Foundation for a better life?
Ian | 1 March, 2009 | 16:32I saw a brief PSA commercial on TV today, specifically this one:
This lead me to look up the “Foundation for a Better Life,” as I’m often sceptical of cheery-feel good messages (call me jaded).
From their website, we find (among inspiring images and challenges for society to be better):
We are a non-profit organization dedicated to sharing the values that make a difference in our communities. We create public service campaigns that model the benefits of a life lived by positive values. In turn, we hope to inspire people to make values a part of their own lives, and then to communicate the benefits to others.
Looking further into their “About Us: FAQ” page we learn:
Q: Are you affiliated with any religion?
A: The Foundation for a Better Life is not affiliated with any religion. We hope the values we share transcend any particular religion or nationality.Q: Are you affiliated with any other organizations?
A: We have a sister foundation, The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation. It is also privately funded by the same source. The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation is the only organization with which we are affiliated.
Investigating The Random Acts of Kindness Foundation doesn’t lead to much more than inspiring and a campaign for a better world.
So it looks like all we have here is an example of some financial backer who just wants the world to be a better, friendlier place.
It’s refreshing for their to be no hidden agenda.
However, a little investigation through Wikipedia tells us that the donor is Philip Anschutz and that he is a “Conservative Christian,” and while I admire his desire for this campaign to transcend religions, some of his other financing campaigns seem to have ulterior motives.
These campaigns include trying to overturn gay rights in Colorado in 1992, the Discovery Institute, and a television council that lobbies against “indecent” television.
But in the end this campaign looks to represent the better side of his values, and doesn’t even touch the controversial issues.
If this is what religion solely offered, I would have no issues with it.
Update (12 Dec 2010): Note, I am in no way affiliated with the Foundation for a Better Life and am merely commenting on their ads here. Their website is http://www.values.com/.
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When one finds a PR group or similar suspected front, Sourcewatch is a wonderful resource. Here’s what they say on the FFaBL. Philip Anschutz (and Nancy Anschutz, presumably his wife) serve as directors, and the president is Gary Dixon (graduate of the private Mormon school Brigham Young — apparently, some note similarities between the imagery used in the Random Acts of Kindness Foundation and the Book of Mormon).
Aha! You just knew there was a MORMON involved in this, didn’t you? Those subversive people who want everyone to be nice to each other. Those Mata Hari’s of the world, secretly trying to make families stronger and society healthier. Those sneaky boys in bicycles, handing out a Book of Mormon to innocent bystanders….Well, you found out that Gary Dixon, a graduate of that little “private Mormon school” was the president of the Foundation for a Better Life, and now the whole Machiavellian machinations are revealed. Maybe one of the board of directors is also a Mason. You need to check into that.
Excuse me but that’s not what he was saying. It seems that it is you that is looking for the bad in everything. I totally agree with the original post that started this thread and it’s author made it clear that he has no problem with the message. Everything was fine and then you came along and tried to throw a cloud over it. Ironic, isn’t it?
Aha indeed, so there is a Mormon and a fundamentalist Christian in there – I knew it!! – the whole sickening series of ads would have more credibility if there was an Atheist on the the board also. But I don’t think that is likely since the thinly veiled objective is to convert stupid people into one of those absurd religions….and it is difficult to conceive a more ridiculous concept than Mormonism….except Scientology, of course!
“…hint, hint…wink, wink…an’ all that…if you know what I am saying…” You sound just like that guy from the Monty Python show…
Creating an apparatus that enjoins peaceful accords among individuals is commendable, however better results can be achieved through people simply shutting off their TVs and keeping the use of superfluous technology to a minimum. Individual self-discipline can accomplish this far better than any form of advertising campaigns. And just for anyone’s information, “Non-profit” is just euphoric terminology created for the purposes of tax classification in the “accounting books”. The financial reality is that there is no such thing as “non-profit” feasibility.
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I love the song in todays Commercial at 14:44 18 Aug 09 on CNN with Leanne Womack? I hope you Dance I love to be able to view it again,It will be our wedding song Please let me know if it is possable to either have a copy of the Video or how to view it again.
Thanks
Constantine
Contantine, the song is “I hope you Dance” by sung by Leanne Womack There’s a number of different versions. There’s one with a male backup during the interlude (“Time is wheel in constant motion always rolling us along. Who wants to look back on their life and wonder where those years have gone’), there’s a newer version that’s used as a radio mix (I don’t like it as much) and an acoustic version. Look all of them up and make the decision after hearing all of them.
Dolly Parton wrote “I Hope You’ll Dance.” All videos seem to be taken down to copyright issues. The lyrics are posted at: http://www.allthelyrics.com/forum/identify-it/11599-dolly-parton-lyric.html. Dolly Parton has written well over 3,000 songs — many of which you love as sung by many other artists. I’m not particularly a fan of “Country,” but Dolly is a composing genius in all musical genres.
