The Bon Vivant Warrior?

[Gabriel Suarez]

Life is not doom and gloom. It is beautiful and filled with promise and opportunity to those who have the mind set to notice. This subforum is intended for those things. No politics...nor anything else that would detract from the taste of a finely prepared filet, the sounds of a fine piece of music, or a glass of Chinaco Blanco will be discussed here..

The Cooper quote is below -

"Nobody needs a scout rifle. Nobody needs a Ferrari. Nobody needs a box at the opera. And nobody needs an Aerostar. The question is not what you need, but rather what you want—and how much do you want it. In my own view, it is better to own one really good rifle than six or eight approximations. But that is just my view, and people with other opinions are welcome to them. "


I would add that nobody needs a college education at a famous university...nobody needs a nice home on several acres...nobody needs a south seas island vacation.

Today lots of guys talk about need, but that is the wrong forcus to base a life. All you need is food andshelter, and a woman. All other things are arguable. Look at a dog living on the street. His needs are your needs...but that is no life. America...the REAL America was built on WANT and not NEED. Nobody needed to tame the west or walk on the moon....quite a point of fact...nobody else did.

But Americans wanted it...and attained it. When Neil Armstrong wakes up in the morning he doesn't think, "You know....I could have....."

Life is made up of the quality of things and events around us. Sure, the people we surround ourselves with are a big factor, as is what we pursue for a career, and what we hold as core beliefs. But after that, all of those material things that are eschewed by those who cannot have them make up the rest.

The spacious house will bring more smiles than the tenement apartment. The new camaro will bring more joy to the commute than the used AMC Pacer. The filet mingnon will taste far better than the Big Mac.

And when you are 89 years old sitting on that rocking chair you will not be thinking of all the money you saved by eating at BK, vacationing in the parking lot at Wally world, or driving that old car....you will be wishing you had actually lived your life rather than simply having gotten to the finish line without spending a dime.

[WalkerAK74M]

Life is not doom and gloom. It is beautiful and filled with promise and opportunity to those who have the mind set to notice. This subforum is intended for those things. No politics...nor anything else that would detract from the taste of a finely prepared filet, the sounds of a fine piece of music, or a glass of Chinaco Blanco will be discussed here..

The Cooper quote is below -

"Nobody needs a scout rifle. Nobody needs a Ferrari. Nobody needs a box at the opera. And nobody needs an Aerostar. The question is not what you need, but rather what you want—and how much do you want it. In my own view, it is better to own one really good rifle than six or eight approximations. But that is just my view, and people with other opinions are welcome to them. "


I would add that nobody needs a college education at a famous university...nobody needs a nice home on several acres...nobody needs a south seas island vacation.

Today lots of guys talk about need, but that is the wrong forcus to base a life. All you need is food andshelter, and a woman. All other things are arguable. Look at a dog living on the street. His needs are your needs...but that is no life. America...the REAL America was built on WANT and not NEED. Nobody needed to tame the west or walk on the moon....quite a point of fact...nobody else did.

But Americans wanted it...and attained it. When Neil Armstrong wakes up in the morning he doesn't think, "You know....I could have....."

Life is made up of the quality of things and events around us. Sure, the people we surround ourselves with are a big factor, as is what we pursue for a career, and what we hold as core beliefs. But after that, all of those material things that are eschewed by those who cannot have them make up the rest.

The spacious house will bring more smiles than the tenement apartment. The new camaro will bring more joy to the commute than the used AMC Pacer. The filet mingnon will taste far better than the Big Mac.

And when you are 89 years old sitting on that rocking chair you will not be thinking of all the money you saved by eating at BK, vacationing in the parking lot at Wally world, or driving that old car....you will be wishing you had actually lived your life rather than simply having gotten to the finish line without spending a dime.
This is the fundamental difference versus the liberal hippy American who drives a prius and is concerned about his eco footprint and us, the conservative men who go out and spend our money, time, and love on what we WANT to do.... We will look back and say I accomplished what I wanted.... Excellent post boss!

[tkarter]

All I need to survive is to wake up every morning with those I love.
I don't care how many scars I have to receive to do that.

tk

[lightfighter]

The thread title, ' The Bon Vivant Warrior ', reminded me of the tale of the Tsar's officers using Champagne to shine their boots.

[blackballed]

Sweet!

Looking forward to this subforum. I am making a new path in my life as there is no more reason to put things off. The stories and advice posted here from other businessmen who have not given up and seen success in their lives would serve well as encouragement to those seeking a different kind of life beyond mere existence.

[Gabriel Suarez]

All I need to survive is to wake up every morning with those I love.
I don't care how many scars I have to receive to do that.

tk


But I would submit that waking up with them to the gentle rocking of the ocean on your chartered boat, and the smell of Kona coffee your bride brings to you, as the junior staff grills the fish caught earlier is far better than waking up with them in the back of a VW bus and the smell of familial armpit as you chew up egg mcmuffins.

And that is the entire point. After needs are taken care of....as they are for everyone in america, there are other things that make life what it is here in this country.

[blackballed]

Bon Vivant - literally means "Good living (man)"

A person with (of) refined tastes, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink.

Was it not the wise man - known as Colombianito - who once said:

"Give a man a fish, he eats for a day...
Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime...
Teach a man to sell fish, and he will eat steak!"

[Juggernaut_S12]

"No one ever went broke underestimating the taste of the American public."

