I used to be under the illusion (or the lie as fed to us by the System) that when I took out a loan from a bank, the money was already in the possession of the bank. At the very least, the money had to be made, right? It had to come from somewhere in order to cover what I was borrowing. I was once also under the illusion that when I deposited cash, it stayed put, just as I was once under the illusion that when I deposited a check, those numbers become converted to coins and bills, all of which the bank would have on hand.
Of course I know today that none of this is true. You ask for a loan and no new monetary note is printed, no new coin is minted. You deposit a check, it remains as that. Numbers on paper, which thus get translated into numbers on a computer.
I'm reading a book and in it, I read that for every $1,000 that is put into a bank, approximately $10,000, or 10 times that amount is handed out in loans to consumers.
It was interesting to learn that this entire idea started back during the days when the currency was precious metals. Owners would store their gold and silver and other precious metals at goldsmiths, for safe keeping, who would then give receipts in the form of paper notes to these customers. This was in the days prior to interest, interest being generated or charged. The goldsmiths noticed a trend. The majority of the people kept most of their precious metals on site and when they withdrew some of that currency, it was usually only a small amount, withdrawn to pay off a debt. The goldsmiths then had the idea to start issuing notes to those who didn't have gold and silver and other metals, and they charged interest in doing so. Interest for the lending of other people's wealth.
That, in a nutshell, is what banking is.
When you take out that mortgage or car loan, where does that money come from? Does the bank actually make more money to cover the loan? Most of the money in circulation today isn't tangible. It is merely numbers on paper that is passed from one computer account to another through debit and credit card transactions, checks, money transfers.
And think about this one. For that essentially "non-existant money" you have borrowed, if you are somehow unable to repay this "fictional" money, the bank can then collect from you--in terms of REAL wealth. Car, house and other tangible assets.
It's brilliant, actually. Sick and twisted, but brilliant.
Ever think about how you are only allowed to withdraw a certain amount of money each day? The banks are limiting and thus controlling your money and what you can do with it. It's our money, right? We therefore should have the right to move it as we deem fit, withdraw whatever amount we deem fit. The banks have set up a system whereby they own the money, whether it exists or not. They control what happens to it. Do you think if the majority of a bank's customers decided to close their funds on one particular day the bank would have that kind of liquid cash on hand? Hell no!
Have you ever asked yourself, when hearing an economist speak about how the market is cyclical, just how in the world does this happen by itself? If banks are moving the "money", doesn't this mean that someone is controlling things? If stocks and bonds are bought and sold, doesn't this mean others are controlling the market? It always struck me as odd, even before I began to wake up to this entire scheme, to hear some finance guy talk about some illusive financial market that essentially runs itself.
Typically, during economic booms, people and businesses go into debt. Consumers borrow and spend more. Businesses spend and borrow more. More jobs are created. Then banks raise the interest rates to slow down that credit/loan demand. With fewer loans being taken out, this slows down this production of available "money". That then leads to slower business and job trends. Suddenly, people and business lack the ability to pay back that debt. In time, bankruptcy becomes a reality for many and the banks then take back that "money" by taking the real wealth. Again, homes, land, cars, etc.
All of this over numbers on some computer screen.
He who controls the food controls the people.
He who controls the money controls the world.
3.17.2008
Artist Promotion
Mr. N has a customer whose son is marketing his first demo CD. The young man's name is Derek Cate. The father brought Mr. N a copy of his son's demo cd, who brought it home. I popped it into the cd player and listened. He has a really good voice. Kinda raspy in a heart-felt way. The style is light, acoustic, country with a bit of pop. I don't really want to critique the music simply because everyone has their own preference and what is music and beauty to one is noise and nothingness to another. That being said, I liked what I heard. It was easy on my ears and heart. It's the kind of music that makes me think about the people in my life, of lost loves, of possibilities and dreams broken and realized.
Support the independent artist. This one's local, too. His name is Derek Cate. Check out his CD on his myspace page. And while you're at it, we have another local, independent artist, Dan Crall, promoting his CD as well. Check out his blog here FMI. His material is unique and unlike anything you will hear on a compilation CD. The sounds of life is how I would describe it.
Support the independent artist. This one's local, too. His name is Derek Cate. Check out his CD on his myspace page. And while you're at it, we have another local, independent artist, Dan Crall, promoting his CD as well. Check out his blog here FMI. His material is unique and unlike anything you will hear on a compilation CD. The sounds of life is how I would describe it.
Ant Invasion
Ants are, I admit, very cute when they are portrayed in some Pixar movie. However, they lose all appeal when you find them invading your food.
I originally noticed this problem weeks ago in the bathroom. A rather odd place I thought, until I realized they were after the sweet smells of toothpaste, mouth wash and cologne. I ignored it for a few days, hoping they would go away on their own. When it became apparent they were here to stay, I investigated natural ways to discourage their presense. I read about using baby powder, pepper, cinnamon, vinegar. Those little ant houses, I read, were not nearly as effective as these natural deterents. So I tried them all, those "natural" remedies. And guess what? The little guys kept paying their daily visits nonetheless.
Realizing I was going to have to resort to one of those "chemical" remedies, I begrudingly headed off to the store in search of those ant houses. I wasn't the only one either. Another customer, a young man who resided in one of the local frat houses, was also in search of the ant houses. It was quite an adventure trying to locate them. We were told to go to one aisle. No houses. Just the chemical sprays, which we both said we did not want to use. So I went in search of another clerk and was told to go to a different section. So, I went back to my fellow ant-eliminator friend and said to follow me. We were greeted by a clerk who, helping us find what we were after, told us toothpaste was a good deterent. Uh, no it isn't, I said. I found them all over my husband's toothpaste.
"Well, vinegar is good," she said.
"Nope. I did that daily and they still came back."
So, we each pick up our ant houses, the young man practically clearing out the shelf. I'm quite confident that ant house stock went up in the days following. I head home, place them on the bathroom counter. And wait.
Within two days, they were all but gone. Within a week, no more ants were visible in the bathroom.
Thinking we had conquered the problem, I forgot about it for a couple of weeks. Over the weekend though, I was shocked, appalled, disgusted to open up a cupboard in our kitchen to discover them all over our food items. They hadn't died off. They had simply found a new place to visit.
So what was supposed to be a quiet, relaxing, lazy day turned into an afternoon of clearing out food cabinets, cleaning shelves and putting food into tupperware and zip lock enclosed containers. Laying out a few ant houses for good measure, I figured we did all we could do at this point, aside from calling an exterminator. Our landlord would have to pay for it and he always goes for the cheapest and has no regard for the environment, at least at this particular property. When we had a flea issue outside, I wanted a natural product used and had found an exterminator that used environmentally friendly/green products, but instead mr. tightwad went with someone else, who used nasty toxic chemicals.
Maybe the conversation I had with one of the little visitors today will be effective. I told him/her they were welcome to live under our house, but the colony had to stay put and seek their food from other sources besides our home. We could live together in harmony, I said, and that means we stay out of your way and you stay out of ours. He seemed to hear me. He stopped crawling and stayed put as I spoke.
Although maybe he was just helping himself to that crumb of banana bread that found its way to the countertop.
I originally noticed this problem weeks ago in the bathroom. A rather odd place I thought, until I realized they were after the sweet smells of toothpaste, mouth wash and cologne. I ignored it for a few days, hoping they would go away on their own. When it became apparent they were here to stay, I investigated natural ways to discourage their presense. I read about using baby powder, pepper, cinnamon, vinegar. Those little ant houses, I read, were not nearly as effective as these natural deterents. So I tried them all, those "natural" remedies. And guess what? The little guys kept paying their daily visits nonetheless.
Realizing I was going to have to resort to one of those "chemical" remedies, I begrudingly headed off to the store in search of those ant houses. I wasn't the only one either. Another customer, a young man who resided in one of the local frat houses, was also in search of the ant houses. It was quite an adventure trying to locate them. We were told to go to one aisle. No houses. Just the chemical sprays, which we both said we did not want to use. So I went in search of another clerk and was told to go to a different section. So, I went back to my fellow ant-eliminator friend and said to follow me. We were greeted by a clerk who, helping us find what we were after, told us toothpaste was a good deterent. Uh, no it isn't, I said. I found them all over my husband's toothpaste.
"Well, vinegar is good," she said.
"Nope. I did that daily and they still came back."
So, we each pick up our ant houses, the young man practically clearing out the shelf. I'm quite confident that ant house stock went up in the days following. I head home, place them on the bathroom counter. And wait.
Within two days, they were all but gone. Within a week, no more ants were visible in the bathroom.
Thinking we had conquered the problem, I forgot about it for a couple of weeks. Over the weekend though, I was shocked, appalled, disgusted to open up a cupboard in our kitchen to discover them all over our food items. They hadn't died off. They had simply found a new place to visit.
So what was supposed to be a quiet, relaxing, lazy day turned into an afternoon of clearing out food cabinets, cleaning shelves and putting food into tupperware and zip lock enclosed containers. Laying out a few ant houses for good measure, I figured we did all we could do at this point, aside from calling an exterminator. Our landlord would have to pay for it and he always goes for the cheapest and has no regard for the environment, at least at this particular property. When we had a flea issue outside, I wanted a natural product used and had found an exterminator that used environmentally friendly/green products, but instead mr. tightwad went with someone else, who used nasty toxic chemicals.
Maybe the conversation I had with one of the little visitors today will be effective. I told him/her they were welcome to live under our house, but the colony had to stay put and seek their food from other sources besides our home. We could live together in harmony, I said, and that means we stay out of your way and you stay out of ours. He seemed to hear me. He stopped crawling and stayed put as I spoke.
Although maybe he was just helping himself to that crumb of banana bread that found its way to the countertop.
3.15.2008
Hey Chris Matthews et. al: "Shut The Hell Up!"
While making breakfast this morning, Mr. N had the television on. Chris Matthews and gang were (attempting) to engage in some political dialogue. The topic of discussion? Male sexuality, compliments of ousted NY Governer Spitzer (which is ridiculous, especially considering there's speculation as to whether this is the real reason he was ousted--something I was suspicious of from the start). Why do men cheat, they wanted to know. Chris had his input. The women surrounding him had their input. Words of "testosterone" and "power" and "control" were running rampant. After a few minutes I finally screamed "ENOUGH!!!" This is news?? Enough of the tabloid crap. So two consenting adults had sex. Big flipping deal. Ok, so one was married. Again, SO WHAT. At least it's no big deal to the rest of us. Some big wig political figure has sex with someone other than his wife, other than her husband. Who cares?
Wanna talk about people doing "bad things" sexually? Let's talk about the children who are kidnapped and sold into mind-control slavery and sexual bondage by these political and business criminals. (Anyone else ever wonder why millions of children go "missing" every year, the numbers growing?)
Instead of filling up air time with such ridiculous fluff, let's talk about our dying Republic. Let's talk about this recession bordering on depression economic situation. Let's talk about our corrupt Federal Reserve. Manipulated markets. Let's talk about this ridiculous attempt to revitalize the greenback by making more of it. Let's talk about the criminals in the world of politics and business. Let's talk about how our land and people are being raped, abused and sold to the highest bidder all for profit.
I know I'm beating the proverbial "dead horse" here, but good lord, are people really listening to this stuff?? Are people really wanting to know the details of some adult's sexual affair? If so, PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR TELEVISION!
Don't watch these folks. It only encourages them.
Even though I had not made my appearance in this realm during his on-air "reign", I sure long for the days of someone like Edward R. Murrow. I long to see a journalist, a real journalistic, really speak to you and I through the television airwaves. I long to see a journalist take a news story and pick it apart, anaylze it, ask the tough questions, offer up an analysis. They exist in independent, small markets to some degree, but we all know they're nowhere to be found on mainstream television.
Oh sure, some news stories are privy to "journalistic" commentary. Why, just last night, I heard one of our local Eugene "journalists" give commentary on two baby goats who were named after the Blue Angels. Brilliant commentary, too. "They're so cute!"
Wow. Blow my mind. Bravo!
Of course I realize these pseudo-journalists are heavily monitored (censored) in what they can and cannot say. If someone broke out into a dialogue along the lines of Murrow, you can bet a commercial would appear immediately on your screen and that brave individual would likely be fired. However, maybe that's what we need. Journalists with some spine. Courage.
It brings out the urge to strike out with others and create our own news hour through public television. Casual style. A return to the days of Murrow. In-depth analysis and commentary. No fluff. Strictly News. News and analysis you won't hear on those other stations.
Give me a camera and some recording equipment. I'm ready to roll!
Wanna talk about people doing "bad things" sexually? Let's talk about the children who are kidnapped and sold into mind-control slavery and sexual bondage by these political and business criminals. (Anyone else ever wonder why millions of children go "missing" every year, the numbers growing?)
Instead of filling up air time with such ridiculous fluff, let's talk about our dying Republic. Let's talk about this recession bordering on depression economic situation. Let's talk about our corrupt Federal Reserve. Manipulated markets. Let's talk about this ridiculous attempt to revitalize the greenback by making more of it. Let's talk about the criminals in the world of politics and business. Let's talk about how our land and people are being raped, abused and sold to the highest bidder all for profit.
I know I'm beating the proverbial "dead horse" here, but good lord, are people really listening to this stuff?? Are people really wanting to know the details of some adult's sexual affair? If so, PLEASE TURN OFF YOUR TELEVISION!
Don't watch these folks. It only encourages them.
Even though I had not made my appearance in this realm during his on-air "reign", I sure long for the days of someone like Edward R. Murrow. I long to see a journalist, a real journalistic, really speak to you and I through the television airwaves. I long to see a journalist take a news story and pick it apart, anaylze it, ask the tough questions, offer up an analysis. They exist in independent, small markets to some degree, but we all know they're nowhere to be found on mainstream television.
Oh sure, some news stories are privy to "journalistic" commentary. Why, just last night, I heard one of our local Eugene "journalists" give commentary on two baby goats who were named after the Blue Angels. Brilliant commentary, too. "They're so cute!"
Wow. Blow my mind. Bravo!
Of course I realize these pseudo-journalists are heavily monitored (censored) in what they can and cannot say. If someone broke out into a dialogue along the lines of Murrow, you can bet a commercial would appear immediately on your screen and that brave individual would likely be fired. However, maybe that's what we need. Journalists with some spine. Courage.
It brings out the urge to strike out with others and create our own news hour through public television. Casual style. A return to the days of Murrow. In-depth analysis and commentary. No fluff. Strictly News. News and analysis you won't hear on those other stations.
Give me a camera and some recording equipment. I'm ready to roll!
3.14.2008
Continued Conversation With Blue Cross
At a little past 8am this morning, Blue Cross gave me a jingle. Mr. and I were still slumbering peacefully. I rolled out of bed, moving like a slug, mumbling about early morning people. Perhaps it was because I was still half awake. Perhaps it was the dreams I had throughout the night where I was resisting the filth and dogma of the System(s). Perhaps it was due to my conversation with these folks yesterday. Something in me snapped. And I let myself speak without thinking. Well no, that's not quite true. I let myself speak without censorsing my words.
Blue Cross thief was calling about my claim information I faxed yesterday. They wanted to know the FDA code on my supplement given the receipt I sent them didn't have it so they had nothing to code it to. The FDA does not endorse this product. Says so right on the bottle. And I knew full well the FDA would not put a code on something they haven't investigated nor approved, meaning on something they don't have their grubby hands in. So I made up a code. I gave 'em the expiration date.
"Are you sure you've given me the right code?"
"Yes."
"Are you absolutely sure? I put it in the system and it comes back unknown."
"Check again."
"I am and hmmm, are you sure you didn't read me the expire numbers?"
"Oh, silly me, yes I must have."
"I'm sorry but we cannot approve something that does not have the FDA code on it."
"You guys are something else, you know that?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"You health insurance companies. You're in bed with anyone who will give you cash, including the FDA."
I was shocked to hear, "I can't argue with that."
"Good, then you will probably agree with me when I say you're a bunch of criminals. Every one of you who work for the health insurance industry. You deny folks coverage because of pre-existing health conditions. You deny claims to pad your profits. You charge outrageous premiums. You have accountants and money crunchers making decisions doctors should. Thousands of people die each year because of your way of doing business and that makes you all criminals. You all should be in a jail cell right now."
"Well, yes we should make it easier for folks to get coverage."