Thank You for these beautiful and refreshing commercials. I have seen about three so far and they make my day. Keep up the good work and GOD bless you all. It is good to know there are still people with good values that support this country and the good way of life that we used to have when we followed our founding fathers Constitution and GOD’S laws. I don’t watch too much TV, especially the ones with ads. It is disgusting what our world has come to. I am 71 and my husband is 88. We truly remember the good old days. Not too many material things but plenty of the things that really count.
With all due respect, I would bet that your parents said some of the same things about your generation that you are saying about mine.
“It is disgusting what our world has come to.”
“We truly remember the good old days.”
It is a fact of life that things change. Our ability to engage it and try to enact positive change is, in my opinion, what contributes to happiness in life. I try to instill this in my son by being a good role model, caring for others and respecting those that are different from myself. I believe that belief in a higher power is not necessary to create good people with a rock solid sense of right and wrong. Good parenting creates that in abundance.
Indeed, from what I understand, there are records that have survived from Roman times in which the elders despair over the excesses of the “younger generation”.
So this is a classic theme
Maybe it has been said before, by others, but that does not make it untrue now. It is not the “change” we see around us that concerns many people. It is the decay. I do remember when a handshake was your contract. There was no grey area when it came to the Truth. There was right and wrong. And in these times of all these grey areas, you believe “good parenting” will offset the Internet, television, peer pressure, cell phones computer games etc etc. Well, I wish you luck with that one. The truth is rob, you are or will be, no more than a blip on his/her radar screen. And I’m just curious, what is the reason for them chosing right over wrong? So they live this short little life doing right so that what, they can die and somebody kick dirt in thier face? And how do they know the difference anyway? And how did you know and your parents and before them? I’m sorry Rob, but your thinking is the very thing that makes me fear for the future. Good luck and Godspeed to you.
Oh give us all a break. The past was full of shades of gray, liars, cheats, polluters, racists, murderers, smut, prostitution, adultery, etc. etc. etc.
The world’s always had bad things. But on average the world today is better than it was 50 years ago and in 50 years ago it will be better still. Across humanity as a whole, we have fewer wars, hunger, less disease, less discrimination and more, literacy, more information, more art, and more freedom than ever before.
If you really want to teach your children right and wrong, then be a parent and don’t let the TV raise them. If you think a show is bad, don’t let them watch it. If you think an internet site is crappy, block it. Teach your kids that doing the right thing means respecting other people, helping others, and not hurting them. Do good to others. It’s that simple.
I was compelled to seek out the Foundation for a Better Life after passing their billboard of Desmond Tutu on a fairly regular basis. I found it inspiring- and refreshing: a Positive Billboard (what are they selling? who pays for this? all the cynical stuff that comes up from consumerism out of control and media bombardment)
I appreciate your digging deeper to learn the source of their funding and while I may not agree or appreciate the benefactor’s stance on gay rights and probably some other things… I love that this is being put out there for all the see and hopefully absorb on some level. Pass it on.
I also was delighted with the good in these PSA shorts. Whether they are from a secular humanist or a conservative Christian makes no difference to me. I applaud the Anschutzes for this series. And if GOD is leading them, great. Whereas some religions have led us to unspeakable evil, God has not. Keep them coming
So where does anybody think that unselfish kind other centered thinking comes from? I personally believe that whether you are a born-again christian or not…most of us intrinsically know that we come from something greater larger and more profound. From an intelligent being (rather than source or power without feeling) that we hope in our “most inner honesty” we can reconnect with; in order to make sense of the chaos we see around us. That what we truely want to believe is theres a reason and purpose behind it all. Especially since we don’t remain here and can’t take it with us. It seems to me its a journey of learning to be more like where we came from (seeing that theres usually a negative consequence for negative behavior) and finding that source, taping into it, and sharing that truth with other wanderers on the path. If we miss seeking and finding that truth than our lives do become rather shallow and pointless. When we feel that lack we choose to obliterate it with whatever means we can. To some it becomes unbearable and “darkness” seems to be waiting just around the corner. Someone who can afford to shed a little “light”
and does it should be congratulated and applauded. Thank You Friends for a Better Life!
The tv ads I’ve seen are inspiring, prompted me to find out who was behind them. Positive statements that promote a better world can’t hurt.
John Reynolds
So, if Christianity just stuck to helping poor people, feeding the hungry, and being nice and smiling… you’d be cool with it? Its just the judgmental morality part that you don’t like I guess. I see. So in your judgment, any religion (or person) who judges other people’s choices, beliefs, lifestyles, etc..are wrong? Except of course your own judgment, which is okay and correct? hmmm… that’s pretty stupid (in my judgment).
It is not our job to judge. That belongs to God and God alone. I would refer you to the Holy Bible (specifically the teachings of Jesus) to back this statement up.
Christianity does require something from its followers, it’s not just about feeding the hungry and making happy statements. You definitely have to count the cost.