[limamike55]

But I would submit that waking up with them to the gentle rocking of the ocean on your chartered boat, and the smell of Kona coffee your bride brings to you, as the junior staff grills the fish caught earlier is far better than waking up with them in the back of a VW bus and the smell of familial armpit as you chew up egg mcmuffins. And that is the entire point. After needs are taken care of....as they are for everyone in america, there are other things that make life what it is here in this country.

Damn well said Gabe and so much more so for the warrior and his family. Life is meant to be well lived and enjoyed.

[wapati]

I don't know how the "glass half empty" folks can stand getting up every day.

:bigeyes:

[YARP]

I love the idea of this sub-forum! I'm so sick of all the gloom and doom BS that it's nice to actually talk about something other then politics and "the end of the world".
Pretty stoked to see other folks interests.
I get up every day to look forward to fun and adventure, not cower in some corner fearing my death.

[pmacaiman]

Depends on the time in your life, Gabe. You have my lady asking me why I'm grinning from ear to ear and I'm sure not going to bring up an R&R and waking in a gently rocking VW bus, sea breeze, smooth arm poping a Fosters for brealfast starter. Thanks for the reminder, Gabe.

[blackballed]

Here's some Bon Vivant for you...

http://www.warriortalk.com/attachment.php?attachmentid=11752&stc=1&d=1289529061

[choirboy]

That settles it: I am going to hire an upstairs maid even though I live in a one story ranch house :)

Choirboy

[ReserveSgt]

This why I have a...

fuller AK vs. A wasr
King ranch vs. A ford
Boat in the harbor vs. On a trailer
A wife of 18 yrs vs. Bad girlfriend, over and over

A prepared life is not meant to be austere!

The true test of a warriors life is measured by the envy in lesser men's eyes.

[Karl Kasarda]

Take the time to appreciate the life you're living and also training to protect.
It's up to you to live the life you want to live on your terms, not the government, not your HOA, not your job...you set the parameters.
No one else.

The recent view from my house:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v626/ceramicgod/IMG_1441s.jpg

[Gabriel Suarez]

Depends on the time in your life, Gabe. You have my lady asking me why I'm grinning from ear to ear and I'm sure not going to bring up an R&R and waking in a gently rocking VW bus, sea breeze, smooth arm poping a Fosters for brealfast starter. Thanks for the reminder, Gabe.

Well....there is that. But in one case one is there by choices of pleasures....I hope I said that tastefully enough.

[Gabriel Suarez]

That settles it: I am going to hire an upstairs maid even though I live in a one story ranch house :)

Choirboy

If she is cute enough, it may be cause for an addition to the house.

[Gabriel Suarez]

A prepared life is not meant to be austere!

The true test of a warriors life is measured by the envy in lesser men's eyes.

THERE!!!! That is exactly right!!

[paranoid]

I agree whole heartily life is beautiful and what makes life beautiful can be as different as the people living it.
Too often though people don't really know what it is that they really want. That's why there are many who "have it all" so to speak, yet they are still so unfulfilled. Of course there are the have nots who always want what others have worked hard for but they blame their misery on the fact they don't have it all and make endless excuses for why they don't.

The key is to figure out what you really want first and go after it, and not fall into the comparison trap or just trying to keep up with Jone's.
Things alone aren't what makes life beautiful, but when you have your priorities right and are turning your dreams into reality, you know meaning of hard work and accomplishment you are well on your way to a beautiful life.

[Michael Swisher]

Pilots are amongst the most negative, gloomy whiners in any profession. It's as if they need to complain to mask the fact that they have it made less someone come along and notice and try to take it all away. Many pilots have a difficult life, but not where I work, yet the whining proliferated.

When it starts, I stop the culprit, tell them to look. They say look at what? I say look out the window and tell me if you would rather be shuffling papers in a cubicle. You have to be competent, you have to perform, but man, what a gorgeous way to make a living.

I'm very glad that Gabe put this up. I've been having this very discussion with an old friend, who is one of those aforementioned negatively minded pilots.

Challenge is good, it makes life worthwhile and time with your loved ones precious. Take time to enjoy the moment. Anyone who has suffered knows what I mean.

Oh, since we are talking about living a full, passionate life- if anyone needs tips on better lovemaking see Mr C, he's the expert. Until he responds, try a little blue night light. Trust me... :wink:


That really surprises me about pilots. I really thought small business owners were the most negative whiners on the planet. NO, I don't mean Gabe, but every one of the Tool & Die shop owners I have worked for. Anyway I think I will start my Bon Bivant, by buying an ACOG for my AR. After all it is still all relative, right?

[s4141]

I'll just continue on as is. No need to change. Having your eye one the prize the Lord offers us makes a lot of things irrelevant. I have tno need to keep up with the Jones of the world.

[Matthew Sweeney]

I wake up every morning with a goal. A person without goals is empty.

Exactly Don! That's how I feel as well...

[lightfighter]

I'll just continue on as is. No need to change. Having your eye one the prize the Lord offers us makes a lot of things irrelevant. I have tno need to keep up with the Jones of the world.

It's not about the Joneses - its about recognizing that life is good ( Genesis 1:31 ) and that there is still so much beauty in the world.

It's about remembering the reasons why we fight the good fight

[Foxpup]

With what I do, I deal with a lot of toxic stuff every day. I can't afford the "luxury" of being negative or being around negative people- it leads to burnout and worse things. Besides, why would I want to? There's way too much to be thankful for!

[lightfighter]

Gentleman, or perhaps I should say specifically, my Christian brothers: If nothing else, even on the very worst day of one's life, one can always remember the joy of their salvation.

