• Starting today August 7th, 2024, in order to post in the Married Couples, Courting Couples, or Singles forums, you will not be allowed to post if you have your Marital status designated as private. Announcements will be made in the respective forums as well but please note that if yours is currently listed as Private, you will need to submit a ticket in the Support Area to have yours changed.

Would Trump defend Australia if we were attacked? We HAD a big purchase deal worked out... but....

With what evidence do you make these bizarre assertions? Manufacturing industry in green tech was FLOODING in under Biden's IRA - a big carrot enticing manufacturing back? EG: By 2030 America would have been manufacturing so many batteries that they could have (hypothetically) powered every new car as a 100% EV bought in the USA!

These batteries will however be split through different sectors - also - businesses don't know WHAT to invest in or do from day to day because of Trump's chaotic and ever changing tariffs.

I'm not sure what you are asking about? We are an interdependent country like most in the modern world. Human beings are social creates - and being a mature adult is not about independence like some lone wolf - but appropriate empowered interdependence. Adam Smith explained trade in similar terms - that we all get richer when we trade.

SURE - if there's even a hint of geopolitical concerns about trusting the supply lines - I say subsidise or even NATIONALISE the thing!
But generally speaking, democracies get along - and trade according to the WTO - and we all get a bit wealthier under this system. I'm a greenie and would LOVE to see faster action on climate, less trading of fossil fuels, etc. But generally - although not perfect - although often corrupted by this or that lobby group or agenda - generally speaking the system sort of works.

Until Trump.



Nope. I'm with Malcolm Turnbull. One has to stand up to a bully. Trump sees himself as the 'big daddy' of the world - and is using tariffs to make sure every world leader flies over to 'kiss the ring'. They're really just giving him "Narcissistic Supply" - feeding his psychological disorder. He doesn't have friends - he has what psychiatrists call "Flying Monkey's" - those who serve the wicked witch! That's his team of "yes" men and women gathering around and applauding everything he says.

Even if Trump suddenly dies of a heart attack - the fact that America elected him repeatedly - and knowingly - means they have changed. Until such time as there is a profound cultural shift that disses crazy tinfoil hat stuff and respects the REALITY of climate change, Covid, long-term security arrangements, etc, Australia should trade with more reliable partners. And that also includes mutual defence pacts.

And after thinking about it deeply - I'm not sure we should join America if they defend Taiwan. I hate that China wants Taiwan. I hate that a democracy could fall! But unlike Putin - who has repeatedly stated he dreams of restoring the old USSR - China might actually stop with Taiwan. And with Trump being so 'America first' and 'no more overseas wars' - I wonder if China will mistake that for a green light to GO on Taiwan?

I certainly don't want a war with China - but feel we should continue to support Ukraine against the march across Europe.
You ask from where I make these bizarre assertions ? You then mention Biden’s green tech miracle flooding the viecle
With what evidence do you make these bizarre assertions? Manufacturing industry in green tech was FLOODING in under Biden's IRA - a big carrot enticing manufacturing back? EG: By 2030 America would have been manufacturing so many batteries that they could have (hypothetically) powered every new car as a 100% EV bought in the USA!

These batteries will however be split through different sectors - also - businesses don't know WHAT to invest in or do from day to day because of Trump's chaotic and ever changing tariffs.

I'm not sure what you are asking about? We are an interdependent country like most in the modern world. Human beings are social creates - and being a mature adult is not about independence like some lone wolf - but appropriate empowered interdependence. Adam Smith explained trade in similar terms - that we all get richer when we trade.

SURE - if there's even a hint of geopolitical concerns about trusting the supply lines - I say subsidise or even NATIONALISE the thing!
But generally speaking, democracies get along - and trade according to the WTO - and we all get a bit wealthier under this system. I'm a greenie and would LOVE to see faster action on climate, less trading of fossil fuels, etc. But generally - although not perfect - although often corrupted by this or that lobby group or agenda - generally speaking the system sort of works.

Until Trump.



Nope. I'm with Malcolm Turnbull. One has to stand up to a bully. Trump sees himself as the 'big daddy' of the world - and is using tariffs to make sure every world leader flies over to 'kiss the ring'. They're really just giving him "Narcissistic Supply" - feeding his psychological disorder. He doesn't have friends - he has what psychiatrists call "Flying Monkey's" - those who serve the wicked witch! That's his team of "yes" men and women gathering around and applauding everything he says.

Even if Trump suddenly dies of a heart attack - the fact that America elected him repeatedly - and knowingly - means they have changed. Until such time as there is a profound cultural shift that disses crazy tinfoil hat stuff and respects the REALITY of climate change, Covid, long-term security arrangements, etc, Australia should trade with more reliable partners. And that also includes mutual defence pacts.

And after thinking about it deeply - I'm not sure we should join America if they defend Taiwan. I hate that China wants Taiwan. I hate that a democracy could fall! But unlike Putin - who has repeatedly stated he dreams of restoring the old USSR - China might actually stop with Taiwan. And with Trump being so 'America first' and 'no more overseas wars' - I wonder if China will mistake that for a green light to GO on Taiwan?

