Question for Music Lovers: Is Harp Music: Sacred, Classical, Jazz or Gospel?

The American music audience no longer insist that the harp is just for classical music thanks to breakthrough artists like jazz/gospel harpist Jeff Majors. 

The harp is mentioned more often in the Bible than any other musical instrument.

  

The harp is an earthly instrument with a heavenly sound.  It can soothe a troubled soul.

In Jewish history, we learn about the life of a young shepherd boy who eventually became king. Not only was he a great king but he was an extraordinarily talented harpist. The story of King David is probably the reason why many people associate harp music with sacred music.  

When the classical music composers came along, it was considered acceptable to use a harp to perform their compositions.  Hence, the harp is also associated with classical music.

However, thanks to breakthrough artists like jazz/gospel harpist Jeff Majors, the American music audience no longer insists that the harp is just for sacred or classical music  When you listen to Mr. Majors perform you will no longer question whether the harp is for sacred, classical, jazz, or gospel? 

When David grew up, he succeeded Saul as the second king of ancient Israel.  Music continued to be an integral part of his life, and in addition to being an accomplished harpist, he also wrote psalms (songs).  

Unfortunately, none of the harp music of King David was preserved, so we can only imagine what those hauntingly beautiful and caressing melodies may have sounded like.  

Fortunately, Jeff Majors is a harpist with a great imagination!

Jeff Majors is a uniquely gifted harpist.
Possibly the best in this generation!

Now a well-known and much appreciated African-American artist/composer/harpist, Jeff Majors followed his dream.Literally. He actually had a dream about playing the harp and decided he would learn.He was taught by the late Alice Coltrane (1937 -2007), jazz pianist and harpist, and the spouse of the legendary John Coltrane (1926 -1967).Once he mastered the instrument, he set out to share his musical gift with others.  At his official website, you can read about his journey: from forming jazz bands to hosting a radio ministry to reaching millions through his television program, “The Gospel of Music with Jeff Majors”.

Along with Alice Coltrane, Mr. Majors credits the late Dorothy Ashby (1930 -1986) with influencing his musical style.The ladies Ashby and Coltrane proved that the classical harp instrument could be easily and effortlessly integrated into jazz compositions.Through collaborative efforts with other artists, he has set to music some of the Psalms written by King David.Many of his admirers know him for his interpretation of Psalm 23, which he performed at the memorial service for Coretta Scott King.

Majors’ music is categorized as Jazz and Contemporary Gospel, and sometimes New Age.If you have not heard of this exceptionally talented musician, then it may come as a surprise to discover that his first album, “Sacred”, was released in 1998.That is correct.He and Hanifah have been around for over a decade.  Hanifah is the name of his harp. ( A female given name: from an Arabic word meaning “true believer” .) In 2006, he was invited to perform on the Oprah Winfrey Show.You know what they say.When you make it to Oprah, for sure the world knows you now! You are officially on the map!

So did I learn about Jeff Majors watching Ms. O? No. It was a couple of years ago. I fell asleep one night and my late husband stayed up watching the television. I started having a wonderful dream. I won't share my dream. It's private. But when I willed myself to wake up, I heard this gentle soothing melody floating through the air. Curiously I peeked to see what my husband was watching. Jeff Majors was on TV playing the harp. Lucky for me, my husband recorded the program on video tape so we can view it again and again and again.

After discovering Jeff Majors and doing research to learn more, there only two questions remaining that are unanswered.

 

* Question 1:  Why no Grammy?

* Question 2:  If you had a harp, what would you name her?

Harp Music: Sacred, Classical, Jazz, or Gospel? ALL!

Food History: The Wonderful Pomegranate

Exotic fruits are such a delightful treat; especially pomegranates. Not only do these ruby red fruits have a wonderful flavor, but their history is quite colorful as well.

Imagine: If you were esteemed the richest and wisest man in the world and had to choose between apples, figs, grapes, or pomegranates, which fruit would you pick? 

I'd choose Pomegranates.

Image credit:  Pomegranates,Original Oil Painting

Though the temple of King Solomon no longer exists, there are very accurate and detailed descriptions of its structure and construction recorded in the Bible. It it said that the upper part of the pillars of the temple there were carved images of pomegranates. King Solomon employed craftsmen from Tyre, an ancient seaport city of Phoenicia, and this particular fruit is a recurring Phoenician motif, which often appeared in the arts of Israel during his reign.

What a blessing it would have been to be invited to a banquet or feast given by this notable King of Israel? Do you think the table spread included a bounty of pomegranates along with other exotic fruits and delectable kosher delights! Imagine.