The Foundation for a better life IS NOT CHRISTIAN – They are toting Ghandi for goodness sake!! There is something else behind this and I suspect it is either some Apostate Christianity like Mormanism or Scientology but it is absolutely NOT true Bible believing Christianity. Probably some New Age counterfit operation preparing the masses to accept Anti-Christ.
Why can’t we learn from an organization that promotes values outside of religious afiliation? Their list of values reads like something that comes straight from the mouth of Jesus. I am so tired of people claiming to be Christians coming on these forums and reflecting their own fears and insecurities through critisism and mean judgemental comments. This foundation only proves the validity of what Jesus taught and about the values we were meant to live by. There is a hunger for people to live right. You should INCOURAGE it, not knock it.
Hi Amy,
Please do a little more thorough investigating. Mr. Anschutz is a silver spoon billionaire who just happens to be a member of the CIM (Christian Identity Movement). A wonderful organization of anglo-saxons that has given us such memorable groups as the KKK and the John Birch Society. CIM believes that once we (America) realize and embrace our destiny, we will have all the glory of the things Foundation for a Better Life espouses. Unfortunately for the vast majority of the good ol’ USA (and the world for that matter) that destiny is that this is a WHITE CHRISTIAN NATION. Good luck with that.
PS Don’t drink the kool-aid.
Oh give me a break. What you said is more “kool-aid” drinking than anything else! You spew the same false propaganda as the radical left trying to falsely associate Christians and conservatives with nuts and racists. All that junk is just lies and propaganda. I am not religious but I am sick of all the wrongful attacks on those who are. I do believe in God, however. But my relationship is personal. By the way, without a Higher Power of some kind, how can you justify your values and distinguish right from wrong? To a truly secular humanist, there is no real right or wrong. It is all relative. Without God, there are no inalienable rights and thus we would be at the mercy of other people’s whims as to whether we should deserve to be free or not. Think about it and the consequences of that belief.
Actually one can be a Christian and not be a conservative…
Jesus was a radical.
And one can also be a liberal and still have a close and meaningful relationship with God
where do you find the connection between Anschutz and the CIM? Googled it and found no credible evidence of a connection.
The “cost” ???…1st Century Christians came to be followers “knowing it would hurt (alienation, martyrdom,etc.)”…21st Century ‘c’hristians, …” usually because they are ‘HURTING’ “. If the Anshutz’s or others are behind this, may the real God bless them! I was forced to leave the USA because of PAS and the Family Court, after being one of the largest donors to organized ‘c’hristian charities in the country ! Never again. THANK GOD THEY’RE NOT what you may characterize as CHRISTIAN . Read Alec Baldwin’s A PROMISE TO OURSELVES.
[...] I can hopefully hear from others who are seeing this website pop up in their searches. My post on Foundation for a Better Life is still a top five on the Google search for the organization and gets a reasonable number of hits [...]
I recognize Mormon “trademarks” when I see them. I’m going to do my own research on this and if this is Mormon based we have a problem. Not with the values they are encouraging but with their theology, their beliefs. It’s what they believe about Jesus Christ which is so disturbing and unbiblical. To the Mormon faith He is just one of many gods instead of the one, true living God Who came in the flesh to provide our much needed salvation. They also believe that Jesus is the brother of Satan. How outrageous is that!! A doctrine from the pits of Hell itslef. Please pick up the Holy Bible and read Romans and the other letters that Paul wrote. They are full of good news. Jesus loves you more than you could ever imagine and He wants you to know Him and what He has done for you. E-mail me. I’d love to converse more with you.
Tammy, you are a bit disillusioned in your opinion of the mormon faith. They believe in Jesus just like the rest of the Christians, perhaps you don’t know the name of the “mormon” church The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter Day Saints? I recommend a book for everyone here, its called “Religious Literacy, what every American should know and probably doesn’t” It may help you to not be so incorrect in your judgmental ways.
Mormans believe in a very different Jesus than Christians. That’s like saying anyone named bin Laden is the same as Osama. It makes all the difference in the world knowing whether you worship a man made image or the one true living God.
Whats wrong with you folks? Can’t you just recognize something good when you see it?? Yes, I’m sure someone who was trying to be encouraging
planned the ad and is not a perfect person in some way. Can’t you just accept a great message??
Who cares if Mormons beliefs are different from other Christian beliefs? These people are not pushing LDS or mormonism. They are promoting positive values. If you are worried about subliminal messages and being “manipulated” by propaganda, you should worry more about the mainstream media, Hollywood, most newpapers and almost every other message out there influencing society. These little positive PSAs are hardly anything to worry about even if Mormons are behind them. There is nothing subversive about them. You are more likely to be manipulated and misled by your major TV network shows than by these messages.
I am with you Tammy, that is what Mormons teach, my adult daughter is one. I am not. I do pray for everyone in a false religion. Jesus himself said no one comes to the Father except thru Him. All we can do is pray and speak truth.
