Life is too damned short to go through it unhappy. Why is it that so many people prefer to be unhappy? Sure, there are more people today than in a long time just because of things going on with the economy, world peace, etc. But, this has been going on for a LONG time!
Have people forgotten all that they have? Personally, I am always very thankful for a job, a roof over my head, a car that gets me where I need to go, food on the table, friends and family who love me and so much more. What's to be unhappy about?
People choose to be bitter. People choose to be unhappy. People choose to be resentful. It's common knowledge that we all feel those things from time to time. But ALL the time? People choose to feel sorry for themselves. People choose to be sympathy seekers. People choose to be so many things - a good AND bad part of having free will.
Thing of all the things you have to be thankful for. Really, THINK about it. Heck, make a list if you want. I'll bet there is a LOT! I'll bet that list is WAY longer than the list of things that have you down. Am I right?
Some life rules that I will share with you that may help you be a happier person. If you are one who prefers to think you got the short end of the stick, there is always someone who has it worse. Find reasons to laugh. Try to find a positive side to a negative. For example, just this morning I learned that long-time Cubs' third-baseman and radio announcer Ron Santo passed away. Yes, I definitely cried. But, you know, he no longer has to deal with his diabetes and can dance around all day long on his old legs! Oh, AND he can sit and down the ice cold Budweisers with Harry Caray! That sure makes ME smile. What else... think about all the people who love you. This can be family, friends or heck, even coworkers. A lot of people might lean on you or look to you to set the example. Maybe there is someone who rides your same train to work every day. You may not even recognize this person; but, he/she sees your smile every day and that helps them make it through the day. Smile OFTEN! Yes, smiling IS contagious.... just like laughter! Smile at some unknown person each day. Pass on a "have a good day" from time to time. You never know who you will affect.
There are so many other things I could say to help make you happy. Ooooh, learn how to make a kick ass chocolate chip cookie. I know that makes ME happy! It makes me even happier if I show enough self control to be able to share some of them the next day!
Finally... and this is important.... you know, it's important enough that I am going to yell it.... STOP TAKING THINGS SO EFFING SERIOUSLY and LIGHTEN THE EFF UP! Things are never THAT bad and you will get much more out of life being happy than you will being the opposite. And by all means..... SMILE!
Have a great day!
Friday, December 3, 2010
Saturday, November 13, 2010
Are Terrorists REALLY the Enemy?
Okay, so the title is not exactly what I mean. Of course they are enemies. Maybe I should have asked if the are the ONLY enemy. I think not. I think lots of groups that end in "-ists" are the problem. The ones I am most concerned about are EXTREMISTS. One of the definitions in Webster's dictionary for extremism is "advocacy of extreme measures or views : radicalism". How often do we hear of radical Muslims? Are they the ONLY radicals?
Not sure when I want to go with this. But, I will start by listing a number of extremists or radicals who do NOT make this world a better place or a safer place:
The Bible is a book written by men. I am sure we could do some research and find that there are all these books and gospels that were written but never included meaning we might not have the full story. And I'll bet we could research The DaVinci Code's comments about Christianity being endorsed and revised by Constantine I (the first) where maybe things were taken from multiple beliefs and religions to make a "super-religion" that is the Christianity that we know today.
I try to live by the Golden Rule - do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I try to respect others and to do the right thing. I call myself a Christian even though the analytical side of me as an engineer makes me want to question a number of things. Regardless, I CHOOSE to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and my Savior. That is faith. Others may fight me on this. You have to be a Baptist. You have to be a Luteran. You need to become a Jehovah's Witness. Or, gasp, you have to be a Catholic! It is my belief that the early Catholic church was responsible for a LOT of bad things and it still covers up a lot of bad things today - i.e. Father Molester.
Religious wars have occured since.... well, I'll bet from the time that someone decided to start up a second religion. You HAVE to believe what I believe and if you don't, I will kill you. And these people might have the very same Bible (or other book). And they do it ALL in the name of God (or whatever name they call him). Nice.
So, there is my dissertation on who all the bad people are. Okay, maybe not ALL of them as there are plenty more. You can call them extremists. Call them fanatics. Call them radicals. Call them anything you want. There are WAY more enemies other than JUST the terrorists which was my original point. I think what we need to do with all these people who preach hatred, who push their views and beliefs on others and who are violent with people who do not share their thoughts is to preach tolerance right back at them. Stay on your course. Speak your mind. Never be afraid to voice dissension. Always be open to different opinions; but, NEVER EVER back down from your values or you will have accepted defeat by these extremists!