Pomegranates in Jewish History

Most people are probably familiar with the a popular TV commercial that says in Persian mythology, warriors ate this fruit before going to battle because they believed it would make them invincible.

But did you know:

* That the robe (ephod) of Aaron, the brother of Moses, the high priest of the Hebrew nation, was embroidered with blue, purple, and red pomegranates?

* That when Moses sent men to search out Canaan (the older name for Palestine), the men brought back a cluster of grapes, figs and pomegranates?

When the pomegranate is ripened it is a wonderful red color and its fruit inside consists of delicious sweet pearl-like seeds in a luscious ruby-colored liquid which is equally sweet. Pomegranates were widely cultivated in Palestine (formerly Canaan) during biblical times. It is not surprising that this garden paradise would produce such an exotic fruit, as this land was home to a diversity of thousands of exquisite and exotic flowering plants. The pomegranate tree was also cultivated in Egypt during ancient times. Good news! Recent research has shown that pomegranates have anti-cancer properties and can prevent breast cancer.

Per thefreedictionary.com: 

• Pomegranate: Origin of the word as we have come to know it: Middle English pome granate, from Old French pome grenate : pome, apple; see pome + grenate, having many seeds (from Latin gr n tus, from gr num, grain, seed; see g -no- in Indo-European roots). But in Hebrew, the word is: rimmon.

Galilee, the childhood home of Jesus, was beautiful and fertile. It was a place where pomegranates and many other fruits grew well.

Interesting facts for sure. :)

No matter the history or mythology that surrounds this exquisitely delicious exotic fruit, I'm glad pomegranates are not the stuff of myths or legends and they really do still exist! In fact, they are a main ingredient in Persian cuisine and are considered to be a super food.

The wonderful pomegranate is a hardy ornamental with a fabulous fall harvest. One would look lovely in your landscape bed, or plant several as a shrub boarder along the house. Pomegranates grow 8-10 feet tall with an equal spread. They are most often grown as a shrub, but if you prefer a tree they’re simple enough to prune into a desired shape. Many people grow the Pomegranate not for the fruit, but simply for its ornamental appeal. But once you’ve tasted a Pomegranate from your very own tree ...

Image credit:  Grapes and Pomegranates

More Interesting Information About Pomegranates

Benefits of Pomegranate Seed Oil

The pomegranate is an ancient fruit and from it comes an amazing oil which has been used in treating a wide range of ailments since traditional times.

Socotra Pomegranate Tree (Punica protopunica): The Vulnerable Predicament of the "Other Pomegranate"

Lesser known precursors of modern pomegranates, environmentally vulnerable Socotran Pomegranate Trees, grow wild only on Socotra and may be propagated by cuttings, grafts or seeds.

Pomegranates : Ancient, Delicious, Nutritious, Versatile

You may have passed by the humble pomegranate for the more modern and trendy fruits. Well now is the time to have a second look at these ancient and highly nutritious fruit.

Entertainment: 7 War Movies That Should Be on Your Watch List

"At one time FoxNews.com published a list of The 30 Greatest War Movies of All Time. Hardly any of the movies that came to my mind were on the list. One movie, in particular, for sure did not come to mind: “Casablanca” (1942). 

Nobody loves Humphrey Bogart and Ingrid Bergman more than me; but to tell the truth, Casablanca was not on my list for war movies. I had always fancied it as a love story, i.e. a romance movie. 

Though war movies are not my favorite movie genre, there are seven (7) films that do fall into my “Most Remembered” category. ..." 

• Casablanca Was Not on My List for War Movies. But These 7 Movies Were.

* 1st Movie: Valkyrie (2008)

* 2nd Movie: Von Ryan's Express (1965)

* 3rd Movie: Where Eagles Dare (1968)

* 4th Movie: The Blue Max (1966)

* 5th Movie: The Bridge on the River Kwai (1957)

Lieutenant Joyce: “Officer, sir. A British officer. We're here to blow up the bridge, sir!”

Colonel Nicholson: “Blow up the bridge?”

Lieutenant Joyce: “Yes, sir. Yes, sir. British commando orders, sir.”

Colonel Nicholson: “Blow up the bridge!?”

**************

* 6th Movie: The Guns of Navarone (1961)

• A most impressive cast for a most impressive movie.  Gregory Peck (Captain Mallory), David Niven (Corporal Miller), Anthony Quinn (Colonel Andrea Stavrou) and Anthony Quayle - i.e. Sir John Anthony Quayle - (Franklin), Stanley Baker ("Butcher" Brown), Gia Scala (the coward and traitor - forget her name), Irene Papas (Maria), and James Darren (Spyros Pappadimos).
• MOVIE TRIVIA:  Did you know that there was to be a Guns of Navarone Trilogy? The idea was scrapped because “Force 10 From Navarone”, the sequel, was not exactly a blockbuster smash hit!! Another great cast but the movie was very disappointing by comparison.

