Who moved my truth?

My Final Post

2005-11-17T14:31:00.000-05:00

At least on here! If you want the new site address, email me and I'll send you the link.

2005-11-16T15:11:00.000-05:00

Elvish

To which race of Middle Earth do you belong?
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Judge Not, Lest Ye Be Judged

2005-11-16T12:24:00.000-05:00

This is an excellent essay on judgment. It is a heated debate in churches, and leads one to wonder....is the purpose of church to look good? Or is the purpose to reach others? Yet another time to look the example of Christ, which the church proclaims to do. A little, "Practice what you preach," might go a long way. Link discovered courtesy of Bill's Comments.

Borderline

2005-11-14T22:37:00.000-05:00

When I first read about the Alito nomination, one of the first things I read - once liberals got past his stance on abortion - that he had supported a strip search of a 10 year old girl. Of course, with those spare details, can't you just picture the police storming your house, ransacking your furniture, and ripping the clothes off your children? In this article, I see a slightly different twist. It was the daughter of an alleged drug dealer. As many may know from just watching the night-time soaps, drug dealers often hide drugs on their children to avoid discovery. And in reality, Judge Alito upheld a vote for the strip search; he did not unilateraly say it was a good idea. It is a rather tough call, and you'd have to know the situation before you jumped on the idea of police strip-searching children. Certainly a much different spin on things once you get the details. Link courtesy of the AnalPhilosopher.

Nooooo.....Really?

2005-11-14T15:40:00.000-05:00

Maybe I fell off the planet yesterday, but I could have sworn that "pro-life" is a typically conservative viewpoint. So perhaps someone could explain to me why it is so surprising to liberals that Alito is pro-life. Could be me....but Bush is a convervative - okay, we'll call him a Republican - and he is pro-life. Why on God's green earth would anyone expect him to nominate a pro-choice nominee? If liberals are truly as surprised as they act, they are a bit dimmer than I initially thought.

"Unlike Chief Justice John Roberts, Alito says these are his own strong personal views, and not just those of the administration he was working for," said Ralph Neas, head of the liberal People for the American Way. "Combined with his judicial record, Judge Alito's letter underscores our concern that he would vote to turn back the clock on decades of judicial precedent protecting privacy, equal opportunity, religious freedom, and so much more." (emphasis mine)

Really? Well, shoot - I don't even know why we bothered with the civil rights movement, when making abortions legal has cured all the injustices in society. No wonder liberals hate us conservatives. Here we are, trying to make people be responsible for their behavior, and in doing so we will be aggressing privacy, eliminating equal opportunity, denying religious freedom....why, who knows what else? Who'd of thought irresponsible behavior could bring so much liberation to the world?

When Pink Turns Yellow

2005-11-11T23:20:00.000-05:00

Read here. I have always been one to get my point across....and I have no problem being bold about the things I am passionate about. There is a time and a place, however, and these idiots have neither a watch or a map, apparently.

Must....Have....Air....

2005-11-11T10:20:00.000-05:00

Because I am laughing too damn hard over this. Thanks to the evil nekkid farmer for the link. The point here, and I hope no one is missing this, is that you can't demand things YOUR way and think that no one else is going to argue, when your demand is going to affect the lives of others. I am a Christian. I am at a point in my life where I can say that without shame. I also do not believe the Bible is infallible, or that we must put on blinders to serve God. When you read that website, think of it this way. Yes, it sounds ridiculous, but think of what Christians sound like - THEY SAY THE SAME THINGS. And it sounds outrageous. I once had a pastor argue with me that there were never dinosaurs on the earth. I said, "Well, how do you explain to your little boy, when you go into the museums, that that huge bone structure is not real, when it is in front of his eyes?" The pastor had the decency to look sheepish, and answered, "I tell him that there are things we won't understand now, but that we have to have faith in God that it will be explained in the end." Okay, now that is crazy-making. Here is a skeleton of bones from a dinosour, but we know God didn't make dinosaurs, so this doesn't really exist despite the fact that we can reach out and touch it....let's go to the gift shop, instead. People! You can't sound like a nincompoop and think others are going to hop on your bandwagon - unless you are Jim Jones, I suppose. A little common sense is a wonderful thing here.... It is natural to believe in something greater than ourselves. None of us will know the full truth until the end of things, but for goodness sakes, stop sounding like a bunch weirdos and use the brain God gave you. One of my favorite things that I hear from Christians is that the things we don't understand we may never understand, but (hopefully) some of it the Big Guy will explain to us when we get to wherever we are going. Okay, I'm good with that. Then who are YOU to stand on absolutes and judge others when you don't have all the answers either?

Redesigned, Baby!

2005-11-10T21:58:00.000-05:00

Who Moved My Truth will soon be moving. The Marvelous, Mysterious Sadie herself will be giving me a facelift - well, my site, anyway, and we'll be moving onto greener, and more reliable, pastures. So stay tuned.

Fake I.D.

2005-11-10T21:36:00.000-05:00

All I ask for is a little patience. And what do I get, but evil nekkid farmers blasting away on me. Sheesh - give a red head some room, will ya? Okay, Small Holder, enjoy the moment because I'll probably take this part of the post down tomorrow. YOU ARE RIGHT. There. I said it. Now let me alone so I can wail in my indignity. Okay, back to our scheduled programming. I don't need to read the trail notes and boring jargon. I just need to hear the idiocy of the televangelists over the evening news.

"I'd like to say to the good citizens of Dover: If there is a disaster in your area, don't turn to God. You just rejected him from your city," Robertson said on the Christian Broadcasting Network's "700 Club."

Source Could someone please shut these idiots up, and fast? It is an absolute insult to those of us who actually like to hang with the Big Guy. 1. Excuse me, Mr. Robertson, did you notice that SECOND part of your Bible? I think the lable says something like, NEW TESTAMENT? Seems to me the guy in that part of the story was bringing the whores to God. I hardly think a change of school board equals that. 2. At judgment day, please stand downwind from me. I don't feel like being cinged when God gets to you. The nerve of these jerks, dictating the reaction of a higher power. Where the heck do they get off? But I digress....The entire evening news shows were covered with this "controversy." Let me let y'all in on a little known secret....I graduated from a religious school. I know, I know, I will wait for you to get up off the floor. Better? Good. That being said, I would NEVER send my children to a private school for religious purposes. They distort and twist the Bible to suit their needs, and that is common practice in religious schools. I went to 10 different schools, so I do consider myself somewhat of an expert on the student experience. If you want religion in your children's education, home-school them. For goodness sakes, don't let some teacher or school district determine what interpretation of God and the Bible they are going to follow. As we see by the example of the (self)righteous Mr. Robertson, they may forget that second half of Biblical teaching. Not to mention, suppose the school district elects a Muslim superintendent....now I want to see all the backing for religion in schools then, 'k? So I am against ID in schools. Stick with science. If the religious folks don't get their heads out of their keisters and see that religion in schools is not going to fix the problem, I don't know what to tell you. If you want to fix the problem in schools, fix the families. Yes, God can definitely assist there. Meanwhile, teach your beliefs to your children, and I'll teach my beliefs to mine. Side Note: If I were a guy, and my nickname was "small" "holder," I'd start to wonder what people might think about me. I mean, what exactly is he holding that is so small?

On Fire!

2005-11-09T16:54:00.000-05:00

Amy Ridenour has some great posts today, including.... Gun Control in San Francisco. This is just common stupidity. Crazy people should go free. I was just discussing this with someone the other day. She insisted that the woman was mentally ill. Well, duh. I do not think that entitles anyone to be free again, when they have committed a heinous act. So she is sick....let her get treatment....in prison.

Imposing Religion?

2005-11-09T10:48:00.000-05:00

Dover, PA will not be a haven of Intelligent Design teaching, if the recent school board elections are any indication. However, this statement is just awe-inspiring.

The school board voted in October 2004 to require ninth grade biology students to hear a brief statement at the start of the semester saying that there were "gaps" in the theory of evolution, that intelligent design was an alternative and that students could learn more about it by reading a textbook "Of Pandas and People," available in the high school library. The board was sued by 11 Dover parents who contended that intelligent design was religious creationism in new packaging, and that the board was trying to impose its religion on students. [emphasis mine]

Let me understand this. Letting kids know that evolution has some holes - otherwise known as academic honesty - and that there are other possibilities out there to explain those holes....this is forcing religion on kids? And what the hell do you call making them read the qur'An as part of their religions of the world studies? Suggesting kids can read about other ideas about the creation of the world - possibly even expand their mind and understanding of other people in the world - is imposing religion, but having children read the Muslim holy book - the basis of the Islam faith - is just cultural studies? Crazy-making, people. Crazy-making....

Silent Concessions

2005-11-09T10:34:00.000-05:00

I am not surprised, though disappointed, by this article in the The New York Times. What is wrong with parents today? I was NEVER allowed to scream in a restaurant. This isn't expecting children to act like adults. Adults don't get to color in their menus. It is expecting children to use some self-control. What parent allows their child to scream, romp, etc. in a restaurant? I can remember, years ago, when the signs became popular that said, "What little fingers break, big fingers buy." If your child misbehaves, you (the parent) have to deal with the consequences. Allowing children to behave like animals is not acceptable in public. There are other people in restaurants and shops that do not feel like dealing with your inability to parent. Why should they? Why is with the superiority attitude of parents today? "I have children - you don't. I'm special." Please. No one expects a baby or toddler to be a perfect child at the dinner table. Children are going to be rebellious, scream, get mad, etc. That does not mean it is acceptable to allow their behavior to make the rest of those around you miserable. You remove them from the situation, deal with the behavior - whether they are sick, misbehaving, whatever - and then you can return to your meal. That is parenting - it is inconvenient, frustrating, and changes your level of freedom. To allow your child to interrupt the evening of others is unacceptable, and teaches children nothing. Teaching your children that they must respect those around them is a valuable lesson. There again, their parents have to have that respect first.

How Long Before He Is Really Raking It In....

2005-11-08T15:27:00.000-05:00

"This, of course, can in some way hurt his career as a professional ballplayer, and all will depend on the way in which he is brought before justice," defense lawyer Jose Luis Tamayo said.

Source. Really? Ya think? I'd hate to think he might lose his career for a petty murder charge. I mean, if he's convicted, that just makes him a better ball player, right? He'll be murderous on the field. And at the end of the article - in which the author mentioned that he was arrested for allegedly hacking up employees with machetes and trying to set fire to them - we have this: "The 31-year-old Urbina has a 44-49 record with 237 saves and a 3.45 ERA in 11 seasons." Thank goodness....hate to think we forgot to mention the important stuff.

Blech

2005-11-07T20:41:00.000-05:00

I want a different template for my blog....but I don't have the time to mess with the html....especially with as much as a novice as I am. Does anyone (anyone out there?) have any suggestions for a quick fix for this sorry site?

I Just Can't Help Myself!

2005-11-07T20:38:00.000-05:00

I love this woman!

Blogger Mishaps?

2005-11-07T16:52:00.000-05:00

This is an interesting story. This professor made a post, was criticized, and then responded again. I give the guy credit for explaining himself. I doubt he is as awful as he is made out by his commentors! And I daresay, he will think twice before he posts again! In his defense, you often post things that are merely for expression purposes, not to be judged by the world at large. However, blogs are certainly out there for everyone to read. Easy to forget....Lord knows, I've had things I've said taken out of context and I was left to try to make sense out of the pieces.

Fame

2005-11-07T08:49:00.000-05:00

Well, now that my fifteen minutes are over, here is what I overheard in the locker room. "They are already living together....why bother with a wedding?" Okay, here is the deal - you don't like them living together.....but you complain that they are getting married. Make up your mind! And for goodness sakes, don't put down a step in the right direction (in your mind). (Same person) "And they are going to make my parents drive [two hours] all the way down there...." and in the same conversation, "....and the drive to Florida every year is taking a toll on them." So it is too much to drive two hours to see your relative get married, but that Florida trip is just starting to take a toll. Go figure. And yes, I enjoy listening in on conversations, when people talk loud enough for the next county to hear.

I'm Famous, Dahling, Famous!

2005-11-06T15:44:00.000-05:00

See - I'm so important, they put in me in the local paper! (Har, har, har....) Article on Blogging. Article on local bloggers, which includes a stunning picture of moi. You cannot - oh darn! - the see the stunning photography on the free site, so you'll just have to envision and slobber. Oh, aren't I amusing?

