Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Michael, I’m praying that the surgery will go well, but most of you that you will trust the One who is guiding the surgeon’s hand.
Praying as i post this
The covid vaccine is not a normal vaccine – from what I’ve been told i will not take it. If the hospital where my daughter works makes it mandatory, she will quit.
Now i am not qualified to say, don’t take it… but i would educate myself and weigh the odds before i did..
Again, not saying don’t do it and i realize those in my age bracket may choose to do so after weighing the odds…..
FWIW
Jean, i am not qualified to explain what i was told, but…
It enters all the body’s cells and in a few cases it goes wonky, damaging a vital organ – as i understand it…
Am i wrong? Could be… Which was the reason i hesitated to post, but it is worth a little researching before submitting to it, perhaps? ? ?
Em, My daughter works at a hospital and many of the staff refuse to take the Covid vaccine because of they do not believe there have been long term studies of this particular vaccine and also because they are very concerned about personal choice being taken from them in their health care. Taking away our choice and forcing a vaccine is a slippery slope in the choice of care for our health…..I’m thinking of euthanasia being forced upon us. Anyone over 60 remembers when abortion was made legal and it was ONLY EVER going to be up to 12 weeks….It was unthinkable to even mention that anyone could abort a baby at 20, 24, 30, 34, 38, 40 weeks…to abort up until birth. But here we are! Of course I realise that individual women have the CHOICE to abort their babies to birth and no one forces them, but my point is the SLIPPERY SLOPE. What is unthinkable today will easily become the norm tomorrow.
There are many here who have taken the vaccine, including myself and my family. This is not a place to share theories, many of which are unsubstantiated. People may make their own choice without pressure or misinformation from others…
Duane, I agree completely! The lack of choice is what is concerning many Americans right now. I am all for people who want to take the vaccine and hope that they have every access to it. I took one dose and had such a bad reaction to it and still suffering from it, I will not take the 2nd dose. I would never try to prohibit someone who wanted to take it. However, my fear, and many other Americans’ fear is that slippery slope of FORCED vaccines.
I know a dozen people who’ve gotten the vaccine, most healthier than me. Only one got a bad reaction (a healthy and fit 61 year old). I had no reaction (Pfizer 2-shot).
Fact
There are no FDA approved Covid-19 vaccines.
Source
Fact sheet for recipients and caregivers, Moderna, Pfizer, Janssen.
Why
Moderna page 5
Pfizer page 6
Janssen page 6
yes, i agree that what i posted wasn’t meant as a theory – just a concern that folk would weigh the risk before taking the vaccine – nothing i say should deter anyone, but would hope that one would know there was a slight risk of an unpleasant reaction
All vaccines (and medications) have side effects. PERIOD. The question is whether the risks of the side effects outweigh the benefits. This comes down to probabilities.
There have been no long-term studies because this was an emergency authorization. Again, this is nothing new and has happened before for other drugs. Again, the benefits vs. the risks were weighed and the vaccines were approved.
Now people say that is cold, logical, and unfeeling, may I remind that insurance companies do this all the time. Ask any actuary. Also each person does this regularly for a myriad of decisions.
It is funny. People will refuse to get a COVID vaccine because of perceived risk, but will be more than happy to climb on their roof to clean the gutters without adequately securing their ladder or cut some wood in their shop without eye protection.
Far too many Americans (and this includes Evangelicals) are innumerate.
The problem is that when you make your point, others feel that they must make their point. It devolves into a fruitless discussion in which no one is convinced.
I find this fascinating for the following reasons:
1. The vaccine topic was started by Em in the 2nd post.
2. There were several individuals making their points long before I entered the fray. One of those individuals was you.
3. If you knew the topic was going to be fruitless and divisive (as I suspect you did), why did you not end it right after Em’s post, rather than contribute to the thread’s life by making _your_ point?
4. Perhaps Open Blogging really is a misnomer.
Apologies for my off topics for discussion yesterday. Easy for me to pontificate as ive had covid 19…..
