the fields, he had a chance to look around. Being careful of his footing, he made a short climb to the upper branches of the tree. Stretching above the canopy, he caught a glimpse of the old farm buildings--the way-station and transfer point for those he protected. He had made the journey before and knew well how things went. This was the hardest part, when they were so close, yet had to wait, sometimes hours, for the all clear.
* * *
So far, the trip had been an easy one. Headed north-west out of Tulsa across the plains, his only real concern had been the weather turning bad as the group reached the mountains. They had traveled by night for most of the way, packed into the back of Harry's old van, stopping during the daytime and hiding in old warehouses or barns along the route to Colby, Kansas. From there, it had been a long and arduous walk for more than a week to reach the way-station in the foothills outside of Denver.
The youngest of the children, Shelley, had come down with a fever, which had not seemed to cause any problems at first. The girl kept up with her family and only slowed near the end of the day's tiring march.
The rest-stop was well deserved, and much needed after wading through the tall, wet grain. Though Shelley made no complaint, Jason knew the trek had worn her thin. As he glanced down from the high branches, he saw the child sleeping in her mother's arms. Her father stood close by, almost as if guarding them both. It was clear how much the family loved one another by their show of attention. Even the oldest of the boys, Kyle, who was not yet sixteen years old, offered to carry the girl's pack to make things easier. For Jason, it was evidence of more of God's little blessings living on in a world of chaos.
Staying the previous night in the cold, damp air of the open field had made matters worse, and Jason was beginning to fear for the child. With her frail, sweat-drenched body, she needed the help that the way-station provided. Medicine was always kept on hand for emergencies, but for now they could only sit and wait as the day crawled by.
In the distance, beyond the old buildings of the farm, the road stretched both east and west, out across the plains and farther up into the hills. Jason could see for miles from his perch in the treetop, watching the settlement for any sign of movement; anything that would show it was safe to go on.
As he watched, it came to him what was out of place. The last time he had passed through, the dogs had been aware of his presence before he was in sight of the fields. This time there was only silence.
* * *
Climbing down to the lower branches, Jason called down to the father of the group, "Barry, in the front pouch of my pack, grab the field-glasses."
Keeping to the side of the old oak, so as not to frighten his family, Barry waited for Jason to reach the ground, and then asked in a hushed tone, "What's happened?"
"Not sure." Jason placed the strap of the binoculars around his neck, tucking the glasses in his jacket as he turned back to the tree. "Something is not right, and I need a better view." Then, seeing the expression on the man's face, he added in a louder voice, "My own paranoia most likely. Rest easy until I check it out."
As he made his way back to the top branches, Jason knew the man was watching him; waiting for a sign of hope. His heart broke from the plight of the family, as well as the fact that he could do nothing but pray and wait.
Reaching the top, Jason brought out the binoculars, and searched the area. At first he saw no movement, as though the place were abandoned. Then, tuning in a clearer view, he found a dog lying down by the back of one of the outer sheds. As he adjusted the scope, he saw an arm sticking out of the shed door with the ground beneath stained darkly. Jason did not need to see more to understand all that had happened.
He scanned the distant countryside for the sight of anyone who might possibly be watching the farm, but he saw nothing except miles of grain fields waving in the gentle breeze. Everything seemed deserted, but in fear he felt the presence of hunters seeking them--the last Christians of a dying hope for humanity.
Jason whispered a silent prayer for protection of the family below him, not knowing what should be done. The way-station had always been the end of the trail for him. Normally his task only called for him to bring the groups this far, but now his main hope was to reach the safety of the colony in one piece.
His eyes flew open at the sound of a soft moan from the young girl, and he started down the tree at a rapid pace. Halfway to the ground, he slowed to catch his breath and check his speed, so as not to show his fear. As Jason walked over to where the family sat, he could see Barry's own concern showing strongly--both for his daughter and the unknown danger that lay ahead.
Calmly removing his jacket, Jason knelt before the mother, wrapped Shelley tight, and smiled as he took her overly warm hand in his. As her eyes slowly opened and looked up at him, he reached out to brush wet strands of hair from her fevered face.
"Don't worry kid," he said, trying to bring comfort, even though his fears made the words seem like lies. "You'll be ok soon; we're almost home."
Rising to his feet, Jason caught Barry's eye, and nodded in the direction of the farm, away from his family. The man followed as Jason walked back to the far side of the clearing.
"I saw something I need to check," he quietly told the father. "I want you to keep everyone here and out of sight."
