On the other hand, I also know within me that ultimately, I really have the answers to it all. John 1 says “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God … Through him all things were made; without him nothing was made that has been made.” When Genesis says that God created heaven and earth, and man and woman and every plant and seed and animal in it, I believe it with all my heart. I believe God made the earth, created the universe out of the thin threads of the laws He set in place, and when He said “let there be light”, the universe exploded in light that would shine for a hundred trillion years.

But my head can not accept what my heart knows. If I try to turn faith into science and say, “God created everything” with absolute scientific assurance, then the next thought that rises in my mind is “prove it” – and I can’t. And yet, I cannot wrap my head around evolution and call that true, because my heart knows that it is not. I know God is true, so the conclusion that the world was created on its own, must be false.

Between my heart and my mind lies this gap, this great divide, which I don’t know how to overcome; one side of which says, “believe everything”, for man lives and dies by faith in God, and without faith no one can please God. And yet the other side says, “believe nothing”; this being my scientific side that absolutely cannot believe anything that has not been meticulously proven, again and again. These are not necessarily at odds which each other, but they do conflict, in purpose. The purpose of faith is to save a man’s soul and provide for his eternal well-being, upon which no science must dare to tread; similarly, the purpose of science is to unravel the mysteries of the universe without regard to any particular faith – it must never be swayed by beliefs, never led astray by man’s opinion or interpretation of the truth – it must relentlessly stay true to its original task, the gradual and meticulous uncovering of the reality of the universe, step by step, by inexhaustible patience and curiosity.

So when [some] evolutionists say that Christians are stupid for believing in the bible, I shake my heart at their arrogance and ignorance, and I fear that one day they will be proven terribly wrong. And yet, when [some] Christians declare that the big bang theory is just a lot of bogus, and they shake their head at me for believing that the earth is older than 6000 years, it pains me; because they do not know the love of science that resides within me and which tells me, quietly, that if the universe is not older than that, then we’ve made a lot of measurements wrong.

I hope that one day, science and faith will meet within me; that faith will declare through the heavens that God created everything that exists; and that science will tell me, in excruciating detail, how it happened. Obviously, we are not there yet; but if science is the searching for truth, then eventually, hopefully, it will lead us there. I wish that I could reply with absolutely certainty – the way other people do – to the question of how the world was created, but I can’t.

My mind and my heart do not yet agree within me. I hope one day they will.

The artillery is pretty impressive.

Check it out here.

This is my proposed method.

• The system itself consists of a database, a set of PHP pages, and a configuration file.
• The PHP files identify the user and give him a unique identifier k_u, say, the person’s name, SSN, or similar identity. This is only stored in the current session. Necessary referential constraints can be added to ensure the validity of the identifier, so the user specifies a real name – e.g. through a lookup in a user table.
• The system configuration file contains a system key, k_s, which is a unique, random key, and which is kept secret.
• The database has three tables.
  • Two tables make up the questions. One for each questionnaire, and one for each question connected to the questionnaire. Each questionnaire is given a unique, random key k_q, and each question has an auto-incrementing ID.
  • The third table contains the answers, which every user has specified. The unique key to each answer is given by the question ID, and a cryptographically secure hash h -> H(k_s + k_u + k_q).

By keeping k_s a secret, it is cryptologically impossible to find out the user identity of any given answer in the answers table. And by varying k_q for each questionnaire, it is also impossible to track users over several questionnaires. h will, however, be the same for each given questionnaire and user.

It is thereby possible for the system to post answers from a given user into the tables, and access previous answers; and it is also possible for a user to retrieve answers, filter them, and generate statistics, without ever having access to any identities for the given answers. Even if the system is compromised, it is impossible to learn the identities of any answers without using a brute-force (or table lookup) method.

Does this sound ok?

Nov 25

• The return from Sears finally arrives into our bank account. Case closed.

Nov 24 – waiting
Nov 23 – waiting
Nov 22 – waiting
Nov 21 – waiting

Nov 20

• Recieved an automated email today, which said “Return processed for your Sears order”. It says that the refund will now be processed within 5-7 business days, depending on our financial institution. “Thank you for shopping at Sears!” it concludes. Right.

Nov 19 – waiting

Nov 18

• Now I’m starting to worry that the refund is going to take 7-10 business days from the point where the vendor actually received the item back, which was just a day or two ago. That might put us into December before we get our money back, which would agree with the email I got from Roy, saying that he would follow up on the case until 12-01-2011. I try calling Sears for confirmation at the number and extension he gave me. I reach a waiting line, saying “all agents are busy at the moment, please wait on the line”. After 21 minutes, I hang up, and leave a message on Sears facebook page, saying, please have Roy call me, along with his extension number.
• Sears deleted my facebook post – presumably because it contained contact information, which I understand. I hope that means Roy got my message and will call me.
• I sent them an email at smsupport@searshc.com asking them to clarify just exactly when I’m supposed to get my money back, since we already waited 10 business days from the contact on Nov 3rd.