"No, you should be eliminated and something else put in place so that coverage is a RIGHT and DOABLE for every person regardless of their income or health status."
"You know, I really do care about our customers..."
"You do not. If you did, you'd find a way to pay for this claim. You would be fighting to bring down the criminal system you're a part of. Are you doing that? Are you fighting to stop this profit before human need and dignity? Are you demanding your higher ups stop their obsessive addictive need for money? Are you demanding your co-workers who give doctors bonuses for denying treatment to stop? Are you?"
"Uhhhh, well, we are trying to make some changes. Is there anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes, you can remember every word I've said. Quit your job and work to end the system of private for-profit health insurance. You know a lot for you've seen a lot."
"Is there anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes, but I'm not wasting any more of my time. Good bye." Click.
Blue Cross thief was calling about my claim information I faxed yesterday. They wanted to know the FDA code on my supplement given the receipt I sent them didn't have it so they had nothing to code it to. The FDA does not endorse this product. Says so right on the bottle. And I knew full well the FDA would not put a code on something they haven't investigated nor approved, meaning on something they don't have their grubby hands in. So I made up a code. I gave 'em the expiration date.
"Are you sure you've given me the right code?"
"Yes."
"Are you absolutely sure? I put it in the system and it comes back unknown."
"Check again."
"I am and hmmm, are you sure you didn't read me the expire numbers?"
"Oh, silly me, yes I must have."
"I'm sorry but we cannot approve something that does not have the FDA code on it."
"You guys are something else, you know that?"
"I beg your pardon?"
"You health insurance companies. You're in bed with anyone who will give you cash, including the FDA."
I was shocked to hear, "I can't argue with that."
"Good, then you will probably agree with me when I say you're a bunch of criminals. Every one of you who work for the health insurance industry. You deny folks coverage because of pre-existing health conditions. You deny claims to pad your profits. You charge outrageous premiums. You have accountants and money crunchers making decisions doctors should. Thousands of people die each year because of your way of doing business and that makes you all criminals. You all should be in a jail cell right now."
"Well, yes we should make it easier for folks to get coverage."
"No, you should be eliminated and something else put in place so that coverage is a RIGHT and DOABLE for every person regardless of their income or health status."
"You know, I really do care about our customers..."
"You do not. If you did, you'd find a way to pay for this claim. You would be fighting to bring down the criminal system you're a part of. Are you doing that? Are you fighting to stop this profit before human need and dignity? Are you demanding your higher ups stop their obsessive addictive need for money? Are you demanding your co-workers who give doctors bonuses for denying treatment to stop? Are you?"
"Uhhhh, well, we are trying to make some changes. Is there anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes, you can remember every word I've said. Quit your job and work to end the system of private for-profit health insurance. You know a lot for you've seen a lot."
"Is there anything else I can do for you?"
"Yes, but I'm not wasting any more of my time. Good bye." Click.
3.13.2008
Fighting For What You Believe In
After reading a movie review on piglipstick's blog on Sir! No Sir!, I decided to rent it. I was just a wee little toddler during the first years of the Vietnam War. My parents were supporters of Nixon. As I grew older, I don't recall any discussion at home about this period in history. In school, the subject was touched on briefly and (likely) was tarnished propaganda in many ways. As such, over the years I've wanted to learn more. I've learned some things on my own, but I wanted to know more about the Resistance movement, in particular from the soldiers and vets themselves.
This movie/documentary did not disappoint me. It's a very very moving piece. It makes you cheer and cry at the same time. I had no clue as to the number of underground newspapers, created and written by the soldiers themselves, at times on military bases. I was unaware as to the number of prison sentences given to those brave men and women who said "I will not participate in this illegal war."
It got me to thinking about present time. Where is this resistance today from our military personnel? God knows thousands of them have written to Michael Moore alone, not only questioning the reasons why they were sent to Iraq, thousands have said they want out. They don't want to return. So many coming back fucked up emotionally, mentally and physically. And yet, I ask, where is that organized resistance movement this time around?
I can only think that soldier's lives are in much more danger today than they were during the 1960's and 70's. Flee to Canada? Forget it. The corruption is deeper, stronger, more widespread. Human life has become a commodity in its truest form. Freedom marchers risk imprisonment, bodily harm and death at a far greater scope today than at any time in our known history. Need I use the word "taser", too?
Also missing is the culture and music of the time. Where is the music calling for peace and love? (I have a TON if any singers and bands are in need of material!) Today we have a glut of angry, violent lyrics that don't come to some conclusion of peace or healing. Get even now. That brain-damaging thumping bass seems to have left too many of this younger generation more interested in loud noise than they do in any sort of purpose. Pleasure now is the theme of the day. Meaning seems to be lost and with it, justice. Fairness. Truth. Hooked on video games, cell phones and caffeine, our younger generation has been damaged by unhealthy living, parents who are over-worked and underpaid, not to mention the growing disease that is today's public school educational environment. Corporate Culture. Buy now pay later. Mass consumerism. Pleasure now, consequences later. Slave wages, slave labor. Lamestream media and its slew of people disguised as journalists.
All have contributed to the sense of apathy and lack of awareness.
Such a massive puzzle of dysfunction and corruption. Sometimes thinking about changing just one piece simply doesn't seem nearly enough.
"The times, they are a'changin'..." sang Dylan back when. I wonder what that song means to him today.
This movie/documentary did not disappoint me. It's a very very moving piece. It makes you cheer and cry at the same time. I had no clue as to the number of underground newspapers, created and written by the soldiers themselves, at times on military bases. I was unaware as to the number of prison sentences given to those brave men and women who said "I will not participate in this illegal war."
It got me to thinking about present time. Where is this resistance today from our military personnel? God knows thousands of them have written to Michael Moore alone, not only questioning the reasons why they were sent to Iraq, thousands have said they want out. They don't want to return. So many coming back fucked up emotionally, mentally and physically. And yet, I ask, where is that organized resistance movement this time around?
I can only think that soldier's lives are in much more danger today than they were during the 1960's and 70's. Flee to Canada? Forget it. The corruption is deeper, stronger, more widespread. Human life has become a commodity in its truest form. Freedom marchers risk imprisonment, bodily harm and death at a far greater scope today than at any time in our known history. Need I use the word "taser", too?
Also missing is the culture and music of the time. Where is the music calling for peace and love? (I have a TON if any singers and bands are in need of material!) Today we have a glut of angry, violent lyrics that don't come to some conclusion of peace or healing. Get even now. That brain-damaging thumping bass seems to have left too many of this younger generation more interested in loud noise than they do in any sort of purpose. Pleasure now is the theme of the day. Meaning seems to be lost and with it, justice. Fairness. Truth. Hooked on video games, cell phones and caffeine, our younger generation has been damaged by unhealthy living, parents who are over-worked and underpaid, not to mention the growing disease that is today's public school educational environment. Corporate Culture. Buy now pay later. Mass consumerism. Pleasure now, consequences later. Slave wages, slave labor. Lamestream media and its slew of people disguised as journalists.
All have contributed to the sense of apathy and lack of awareness.
Such a massive puzzle of dysfunction and corruption. Sometimes thinking about changing just one piece simply doesn't seem nearly enough.
"The times, they are a'changin'..." sang Dylan back when. I wonder what that song means to him today.
Adventures At Costco
So Mr. and I headed out to Costco yesterday afternoon. I have calculated that buying certain items are saving us a few dollars, so at this point, making the trip out every couple of months is worth it. However, if/when gas goes up over the $4 point, that savings will disappear and as such, so will our membership.
We were also in search of a new television. The picture is slowly fading in our old one, so we've been looking around for a bargain. We found one yesterday. It has all sorts of abilities that I can't even begin to understand. I just want to point the remote, turn it on, watch a movie or two then turn it off. I don't need any of the other cool technical extras. As such, this whole experience left me anything but impressed, until I saw the picture quality. Wow. Crisp. Clear.
Too bad the young sales clerk didn't have the same qualities. At least his eyes and brain. The kid was as high as a kite. Eyes all bloodshot. That goofy smile on his face. Plus the fact that he kept looking at my boobs with that smile and eyeing me like a piece of chocolate cake he wanted to devour. All in front of Mr. N, who moved in close to me and put out the "she is MINE" energy. 20 years ago I would've slapped him. Today, I smile and think "yeah, I'm old enough to be your mama. I could hurt you, boy."
So we load up the tv and our million roles of toilet paper and tissue boxes and head on home. I go to work on trying to find room for this mass of paper products while Mr. N gets to work on setting up the new tv. It's amazingly light. Scary as well. All that plastic. As I told Mr. N "this thing better last at least 10 years!"
So we set up the tv, program it, then hook up our DVD player. Or try to. Upon turning it on, we kept getting a split screen on the tv. After trying to figure it out ourselves, we decided to call Costco Tech Support.
Oh god, what an experience. As with so many times with these "free" tech support lines, their training came out of a cracker jack box. The young girl told us to do all sorts of things, short of standing on our heads and scratching our bellies. Which actually would have been just as effective.
After 15 minutes, she called the tech support line of the manufacturing company who made the tv. A young man with a baby crying in the background spoke to us. Tried to help us.
He had us do the same things the young girl had us try.
After another 15 minutes, after Mr. N asked just what this young man was actually trained in and was there anyone else with more technical expertise available, to which we were told "not at this hour", and after being told "It must be the tv. Take it back," we hung up.
Mr. N had a bit of a fit before heading off to take a shower and deal with it "later". Take back the tv? Are they gonna pay for my gas? Where's that technical support when you really need it? he kept asking outloud.
Turns out it was right here, with yours truly. I figured it out.
On a hunch, I looked at the DVD player. I had dusted it off with an electro-static rag. Something told me I may have moved a switch and that was what had caused the problem. Looking on the back panel, I noticed a switch that could be placed on 3 different settings. So I moved it, turned on the tv and wala, we had a working system. And I had a very happy spouse.
After all of that, Mr. N is the only one who is still feeling any real excitement over this new purchase. I feel gluttonous. I think I've fed into the system in a way I would rather not. I'm the type to keep something until it expires. At least that's the person I'm becoming. We're still keeping the old tv, but I still can't help but think we've been manipulated and had by some big corporation. But I guess we all feed into that corporate system. Anyway, it's making me think more about making "buying local" doable, sustainable and affordable for all.
Who knew a tv could make one think in such a way?
We were also in search of a new television. The picture is slowly fading in our old one, so we've been looking around for a bargain. We found one yesterday. It has all sorts of abilities that I can't even begin to understand. I just want to point the remote, turn it on, watch a movie or two then turn it off. I don't need any of the other cool technical extras. As such, this whole experience left me anything but impressed, until I saw the picture quality. Wow. Crisp. Clear.
Too bad the young sales clerk didn't have the same qualities. At least his eyes and brain. The kid was as high as a kite. Eyes all bloodshot. That goofy smile on his face. Plus the fact that he kept looking at my boobs with that smile and eyeing me like a piece of chocolate cake he wanted to devour. All in front of Mr. N, who moved in close to me and put out the "she is MINE" energy. 20 years ago I would've slapped him. Today, I smile and think "yeah, I'm old enough to be your mama. I could hurt you, boy."
So we load up the tv and our million roles of toilet paper and tissue boxes and head on home. I go to work on trying to find room for this mass of paper products while Mr. N gets to work on setting up the new tv. It's amazingly light. Scary as well. All that plastic. As I told Mr. N "this thing better last at least 10 years!"
So we set up the tv, program it, then hook up our DVD player. Or try to. Upon turning it on, we kept getting a split screen on the tv. After trying to figure it out ourselves, we decided to call Costco Tech Support.
Oh god, what an experience. As with so many times with these "free" tech support lines, their training came out of a cracker jack box. The young girl told us to do all sorts of things, short of standing on our heads and scratching our bellies. Which actually would have been just as effective.
After 15 minutes, she called the tech support line of the manufacturing company who made the tv. A young man with a baby crying in the background spoke to us. Tried to help us.
He had us do the same things the young girl had us try.
After another 15 minutes, after Mr. N asked just what this young man was actually trained in and was there anyone else with more technical expertise available, to which we were told "not at this hour", and after being told "It must be the tv. Take it back," we hung up.
Mr. N had a bit of a fit before heading off to take a shower and deal with it "later". Take back the tv? Are they gonna pay for my gas? Where's that technical support when you really need it? he kept asking outloud.
Turns out it was right here, with yours truly. I figured it out.
On a hunch, I looked at the DVD player. I had dusted it off with an electro-static rag. Something told me I may have moved a switch and that was what had caused the problem. Looking on the back panel, I noticed a switch that could be placed on 3 different settings. So I moved it, turned on the tv and wala, we had a working system. And I had a very happy spouse.
After all of that, Mr. N is the only one who is still feeling any real excitement over this new purchase. I feel gluttonous. I think I've fed into the system in a way I would rather not. I'm the type to keep something until it expires. At least that's the person I'm becoming. We're still keeping the old tv, but I still can't help but think we've been manipulated and had by some big corporation. But I guess we all feed into that corporate system. Anyway, it's making me think more about making "buying local" doable, sustainable and affordable for all.
Who knew a tv could make one think in such a way?
Ineptness of Blue Cross Blue Shield
This criminal cow-dung corporation has their own definition of efficiency. Look it up in the Health Insurance Dictionary and you will find the following: "ef fi' ciency, n. To pay late. To ignore claims. To lose claims."
I submitted a claim two months ago. I called last month and was told there was nothing on file and to give it another week. So I called at the end of the month and was told it was in processing. I called again the first week of this month and was told it was still in processing. I called again this week and was told there was no record of any such claim, nor was there any record of me calling about it.
Nice try, folks. Look again.
I was transferred to someone else. Same response. I was even able to provide dates and the names of people I spoke with. Nope. No record. So I had to re-fax the information all over again. Before I hung up, I was informed the claim would likely be denied. I already knew that, but I played along anyway and asked why.
"It's a natural supplement, that's why."
"I know," I said.
"You can get them over the counter," said genius insurance employee.
"Not these. These only can be prescribed through a medical professional," sayeth I.
"But still, they are natural supplements. Not actual medications."
"No, the prescription isn't for one of those toxic, addictive pharmaceutical drugs. It is a natural supplement, the kind that actually work, the kind that, for most, have no side effects, the most being some mild stomach upset. And it is not something created, manipulated or controlled by Big Pharmaceuticals, who are in bed with you."
A beautiful silence followed, to which I said I'd re-fax the information and would appreciate the expense being covered.
I knew submitting this claim to such a criminal enterprise was not going to generate a positive result, but I figured it was worth a shot. And I can always appeal. And appeal. And appeal. I'm out of work and I have all the time in the world to dedicate to this cause. If anything, I'll become a pain in the ass. So much so that they may need to take some supplements for awhile. I wonder if they would have to pay for those out-of-pocket...
I submitted a claim two months ago. I called last month and was told there was nothing on file and to give it another week. So I called at the end of the month and was told it was in processing. I called again the first week of this month and was told it was still in processing. I called again this week and was told there was no record of any such claim, nor was there any record of me calling about it.
Nice try, folks. Look again.
I was transferred to someone else. Same response. I was even able to provide dates and the names of people I spoke with. Nope. No record. So I had to re-fax the information all over again. Before I hung up, I was informed the claim would likely be denied. I already knew that, but I played along anyway and asked why.
"It's a natural supplement, that's why."
"I know," I said.
"You can get them over the counter," said genius insurance employee.
"Not these. These only can be prescribed through a medical professional," sayeth I.
"But still, they are natural supplements. Not actual medications."
"No, the prescription isn't for one of those toxic, addictive pharmaceutical drugs. It is a natural supplement, the kind that actually work, the kind that, for most, have no side effects, the most being some mild stomach upset. And it is not something created, manipulated or controlled by Big Pharmaceuticals, who are in bed with you."
A beautiful silence followed, to which I said I'd re-fax the information and would appreciate the expense being covered.
I knew submitting this claim to such a criminal enterprise was not going to generate a positive result, but I figured it was worth a shot. And I can always appeal. And appeal. And appeal. I'm out of work and I have all the time in the world to dedicate to this cause. If anything, I'll become a pain in the ass. So much so that they may need to take some supplements for awhile. I wonder if they would have to pay for those out-of-pocket...