[vlazlow]

I remember a few years ago Gabe, Randy Harris, some other gentlemen and myself sitting poolside, just outside Atlanta, drinking handcrafted ale and smoking fine Cuban cigars.

Yes, life is good and God wants us to enjoy his good things.

[Silat Student]

I've gotten involved with the Prepper crowd recently, what many folks typify as the Doom and Gloomers. "Woe is me" and "Black helicopter" talk is not uncommon with this crowd, but I note that those who're complaining the most are the ones with a siege mentality who generally aren't all that successful in life in general. The people I've met out of that sub-culture who focus more on Self Reliance have not only the means to survive, but take enough pleasure in life to have a reason to survive.

From the little I've learned, Warriors are supposed to conquer....it's how they're wired and, to borrow another French term, it's their raison d'etre. If we spend all this time learning how to dominate a physical encounter why wouldn't we apply that same mindset to the rest of life and enjoy all the spoils life has to offer?

[Gabriel Suarez]

I remember a few years ago Gabe, Randy Harris, some other gentlemen and myself sitting poolside, just outside Atlanta, drinking handcrafted ale and smoking fine Cuban cigars.

Yes, life is good and God wants us to enjoy his good things.

Yes....Pirate Red Ale as I recall. How prophetic.

[generalcarver]

Well, you can live your life as you wish. But Something doesn't seem right about this to me. Relationships and what you do for other people are all that matter. No one on their death bed wishes they had a better car or wish they would have ate out at fancy places more. If I got money to do those things fine. But if I miss out, no big deal. Dude, MOST people throughout time never even wandered more than 25 miles outside of where they lived.

[Gabriel Suarez]

Mine in bold


Well, you can live your life as you wish. But Something doesn't seem right about this to me. Relationships and what you do for other people are all that matter.

That is a PART of a good life but not all of it. I have helped plenty of people who have simply stolen from me....from curriculums to inventory. So while I still help far more people and in far larger numbers of cash outlay than I dare ever speak about, I do not live for them.

Moreover...those with the wherewithall to help others find it easier to actually do something than those who do not. Somebody has to pay for those folding chairs for the church in Nicaragua after all.

No one on their death bed wishes they had a better car or wish they would have ate out at fancy places more. If I got money to do those things fine. But if I miss out, no big deal. Dude, MOST people throughout time never even wandered more than 25 miles outside of where they lived.

Its not about that bro...it is about your kids deserving nice clothes and nice schools not simply making do with what everyone else hass....and your wife having nice things and not making do....and you being aable to live your life well and happily and doing what you like to do, not putting it off because some neerdo'well asked you for money so he could go to massage school. Charity and relationships begin at home.

And that they never wandered more than 25 miles away from home is their loss, and the passing of an ignorant life that is not suitable for the 21st century. The death bed thing is a falsity. When you are an old man sitting on your porch in the Cayman islands you will regret far more the things you did not have the balls to do than anything else. When I am there, I want my list to be very freaking short and go to the Lord with dirty hands, empty pockets, and a smile on my face.

[ordinarysaint]

My first child,a boy,was born a 5 weeks ago.That has reshaped priorities in a big way.My wife is no longer working and so our income-that we struggled on before-is cut in half.I work two jobs.
One of the guys at work tells me my life is over as I once knew it and he may be partially right,just not in the miserable way he thinks.I think that life is just getting started for me.Ive done alot,people tell me I have great stories.Ive been to more countries than states,got friends around the world.Im closer to my wife than ever.My faith is stronger than ever.

I say all this because financially my life may not be what it used to be but life is better than ever.Ive learned to be content in wealth and want.It drives one of my friends crazy that I can be so happy with so little.He is constantly spending to get the newest and latest,the fastest.And then he worries about who wants to take it from him.

But you know what? Last night I sat on the front porch and sipped Dry Fly Whiskey and smoked a Berger&Argenti Entoubo while I remembered the BBQ'd salmon Id had for dinner.Yes,life is good,for richer and for poorer!

[ReconScout]

<B>

Mine in bold
</B>



http://www.warriortalk.com/images/BP-Light/misc/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by generalcarver http://www.warriortalk.com/images/BP-Light/buttons/viewpost-right.png (http://www.warriortalk.com/showthread.php?p=1217649#post1217649)
Well, you can live your life as you wish. But Something doesn't seem right about this to me. Relationships and what you do for other people are all that matter.

That is a PART of a good life but not all of it. I have helped plenty of people who have simply stolen from me....from curriculums to inventory. So while I still help far more people and in far larger numbers of cash outlay than I dare ever speak about, I do not live for them.

Moreover...those with the wherewithall to help others find it easier to actually do something than those who do not. Somebody has to pay for those folding chairs for the church in Nicaragua after all.

No one on their death bed wishes they had a better car or wish they would have ate out at fancy places more. If I got money to do those things fine. But if I miss out, no big deal. Dude, MOST people throughout time never even wandered more than 25 miles outside of where they lived.

Its not about that bro...it is about your kids deserving nice clothes and nice schools not simply making do with what everyone else hass....and your wife having nice things and not making do....and you being aable to live your life well and happily and doing what you like to do, not putting it off because some neerdo'well asked you for money so he could go to massage school. Charity and relationships begin at home.

And that they never wandered more than 25 miles away from home is their loss, and the passing of an ignorant life that is not suitable for the 21st century. The death bed thing is a falsity. When you are an old man sitting on your porch in the Cayman islands you will regret far more the things you did not have the balls to do than anything else. When I am there, I want my list to be very freaking short and go to the Lord with dirty hands, empty pockets, and a smile on my face.





