This video is so good! Wayne Grudem is a well respected professor and definitely one of our greatest theologians of our time. He is a key contributor and editor of the ESV translation too! This guy is a spiritual giant when it comes to Biblical teaching and understanding of God's Word. His theology and doctrine is legit, accurate and sound.
Wayne Grudem wrote a book called, "Systematic Theology." It is so detailed on the core doctrines of Christianity. He covers subjects like the Gospel of Jesus Christ, the Nature of the triune God, justification & sanctification, scripture and the body of the church. That book had such a profound impact on me that it was one of the leading factors that lead me to pursue seminary. If I had to recommend one book that holistically encompasses Christian doctrine, this would be it.
To hear Grudem speak about politics in this video has deeply encouraged my beliefs. I'm so grateful to hear him speak on this topic. He makes some very strong points. He addresses Trump's character and policies. He stands up against any opposition to affirm that as Bible believing Christians we must do all things for the glory of God, this includes our political views.
This video communicates so much that I agree with. Larry Elder really lays it down well in a way that has not been communicated or supported enough. It makes so much sense, and I think many of us have been fed the wrong information. I feel like I was blinded, told what to believe.. and feel like my eyes have been opened.
This video was in January 2016, and is still extremely relevant till today, if not even more so. There's a movement called Walk Away, and it's people deciding to walk away from the democratic / liberal party, and find that they align more with the republican/ conservative party.
Debates and elections are here, and our country is really at a very tense time in history. Things could get better. or things could get a lot worse. covid vaccinations have people uncertain. all sorts of factors.. but what i've come to learn is, don't believe everything you hear on the tv. don't be naïve. so much of the media has been twisted. stop looking at personalities and look at the real policies, and what each party really values. Don't just listen to what the crowd says, think for yourself.
Ok. I'm a little frazzled. this might get too personal. But ima share what happened. I shared the first Wayne Grudem/ Jack Hibbs video to a good friend and Christian brother. We went to college together. Pre-covid I use to workout with him 2-3x every week. He even moved into my city with his wife so he could workout with me at my gym. In a lot of ways I look up to him. He wanted Bernie Sanders to win and really supported him. We had a few conversations about politics in the last few months.
He said, that I made him question his faith, since Christians are primarily republican. And I guess he's strongly against conservative views. Then he said that no it's just that people are being mislead and not following the Bible. I feel like so much of what he's saying has been manipulated and distorted to think this way. Look at Wayne Grudem's approach. It was with utmost respect, dignity, and etiquette, with zero hostility.
My friend said, "You voting for trump is a slap in the face to Mexican & Black people, LGBTQIA+ people, the women and the poor and to me. It poorly reflects your character and values. Your vote for him and racisms is something I cannot be associated with." He goes on talking about how trump is a white supremist and racist. He says, that i'm putting law over Jesus' first two commandments.
He said that he can't be friends with me. And cannot be associated with me. I'm pretty stunned. He's obviously assuming what I believe or think. He even goes so far as to judge and question my faith. I honestly don't know how to respond. I was pretty offended by his words. I'm not turning a blind eye to the negative points against trump, I don't think he's the best candidate to model, represent and speak for the republican party. He's flawed in many ways. but at the end of the day he supports several Christian and patriotic values that the democratic side doesn't.
If someone doesn't want to be friends with me because of my political views, what can i do.. i'm not gonna compromise my beliefs and values. Losing a close friend absolutely sucks, but guess that's just how it's gonna go. Just because someone doesn't see eye to eye about a certain philosophy, view point, or belief, doesn't mean you cut them out of your life. It's disappointing, but at this point, I'm like whatever, that's their decision and choice.
He said, that I made him question his faith, since Christians are primarily republican. And I guess he's strongly against conservative views. Then he said that no it's just that people are being mislead and not following the Bible. I feel like so much of what he's saying has been manipulated and distorted to think this way. Look at Wayne Grudem's approach. It was with utmost respect, dignity, and etiquette, with zero hostility.
My friend said, "You voting for trump is a slap in the face to Mexican & Black people, LGBTQIA+ people, the women and the poor and to me. It poorly reflects your character and values. Your vote for him and racisms is something I cannot be associated with." He goes on talking about how trump is a white supremist and racist. He says, that i'm putting law over Jesus' first two commandments.
He said that he can't be friends with me. And cannot be associated with me. I'm pretty stunned. He's obviously assuming what I believe or think. He even goes so far as to judge and question my faith. I honestly don't know how to respond. I was pretty offended by his words. I'm not turning a blind eye to the negative points against trump, I don't think he's the best candidate to model, represent and speak for the republican party. He's flawed in many ways. but at the end of the day he supports several Christian and patriotic values that the democratic side doesn't.
If someone doesn't want to be friends with me because of my political views, what can i do.. i'm not gonna compromise my beliefs and values. Losing a close friend absolutely sucks, but guess that's just how it's gonna go. Just because someone doesn't see eye to eye about a certain philosophy, view point, or belief, doesn't mean you cut them out of your life. It's disappointing, but at this point, I'm like whatever, that's their decision and choice.
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I had a busy day at work. So many things to do. Trying to figure out things quickly, efficiently and trying to do things right. I was proud that I was able to do things well and get most things accomplished. It was refreshing to see many co-workers that I haven't seen in a while. It's weird going from not really talking to anyone to talking to over a dozen people in a day.
One girl yelled, "Christopher!?" when I walked in the room, excited to catch up. it's been months since i've seen some people. And then this other lady she walked up to me and kicked my shoe with a smile on her face to greet me, in her own way she was communicating with a small gesture, and for some reason I could sense what she was saying.
In a way, i think we have all undermined how important social interactions really are. Who knew going to work would actually be refreshing. well minus the work part lol.
Even tho I had lots to do, there's just people who you can't help but have long conversations with. For a moment, you forget you're living during a pandemic. I guess it was just refreshing to have a sense of normal social interactions, even tho we're wearing masks and social distancing. Among my co-workers, there's always been a sense of commodity, being a team, being there for each other, and i think that's something i've missed.
The room that my co-workers share is small enough where everyone can hear side conversations. One of my co-workers and good friend told me that she has been spiritually down. A lot of people have been dealing with depression and loneliness being isolated at home.