3.12.2008
More Radiation Concerns Over Cell Phone Use
France says no more than six minutes of usage for children. Makes me wonder about the vast number of college students I see here in town who are glued to their phones.
Frankly, I say we get rid of the cell phones altogether. We don't need them. They're simply a convenience. They give off harmful radiation, create EMF fields that negatively impact us all. They require those god-awful cell phone towers emitting all sorts of wonderful, environmentally and human "friendly" fields, plus they have created a huge crop of addicts, whose social behaviors are nothing short of deplorably rude. Then there's the person who comes to your home to visit and spends more of their time monitoring and talking on their cell phone than they do in talking with you. At one point we had a "cell phone free zone--please turn it off before entering" sign on our front door. And need I mention the talk-and-drive crowd who endanger us all?
Frankly, I say we get rid of the cell phones altogether. We don't need them. They're simply a convenience. They give off harmful radiation, create EMF fields that negatively impact us all. They require those god-awful cell phone towers emitting all sorts of wonderful, environmentally and human "friendly" fields, plus they have created a huge crop of addicts, whose social behaviors are nothing short of deplorably rude. Then there's the person who comes to your home to visit and spends more of their time monitoring and talking on their cell phone than they do in talking with you. At one point we had a "cell phone free zone--please turn it off before entering" sign on our front door. And need I mention the talk-and-drive crowd who endanger us all?
Brazilian Protestors Destroy GM Crops
This is one way to get rid of those damn GM crops. Send in a mob of angry women. Mama does say, afterall, to eat your vegetables. She never did say eat your genetically modified veggies.
3.11.2008
Spin The Big Wheel For Health Insurance!
I'm sure most of you have heard by now that the Oregon Health Plan (OHP) is holding a lottery. Lucky registrants, when selected, get to apply. Enrollment has been closed since 2004.
Federal Poverty Guidelines are up this year, too, which means more people are eligible. However, don't get those hopes up too much. Federal Poverty Guidelines are pathetically low. For example, for a family of 2, your monthly income, before taxes, can be no more than $1167.00 in order to qualify. With one bedroom apartments running between $500-$600/month, skyrocketing fuel and food costs, I would add the term "Extreme" between Federal and Poverty.
Mr. Nina and I are one of the millions who make "too much money" to qualify. However, we are also unable to afford a private plan. We had to cancel our policy this month. The premium's have become too expensive.
For the 2008 Poverty Guidelines, check out this link.
Federal Poverty Guidelines are up this year, too, which means more people are eligible. However, don't get those hopes up too much. Federal Poverty Guidelines are pathetically low. For example, for a family of 2, your monthly income, before taxes, can be no more than $1167.00 in order to qualify. With one bedroom apartments running between $500-$600/month, skyrocketing fuel and food costs, I would add the term "Extreme" between Federal and Poverty.
Mr. Nina and I are one of the millions who make "too much money" to qualify. However, we are also unable to afford a private plan. We had to cancel our policy this month. The premium's have become too expensive.
For the 2008 Poverty Guidelines, check out this link.
Corvallis and Albany Job Facts
Visited with a local agency today, seeking job search assistance. Found out some facts that will likely discourage but perhaps validate today's job seeker.
Health Care is the fastest growing field.
40% of employers require bilingual skills. (I'll let you guess the two languages.)
There is a glut of applicants seeking clerical and office jobs. Unless you're highly skilled in numerous computer applications, you may want to rethink about applying for these jobs.
If you have a high school diploma, you should be making $500/week. College degree? $960/week. (I can hear the laughter as I type.)
Construction jobs are difficult to fill. (While I'm not desiring to dig ditches, I was told not to rule it out.)
Trying to get me to rethink my goals, I was told the field I'm interested in studying and going into has a glut of employees in the area. Most of them volunteer.
Well, that's where I differ, I said. I plan on charging people.
Somehow that attempt at humor went unnoticed.
Health Care is the fastest growing field.
40% of employers require bilingual skills. (I'll let you guess the two languages.)
There is a glut of applicants seeking clerical and office jobs. Unless you're highly skilled in numerous computer applications, you may want to rethink about applying for these jobs.
If you have a high school diploma, you should be making $500/week. College degree? $960/week. (I can hear the laughter as I type.)
Construction jobs are difficult to fill. (While I'm not desiring to dig ditches, I was told not to rule it out.)
Trying to get me to rethink my goals, I was told the field I'm interested in studying and going into has a glut of employees in the area. Most of them volunteer.
Well, that's where I differ, I said. I plan on charging people.
Somehow that attempt at humor went unnoticed.
Oil Reaches $108 A Barrel
Get those bike tired pumped up. Watch food prices increase again. And look for another cut in the prime. Anybody but me see oil and food rationing in the future?
Meanwhile, in the land of eliticism, things are swell. Simply peachy, dahling.
Meanwhile, in the land of eliticism, things are swell. Simply peachy, dahling.
The Pacific Ocean's Dead Zone
Straight from the mouth of a commercial fisherman. He spent the weekend fishing off the coast of Oregon, covering the surface and the bottom depths. He went 47 miles out and came home with nothing. Nothing, that is, other than dead fish, crab, shrimp. Visibly upset, he said he had never seen anything like it. In all his years of fishing, he had never returned empty-handed. "How am I going to support my family?" he asked. "I have no idea what to do."
The dead zone is said to expand 100 miles, north and south. Going 47 miles out, that's a span of 4700 square miles. The thought of that is deeply frightening and painful and was so distressing to me, it brought tears to my eyes. Who are we without our oceans? Our oceans reflect the health of the rest of our natural environment. Do the System Creators and Supporters somehow think we can survive without our Oceans?
I'm going to contact Gesler and DeFazio and ask what is being done at the state and federal level to reverse this situation. To deal with it. Clean it up. Not investigate or create some damn panel to look into the matter. The proof is already there. We've been polluting the hell out of our waterways for decades and thanks to Bush and Co., they're dirtier than ever.
I'm sure most of you have heard about the problem of medications showing up in our drinking water. People dumping their leftover medications down the toilet or sink. Bad idea. Use them up or throw them out in the garbage. Or better yet, look into more natural remedies of dealing with your health issues. It greatly disturbs me to know that I may have been drinking someone elses risidual anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, statin or "sexual enhancement" drug.
Life in the 21st Century. We pollute without thought. We pop a pill to cure our ails. Our Oceans, our waterways...our natural environment is screaming out at us to change our ways. And if we look deep within our own selves, really look deep within, we will hear our own intuition speaking the same language.
The dead zone is said to expand 100 miles, north and south. Going 47 miles out, that's a span of 4700 square miles. The thought of that is deeply frightening and painful and was so distressing to me, it brought tears to my eyes. Who are we without our oceans? Our oceans reflect the health of the rest of our natural environment. Do the System Creators and Supporters somehow think we can survive without our Oceans?
I'm going to contact Gesler and DeFazio and ask what is being done at the state and federal level to reverse this situation. To deal with it. Clean it up. Not investigate or create some damn panel to look into the matter. The proof is already there. We've been polluting the hell out of our waterways for decades and thanks to Bush and Co., they're dirtier than ever.
I'm sure most of you have heard about the problem of medications showing up in our drinking water. People dumping their leftover medications down the toilet or sink. Bad idea. Use them up or throw them out in the garbage. Or better yet, look into more natural remedies of dealing with your health issues. It greatly disturbs me to know that I may have been drinking someone elses risidual anti-anxiety, anti-depressant, statin or "sexual enhancement" drug.
Life in the 21st Century. We pollute without thought. We pop a pill to cure our ails. Our Oceans, our waterways...our natural environment is screaming out at us to change our ways. And if we look deep within our own selves, really look deep within, we will hear our own intuition speaking the same language.
3.10.2008
Some Cool Lyrics
Written by yours truly over the years. This means they're mine. You cannot post them elsewhere or use them without my permission. (Gotta add that cause I've seen a couple of my blogs posted at other websites, with no mention of ownership. Blog posts, I'm not that picky about. My lyrics though, altogether different story. ) Enjoy!
Do I appear invisible to you.
Do you even care that I exist you.
I'm really not so different from you.
You know it's true.
Just look in the mirror.
And you will see
me staring back
at you
through the same eyes.
(from the piece "Invisible", 2001)
Happiness isn't something you search for
but rather found in everyday moments.
Don't let life pass you by
without knowing this.
(from "Life", 2002)
Dissent.
Is a crime.
You're a terrorist.
If you step outta line.
Put your faith in us.
So we can think for you.
(from "Wake Up", 2004)
I place my sword
on the ground.
The desire to fight
is gone.
I just want the earth to catch me
when I fall.
(from "Surrender", 2003)
Isn't it a shame
why we we hurt each
the way we do.
Turning a blind eye
when it's easy.
(from "Reach", 2003)
We're all told
growin' up.
We can have what we want if we work
hard enough.
And yet I look around
and what do I see.
People workin' hard
and livin' in poverty.
One world divided.
(from "One World Divided", 2002)
Corruption's ignored
while war's the way.
There'll be nothing left
when our kids come of age.
Oh no, not in my name.
Insanity's the name of the game.
We run from the truth
when it's in front of our eyes.
Life was never meant to be this way.
Let's unite as one
and create a new day.
(from "Not In My Name", 2007)
Do I appear invisible to you.
Do you even care that I exist you.
I'm really not so different from you.
You know it's true.
Just look in the mirror.
And you will see
me staring back
at you
through the same eyes.
(from the piece "Invisible", 2001)
Happiness isn't something you search for
but rather found in everyday moments.
Don't let life pass you by
without knowing this.
(from "Life", 2002)
Dissent.
Is a crime.
You're a terrorist.
If you step outta line.
Put your faith in us.
So we can think for you.
(from "Wake Up", 2004)
I place my sword
on the ground.
The desire to fight
is gone.
I just want the earth to catch me
when I fall.
(from "Surrender", 2003)
Isn't it a shame
why we we hurt each
the way we do.
Turning a blind eye
when it's easy.
(from "Reach", 2003)
We're all told
growin' up.
We can have what we want if we work
hard enough.
And yet I look around
and what do I see.
People workin' hard
and livin' in poverty.
One world divided.
(from "One World Divided", 2002)
Corruption's ignored
while war's the way.
There'll be nothing left
when our kids come of age.
Oh no, not in my name.
Insanity's the name of the game.
We run from the truth
when it's in front of our eyes.
Life was never meant to be this way.
Let's unite as one
and create a new day.
(from "Not In My Name", 2007)
In Honor Of Uncle Sam And His Corporate Minions
All those who post here from now on must leave the following: full name, address, social security number, blood and urine sample, the reason for your visit, whether or not you are affiliated with any terrorist organization(s), your sexual orientation and religious preference. Please be prepared to undergo a background, credit and DMV check. Also know the potential for a retina scan exists as well. Please know that at the end of your comment, you will be required to provide a sample of your skin for the insertion of an RFID chip. We will mail that to you, along with instructions on reattachment.
Thank you. And have a good day.
Thank you. And have a good day.
3.09.2008
Food Costs, Daylight Savings Time and Other Dysfunctions...And Hope
Went grocery shopping yesterday. If ever there was a time to demand corporations stop passing on their expenses to the consumer, it is indeed now. Our grocery bill has jumped over 30%. Not like we're eating steak and lobster either. Basic food items, in bulk when I can. Watching for sales of items I buy. Coupons, too. I'm even baking our own bread at this point, eating more vegetarian. With the cost of fuel "rising", with harsh weather wiping out crops, and with corporate america's mantra of "we ain't eating this expense...let's pass it onto the consumer", this problem is only going to continue obviously. Mr. N and I will be growing some of our own food this year, depending on the cost of making raised beds that is. My idea of taking some of this land that is being destroyed in this city by corporate retailers and instead turning it into community garden plots is one needing to be implemented. Now.
And we have the daylight savings time. What a crock. Corporate America's wet dream. They think with more daylight, people will spend more cash. The premise being, when you leave your home you spend the greens. The only thing I like about the increased daylight is evening bike rides, walks and bbq's. The change in time has a real impact on our biological internal clocks. I'm quite sensitive to it. I've resisted, for years, this twice-a-year clock change. Let's pick a structured time and stick with it, shall we? Being that won't likely happen in the foreseeable future, there are things we can do to show these corporate fucktards their little plan won't be working. If you do decide to spend more time away from the home and you are able-bodied, ride your bike. Go to the library or a free concert or lecture instead of giving some restaurant chain, clothing store or movie theatre your hard earned cash. Take a walk (again, if you are able-bodied) with your spouse. Bring along your animal friends. They'll be very appreciative! Gather with neighbors in the street and do some old-fashioned talking. Anymore ideas?
While this area has a fairly large number of social service agencies, what is grossly lacking is their awareness of what each agency offers. I cannot count the number of occasions I have discovered something offered by a particular agency through my own doing. I would think they would have some sort of a network so that if a potential client calls seeking services, if it is something they don't or can't offer, they would know if a neighboring agency may be able to help. Common sense, right? Also shows empathy, compassion, and certainly a commitment to helping out those in need. I recently experienced this when I inquired about the low income utilities assistance program. I call up the city, ask what it's about. "I don't know," I was told. "Contact The United Way. They sponsor it." So, I ring up the United Way. "Call CSC. They do our screening," I'm told. So I ring up CSC. And, as is usually the case, I have to leave a message or two (or more), then call back. CSC staff is notoriously known for not returning phone calls. So I finally connect with the CSC staff person, who sends me an application. Upon receiving it, I was surprised to find out the numerous living expenses The United Way will pay for or help pay for, on a one-time basis. Health care expenses. Utility expenses. The list was certainly longer than I expected. And in all of my years of dealing with DHS, CSC and other agencies, not once was I told about this program. A program that is usually referred to clients through said agencies.
I once had the idea, years back, of a very part-time non-profit, whose sole responsiblity it was to know what each of the community private and public agencies offered and to have a manual that is given out to each agency. A manual that is updated twice a year so information is current, something I have found oh so lacking in local agencies. Anyone care to fund that idea? I'll take on the task.
In all of this chaos, hope can be difficult to feel, to find. If anything, as we go through this experience, as I go through this experience, I find myself taking more time to focus on the present and to see those things I'm thankful for. Gratitude. I admit, sometimes I cling to those moments fiercely. And in those moments, when I'm sitting silently holding Mr. N's hand or snuggled with our little pooch, when I see people connecting with one another, neighbors talking, when I see one of those cars here in town with the variety of bumper stickers promoting peace, love and progressive ideas, I feel that sense of hope. Regardless of what "their" agenda is, I still come back to the basic idea that as long as we retain our sense of compassion, care and connection with one another, hope, and thus possibility will always remain. It's something no one can take from us.
And we have the daylight savings time. What a crock. Corporate America's wet dream. They think with more daylight, people will spend more cash. The premise being, when you leave your home you spend the greens. The only thing I like about the increased daylight is evening bike rides, walks and bbq's. The change in time has a real impact on our biological internal clocks. I'm quite sensitive to it. I've resisted, for years, this twice-a-year clock change. Let's pick a structured time and stick with it, shall we? Being that won't likely happen in the foreseeable future, there are things we can do to show these corporate fucktards their little plan won't be working. If you do decide to spend more time away from the home and you are able-bodied, ride your bike. Go to the library or a free concert or lecture instead of giving some restaurant chain, clothing store or movie theatre your hard earned cash. Take a walk (again, if you are able-bodied) with your spouse. Bring along your animal friends. They'll be very appreciative! Gather with neighbors in the street and do some old-fashioned talking. Anymore ideas?
While this area has a fairly large number of social service agencies, what is grossly lacking is their awareness of what each agency offers. I cannot count the number of occasions I have discovered something offered by a particular agency through my own doing. I would think they would have some sort of a network so that if a potential client calls seeking services, if it is something they don't or can't offer, they would know if a neighboring agency may be able to help. Common sense, right? Also shows empathy, compassion, and certainly a commitment to helping out those in need. I recently experienced this when I inquired about the low income utilities assistance program. I call up the city, ask what it's about. "I don't know," I was told. "Contact The United Way. They sponsor it." So, I ring up the United Way. "Call CSC. They do our screening," I'm told. So I ring up CSC. And, as is usually the case, I have to leave a message or two (or more), then call back. CSC staff is notoriously known for not returning phone calls. So I finally connect with the CSC staff person, who sends me an application. Upon receiving it, I was surprised to find out the numerous living expenses The United Way will pay for or help pay for, on a one-time basis. Health care expenses. Utility expenses. The list was certainly longer than I expected. And in all of my years of dealing with DHS, CSC and other agencies, not once was I told about this program. A program that is usually referred to clients through said agencies.
