Terminal Velocity

Maximum speed of an object falling through a medium.

Humanity has reached terminal velocity.

Terminal velocity is the maximum constant speed reached by an object as it falls through a fluid, such as air or water, under the influence of gravity. When an object initially starts falling, it accelerates due to the gravitational force. However, as it accelerates, the object experiences a drag force from the surrounding fluid, which increases with velocity. Eventually, the drag force becomes equal in magnitude to the gravitational force acting on the object, resulting in a net force of zero and therefore no further acceleration.

At this point, the object reaches terminal velocity and continues falling at a constant speed.

The magnitude of the terminal velocity depends on various factors, including the object's mass, surface area, and shape, as well as the density and viscosity of the fluid through which it is falling. Objects with larger surface areas or greater air resistance, such as parachutes or skydivers with open parachutes, typically have lower terminal velocities than more streamlined objects like falling bullets or meteorites. Terminal velocity is an important concept in fields such as physics, engineering, and skydiving, as it helps predict the behavior of falling objects and design appropriate safety measures.

Fallen humanity is the maximum constant state reached by societies as they descend into chaos, driven by societal forces. When a society initially starts its decline, it accelerates due to various factors such as societal unrest and moral decay. However, as the decline progresses, the society experiences resistance from moral principles and societal norms, which intensify with the worsening situation. Eventually, the resistance becomes equal in magnitude to the societal forces pushing for decline, resulting in a state of equilibrium where further deterioration ceases. At this point, the society reaches fallen humanity and continues its descent at a constant pace.

The magnitude of fallen humanity depends on various factors, including societal values, cultural norms, and political structures, as well as the presence of external pressures and influences. Societies with stronger moral frameworks and cohesive communities typically have lower levels of fallen humanity compared to those plagued by corruption and division. Fallen humanity is a critical concept in fields such as sociology, psychology, and governance, as it helps understand societal behavior and design appropriate interventions to address societal decline.

How have we arrived at this state? President John F. Kennedy was on to something.

THE PRESIDENT AND THE PRESS: ADDRESS BEFORE THE AMERICAN NEWSPAPER PUBLISHERS ASSOCIATION, APRIL 27, 1961

"For we are opposed around the world by a monolithic and ruthless conspiracy that relies primarily on covert means for expanding its sphere of influence--on infiltration instead of invasion, on subversion instead of elections, on intimidation instead of free choice, on guerrillas by night instead of armies by day. It is a system which has conscripted vast human and material resources into the building of a tightly knit, highly efficient machine that combines military, diplomatic, intelligence, economic, scientific and political operations.

Its preparations are concealed, not published. Its mistakes are buried, not headlined. Its dissenters are silenced, not praised. No expenditure is questioned, no rumor is printed, no secret is revealed. It conducts the Cold War, in short, with a war-time discipline no democracy would ever hope or wish to match."

President John F. Kennedy Waldorf-Astoria Hotel, New York City, April 27, 1961

This quote from JFK eerily predicts our current state of fallen humanity by highlighting the existence of a secretive and powerful conspiracy that operates globally through covert means. The description of infiltration, subversion, and intimidation instead of democratic processes mirrors the tactics employed by various entities seeking to exert control and influence. The reference to a tightly knit and highly efficient machine encompassing military, diplomatic, intelligence, economic, scientific, and political operations reflects the complex and interconnected nature of modern power structures.

Furthermore, JFK's observation that this system operates with wartime discipline, silencing dissenters and concealing mistakes, underscores the erosion of transparency and accountability in governance. The lack of questioning, scrutiny, and exposure of secrets perpetuates a culture of secrecy and misinformation, undermining the principles of democracy and free expression. Overall, JFK's words serve as a cautionary reminder of the dangers posed by unchecked power and the importance of vigilance in safeguarding democratic values against clandestine forces.

This quote from JFK can be related to how Satan operates to deceive the whole world by highlighting the presence of a sinister and pervasive influence that operates through deception and manipulation. Just as JFK describes a monolithic and ruthless conspiracy relying on covert means, Satan employs cunning and deceit to spread his influence across the globe. Instead of overt confrontation, Satan infiltrates hearts and minds, subtly influencing thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors.

Similarly, JFK's mention of subversion and intimidation resonates with Satan's tactics, as he seeks to undermine God's truth and instill fear and doubt in humanity. Through lies and distortions, Satan seeks to subvert God's plan and lead people away from righteousness. His methods involve infiltrating the fabric of society, corrupting institutions, and promoting worldly ideologies that oppose God's kingdom.

Moreover, just as JFK describes a system that operates with wartime discipline, Satan conducts his spiritual warfare with relentless determination and strategic cunning. He conceals his true intentions, manipulates circumstances, and suppresses dissent against his agenda. By controlling the narrative and obscuring the truth, Satan maintains his grip on the hearts of many.

JFK's insights into the workings of a secretive and manipulative system resonate with the spiritual battle waged by Satan to deceive humanity. The quote serves as a reminder of the ongoing struggle between good and evil, urging vigilance and discernment in discerning the schemes of the adversary.

Christians believe that the terminal velocity of the human condition, marked by sin and separation from God, can be overcome through faith in Jesus Christ. According to Christian teachings, Jesus offers the solution to humanity's fallen state by providing forgiveness for sin and restoring the broken relationship between humanity and God. Here are some ways Christians believe this reversal can occur:

1. Salvation through Jesus Christ: Christians believe that Jesus' sacrificial death on the cross provides the means for salvation. By accepting Jesus as Savior and Lord, individuals can experience forgiveness of sin and receive the gift of eternal life. This spiritual transformation marks the beginning of a new life in Christ, characterized by reconciliation with God and the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.

2. Repentance and Faith: Repentance involves acknowledging one's sinfulness, turning away from sinful behaviors, and turning toward God. Christians believe that genuine repentance, accompanied by faith in Jesus Christ, leads to spiritual renewal and transformation. Through faith in Christ, individuals can experience freedom from the power of sin and begin to live in accordance with God's will.

3. Renewal through the Holy Spirit: Christians believe that the Holy Spirit plays a vital role in the process of transformation. The Holy Spirit convicts individuals of sin, empowers them to live holy lives, and produces spiritual fruit such as love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control.

4. Lifelong Growth and Sanctification: The Christian journey involves ongoing growth and sanctification. Christians strive to align their lives with the teachings of Jesus, seeking to become more like Him in character and conduct. This process of sanctification involves the renewing of the mind, the cultivation of spiritual disciplines, and the participation in Christian community for support and accountability.

5. Hope in the Promise of Redemption: Christians hold onto the hope of future redemption and restoration. They believe in the promise of Jesus' return and the establishment of God's kingdom on earth. In the meantime, Christians are called to be agents of reconciliation and transformation in the world, sharing the message of God's love and working for justice, peace, and the flourishing of all people.

In summary, Christians believe that the terminal velocity of the human condition can be reversed through the redemptive work of Jesus Christ, repentance, faith, the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit, ongoing growth in Christlikeness, and the hope of future redemption.