I think what Gabe is saying that there is a difference in being materialistic and in living such a way that makes you the happiest (within your limits).

EDIT: Literally minutes after reading through the Bon Vivant sub forums today, I was asking one of my NCOs what his plans are when we get back. He stated he was going to sell his S class Mercedes (which if you do not know das Auto, that is 'Merc's top end luxury line). When asked why, his answer was "to humble himself and buy a $3500 used honda". We discussed this for a bit, and I brought up the Bon Vivant lifestyle arguement. I stated that if he can afford it, then why not? It makes life more pleasureable. He quickly came back with "living a humble life in the footsteps of Jesus could bring me more pleasure than any tangeable item". Arguement ceased as I "humbly" retreated back to my desk in quiet defeat, yet proud that one of my Soldiers has his eyes set on the real prize. The American dream was not about building your own empire or expanding westward on the catchphrase of Manifest Destiny, the real American dream was that of religious freedom. Having that more than fulfilled this sergeant's life. Hat is off to him.

[Al Lipscomb]

Life would be very sad if it were lived to "keep up with the Jones" as it were. I want the Jones to worry about keeping up with me.

Not everyone has the same goals, we have different tastes in life. A cabin in the woods or a condo on the beach, what works for you. In life we must push our limits. People say that "nobody goes to the grave wishing they had purchased a bigger house" but I think the reality is that plenty of people die wishing they had lived a little more in the place they were in life.

It is very hard to help someone solve their problems when you are dealing with yours. I know a couple of monastics that have given up all of their worldly wealth to focus on what God has called them to. But you should see their world. They do things and enjoy their life. So the question is not about material things.

But material things are not evil. Last night my wife and I took our three dogs out for a walk and then sat down in front of our HD TV and watched a movie streamed in from the Internet. I had a couple of nice cold imported beers and enjoyed an otherwise average movie. We let God bless us as He chooses.

[SPQR476]

Although I do enjoy a glass of Balvenie Doublewood or Oban from time to time, fine things don't have to cost a lot, either.

Last night, i enjoyed some fresh garden tomatoes and basil with soft mozzarella, extra virgin olive oil, and a touch of salt and pepper. Darn near free, and absolutely tasty.

[tomcatg]

John 10:10
"The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life, and have it abundantly.

[BigEd63]

It's not about keeping up with the Jone's; it's about waking up and living your life vs. waking up and trying to decide why your still alive.
I wouldn't trade my life with anyone, but I do still have a few things I want to accomplish. I wake up every morning with a goal. A person without goals is empty.

I agree while I have things to deal with I'm still happy over all.

[TNVolunteer]

The good "stuff" to me is just an enhancment of the life I already live, or the reward for the way I have lived. The "stuff" is not really the goal...

[Gabriel Suarez]

Invariably any such discussion turns to the Bible and people's beliefs. Some christians believe that money is evil and possessions are evil and that one should live like an Amish farmer in order to be "spiritual". Look...if that is your thing, drive on, but I disagree 1000%. Money is not evil, nor something to fear. I so wish more pastors with zero life experience would limt themselves to teaching what is written there and leave their not-so-profound lessons out of it. They do not know what they do not know.

Money and wealth, and possessions, and their enjoyment is not wrong or evil. It is only wrong when such things get in the way of your duty as a man, a husband, a father, or a warrior for God. Money, like muscles, and brains will expand your reach and abilities. If you are evil, it enables you to be more evil....but if you are good, it enables you to be more good.

The problem is that christians have been given this fear of money because of misread scriptures...similar to the turn the cheek business. Perhaps we will take this over to the Christian warrior forum. Sadly, we have few pastors posting there anymore since I refused to ban all the catholics.

I once had this discussion with a pastor whose church I no longer attend after his very spirited sermon on the evils of money. I told him that if he really felt that way, he should sell his house and he and his wife should move into government housing, and live off Top Ramen and water. And that he should refuse to accept any tithes for the church. After all John lived off locusts, but that nobody would think him ostentatcious by eating Top Ramen and having a roof. He declined my advice. Interestingly enough...that church was located in an economicaly depressed area where few people owned their own home or had a new car (I left because the vast majority had voted for Obama).

Recently I listened to a similar sermon at a church located in a far more affluent area and the tone was not to "cast the dirty evil money away" like someone would turn away from a pile of feces. Rather the tone was that, waddayaknow, money is a blessing from God and it should be used in His honor as the HS moves you.

The misled believer that sells everything and adopts a frugal life because he thinks it will make him more spiritual, in my opinion, is mistaken. When a needful family member runs to him in tears because they need money for some mdeical procedure his choices are only these -

a). Tell them to suck it up since Paul did not have medical insurance
b). Cry with them ineffectually since he can't do anything for them
c). Pray that some "Joseph of Arimathea" type comes along that did not follow the advice that he did.

Money is not evil - it is a tool and a blessing
The things money can buy are not evil unless they become the sole focus in your life
Enjoying those things is not evil either

And anyone who tells you different is probably justifying why they are themselves broke.

[USMC-03]

Money is not evil - it is a tool and a blessing
The things money can buy are not evil unless they become the sole focus in your life
Enjoying those things is not evil either.

I completely agree.

Money in of itself is nothing more than a means of keeping track of power; power to acquire those goods and services we deem important to us. Without the individual pursuit of money (i.e. working for the betterment of ourselves and families) we would have no innovation or improved standard of living as a society. There needs to be more than just money of course; a passion for our personal and professional visions is what really make people long term successes; do what you love and money will often follow.