I once had the idea, years back, of a very part-time non-profit, whose sole responsiblity it was to know what each of the community private and public agencies offered and to have a manual that is given out to each agency. A manual that is updated twice a year so information is current, something I have found oh so lacking in local agencies. Anyone care to fund that idea? I'll take on the task.
In all of this chaos, hope can be difficult to feel, to find. If anything, as we go through this experience, as I go through this experience, I find myself taking more time to focus on the present and to see those things I'm thankful for. Gratitude. I admit, sometimes I cling to those moments fiercely. And in those moments, when I'm sitting silently holding Mr. N's hand or snuggled with our little pooch, when I see people connecting with one another, neighbors talking, when I see one of those cars here in town with the variety of bumper stickers promoting peace, love and progressive ideas, I feel that sense of hope. Regardless of what "their" agenda is, I still come back to the basic idea that as long as we retain our sense of compassion, care and connection with one another, hope, and thus possibility will always remain. It's something no one can take from us.
3.07.2008
The Dark Side Of "The Secret"
Having once been a follower of the New Thought/New Age movement years ago, I've wisened up since then and realized some, if not much, of what these "religious" practices preach is fluff. At their very worst, they are dark and harmful in that they deny the reality that we all affect one another.
The folks behind "The Secret", trying to convince their readers through (at times) deceptive marketing that they and they alone have discovered something magical, and for only $21.95, you can access it too, seem to have an agenda. The agenda, as I see it, is to continue this "blame the victim" mentality, which does nothing to enact real change "out there" but instead, focuses every problem a person experiences as being "within"--those little thoughts, often unnoticed, that run around our brain. The basic premise is that (repeated) thought produces every single element of reality we experience. Something tragic happen to you? It must have been because some part of you wanted it or thought it. Interestingly enough, I haven't seen these folks address the fact that many people think quite often about winning the lottery, but most never do. And yet, a child can be brutally attacked in Darfur and the authors attribute it to the child's thought process. (Yes, I read in a publication of The Nation from last year that Bob Proctor, the man behind "The Secret" said this unbelievably ugly, callous remark during an interview on the radio.)
While I believe the power of thought and intention are very powerful, we must, we absolutely must realize that shit happens, many times beyond our control. Our thought is not the only one swirling around in the cosmos. To add to the cosmic pool, we have the thoughts and intentions of everyone else, some of whom have the intention to harm, to abuse, to manipulate and control others. One look at "The System" and one can see that writing all over the wall.
Oprah joined the bandwagon, promoting the book, claiming it was her intentions and thoughts that created her career. Oh really? It couldn't have been the other people who paved the way for women and blacks. It couldn't have been the people who took her hand, including the likes of Roger Ebert and Quincy Jones, and not only encouraged her but provided her opportunities. After hearing Oprah speak about the power of thoughts and intentions, I was a bit surprised to hear her proclaim that, until she was well into her 40's, and obviously very successful and wealthy in a business and financial sense, she felt unworthy of her success.
Wait a minute. Did I hear her correctly? If she carried the mindset that she was unworthy of success and financial wealth, how in the world did she manage to create just that? Aren't thoughts and intention everything?
I posed that question to someone in my life at the time who was not only studying New Thought teachings, but was teaching and thus charging others for the information. She had been telling me I was not financially successful because of my thoughts, because I didn't feel worthy of wealth. So I asked her "How come Oprah made it and not me, even though we both have had the same mindset?" It threw her for a loop. Rather than address it head on, she told me "We aren't to compare our lives to others. We don't know what Oprah's path and real intentions are." Huh? Oh, but the woman who was raped and was told, by Oprah herself, that some part of her must have wanted the experience, and the child in Darfur who witnesses violence most of us can't even fathom experience such ugliness because of their thoughts and intentions? Is Oprah somehow excused? Some exception to the rule?
I was ignored after that conversation. All attempts to have a real dialogue with this person went nowhere. In fact, in a brilliant move, as I've seen done by such head-in-the-cloud types who are challenged, the finger was pointed at me and I was accused of "rocking her boat and everything she believed in". In short, I was being too damn real. At the time I was apologetic. Today though I would have said "get over it."
I could take these folks seriously if they would stop engaging in the "blame the victim" and own up to the realities I've addressed. Life nor the cosmos aren't so black and white. They're full of gray, often messy chaos. But they don't seem interested in really helping people who are true victims. Instead they seem content to believe thought can change an entire planet, or at least a life, even in the midst of policies and laws created to oppress, even in the midst of a war-torn, impoverished community or nation. I'd like to see them express this to the little child in Iraq who is now an orphan and desires a life in their country without war and violence. I'd like to see them express this and then wait around with that child until the "desired" results manifest. I have a strong hunch they would be waiting a long time, when what they could do to really produce results, rather than say "think, think, think of what you want" would be to get the child out of the country and into a stable home. But it is doubtful that would be the road to take, for to do so would be to admit that, sometimes, often, perhaps always, we must rely on others and their intentions and thoughts to help move us along our journey, towards the sweet bliss of our desires.
No one's an island. We're all in this together. And besides, what good could ever come out of telling a victim of rape, war, famine that it was their intention that drew the experience to them. I can't think of anything positive. Can you?
The folks behind "The Secret", trying to convince their readers through (at times) deceptive marketing that they and they alone have discovered something magical, and for only $21.95, you can access it too, seem to have an agenda. The agenda, as I see it, is to continue this "blame the victim" mentality, which does nothing to enact real change "out there" but instead, focuses every problem a person experiences as being "within"--those little thoughts, often unnoticed, that run around our brain. The basic premise is that (repeated) thought produces every single element of reality we experience. Something tragic happen to you? It must have been because some part of you wanted it or thought it. Interestingly enough, I haven't seen these folks address the fact that many people think quite often about winning the lottery, but most never do. And yet, a child can be brutally attacked in Darfur and the authors attribute it to the child's thought process. (Yes, I read in a publication of The Nation from last year that Bob Proctor, the man behind "The Secret" said this unbelievably ugly, callous remark during an interview on the radio.)
While I believe the power of thought and intention are very powerful, we must, we absolutely must realize that shit happens, many times beyond our control. Our thought is not the only one swirling around in the cosmos. To add to the cosmic pool, we have the thoughts and intentions of everyone else, some of whom have the intention to harm, to abuse, to manipulate and control others. One look at "The System" and one can see that writing all over the wall.
Oprah joined the bandwagon, promoting the book, claiming it was her intentions and thoughts that created her career. Oh really? It couldn't have been the other people who paved the way for women and blacks. It couldn't have been the people who took her hand, including the likes of Roger Ebert and Quincy Jones, and not only encouraged her but provided her opportunities. After hearing Oprah speak about the power of thoughts and intentions, I was a bit surprised to hear her proclaim that, until she was well into her 40's, and obviously very successful and wealthy in a business and financial sense, she felt unworthy of her success.
Wait a minute. Did I hear her correctly? If she carried the mindset that she was unworthy of success and financial wealth, how in the world did she manage to create just that? Aren't thoughts and intention everything?
I posed that question to someone in my life at the time who was not only studying New Thought teachings, but was teaching and thus charging others for the information. She had been telling me I was not financially successful because of my thoughts, because I didn't feel worthy of wealth. So I asked her "How come Oprah made it and not me, even though we both have had the same mindset?" It threw her for a loop. Rather than address it head on, she told me "We aren't to compare our lives to others. We don't know what Oprah's path and real intentions are." Huh? Oh, but the woman who was raped and was told, by Oprah herself, that some part of her must have wanted the experience, and the child in Darfur who witnesses violence most of us can't even fathom experience such ugliness because of their thoughts and intentions? Is Oprah somehow excused? Some exception to the rule?
I was ignored after that conversation. All attempts to have a real dialogue with this person went nowhere. In fact, in a brilliant move, as I've seen done by such head-in-the-cloud types who are challenged, the finger was pointed at me and I was accused of "rocking her boat and everything she believed in". In short, I was being too damn real. At the time I was apologetic. Today though I would have said "get over it."
I could take these folks seriously if they would stop engaging in the "blame the victim" and own up to the realities I've addressed. Life nor the cosmos aren't so black and white. They're full of gray, often messy chaos. But they don't seem interested in really helping people who are true victims. Instead they seem content to believe thought can change an entire planet, or at least a life, even in the midst of policies and laws created to oppress, even in the midst of a war-torn, impoverished community or nation. I'd like to see them express this to the little child in Iraq who is now an orphan and desires a life in their country without war and violence. I'd like to see them express this and then wait around with that child until the "desired" results manifest. I have a strong hunch they would be waiting a long time, when what they could do to really produce results, rather than say "think, think, think of what you want" would be to get the child out of the country and into a stable home. But it is doubtful that would be the road to take, for to do so would be to admit that, sometimes, often, perhaps always, we must rely on others and their intentions and thoughts to help move us along our journey, towards the sweet bliss of our desires.
No one's an island. We're all in this together. And besides, what good could ever come out of telling a victim of rape, war, famine that it was their intention that drew the experience to them. I can't think of anything positive. Can you?
3.05.2008
I Wonder If I Could Get Away With Something Like This...
I love the irony of life sometimes. As I posted in my previous entry about employer's growing demands that employees are perfect little robots, I thought about the article's other point, about e-mail addresses. Avoid the cutsie/offensive e-mail addresses when applying for a job. Ok, so that one's a no-brainer. However, I once again thought "What about employer's respond-to e-mail addresses? Why not advice for employer's to make themselves look credible as well?"
Apparently this doesn't apply. Honest to all there is, I just viewed a position for a local employer with the e-mail reply-to address as: bitemebill
Does this mean I can apply, and make a good impression, with an e-mail address of fuckoff or ilovevodka?
Let's turn this into a game. Reply with an e-mail address you would really like to use to potential or current employers.
Apparently this doesn't apply. Honest to all there is, I just viewed a position for a local employer with the e-mail reply-to address as: bitemebill
Does this mean I can apply, and make a good impression, with an e-mail address of fuckoff or ilovevodka?
Let's turn this into a game. Reply with an e-mail address you would really like to use to potential or current employers.
In Thee I Do Not Trust
I've been reading articles about the growing number of employers who perform background checks, which includes hiring firms to research candidate's online profiles on message boards and places such as MySpace and Facebook. Nothing has been said about right to privacy in one's private time, so I guess I need to. What someone does in his/her own private time, whether that be debate political and social issues to sharing photos of that wild trip to the Bahamas is just that--personal. Personal in that this individual is free to express themselves in whatever way they so choose when it is done outside of work time. However, employers are finding new ways to discriminate. Speaking out against Bush? Supportive of Medical Marijuana? Gay and lesbian marriage proponent? Or opponent? Got a photo of you inebriated or showing a little too much skin? If a potential employer reads your views and doesn't support them, or finds your photo distasteful, this can disqualify you.
As the article in which I read stated, in today's world of finding a good employee, which is becoming much more difficult (according to the article that is), employers must employ a variety of sources and tactics to determine what kind of a person they are considering as an employee.
This begs the question: What about the personal life and views of the employer? And of the other applicants? Will this suspicious spying be allowed to go both ways? Another question screaming to be answered is: Why are "good employee's" so difficult, supposedly, to find these days?
Perhaps it's the crappy pay most employers offer today. The stagnating wages. The ever-increasing, at enormous percentages, cost-of-living. Perhaps it's the diminishing benefits. The At-Will Employment Law, which offers nothing of benefit to the employee but instead, the employer, which takes job security and tosses it out the window. Perhaps it is the Corportization of America that has most Americans fed up and distrustful of the entire "working for the man" agenda. Perhaps the more employers become distrustful of potential employees, employees in turn become more jaded and distrustful themselves of anything with the word "employer" attached to it.
Let's return to the days when a handshake and a word were enough to seal an employment arrangement. When a living wage wasn't a negative term and was the norm. When benefits were an expectation instead of a luxury or something to beg and bargain for. This growing investigate-at-every-level trend, surrounded in suspicion, sure isn't guaranteeing employers of an employee they can trust. It is only serving to fuel the disgruntled worker.
As the article in which I read stated, in today's world of finding a good employee, which is becoming much more difficult (according to the article that is), employers must employ a variety of sources and tactics to determine what kind of a person they are considering as an employee.
This begs the question: What about the personal life and views of the employer? And of the other applicants? Will this suspicious spying be allowed to go both ways? Another question screaming to be answered is: Why are "good employee's" so difficult, supposedly, to find these days?
Perhaps it's the crappy pay most employers offer today. The stagnating wages. The ever-increasing, at enormous percentages, cost-of-living. Perhaps it's the diminishing benefits. The At-Will Employment Law, which offers nothing of benefit to the employee but instead, the employer, which takes job security and tosses it out the window. Perhaps it is the Corportization of America that has most Americans fed up and distrustful of the entire "working for the man" agenda. Perhaps the more employers become distrustful of potential employees, employees in turn become more jaded and distrustful themselves of anything with the word "employer" attached to it.
Let's return to the days when a handshake and a word were enough to seal an employment arrangement. When a living wage wasn't a negative term and was the norm. When benefits were an expectation instead of a luxury or something to beg and bargain for. This growing investigate-at-every-level trend, surrounded in suspicion, sure isn't guaranteeing employers of an employee they can trust. It is only serving to fuel the disgruntled worker.
3.04.2008
Sign Of The Times?
The following message was displayed when I went to the local Oregon Employment Department Jobs Page: There are currently no jobs for this category
Sounds about right to me.
3.03.2008
This is why I get a red flag warning from Christians
It isn't that I'm not religious or don't hold some spiritual thought. But experience, my experience that is, has shown me that Christians, overall, either do what they can to convert you or else they assume you're one of them. I cannot tell you how many times I've used the term "God" in a conversation and the Christians automatically assume I mean "Jesus" or assume I'm Christian. When I explain further my belief system, more often than not, the other person places an emotional distance between us. So in one moment I'm in their corner, I'm cool, and suddenly, because my version of "god" is different than their version, I'm to be shunned. It's all so silly. But it's happened enough that I've become cautious towards anyone wearing the Christian label.
I had an experience recently at a gathering. I was sharing one of my goals that I have been working towards. Career goal. This person asked if I was familiar with a particular book, to which I wasn't. Check it out, I was told. I have a feeling you would really enjoy it.
I finally got around to looking into the particulars of this book and found out it is written from a Christian perspective, with scripture thrown in throughout the book. Did something in me say "I'm a Christian" to this individual? Did they not think to ask what my religious preference was? Did they not stop to think perhaps I was a Buddhist? A Hindu? Muslim? Jewish? Or none of the above? Did they not think to even mention it had a Christian theme to it?
Some may deem me as being overly sensitive. However, being well over 3/4 of the U.S. population claim themselves as being Christian, those of us who don't define ourselves as Christian feel kind of left out at times. I've been told I'm going to hell or that I should be concerned about going to hell/concerned about my salvation so many times, I don't care to estimate a guess.
It doesn't have to be this way though. If only the Church would stop saying "Those who don't accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are going to hell", a lot of that awkwardness between the religious and secularists, even between the religious and the religious and/or spiritualists would disappear. We could come together as one, knowing from whence we all came, we will all return. I mean come on, what source of love, what higher intelligence would say, upon death, "Stop right there. Do you believe "X"? Yes, come on in. No, follow the flames." Does that not strike anyone as a bit ridiculous? As I've often thought, if that is indeed how it is, I'd rather experience the after-life with like-minded/conscience souls, in freedom, instead of living in fear in some strictly defined heaven. Or if hell was the option, then toss me in. I would not care to exist for eternity in any state of mind knowing I was being forced into a particular belief system just to stay conscious. That isn't love as I define it. It isn't freedom. It's judgment. It's control. We should know. Most of our leaders (public and private) practice it daily.
