Dear Blogger: You guys remember Watergate? If I recall it was about Richard Nixon ordering a covert operation at the DNC. Purpose, to find out what the democrats were planning for the upcoming Presidential election. Poor Dick Nixon. All he had to do was ask Dept of Justice to raid congressional offices of Democrats. He would have saved his legacy. If you ask me; we as a nation have lost forever precious rights. All cause of Bush's love for Muslims.
We insulted out priceless allies in
When my Brother came home from
Friday, May 26, 2006
Nixon spinning in Grave!
Wednesday, May 24, 2006
The Evil of Deception.....
Updated May 30, 2006
This following post is response to a commentary to an author, who lacked the courage to keep their comment attached to a previous post. So I am going to repost it. So here it is entirety, say for one, the authors name. Observe.....begin comment
I was called a racist because I don't feel like talking to people at the moment. I am 1/2 ojbue indian and Danish. I was called a 1/2 breed while in school. It hurt.I was brought up in a family the taught us that everyone is equal. I don't look at the color of the skin or what God you pray to. I have many dark skinned friend of a nationality's.
So a man is a man. No matter what color of skin he has. There is no room in this world for Racists people.end comment
I am NOT a racist.
So I hope the person who called me that can look deep down and see that.God Bless"
Some of the biggest "I am not a racist" persons claim to "be this or that" or "have this or that," but they are, on the average, some of the most judgmental, spiteful, and bitter individuals. They claim that they will be always there for you, or claim that, they love you as a friend or whatever. And, they say that they will always be there for you when you need them. Nonetheless, when the moment of truth comes, they will stand over in judgment of you.
This may be because of one's acceptance of another, when they do not. Or, it may be simply that, one decision to stay neutral in the firestorm they may have for another. It is either see it their way or to be shunned, and begrudged forever and break the pledge they made to you. When person promises that, "that they will always be there"---that means something. It means always. It is not beset with conditions, exceptions, or buts --it means no matter what that one is there for each other.
Yes, racism also known as hatred comes in many forms. Any form of hate, against a person, is racism. Any! So, speaking the truth does not mean that ones has to be spiteful, angry, or bitter. The truth is the truth, and always it wills itself out, eventually. So, one makes a statement that, "they will always be there" and are not (absent of death) then it should be able to trust their truthful words--yes? Idealistic--you bet.
The philosophy of one such man espoused such idealism. He spoke of forgiveness. He spoke of setting aside differences. He spoke of "turning the other cheek." To be told who to hate or to dislike is the first step of racism and is the most insidious, "Dont like that person--because I dont!" And, if you dont see it there way, then, "You are not my friend, and I will hate you as well." This is the true form of racism.
And then to hide behind one's God to show one's worthiness is the first deception of a racist of not only of others, but to themselves as well. To claim that, "I have many 'dark skinned friends'" (why do they have to be 'dark skinned' friends. Why are they not simply 'friends' who would say otherwise) then set the condition of the friendship is another manipulation of a racist.
So, one does not like that person. So, be it (that is between you and that person). It does not mean it is a betrayal, if another does, or tolerates them, to be civil to them, or even befriends them. It is what is. Meaning, that each relationship is judged individually.....
There is certain clarity, a truth, if you will when those who espouse their love of their "God" and "equality," and then later set hateful words towards others, or hateful feelings towards are the true racist. So, look deep down and take note of their words and actions. It is insidious, deceitful, and most of all intolerate--and yes even racist.
Side-note: (I have not addressed this issue with other panelists that have posted or commented here, but I will when I return from Chicago next week. I was asked, why did I tolerate this panelist. Simply, to restrict their view points gives them more power to their argument. And, secondly this site is welcomed to ALL viewpoints. I may not like their opinions, and even disagree strongly, but they are entitled to have them. Let the discussion be judged on its own merits).
After all, racism is not limited to a skin color, or an ethnic, or relgious group it is the hatred of another human being that is part of the human race. It is an attitude. Don't think so? Look at this country state of mind regarding illegal immigration and where most of the hateful words and actions is pointed towards.....
Sunday, May 21, 2006
Prejudice and Racism
Why are we still hearing about prejudice and racist people in America? Shouldn’t things be getting better by now? Why am I still hearing my children call a black person the “n” word or a person from South America a wetback. How about someone from India and Asia? Yeah I have heard it all. Is it fear from the unknown culture? Are these people not people? Why do they have to be labeled as anything at all? We are all people folks no matter the color!