[Swab]

Please correct me if I'm wrong but wasn't Yeshua's friend Lazarus wealthy and didn't our Lord spend a fair amount of time with him?

[ckmcconahay]

I am truly blessed by the LORD in all aspects of my life. He has freely given me Salvation and shown me how to accumulate material wealth; but He has also shown me that material wealth is only a very small part of the process of happiness. I am quoting Abraham Lincoln by saying " a man is about as happy as he decides to be".
I decided as a child that being happy made the hard parts of life a lot easier and shorter in percieved duration. My attitude is controlled by myself. I enjoy being around joyful, happy successful folks cause it always gives me more ideas. The LORD blessed me with a wife of similar nature over 28 years ago. Working is hard regardless of what one does but being happy makes it easier and more rewarding.

[TMAC]

I think what Gabe is saying that there is a difference in being materialistic and in living such a way that makes you the happiest (within your limits).

EDIT: Literally minutes after reading through the Bon Vivant sub forums today, I was asking one of my NCOs what his plans are when we get back. He stated he was going to sell his S class Mercedes (which if you do not know das Auto, that is 'Merc's top end luxury line). When asked why, his answer was "to humble himself and buy a $3500 used honda". We discussed this for a bit, and I brought up the Bon Vivant lifestyle arguement. I stated that if he can afford it, then why not? It makes life more pleasureable. He quickly came back with "living a humble life in the footsteps of Jesus could bring me more pleasure than any tangeable item". Arguement ceased as I "humbly" retreated back to my desk in quiet defeat, yet proud that one of my Soldiers has his eyes set on the real prize. The American dream was not about building your own empire or expanding westward on the catchphrase of Manifest Destiny, the real American dream was that of religious freedom. Having that more than fulfilled this sergeant's life. Hat is off to him.

Well said and I agree 100% Its not the money for me as I recently downsized, relocated to AZ and my income was severely hit. However, I am spending more time at home with my wife and kids and actually get to coach my son's soccer team now! Imagine that! Recently I asked my 6 year old son what makes him happy. Not once did he say anything about material things he owns. It was all about my time with him or time we spend as a family, ie: playing soccer in the driveway, playing video games together, going hiking/camping/shooting, etc. Those are the things that you leave this world with. No amount of money can replace time with others. It only took me 6 years to figure that out and I lost alot of time with my kids, but I changed and am living the life I have imagined now. Thank God for that! All thanks to Him for providing me the know how and the means to be where I am now. I can say I can't afford a Lexus or a Mercedes right now, but I am damn happy now for other reasons!

[Bill Lindsay]

In 1980 I made vow that I would own 1 thing that was/is considered the best in the world.
After saving 2 years worth of overtime I got a Rolex date just in stainless steel. I can still recall the crap I took. The old timex just as good for telling time etc. I still have and wear that watch every day.
When times are good a glass of Buffalo Trace bourbon sets the day.

This is going to be fun:yahoo:

[ZombieTactics]

In C.S. Lewis' "The Screwtape Letters", one of the demons accuses God of being a "hedonist at heart" because he creates all of his creatures - especially man - with a tremendous capacity for pleasure. This is in the context of observing a man take great, simple pleasure from a warm shower.

I reminded that God created all things for His good pleasure, and that in making us beings capable of great pleasure, it is both one of the ways he makes us in his image, but also one of the ways God himself experiences it ... we are made to feel pleasure for the sake his own pleasure! This pleases him!

The "old man" can twist this into every depravity imaginable, of course. But I cannot conceive of a God who does not count a shot of good whiskey, a fine cigar, and a sunset over the Pacific something good and - perhaps - almost holy.

[ZombieTactics]

... Some christians believe that money is evil and possessions are evil ... It comes from a misunderstanding of scripture in much the same way that you outlined the development of that damnable oxymoron: "Christian Pacifism"

This BS about "money is the root of all evil" ... a bad translation often quoted without any context. The actual text concerns a word which means "easy money" or "ill-gotten money" ... with a strong implied connotation of gambling, cheating or criminal activity.

Ayn Rand was an atheist, but God seems to have gifted her with a better understanding of the subject than most mealy-mouthed Christians these days. Do a google search on "D'Anconia money speech" and tell me if she didn't get it pretty much spot on.

[Matthew Sweeney]

It comes from a misunderstanding of scripture in much the same way that you outlined the development of that damnable oxymoron: "Christian Pacifism"

This BS about "money is the root of all evil" ... a bad translation often quoted without any context. The actual text concerns a word which means "easy money" or "ill-gotten money" ... with a strong implied connotation of gambling, cheating or criminal activity.

Ayn Rand was an atheist, but God seems to have gifted her with a better understanding of the subject than most mealy-mouthed Christians these days. Do a google search on "D'Anconia money speech" and tell me if she didn't get it pretty much spot on.

1 Timothy 6:10 For the love of money is the root of all evil:

Funny how everyone likes to leave out the "LOVE" part of that verse...

[ZombieTactics]

1 Timothy 6:10 For the love ... Funny how everyone likes to leave out the "LOVE" part of that verse...
And don't forget that it really means the love of "easy money" ... or "ill-gotten". Loving money itself for its intended purpose is not a sin, and does not lead to evil.

[TrojanSkyCop1]

Life is not doom and gloom. It is beautiful and filled with promise and opportunity to those who have the mind set to notice. This subforum is intended for those things. No politics...nor anything else that would detract from the taste of a finely prepared filet, the sounds of a fine piece of music, or a glass of Chinaco Blanco will be discussed here..