**************

* 7th Movie: Two Women (1960)

Sophia Loren received the Academy Award for Best Actress. As a matter of record, this was the first Oscar ever given for a performance in a "foreign-language" film. My memory of her performance in this film is that of a heroic performance worthy of this kind of recognition.

This movie was about a mother (“Cesira”) and daughter (“Rosetta”) who suffered yet survived the horrors of war. ...

Read the complete review.

World History: Alexander the Great: God-King or Mere Mortal?

My father will get ahead of me in everything, and will leave nothing great for me to do.” Alexander the Great said these words when he heard of his father's conquests. Clearly, Alexander the Great was not a prophet. But he does hold a place in history as being one of the most exceptional political and military leaders.

Alexander the Great also said, "Sex and sleep alone make me conscious that I am mortal."

He was right about that! 

Alexander the Great: God-King or Mere Mortal?

Image credit: Henryk Siemiradzki "Alexander the Great and Physician Philip of Arcarnania" 1870 - Flickr.com

Searching for Truth? Try These Two (2) Books

Many Seek Truth. Some Write Books About What They Find. Book suggestions for those searching, seeking, on a quest to find life's purpose and the meaning of truth; or for intellectuals, philosophers, or people who just like to read.

In Memory Of:

• Grant R. Jeffrey (1948–2012)
• John Hick (1922–2012)
• Paul Edwards (1923–2004)

Grant R. Jeffrey believed the Bible was the Divinely inspired word of God because God signed it.

There is no way it can be deemed a forgery, a fake, or uninspired. His wrote a book titled “The Signature of God”, to present his proofs. Logic dictates if there is a sole author of the “the Book of Books”, the author must exist or must have existed at some point.

Three decades earlier, before Jeffrey’s findings were made available to the public, two other men, John Hick and Paul Edwards presented the results of their research regarding “The Existence of God”. It was an exercise in philosophical reasoning.

Jeffrey, Hick and Edwards — Believers and Philosophers / Ministers and Teachers

According to the results of research that took him decades to compile, Grant Jeffrey insisted that math, science and medicine, archaeology, and historical records provide indisputable evidence that the Bible is inspired by the Holy Spirit of God. Oddly enough one of his main indicators or proofs is the same claim made by President Abraham Lincoln, that is, anybody who reads the Bible will live and die a better person for doing so.

“I am profitably engaged in reading the Bible. Take all of this Book upon reason that you can, and the balance by faith, and you will live and die a better man.”
— — Abraham Lincoln, 1863

It is clear in reading “The Signature of God” that Jeffrey’s purpose is to persuade or convince non-believers that the truths presented from Genesis to Revelation are verifiable and come from a Higher Power who reveals Himself to all mankind through His Word. Jeffrey’s work is the result of several years of research and study, the final product being presented to the public in book form in 1998. But if one is to accept his analysis and conclusions, one must first accept that God is real. Suppose the non-believers don’t even believe there is a Supreme Intelligent Being we refer to as God? Logic dictates if there is a sole author of the “The Book of Books”, the author must exist or must have existed at some point.

In 1964, two other men, John Hick and Paul Edwards published the results of a project they had undertaken. They went on a quest to gather “available” information from the ancient Greeks to the present day (the “present-day” at that time being circa 1960s) and share arguments representing both sides, i.e. FOR and AGAINST “The Existence of God”.

♦ ♦ ♦ ♦

My Assessment and Opinion

Both books, in paperback format, are between 300 to 350 pages. So first I’d like to say that the condensing of years and years and years of that kind of extensive research into publications that are less than 400 pages is nothing short of miraculous!!! :)

Have you ever seen “reports” promulgated by the United States government? It takes 300 pages to present the summary of whatever it is that’s being reported on! (O.o)

RE:  The Signature of God

Are you’re trying to convince me that an extremely wise and intelligent Being is the author of one of the greatest books ever written? Well then quite frankly I think that the mysterious Hebrew codes, the mathematical signature of God, and the “Undesigned Coincidences” are totally unnecessary convolutions. The information and arguments presented did nothing to convince me that the Bible is God-breathed inspired words. Hey! I’m a tough audience!