My co-worker shared that she's been exhausted, stressed, worried, frustrated, and unhappy with things regarding her family. It was nice to be confided in, and for someone to seek my advice and counsel. She asked, tell me all the books you wanted me to read. She felt the need to somehow draw closer to God. And one of the things I told her is that spirituality isn't meant to be done alone.
I briefly mentioned how good devotional books are. And the basics of reading the Bible and spending quiet time in prayer or writing in a journal. Another co-worker jumped in and talked about how she reads her Bible with all the footnotes, commentary and information about each book of the Bible. I think it's interesting how often we take the Bible for granted. There is so much truth to feed on. I think it also takes the Spirit to help us meditate on His Word.
I think it's great when you can have conversations about God, Jesus, the Bible and share those truths as a normal and not be in a church or Bible study. Our faith should really be the core of who we are, and impact how we live. Counseling techniques and theories all have their place, but when I really want to encourage someone, it always goes directly to sharing about the power and love of our God.
I started to share about exegesis, hermenutics and Bible interpretation. I shared that yeah there are challenging parts to scripture, but there's a lot of fundamentals that are very clear, basic truths that even children can understand. I talked about why God's love, grace, and His presence is so applicable and relevant.
We talked about some end time signs and how more people are in need of a closer walk with God especially during these times. God is not just a historic God written about in the Bible. God is very much present, active and always available to be with us in any and every situation.
As the three of us talked, I could tell the other people in the room were very intently listening as well. It feels good to openly share what you believe, and connect with those with the same beliefs. When people are genuinely interested in learning more about Christianity, it's easy to teach and share. As Christians I think we are to be confident to bring up things of God in our conversations. To me God is more real than the air we breathe.
This year I learned a lot about myself. Things I didn't even know about myself. There's so much within us that sometimes we really need time to develop what we really think about the world and ourselves. It takes searching, investigation and asking yourself tough questions.
A friend may have a dozen reasons why you should think what they think. But when you really contemplate your own reasons you might find that you agree or disagree with them. And that's ok. Sometimes we get so influenced by others that we forget to really ask ourselves what we truly believe in.
Anyways.. I brought up how I was excited to watch the presidential debate. The security guard immediately mocked and scoffed at the President. I can kind of understand why. I'm guilty of making fun of him and doing the same. It's easy to latch onto a few negative things and use that as ammunition. He does say a bunch of dumb stuff sometimes in front of a camera or on twitter. I get it. But he also says a lot of intelligent things as well. People dismiss everything he says, but there's also a lot he does seem to know well.
But yeah, then they walked out the door. While two new co-workers i never met remained sitting in the room. I don't even know what they fully look like cuz they had mask. I said, I know it's kind of tabboo to talk about politics.. but what do you guys think? One girl was too shy to say what she really thought. I could tell she was afraid to say she supported the right wing. Another woman was more bold and shared she was a democrat her whole life and liked Obama but then now supports Trump due to various reasons that personally effect her and her family.
I chimed in and said, yeah I thought I was a democrat for a long time. I was pretty much anti-trump because everyone else seemed to be, and his character is questionable. I didn't really know the differences of each party or why i considered myself democrat. But I have come to support the conservative side. Not just support it. but have become very interested and passionate about discussing the various issues.
I think republicans that are shy to say they support trump are afraid that any hatred or ridicule towards him will also be directed at them. For many democrats, if you were to say you voted for trump, support trump, you would most likely be seen as "crazy." That's how chauvinistic liberals are being trained. It's like disagreeing with the democrat party is somehow seen as outrageous.
It's like liberals can't accept that others can have a different opinion. To suggest anything other then what they believe somehow automatically makes you "un-American" and ridiculous. It's honestly very judgmental and goes so far as a form of prejudice. And then they often resort to name calling and personal attacks, which is just low and not even backed with political reasons why.
I used to be somewhat ignorant and didn't understand a lot about politics. I was just taught that democrats help the poor - middle class, while the republican side is only for the wealthiest and richest white men. Again I didn't really know better. But it's what we have ingrained.
I basically would just agree with whatever my dad would say since he was a political science major. It was thinking, well my dad is very smart, so he must be right. I didn't like all the arguing, bickering and confusion. Part of the confusion is that people gravitate to people's character and personality. Yes that plays a role, but more importantly is their political views and doing the job that they were elected for. My mom said she considers herself a democrat.. with the only reason being that her parents were democrats.
Anyways.. I then left because I knew today was the Presidential debate. I got home and we turned on the tv. I was like wow no commercials is great! Yes it's obvious there are some times when over interruption made trump look bad, but i think people are blowing it up + making it a bigger deal then it was. Most of the time it was during open discussion and it's not like Biden didn't get his chance to say what he needed to say.
There were times Trump would make very strong points, and Biden did not have a good response. Biden is not a guy I personally can dislike. He seems like a good guy. He doesn't have many enemies. He has many positive characteristics. But I just don't back up any of his political views and policies.
I don't like how Trump comes off egotistical at times, and i understand why people go so strongly as to hate him. But I think there's something to be said about not always doing things "politically correct" and being unconventional. I like that he puts America first, and isn't about outsourcing everything to other countries. Yes sometimes too argumentative, but there's something to someone who doesn't back down when he's against something.
I realized that we have to separate one's character from one's political views. And then we also have to separate a politician from the political party that they represent. One person does not necessarily represent or encompass their entire political party. Just because a democrat or republican says something you disagree with, doesn't mean the rest of the party agrees with what they said either.
Then I had a conversation with my dad. I used to be pretty passive when it came to politics because I didn't see how it directly affected me. And for a long time I always sided with him, but this time I brought up the various good things about the republican party that I strongly do support.
I had a busy day at work. So many things to do. Trying to figure out things quickly, efficiently and trying to do things right. I was proud that I was able to do things well and get most things accomplished. It was refreshing to see many co-workers that I haven't seen in a while. It's weird going from not really talking to anyone to talking to over a dozen people in a day.
One girl yelled, "Christopher!?" when I walked in the room, excited to catch up. it's been months since i've seen some people. And then this other lady she walked up to me and kicked my shoe with a smile on her face to greet me, in her own way she was communicating with a small gesture, and for some reason I could sense what she was saying.
In a way, i think we have all undermined how important social interactions really are. Who knew going to work would actually be refreshing. well minus the work part lol.
Even tho I had lots to do, there's just people who you can't help but have long conversations with. For a moment, you forget you're living during a pandemic. I guess it was just refreshing to have a sense of normal social interactions, even tho we're wearing masks and social distancing. Among my co-workers, there's always been a sense of commodity, being a team, being there for each other, and i think that's something i've missed.