. Look at a dog living on the street. His needs are your needs...but that is no life. America...the REAL America was built on WANT and not NEED. Nobody needed to tame the west or walk on the moon....quite a point of fact...nobody else did. [/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]

When Neil Armstrong wakes up in the morning he doesn't think, "You know....I could have....."

Life is made up of the quality of things and events around us. Sure, the people we surround ourselves with are a big factor, as is what we pursue for a career, and what we hold as core beliefs. But after that, all of those material things that are eschewed by those who cannot have them make up the rest.

[/COLOR][/SIZE][/FONT]


Actually, a dog has a rather enviable approach to life in some ways: If you can't eat it or screw it, piss on it! :haha::dog:

Kidding aside, great thread and great Forum, Gabe, thanks for starting it! As I've already stated on a couple of other threads on the Open Source Roundtable, I ignored the naysayers who warned me about the gloom & doom of leaving behind the security of a Federal job, Federal retirement, etc, and left behind that miserable hellhole known as ICE and took a chance on the contracting job in Iraq that I'm doing now. The result? My credit card and school loan debt has been reduced by 50% in just over a month, and in spite of the fact that I'm in a war zone half a world away from home, I'm a helluva lot less stressed out than I was at my last job in my own (former) hometown, I'm having my first overseas adventure in 31 years, and I've got the camraderie of working with current and former military types.

And even as miserable as the ICE job was, going back to what Gabe said about "When Neil Armstrong wakes up in the morning he doesn't think, "You know....I could have....." I least I can say I was a Special Agent (how many people in this world can say that?) and perservered through all the adversity and BS to depart on my own terms and made it to the better point in life that I'm at now.

And even in those comparatively depressing days of working for ICE, I still found time to pursue my hobbies, visit my favorite restaurants, pubs, and sporting events, and spend quality time with friends (face-to-face, on Facebook, and right here on WT).

As we used to say in the Air Force, "Any assignment is what you make of it." And while I don't remember the exact words, Shakespeare said something aloing the lines of "People are as happy as they make up their minds to be."

As the Psalm says, "My cup runneth over."

[von Clausewitz]

A great family...good friends...old scotch...

What more can a man ask for...

My first grandson turned one year old last week...now that's something that has made me free young again...

All I want to do is take care of them, because they take care of me...

[Gabriel Suarez]

Guys why are we mixing Religion, God and Theology into this?? ?

I have no idea......

[judomayhem]

Because Christians (and others) have been using their spiritual beliefs to justify mediocrity, low self image, and failure for a long, long time.

[TrojanSkyCop1]

Today my new wants are : Another round the world trip, a new omega planet ocean, another hotel, a new car and a new yamaha.


For me, it's (1) trips to Ireland and Scotland (ancestral pilgrimmage), the Vatican (faith pilgrimmage), Russia (b/c I'm so darn fascinated with Russian language and military history,not to mention their women), and Australia (lifelong fascination with the wildlife...and then there's the women:flapper:); (2) adding a Walther PPK (the .32 ACP version, since it's what 007 carried), Smith & Wesson M29 (Dirty Harry gun, need I say more?), AK, CZ-52, Tokarev, Glock 19, and Colt Delta Elite to my Orr-senal, er, arsenal; and (3) a classic Mustang (any year from '64-1/2 to '73) to replace the '67 I prematurely sold 5 years ago.

[ZombieTactics]

... Guys why are we mixing Religion, God and Theology into this?? ... Because - to paraphrase the words of Francis Schaeffer - "God is the God of the whole man, or he is no God at all"

[Gabriel Suarez]

Because SOME Christians (and others) have been using their spiritual beliefs to justify mediocrity, low self image, and failure for a long, long time.

I fixed the post for you but I gotta say you are very right in that observation.

[Matthew Sweeney]

I fixed the post for you but I gotta say you are very right in that observation.

Yup...my all time favorite is the "praying for God's guidance" for YEARS as an excuse to sit on your hands and do nothing.

[debate225]

Sounds like you all would like Jeffrey Tucker's book, "Bourbon for Breakfast: Stepping Outside the Statist Quo". (I haven't read it, but he's the director or president or something like that of the Ludwig von Mises Institute.)

[bmp_sbi]

I find that I am happiest when I step back a stop trying to understand other people and their motivations.
Concentrate on whats good for you and your immediate circle and let everything else go without trying to analyze it or find reason, logic, or purpose in it....because most times those things either dont exist or are not revealed to us mortals.

[cbrant]

If it causes no harm to you or others, go for it. That's what freedom is about. If a cigar and scotch makes you happy great, travel, wife in a nice dress, kids dressed up for church, a fancy rifle. Great. I don't really get the discussion. If you can afford it, too many American's go into dept for these items, now I think that is harmful. But if you have the money great.

To think that someone would think it is more "noble" to be unsuccessful in life is baffling, and not to enjoy at least some of the fruits of you labor.

[cbrant]

@Colombianito Sorry I wasn't clearer. I mean that people need to be convinced that is it "morally" ok to live a bit of the good live. That some how it's morally superior to live in a dirt hut. It seems to me that it would be a given that live should be enjoyed. I like the idea of people enjoying success and sharing that experience as not only inspiration to others, but to give some of us idea of things to try.

[505stevec]

Bon Vivant - literally means "Good living (man)"

A person with (of) refined tastes, especially one who enjoys superb food and drink.