"What's wrong? Is there trouble?"
"I think the worst is passed already, but just in case ... you see those two peaks?" Jason turned and pointed west to a line of high hills. "Almost a day's walk and you will come to a stream flowing down from that point. If you hear anything--anything at all--grab your family and head out. Someone will find you."
"If it's not safe, maybe we should...."
"I didn't see anyone moving," Jason said as he glanced towards the children sitting together in the shade on the other side of the tree. In his heart he was praying that it was all his imagination, but he knew well what he had seen. "I want a closer look. Keep every one quiet until I get back."
"Ok Jason. Be careful."
* * *
Jason walked away quickly, bent low to stay out of sight. He reached a ditch at the edge of the field and followed it to the first of the outbuildings. There, he hunched down in the tall weeds to get a better view of the main grounds. Still, nothing was moving on the farm--not so much as a chicken scratching the ground for stray seed.
Moving along the side of the shed that he had seen from the treetop, he slowed to a crawl, feeling his way by sound as well as by sight; fearful of every fleeting shadow in the corner of his vision.
Soon the smell of decay alone was enough to show that it had been some time since anyone had been near. Jason held his breath as he looked about the yard. Sprawled across the porch steps was the body of a man who appeared to have been shot in the back while trying to get away. He had been left to rot where he fell. It was then Jason knew that the hunters had missed no one, though the coyotes had done more than their share.
As he moved slowly from the shadow of the building towards the main house, Jason tried to stay out of sight while still watching everything around him. He had seen the work of the hunters before, and was ready for what he would find. The home would be stripped of everything useful--all the furniture, clothes, and food would be gone. He was also sure that they would have cleaned out any medicines as well, but for the child's sake, he prayed that something would be left.
Pressed against the wall beside the door, he strained to hear even the slightest sound of movement. Visions of the sweat-drenched little girl played havoc on his already overstressed state of mind, so he calmed himself with prayer, seeking comfort for Shelley more than for his own safety.
"As long as she makes it, Lord. Keep them safe."
Peace returned to his spirit, and Jason turned to step through the doorway of the old house. At the squeak of a board, his heart skipped, and he froze for a moment. Silence returned, and he began his search once more.
In each room he saw the same thing--bare walls and litter, scraps of paper and trash left behind as useless. He made his way to the kitchen and discovered that even the cabinets had been torn out. It was a disaster.
Moving to the stairs, Jason headed up to the second floor, where he was surprised to find a very useful box in one of the bedrooms. Then he found an even greater blessing. Inside the box were thick blankets. Immediately he said a silent prayer of thanksgiving, knowing that the blankets would provide much-needed covering if they were to spend another night in the open.
From the way things looked, Jason felt sure that almost a week had passed since anyone had been near the way-station.
"It may be safe for a while at least," he thought, "and Shelley won't be so exposed to the cold air."
Even so, he knew that work would need to be done before he dared to bring the family in. The bodies would have to be removed, or the family might be too frightened to stay in the shelter that was most essential for the young girl.
As he turned back towards the stairs, a stream of light shone into the hall through one of the bedroom windows. Dust motes floated in the air, catching his eye and revealing an object on the floor. He had seen nothing but trash earlier, but now, as he reached for the small jar, his heart raced. Tears began to flow as he dumped the contents of a half bottle of Bayer Aspirin onto his shaking palm.
His joy at finding the medicine was so great that he thought little of using one of the precious blankets to move the body from the back step. He worked quickly, placing it with the other body that was already in the shed. Then, using the broken door, he closed them off from view--at least as well as was possible. Then, no longer caring if others were about, Jason headed out in an easy walk which turned into a run.
Making his way back to the ditch, he hurried to reach the family--his only prayer for the child's safety. Jason could feel the Lord with him, and knew that he would keep watch to protect them.
Nearing the group, Jason knew that he should have slowed down, but he didn't. Barry had seen him running and, fearing the worst, had grabbed their things and prepared to flee.
Breathless, Jason could not say a word for a moment, but motioned for silence as he showed the family the blessings he had found. Once he caught his breath, he told them about the house, and how he believed it would be safe enough--at least for the night.
"Clouds are moving in," he said, after helping to gather packs and belongings. "It might rain tonight, and help hide any tracks. The place looks in bad shape, but at least we'll be out of the weather."