A Wonderful, Strange New World

2005-11-04T21:31:00.000-05:00

I was pondering the effect blogging has had on my life. While I've been a bit remiss on my blogging schedule, that does not mean I don't keep up with my favorite blogs. However, if a couple of years ago you would have told me I would be reading and e-mailing in response to online diaries, I'd have clocked you one (I was less peace-loving then, too). Now, on this side of the blogsphere, I feel much differently. I now regularly e-mail people I've never even seen photos of, sharing joys and grief and frustrations. I find myself smiling at the antics of Evil Nudists, Hatemongers named "Chip," and cute Jewish women. I've sent letters to bloggers in need of support, admired the photographic talents of political pundits, and shook my head at the male diva. I've missed the Musings and Ephemera, and Mr. and Mrs. Du Toit. Funny how people you've never met have profound effects on your life. Had it not been from a little encouragement from an anal-retentive philosopher, I might have never experienced it. Thanks, Keith. Blogging has not been my easiest experience. I've offended some, lost friends, made friends, learned about myself, hated myself, and been proud of myself. I've proved teachers wrong, parents wrong, and countless others who believed in me....right. I've fought against bureaucracy and risked my job; given up, given in, and come out swinging. I've denied God. I've begged Him for hope and mercy. This might not be traditional therapy, but it has been my life's work, in many ways. And that will probably only be understood by those who know me well. All the best, folks. 'Til tomorrow....Al.

To a Child

2005-11-04T12:21:00.000-05:00

Bill's Comments

Adults Without Parents

2005-10-31T15:14:00.000-05:00

I am referring specifically to those who have parents who never should have had the title of “parent,” whether those parents are alive or dead; not those who have had wonderful parents who passed away. Though the two situations probably share some similar frustrations….I can only speak to the first situation. I don’t know how many people come from this situation, but it is something that I’ve never touched on. Partially because it is so personal, and for many years, has been such a raw topic. However, I realized this past month or so how many of us feel as though we are alone, when in reality, there are more people than we think who come from this situation. Some of us live normal lives. Some go crazy. Other go to prison. Some of us have been alone on Christmas, Easter, and Thanksgiving. We have gone birthdays without ever receiving a card in the mail. Most of us try to avoid conversations about our families. Some of us lie and say they are dead. Some of us lie and say they are great. Some of us create elaborate fabrications of our childhood….others refuse to talk about it. Some of us are honest about it, and watch the glaze of pity – and sometimes blame – slide across the eyes of those who cannot understand. Those of us that make up stories to make ourselves more socially acceptable….we watch as our confidant smiles in what they think is shared warmth of family memories, or laugh in what they think is shared frustrations with family idiosyncrasies. Suddenly we hate the lie, and we want to scream the truth, so that our pain and longing is not silent….as though giving it a voice will somehow validate those feelings of loss, rejection, and not being wanted. We don’t, though, and the silence envelops us. There is a lot of guilt associated with the parentless adult. Some of that relates to the fear that had you been a better child, a better baby, your parents would have loved you more. If you had been more obedient teenager, more likeable, more like them, perhaps they would have wanted you more. Some of this guilt also relates to God. Was there something wrong with you that you couldn’t have had at least one parent that was decent? One parent that cared more for you than for themselves….more for you than for their addiction….more for you than anyone else who came into their lives. Did God know something about you that even you hadn’t figured out yet? A parent that hurts their child – and I don’t mean the mistakes everyone makes as a parent – but those that do long-term damage without much concern over it, is quite possibly one of the hardest things to understand for those of us who couldn’t imagine doing such a thing. Most parents want the best for their children. They would give up their lives to keep their children from feeling pain. Unfortunately, some parents would give up their children to keep themselves from feeling pain. It is a cruel reality to face that you will never have the “Hallmark Christmas.” There will never be holiday dinners at mom’s house, no shared family secrets that you snicker over when some banal phrase is uttered. There is not a long Christmas gift list, or birthdays to worry over, or built-in guests for your graduations, weddings, or funeral. There is no one who “has to take you in.” You must rely on friends and social services when you are down and out. You must ask people who don’t know your first-uttered word to take care of your children. I recently had reason to come face to face with what I was willing to sacrifice in order to be….a little more like everyone else. Was I willing to give up the safety of being with those who do not abuse me? Was I willing to risk the sanity I have built over the years, on someone who worked hard at destroying it? How much of that life of fear and rejection was I willing to re-shoulder, in order to have a parent to speak of? It was only then, in the midst of my questioning, that I realized that while I will never have the dream of shared family holidays and someone who always has room for me, I have enough people in my life who fill those roles when they are called up to do so. I have women who have been more of a mother to me than mine ever was, and men who have helped to be a father to me as best they could. These people may or may not still be in my life, but along the way, they helped fill in the gap until I reached a point where I could accept that what I wanted was unrealistic. That realization was hard earned, but now, I can finally let go of those painful prayers. My “dream” family is not to be. It never will be. But someone else’s family does take me in, does give me support, does give me love, and in exchange, I give them the loyalty and love and support they deserve. Perhaps that is even a greater gift than I realized. These people who are not related to me, do not have to welcome me – they have chosen to. They are not required to….they want to. May those of you who understand these feelings find as many blessings in your loss as I have.

Grade Schoolers of Ill-Repute

2005-10-31T10:15:00.000-05:00

I was reading the misgivings over children's clothing of ML of the Evil Nudists.

Then your Maximum Leader had to take Villainette #1 to Target to buy some socks, some tights, and a pair of dressy boots. Now your Maximum Leader wants to know something... When did it become acceptable for 8 year old girls to dress like painted whores? He doesn't recall anyone in his peer group dressing like a whore in 3rd grade. He doubts if he knew what a whore was in 3rd grade. But if you go to a Target you can see a number of "get-ups" that if they were worn in various combinations they would make your 8 year old look like a slut.

Not long after contemplating this statement, I found this article at the National Review Online. After reading this article, it took me back to a comment I made on the ML's discussion over father's rights.

....in order for anything to be accomplished we would need to begin recognizing that 1. Clinton-defined sex causes births, 2. Children are not prepared to raise children. 3. Therefore, children should not have sex. Regardless of birth control, babies happen. I can't tell you how many people I have met who were using birth control and had an unexpected pregnancy (I've also met those who are not using birth control and had an unexpected pregnancy....but that is a story for a different day). This would also mean convincing an entire population of people who are insistent that their children (and yours) should have equal access to birth control and text books. To teach children to control their desires in the interest of others, is absolutely unacceptable, which would also explain the disappearance of child discipline. Thus, we have a quandary that one is hard-pressed to resolve. Common sense is on the decline, and erotic fascination is normal development, no matter that the individual is only 8. So there you have it.

My point - I'm getting to it - is that there is a vicious circle here. We dress our young girls as lascivious adults, become frustrated when some of the biggest influences in their lives support active sex lives for girls, and then wonder why we have children raising children, or worse yet, killing their own children. I've often commented on the clothing styles for young girls. I'm not a shy person and am aware that I have a decent body. I like to wear things that compliment my appearance....however, even I would never wear some of the styles I see in the girls' clothing section. It is as though all the reports we hear about sex offenders go in one ear and out the other. In addition, while it sounds nice to say, "I can be myself, follow my dreams, and always do my best. I can reach for the stars, lend a hand to others, and be a good friend. I can make a difference! I promise to try," I'm not really seeing anything in there about being responsible for one's life and decisions, either. Oh, wait a minute....that is what abortion is for. Sorry, brain-spasm there. Think about this attitude though. Girls can do whatever they want....nevermind that we hold the ONLY opportunity for life in our wombs. Yes, men have the fertilization part of life....but we carry and nuture it in our bodies. Like it or not, that carries a heavier responsibility with it. I'm not hearing that in our "girl power" mantras today. I'm hearing selfishness, power-hunger, and self-centered endeavors....none of which are all bad or inappropriate, when used in the right context. However, I've not been privey to how we are also teaching our girls about social responsibility, partnerships in relationships, and reality. I love being female - you couldn't pay me to be male. I enjoy the make-up, the dress-up, the giggling, the emotional sensitivity to others, the natural nurturing, multiple orgasms, etc. But it comes with a price-tag. That IS something we need to teach our girls to have well-adjusted, responsible adults. We seem to think it is sexist to point out our gender differences, rather than embrace that which sets us apart.

Idiots of the Pharmaceutical Persuasion

2005-10-31T08:46:00.000-05:00

I was recently visiting with my doctor (don't you hate it when they charge you for what you thought was just a friendly chat?) and received two prescriptions in exchange for my check. The one is outrageously expensive, and I was in doubt that my "wonderful" benefits would cover it. The other was my allergy medication. For anyone who does not have allergies - among whom I used to lay my claim - let me tell you....just imagine having a year round cold, with the snot, sore throat, headache, body sore feelings that go with it. Those are my allergies. I only found out I had allergies because a couple of years ago I thought I had a cold that wouldn't quit. After a month of misery, I discovered that I had developed seasonal allergies. Unfortunately, no one informed my allergies that seasonal does not mean EVERY FRICKIN' SEASON, ALL SEASON LONG! Anyhoo, I sent in my prescriptions, only to be informed that my insurance will cover the $1196.00 prescription, but not my meager allergy prescription. To be honest, the super-expensive prescription I'd manage without....it is a one-time treatment for an uncomfortable but not unlivable problem. HOWEVER, my allergy medication is a lifeline some days. Over the counter drugs have not been effective; not to mention, the prices are prohibitive for someone who has to take her medication daily. So this morning, as I woke up with a sinus headache so awful that my eyes could barely prop themselves open, I was not saying nice things about the pharmaceutical world....not nice things at all.

Marriage Issues

2005-10-27T11:17:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of Maggie Gallagher....

IS MARRIAGE DOING FINE? ACADEMIC PROMISES, HIP-HOP REALITIES I'm holding in my hand an amicus brief filed in the New Jersey same-sex marriage litigation. With their distinguished academic pedigrees, a group of highly credentialed scholars want to send a message on gay marriage to the New Jersey Supreme Court: Don't worry, no matter what you do to it, marriage will always do just fine: "The ongoing evolution of marriage throughout New Jersey's history renders implausible the suggestion that marriage, which has survived so many changes, is too frail to endure the revision" of what these scholars refer to as "the anachronistic different-sex eligibility rule." Implausible? Who are they kidding? Sure, after 40 years of social experiments on marriage in the name of sexual liberty, Princeton professors are doing just fine, thank you very much. But to find out whether marriage is doing just fine, the New Jersey judges might learn more listening to Kanye West. His latest hit, "Golddigger," is the quintessential postmodern love story told from the male side, full of fantastic need and longing, punctuated by the grim reality of sexual betrayal and gender mistrust: "If you f---in with this girl then you better be paid/You know why/It take too much to touch her/From what I heard she got a baby by Busta/My best friend say she use to f--k wit Usher/I don't care what none of y'all say I still love her." On the other hand, "... If you ain't no punk holla, 'We Want Prenup'/WE WANT PRENUP! Yeaah!" As Kanye matter-of-factly points out, "It's something that you need to have/Cause when she leave yo a--, she gonna leave with half." Not "if" she leaves you, but when. Men and women have to protect themselves from each other, from the foolishness of their own desire to love. Moral ideals like sexual fidelity to a good man, or a good father who is not rich, are just ridiculous: "He got that ambition baby look in his eyes/This week he moppin' floorz, next week it's the fries." Kanye gives her the straight dope: "But you stay right girl/But when you get on he leave yo a-- for a white girl." Faith, hope, trust, love are dreams. The reality is sexual barter. Men and women need each other but are destined to betray each other in pursuit of the satisfaction of that need. Children are innocent bystanders in this perpetual erotic warfare. Marriage is civilization's great attempt to integrate opposites: male and female, mothers and fathers, parents and children, love and sex, heart and pocketbook, masculinity and dependency, eros and the vow. When a marriage culture fails, sexual desire no longer unites; instead it fragments. Kanye West offers us a personal portrait of what happens when the fragging is done: Gender doesn't disappear, but the one institution -- marriage -- that bridges the gender divide largely has. This is not a racial issue, it is a human one. So call me dubious: Right smack in the middle of this unprecedented marriage crisis, what should courts do to marriage, according to these distinguished scholars? Why, gut it of the presumption that marriage has something to do with joining the man and the woman who make the baby. Why? In order to affirm "its core purpose of recognizing committed, interdependent partnerships between consenting adults." These scholars do not seem to recognize the carnage this very idea -- that marriage is infinitely adaptable and primarily about adults' needs -- has unleashed. But I remember how the people who tried to protest this last round of social experiments on marriage, as it was happening, got called bigots too. Perhaps it is possible that New Jersey judges can eliminate the one feature of marriage that has been universal in human history with the stroke of a pen, and marriage will do just fine. But here's my message to the New Jersey Supreme Court: Don't bet the future of our children on it.