Was it not the wise man - known as Colombianito - who once said:

"Give a man a fish, he eats for a day...
Teach a man to fish, he eats for a lifetime...
Teach a man to sell fish, and he will eat steak!"

LOL!!! Now that is great! I love it and want to use that!

[fidalgoman]

Life is not doom and gloom. It is beautiful and filled with promise and opportunity to those who have the mind set to notice. This subforum is intended for those things.

Today lots of guys talk about need, but that is the wrong forcus to base a life... And when you are 89 years old sitting on that rocking chair you will not be thinking of all the money you saved by eating at BK, vacationing in the parking lot at Wally world, or driving that old car....you will be wishing you had actually lived your life rather than simply having gotten to the finish line without spending a dime.

I was listening to an interview by Peter Schweizer this morning that I found interesting. His final quote was something like "The very rich and the very poor are saddled with crony socialism, while the middle class is saddled with brutal crony capitalism."The context was insider trading and criminal actions of congress-critters.

It's not so much the interview, but more my train of thought that followed afterward. It seems to me that for the most part when people think of starting their own business they are saddled with paradigms that are imbedded with socialist ideas. Perhaps not the hard core WT entrepreneurs we have here but Joe public in general. If you want to give away your profits to save the Hungarian cockroaches that's all well and good but first you have to make that bundle in order to give it away or buy that yacht in the Caribbean. And in the case of capitalism the public (our customers) will decide just how valuable our product or services are.

It's all about mindset and the purpose of capitalism be it training warriors or growing wheat is to make money. Of course the gifted among us will see what is offered and who's buying step in and harvest a bit of the crop. Who we are as people determines our business practice, but a business will not survive and thrive unless you know what your objectives are and execute them with diligence and skill.

IMHO people often commingle their hobbies and philanthropies with their business and think they are doing a good thing, but in my experience that usually does not work out so well.

[yoni]

Guys

yesterday I had a choice of what to drive, jeep, beater get around town car or a 911.

The 911 wins:biglaugh:

You can say what you want.

Moral.

Dont care.

People are hungry.

Don't care. ( I do more to help people in Africa than a lot of people.)

911 rocks, you can hate me, but you know you want one.

[HamburgO]

Guys

yesterday I had a choice of what to drive, jeep, beater get around town car or a 911.

The 911 wins:biglaugh:

You can say what you want.

Moral.

Dont care.

People are hungry.

Don't care. ( I do more to help people in Africa than a lot of people.)

911 rocks, you can hate me, but you know you want one.

True story: Years ago, the president of Porsche Club Germany was on a TV talkshow. There was some "green"-minded woman on the show complaining about the amount of emissions from hi-speed cars. The president replied: "Madam, I am quite sure that more Porsche drivers have been killed by trees than trees by Porsche drivers...":wink:

[Gun Mutt]

True story: Years ago, the president of Porsche Club Germany was on a TV talkshow. There was some "green"-minded woman on the show complaining about the amount of emissions from hi-speed cars. The president replied: "Madam, I am quite sure that more Porsche drivers have been killed by trees than trees by Porsche drivers...":wink:
That is friggin' classic!
"Porsche....there is no substitute." -Risky Business

[fidalgoman]

Can you elaborate on this thought? I am not sure what you mean.John, I'm sorry if the post was not clear enough, our financial adviser just showed up to discuss the portfolio right in the middle of the post. Thus the rush.

Often my points are about very small brush strokes rather than large sweeping ones. They can also be more of a personal observation rather than the grand plan for all humanity.

I have experimented in the past to make a living of some hobby and found out it lost it's glamor and appeal (for me at least) after a while. As such without the singular focus of say making a profit, other things to do with the business left me in a less than zealous position. For example, I love to fly small airplanes, I'm not to bad at it and love bush flying in particular. It allows me to do thingsin the airplane that would get me arrested and thrown into jail if Idid something similar in an automobile on the highway. If done for aliving I know myself and that flying would soon be about as appealing as driving a tractor. For me at least. I know some people choose careers that don't seem at all like work. I'm looking for one of those by the way. Truly.

On the other hand after meeting our FA and discussing what ishappening in Europe, America and other parts of the world, I'm concentrating on how I might profit (and keep a clear christian conscience) amidst the chaos and intrigue of the political/financial world and avoid the pitfalls. This is work, not play

I have used my natural and learned skills to pursue a living which often does not directly translate into those things I really enjoy doing. I continue to learn new skills as I can.

Though not totally crazy, the thought of roping the wild tornado and riding it sounds much more appealing than hiding in the root cellar, metaphorically speaking of course. A modicum of danger beats boredom just about any day.

[yoni]

True story: Years ago, the president of Porsche Club Germany was on a TV talkshow. There was some "green"-minded woman on the show complaining about the amount of emissions from hi-speed cars. The president replied: "Madam, I am quite sure that more Porsche drivers have been killed by trees than trees by Porsche drivers...":wink:

According to Top Gear UK the new Porches in dirty air cities will actually put out cleaner air out of the tail pipe that it sucks in as you stomp your foot down.

Porsche is also going to come out with a hybrid that will be faster than some normal Porsche's.

[Greg Nichols]

LOL I saw that episode

[blackballed]

Now thats freaking hilarious........ but true. I only wish i had said that!! ( Or did I?? ) ;-)


You were the first to say it here, as far as my forum reading goes, probably not the first to use it ever.

I hear the "love of self" being the fearful reason none of this gets taught in a lot of churches, including my own.

[yoni]

But dear I need a new 911, the environment needs me to have a new 911.

Just think we can stop global warming, one 911 at a time.

