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Volunteer Voice 22nd Edition

Published in Blog on April 01, 2022 by Jim MacDonald

Black Gold and Texas Tea

By Jim MacDonald

Gold has always been and always will be a sought-after precious metal commodity. Even the Bible talks about heaven having streets made of “…gold, as pure as transparent glass.”—Revelation 21:21

In 1859, just before the American Civil War, oil was discovered in Titusville, Pennsylvania, and since then, the world has never been the same. Several years later, John D. Rockefeller and the Standard Oil Company dominated the oil industry, and a new industrial revolution sprang up—before long, oil replaced gold as the standard.

Black gold, a term for crude oil, received its name from the solid black color of the oil as it comes from the ground and the value it represents around the world. On the other hand, Texas tea was made famous when Jed, a poor mountaineer, “was shooting at some food and up through the ground came a bubbling crude. Oil that is, black gold, Texas tea.” –The Beverly Hillbillies

While countless people and businesses have become obscenely wealthy over the discovery of oil and virtually everyone worldwide is dependent on oil, evil intentions have availed. Now, many of the same people who benefitted greatly from oil are turning their attention to the religion of global warming (or climate change).

These fat-cat elitists have convinced a small segment of the population that oil is destroying our world while they continue to benefit from the black gold themselves. They will not bat an eye as they fly around the world on their private jets, drive their oversized SUVs, and heat their huge luxurious homes.

Since colleges and universities stopped teaching critical thinking, most graduates have become educated idiots. They are easily blinded by the words of their elite gods while not paying any attention to their behaviors. For example, these gods will tout that global warming is melting the ice caps and causing a severe rise in the water level. Yet, these same elitists are purchasing multi-million dollar properties on the coastline.  

Their motto: “Do as I say, not as I do! Because I know how to run your life better than you do.”

So why is crude oil considered black gold? 

Although crude oil isn’t transported in barrels any longer, it’s still measured in barrels of oil. In each barrel, there are 42 gallons of crude oil. This black gold is so valuable that the 42 gallons turn into 45 gallons of petroleum products when processed. Then these 45 gallons are converted as follows:

  • 19 to 20 gallons of gasoline
  • 12 gallons of diesel oil
  • 4 gallons of jet fuel
  • 3 gallons of heating oil or heavy fuel oil
  • 6 gallons turn into various other products

These numbers are rather remarkable. But what is truly unique is what the various other products are. So take a good look at this list and see if you utilize any of them: paint, tires, waxes, solvents, inks, asphalt, roof shingles, cosmetics, vaseline, detergents, plastic products, synthetic rubber, to name a few.

Is there any wonder why crude oil is the world’s most valuable fossil fuel? Just look around your house or car and see all the products you purchased made of plastic or rubber.

Interestingly enough, the only complaint you hear is about emissions from oil-burning into the atmosphere. You never hear of the waste from the by-products because it is all captured and used. And granted, we have more to do, but America has worked hard to reduce these emissions over the years.

Show these numbers to an educated idiot, and their response would be: well then, let’s just use the crude oil for the various other products and skip the fuel. Great idea! However, now you have over 85% waste because the refined part of the oil used for the ‘various’ products is the remainder without the combustible chemicals.

This means that the hairbrush, coffee machine, microwave, cell phone, television, computer, etc., could only be produced at a prohibited cost. Therefore, no one would be able to afford it, and the oil companies could not stay in business.

What do we do now?

When your neighbor says the fuel prices are up because of the Ukraine war, the oil companies are not producing enough, it’s only temporary, or whatever the government’s next excuse is, speak up and speak out.

Ask them: Why does the federal government have the authority to tell companies where and how they can drill? Where did this power and jurisdiction come from?

Or ask them: Where did the federal government get the authority to spend tax dollars on supplementing the renewable energy sector of our free enterprise system, such as wind, solar, and electric?

Then ask: Do you believe the federal government has been fiscally responsible with the tax dollars they steal from the American people each year? Or, do you think that Congress and our federal officials should be limited on the time they’re allowed to hold office?

Great! The Founding Fathers of this great nation would agree. They’d say this authority was never authorized to them, and it’s past time to restore our republic. They provided a solution big enough to solve these problems in Washington, D.C. It’s called a convention of states and is found in Article V of the U.S. Constitution. This solution is not an easy process, and it’s going to take ALL freedom-loving Americans to get involved in unraveling the mess we’ve allowed the swamp to create.

Please go to www.cosaction.com, sign the petition, and check the box for getting involved. We have a country to save!

Time for Good People to Rise Up

by Joseph Sheeley

America is dying.  Not the people.  Not the land.  Certainly not the government, but the Spirit that made her the beautiful, unique place she is. The shining city on the hill is falling into decay. The bright beacon of freedom in the darkness is flickering and fading.

We didn’t build America. Instead, families built her following God who believed if people were no longer robbed of their inheritance of liberty from the Father by feckless tyrant buffoons, they would build a country that would shine as the world had never seen.

