The Captain's Journal » Coming Changes To TCJ

Coming Changes To TCJ

BY Herschel Smith

3 years, 10 months ago

I said coming changes, and actually, the changes I intend to make are ongoing and current. Please read the entire post so that you understand why this blog is changing, both in the posts and in comments.

For some time now I’ve been exhausted at the loathsome duty to post more political content. I do hate it so much. It bores me, and it drags me down, and I think it does with readers too. I think I have been sucked into the morass that defines where America is today. In fact, I have actually come to dread posting content.

America is a country of ten second sound bites, screaming, impatience, ignorance, lack of intellectual focus, poor attention span, poo-slinging and name calling, with comments by even me and over this web site by readers more outlandish by the day on what should be done, what someone else is going to do, or what must happen in order to save America. None of the things we’ve been discussing will save America.

As Paul directed, I intend to lead a quiet life, work, take care of my family, teach them, be a good neighbor, and most of all, follow my Lord and savior Jesus Christ. I don’t do any of that perfectly, but it’s my goal.

I also have a lot of focus on necessary things around the home, such as repair, painting, yard work and so forth. This will take some time. For too long now I’ve devoted too much time to this blog and too little to the necessary things. I’ve have literally thousands of books on theology, and they need my attention. I want to replace by dear Heidi-girl at some point, whom I still grieve, and get another female Dobie, and as you know, it takes intense focus the first half year of their lives to have a good companion. My posting in 2021 will probably be less frequent and more focused when I post.

I am making some changes. I will revise the “About” page, dump the blogroll, and work primarily on my own prose and thoughts rather than hitching a ride on the backs of others. I intend to focus in the coming future on God, family, guns and survival (to include everything outdoors).

I am an engineer, and I love well-designed, well-built, well-functioning machines. I always will. I will discuss the mechanics of firearms and ballistics. I love God. I love my family, and I always seem drawn to survival and the outdoors.

I’m dumping politics. I will discuss politics only sparsely if at all (and then only as it comes up in the context of theology, Jesus is King), I will not “endorse” candidates, I will not engage in name-calling or claims about what I intend to do about anything.

Nor will I countenance outlandish comments that make this blog (or its author) or the readers more at risk in the troubles surely to come. Understand what I’m about to say. This web site uses the WordPress overlay. It is not a WordPress blog and it is hosted on a secure location, not servers owned by WordPress.

But since it uses WordPress, it keeps email addresses and IP addresses. I don’t know how to make it not do that, and I don’t have the time to figure that out. Any web site can be hacked. I am watching out for readers too. I truly don’t think readers understand the trouble to come, based on the ridiculous, outlandish comments and blog posts I’m seeing at other sites.

Besides, as I said before, this web site has sunk into similar behavior, and I won’t let it. The only other option is to shut it down.

I want this to be a web site of thinking men, scholars, men who are slow to react or opine, judicious with their words and observations, and excited to read and discuss the things I want to: God, family, guns and survival.

Finally, I’m convinced that America doesn’t fully understand how much trouble it’s in. We need a theological reformation and spiritual revival before any revival of America can occur. Currently it’s just another pagan nation, and God’s judgment is upon us. A basis and foundation in faith and family will give men a sure substratum on which to build their lives in good times and bad that guns and patriotism can never supply.

I hope you understand my decisions. I expect to lose readers. That’s okay. You don’t need me or my prose to see the next bit of “news.” It’s everywhere. You don’t need my ten second synopsis involving name-calling or poo-slinging. That demeans me and readers.

Personal

Comments

On January 13, 2021 at 11:28 pm, BoyDownTheLane said:

Good for you. Blessings. Go with God.

On January 13, 2021 at 11:28 pm, Bob in NC said:

“I intend to lead a quiet life, work, take care of my family, teach them, be a good neighbor, and most of all, follow my Lord and savior Jesus Christ.”

I understand and completely support your decision. If more Americans had been focused on this, I doubt we would be in the mess we are in now.

Though I was a late comer to your website, I appreciated what you and others had to say. Thank you – and I know that God will protect and provide for you and yours. See you in the New Jerusalem,

On January 13, 2021 at 11:36 pm, frank said:

Herschel I applaud you and welcome your decision and words. I can feel the emotions behind it. I too (and my family) are making similar changes and about to follow the same path. That is the GOOD that has come from all this crap that swept us up. It will intensify, not for the better. I will continue to follow you.

On January 13, 2021 at 11:58 pm, George 1 said:

God be with you Herschel. I may not be the best at always being a thinking man and a scholar. But you will not lose me as a reader, for whatever that is worth.

Take Care

On January 13, 2021 at 11:59 pm, Emmel said:

Hershel I applaud you, I’m recently retired and own a small farm, I’d love to organize bu, for the reasons you mention, I proactively chose not to start.
You’ve got a new fire mission now… go with god.

On January 14, 2021 at 12:04 am, Behind Enemy Lines said:

There’s a time and place for everything, and I too sense this is the time and place for closer attention to what’s at home. If things go the direction we fear, we’ll need that foundation. If things don’t go that way, we’re still doing the right thing with family and community.

Thanks for your work.

On January 14, 2021 at 12:04 am, jim said:

Will miss the insight and analysis, but fully understand the need for a change

A solid direction followed with a firm conviction leads to true happiness and the more examples the better

On January 14, 2021 at 12:14 am, Ned2 said:

A good decision that most of us would make in haste, but are you caving to the running sentiment?
You may not like politics, but politics really does like you.

I have valued your opinion and insight for years and I thank you for that.

