Manipulation and Ideology

One fact of manipulation is that those who succumb to it become something less than their authentic self. To adapt as our own a manipulator's thoughts requires that we to abdicate that portion of our freedom central to our integrity: the freedom to examine ideas and events by our own understanding, and make our own decisions for ourselves.

One fact of ideology is that it institutionalizes manipulation.

At Communion Yesterday

It was God's world-changing wisdom to appear on earth in the flesh of our beloved Savior, Jesus Christ.

It is God's continuing wisdom to appear on earth in the flesh of the beloved brothers and sisters we join with in Christ this day.

Miscellaneous observation

It's said that behind every great man is a woman. Undoubtedly, she's there reminding him, "You ain't so great."