RE: The Existence of God

If one decides to tackle a topic like the existence of a Supreme Being, why start with the ancient Greeks? There were many civilizations, nations, or people who lived and walked the earth long before citizens of ancient Greece showed up. Take one look at their mythology and it’s plain to see that they were a pretty confused set of folks. They had gods that treated human beings like they were toys to play with, pieces on a chessboard. I suspect that if one went back far enough in the history of mankind, they would probably find a point in time when all men knew the one true God. His existence wasn’t a question, it was a given. :)

Are you an atheist? believer? student of philosophy? truth seeker? Then the combined reading of both books is highly recommended.

Originally published at wizzley.com

Movie Reviews: 3 Bollywood Movies With Post September 11th Theme

Bollywood dramas that address the complexities of being Indian, being Muslim, LIVING IN AMERICA; being engaged in terrorist activity, or being viewed by others as a terrorist just because. This article recommends three: (1)  “Kurbaan”; (2)  “My Name is Kahn”; and (3)  “New York”.

Read the Reviews at My Entertainment Blog.

Movie Reviews: The Manchurian Candidate (Classic vs Remake)

The Manchurian Candidate (1962 original) starring Frank Sinatra and Laurence Harvey (which is now a vintage classic); and

- the 2004 movie remake (2004) starring Denzel Washington and Meryl Streep.

Both films are worth watching and the best movie (?) is worth defending!

• P.S. The movies were adapted from a book written by Richard Condon, a 1959 Cold War thriller.

Which is Best? The Classic or the Remake?

Original versus Remake

My Significant Other and I Agree

Regarding the 2004 Paramount Pictures remake of The Manchurian Candidate, it was given an "R" or Restricted rating which means children under the age of 17 need parental approval.  (MPAA Ratings.)

Tina Sinatra, daughter of the late Frank Sinatra, was pleased with the casting of Denzel Washington, in the role previously played by her father.  Mr. Washington himself, was honored to be deemed a suitable candidate, enabled and able to step into the shoes of one of America's most awesomely talented and admired actors.  Respected critics  - e.g. Rolling Stone, CNN, Ebert and Roeper - raved about this modernized updated version.

Oh my!  Do I dare voice a dissenting opinion?  I dare.  I give the movie two out of 5 stars.

Star #1: Because Meryl Streep is Meryl Streep.  Enough said!

Star #2:  Because I thought the chemistry between Mr. Washington as Major Bennett Marco and the female agent, Eugenie Rose, played by Kimberly Elise, was much better than that between Frank Sinatra and Janet Leigh.

Sorry but the remake just wasn't all that, in my book.  The updated movie was made in deference to the original; not to improve it and certainly not to serve as a replacement for it.  The original is the best!  My significant other agrees with me!  But in case our opinions don't carry enough weight, well-known film critic Roger Ebert succinctly summed up the legacy of this vintage classic as "one of the best and brightest of modern American films".

* * *

Nature's Treasure: The Olive Tree

Lemon tree very pretty.  Olive tree very pretty too!  In fact, the olive tree has always had a significant role in much of the history of mankind.

During biblical times, olives were one of the most important crops.  In addition to being used for food, they were crushed and made into cooling oil, fuel for lamps, medicine to soothe cuts or bruises or dress wounds, and used as a skin moisturizer.  Olives are still used that way today.

The Mount of Olives, a prominent place in Bible times, is covered with dense olive groves.  The name "Gethsemane" means "oil press".

The Aramites revered it as a blessed tree and the Canaanite and Philistines tried to spread its cultivation. There are Egyptian reliefs with images of olive trees.

Oil from the olive crops was and still is used for cooking, ointments, medicines, and perfumes.

Health benefits of olive oil include: aiding in the growth of normal bones; reducing bad cholesterol levels, and the risk of gallstones development; and preventing constipation.

Van Gogh clearly loved olive trees.

Vincent Van Gogh "Olive Grove with Orange Sky"

The Olive Tree in Palestine

• Another name for olive tree is Olea Europaea.  

Palestine was known as Canaan during Bible times and olive trees grew on the hillsides in Samaria. These trees were also plentiful in Galilee, the childhood home of Jesus.

The olive tree not only played a vital part in the economic development of both the Greek and Roman empires; but olive wood carving was and still is a cottage industry, i.e. a common home business for many families living and working in Palestine.

There are artists today who live and work in the Holy City of Bethlehem and together they create unique gift items and art treasures. Their area of expertise is olive wood carving or sculptures. They craft statues, ornaments, music boxes, pendants and other decorative gifts which can easily become heirlooms to be kept in the family for generations.

This artwork is made available through an export house, an international marketing company which is based in Jerusalem, Israel, to customers in the United States of America and other world markets. The gifts may have religious significance for most people but they are also beautiful artistic expressions and some are very practical.