This is a forum for Christian growth, clear, Christ centered thinking – point well taken
FYI, spoke with Michael and hearing his voice – first I was thankful that he is still with us and God’s mercy pulled him through so far…
Then I though of sharing with you … you might be just as worried as I was and am for Michael.
His voice was weak… no surprise after such a big surgery.
So, dear friends, sisters and brothers in Christ, let’s continue praying for Michael, for his total recovery and may the Lord’s hand continue the healing 🙏
Praise the Lord for all His wonders and love for Michael and us all🙏💕
Thank you for allowing the post. Like with EM, this is a vexing issue for our family and prayers for wisdom that go out for those facing difficult choices are appreciated.
Changing the subject, close to 200 Million people have viewed parts of the “The Chosen” series. It is in the second season of a projected seven season project.
I think it is fantastic so far. Anyone else want to chime in on that?
To be complete though, the FDA is conducting clinical trials of ivermectin on its effectiveness on COVID. Though some date out of Australia indicates that it is effective (see link below):
Since ivermectin has anti-imflammatory properties, this is another mechanism that reduces the severity of COVID in patients.
Here is a pertinent quote of the article:
“The FDA said it has received multiple reports of patients who have required medical support and been hospitalized after self-medicating with ivermectin that had been approved for use as an anti-parasitic drug in animals. The FDA said it’s important to note that the products approved for animal use are different than those approved for use in humans.
The FDA notes that clinical studies are underway assessing ivermectin against COVID-19, but until those are reviewed and confirmed, it will warn against taking unauthorized medication.”
Michael, now of Titanium-wrapped-ribs!!! Glad you’re home.
That’s a fast turnaround, in and under Monday and home on Friday. Here’s to the healing of all the scars, and the less-vividness of the painted-yellow skin of whatever they put on it to prep for surgery. May your sleep be restful, and the first shower they let you take be utter bliss. (and if you’ve reached that milestone, same for the second and the one after) I’m pulling from the memories of the “patient” whose open heart surgery arrives at an anniversary very soon now. Memories long ago enough where I have to really grasp to yank them out from wherever those old memories live. May you recover well.
titanium wrapped ribs? WOW
and a pig valve heart replacement… God does have a sense of humor … or is He telling us that we’re not as grand as we, some of us, think we are? dunno
Michael, glad to hear that you are listening to your body for the near future…. Puleez keep listening
A cow valve? Well, perhaps you’ll crave alfalfa rather than garbage…. LOL
yes, i know you’ll not do either. 😉
Lying in my hammock outside recovering from my third stroke in two months I was studying the clouds wondering what shape of cloud Jesus said He would return on. Acts1:9-11 Rev. 1-7
JimmyT, i am 85 next month and my constant prayer is that i not have to experience a stroke – SO sorry to hear of the trials you’ve gone through. Hoping and praying for a full recovery…
Jesus coming with clouds? Good ponder. Mine has been how will He arrange for every human on this planet to see him come?
God keeo
Jim V, sorry I’m behind reading the blog…
Yes, I watched The Chosen series so far… Was a little critical at first, but it captured my attention and could not wait to watch the next episode.
Many people have a questioning mind and ponder what happens between the lines of the written scriptures… this movie reflects someone’s guess…
I love to listen to people who dig deeper into what could have happened… how it got to that point…etc.
Jimmie T, hope you get better real soon… looking up… always make you wonder… if His coming, at His majesty… at His love…
Christ the Lord, our Hope and our Savior 💕
It’s over 100 degrees in the shade up here (reaking records)…
We have swallows who nest in our metal roof and their babies are being cooked
Anyone know what we could do to help? We’re spritzing the nest in the carport, but we can’t reach the babies under the roof…..
Titanium-wrapped ribs! They don’t wrap ’em with titanium unless all the stuff they did before they went to close you up went well. I rejoice with and for you. And yeah, I’m calling you that now, Michael Of The Titanium-wrapped ribs.
I texted my buddy in PDX when I saw it was going to be 115F in Portland. That’s about 10 degrees hotter than the central valley here in Cali, so backwards! I hope everyone is staying cool, especially Michael (with his adamantium wrapped ribs) and Em. Sad to see a couple of hundred people in AZ already died from the heat, and they’re more used to it. Many fires there also.
