James

[color=#507AAC]Well, it depends what you mean by cheating. I mean, if you go for a job interview...or you're in school, you might "be on your best behavior" for a short period to do really well and then you'll slip back into your old self. It doesn't mean that your "old self" was bad...it just means that you've temporarily changed your behavior to achieve a certain outcome. And I'm sure we've all done that at one time or another. In terms of school, I've certainly had times over the years where I've gotten help from a friend (read: copying notes) for late work or something. But my best work has been the work that I have done myself. And often times, I've done better than the friend that I was copying from. Hard work goes a long way. The same is true with websites and such. I see a lot of leeches and stuff out there who are unprepared to put in the hard yards. But their lack of hard work is what leads to failure. So what's the bottom line? I think hard work and determination will get you [i]anywhere[/i]. Sometimes people use cheating to a small degree...which I guess we all do at some time. But if you cheat frequently, it's true that you're only cheating yourself.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Psycho, [i]stop[/i] double posting. If you want to show an image without posting again, you'll need to host it away from OB.[/color]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Transtic Nerve [/i] [B]loo, I still believe in some alternate universe you and wristcutter are like... best friends or twins or something... You are the exact same person just the exact opposite... I mean, whatever you like, WC doesn't seem to like. You're the admin, WC is the regular member. I could make a long list, in fact the only thing thats remotely similar, which makes this so ironic, is that both your names are James. i think if you just tried, you two would actually be reallllly good friends. Opposites attract you know, and not just in that lovey dovey way either, I mean as far as friends can go as well. [/B][/QUOTE] [color=#507AAC]o_O Okay, let's not go nuts here. lol Now we're getting [i]way[/i] off topic.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]There are quite a few good trance tracks worth recommending. Try For an Angel by Paul van Dyk and Synaesthesia by The Thrillseekers. They should give you a good start. ^_^[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Ahh yes, Bunkka is indeed a great album. I love it. ^_^ I recommend Vorsprung Dyk Technik by Paul van Dyk. It's an import (and so it's expensive), but it's a big three disc album. It has similar music; Oakenfold and PvD have worked together on a number of tracks over the years. Very good stuff.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Besides, I've always thought that if God hated homosexuals, he should not create them in the first place. This whole "hate the sin" business is rubbish. It's an excuse for biggotry, in my opinion. My point is, much of this is about interpretation. Someone who is inherently biggoted or homophobic is going to find a way of interpreting the Bible (or any religious scripture) and using it as a justification. Deus also makes a good point; under the religion of Christianity, it [i]is not[/i] for man to judge man. God judges man. But many Christians seem to forget this concept. Still, as I said...it brings me back to my original point: if God didn't like homosexuals, he would not bring them into the world in the first place. Of course, it's convenient to forget this basic idea.[/color] [QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Sara [/i] [B][SIZE=1] Point Two: See, now...[i]that[/i] is something that makes sense to me. ^_^[/SIZE] [/B][/QUOTE] [color=#507AAC]Exactly. I think sometimes when I defend science, some people take that as a condemnation of religion in general. But that's not true. I'm saying that you don't have to have a fight between scientific facts and religion -- you can combine both and live quite comfortably doing so. And really, most people do. As I said, the Pope himself passed a ruling on evolution in 1989. If the Pope can live with science and religion, I don't see why other Christians can't. And wrist cutter: I'm not saying that [i]all[/i] people in America don't learn about evolution in schools. I hope I never implied it. What I'm saying is that Creation science is often seen as [i]legitimate[/i] in the USA. Whereas here, it can't be taught in schools because it is "junk science", which is true. So I hope that clarifies what I was trying to say.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Is this the same as the PM you sent to me saying that you were dead...and pretending to be your own mother? Funny, I haven't heard anything about it since then -- you seem to be alive and well, as you've continued posting on the boards. Based on that PM and the general outlandish nature of this story...I don't even think I can believe in it. But others might. If someone wants to PM Havoc in response to this thread, please do so. I encourage you to continue the discussion on a person to person basis. Okay, apparently Havoc knows nothing about this PM that I mentioned. Since I don't know what to believe, I'll leave this closed. But if anyone wants to give advice to Havoc, please PM him.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Ah, ColourDeaf...you could maybe explain to us [i]why[/i] you dislike the series. Telling us [i]just[/i] that you dislike it isn't really good enough.[/color]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Juuthena [/i] [B][color=deeppink] [size=1]They...have? oO We're learning about Austrolopithicus/Homo Habilis/Homo Sapiens/Cro-Magnons right now... (I forgot one.. u.u) Does that count as Evolution? ^_^; I knew for some reason, it was weird how they weren't teaching us that stuff...[/color] [/size] [/B][/QUOTE] [color=#507AAC]They sure have. This is why the United States is just about the only civilized nation in the world that doesn't include evolution as standard in various high school science courses. But the Creation "science" organizations and the fraud they frequently practice is, again, slightly beside the point. I don't want to us to really go off on too many tangents here. But anyway, it sounds to me like you [i]are[/i] learning something about evolution, which is good. And really, even if you don't get taught evolution in any major way, you [i]will[/i] learn it in an indirect way. For example, in biology you might learn that viruses are living organisms which, over time, have become resistant to human antibiotics. And guess what that is? Yep, a process of evolution. The virus builds a resistance to antibiotics as each generation passes. This is actually potentially causing a huge problem -- some medical organizations have projected that within twenty years, most antibiotics will be nearly ineffective. And so, that is why there is an effort to continually develop new forms of antibiotics. We develop a new form, viruses evolve to compete with it and resist it. And the cycle of life continues. ^_^[/color]