On January 14, 2021 at 12:19 am, Herschel Smith said:

@Ned2,

“First things.”

On January 14, 2021 at 12:23 am, Georgiaboy61 said:

@ Herschel Smith

Your decision is perfectly understandable. Just judging from the amount and quality of the content on the site, you have poured a great deal of yourself into it over the years. Thank you for that effort. Your work is appreciated, please know that. Your decision mirrors those many of us are making. To focus more on those things in front of us.

You are completely correct about the fallen and morally-decrepit state of our society. As the late Paul Weyrich and Bill Lind wrote some twelve or so years ago, the culture wars are over, and traditional Americans lost. As the one sarcastic but entirely-accurate remark had it, “conservatives” didn’t conserved anything, not even the women’s rest-room.

John Adams once stated, “We have no government armed in power capable of contending in human passions unbridled by morality and religion…Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other,” and he was entirely correct. Adams went on to state that an immoral people would burst through the boundaries of the constitution like “a whale through a net.”

The historians Strauss and Howe posit that human behavior, being immutable, results in history moving in cycles of about 75-80 years. Why this interval? Because that is roughly the span of one full human life. They term paradigm-changing periods – such as the one in which we presently find ourselves – “Fourth Turnings.” The last such event was in 1945, the year the Second World War ended, seventy-five years ago.

If their model is correct, and many historians and political scientists believe it to be, our nation and civilization will almost certainly be undergoing dramatic, perhaps even catastrophic, changes in the coming decade.

Phrasing colloquially, the saying applies: “Hard times create strong men, strong men create good times; good times create weak men, weak men create hard times…”

During the post-war era, unbridled prosperity has bestowed many material and technological blessings upon us, but it has also resulted in a people who are corrupt, weak, and feckless. The baby-boomers and their successors were given a priceless gift – a nation which their forbearers had bought at an enormous cost in blood, sweat and tears. That which we attain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly, and these spoiled children of privilege squandered this gift like drunken sailors, payday-rich, and on liberty ashore.

That is where we find ourselves. Batten down the hatches, the seas are probably going to get rough….

On January 14, 2021 at 1:25 am, BAP45 said:

Completely understand cutting the politics out. It really feels soul sucking some days. That being said your insightfulness and measured tone have been much appreciated over the years.

On January 14, 2021 at 1:29 am, Red said:

Good Sir. Do what you need to do to keep you and yours safe and healthy.
May you always be in God’s Safekeeping. Red

On January 14, 2021 at 2:24 am, Cederq said:

Thank you Mr. Smith, I have been reading your blog a a short while, have commented a time or two. I have enjoyed your insight and take on wide variety of subjects. I think you have made a wise choice, I have felt the reassuring hand on my shoulder to seek God again and seek like minded men, have frank, open discussion and find the way back to being true Christian men, men to protect their families, their communities and their nation, but importantly to serve God and teach His Wisdom. It sure doesn’t hurt to talk about guns and survival too…

On January 14, 2021 at 2:42 am, Joe said:

And once again, Christianity proves why it’s the only fit basis for civilization. My prayers for your success and strengthening.

On January 14, 2021 at 3:54 am, Duke Norfolk said:

“I’m convinced that America doesn’t fully understand how much trouble it’s in. We need a theological reformation and spiritual revival before any revival of America can occur. Currently it’s just another pagan nation, and God’s judgment is upon us.”

Amen.
________________________
…if my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14

On January 14, 2021 at 7:09 am, Old Bill in TN said:

Herschel, I welcome the changes you announce, and look forward to theology, gun talk, and everything outdoors. Let us all pray for revival! I feel we are on the brink of momentous times, and hope it means the coming of our King soon. God bless you & keep you,

Sincerely yours,
Old Bill

On January 14, 2021 at 7:12 am, Fran said:

Mr. Herschel,
You have given voice to my jumbled thoughts. I am sad beyond words and have felt rudderless more and more of late. I knew this day in our once great nation was coming. Greed, corruption, self absorption and inflated self worth has slowly taken a once great government to its knees, I say government, not nation.Our ridiculous elected officials have made grave errors. We, the people, will continue to push forward, some better than others. Fortunately and purposefully, I live in a good rural Christian community where we know, help and are helped by our neighbors, grow and preserve food, read, play music and try to live a quiet simple life. The television is on less and less. My husband and I have worked hard to position ourselves so that we might be the least affected by outside influences and control. As I read your words this early morning, i realized that you have put things in perspective for me. I feel a little more at peace with my decision and focus. So, thank you for your wisdom and insight. May God bless you and yours.
Fran C

On January 14, 2021 at 7:58 am, MSG Grumpy said:

Too often I become so wrapped up in the outrage that evil men have corrupted the country I have sworn to protect and defend, while weak leaders I voted for let them do it.

And then I remember,
God is Great.
He is so Great that he does NOT serve me…
This world is in HIS hands, not mine.
I am called, and saved because of His abundant Mercy.
NOT because I, but because of HIM.

Thanks for your Blog, I enjoy reading and spending time here…

We lost a furry member of our family in October, I know the pain of that loss.
We got a new Family member in November, not so much for ourselves, but because our other dog was grieving.
So we got an emotional support dog…for our dog.

May God Bless you and your Family,
When you do find that Furry Family member, May he be a Blessing.

Your Brother in Christ

MSG Grumpy

On January 14, 2021 at 8:18 am, Wes said:

I won’t be leaving, and will certainly welcome well-engineered (yes, pun intended) changes to your core desires for the blog. It is your house; thanks for allowing me to visit a bit each day.

