Athiests and Guns

Paul4747 comments on Jul 5, 2018:

I'm a shooter, collector, LEO and self-defense advocate who also agitates for stricter screening, training, and licensing procedures. (Emphasis on the training before giving someone a permit.) So I don't see a conflict. Once someone is licensed, they should be considered trustworthy, even in the...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

@jlynn37 What does John Woo have to do with it? And my answer to your question would be that I have exposure to and experience with the mentality of those who are not going to follow the laws, no matter what they are. Felons don't play by the rules. Banning handguns would result in honest people turning their guns in, and criminals keeping theirs. This is predictable. Part two of my answer is that I know the type of training people need to have, minimum, in order to carry a handgun, or any gun. Knowing which situations call for the use of force and which don't. Knowing when to retreat (99.99 percent of the time) and when to defend yourself. Knowing not to go into a suspicious situation in the first place, which would prevent the majority of incidents. Being alert to the people around you; if they're watching you, how they act, how they talk. Being justifiably cautious, but not afraid. Not everyone that wants to carry a gun, should carry one. Training standards need to be tighter. I know this and I advocate for it. That's what being a law enforcement officer has to do with it.

When did you last have sex with a partner? (A 50 and over confidential poll)

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Mine is not going to be a representative sample, since it was an attempt by my ex as an alternative to marriage counseling and getting to the bottom of the real problems. And I gotta tell you, "save my marriage" sex is the worst kind of sex.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

@Minta79 Eugh... Well, I guess it depends on the circumstances, but... the performance pressure!!

Is God willing to prevent evil, but not able?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

Didn't Lex Luthor paraphrase this in a dreadfully boring movie recently? :)

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

@TheoryNumber3 And if He is all good, then He cannot be all-powerful.

One of the things I found out while hanging out with the other side, they do NOT want anybody to ...

Paul4747 comments on Jul 5, 2018:

1) The state police know, my purchases are registered, and it's nobody else's business. 2) I have take pride in being responsible and in proving it. I've taken extensive training and further I'm in law enforcement. I feel anyone who is licensed for carry should be trained to similar standards ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

@MikeFlora You ignored my point. I have demonstrated it to the satisfaction of the state licensing authority and my department, repeatedly. I don't know your credentials, but I don't think they override my state. I see now that you're not interested in hearing anyone else in this debate, so I have no interest in you.

So how did Noah get the critters from Australia across the ocean to his canoe and then get them back...

t1nick comments on Jul 4, 2018:

You know there are two official versions of Noah and the ark. In the original (Torah), Noah took all animals except those with cloven hooves or considered unclean (shellfish). In the Christian version they leave this out. Same with the Garden of Eden story. In the original (Torah) Adam had a ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

Wait... what Christian version? Both versions are in the OT. And the Lilith story is Hebrew apocrypha if I recall, never in any orthodox version. Originally from Babylonian mythology.

So how did Noah get the critters from Australia across the ocean to his canoe and then get them back...

DaveMania comments on Jul 5, 2018:

Penguin cannon... 70 foot barrel, aim for the nearest body of water, they'll be fine.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

I still prefer the cat launcher.

Dear diary.

Beach_slim comments on Jul 4, 2018:

You're like the never ending stampede of liberals that come here and say the same thing. Are you following the herd?

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

@Beach_slim I would love to debate you, but your base assumptions are all wrong. 1) You conflate communist, liberal, and progressive, showing that you know little about any of the above. 2) You try to poison the well by using words like "thief", "steal" and "lazy". 3) The causes of economic inequality are factors like market demand, education, gender, technological growth leaving low-skilled workers behind, and concentration of wealth into the upper echelons of a society over generations. 4) Please find me a single liberal who voted to raise taxes on the working class; by the actual definition of a tax increase, not the phony definition of "voted against a tax cut" or "voted for a smaller tax cut when a bigger tax cut was available". 5) I suspect we will even disagree on who constitutes the working class. Cambridge Dictionary defines working class as "the group of people in society who use physical skills in their jobs and are usually paid by the hour". Trump's voters tended to be white and earn $50,000 to $100,000 a year. These are not "working class", they're middle class and above the median wage. And under the Republican tax plan, those households got an $870 tax cut (1.6%); while households making over $1 million got over $69,000, or 3.3%. (But the working class will be paying for those tax cuts for decades...) So explain how conservatives are looking out for the working class, and not the rich. Maybe, if you're getting the same answers from everybody, it's because those are the facts.

Dear diary.

Beach_slim comments on Jul 4, 2018:

You're like the never ending stampede of liberals that come here and say the same thing. Are you following the herd?

Paul4747 replies on Jul 5, 2018:

I don't know much about you, B_s, but from the context of your remark, I take it you're a conservative. So I'm going to share something I've noticed about conservatives on a lot of social-type sites. It seems when a lot of people are disagreeing with them, by holding a liberal opinion, conservatives ascribe that to a herd mentality; yet when they agree with them, conservatives say that's a sign of intelligence. So can you tell me, why can't conservatives see a liberal opinion, without insulting the person holding it? Wouldn't you be better served debating the opinion rather than insulting the person?

So We Do Have A First Lady!

AmiSue comments on Jun 21, 2018:

As deeply flawed as this woman must be - she is a mother. I trust it was her that pushed that bastard to change the policy.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

No... public relations, like everything else. They just realized that they couldn't take any more negatives on this issue.

So We Do Have A First Lady!