The room that my co-workers share is small enough where everyone can hear side conversations. One of my co-workers and good friend told me that she has been spiritually down. A lot of people have been dealing with depression and loneliness being isolated at home.
My co-worker shared that she's been exhausted, stressed, worried, frustrated, and unhappy with things regarding her family. It was nice to be confided in, and for someone to seek my advice and counsel. She asked, tell me all the books you wanted me to read. She felt the need to somehow draw closer to God. And one of the things I told her is that spirituality isn't meant to be done alone.
I briefly mentioned how good devotional books are. And the basics of reading the Bible and spending quiet time in prayer or writing in a journal. Another co-worker jumped in and talked about how she reads her Bible with all the footnotes, commentary and information about each book of the Bible. I think it's interesting how often we take the Bible for granted. There is so much truth to feed on. I think it also takes the Spirit to help us meditate on His Word.
I think it's great when you can have conversations about God, Jesus, the Bible and share those truths as a normal and not be in a church or Bible study. Our faith should really be the core of who we are, and impact how we live. Counseling techniques and theories all have their place, but when I really want to encourage someone, it always goes directly to sharing about the power and love of our God.
I started to share about exegesis, hermenutics and Bible interpretation. I shared that yeah there are challenging parts to scripture, but there's a lot of fundamentals that are very clear, basic truths that even children can understand. I talked about why God's love, grace, and His presence is so applicable and relevant.
We talked about some end time signs and how more people are in need of a closer walk with God especially during these times. God is not just a historic God written about in the Bible. God is very much present, active and always available to be with us in any and every situation.
As the three of us talked, I could tell the other people in the room were very intently listening as well. It feels good to openly share what you believe, and connect with those with the same beliefs. When people are genuinely interested in learning more about Christianity, it's easy to teach and share. As Christians I think we are to be confident to bring up things of God in our conversations. To me God is more real than the air we breathe.
This year I learned a lot about myself. Things I didn't even know about myself. There's so much within us that sometimes we really need time to develop what we really think about the world and ourselves. It takes searching, investigation and asking yourself tough questions.
A friend may have a dozen reasons why you should think what they think. But when you really contemplate your own reasons you might find that you agree or disagree with them. And that's ok. Sometimes we get so influenced by others that we forget to really ask ourselves what we truly believe in.
Anyways.. I brought up how I was excited to watch the presidential debate. The security guard immediately mocked and scoffed at the President. I can kind of understand why. I'm guilty of making fun of him and doing the same. It's easy to latch onto a few negative things and use that as ammunition. He does say a bunch of dumb stuff sometimes in front of a camera or on twitter. I get it. But he also says a lot of intelligent things as well. People dismiss everything he says, but there's also a lot he does seem to know well.
But yeah, then they walked out the door. While two new co-workers i never met remained sitting in the room. I don't even know what they fully look like cuz they had mask. I said, I know it's kind of tabboo to talk about politics.. but what do you guys think? One girl was too shy to say what she really thought. I could tell she was afraid to say she supported the right wing. Another woman was more bold and shared she was a democrat her whole life and liked Obama but then now supports Trump due to various reasons that personally effect her and her family.
I chimed in and said, yeah I thought I was a democrat for a long time. I was pretty much anti-trump because everyone else seemed to be, and his character is questionable. I didn't really know the differences of each party or why i considered myself democrat. But I have come to support the conservative side. Not just support it. but have become very interested and passionate about discussing the various issues.
I think republicans that are shy to say they support trump are afraid that any hatred or ridicule towards him will also be directed at them. For many democrats, if you were to say you voted for trump, support trump, you would most likely be seen as "crazy." That's how chauvinistic liberals are being trained. It's like disagreeing with the democrat party is somehow seen as outrageous.
It's like liberals can't accept that others can have a different opinion. To suggest anything other then what they believe somehow automatically makes you "un-American" and ridiculous. It's honestly very judgmental and goes so far as a form of prejudice. And then they often resort to name calling and personal attacks, which is just low and not even backed with political reasons why.
I used to be somewhat ignorant and didn't understand a lot about politics. I was just taught that democrats help the poor - middle class, while the republican side is only for the wealthiest and richest white men. Again I didn't really know better. But it's what we have ingrained.
I basically would just agree with whatever my dad would say since he was a political science major. It was thinking, well my dad is very smart, so he must be right. I didn't like all the arguing, bickering and confusion. Part of the confusion is that people gravitate to people's character and personality. Yes that plays a role, but more importantly is their political views and doing the job that they were elected for. My mom said she considers herself a democrat.. with the only reason being that her parents were democrats.
Anyways.. I then left because I knew today was the Presidential debate. I got home and we turned on the tv. I was like wow no commercials is great! Yes it's obvious there are some times when over interruption made trump look bad, but i think people are blowing it up + making it a bigger deal then it was. Most of the time it was during open discussion and it's not like Biden didn't get his chance to say what he needed to say.
There were times Trump would make very strong points, and Biden did not have a good response. Biden is not a guy I personally can dislike. He seems like a good guy. He doesn't have many enemies. He has many positive characteristics. But I just don't back up any of his political views and policies.
I don't like how Trump comes off egotistical at times, and i understand why people go so strongly as to hate him. But I think there's something to be said about not always doing things "politically correct" and being unconventional. I like that he puts America first, and isn't about outsourcing everything to other countries. Yes sometimes too argumentative, but there's something to someone who doesn't back down when he's against something.
I realized that we have to separate one's character from one's political views. And then we also have to separate a politician from the political party that they represent. One person does not necessarily represent or encompass their entire political party. Just because a democrat or republican says something you disagree with, doesn't mean the rest of the party agrees with what they said either.
Then I had a conversation with my dad. I used to be pretty passive when it came to politics because I didn't see how it directly affected me. And for a long time I always sided with him, but this time I brought up the various good things about the republican party that I strongly do support.
I didn't realize how much the media / news really does influence people with the story they want to tell. They create their own narrative, like how someone can easily take scripture out of context. People want to paint Trump as all bad. Yes he does say things that make himself look bad, but the news basically adds all this negative commentary. You can find so many people to back up your own points and pick and choose what parts support their conclusions. It will emphasize, over dramatize and blow up all the bad parts to trump and then portray all the good things about Biden or the democratic side. How is that not bias? it impartial and unfair.
