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SHRINES OF EGO

Posted by Tim Bryce on March 3, 2020

BRYCE ON RELIGION

– Why are we building huge structures?

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Is bigger really better? Let me give you a scenario: a small church is started whereby the congregation and clergy tend to their faith and enjoy spiritual harmony. Inevitably, someone suggests constructing a bigger building to encourage membership. A mortgage is secured from a bank, construction begins, and indeed membership starts to grow. So much so, new facilities are added and modifications are made to the building until it becomes a landmark of the community. This, of course, forces the church to become more financially motivated to sustain their operations and recruiting campaigns are initiated to bring in more members. Suddenly, members begin to realize they are more consumed with the business of the church as opposed to practicing their faith, and membership begins to decline.

Feeling the effects of a financial squeeze, the church asks for more offerings from the congregation, which helps for a while, but membership continues to decline. Inevitably, the church can no longer sustain their operation and are forced to sell the property and move into more humble facilities.

Sound familiar? This scenario is played out every day not only in a multitude of churches and temples, but in fraternal organizations, nonprofit groups, and in small companies. The yearn to grow beyond their means is simply irresistible to some people. The problem is people tend to lose sight of their product, which, in the church’s case, is the spiritual well-being of the congregation. Any time you forget your mission, your product, you are inviting disaster.

So, is bigger truly better? Not necessarily. What we are seeing is a form of the Peter Principle whereby we grow our organizations beyond our level of competency to control. Personally, I tend to believe we build these huge edifices more for ego than for practicality. This puts us in a position of financially chasing our tail and losing sight of our original purpose. Next time someone suggests building something on a grand scale, instead of just asking, “What will it cost us?”, how about “Who is it going to really serve?”

Understand this, a week doesn’t go by where an ornate church or Masonic lodge isn’t put up for sale or demolished. If you find your leaders are more consumed about finances as opposed to the organization’s mission, the end is near.

Keep the Faith!

P.S. – Also do not forget my books, “How to Run a Nonprofit” and “Tim’s Senior Moments”, both available in Printed and eBook form.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is an author, freelance writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb1557@gmail.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

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Copyright © 2020 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

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GOD HAS A SENSE OF HUMOR

Posted by Tim Bryce on October 8, 2019

BRYCE ON LIFE

– Now there is proof of it.

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I am now convinced God possesses a sense of humor. Proof can be described in one word: toenails.

When you are young and very limber, cutting your toenails is not a big deal. Snip, snip, snip… and it is all over in a scant few seconds. However, as we get older and our joints stiffen, it becomes an arduous task to clip them. In fact, it is downright comical how we try to get down to our toes to perform the task. I cannot help but believe God laughs his ass off watching the contortions we put ourselves through to clip something as simple as toenails. It’s a riot. This explains why nail salons make a ton of money on pedicures as nobody wants to do it anymore.

Toenails also evolve over time into something that can look rather gnarly. We thereby become embarrassed to show our feet to others, including pedicurists who gasp at the sight of some of them. It can be rather nasty. Some require a few coats of Sherwin-Williams to make them look half palatable for human sight. Again, I can hear God chuckling over all this.

There are other things which must amuse Him as well, such as ear and nose hairs. I think He invented a mechanism whereby the more hair we lose from our head goes directly to our ears and nose. Then there is the problem of women who grow mustaches which embarrasses them to no end. Actually, I think this one is rather mean spirited.

The one that amazes me though is how the Lord consolidated our reproductive organs with our plumbing system. I think God was having a bad day when he came up with this one. No engineer in his right mind would combine the pleasure center with the sewer system. I think this one had Him in convulsions.

Then He made it so we either can or cannot urinate on a regular basis. It seems men cannot turn it on and women cannot turn it off, or vice versa, with neither being in sync. Feet then become swollen and other problems ensue.

There are many other little nuances in life He has created which seems rather ridiculous, such as nervous perspiration, sunburns, mucous, ear wax, an irritable itch here and there, pains and sprains, gas, and of course hemorrhoids.

Yes, God indeed has a sense of humor.

Keep the Faith!

P.S. – Also do not forget my new books, “How to Run a Nonprofit” and “Tim’s Senior Moments”, both available in Printed and eBook form.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb1557@gmail.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2019 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

Posted in humor, Life, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 3 Comments »

WHY ARE DEMOCRATS ABANDONING RELIGION?