Secretguy comments on Jun 21, 2018:

You can find her on Pornhub. https://nypost.com/2016/07/30/melania-trump-like-youve-never-seen-her-before/?utm_source=facebook=site%20buttons=site%20buttons

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

If she had married any other rich guy, I would say she had a little taste...

Sessions Says Refugees and Asylum Seekers Will No Longer Be Allowed To Work

Sticks48 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

It would hurt the Texas economy big time. It would be difficult to get much of anything built.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

Including that wall they keep going on about... Hey! They could afford the wall if they use immigrants for labor!!!! :D

Mosques in America

ProudMary comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Suede Larb Jebus...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

Sweet Zombie Jesus!!

Why do men want younger women?

KateZilla comments on Jul 4, 2018:

just saying.....

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

And this is why I need to hit the gym, before I hit the beach ;)

Do you and your partner make each other feel happy?

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

First five or so years we were married, we were very happy together. The next few years, little things started falling by the wayside. The last six years were me trying to find ways to keep us together, keep the romance in the marriage, and then finally understanding that she didn't even see the ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@BucketlistBob For the better, I hope? In which case good for you.

Yesterday someone posed a question along the lines of “what would your ideal profile say?

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Maybe because it's hard to be so vulnerable to people I don't know. To write my deepest desires for everyone to see. It's easier... safer... to write something general, and hope someone wants to know more... to let people filter themselves through that initial interest and then see what happens.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@ProudMary And maybe because until I know someone, and trust her, and she knows and trusts me, at least to some extent, I have a have a fear niggling at the back of my mind that she might be put off or even repelled by what some of my feelings or wishes actually are. (Don't worry, we're not talking anything illegal here... just... maybe a little kinky?) But I have a sexual side that, along with my emotional side, went neglected for a long long time in my marriage, and that's something I wouldn't put in a profile...

I am a 50 something single mom and have a profile on a popular dating site.

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Speaking as a 50 something father, I know it's hard to find someone who doesn't seem peeved with the time that I feel I need to devote to my kid. Somebody who doesn't understand that she isn't going to become the center of my world instantly... she isn't going to be a good fit long term anyway. I'm ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@Jolanta As I say, about a year. Met a few people, had a few dates, just haven't clicked yet with anyone.

I am a 50 something single mom and have a profile on a popular dating site.

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Speaking as a 50 something father, I know it's hard to find someone who doesn't seem peeved with the time that I feel I need to devote to my kid. Somebody who doesn't understand that she isn't going to become the center of my world instantly... she isn't going to be a good fit long term anyway. I'm ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@Jolanta In the year I've been divorced? Again, things take time.

Size matters...there, I said it....Happy Day, everyone! Have fun but be responsible!

artbarnett comments on Jul 4, 2018:

???I know everyone is different , but large breasts have never been much of a turn on for me —- large glasses for wine ? on the other hand are essential

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

I enjoy wine in any size jugs.... ;)

Swear words?

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

I often take after Bender from Futurama and use "Oh your god!"

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@LenHazell53 Holy Granola of Mineola!!

Ultra-Orthodox Jews Delayed a Flight (Again) by Refusing to Sit Next to Women – Friendly Atheist

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

To compensate, I'd like to welcome any ladies to sit with me next flight I have to take. I'm a perfect gentleman.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@MsDemeanour Well, maybe it's just that I have no problem with sin and/or degradation if anyone wants to lead the way ;)

I am a 50 something single mom and have a profile on a popular dating site.

Paul4747 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Speaking as a 50 something father, I know it's hard to find someone who doesn't seem peeved with the time that I feel I need to devote to my kid. Somebody who doesn't understand that she isn't going to become the center of my world instantly... she isn't going to be a good fit long term anyway. I'm ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

@Jolanta Notice the word was "instantly". My world has a good-size center, and there's room there. I'll find the time and make the time for everyone. You care about someone, you make it work. Just, these things take time.

A Priest, a Rabbi, an Imam, and a Minister walk into a bar.

Stacey48 comments on Jul 4, 2018:

Ahaha. That's great.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

For some reason I never get that reaction anywhere but here... :)

Has anyone else experienced sleep paralysis?

RavenCT comments on Jul 3, 2018:

Look up Hypnagogic State. It explains most odd sleep occurrences. Particularly these.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

I remember having these episodes when I was a teenager. Freaked me out at the time. It was years later, learning about this in retrospect, that I found out what had happened to me.

Single fathers, no respect?

ProudMary comments on Jul 3, 2018:

I've always seen it as the other way around but you've definitely got a legitimate beef. It always seemed to me like single fathers were held up as paragons of virtue while single mothers were frowned upon. Sorry you're experiencing this.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

I think it depends on the circumstances. Schools and health care usually expect to see a mother bringing the child in, for whatever reason. When I show up at school especially, I get suspicious looks, often as not. This was when I was still married, too, so the "single" didn't enter into it. Let's just say "unaccompanied" fathers, like we're incompetent to be out on our own...

Dance with the Donald - TheHumanist.com

R1ch1e comments on Jun 30, 2018:

The problem here is the word accused. I could accuse.you of beastialty right now, would it make it true or you worthy of any less respect than you have now? In the world of politics and press nothing should be taken at face value. They trade in deciept, lies and corruption for a living. All you can...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 4, 2018:

Nothing is taken for granted. The allegations are investigated before reaching print, at least in the mainstream media. In fact, there was an attempt by the ironically named Project Veritas to sting the Post by sending a false witness to the paper. They investigated and did not print her allegations. Roy Moore himself said he "didn't remember ever dating a girl without the permission of her mother." That suggests to me that he's a man who prefers "girls" over actual grown women. That's not proof of a crime but it certainly goes to his character, and I for one am disgusted with his character. This is "10 Commandments on a granite monument in the courthouse" Roy Moore. Yeah, that guy. Why is it the religious zealots who generally are caught up in the sex scandals?