A truly helpful website, thanks!
I have been enjoying the spots by FFABL. I find them uplifting and compelling. Kadoos to all of you at the Foundation, whoever you are. I share your point of view
I too love the commercials and the messages but was wondering if this was all engineered to make everyone think that FFBL was a good thing and then, when we were all sucked in, the messages might subtly change into something political. As far as I can see these people ARE just trying to send out a message reminding us of who we are and how we should behave. That being said I don’t think there’s anything wrong with investigating and being on guard; there are certainly many examples in history of societies that have been brainwashed.
I love these PSA’s They are inspirational and thought provoking. I absolutly can not understand how anyone can find fault with them. If we all could find it within ourselves to be the type of person these PSA”s are pointing out to us, the world would be a better place. Keep up the good work.
I was watching boxing and smoking my weed when I saw this TV add…Three times. So I googled it Then wikki pediad Aschwitch dude. He went to the same high school as my mom in witchita KS.anyway I first thought it was some socialist obama feel good bullshit with a wierd lets have a, love a tard day vibe. but turns out it just some rich conservitive dude with lots of money and fun hobby. I would spend 700 milion dollars a little diffrentlly. I would do the same basic idea but. I think if I bought 700 mil of weed and gave it away to a shit load of people I could make a whoole lot more pople happy for a while. but its just not the same message. cause u got to rember not all people are equal. So you cant treat em all equal.
Just my own retarted rarmbiling thoughts hope you enjoyand let me leave you with this. BE GOOD TO EACH OTHER and party on DUDES!!!!
WYLD STALLIONS RULE
this last dudes a tard.
I do love the obscure movie rererance to “Bill and Ted exelent adventure”
And also would like to add
“Be GOOD to each other And party on DUDES”
Oh and by the way, Gary Dixon did graduate from BYU. And he supported the Children’s Miracle network. So are you going to say the CMN is a Mormon thing as well. Research MormonNet and you will find out they are asking the same questions you are.
I love the commercials this foundation does…they are refreshing and inspiring; I can’t imagine spending my life being suspicious of every good thing that is seen or heard from others….
Watching these commercials of people being polite and helping each other reminded me of what John the Baptist said when he was asked what he meant to, “Repent , for the kingdom of God is at hand.” He responded with an illustration in words, “If you have two coats, share one and do the same with your food. He told the tax collectors to be honest and take no more tax than is required. And he told the police (soldiers) to respect the people they are protecting. The kingdom of God is an unselfish attitude of men’ s hearts. God is changing people’ s hearts from being selfish to being unselfish. I believe these FFABL are motivated by God. God knows that when people see other people sharing and being unselfish, they will do the same. God created us to be like like sheep, we mimic and follow others. We are all created in God’ s image, which is Christ, unto good works. I believe the early Church had their hearts changed on the day of Pentcost such that they became unselfish. A very great miracle! They all lived together, holding all things in common and no one considered anything his own. Those who had more wealth than they needed, voulunatarily shared it (residatributed it) with others who had need–all the work of the Holy Spirit. See Acts 2:41-47 and 4:32.
This is where Karl Marx got his ideas for communism but Satan hijacked his ideas and made a mockery out of communism. But when God motivates communism/socialism it works! .
David.
David, Here are a few things to seriously think and mull over… It is INDIVIDUALS that Jesus was speaking to. Individuals that are free. Liberty is what makes capitalism great and possible to distribute their own wealth not the US government! Man is running government not God. The Left reminds us everyday that God is not welcomed in this Government. What happened to make our society become so confused? Separation of the values which was the foundation that formed our great and not perfect country? Name one example where communism or socialism is working in the world (especially when compared to US capitalism)? Do you truly hold that Government can do our country better over its citizens? …really? How about this: “The BIGGER the Government the Smaller the Citizen!” And the smaller and insignificant, less freer, less motivated individuals we slowly become. —- The world has turned upside down. People are cheering on and supporting the bad governments over the good ones like the US, UK, Israel. The bad being the oppressive Castro, Hugo Chavez types. ( Just that I had to write that is a big sign that all is not well in the world) Are you for making the USA more like the European model for a government to control us as this President ‘s values seem to hold? If so, are you in big denial that Europe is a complete mess in a few ways? It’s a disaster and coming apart a the seams as you read this message. —- Humans need, seek and adopt a religion in some form or other. To the Left secularism is their religion of choice. Yup Secularism is their religion.They worship it as their religion and now are feeling emboldened to cram it down our “American values” throats daily as their idea of Hope and Change. Fundamental transformation as this President clearly said he was set out to do, and do it he is trying no matter the means through feelings driven bent values. The Left lives in a bubble. Their insular world in which they learn is of other liberal’s lives, values, and Utopian ideas filled with feelings. They dangerously hold and believe in equality over liberty. They also lack