Henry120: Hello mod,

Please can you ban this individual called @kwame on this thread www.nairaland.com/415620/strongest-military-africa/362. The guy has been derailing, spamming and making a nuisance of himself on the thread. We can no longer carry out mentally engaging discussions on the thread.

Thank you.

Sorry for the late reply/response Henry. Its been taken care of.

Chukky, how body now? turns out the username you picked (H2SO4) is already taken (my bad, I should've checked and told you). Can you please pick another one? thanks.

jayriginal:

Oh JeSoul. Arent you supposed to tell us whether the pun is intended or not? Where are your manners

Pun wasn't intended oh...but I find that I subconsiously do that many times.

plappville: Sisterly, i greet ooo, longest time. This hell fire subject dey treaten 9jas seriously ooo....many die andcome back revelationsss everywhere.

OH! my dearest Plapp! why did you abandon us now? You've been missed! way too much testosterone on this board lol. I hope you have been well and the family as well .

@Frosbel,
thankfully, what I believe on the matter is inconsequential to you or anyone else

Uyi Iredia:

It should be. He has a charming smile.



Same as mine. In a way fundamentalists will, predictably, disagree with.



Not just this section. In the whole world.



The part I wanted to answer. As I've said elsewhere deism best describes my belief state at present. A self-fulfilling prophecy perhaps. An atheist insinuated that it was a phase b4 I become atheist but I think its very unlikely (and I'm being conservative saying that). I always liked the term 'free-thought' used by atheists, very simply, I take it to mean the willingness to contemplate/create ideas - any idea. I still disagree, as I have, that there is no God. As I began to contemplate philosophy more (and I admit this was stimulated by arguments with atheists) I decided life on earth (and intelligence in man - a living thing BTW) was the best pointer there is for God. This is where evolution came in, for while there are rare instances - such as harakiri's - of atheists disbelieving evolution, most atheists defend and believe the theory. I then decided if life could be explained by natural means which I strongly doubted, then atheism would be the logical step. I started by reading Darwin's famed book. The early chapters were good enough, but when the concept of natural selection was presented there were 2 fatal flaws: the first was that it was made in spite of observed limits to variations (e.g a cabbage never possibly chemosynthesizing, or pigeons never having beaks like woodpeckers), the second was the anthropormorphism of the term, a flaw which still bedevils evolutionists till this day. On the basis of that, I considered the theory a non-starter and opted for YEC (which I have dropped) & ID (which I still believe). Of course, since they usually state that people who disbelieve it don't understand it I decided to attempt to understand technicalities, so far as I can tell the problem is the same, in fact even worse, since the theory carries the hidden conjectures that life originated by chance (non-random NS is invoked but that fails because the concept requires a living system is in place), no reverse mutations undo the novel traits that are produced and all 'favorable' mutations must survive and reproduce.

Since the element crucial to a possible atheistic belief was in my eyes, a flaw I (while being a Christian) predicted that at most I could be deist. From, at the very least, skimming (for want of time) philosophical works I decided that there are 2 fundamental opposing philosophies: the materialist - who insists only matter exists (hence no God) and the idealist - who believes in an immaterial element in the universe (hence there is a God). As with all matters concerning ideas, these philosophies have their shades of grey. I decided idealism was preferable but what could justify it and what made materialism (and hence atheism untenable). Deliberating on it made me realize that both the materialist and idealist both share the common attribute of being products of intelligence (the terms thoughts, feelings, beliefs, axioms could also describe them). In justifying idealism, I noted that without intellectual ability one COULD NOT profess to be either a materialist or idealist and, this is crucial, all matter (in themselves) lack this capacity. In the thread 'A reasonable argument against God' DeepSight called thehomer a corpse. I think this insult was meant to reinforce this point. I revert back to the crucial question of life. Creationists and ID theorists can confidently say that:

• undirected matter is limited in what it can make (montmorollite crystals, diamonds, snows etc)

• intelligence (as especially seen in humans) makes systems which simulates life (the way all living things are made from encoded DNA or RNA is some viruses) and they hardly say this,

• intelligence (thoughts, feelings, beliefs, chimeras etc) is necessarily expressed through material means.