How do you recall your past partners, as regards your sexual relationships?

Iamkratom comments on Jul 2, 2018:

Only one didn't break my heart. There's no sexual experience that was as gratifying as it was painful.

Paul4747 replies on Jul 3, 2018:

I'm devastated to hear this. I'm so sorry.

I've read all types of outraged comments here about the "CRIMINAL! NAZI! DESPICABLE! INHUMANE!" way ...

Paul4747 comments on Jul 2, 2018:

It's not really about "priority". Everybody could be taken care of, if the top 1/2% weren't being given priority in the current budget. Here's how the GOP thinking goes, for the most part: We have a deficit? Cut taxes on the wealthy, that increases revenue! We have a surplus? Cut taxes on ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 2, 2018:

@bigpawbullets I mean that all my life, America has welcomed people seeking freedom and escape from oppression, and trying to build a better life for themselves and their families. I don't see any reason we should stop now. Of course we have a nation of laws, and there's a process to follow... but we're also a just nation. I mean that in the broadest sense. It's not justice to separate children from parents or expel people back to face probable torture and death. Better still, it's not right. I'm not sure where the stereotype came from that immigrants are flooding us looking for a free ride. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the unemployment rate of foreign-born people in the U.S. was 4.1% last year, down from 2016, and right in line with everyone else. Every American has ancestors from somewhere else. Every single one. Even if they came here before there was an "America".

Some lucky FBI agents! Lol!

Paul4747 comments on Jul 2, 2018:

OK then...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 2, 2018:

@nutrition_nerd And in the same spirit...

50 Reasons to Bail Out of the Two-Party System and Become an Independent Voter [ivn.us]

Paul4747 comments on Jun 30, 2018:

3 Reasons why this was not anything worth reading: 1) 50 sentences with a number on the beginning of each are not 50 separate reasons. They are sentences which properly belong in fully developed paragraphs. Separating an ABCD chain of logic into A B C D doesn't make it 4 different thoughts. ...

Paul4747 replies on Jul 1, 2018:

@William_Mary I'm sorry, I don't know where to begin... Ralph Nader. You had to mention him. If you could go back in time and show him how his few thousand votes in Florida would lead to the Bush administration, would he still run? Of course. Because he had no chance in the first place, it was a vanity campaign. A principled stand. But the Republican party leadership has no principles. The only hope for the middle left is coalition politics. Grit your teeth and vote for Hilary, no matter what you read. And I have no clue what "war crimes" you're talking about, by the way. But my point is, the left and center breaking apart is exactly the problem, every election. You can't get a pure and clean candidate to the presidency. Carter made it, and he was a failure. Politics requires cynical and suspicious people who nevertheless have idealism at heart. Those are the effective ones. Those are who we need.

I've noticed through conversations that some people develope shallow reasons, based on past ...

Paul4747 comments on Jun 21, 2018:

I experienced the opposite side of this, someone online (on a dating site) was chatting with me for a few days, it was going very well for both of us, then it came out that I'm a corrections officer. She instantly said she couldn't see me, as mine is one on a list (her words) of careers that she ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 30, 2018:

@Arielle Okay, on that list, we don't imprison people. That's the courts. We keep order inside the prison environment. Hopefully nobody you know, or even were acquainted with, has run foul of the legal system... but if they have, they need someone who is committed to being fair, being humane, and stopping the violent offenders from preying on the old, the young, the mentally ill, and even one another. They need someone like me running the block. We don't have rules and regulations for our enjoyment, but for safety. I'm a little bit passionate about the subject only because it's important to me and so many horrible stereotypes are out there. Not because it's my whole life. If they ever bring the pension plan back, I'm out of there.

How many of you miss Craigslist classifieds?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 30, 2018:

That whole thing passed right by me. Other than, wasn't there something about getting murdered? ?

Paul4747 replies on Jun 30, 2018:

@Anonbene ah

How many of you miss Craigslist classifieds?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 30, 2018:

That whole thing passed right by me. Other than, wasn't there something about getting murdered? ?

Paul4747 replies on Jun 30, 2018:

@Anonbene Oregon?! I missed a lot apparently.

50 Reasons to Bail Out of the Two-Party System and Become an Independent Voter [ivn.us]

Paul4747 comments on Jun 30, 2018:

3 Reasons why this was not anything worth reading: 1) 50 sentences with a number on the beginning of each are not 50 separate reasons. They are sentences which properly belong in fully developed paragraphs. Separating an ABCD chain of logic into A B C D doesn't make it 4 different thoughts. ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 30, 2018:

@William_Mary it's true I was overly abrasive, but this has been argued for years and the result has been the hard right staying solidly Republican while idealists abandon the Democratic party instead of settling for candidates they dislike. Thus, Reagan, Bush (3 terms) and now Trump. You can't fix the system by breaking the system. You can't win without compromise. My frustration was speaking.

How many of you miss Craigslist classifieds?

Alvinsmama comments on Jun 30, 2018:

I miss it. For me, it was entertainment. It was the only place I could get a laugh out of posts and got to see penises....lol. After the Craig's List killer, I was advised by my daughter to stay away from it. Also, do not get a job driving for Uber and the other one. Also, try to find someone ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 30, 2018:

That's right, I knew there was something about getting murdered...