The 2nd episode of The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill is out. This episode investigates the history and philosophy of mega churches, with a mention of Calvary Chapel.
It’s all yours until I get back…
Deuteronomy 31:8 The LORD himself goes before you and will be with you; he will never leave you nor forsake you. Do not be afraid; do not be discouraged.
Michael, I’m praying that the surgery will go well, but most of you that you will trust the One who is guiding the surgeon’s hand.
Praying as i post this
The covid vaccine is not a normal vaccine – from what I’ve been told i will not take it. If the hospital where my daughter works makes it mandatory, she will quit.
Now i am not qualified to say, don’t take it… but i would educate myself and weigh the odds before i did..
Again, not saying don’t do it and i realize those in my age bracket may choose to do so after weighing the odds…..
FWIW
What’s not normal about the Covid vaccine?
Jean, i am not qualified to explain what i was told, but…
It enters all the body’s cells and in a few cases it goes wonky, damaging a vital organ – as i understand it…
Am i wrong? Could be… Which was the reason i hesitated to post, but it is worth a little researching before submitting to it, perhaps? ? ?
Em, My daughter works at a hospital and many of the staff refuse to take the Covid vaccine because of they do not believe there have been long term studies of this particular vaccine and also because they are very concerned about personal choice being taken from them in their health care. Taking away our choice and forcing a vaccine is a slippery slope in the choice of care for our health…..I’m thinking of euthanasia being forced upon us. Anyone over 60 remembers when abortion was made legal and it was ONLY EVER going to be up to 12 weeks….It was unthinkable to even mention that anyone could abort a baby at 20, 24, 30, 34, 38, 40 weeks…to abort up until birth. But here we are! Of course I realise that individual women have the CHOICE to abort their babies to birth and no one forces them, but my point is the SLIPPERY SLOPE. What is unthinkable today will easily become the norm tomorrow.
There are many here who have taken the vaccine, including myself and my family. This is not a place to share theories, many of which are unsubstantiated. People may make their own choice without pressure or misinformation from others…
Duane, I agree completely! The lack of choice is what is concerning many Americans right now. I am all for people who want to take the vaccine and hope that they have every access to it. I took one dose and had such a bad reaction to it and still suffering from it, I will not take the 2nd dose. I would never try to prohibit someone who wanted to take it. However, my fear, and many other Americans’ fear is that slippery slope of FORCED vaccines.
I know a dozen people who’ve gotten the vaccine, most healthier than me. Only one got a bad reaction (a healthy and fit 61 year old). I had no reaction (Pfizer 2-shot).
“This is not a place to share theories”
Exactly!
Not a theory, just a concern. What I have experienced is fact.
Not a theory, just a concern. What I have experienced is fact.
Sorry about duplicate post. Not sure what happened.
Fact
There are no FDA approved Covid-19 vaccines.
Source
Fact sheet for recipients and caregivers, Moderna, Pfizer, Janssen.
Why
Moderna page 5
Pfizer page 6
Janssen page 6
yes, i agree that what i posted wasn’t meant as a theory – just a concern that folk would weigh the risk before taking the vaccine – nothing i say should deter anyone, but would hope that one would know there was a slight risk of an unpleasant reaction
There’s a slight risk in pretty much any medication. There’s also a much greater risk of severe illness or death from the disease.
A request…
Let us please move on from this discussion.
A few thoughts:
All vaccines (and medications) have side effects. PERIOD. The question is whether the risks of the side effects outweigh the benefits. This comes down to probabilities.
There have been no long-term studies because this was an emergency authorization. Again, this is nothing new and has happened before for other drugs. Again, the benefits vs. the risks were weighed and the vaccines were approved.
Now people say that is cold, logical, and unfeeling, may I remind that insurance companies do this all the time. Ask any actuary. Also each person does this regularly for a myriad of decisions.
It is funny. People will refuse to get a COVID vaccine because of perceived risk, but will be more than happy to climb on their roof to clean the gutters without adequately securing their ladder or cut some wood in their shop without eye protection.