Posted by Tim Bryce on April 30, 2019

BRYCE ON POLITICS & RELIGION

– Membership in organized religion continues to plummet.

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Gallup recently released an interesting report discussing the erosion of attendance and membership in organized religion. They claim membership in churches, synagogues, and mosques has reached a new low, 50%. From 1938 to 1999, membership averaged 70%, but since then it has steadily declined to its current level. This helps explain why so many institutions are suffering financially and being forced to make dramatic changes, such as selling their building, terminating leaders and staff, mergers and consolidations, etc. Interestingly, the same can be said for other nonprofits, such as fraternal, civic, trade groups, and amateur sports institutions. Most, if not all, are experiencing a decline.

The downsizing of membership in organized religion is interesting as there are political ramifications in play. According to the Gallup report, Republicans show a modest decline in terms of membership, dropping from 77% to 69%. However, Democrats showed a more dramatic decline, going from 71% to 48%.

Why the significant drop in membership? Some people theorize religion has become synonymous with the Republican party and, as such, do not want to be associated with such values. I believe it goes well beyond this though. As the Democrats have become more radically liberal, thereby embracing Socialism, there is a natural inclination to avoid religion and abandon God. This explains why moderate Democrats are leaving the party and are either voting independently or switching over to the Republican party as they do not want to see their religion ridiculed by the far Left. Let us not forget, there have been efforts in the last few Democrat conventions to eliminate “God” from the wording of the party platform.

In particular, Christianity has been in the cross-hairs of radical Democrats for a long time, and still is to this day. To illustrate, the San Antonio City Council, controlled by Democrats, recently banned the popular Chick-fil-A restaurant from opening a new store in the city’s airport. Although the company was originally included in the plans, they were forced out apparently for their charitable donations to Christian groups who allegedly are anti-LGBTQ. According to a USA Today report, San Antonio Councilman Manny Pelaez (D) even went so far as to “lambaste, denigrate, and openly mock the otherwise upstanding corporate citizen of Chick-fil-A.” Further, “He described Chick-fil-A as a ‘symbol of hate’ because it has donated to religious charities that he considered to oppose LGBTQ rights.” All of this has resulted in a request for an investigation into the City Council’s decision based on religious discrimination.

As another instance, former President Barack Obama and Sec. Hillary Clinton, recently commented on the bomb attacks in Sri Lanka on Easter Sunday, by referring to the victims as “Easter worshippers” and not “Christians.” The snub was subtle, but significant in that it reflects the attitude by the Democrats to disrespect Christianity.

In a related story, it was recently announced the New York Yankees and Philadelphia Flyers will no longer play Kate Smith’s rendition of the Irving Berlin classic, “God Bless America,” a time-honored patriotic song, claiming Smith was a racist. Please remember Kate Smith was the woman President Franklin Delano Roosevelt (a Democrat) introduced to Winston Churchill years ago as “Mrs. America.” Smith was also the recipient of the Presidential Medal of Freedom for her singing during World War II. In other words, something smells fishy here; is it the singer or the song on trial here? I suspect the latter.

It is perfectly obvious the Democrats are rebelling against the 4-C’s of Republicanism:

Christianity – Not only are they abandoning church, they are working to subvert it because of the moral values involved. The truth is, they are jealous of Christians in terms of what they have accomplished through their work ethic and benevolence.

Capitalism – They are trying to replace it with Socialism in order to expand government control and create dependencies (aka, “Master/Slave” relationship). Democrats have abandoned the concept of “earning a living,” preferring entitlements instead.

Constitution – They have made numerous attempts to undermine our governing document as it is perceived as an antiquated encumbrance against the Democrat agenda. This is why they wish to eliminate the Electoral College, change the makeup of the Supreme Court, implement gun control, and other changes to our Bill of Rights.

Conservative values – These are values developed over the country’s history and includes such things as love of country (patriotism), citizenship, reverence for family, belief in deity, being a good neighbor, lending a helping hand, etc. Instead, the Democrats have developed a set of moral values diametrically opposed to conservatives in an attempt to redefine history, government, freedoms and rights. According to Gallop polls in 2017 and 2018, liberal positions have led to a sharp decline in morality in the country as we know it today. This is greatly assisted by the entertainment and news media who no longer feel restrained from promoting liberal values and demeaning those of conservatives.