If Trump ends up losing, and Biden ends up winning this election, I'm pretty darn sure it has to do with the media coverage. I get that Trump doesn't have a great personality, but the news seriously does everything they can to make him look like a horrible president, when in fact he's done so much good. The news has a lot of influence. and people don't realize how misleading and corrupt it can be. Two news channels can have very different stories, and sometimes it's so subtle, it's extremely manipulative.
I guess i grew up trusting the news and didn't really question what I heard. Why question something if it's on the news? If you don't question it, you play right into believing whatever they're selling. Sometimes it's so subtle and you really can't notice it unless you see how they're only showing you what they want you to think. If i were to show you the worst scene of a movie, you will base your opinion off just a short clip and out of context.
If I tell you Goldilocks is a kind, sweet and innocent protagonist and that the family of ferocious mean bears are the bad guys, you're gonna believe how the story is being told. If you think about it, this is how people literally get you to join a cult or false religion. "We're the good guys, trust us because everyone else is bad." The news constantly paints the right as the dark side, with donald trump as darth vader, as if he's a villain. Then they find only sources and statistics that back up their narrative. And people buy it without question. It's very misleading, corrupt and controlling.
I legit think I was brainwashed by all the mainstream news. 90% of the news about trump is generally negative. The whole impeachment investigation and Russian collusion story was on the news everyday. Even if he wasn't guilty, they painted him as if he was. It's like accusing someone innocent of murder. You'll think, oh he's accused, so he must be guilty, even without the proper evidence. If he really was guilty, then months of intelligence should be able to give something concrete, but they couldn't.
I really had to turn off the narratives of the news and really consider and think for myself why I even considered myself a democrat. It was because of all the manipulation I was fed to believe my entire life. I feel like i was indoctrinated and programmed to believe what the news and my dad told me to think. When you look at the fundamental beliefs of conservatives vs liberals, it just became clear to me that I was wearing the wrong jersey and on the wrong team for a long time.
So in Hawaii there's two main candidates for mayor. Rick Blangiardi and Keith Amemiya. Both have no experience being a politician. Rick Blangiardi is a republican and Keith Amemiya is a Democrat. Even though it's a non partisan position. Anyways, Amemiya has this commercial and it shows Rick Blangiardi saying, "I voted for Trump." And they use this as a way to try and smear or slader Rick Blangiardi. Like the fact that he voted for trump some how makes him less of a candidate? It grinds my gears how twisted it is.
The democratic side supposedly advocates that their side is the tolerant and inclusive side that doesn't want division. Yet they bash, slander and insult anyone who has an opposing political view.. It's the liberals that are cutting off conservatives as friends/ family. It's fine to disagree, it's not ok to disrespect and personally insult.
I liked John McCain, he stood for Christian principles. But my dad told me he's a republican, and that Obama was better. So apparently I wasn't supposed to support someone from that side.
Over human governments and kings, there is a higher form of government called theocracy. It's a government ruled by God. Separation of church and state was the church's idea because they don't want the government stepping in to tell them what they can or cannot say or do as if human government had higher authority over God's kingdom rule.
Conservatives want to conserve the founding values and traditional Christian principles that the early Christian patriot fathers established. Now days, liberals and the left want an anything goes type of postmodernism.
I honestly don't think people really know what each political party or representative really stand for. There's not enough education on it to inform people what they're really voting for. I bet there's so many people who don't really get all the facts, hear one or two things that they latch onto, or base their view primarily on what's presented on the news, (especially if they're too young, they probably don't really care or understand too much, and because it doesn't seem to directly concern them.) It's a combination of being misled, absorbing the opinions of others, and a lot of ignorance.
I guess i grew up trusting the news and didn't really question what I heard. Why question something if it's on the news? If you don't question it, you play right into believing whatever they're selling. Sometimes it's so subtle and you really can't notice it unless you see how they're only showing you what they want you to think. If i were to show you the worst scene of a movie, you will base your opinion off just a short clip and out of context.
If I tell you Goldilocks is a kind, sweet and innocent protagonist and that the family of ferocious mean bears are the bad guys, you're gonna believe how the story is being told. If you think about it, this is how people literally get you to join a cult or false religion. "We're the good guys, trust us because everyone else is bad." The news constantly paints the right as the dark side, with donald trump as darth vader, as if he's a villain. Then they find only sources and statistics that back up their narrative. And people buy it without question. It's very misleading, corrupt and controlling.
I legit think I was brainwashed by all the mainstream news. 90% of the news about trump is generally negative. The whole impeachment investigation and Russian collusion story was on the news everyday. Even if he wasn't guilty, they painted him as if he was. It's like accusing someone innocent of murder. You'll think, oh he's accused, so he must be guilty, even without the proper evidence. If he really was guilty, then months of intelligence should be able to give something concrete, but they couldn't.
I really had to turn off the narratives of the news and really consider and think for myself why I even considered myself a democrat. It was because of all the manipulation I was fed to believe my entire life. I feel like i was indoctrinated and programmed to believe what the news and my dad told me to think. When you look at the fundamental beliefs of conservatives vs liberals, it just became clear to me that I was wearing the wrong jersey and on the wrong team for a long time.
So in Hawaii there's two main candidates for mayor. Rick Blangiardi and Keith Amemiya. Both have no experience being a politician. Rick Blangiardi is a republican and Keith Amemiya is a Democrat. Even though it's a non partisan position. Anyways, Amemiya has this commercial and it shows Rick Blangiardi saying, "I voted for Trump." And they use this as a way to try and smear or slader Rick Blangiardi. Like the fact that he voted for trump some how makes him less of a candidate? It grinds my gears how twisted it is.
The democratic side supposedly advocates that their side is the tolerant and inclusive side that doesn't want division. Yet they bash, slander and insult anyone who has an opposing political view.. It's the liberals that are cutting off conservatives as friends/ family. It's fine to disagree, it's not ok to disrespect and personally insult.
I liked John McCain, he stood for Christian principles. But my dad told me he's a republican, and that Obama was better. So apparently I wasn't supposed to support someone from that side.
Over human governments and kings, there is a higher form of government called theocracy. It's a government ruled by God. Separation of church and state was the church's idea because they don't want the government stepping in to tell them what they can or cannot say or do as if human government had higher authority over God's kingdom rule.