And shine, she did. She built a wealthy middle class and lifted her poorest to levels the upper class in other countries could envy. She built a military none in the world could match that she used to fight the spread of evil and bring aid to those affected by natural and man-made disasters on every continent. She was the first nation that truly strived to provide justice for all and to respect the human dignity of every life. She created great technologies that freed people from days of endless toil for basic necessities, allowing them time to create great art and pursue their passions. No empire could touch her.  

But today, she is dying just the same. Like the Roman Empire, it’s rot from within that is killing her. She has replaced fair trade with stealing. Focus on others with a focus on self. Modesty and virtue with indecency and promiscuity. Reward for production and meeting others’ needs with a reward for laziness and taking from others. Hero worship with victim worship. Church with football. God with culture and environmentalism.

Now is the time for good people to rise up and take charge again.  We need virtuous, inspired leaders to head our institutions and companies. Principled people refuse to conduct the business of evil or impose tyranny. For the criminal and the self-serving in our government bodies and agencies to be brought to justice. And for churches to become the center of charity and community once again. For strong families to be built, centered on God.  

It would be easy to throw up one’s hands, to sit by with schadenfreude as everything crumbles around. But once America is gone, there is nowhere else to go. There is no Atlantis hidden in the Rockies.

America is very sick, and it will be a struggle to save her. We need first to say, “Enough!” The government will not meet our needs and should only be relied upon under a watchful eye to fulfill the most limited roles. We must cut the role of the Federal Government back down to defense, trade, foreign relations, national parks, and monuments. We need to cut state government down to law enforcement, highways, and safety regulations. We must bring everything else to the local or individual level. We need good people to go to the statehouses and the federal halls with the sole purpose of cutting power and scope. We must cut budgets and force the entrenched bureaucracy from their lairs and into the light of the real world.

We then need to call the Convention of States and send the right people to craft new amendments limiting the Federal Government’s role. A government that has grown so bloated and corrupt will not voluntarily surrender power. It must be cut by the states and by the people.  

An Easter Message

By Jim MacDonald

As wiser (older) Americans, we have the luxury of reminiscing on many of the nostalgic moments of our lives. Such as: going roller-skating, drive-in movies, riding bicycles (without a helmet), disco-dancing, going to the ice cream parlor, and staying out till the street lights came on. Life seemed so simple then—not to downplay the tough times like the Vietnam war, gas lines, inflation, unemployment, major union strikes, etc.

Today, however, there appears to be one issue after another. We don’t seem to realize a break between conflicts—as if they just continue to pile on each other.  

Now, maybe these conflicts never end because of the 24-hour news cycle with TV, radio, internet, etc. Back in the day, we had the 6:00 evening news, and if we were really news junkies that day, we’d watch the 11:00 news before the Tonight Show. Aside from that, life just went on.

With that said: today, our world is coming apart at the seams. We don’t know the difference between a man and a woman or how to describe what a woman is—or what bathroom to use. Our schools are teaching children to be racist and transvestites. Our political leaders think we can print and spend trillions of dollars, and it will reduce our debt. Abortion is a woman’s right (but then who is a woman)?

We live in a lost world where we’ve rejected God as a nation.

Furthermore, just as they did not think it worthwhile to retain the knowledge of God, so God gave them over to a depraved mind, so that they do what ought not to be done.—Romans 1:28

It’s so important today that we bend our knees in prayer for America like never before. This nation has become so corrupt that only a God as big as ours can fix it. There is no use in stressing over something we can’t fix. Lay your stress at the foot of the cross and pray for revival.

I have told you these things, so that in me you may have peace. In this world you will have trouble. But take heart! I have overcome the world.—John 16: 33

Over two thousand years ago, Jesus sacrificed His life on the cross for us to have peace. Our biggest responsibility is to pray for our country and pray for our people to know Christ. Read the Bible and become Righteous, right with God. If we do that, God’s will for our nation will prevail.

But seek first His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well.—Matthew 6:33

As we celebrate Easter this month, remember, Jesus is the reason for the season. Study your Bible, pray for our country, and seek God’s face. Jesus allowed Himself to be hung on the cross because He loves us so much. To Him, we are the reason for the season. 

Patriot of the Month

By Jim MacDonald

All great companies will attract outstanding people. But an organization that blends godly principles, a strong mission statement, and a plan so large that it requires God’s intervention will attract true men and women of honor. So, this month’s Patriot of the Month is none other than John Taylor!

For starters, John is a godly man and devoted husband and father of two successful ladies. He is the grassroots coordinator and acting state director for the Convention of States Action in Tennessee. And somehow, he finds time to sell real estate.

To say John is a servant leader would be an understatement. It’s no secret that John is trustworthy, loyal, uplifting, and empowering. And as Dwayne Bledsoe, Tennessee Regional Captain, states: “he treats everyone like they are the most important person in the organization.” Now that’s servant leadership.

John Quincy Adams wrote: “If your actions inspire others to dream more, learn more, do more, and become more, you are a leader.”  