So, in terms of organized religion, the Democrats are rapidly becoming the anti-God party as it doesn’t fit in with their political agenda. Whereas the United States used to be considered one of the most religious countries in the world, it’s ranking has slipped due to the departure of the Democrats. Again, this will likely cause our sense of morality to continue to stumble and fall.

The refutation of the 4-C’s represents a rejection of the traditional values of the country. It ultimately represents a radical re-definition and implementation of America, one where liberty is steadfastly controlled by government. Yes, it is all about “control.”

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb1557@gmail.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2019 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

Posted in Politics, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 12 Comments »

BRYCE TAKES ON JESUS

Posted by Tim Bryce on January 24, 2019

BRYCE ON RELIGION

– I believe.

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As many of you know, I have written on a wide variety of subjects over the years, everything from management and technology, to history, politics and life in general. Some of it is instructional, some political, some humorous, and others are simply observations of life. I have also written considerably on morality over the years, but little on organized religion, least of all Jesus Christ. I find people today are hesitant to discuss Jesus, and Christianity in general, as it has become politically incorrect to do so. There are a lot of Christians who tend to treat their religion very privately, and resist discussing it publicly. I wish to change this by stating my own beliefs.

First, let me openly say, I believe in Jesus and consider myself a proud Christian. I am familiar with many passages in the Bible, but I cannot say I have read it cover-to-cover. Yet, I remember the lessons I learned in church and various readings over the years. Do I believe Jesus existed? Yes, of course, there is certainly a lot of evidence to indicate his existence. Was he the son of God? Actually, I believe we’re all the sons and daughters of God. The biggest difference was that Jesus possessed the word of God.

His lessons of love, morality and spirituality are well known and shaped the Christian sense of right and wrong for many centuries. For example, I marvel at the resiliency of the human spirit, our ability to feel empathy and help others, to seek pride in workmanship and be industrious. From this, I have learned to appreciate the wonders of Mother Nature and find its bounty inspiring; everything from the beauty of a lone flower, to crops, to the majesty of wildlife and our physical surroundings. It is all beautiful and humbling to witness. However, it is our ability to think and master complex problems in order to improve the human condition I find particularly rewarding.

As a Christian I am cognizant of the immortal part within us that shall survive the grave and which shall never die. I firmly believe this and see evidence all around us. For example, I remember the gentle humor of my maternal great-grandfather and the gentleness of his wife (my great-grandmother). I learned from my maternal grandmother the necessity of keeping one’s mind sharp and busy, the work ethic of my paternal grandfather and the need to treat others fairly from my other grandmother. I embody these life lessons handed down to me through my family, as well as the many people I have encountered in my journey through life. Through me, their lives live on. I only hope I can competently pass these lessons on to my heirs and acquaintances.

I recognize we are imperfect creatures and susceptible to evil, which must be combated, and that religion has been the cause of death and destruction over the millenniums, such as the Crusades, the Inquisition, and today’s confrontation with Muslim extremists. Such chapters in our history reminds us of our imperfections. Fortunately, Jesus taught us the necessity for atoning for our sins and the power of forgiveness.

Christianity is the world’s largest religious group and can be found around the world. It has touched the lives of literally billions of people and played a substantial role in the development of Western civilization.

The United States would probably never have been founded had it not been for religious persecution. Here, we established a safe haven for people to practice their religion of choice, be it the many Christian religious sects, Judaism, Islam, Buddhism, and many others. Because the early settlers were European, this explains why Christianity played an influential role in our country’s founding and development.

I am truly bewildered as to why Christians are scoffed at today. We have accomplished a lot even though we are certainly not perfect, after all we’re only human, but I suspect Christians are ridiculed as we are perceived as some sort of political and religious threat.

I practice Christianity, others may follow another path, which doesn’t bother me the slightest bit. However, I deeply resent it when people look down their noses at my religion and try to portray it as radical, dangerous, and leads to such things as racism and injustice. I am sorry but I simply refuse to accept it. Such discrepancies lies at the very heart of the teachings of Jesus, to love and accept.