[color=#507AAC]America is sort of in a weird situation because Creatonist organizations and the religeous right in general have blocked evolution from being taught in schools. I find it funny when people say that they don't "believe" in evolution. Evolution is not religion -- it is scientific fact. You can either accept a fact and its supporting evidence or you can choose to ignore it. Now, having said that...a lot of people [i]haven't[/i] been adequately educated on the subject. As I've said before though, throughout most of the world, evolution is taught as a component in both science education as well as specific courses on biology and genetics. Also, as I've also said, many who criticize evolution are either people who don't undertand it (the lay individual) or people who have a hidden agenda and who can't afford to understand or promote scientific fact. So, certainly...if you've never had a proper scientific education, it's probably easy to discount evolution. Especially since what you know about it is probably what you've heard from those who have an interest in discrediting science. On the most basic level, any doctor, biologist, geologist etc will tell you that the world is several billion years old and that life has evolved over more than a billion years (or about a quarter of the Earth's lifespan). This is [i]fact[/i]. There are many, many scientific methods for accurately dating the Earth (specifically in the field of geology). And some cultures have records that extend far beyond the 6000 years cited by the Bible (there is evidence that Australian aborigines' culture stretches back some 40,000 years). Not to mention ancient Egyptian society which stretches back anywhere from 7,000 to 12,000 years. But anyway, most of that is kind of beside the point. Deus makes a really good comment toward the end of his post. And it makes me wish that you (Sara) would go hunting for Telling Lies for God by Dr. Ian Plimer. You are just the person who should be reading it, in my opinion. The great thing about the book is that it explains why Creationism is actually [i]contradictory[/i] to mainstream religion. And why, ideally, one can (and should) accept the factual science surrounding evolution whilst also embracing their religious beliefs. That's the beauty of being educated on both evolution and religion; you will actually find that the facts of evolution are far more wonderous and beautiful than any synthetic man-made story that you find in much of Genesis. And ultimately, as I've said earlier...you can accept the facts of evolution whilst also taking the view that God is responsible for intelligent design. There are many scientists who actively study evolution (did you know that you can't even find oil without evolution? There's a whole section in the book I mentioned earlier which talks about how evolution plays a role in choosing appropriate drilling sites, due to fossil records or something...I forget, but it was very interesting). And many of those scientists are [i]also[/i] religious and believe in intelligent design. I think it's quite healthy to be able to study science whilst also believing that God is [i]responsible[/i] for the wonderful complexity and perfect inner workings of natural science. (Note: Sorry if this post was a bit sloppy -- it's late here and I was pushing a few thoughts out there lol).[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Try to stay on topic please, everyone. This is a [i]sign up thread[/i], remember. [/color]