Not sure when I want to go with this. But, I will start by listing a number of extremists or radicals who do NOT make this world a better place or a safer place:
- Radical Muslims - Of course we have to include them as they are responsible for a lot of violence and hatred around the world, much of it focused on Israel and those who are Israel's "friends". I have heard both that the basis of Islam is peaceful and that the Quran tells Muslims to give other people a chance to convert and if they don't, kill them.
- Radical Right-to-Lifers - I'm talking about the people who have bombed or otherwise attacked abortion clinics. Freedom of choice or anti-abortion are moral choices. So, regardless of how you feel about this, it is really NONE OF YOUR EFFING BUSINESS!
- KKK - Yes, the Klan. We do not hear much about them anymore fortunately. However, their history speaks of intolerance and violence to those of other colors, races, religions and more.
- Radical Politics - Like with religion, it is perfectly okay for people to share their views and beliefs with you. However, NO ONE has the right to push you to think or act in a way that is agreeable to them. And when you don't, a lot of these people start using stronger words or even violence. Seriously!
- Unions - Yes, unions. No, not all of them of course. I think it would actually be humorous if the teacher's unions all got crazy and started wiping out school boards and such. The unions I am talking about are the construction unions. The ones who blow up an inflatable rat in front of businesses who opt to hire NON-union labor. The ones who picket and yell and call people scabs. The ones who blow up (not the air type of blow up) a rival non-union company's business. The ones who burn down my brother's house because it was being built by non-union labor. WTF people!!! Learn a little about capitalism (the thing the USA used to have before Obama started turning us into a socialist nation) people. You want the contract for the job? Why not offer a FAIR fee? $30-40 per hour to hold a fucking sign? Are you serious? And you wonder why people do not want to hire unions! Open your effing minds!
- Radical (insert religion here)
The Bible is a book written by men. I am sure we could do some research and find that there are all these books and gospels that were written but never included meaning we might not have the full story. And I'll bet we could research The DaVinci Code's comments about Christianity being endorsed and revised by Constantine I (the first) where maybe things were taken from multiple beliefs and religions to make a "super-religion" that is the Christianity that we know today.
I try to live by the Golden Rule - do unto others as you would have them do unto you. I try to respect others and to do the right thing. I call myself a Christian even though the analytical side of me as an engineer makes me want to question a number of things. Regardless, I CHOOSE to believe that Jesus Christ is the Son of God and my Savior. That is faith. Others may fight me on this. You have to be a Baptist. You have to be a Luteran. You need to become a Jehovah's Witness. Or, gasp, you have to be a Catholic! It is my belief that the early Catholic church was responsible for a LOT of bad things and it still covers up a lot of bad things today - i.e. Father Molester.
Religious wars have occured since.... well, I'll bet from the time that someone decided to start up a second religion. You HAVE to believe what I believe and if you don't, I will kill you. And these people might have the very same Bible (or other book). And they do it ALL in the name of God (or whatever name they call him). Nice.
So, there is my dissertation on who all the bad people are. Okay, maybe not ALL of them as there are plenty more. You can call them extremists. Call them fanatics. Call them radicals. Call them anything you want. There are WAY more enemies other than JUST the terrorists which was my original point. I think what we need to do with all these people who preach hatred, who push their views and beliefs on others and who are violent with people who do not share their thoughts is to preach tolerance right back at them. Stay on your course. Speak your mind. Never be afraid to voice dissension. Always be open to different opinions; but, NEVER EVER back down from your values or you will have accepted defeat by these extremists!
Thursday, June 10, 2010
Our Gulf
Okay, this isn't really about finding alternative energy. Although, that SHOULD be near the top of a number of government lists. This is more about how effed up this whole situation is. As I am starting this blog, we are in Day #53 of the oil leak in the Gulf of Mexico. The pictures of the "sheen" on the Gulf, the oil covered birds and fish, the poor fishermen who cannot leave port are all hard to take.