Barry got his family together, and Carol wrapped her fevered child in one of the blankets, holding her close. Keeping low, Jason led the group slowly back to the old farm building. This time, he walked in from a different direction, trying to keep clear of the shed and its contents. He knew that it would be hard enough for everyone to get past the stench, without the added fear of discovering what had caused it. As they came near, he quickly explained that a dog he had found earlier on the steps was the reason for the smell.
After everyone was settled inside, Jason set to the task of checking the other buildings, in the hope that something else may have been overlooked. However, as evening came, he gave up the fruitless search, finding that the hunters had, once again, done a complete job of stripping the place.
The storm moved in and things grew darker, but at least they had shelter out of the wet night. Knowing the fireplace to be stable, and that the smoke would not give their presence away in the downpour, Jason allowed a small fire to be lit. The meager meal they prepared was like a feast after so many days of cold food, and the heat was good for keeping young Shelley warm.
Sitting in the shadowed doorway, watching the rain in the late hours, Jason thought about whether they might chance staying the next day if it were still raining. Knowing that the colony was a good two days' walk away, brought him some comfort, but he was troubled by the idea of taking the family out in such weather. Seeing the group huddled together in the dark house, finally sleeping, he searched the past for words long remembered.
"Help, Lord; for the godly man ceaseth;
For the faithful fail from among the children of men.
They speak vanity every one with his neighbour:
With flattering lips and with a double heart do they speak.
The Lord shall cut off all flattering lips,
And the tongue that speaketh proud things:
Who have said, With our tongue will we prevail;
Our lips are our own: who is lord over us?
For the oppression of the poor, for the sighing of the needy,
Now will I arise, saith the Lord;
I will set him in safety from him that puffeth at him.
The words of the Lord are pure words:
As silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times.
Thou shalt keep them, O Lord,
Thou shalt preserve them from this generation for ever.
The wicked walk on every side,
When the vilest men are exalted."
As he sat staring into the dark, streaks of lightning flashed across the sky in an awesome show of God's power, making the old words ring true to his heart. Fearful of those seeking after them--the last remnant of God-fearing Man--Jason sat long into the night.
The hours wore on, and the stress of the day slowly drained the rest of his strength, until sleep overtook him, only to cast him to the depths of shadowed dreams.
* * *
Shaken from the sleep he did not mean to take, Jason jumped to his feet and searched about, fearful of movement in the pre-dawn hours. As the memory of where they were came back to him, he began to relax. Quietly he counted the forms lying on the ground around him. Finding that all was still safe for the moment, he stepped out of the broken doorway of the old house and stood in silence as the light grew in the early morning. Once more he tried to shake the ill feeling out of his mind; visions of a haunted dream of loved ones vanishing before his eyes.
A mist fell in a blinding fog, heavy as a curtain draped over the world. Even with the coming day, the sun was nothing but a disk in a thick haze.
The sound of an approaching car was like a ghost from his past, when he had been fearful of unknown hunters that sought to lay traps for unwary Christians in the last days.
Beneath the overhang of a building, that now seemed as if it would fall in the next gust of wind, Jason watched the fog roll in the wake of the passing car. The headlights glowed like demonic eyes in the dense cloud of mist. Expecting to hear the sound of brakes as it turned aside, Jason said a silent prayer of thanks when the car continued on, and silence once more enveloped his surroundings, casting him back to the shadow of his own thoughts.
* * *
Months had run into years while Jason ran--hiding every moment and afraid to show himself to any but those who were also running. He had come across many who had been hoping for a better way; a way of peace in a world gone mad. Some had been taken, or killed--yet others made it to safety, such as the family that was now in his care, by using guides to help them reach places of safety, out of the hands of the hunters. There were officials who tried to silence anyone who started digging into the disappearance of all the Christians, and those who came hunting simply because of their hate, and would kill anyone who stood in their way, taking anything they wanted in a lawless world.
In spite of this, people did begin to search for answers to what had happened, and when they did, they learned the truth of God's word. They discovered how He had said that He would remove His faithful from a time of madness, when the wicked would rise unchecked. These new followers of Christ were people like Jason, whose loved ones had vanished. Some had immediately understood what had happened, while others were lost in doubt and fear, as life around them fell into chaos.
Jason could remember his own shock when a friend had vanished before his eyes. The car they were in had nearly crashed until Jason managed to reach into the driver's seat and pull the car to a stop.
Though living through the disappearance, the greater pain came when he found his wife had also disappeared from the same moving car. No word of warning, no signs of wonder, and no great trumpet's blast. One minute, they had been laughing as they drove to a family reunion that he was attending for the sake of her love. The next moment, his wife and friend had vanished without a trace, leaving just a haunting memory behind.