Conservatives want to conserve the founding values and traditional Christian principles that the early Christian patriot fathers established. Now days, liberals and the left want an anything goes type of postmodernism.
I honestly don't think people really know what each political party or representative really stand for. There's not enough education on it to inform people what they're really voting for. I bet there's so many people who don't really get all the facts, hear one or two things that they latch onto, or base their view primarily on what's presented on the news, (especially if they're too young, they probably don't really care or understand too much, and because it doesn't seem to directly concern them.) It's a combination of being misled, absorbing the opinions of others, and a lot of ignorance.
Politics is not always so black or white. There's pros and cons to each side and to each politician. No one should be considered completely all good or all bad. One or two points for or against someone does not justify that they're all good or all bad. If you're in the spotlight you're gonna face criticism, and you wont be able to please everyone. Doesn't matter who you are, people are gonna try to tear you down and say very negative things.
In order to really articulate, form opinions and understand politics, you must seek to understand all sides. One must be able to see both sides of a coin to have full understanding. There is both good and bad points on both sides. Most people who do not understand politics have very simplified approaches and understanding. It is actually very complex and extensive to make sure you have the correct facts and information. What are the opposing arguments, can you argue the other side even if you don't agree with it? Even though I largely agree with the republican party, they are not perfect either. and to be fair the democrat party has also done good things as well.
Sure there's things I don't like about Trump's personality and there are things I do like about Joe Biden's personality. But we're not really voting for who has a better personality. We're voting for a worldview, and for someone who will actually get things done to make positive changes. It's not about who's nicer, or who's more charismatic, but who will address the issues in a better way. It's really what they stand for, and what their plans or agenda are for the people and our country. Not necessarily what they say, but what they do and stand for.
In order to really articulate, form opinions and understand politics, you must seek to understand all sides. One must be able to see both sides of a coin to have full understanding. There is both good and bad points on both sides. Most people who do not understand politics have very simplified approaches and understanding. It is actually very complex and extensive to make sure you have the correct facts and information. What are the opposing arguments, can you argue the other side even if you don't agree with it? Even though I largely agree with the republican party, they are not perfect either. and to be fair the democrat party has also done good things as well.
Sure there's things I don't like about Trump's personality and there are things I do like about Joe Biden's personality. But we're not really voting for who has a better personality. We're voting for a worldview, and for someone who will actually get things done to make positive changes. It's not about who's nicer, or who's more charismatic, but who will address the issues in a better way. It's really what they stand for, and what their plans or agenda are for the people and our country. Not necessarily what they say, but what they do and stand for.
I don't always agree with everything trump says or does, his ego does get in the way at times, but I find that there is more good things and certain policies that I do agree with to support him over Biden. Big government just seems to want to control everything and have their hand in everything. I'm sure the roots of the democratic party started with good intentions, but now I feel like they've twisted things for their own agendas. I'm not sure if this is true, but i heard under Biden's administration, other people would be pulling the strings behind the scenes, and that there could be a mandatory vaccination for covid. which I know many people are very skeptical to trust a vaccine. Very controversial.
Trump was at times rude and kept interrupting Biden. Biden did get rattled and showed that he wasn't strong enough to lead and communicate clearly what his stances were. I don't like name calling in political debates. Just because someone thinks or believes something different, you shouldn't name call.
I honestly think Trump communicated his points well. And often there was nothing Biden could say to refute them. I would even say Trump won the debate, even tho he over interpreted. To an extent, im sure people wish he was a little more tamed. Democrats are definitely going to use his personality as their ammunition. But there's something about someone who is able to brawl and strongly stick to his stances. Open discussion at times made the debate feel messy with everyone talking at once.
He didn't clearly denounce white supremacist which I didn't agree with. He said he was willing to condemn white supremacist and militia groups, but could of made that more clear. But his point was that it was left wing antifa rioters causing the violence and not the Proud Boys on the right. Biden was also careful not to say things that would lose his far left supporters. The democrats haven't condemned the rioting because it funds and supports their party. My point is that there are things I agree and disagree with. If something is wrong or unjust, but you get political gain by not being against it, that's just messed up.
Black lives do matter, but it's causing more division, violence, conflict, and hatred. Historically yes, the black community has gone through prejudice. Yes racism will always exist in individuals. There's nothing wrong with peaceful protesting that the police needs to weed out bad cops and that there be justice. But it goes too far when minorities somehow feel like they are being victimized, when in fact they have equal opportunity.
Biden talked about his environmental plans, which really sounds like just a waste of money and wouldn't really help. People make it like conservatives don't care about the environment. They do want clean air, water, new forms of energy and care about nature, etc. They just disagree with how the democrats are going about environmentalism or how they're trying to stop global warming. 100 trillion dollars for new batteries and environmental buildings doesn't seem smart. I think it comes down to really knowing the facts and setting up preventative measures to be prepared against natural disasters, and invest in that technology. A lot just has to do with misinformation and not really understanding what the facts are. I'm not against environmental things, but i don't like how people hide behind that to give the democrats all the money they need to do whatever they want with it. People like a "good cause." but is the democrats approach really that beneficial? Shouldn't the resources be better used for more pressing issues of our country?
In politics, it really does come down to knowing the facts. And then we must question, what source are we getting facts from? Are they reliable? Because now days there's just so much noise and conflicting views and information.
I then had three conversations. My dad and two friends, all who support the democratic party. Unpleasant and confrontational debate at times, yet it just made me stand firmer in what I do believe is right. And if you know me, i don't like conflict, yet, I will stand for my faith and what I believe is true.
I talked to my dad about the debate. He's more of a centrist, but leans towards the moderate democratic side. We've been having an ongoing discussion. It's obviously a controversial topic. And he's probably the last person I'd want to debate against, since he absorbs all information regarding politics, and he's extremely intelligent with knowing all the details. He countered some of my arguments with valid points. He is much more educated in the topic and is an expert in the subject. He's read the entire muller report which is 400+ pages. However, just because one knows more, or is more educated in the topic, does not mean their opinions are more right or correct than yours.
He compared the debate to past presidential debates and is strongly against the President. He said it was an embarrassment for our country and is very divisive. I feel like he didn't really understand what I was saying and put some words in my mouth. But i appreciate that when he did understand my views at least he respected that I had fair and valid points. Even if someone knows more about politics, it doesn't make you're thoughts, views and worldview wrong. Think for yourself but respect that others will not always agree with you.