How do you deal with today's pain in this difficult world?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 29, 2018:

Booze and masturbation. Oh, wait, joy to myself *and others*... I'll get back to you.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

@Kojaksmom Definitely my kind of lady

How do you deal with today's pain in this difficult world?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 29, 2018:

Booze and masturbation. Oh, wait, joy to myself *and others*... I'll get back to you.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

@Kojaksmom I've already been drinking.... how fast can you get here? ?

America: Do you believe Canada is a socialist country?

MarkF comments on Jun 17, 2018:

No Canada is not a socialistic country, but they are not Lilly white either. On trade they want to appear to be free market advocates but in fact they are not, "Canada uses supply-management systems to regulate its dairy, chicken, turkey, and egg industries. The regime involves production quotas,...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

And yet Canada sends more troops into harm's way on peacekeeping missions. (Compared to just invading places and breaking shit, which is actually an easier task.)

How do you deal with today's pain in this difficult world?

Kojaksmom comments on Jun 29, 2018:

Hmmmmmm I'm guessing drinking large quantities of alcohol does not count.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

That can bring joy to others. Pass the bottle over here.

What do you do about inaccurate memes?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 29, 2018:

I stay off Facebook.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

@Stacey48

So how old were you when you discovered that song we used to dance to as kids "The Electric Slide," ...

Flexymorals comments on Jun 29, 2018:

Don’t think I’ve ever heard that song.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 29, 2018:

@nutrition_nerd 52 and I've never come across it... then again, I do remember Billy Idol's "Dancing With Myself", that should count for something.

I have no idea what to expect or even what I am doing.

LiterateHiker comments on Jun 21, 2018:

This is going to turn into an essay about online dating. I will try to summarize. Since 2007 I have been on-and-off dating websites. Had one great relationship that lasted three years. Dan and I are still friends and hiking partners. Dan was a lifelong bachelor who was afraid of commitment and ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 28, 2018:

As a recently divorced man any comments would doubtless come off as self serving... but I would like to urge anyone to take people on their own case by case basis. You never know your luck. Everyone is different.

How does your moon look tonight?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 27, 2018:

Not a great picture from my phone, but better than the alternative

Paul4747 replies on Jun 28, 2018:

@Stacey48 Thank you

What hair color of the opposite sex are you more attracted to ?

thinktwice comments on Jun 27, 2018:

I love dark haired women...there is something about the contrast between skin and hair that feels so primal. Short, adorable haircuts just make you want to hold their heads between your knees.and shake their hair against your thighs...so sassy and fun. The long haired ones...oh my goodness...hair ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 28, 2018:

.... thank you......

How does your moon look tonight?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 27, 2018:

Somewhat out of shape, definitely could lose some weight... but still not so bad. I'm not including a picture, though.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 27, 2018:

@thinktwice Here's my full moon ?

A Jury May Have Sentenced a Man to Death Because He’s Gay. And the Justices Don’t Care.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 26, 2018:

Almost 20 years working in Corrections, and let me tell you, it's no picnic for anyone, and *especially* not for a gay/trans man. They are particularly targeted by other inmates and often considered "property" of other prisoners and fought over, or forced to pay protection to avoid paying in forced ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 27, 2018:

@ErikGunderson Obviously I don't know how every officer thinks, but being in prison is the penalty under law. Not being sexually assaulted. Also, it causes so much paperwork. (That part was the gratuitous dark humor. Do I have to point out that I don't really mean it?)

What is this?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 27, 2018:

Sounds to me like he gets off on the teasing and knowing it could happen, but doesn't feel like he wants to go to the next level yet for some reason. Maybe he's afraid you'll be disappointed with him? Maybe he has performance anxiety? Could be a dozen things. Or maybe he's actually married. (I hate ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 27, 2018:

@bleurowz I misunderstood the past part of the relationship, I guess that makes sense.

How does your moon look tonight?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 27, 2018:

Somewhat out of shape, definitely could lose some weight... but still not so bad. I'm not including a picture, though.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 27, 2018:

@Stacey48 Well, that's a rather personal question, isn't it? :\ It's never been waxed. So I suppose, full?

Thinking about the end of life, do we get dispersed throughout the galaxy as energy?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 26, 2018:

Consciousness depends on a working brain. So, when that stops, you stop. The bioelectric energy of the brain will ground out and that's that. You seem to be seeking an afterlife by another name.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 27, 2018:

@JDC710 Ok, fair enough

Is Dating someone who is in a different political party a deal-breaker for you?

Brunnion comments on May 30, 2018:

Well, this is a pleasant surprise! A whole thread (almost) of lefties! The image we have in Australia of the US is one of an ultra right-wing country. It always amuses me the way that American Republicans call people who support public health and education.....as 'Socialists'....... as if that's ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 26, 2018:

@mtnhome "Bought and paid for electoral college"... No. I'm sorry, it's just that Trump managed to win in exactly the right states to swing the electoral vote without winning the popular vote. I didn't like it either, but it's exactly how the system was intended to work. Both parties play the system. If you want to go to a direct democracy, then the middle of the country won't matter anymore: Whoever wins the coasts will win the election. Trump won the middle last time and the electoral college went his way. That's simplistic but it's the way it went.

What Super-power Would You Choose?