* * *
Glancing over his shoulder into the ruined farm house, Jason saw the darkened outlines of the man and woman he was working for as guide and protector--leading them and their children to the safe house in the mountains, to be handed on to others for transport to the hidden colony. There were only a handful of small caves in the hills, and the number of refugees grew daily. More space would be needed soon, but for now it was the only way, and it was up to Jason to see that they made it to safety.
He had made the trip ten times in the past, with but one casualty--a rebellious boy who had been fighting against his father, and nearly caused the whole group to be killed.
This time, they had been truly blessed to reach the way-station, but he knew it was only a matter of time before the hunters caught up. The blessings of his Lord were spread thin, and his fears multiplied with every passing day. Jason knew that he could always stay in hiding at the colony, but that was never his way--not when there was work to be done helping others.
As the morning grew brighter, his fear grew as well. Though the fog hid them, it also made traveling in the hills much harder. Jason prayed for strength to be able to lead the group safely through the day. He tried to remain hopeful that this was the last family, and at last it would be over; that the great and final return of the Lord would put an end to the running forever. Soft and silent, the words poured from his heart.
"All holy Father God and Lord of mercy,
Mighty King and Creator of all that has life,
Bless me in my walk this day, as always.
Be within as the path grows darker,
As my trial is now upon me in my weakness,
Show brightly Your strength within.
I walk in Your way, merciful God,
To do what is good, and right, and just,
Yet in the world of men I must stand a while.
Let me not falter in the trial that is to come,
Grant Your strength within me Father,
That I might walk with You in that final day.
Create within my lowly heart the means,
That I would seek Your presence always,
Rejoicing every moment, lifting voice in praise.
Place in me the greater good of Your hope,
And cause me to see the blessed day,
Even in the midst of the darkest night.
The burden I bear grows heavy on my soul,
As I watch Your people fall by the wayside,
Turning to revel in the shadows of their sin.
I plead with Thee, O mighty Lord and King,
Just in all Your ways, let me not stumble,
As my eyes grow dim from much weeping.
Give of Your great love and light, O Lord,
A beacon of strength within my lowly being,
That I might once more stand in hope.
Let not my life be downcast in the eyes of man,
Nor my struggles be seen as weakness,
But as a greater glory to Your Holy name.
In dying let others see Your blessing upon me,
That I held faithful to Your golden way,
Giving love and hope to my fallen brother.
Another day in Your presence O loving King,
To lift another in my burdened care,
Shining the light of Your love to the world.
I seek that my worth is but a mirror of You,
Your glory shining forth as the new sun,
The morning star of the first of all days.
Renew the Life within me, O gracious Father,
That all that is seen within my trials,
Is the light of Your strength within."
As the morning light grew and the fog began to burn off, Jason woke the others, and started the day with a cold meal of water, dried meat, and some apples they had found in a field the day before.
Slowly, the group moved about, gathering their small packs and preparing to head out once more to seek a blessing in the arms of a loving God.
Shelley stared as Jason helped her older brother adjust the straps on his pack. There was a look of wonder in her sad eyes. As he looked down at her, Jason viewed the hundreds of children he had known--each one was like the child he had never had. Forcing a smile for her sake, he reached over to run a hand through her dark, uncombed hair.
"Ready to go kid?"
"Do you know what really happened?" Shelley's voice was quiet, yet bold, as she asked her question. Her mother's shocked face said much of how he himself felt--fearful of saying the wrong words. "Mom and Dad won't tell me, but I think there has been a war."
Jason sighed as he knelt down before the child, and then, fighting his own tears, pulled her close in a gentle hug. Though Shelley's fever had broken during the night, she still had a weak, frail look about her. If the colony had not been so close, he would never make her travel in the damp, mountain air.
Finally, he began to speak. "A very old war."
The group slowly gathered around as he spoke. "Man fell to sin in the beginning, and the war has raged against it ever since. But our God is a loving God, and He made a way for man. Some found it, and the Lord took them away. They are the ones who have vanished--the true believers in Christ. Many, like us, doubted at first, and now we must find our way back to Him. Yet with His blessing, we will gain that love once again and go to be with Him in Heaven."
Slowly Jason released the small girl as he got to his feet and looked around at the family. He beheld the fear and doubt in their eyes, seeking for hope in the confusion of the world. Within his heart, Jason said another prayer, for God to grant them the same inner strength to go on and see the final day of God's glory.