Of course, any one (using intelligence) can argue these, either for the sake of, or because of a bias but these 3 propositions are factual. I concluded, therefore that the materialist position confutes itself because it (by definition) denies the existence of what makes it possible while using it intelligence to propose how life and indeed the universe arose. Of course, strict materialists are atheists, then atheism is also shown contradictory. An interesting thing I noted was how people sometimes misused terms. Agnosticism is in fact atheism, the only difference is the agnostic disbelieves God on the basis of limitations in knowledge. I came across a Nigerian who said he was atheist, then next said he believed in an 'Infinite Intelligence', that categorically places him as a deist. I still do think there is good in Christianity and wisdom to be gotten from the Bible, I think however that what bedevils it as theistic religions is personalizing a God who hasn't made itself (himself or herself) explicit except through what is seen in Nature. So while the search continues, I think deism best captures my thoughts for now.

Interesting trivia:

• The founder of the Foursquare Gospel Church, Aimee McPherson, was for a time - an atheist. The reason for this is she became convinced of evolution and when she questioned her pastor on it she got no cogent replies. After she received the baptism of the Holy Spirit when her future husband prayed for her she changed her mind. I think 'evolution-believing' Christians are being naïve when they ignore what both YEC's and Dawkins harp on that evolution supports and is based on a materialistic mindset fundamentally opposed to Christianity. As with, all contradictions, it is rationalized.

• I think God is, like human beings, conscious, infinite and intelligent and unlike humans, not contingent on defined physical laws for his existence or his capacity to affect. We depend on already extant material things to exist not so with God. From the above, one can see we share some qualities with God.

• Is God transcendent or immanent ? I think He could be both. It's like the question of the irresistible force against an immovable object. Let's take the former to be immaterial and the latter to be matter. Can anyone defeat the other. No (as was in a certain cartoon they both surrender). Hence, I understand God to be transcendent in that He is immaterial and immanent in that all matter originates from Him.

Forgive the long post. I just summarized 4 years of searching.

This is just simply fantastic Uyi.

Fantastic because you have/are taking the time to explore so many different flavors of life, faith, science, philosophy etc etc. I have opined many times here that in large part I think there is a lot of fact to the evolution theory...with time scientists could hash it out and iron out the "fatal flaws" you detailed. There are so many things today that are accepted that would've seemed ridiculous 1000yrs ago, and so it will be 1000yrs from now. My approach to these matters is different in the sense that the validity or legitimacy of scientific theories like evolution has - to me - no bearing on the existence of a Deity. I think we have successfully & unfortunately pitted one against the other when it shouldn't be so. Evolution simply attempts to explain how, religion/faith/philosophy deals with why. I say this as both a scientist who goes everyday to work in a Lab and a christian who serves God with all my heart. So I am quite encouraging of evolutionary research BUT not the new-age Dawkinian pseudo-scientists that are armed with an anti-God agenda.

Also when you said "I always liked the term 'free-thought' used by atheists, very simply, I take it to mean the willingness to contemplate/create ideas - any idea." Not sure why you would think christianity does not accomodate the "free-thought" idea...I find that in christianity, if properly understood and handled - gives you the very freedom to let your imagination run wild, and truth will capture, secure and seal it.

Lastly, "deist" "materialist" "ID-ist" "YEC-ist" etc etc...I would say don't be as bothered about slapping a label on yourself. You don't fit on a shelf, you're a living book. You are evolving just like many of us, allowing your beliefs to be shaped by your experiences and new knowledge. God who is omniscient looks at the heart, hidden behind the beliefs, philosophies, pain, hurt and He knows those who are His - regardless of labels.

I wish you an exciting journey as you continue to self-discover .

naptu2: Mods please investigate, I suspect that the anti-spam bot has banned Johnie and hidden his post on this thread

https://www.nairaland.com/1324191/obamas-trip-africa-comes-hefty/3

Thank you.

Untagged and unbanned. Sorry about the spambot naptu2.

nitlad: Sis JeSoul, kindly canvass for this topic to grace the front page ASAP! Cheers

https://www.nairaland.com/1325862/hassan-rouhani-irans-next-president

Hi nitlad, Mukina took care of you thanks to her.

Fhemmmy:

Not a team like the Spurs . . . The heat will come out burning in Game 6, cos it is a win or go home situation and the 2.5 Men they have there wont want that to happen, ray allen will probably wanna get his title back as well for the most 3 point made in the finals . . .

Lol...Ray Allen that only shows up once every 6-7 games? I expect them to win game 6 too tho...

Great game from the Spurs...and that kid Danny Green!!! wow...dropping treys all up in Lebron's grill lol...kid has no respect for his 'elders'. This run of his will go down as one of the greatest in NBA finals. So impressed with him.