Continuining the conversation.... What if, upon your death as a Christian, you start to question some of the things (religiously speaking) you were taught while on earth. It's possible, correct? And as such, according to your churches teachings, wouldn't that lead to some sort of a punishment from God? Or a scolding, similar to a parent nudging a child to return to a more appropriate behavior? Do you like to be told what to do now as an adult? I don't know anyone who does, young or old actually. Who wants to spend eternity worrying about whether we're doing the right thing? We have enough of that pressure here on earth.
Think about that. Upon death, you must maintain one belief, for all eternity. Where is the freedom in that? Physical prison is one thing, but mental/conscious prison is oh so much more terrifying. At least to me.
Of course, the entire agenda of the church would crumble if that basic premise were removed, and the leaders wouldn't have much left to preach about (certainly the fear factor would be eliminated and thus, regular attendance and dollars would drop dramatically) and the members would have all of that spare time once spent recruiting. As I asked my brother: "What about the person who was raised in some remote jungle, where the terms 'jesus' and 'the bible' aren't even part of their vocabularly?" His response: "God would give him a chance once he died to change his mind." My response: "Could you change what is essentially an entire belief structure upon death?" His response: "If I was told not to do so would send me to hell, yes." My response: "But that's not authentic change. Real change comes from absolute personal truth, not fear."
Next time I'm at a gathering, I think I'll wear a little sign that says "I believe in Unity. I may use the term "god" now and then. But I wear no religious label. And I'm still cool."
I had an experience recently at a gathering. I was sharing one of my goals that I have been working towards. Career goal. This person asked if I was familiar with a particular book, to which I wasn't. Check it out, I was told. I have a feeling you would really enjoy it.
I finally got around to looking into the particulars of this book and found out it is written from a Christian perspective, with scripture thrown in throughout the book. Did something in me say "I'm a Christian" to this individual? Did they not think to ask what my religious preference was? Did they not stop to think perhaps I was a Buddhist? A Hindu? Muslim? Jewish? Or none of the above? Did they not think to even mention it had a Christian theme to it?
Some may deem me as being overly sensitive. However, being well over 3/4 of the U.S. population claim themselves as being Christian, those of us who don't define ourselves as Christian feel kind of left out at times. I've been told I'm going to hell or that I should be concerned about going to hell/concerned about my salvation so many times, I don't care to estimate a guess.
It doesn't have to be this way though. If only the Church would stop saying "Those who don't accept Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior are going to hell", a lot of that awkwardness between the religious and secularists, even between the religious and the religious and/or spiritualists would disappear. We could come together as one, knowing from whence we all came, we will all return. I mean come on, what source of love, what higher intelligence would say, upon death, "Stop right there. Do you believe "X"? Yes, come on in. No, follow the flames." Does that not strike anyone as a bit ridiculous? As I've often thought, if that is indeed how it is, I'd rather experience the after-life with like-minded/conscience souls, in freedom, instead of living in fear in some strictly defined heaven. Or if hell was the option, then toss me in. I would not care to exist for eternity in any state of mind knowing I was being forced into a particular belief system just to stay conscious. That isn't love as I define it. It isn't freedom. It's judgment. It's control. We should know. Most of our leaders (public and private) practice it daily.
Continuining the conversation.... What if, upon your death as a Christian, you start to question some of the things (religiously speaking) you were taught while on earth. It's possible, correct? And as such, according to your churches teachings, wouldn't that lead to some sort of a punishment from God? Or a scolding, similar to a parent nudging a child to return to a more appropriate behavior? Do you like to be told what to do now as an adult? I don't know anyone who does, young or old actually. Who wants to spend eternity worrying about whether we're doing the right thing? We have enough of that pressure here on earth.
Think about that. Upon death, you must maintain one belief, for all eternity. Where is the freedom in that? Physical prison is one thing, but mental/conscious prison is oh so much more terrifying. At least to me.
Of course, the entire agenda of the church would crumble if that basic premise were removed, and the leaders wouldn't have much left to preach about (certainly the fear factor would be eliminated and thus, regular attendance and dollars would drop dramatically) and the members would have all of that spare time once spent recruiting. As I asked my brother: "What about the person who was raised in some remote jungle, where the terms 'jesus' and 'the bible' aren't even part of their vocabularly?" His response: "God would give him a chance once he died to change his mind." My response: "Could you change what is essentially an entire belief structure upon death?" His response: "If I was told not to do so would send me to hell, yes." My response: "But that's not authentic change. Real change comes from absolute personal truth, not fear."
Next time I'm at a gathering, I think I'll wear a little sign that says "I believe in Unity. I may use the term "god" now and then. But I wear no religious label. And I'm still cool."
Monday AM Employment B.S.
More "junk-as-usual" when it comes to browsing the employment ads. A local day salon is looking for a front desk sales associate. They want highly qualified individuals. The pay? $7.95/hour. Fuck that.
The next ad I read was for a local beading store. They job requires some knowledge of beads and has high level responsibilities. The pay? $8/hour. Fuck that.
Unless they want some 18 year old still living at home, those of us "older" folks who are looking for work need to start telling places like this to "fuck off". Stop insulting us. Stop demanding highly qualified, flexible folks who can handle fast-past, high level responsibilities. Stop demanding this crap unless you plan on paying a living wage and some benefits.
The next ad I read was for a local beading store. They job requires some knowledge of beads and has high level responsibilities. The pay? $8/hour. Fuck that.
Unless they want some 18 year old still living at home, those of us "older" folks who are looking for work need to start telling places like this to "fuck off". Stop insulting us. Stop demanding highly qualified, flexible folks who can handle fast-past, high level responsibilities. Stop demanding this crap unless you plan on paying a living wage and some benefits.
3.02.2008
If You're Smart, Forget About Becoming A Cop In This Connecticut Town
Well, this explains why it's so easy to brainwash our police force. If you have above average intelligence, you will be rejected. Why? You could become a likely candidate to question the system. Oh no wait, that's not correct. You will become bored.
"A US man has been rejected in his bid to become a police officer for scoring too high on an intelligence test. Robert Jordan, a 49-year-old college graduate, took an exam to join the New London police, in Connecticut, in 1996 and scored 33 points, the equivalent of an IQ of 125.
But New London police interviewed only candidates who scored 20 to 27, on the theory that those who scored too high could get bored with police work and leave soon after undergoing costly training.
Mr Jordan launched a federal lawsuit against the city, but lost.
The average score nationally for police officers is 21 to 22, the equivalent of an IQ of 104, or just a little above average."
"A US man has been rejected in his bid to become a police officer for scoring too high on an intelligence test. Robert Jordan, a 49-year-old college graduate, took an exam to join the New London police, in Connecticut, in 1996 and scored 33 points, the equivalent of an IQ of 125.
But New London police interviewed only candidates who scored 20 to 27, on the theory that those who scored too high could get bored with police work and leave soon after undergoing costly training.
Mr Jordan launched a federal lawsuit against the city, but lost.
The average score nationally for police officers is 21 to 22, the equivalent of an IQ of 104, or just a little above average."
2.29.2008
Abusive People On The Blogosphere
Blogging gives us a false sense of security. We tend to think we're safe behind our keyboard and computer screen. It's easy to abuse and be abused by others with words left on our posts and comment sections. I know at times I've had to use the delete and backspace key to change words that are otherwise nasty or less than what I would normally use when face-to-face with another.
That being said, I've had my first experience of someone posting anonymously on this blog and another of mine, accusing me of things and when I ask for more information, none is forthcoming. What follows is more little game playing, accusations and insults. Without going into detail, other than to say I am confident this person was once pulling the same little game on a fellow blogger whom I know personally (as in know in "real" life), it's caused me to think about some things. For one, I won't be feeding into this person's need for attention. All further comments will be deleted. And yet, I also want to say "fuck it" to taking the higher ground of practicing respect, treating others the way I'd want to be treated. I've taken a lot of verbal abuse throughout my life, most of the time silently. Either that or I try and come across as feeling ok about the experience, trying to deal with the situation from a place of respect.
Today's a new day though and for once, I'm gonna unleash without censoring myself. To this particular individual and to all others who think the internet gives them some sense of security in terms of abusing others, you're a sick fucker. Who in the fuck do you think you are? Does it make you feel superior, does it give you a rush to attack and abuse another person? Does it give you a sense of sick delight to manipulate another person, to draw them in to your obsessive need for attention, whether it's negative or positive?
I don't care what your mommy or your daddy did or didn't do for or to you as a child. I don't care if you were brutalized or ignored as a child. I don't care if someone came along and stole your puppy or your sweetheart or your favorite toy. I don't care of the kids taunted you at every chance possible. Nothing ever will give you the justified reason to abuse or harm another person without cause.
If I had the power, I'd put you all on a boat to nowhere so you could abuse each other and live in your own little delusional prison. Until then, do what the rest of us do. Acknowledge the crap that you were handed that caused your pain and work your ass off to heal from it and better yourself so that you don't repeat the cycle. Own up to your shit. You owe it to yourself.
That being said, I've had my first experience of someone posting anonymously on this blog and another of mine, accusing me of things and when I ask for more information, none is forthcoming. What follows is more little game playing, accusations and insults. Without going into detail, other than to say I am confident this person was once pulling the same little game on a fellow blogger whom I know personally (as in know in "real" life), it's caused me to think about some things. For one, I won't be feeding into this person's need for attention. All further comments will be deleted. And yet, I also want to say "fuck it" to taking the higher ground of practicing respect, treating others the way I'd want to be treated. I've taken a lot of verbal abuse throughout my life, most of the time silently. Either that or I try and come across as feeling ok about the experience, trying to deal with the situation from a place of respect.
Today's a new day though and for once, I'm gonna unleash without censoring myself. To this particular individual and to all others who think the internet gives them some sense of security in terms of abusing others, you're a sick fucker. Who in the fuck do you think you are? Does it make you feel superior, does it give you a rush to attack and abuse another person? Does it give you a sense of sick delight to manipulate another person, to draw them in to your obsessive need for attention, whether it's negative or positive?
I don't care what your mommy or your daddy did or didn't do for or to you as a child. I don't care if you were brutalized or ignored as a child. I don't care if someone came along and stole your puppy or your sweetheart or your favorite toy. I don't care of the kids taunted you at every chance possible. Nothing ever will give you the justified reason to abuse or harm another person without cause.
If I had the power, I'd put you all on a boat to nowhere so you could abuse each other and live in your own little delusional prison. Until then, do what the rest of us do. Acknowledge the crap that you were handed that caused your pain and work your ass off to heal from it and better yourself so that you don't repeat the cycle. Own up to your shit. You owe it to yourself.
2.28.2008
Ralph Nader: An Unreasonable Man
Watching this documentary, I was able to see again one of my favorite quotes, a quote I used to attach to my e-mails years ago. "The reasonable person adapts themself to the world; the unreasonable person persists in trying to adapt the world to them. Therefore, all progress is dependent upon the unreasonable person." George Bernard Shaw, 1903. That's a good quote to remember when I'm being told how unreasonable I am.
As I posted a couple of days ago, Ralph Nader is making another run this year for president. He really is the only one running who truly would represent the people, you and I. It's something he's done for close to 50 years. Without making himself a multi millionaire. Without Corporate backing. Here are just some of the things in which we have to thank Ralph.
1) We have him to thank for the seatbelts in our cars.
2) We have him to thank for the air bags in our cars.
3) We have him to thank for the labeling on our prescription bottles.
4) We have him to thank for some of the labeling on our food.
5) We have him to thank for making our air cleaner and our food safer.
And did you know, that since 1978, no new nuclear power plants have been constructed here in the U.S.? Guess who we have to thank for that one. Yep. Ralph Nader.
This post isn't just my own personal endorsement of the man. It's also to talk about the documentary and how fascinating it was to watch him in action over the years, taking on Big Business and reprimanding the government during congressional hearings, keeping them accountable. Ralph Nader is the citizen crusader of this country and he certainly hasn't been in it for the money. It's his life work. It's his passion. He lives and breathes what he does. He really cares about the safety of the american people and he's equally as passionate in pursuing justice when he sees injustice. And of course, he's a strong supporter of democracy and a government that represents the people. He says he was outraged by the corporate culture he saw in government that began during the 1970's and yet, as he remarked, compared to today's environment, what we saw during the 70's was benign.
It was disheartening to see his support drop during his 2004 run and how unfairly attacked he was by progressives and Democrats. Even Michael Moore, who back in 2000 was a big Nader supporter and was encouraging people to vote with their conscience, vote with their heart, to stop the trend of "voting for the lesser of two evils" (which Ralph humorously points out "what you have left is still evil"). And yet in 2004, Moore had changed his tune, even going so far as to encourage people NOT to vote for who makes them feel good, saying a few moments of feeling good can lead to years of terrible consequences. Geesh! Talk about jumping ship.
People were so desperate to keep Bush out of office for another 4 years, they saw Ralph, again, as a Spoiler. Some went so far as to call him selfish for running, claiming he was all about ego (as though none of the other presidential candidates has ever not had his--or her--ego front and center). While everyone has a right to their opinion, I would put that one in the "absolutely false" category. He ran because he sees the corruption in both parties. He sees the corporate control in the halls of government. He sees how a vote for a Democrat or a Republican, while it may result in some typically minor differences in policy, is still, overall, a vote for Big Business. How can that possibly be good for America, for you and I? It can't. It never can be. It never will be.
He wasn't a spoiler. What he did was stir up people who generally don't vote. He didn't take votes away. He brought the apathetic non-voter into the scene, thus brought in new votes.
Watching this movie left me with a couple of my own quotes that I will end with.
1) An apathetic citizenry is a killer of democracy.
2) For to lose the ability to be outraged by acts of injustice is to ensure more acts of injustice.
As I posted a couple of days ago, Ralph Nader is making another run this year for president. He really is the only one running who truly would represent the people, you and I. It's something he's done for close to 50 years. Without making himself a multi millionaire. Without Corporate backing. Here are just some of the things in which we have to thank Ralph.
1) We have him to thank for the seatbelts in our cars.
2) We have him to thank for the air bags in our cars.
3) We have him to thank for the labeling on our prescription bottles.
4) We have him to thank for some of the labeling on our food.
5) We have him to thank for making our air cleaner and our food safer.
And did you know, that since 1978, no new nuclear power plants have been constructed here in the U.S.? Guess who we have to thank for that one. Yep. Ralph Nader.
This post isn't just my own personal endorsement of the man. It's also to talk about the documentary and how fascinating it was to watch him in action over the years, taking on Big Business and reprimanding the government during congressional hearings, keeping them accountable. Ralph Nader is the citizen crusader of this country and he certainly hasn't been in it for the money. It's his life work. It's his passion. He lives and breathes what he does. He really cares about the safety of the american people and he's equally as passionate in pursuing justice when he sees injustice. And of course, he's a strong supporter of democracy and a government that represents the people. He says he was outraged by the corporate culture he saw in government that began during the 1970's and yet, as he remarked, compared to today's environment, what we saw during the 70's was benign.
It was disheartening to see his support drop during his 2004 run and how unfairly attacked he was by progressives and Democrats. Even Michael Moore, who back in 2000 was a big Nader supporter and was encouraging people to vote with their conscience, vote with their heart, to stop the trend of "voting for the lesser of two evils" (which Ralph humorously points out "what you have left is still evil"). And yet in 2004, Moore had changed his tune, even going so far as to encourage people NOT to vote for who makes them feel good, saying a few moments of feeling good can lead to years of terrible consequences. Geesh! Talk about jumping ship.
People were so desperate to keep Bush out of office for another 4 years, they saw Ralph, again, as a Spoiler. Some went so far as to call him selfish for running, claiming he was all about ego (as though none of the other presidential candidates has ever not had his--or her--ego front and center). While everyone has a right to their opinion, I would put that one in the "absolutely false" category. He ran because he sees the corruption in both parties. He sees the corporate control in the halls of government. He sees how a vote for a Democrat or a Republican, while it may result in some typically minor differences in policy, is still, overall, a vote for Big Business. How can that possibly be good for America, for you and I? It can't. It never can be. It never will be.
He wasn't a spoiler. What he did was stir up people who generally don't vote. He didn't take votes away. He brought the apathetic non-voter into the scene, thus brought in new votes.
Watching this movie left me with a couple of my own quotes that I will end with.
1) An apathetic citizenry is a killer of democracy.
2) For to lose the ability to be outraged by acts of injustice is to ensure more acts of injustice.