Below are examples of my favorite pieces of olive wood sculptures.

* * IMPORTANT NOTE: Products are not made by killing live olive trees. The wood is taken from the branches that have been cut off for pruning or those trees that have died due to old age.

Baby Jesus and Virgin Mary Figurine - 7.5" Olive Wood Statue of The Blessed Mother Holding Baby Jesus Made in The Holy Land - Great Gift for Expectant Mothers

Holy Land Market Lion with Lamb - Olive Wood Figure - one Piece, Revelation 5:5-6 (20x16x12 or 8x6.5x5 inches)

A Very Interesting Fact About the Olive Tree: 

Some would like to believe a drop of rain touched by the leaves of the legendary ancient "Angel Olive" or the "Angel Tree" will cure anything. The Angel Tree: The Enchanting Quest for the World's Oldest Olive Tree

More Reading

Handcrafted Olive Oil Soap

Use 100% Pure Olive Oil Soap to deep clean skin and enhance your body's ability to moisturize itself.

How to Grow an Olive Tree: Olive Trees in Container or Ground

An olive tree in a container or planted directly into the ground will bring a Mediterranean atmosphere to the garden, terrace or patio. They can also be grown indoors.

Drinking Olive Oil - Healthy or Not?

The first time I heard about the whole 'drinking olive oil' concept, I thought: OK, big detail, isn't that the same as cooking with and eating olive oil? But the idea IS different

- Do you know who first brought the olive tree to Spain? Answer

- Do you know why black olives are black?  Answer


Original Source

Olive Trees and Honey: A Treasury of #Vegetarian #Recipes from Jewish Communities #AroundtheWorld by Marks, Gil for $58.22 https://t.co/PDEkoVUtf1 via @amazon #Jewish #Cooking #cookbooks #giftideas @EverydaySpices @goshoppingbees pic.twitter.com/tUgL6ZgqFT

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) August 11, 2021

Movie Review: Gladiator (2000) ~ Gripping! Powerful! A Masterpiece!

Gladiator was released in 2000 and it starred Russell Crowe. It won 5 Academy Awards including Best Picture and Best Leading Actor.  

• On a star scale of one to ten, 10 being the highest rating, this film gets 100 stars!! 
• And the soundtrack - Hans Zimmer and Lisa Gerrard - "Now We Are Free" - gets 1000 stars! 

It is the most outstanding movie of the century!!! 
With the most outstanding soundtrack of the millennium!!!

Favorite Movie Quote?

• "Don't die. They will feed you to the lions. They are worth more than us." 

Read the review.

Looking for friends to share you love for movies, music and books? Have fun finding and sharing entertainment-related content on Noise.Cash. It's a global social community. The PLUS is that you can make friends and earn Bitcoin Cash$.

Art History: Impressionist Painters: Monet and Renoir (Plus the Others)

A brief introduction to artists who made such a lasting impression, reproductions of their original works adorn many homes and offices. The letter "i" stands for "I'm impressed."

"The term “impressionism” was first used in 1874, and its initial usage was not very complimentary. A critic was making a sarcastic remark about one of Monet's landscape paintings. Not allowing an unfavorable judgment to cramp his style, Claude Monet (1840 – 1926), working with Pierre Auguste Renoir (1841 – 1919), developed the technique of broken-color painting. These two artists are recognized as the founders of the art form known as Impressionism."

Others who were also a part of the group known as impressionist painters include: Édouard Manet (1832 – 1883), Jacob Camille Pissarro (1831 – 1903), Paul Cézanne (1839 – 1906), and Edgar Hilaire Germain Degas (1834 – 1917). 

Monet and Renoir (Plus The Others) 

An art aficionado, I am not.  But like most people, my attention can easily be captured by an impressive painting.  The artwork of Claude Monet has always impressed me.  However, it appears that Monsieur Monet had to work arduously at developing a fan base who appreciated his art. Of course, Auguste Renoir painted female nudes. Not that he wasn't a great artist because his subjects were bare naked ladies. But gathering appreciative admirers was not as difficult. Nevertheless, through his persistence Monet's paintings have gained the recognition they deserve and there are many of today's artists who will readily admit that their art style has been influenced by the work of Claude Monet. 

As all of the impressionist painters named are already well known, there is a wealth of information about them that can be found online.  Since they are no longer with us, there is nothing substantial left to be added (unless authentic secret diaries or original works stashed in someone's attic are discovered).  Below are links to condensed biographies of each artist which serve as an excellent introduction should you wish to know more about them. 

The ArtStory.org published a biographical snap-shot of:
* Claude Monet (1840 – 1926);
* Édouard Manet (1832 – 1883); and
* Edgar Hilaire Germain Degas (1834 – 1917).