I challenged him to recognize that there were lots of good things Trump has done. I know that he's so political and smart that he could see both sides. He's kind of a guy who could argue against himself.
Some of the good things Trump has done was making Jerusalem the capital of Israel, defeating ISIS terrorism, killing Qasem Soleimani, the better economy, his deals with China, breaking the deals with Iran, (under obama we funded middle eastern countries that are basically enemies), dismantling child sex trafficking rings, lower taxes, the strengthening of our boarder and immigration laws, appointing judges, and supporting Christian churches. What really convinced me, was not judging him on how he talks and acts, but looking at what he's done. Like some of these issues i'm breezing over are really no small feat. It's actually quite impressive that he's able to do so much good.
I think with so much backlash against him from the start, I think he really wanted to prove that he could do the job well.
Trump also condemns BLM as he should (the organization and not the motto), wanting law and order, strengthening national security, and being pro police, pro military. Biden said he's not against defunding the police. How the heck is that gon do any good. Sure there are bad apples in the police force that need to be weeded out, but by and large, law and order's purpose is protect us. If crimes are gonna go unchecked, then I can imagine how violence would only increase. It's why Trump questioned Biden "Has any police organization endorsed you?" And "Will you condemn antifa?" With no proper responses.
BLM supports disrupting the traditional family unit. They seem to be causing so much hatred aiming it at trump and his supporters like they were to blame. I watched a video of someone go up to two innocent cops and shoot them in the face and run off. Then protesters began celebrating as if it they took out two "enemies." You just had two humans shot and that's a victory?? Police stations burned down as if that accomplishes good? If you ask me this whole BLM thing has only inflamed more violence and made things worse. Men and women of all races are equal. Don't we all believe that? Everything is gettin blown out of proportion.
What's confusing is that the motto is right, but it needs to be separated from what they really believe. And who are the people really saying that Black lives don't matter? it's media that tries to gaslight and victimize. Ofc racism is bad, and we're all equal. That's a given. But at the BLM roots, the co-founders support Marxism, and want to disrupt the traditional nuclear family system or a husband and wife. They support LGBTQIA+. I don't think it's completely fair to group the riots, looters, anarchist and violent agitators, with the protesters, but it's obviously gotten out of hand. And i have a feeling the election will just cause more violence. People will go as far as making threats against political family members which is messed up.
I think a lot of people are too scared to speak up what they believe. People are afraid of being mistreated because of their views, because it happens often. Political or in regards to Christianity/ Faith. There's a point where one realizes that they no longer need to be a quiet observer, and can share with confidence what they do believe, even if it contradicts the opinions of what others think. There may be a point where in America we may actually be persecuted for such values. I'm not saying come off trying to impose or attack, but to stand up for what you really believe is truth, justice, ethical and moral.
I get why it's sometimes hard to back up the president. It boils down to how cut throat he is. His rough personality, and always arguing. But I like how a guy Charlie Kirk put it, "When you're voting for trump, you're voting for a worldview, hate the guy all you want, but he's guarding western society, guarding against the left, socialist, big government America. Trump is defending America as we know it." Sometimes you want someone more tough who won't give into the schemes and hidden agendas of the left. I never thought I would switch to support Trump. I used to think ppl who supported him were a bit crazy to be honest. It's because I really only saw his personality and not his views.
Now here I am, realizing that even tho I don't necessarily like his demeanor, he is really the only one fighting off what the democrats want, he's protecting conservative views. I think the democratic party had some good presidents in history past, but their party has greatly changed from then till now. Gosh for a guy who says, "I don't consider myself political." I think I've become.
My friend was texting me all sorts of negative things about Trump and how people who follow him are "sheep", "bigots," "uneducated," "trumptards," "stupid," "old granpa" "redneck," "uncle tom," "white supremacist." and "worse then Trump." And a bunch of other rude personal comments and name calling. I was like.. gosh .. what's the point of arguing or debating if we just plain disagree and i'm gonna get attacked unfairly. I believe people should at least be respectful.
Trump was at times rude and kept interrupting Biden. Biden did get rattled and showed that he wasn't strong enough to lead and communicate clearly what his stances were. I don't like name calling in political debates. Just because someone thinks or believes something different, you shouldn't name call.
I honestly think Trump communicated his points well. And often there was nothing Biden could say to refute them. I would even say Trump won the debate, even tho he over interpreted. To an extent, im sure people wish he was a little more tamed. Democrats are definitely going to use his personality as their ammunition. But there's something about someone who is able to brawl and strongly stick to his stances. Open discussion at times made the debate feel messy with everyone talking at once.
He didn't clearly denounce white supremacist which I didn't agree with. He said he was willing to condemn white supremacist and militia groups, but could of made that more clear. But his point was that it was left wing antifa rioters causing the violence and not the Proud Boys on the right. Biden was also careful not to say things that would lose his far left supporters. The democrats haven't condemned the rioting because it funds and supports their party. My point is that there are things I agree and disagree with. If something is wrong or unjust, but you get political gain by not being against it, that's just messed up.
Black lives do matter, but it's causing more division, violence, conflict, and hatred. Historically yes, the black community has gone through prejudice. Yes racism will always exist in individuals. There's nothing wrong with peaceful protesting that the police needs to weed out bad cops and that there be justice. But it goes too far when minorities somehow feel like they are being victimized, when in fact they have equal opportunity.
Biden talked about his environmental plans, which really sounds like just a waste of money and wouldn't really help. People make it like conservatives don't care about the environment. They do want clean air, water, new forms of energy and care about nature, etc. They just disagree with how the democrats are going about environmentalism or how they're trying to stop global warming. 100 trillion dollars for new batteries and environmental buildings doesn't seem smart. I think it comes down to really knowing the facts and setting up preventative measures to be prepared against natural disasters, and invest in that technology. A lot just has to do with misinformation and not really understanding what the facts are. I'm not against environmental things, but i don't like how people hide behind that to give the democrats all the money they need to do whatever they want with it. People like a "good cause." but is the democrats approach really that beneficial? Shouldn't the resources be better used for more pressing issues of our country?
In politics, it really does come down to knowing the facts. And then we must question, what source are we getting facts from? Are they reliable? Because now days there's just so much noise and conflicting views and information.
I then had three conversations. My dad and two friends, all who support the democratic party. Unpleasant and confrontational debate at times, yet it just made me stand firmer in what I do believe is right. And if you know me, i don't like conflict, yet, I will stand for my faith and what I believe is true.