Recently I encountered a racist person who didn't like the idea of me having black people in my house (not that it is anyone’s business who is in my house). Why can’t I enjoy fellowship with people of color in peace? I tell you what the person told me. “Your grandmother would disown you for having black people in your house!” Well… She may but I would stand for what I believe in. People are people after all and you don’t have to come to my house.
I am glad that my children are learning that we all are people and shouldn’t be labeled at all. Yes I live in the south and I know that many older adults were brought up to hate and be racist and prejudice but its time for us to change that. Our generation should make sure it stops or at least try.
I am white but mixed with Cherokee and Irish. Didn’t our founding fathers have hatred for Indians? Didn’t people talk about the Irish and shun them when they come to America? So why did that all change? How did that prejudice and racism change? We need to teach tolerance people or our children will grow up angry at a race they know nothing about. I encourage you to start something like a day out of a month to sit your kids down and have a talk with them about tolerance. Maybe you could put a festival together in your community that encourages heritage day. For instance like having booths set up to teach people about each country and heritage.
Make that change!
Saturday, May 13, 2006
The Problem With Lou Dobbs
The Problem With Lou Dobbs
From the Fat Lady Sings Blog
May 10, 2006
The Problem With Lou Dobbs
Where to begin? You see – I don’t really know what to make of the man. On the one hand, his daily harangues against illegal immigration have escalated to the point of absurdity. And it’s always exclusively ‘Mexican’ illegal immigration. You rarely hear him talk about the huge number of Polish or Irish immigrants who enter America sans invitation. Nor do you hear him rail against the paucity of INS agents along the much larger border with Canada. No – he really seems to have a jones for Hispanics, and that levels a charge of bigotry that would seem to have some basis in fact. He even advocated INS agents infiltrating the immigration marches and rally’s that swept through our country last week. That’s so Richard Nixon! I mean – please! So – I think I have him pegged - then he turns around and, quite rightly in my opinion, points out our enormous trade deficit (most especially with China – and I’ll get to that in a moment), excoriates Bush on his ham-handed handling of the nations economy (and just about everything else) and stands up for the ever pressured, now dwindling middle class. It’s as if he’s two completely different people – one who would seem at home attending a meeting of the John Birch society; and another who understands how fucking hard it is out here to make ends meet and is on our side. So what’s the truth? Who is Lou Dobbs, really?
I watched his show last night. He fairly quivered with righteous fury at having the ‘racist’ label hurled at him. I’ve heard him tack this direction before. Mention partiality or bigotry of any kind and he fair fly’s to the moon – his jaws clicking in frustration; intent on defending his besmirched ‘honor’. But is that charge true? Here’s where that wicket gets mighty sticky. He’s concerned about how easily transversed our borders are. Check. He thinks we need more agents to patrol said borders. Check. He blames Vincente Fox for not lifting a finger to stem the tide of Mexican citizens heading north in search of a better life for them and their families. Check. Now we get into murky territory. Lou Dobbs endorses the vigilante ‘Minutemen’ group. He often has their founder on his show promoting the Minutemen and saluting the ‘job’ they are doing. Now – Jim Gilchrist, the Minutemen’s founder has been definitively linked to white supremacist groups. I found that out by using Google and my finger. So I don’t buy that Dobbs would be unfamiliar with this tidbit; and if he was he should have grilled the man on it. I knew the Minutemen were bigots the moment I saw several of their number flying the Stars & Bars. I’m sorry – but the battle flag of the Civil War south only stands for one thing – and everyone who has half a brain knows it. So why give these people a platform if you don’t agree with EVERYTHING they stand for?
Yet – Dobbs seems really sincere in his support for working class America. It was from him I learned that the last textile manufacturing plant in the US had closed – a dreadful circumstance. He constantly harps on the porous nature of our port facilities, and brings up the inequities that have arisen from our burgeoning debt and out of control and ever rising trade deficit. Which brings me around to China. Lou seems China obsessed. Yes, our deficit with China is greater than that of any other trading partner; but they are not isolated in this. Canada is also a problem. So is Mexico and Japan; but Lou harps on China as if they alone stood between American workers and the middle class lifestyle that is the backbone of both our democracy and economy. Could it be the Chinese people themselves he dislikes with an almost mock ferocity? Unfortunately, I don’t have the answer to that question; and because I don’t, I have to question the mans motives. I have learned over time and with a great deal of experience to beware those who sound ‘reasonable’ while stating edgy opinions. Often that ‘reason’ is merely a cover for the snake oil they are trying to slip in under the radar. I always hold off, tempering my good opinion with at least a modicum of good sense while playing the ‘wait and see’ game. Well – I’ve waited, and I’ve seen, and I’m afraid that Mr. Dobbs harbors some deep-seated dislikes of certain ethnicities. What makes this all the more sad is his much appreciated support of and for everyday Americans. I agree with him on many things – but his unquestioning support for the obviously racist Minutemen renders the rest of his opinions suspect.