H.R. 1638
This important piece of legislation helps those affected by the attacks on 9/11, including the rescue workers and people who lived and worked in the area at the time. It provides services to these folks who have been dealing with a variety of ailments, including respiratory sickness and post traumatic stress. As shown in Sicko, our rescue workers are still dealing with on-going health issues that our government refuses to acknowledge let alone offer $$ assistance. If that doesn't speak volumes as to the blatant lack of appreciation and respect our government continues to show its citizens, especially those who do the dirty work, I don't know what does.
Only a handful of representatives have signed on, most of them from the New York/New Jersey area. Ridiculous. This bill was introduced a year ago and has sat silent since April, 2007 (!!). I am disgusted that I never heard it mention on the MSM. I am also appalled that every single representative has not signed this bill and gotten it passed already so these folks can get the help they need and deserve. Please contact your representative and demand they endorse this bill. If you do not know or aren't sure who your representative is, click on this link.
Only a handful of representatives have signed on, most of them from the New York/New Jersey area. Ridiculous. This bill was introduced a year ago and has sat silent since April, 2007 (!!). I am disgusted that I never heard it mention on the MSM. I am also appalled that every single representative has not signed this bill and gotten it passed already so these folks can get the help they need and deserve. Please contact your representative and demand they endorse this bill. If you do not know or aren't sure who your representative is, click on this link.
2.27.2008
New Uses For RFID Chips
No. They won't be used to insert during rectal exams of our elected leaders, although that isn't a bad idea. Give us a powerful taser along with the ability to track them. When they go against our wishes, we find out where they are and give 'em a zap in the ass.
Ok. Enough fantasyland amusement. Today whilst at the store, I paid for my purchases with my debit card. Or shall I say I tried. The machine showed the "card error" message, so I handed the card to the clerk and asked her to hand enter it. That didn't work either, so I ended up writing a check. Funny, how I found this to be an inconvenience given just 5 years ago or so, writing a check was the norm. Interesting how we adapt and get used to things.
However, these RFID chips aren't anything I plan on or wish to get used to.
After my purchase, I stopped by my bank and asked them to check on my account. All was good. What was needed was a new debit card. As my order was being placed I was asked if I wanted one of the new "Tap and Go" cards.
"The what huh?" I asked, confused.
"Tap and Go," the bank clerk said, smiling.
"I have no idea what that is," I said, still looking confused.
Well turns out it's just as it sounds. Instead of scanning, you tap your card. How weird, I thought. Hmmm.... Somewhere from within, a light turned on.
"What enables the card to be read with just a tap?" I asked, already pretty confident I knew the answer.
"Oh, one of those radio chips," said the clerk.
"RFID?" I said, rather loudly. "NO WAY, no thank you. No frigging way will I be tracked with those things! I will stick with the old style!"
Need I mention almost every head in the bank turned my way as I made this announcement.
"I understand," the clerk said, smiling, before saying, rather quietly, she, too found the RFID chips disturbing.
A ha. A sheeple who is awakening, I thought.
So I went on to tell her something I heard on a radio talk show last night, something I also want to pass along to my readers, in case none of you have yet heard. Plans are underway by one of the big makers of the RFID Chips (maybe it's Tyco?) to start putting chips into shoes and clothing--that will be hidden within the fibers--and without our knowledge. Groups are currently lobbying congress. Not to stop the process, but to require manufacturers to label the clothing as carrying an RFID chip.
If that isn't disturbing enough, these new chips will be able to monitor us from, get this, a distance of only TWENTY FEET.
Well, the bank clerk was stunned. "Rather disturbing, huh?" I asked.
"Yes, it is," she said, shaking her head.
I was under the impression RFID chips are already in many of our products without our knowledge, only we can visibly see them. At least that's what I assume Mr. Nina and I tear out, destroy and throw away. However, to have them embedded. Hidden. Without our knowledge.
So there you have it. Clothing of the future will be tagged and there's a good chance we won't know it. And the new ATM cards called "TAP AND GO" are now available and being passed out to customers. At least with the card you have a choice. For now.
Ok. Enough fantasyland amusement. Today whilst at the store, I paid for my purchases with my debit card. Or shall I say I tried. The machine showed the "card error" message, so I handed the card to the clerk and asked her to hand enter it. That didn't work either, so I ended up writing a check. Funny, how I found this to be an inconvenience given just 5 years ago or so, writing a check was the norm. Interesting how we adapt and get used to things.
However, these RFID chips aren't anything I plan on or wish to get used to.
After my purchase, I stopped by my bank and asked them to check on my account. All was good. What was needed was a new debit card. As my order was being placed I was asked if I wanted one of the new "Tap and Go" cards.
"The what huh?" I asked, confused.
"Tap and Go," the bank clerk said, smiling.
"I have no idea what that is," I said, still looking confused.
Well turns out it's just as it sounds. Instead of scanning, you tap your card. How weird, I thought. Hmmm.... Somewhere from within, a light turned on.
"What enables the card to be read with just a tap?" I asked, already pretty confident I knew the answer.
"Oh, one of those radio chips," said the clerk.
"RFID?" I said, rather loudly. "NO WAY, no thank you. No frigging way will I be tracked with those things! I will stick with the old style!"
Need I mention almost every head in the bank turned my way as I made this announcement.
"I understand," the clerk said, smiling, before saying, rather quietly, she, too found the RFID chips disturbing.
A ha. A sheeple who is awakening, I thought.
So I went on to tell her something I heard on a radio talk show last night, something I also want to pass along to my readers, in case none of you have yet heard. Plans are underway by one of the big makers of the RFID Chips (maybe it's Tyco?) to start putting chips into shoes and clothing--that will be hidden within the fibers--and without our knowledge. Groups are currently lobbying congress. Not to stop the process, but to require manufacturers to label the clothing as carrying an RFID chip.
If that isn't disturbing enough, these new chips will be able to monitor us from, get this, a distance of only TWENTY FEET.
Well, the bank clerk was stunned. "Rather disturbing, huh?" I asked.
"Yes, it is," she said, shaking her head.
I was under the impression RFID chips are already in many of our products without our knowledge, only we can visibly see them. At least that's what I assume Mr. Nina and I tear out, destroy and throw away. However, to have them embedded. Hidden. Without our knowledge.
So there you have it. Clothing of the future will be tagged and there's a good chance we won't know it. And the new ATM cards called "TAP AND GO" are now available and being passed out to customers. At least with the card you have a choice. For now.
2.26.2008
News of the Day: From Food Rationing to Solar Activity to Coming Econonmic Crisis
As I first read on Nolo's blog, Solar Activity has been quiet lately, which has scientists wondering if we're headed for a serious cooling trend while once again, claiming the biggest controller of climate change is the sun. Who knows. I'm on the fence with this issue. You'll want to read the comment section as well for continued discussion. This article also contemplates the same thing.
Then there was the recent warning from the UN about possible food rations for the middle class.
And if that isn't enough, if you're able to stomach more (my mind's spinning at this point), here's an interesting piece that predicts the heart of our economic crumbling will be visible come September 2008.
Then there was the recent warning from the UN about possible food rations for the middle class.
And if that isn't enough, if you're able to stomach more (my mind's spinning at this point), here's an interesting piece that predicts the heart of our economic crumbling will be visible come September 2008.
Another Study Showing The Ineffectiveness Of Anti-Depressants
As first read on this fellow Corvallis blogger's website. Irvin Kirsch, University of Hull, lead the study. Here's what he and his researchers concluded.
"Washington--The researchers found that compared with placebo, these new-generation antidepressant medications did not yield clinically significant improvements in depression in patients who initially had moderate or even very severe depression. The study found that significant benefits occurred only in the most severely depressed patients. Although patients get better when they take antidepressants, they also get better when they take a placebo, and the difference in improvement is not very great. This means that depressed people can improve without chemical treatments, Kirsch said in a statement."
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Not surprising.
We're being sold, essentially, love in a pill, for that is what we are really in need of. When our needs aren't being met, the mind and body become stressed. The result is illness, or a body that becomes out of balance. Our needs are universal. Physically we need safe shelter, healthy food and water, clothing. Emotionally and mentally we need connections with one another. We need to be respected, heard, cared about and for. We need activity that supports the mind and body.
We have a system in place that tells us to fear one another, to put our faith, respect and trust in government, business/employers, doctors, the church, our teachers or whoever the System says is the authority figure. And yet is any of that trust, respect and faith returned to us in kind, in the way we are told (often demanded) to give it? Hardly.
We're taught that hard work and long hours (which in today's world means you're working like a slave for someone else who is in turn becoming rich off of your labor) is something to be proud of, to be honored. We're taught to keep quiet if any thought, belief or action goes contrary to the individualistic ways of America.
We've been so brutally and methodically lied to, for so long, it is no surprise we're suffering. The answer to what ails us does not come in a pill. While I realize for some medication is necessary, if we were to truly change how we think and live, believe and act/interact, we wouldn't need so many of these damn pills. In fact, if we were to get clear on what our needs are, individually and collectively, and work together to achieve these needs, we would likely put a lot of pharmaceutical companies (and likely even some health care professionals) out of business. But that's ok. We would help these folks create something new for themselves. Needs are needs, as as hard as this pill is to swallow, (no pun intended), we are all equally worthy and deserving of having those needs meet.
We were not meant to get sick in the way we do, with the frequency in which we do. The body is such a miraculous entity. It isn't just a machine. It's our vehicle for everything we are. And not only do we need to treat it better, we also need to treat our heart, our feelings/emotions with the same amount of care. We cannot do this on our own either. We need to do it together. And if the System won't go along, we need to create our own System that has as its core agenda the goal of ensuring the needs of those it is serving are met, with respect and without fail.
"Washington--The researchers found that compared with placebo, these new-generation antidepressant medications did not yield clinically significant improvements in depression in patients who initially had moderate or even very severe depression. The study found that significant benefits occurred only in the most severely depressed patients. Although patients get better when they take antidepressants, they also get better when they take a placebo, and the difference in improvement is not very great. This means that depressed people can improve without chemical treatments, Kirsch said in a statement."
Click here to read the rest of the article.
Not surprising.
We're being sold, essentially, love in a pill, for that is what we are really in need of. When our needs aren't being met, the mind and body become stressed. The result is illness, or a body that becomes out of balance. Our needs are universal. Physically we need safe shelter, healthy food and water, clothing. Emotionally and mentally we need connections with one another. We need to be respected, heard, cared about and for. We need activity that supports the mind and body.
We have a system in place that tells us to fear one another, to put our faith, respect and trust in government, business/employers, doctors, the church, our teachers or whoever the System says is the authority figure. And yet is any of that trust, respect and faith returned to us in kind, in the way we are told (often demanded) to give it? Hardly.
We're taught that hard work and long hours (which in today's world means you're working like a slave for someone else who is in turn becoming rich off of your labor) is something to be proud of, to be honored. We're taught to keep quiet if any thought, belief or action goes contrary to the individualistic ways of America.
We've been so brutally and methodically lied to, for so long, it is no surprise we're suffering. The answer to what ails us does not come in a pill. While I realize for some medication is necessary, if we were to truly change how we think and live, believe and act/interact, we wouldn't need so many of these damn pills. In fact, if we were to get clear on what our needs are, individually and collectively, and work together to achieve these needs, we would likely put a lot of pharmaceutical companies (and likely even some health care professionals) out of business. But that's ok. We would help these folks create something new for themselves. Needs are needs, as as hard as this pill is to swallow, (no pun intended), we are all equally worthy and deserving of having those needs meet.
We were not meant to get sick in the way we do, with the frequency in which we do. The body is such a miraculous entity. It isn't just a machine. It's our vehicle for everything we are. And not only do we need to treat it better, we also need to treat our heart, our feelings/emotions with the same amount of care. We cannot do this on our own either. We need to do it together. And if the System won't go along, we need to create our own System that has as its core agenda the goal of ensuring the needs of those it is serving are met, with respect and without fail.
2.25.2008
Monday (Political) Musings
I saw on the news last night that Nader's made the official announcement to run for President. At least I now have someone who will be officially on the ballot here in Oregon (I can only hope) who I can vote for in good conscience. Nader, that unreasonable, always-pushing-the-status-quo-envelope candidate is, if anything, a likable guy. Who can dislike a man in a $25 tweed blazer? What will most likely happen though is the following. The Republicans will essentially ignore him and the Democrats will try and encourage Nader supporters to change teams to keep the Republicans from taking office in 2008. A logical argument. And yet, aren't we tired of playing that game? And are we not yet aware that a vote for Hillary or Obama is a vote for the status quo and essentially, more of the same? Take a looksie and see who is backing Hillary and Obama.
I was reminded yesterday, after reading the paper, why, in part, I have become disgruntled with the election process, or at the very least, with the mindset of some if not many Americans. The Gazette Times had an editorial whereby the author stated that out of all of the candidates, she favored the ideas of Kucinich. Not surprising since polls conducted online have garnered the same results, especially amongst registered Democrats. However, she then fell asleep, as do so many others, when she said she would not vote for him because she didn't find him electable. She even went so far as to compare him to Charlie Brown. (This woman has a job writing for a newspaper???)
Sigh. I digress... She has obviously been glued to the MSM outlets and has not taken the time to actually research Kucinich and his political record. If she had, she would see he is very much a powerful man and has a history of taking on Big Business, his status-quo colleagues and issues most candidates shy away from, like impeachment, universal health care, the disasters of NAFTO and the WTO. A wimp like Charlie Brown? Hardly. My question for her and all others who think along the lines as she does is: "If you like the ideas, why not support the candidate behind the ideas?" No more "well he/she isn't electable" or "the polls show this". Enough. Vote for who you want, end of story. If we all did that, we could really have a new movement afoot. Until then, expect the same 'ole same 'ole.
MoveOn sent me an e-mail this morning griping about the attacks coming from the Republican party. As though that's headline, shocking news. Wow. A Republican is attacking a Democrat. Wow. A Democrat is attacking a Republican. It's all smoke and mirrors, designed to keep us glued to petty cat fights while ignoring the real issues.
Consider me the new MSM. Vote for who you want. Vote for who you want. Vote for who YOU want. Vote for WHO YOU WANT. Until I learn subliminal conditioning, you will have to settle for all caps and bold.
I was reminded yesterday, after reading the paper, why, in part, I have become disgruntled with the election process, or at the very least, with the mindset of some if not many Americans. The Gazette Times had an editorial whereby the author stated that out of all of the candidates, she favored the ideas of Kucinich. Not surprising since polls conducted online have garnered the same results, especially amongst registered Democrats. However, she then fell asleep, as do so many others, when she said she would not vote for him because she didn't find him electable. She even went so far as to compare him to Charlie Brown. (This woman has a job writing for a newspaper???)
Sigh. I digress... She has obviously been glued to the MSM outlets and has not taken the time to actually research Kucinich and his political record. If she had, she would see he is very much a powerful man and has a history of taking on Big Business, his status-quo colleagues and issues most candidates shy away from, like impeachment, universal health care, the disasters of NAFTO and the WTO. A wimp like Charlie Brown? Hardly. My question for her and all others who think along the lines as she does is: "If you like the ideas, why not support the candidate behind the ideas?" No more "well he/she isn't electable" or "the polls show this". Enough. Vote for who you want, end of story. If we all did that, we could really have a new movement afoot. Until then, expect the same 'ole same 'ole.
MoveOn sent me an e-mail this morning griping about the attacks coming from the Republican party. As though that's headline, shocking news. Wow. A Republican is attacking a Democrat. Wow. A Democrat is attacking a Republican. It's all smoke and mirrors, designed to keep us glued to petty cat fights while ignoring the real issues.
Consider me the new MSM. Vote for who you want. Vote for who you want. Vote for who YOU want. Vote for WHO YOU WANT. Until I learn subliminal conditioning, you will have to settle for all caps and bold.
2.24.2008
Sicko, Indeed!
We finally got around to watching "Sicko" last night. Sick, indeed, on so many levels.
This isn't just about health insurance affordability. It's about basic human decency. And for that, Corporate America gets a big red "F" on their gluttonous fat asses. And a big "F" factor for all those persons, private and public, who support this gross exploitation.
I won't go into the intricate details of the movie, since we are likely one of the last folks on the planet to watch this flick (and just in time for tonight's Academy Awards, where "Sicko" is up for best documentary). And I didn't really learn anything I didn't already know. But still, it moved me. Deeply. As such, I'll share some things that most touched me.