For the biography of Pierre Auguste Renoir, visit notablebiographies.com.

A wonderful presentation of the life of Jacob Camille Pissarro (1831 – 1903) can be found at impressionniste.net.

PBS.org provided an introduction to the life of Paul Cézanne (1839 – 1906) for the program which aired July 2006 entitled Cézanne in Provence.
 

If interested, artcyclopedia.com is an online database where the artwork of thousands of artists can be viewed freely.

Persistence, Perseverance and Patience Pays

~ Impressionism ~

A word that now labels an accepted and respected artistic style, was originally a feeble attempt to insult a man whose skillful use of the paintbrush made a lasting impression on the viewers.

Link of Interest

Impressionism vs Expressionism

Original Source.

'Roses and Jasmine in a Delft Vase, 1880-1881' Giclee Print - Pierre-Auguste Renoir | https://t.co/dMIBuDQqpc
* VIEW ALL Pierre-Auguste Renoir Prints, Paintings, Posters & Wall Art | https://t.co/rFW7paZFXm https://t.co/v2aths78qI #homedecor #fineart #homeandgarden pic.twitter.com/SQaDFfmfXB

— Treathyl Fox (aka cmoneyspinner) ~ #Freelancer (@cmoneyspinner) August 10, 2021

A Guide to Post-Impressionism: 10 Artists That Defined The Movement ~ #art #artists #artistsIfancy ~ https://t.co/3s5p0yqDIK @InvaluableLive pic.twitter.com/ewAYT94OLv

— Joie de Vivre Magazine (formerly My Fox Nooze) (@FoxMarks_ATX) August 16, 2021

True Crime Story: Serial Killer, Richard Speck (1941 - 1991)

Richard Speck:  Bad Dream or Hellish Nightmare?

In one night, a 24-year-old sailor turned the innocence of eight student nurses into a hellish nightmare. One lone survivor, Cora Amurao, lived to testify and put him away. 

• True Crime Story: Richard Benjamin Speck (1941 to 1991)

Richard Speck (Richard Benjamin Speck; Dec 6, 1941 to Dec 5, 1991).  He was a sailor, 24 years old at the time and he murdered 8 student nurses in Chicago in their dormitory room. 

Since I didn't do research to find out if there was a full moon the night the crimes were committed plus I don't believe in werewolves, the only similarity I can surmise by comparing "the minds" of various serial killers is they all enjoy the pleasure of the kill.

Evil Exists

~ All Murder Victims Know That

Obviously, Lucifer is dark; even though his name means "light bearer".

Lucifer's proselytes are dark as well.

Serial killers are Lucifer's proselytes.

They employ graphic, gruesome, violent methods to stalk and murder their prey. When the law finally catches up with them, they resign themselves to being caught. They know they're guilty and they don't care.

Many want to study the mind of a serial killer, like Richard Speck and others. Their rationale or reasoning is that if they could learn what is in the mind of a serial killer, perhaps they could profile and predict attitudes and behavior, and equipped with this knowledge, intended victims might be spared.

Naïve thinking, wouldn't you agree? Hey! Argue with the statistics.

Surmise is to infer with little evidence or GUESS!

Surmise is what one does because one refuses to go into the mind of a serial killer to try to figure out what makes them tick!

Perhaps some of them have real genuine stories about horrible childhoods, suffering abuse at the hands of their primary caretakers, etc. Perhaps these murderers are misunderstood, they've been hurting a long time, and it's a means of releasing rage and making others feel their pain.

But here is a salient fact and it is a contrast and comparison that anybody would be hard-pressed to ignore. There have been children who have endured unimaginable cruelties and they have grown up to become ... non-serial killers.

About Richard Speck

~ And His Victims

It was 1966 and I was 10 years old. There was an article in the Miami Herald (I grew up in Miami, Florida) describing what Richard Speck had done and explaining that the police were looking for him. One of his intended victims had escaped his killing spree by hiding under a bed and staying there until she mustered up enough courage to roll out from under the bed, get herself untied, climb out of a window onto a ledge and start screaming for help! The news article had an artist sketch of Mr. Speck based on the description the student nurse had given. Following up in a subsequent article when they reported his capture, his real picture was placed next to the artist sketch. Yep. The sketch sure did look like him.

 I remember my late mother commenting:  "You know if he had only counted the number of girls, he would have noticed one of them was missing."

 I also remember thinking: "Stabbing, shooting, strangling ... He forgot to count? (???)"