Whose fault is this? Well, as we hear more about the actions (or inactions) that led up to the rig explosion, we are seeing at least two groups responsible. First, we cannot deny that our federal government has failed us again. Rules are often made to keep us safe. It sounds like that blowout preventer was not working and proper timely inspections should have discovered that - at least that's what I think. I work in the construction industry (more indirectly than directly) and I have seen/heard how payoffs and other unethical actions can help get quicker approval from the City. I know that not everyone is honest. And I know that a lot of people in positions of power are VERY lazy - what is the minimum I can do to get this job done?
"Hey buddy, did you follow the codes when you built this?"
"Yes."
"Do I need to go take a look? I'd really rather not as I want to leave early today to go to the ballgame."
"No, it's fine. Trust me."
"Approved."
This explosion and subsequent massive oil leak is not ALL the fault of our government inspectors (and the inspection program itself), it is very much the fault of BP or someone else involved with the operation of that rig. They said that there were signs something was wrong some 5 hours prior to the explosion. I was talking with my Dad who worked offshore for a couple years. He said that they should have evacuated that rig and that 5 hours should have been plenty of time to get everyone off the rig. What does that mean? If he is correct, that means not one single person should have been killed in the explosion! Say it with me and say it loud.... YOU MOTHER FUCKERS!!! You mean to tell me that you KNEW there was something wrong and that you had time to get EVERYONE off that rig?!?!?! NOBODY had to die?!?!? Fucking BP!!
So, what's happening now to take care of this problem? Here are the things I have read, heard and think.....
- Addressing the American people - BP got one of their spokesmen to start being the voice of the company in this crisis. Sure, BP is a British company. But, they are smart - get a smooth talking chap with a British accent to talk to the American people. Just because this guy has an accent gives him credibility. I hope not EVERYONE is snowed by this. Keep your eyes AND ears open! Listen to the arrogance.
- Stopping the leak - It is pretty apparent that BP (and possibly NO ONE ELSE) ever gave thought to a rig exploding and there being an uncontrollable oil leak some 5,000 feet below the surface. First idea was to put a 4 or 5 story house on top of it and then collect the oil through the top. Turns out that the methane gas crystallized and filled the hole at the top. Nice! Next, they tried a normal blowout cure - pump that sucker full of mud and then fill it with concrete. I don't know much about this stuff; but, I would think that rather than pumping in SOME mud and waiting to see if it held before pouring concrete, I think I would have pumped that sucker as full as I could and then do the concrete thing. Regardless, it didn't work. Looks like we are dealing with some big time pressures coming out of the earth. Lastly (so far), they tried to make a clean cut of the pipe for some reason - I think to install a new valve. Oh mannnnn, the saw stuck. Dude, that's gonna take like 12 hours to remove! Shit! So, here we sit, collecting a little oil but the leak is still uncontrolled. Well done, BP. Assholes!
- Payouts- So, BP is making payments to some of the out-of-work fishermen. It seems that it is set up so that a fisherman contacts BP, tells them he cannot fish because of their oil and then they cut him a check. Sounds simple. These folks have to deal directly with BP - no attorneys or anything! Would you trust them? I sure the hell wouldn't! I had heard that fishermen showing up with attorneys were sent to the back of the line. I found this Bloomberg article that explains how this works. Please take a look - Bloomberg - BP Spill Claims Process Inadequate, Fishermen Say (Update1).
- Help - Everything I have heard is telling me that BP wants to handle this on their own. You know, they are the ones who got us into this! Sometimes the right thing to do is to ask for help. We'll try this today. We have to wait a few days to see if it worked. Nope. Okay, we need a few days to think of another idea. THIS is how time is wasted - a week or two per try is unacceptable. If I felt they were TRULY doing everything they could think of to fix this, I would be quicker to forgive. But, for now.... FUCK THEM! BP- Fix this! Pay who needs to be paid! Clean this shit up! And get the fuck back across the ocean! We'll let you know if we need you for anything.
Tuesday, April 27, 2010
Unions
Unions suck! There, I said it. What are they good for? Well, I will give some unions credit in the areas of construction and such - they provide education and promote safety. And you know, aside from that, I can't think of much else that is good.
What are unions NOT good for? Unions protect slackers. If you have been with the union long enough, you are set almost without regard to your performance. Teacher's unions keep us from having better teachers. Please don't take that comment wrong. I know there are some WONDERFUL teachers out there and they probably HAVE to join the union to remain a teacher. Problem is, there are a lot out there who are NOT so good and who do not seem to care very much about the kids who they are trying to teach.