LiterateHiker comments on Jun 23, 2018:

I would love the ability to **solve world problems** like gun violence, climate change, hunger, poverty, sexism, racism and war.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 26, 2018:

In other words, be a benevolent deity, such as most religions claim, only you would actually be benevolent?

It is about 20 degrees hotter today than it has been recently.

TheoryNumber3 comments on Jun 20, 2018:

"Hell is other people" -- Jean-Paul Sartre

Paul4747 replies on Jun 26, 2018:

"Hell is *Hell*. The worse other people ever get is 'bloody aggravating'." - Sir Pterry Pratchett

Farmer in Iowa who voted for Trump is now on track to lose $250,000 this year.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

It's not that I doubt you, but it would be nice to have a source for these items. Otherwise it's no better than Fox...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 26, 2018:

@AncientNight Let's not forget, however, the Democratic party's tendency to shoot gift horses in the mouth (while aiming at their own feet). I fully expect them to step on their own collective wang come November. (Ladies excluded, of course.)

I've noticed through conversations that some people develope shallow reasons, based on past ...

Paul4747 comments on Jun 21, 2018:

I experienced the opposite side of this, someone online (on a dating site) was chatting with me for a few days, it was going very well for both of us, then it came out that I'm a corrections officer. She instantly said she couldn't see me, as mine is one on a list (her words) of careers that she ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 26, 2018:

@CarolinaGirl60 Odds are, in that case, he wasn't an officer either. Just drawing reputable-seeming occupations out of a hat. I assure you, I'm a freak in a totally good way. ;) And very polite too. (Plus a sense of humor, which, if it didn't come across there, that was it.)

Incest: Immoral or Moral?

Squirrel comments on Jun 7, 2018:

I can admit that I don't have enough of an education to be able to address this dilema. Slightly off topic: Anyone know how the Lanisters make a king sized bed? They push together two twins!

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@Squirrel Oh. Okay, I don't follow that.

Ohio Cop Is Fired After Threatening To Jail Daughter's Boyfriend On Bogus Charges | HuffPost

Paul4747 comments on Jun 23, 2018:

So you're generalizing this specific officer's behavior to say that *every cop* is this guy? That *all police everywhere* will take you in and say "we'll make some shit up on the way"? Isn't that equally bogus as a cop treating everyone he pulls over who is of a different color as an armed and ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@Rideauxb Your topic is the video, which speaks for itself. Your comment is what I spoke to. And I have been handcuffed, yes, in cases where police have been sent to the wrong address, I have been pulled out of my home in the middle of the night. It does leave you suspicious of all police. And I'm IN law enforcement.

Who Loves President Trump?

doug6352 comments on Jun 23, 2018:

I admire the job Trump has been doing as President, as would any honest rational American. I think he's accelerating his peacemaking efforts in the Middle East now, and I hope that goes as well as his efforts with North Korea.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@doug6352 Here's the thing: "Peacemaking efforts in the Middle East" have been to support one side exclusively, endorse Israel in all of its claims, effectively torpedo the two-state solution, and most recently withdraw from the nuclear agreement with Iran. Sanctions aren't going to stop Iran from enriching uranium. The sole recourse would be military action, in other words, another Middle East war. And in North Korea, he declared a dictator with the worst human rights record in the world "someone I can trust", and canceled our joint exercise with our South Korean allies, in return for nothing at all. And then flip flopped and declared the North is still a threat after all. As for our economy, Trump is still riding the wave that built up under 8 years of Obama... who spent his first term fixing the damage Bush II did. *OF FRAKKING COURSE* I want our nation to succeed, and it's offensive that you suggest otherwise. I simply recognize that the current occupant is going to do inconceivable harm before his not-a-moment-too-soon departure. Wall Street will do alright from him, but if you think he gives a crap about Main Street, you're shrooming.

Incest: Immoral or Moral?

Squirrel comments on Jun 7, 2018:

I can admit that I don't have enough of an education to be able to address this dilema. Slightly off topic: Anyone know how the Lanisters make a king sized bed? They push together two twins!

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

Wait, Lanister Pennsylvania? Is this an Amish joke, or what?

Lucifer vs God I posted recently about going to church and what a waste of time that was.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

There's apparently a heretical Muslim interpretation of Satan as God's most devoted worshiper. The angels were commanded first to kneel to none but God. Then after man was created, they were told to kneel before Man. Satan refused; his love for God would not allow him to kneel to anyone else. So ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@Palindromeman Well, yeah

Who Loves President Trump?

doug6352 comments on Jun 23, 2018:

I admire the job Trump has been doing as President, as would any honest rational American. I think he's accelerating his peacemaking efforts in the Middle East now, and I hope that goes as well as his efforts with North Korea.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

... Can I buy some pot from you?

Lucifer vs God I posted recently about going to church and what a waste of time that was.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

There's apparently a heretical Muslim interpretation of Satan as God's most devoted worshiper. The angels were commanded first to kneel to none but God. Then after man was created, they were told to kneel before Man. Satan refused; his love for God would not allow him to kneel to anyone else. So ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@Palindromeman I may be remembering this wrong, but I got the impression that God, in this version, actually regrets exiling Satan. He's in the position of a commander who can't tolerate insubordination, even from one he loves.

For any new members here or those who were not yet aware, there is a dating/singles group for those ...

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

Libertarians are not necessarily conservatives. (And some conservatives are the opposite of libertarian.)

Paul4747 replies on Jun 23, 2018:

@SpikeTalon I don't disagree. Just that libertarian can overlap or be distinct from either of the other views.