Focusing on the close targets first is almost always best. Particularly, I wish you Godspeed and hope to hear reports about how the new pup is doing.
:)

On January 14, 2021 at 8:22 am, Fred said:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Remember your training, remember your first love, this Christ Jesus that saved you, and remember your youthful aspirations. And easy here is the application that Father God continues to raise and train us up as His child, for we are not yet perfected, before the day of Christ.

Herschel, Sir, get a dog. Start poking around today, make a phone call or two. Now is the season to begin to look, spring pups will be here soon.

I’m praying for you and your family. Hearth and home, kith and kin!

On January 14, 2021 at 8:29 am, June J said:

Agreed and amen. This will still be a daily visit to get your thoughts on whatever the subject of the day is.

On January 14, 2021 at 8:49 am, Bill Buppert said:

Herschel,

Your house and your decision. I have and will always respect your clear and honest insight on the events of the day. Politics exhausts me too but it travels in one direction only consistently and that is the road to pure and unadulterated evil in this mortal coil. I pay attention only in self defense. Look forward to the new vision.

Cordially,

Bill Buppert

On January 14, 2021 at 9:01 am, Bram said:

I look back on the 80’s and 90’s very fondly. One of the many reasons was that politics rarely entered our daily lives. Once every few years we’d go vote and maybe talk about it for a couple weeks, then get back to living.

I look forward to your gun and God related posts.

On January 14, 2021 at 9:21 am, doubletrouble said:

I too applaud your decision.
Go with God… Pax Christi!

On January 14, 2021 at 9:47 am, Leigh said:

Herschel,

Like so many others here, I appreciate all that you have done for us. I have made TCJ a daily stop for many years. I fully intend to keep reading, for as long as you choose to do so.
I sincerely hope that you find the clarity and peace of mind that you are seeking to regain.

Be well

Leigh
Whitehall, NY

On January 14, 2021 at 9:53 am, Albert Waelde said:

Have followed your commentary from the beginning and never commented.
Thank You, for all that you have done that I’ve learned from you.
At 74 I have adopted your mantra as a life style for the future and limited time I have left.
The Trinity is the only incarnation where ones trust can be place without fear of betrayal.
Your post have been a great source of information of all things firearm and words of wisdom in life.
Again,
Thank You

On January 14, 2021 at 10:02 am, Levi Garrett said:

Herschel,
Thanks for all you have done. Your site has been a daily stop for me for some time now, and in here, I find a community of like-minded people from which I draw some measure of strength, encouragement, and wisdom (and hopefully give a little myself). Like many here, our current political predicament exhausts me, and focusing on it excessively causes me a great deal of grief and internal harm. What good does it do to get wound up day after day over things that I cannot change? I’m looking forward to your coming content, and like you, I feel drawn to focus more on the the things that are important to me, or over which I have some level of control or influence. As stated above, I’ll pay attention to politics as it relates to self defense.

On January 14, 2021 at 10:07 am, cj crane said:

Fugg it, let’s just all quit and join Facebook and Twatter. But I wish you good luck in avoiding what’s coming.

On January 14, 2021 at 10:23 am, Nosmo said:

I’ll vote for “more guns, more machinery, more living, more thinking” and a whole lot less politics (actually, “zero politics” would be about right; if one wants politics one doesn’t have to go looking for it, politics will find you….whether you want it to or not).

On January 14, 2021 at 10:34 am, John said:

For those who are doubting or lost in what seems a bad time, remember that
good conquers evil and your prayers and true belief can change your world.
To quote Jesus, here is Mark 11:24 KJV
“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray,
believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”

On January 14, 2021 at 10:35 am, Gary M Steffen said:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6

On January 14, 2021 at 10:43 am, rickr44318 said:

Captain, Bravo Zulu (Well Done). For several years now, you have been one of my daily go-to’s. You will continue to be. Thank you for your cogent thought, spiritual groundedness, and love of the important things. Take some time to reflect, clean house, and re-zero yourself as needed. A lot of us are looking forward to your next post.

On January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am, Heywood said:

*slow. clap* I always found your insights much more enlightening than the links. I, for one, will enjoy the solitude of a politics free zone. God bless.

On January 14, 2021 at 11:06 am, Jimbo said:

Captain – Have enjoyed your blogs and applaud your move. I stand with you and will continue to access your work in the future. It’s been, and I know will continue to be, GOOD STUFF!! ;^)

On January 14, 2021 at 11:21 am, Eric said:

Dear Mr. Smith
Thank you for your time and insight. I look forward to your essays on religion.

On January 14, 2021 at 11:23 am, Bibamufu said:

Roger that…

On January 14, 2021 at 11:43 am, HempRopeAndStreetlight said:

You’re a good brave man Captain. You’re one of the few with the balls to put his John Hancock on his yarns. Thanks for fightin’ all these years. Go enjoy yer little ones.

On January 14, 2021 at 11:47 am, billrla said:

Herschel: A wise move that I can fully understand. A place to go for thinking men suits me just fine. Thanks for keeping it real.

On January 14, 2021 at 12:36 pm, X said:

Herschel:

You might not be interested in politics, but politics is certainly interested in you.

You say you want to focus on God, family and guns. But all three things as you understand them make you an enemy of the state. Unless your god is Allah, Yahweh or Vishnu; unless your family includes married homosexuals with children; and as long as you insist on owning guns of ANY kind, including lever and bolt actions, you are going to be a target in the Pagan States of Amerika.