I talked to my dad about the debate. He's more of a centrist, but leans towards the moderate democratic side. We've been having an ongoing discussion. It's obviously a controversial topic. And he's probably the last person I'd want to debate against, since he absorbs all information regarding politics, and he's extremely intelligent with knowing all the details. He countered some of my arguments with valid points. He is much more educated in the topic and is an expert in the subject. He's read the entire muller report which is 400+ pages. However, just because one knows more, or is more educated in the topic, does not mean their opinions are more right or correct than yours.
He compared the debate to past presidential debates and is strongly against the President. He said it was an embarrassment for our country and is very divisive. I feel like he didn't really understand what I was saying and put some words in my mouth. But i appreciate that when he did understand my views at least he respected that I had fair and valid points. Even if someone knows more about politics, it doesn't make you're thoughts, views and worldview wrong. Think for yourself but respect that others will not always agree with you.
I challenged him to recognize that there were lots of good things Trump has done. I know that he's so political and smart that he could see both sides. He's kind of a guy who could argue against himself.
Some of the good things Trump has done was making Jerusalem the capital of Israel, defeating ISIS terrorism, killing Qasem Soleimani, the better economy, his deals with China, breaking the deals with Iran, (under obama we funded middle eastern countries that are basically enemies), dismantling child sex trafficking rings, lower taxes, the strengthening of our boarder and immigration laws, appointing judges, and supporting Christian churches. What really convinced me, was not judging him on how he talks and acts, but looking at what he's done. Like some of these issues i'm breezing over are really no small feat. It's actually quite impressive that he's able to do so much good.
I think with so much backlash against him from the start, I think he really wanted to prove that he could do the job well.
Trump also condemns BLM as he should (the organization and not the motto), wanting law and order, strengthening national security, and being pro police, pro military. Biden said he's not against defunding the police. How the heck is that gon do any good. Sure there are bad apples in the police force that need to be weeded out, but by and large, law and order's purpose is protect us. If crimes are gonna go unchecked, then I can imagine how violence would only increase. It's why Trump questioned Biden "Has any police organization endorsed you?" And "Will you condemn antifa?" With no proper responses.
BLM supports disrupting the traditional family unit. They seem to be causing so much hatred aiming it at trump and his supporters like they were to blame. I watched a video of someone go up to two innocent cops and shoot them in the face and run off. Then protesters began celebrating as if it they took out two "enemies." You just had two humans shot and that's a victory?? Police stations burned down as if that accomplishes good? If you ask me this whole BLM thing has only inflamed more violence and made things worse. Men and women of all races are equal. Don't we all believe that? Everything is gettin blown out of proportion.
What's confusing is that the motto is right, but it needs to be separated from what they really believe. And who are the people really saying that Black lives don't matter? it's media that tries to gaslight and victimize. Ofc racism is bad, and we're all equal. That's a given. But at the BLM roots, the co-founders support Marxism, and want to disrupt the traditional nuclear family system or a husband and wife. They support LGBTQIA+. I don't think it's completely fair to group the riots, looters, anarchist and violent agitators, with the protesters, but it's obviously gotten out of hand. And i have a feeling the election will just cause more violence. People will go as far as making threats against political family members which is messed up.
I think a lot of people are too scared to speak up what they believe. People are afraid of being mistreated because of their views, because it happens often. Political or in regards to Christianity/ Faith. There's a point where one realizes that they no longer need to be a quiet observer, and can share with confidence what they do believe, even if it contradicts the opinions of what others think. There may be a point where in America we may actually be persecuted for such values. I'm not saying come off trying to impose or attack, but to stand up for what you really believe is truth, justice, ethical and moral.
I get why it's sometimes hard to back up the president. It boils down to how cut throat he is. His rough personality, and always arguing. But I like how a guy Charlie Kirk put it, "When you're voting for trump, you're voting for a worldview, hate the guy all you want, but he's guarding western society, guarding against the left, socialist, big government America. Trump is defending America as we know it." Sometimes you want someone more tough who won't give into the schemes and hidden agendas of the left. I never thought I would switch to support Trump. I used to think ppl who supported him were a bit crazy to be honest. It's because I really only saw his personality and not his views.
Now here I am, realizing that even tho I don't necessarily like his demeanor, he is really the only one fighting off what the democrats want, he's protecting conservative views. I think the democratic party had some good presidents in history past, but their party has greatly changed from then till now. Gosh for a guy who says, "I don't consider myself political." I think I've become.
My friend was texting me all sorts of negative things about Trump and how people who follow him are "sheep", "bigots," "uneducated," "trumptards," "stupid," "old granpa" "redneck," "uncle tom," "white supremacist." and "worse then Trump." And a bunch of other rude personal comments and name calling. I was like.. gosh .. what's the point of arguing or debating if we just plain disagree and i'm gonna get attacked unfairly. I believe people should at least be respectful.
How can the democratic side that is supposedly against prejudice, basically hate trump and anyone who supports him. Who's really hating?
I have people literally telling me that they fully believe Trump is the Anti-Christ. I'm like.. gosh.. I push back, but at a certain point, sometimes you just have to let people believe whatever they want to, and just save yourself the time + energy.
I do have one republican friend. I didn't understand why he liked Trump for many years. I just didn't get it. I asked him "Do you still support Trump?" He said, "Yeah even more so." Lately, we've agreed on every issue. I only saw what was on the news, and didn't pay attention to the actual policies. This again really made all the difference. In a way, I think we often judge a book by it's cover. We need to really investigate and analyze all the supporting arguments. I'm not saying we need to agree with everything, but it really helps to gather a stronger sense of understanding of all the various issues for debate.
I have people literally telling me that they fully believe Trump is the Anti-Christ. I'm like.. gosh.. I push back, but at a certain point, sometimes you just have to let people believe whatever they want to, and just save yourself the time + energy.
I do have one republican friend. I didn't understand why he liked Trump for many years. I just didn't get it. I asked him "Do you still support Trump?" He said, "Yeah even more so." Lately, we've agreed on every issue. I only saw what was on the news, and didn't pay attention to the actual policies. This again really made all the difference. In a way, I think we often judge a book by it's cover. We need to really investigate and analyze all the supporting arguments. I'm not saying we need to agree with everything, but it really helps to gather a stronger sense of understanding of all the various issues for debate.