Blogging without Apology

2005-10-26T19:29:00.000-04:00

I liked the concept of the title so much, I'm using it again, with a slightly different twist. I've been recently annoyed by a reader and realized that I have allowed other people to censor what I want to say. Let me put this bluntly. This is MY blog: it is made up of my thoughts and what I want to say on issues. I've never addressed anything I've written towards anyone specifically, unless I was lauding them for their thoughts or accomplishments. My intention is never to hurt people, but I certainly cannot control for those who might be offended. If I worried about that, I would never say anything. If you don't like what I write, if it offends you, DON'T READ IT. No one is holding a gun to your head. And I am not looking someone to be my conscience. I have God for that. However, if what I say intrigues you and you want to engage in debate, bring it on. I'm always up for a challenge and some thoughtful exchange. And you certainly do not have to agree with me - most of my closest friends disagree with me regularly - that is part of what makes being individuals so fascinating.

Added

2005-10-26T15:42:00.000-04:00

I just recently added a link to the irrepressible Sadie and her blogging companions, after much amusing perusal. I am afraid I must agree (say it ain't so!) with my favorite evil nudists: she is pretty spectacular.

Achievement without Apology

2005-10-26T10:27:00.000-04:00

There is a saddening trend in today’s world that if you are not apologizing for your accomplishments, you are being arrogant and snobbish. There is little gray area in between. Having spent a good deal of time believing I was capable of little more than wasting oxygen, I’ve spend the last three years discovering my talents and abilities. Arrogance is defined by Merriam-Webster as “a feeling or an impression of superiority manifested in an overbearing manner or presumptuous claims.” One (and I stress that word) of the definitions of pride is “a reasonable or justifiable sense of one's worth or importance.” There is a huge difference between the two definitions. Recognizing your hard work is hardly an ignoble thing to do. If you are to live honestly, you cannot constantly apologize or demean your successes at every turn. You do a disservice to those who have believed and supported you through your challenges, and if you have any religious belief at all, you dishonor the being who created you. However, there is a difference between acknowledging your strengths, and purposely doing things to make others feel less. None of us can control how others will feel based on something we may have said. You cannot possibly comprehend or know their background or frame of mind. You do have control over behaving in way that you think will hurt someone, or intentionally saying things that would make you appear superior to someone. It is unfortunate that we have lost our ability to tell the difference between the two: arrogance and pride. I would not want to take advice from those who are not aware of their abilities and strengths as well as their weaknesses. It is our knowledge of both that allows us to be more honest with ourselves and live life with wisdom. As an aside: As a Christian, we are instructed to live more like Christ. I don't recall Christ ever apologizing for being the Son of God, or for his accomplishments on Earth or in Heaven. He was not ashamed or apologetic for his mission. Instead, he stood amid the masses with quiet dignity and proclaimed his identity. He also paid the price for that admittance. I guess we have to be willing to pay the price for a successful life, before we are willing to admit to it.

Speaks for Itself

2005-10-26T09:03:00.000-04:00

This morning as I sat at my desk, I spotted a large hawk in the willow tree behind my home. Two or three small birds, which I believe were sparrows, were driving that hawk nuts! He would get comfortably situated and one of them would dive at him, quickly followed by another. The hawk moved three or four times, but those little birds continued to harass him until he took off for parts unknown. As I watched this little drama, I was reminded of the difference between the hawk and the eagle. When the eagle is chased by his enemies, instead of ignoring them or trying to avoid them, he flies straight towards the sun. He has special coverings on his eyes, which enable him to look directly at the sun one moment and in the next instant drop his eyes and spot a field mouse far below. He is safe when he heads for the light. We can relate this example to men and women. Little people--and I do not refer to size--are easily harassed by small incidents in life, bugged by every criticism, and angered at barbs from others. They squirm and become defensive, but this only encourages the barb-throwers to keep after them. Men and women of integrity, however, who are confident within themselves, are not affected by what the "little" people say about them. Like the eagle, they hide from their enemies in the light because they know who they are and what they stand for. They understand that with integrity they have nothing to fear because they have nothing to hide. I am hopeful the parallel is clear and there's a lesson here we can learn. Live with integrity, hide in the light and I'll SEE YOU AT THE TOP!

From Zig Ziglar's popular book- SOMETHING ELSE TO SMILE ABOUT

Blackberry Thumb?

2005-10-24T16:58:00.000-04:00

This just boggles the mind. One, if you are using your Blackberry that much, you need to get a life. There is a whole world out there! Look UP! Two, anyone who does get Blackberry thumb should not be allowed to have this affliction covered by medical insurance. This is called stupidity, and that is not a medical condition - it is part of Darwin's process of nature's elimination. Grief.

Positive Thinking

2005-10-24T16:56:00.000-04:00

I find it interesting how human relations work. (I know, I'm a little slow.) The more positive I become, the more those who are negative want little to do with me. Rather than improve themselves and their life view, they would prefer to sink further into their little hole. Ah well. C'est la vie.

Guilty No More

2005-10-21T11:00:00.000-04:00

Peg has an excellent post on guilt. She is truly gifted with expression, and this post is no exception. I don't know about anyone else, but I have enough guilt for own stupid behavior. I don't need to take on anyone else's.

2005-10-21T09:46:00.000-04:00

This is cool! I found it here. Discovered courtesy of Smallholder.

Fortune Cookies

2005-10-19T21:38:00.000-04:00

Tonight, mine said, "Your present plans are going to succeed." How often do we read fortunes, horoscopes, or even religious material, and hope and pray that luck might turn our way? Instead of taking to heart that if we put in the work, our dreams will come to pass, we play the lottery, wait for relatives to die, or wait for retirement, so we might glimpse the life of the successful. I had a friend recently tell me that I would never be satisfied anywhere. To some degree, that may be true, when viewing my current employment and life status. However, after reviewing history, and those that we hail as heroes and historical figures, I don't recall a single one that stayed where they were and did nothing. Ambition, dedication, and respect for others is often the key characteristics of those whom we designate as great leaders, inventors, heroes, etc. I don't need to wish on my fortune. My fortune is my reality. Bring it on.

Changes

2005-10-19T16:40:00.000-04:00

I just changed my layout due to a major faux pas on my part with the repository of images for my site. So we are going with a more generic template. I've wanted to change my template for so long, and I just can't find anything I like. So here it is, for better or worse....for now....

Defining Marriage

2005-10-18T10:20:00.000-04:00

I received an e-mail from one of my favorite professional writers, Maggie Gallagher. She is engaged in a debate about gay marriage....a braver woman than me, I must admit. Here are the latest posts: Post 1, Post 2, Post 3, Post 4, and Post 5. She inquired as to whether I might join the debate. I am first to admit, I shy away from this argument. Honestly, I don't think there is one. If you leave religious beliefs out, there is really no argument against gay marriage. Here's why: marriage is no longer about creating a family and having a stable home for children. Marriage is about love. Think about it. If marriage were truly about forming a long-lasting, permanent union between a man and woman in order to ensure a stable home for children, there would be a lot more thought going into who we married, the ceremony, and the divorce laws would be a bit more stringent. As it is now, we are celebrating love, not the establishment of a family. We decide who we marry based on our "love" for someone (butterflies in the stomach and good sex now qualify for love status), plan ridiculously huge and expensive celebrations where little thought is given to the solemnity of the commitment, and in the back of our mind is the truth that....well, if this doesn't work, I'm not stuck here for life. Be honest - when was the last time that you sat through a wedding, and thought....I hope it lasts. We don't want to think it, but it is impossible not to. Divorce is part of our society, a part of our customs. Once we leave the giggling stage of newlywed bliss, and the reality hits, revealing that this human being who we thought was just like ourselves, is really not just like ourselves, but rather a unique individual unto themselves....suddenly, "love" takes a backseat. So to view marriage as a solid basis for procreation - on one hand that is true. But to say that the reason for marriage is procreation....societal norms to not hold with that. We don't view marriage that way anymore. "I love this person, I want to be with the person for the rest of my life." We no longer base the reasons for marriage on procreation and stable families - we base it on emotions and feelings. We don't stop and think - when we have children, the romance is over, the sex is on hold, finances are not perfect, and crisis occurs, how is this person going to stand by me? How am I going to stand by this person? My point - I daresay I'm digressing a bit - is that you can no longer define marriage by a supposed legal definition that no longer reflects our customs, and think that people are going to stand by and let it go. Not when it holds monetary benefits and significant status to change the law. And as for the morality of gays marrying - I really don't care. I cannot sit here and moralize about a "holy union" of which heterosexuals have made a mockery. On the religious front, gay marriage will never find comfort. So if I were gay, I would want my own tradition, unsullied by others, with which to explore permanent unions recognized by law. Why try to fix an already ruined toy?

The Importance of Appearance

2005-10-09T21:25:00.000-04:00

I just came home for seeing the film, "In Her Shoes." Having read the book by Jennifer Weiner some time ago, I was pleasantly surprised that the movie captured the magic and intensity of the book. I was disappointed when I saw the male romantic interest had been dolled up considerably from the actual book character. Indeed, he turned from a balding redhead to a considerably handsome man. I know this seems hard for movie-makers to believe, but the rest of the world falls in love with average human beings. Having been a ramantic interest of many an "ugly duckling," I can personally attest to this. And even pretty women, of whom I am one, can fall in love with less than dazzling counterparts. They seemed to have missed that in Hollywood.

2005-10-07T09:11:00.000-04:00

I was reading this article, and while it announces an awesome vaccine against cervical cancer, this statement just blows the mind: "The median age at which girls first have sex in the United States is 15." Let’s review the definition of median – it is the middle value where there are equal numbers above and below it. Think about that. There is an equal number of girls below fifteen as there are above fifteen that are sexually active. God forbid we teach any form of abstinence. We might prevent our 8 year olds from having sex.

Father's Rights

2005-10-06T13:00:00.000-04:00

I have sat on my thoughts for a week, trying to separate out my emotions from the thought process. A challenging task, no doubt, for anyone involved in the lives of children....nonetheless here are my thoughts on things. I am appalled at the way we treat fathers in our supposedly equal-rights-minded society. There is a different between "dead-beat dads," or those who do not take an interest in their children's lives, and those fathers who truly love and support their children. Our laws, however, do not allow for a difference. Fathers, regardless of behavior, are all considered money-producers, and little more than that. It doesn't matter who wanted out of the marriage, what the reasons were, or who was at fault - women are the ones who should be protected. Now I am not suggesting that I want the courts moralizing on people's divorce, but I do think we need to start treating the two parents of any child as equal parents. For example: * It should be assumed that the parents will have equal, joint custody, with as much equal time with the children as possible (assuming this is geographically possible), unless one of the parents decides that is not what they want. If it is not possible for one parent to engage in their right to half-time with their children due to a temporary situation, there should be a later date at which the situation can be reassessed. For father or mothers who have abused their children, this would obviously not apply. For situations in which both parents love and nurture the children, each should have equal time to nurture a relationship with their children. I find it abhorrent that school districts should play a part in this, as their objection is often that they child must have one physical address in order to be in that school district. As long as one of the parents reside there, the school district should have no say. * If there is equal custody, there should be no child support; instead, they should pay for the own households, and split agreed-upon expenses. Women are now in the work force, as we pressed for years to achieve. Now, stand up and deliver, ladies. The two parents should alternate sick days and such, and behave as a parenting team. If there is child support being paid, the recipient should have to keep account as to where the money is going. I find it outrageous that there is no check and balances in the child support system, when we are willing to throw a person in jail if they do not pay. It should be just as strict on the recipient of the funds, as on the one paying. * There needs to be a change of attitude. There is a concept that if a child has a mother, they do not need a father. Really? I could have sworn evolution got rid of that which we do not need and kept only that which benefits us. I daresay fathers would have been done away with long ago if children did not need a father past insemination. However, men are living longer, not shorter, lives, and that would indicate that they have a role to play in children's lives outside of just sperm producer. It is deplorable that we treat fathers as though their importance and place in their children's lives is unnecessary. They are merely to pay their dues and be on their way. It is amusing how we complain about men who leave their families, yet we as a society sideline their importance in their families. If they are nothing more than money-producers, why should they bother being involved? Men have an intrinsic need to be needed by their families. Yes, you have to pay for that which you produce - so I am not in any way suggesting that a man, or woman, should not support their offspring. But that support should not be limited by strictly monetary definitions.

Ms. Miers

2005-10-04T23:07:00.000-04:00

I just read Peg Kaplan's post on President Bush's new candidate for the Supreme Court. Peg makes an interesting point that I was actually connecting the dots to when I started looking around at other blogs. What are our favorite success stories about? Are they about the obvious choices making the grade? The best football player being made team captain his senior year? I don't know about you, but I've noticed a trend towards stories about underdogs. That player who is really great, deep down, but has never been given a chance. The small-town mayor that becomes President of the United States. Of course, in the movies, it is all wrapped up in about 2 hours, and we know there will be a happy ending. We don't view life that way. I am stunned by how quickly the conservative mantra has turned to hatred for Bush and everything he stands for. Fiscally - I agree - the man needs to start waking up and smelling the conservative vote. But his nominees for any position have always been staunchly conservative. While Ms. Miers has no track record to speak of, he clearly knows her very well. Can we not wait and see what happens, before assuming she is the evil Democrat in Republican garb?