You will discover that, for practical purposes, you are going to be like an early Christian in pagan Rome, where you will be forced to go underground into the catacombs in order to live according to your conscience, and if you are discovered by the emperor’s men you will be thrown into the Colosseum where your death will be entertainment for the plebes.

On January 14, 2021 at 12:59 pm, Herschel Smith said:

@X,

“You will discover that …”

I’m almost 62 years old. As one who was [probably] let go from a job because I wouldn’t lie to the NRC, and after raising a family of 4 children, working for 40 years in industry, and taking seminary classes involving the sweep of church history, there is very little left for me to … “discover” … about the fallen nature of mankind and what he’s capable of.

On January 14, 2021 at 1:17 pm, Papa said:

“Finally, I’m convinced that America doesn’t fully understand how much trouble it’s in.”
I agree.

I understand why your making the changes, and feel the same way.
You have my support. I will continue visiting your blog that you’ve blessed others and myself with.
Thank you greatly for your past efforts, and looking forward to the new direction of TCJ.

On January 14, 2021 at 2:30 pm, John Taylor said:

Well said and well done! I’ll be sticking around for the long haul. Thank you!

On January 14, 2021 at 2:31 pm, Ozark Redneck said:

Thanks Herschel! I’ll still be reading.

On January 14, 2021 at 2:36 pm, Ozborn said:

Thanks for the explanation for the change in focus. Your house – your rules. After being sucked into the emotional maelstrom of politics for a decade, I’m working to break that addiction and sharpen my focus on faith, family, and resiliency. I’ll continue to follow along with your commentary and musings on any topics of interest to you for as long as you’re willing to share.

On January 14, 2021 at 2:50 pm, Herschel Smith said:

@Ozborn,

Yea. Being sucked into that morass doesn’t help with resiliency. I would like to work on comms, and get my radio license.

That means study time, test time, investing in comms, etc.

Resiliency. To me that means God, family, guns and survival. Add to that – comms, something I’ve neglected for far too long.

On January 14, 2021 at 3:24 pm, sunny said:

Mr. Herschel, I think I appreciate your post today more than any other I’ve read here. Like others have said above, I have felt the same tugging of the Holy Spirit telling me to come closer to Him.

Politics is gonna always be politics. What else do we have to learn about it? We know evil men are drawn to it like a moth to the flame. We will deal with them when it comes time.

I will be here with you all. May we walk closely to the one true God every day.

Linda in MS

On January 14, 2021 at 3:24 pm, PubliusII said:

Good choices for your new directions, Mr. Smith.

On January 14, 2021 at 5:01 pm, Steady Steve said:

Your house, your rules brother. May God guide you and help you to win souls for His glory. Americans will either repent of the evils we have allowed, or go down to destruction. First things indeed! I believe a Christian man has a duty before God to defend his family, himself, community, culture, and country from evil. And that this applies weather the weapon wielded is prayer or the sword.
God’s Word can smite his enemies just as hard as a club, because they know in their hearts they are going down to eternal destruction.
Georgiaboy61: A corollary to the Fourth Turning posits that the struggle alternates between external and internal enemies. This would explain our current situation. May we come out the other side of this “a moral and religious people” once again.

On January 14, 2021 at 7:22 pm, Smoker78 said:

Long time lurker here and I applaud you. One must trust in God and follow their heart and that is what you are doing. Bravo! God Bless.

On January 14, 2021 at 7:28 pm, Mack The Knife said:

With both civilization & the economic system on the verge of collapse, I’m actually looking forward to more articles on weapons, self defense, survival techniques, first aid, tactics, etc. Politics is what got us into this mess. No more need to expand on that topic for sure. When you get your amateur radio license, include comms, too. I’m sure you’re well aware of its importance.
Best wishes, hang in there & keep the faith!

On January 14, 2021 at 9:56 pm, mtnforge said:

Bravo! And God bless you.
Appreciate you, and all your great work, support you, before, now and always.
Good on you too.

On January 14, 2021 at 10:52 pm, Jonah said:

I’m a latecomer to your blog (4 months or so) and really enjoy it. I read your blog daily. I think this is my first comment.
As far as politics go, it’s a race to the bottom but you probably already know that. We lost control a long time ago. Politicians want power and money, not God. Their ways certainly aren’t my ways. When it’s not about God, I’m not much interested and I pray for those who don’t have Him. I won’t waste any more of your time on this.

I have a 5 month old dobie so I know that commitment! Daily intervals of obedience training and about 3 months left for ear posting haha.

God’s speed and keep on keeping on.

On January 15, 2021 at 9:30 am, Milton said:

Mr. Smith,

Good for you_ poly-ticks is beneath you. (At least, it is beneath me; and I read you because I am a bit like you.)

When one reflects on their youth, like for me the 1950’s and 1960’s, life seemed so much BETTER. I would suggest that it WAS better, because most people had a focus on the topics you have identified as most important to you. Poly-Ticks were waaaay far down on the list of what anyone was interested in and cared about.

I look for the fruits of your labor to be EVEN BETTER in the coming days. May God richly bless you, and yours. And thank you for all of your good work.

On January 15, 2021 at 1:13 pm, soapweed said:

Sir: As usual, I agree w/your priorities and viewpoints. The issue of politics though, is inescapable, it is an indicator of caliber and range to yet be shoved into our faces…… and also fore tells of what is to be chattered about even on comms, so the listeners can be on the same page and mental frequency.
HOWEVER…… w/o a pooch to help guide us through the goat head patches that lurk on our daily path, life has a ring of hollowness. Git another and be whole again!
Thanks mucho for your efforts, sir. soapweed

On January 16, 2021 at 1:11 pm, Mack said:

Isn’t is sad that politics and God are divorced?