 This minor detail is mentioned only because, most reports indicate when a serial killer is finally arrested, during the interrogation they can usually state the number of victims who perished at their hands and fill in many other missing details that nobody else would now except them.

Please. Please don't strain at a gnat and swallow a camel. Please don't split hairs and argue that technically Speck wasn't a serial killer. Please don't draw a fine line and say he was a mass murderer, not a serial killer, since he did away with all of his victims in one session. Whatever! I say: He was a serial killer who got lucky!

Movies like "The Silence of the Lambs" and TV series like "Dexter" popularize the serial killer image. The script writers try to paint a picture of "everyday people" - cultured, educated, average, even law-abiding (sort of) - i.e. they're only eliminating people who are distasteful or displeasing or are somehow unsatisfactory and don't deserve to live and/or they make a tasty meal. One could say they're "cleaners".

The writers try to humanize them.

What person is human who can repeatedly commit disgusting, cold-hearted, brutal murders? Such a "malevolent creature" should only exist in a nightmare. But the reality is: serial killers are living nightmares. There is only one English word that paints them in their true colors: BLOODTHIRSTY.

I read the account of Richard Speck's murderous rampage in 1966. I never did follow up on his life in prison until recently and realized that he had escaped the executioner. Now I am convinced that capital punishment is the only fair way to treat a serial killer. If there is a God, then let Him deal with them. If there is no God, then we the people have a moral obligation to remove these loathsome creatures from our society, so we don't have to deal with them.

* {Photo of Speck's victims. Public domain images.}

Richard Speck was real.

~ Hannibal and Dexter are only fiction.

Movies like "The Silence of the Lambs" and TV series like "Dexter" popularize the serial killer image. The script writers try to paint a picture of "everyday people" - cultured, educated, average, even law-abiding (sort of) - i.e. they're only eliminating people who are distasteful or displeasing or are somehow unsatisfactory and don't deserve to live and/or they make a tasty meal. One could say they're "cleaners".

The writers try to humanize them.

What person is human who can repeatedly commit disgusting, cold-hearted, brutal murders? Such a "malevolent creature" should only exist in a nightmare. But the reality is: serial killers are living nightmares. There is only one English word that paints them in their true colors: BLOODTHIRSTY.

References

* Richard Speck, Dead at 49, Chicago Killer Of 8 Student Nurses 25 Years Ago - New York Times ~ One of the nation's most notorious killers, Richard Speck, a drifter who methodically murdered eight student nurses in their Chicago town house a quarter-century ago, died today at Silver Cross

* Serial Killers - List & Notable Murderers - Biography ~ Serial killers commit some of the most horrifying acts of violence ever known: Ted Bundy, David Berkowitz (the “Son of Sam”), the Zodiac Killer, Jeffrey Dahmer, Jack the Ripper, John Wayne Gacy and Andrew Cunanan are among the most frightening criminals in history.

CONCLUSION

I read the account of Richard Speck's murderous rampage in 1966. I never did follow up on his life in prison until recently and realized that he had escaped the executioner. Now I am convinced that capital punishment is the only fair way to treat a serial killer. If there is a God, then let Him deal with them. If there is no God, then we the people have a moral obligation to remove these loathsome creatures from our society, so we don't have to deal with them.

On the plus side ... A horrific and tragic incident could have been even worse.  Suppose Richard Speck was a doctor!!

* Evil Doctors | The Worst Doctors in History

Book Review: The Signature of God

Grant R. Jeffrey (1948 - 2012) is a respected American writer and has authored several best-selling books. The Signature of God is just one of them.  Read the Review

RE: The Signature of God
Are you're trying to convince me that an extremely wise and intelligent Being is the author of one of the greatest books ever written? Well then quite frankly I think that the mysterious Hebrew codes, the mathematical signature of God, and the "Undesigned Coincidences" are totally unnecessary convolutions. The information and arguments presented did nothing to convince me that the Bible is God-breathed inspired words. Hey! I'm a tough audience!


RE: The Existence of God
If one decides to tackle a topic like the existence of a Supreme Being, why start with the ancient Greeks? There were many civilizations, nations, or people who lived and walked the earth long before citizens of ancient Greece showed up. Take one look at their mythology and it's plain to see that they were a pretty confused set of folks. They had gods that treated human beings like they were toys to play with, pieces on a chess board. I suspect that if one went back far enough in the history of mankind, they would probably find a point in time when all men knew the one true God. His existence wasn't a question, it was a given. :)

See the USA By Way of a Texas City: Grapevine, Texas

CNNMoney.com has often included Grapevine, Texas on its listing of America's Best Places to Live. But the residents already know that.

