Engineer in Hell

THE GREAT DIVIDE

   Been thinking about the great divide between opposing opinions. It could be politics; it could be religion; it could be anything where intelligent people come from different "brainstorm camps." Let's be honest, we all are brainwashed in some degree. Isn't it interesting that contrasting sides are convinced that each are more informed than the other? What seems to be a healthy exchange of ideas in the beginning quickly turns sour when expletives start flying in the conversation. At that stage, no one is listening and it's a matter of sizing up one another's vocabulary of insults. Sadly the issues are no longer dissected and neither side gain anything but new enemies. No one wants the stress of an argument which explains why we tend to stick with similar minded people who affirm our beliefs. Yet how do you test if those beliefs are true unless you have a dissenting opinion?

   I used to think that the truth will set you free. It does ... but determing truth isn't as simple as it used to be. We all know that the internet cannot be trusted, so why do we cite evidence coming from there? That's problem number 1.

   Problem number 2 is the belief that the ENDS always justify the MEANS. What if the MEANS are faulty to begin with? --- then the ENDS would have justified a faulty premise. But many also relinquish responsibility because they claim ignorance. Wouldn't it be better to gather all the opinions first especially from the "other side" before supporting a position?

   Problem number 3 is the personality issue. Once you get your name attached to a position it would be embarrassing to admit a mistake in public. We all have huge egos, right?

   My resolution? Listen more and insult less. Develop 1) patience which will help you listen and 2) humility to accept your mistakes. And lastly, listen more to the "other side" --- they are just as intelligent ... they just climbed up the Mountain of Knowledge using a different path.

   I know it's hard. I too am learning. There are a lot IDIOTS out there.

   Just kidding!

Wisdom from Rodney of Manitoba, B.C.

Engineer In Demand
Contributed by Tony of Crenshaw, CA

One day, an engineer died and went to heaven. But St. Peter said, "I can't let you in because your name is not on the list."

So the engineer went down to Hell and was let in. Well, he stayed there for a couple of days and then decided that, it was too hot and everything was inaccessible. So he built flushing toilets, air conditioning, running water and a lot of other things.

One day God called down and said to Satan, "So Satan, how's it down there in hell? "

Satan said, "Well, it's great, I've got an engineer down here and he has built air conditioning, running water, flushing toilets, and I don't know what else he's gonna build next."

Then God asked, "You've got an engineer down there? That's a big mistake, send him up here right now!"

Satan replied, "No way! This is the best thing that's ever happened to hell."

God said, "Send him up or I'll sue!!"

Satan said smirking, "Now, just where are you gonna get a lawyer?"

My apologies to all my lawyer friends who are reading this. --- Raoul

AND NOW THE CONTINUING SAGA OF ...

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If you're a fan of this 60's TV show, you'll be interested in this documentary from the mouth of "Gilligan" himself. Warning: It's pretty long

Adorable animals. Just a fun video.

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Betty White's Tribute to Morgan Freeman
Contributed by Tom of Pasadena, CA

A fun video of a Broadway-like performance by the one and only Betty White for her friend Morgan. TGIF people!