And Paul wrote in the book of Philippians 2:3-4:

Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit. Rather, in humility value others above yourselves, not looking to your own interests but each of you to the interests of the others.

These three quotes describe John Taylor better than any words I could write. But, with that said, here are a few additional comments from members of the Tennessee COSAction team:

  • John Taylor is the epitome of a servant leader, and he has an unrelenting passion and commitment to the Convention of States’ mission. The Tennessee team benefits greatly from John’s leadership, and he’s always willing to serve other members of the team. It’s an honor to work alongside such an incredible patriot in this movement to save our country. –Jonathan Viaud, Regional Director, National COSA
  • I love working with John, who has a true servant’s heart. He gives his all to COS and is a terrific leader who inspires this huge group of patriots!—Ramona DeSalvo, State Director for Legislative Action, Director of Operations, National COSA
  • John’s commitment, tireless efforts, and leadership are contagious. His quiet and calm demeanor is so refreshing in this loud, chaotic world. We the People, say Thank you!—Ann Martin, District Captain, HD-16, Knoxville
  • I am frequently humbled by John’s dedication to, and the knowledge of, all things COS. He juggles many demands both within COS and the demands of everyday life and does so with quiet calm grace. He is the quintessential servant leader.—Paula Mills, District Captain, HD-17, Knoxville
  • John has been KEY in my work with COS. He is always thoughtful, fair, and encouraging. I’d have gotten lost in the woods without John!—Londa Rohlfing, District Captain, HD-80, Jackson
  • John makes COS Tennessee work; his constant dedication, kindness, attention to detail all make us one of the most effective COS organizations; he has helped me numerous times on a one-to-one basis which I truly appreciate. Thank you.—Claire Root, District Captain, HD-62
  • John’s support for our leadership team has been a positive result of the growth of COS in TN.—Jerry Kronk, Regional Captain 05, District Captain, HD-64
  • John is a Servant Leader. He’s a dedicated Patriot Warrior, considerate, engaging, cool, amusing, with a keen wit, mentor, and leader, and I’m proud to call him my friend.—Jay Walling, District Captain, HD-26
  • John is totally dedicated to COS. He is never too busy to offer and lend assistance. He is knowledgeable and supportive.—Theresa Hult, District Captain, HD-21
  • John is the perfect example of a servant leader. He’s always warm yet firm on the importance of COS and saving America one petition signer at a time. I’ve learned by observing his action and reaction to people’s questions and challenges. I aspire to be like him in the fight to save America. All heart, love, yet firm in belief.—Jeff Cody, District Captain, HD-78
  • Any time I contact John, he is quick to respond in a very encouraging manner. What a blessing to have his leadership here in Tennessee! Very grateful—Christine Solomon, District Captain, HD-12
  • The initials SGC, after John’s name in the COS directory, designates him as our state grassroots coordinator. When in reality, he is so much more than a coordinator. John is a servant leader of the highest caliber. He’s our teacher, counselor, and encourager; He guides and corrects us. He always keeps us positive and knows an awful lot, but he cares a whole lot more.—Debbie MacDonald, Regional Captain 4, DC-40

So, there you have it, and I might add, this team could go on and on! John impacts the lives of everyone around him. His faithful inspiration and expectations for victory transcend his desire and ability to be a servant leader. We are grateful for John’s partnership in this battle for freedom and for calling him a friend.

Tennessee on the Move...

Patriots from Ashland City, TN

Patriots from Bristol, VA

Patriots from Clarksville, TN

Patriots from Knoxville, TN

Patriots from Sevierville, TN

Upcoming Events

Ashland City, TN. Saturday, April 23rd, at the Bearwallow Church of Christ at 3:00 p.m.

Bristol, VA. Saturday, April 9th at Bristol Library at 9:30 a.m.

Gallatin, TN. Saturday, April 2nd, at the Gallatin Public Library, 123 East Main St. Gallatin, from 10:00 a.m. till 11:30 a.m. Contact: debbie.macdonald@cosaction.com

Greeneville, TN. Saturday, April 9th at Catalyst Coffee Shop at 11:00 a.m.

Johnson City, TN. Saturday, April 9th at the V.A. at 1:30 p.m.

Knoxville, TN. Saturday, April 16th at Cedar Springs Christian Store at 1:00 p.m.

Murfreesboro, TN. Saturday, April 9 at the Technology Engagement Center at 306 Minerva Dr. at 10:00 a.m.

Powell, TN. Saturday, April 9, at Shoney's on Emory Rd at 12:00 p.m. 

Sevierville, TN. Saturday, April 23rd at King Family Library at 9:30 a.m.

Tullahoma, TN. Saturday, April 9th at DW Wilson Community Center from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m.

BattleCry

Join Mark Meckler for the BattleCry every Sunday night at 8:00 EST on Facebook or Rumble

Biblical Citizenship in Modern America Class

Every Monday night from Rick Green and Patriot Academy 

 

Click here to get involved!
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