the ability to understand true evil – that it exists. They want to be liked by all. Evil seems to like and endorse liberal thought and actions. Why is that? Students are being taught in school by Left liberal teachers PROJECTING their true liberal values that the US is evil. That Conservatives are evil, not compassionate, racists, homophobes etc. NOTHING is further from the truth but it is an effective tactic to sway sweet feeling, young junior liberals to hate and project. How sick is that? True evil is Iranian and Libyan governments, Ham-mas, PLO, Communist etc. — In their world, the Left wants to construct a beautiful world. (So does the Right but in a realistic, sustainable diverse and tolerant, compassionate way to many people’s disbelief. Hey it’s what is drummed into them by teachers and the main stream media) The Left’s values are fast going in the direction of a failing Europe. Their plans and goals are unrealistic but it all feels and sounds so good! That is enough and all that is needed. No turning back because it is their religious belief system driving them! (like asking a Pro-lifer to sanction abortions) and so they hold onto their Utopian ideas of what the world should be – with the ends justifying the means. Lie, make up anything to make themselves look good and blame it all on the Republican/conservatives as they do today. Making up a crisis or five even if a hoax is okay if it means creating a world they see as perfect. Man made Global Warming is a prime example. Since when was CO2 a pollutant? It sustains plants and the Earth is far within tolerable levels. Though a couple volcanic eruptions can make for a bad CO2 day… Notice the Left rarely criticize a fellow Lefty. If they do, it’s for not being not far enough left! “Being on the Left means never having to say you’re sorry” – Dennis Prager . It’s much easier living as a lefty. No accountability to be concerned about. Rewrite history in their favor, news reporters and editors skewing news towards their values, omit things if it sheds a poor light on their movement. Gloss over details etc.They get away easily with double standards and eating them for breakfast. Maybe the Democrats, of which I was a member until 2004 when I began to question… then I woke up one day and questioned the Left more closely, and waited and waited for truth and wise answers, not feelings based propaganda or ad hominem attacks as their arguments don’t hold water or fit into real life. Let’s try to name a truly wise liberal. We can’t because to be liberal, one has to lack wisdom and right behind that common sense. I’ve got to go, work to do. Watch for ad hominem attacks I get and empty, untruthful responses I get.
Still watching…
DUDE!!!!!!
Quick lesson in politics. From16th century French political structure, Left, Center and Right refers to categorizing people based upon their most pertinent issues. Left- people who are most concerned about human and societal rights and issues. Right- people who are most concerned with property (ownership) rights. Center- people who balance the two. My guess is, first of all, you did not know this, and that more than likely you are on the right. Now use this info and go back and read what you ranted about for ten minutes. You will find that you are badly mistaken or misinformed, or both. “Leftists” do not take over governments for gain, “Righties” do.
Happy Trails
Dude, you are looking at things by labels whose underlying meanings have changed immensely over the past 100+ years. Just look at the USSR, The People’s Republic of China, Cuba, Nazi Germany, etc. ALL leftist tyrannies. Today’s conservatives are actually “classic liberals” as were our Founding Fathers. Today’s “liberals” are not liberal at all. They want to control people’s lives through government. Labels mean nothing in a world of mass propaganda. The right has been historically (in this country) for the individual and freedom. You need to get past the labels
Janine – the fact that you lump in Nazi Germany as “leftist” is hilarious and shows the limit of your intellect. Go check out a political spectrum sometime. Nazi Germany (that label National Socialist you might seek to refer to is as misleading to the uninformed automatons as your posts are) was about as FASCIST (that’s on the far right side, honey) as it gets.
At least you are trying.
Excellent note you wrote on 01-Nov 2010 to Reformed Lib. I hope you keep correcting these ignorant righties. They seem to be getting dumber unfortunately!
No, David, communism does NOT work in any form. Communism in itself demands the disbelief in God. But if you study economics, you will understand why communism can never work even if God is brought into the equation. Human nature will always prove the failure and corruption of the communist model. And it always ends in tyranny and suffering.
Just saw their commercial. It had all the intonations of the Nazis’. Feel good, think less, appeal to emotion. Become a sheep.
A dangerous group that, fortunately because of progress the last 60 years, they have to resort to much more subversive forms of propaganda.
This is another form of Emotional Potent Oversimplification. Very dangerous if not caught.
It had to happen. Some paranoid idiot thinks they’re Nazis. I’ve been seeing these ads for years. Always good. Always inspiring.
I love the commercial where the country singer sings You may be a point of light…..WHO IS THAT?? It sounds so familiar.
It’s much easier living as a lefty. No accountability to be concerned about. Rewrite history in their favor, news reporters and editors skewing news towards their values.
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re commercial where parents come home to find kid eating chips, Maybe they shouldn’t have left their kid home alone in the first place, and he wouldn’t have had to scrounge for food.
I tottaly HATE those Foundation for a Better Life ads! All they are doing is messing up thw world! I never listen to these babyish ads. My judgement is that these ads are STUPID!