Far too many Americans (and this includes Evangelicals) are innumerate.
As a follow-up,
Statistically you are more likely to die or be injured in a fall or accident in your house than your from the side effects of any COVID vaccine.
That puts things into perspective.
A second and last request…
Let us please move on from this discussion. These posts will not convince and will only divide and offend.
Duane,
Very well. I made my point.
CM
The problem is that when you make your point, others feel that they must make their point. It devolves into a fruitless discussion in which no one is convinced.
Duane,
I find this fascinating for the following reasons:
1. The vaccine topic was started by Em in the 2nd post.
2. There were several individuals making their points long before I entered the fray. One of those individuals was you.
3. If you knew the topic was going to be fruitless and divisive (as I suspect you did), why did you not end it right after Em’s post, rather than contribute to the thread’s life by making _your_ point?
4. Perhaps Open Blogging really is a misnomer.
CM
My point was “this is not the place”… Which I have now indicated for the fourth time.
Duane,
Ok.
Changing topics, when do they expect Michael to be released from the hospital once his surgery is over?
Depending on his pace of recovery, about a week, but nothing is certain…
Apologies for my off topics for discussion yesterday. Easy for me to pontificate as ive had covid 19…..
This is a forum for Christian growth, clear, Christ centered thinking – point well taken
FYI, spoke with Michael and hearing his voice – first I was thankful that he is still with us and God’s mercy pulled him through so far…
Then I though of sharing with you … you might be just as worried as I was and am for Michael.
His voice was weak… no surprise after such a big surgery.
So, dear friends, sisters and brothers in Christ, let’s continue praying for Michael, for his total recovery and may the Lord’s hand continue the healing 🙏
Praise the Lord for all His wonders and love for Michael and us all🙏💕
Amen, Elena
Praying – and praising – with all here
Thank you, Elena!!
I’m
JimV
To repeat for the fifth time… this is not the place…
Thank you for allowing the post. Like with EM, this is a vexing issue for our family and prayers for wisdom that go out for those facing difficult choices are appreciated.
Changing the subject, close to 200 Million people have viewed parts of the “The Chosen” series. It is in the second season of a projected seven season project.
I think it is fantastic so far. Anyone else want to chime in on that?
Michael: “I’m?”. . Vaccinated?
you take it easy now – go slow for a few months…. Please. 🙏
JimV
Shameful…
The Chosen, not the book by Chaim Potok?
What’s great or edifying about this new series? I read a little about it.
I have read much criticism of this and was expecting the worst. However, I suggest that one watch the series before passing judgment.
You can DOOOOOO IT, Michael!
From the FDA: https://www.fda.gov/consumers/consumer-updates/why-you-should-not-use-ivermectin-treat-or-prevent-covid-19
From the NIH: https://www.covid19treatmentguidelines.nih.gov/therapies/antiviral-therapy/ivermectin/
Duane,
To be complete though, the FDA is conducting clinical trials of ivermectin on its effectiveness on COVID. Though some date out of Australia indicates that it is effective (see link below):
https://www.biospace.com/article/data-supports-use-of-anti-parasitic-drug-ivermectin-in-covid-19-patients-study-shows/
Since ivermectin has anti-imflammatory properties, this is another mechanism that reduces the severity of COVID in patients.
Here is a pertinent quote of the article:
“The FDA said it has received multiple reports of patients who have required medical support and been hospitalized after self-medicating with ivermectin that had been approved for use as an anti-parasitic drug in animals. The FDA said it’s important to note that the products approved for animal use are different than those approved for use in humans.
The FDA notes that clinical studies are underway assessing ivermectin against COVID-19, but until those are reviewed and confirmed, it will warn against taking unauthorized medication.”
We are not immunologists. That is why we have agencies such as the NIH, the CDC, and the FDA.
Duane,
… and Tucker Carlson. 🙂
Ivernectin for humans requires a doctor’s prescription…. FWIW
I heard from Michael. He is feeling pretty weak and exhausted following the surgery, but is bearing up and is home…
That’s great news, Duane. So glad he’s home…
We are not immunologists
______________________________
Tell that to Bill Gates.