I then had another conversation / argument debate with another democratic friend. As much as I don't like arguing, I felt passionate to defend my stances. My friend had points that I agreed with. Like I said before there's pros and cons. But when it comes to same sex marriage, LGBTQ stuff and abortion. To me it goes beyond just politics. The Bible is very clear on those topics. People try to distort or give some excuse, a story or all different ways of trying to minimize sin. He said, why are you so "hung up" on those. As if they were things that didn't matter. He said they would exist either way. And i said, doesn't mean we should support it.
There are thousands of babies dying every day due to abortion. hundred of thousands every year. To not stand against something immoral that stands in opposition to God is basically saying it's okay for evil to prevail. If you love children.. you should hate and be against abortion. I don't get why so many people keep trying to justify, "oh I can just do whatever I want, and no one can tell me it's wrong." I'm like.. yeah if you don't believe in God, then there really are no such things as absolute morals or good or evil. The real reason he wasn't condemning abortion was because it was something that hit too close to home and he had rationalized that it's in some cases the right option. Which I don't think it ever is.
My friend is a good Christian brother, but he said some things that really made me upset today. He questioned, "Do you really believe in Jesus? Do you really love God? Do you spend time reading his word and in prayer and prioritize Him? You can't be a Christian if you support trump." To be honest I think it's the opposite way around and if you're Christian you cannot support the liberal side.
But yeah, i got pretty offended. I was like whoa.. first off, he don't know my personal spiritual life. I thought he knew me better. I guess he just came off sounding really judgmental or looking down on me. To have someone question your allegiance, and faith was like a slap in the face. I was like what the heck? He knows i'm devoted to my faith in Jesus. He knows I try to represent Christianity the best I can. I didn't get where all this was coming from.
Why accuse someone of not really believing or living for God? Especially if you know they're Christian? Why come off so sharp? I found that very offensive, and a bit shocking. It reminded me of how the Pharisees would think they were more religious and holier than other people. To me that is not how Christians should approach the gospel. And I can understand why many people get turned off from how certain Christians act.
My friend said, I think you're only thinking about law and sin and are forgetting the first two commandments. I'm like.. what the heck. Everyone sins. Sin is sin. I'm not saying i don't sin. But it's clear that gay relationships, LGBTQIA+ and abortion are sin to me, so I see absolutely no good reason to support those things. Why support a party that says it's perfectly ok, when the Bible calls it an abomination and immoral? Yes they added more letters to the accronym. Lesbian, Gay, Bisexual, Transgender, Queer, Intersex, Asexuality, + refers to all other sexualities and genders not included. Churches and myself are accepting and loving of all people, but we must be clear that these homosexuality immoralities are considered sin. We all sin, and it should point everyone to the need for God's grace and work of the Holy Spirit towards repentence and regeneration.
For Christians to not condemn homosexuality as a sin would be an injustice. In our generation and culture, everyone just wants to have a license to do whatever they want. If someone wanted to marry their family members and their pets, and 10 children, should they be allowed to just because they love each other? Marriage is meant to be between one woman and one man. But in a way, I don't think Christians can expect secular non-believers to uphold and honor God's ways because they simply do not know him.
I don't get how even Christians are defending LGBTQIA+ and abortion. They get offended by saying the Bible considers these things sin. I just don't get it. Where does this thinking come from? Oh so they have a few gay friends. Oh well that must mean homosexuality is perfectly ok then.
I honestly don't get how people can support abortion. it wasn't something that I was passionate about in the past, but the more I think about it, it like enrages me to my core that we have a world of injustice that allows such a disturbing procedure. Like it legit pisses me off. oh so you don't think adoption is a good option, or raising a child would be too difficult because that means you'll have to work more to provide? and so abortion is just the convenient option? seriously.. wth. Oh they might grow up not having a good life? Least they get to grow up. You don't know how their life will be. Kids are hard work, i get it. But you sacrifice whatever it takes for family, not just have them disposed. It honestly just does not make any sense to me. To me abortion is the equivalent of killing 5 year old child.
When i look at a young child.. sometimes i think, wow someone with bad judgement and decision making could have prevented this child from ever existing. By killing a child and saying it's legal and a right disgusts me. Every two seconds or every heartbeat u have, a child is aborted around the world. 1 in 5 babies are aborted. Abortions due to rape or incest is less than 1%. The numbers of how many abortions happen is literally heartbreaking.
Women say it's their body. But when life starts, who gives the right to kill a child? I think if people were more informed, they'd be broken over how sick our world has become. If people saw what was really happening, they'd be enraged. Child sex trafficking isn't so much a political issue, but it's also up there with being something disturbing that isn't being exposed enough as a world evil. I get why people are passionate about politics now. It's because there's so much injustice and not enough being said or done. I'm sick of people talking, and wish more was being done to make things better.
I don't like it when 1) people think they know everything. 2) Think they know what you believe and why, when they really misunderstand you.. people cut u off already thinking they know everything you're about to say or think 3) Make it personal with name calling and start raising their voices, have so much attitude and are disrespectful, and try to be superior trying to make you seem less than or have inferior beliefs 4) judge hypocritically, incorrectly or self-righteously 5) are just closed minded to their confirmation bias, only accepting what supports their beliefs. People only believe that the democratic side is the "good" side and republicans are only for the rich class and big cooperation because that's what they've been fed. There's so much over simplification.
Everyone is entitled to their own opinion and set of beliefs. If someone wants to drink pepsi over coke, that's fine with me. I used to like pepsi more at one time. But there's no point in wasting time arguing.. And if someone ain't gonna be respectful, then just walk away and agree to disagree. I'm not one to force anyone to drink coke. But ain't no body gonna tell me I have to subscribe to pepsi if i don't agree with it. And if someone's gonna call me a stupid idiot for drinking coke over pepsi, then i'ma defend coke a cola, especially vanilla coke, and cherry coke zero, because it's straight up delicious. And pepsi should not be saying abortion is a legal right. it's not ok. I don't tolerate anyone insulting me for what I believe..
If you believe your morals, values + views are reasonable whether it be in faith or politics, then stand firm, and be strong in confidence and communicate in respect why you believe what you believe. If you don't know, simply investigate, and look at it from all angles.
>>> My recomended playlist of videos on politics
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlWGe3qgcF7wDLj7Ropzt3O_UvNGNYIoV
https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLlWGe3qgcF7wDLj7Ropzt3O_UvNGNYIoV
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