Yeah, it’s much better to promote violence, divisiveness, materialism, sex, drugs and rock n roll (or hip hop and rap). Those nice people doing good things sure are irritating and babyish, aren’t they. How dare they be respectful and promote goodwill!!!
First of all, I was Mormon in my upbringing. I did see the Mormon signs in these ads. What I saw on further observations was that the messages are pro-family and pro-acceptance. (That was what tipped me off to their source.)
It says more about other ‘mainstream’ religions that this message seems to be branded as “Mormon”. Yes, all religions promote families, but who is trying to get EVERYONE to pay attention?
I have my personal issues with the LDS church. They are mine. The LDS church does have a good moral ethic and that has lasted me through the years.
Namaste.
I love most of your tv spots, but I just want to break the tv when I see one in particular. It is HORRIBLE. I have to turnoff the sound or leave the room. I cannot stand to see that woman essentially say…I don’t need you anymore Daddy; you can go ahead and die. I can’t believe that you think that has anything to do with a better life.
K,
I love all their ads, but the one you hate is the one I love the most. Probably because I have a daughter and she’s my only child. I knew what they were trying to say – she was loved her whole life by him, and raised to be strong as well. So she’s thinking of him in letting him go. She’s just telling him through song how much it means to her that he’s been such a great dad all these years. It chokes this ex-Marine up every time.
By the way, someone can believe that acting on homosexual desires is wrong and even bad for humankind, and still be a kind person who does not mistreat others whether they be gay or straight.
It’s easy to castigate someone for not believing what you believe, but this man is trying to bring about good and he’s putting his money where his mouth is.
Michael Milligan – Mormon
Layton, Utah
I look forward to seeing your spots on TV because they make me feel good, but the one that has her Father passing away is terrable. The song is wonderful and replays in my head with your unforgivable message about the girl NOT NEEDING HER FATHER ANYMORE! I will be very thankful if you would remove just this one from all of your other GREAT spots. Wade G.
http://www.independent.co.uk/news/people/profiles/philip-anschutz-the-westerner-407105.html
“he has also used this vast wealth and influence to promote his conservative Christian views, to campaign against GAY MARRIAGE and to fund an organisation that questions Darwin’s theory of EVOLUTION. His money also pays for another group based in Washington to attack and lobby against liberal elements of the US media and to rail about alleged indecency on television,”
Hate gays and science and the human form: Pass It On.
Oh Wise One (Janinec)
We are all so sorry for having an informed opinion about the vagueness and Polly Anna Nature (not to mention the secrecy of Phillip Anschutz), of the foundation commercials (not psa’s). Those of us who are not sheeple, tend to look beyond the face of evil. The conversation went down a different path because of the blind cheerleading of people less articulate than you. As to your opinion, I can hear verbatim on the mainstream media (Fox, CNN, MSNBC and any mouse controlled faux news). I know this may come as a shock, but the truth rarely slaps you in the face, you have to search for it. Please don’t get angry at those of us who choose to question, listen to all input, distinguish fact from opinion, and let the cards fall where they may.
As an atheist, I was also a bit suspicious of the motivations behind these undeniably uplifting TV spots. Yes, Mr. Anschutz is an evangelical, and his director Mr. Dixon is a Mormon. But as far as I can tell, FFBL is very careful to keep specific religious views or dogma out of their messages. And they don’t ask for (or accept) donations.
So I must agree with Ian’s post and simply applaud a positive message for being a positive message.
I agree with Ian also. Criticize (or laud) the ideas, the message, the actions. As long as nobody’s tax money is being used, these messages help us get along better with each other. I love the biker one!
For those who hate religion–I am sorry for you. Don’t hate the religious people or the religion. The (above) message applies. Criticize (or laud) the ideas. In the long run, the truth will conquer all!
The commercial about the home coming queen looks like a damned lie!! This may have happened once in a private school or a very small country school,I know your intentions are good with this commercial but by saying its a true story and letting people assume that it happened in a public school somewhere is misleading to say the least.
Your money would be better spent by pulling this ad and replacing it with the girls in the lunch room or another one more believeable.I’m not making this comment to step on anyones toes, but rather in hopes you will not turn people away from Christ while intending to attract them with his attributes. May you be blessed in your quest, which I believe is honorable. Thank You.