Duane,
That is good news to hear.
Everybody here sends Michael their regards, thoughts and prayers for a speedy and complete recovery from the surgery.
Home? Good news IF he doesn’t try to push himself for the present….
God keep and keep us in prayer
Steve,
In light of Michael’s recovery, I am not going to respond to your 1.01 pm.
This is really the best news I’ve heard in a long time. I’m sure recovery will be a process.
Praying…
Jean,. Good to know. 🙂 Prayers for our host Michael.
Michael, now of Titanium-wrapped-ribs!!! Glad you’re home.
That’s a fast turnaround, in and under Monday and home on Friday. Here’s to the healing of all the scars, and the less-vividness of the painted-yellow skin of whatever they put on it to prep for surgery. May your sleep be restful, and the first shower they let you take be utter bliss. (and if you’ve reached that milestone, same for the second and the one after) I’m pulling from the memories of the “patient” whose open heart surgery arrives at an anniversary very soon now. Memories long ago enough where I have to really grasp to yank them out from wherever those old memories live. May you recover well.
Somebody sent me a quip that i think is worth sharing with my fellow west coasters
“Lord, whatever You’re cooking, it is done!”. AMEN! ! ! Lord, amen
titanium wrapped ribs? WOW
and a pig valve heart replacement… God does have a sense of humor … or is He telling us that we’re not as grand as we, some of us, think we are? dunno
I have titanium wrapped ribs and a cow valve…I guess they ran out of pork.
I was going to write today, but my body says sleep…so see you soon.
Michael
Go back to bed… Moo…
Michael, glad to hear that you are listening to your body for the near future…. Puleez keep listening
A cow valve? Well, perhaps you’ll crave alfalfa rather than garbage…. LOL
yes, i know you’ll not do either. 😉
P.S. I hope you are able to stay cool down there…. It’s over 100 in the shade up here
Hope you feel better when you wake up.
Cow valve. Your like a redneck.
Lying in my hammock outside recovering from my third stroke in two months I was studying the clouds wondering what shape of cloud Jesus said He would return on. Acts1:9-11 Rev. 1-7
JimmyT, i am 85 next month and my constant prayer is that i not have to experience a stroke – SO sorry to hear of the trials you’ve gone through. Hoping and praying for a full recovery…
Jesus coming with clouds? Good ponder. Mine has been how will He arrange for every human on this planet to see him come?
God keeo
Jim V, sorry I’m behind reading the blog…
Yes, I watched The Chosen series so far… Was a little critical at first, but it captured my attention and could not wait to watch the next episode.
Many people have a questioning mind and ponder what happens between the lines of the written scriptures… this movie reflects someone’s guess…
I love to listen to people who dig deeper into what could have happened… how it got to that point…etc.
Jimmie T, hope you get better real soon… looking up… always make you wonder… if His coming, at His majesty… at His love…
Christ the Lord, our Hope and our Savior 💕
It’s over 100 degrees in the shade up here (reaking records)…
We have swallows who nest in our metal roof and their babies are being cooked
Anyone know what we could do to help? We’re spritzing the nest in the carport, but we can’t reach the babies under the roof…..
Titanium-wrapped ribs! They don’t wrap ’em with titanium unless all the stuff they did before they went to close you up went well. I rejoice with and for you. And yeah, I’m calling you that now, Michael Of The Titanium-wrapped ribs.
OTF,
The surgeon was very self congratulatory over his work…in the meantime, my chest, neck, and back, pop and creak like an old floor now…
I texted my buddy in PDX when I saw it was going to be 115F in Portland. That’s about 10 degrees hotter than the central valley here in Cali, so backwards! I hope everyone is staying cool, especially Michael (with his adamantium wrapped ribs) and Em. Sad to see a couple of hundred people in AZ already died from the heat, and they’re more used to it. Many fires there also.
The 2nd episode of The Rise and Fall of Mars Hill is out. This episode investigates the history and philosophy of mega churches, with a mention of Calvary Chapel.
https://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/podcasts/rise-and-fall-of-mars-hill/?megaphoneid=CHRTDY5939737232