Jesus in Islam

On By scottpetersenIn Gabriel, Isa Ibn Marium, Islam1 Comment

When the angel said: O Marium, surely Allah gives you good news with a Word from Him whose name is the Messiah, Isa son of Marium, worthy of regard in this world and the hereafter and of those who are made near to Allah. The Koran – Surra 3:45

His name is Isa Ibn Marium.  He was born of a virgin – Marium – who gave birth to Isa by the miraculous will of God.  It is believed by many Muslims that Isa – Jesus – is a Messenger of God who was sent to guide the Children of Israel with the Holy Gospel.  Jesus is referenced in the Koran as being al-Masih (“The Messiah”).  Most Muslims accept that Jesus will return on the Day of Judgment to restore justice and to defeat the Antichrist (al-Masih ad-Dajjal). 

I have written about religion in earlier posts.  I’ve discussed my journey through the Old and New Testaments.  And I have not been shy about discussing Islam (see 1/30/12; 3/26/12; 8/23/12; and 9/6/13).  Frankly, Islam, Christianity and Judaism have more in common than they do difference. But try telling that to the extremists.  Many it seems – especially Muslims at this juncture in history – seem to believe that they alone have the ear of God.   And among Muslims, the 72 (or 73) different sects vilify one other.  And they vilify Christians and Jews despite our Abrahamic origins – and being Ahl al-Kitab.  But I digress.

The story of Jesus has recurring reference in the Koran.  Mary – his mother – is the only woman mentioned in the Koran.  I’m a good Episcopalian but I read the Koran and other religious texts given that the topic is so fascinating (and historically relevant).  Frankly, religion is a topic more people ought study.  And understand.  Yet among Muslims, regrettably a majority cannot read.  S0 many get their information from imams, madrassahs and politicians.  Who often have a political agenda.  And you know what happens then. . . .   Witness the fires that burn across the Middle East.  Nevertheless, I find it easier to discuss religion with Pakistani cab drivers (see post of 8/19/12) than I do politics with those who are misguided on the subject.    

 

Hat’s Off!

On By scottpetersenIn Hat's Off, Voss Birchwood LodgeLeave a comment

In my last post, I talked about being up in the North Woods of Wisconsin. Minocqua. Woodruff. Lac du Flambeau. Boulder Junction. Great time. Beautiful country.

One really neat – old – place is Voss’s Birchwood Lodge in Manitowish Waters. This place hearkens back to 1910. John Dillinger and his pals drank beer in the bar and were probably responsible for some of the cigarette burns in the woodwork.  The original owner was the one who blew the whistle on Dillinger’s gang.  And FBI agents gathered there before the assault on Little Bohemia which is down the road.  Wonderful history. Today’s crowd is more peaceful. And civil.  But not necessarily civilized.

When I was growing up, I remember my father always telling me to “take off” my hat — when going in any public place. And I did.  My buddies did too.  It was a lesson we all learned.  Once, when I was not quick enough, a Scout leader slapped the brim of my hat sending it flying.  But today, it seems like a lot of young men – and even a few older guys – are not getting the message. 

Posted at the entry to the dining room at Voss’s Lodge is a sign directing men to take off their hats. We walked in for breakfast one morning and sure enough there are two men sitting there with their Green Bay Packer hats perched squarely on their heads. Men.  I looked at them and there was not much of a spark looking back.  If you get my drift. . . .  Next time I see some character with his hat on in a restaurant, there may be a temptation to walk over.  And send it flying.

Bald Eagles

On By scottpetersenIn Bald Eagles, Minocqua, Walleyed Pike1 Comment

We spent a relaxing weekend with friends in Boulder Junction, Wisconsin. Golf, great food, fine wine, nice company, the North Woods. And then there was fishing.  In my posts of June 28, 2012, and July 23, 2013, I talked about being up North and fishing for walleye with our guide Jim W.  Well, this time was no different.  Dan and I went out early with Jim – who is probably the best fishing guide in the Minocqua area. 

The fishing wasn’t as keen as in previous years (we did have enough “keepers” for dinner) but what made this outing special was seeing Bald Eagles.  In a veritable abundance.  I feel I need to capitalize the words of that species just because. . . . well, you know.  I have seen an occasional Bald Eagle in the past but our time on Lake Tomahawk on Saturday was amazing.  We probably saw half a dozen Bald Eagles.  Soaring above.  Diving for fish.   I felt very patriotic sharing space with these symbols of America.  And there were loons galore.  Having seen a fox at Minocqua Country Club the day before and several deer, I have to wonder what’s around the corner.  Maybe a donkey.  And an elephant?   Please spare me. . . . .

My Biggest Case

On By scottpetersenIn My biggest case, My Father1 Comment

When I was a young(er) lawyer, my father got a speeding ticket. “I wasn’t speeding” he protested. “I wanna fight this thing. You wanna be my lawyer?” he asked me.  I’d never handled a speeding ticket but I said “sure, Dad.”