Atheists and agnostics would have us believe religion is meaningless and anyone practicing it is not intelligent to know better. I, for one, am not so naive as to believe that the heaven and Earth were all created by accident. There must be a reason for us to exist. As for me, I like to believe it is to make the world a better place to live and for us to evolve as a species, to seek perfection for the glory of God. I am certainly not ashamed of my religion and am unapologetic for being a Christian.

I am also not so naive to believe that in the immensity of the universe, we are the only beings possessing the gift of life and thought, who must also be experiencing the same travails we are, be it ahead of our development or behind us. The prospect of meeting such beings in the future, to share information and prosperity, is intriguing.

All of this though, begins with a sense of religion, and in the eyes of Christians, the lessons of Jesus Christ. From my perspective, we were given the rare gift of someone to show us the way to grow and develop.

Yes, I believe in Jesus and I see no reason not to publicly declare my devotion, either here in print or in person. Actually, I believe we need more people to do so, and not be afraid of skeptics and political correctness. No, I will not whisper His name or hide my faith as the Jews were forced to hide their religion in Nazi Germany. By not publicly declaring our support for our beliefs, the lessons of Jesus are weakened and face erosion.

As an aside, over the years I have heard many different songs pertaining to Christ, be it Christmas Carols, Gregorian chants, and other songs from popular music. The one I particularly enjoy is “Oh Happy Day” by the Edwin Hawkins Singers. I remember when this first came out in the late 1960’s. I have always found it to be a positive spiritual message confirming our belief in Jesus. It’s just as applicable today as it was back then.

Oh Happy Day!

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb1557@gmail.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2019 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

Posted in Morality, Religion | Tagged: , , , , , | 8 Comments »

FINDING JESUS

Posted by Tim Bryce on October 2, 2018

BRYCE ON LIFE

– He’ll be back after these words…

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I recently had a friend confide in me that he had found Jesus. Frankly, I didn’t know he was missing. Religion is always a touchy subject, but in the Christian world we still find people who have sudden epiphanies about their faith. I think these are the same people who slept through Sunday School years ago and are just now catching up.

Not long ago, I went back for a high school class’ reunion. I hadn’t seen most of the people in quite some time. Those that were jerks in high school were still jerks as grownups. The people who were “wallflowers” in high school actually turned out quite well. However, what I found particularly interesting were the people who were heavy into alcohol and drugs or had promiscuous reputations in high school had all found Jesus. Some wore prominent crosses around their neck and it was kind of awkward trying to talk to them. When you asked them about what they were doing with their lives, they would inevitably tell you how Jesus had saved them. I never did find out anything else about them. I even had one guy quote me chapter and verse on the evils in the world today. I thanked him for his words but said I needed some more ice for my drink.

I guess the secret to finding Jesus is that you must have screwed up pretty bad somewhere along the line and, in desperation, you turn to the Bible where you have your revelation. What I find disconcerting though is that these people now feel they are authorities of the faith and unless you share their zealousness you are perceived as a heretic. I fail to see how those of us that didn’t screw-up, attended church, and practiced our faith accordingly were somehow not on a par with those who just caught on.

I don’t want to be too harsh on my friends who find Jesus though. After all, I would rather have them study the Bible than continue down a road of self-destruction. But guys please remember this, just because you’ve found the faith, doesn’t mean the rest of us have been napping.

First published: May 26, 2008

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2018 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

Posted in Life, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 2 Comments »

ARE WE BECOMING A GODLESS COUNTRY?

Posted by Tim Bryce on July 5, 2017

BRYCE ON GOVERNMENT

– What the “separation of church and state” really means.

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For some reason, Americans believe there is a legal requirement to separate church and state in the US Constitution. It is now commonly believed organized religion has no business in the workings of the state. The reality is, there is no such stipulation whatsoever in the Constitution. There is only a couple of references to religion in our governing documents. The first is in Article 6 of the Constitution whereby “…no religious Test shall ever be required as a Qualification to any Office or public Trust under the United States.” The second reference is in Amendment One of the Bill of Rights whereby, “Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof;…” I cannot speak for the governing documents of the various states and territories, but as far as the Constitution is concerned, that is all there is pertaining to religion.