Conspiracy Theorists, and the Harm They Do

Ellatynemouth comments on Jun 22, 2018:

I disagree. No doubt, there are some conspiracy theory nut cases out there (illuminati, 9/11, Roswell, aliens, trauma actors, etc.) and then there are some government cover ups like TWA flight 800, which has conveniently been renamed a conspiracy theory instead of a cover up. As for JFK. He ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

So, are you implying that Kennedy's murder was in fact a CIA plot? Because ALL the evidence points to Lee Harvey Oswald as the sole actor in that shooting. No conspiracy. See "Case Closed" by Gerald Posner for an exhaustive treatment.

Atheists in general follow the tenets ascribed to Jesus more closely than most of the Xstians I have...

Matias comments on Jun 19, 2018:

Which "tenets"? Turn the other cheek? - - "If your eye offends you, pluck it out"? "If anyone comes to me and does not hate father and mother, wife and .... " ?

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

@Matias My evidence is apocryphal, but, of all the convicted felons I've met in 19 years through my work, the *vast* majority at least professed to be believers. And most were before they came to prison.

Why label ourselves as heathens?

Gyanez comments on Jun 19, 2018:

Richard Dawkins suggested, Brights...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

Yech. So condescending.

Farmer in Iowa who voted for Trump is now on track to lose $250,000 this year.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 22, 2018:

It's not that I doubt you, but it would be nice to have a source for these items. Otherwise it's no better than Fox...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

@AncientNight I'll second that plan.

Why, my friend?

Ellatynemouth comments on Jun 22, 2018:

Beautifully written, but tragic. I always say this: Our health is our own responsibility. If we don't look after ourselves, someone else will have to. Not long ago I chatted to someone on here who was just diagnosed with type two diabetes. I told him about the Newcastle Protocol (a diet for ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

Why care about anybody? Doug was hard to care about, admittedly, but his good qualities usually outweighed the bad. And truthfully, he didn't want people to care about him. Maybe that's part of my feelings right now. He wouldn't want mourning. A nice wake at the exotic dancers' club, maybe.

"Trigger warnings," "Safe Spaces," "Snowflakes," and other current buzz-word criticisms of the ...

KKGator comments on Jun 21, 2018:

Some people will go out of their way to find something, anything, to be offended by. While some like to play the "victim", there are others who enjoy rushing to their "defense". You weren't "mansplaining" anything. I don't believe in "safe-spaces" either. Learn to debate, learn how to argue ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 22, 2018:

@citronella Not willing to take shit is one thing. But in this case, how was shit given?

I have a question regarding something I have noticed on some ads that I want to ask about out of ...

HippieChick58 comments on Jun 19, 2018:

I would agree with almost every poster here. I am reasonably sure that if I put sex as something I'm looking for someone is going to assume I'm cheap and easy, or available for FWB. I want sex in the context of a relationship. I'm hoping to have sex again one day, but I'm willing to wait for the ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

@HippieChick58 Okay, in retrospect, bowling was not my best example. Although, if I met someone who found me so attractive that she wanted to go "bowling" on the first date, well, if it there was an instant, mutual, emotional connection, then OK, just maybe. Although it's never happened before and I can't picture it happening now. I know that I was socialized one way, and then I socialized myself a different way when I grew older. I was socialized by my parents to think that different "races" were different, and white was best. I was socialized that men are supposed to want sex more than women, and women are supposed to resist our bestial advances. In fact, women aren't supposed to want it at all. And that it was all Eve's fault, somehow or another. But as I started thinking for myself, and reading books my folks had never heard of, I learned that people are people no matter what, and men and women largely want the same things, and there's nothing wrong with having a sex drive... in fact, it's how we evolved. It's a great thing. It's a gift. So I don't think of anyone as whores, or else men and women are whores equally- if that definition means wanting and enjoying a sex life.

Intimate friends know each other’s secrets.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 21, 2018:

Maybe this is a difference between women and men, but my friends don't actually *know* about any toys I may or may not have... They would probably be competing to split up my gun collection, though. That's men's toys.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

@UUNJ OK, now I'm intrigued... clearly I need to visit the local shop. I may find a whole new direction for my hobbies.

I've noticed through conversations that some people develope shallow reasons, based on past ...

Paul4747 comments on Jun 21, 2018:

I experienced the opposite side of this, someone online (on a dating site) was chatting with me for a few days, it was going very well for both of us, then it came out that I'm a corrections officer. She instantly said she couldn't see me, as mine is one on a list (her words) of careers that she ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

On the other hand, I do have an instant aversion to people with big face piercings or huge earlobe holes, big face tattoos, or hair that is a color not found in nature. And gangster rap puts me off.

I've noticed through conversations that some people develope shallow reasons, based on past ...

misternatureboy comments on Jun 18, 2018:

If my dog doesn't like them, I don't like them.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

Any man who hates children and small dogs can't be all bad.

I have a question regarding something I have noticed on some ads that I want to ask about out of ...

SaucyCheryl comments on Jun 19, 2018:

It's not a given that women like sex. It is a fair question. I have several women friends in the 45 plus crowd who really have no interest in sex anymore. They are looking for a companion and sex is not on their list.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

@UUNJ I wish I could have gotten my ex into one of your classes... everything you just wrote, I tried to tell her. But she didn't want to go to counseling, "she's not the kind of person who's comfortable talking about her feelings." That's what counseling is for, I told her... Oh well. Water under the bridge.