So on the appointed day of the court hearing for my father’s speeding ticket, we showed up and sat toward the back of the courtroom. The room was crowded and people milled around. The judge entered. Everyone rose. And the judge got down to business – “anyone who wants to plead guilty, I’m willing to give you supervision – which means you pay a fine but if you get no ticket in the next six months, the conviction is wiped out.” The judge directed those interested toward a window where they would pay a fine but get their “supervision.” My father – who had been deaf since World War Two – didn’t hear but I knew he wasn’t interested (“I wanna fight this thing“).

After a while, my father’s case was called and I took my father’s arm, stood – and we walked to the front. And stepped before the judge. “Good morning, your Honor” I said. “My name is Scott Petersen and I’m here representing the defendant Peter Petersen.” The judge got a glint in his eye and looked at me. Smiling. “Is he your father?” “Yes Your Honor” I replied seriously. The judge chuckled. Looked at the ticket and said “case dismissed.” I thanked the judge for this amazing gift – and started to lead my father away.  He pulled back – “wait I wanna say . . . ” “DAD” I hissed – and put a finger to my lips.  

I’ve had a few cases in my career but none that gave me the satisfaction of that one. Once outside the courtroom, I explained that the case had been dismissed.  He smiled.  “You’re pretty good,” he said. Yep.

No Names

On By scottpetersenIn Being nice to wait staff, Breakfast tips, No Names, Tipping1 Comment

In my post of May 2, 2013 (“Breakfast Tips“), I talked about how when going out for breakfast, the gratuity I leave is always more – percentagewise – than when going out for dinner. Why? Simply because your bill for breakfast may be six bucks. What are you going to do — leave 90 cents? Your wait staff deserves better.

Anywayyyyy, fast forward.  Speaking of wait staff — we go out with different friends for dinner on a fairly regular basis. We always have a great time.  Except. . . . . when Donna tells me we’re going out with ___ and ___ I inevitably ask – “do we have to?” The reason is that the woman is frequently downright nasty to wait staff.  Demanding. Condescending. Pick out a few similar adjectives.  I have no idea why.  It makes me very uncomfortable and tends to put a cloud on the dinner. 

When I was growing up (Donna is still waiting for that to happen), I was inculcated with the mantra of “being nice” to people. The vast majority of our friends are courteous and friendly to those who serve them. But there is one.  Donna’s been suggesting that we go out with this couple for the last year or two.  My usual response is – how about November 12, 2018?  Oh wait.  That’s the day I have to clean the birdbath. 

Kim Jong Un

On By scottpetersenIn Kim Jong UnLeave a comment

Kim Jong Un is the 31 year old leader of the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (aka “North Korea”). He is the son of Kim Jong il and the grandson of Kim il Sung (his predecessors). This 31 year old whiz kid is President of the country and head of the military. And he controls every aspect of life in the “Hermit Kingdom.”

Those who cross Kim Jong Un learn quickly. Then they die.  He has caused to disappear scores of his own family members. He is reputed to have fed his uncle – Jang Song Thaek – to a large pack of dogs who had not been fed for several days. He keeps his 24.7 million people on a starvation diet.  And his people die like flies.  And he doesn’t care.   There are increased rumblings at the top.  And factions.  Dice are rolling.  The knives are out.  On March 14, 2013, Kim was the target of an assassination attempt.  And survived.  Keep watching the news in the coming weeks.   

Last week (July 8th), some rare footage of Kim Jong Un made its way to the West.  It shows Kim Jong Un limping.  Struggling to walk (see http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fdGozD6cIGE ).   Yet a bare thousand views.  I wonder how it happened.  Shooting hoops with Dennis Rodman?  Poor guy.  Gosh – I sure hope it’s serious. . . .

I Am Always Right

On By scottpetersenIn Jonathan Haidt, The Righteous MindLeave a comment

I am always right. On everything. In fact, I am never wrong. My views are always – always – correct. On politics, religion, social issues, economics, the law, ethnic issues, people, movies and golf courses. If you disagree with me. You are wrong. You are obviously uneducated (some of the most well-schooled people are hopelessly uneducated.  Or fools) or just stupid. So if you want to know the right path, the right opinion, the right way to believe — just give me a call or send me an email. Because I have a righteous mind.

The Righteous Mind is a wonderful book by Jonathan Haidt.  It is a New York Times bestseller which explores why people are fundamentally intuitive – and irrational.  The book suggests that our views (whether political, social, religious or whatever) are hardwired into us.  You were never designed to listen to reason — only to respond with your preconceived notions and (often false) beliefs.  When you ask people moral questions and time their responses, you see that they reach conclusions quickly.  And they produce reasons – later – only to justify what they have already decided.  We often acquire morality (theories on right and wrong – and “justice”) the way we acquire food preferences.  If it tastes good, we stick with it.  Interestingly this bestseller suggests that conservatives are more broad-minded than liberals since they receive a more varied diet of information.  And are more receptive to listening.    

Haidt’s comments often sound cynical and yet if you follow the narration, you learn (if you don’t have a closed mind) that Haidt is really seeking enlightenment.  He wants you to open your minds to the moral intuitions of other people.  