So where does this presumption of separation come from? Two places: other countries who embrace such a concept, but more importantly in a letter written by Thomas Jefferson in 1802 to Baptists regarding the 1st amendment. Jefferson was president at the time and well known as author of the Declaration of Independence (but not the Constitution; that was Madison). In the letter, Jefferson wrote:

“Believing with you that religion is a matter which lies solely between Man & his God, that he owes account to none other for his faith or his worship, that the legitimate powers of government reach actions only, & not opinions, I contemplate with sovereign reverence that act of the whole American people which declared that their legislature should “make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof”, thus building a wall of separation between Church & State.”

By this letter to the Baptists, Jefferson meant that the United States would not establish a national church. This letter greatly influenced Supreme Court decisions. Keep in mind, Jefferson is speaking on another matter altogether and he is writing as president, not as a justice of the Supreme Court who should rightfully interpret the separation issue. However, for some strange reason, the letter was used to define the separation issue. In Everson vs. Board of Education in 1947, the Supreme Court used a portion of the letter (eight words only) and interpreted it to mean, “The First Amendment has erected ‘a wall of separation between church and state.’ That wall must be kept high and impregnable.” How they came to this conclusion mystifies Constitutional scholars to this day. It is interesting the Supreme Court based its conclusion on an interpretation of a letter, not the Constitution itself.

Based on this Supreme Court decision, atheists and attorneys have used this as a means to drive God out of our country. Today, we hear of football teams prohibited from saying a nondenominational prayer before or after a game, Christmas trees have been banned from schools, students are being suspended for saying “bless you” after hearing someone sneeze, there are movements to remove anything pertaining to God out of government buildings, and there is even an attack on our national motto, “In God we Trust.”

Not long ago we heard about a movement by atheists to remove Gideon Bibles from Navy lodges. These Bibles were provided for the comfort of sailors staying at the lodges. The removal of the Bibles created a furor when it was reported in the press. So much so, the Navy ordered the Gideon Bibles returned back into the lodge rooms.

Make no mistake, Christianity is under attack here, not Judaism, Islam, or even witchcraft, and it appears to be a concerted effort. Some contend it is intended to undermine the country as Christianity played an important role in the founding of America. Whatever the reason, we must beware of such attacks and be prepared to repel them.

If by some chance, our opponents are successful in eradicating God in the federal government, I am one of those who believe all federal employees should work on Christmas Day, particularly postal workers.

Is there really a separation of church and state in the Constitution? No, but it will be necessary to bring a lawsuit to the Supreme Court to overturn their 1947 misinterpretation.

I pray we do not become a Godless country. Without God, the country will fall.

Keep the Faith!

P.S. – Even Sky Masterson read the Gideon Bible, as did Rocky Raccoon.

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 40 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2017 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

Also read Tim’s columns in the THE HUFFINGTON POST

NEXT UP:  ASSUMING RESPONSIBILITY – Why should I pay for somebody else’s mistakes?

LAST TIME:  BECOMING AN EDUCATED VOTER  – How to become conversant in politics and government.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; KIT-AM (1280) in Yakima, Washington “The Morning News” with hosts Dave Ettl & Lance Tormey (weekdays. 6:00-9:00am Pacific). Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube. Click for TIM’S LIBRARY OF AUDIO CLIPS.

 

Posted in Government, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 1 Comment »

A NEW TWIST ON THE EXISTENCE OF GOD

Posted by Tim Bryce on July 15, 2016

BRYCE ON RELIGION

– A popular physicist poses an interesting theory to an old argument.

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Want to start an argument? Simply bring up the subject of either politics or religion. People tend to avoid both subjects as they do not want confrontation. Frankly, I do not believe we talk enough about either topic, particularly religion which explains why it is in decline, as well as our moral values.

While conservatives tend to embrace the concept of a Supreme Deity, Liberals tend to dismiss it out of hand as they claim there is no proof God exists. Interestingly, Michio Kaku, a popular theoretical physicist recently presented a new theory suggesting God indeed exists. Kaku is a respected scientist who is able to simplify complex arguments and present them in terms the public can understand. Not surprising, he is frequently interviewed on television to explain scientific phenomena. Interestingly, most people will remember him for his recent appearance in a TV commercial for TurboTax.

Kaku recently explained his theory in a report produced by the Geophilosophical Association of Anthropological and Cultural Studies. Setting aside the scientific jargon, Kaku summarized his position by saying, “I have concluded that we are in a world made by rules created by an intelligence. Believe me, everything that we call chance today won’t make sense anymore.”