[color=#507AAC]The navigation menu at the top of the site contains a list of important links. The rules can be found right there at the top.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]If the code exists, we'll be able to put it in as soon as possible.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]The media frequently scapegoats videogames because they are generally a much easier target than similarly rated movies. Let's make no mistake here; GTA [i]is[/i] a game. And as long as it has the appropriate age rating, there shouldn't be a problem with it. In terms of violence towards women...I don't agree that this game specifically promotes or displays violence against women. 99% of the people who get blown up or splattered around in the game are men. Do we now hear men's groups saying that the game focuses on violence against men? Of course not. It's ridiculous. If these media anchors had even the slightest idea about the game's premise, they'd know what its focuses are. Deliberate and pointless violence against women is not one of them.[/color]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by ZeroG214 [/i] [B]WHAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAATTTTTTTTTTTTTTTT!!!!!!!!!! *explodes* You dare defy the power of the mighty Times Square!? Blasphemy! *cough* Well, you might win this year, its gonna rain here later so yeah.... Next year its no holds bar though.:smirk: Date and Time is now December 31, 2002 6:10pm [/B][/QUOTE] [color=#507AAC]Sydney was confirmed as being both the largest and most technologically advanced display in the world. Same as with last year. There were ten major event sites across the Sydney foreshores. By comparision, NYC looked pretty small, I mean...lots of people crowded into one single street with a few measly fireworks and TV screens. :smirk: Heheh, nah, NYC looked like a blast. As did all the other places that celebrated. [IMG]http://www.news.com.au/common/imagedata/0,3600,227967,00.jpg[/IMG] I still can't find any good shots of NYE in Sydney. The aerial shots on TV were [i]amazing[/i]. Oh well. Maybe someone else will come up with something. lol[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Please let's try and avoid making situations any worse than they should be. DeathKnight, you're a [i]staff member[/i]. I rely on you to enforce rules rather than break them! Edit your banner immediately, please. [/color]

[color=#507AAC]You're not going to see online play, I don't think. Unless it's broadband only (and it probably wouldn't be), it's unlikely. The game runs too quickly and would be ruined by even a hint of lag. There are a few little features that might make the game a bit more interesting though. For example, a level building tool would be fantastic. Of course, it seems like the last thing Nintendo would actually include in the game. But, it'd be cool. I mean, you know...using basic objects to build levels, adding water...adding lights...maybe even painting your own textures on the walls. ^_^ Also, I'd really like to see more "fluid" levels. We saw a bit more of that in SSBM but most of it was non functional. For example, think about the Rainbow Ride level...the way it moved around and essentially changed your battle as it moved and changed. I'm thinking something like that but more in-depth. I don't really know how you could do it though; I'm too brain dead to come up with an idea. lol Anyway, what about a tag-team system? As in, tag teams for two on two battles. So you'd all fight as individuals, but two players could team up (in their respective team) and perform extra moves by working together. *shrug* I can't really think of what else they can do to change the game...I felt that SSBM was very similar to the first. The main thing I think is just adding more moves to add variety. But there are lots of peripheral things you can always add I guess.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]I don't know if Jakatta has a web address. And you've never heard of Seal? Are you kidding? Don't you remember the song "Kissed by a Rose" or whatever from the Batman Returns sountrack? It was a pretty big song when it came out. That was done by Seal.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]The CD set me back $29 I think. And it's not hard to find. You can go to Sanity or HMV and find it easily. ^_^[/color]