Eclipse you state from what evidence do I make these bizarre claims ??? Well Eclipse perhaps you should seek closer to home in Australia on that matter. where you actually have a kingship . You know like the king of the British commonwealth and maybe leave there than following mere mindless assumptions of mad hatters thinking that’sPresident Trump would ever want to be a king. Yes leave those thoughts where they belong. And that being In ga ga land . That’s all I say.
IMG_4094.jpeg
Eclipse you then mention Biden’s green tech industry pouring in with the possibility of having every vehicle powered by battery by 2030. Perhaps a persons choice what they desire would have been a better option. I just luv the feel of a gear stick at full throttle and the reliability of juice injected power to hit the spot namely what is know as fuel to get me from A to B. When thinking upon battery driven cars they have their place . But to have the entire American economy run by battery powered vehicles by 2030 would be an impossibility. Considering the infrastructure required for such a endeavour with charging stations and how long it takes to recharge a vehicle. And of course there was the reliability of the very few charging stations that they did complete. Quite a number failed to deliver what they claimed . If the policy had been followed to completion and had not been changed by the present government . Than the American economy would have ceased to function.
IMG_4094.jpeg
As to trade. Well there is nothing wrong with trade within itself. But at the same time you don’t give up your essential industries Now Eclipse where is the Australian car manufacturing industry today. Gone forever it seems. Ford Australia and Holden be no more . BHP is no longer Australian owned but majority foreign owned. A portion of our waterways and dams are foreign owned such as the Murray Darling basin. And even our good old Commo bank now be foreign owned that’s all I say when thinking upon trade and ownership and sovereignty of one’s own nation . So you be a admirer of the Malcom Turnbull. Ok. Malcom’s dislike of Trump is well known. And you also claim that President Trump be mentally ill too. On the other hand it seems to me that you may suffer from Trump derangement syndrome also. Seems Trump derangement syndrome is not immune from Australia. As to president Trump being daddy that is what others claim of him. Trump has never claimed that of himself As to climate change . Eclipse climate change happens everyday. Mother Earth has her ways . Humanity dosnt really get to have a opinion on that. That be in the hands of God. But if you want go with all Al Gores predictions of doom and gloom we should have been all toasted some 15 yrs ago . And what of the the expanding holes in the ozone layer that they all screamed about it in the 80s blaming humanity’s pollution once more for the deed ? It turned out as truth eventually caught up with the lie that it was a natural reoccurring yearly event where both poles expanding or decreasing at different times of the year. You now hear nothing of the matter today . So I would be more careful with what the environmental movement and greenies claim all in the name of the environment. Manufacturing climate is a big business. Something to think about. As to Trump setting off a war. Seems to me he has done everything to prevent war although his outlook on the Gaza situation does leave much to be desired and one has many reservations. How much leeway does Israel get considering 50 thousand Palestinians now lay dead with all their infrastructure destroyed compared to Israel’s some 1300 dead . How much blood does Israel demand ?
IMG_4094.jpeg
You do mention the question of Taiwan. Is it a acceptable sacrifice to make and cede Taiwan to the communists to preserve peace. Firstly Taiwan is not as Hong Kong under a 99 yr lease given unto the British after the opium wars with China commencing in 1898 and transpiring in 1997 . The Taiwan situation is entirely different. They be the remnant of the Chinese nationalist people they never surrendered and refused communist rule . If we take that path then why not give up my ancestral homeland of South Korea to communism rule too. That all me write for now . I do wish you a pleasant Saturday evening in your Sydney. Regards Kathleen
Upvote 0

How to grow as a Christian? Maybe personal guidance (not sure)

Read the New Testament. Find 10-15 minutes a day and read page by page, methodically. Don't worry too much about trying to make sense of all of it; focus on becoming familiar with the stories and the contents. Maybe keep a small journal and write notes about sections you would like help with or to revisit. Also, learn a few basic prayers and pray them regularly.
Thanks for the helpful advice. What can I do with places in Scripture that are not understandable for me or that raise questions I don't have the answers to? Is there something like a trustworthy New Testament commentary or place where I can ask question?
Upvote 0

Advice for adjusting to a newborn

Yes, congrats on your newborn.

We rotated the main responsibility nightly, learned when we were anxious the baby responded accordingly, reluctantly accepted our mothers' help but that the previous level of order and organization wasn't possible, batch cooked meals, & prayed even more.

As PloverWing posted, It will get easier.
Upvote 0

How to grow as a Christian? Maybe personal guidance (not sure)

I would also suggest finding out if there is an army chaplain who could discuss these things with you in person, and give you advice that fits your personal situation better.
Yep, It could be a solution, but our unit doesn't have a chaplain, it's a vacant position for some reason. JFYI, there is no specific separete service for chaplains in ukraine army, instead each detached unit as big as regiment or brigade has 1-2 positions fo chaplain and assistant of chaplain
Upvote 0

How to grow as a Christian? Maybe personal guidance (not sure)

I wish you success and safety as you defend your country.