“To me it is clear that we exist in a plan which is governed by rules that were created, shaped by a universal intelligence and not by chance.”

Bottom-line, Kaku is saying there are too many elements in the universe that can be logically explained. So much so, it is unlikely it could have been created by accident, but by some form of intelligence instead.

Those who believe in God always suspected as much, but to have an acclaimed physicist openly discuss this adds legitimacy to the argument of the existence of Deity. However, Kaku’s controversial comments are not without critics who argue his logic. Nonetheless, Kaku has managed to stir the pot in the scientific community and cause them to think.

As for me, I was recently in Western North Carolina spending time fishing with some friends. As we sat on the porch of our cabin watching the sun set, we marveled at the beauty of the mountains, the smell of the air, the animals in the area, and the picturesque canopy of stars overhead. It was simply perfect, or as Kaku would explain, too perfect to be an accident.

For a video of Kaku explaining his ideas, click HERE.

Also published with News Talk Florida.

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2016 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

NEXT UP:  THE CLINTON DIRTY TRICKS DEPARTMENT – What shenanigans will they pull before November?

LAST TIME:  THE 2016 PARTY CONVENTIONS  – A windfall for the press.

Listen to Tim on WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; KIT-AM (1280) in Yakima, Washington “The Morning News” with hosts Dave Ettl & Lance Tormey (weekdays. 6:00-9:00am Pacific); and WWBA-AM (News Talk Florida 820). Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube.

Posted in Religion | Tagged: , , , , , | 2 Comments »

THE JEWISH VOTE

Posted by Tim Bryce on May 27, 2015

BRYCE ON POLITICS

– Are American Jews being taken for granted by the Democratic Party?

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Throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, Jewish American voters gravitated to Democratic causes and candidates. This is probably due to the social programs they support. In the 2008 presidential election, 78% of Jews voted for Barack Obama and 68% in the 2012 elections. Historically, their passion has been liberal programs and support for the Israeli state.

During last year’s Israeli-Gaza Strip conflict though, Jewish voters were not quick to support Israel and tended to align themselves with the Palestinians who, it was believed, suffered the most in the conflict. Hamas was simply no match for the Israeli Army who pummeled the Palestinians for rocket attacks. During the conflict, over 2,200 people were killed, mostly Palestinians during 50 days of violence. Well known Jewish American spokesmen and women were surprisingly mum in terms of their support for the Israelis, whereas Republicans soundly endorsed Israel. This represented a significant twist in support.

Last March, when Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu spoke before a joint session of Congress, Democrats condemned the speech, including Jewish members, claiming it was political in intent, while Republicans supported it. There is little doubt there is a serious rift between Mr. Obama, a Democrat, and Mr. Netanyahu who often expresses conservative values. The relationship is essentially no different than what the President has with the Speaker of the House and the Majority Leader of the Senate.

Whereas the Democratic Party historically embraced the Jewish vote, now it appears the tide is turning. It is no secret the Democrats have embraced minorities, such as Black, Asian, and Latino voters, but there seems to be a growing resentment against the Jews in the party. I’m not sure why, perhaps antisemitism is growing in this country, as in Europe.

To illustrate, I recently received an e-mail from a die-hard Liberal Democrat who made the surprising admission, “I don’t like Jews. They don’t like Arabs or, for that matter, any Muslims and think Christians are wrong. Jews preach and practice hate, killing and destruction. I hate Jews.”

Frankly, I was thunderstruck by the comment. This is a well educated man who practices law, not to mention a Republican basher of the first order. The fact he would openly admit this caught me completely off guard. I had heard such comments emanating from Europe, but this was the first I had heard over here, and from a loyal Democrat no less, thereby causing me to think others in the party feel likewise.

This also leads me to suspect a change is in the offing. If it is true, Republicans are more loyal to Israeli causes, and Jewish bashing is beginning to occur in the Democratic party, is it possible Jewish Americans will abdicate the party they so proudly served for so many years? Maybe the elders of the Jewish community are beginning to re-think their party loyalty.

The comment from my Democrat acquaintance may be an isolated incident, but it was so strong I cannot help but believe others like him support it. Nobody likes being taken for granted, particularly Jewish voters. I cannot help but believe a change is in the offing as we head into the 2016 elections.