"Come on folks," Jason stepped out the back door, headed towards the fields and the hills beyond. "The day is before us, and paradise awaits."
* * *
The day remained cool, though the wind came out of the south. The fog had finally lifted by midmorning, as the group took a break at the start of the upward path into the hills. The little one seemed better, but was still struggling, even with the slower pace that Jason had set for them. Kyle did his best to keep her spirits up, telling jokes and encouraging her about how well she had done. He was also quick to help her whenever she lagged behind.
As the family continued their way through a small canyon, climbing around the large stones in the creek-bed, Jason offered to carry Shelley piggyback. Barry took the second child, ten-year-old Benny. Carol did quite well on the rough ground, but Kyle stayed close by, in case she needed a hand. Their progress was much better than Jason had hoped.
"If we can make it this far again in the afternoon, we'll be able to reach a safe spot to camp for the night," he said. "Then on to the colony at first light. We'll be there in time for breakfast."
The idea of hot food and a warm place to sleep was always a blessing. Since the long hike had started, to the west of Colby, their warmest shelter had been in the way-station. After the stream in the hills the previous evening, and the climb this morning, the family dreaded another night in the open.
On his own, Jason might have made the main caves in a day from the Farm, but he knew that the children would not make it at such a pace. Carol had been a real trooper overall, and as strong as Barry had tried to show himself, for the kids' sake, Jason knew that the stress of the past month had finally caught up and it was beginning to slow them both down. All Jason could do was set a steady walk, keep the others going, and think of nothing but the end of the line.
It was slightly warmer in the afternoon, but as the hills closed in and sunset drew nearer, the air became cooler. Although there was not much by way of shelter until they reached the caves, the camp he hoped for was more than the edge of a field. A small stream wound through the rocks along a cliff, making an undercut that presented a covered space the size of a single room. They would also be able to have a fire without being seen, even from the air.
"Who trespasses on this mountain?" a voice called out from the trees in front of them.
The group stopped short. Fear showed in Barry's eyes, but Jason only smiled.
"A man with lovely feet," he shouted back, adding a laugh as he set the girl on the ground. "Actually, they're kind of sore."
"Jason?" a man said in surprise, stepping onto the trail. "Precious Lord, it is you. Been no news from the farm in weeks. We had begun to worry."
"You won't get any either," he replied sadly, shaking his head as he turned to Barry to make introductions. "We're safe. This is John--he's part of the colony. John, meet the Winters--Barry, his wife, Carol, and the kids. Kyle's the oldest, this one's Benny, and the little sweetheart is Shelley." He reached down and brushed a stray curl off the child's face. "Watch out for the smile--it's a killer."
"I see that," the man said, as he took Barry's hand in a firm grip. "How was the trip?"
"Long," Barry sighed. "I have never walked so far in my life."
"Well, you're almost home. Another mile or two up this hill."
"The kids won't reach it tonight," Jason said, knowing that none of them would make the climb without a rest. "Is anyone with you? We need a doc to check on the little one. She took a fever a few days ago. It was a real miracle that we found some aspirin left in the station."
"Nada," John replied, shaking his head as he stared towards the valley. "What happened?"
"Hunters," he stated plainly. Then, kneeling on the ground in front of Shelley, he said to her, "You'll be ok now. I'm going to get help."
Turning to John, who stood watching, he motioned ahead to the bend in the steam. "Get these people to the cliff-camp and cook the food they have. I'm headed up to get Marvin and some others. I'll try to be back before dark."
Carol took the girl in her arms as Jason started up the trail, almost at a run. Not even looking back as he rounded a corner, he cut across the stream in a few steps, heading along the cliff to an open path to the caves that were nearly two miles away.
Barry stared in amazement as he disappeared into the trees.
"Come on folks," John said, grabbing two packs, one in each arm. "Let's get you to a nice fire, and something to eat. Not far now and you can rest." He saw the weak look on Shelley's face and knew Jason was right--they wouldn't have been able to go much further. "Don't worry little one, if I know Jase, he'll be back before it even starts thinking of getting dark."
Note for Pt1, Pt2, and Pt3: Scriptural referance from Psalms 12, Matthew 20:16, 25:31-46, Luke13:27, Ecclesiastes 1:2, 3:1-12. NKJ version..
Childrens song, chorus from "Jesus Loves the Children," © 1948 by Thoro Harris, renewal, O. M. Knutson, owner. Gospil Publishing House, Springfield Mo.
The poetry verse and prayer, previously written by me with no prier publication.