Now back to Miami...I am expecting the Heat to win game 6 and then Spurs take game 7...unless Duncan and Splitter can put together a water-tight screen around the paint and keep drivers out...Bosh has actually had more success in the paint than I expected. Nice series so far....except for the useless refering/calls --> David Stern!!!

Flytefalls:
Imma be in Florence . Road trippin around that region too. I won't lie, I'm already scoping the best places to try the Tuscan cuisine, I love food! God forbid I eat anything called Spaghetti out there . Where are you holidaying (or "vacationing"- as you US lot do lol)?!

Nice! Make sure you enjoy enjoy thoroughly . I will be coming from southwest of the continent and docking in Milan and plan to fan out from there, Pisa is one of the spots on my radar. If u haven't done Venice before that is a must do! Lol. Have a fantastic trip and ignore the haters when you come across them

shymexx:

Her Majesty Queen JeSoul,

I hear that. I'll drop a message for you in a bit. Have fun!

This guy... you're killing me, lol. Thanks!! Gimme a sec...

outc@st:



...and you had to go all the way back to a thread opened in 2007 to say the above?

llol. Is everything ok now strik.?

frosbel: 6 Years ago and I would have agreed with this post.

hmm 6 yrs...I've been on NL too long is what this tells me...6 yrs...so much is different in my faith now. Anyways....

I'm aware of how fiery the issue of hell is in this section. I'll simply say whatever one choses to believe simply be convinced. You will give account for it someday.

Uyi how is your search going?

Hi Uyi, apologies on my late reply, been very busy with much less disposable time.

Seems its okay now? I always plead for understanding & room for mod error from you guys, its not always as easy and clear-cut ehn. And because I know you are one heck of a super guy , please let it slide ehn. Thank you super dude.

Candour: Love should be the currency with which a Christian transacts business in the market place of life.

This is an exquisite way of stating things. I personally always struggle with the balance of loving others that are not of the fold realistically. By that I mean its very easy to love and care when such a person is not evil or hasn't done a wrong. But when it comes to folks who have hurt others, especially children Tina Turner comes out singing "What's love got to do, got to do with it?" lol.

Nah but really, I would appreciate some real life practical examples and pointers on how to get and do better at this. Godbless brother Candour, hope you and the whole family are doing expectionally well by His grace .

chukkynwob: @Jesoul dearie any update on the change of username?

Thanks for you usual prompt response in advance.

My dear I'm so sorry oh, no update .

Vedaxcool, wassup

Sir Shy,
hope thou is doing excellently well this day. Just wanted to drive by and submit my apologies...I'm the worst at e-convos cos my time on NL can be intermittent and spotty these days, busy busy...what's your email addy? can you msg it to me? I will also be unplugged from the matrix for an extended period soon...

Whut up Flytefalls , what part of Italy will you be at? (if you don't mind sharing) I'm a few weeks away myself...

musKeeto: ^^^ hey...
I'm not sharing my dodo with you o... Go find ur own dodo!!!

ROTFLOL

Alfa Seltzer:

See how a supposedly unbiased mod is begging an offender because they happen to both be christians. Would she have spoken thus to an atheist? Unbiased my ass.

Lol. But I have begged you in the past too now...you no gree answer me and sheath the sword. To my knowledge this is Strik's first ban...he has about 100more bans before he catches up with you, or is it 101? ones rapsheet plays a role in how they get 'treated'. Repeat offenders don't get 'beggings'. As Paul said, I came with love, but since you prefer koboko...

chukkynwob:

@Jesoul when I grow up,I want to be like you. You are so graceful in the way you address people and issues.

I will be glad if I can get the name change...H2So4 is the new username I'ld prefer.

How's work? Enjoy the rest of the day or night? Whatever the time in ur part of the world

Cheers

Lol. You're too kind abeg no let my head swell too mush. And np, I will check with him again. Work dey oh, we thank God. And a fantastic day to you too sweets

Mehn...me I went to bed jor, long day lol. caught the highlights this morning and I'm not surprised.

Heat think they're still playing those weak East Coast teams lol. The Spurs have the triple threat of size, range and speed...Miami has Lebron. Though you just never know how match-ups will play out but I have learnt not to continue to underestimate the Spurs. They almost swept their way into the finals. And yes I second the chants of Tony Parker being an X-factor...who are the Heat going to send chasing after him? Mario Chalmers? lol.