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2015 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

NEXT UP:  SHOPPING – A pastime or an obsession?

LAST TIME:  BASEBALL: THE LOVE OF THE GAME  – It is a great game.

Listen to Tim on WJTN-AM (News Talk 1240) “The Town Square” with host John Siggins (Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30-3:00pm Eastern); WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; and KIT-AM 1280 in Yakima, Washington “The Morning News” with hosts Dave Ettl & Lance Tormey (weekdays. 6:00-9:00am Pacific). Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube.

Posted in Politics, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 17 Comments »

THE POWER OF PRAYER

Posted by Tim Bryce on May 18, 2015

BRYCE ON RELIGION

– Does it really work?

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To use this segment in a Radio broadcast or Podcast, send TIM a request.

I have had many friends who have asked for prayers for a loved one, usually someone in sickness and distress, such as someone about to undergo surgery, a failing parent, or a young person fighting an addiction. My Christian and Jewish friends are quick to respond to offer their support, but I do not hear too much from agnostics. On more than one occasion I have heard from the people seeking support adamantly claim, “Prayer works!”

I have always marveled at the power of prayer. I see it as a sign of compassion, hope for the person in trouble as well as the family and friends who made the request. This says a lot about our humanity as a people.

I am not sure if praying for divine intervention actually works but it comforts us to put our faith in a Supreme Being when situations run out of our control. Back when I was about to graduate from college in Ohio, my mother and father visited Sydney, Australia on a business trip. Following one of my father’s sales seminars there, the two of them got into the back seat of a taxi to return to their hotel. A storm was howling that evening, so much so, the cab driver had trouble seeing out the windshield. The streets were slippery and the cab, unfortunately, went out of control, aimed at a telephone poll. The driver leaped out of the cab moments before it crashed into the poll. My father jumped in front of my mother to cover her and drove the front seat under the engine. He was taken to a local hospital with all of his ribs broken and abrasions on his face from the broken windshield. A piece of glass settled next to his eye nearly blinding him.

My mother called my brother with the news who, in turn, called me at school. Here I was, thousands of miles from the hospital, and feeling helpless to do anything. All I could do was turn to prayer.

Fortunately, my father survived the crash. The glass was removed from his face and eye, and his ribs were bandaged. He was eventually sent home but experienced extreme discomfort for months afterwards due to his ribs. The scars slowly disappeared over time. The surgeons evidently did a good job as you could hardly tell he was ever in an accident. Interestingly, when he woke up in the hospital, the nurse tending to him wore an interesting name badge, “Bryce,” and sure enough, she was a relative. Frankly, I looked upon her as his guardian angel, the coincidence was simply too remarkable. This led us to discover a branch of our relatives in Australia who we had lost touch with following the first World War. Nonetheless, I would like to believe my prayers had been answered.

One last footnote about my father’s stay in the hospital; ever the consummate salesman, one of the prospective buyers of our product visited him. From his hospital bed and heavily bandaged, my father gave him a sales presentation. He must have been good since the man signed a contract that afternoon. “Who-da-thunk-it.”

Prayer can be comforting to both the person praying, the victim in question, and the family and friends. However, I have learned we cannot rely on it solely, that we must go beyond prayer if possible, and help a fellow human-being. Sometimes a simple visit with the person can work wonders, or perhaps providing a meal, running an errand, taking them to an appointment, mowing the lawn, or whatever. We used to do this naturally, but I am not sure people remember to be kind to each other anymore.

I surely am not suggesting prayer should be confined to times of crisis. It is also a powerful way of expressing thanks, such as for health, well-being, and the bounties we enjoy. It can also be used as an expression of hope, such as for peace, and the safety of people and our country.

Those who do not believe in the power of prayer are typically quick to cite the “separation of church and state” (something which is NOT described in the U.S. Constitution). Personal prayer may be banned from the classroom, but it certainly can be invoked on our own, at any time and any place.

Prayers indeed have power, as many of my friends contend. It may not be foolproof, but I see nothing to suggest it is meaningless or subject to ridicule. Sometimes, it is all we’ve got.

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:   timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2015 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

NEXT UP:  ENGAGING YOUR WORKERS – How to inspire and motivate the work force.