Nov 17

• Received an email from my contact at Sears Cares, saying that the bed has now been returned to the vendor and my refund will now be processed.

Nov 16 – waiting
Nov 15 – waiting
Nov 14 – waiting
Nov 13 – waiting
Nov 12 – waiting
Nov 11 – waiting
Nov 10 – waiting
Nov 9 – waiting
Nov 8 – waiting
Nov 7 – waiting
Nov 6 – waiting
Nov 5 – waiting
Nov 4 – waiting

Nov 3

• Customer service responds to my issue and lets me know that they are unable to do a refund back on my debit card, as in cases like these, a gift card is automatically issued within 7-10 business days and there’s nothing they can do. I reply angrily and forward the communication to SMAdvisor@searshc.com again, saying this is unacceptable, and that we want our money back.
• I get a call from “Roy” from Sears Executive Office who gives me his contact information and says that he’s going to put a stop to all this, and give me whatever information I need. He says he’s going to send it in for research today and get back to me as soon as he finds something out.
• I get a call back from Roy who says that the refund is actually going to be on my credit card, and he’ll see to it himself. If it’s sooner that 7-10 business days, he’ll let me know first hand. There will not be a gift card issued.

Nov 2

• A guy with a big truck shows up at our door, without prior notice or call, and asks for the return items. A flurry of activity ensues as we try to get the item repackaged hastily and carried through the house down to the door. (Good thing I work from home.)
• Sears responds to an email sent from me, regarding the above, and lets me know that since part of the order was paid for using a gift card (see the information from Oct 10), they will just issue a new gift card to us which will be sent in about 7-10 business days, once the damaged item is returned to the warehouse. I respond, saying this is absurd, and that I want my money back.
• Raina posts a complaint on the Sears facebook profile. A Sears representative by the name of Scott answers and asks us for additional details, refer to SMAdvisor@searshc.com with Attention Scott. I send him this story, so far, and considers cc:ing my lawyer.

Nov 1 – waiting
Oct 31 – waiting

Oct 30

• I receive a notice that a pick-up request has been issued “as of today”, and that I should expect the shipper to call me to arrange a convenient time for pick-up.

Oct 29 – waiting
Oct 28 – waiting

Oct 27

• Fourth email from Sears, asking me to fill out a survey of how the call was handled by the agent.

Oct 26

• Second email, asking if I want a UPS pickup (5-7 business days) or drop it off myself at a UPS point; I will then get a refund and can place a new order. I reply very angrily saying this is not convenient at all, please come and get it right away as I was promised a replacement.
• Third email from Sears, apologizing and saying that they are only email support and can’t place orders themselves, and asks that I call customer care at an 800 number, or use a live chat agent.
• I call Sears again, and talk to a nice lady who says the same thing, that an exchange is not possible, but they can come and pick it up for us (in 5-7 business days); and then give us a refund, once the item is successfully returned to the vendor. The refund will take 2-3 business days to process, and I can then order a new unit on their website. I give in, say OK, and resolve never to order from Sears again. She also gives me the name, address and phone number of the vendor who sold the item through Sears, which I’m not interested in, as I’m buying from Sears, not the vendor. This is what I manage to write down, no idea if it’s correct or not.

topline-furniture.com
vendor# 717140
888 Thomas Drive
Vincentville, IL 60106

Oct 25

• Email from representative asking about the damages; I answer right away and enclose pictures, indicating that one box had been dropped, and two metal hinges had been pushed with force into the sideboards, splitting the wood apart, and thereby causing irreparable damage. Pictures can be seen at https://www.dropbox.com/gallery/28067369/1/Sears%20Bed?h=2642ca

Oct 24

• Item arrived in damaged condition, noticed during unpacking and assembly.
• Investigation of the parts reveals that the bed does, in fact, need boxsprings.
• First complaint at Sears store in Augusta; they apologize for being unable to help me and give me an 800 number to call.
• First phone call to customer service, who promises replacement unit shipped out as soon as the return order he’s filling out is approved. The old unit will be picked up when the new unit is delivered.

Oct 23 – waiting
Oct 22 – waiting

Oct 21 (?)

• Phone call from shipping agent to set up appt for delivery. Appt set Oct 24.

Oct 20 – waiting
Oct 19 – waiting
Oct 18 – waiting
Oct 17 – waiting
Oct 16 – waiting
Oct 15 – waiting
Oct 14 – waiting

Oct 13

• Notice from Sears: “Your Sears order has shipped.”