If you don’t want to read this book, you are probably a lost soul.   But if you do, you may still have hope.  And if you want to know what’s right – and what’s wrong – just let me know.  I can tell you.  And will.  I have a righteous mind.     

Anaphylaxis

On By scottpetersenIn Anaphylaxis, EpiPenLeave a comment

A few weeks ago, Lauren and Trent took our granddaughter Eve out for a treat. They went to a bakery and ordered a coconut cookie. They were assured that there were no nuts in the cookie. Eve took a bite. And within minutes her face turned red.  Her body began to turn red.  And she began to swell. Here eyes began to swell shut. And Lauren and Trent raced to a hospital ER where Eve was whisked into a treatment room and given a shot with an EpiPen. And things began to calm.

Many children of late are developing allergies. Eve has a peanut allergy. And now we know — a coconut allergy.  And the allergy is serious.  For a child or adult with such allergies, eating the wrong food can bring on life-threatening anaphylaxis.  Anaphylaxis can be triggered by foods (e.g. peanuts or shellfish), biting or stinging insects, medication (e.g. penicillin), latex or other causations.   Anaphylaxis affects people differently.  The airway is often affected, there is swelling, chest pain, low blood pressure, dizziness and in some cases the result can be fatal.  Emergency treatment is essential.  For parents of children with allergies, an EpiPen is standard equipment.  I carry one in my briefcase – to work.  Along with Benedryl (another potential antidote) and aspirin (see October 21, 2011).  What you need to know about EpiPens is — the dosage only lasts for about 15 minutes.  And then the allergic reaction resumes.  We have friends who – when traveling – will carry 8 EpiPens for their child.  Enough to get them to an emergency room.  Apart from the ER or an EpiPen, there’s not much you can do when anaphylactic  shock begins to set in.    Benadryl (an antihistamine) can help but reaction time is usually much too slow for the sudden onset of anaphylaxis.  If you have a child (or know someone) who has such allergies, the best thing is to carry an EpiPen — and know where the nearest ER is located.   

 

Five Riddles

On By scottpetersenIn Five RiddlesLeave a comment

I remember “what’s black and white and red [phonetic] all over?”  Answer:  a newspaper.  The following are good 🙂

1. A murderer is condemned to death. He has to choose between three rooms. The first is full of raging fires, the second is full of assassins with loaded guns, and the third is full of lions that haven’t eaten in 3 years. Which room is safest for him?

2. A woman shoots her husband. Then she holds him under water for over 5 minutes. Finally, she hangs him. But 5 minutes later they both go out together and enjoy a wonderful dinner together. How can this be?   

3. What is black when you buy it, red when you use it, and gray when you throw it away ? 

4. Can you name three consecutive days without using the words Wednesday, Friday, or Sunday?  

5. This is an unusual paragraph. I’m curious as to just how quickly you can find out what is so unusual about it. It looks so ordinary and plain that you would think nothing was wrong with it. In fact, nothing is wrong with it! It is highly unusual though. Study it and think about it, but you still may not find anything odd. But if you work at it a bit, you might find out. Try to do so without any coaching!

THE ANSWERS . . . .

1. The third room. Lions that haven’t eaten in three years are dead.  That one was easy, right?

2. The woman was a photographer. She shot a picture of her husband, developed it, and hung it up to dry (shot; held under water; and hung).

3. Charcoal, as it is used in barbecuing.

4. Sure you can name three consecutive days– yesterday, today, and tomorrow!

5. The letter “e” which is the most common letter used in the English language, does not appear even once in the paragraph.

The Chicago Cubs are Lutheran

On By scottpetersenIn Chicago Cubs are LutheranLeave a comment

Donna and I went to see Garrison Keillor at Ravinia. It’s perhaps our sixth time attending his live radio broadcast of “Prairie Home Companion.” His show is always – always – a treat. 

Mr. Keillor discusses the goings on in Lake Wobegon but he inevitably gets around to talking about Chicago, the North Shore, Illinois politics and such.  Last night was no different.  But last night he talked about the Chicago Cubs.  And he came to the divine conclusion that the Chicago Cubs’ failures over the last hundred years are due to the fact that they are (are you ready?) a Lutheran team. He went on.  And on.  And the audience loved it.  And collectively thought gosh maybe it’s true. . . .

In 1914, Wrigley Field (then known as Weeghman Park) was built on the grounds of the old Chicago Lutheran Theological Seminary.  Because Lutherans (who are in abundance in Lake Wobegon) are devoted to “service to others,” this mantra has seeped from the ground and stuck.  On the Cubs.  And the Chicago Cubs since 1914 have been the living embodiment of Lutheran theology — “in service to others.” Devoted to ending other teams losing streaks. Ending batting slumps. Lowering opposing pitchers E.R.A.’s. And so on. The Chicago Cubs failure to ever win a World Series while playing in Wrigley Field is not because of a Billy goat. Not because of poor management. Not because of poor players. It is because – they are Lutheran.  Having grown up as a Lutheran, I kinda see where he’s coming from . . . . .