There was a time when the two were complementary. And when God preempts Man.

Consider these words from a former Speaker of the House:

* https://christianheritagefellowship.com/house-speaker-robert-winthrop-stands-for-christ/
* https://christianheritagefellowship.com/house-speaker-robert-winthrop-defends-the-bible/

All societies of men must be governed in some way or other. The less they may have of stringent State Government, the more they must have of individual self-government. The less they rely on public law or physical force, the more they must rely on private moral restraint.

Men, in a word, must necessarily be controlled, either by a power within them, or by a power without them; either by the word of God, or by the strong-arm of man; either by the Bible, or by the bayonet.

On January 17, 2021 at 5:02 am, Hudson H Luce said:

I think our political class has descended into common madness. It’s in a state of collapse, and will thrash around like a rabid animal, and destroy what it can touch. The best thing to do is to keep a respectful distance away. We still have the our faith in God, along with the principles embodied in the Declaration of Independence, and the rights enumerated in the Bill of Rights, and these are the bedrock on which a civil order can be founded. It used to be that events in Washington, DC, and New York, and Los Angeles mattered little to the great majority of Americans, and it will be a good day when that holds once again.

On January 17, 2021 at 3:56 pm, Matt said:

I believe this is a good decision and your priorities are proper.
Good luck with your endeavors and I will still check in from time to time as usual.

On January 13, 2021 at 11:28 pm, BoyDownTheLane said:

Good for you. Blessings. Go with God.
On January 13, 2021 at 11:28 pm, Bob in NC said:

“I intend to lead a quiet life, work, take care of my family, teach them, be a good neighbor, and most of all, follow my Lord and savior Jesus Christ.”

I understand and completely support your decision. If more Americans had been focused on this, I doubt we would be in the mess we are in now.

Though I was a late comer to your website, I appreciated what you and others had to say. Thank you – and I know that God will protect and provide for you and yours. See you in the New Jerusalem,
On January 13, 2021 at 11:36 pm, frank said:

Herschel I applaud you and welcome your decision and words. I can feel the emotions behind it. I too (and my family) are making similar changes and about to follow the same path. That is the GOOD that has come from all this crap that swept us up. It will intensify, not for the better. I will continue to follow you.
On January 13, 2021 at 11:58 pm, George 1 said:

God be with you Herschel. I may not be the best at always being a thinking man and a scholar. But you will not lose me as a reader, for whatever that is worth.

Take Care
On January 13, 2021 at 11:59 pm, Emmel said:

Hershel I applaud you, I’m recently retired and own a small farm, I’d love to organize bu, for the reasons you mention, I proactively chose not to start.
You’ve got a new fire mission now… go with god.
On January 14, 2021 at 12:04 am, Behind Enemy Lines said:

There’s a time and place for everything, and I too sense this is the time and place for closer attention to what’s at home. If things go the direction we fear, we’ll need that foundation. If things don’t go that way, we’re still doing the right thing with family and community.

Thanks for your work.
On January 14, 2021 at 12:04 am, jim said:

Will miss the insight and analysis, but fully understand the need for a change

A solid direction followed with a firm conviction leads to true happiness and the more examples the better
On January 14, 2021 at 12:14 am, Ned2 said:

A good decision that most of us would make in haste, but are you caving to the running sentiment?
You may not like politics, but politics really does like you.

I have valued your opinion and insight for years and I thank you for that.
On January 14, 2021 at 12:19 am, Herschel Smith said:

@Ned2,

“First things.”
On January 14, 2021 at 12:23 am, Georgiaboy61 said:

@ Herschel Smith

Your decision is perfectly understandable. Just judging from the amount and quality of the content on the site, you have poured a great deal of yourself into it over the years. Thank you for that effort. Your work is appreciated, please know that. Your decision mirrors those many of us are making. To focus more on those things in front of us.

You are completely correct about the fallen and morally-decrepit state of our society. As the late Paul Weyrich and Bill Lind wrote some twelve or so years ago, the culture wars are over, and traditional Americans lost. As the one sarcastic but entirely-accurate remark had it, “conservatives” didn’t conserved anything, not even the women’s rest-room.

John Adams once stated, “We have no government armed in power capable of contending in human passions unbridled by morality and religion…Our Constitution was made only for a moral and religious people. It is wholly inadequate to the government of any other,” and he was entirely correct. Adams went on to state that an immoral people would burst through the boundaries of the constitution like “a whale through a net.”

The historians Strauss and Howe posit that human behavior, being immutable, results in history moving in cycles of about 75-80 years. Why this interval? Because that is roughly the span of one full human life. They term paradigm-changing periods – such as the one in which we presently find ourselves – “Fourth Turnings.” The last such event was in 1945, the year the Second World War ended, seventy-five years ago.

If their model is correct, and many historians and political scientists believe it to be, our nation and civilization will almost certainly be undergoing dramatic, perhaps even catastrophic, changes in the coming decade.

Phrasing colloquially, the saying applies: “Hard times create strong men, strong men create good times; good times create weak men, weak men create hard times…”

During the post-war era, unbridled prosperity has bestowed many material and technological blessings upon us, but it has also resulted in a people who are corrupt, weak, and feckless. The baby-boomers and their successors were given a priceless gift – a nation which their forbearers had bought at an enormous cost in blood, sweat and tears. That which we attain too cheaply, we esteem too lightly, and these spoiled children of privilege squandered this gift like drunken sailors, payday-rich, and on liberty ashore.

