Kids writing “I love you mom and dad” on their bodies in case they don’t survive a shooting.
How much more f’d up can this country get before we realize we need to do something about firearms access?
“But but muh rights to…”
Stop.
Book Review: The Book of Revelation: A New Translation by Michael Straus, illustrated Jennifer May Reiland
One word: Woah.… Read the rest
Book Review: A Gracious Heresy by Connie Tuttle
Homosexuality. Mere mention of the word in some Christian circles elicits visceral responses of disgust and repulsion. The concept of a lesbian pastor to these same groups? Unthinkable. But it is possible, despite what some theological practices proclaim. … Read the rest
I’m a Man.
Scott over at The Jagged Word opines on the outrage du jour, the Gillette ad asking fathers not to raise their sons to be abusive little turds. Toxic Masculinity of Woves and Men
To my way of thinking, there are at least two deeply seated errors with both advertisements.… Read the rest
Baby It’s Hot In Here, So Take Off All Your Clothes
I hate, daresay, loathe Baby it’s Cold Outside. Say what you want, but it’s obviously about taking advantage of a woman. I don’t know how you could read the lyrics and think otherwise.… Read the rest
There’s a reason smoking is hard to quit
I used to smoke. A lot. Three packs a day of Camels. And not the “what, you wearin’ panties?” filtered cigarettes either. I smoked filterless Camels. Nothing was going to get between me and that sweet, carcinogenic flavor of Turkish tobacco.… Read the rest
Rebranding Coming Soon
Sometime in the near future I’ll be doing a semi-routine rebranding of the site. (To quote the Goth girl Raj flirted with on Big Bang Theory, “Not that anyone cares.”)
The style will most likely stay the same, but the title will change from “The Midwestern Crank” to something less… cranky.… Read the rest
Anatomy of a Modern-Day Political Ad
Ominous music plays
Did you know that (Opponent name) (supports / opposes) (abortion / gun control / same sex marriage)? Even worse they want to (raise / lower) (your / upper class) taxes.
Cheerful music plays
(Candidate name) doesn’t, (he / she / they / xi) promise to stand up for you and your right to (abortion / gun control / same sex marriage).… Read the rest
Churches Are Not Businesses. Pastors Are Not CEOs.
I was saddened to learn that America’s number one killer of men has struck again. This time it took the life of Southern California megachurch pastor Andrew Stoecklein.
… Read the restPastor Andrew Stoecklein of Inland Hills Church (Chino, Ca) took his own life this weekend.
Book Review: Accidental Saints by Nadia Bolz-Weber
Being new to attending, and possibly joining, my local ELCA church, I was quick to ask which books would aid me in understanding Lutheran theology. I was pointed toward Accidental Saints by “Rockstar Lutheran” Nadia Bolz-Weber. I wasn’t unfamiliar with her ministry, having seen a few of her “blessed are…” videos online.… Read the rest