Now how can someone be reasonable and believable on the one hand; and a stone cold bigot on the other? It is possible. Just look around at your family, your friends, your neighbors. You know someone like this – we all do. I used to try and pick this question apart. It puzzled me to no end; how someone ‘nice’ could also be racist. The two just seemed antithetical. But they’re not. I know and have known people in my life who cared about the environment, donated time and funds to local charitable causes, decried cruelty to any living creature and yet would turn around and use the word ‘nigger’ to my face. A man whom I called friend recently emailed me a terrible, racist, anti-Hispanic joke that just about took my breath away. It was his Cinco de Mayo ‘gift’. And he knew better. He knows me. He is well aware of my views on the subject. And he did it anyway; essentially ending any possibility of a meaningful relationship between us. And he didn’t think he was being a bigot, by the way. He didn’t see that it was bad or wrong. He actually thought it was funny and was taken aback by my fury. This man is not some knuckle-dragging, sheet wearing Nazi fanatic. He’s quite ordinary. Quite normal. Much like Lou Dobbs. So I’m betting Mr. Dobbs doesn’t see it either; this connection between what he promotes and being a bigot. I’m sure were he to read this essay he would take great umbrage. But that doesn’t change the facts. I’m sorry for you, Lou. Your good idea; namely protecting our borders and controlling immigration - is getting lost in the attached undercurrent of ethnic separatism. You have gotten in the way of your own message.
Spring Cleaning
by Hari SeldonI have been doing some reviewing of old essays that I have written. I am waxing melancholy as I read over them. Each one of them tears away piece of me, bit by bit, and yet is somewhat restorative. Interesting. I am renewed. The semester for school is almost over and I have one last task to complete. I will take a couple days to reenergize and return to blogging shortly. One does not try blog when it end semester crunch. Nothing but brain damage can come of it. Raw emotion and adrenaline do not mix.
So, what to do for a posting? I will leave you with image above and old essay below. I wrote this three years ago for my Chinese language I was taking. I was going to school part time and working full time and another part time job to supplement my income before my student loans kicked in. At any rate, I was going through one of my moods that is described my astrological sign, and was have a bipolar moment. So, I vented in my paper and discovered that I am really ready to settle down, in a fashion, but first I must finish school. I am no good to anyone bittered. Finish the goals set. Hmph.
Observe.....
Chinese Festival: Men Have Biological Clocks, Too
It had been a long night; my relief shift for graveyard failed to come in to work. I stewed; once again, I had failed to trust my instincts. I wanted to blame someone, naturally I blamed the person who was to relief me, of course, but ultimately I blamed myself. I had seen this coming and I did nothing to prepare for it. My feet ached as well as my body. It was not a coincidence that when I am wrapped in emotional turmoil I feel stiffness and pain. So, there I waited for the morning to arrive as I busied myself with shift duties to keep my mind distracted. It did not work.
My mind replayed countless scenarios of why the entity – I can not honestly refer to “it” as a person, because a person knows the value of consideration to other human beings – had not called, but I knew why. Today had been payday, and this entity had given its two weeks notice four days earlier. So, I and my mind eventually settled and stewed, every thought ebbing at my consciousness, which churned and twisted the fury within, seemingly, unbearably in the moment of forever until I wanted to snap. However, the raging winds dissipated into nothingness not unlike a funnel cloud disappearing because the realization of my isolation impacted me in the stillness of the night.
I stood there alone in the stillness, behind the counter, looking at all the displays of snacks, candy and groceries. The mirror of my life had reminded me, that the anger I felt, was not of betrayal, but of loneliness. I had no wife and kids to share my disappointment and feel angry with me. Finally, the darkness ended and my morning relief showed. However, my dark mood returns when the morning person conveys to me that the store manager had been aware of the entity’s treachery. My manager left on a camping trip with her family for the weekend. I stewed momentarily as I rushed home to get some sleep before my afternoon at the Chinese festival….
My melancholy mood waned as I groggily stretched out my arm to turn off my alarm clock. It was 1:30 p.m. and my sleep had been disrupted throughout the morning to make arrangements for covering shifts for the rest of the weekend, because of the missing entity from the night previous. I laid in the stillness of the afternoon, only to surrender to a shower and clothes to wear for the day. I was running late. So, I grabbed my book bag as I rushed for the bus that would connect me to the light rail and eventually another bus.