That is where we find ourselves. Batten down the hatches, the seas are probably going to get rough….
On January 14, 2021 at 1:25 am, BAP45 said:

Completely understand cutting the politics out. It really feels soul sucking some days. That being said your insightfulness and measured tone have been much appreciated over the years.
On January 14, 2021 at 1:29 am, Red said:

Good Sir. Do what you need to do to keep you and yours safe and healthy.
May you always be in God’s Safekeeping. Red
On January 14, 2021 at 2:24 am, Cederq said:

Thank you Mr. Smith, I have been reading your blog a a short while, have commented a time or two. I have enjoyed your insight and take on wide variety of subjects. I think you have made a wise choice, I have felt the reassuring hand on my shoulder to seek God again and seek like minded men, have frank, open discussion and find the way back to being true Christian men, men to protect their families, their communities and their nation, but importantly to serve God and teach His Wisdom. It sure doesn’t hurt to talk about guns and survival too…
On January 14, 2021 at 2:42 am, Joe said:

And once again, Christianity proves why it’s the only fit basis for civilization. My prayers for your success and strengthening.
On January 14, 2021 at 3:54 am, Duke Norfolk said:

“I’m convinced that America doesn’t fully understand how much trouble it’s in. We need a theological reformation and spiritual revival before any revival of America can occur. Currently it’s just another pagan nation, and God’s judgment is upon us.”

Amen.
________________________
…if my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land.

2 Chronicles 7:14
On January 14, 2021 at 7:09 am, Old Bill in TN said:

Herschel, I welcome the changes you announce, and look forward to theology, gun talk, and everything outdoors. Let us all pray for revival! I feel we are on the brink of momentous times, and hope it means the coming of our King soon. God bless you & keep you,

Sincerely yours,
Old Bill
On January 14, 2021 at 7:12 am, Fran said:

Mr. Herschel,
You have given voice to my jumbled thoughts. I am sad beyond words and have felt rudderless more and more of late. I knew this day in our once great nation was coming. Greed, corruption, self absorption and inflated self worth has slowly taken a once great government to its knees, I say government, not nation.Our ridiculous elected officials have made grave errors. We, the people, will continue to push forward, some better than others. Fortunately and purposefully, I live in a good rural Christian community where we know, help and are helped by our neighbors, grow and preserve food, read, play music and try to live a quiet simple life. The television is on less and less. My husband and I have worked hard to position ourselves so that we might be the least affected by outside influences and control. As I read your words this early morning, i realized that you have put things in perspective for me. I feel a little more at peace with my decision and focus. So, thank you for your wisdom and insight. May God bless you and yours.
Fran C
On January 14, 2021 at 7:58 am, MSG Grumpy said:

Too often I become so wrapped up in the outrage that evil men have corrupted the country I have sworn to protect and defend, while weak leaders I voted for let them do it.

And then I remember,
God is Great.
He is so Great that he does NOT serve me…
This world is in HIS hands, not mine.
I am called, and saved because of His abundant Mercy.
NOT because I, but because of HIM.

Thanks for your Blog, I enjoy reading and spending time here…

We lost a furry member of our family in October, I know the pain of that loss.
We got a new Family member in November, not so much for ourselves, but because our other dog was grieving.
So we got an emotional support dog…for our dog.

May God Bless you and your Family,
When you do find that Furry Family member, May he be a Blessing.

Your Brother in Christ

MSG Grumpy
On January 14, 2021 at 8:18 am, Wes said:

I won’t be leaving, and will certainly welcome well-engineered (yes, pun intended) changes to your core desires for the blog. It is your house; thanks for allowing me to visit a bit each day.

Focusing on the close targets first is almost always best. Particularly, I wish you Godspeed and hope to hear reports about how the new pup is doing.
:)
On January 14, 2021 at 8:22 am, Fred said:

“But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you.” Matthew 6:33

“Train up a child in the way he should go: and when he is old, he will not depart from it.” Proverbs 22:6

Remember your training, remember your first love, this Christ Jesus that saved you, and remember your youthful aspirations. And easy here is the application that Father God continues to raise and train us up as His child, for we are not yet perfected, before the day of Christ.

Herschel, Sir, get a dog. Start poking around today, make a phone call or two. Now is the season to begin to look, spring pups will be here soon.

I’m praying for you and your family. Hearth and home, kith and kin!
On January 14, 2021 at 8:29 am, June J said:

Agreed and amen. This will still be a daily visit to get your thoughts on whatever the subject of the day is.
On January 14, 2021 at 8:49 am, Bill Buppert said:

Herschel,

Your house and your decision. I have and will always respect your clear and honest insight on the events of the day. Politics exhausts me too but it travels in one direction only consistently and that is the road to pure and unadulterated evil in this mortal coil. I pay attention only in self defense. Look forward to the new vision.

Cordially,

Bill Buppert
On January 14, 2021 at 9:01 am, Bram said:

I look back on the 80’s and 90’s very fondly. One of the many reasons was that politics rarely entered our daily lives. Once every few years we’d go vote and maybe talk about it for a couple weeks, then get back to living.

I look forward to your gun and God related posts.
On January 14, 2021 at 9:21 am, doubletrouble said:

I too applaud your decision.
Go with God… Pax Christi!
On January 14, 2021 at 9:47 am, Leigh said:

Herschel,

Like so many others here, I appreciate all that you have done for us. I have made TCJ a daily stop for many years. I fully intend to keep reading, for as long as you choose to do so.
I sincerely hope that you find the clarity and peace of mind that you are seeking to regain.