Oct 12 – waiting
Oct 11 – waiting

Oct 10

• Found bed on Sears website. The price is somewhere around $500, but shipping is $193. Since we feel this puts it out of our price range, we investigate the possibility of some kind of Site-to-Store. Although this is not an option for this item, the local Sears store manager say they will cover the shipping cost, and we order the bed.
• According to a customer service representative, the bed does not need boxsprings. We’re happy about that, since that would mean an extra $100, minimum, and we’re trying to save money.
• Order confirmation of bed, expected arrival Oct 19.

You are beautiful, mysterious, and sweet
Your love of cheese has seen no bound -
Your grace has swept me off my feet
And in your arms, a home I’ve found.
So with these words, remember this
Said from a heart so full of bliss
In every possible way
I love you, today
You make my heart complete.

I’m trying to make heads or tails of this, but I’ve so far been unable to get any clear information from you guys. I tried chatting with an agent, which resulted in sort of an amusing story which I posted on my blog at www.gefvert.org, which didn’t tell me anything at all. Eventually I gave up and am now going to try this way of communicating with you. Please bear with me.

I have, today, a Digital Tier package, I think. Since the promotional period is expiring, it’s going to cost me about $126 a month, which is too much for my taste. In talking to a billing agent online, I was led to believe that I could instead get a Family Choice package, which would bring the bills down to $96 or something, but I wan’t to make sure what channels I get with that.

Now, I was given an excellent online channel lookup tool, using which I have been able to see all the channels included in different packages. What it doesn’t tell me, is what packages are included in a specific option. Let me explain.

In the Digital Tier package, we presently have all the channels included in the Basic Cable, Classic/Standard package, Digital Tier, and Family Choice. So I need to click several different checkboxes to find out what channels I currently have – I can’t just click on Digital Tier, because that excludes, for instance, Basic and Classic.

Now. If I choose to go with the Family Choice package, and exclude the Digital Tier, which channels would I ultimately end up with? Does the $96 I then would pay per month include *only* the channels in Family Choice, numbering 985-999, or would it also include the Basic package (channels 2-22), and/or the Classic package (channels 23-71)?

Because it seems like still a lot of money for only 14 channels, if the Family Choice channels are all I get.

Please clarify,
Matt

A nice person by the name of Vicki Bagley responded. (Emphasis mine, phone or ID numbers have been redacted.)

I understand you want to know what packages are included in a specific option in our channel lineup. I apologize for the problems you’ve experienced

I know how exasperating this has been for you, but we know the importance of our business with our valued customers. Let me assure you that what happened in your case is not typical of our level of customer service. We continue to be committed to providing you and all of our customers with the highest standards of service in the industry. While the lack of service you experienced is unusual and not the standard of our company, there is no excuse for a lackadaisical attitude on the part of any of our representatives.

I understand how important is for you to get the correct channel information on the packages subscribed. Once the promotional offer gets expired you will be charged as per the normal rates.

I regret to inform you that currently we do not have such feature in our channel lineup where you can get packages included in specific options.

We appreciate your feedback and will pass on to our product and development department.

I apologize, but I need to escalate your issue for additional research. You will receive a response within 2 to 3 days, or less on [my phone number] . I apologize for the delay, but I do want to ensure that the proper resolution is found. Please note that the ticket number for your escalation is: [ticket number].

Thank you for your patience and understanding. If you have any other concerns do let us know. We will be happy to assist you.

I just want to let you know that we have improved our Support page at www.timewarnercable.com. It has more information and can answer many of the questions you have. I am sure you will find it to be very helpful to get support on your issues.

Now, to be honest with you, their support page – which has improved considerably since I looked at it last – does contain largely the correct answer in their FAQ, under the section FAQ – Programming – Family Choice. But, at this point, I’m wondering if I’m ever going to find a right answer from one of their representatives.

So, here we go again.

Thank you for your kind answer. You should be aware that the number mentioned is my wife’s cell and you stand a better chance of being able to contact me on XXX-XXX-XXXX, if you do call.

So, if I interpret what you’re saying correctly, if we “downgrade” our account to Family Choice, then it’s only the channels included in the Family Choice package we get (in the order of about 14 channels) and nothing else? It seems strange, I thought networks were required to carry at least ABC, CBS and so on, but maybe I’m mistaken.

This time, someone with the name of Charlie Dias responds in the following manner:

I understand you would like to get the list of channel included in Basic, Classic, Digital Tier and Family Choice package. I apologize for the inconvenience and will be glad to assist you.