Beyond the Mirror, Revised Copyright © October, 2006 JesusPuppy
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|Alzheimer's disease typically progresses slowly in three general stages — mild (early-stage), moderate (middle-stage), and severe (late-stage). Since Alzheimer's affects people in different ways, each person will experience symptoms - or progress through Alzheimer's stages - differently.
Overview of disease progression
Mild Alzheimer's (early-stage)
Moderate Alzheimer's (middle-stage)
Severe Alzheimer's (late-stage)
Did you know?
People with cognitive changes caused by Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) have an increased risk of developing Alzheimer's or another dementia. However, not all people with MCI develop Alzheimer's.
Overview of disease progression
The symptoms of Alzheimer's disease worsen over time, although the rate at which the disease progresses varies. On average, a person with Alzheimer's lives four to eight years after diagnosis, but can live as long as 20 years, depending on other factors.
Changes in the brain related to Alzheimer's begin years before any signs of the disease. This time period, which can last for years, is referred to as preclinical Alzheimer's disease.
The stages below provide an overall idea of how abilities change once symptoms appear and should only be used as a general guide. They are separated into three different categories: mild Alzheimer's disease, moderate Alzheimer's disease and severe Alzheimer's disease. Be aware that it may be difficult to place a person with Alzheimer's in a specific stage as stages may overlap.
Mild Alzheimer's disease (early-stage)
Although the onset of Alzheimer's disease cannot yet be stopped or reversed, an early diagnosis can allow a person the opportunity to live well with the disease for as long as possible and plan for the future.
In the early stage of Alzheimer's, a person may function independently. He or she may still drive, work and be part of social activities. Despite this, the person may feel as if he or she is having memory lapses, such as forgetting familiar words or the location of everyday objects.
Friends, family or others close to the individual begin to notice difficulties. During a detailed medical interview, doctors may be able to detect problems in memory or concentration. Common difficulties include:
- Problems coming up with the right word or name
- Trouble remembering names when introduced to new people
- Challenges performing tasks in social or work settings.
- Forgetting material that one has just read
- Losing or misplacing a valuable object
- Increasing trouble with planning or organizing
Moderate Alzheimer's disease (middle-stage)
During the moderate stage of Alzheimer's, individuals may have greater difficulty performing tasks such as paying bills, but they may still remember significant details about their life.
Moderate Alzheimer's is typically the longest stage and can last for many years. As the disease progresses, the person with Alzheimer's will require a greater level of care.
You may notice the person with Alzheimer's confusing words, getting frustrated or angry, or acting in unexpected ways, such as refusing to bathe. Damage to nerve cells in the brain can make it difficult to express thoughts and perform routine tasks.
At this point, symptoms will be noticeable to others and may include:
- Forgetfulness of events or about one's own personal history
- Feeling moody or withdrawn, especially in socially or mentally challenging situations
- Being unable to recall their own address or telephone number or the high school or college from which they graduated
- Confusion about where they are or what day it is
- The need for help choosing proper clothing for the season or the occasion
- Trouble controlling bladder and bowels in some individuals
- Changes in sleep patterns, such as sleeping during the day and becoming restless at night
- An increased risk of wandering and becoming lost
- Personality and behavioral changes, including suspiciousness and delusions or compulsive, repetitive behavior like hand-wringing or tissue shredding
Learn more: Know the 10 Signs, Steps to Diagnosis, Diagnosed with Alzheimer's and Related Dementias.
Learn more: Daily Care and Behaviors
Severe Alzheimer's disease (late-stage)
Get supportLate-stage care decisions can be some of the hardest families face. Connect with other caregivers who have been through the process on our online message boards and get helpful resources in our Caregiver Center.
In the final stage of this disease, individuals lose the ability to respond to their environment, to carry on a conversation and, eventually, to control movement. They may still say words or phrases, but communicating pain becomes difficult. As memory and cognitive skills continue to worsen, significant personality changes may take place and individuals need extensive help with daily activities.
At this stage, individuals may:
- Need round-the-clock assistance with daily activities and personal care
- Lose awareness of recent experiences as well as of their surroundings
- Experience changes in physical abilities, including the ability to walk, sit and, eventually, swallow
- Have increasing difficulty communicating
- Become vulnerable to infections, especially pneumonia
Learn more: Late-stage Care
Help is available
Your local Alzheimer's Association chapter can connect you with the resources you need to cope with the symptoms and challenges of Alzheimer's. Find a chapter in your community
Our free 24/7 Helpline provides information, referral and care consultation by professionals in more than 200 languages.