[QUOTE][i]Originally posted by Deus Ex Machina [/i] [B] I believe the whole Adam and Eve thing. I don't care whether it was meant exactly as that, or just as symbolism for something different. Or maybe it was just a lot easier to chew than evolution at the time that Genesis was written. Either way I believe that the scripture is true in some respects, whether I know what they are or not. [/B][/QUOTE] [color=#507AAC]At the time when Genesis was written, man had no knowledge of evolution. Nor did he have knowledge that the world was round and not flat. The Adam and Eve thing didn't happen in a literal sense. It couldn't have. Genesis, as the bible puts it, could not have happened in a literal sense. There is too much scientific information to the contrary. You know as well as most people with basic scientific knowledge that the process of evolution exists and that without it, we wouldn't even have doctors. You need to have a basic understanding of evolution to become any sort of biologist or doctor. It's as simple as that. People who try to discredit evolution (Creation "scientists" and lay individuals) are people who are either not scientifically literate, or who [i]do[/i] know better but are simultaneously pushing an extremist religious agenda. So, if I were a Christian, I would not take Adam and Eve literally. I'd take it in one of two ways: 1) Either Adam and Eve is merely a story designed to provide examples and religious teachings or; 2) Adam and Eve is a metaphor for mankind's development over millions of years -- if you think about it, this is quite a possible explanation. In fact, I believe that science and religion [i]can[/i] be very intertwined. People get defensive one way or the other, but they need not be. It [i]is[/i] possible to accept that God has intelligently designed the process of evolution and natural development, with specific intentions and goals in mind. In fact, I'd say that the theory of intelligent design sits quite well with the knowledge mankind has of evolution and its various processes. People who can embrace both are, in my opinion, truly getting a three dimensional view. It is only when you deny scientific fact that you start getting into more dangerous extremist territory (especially if you're someone who should know better, unlike the lay individual). And...Revenge...I would still really like it if you would put more clarity into your posts. It also would not hurt to quote things a bit more clearly.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]I know we've had a new year's resolutions thread...but I want to be the first to officially ring in 2003! It ticked over about an hour and a half ago. Who here saw the Sydney event? O_O I think it's probably going to end up as the biggest new year's event in the world for this year. It was like nothing I have [i]ever[/i] seen before. It was like...double what last year's was. lol I also think it'll really kill NYC in terms of scale, size and beauty. Who saw it? I was amazed at how long it went for, too. The main fireworks display went for at least half an hour. And they had massive spotlights and enormous fireballs exploding for miles and miles all around the harbour. They even had a giant ship in the harbour that was glowing bright orange and firing off these fake cannons in all directions, with coloured explosions shooting out everywhere. Bah, I can't possibly quantify it. Hopefully for those of you in other countries, you'll see it on the news or something. I'll try and get some pictures when I can. There should be plenty available tomorrow; I'll post 'em up here. ^_^ Anyway, as it happens...I want to know how everyone spent their new year's eve. Did you party? And what was your home city doing for the big event?[/color]

[color=#507AAC]This album sounds best with a big fat pair of headphones. (|^_^|) The sound is just so varied and unique. You really need some good speakers/headphones/earphones to listen to it. I have a pair of those Sony StreetStyle headphones that sit near my computer all the time...and at night I use those so that I don't wake others up with the noise from the speakers. It's great though. Sometimes I prefer listening to music with headphones simply because the sound is so much clearer than regular speakers. Anyway, yeah...American Dream is probably my second favourite. I think I like My Vision best of all. But really, they're all good. I think it's Feeling Blue...there's a melody in the song that reminds me of the Chocobo Ranch in FFVII. lol It's funny...and kind of calming as well. Those who have played FFVII should try it and see what I mean. ^_^[/color]

[color=#507AAC]Well, we've actually had a suggestion like this before. Several times, in fact. This is something that I tried to do with the boards during the update to v6. Unfortunately, I do not believe that a software update exists that allows for a "permanent" colouring on all posts. So at the moment I have to say no to this idea. But I want to see it happen myself -- so we'll see how it goes. If the software is made available at some point in the future, you can be sure we'll add it.[/color]

[color=#507AAC]I don't think we are similar. I mean, there have been some cases where I've tried to deal with a situation (by warning a member about spamming) and you've posted something to the affect of "Ohh big bad Admin...blah blah". That is just totally nonproductive. And I feel certain that you can avoid posting things like that. As long as you avoid [i]that[/i] kind of action, I have absolutely no problem with you at all. You tend to abide by the rules a lot more than some other members on the boards. [/color]

[color=#507AAC]I don't know why. I can't think of anything I've done to produce that hostility. We had some firey debates when you were here as Zanza...but should that matter? I never once took that personally. It's fine and interesting to have deep debates and discussions with people. I don't even know why there is a [i]need[/i] to call a truce. I just feel as though under every circumstance, you've created stumbling blocks for me for no reason. And that's kind of what I'm asking -- [i]why[/i] does that happen? I'm always happy to call a truce though. It's fine to have disagreements over issues without being personal about it.[/color]