I have seen some of the adds and songs….They are very nice and I agree that everyone should behave that way and not hurt others. And sadly many Christians have not acted the way Jesus says we are to. To those who claim they are His He will say “Matthew 7:19-23 “Every tree that does not bear good fruit is cut down and thrown into the fire. 20 “So then, you will know them by their fruits. 21 “Not everyone who says to Me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven; but he who does the will of My Father who is in heaven. 22 “Many will say to Me on that day, ‘Lord, Lord, did we not prophesy in Your name, and in Your name cast out demons, and in Your name perform many miracles?’ 23 “And then I will declare to them, ‘I never knew you ; depart from Me, you who practice lawlessness.’ NASB
Matthew 25:31-46:1 ….. “But when the Son of Man comes in His glory, and all the angels with Him, then He will sit on His glorious throne. 32 “And all the nations will be gathered before Him; and He will separate them from one another, as the shepherd separates the sheep from the goats; 33 and He will put the sheep on His right, and the goats on the left. 34 “Then the King will say to those on His right, ‘Come, you who are blessed of My Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world. 35′For I was hungry, and you gave Me something to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me drink; I was a stranger, and you invited Me in; 36 naked, and you clothed Me ; I was sick, and you visited Me; I was in prison, and you came to Me.’ 37 “Then the righteous will answer Him, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, and feed You, or thirsty, and give You drink? 38′And when did we see You a stranger, and invite You in, or naked, and clothe You? 39′And when did we see You sick, or in prison, and come to You?’ 40 “And the King will answer and say to them, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did it to one of these brothers of Mine, even the least of them, you did it to Me.’ 41 “Then He will also say to those on His left, ‘Depart from Me, accursed ones, into the eternal fire which has been prepared for the devil and his angels; 42 for I was hungry, and you gave Me nothing to eat; I was thirsty, and you gave Me nothing to drink; 43 I was a stranger, and you did not invite Me in; naked, and you did not clothe Me; sick, and in prison, and you did not visit Me.’ 44 “Then they themselves also will answer, saying, ‘Lord, when did we see You hungry, or thirsty, or a stranger, or naked, or sick, or in prison, and did not take care of You?’ 45 “Then He will answer them, saying, ‘Truly I say to you, to the extent that you did not do it to one of the least of these, you did not do it to Me.’ 46 “And these will go away into eternal punishment, but the righteous into eternal life.” NASB
……..No one can be saved by their good works…..because God’s word also says in Ephesians 2:8-10 For by grace you have been saved through faith; and that not of yourselves, it is the gift of God; 9 not as a result of works, that no one should boast. 10 For we are His workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them. NASB
John 3:16 “For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whoever believes in Him should not perish, but have eternal life. NASB
John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, and the truth, and the life; no one comes to the Father , but through Me. NASB……Revelation 20:15 And if anyone’s name was not found written in the book of life , he was thrown into the lake of fire. (and eternal separation from God and all that is good.)
…We can do many good and kind things for people that may make things nicer for them in this life…and we should…..but this life is only short…….At the end a loving God who created us does not choose to send anyone to hell….we get to make the choice…He provided the way for us to be saved by believing in and following Jesus Christ who died for our sins so our names could be written in the Lamb’s Book of Life. It is a free gift….we only need to believe to recieve it. Then we need to love and be kind, doing things not for our glory…but His because we are to serve others….for Him. And the greatest thing we can do for Him and for all mankind is to tell them about Him and His love for them….and the way He provided to salvation and a glorious eternal life. Study God’s word and then go and tell others the really wonderful good life changing news that is for everyone now, and for all eternity. May God bless you all abundantly in 1011. John 10:10
Couldn’t agree more….thank you for making the effort of listing several quotes, your insight and message took my breath away.
And a big thank you to the person who responded after you.
We do need to spread more “mindfull” living. When a person is constantly busily looking for stones and working to throw them… there is little time for the pleasant things in life.
What goes around comes around…spread the love.
Richard..there are still good people in the world.The ad was just saying beauty is more than skin deep.I think all those Foundation ads are great..We need a little more kindness in this world.Thank you..Mr Anshutz and Mr Dixon for all you are doing.
I enjoy the ads, preferring them over the laxative, hard stool ads anytime. However, the ads are nothing compared to the entertainment provided by the comments provoked by this little bit of info on Wiki. If the energy and time required for some of these comments were directed to non-religious (or religious if people cannot be kind without religion coming into the picture) random acts of kindness, a lot of other people would have a brighter day or week or life.
GET A LIFE, PEOPLE!!!
We are establishing the following; IN A GOOD WAY is a nonprofit, goal-oriented, working farm based in Oregon providing tools to improve the lives of Native Americans returning to society and family after life changing events, incarceration, addiction or abuse.
Through an agricultural apprenticeship, our program offers a chance for productive work and skill development in a community setting, based on Native American values. In addition to organic agricultural training and farm work, apprentices can access a range of services , including assessment, counseling and assistance. As appentices refine and implement their individualized master plans, they move toward an independent, responsible and productive future.
IAGW focuses on job skills training and education, problem solving skills, anger management, and cultural traditions. Our goal of fostering independence success, responsibility, and Native American wisdom boosts the competence and confidence necessary to integrate successfully back into families and society.
NATIVE AMERICANS BELIEFS TAUGHT AT IN A GOOD WAY
Treat the Earth and all that dwell thereon with respect.
Remain close to the Great Spirit.