One possibility you might consider is to pray the Daily Office, as your schedule permits. My church's Book of Common Prayer has liturgies for Morning Prayer, Noonday Prayer, Evening Prayer, and Compline. All of these are services that can be done without clergy. You can pray them on your own, or you can gather with a few friends if there are others nearby who want to join you. Praying all four each day is a lot, but pick one that fits your schedule well, and try praying it regularly -- daily, if you can.

An online version of the Book of Common Prayer is here: The Online Book of Common Prayer . It's in English, but your English seems excellent.

Morning Prayer and Evening Prayer assume you have access to a Bible. Bible passages can be found online (at least, in English; I hope Ukrainian too?), if you don't have a print copy of the Bible. Noonday Prayer and Compline (late evening) are shorter and more self-contained.

To be clear, there are many kinds of spiritual disciplines that are useful for Christians, and the Daily Office is just one. But I know a number of Christians who find it beneficial.
Thanks a lot for the clear and specific answer, now at least I know how to start. Yes, my English is not bad (B2-C1), because I worked with foreign contractors for several years. Also, I have the Bible in different versions: Ukrainian translation (paper version) and digital English version (KJV, NIV).
Upvote 0

Why almost all coal was made at the same time

Um...a quick check shows that lignite dates from 60 million years ago.
So?
Your admirable drive for concision has impacted on delivering a message with meaning. You appear to be challenging the intial assertion of the video, but the nature of that challenge is obscure. (I do dislike his absolute "all coal", but that's a quibble.)

Side note: And I recall encountering abundant lignite while drilling in Tertiary sediments in the Java Sea, but perhaps your "from" means "from and up till quite recently".
Upvote 0

Flat or round earth -The final experiment.

It's not fake evidence, try watching the video.
Why?
Have you watched the videos of the 24 hour sun in Antarctica? Or the one where the Christian Pastor who led the expedition was so tired, and unwell, he could barely speak?

No doubt they're all fake too.
  • Like
Reactions: David Lamb
Upvote 0

I asked "AI" (Deepseek R1 model) some difficult topics Christianity

My take is that Proverbs might say wealth can be good, but keep it in its proper place. This would not be a contradiction, or else why would Jesus say to give the rich man's wealth to the poor? If the wealth is really wrong, He could say burn it up and bury what is left.
I have no horse in race for whether you or @timewerx are correct about Jesus and Proverbs being in contradiction. I cannot see any way in which this might effect my worldview, or daily life. I do have an interst in the validity of the associated arguments as illustrations of flawed logic, etc.

If I have $500 (or pick a number that fits your perception) then I would say I was not wealthy. If If have $500,000,000 then I would say I am wealthy. An individual dollar is not evidence of wealth. If I give $500 to each of one million people are any of them wealthy? Am I wealthy? Obviously not. Therefore Proverbs is not saying that wealth is good, but is affirming the goodness of distributing wealth, till it is so diluted that wealth no longer exists.

I imagine there are flaws in this argument, but they need to be addressed in order to justify your assertion.
Upvote 0

New belief among teenagers. What do you think?

I've already expressed my views about faith. Forum rules forbid me from defending those views. But leaving your comments unanswered is more of a load on my ehtical drives than breaching those rules. Your faith position is a cop out to justify believing in something for which there is no substantive evidence, but which you wish to believe because . . . . . . you wish to believe it. To avoid an infinite regress of this discussion I am placing you on Ignore until I've, more or less, forgotten what it was about. Should take about a month. See you on the other side.
The fact that you get upset at my acceptance of faith is evidence in and of itself. If atheism is true, why is there any issue with me choosing to believe in things because I want them to be true? Why should I care about silly little things like what can be proven, when at the end of the day it really makes no difference? If faith improves my life, why would I not embrace faith? To be left with existential angst in an uncaring universe for my short miserable life? You cite ethics, but you have no basis for any sort of ethical high horse since in your view it can only be a matter of personal preference with no reason to abide by ethical principles so long as they aren't convenient.
Upvote 0

New belief among teenagers. What do you think?

Oh? Did you miss the part where I said my recourse is faith? I do not pretend to know from my own philosophical foundations, but instead depend on revelation from on high. My foundations do not depend on the powers of my intellect, because when I looked there for solid ground the only thing I found was a tautology.

Not at all, because I unabashadly embrace faith. I do not pretend that my beliefs are built on claims of "evidence" which somehow vanishes and turns into demands for proof the minute such "evidence" is requested.
I've already expressed my views about faith. Forum rules forbid me from defending those views. But leaving your comments unanswered is more of a load on my ehtical drives than breaching those rules. Your faith position is a cop out to justify believing in something for which there is no substantive evidence, but which you wish to believe because . . . . . . you wish to believe it. To avoid an infinite regress of this discussion I am placing you on Ignore until I've, more or less, forgotten what it was about. Should take about a month. See you on the other side.
Upvote 0

Filter

Forum statistics

Threads
5,871,772
Messages
65,306,239
Members
275,960
Latest member
mrarowel54