Be well

Leigh
Whitehall, NY
On January 14, 2021 at 9:53 am, Albert Waelde said:

Have followed your commentary from the beginning and never commented.
Thank You, for all that you have done that I’ve learned from you.
At 74 I have adopted your mantra as a life style for the future and limited time I have left.
The Trinity is the only incarnation where ones trust can be place without fear of betrayal.
Your post have been a great source of information of all things firearm and words of wisdom in life.
Again,
Thank You
On January 14, 2021 at 10:02 am, Levi Garrett said:

Herschel,
Thanks for all you have done. Your site has been a daily stop for me for some time now, and in here, I find a community of like-minded people from which I draw some measure of strength, encouragement, and wisdom (and hopefully give a little myself). Like many here, our current political predicament exhausts me, and focusing on it excessively causes me a great deal of grief and internal harm. What good does it do to get wound up day after day over things that I cannot change? I’m looking forward to your coming content, and like you, I feel drawn to focus more on the the things that are important to me, or over which I have some level of control or influence. As stated above, I’ll pay attention to politics as it relates to self defense.
On January 14, 2021 at 10:07 am, cj crane said:

Fugg it, let’s just all quit and join Facebook and Twatter. But I wish you good luck in avoiding what’s coming.
On January 14, 2021 at 10:23 am, Nosmo said:

I’ll vote for “more guns, more machinery, more living, more thinking” and a whole lot less politics (actually, “zero politics” would be about right; if one wants politics one doesn’t have to go looking for it, politics will find you….whether you want it to or not).
On January 14, 2021 at 10:34 am, John said:

For those who are doubting or lost in what seems a bad time, remember that
good conquers evil and your prayers and true belief can change your world.
To quote Jesus, here is Mark 11:24 KJV
“Therefore I say unto you, What things soever ye desire, when ye pray,
believe that ye receive them, and ye shall have them.”
On January 14, 2021 at 10:35 am, Gary M Steffen said:

Trust in the LORD with all your heart and lean not on your own understanding; in all your ways submit to him, and he will make your paths straight.

Proverbs 3:5-6
On January 14, 2021 at 10:43 am, rickr44318 said:

Captain, Bravo Zulu (Well Done). For several years now, you have been one of my daily go-to’s. You will continue to be. Thank you for your cogent thought, spiritual groundedness, and love of the important things. Take some time to reflect, clean house, and re-zero yourself as needed. A lot of us are looking forward to your next post.
On January 14, 2021 at 10:58 am, Heywood said:

*slow. clap* I always found your insights much more enlightening than the links. I, for one, will enjoy the solitude of a politics free zone. God bless.
On January 14, 2021 at 11:06 am, Jimbo said:

Captain – Have enjoyed your blogs and applaud your move. I stand with you and will continue to access your work in the future. It’s been, and I know will continue to be, GOOD STUFF!! ;^)
On January 14, 2021 at 11:21 am, Eric said:

Dear Mr. Smith
Thank you for your time and insight. I look forward to your essays on religion.
On January 14, 2021 at 11:23 am, Bibamufu said:

Roger that…
On January 14, 2021 at 11:43 am, HempRopeAndStreetlight said:

You’re a good brave man Captain. You’re one of the few with the balls to put his John Hancock on his yarns. Thanks for fightin’ all these years. Go enjoy yer little ones.
On January 14, 2021 at 11:47 am, billrla said:

Herschel: A wise move that I can fully understand. A place to go for thinking men suits me just fine. Thanks for keeping it real.
On January 14, 2021 at 12:36 pm, X said:

Herschel:

You might not be interested in politics, but politics is certainly interested in you.

You say you want to focus on God, family and guns. But all three things as you understand them make you an enemy of the state. Unless your god is Allah, Yahweh or Vishnu; unless your family includes married homosexuals with children; and as long as you insist on owning guns of ANY kind, including lever and bolt actions, you are going to be a target in the Pagan States of Amerika.

You will discover that, for practical purposes, you are going to be like an early Christian in pagan Rome, where you will be forced to go underground into the catacombs in order to live according to your conscience, and if you are discovered by the emperor’s men you will be thrown into the Colosseum where your death will be entertainment for the plebes.
On January 14, 2021 at 12:59 pm, Herschel Smith said:

@X,

“You will discover that …”

I’m almost 62 years old. As one who was [probably] let go from a job because I wouldn’t lie to the NRC, and after raising a family of 4 children, working for 40 years in industry, and taking seminary classes involving the sweep of church history, there is very little left for me to … “discover” … about the fallen nature of mankind and what he’s capable of.
On January 14, 2021 at 1:17 pm, Papa said:

“Finally, I’m convinced that America doesn’t fully understand how much trouble it’s in.”
I agree.

I understand why your making the changes, and feel the same way.
You have my support. I will continue visiting your blog that you’ve blessed others and myself with.
Thank you greatly for your past efforts, and looking forward to the new direction of TCJ.
On January 14, 2021 at 2:30 pm, John Taylor said:

Well said and well done! I’ll be sticking around for the long haul. Thank you!
On January 14, 2021 at 2:31 pm, Ozark Redneck said:

Thanks Herschel! I’ll still be reading.
On January 14, 2021 at 2:36 pm, Ozborn said:

Thanks for the explanation for the change in focus. Your house – your rules. After being sucked into the emotional maelstrom of politics for a decade, I’m working to break that addiction and sharpen my focus on faith, family, and resiliency. I’ll continue to follow along with your commentary and musings on any topics of interest to you for as long as you’re willing to share.
On January 14, 2021 at 2:50 pm, Herschel Smith said:

@Ozborn,

Yea. Being sucked into that morass doesn’t help with resiliency. I would like to work on comms, and get my radio license.