To view the channel lineup of your area (Sort By Package), please click on the following link:
http://www.timewarnercable.com/northeast/support/clu/clu.ashx?ChannelFilter=All&CLUID=661&Zip=04330&SortByPackage=true

Since we are technical and billing support, we do not have access to the pricing and package information you are looking for, however, I will certainly guide you to the appropriate support. Please contact us at XXXXXXXXXX or XXXXXXXXXX (working hours: 24 x 7, Monday to Sunday) and we will make every effort to assist you.

We appreciate your patience and understanding.

Hmmm… back to square one. This doesn’t tell me at all what I’m looking for! It’s like they don’t read the emails — the emails being sent back and forth *does* contain the full thread of the conversation.

Now I’m starting to get a little upset. According to the information I’ve read online by now, there is a “must-carry” principle that says that cable companies must carry a number of TV stations. By looking at the wonderful site at http://www.law.cornell.edu/uscode/ I search through the US Code and find the appropriate sections, contained in Title 47, Chapter 5, Subsection V-A “Cable Communications”.

So, one more try. We’ll see what happens if I write in a little more pointed tone.

No.

I am trying to figure out what channels I get to watch if I downgrade my account from a Digital Tier to a Family Choice Tier. I have repeatedly tried to acquire this information from you, but have so far been unable to get a proper answer from you. The channels in the Family Choice section of your channel lineup cannot be the only channels available – there has to be Basic or Standard channels as well.

Pursuant to the regulations established for cable carrier corporations in the United States, detailed in 47 US Code §534 and §535, each such corporation must carry a number of channels of local commercial character, and noncommercial educational television, respectively. One of your customer service agents told me that the Basic channels would not be included in the available channels if I got the Family Choice Tier, which would place you in violation of FCC regulations and Federal Law.

Therefore, I ask once again: Which channels would be included if I downgraded my account from Digital Tier to the Family Choice Tier?

And that’s the story so far. We’ll see how it goes.

Now the promotional period is over, and I’m trying to lower my bills. It seems to be like I could drop the Digital Tier and just go with Family Choice, which according to the billing agent I spoke to on the phone, would lower my bills by roughly $30. But I don’t know which channels are included in that — is it only the ones in Family Choice, or does it include Basic? Classic? I don’t know.

So, let’s ask an agent online.

User Mats has entered room
Analyst Ken Fox has entered room

Ken Fox> Thank you for contacting Time Warner Cable. At the end of our chat you will be given the option of taking a brief survey. My name is Ken Fox. Please give me a moment while I access your account.
Ken Fox> I understand that you want to know which channels are available in Family package, am I correct?

Mats> Hi Ken Fox! I talked to you just before!
Mats> Yes, that’s right … looking at the channel list, I’m wondering what’s included.

Ken Fox> I will provide you the required information.
Ken Fox> Please let me know your ZIP code.

Mats> [[gives Ken Fox my zip code]]

Ken Fox> Thank you.
Ken Fox> Give me a moment please.
Ken Fox> http://www.timewarnercable.com/northeast/support/clu/clu.ashx?ChannelFilter=All&CLUID=661&Zip=04330&SortByPackage=true
Ken Fox> Please access this link in a new window.

I look at the list he provided. It very clearly lists all the channels included in each package – Basic, Classic, Digital Tier, Family Choice, etc. But it doesn’t list if Basic or Standard is automatically included if I get a particular package? Like I have now, Basic, Classic and Digital Tier. I’ll have to dig deeper.

Mats> So… Not sure how this works. Is Basic included in Family Choice?

Ken Fox> No it is not included.

Mats> Really??
Mats> Wow!

Ken Fox> Family Choice is a different package.

Mats> Well, if I get family choice then the price of my bills is going down from 126 a month to 98. But all I get for that is only 12 channels?
Mats> That sounds a bit rough.

Ken Fox> Do you want to add Family Choice package?

Mats> I think I’m trying to investigate what it means to drop the Digital Tier that I currently have and see what Family Choice might give me instead.

Ken Fox> Okay.
Ken Fox> Is there any other issue with which I can assist you?

Mats> You haven’t resolved my initial issue, I’m afraid :)
Mats> Today, I’m paying $126 for the Digital Tier, which includes, in the channel lineup, Basic and Classic – as far as I understand.
Mats> Suppose that I drop the Digital Tier, and get Family Choice. This would lower by bills by something like $30, but I won
Mats> Oops.
Mats> Won’t do it if all I get then is 14 channels.
Mats> So. If I do this, how many channels do I get, and which ones?

Ken Fox> So you want to know which channels you will get if you drop Digital Tier and get Family package?

Mats> Yes.

Ken Fox> You can check that in the link which I provided.

Mats> Thank you. You have been most helpful.

I swear, I honestly can’t tell if I’m talking to a live person or a bot.