A-40:
I agree but he's had a verrrrrry nice supporting cast! I would always add that! D-Admiral then Parker and Ginobili! Somehow I don't see Duncan winning 5 rings with the Mavericks or the T/Wolves lol but that's just the Nowitzki fan talking! I respect the nigga

True true. And maybe if KG had as nice a cast he too would have multiple championships instead of wasting all those years in Minnesota.

That una GM no try for Paul Pierce at all! If not for Paul Pierce you guys would not have sniffed the playoffs after Rondo's injury

Lol. I wonder oh. Pierce is still productive so its not like we're keeping a vegetable on the bench.

Now next matter...outcast...you're Striktlymi? brother wassup now? please no vex too much ehn.

I checked your logs (and you can see it on your profile too) and it was MMW that banned you, reason stated is "trolling". And my guess is probably for this thread https://www.nairaland.com/1312609/atheists-dont-know-what-offensive#16106595

My dearest striktlymi, even if for no other reason, do it for me and let it go, the ban expires in just a few hrs. Please please please...pretty please

Now chukky is right...rules need to be more evenly applied and it is up to the mods to correct that. We will discuss and get back to you all. Thanks!

2 pages since I left yday, its been busy here...but thanks to practically everyone who's said a word, appreciated much.

Seun: I apologize for my unfair outburst against Jesoul. It seems I forgot to check her post because I was mad with her for a different reason.

No wahala.

chukkynwob:

Its appalling when Seun decides to talk down on people like he just did.

Users are the lifeblood of forums and a little bit of customer care and RESPECT for a wonderful mod like Jesoul will not make you less of Seun...

You know what don't bother with the request and you can ban me while you are it

Lord Seun

Its okay Chukky my brother, thanks a bunch. He said he was mad because I asked you to go ahead and create a new ID. Would you still like the name change?

we're all here: https://www.nairaland.com/832478/nba-begins

George Karl out as Nuggets coach.

The 62-year-old Karl, who is in the final year of his contract, wanted to extend his deal but the Nuggets balked at the request, Yahoo! Sports reported, citing a league source.

http://espn.go.com/nba/story/_/id/9348513/denver-nuggets-part-ways-coach-george-karl

Are you kidding me Denver? with the amazing job Karl has done over the years? wow! how cheap are you guys and who out there on the street is better than Karl right now? damn. A big loss for Denver and a great future acquisition for _____ whoever is swift enough to sign him, probably the Clippers (or the Grizz if they also foolishly let Hollins go).

Striktlymi thanks.

Seun: Jesoul: Have you posted the request on the thread in the moderator section that we created for the purpose. I have said that mods should stop asking Nairalanders to send messages to me as I do not respond to my PMs. This must never happen again. If it does, it will not happen more than once.

chukkynwob: Any moderator who asks you to send mails to me is sending you on a wild goose chase, which is unfair to you. She has done nothing to help you by asking you to send me a PM since she knows that I do not have time to check my PMs.

Sometimes you make me scratch my head, but we all makes mistakes so no biggie.

As striktlymi pointed out I never asked Chukkynwob to send you any PM, on the contrary I told him to give you time as you may be busy. And yes, the request has been waiting on your reply in the proper place. Perhaps you have some time now to check it and help out chukky.

A-40:
If Tim Duncan wins his 5th ring can we legitimately crown him as the greatest PF or big man of all time? Comments please

I think you can certainly make the argument for PF. The guy has been consistent over a very long career and has the rings to prove it.

Eri8: As a Celtic fan it hurts to admit but pierce is done in Boston. Deal him and kg this offseason. Sign josh smith as a free agent. Then you have rondo Bradley green and smith.

For Josh Smith? Josh Smith that has never shown up when it matters? Josh Smith that refuses to grow up? that will be a downgrade. There is not much the Celtics can get back for Pierce such that it makes more sense to keep him. A players value to the team sometimes is more than stats...plus what would it hurt to let the guy finish his career on the only team he's played for? one more year to close out his contract is not going to tip the scales in any way. Lets afford him some respect now he has earned it over a great career...

chukkynwob: @Jesoul should I simply create a new moniker? Its been 3days I made the request and no feedback yet

My brother, did you see my previous reply?

JeSoul: Uncle sorry oh...Seun has not replied yet. The guy can be very busy so give it a bit of time. I'll harrass him again in a bit. Thanks!

at this point I think it is not a bad idea to go ahead and create a new moniker. Hopefully soon Seun will get around to changing this current one. Thanks and sorry I cannot do more at this point.

HBG, you're the best sis