Our Greenfield Library houses more than 5,000 books, journals and resources. Access it online.


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Santa Fe Opera in 2013: "Oscar" premieres, Offenbach freshens up, Verdi circles back
Great opera takes a lot of planning — choosing titles, booking singers, hounding composers to finish the work you commissioned. And for a company like the Santa Fe Opera that means sealing the deal on every next season before the current season even starts.
And so this week, with 2012 coming down the wire, the company shifted the focus – at least for a minute – to 2013, announcing the good things to come 13 months from now.
Things appear promising to say the least. The company will maintain its commitment to developing a new work each season while breathing life into the warhorses with fresh productions. The lineup of singers is top-notch as usual.
And before this becomes one of those long curtain speeches that can kill a good bit of opera, we'll give it to you — copied straight from the company's press release, which just zinged in via email.
We're talking titles in the short term, with dates to come later. Here goes.


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The Daily Message Show with Leta Hamilton 8 p.m. Eastern
Join Leta each week as she interviews guests consciousness expanding exercises. They discuss spiritual topics ranging from guardian angels to chakras and everything in between. From this show, you learn tools and techniques to raise your vibration and expand your consciousness. It's all up to you. Are you ready to listen?


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Recorder's Office
Posey County Recorder's Office
County Recorder: Mary Hoehn Rhoades
126 E Third Street Rm 215 Mt. Vernon, IN 47620
Telephone : (812) 838-1314
Hours : Monday – Friday 8:00am to 4:00pm
Email: email@example.com
Chief Deputy – Barb Smith
Deputy – Nicole Thompson
The mission of the Posey County Recorder's Office is to create a government operation that is effective, cost efficient, and customer friendly. We believe a customer-focused approach is the best way to achieve success and success is never final.
The primary function of the office is to maintain the integrity of all land records and documents entrusted to the office. We continually strive to improve recording and research capabilities and coordinate with other government entities.
About Our Office
From the 2007 Guide to Indiana County Government
(Published by the Association of Indiana Counties) The County Recorder's function is to maintain permanent public records involving a wide variety of instruments. These documents detail transactions involving real estate, mining, personal property, mortgages, liens, leases, subdivision plats, military discharges, personal bonds, etc. (IC 36-2-11-8) Generally, all of these instruments are recorded either for giving legal public notice of their existence or for safekeeping and future reference. The recorder maintains and preserves all legal documents affecting title to real property. These records are the legal basis for determining ownership. The degree with which the recorder fulfills his or her responsibilities ultimately forms the legal foundation for the institution of private property. The recorder is a member of the county commission on public records, which has authority over the preservation or disposition of all public records maintained by the county. (IC 5-15-6). (Generally see IC 36-2-11, for the duties of the county recorder.)
Summary of Fees
Forms and Permits
- Social Security Redaction Affirmation Statement
- Posey County Recorder Rejection Sheet
Property Fraud Alert
Let us help you stop the fastest growing white-collar crime – Property Fraud. Sign up now and we can help you stop the effects of Land fraud and other similar fraudulent activities. What is Property Fraud? It's when someone illegally uses your property for financial gain. It can happen when someone records a fraudulent document in the County Land Records Office making it appear that they own your home or property.
Click the Following Link to Sign Up: Property Fraud Alert
Community Rewards Program for Veterans
The Honor Rewards program is a community service made available through your county's land and public records office to thank and acknowledge our nation's veterans for their sacrifices to our country. This program allows veterans in our community to sign-up to receive an Honor Rewards Card and use this ID Card to receive discounts and benefits at local participating retailers, restaurants and other businesses. Let us help say thank you to the wonderful men and women in Posey County that have proudly served our great nation.
Click the Following Link to Sign Up: Honors Rewards Here
E-Recording in Posey County
Posey County has accepted electronic recordings since April, 2011.
We accept mortgages, releases, assignments and other document types that do not transfer property. E-Recording can save your business time, money and convenience. Avoid lines, parking and unnecessary delays by getting started today!
The benefits of E-Recording include: Faster Turnaround: Hours vs. days to get your document back. The Race to the Courthouse Becomes Instantaneous: Your e-document beats one submitted via the mail Large potential cost savings in postage, overnight shipping and delayed proceedings Fewer Rejections and Faster Corrections: E-Recording eliminates rejections for incorrect fees. Rejected documents can be resubmitted in hours vs. days.