[GlocklovaATL]

Invariably any such discussion turns to the Bible and people's beliefs. Some Christians believe that money is evil and possessions are evil and that one should live like an Amish farmer in order to be "spiritual". Look...if that is your thing, drive on, but I disagree 1000%. Money is not evil, nor something to fear.

Money and wealth, and possessions, and their enjoyment is not wrong or evil. It is only wrong when such things get in the way of your duty as a man, a husband, a father, or a warrior for God. Money, like muscles, and brains will expand your reach and abilities. If you are evil, it enables you to be more evil....but if you are good, it enables you to be more good.

The problem is that Christians have been given this fear of money because of misread scriptures...similar to the turn the cheek business.

Recently I listened to a similar sermon at a church located in a far more affluent area and the tone was not to "cast the dirty evil money away" like someone would turn away from a pile of feces. Rather the tone was that, waddayaknow, money is a blessing from God and it should be used in His honor as the HS moves you.

Money is not evil - it is a tool and a blessing
The things money can buy are not evil unless they become the sole focus in your life
Enjoying those things is not evil either

And anyone who tells you different is probably justifying why they are themselves broke.



I agree with this 10,000%. 1 Timothy 6:10 states that the love of money is the root of all kinds of evil. None of us here LOVES money to destruction. However, I believe that if I work hard for what I want, I feel that I deserve it. Because I WORKED for it. Screw pleasing some hippie by driving a tiny hybrid when I really want a Cadillac. Thank the Lord for all I do have! I am working hard toward a better life for me and my tribe and I will WORK HARD to make it so. Besides, doesn't everything ALREADY belong to God?

[librarian45]

I like to indulge myself now and again. Other wise what's the point?!
I try to eat healthy and work out 6 days a week, then on saturday i act like a lazy glutton.

As far as the finer things in life: Cigars, whiskey (bourbon), BBQ, and of course firearms.
Most of the time you get what you pay for.

[Wabbit69]

While I have a minivan instead of a Porche, the tool-belt I wear is an Occidental Leather, instead of Home Depot.
I dabble in woodworking. I don't have room for a table-saw (according to my better half, anyway), but my circular saw is a Festool with the track-rails (man, that thing makes breaking down sheet-goods a breeze!).
At this very moment, I'm enjoying my favorite guilty pleasure: Sitting on the patio watching the Grandkids enjoying the in-ground pool in the house that we moved into about 2 years ago. The front of my torso is still red from the belly-flopping contest that I won.
I've gotta admit, as a new member, I'm giving some serious thought about a VEPR CQB in 5.45 as my next guilty pleasure. I'm sure I could get an AK for less than half the price, by my research indicates it's well worth the money.

[fldback]

Wabbit69, there's always room for a table saw with a little imagination!

Buy the best contractor saw you can and set it up with a set of these http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2003703/2023/WoodRiver-Retracting-Casters.aspx. Or some of the mobile bases are heavy duty enough to handle a cabinet saw. Then you can park it out of the way and wheel it out when you need it.

That Festool rig is top notch!

[Wabbit69]

Wabbit69, there's always room for a table saw with a little imagination!

Buy the best contractor saw you can and set it up with a set of these http://www.woodcraft.com/Product/2003703/2023/WoodRiver-Retracting-Casters.aspx. Or some of the mobile bases are heavy duty enough to handle a cabinet saw. Then you can park it out of the way and wheel it out when you need it.

That Festool rig is top notch!

Sounds like we are kindred spirits. BTW, them Forrest table saw blades are also worth every penny. Mounted a thin-kerf with a blade stabilizer on a Shopsmith (just over 1 HP). With the fence set-up perfectly parallel and hogged through 2" red oak like a hot knife through butter.

[TrojanSkyCop1]

Though not totally crazy, the thought of roping the wild tornado and riding it sounds much more appealing than hiding in the root cellar, metaphorically speaking of course. A modicum of danger beats boredom just about any day.

That reminds me of a thread on storm-chasing I started awhile back: http://www.warriortalk.com/showthread.php?89745-Storm-chasing

[AlwaysVigilant]

While I have a minivan instead of a Porche, the tool-belt I wear is an Occidental Leather, instead of Home Depot.
I dabble in woodworking. I don't have room for a table-saw (according to my better half, anyway), but my circular saw is a Festool with the track-rails (man, that thing makes breaking down sheet-goods a breeze!).
At this very moment, I'm enjoying my favorite guilty pleasure: Sitting on the patio watching the Grandkids enjoying the in-ground pool in the house that we moved into about 2 years ago. The front of my torso is still red from the belly-flopping contest that I won.
I've gotta admit, as a new member, I'm giving some serious thought about a VEPR CQB in 5.45 as my next guilty pleasure. I'm sure I could get an AK for less than half the price, by my research indicates it's well worth the money.

I for one, like your taste. Bon Vivant is more than Porche, Cigars, and Timepieces. It is an attitude about life and investment in the enjoyment of it. I'd rather have a shop to build things in than a 911 any day of the week.

[oldranger53]

<snip>

The true test of a warriors life is measured by the envy in lesser men's eyes.



Roger That!

<Sent from phone. Typos possible.>

[badchad250]

My goal isn't to keep up with the Jones it's to live comfortable and have what we want and need in life... I'd like to get some farmland so I can get my kids and wife outta the evil city and teach them a simpler more work oriented way of life work for save for and build and buy what u want.. plus I want them to have a quality education in a school not full of other parents failures.....we don't send our kids to school for babysitting,we send them for an education...sincerely chad..

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