I made descent time to other end of town, where the Chinese Festival was going to be – the University of Denver (DU). October 1st, had been China’s national holiday, it is the equivalent to the United States’ July 4th, and the local association was putting on festivities for the University and the community. At any rate, I had made decent time, unfortunately however I had forgotten the flyer to which building the events were going to take place. The old rust bucket of my mind evoked the address 2065 E. Evans. It was wrong of course, but I searched for the address anyway. Alas, the campus of DU is huge and I was walking in circles. I had to perform an unnatural act, for an American male anyway; I had to ask for directions. I found myself standing at the campus library, upon entering the doors, I saw a young Asian woman behind the circulation desk and a momentary feeling of relief wafted over my body as I approached.
She unfortunately, for me, did not know of the event – but suggested the multicultural building. Make sense right? However, I dismissed it, because the address of the building did not match my memory. I left and pondered what to do next. I looked over the vastness of the campus and decided to return to the library. I asked the young woman once more, but this time I looked at the addresses again – the multicultural building was on 2025 Race. In other words, across the street where all the parked cars were, and the building was adjacent to them. As I entered the build, I saw through the glass doors a mass of people, children playing, vendors selling the wares and upon entering I smelled the odor of food drifting in the air of the corridors.
As I wend my way through, I eventually ran into my instructor, my laoshi, for Chinese standing at the ticket table. I greeted her in Chinese, and listened to her speak to the ticket attendant on the price of my ticket. She explained to me that I had missed the first performance, but there would be another at 6 p.m. While I waited, I gathered materials on local Chinese schools that immersed children and adults in the language and customs of China. I wandered through the hallways observing families, and I sampled various dishes, one of which reminded of bak lava from Greece, a fried tortilla cut in triangles, and breaded rice with beef and curry. I also had several different pastries with red beans, and I eventually settled for a bowl of rice, chicken and peppers.
I watched families interact. Listened to them speak in Chinese. I even attempted to explain in Chinese, that I was learning the language in school. They smiled at me, like a grade school child learning to speak his first words, and were patient with me. No offense was taken. One has to rollover first, before one can crawl, and one has to crawl, before one can walk, and walk before one can run. Children’s laughter rang throughout the hallway, mothers and fathers strolled with their kids in tow, and I felt like an anthropologist observing in his first field assignment – out of place and unnerved.
However, the unsettling feeling of calmness coursed throughout me, and an immense sense of awe eventually over took me, as I watched the performers on stage. I listened to the emcees announce each act, my ear slowing picking up each word as they spoke in the language I was learning. I watched the dancers, singers, instrumentalists play. I watched families in the darkness of the theater, some holding their children on their laps, take pride in celebrating their heritage, their customs and their children. I watched a community of people – a family of people – willingness to pass along traditions to another culture, and realized how much of an American I am. An infant in the vastness of time comparatively and I embraced the awe. Understanding that the values of patience, tradition and family. And, finally also understood the unsettling feeling of calmness – one cannot deny the traditions of existence and family. It has worked for the Chinese for over 5,000 years, and it will work for me, given time and patience. It is the legacy of the family that is the culture’s immortality, and I now, understand my desire for family – to pass along my own little bit of immortality. After all, men have biological clocks, too.
Saturday, May 06, 2006
Your a special American?
You deserted your country in tatters and came to the USA. What scumbags we all are. Many people from the world come to the USA, but don't stay. They go back their countries. Why didn't your relatives go back? What made them feel so special, that they felt they could break the "law" and stay in America.
Something else. Did Mexicans bring down the Trade Towers? Did the Mexicans kill 2,899 of our Sons and Daughters in Iraq? Is Osama bin Laden Mexican? Is Mexico threatening USA and Israel daily with Nuclear weapons like Iran? Wake the fuck up please. Those Mexicans even share our God. THE ENEMY IS ISLAM, are you too scared to face it? Does the Muslim next door frighten you into silence? Take it from me. They die just as easily as anybody else.
In regard to Mexicans waving their flags during protests and refusing to "assimilate". During the American Civil War. The Irish the "Mexicans" of that time. Felt they had assimilated enough into America. That when congress passed a law. Letting the wealthy hire the poor to take their place in the Civil War. The Irish rioted in New York under the banner, that "they didn't come from Ireland to die for Niggers" The Irish hanged 1000's of Innocent Black men,women and children in New York. To this day Harlem has never regained their pre civil war population. Mexicans just want to work. Muslims want to kill you.
Friday, May 05, 2006
A moment to laugh
Star Trek Cribs - The Director's Cut by G4tv.com