Posey County currently accepts e-recordings from two submitting vendors.To compare prices and to start e-recording with Posey, Indiana, contact:
800-460-5657 https://simplifile.com
eRecording Partners Network Peter Duffy 888-325-3365 http://erecordingpartners.net/
CSC provides a web-based eRecording solution that enables submitters to electronically record real estate documents.
eRecording Support (866) 652-0111
Downloadable Documents


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The Society for the Preservation of Natural History Collections [SPNHC] is an international organization devoted to the preservation, conservation and management of natural history collections.
Our Members:
Identify, Catalog, and Document
Correct identification and organization of specimens and their associated information is critical for the use of collections and requires experience and specialist knowledge.
Prepare, Preserve, and Conserve
Ensuring the future availability of collections and their supporting documentation depends on a holistic approach to their care as well as the correct use of conservation and preparation materials and techniques.
Research and Develop
SPNHC members carry out specimen-based research on collections, and also research to develop new techniques for specimen care and preservation.
From physical access to digitization and databasing, our members make collections accessible for use today and into the future.
Advocate and Educate
SPNHC takes a leading role in promoting collections care issues to the academic community, governments, and the general public. Our members are dedicated to training and mentoring the next generation of collections professionals.
The Society hosts annual meetings and maintains an active roster of publications, including Collection Forum, a journal that accepts submissions on all aspects of natural history collections management and conservation, a bi-annual Newsletter, and books that examine various aspects of natural history collections care, development and management. SPNHC is led by a talented group of individuals who are elected by the membership. Much of our work is accomplished through our committees, which form the backbone of our Society.
Natural history collections are part of our global heritage and a priceless resource for research and education. We encourage you to explore this site for information about SPNHC and how our members work to ensure the future of collections.


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BEIJING, March 17 (UPI) -- The top two new leaders of China said the government will work toward achieving the "Chinese dream" and to deepen reforms in the world's second-largest economy.
In his first major address Sunday as the country's new president, Xi Jinping, who is also the general secretary of the Chinese Communist Party and chairman of the party's powerful Central Military Commission, told the closing meeting of the National People's Congress his government will make arduous efforts to achieve the "Chinese dream" in the face of the "earnest expectations of the people for a better life ... ."
Xi, described as a reformist, was elected president last week by the Parliament, succeeding Hu Jintao, and the country's No. 2 leader Li Keqiang, an economist, took over as premier from outgoing Wen Jiabao, completing the country's once-in-a-decade leadership transition that began with the party's annual congress in November.
Xi stressed the party's theme of "socialism with Chinese characteristics."
"We must make persistent efforts, press ahead with indomitable will, continue to push forward the great cause of socialism with Chinese characteristics, and strive to achieve the Chinese dream of great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation," the official Xinhua News Agency quoted him as saying.
He said the "Chinese dream" after all is the dream of the people. "We must realize it by closely depending on the people. We must incessantly bring benefits to the people."
He promised to listen to the voice of China's 1.3 billion people, adding "we cannot have the slightest complacency, or get the slightest slack at work."
The new leader also pledged to resolutely fight official corruption, which the leadership has acknowledged on several occasions is a serious problem facing the country.
"We must resolutely reject formalism, bureaucratism, hedonism and extravagance, and resolutely fight against corruption and other misconduct in all manifestations," Xi told the nearly 3,000 legislators.
In his comments outlined before a news conference, Premier Li Keqiang, 57, spoke of reforms as the country seeks new momentum for development other than its large workforce.
"However deep the water may be, we will wade into it because we have no alternative," Li said, noting reform, "the biggest dividend for China," affects the destiny of the country and the future of the nation.
"There is great space for further unleashing productivity through reform and there is great potential to make sure the benefits of reforms will reach the entire population," the report quoted Li as saying.
Some Chinese economists have warned reforms must be sped up as China's large workforce, which has been a demographic dividend for the economy, is beginning to dwindle.
"Reform is like rowing upstream. Failing to advance means falling back," Li had said earlier.
He promised to accelerate economic transformation, make full use of fiscal, financial and pricing and other policy instruments, and pursue reforms of the budgetary system to make it more open, transparent, standardized and inclusive. He said the government will carry out market-oriented reforms in interest rate, exchange rate of the yuan, develop a multi-tier capital market and raise the share of direct financing.
He also said the government needs to reform the income distribution system and narrow the gap between urban and rural areas that involves 800 million rural residents and more than 500 million urban residents, as well as bridge the gap between different regions.