Show great respect for your fellow beings.
Work together for the benefit of all Mankind.
Give assistance and kindness wherever needed.
Do what you know to be right.
Look after the well being of mind and body.
Dedicate a share of your efforts to the greater good.
Be truthful and honest at all times.
Take full responsibility for your actions Sent on the Now Network from my Sprint® BlackBerry
The Foundation’s commercials are great. They send a good message. What a pleasant change from the usual crap we see daily on television. Of course, they have their critiques and skeptiques – human beings will never agree. Why do some of us have to find fault in everything, including good things, just because every little detail about what they are doing does not agree with every little issue that some of us hold dear? How can anyone say that these commercials do not generally send a good message for the improvement of people’s attitudes and behavior? If you find fault in these messages, then you are part of the problem. Lighten up.
Personally, I want to thank the Foundation (and whoever is funding them) for these wonderful commercials. I have to believe that God is very pleased with them. Finally someone is sending good messages that promote good values, and good treatment of our fellow man. Please keep up the good work – our world needs more people like you.
Where do I contribute?
From the values.com website:
We do not solicit nor accept any money.
Hmmm.
Why do people have to be so skeptical? All ways over analyzing things.Everybody has an opinion If it’s negative go some where else. I’ve only noticed the infomercial where the kid plays the piano and the piano player joins him.(For Encouragement) This world needs more of what that commercial portrays. It’s the best thing I’ve seen come thru the t.v. in a long long time.
I’m skeptical of the explanation of these ads that we are being led to believe. If they really *were* a right-wing sneak attack, they would be under a LOT more media scrutiny than they are. We wouldn’t need to go to websites like this one to find out who’s behind them. I think the truth behind these ads is a lot more sinister than someone who has committed the double crimes of being Religious and Rich. I don’t have any evidence to back up my suspicions. These ads just give me the creeps somehow.
Although I am an atheist I have liked all the ads I have seen except one, and so long as they do not become political or overtly religious I have no problem with them. The one I hated was the first one I saw, and it perpetuated the tired pre-feminist joke of an incompetent wife and a great husband who loved her even though she burned his dinner for the first year. YUCK : make your own dinner!
The FFBL has probably done more to instill decency in others than any left wing progressive group has done with spreading evil sentiment of class warfare, anti-capitalism and pro-socialism. One only has to imagine how the founding leader of the Progressive movement, Margaret Sangar, from the group that high jacked the DFL movement in the early 1900′s, would rale at the FFBL commercials. For those that don’t know, Sangar advocated for eugenics ” kill the feeble and low functioning minorities.”
FFBL should be commended for their work.
We are still being bombarded with these ads. I think there has got to be some co-operation from the mainstream media to give up so many slots. Even if the Mormons *had* enough money to buy all the airtime, they would have gotten to the point by now. The story that we are being allowed to believe is just not realistic. Perhaps FFABL is the media’s version of what they *wish* religion was like.
I don’t know what ad you saw, it is no longer playing above, but I too went to the website because of an ad I saw, but I went because I was angry. I have seen this ad numerous times and it sickened me because it seemed like a euthinisia ad to me. I was shocked at what I found, but because of the ad assumed they were far lefties wearing a cloak of values etc. etc.
I still don’t like the ad and I still think the ad promotes speedy death, but now it doesn’t add up;/
You must mean the ad that goes, “You can let go now, Daddy.” I didn’t really take that ad as pro-euthanasia, but the secret masters of FFABL are very mysterious, so who knows? The sheer volume of these ads suggests that there is some type of media involvement. Of course, the left-wing media would be just fine with the concept of euthanasia. Perhaps they showed their own “values” — just a little bit.
Christian? Mormon? All wrong. It was established by Jews. Here is the source:
“We Knew Who We Were: Memories of the Minneapolis Jewish North Side,” executive producers, Reva Margolis Rosenbloom and Linda Mack Schloff; producers, Thomas F. Lieberman and Freddie Weisberg; director, Thomas F. Lieberman.
St. Paul, Minn.: Jewish Historical Society of the Upper Midwest, 2000.
This video recording shows recollections of several generations of North Siders. You will hear how they gained economic security, established an American Jewish way of life in an often-hostile environment, and created the foundation for a better life.
MHS call number: Videotape no. 869 (in the A-V Collection; 1 70-minute color videocassette).
Let’s get it right people. Now, let’s find out the motive…….
I’m not sure what FFABL has to do with Jews in Minneapolis. The most recent ad features Muslims praying and the Dalai Lama flashing a peace sign. To me, that’s further evidence that FFABL is something more than Mormon propaganda. The “explanation” that we’ve been allowed to find (the board of FFABL is populated by Mormons!) doesn’t actually explain very much. It’s all very tidy to blame FFABL on a right-wing rich guy, but that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s true.
What is dangerous are not the positive values, but the implication that those who are perceived as having a different value system are wrong, bad, or evil.