LAST TIME:  DRIVING CIRCLES AROUND DISNEY  – How a seemingly easy drive turned into a nightmare.

Listen to Tim on WJTN-AM (News Talk 1240) “The Town Square” with host John Siggins (Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30-3:00pm Eastern); WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; and KIT-AM 1280 in Yakima, Washington “The Morning News” with hosts Dave Ettl & Lance Tormey (weekdays. 6:00-9:00am Pacific). Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube.

Posted in Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 8 Comments »

THE MEANING OF LIFE

Posted by Tim Bryce on April 24, 2015

BRYCE ON LIFE

– It is ultimately about good versus evil.

(Click for AUDIO VERSION)
To use this segment in a Radio broadcast or Podcast, send TIM a request.

In the Monty Python movie, “The Meaning of Life,” the troupe offers a tongue-in-cheek explanation; “Well, it’s nothing very special: Try to be nice to people; avoid eating fat; read a good book every now and then; get some walking in; and try to live together in peace and harmony with people of all creeds and nations.” Their explanation was very succinct and made for a humorous ending to the film. However, as far as I’m concerned, it misses the mark. It is not my intention to offer a profound statement along the lines of French philosopher René Descartes, but simply make my own modest observations. To me, there are three elements to the meaning of life:

1. A person must lead a worthy and productive life. This is required for our perspective of ourselves, our work, and the people we come in contact with at the company and society in general. How we perform our job is an expression of our soul. If we treat it frivolously, our perspective tends to be shallow and irresponsible, but if we conduct ourselves professionally, regardless of the job, we will take pride in ourselves and earn the respect of others. We must recognize there is dignity in all forms of work, regardless of how menial it appears on the surface. As such, we should perform it as professionally as possible and as craftsmen. Those without this perspective, particularly managers, tend to be tyrannical in nature and are typically avoided. They will never know the simple concept of respect, just fear. However, if we “do unto others as we would have others do unto you,” this would inevitably lead to an honorable existence.

2. Our second responsibility is to reproduce, thereby extending the species. However, this requires more than just the simple biological function of birth, it also means taking responsibility for teaching your offspring values, morality, and how to become responsible and productive people who will eventually take your place in society. Abdicating this duty is to allow evil to flourish.

3. Leave the Earth a better place than when you entered it. By doing so, we make it possible for the species to evolve. This means not becoming a burden on society, lending a helping hand, and returning to our first responsibility. Unfortunately, there are those who would rather forsake and destroy the world as opposed to make it better.

Implicit within these three elements is the idea of good triumphing over evil. Without this caveat, life could easily regress as opposed to progress which is why we must thwart evil wherever it is encountered.

So, the meaning of life is not about eating, walking, or reading a good book. Rather, it is about leading a worthy and meaningful life. No, we will not all be compensated the same way. Some will make more based on their education, their work ethic, by making smart decisions along the way, or plain luck. Regardless, we should be more concerned with what our contribution will be in life as opposed to the financial prosperity of the next person. If we can rise each day and be proud of our family, our business, and ourselves, and celebrate the bounties of the world around us, then we have realized the meaning of life.

Keep the Faith!

Note: All trademarks both marked and unmarked belong to their respective companies.

Tim Bryce is a writer and the Managing Director of M&JB Investment Company (M&JB) of Palm Harbor, Florida and has over 30 years of experience in the management consulting field. He can be reached at timb001@phmainstreet.com

For Tim’s columns, see:  timbryce.com

Like the article? TELL A FRIEND.

Copyright © 2015 by Tim Bryce. All rights reserved.

NEXT UP:  WHAT’S WRONG WITH SERVING THE CUSTOMER PROMPTLY? – The customer should never have to wait.

LAST TIME:  THE BUDGET BATTLE  – Just how badly do we want to manage the budget?

Listen to Tim on WJTN-AM (News Talk 1240) “The Town Square” with host John Siggins (Mon, Wed, Fri, 12:30-3:00pm Eastern); WZIG-FM (104.1) in Palm Harbor,FL; and KIT-AM 1280 in Yakima, Washington “The Morning News” with hosts Dave Ettl & Lance Tormey (weekdays. 6:00-9:00am Pacific). Or tune-in to Tim’s channel on YouTube.

Posted in Life, Religion | Tagged: , , , , | 3 Comments »

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