Customer Service

2005-10-04T17:02:00.000-04:00

I have often mentioned that customer service is going down the toilet, and this week proved that is still the status quo. I have belonged to the same gym for almost a year and a half. I attend the gym 4-5 days a week, sometimes even 6 days. I also tan using their tanning beds and pay for that separately from my membership. I paid the upfront fee to start my membership. My fiancé would now like to join me at the gym in the mornings, as his schedule has recently changed. I approached my gym with out interest, and was informed they did not have couples memberships, only individual memberships. This surprised me, but I was confident they had to have some type of referral program in order. I was informed that because my fiancé was referred by me, instead of paying the $135 start up fee (which apparently pays for some pretty expensive paperwork), he would only have to pay $50. The monthly dues were due at the same time. He would pay for a base membership, the same price that I pay, no discounts. I was surprised, but figured that was the up-front talk. I explained to them that I paid the $135 fee for membership already when I joined last year, and that while I not happy with the monthly costs, I certainly was not going to pay another up front fee. They informed me this money covers the cost of paperwork and setting up the automatic debit. I responded that since the automatic debit is already on our account, they would only need to increase the amount being removed from my account, and they would not need to give him a tour or answer questions, or even bother with the new member training. My fiancé would never have sought out a gym membership otherwise, and no advertising costs they incur could have attracted him. I am literally bringing them a new member. Discovering their reticence to negotiate on the up-front fee, I called the more popular gyms in the area and asked them what they would do to get my business – given that I am coming in off the street, interested in membership. Every single gym I called was willing to negotiate. All of them either waived or adjusted the cost of the up front fee (none were near as expensive as my gym) and most were even willing to negotiate the monthly fee. All but one were cheaper than my gym. They were all near equal, equal or superior to my gym in aesthetics and amenities. So, having accomplished my research, I approached my gym again, with the information in hand. I let them know that I was not looking for anything free, but simply did not want to pay another up-front fee, or I would prefer a discounted monthly rate – either/or. I was informed I could visit the other clubs, and see how superior my gym is to the other gyms in the area. Let’s get some perspective here. I attend the gym at 5:30 in the morning. My interest in how attractive my gym is at that point is minimal. I am concerned with staying awake, working out, tanning, and showering. While aesthetics are nice, they are certainly not the driving force behind my interest in going to the gym. If I can get an equivalent workout at another facility, have the same options and classes available, and have moderately clean facilities in which to shower, why would I pay more money for my current gym? In addition, the gym that they were specifically referring to when they suggested I “go down the road and look at that other place” is actually being remodeled. It is much better than it used to be, and while it is not the eye candy that my facility is, it certainly will give me an equivalent workout, with better class times on the odd days when I attend a class. My current gym will not budge off of their policy. Needless to say, I will be canceling my membership in the morning and enrolling in the new gym, “that other place.” My loyalties and advertising will now go to another gym, and given that I will belong to a gym for the rest of my life, my gym will be losing out on a huge investment.

Grateful Immigrants

2005-09-27T16:40:00.000-04:00

This essay on immigration is fabulous. There is a lot of money put into prevention, when a little targeted offensive maneuvers would do the trick. However, God forbid we appear anything but guilty. Link found courtesy of Bill.

Adolescent Inconsistencies

2005-09-26T12:22:00.000-04:00

Here is yet another gem out there, that has me shaking my head. Why are we suddenly up-in-arms over what we feed children because it might be dangerous to them, because it isn't tested, yet we are aghast at the very notion about encouraging children to abstain from sex until a more appropriate, mature age? We can't be that concerned about their health when we object to protecting them from sexually transmitted diseases, emotional disaster, and early parenting. So what is the big deal with caffeine? It is akin to the big fuss being made over underage smoking. Who the !@#$ cares? I'm more concerned about the kids who are drinking and doing drugs, and having babies they can't afford or emotionally nurture. Those are the things that affect MY life, MY taxes, and the lives of MY children. If some idiot child wants to chain smoke and destroy their lungs, by all means....don't let me stand in your way. It is the drunk driver or the monster dealing to my kids that is going to get my ire. Why is it we are more worried about the things that are of little consequence, as compared to the things that make victims of the innocent?

Arguments Among Fools

2005-09-26T12:09:00.000-04:00

Thinking logically - how would I best define - or defy - your beliefs? To insist that they are ridiculous, ridicule you, and then become threatening towards you? Or to teach them to you? Think about that as you read this.

Tweetie Too!

2005-09-23T16:45:00.000-04:00

It just keeps getting better and better. I love this article. Okay, so now we are dimming the lights to prevent birds from dying when they crash into the glass. This quote is priceless, "Even with a dimmed skyline, the problem of birds crashing into glass remains. Environmental groups are working with the construction industry to come up with glass that can be seen by birds, potentially by giving the glass a UV coating." ::Ally shrieks in laughter:: So let me get this straight: we are dimming the lights of the famous NY skyline, in order to prevent birds from crashing into buildings. However, it isn't working. Logic would dictate that we stop dimming the lights. Nope, not those illogical, bleeding-heart New Yorkers. No, no, we are going to try to create glass that can be seen by an animal that has been crashing into tall objects for years, yet manages to maintain an impressive population. And they are still dimming the lights. Even though it isn't working. Even though birds are still dying. ::More hysterical laughter:: You know, when I am at my lowest, and wonder how on earth I will ever make it when everyone around me seems to moving ahead faster, I have only to read the New York Times, and suddenly, I'm the smartest woman in the world. It's good to me.

Tele-Tubbies, Indeed

2005-09-23T16:41:00.000-04:00

Thank God we had a scientific study to tell us what we've been avoiding for years: If you eat more calories than you burn, you will gain weight. This is not brain science. The brain science comes in the form of why we do it to ourselves. Our children are fat because they are not moving. Do you remember being little and ever sitting in one place for more than a few minutes? Now we call it ADHD. Then, we called it being healthy children. Silly me, thinking people had children because they wanted to raise them. Now, we have them because we want to prove we can do it all. Poor kids.

The Curse of Racism

2005-09-22T18:20:00.001-04:00

Courtesy of one of my favorite female bloggers (best ever, in my book) I found this link. I'm not sure what more the American people can do to show their belief in humanity - NOT racism. I for one gave money. I can't take the time off of work to go down, or else I would. Lord knows, state government pays its workers to go help in situations such as this. But there is too much going on in my life to have time like that. I do know several people who have and are going down to help, or helping locally in call centers. Those racist white folk are going to help out. What more can they do?

2005-09-22T12:56:00.000-04:00

You are a
Social Liberal
(65% permissive)

and an...
Economic Conservative
(68% permissive)

You are best described as a:

Libertarian

Link: The Politics Test on Ok Cupid

Who We Are

2005-09-22T12:18:00.000-04:00

I was listening to the radio this morning, early on my way to the gym. A new song, called "Men Are Like Shoes," came on the radio. The popular singer Shania Twain was harping on men being like shoes - "Amazing what a little polish can do" - and when it was over, the DJ commented that he wasn't sure he agreed with the song. The song has little positive to say about men, and coming from a singer who claims to be happily married to a man, one would expect a little more positive man thoughts. Clearly that is not the case. I wonder how women would feel if a man compared them to, say, ties. You can't get enough them....one looks and feels pretty much like the next....you can throw them away when you find a new one you like better.... Ironically, as I'm returning to the blogsphere, I was looking around at articles. On Keith's site I found this gem. As the article points out, women have become their own worst enemy. But what struck me is the name of the book the article mentions: "Female Chauvinist Pigs." How true. We have turned into the very thing we fought to eliminate. This is the danger of gaining power - you risk becoming the monster you sought to extinguish. The more women become equal....it is not good enough. We must be better, we must be more, we must be higher on the pecking order than men. Being equal is not enough. This is the danger of power that I dealt with in an earlier post. While not all of us abuse it, many do - you have to be vigilant in order to guard against the intoxication. Unfortunately, many of us have let down our guard and allowed past injustices to be the justification for current punishments. Unfortunately, that is the same as abusing your child for the pain you suffered as a child. My favorite quote: "The price of greatness is responsibility." W. Churchill

Human Disaster

2005-09-10T10:44:00.000-04:00

The disaster of humanity (and Katrina) is no more clearly seen than in Peg's latest post.

Got Honor?

2005-09-10T10:00:00.000-04:00

I know I have written on this topic before, and I'm sure it will be of interest again. I am in the process of reading a sci-fi novel, something that rarely interests me. What struck me in this book, and frequently a theme throughout the science fiction/fantasy genre, is a belief in honor. Such a foreign word to us now, perhaps it is the reason why some of us do not read sci-fi/fantasy. It seems something only those who have lost touch with reality can embrace. With the recent flooding in the South, and even my posts on control and power, I realize why we have such a negative view on people. This concept of honor is no where to be found....or so we believe. The behaviors of some of the "victims" of the hurricane have been atrocious, which only serves to affirm our doubt in humanity. Our beliefs that those in power will surely abuse it at some point, whether intended or not, gives us fear and disrespect towards those whom we place there. There is no longer a belief in honor among us. When was the last time someone promised you something, said they would do something, perhaps even gave their word, and it did not come to pass? Our excuses are rampant, and I'm as guilty as the next. Words roll off our tongues, with little consideration of their truth. It is not that we mean to lie....we would rather protect ourselves than others, though, and that is where the problem lies. For you do not usually see those whom you disappoint when you don't keep your word - but you get the comfort of seeing/hearing their pleasure when you give it. We are turning into a more self-centered people, with our interests soley based on our own comfort. We dare not give guilt or negative feelings to ourselves, as our precious self-esteem might waver, our comfort zone might be stretched, and our interests might have see the light of day beyond our selfish borders. Have you ever had a conversation with someone who is not in the military, about those who are in the military? Those of us who enjoy our freedoms as we traverse our communities often do not understand why anyone would risk their lives....perhaps we just can't understand it, no matter how grateful we are. When you discuss why someone would do it, often you hear things like a paid education, military benefits, more opportunities for jobs and homes. Rarely do you hear the reason that perhaps these people want to protect their homes and families. Yet I've known several men and women whose reason for entering the military was because they felt they had to do something more - had to offer protection, had to give back. It's called honor. It is called giving your word and meaning it. It is called having character. It is called believing in a higher purpose, in an ideal, and while it may never fully be attained, it is worth working towards. Anyone who believes in a religion should know something about that. It is about holding ourselves to a higher standard than what society would have us believe is possible. I believe it is. Do you?

Facts vs. Media

2005-09-08T17:26:00.000-04:00

This was sent to me via a forward - things I rarely read and typically delete without opening. This, however, rings true with what I am hearing from "rogue" media outlets who do not allow CNN to write their copy. See what you think. On Friday night before the storm hit, Max Mayfield of the National Hurricane Center, took the unprecedented action of calling Mayor Nagin and Governor Blanco personally to plead with them to begin MANDATORY evacuation of New Orleans (NO) and they said they'd take it under consideration. This was after the NOAA buoy 240 miles south had recorded 68' waves before it was destroyed. President Bush spent Friday afternoon and evening in meetings with his advisors and administrators drafting all of the paperwork required for a state to request federal assistance (and not be in violation of the Posse Comitatus Act or having to enact the Insurgency Act). Just before midnight Friday evening the President called Governor Blanco and pleaded with her to sign the request papers so the federal government and the military could legally begin mobilization and call up. He was told that they didn't think it necessary for the federal government to be involved yet. After the President's final call to the governor she held meetings with her staff to discuss the political ramifications of bringing federal forces. It was decided that if they allowed federal assistance it would make it look as if they had failed so it was agreed upon that the feds would not be invited in. Saturday before the storm hit the President again called Blanco and Nagin requesting they please sign the papers requesting federal assistance, that they declare the state an emergency area, and begin mandatory evacuation. After a personal plea from the President Nagin agreed to order an evacuation, but it would not be a full mandatory evacuation, and the governor still refused to sign the papers requesting and authorizing federal action. In frustration the President declared the area a national disaster area before the state of Louisiana did so he could legally begin some advanced preparations. Rumor has it that the President's legal advisers were looking into the ramifications of using the insurgency act to bypass the Constitutional requirement that a state request federal aid before the federal government can move into state with troops - but that had not been done since 1906 and the Constitutionality of it was called into question to use before the disaster. Throw in that over half the federal aid of the past decade to NO for levee construction, maintenance, and repair was diverted to fund a marina and support the gambling ships. Toss in the investigation that will look into why the emergency preparedness plan submitted to the federal government for funding and published on the city's website was never implemented and in fact may have been bogus for the purpose of gaining additional federal funding as we now learn that the organizations identified in the plan were never contacted or coordinating into any planning - though the document implies that they were. The suffering people of NO need to be asking some hard questions as do we all, but they better start with why Blanco refused to even sign the multi-state mutual aid pack activation documents until Wednesday which further delayed the legal deployment of National Guard from adjoining states. Or maybe ask why Nagin keeps harping that the President should have commandeered 500 Greyhound busses to help him when according to his own emergency plan and documents he claimed to have over 500 busses at his disposal to use between the local school busses and the city transportation busses - but he never raised a finger to prepare them or activate them. Also, according to the past Mayor of NO, the cities emergency plan called for routing all major highways to outbound traffic only. This would have alleviated the traffic jams from NO residents leaving the city via highways on the outbound lanes only with the inbound lanes vacant of traffic. This is a sad time for all of us to see that a major city has all but been destroyed and thousands of people have died with hundreds of thousands more suffering, but it's certainly not a time for people to be pointing fingers and trying to find a bigger dog to blame for local corruption and incompetence. Pray to God for the survivors that they can start their lives anew as fast as possible and we learn from all the mistakes to avoid them in the future. It is interesting that the media is so concerned about making the federal government aka (President Bush) the scapegoat, when there is in fact laws in place to help keep the federal government out of our lives in each of our respective states. You can be sure that if the federal government aka (President Bush) would have sent troops or national guard into NO to help evacuate, that the media would have started to cry that the federal government aka (President Bush) stepped beyond his boundaries.

