Why the Rush?

Why are so many people in such a rush to forward e-mails, blogs, and information without checking the facts? Half-truths, misunderstood, and lies with a wide circulation are constantly forwarded with a great sense of urgency.

It is so easy to check simple facts through google, fact check, snopes and other sites. Everyone that trusts the media, raise your hands! See! You don't trust the media and most blogs are opinion driven.

Part of the reason we forward information is that the information fits our personal beliefs. If we believe that a minority group is lazy, we quickly forward every story and email that supports our belief about that minority group being lazy.

Most blogs are incredibly idiotic. I just read one where the blogger explained that the president of Mexico could stop the drug violence if he wanted to do so. Somebody find out how so we can also stop our own drug violence!

Reports of 'border crime' in Piedras occurred hundreds of miles from that city. I even hears a news broadcaster reporting on more border violence that happened in Mexico City. What country does Mexico City border???

Please spend 3 minutes checking the facts before forwarding emails. Most are hoaxes.

A close, close friend of mine actually said, "I stopped forwarding emails to you because you always check the facts and explain the emails and stories are hoaxes." Now think about that statement! I guess I ruined the fun in believing something silly is factual and ruined the fun of sending stupid emails to all of that person's family and friends. Don't let facts and truth get in the way of an otherwise great story!

Allende IS NOT Piedras Negras

Once again there was a murder over 200 miles from the border that was reported occurring in Piedras Negras - a border-town. The murder is a tragedy and a terrible act of cowardice. A Canadian was in his vehicle when he encountered a road block. He ran the road block and was pursued by armed thugs. His vehicle crashed and he was thrown from the vehicle. The armed murderers shot him.

With all that is happening in Mexico, it is probably not a good place to drive through to pursue a hobby of bike riding. However, this was not a crime on the border as reported and only adds to the hype about the danger of the border. The fact is that this man and his companion may have driven through Piedras without any problems. He was killed hundreds of miles away.

Why can't the media get it right? Why can't the websites get it right?

Violence in Acuna

Another 10 days have passed without a single report of violence. Border security remains tight and vehicles are inspected on the U.S. side as they enter and leave the United States.

The army patrols at night are still frequent, but we do not hear about gunfire or any acts of violence.

Paper Houses continues to assess our options for more mission trips.