I have a question regarding something I have noticed on some ads that I want to ask about out of ...

HippieChick58 comments on Jun 19, 2018:

I would agree with almost every poster here. I am reasonably sure that if I put sex as something I'm looking for someone is going to assume I'm cheap and easy, or available for FWB. I want sex in the context of a relationship. I'm hoping to have sex again one day, but I'm willing to wait for the ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 21, 2018:

Can I ask you, then... as a man, when I list "sex" in the category of things that I enjoy, does that make you think of me as cheap and easy, or available for FWB? I mean, I think I also may have listed "bowling", but I don't just go out bowling with people I barely know... What it boils down to, for me, is that I'm not looking for an instant sex relationship with anyone, and I don't assume that anyone else is. But I do feel that someone who lists that as an interest is being open just as I am, in the belief that it is part of a healthy relationship, and hoping to have something in the future.

Mixed messages

RPardoe comments on Jun 16, 2018:

I read it as **I SUED**

Paul4747 replies on Jun 16, 2018:

Given the percentage of lawyers to human beings in California, I lay money on your guess being correct. Oh, sorry, I meant "lawyers to non-lawyers", of course. Sorry, Sue.

Go Team! Go Team! Go (ouch)

Johnsalterego comments on Jun 10, 2018:

Paul4747 replies on Jun 10, 2018:

If you combine the letters just right...

In surveying the questions i notice that women are mostly asking/posting about intimacy of emotion ...

Paul4747 comments on Jun 5, 2018:

I'm not sure where I read or heard this, and it was a much more complex thought, but the gist of it was: men have sex and fall in love... women fall in love and have sex. I'm not saying this is true for everyone, I'm not saying there isn't a blend of both for each gender, but the emotional wiring ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 8, 2018:

@EricHunt See, and this is why I said "not true for everyone". I also didn't mean to imply it was true for me either, that love follows sex. In my case they pretty much go hand in hand, I show emotional attachment through physical expression, and sex is the ultimate expression of that. That's where I truly would apply the phrase "making love" as opposed to just "sex". I don't have an occasion where I've had "just sex", there was always emotional involvement, even if we tried to pretend there wasn't and it was just for fun.

Knock knock puddin head

Paul4747 comments on Jun 8, 2018:

I tried to click on this post, but the link must be broken... nothing but a blank page...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 8, 2018:

@Captnron59 (facepalm) Trying to go along with the joke...

Stupid but not beyond belief

GuyKeith comments on Jun 7, 2018:

He lives in the Washington Monument?

Paul4747 replies on Jun 8, 2018:

Exactly. Along with the rest of the Congress.

Rough Day Today... (even the cat did a head-desk)

phxbillcee comments on Jun 5, 2018:

& a Monday on top of that! Hopefully, tomorrow is better!

Paul4747 replies on Jun 5, 2018:

I'm thinking it will be... reasons of my own.

Unclean animals?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 3, 2018:

YHVH is a big jerk, the way that book reads. This is the best explanation. Also created fruit that nobody is supposed to eat. He's like the world's worst Dad, drunk and in a really mean mood, with no Mom to keep a check on him.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 5, 2018:

@IpraiseMYSELF Downside, they may bite you in the ass if you're not careful

A muslim acquaintance is fascinated that I don't believe in god.

Paul4747 comments on Jun 4, 2018:

It can be hard to explain to people who rely on "faith" why one finds that insufficient, or why the "holy books" on further examination turn out not to be "holy" at all. It's my experience that most believers don't have any experience with textual criticism and history, don't know the history of ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 4, 2018:

@Qualia Then, without discussing things you don't feel comfortable discussing, just be prepared to explain why *you* believe the way you do. He may be examining other belief systems; he may just be curious; he may, possibly without even realizing it, be unsure in his own beliefs. Good luck.

Unclean animals?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 3, 2018:

YHVH is a big jerk, the way that book reads. This is the best explanation. Also created fruit that nobody is supposed to eat. He's like the world's worst Dad, drunk and in a really mean mood, with no Mom to keep a check on him.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 4, 2018:

@BettyColeman Snakes. Why'd it have to be... snakes?

Population control

Holysocks comments on Apr 27, 2018:

Pardon the language when I express my opinion 'Stop making fucking babies!'

Paul4747 replies on Jun 4, 2018:

In all senses of that phrase

Population control

rockinspots200 comments on Apr 27, 2018:

2 words: Hunger games ????

Paul4747 replies on Jun 4, 2018:

Worst series ever. Nope, wait... forgot about *Twilight *.

I'm not an atheist, and here's why.

think-beyond comments on Jun 2, 2018:

So I think it was Martin Buber who referred to the God in You and the God in Me as true communication when these "Gods" converse.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 3, 2018:

Martin Buber was also a believer in the literal story in the O.T., according to something Joseph Campbell told. He quoted Buber as saying "We-" and that was a very Jewish We- "believe God spoke to Abraham." That would seem to conflict.

Why Are Atheists Generally Smarter Than Religious People? | HuffPost

girlwithsmiles comments on Jun 2, 2018:

Trends are interesting, but there are always exceptions to rules. Also many people that claim to be religious, in my experience, are not true believers, they're just there because they're part of the herd, or it gets their kids into the right school. I think it's dangerous to look down on people, ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 3, 2018:

Please don't delete your post. It's beautiful.

Should religion be taught in schools?