Power Theory

2005-09-06T20:54:00.000-04:00

I just heard an outrageous statement, and I am still reeling from it. A classmate of mine just commented on Zimbardo's Mock Prison experiment - a study where two groups of people were assigned roles of guard and prisoner - claiming that anyone with a badge would abuse their power, or "flaunt it." Is this truly what we believe? Is there no longer any belief in a high calling or the good of those who are drawn to a life in civil service? Have we forgotten that some of these people - police officers, prison guards, military - deal with that which we would never desire to deal with? Why have people in power, if we believe they are ALL corrupt? Am I too much of an idealist?

Ted Bundy

2005-09-02T22:40:00.000-04:00

I recently read the book by Ann Rule entitled, The Stranger Beside Me. Having been only 12 when he was finally executed, I remember only the horror of the execution - parts of the day being broadcasted. The story is a fascinating read, and allows some fascinating insights into the life of a man who was, according to Rule and his psychiatrists, without a conscience. Interesting part at the end of the book, though....Rule suggests that she does not approve of the death penalty. She felt more use could have come from examining Ted, not killing him. To which I pose this question - a man clearly involved in escape, manipulation, without thought or interest in the harm he can cause others....should he ever escape again, and murder yet another victim - or victims - could she then comfortably sit and explain to the family of the dead woman why she doesn't believe he should have been killed? I don't stand by offering the death penalty, except in the most extreme of crimes, when there is no doubt. Clearly, there was no doubt in the situation of Ted Bundy, and unfortunately, what was brilliant in him was too tightly wrapped around what was evil. The risk of allowing evil to exist - when there is always the slightest chance that it will become a threat again - is too high.

Mother Nature, Not Nurture

2005-09-02T22:10:00.000-04:00

I am amazed and impressed by how many people have activated and plan to go (if they haven't already gone, down South to add their help. I've spoken with several people who are doing whatever they can to assist the effort. There is good left - even if it may not always seem so.

Beyond Ridiculous

2005-09-02T22:07:00.000-04:00

As the gas prices soar, there has been ongoing talk about lowering the gas prices....among the tax paying classes, that is. The irony is that if this price increase was affecting those who are considered "poor," social programs would abound, with every social agency stepping in to offer relief. However, when it is the middle class, no one cares.

Immortalize

2005-08-29T21:23:00.000-04:00

Every now and then I right something that I wish I could publish - usually just brief quotes that I write to loved ones. I was having a (rare) brilliant moment tonight. "Friendship, unlike expensive jewelry and possessions, does not need to be insured. The only way to lose it is to give it away." Sometimes, I'm good. Other times, I f***in' fantastic! ;)

Misunderstood?

2005-08-25T09:04:00.000-04:00

So today Pat Roberts was apologizing, but claiming the AP took out of context what he said. Really? I thought what he said was pretty plain in or out of context. What never makes any sense to me - especially now when it is coming from a man of God - is why we can't just apologize. No, we have to shift the blame. He can't just say he made an inappropriate statement - instead, he has to try to blame the media (who nearly keeled over with glee). He KNOWS better - he is in a tough spot; he knows he has to watch what he says. To make stupid statements, and then try to shift the blame is ridiculous. Take it like a man - you'll gain more respect that way.

Naked....Horror!

2005-08-08T18:07:00.000-04:00

Oh, I have been away too long! My favorite group of men has changed their digs, and I am thrown. Can it be the same site? The same fabulous wit and genius? Time will tell. In the meantime, check it out and see what you think.

Ode to the AC

2005-08-08T17:35:00.000-04:00

I'm a mournful lover of air conditioning today. Our central air unit is having an issue - of what form I do not know. But our air, while present, is sluggish and barely cools the house. I called around to some HVAC repair shops. I about fell out of my chair. Doctors are crazy to go through all that schooling. TO JUST PULL UP AND PARK IN FRONT OF MY HOUSE is a $50 minimum. That is just to park here, folks. THEN they start the clock and look at my AC. The one woman who answered the phone seemed to be almost talking me out of using their services. "It will be $124 for the first hour, and that is not including any parts or additional service. At least $124, and that is just for showing up and looking at it. Anything else will be in addition to the $124." Do you get the impression the up front fee will be at least $124? She won - I didn't use their service. So in addition to charging me $50 for the 5 mile drive to my house, no one could service our house until Wed. Three days until we would have AC, during a hot, humid, sticky week of thunderstorms and wet. What did I do to deserve this?! I finally found a guy who just charges a flat fee by the hour. I might add that hourly wages run between $52-$80/hour. Can you imagine? And people look at us funny when we charge them $25/hour to do weeding and landscaping work - and we don't charge extra for the chemicals or for the parking spot! We'll see what they diagnose the poor thing with tomorrow. With any luck, maybe it'll just be a clogged filter. Either way, I'm paying at least $56 up front, and that is just for phone call, no matter how you dice it.

Enjoying Life

2005-08-08T17:31:00.000-04:00

I remember blogging something about wishing life would slow down - I think I wished for a "dull week." Life hasn't "slowed down" per se, but perhaps my expectations have become more realistic. I was listening to a CD about business and going after what you want. The woman speaking pointed out that watching a half-hour of TV at night was a pure waste of time. To be honest, while the sun is shining - or it is within social protocol to be calling people - that is true. Now, when I slow down, it is to enjoy a conversation with my fiance, or to enjoy a good dinner. I might get right back to work afterwards - either around the house or at my new business (I know, I know, "not another one!"). However my time spent slowing down is never wasted on something as forgetful as TV. Perhaps instead of a "dull week," I should have wished for better priorities. I think perhaps I have finally attained that.

Raving Fans

2005-08-08T17:23:00.000-04:00

I'm in the process of reading Raving Fans. I had to think long and hard if I have a single service that I use that would qualify as something I raved about. There is one I can think of - my auto insurance agent. That may be surprising to you, but they literally baby me with their service, and I'm comfortable calling them about anything. Other than that, I can't think of a single business that has turned me into a raving fan. What's worse, is that it appears to be getting worse rather than better. I hope in my own businesses that I have created some Raving Fans, and I'm confident that some of them are probably that. It is also an issue which I need to address more thoroughly. Is there any business that has converted you into a raving fan? A business that not only does the job right, but goes above and beyond?

Fat Chat

2005-08-06T20:48:00.000-04:00

Geekgirl2 led me to this link. I read the article, and I'm left with a few thoughts that I'll put out there at random. 1. I have struggled with a weight problem all my life. Saying that, I live with the constant pressure of my weight and appearance. I go to the gym, so that I may eat what I want and feel better about myself. It is nearly a compulsion, and my guilt over NOT going is intense. 2. Yes, we CAN all lose weight. There are very few medical conditions that prevent such weight loss, and even fewer people that have them. However, it is not an easy thing, and our society does not teach moderation and structure. Everything around us says "indulge, you deserve it." Not to mention, we work under constant stress and struggle, and to try to add one more point of stress, especially to an area so many of us enjoy enitrely too much, is difficult. 3. The importance placed on perfect thighs, concave stomachs, and nearly (if not actually) anorexic images that grace the covers of magazines and prove popularity in the movies, put an impossible burden on women to attain unrealistic, and frequently dangerous levels of beauty. The normal woman - one with rounded stomach and full thighs - is determined obese by our national government. Where is a average woman to fit? 4. Weight loss comes down to long-suffering and dedication. Neither trait is lauded in our land. None of these offer an excuse for bad health and bad habits. But they are reasons, and while it is easy to throw rocks from your white tower, it takes a different knapsack to live down with the rest of us. Our health and our weight is frequently of our own making, and it is also up to us to correct it. But we also need to chide society - and hopefully bring about change - to create a more realistic image of women. Both actions must meet in the middle, or else to demand one without the other is a fool's wish.

Profiling Revisited

2005-08-04T13:22:00.000-04:00

The ACLU is being brilliant again. Apparently they are passing out t-shirts that say the person wearing the shirt will not submit to being searched. They are recommending the shirts for those riding the subway and other public transportation systems. With all the talks about how to make public transportation safer, the ACLU has apparently found their hole in which to crawl and fester.

This is why we risk losing our world power status. Other countries have military persons walking the streets, armed to the teeth, on the lookout and stopping and talking to people. You are grilled with questions if you look suspicious. These are countries with long histories, who understand terror and war. Here in the US, we don't even want to go through a metal dectector and be questioned when entering into a situation which recently meant death. Despite the daily threats, the videos with threats of more similar attacks to come, we Americans will have freedom.

Think of it this way. Look in the mirror. Suppose a unibomber has a similar physical description as you - would you be surprised if you were stopped on the street? Would you be surprised if you were searched before boarding a plane or entering a building? If you were surprised, then you're an idiot, and you should immediately stop reading this post. Reality is, we profile all the time. We give out descriptions of known criminals, and we profile individuals who look like these people. There is nothing racist or surprising about this. Here is another example. Suppose there was a sleeping nazi group, and suddenly there was a rash of murders of Jews. The nazi group was primarily made up of blue-eyed, blonde haired people, between the ages of 25-35. Hm. Who do you think we would be making side-glances at then? A black man in a suit? Or the light-haired governer with a tendency towards legalism?

This is REALITY, people. We don't live in that pre-9/11 world anymore - and we probably never should have. We walk around with the attitude that we are better, we are stronger, etc. And a small group of wackos nearly brought us to our knees. We don't learn from history - and we need to. Profiling is a necessary tool, and it is used in every other arena. We profile everyone, even in our own lives, because we don't want danger to touch our families. So wake up. In order to protect our families, we need to be willing to take a few extra minutes to walk through a metal detector, or have our packages or beings searched. Otherwise we will have our supposed freedom wrapped around our necks as we gasp for breath.

Academic Freedom

2005-08-03T21:07:00.000-04:00

I've spent the better portion of my time writing, though lately, it seems to be all school related. I am, however, proud to announce, that I will be graduating Dec. 10, 2005. This has been a 10 year journey, folks. Here is a little of the wisdom I've learned from being in school for 10 years. * Credits, when put together in the proper equation, can earn you a degree. Otherwise, they just earn you debt. * Assignments written in the last hours of class and/or during the wee hours of the morning are always the best. Procrastination is the only way, baby! * There are a lot of pointless classes available for exhorbitant fees. Avoid them if you value your sanity, even a little. * Electricity and metal poles don't mix. Oh, wait, that was a boyscout lesson.... * Professors believe they are God. Just bow down and adore them. * Dress well for class. You will always do better in class, and you might get a date in the process. * The treatment you receive in the beginning of enrollment will only get worse as your educational experience continues. * In matters of money, the institution wins. So does the government. Don't argue. Break something instead. Preferably something that won't earn you a police report and cell time. * Be friendly with the smartest person in class - they usually have great notes! * My final point of wisdom: don't annoy your professors. If they like you, they will like your papers. This BS about academic objectivity is exactly that: utter, and total bull-shit. So brown that nose - and watch that GPA take on new life. And to think, my Master's program beckons. I think I'll give it a year. In the meantime....I am accepting monetary donations in lieu of graduation gifts - I'll list my creditors in the near future - pick one and send them a little gift from me. It's been awhile.