That means study time, test time, investing in comms, etc.

Resiliency. To me that means God, family, guns and survival. Add to that – comms, something I’ve neglected for far too long.
On January 14, 2021 at 3:24 pm, sunny said:

Mr. Herschel, I think I appreciate your post today more than any other I’ve read here. Like others have said above, I have felt the same tugging of the Holy Spirit telling me to come closer to Him.

Politics is gonna always be politics. What else do we have to learn about it? We know evil men are drawn to it like a moth to the flame. We will deal with them when it comes time.

I will be here with you all. May we walk closely to the one true God every day.

Linda in MS
On January 14, 2021 at 3:24 pm, PubliusII said:

Good choices for your new directions, Mr. Smith.
On January 14, 2021 at 5:01 pm, Steady Steve said:

Your house, your rules brother. May God guide you and help you to win souls for His glory. Americans will either repent of the evils we have allowed, or go down to destruction. First things indeed! I believe a Christian man has a duty before God to defend his family, himself, community, culture, and country from evil. And that this applies weather the weapon wielded is prayer or the sword.
God’s Word can smite his enemies just as hard as a club, because they know in their hearts they are going down to eternal destruction.
Georgiaboy61: A corollary to the Fourth Turning posits that the struggle alternates between external and internal enemies. This would explain our current situation. May we come out the other side of this “a moral and religious people” once again.
On January 14, 2021 at 7:22 pm, Smoker78 said:

Long time lurker here and I applaud you. One must trust in God and follow their heart and that is what you are doing. Bravo! God Bless.
On January 14, 2021 at 7:28 pm, Mack The Knife said:

With both civilization & the economic system on the verge of collapse, I’m actually looking forward to more articles on weapons, self defense, survival techniques, first aid, tactics, etc. Politics is what got us into this mess. No more need to expand on that topic for sure. When you get your amateur radio license, include comms, too. I’m sure you’re well aware of its importance.
Best wishes, hang in there & keep the faith!
On January 14, 2021 at 9:56 pm, mtnforge said:

Bravo! And God bless you.
Appreciate you, and all your great work, support you, before, now and always.
Good on you too.
On January 14, 2021 at 10:52 pm, Jonah said:

I’m a latecomer to your blog (4 months or so) and really enjoy it. I read your blog daily. I think this is my first comment.
As far as politics go, it’s a race to the bottom but you probably already know that. We lost control a long time ago. Politicians want power and money, not God. Their ways certainly aren’t my ways. When it’s not about God, I’m not much interested and I pray for those who don’t have Him. I won’t waste any more of your time on this.

I have a 5 month old dobie so I know that commitment! Daily intervals of obedience training and about 3 months left for ear posting haha.

God’s speed and keep on keeping on.
On January 15, 2021 at 9:30 am, Milton said:

Mr. Smith,

Good for you_ poly-ticks is beneath you. (At least, it is beneath me; and I read you because I am a bit like you.)

When one reflects on their youth, like for me the 1950’s and 1960’s, life seemed so much BETTER. I would suggest that it WAS better, because most people had a focus on the topics you have identified as most important to you. Poly-Ticks were waaaay far down on the list of what anyone was interested in and cared about.

I look for the fruits of your labor to be EVEN BETTER in the coming days. May God richly bless you, and yours. And thank you for all of your good work.
On January 15, 2021 at 1:13 pm, soapweed said:

Sir: As usual, I agree w/your priorities and viewpoints. The issue of politics though, is inescapable, it is an indicator of caliber and range to yet be shoved into our faces…… and also fore tells of what is to be chattered about even on comms, so the listeners can be on the same page and mental frequency.
HOWEVER…… w/o a pooch to help guide us through the goat head patches that lurk on our daily path, life has a ring of hollowness. Git another and be whole again!
Thanks mucho for your efforts, sir. soapweed
On January 16, 2021 at 1:11 pm, Mack said:

Isn’t is sad that politics and God are divorced?

There was a time when the two were complementary. And when God preempts Man.

Consider these words from a former Speaker of the House:

* https://christianheritagefellowship.com/house-speaker-robert-winthrop-stands-for-christ/
* https://christianheritagefellowship.com/house-speaker-robert-winthrop-defends-the-bible/

All societies of men must be governed in some way or other. The less they may have of stringent State Government, the more they must have of individual self-government. The less they rely on public law or physical force, the more they must rely on private moral restraint.

Men, in a word, must necessarily be controlled, either by a power within them, or by a power without them; either by the word of God, or by the strong-arm of man; either by the Bible, or by the bayonet.
On January 17, 2021 at 5:02 am, Hudson H Luce said:

I think our political class has descended into common madness. It’s in a state of collapse, and will thrash around like a rabid animal, and destroy what it can touch. The best thing to do is to keep a respectful distance away. We still have the our faith in God, along with the principles embodied in the Declaration of Independence, and the rights enumerated in the Bill of Rights, and these are the bedrock on which a civil order can be founded. It used to be that events in Washington, DC, and New York, and Los Angeles mattered little to the great majority of Americans, and it will be a good day when that holds once again.
On January 17, 2021 at 3:56 pm, Matt said:

I believe this is a good decision and your priorities are proper.
Good luck with your endeavors and I will still check in from time to time as usual.

RSS feed for comments on this post. TrackBack URL

Coming Changes To TCJ

Comments

Leave a comment