Sara72712 comments on May 26, 2018:

Do you mean a History of Religions around the World -or- a this is what Jesus thinks of your sins class? I think some places on this planet could get away with the first one. But in my rural Arkansas high school, if it's not about Jesus, it's blasphemy and will not be tolerated. The one Jewish ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 3, 2018:

Well, but Baptists *AREN'T * real Christians!! ?

I came here to share info with other like-minded individuals.

andygee comments on Jun 2, 2018:

How did you make it to 7.5 and not like the site? I look forward to my time here where people argue using facts and reasoning and I don't have to wade through ads and cat videos.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 2, 2018:

@Crimson67 That's pretty much anywhere these days. I *think* we have a slightly higher bar.

Did you know that Joseph Stalin killed more people than Adolf Hitler?

Paul4747 comments on Jun 1, 2018:

One is tempted to ask,... And? What's the particular relevance of this statistic? Stalin was somehow worse? As murderous asshats I judge the two equivalent. History does as well. Hitler made National Socialism into the state religion, with himself as high priest and deity. Stalin did the ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

@BearMcClure This actually says nothing.

Did you know that Joseph Stalin killed more people than Adolf Hitler?

jonds56 comments on Jun 1, 2018:

Only because he lived longer.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

@JustKip I would disagree that it's the first conclusive evidence, just the most conclusive. History put this question to rest decades ago.

Did you know that Joseph Stalin killed more people than Adolf Hitler?

jonds56 comments on Jun 1, 2018:

Only because he lived longer.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

@JustKip There was just a study of teeth found in the bunker which debunks (ha) the conspiracy theories. Trying to copy the link... http://bigthink.com/stephen-johnson/forensic-analysis-of-hitlers-teeth-dispels-old-conspiracy-theories There you go. Of course, those who believe conspiracy theories will continue believing.

What business is this?

CalvinJoe comments on Jun 1, 2018:

I’ve heard that it’s more hygienic to jerk someone off than shake their hand.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

Sorry pal, all you're getting from me is the handshake.

Is it normal for a person to enjoy being single more than being in a relationship?

Holycowballs18 comments on May 24, 2018:

Noo. I love no shave November...I extend it to...say...March-ish. Lol Seriously though...I don't miss drama and tantrums and bs.

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

So you're saying I don't have to shave in November? Nice.

Have you ever saved a life ?

ghost_warlock comments on May 26, 2018:

I spent eight years as a night-shift therapist in a mental institute for teens. I won't say that I'm responsible for saving anyone's life, but I've spent several nights talking kids through severe depressive episodes, physically stopped them from wrapping things around their necks or otherwise ...

Paul4747 replies on Jun 1, 2018:

Absolutely that counts. I've been in the same position with adults, mostly with mental health issues.

I'm not a gun fan but please don't take these men's guns.

Paul4747 comments on May 25, 2018:

Okay, now those are not "guns". Those are firearms. Chant it with me: "This is my rifle, this is my gun, One is for shooting, the other's for fun" Luckily we can't see their guns; their firearms are in the way.

Paul4747 replies on May 28, 2018:

@SonderOpia It's a technicality. I had it drummed into me by a drill sergeant. The way I will never call a magazine a "clip", it doesn't make any real difference to 99 percent of the world but that's just me. I know firearms and the terminology.

Why do intelligent people suddenly turn to a god in there darkest hours

Beamdump2020 comments on May 21, 2018:

Hi. Me again. Something occurred to me. I'm curious about responses to an old military saying, " There are no atheists in a foxhole" . It has always caught my attention, both as a devout Christian and an emancipated one.

Paul4747 replies on May 28, 2018:

@GoldenDoll I think we would find that most atheists and agnostics have very strong characters, I believe it demands a strong character to make up one's own mind as opposed to following the crowd and believing what you're told by society, family, and so on.

I'm not a gun fan but please don't take these men's guns.

Shelton comments on May 25, 2018:

Wish I could un-see that!

Paul4747 replies on May 25, 2018:

@ProudMerry Do you have any that goes directly to the brain?

I'm not a gun fan but please don't take these men's guns.

Shelton comments on May 25, 2018:

Wish I could un-see that!

Paul4747 replies on May 25, 2018:

You and me both

Appeal to Ignorance

Paul4747 comments on May 24, 2018:

Well, I agree it's impossible to *know* there is no god, anywhere. However, it's possible to know that there is no personal God as described in the books of the Bible, who created the Earth and all the creatures thereof no more than 10,000 years ago and performed "miracles" defying the laws of ...

Paul4747 replies on May 25, 2018:

@TheMiddleWay In the case of someone carrying a gun, this is a concrete, testable example. I can believe someone is or is not armed, up until the point I search that person. After that, I can state with certainty "He has a gun" or "He does not have a gun". In the case of a supernatural being, there's no test. Nobody can ever state "There is no god" (not with intellectual honesty) because a god may exist in a form we can't detect or recognize. (They also can't state "God exists", at least not until objective proof is produced.) Your use of concrete analogies for the existence of a supernatural being don't apply.

Appeal to Ignorance

Paul4747 comments on May 24, 2018:

Well, I agree it's impossible to *know* there is no god, anywhere. However, it's possible to know that there is no personal God as described in the books of the Bible, who created the Earth and all the creatures thereof no more than 10,000 years ago and performed "miracles" defying the laws of ...

Paul4747 replies on May 25, 2018:

@TheMiddleWay " To be clear: Atheism is not a disbelief in gods or a denial of gods; it is a lack of belief in gods." Exactly. A lack of belief. I also don't believe in Santa Claus or the Tooth Fairy.