Apes and Apples

2005-08-03T20:47:00.000-04:00

The New York Times seems stunned by President Bush's handling of the "How We Got Here" scandal. Yes, we are still not sure whether or not the theory of evolution could possibly hold up to the stouter science of intelligent design - better known in religious zealot circles as creation. I know - we are all shocked. Imagine Bush, that self-professed Christian, supporting creation in classrooms! What is this world coming to when people actually act on what they believe - I think I may need medication. Think of it this way, New York Times folks, we already have creation going on at our public schools - just look at all the pregnant teenagers. Let's try introducing a little creation that doesn't involved tab A, slot B, and see how damanging it is to the kids. I have a hunch that our children might survive this religious zealotry vs. serious science and make it out on the other side without too much therapy. All sarcasm aside, I am an evolution-believing Christian. I don't care who says what, I still think any God that gives you science to trick you is a God I can't buy into. I do, however, believe that he had a lot of 'splainin' to do to the ancient folks, to whom atoms, matter, and energy were in a far future of understanding. Hence we have our woman-blaming hero, and our scapegoat woman (We've been understanding these dynamics since the beginning of time, I wager). What has never made any sense to me is why science fights a concept that can never be proved. What is the harm in believing that we aren't the greatest thing in this universe, and just maybe, something bigger than us had a purpose for us? Is it so harmful to the psyche to believe that we ain't the biggest thing since sliced bread? While they like to deny it, it is inherent in human beings to have purpose and to be needed. And if we are here by boo-boo of galactic dust, why continue? If this is as good as it gets, and our lives have no purpose outside of our own gratification, then what is the point? Think about it. Comments welcome.

The Point?!

2005-08-01T13:05:00.000-04:00

Ok - so we just caught another baseball player using steroids - something that is clearly against the establishment's policies. What does he suffer? He is suspended for 10 games.

I'm sorry, what did I miss? He broke the rules, in a major way. He is setting a lousy example for our young people, who idolize athletes. He is a steroid junky - a drug addict! He should not play any more. I mean - nothing! He should lose his million dollar contract, and not be playing any more. How do we ever think we are going to stop the monster of drugs and sports when the punishments are nothing more than time to go on vacation?

Chain me up. Quick.

Weighty Issues

2005-07-30T20:12:00.000-04:00

I was shopping in Wal-Mart today (heaven help the small grocer with a Super Wal-Mart in the neighborhood), and I stopped to pick up my vitamins. I glanced curiously at the weight-loss supplements. Each proclaimed to offer some untold magic that would unlock weight-loss on anyone's body - that fat is literally going to slide off of you, if you shell out the funds and take this product. I know from personal experience how damaging these pills and shakes can be - and reading their descriptors, you certainly wouldn't know the side-effects that could blind-side you. Weight is a touchy issue for anyone - whether the person is thin or heavy. Especially for women - for whom their weight and appearance seems to define their worth. I know many skinny people who must exist with the guilt of their fast metabolism, as they seem few and far between among the vast sea of weight problems that assuages our land. Every morning, from midnight until early hours, infomercials abound with the latest innovation for weight-loss and body sculpting, promising to be easier and faster than the one before. Soon 1/10 of a second will be enough of a daily workout for most machines to whip your thighs into shape. It is all a money racket, and we buy into it. These get-slim-quick pills are dangerous, yet people swallow them hoping for an answer other than what is tried and true. Women often say I don't know what it is like....to which I respond, don't judge a book by its cover. I get up every morning between 4:30 and 5:30 - depending on what workout is planned for the morning - and I go to the gym. I work out, I sweat, I exhaust myself until I can't go any longer, and then I get ready for work. I have a weight problem, and the only way I can manage to keep weight off is to work out. I like to eat - too much, in fact, as many of us do. But my "thin" appearance is not a gift - it is hard-earned, and I'm proud of it. I don't feel "better" than anyone, but I take pride in my commitment and the strength I have gained. I have less back pain than I used to, and I can lift more and go longer distances. Most people - when they discover the secret of my appearance - say they couldn't possibly get up that early, and they are too tired after work. Look - I can relate; I'm exhausted when I go to bed at night. Some of us have legitimate life commitments that take up a lot of our time. But then you have to realize, you won't have those results that you want unless you are able to make that sacrifice. My point: anyway you slice it, it is work. Just like anything else in life, losing weight and maintaining your weight takes vigilance and effort. You miss out on certain things - like sleep! - but hopefully what you get back is worth it. For goodness sakes, do not take these terrifying supplements that are peddled to you for a fortune per bottle. There is no easy answer, and these magic pills are poisoned apples. It didn't work out too well for Snow White, and most of us don't have a charming prince in the wings. Aside: the health benefits of losing weight are critical for most of us. That being said, I hope we get to a point where we can accept that the average woman is beautiful - these magazine glossies are nothing more than air-brushed sticks. I now look at magazines and wonder why we think these women are attractive, when their perfection does not even begin to hedge on reality. The real woman, with her curves and imperfections, is where beauty lies - the kind that you can touch and enjoy watching as she crosses a parking lot or works at her desk or watches her children as they eat. That is what beauty is - not a 2D image that is worse than a needle in a haystack.

Profiling

2005-07-26T17:05:00.000-04:00

I am against racism of any kind. I find it preposterous and disgusting. I do not see profiling for terrorists as racism. Here are a couple of things to consider: 1. Who are the major terrorists in the world today? Who do we think of when we think of terrorists? We think of Islamic extremists, specifically Arab, male, young. 2. How many names of terrorists can you remember? I'm betting not many, as there have been many Arab terrorists all over the world, performing suicide bombings. 3. If we start profiling using the terrorist profile we know, suspicion against Arabs and/or Muslims may lessen. Here is why: if I know when I get on a plane that not only did they search randomly, but they also searched anyone who met the criteria of a terrorist, my suspicion of a dark-skinned Muslim - or any Muslim or Arab looking person - is unfounded. However, if there is a good chance that a person meeting the criteria of a possible terrorist may be skipped in the searching process, to prevent against the fear of "profiling racially," then I have very good reasons to be nervous. 4. Randomly searching people is ridiculous. We use criteria all the time to determine if someone is a good hire, a good teach, trustworthy salesperson, etc. If a woman with 3 children is the next one on the random searching to be searched, I DON'T FEEL SAFER. Sorry - but I'm not thinking this woman is going to kill all her children in an attempt to overthrow the US. Nope. I'm taking a brave stand on this one. 5. Yes, we have homegrown terrorists. Think of the events - the Columbine killings, Timothy McVeigh, the abortion doctor killer, etc. We know their names and mark the events because there have not been very many. I'm not saying stop doing random searches - but for goodness sake, use some common sense. Very few married couples are known terrorists. Very few high school field trips are known terrorist groups. Islamic extremists have us by the balls because we refuse to use common sense; we are too afraid to offend. Let me tell you something people: that is how they got us in the first place. We didn't want to suggest to a US citizen that your right to travel might be limited or that you were not safe. We dare not have armed military walking through the streets. We refuse to acknowledge that that which makes us feel safe is what makes us vulnerable. Deal with it: to be safer we either need to give up some of our comfort, or risk more attacks. I'm not saying turn this into a government state or allow the government access to all of our personal information. But if you want to be safer, not just feel that way, you are going to have to accept some limits on your time and reminders of danger. We are going to have start searching some people and not others. If used appropriately, it could save us in the long run. Islamic extremists are one of the few (if only) groups that use suicide bombing as a weapon. If we take away their disguise, they will have to find a new tactic. And I don't think they have very many ideas left.

Speaking of Change

2005-07-20T21:41:00.000-04:00

As I meditate on change, I'm realizing how much change is going on in my life. Not necessarily visible to those outside my sphere, but to those inside, I hope the change is palpable. Without going into specifics, I have been down for a long time. I reached a point at which the risk of the behaviors associated with my low motivations and thoughts became too great. Often we stay in our negative place too long due to the comfort it affords. When it threatens that which we value, we either change, believing that we will acheive a greater comfort in the long-run, or we stay the same, and lose that which we value. I've seen people perform both decisions, and the latter is not my preference. I've set upon a new and exciting path, with its challenges laid out before me....and some of those challenges seem like impediments impossible to overcome. If I fail - and there is every chance that I may - I will be a fool, though probably only to myself; others will probably discount it to my age (though I'm swiftly running out of that excuse!). If I succeed, I will have beat the odds and those that discourage me. Only time - and courage - will tell.

Who Moved my.....Cheese?

2005-07-20T20:45:00.000-04:00

I am reading "Who Moved my Cheese?" A friend recommended it, and I am starting to see why. (I'm thinking about recommending it to some of my liberal friends.) Change is difficult to handle, and hard to face. I as much as anyone like to control her surroundings and know what I am facing. But if you want more than the everyday struggle of existence, or even a change to a rut, you have to face the change of behaviors and circumstances. Ironically enough, when we talk about welfare, affirmative action, legislation....unless we are digging deeper into our hole, throwing more money into the pit that sucks the life out of our wallets, we do not want to consider change. We don't want to restructure, redo, or start over. We would rather continue with what we know, ever if it isn't working. It is a neurotic process, one that keeps us locked in motionlessness. If there is one thing I admire in others, it is the willingness to embrace change and take a step forward. That doesn't mean taking on a change without examining it to make sure it is sound. That is called foolishness. However, realizing that something must change in order to move ahead is called progress. Something we sorely lack in our political arena.

How Much Is That Doggie in the Prison....

2005-07-13T21:26:00.000-04:00

Enough to lose some military careers, I'll bet. I was once discussing the United States' status of power in the world with a friend of mine from Ireland. A proud Irishman, he insisted that the US had limited staying power. As a proud American, I defended my country's claim to power. My friend insisted I was wrong, pointing out that we were too young a country, with too little experience, to maintain our stronghold. He had to be wrong; I was sure of it. I have since changed my mind. I unfortunately agree with my friend, and I see our decline as we speak. Today brought yet another example. These dogs were not attacking the prisoners. They were used as a threat, a way to get these people to talk. I'm sorry - we are a wimpy people, with no stomach for violence and war. We will lose our power if this is seen as an atrocity. There is nothing we can do to get prisoners of our enemy to speak. We must give them the finest foods, freedom to practice their religion, and good facilities or else we are committing crimes against mankind. I guarantee our men do not receive any consideration at all when they are taken as prisoners. Perhaps we have not bled enough. When you look at how quickly things have returned to business as usual in Britain, after the bombings less that a week ago.... We can barely figure out what to build at ground zero nearly 4 years later. We better toughen up, folks, if we expect to maintain our status. I doubt that we will.

Time at Last....

2005-07-12T21:15:00.000-04:00

....For today, anyway. I've had a few minutes to write and read. I'm amazed at how much time this takes - and I'm even more amazed at the regular bloggers who manage it! I know I used to....back before relationships, kids, and crazy work schedules entered the picture. Okay, I've always had a crazy work schedule. A big thank you to those who still read and comment. Your comments are like fuel to my spirit and honey to my soul. And I'm not being poetic - it is true. I have always loved to write, and that some enjoy reading it is the sweetest reward I could ask. Life is good, overall. I'm abundantly happy and stressed at the same time. My life is wonderfully blessed, and I find that I am starting to see the larger picture of where this road has been taking me. Hopefully, my determination will not falter now. That is not to say it is easy. Some days I'm still ready to call it all quits and live off of welfare. Just kidding! But there are moments. Sometimes I just want to hold it all to me, and try to control everything, as though in some way I can control the fate of it all. Reality sets in, and I realize dreams have finally come to fruition, and I cannot do anything but live in each moment and appreciate each moment. That we could freeze time - just time, not life - and have what we treasure....for each second, for each minute, would last a lifetime. Each time something comes to detract from that precious existence that we strive to achieve, I determine to conquer it so that it will not return. That it was that simple. Now that I've waxed sentimental, I'll go to bed. It is an early clock that comes at 5:30AM. Good night all.

Right and Unemployed

2005-07-12T21:14:00.000-04:00

This article peeks in the door ofpolitics in Hollywood .

Doctor, Doctor

2005-07-12T20:54:00.000-04:00

There is nothing more irritating to me than throwing my money down the drain. Yes, I'm a girl and we probably "waste" money on all sorts of things that are not necessary. I know, men would never imagine doing such a thing. I attended a doctor's office yesterday, using my sick leave from work. Besides lousy customer service (where are the days of friendly receptionists?!), I was basically told my problems could be this....or this. Neither one is appealing, but there is no emergency to worry about right now. It will probably get worse over time, but no need to rush into surgery. Of course, he may be wrong, and really my problems are actually something else, but who can be sure? And this was the specialist. Interesting, because my family doctor was confident what the problem was. After four tests, much poking and prodding and nausea - and even more lousy customer service - in an array of different clinics and hospitals, my family doctor felt very sure that I should see this specialist and prepare for surgery. Perhaps, this surgeon is just protecting himself against a lawsuit, and being extra cautious. I was, however, irritated. So now I am back to not really being sure what is wrong with me, except that I DO think I know. Now I am supposed to wait and see. And I paid $25 in a copay, just to be told they are still not sure. I could have gone to dinner on that money, darn it.