I like how Mike was able to find a Canadian, a member of the Conservative Party no less, who fully supports Canada's Health Care System. His opinion was one of universal collectivism. We are to take care of one another, he opined with absolute certainty. Those with help out those without, bring us along together, equally. Basic human decency, right there, coming from someone who is otherwise quite conservative in his political views. Proving, of course, that human decency, that the concept of "we're all in the same boat" can indeed run through all party politic lines.
Also of interest to me was the discussion with an older gentleman from G. Britain about government/system manipulation, how a populace is harder to govern when they are educated, healthy and confident. However, through a variety means, make that populace demoralized and frightened and you have puppets willing to trust you with their strings. As one former American citizen now living in France said, "The problem is, the people of America are afraid of their government. Here in France, the government is afraid of the people." (a la V's character in V for Vendetta) While I have a hard time imagining any of today's major government bodies being afraid of their citizens, she did make a point in that over in France, people protest in mass quantities, unlike the protests here in the states, which are typically small and short-lived.
And who can forget the stories of the people. The mother whose baby girl died because she didn't take her to an insurance-approved hospital, and rather than treat the girl anyway, who was in urgent need of medical attention due to her 104 degree temperature, the hospital forcefully removed the mother and her daughter. Shortly after they arrived at the "approved" hospital, the mother's daughter died. The husband who had kidney cancer and who, upon finding his brother was a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant, was denied coverage by the insurance company and died 3 weeks later. The women who had cancer and died for the same reason. And the most disturbing of all, if such a thing were even possible, were the stories of former insurance company employees, showing obvious signs of regret and sadness over how many people they denied coverage, simply due to greed. The cake topper for me was the physician testifying before congress back in the mid 1990's, sharing how the more she denied medical treatment to patient's (some of whom died, how many she wasn't even sure of), the more bonuses the insurance companies provided. I recall seeing this same doctor on Oprah last year, how her story was being challenged by an insurance industry spokeswoman, claiming "that doesn't happen anymore", to which the doctor immediately stated "That is a lie. I witness it happening regularly."
Aside from the profound level of sadness and utterly lack of ability to wrap my mind around such behavior, I could only wonder why these "insurance" folks playing russian roulette with their customers aren't in jail for, at the very least, manslaughter?
From where did this HMO scam originate? We have Richard Nixon to thank for that one. Thanks to old audio recordings, the viewer was privy to hearing Dick state his enthusiastic approval for a new health insurance plan that would provide less care while providing more money for insurance companies. It's indeed a brilliant plan. If you're a psychopath.
With the exception of Cuba, in countries where Universal Coverage is the norm, they enjoy healthier and longer lifestyles than we do here in the States, not to mention they receive better health care. For being how America advertises itself around the world as being number one, being the model for all in terms of liberty, freedom, democrary and happiness, our health care system sucks. It's fixable of course, but until the people and government officials remove the stranglehold the criminal insurance companies have over the entire system, people will still suffer and die unnecessarily because some sleezy numbers cruncher can only see dollar signs instead of a human being.
For all the hysterical, unfounded cries of "socialism" and "socialized medicine", we need to realize we already have in place socialistic services. Public schools, libraries, fire, police. Can you imagine the reaction if any or all of these services suddenly fell into the hands of private business? It would turn into a situation where only the wealthy could afford to send their kids to school, check out books and have that fire put out or criminal arrested.
Things certainly don't have to be this way, of course. It's all a choice. Privitization is indeed a good thing and can be beneficial to a society, if only some basic tenets are followed. For starters human worth, decency and respect is never compromised for profit. Sadly, that's not what we have today and as such, the large private operations of anything dealing with basic human needs and those that run them simply cannot be trusted nor can their strange bedfellows, the government. They have lost the right to our trust and our respect. They are the criminals and we are their victims. And as such, it is time to stop being afraid, stop being demoralized, and remember who we really are and what this country really stands for. They can join us or we can send them off to sail on their own damn boat. For in reality we don't need them as long as we have each other. That's perhaps the biggest secret of all.
This isn't just about health insurance affordability. It's about basic human decency. And for that, Corporate America gets a big red "F" on their gluttonous fat asses. And a big "F" factor for all those persons, private and public, who support this gross exploitation.
I won't go into the intricate details of the movie, since we are likely one of the last folks on the planet to watch this flick (and just in time for tonight's Academy Awards, where "Sicko" is up for best documentary). And I didn't really learn anything I didn't already know. But still, it moved me. Deeply. As such, I'll share some things that most touched me.
I like how Mike was able to find a Canadian, a member of the Conservative Party no less, who fully supports Canada's Health Care System. His opinion was one of universal collectivism. We are to take care of one another, he opined with absolute certainty. Those with help out those without, bring us along together, equally. Basic human decency, right there, coming from someone who is otherwise quite conservative in his political views. Proving, of course, that human decency, that the concept of "we're all in the same boat" can indeed run through all party politic lines.
Also of interest to me was the discussion with an older gentleman from G. Britain about government/system manipulation, how a populace is harder to govern when they are educated, healthy and confident. However, through a variety means, make that populace demoralized and frightened and you have puppets willing to trust you with their strings. As one former American citizen now living in France said, "The problem is, the people of America are afraid of their government. Here in France, the government is afraid of the people." (a la V's character in V for Vendetta) While I have a hard time imagining any of today's major government bodies being afraid of their citizens, she did make a point in that over in France, people protest in mass quantities, unlike the protests here in the states, which are typically small and short-lived.
And who can forget the stories of the people. The mother whose baby girl died because she didn't take her to an insurance-approved hospital, and rather than treat the girl anyway, who was in urgent need of medical attention due to her 104 degree temperature, the hospital forcefully removed the mother and her daughter. Shortly after they arrived at the "approved" hospital, the mother's daughter died. The husband who had kidney cancer and who, upon finding his brother was a perfect match for a bone marrow transplant, was denied coverage by the insurance company and died 3 weeks later. The women who had cancer and died for the same reason. And the most disturbing of all, if such a thing were even possible, were the stories of former insurance company employees, showing obvious signs of regret and sadness over how many people they denied coverage, simply due to greed. The cake topper for me was the physician testifying before congress back in the mid 1990's, sharing how the more she denied medical treatment to patient's (some of whom died, how many she wasn't even sure of), the more bonuses the insurance companies provided. I recall seeing this same doctor on Oprah last year, how her story was being challenged by an insurance industry spokeswoman, claiming "that doesn't happen anymore", to which the doctor immediately stated "That is a lie. I witness it happening regularly."
Aside from the profound level of sadness and utterly lack of ability to wrap my mind around such behavior, I could only wonder why these "insurance" folks playing russian roulette with their customers aren't in jail for, at the very least, manslaughter?
From where did this HMO scam originate? We have Richard Nixon to thank for that one. Thanks to old audio recordings, the viewer was privy to hearing Dick state his enthusiastic approval for a new health insurance plan that would provide less care while providing more money for insurance companies. It's indeed a brilliant plan. If you're a psychopath.
With the exception of Cuba, in countries where Universal Coverage is the norm, they enjoy healthier and longer lifestyles than we do here in the States, not to mention they receive better health care. For being how America advertises itself around the world as being number one, being the model for all in terms of liberty, freedom, democrary and happiness, our health care system sucks. It's fixable of course, but until the people and government officials remove the stranglehold the criminal insurance companies have over the entire system, people will still suffer and die unnecessarily because some sleezy numbers cruncher can only see dollar signs instead of a human being.
For all the hysterical, unfounded cries of "socialism" and "socialized medicine", we need to realize we already have in place socialistic services. Public schools, libraries, fire, police. Can you imagine the reaction if any or all of these services suddenly fell into the hands of private business? It would turn into a situation where only the wealthy could afford to send their kids to school, check out books and have that fire put out or criminal arrested.
Things certainly don't have to be this way, of course. It's all a choice. Privitization is indeed a good thing and can be beneficial to a society, if only some basic tenets are followed. For starters human worth, decency and respect is never compromised for profit. Sadly, that's not what we have today and as such, the large private operations of anything dealing with basic human needs and those that run them simply cannot be trusted nor can their strange bedfellows, the government. They have lost the right to our trust and our respect. They are the criminals and we are their victims. And as such, it is time to stop being afraid, stop being demoralized, and remember who we really are and what this country really stands for. They can join us or we can send them off to sail on their own damn boat. For in reality we don't need them as long as we have each other. That's perhaps the biggest secret of all.
2.21.2008
America Has Too Many Stores
No shit.
I look around our town and only sigh. Land being slaughtered so that the newest strip mall can be put in. Give me another coffee shop. Give me another high-end boutique. I can't get enough of expensive java and $200 pair of designer, made-in-China jeans!! MORE MORE MORE I simply must have MORE!!!
We visit the local Vina Moses center now and then. It's a wonderful place, a small thrift-store where items are donated and are free for the taking to low income individuals and families. I try and make up for what we take by donating items when I can. Next door, due east, is the latest strip mall hell being put in. And hell, it is. The sounds of jackhammers fill Vina Moses with the shakings of an earthquake. As one of the volunteers told me, this daily, on-going sound, which has been going on for months, has interrupted her ability to sleep. After 30 minutes of it, I'm ready to get out. It's traumatizing for the body.
All I can think of is what a damn waste. What an utter, sad waste of resources. Why does the City of Corvallis continue to allow this raping of our land while there are already empty retail spaces littered throughout the city? I don't get it. The Strip Mall on Circle and Highland sits mostly empty, having been built over a year ago. And need I even mention the former Cannery Mall, which, remodeled years ago still has empty spaces available?
It only makes sense to me that if there is empty retail space with no plans to lease, certainly space that has set empty for 6 months or more, that no new retail buildings will be constructed.
Why not use that land in a way that would truly benefit our community? Create a Community Center. Build a shelter to house the huge ferral cat population and provide free or low-cost spade and neutering. Construct a shelter for the homeless. More community gardens. Or here's a bright idea: LEAVE THE LAND BE and let the wild and plant life have it.
I realize my ideas don't generate much in the way of profit. But I know that it is ideas such as mine that are truly needed, certainly above and beyond the desire for name brand shoes and that $5 cup of joe.
I look around our town and only sigh. Land being slaughtered so that the newest strip mall can be put in. Give me another coffee shop. Give me another high-end boutique. I can't get enough of expensive java and $200 pair of designer, made-in-China jeans!! MORE MORE MORE I simply must have MORE!!!
We visit the local Vina Moses center now and then. It's a wonderful place, a small thrift-store where items are donated and are free for the taking to low income individuals and families. I try and make up for what we take by donating items when I can. Next door, due east, is the latest strip mall hell being put in. And hell, it is. The sounds of jackhammers fill Vina Moses with the shakings of an earthquake. As one of the volunteers told me, this daily, on-going sound, which has been going on for months, has interrupted her ability to sleep. After 30 minutes of it, I'm ready to get out. It's traumatizing for the body.
All I can think of is what a damn waste. What an utter, sad waste of resources. Why does the City of Corvallis continue to allow this raping of our land while there are already empty retail spaces littered throughout the city? I don't get it. The Strip Mall on Circle and Highland sits mostly empty, having been built over a year ago. And need I even mention the former Cannery Mall, which, remodeled years ago still has empty spaces available?
It only makes sense to me that if there is empty retail space with no plans to lease, certainly space that has set empty for 6 months or more, that no new retail buildings will be constructed.
Why not use that land in a way that would truly benefit our community? Create a Community Center. Build a shelter to house the huge ferral cat population and provide free or low-cost spade and neutering. Construct a shelter for the homeless. More community gardens. Or here's a bright idea: LEAVE THE LAND BE and let the wild and plant life have it.
I realize my ideas don't generate much in the way of profit. But I know that it is ideas such as mine that are truly needed, certainly above and beyond the desire for name brand shoes and that $5 cup of joe.
Good Luck Buying A Home
If you're thinking about taking out a mortgage in one of the following areas, good luck. Not so good credit? Forget about it. And yet even with good credit, due to stricter underwriting guidelines, taking out that mortgage is looking pretty dismal.
Arizona: Entire State.
California: Entire State.
Florida: Entire State.
Nevada: Entire State.
Colorado: Denver-Aurora, Greeley
DC/MD/VA/WV: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria;
Baltimore-Townsen, MD; Bethesda-Frederick-Gaithersburg, MD;
Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-W.VA
Georgia: Atlanda-Sandy Springs-Mariette
Hawaii: Honolulu
Idaho: Coeur d'Alene
Illinois: Chicago
Massachusetts: Boston-Worcester-Barnstable Town
Michigan: Detroit-Dearborn-Livonia
Minnesota/Wisconsin: Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington
New Jersey: Atlantic City-Hammonton; Edison-New Brunswick;
Newark-Union; Ocean City
New York/New Jersey: Nassau-Suffolk; New York-White Plains-Wayne;
Poughkeepsie-Newburgh-Middletown
Virginia: Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News-Winchester
Oregon: Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton
Washington: Tacoma
If my calculations are correct, that is 21 states and their respective major metropolitan areas. A trend which is likely to spread to their more rural counterparts as well as to other states. Any system that is not supportive of human needs and seeks to grossly profit from it to boot is doomed to fail. To read the entire article, check out this link.
Arizona: Entire State.
California: Entire State.
Florida: Entire State.
Nevada: Entire State.
Colorado: Denver-Aurora, Greeley
DC/MD/VA/WV: Washington-Arlington-Alexandria;
Baltimore-Townsen, MD; Bethesda-Frederick-Gaithersburg, MD;
Hagerstown-Martinsburg, MD-W.VA
Georgia: Atlanda-Sandy Springs-Mariette
Hawaii: Honolulu
Idaho: Coeur d'Alene
Illinois: Chicago
Massachusetts: Boston-Worcester-Barnstable Town
Michigan: Detroit-Dearborn-Livonia
Minnesota/Wisconsin: Minneapolis-St. Paul-Bloomington
New Jersey: Atlantic City-Hammonton; Edison-New Brunswick;
Newark-Union; Ocean City
New York/New Jersey: Nassau-Suffolk; New York-White Plains-Wayne;
Poughkeepsie-Newburgh-Middletown
Virginia: Virginia Beach-Norfolk-Newport News-Winchester
Oregon: Portland-Vancouver-Beaverton
Washington: Tacoma
If my calculations are correct, that is 21 states and their respective major metropolitan areas. A trend which is likely to spread to their more rural counterparts as well as to other states. Any system that is not supportive of human needs and seeks to grossly profit from it to boot is doomed to fail. To read the entire article, check out this link.
2.20.2008
Political Blatherings
All in one day thus far...and it isn't even noon yet.
For starters, while eating breakfast, I watched Rachael Ray on The View. She was talking about her charity for kids, which encourages healthy eating habits and gives scholarships to kids wanting a career in the culinary arts. A good program for certain. And then the talk turned to politics and how, or so she claims, so many people, or "everyone" as she said, was so excited over this election year.
All I could think of what do we have to really get excited about? Well, other than this will put an end to having to see Bush and Co. on our television's, but really, is there going to be real change? Or will there simply be, if a Democrat is appointed, er elected, maybe a bit more funding for education (and since when has additional money for our schools ever been shown to improve things?), social programs and continued "talk" about renewable energy sources with nothing really big in the way of investment and creation? Will there simply be continued discussion about our health care crisis and the end result will be pitiful attempts to make it more "affordable", leaving the health insurance companies unregulated while still leaving out millions? Will there simply be more blatherings about ending poverty while higher education costs are allowed to continue to skyrocket and living wage jobs continue to be merely a dream of the past, while housing, energy and food costs continue to climb astronomically? And then there's war, terrorism. Will we simply have more of the same, nation invading and pre-emptive attacks, all based on propaganda?
I understand the desperation for something new. I feel that desperation every single flipping moment of every day. But I'm also not so blind as to see what the people really want IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN as long as we continue to have a government run by big business and special interests. As long as we continue to have a two-party system. As long as we have a media that is heavily controlled, where the news of the day is not what we necessarily want to see but instead what Uncle Sam and their bedfellows want us to see. As long as NAFTA and the WTO are left as is. As long as we continue to hold firm to rugged individualism and the belief that we're the greatest nation on the planet (which only serves to divide us from other nations). So many things I could list...