Grapevine is a suburb of both Dallas and Fort Worth. Though our current home is in Austin, the capital of the state of Texas (we relocated because of employment), Grapevine is given consideration as a place we could spend our golden years, i.e. it's in our retirement planning goals.

Real Estate: Grapevine, Texas: Relocate or Retire

Grapevine City Hall entrance, Oct 2012

- Taken with a Casio Exlim EX-H5 in Grapevine, TX., CC BY-SA 3.0, Wikimedia Commons

Texas has a GO TEXAN Certified Retirement Community Program. Cities apply to participate and go through a rigorous approval process. If they pass the tests (safety standards, healthcare, etc.,), the Texas Department of Agriculture certifies that city as a great place for retirees. So far there are 45 cities with this type of designation. But keep an eye on Grapevine. The city is not in this program yet. But by the time my spouse and I retire, it might be. There's no reason why not! (My humble opinion.)

Here's some scant information about Grapevine. But it's enough to decide whether or not it's a great place to live and work, or retire.

From 1843 to Present Day

Grapevine is a lovely city/town which graces the map of the United States because General Sam Houston, fellow Republic of Texas Commissioners and leaders of 10 Indian nations were able to reach an agreement and signed a treaty of “peace, friendship, and commerce”, in 1843; and settlers were given permission to make their new homes there.

Grapevine's population grew in spurts, in 1960 at about 3,000 to 1990 at about 30,000 up to the year 2000, the population reached a little over 40,000. The opening of Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport in 1974 encouraged substantial development in the city and nearby towns.

In 2007, CNNMoney.com ranked Grapevine as one of “America's Best Places to Live“.

It's 2013 and current residents indicate that not much has changed within these past few years to make it any less of a desirable as a place to buy a home or invest in real estate. KEEP GRAPEVINE BEAUTIFUL is a non-profit organization and its primary goal is educate and encourage citizens to preserve the local natural environment and actively participate in in improving their community.

Below are some recommended links and brief information about a few attractions or events that might entice you to make  this city/town a place you would want to call home.

Grapevine, Texas is where the outlaws Bonnie and Clyde breathed their last; May 23, 1934.1934, FBI files of famous cases: Bonnie Elizabeth Parker and Clyde Champion Barrow were ambushed by state police offers and killed in a hail of gunfire.

Links of Interest:

City of Grapevine, Texas The Official website of the City of Grapevine, Texas.

Grapevine Chamber of Commerce Since 1952, the Grapevine Chamber has been serving businesses by helping to create a business-friendly environment, ...

Keep Grapevine Beautiful Keep Grapevine Beautiful (KGVB) is a volunteer organization dedicated to a clean, litter-free and beautiful Grapevine for everyone's health and enjoyment.

MONEY Magazine: Best places to live 2007: Grapevine, TX snapshot Grapevine, TX
Top 100 rank: 97
Population: 49,400
Compare Grapevine to Top 10 Best Places

George Brookshaw (1751-1823) : Botanical Art : Black Muscadine (grape) : Illustrated plate from Pomona Britannica London: 1804-1812 Hand-colored aquatint engraving

Grapevine's Annual GrapeFest

~ Experience the Best Texas Wines

The city was named for its wild mustang grapes (Vitis Mustangensis) which are prevalent in the area. In recent years several wineries have opened in Grapevine. According to Jack B. Keller, Jr., wine maker and wine blogger: "They taste simply awful, but their wine is very respectable!"(winemaking.jackkeller.net)

Grapevine's GrapeFest is the largest wine festival in the Southwest US. It's a 4-day event where attendants can enjoy samples of award-winning wines, while listening to live music or participating in the other planned events.

 

* Info on the Annual Festivals - Usually held in September 

Like Country Music?

~ There's a Grapevine Opry?

Almost everyone has heard of the Grand Ole Opry located in Nashville, Tennessee, where many of America's famous country singers regularly perform. But what about the Grapevine Opry? But in 1987, Yellow Rose Productions, Inc. breathed new life into this theater and entertainers like Willie Nelson, the Judds, Jimmy Dean, LeAnn Rimes have all performed there.   Check it out! 

* Grapevine Opry, Texas' Premier Country Showcase

Enjoy the Theater?

~ How About a Murder Mystery and Dinner?

There's a Wild West Mystery Dinner Theater.  The Lone Star Murder Mysteries started in 2003 and this form of "who done it" western style comedy became instantly popular.  It's an inexpensive night out and people from the surrounding areas of Dallas/Fort Worth or other parts of North Texas combine the movie and dinner treat with other fun things to do in historical downtown Grapevine.  Visit the site and sign up for their mailing list.

* Texas Star Dinner Theater