Send Them to Iraq - or Iran

2005-07-12T20:48:00.000-04:00

See here. I have always admired those who went into the armed forces. It is a gift I do not have - though if I had to, I would fight for my country. I'm not going to lie: I don't want to be in a war, fight in a war, or be drafted. I like being a girl in that respect - though I think if women want to be in the military, they should have to register like the men. ::gulps:: Nonetheless, the a**holes (there is no nice way to say it) have no respect for our military, no respect for those who risk their lives so these idiots can have their say. God help us.

Presidential Support

2005-07-07T08:27:00.000-04:00

This whole situation in London is surprising, though sadly, not all that unusual. It seems like old hat in the world today. Nonetheless, I can only imagine how glad Tony Blair must be to have George Bush at his side. These two seem to have a very good relationship, and when moments like this occur, to have someone next to you who you not only have an established relationship with, but who also can relate to the horror and shock you are coping with, must be a relief as a leader. The rest of us can cry and be angry and be stunned, but our leaders have to snap to and suddenly know exactly what to say and what to do. If this is Al-Qaeda-related, which there is speculation over, it may be a wake up call to many in Britain who were against helping the United States in our war on terror.

I can't help but wonder if it is Al-Qaeda-related though....they want to take credit for everything, but this happens coincidentally the day after London is awarded the 2012 Olympics....and the French were awfully unhappy about that. Who knows?

Raises for Me

2005-07-07T08:12:00.000-04:00

We recently had a vote in our local government for a budget that benefited the poor and destitute (matter of opinion there, mind you) and, incidentally, included pay increases for local government representatives and elected members of state boards. $10,000 per year raises....hmm....let me think. If I had to vote for a raise for me of $10,000/year, what would I do? Wow. That would be such a tough call. Should I get an additional $10,000 per year for the same work I always do, or not?

The main argument for the raises - or the only one that was in the media - was that they haven't had a raise since the mid-nineties. Really? Well, it is true that they haven't had a spontaneous, mindless, irrational raise since the mid-nineties. They have, however, had cost of living raises every single year, just like the rest of the state and county workers. Apparently, the tough work they do every day requires more compensation. So they can now go on their (paid) summer vacation until nearly October, knowing they've got an additional $10,000 of taxpayers' money coming their way, each year.

Chain me up. Quick.

Time to Write

2005-07-06T21:30:00.000-04:00

I'm reminded of the good old Byrds tune, Turn, turn, turn. Good heavens, I hope so. There was a time when I lived to write. I looked forward to it every day. Now I find myself only occasionally being struck with good ideas. Part of it relates to a certain situation in my personal life which some of you are familiar with, which has placed limitations on my rights to express myself. The other part has more to do with frustrations with people, and the feeling of becoming jaded, as I listen to the news and follow the political spectrum along its course. Eventually, if all goes as I hope, I will be able to write again, with some regularity. For now, I just have to post when the moment strikes. Thanks to the few of you that still read. I enjoy your feedback. All the best.

Flag Flown High

2005-07-05T10:27:00.000-04:00

We were passing the local Saturn dealership yesterday, on our way home from Wal-Mart (good Americans that we are). A massive American flag was waving over the dealership, strung from a larger-than-life flag pole. It was so huge, so striking, we were actually shocked by it. I realized, moments later, how sad that is. It has become such a rarity to see the American flag, hung by itself and in such large form, that we were stunned by its presence. It was a beautiful sight, and unfortunately, becoming less and less part of our culture.

The Life of a House

2005-07-04T20:55:00.000-04:00

Have you ever wondered who was in your house previously? What happened? The story the walls could tell? I recently passed the house that my grandparents lived in, before he died and she was put into a nursing home. Due to family breakups, I haven't seen my grandmother in nearly 15 years. I have never forgotten her, or the house I came to associate with the strange warmth she tried to offer. I can still remember, to this day, the smell of the house when you walked in....it was the thick, dense smell of book glue and varnish, a tribute to the shelves upon shelves of books, organized neatly into every nook and crany. The antique desk and cabinets, the fancy finishings....all bespoke a house built when substance was more important that size. The moldings were decorative, and wood bookcases were built into the walls in the study and living room. There was actually a TV room, the only TV in the house was there. It had a year-round card table, where people really played cards. And the kitchen....every part of the house was neat and presentable, except the kitchen table. It was an old table, from the 1940's, with metal, spoke legs and a marbalized formica top. The one end sat against the wall, and from there, an explosion of papers, pictures, salt and pepper shakers, bottles of saccarine and medicine.....they were all leaking their way into the middle of the table. My grandmother could find anything there, though. It was where she and my grandfather would sit for the better part of the night, reading the newspaper and talking. They each had a light on either side of the table, wall sconces that huddled against the wall-papered wall until called on. My grandfather smoked, and while he wasn't allowed to smoke throughout the house, he was, ironically, allowed to smoke in the kitchen. His ashtray sat proudly in the middle of all the debris, proclaiming its permission to be there. I'll never forget that house, the layout, the deep closets that had to lead to another realm that I could almost reach if I hid long enough inside. The dark, four-poster beds, twin-size every last one of them, with two beds in each room. My grandmother's bed, forever propped at one end, making it seem like a fluffy slide to my girlish memory. The long mirrors on every door, the intricate glass on each piece of dining room furniture....there were long canvases on some of the walls, with water birds - some tall, black and white sort I never knew the name of - woven into the fabric. They were grand pieces, made of torn up dress shirts that were dyed and woven. He taught himself to weave, my grandfather - oral surgeon, colonel in the army, and then, finally, an artistic drunk, talented with wisdom and foolishness vieing for dominance. In the end, foolishness won out, and as his mind rotted away, I can still remember the stories he would remember about his military days....he couldn't remember the day, the time, or those that loved him, but he could detail the memories of his former life when his uniform spoke more of who he was, than his possessions. When I passed the house a couple of weeks ago, there was a man mowing the grass. The outside has been fitted with modern frills, new siding, and beautiful landscaping, much prettier than anything my grandparents would have ever done. The man was in his mid-forties, and watched me as I passed slowly. I was tempted to stop and explain my curiosity, but then decided against it. It was a different house now, with new stories and a foreign present that I would never know. I will always remember what it was to the child that hid in its shadowed corners, believing with all her heart that there had to be a better world beyond these cold surfaces. All the mystery it contained relieved a childhood that lacked joy and innocence. I am thankful for that house, and hope that those that reside there will be blessed by it, as I once was.

Ground Zero

2005-06-29T09:03:00.000-04:00

I just hear on the radio that the families of the victims of 9/11 aren't real wild about the plans for the museum to be built at the Ground Zero site. Silly people want the museum to actually honor the victims and heros of 9/11, not all the other atrocities in history. Go figure.

Equal Distribution of Common Sense

2005-06-27T17:42:00.000-04:00

I recently heard the argument for ending discrimination as starting with the equal distribution of wealth. I'm looking at this highly educated, very intelligent individual and thinking, "Are you just having a stupid moment? Or what?" Then I noticed all the nodding heads around me. I was the minority, apparently. People honestly think that Socialism is the answer. It is as though Animal Farm was never written. Can you imagine? The concept that destroying ambition and desire for more in human kind will solve discrimination. Have we learned nothing from the past? If you take away one thing, we will find another with which to abuse others. You cannot fight human nature. You can contain it, work within it, and appreciate what it is. But you can not legislate it.

I love Star Trek: Next Generation. It is my all-time favorite television show. I have all the episodes on DVD and all their movies. (Lest anyone not take my loyalty seriously - I do not, however, go to conventions....though if one were close enough to home....) I love that concept of life....everyone working for the good of the universe. I got news for you....that is why it is called "fiction." It isn't real. We will never have the wonderful concept of selflessness, because are inherently selfish. You have to want to push beyond that natural instinct in order to achieve greater goals....but in essence, we are still selfish, even when working for others. We still want the recognition and/or benefit of our actions. To believe in some fairyland otherwise, is foolishness. That is why I believe we are still here - still fighting up hill. Those that could change it are too busy trying to create a utopia that will never exist.

Minimum Concern

2005-06-24T15:25:00.000-04:00

I am listening to arguments in my state over minimum wage. Suddenly every employer is a big corporation who is hoarding the profits, and every worker is a poor, abused employee, just trying to make a living and working hard. They want to raise the minimum wage nearly $2.00/hour. As a previously self-employed individual looking at the possibility of hiring help for my business, I shudder at the thought. $2.00/hour? How are employers supposed to afford it? $80/week? $4160/year per employee. So, keeping the math simple - suppose you are a small company with 10 employees, you are laying out $41,600 more dollars per year. Just think about that. It is outrageous.

Writing Moments

2005-06-20T22:24:00.000-04:00

If you are bored - or just want to read some strange fiction - feel free to rest your eyes here....more to come, I hope.

Will Wonders Never Cease....?

2005-06-20T18:41:00.000-04:00

I actually agree with MP. I may need to grab the smelling salts....if I was such a wimpy woman, that is. See here. I also think the Star Wars "prequels" were sad attempts by Lucas to try to keep his fan base. The special effects are impressive, but the story is lacking, and the transition....well, watch them for yourself.

Religious Tally

2005-06-20T18:39:00.000-04:00

Another one from the manly men....

You scored as Classical Liberal. You are a classical liberal. You are sceptical about much of the historicity of the Bible, and the most important thing Jesus has done is to set us a good moral example that we are to follow. Doctrines like the trinity and the incarnation are speculative and not really important, and in the face of science and philosophy the surest way we can be certain about God is by our inner awareness of him. Discipleship is expressed by good moral behaviour, but inward religious feeling is most important.

Emergent/Postmodern

68%

Classical Liberal

68%

Modern Liberal

64%

Roman Catholic

57%

Evangelical Holiness/Wesleyan

57%

Neo orthodox

32%

Charismatic/Pentecostal

18%

Reformed Evangelical

Fundamentalist

What's your theological worldview?
created with QuizFarm.com

Just Call Me Tamale!

2005-06-20T18:32:00.000-04:00

Courtesy of the manly men....

You scored as Hot. You are Hot, you scream and are wild, people love doing anything sexual with you.

Hot

100%

Exciting

69%

Violent

44%

Wet

44%

Sweet

38%

Shy

25%

Soft

19%

Awkward

What is your sexual style?
created with QuizFarm.com

Woohoo! Who'd of guessed it? Well, besides me and my man? ;)

The book meme...I'm it.

2005-06-20T18:01:00.000-04:00

Bill Keezer has tagged me with the book meme. So here goes: Total Number Of Books Owned Ever: Not a clue - have hundreds in boxes and in memory. Also, I own well over 50 audio book titles. Last Book Bought: ::gags:: Bill Clinton's My Life for a significant other who thought it would be an interesting read. Yes, I really love that boy. Last Book I Read: It's Not You, It's Me by Allison Rushby. Stictly a sick day read. Somewhat entertaining. Five Books That Mean A Lot To Me: The Time Traveller's Wife by Audrey Niffenegger. This is one of the best books I've ever read, if not THE best. The writing is stunning, the relationship is powerful, and the concept behind the book....few of us could handle it if not set in an unreal setting. If you haven't read it, do. The Outlander Series by Diane Gabaldon. Part of the reason I visited Scotland was to witness the history that these books are based on. While they are fiction, it is some of the best writing and historical narrative I've read in a long time. 1984 by G. Orwell. I don't know what book puts it more clearly, except Animal Farm. I am glad I finally got up the guts to read them. Black Beauty by Anna Sewell. I had the illustrated, simplified version as a child, and it awoke in me a love of horses and appreciation for all animals. The Spiderwyck Chronicles by Holly Black & Tony DiTerlizzi. I can't say these books are thrilling - they are children's mystery/fantasy books. But I read them to a 5 and 8 year old who can't wait to go to bed so we can read the next couple of chapters. Nothing is better or more meaningful than that. I tag John Pike.

Representation

2005-06-20T17:36:00.000-04:00

In the gym this morning, I noticed a CNN report that showed Condoleeza Rice as she spoke to the government of Egypt regarding Democracy in their corner of the planet. What struck me as amazing is we now have a black woman who represents the United States. Do you "get" that? We have a woman who only 150 years ago would have been considered a slave - 50 years ago she would have been using "separate but equal" facilities. Today, she is travelling the globe as an ambassador for the United States. I find that amazing - not only that we have come that far, but also that our diversity as a country is moving ahead. What a shame many others would prefer to mock that which they claim they want.