Now there's this thing called "Obama Mania". He is appealing. It would be nice to look at a president and not want to smirk, roll your eyes or puke. And yet, is he authentic? I don't believe so. No one makes that quick of a rise in today's political scene unless they have very powerful (and therefore, usually corrupt) people behind the scenes making it, allowing it, to be so. Do some research and find out who is in his camp. You may be surprised and like me, given cause for some "hhmmm" thinking. Not that Hillary is any better. Quite the opposite. For starters, the number of people who died/committed "suicide" during the years of her husband's reign speaks volumes. Again, research it.
Perhaps I'm just jaded. And yet how does one become jaded? By having faith in someone, something only to find out you were being lied to, manipulated, mislead. For how many times have we as a people put our faith into a political leader only to be lead astray? Seems to happen every 4 years, doesn't it?
For starters, while eating breakfast, I watched Rachael Ray on The View. She was talking about her charity for kids, which encourages healthy eating habits and gives scholarships to kids wanting a career in the culinary arts. A good program for certain. And then the talk turned to politics and how, or so she claims, so many people, or "everyone" as she said, was so excited over this election year.
All I could think of what do we have to really get excited about? Well, other than this will put an end to having to see Bush and Co. on our television's, but really, is there going to be real change? Or will there simply be, if a Democrat is appointed, er elected, maybe a bit more funding for education (and since when has additional money for our schools ever been shown to improve things?), social programs and continued "talk" about renewable energy sources with nothing really big in the way of investment and creation? Will there simply be continued discussion about our health care crisis and the end result will be pitiful attempts to make it more "affordable", leaving the health insurance companies unregulated while still leaving out millions? Will there simply be more blatherings about ending poverty while higher education costs are allowed to continue to skyrocket and living wage jobs continue to be merely a dream of the past, while housing, energy and food costs continue to climb astronomically? And then there's war, terrorism. Will we simply have more of the same, nation invading and pre-emptive attacks, all based on propaganda?
I understand the desperation for something new. I feel that desperation every single flipping moment of every day. But I'm also not so blind as to see what the people really want IS NOT GOING TO HAPPEN as long as we continue to have a government run by big business and special interests. As long as we continue to have a two-party system. As long as we have a media that is heavily controlled, where the news of the day is not what we necessarily want to see but instead what Uncle Sam and their bedfellows want us to see. As long as NAFTA and the WTO are left as is. As long as we continue to hold firm to rugged individualism and the belief that we're the greatest nation on the planet (which only serves to divide us from other nations). So many things I could list...
Now there's this thing called "Obama Mania". He is appealing. It would be nice to look at a president and not want to smirk, roll your eyes or puke. And yet, is he authentic? I don't believe so. No one makes that quick of a rise in today's political scene unless they have very powerful (and therefore, usually corrupt) people behind the scenes making it, allowing it, to be so. Do some research and find out who is in his camp. You may be surprised and like me, given cause for some "hhmmm" thinking. Not that Hillary is any better. Quite the opposite. For starters, the number of people who died/committed "suicide" during the years of her husband's reign speaks volumes. Again, research it.
Perhaps I'm just jaded. And yet how does one become jaded? By having faith in someone, something only to find out you were being lied to, manipulated, mislead. For how many times have we as a people put our faith into a political leader only to be lead astray? Seems to happen every 4 years, doesn't it?
2.19.2008
Moments: Children Playing, Tough Guys Driving, Bee Gees Singing
While walking the pooch, I had one of those moments where I was fully in the present, absorbing the picture in front of me, feeling it all. There's a small private school nearby and on non-rainy days, the children can often be seen playing outside. Today I saw 4 children swinging joyfully and lazily on a tire swing. One was a hispanic girl, one a girl of middle east descent, one a caucasian boy and the other an african american boy. Four different races, both genders, getting along just fine, sharing a swing, all working together to keep that tire moving. It was just another reminder of who we are as children and what we tend to toss aside as we enter adulthood. It was a metaphor for our potential. A reminder of who we all really are, when you remove all of the stories we've been told about how things really are, who we really should be, think, believe.
As I walked home, I observed some of the cars passing by. One car came up from behind, thumping bass that I could feel through my body. That sort of frequency is something I'm quite sensitive to and normally I react, yell "turn that down" or something like that. Instead, I just observed. I observed the driver, a young male, likely in his late teens to early 20's. He had on his "I'm The Tough One" mask. That look that says "ain't NO ONE messin' with ME". I didn't stop there though. I imagined him as a young boy, facing some of life's difficulties for the first time, and in doing so, I could feel his vulnerability. I could see it. I could hear the messages he received about making it in the world, how to be as a male, how it's better to be tough, better to have some 'tude. It was an amazing experience and I had to fight back the urge to chase after his car and ask if I could give him a hug.
Later on, while driving around to complete some errands, I heard "How Deep Is Your Love" by the Bee Gees on the radio. Now I know some believe the Bee Gee's are pansies who write foo-foo type fluff music. However, as I've grown older and especially as I've studied music and begun the journey of writing my own compositions 10 plus years ago, I've come to the belief that these guys are brilliant songwriters, both lyrically and melodically. I've loved to jam out to their disco tunes throughout my life and yet I haven't always paid attention to the lyrics to some of their songs, this one in particular. Today is the first time I've really listened to the lyrics of this particular song. I got the message. I didn't just sing the words, I understood. I felt. "Cause we're livin' in a world of fools, breakin' us down, when they all should let us be. We belong to you and me." Stunningly beautiful words. Living in a world of fools, breaking us down. Those fools, those who set our cultural, societal values, those who run the System, run our churches, our schools, our governments, our big businesses. Their words, opinions, expectations, demands--breaking us down from who we really are. When in a world of love they would let us be. And we would remember that we don't belong to their silly rules. We belong to ONE ANOTHER.
As I walked home, I observed some of the cars passing by. One car came up from behind, thumping bass that I could feel through my body. That sort of frequency is something I'm quite sensitive to and normally I react, yell "turn that down" or something like that. Instead, I just observed. I observed the driver, a young male, likely in his late teens to early 20's. He had on his "I'm The Tough One" mask. That look that says "ain't NO ONE messin' with ME". I didn't stop there though. I imagined him as a young boy, facing some of life's difficulties for the first time, and in doing so, I could feel his vulnerability. I could see it. I could hear the messages he received about making it in the world, how to be as a male, how it's better to be tough, better to have some 'tude. It was an amazing experience and I had to fight back the urge to chase after his car and ask if I could give him a hug.
Later on, while driving around to complete some errands, I heard "How Deep Is Your Love" by the Bee Gees on the radio. Now I know some believe the Bee Gee's are pansies who write foo-foo type fluff music. However, as I've grown older and especially as I've studied music and begun the journey of writing my own compositions 10 plus years ago, I've come to the belief that these guys are brilliant songwriters, both lyrically and melodically. I've loved to jam out to their disco tunes throughout my life and yet I haven't always paid attention to the lyrics to some of their songs, this one in particular. Today is the first time I've really listened to the lyrics of this particular song. I got the message. I didn't just sing the words, I understood. I felt. "Cause we're livin' in a world of fools, breakin' us down, when they all should let us be. We belong to you and me." Stunningly beautiful words. Living in a world of fools, breaking us down. Those fools, those who set our cultural, societal values, those who run the System, run our churches, our schools, our governments, our big businesses. Their words, opinions, expectations, demands--breaking us down from who we really are. When in a world of love they would let us be. And we would remember that we don't belong to their silly rules. We belong to ONE ANOTHER.
"Give Me Your Poor, Your Tired"
Lady Liberty once had that beautiful sentiment associated with her. America once was a place where people flocked to to escape religious persecution, to create a better life, to live freely. Now all of that is systematically being destroyed with a System run by people who have completely forgotten what love is and as a result, that has created a culture, through laws, policies and brow-beating messages at every corner the energy and actions of greed and resulting neglect, whereby as a nation we no longer embrace the suffering or the poor. Sure, we may welcome you in, but we'll essentially ignore you just as we do our own suffering and poor. While we may hand out government welfare checks and assistance, which only serve to keep people barely fed and barely housed (if you are lucky enough to move to the front of an enormously long line typically lasting for several years on the waiting list for housing vouchers, if not it's a shelter, again if you're lucky, or a cardboard box, under a bridge or park bench, although those are quickly becoming illegal places of residence in many cities), we give the real attention and welfare to big banks and corporations, who may find themselves in financial ruin only to have debts wiped free and clear while massive tax handouts (that would be the dollars from you and I) are deposited.
Whoever claims 'welfare is for the poor is big problem' needs to broaden their definition of "welfare". Welfare is government assistance. And Big Business receives billions each and every year in tax breaks and bail-outs, regardless if financial ruin is in the picture or not. And need I mention that government assistance for Big Business continues to see an increase ($$) while government assistance for the poor sees decreases each year.
Whoever claims 'welfare is for the poor is big problem' needs to broaden their definition of "welfare". Welfare is government assistance. And Big Business receives billions each and every year in tax breaks and bail-outs, regardless if financial ruin is in the picture or not. And need I mention that government assistance for Big Business continues to see an increase ($$) while government assistance for the poor sees decreases each year.
That phrase, "Give Me Your Poor, Your Tired" has been on my mind and in my heart lately. My dad gives out cash for the holidays. It's a tradition with him. On his check this past holiday was a picture of Lady Liberty with that phrase. It bothered me. Bothered me deeply for this sentiment cannot be farther from the truth in terms of my father's value system. I was raised to believe the poor were a lazy rabble, unworthy, dirty. Deserving of everything they experienced and lived. And at the very least, if you were poor and American, something was seriously inept in your being.
Quite a horrific set of beliefs, isn't it? It took me living such a lifestyle to open my eyes and thus my mind and heart and realize to be "poor" hasn't a darn thing to do with worth, nor does it necessarily correlate with filth (those who don't care for themselves are unable to do so either because of lack of resources or apathy and depression which often goes along with living in poverty) or lack of motivation (see the preceding comment in parentheses).
Unexpected things happen that can land any one of us in such a situation--loss of job, illness, loss of insurance, war, natural disaster, or the most discouraging of all: the affordability factor--today's wages that don't come close to keeping up with the cost of living. The list is long. And it's the ultimate act of cruelty to point the finger of blame at someone facing such a situation. That has been a hard pill for me to swallow, but swallow I did.
We need one another, in good times and in bad. We have a responsibility for our own happiness and a responsibility to help those around us, the poor, the tired. It's not an individual road we walk. It's a collective one. That's what love is, in a nutshell.Now That I Got That Out Of The Way...
...here's a recent example of hypocrisy a dear friend encountered, an example which I just had to share. I realize we all have moments of hypocrisy, but this one takes the cake. It's so distressing because it impacts (negatively) hard working folks.
My friend works for a particular employer who, like so many, pays her a terribly low wage and offers no benefits. But meanwhile, he's getting quite wealthy off of his workers, who perform 90% of the work while he's off on vacation, getting his weekly massages, flitting around in his massive McMansion. He's on the fast track to becoming a multi-millionaire, due to his employees and his thirst for greed. Share this wealthy with those actually doing most of the work? Unthinkable.
Last week, my friend and her boss were having a conversation about this and that. Reading material came up. And much to my friend's surprise, her employer highly recommended Carlos Castanada's material.
Now for those unfamiliar with his work, you won't see the extreme hypocrisy in this statement. Carlos is what you could call a "New Age Spirituality" author. He speaks of the enlightened mind and heart. Of love for self and all.
Getting the connection here? Or shall I say, the disconnect?
Here we have an employer who is reading material about enlightment and all that this entails while he continues to treat his employees like cattle, like slaves, and doesn't pay them a living, fair wage all the while leaving them on their own to try and conjure up some sort of health insurance.
Some day, some person will call him on his shit. I would like to be there. I would insist he wear a sign that reads: "I Am A Hypocrite. Ask Me Why." I'd probably also insist he pay me half a million for my creation so that I could divide it up amongst his employees who ensured his vast wealth.
My friend works for a particular employer who, like so many, pays her a terribly low wage and offers no benefits. But meanwhile, he's getting quite wealthy off of his workers, who perform 90% of the work while he's off on vacation, getting his weekly massages, flitting around in his massive McMansion. He's on the fast track to becoming a multi-millionaire, due to his employees and his thirst for greed. Share this wealthy with those actually doing most of the work? Unthinkable.
Last week, my friend and her boss were having a conversation about this and that. Reading material came up. And much to my friend's surprise, her employer highly recommended Carlos Castanada's material.
Now for those unfamiliar with his work, you won't see the extreme hypocrisy in this statement. Carlos is what you could call a "New Age Spirituality" author. He speaks of the enlightened mind and heart. Of love for self and all.
Getting the connection here? Or shall I say, the disconnect?
Here we have an employer who is reading material about enlightment and all that this entails while he continues to treat his employees like cattle, like slaves, and doesn't pay them a living, fair wage all the while leaving them on their own to try and conjure up some sort of health insurance.
Some day, some person will call him on his shit. I would like to be there. I would insist he wear a sign that reads: "I Am A Hypocrite. Ask Me Why." I'd probably also insist he pay me half a million for my creation so that I could divide it up amongst his employees who ensured his vast wealth.
Will People Ever Really Wake Up To Love?
I deleted a comment today because of some disrespectful language. Even though I disagreed with this poster, I would have been ok with the commentary had he/she not resorted to such statements as "liberals are so full of hate" and how people on welfare "don't deserve it".
I believe deeply in the power of love and how it is the key to what ails us as a person, as a citizenry. I've been criticized for such an opinion, down to the point of being mistreated with hateful language. I made the decision awhile back that no longer will abusive, violent or hateful comments be thrown at me and expect to receive commentary. If posted here, they will be deleted. I'm interested in engaging in respectful conversation.
Love is the answer. It's a hard one to grasp and live out, but it is what drives us to seek peace. One day, either while living here on earth or in the after life, people will see that. And such folks will wish they had listened more to us "liberals" (and I am not referring to liberal politicians, for most aren't truly liberal). For to be "liberal" is to be open in the mind and heart, to be tolerant and generous, to have the compassion for the suffering, to see the worth in all. Actually, I would remove the "liberal" label and simply insert "loving".
I believe deeply in the power of love and how it is the key to what ails us as a person, as a citizenry. I've been criticized for such an opinion, down to the point of being mistreated with hateful language. I made the decision awhile back that no longer will abusive, violent or hateful comments be thrown at me and expect to receive commentary. If posted here, they will be deleted. I'm interested in engaging in respectful conversation.
Love is the answer. It's a hard one to grasp and live out, but it is what drives us to seek peace. One day, either while living here on earth or in the after life, people will see that. And such folks will wish they had listened more to us "liberals" (and I am not referring to liberal politicians, for most aren't truly liberal). For to be "liberal" is to be open in the mind and heart, to be tolerant and generous, to have the compassion for the suffering, to see the worth in all. Actually, I would remove the "liberal" label and simply insert "loving".
2.18.2008
War, Poverty, Primaries, Wages, Etc. Etc. Etc.
I thought I'd make it easy by summing up what's going on today.
War: Still being waged. Millions dead/dying/injured. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Primaries: Still being waged. Millions lied to/mislead. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Poverty: Still being waged. Millions suffering/abused/neglected. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Cost of Living: Still rising drastically. Millions suffering. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Wages: Still falling and stagnating. Millions suffering with more to come. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Rugged Individualism: Still the way of the west. Millions continue to be falsely lead in the direction of the "ME ONLY" factor. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Love In Action: Still being pushed aside for greed and power. Millions needing it more than ever. Possible end in sight? I don't know, but it is the only answer to eliminating all of the crap behind the headlines.
War: Still being waged. Millions dead/dying/injured. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Primaries: Still being waged. Millions lied to/mislead. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Poverty: Still being waged. Millions suffering/abused/neglected. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Cost of Living: Still rising drastically. Millions suffering. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Wages: Still falling and stagnating. Millions suffering with more to come. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Rugged Individualism: Still the way of the west. Millions continue to be falsely lead in the direction of the "ME ONLY" factor. No end in sight. Blah blah blah.
Love In Action: Still being pushed aside for greed and power. Millions needing it more than ever. Possible end in sight? I don't know, but it is the only answer to eliminating all of the crap behind the headlines.
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