Silencing the Majority

2005-06-19T20:58:00.000-04:00

I recently came blow to blow (verbally) with someone over the prejudice card. I know racism is a touchy issue - it is alive and well. Prejudice is not limited to skin color, however. There is an ongoing battle between the "white" population and everyone else - the battle to prove that just because you are white, does not make you racist. You can be white, and still be sensitive to the plights of those that are a different color. New flash - this might be shocking to some - you can be white and still be discriminated against. I know - hard to believe, that the white guy (or gal) could possibly suffer a similar plight. No, it is not the same - no one ever said it was. But you cannot make an assumption based on someone's skin color - you cannot assume their experiences, their feelings, their weaknesses. Neither can you discount their ability to understand and relate to your experiences. Remember the old saying, "Do unto others as you would have done unto you?" There is a lot of validity still left in the hackneyed prose, yet we have not learned the value of it. I am sick of having to define myself because I'm white. I am sick of having people of other ethnicities make assumptions about me because I'm the "majority" shade. I should be able to stand on my own two feet, and be acknowledged for what I accomplish and how I treat others, not based on some stereotypical concept someone else has of me. I should not have to define myself as a good person and feel like I need to defend my equal opportunity beliefs. I shouldn't have to prove it every second. I am disgusted by the growing need to walk around with a guilt complex over things that happened in the past, by someone else - and they weren't my ancestors. My ancestors were white slaves! I judge others by who they are, not what pigment they ended up with - yet too often, I am judged by MY lack of pigment. How can we ever find a way out of our division when we create division and bitterness among the very people who strive to avoid it? How can we ever encourage unification and common cause when those who display it are mocked for it? Aside: I hate the term "white." One, I'm closer to pink than white any day of the week. Two, if everyone else gets to claim "__________(enter ethnicity here)-American," what do the rest of the mutts do? Can we be a "Heinz 57-American?" Just curious.

"If This Is Torture, Chain Me to the Wall...."

2005-06-15T14:52:00.000-04:00

Senator Durbin seems to think Americans treat their prisoners of war so terribly, we are similar to Nazi camps and other camps for prisoners of war taken by other countries.

Wow.

Changing temperatures and playing rap at high decibals is apparently the height of inhumane temperatures. Clearly he's never lived in the city without air conditioning.

Breast-feeding Revisited

2005-06-13T16:19:00.000-04:00

I know I've addressed this one before, but due to the hullaballoo over the comment Barbara Walters made, I think I'll just sink my teeth into it one more time. There is nothing wrong with breast-feeding, as long as it is done with consideration for others. Make sure you are fully covered. Be discreet. I hear all this "It's sacred and special" crap being bandied about. Yes, it is - and you wouldn't want something sacred and special being bandied about in Wal-Mart or the local mall, would you? I don't want to see a bare breast hanging out and a baby eating from it. But a woman who is covered up and feeding her child? I remember the case where the woman was asked to breast-feed in the bathroom of a restaurant, and not at the table. I don't know the situation, but if that is the restaurant's policy, either follow the rules or eat elsewhere. They have other patrons besides YOU to be concerned about as well.

Another thought, though. When going into certain social or business situations, we dress to impress. When going to visit the in-laws or grandparents, you are probably not wearing your shortest skirt and lowest cut shirt. There is such a thing as decorum and respect for others. No, you can't please everyone, but you can use common sense. I put breast-feeding in the same category as public displays of affection. There are places where these are appropriate - I am a VERY affectionate person. But I am not going to make-out with my significant other in front of his parents. It is not appropriate. When a child is hungry, you can feed them in a discreet way without making others uncomfortable. Your right to feed your child does not mean you lay out a blanket in the middle of the mall and go to. You can find a quiet location, less populated, and have a moment to feed your child. Motherhood does not mean you have the right to do whatever you want, and the rest of world must stand aside.

It is about respect, folks. Something that is poorly lacking the world today. And it goes both ways.

Parenting Issues

2005-06-13T08:25:00.000-04:00

Perhaps it is my inside experiences, but I really wonder about parents now a-days. If children are our most valuable asset, why do we seem unconcerned about who they are left with and where they are? I am forever seeing children walking down the street without parents anywhere in sight, left alone in an aisle in Wal-Mart while their parentage is in another aisle, left with the new boyfriend/girlfriend's older child for babysitting purposes, etc. Think about it....Do you know if someone is sex offender? What does a child molester look like? If we learned nothing else from Ted Bundy, we should have learned that those that we think look "normal," can be sick and twisted.

Bigot: Revisited

2005-06-03T17:12:00.000-04:00

I seem to have gotten under the skin of the poor Minister of Propoganda at Naked Villainy. Well, MP, a quick correction to your assumptions, as I just can't resist. Your Dictionary.com reference of bigot is a tad bit different than the definition that I researched before applying the title. So while your defense of your friend is admirable, it is certainly nothing to get up in arms about. I am sure you are NEVER obstinately attached to your views, but I fear some of us lesser folk are, on occasion. Note: I truly have never found Smallholder to be a bigot, by any standard. I was bothered by his accusation of the Analphilosopher, and suggested that we are all stubborn on some things, hence the use of the term, bigot. His explanation of his thoughts were well-defined and I now see where he is coming from. Whether or not I agree.... Upon rethinking the whole situation, I'm impressed by MP. I don't give him enough credit, I think.

Why do YOU blog?

2005-06-03T17:09:00.000-04:00

Geekgirl2 has posted, asking people to list the reasons why they blog, especially those who are not high up on the TTLB Ecosystem. She's not getting a lot of response, so stop over and give her some thoughts!

Founding

2005-06-02T20:39:00.000-04:00

I was having a discussion with Bill today via e-mail about surrogate mothers. Honestly, I find the practice abhorrent, not to mention slightly ridiculous. Just imagine a husband rushing his laboring wife to the hospital and proclaiming, "She's having a baby!" The nurses are now going to look at him skeptically and ask, "Is it yours, or should we notify the bank?" How any woman can have children and not love them as her own is baffling to me. It is against nature, and there is NO example in the animal world for such behavior. There is a larger issue at hand. Consider this: we allow and cajole and demand and insist and sue and pass laws to have our way. We demand our rights, while ignoring the future results. I want a child, so therefore I must have a child. I'm not married, I can't afford the child, but I want one. So much for what is best for the child, eh? We dare not tread on the rights of sex offenders, as we stomp on the fear of their victims. We spend more money than we have, using credit cards and loans, and then screw the banks, because after all, they're big places. They can afford it. If you look back on the founding of this country, the men that signed the Declaration of Independence took on a death sentence. In addition, they knew they were signing onto something that they would never see realized in their lifetime. Imagine the courage, the foresight, the love of country and future family those people must have had. We have established a new democratic government overseas, and now we demand that it be perfected within years, rather than decades! Can you imagine where we would be if those who came before us were so impatient? So selfish? We'd all be British citizens right about now. Or perhaps Nazis?

Higher and Deeper

2005-06-02T20:09:00.000-04:00

Did you ever stick your foot in something, because you thought you knew what you were getting into, and then suddenly, it spirals into something you never intended? Ally be knee-deep, and I seem to be digging my hole even deeper. Let me say, on my behalf, I have been out of the loop for several months now. Due to some personal and employment reasons, I've been careful and lax on my posting. Letting things die down, if you will. So I was not aware of the relationships that have changed and strained and been built during my absence. Imagine my surprise.... Smallholder, whose logic and wit I enjoy immensely, has posted in response to an e-mail/posting of mine. You can read his response here. My original damning post can be read here. The next good couple of feet of my hole was dug here. Can I just keep my mouth shut and not respond? Oh, dear readers - that I could. However, my interinsic make-up is not one that can stay quiet. First, let me show my bias: Keith Burgess-Jackson is who got me started blogging. Without his input and talent, I would never have found my passion of writing. It was long lost, and would have stayed that way, I'm sure, due to my incredible insecurity over my literary skills. In addition, he was kind enough to help me get started, and plugged me at every opportunity. In a world that was young at the time, giving a fellow blogger a plug was no big deal. Now, in the much harsher, near-regulated world of blogging, any comment by a blogger of note is hard-won. Keith has been graciousness itself. As anyone will tell you, I am intensely loyal. Keith is still one of my favorite bloggers, and I admire his tenacity and discipline. Okay, onto digging my own grave: Smallholder has several excellent points. (One of my favorite things about this blogging cowboy is his logic and talent at experessing it.) To his credit/downfall, Smallholder relies on data and research to uphold his beliefs. In many ways, he is the wiser of any of us for doing so. I tend to rely on my inner logic and experience in life to determine my beliefs. In my jaded view, data is easily tweaked to say what we want it to say, so I tend to be resistant to such things. I rely on observation and some data to determine my thoughts and opinions. As for the bigotry charge.... I happen to disagree with Keith, for example, on the status of animals. My dog is my dog. I own her butt, and I better be described as her owner. If I'm her companion, then she can start paying half the bills. If there are humans and dogs to be saved from a burning building, the humans come first. And when it comes to social issues, I'll give some concern to animal abuse, but no more than I have for the abuse of children and people. In this aspect, I guess Keith is a bigot, as his reasoning, to me, seems far-fetched and unreasonable. I am relatively certain that Keith would disagree with that description of him. In the situation of the gays marrying and adopting....I can't honestly make that kind of judgment. I have found Keith's logic on the situation interesting, though not convincing. I disagree - I use different logic to come to my conclusions on gay marriage and adoption. I am, however, open to discussion and can be persuaded if the argument is one with which I can find logic. That Keith may not be open to that....perhaps not. I find him steadfast on his beliefs. I think there is room in this world for those who are bigots, vs. those who are open to change. I would rather have someone like Keith, from whom I can always know what to expect (let's not forget that his conservatism has been a hard-won journey), AND some like Smallholder, from whom I get discussion and debate, than lose either one of those personalities. I guarantee, the founding of this country was based more on those who lived by the conviction of their beliefs, without being persuaded otherwise, than those who were open to changing their minds. So I'll take both, and learn from both. On another end, I'm not letting Smallholder out of this one. You thought I missed it, dear friend, but you failed to comment on whether or not women who are surrogates is a concerning practice, or one which we should embrace. Hit me with your logic. Now I'm going to bury my head and wait for the fall-out.

Hot Bed

2005-06-01T21:57:00.000-04:00

Little did I know my question regarding the "child abuse" of having gay parents seek out surogate mothers would create such a stir. See here - the comments are specifically juicy reading. My own thoughts on the matter.... I agree with GaryH. There are plenty of unwanted children - why do we have to create more? I feel that way about anyone seeking out surogate wombs. I find the practice abhorrent. To think that any woman can carry a child in her body and then bear it....and not have any attachments? If that is the case, she is one sick woman. If you can't have your own, adopt a child. If a child needs a home, I don't care if the adoptive parents are two cats. If they can fill out the paperwork and provide a proper home, by all means, do so. A shaking head to Smallholder.... My dear friend, if the good professor is a bigot, then so are you. And me, for that matter. There are many issues you and I will not change our minds on. We stubbornly hold onto these ideas, even though others would say we should change our minds, according to their logic. Keith has his opinion based on his own logic. I don't share his feelings towards gay parents. I do, however, believe that surrogacy is a sick practice, and absolutely offensive. It takes the process and sanctity of bearing children and makes it into a capitalist venture. Sorry, I don't have the taste for such crass behavior. I don't think you or I or Keith are bigots, because we hold to our own logic. Those who hold to no logic and refuse to see reason are bigots, in my mind.

Sore Throat

2005-06-01T21:52:00.000-04:00

Am I the only person out there who could care less who the identity of "Deep Throat" was/is? Who cares?! What year are we in? At this point in time, nick-names like "Deep Throat" carry all new meanings, anyway. Get over it, folks. Knowing the identity doesn't change the situation....much less knowing it is a senile man near death's door. Can we really stand around and glorify/besmirch the name of man who is almost dead? Yes, it seems evident we can.

Academic Idealism

2005-05-30T10:28:00.000-04:00

As I wind down my 10 year path to my Bachelor of Science in Applied Psychology, the writing requirements have picked up speed. There is rarely a week that goes by without requiring a paper of some kind. Because our classes are limited to five weeks, it often does not give you time to digest exactly what your major writing project should look like. So, the professors frequently give us sample papers: papers they feel equal "A" quality work. I have yet to read a paper that meets the quality of "A" I thought we were supposed to achieve. The grammar is generally atrocious, the spelling is poor, and the sentence structures are based on fragments and run-on sentences. I would never imagine turning in a paper of this quality and expect to get a good grade. Yet this is what we are given to aspire to. Something I write for a Q & A assignment, or even for this blog....grammer is a consideration. But I don't lose sleep over a misspelled word or incorrectly punctuated sentence. For formal papers, (I thought) the requirements should be more stringent. No wonder I have a 4.0 in my senior year. With this kind of competition, my papers are a land-slide for first - even if I haven't a clue what I'm writing about.