So, as it stands right now, April 2010, the economy still is in tough shape. There are a LOT of union workers (in the trade) who are not working. I think they call it "on the bench." That really bites. Anyway, a few months ago on the way to work, I drove past a building where the parking lot/driveway was being repaved. Not knowing anything about anything, I figured out that the contractor doing the work there was probably a non-union company. How do I know you ask? Well, I can say the loser a-holes across the street with picket signs and a giant fricking inflatable rat kind of made it clear to me. What douche-bags! Hey, you guys aren't working, why don't you go out and picket?? THAT, my friends, is my biggest bitch about the unions. Really? Do you honestly think you are getting sympathy from anyone because some hard-working non-union guys are doing work you think you are entitled to? Do you think it is better to go out and try to make other people's lives miserable than it is to stay home wand wait for work to come up. Well, maybe it is. Regardless, EFF YOU!!
There was a time when unions protected people and were more necessary. I think they came into prominence around during World War 2. Maybe it was World War 1. Either way, this is a different time. Sure, unions today will argue that together they can speak with a louder voice and get what they want.
Sure, they can all speak together and the teachers can decide not to work. Okay, I do agree that for the most part, teachers ARE underpaid considering they are there to teach the youth of America and often have to teach some of the other life skills that many parents are too busy to teach themselves. Hope you picked up the sarcasm there.
Unions can go on strike and make us not have cabs, police, fire department, public transportation and much more. Heck, they can even make sure your trash doesn't get picked up. I remember those guys went on strike a few years back - the fricking dumpsters at the apartment building were overflowing and stunk like crap. Did I sympathize with the union? Hell no! I was pissed at them. Shut your mouths and do your effing jobs!
Do all these people really think they are entitled to something? They are NOT. None of us are! I will say it clearly - NOBODY OWES YOU AN EM EFFING THING! PERIOD!
Question for you - if you did not have to work, would you? I am guessing many people would say no. Of course not! Most of us work because we have to. We need to earn a living so we can have a home, a car, a family and so much more. If I was rich, I would not work. I would certainly find something constructive to do with my time. But, it would be more on MY terms. I would be my own boss most likely. Okay, I would probably hire someone who is a good business person and then that person could run things. I can tell you one thing I would NOT do - I would sure as hell not hire any union labor!
Unions in Chicago are very much responsible for the city losing so many conventions recently. Yeah, the unions! How? One word - gouging! It costs a FORTUNE to have an event downtown. I cannot imagine what it is like for exhibitors at the various conventions and trade shows. I have heard the following story from multiple sources, enough sources that I believe it and it will show you yet another reason unions suck.....
I've been told multiple stories about exhibitors showing up at trade shows in Chicago. These guys come to the show with their display. They go to plug in their lights and here comes some union clown to unplug it, make him pay and then plug it back in for him. I have heard of exhibitors setting up their booths/displays themselves and then here come the union guys, tell them to pay for their services (which were not used) and if the exhibitors refuse to pay, the union people dismantle the display and wait. Once they pay, they can get their stuff back. I have heard a story about someone refusing to pay and the union guys waited until the end of the show to return his display to him. Pretty unbelievable, huh? Whether this is all true or not, no one can deny that it COULD be the case. It's not really a well kept secret that this city is not completely on the level.
This was not really an example about Chicago. And there are other reasons things are so bad in Chicago - but, if I said what I thought here, I could get whacked! Anyway, I gave the preceeding example to show what unions are capable of. Heck, another example before I let you go. Can't believe I forgot this! When my brother was having his first home built, there were some union picketers by the construction site protesting the non-union labor working on his home. Not long after the shell of the house was built, the house strangely burned to the ground. Coincidence?
Oh one more - same town. There was a non-union paving company I believe. And you know, these guys just might have done work at my brother's place. Anyway, they were having issues with the unions and a strange thing happened - their pits were blown up. Yeah, explosives or something like that! Fricking crazy!
Just want everyone to think about unions and how they might not be the best thing out there anymore. Yes, SOME unions push education and safety. But, more often than not, they protect slackers, stick their noses in elections (something we did not even talk about here), and they force costs higher for everyone. Go ahead, deny it! Unions effing suck! And it's time for us to start getting rid of them.
What are unions NOT good for? Unions protect slackers. If you have been with the union long enough, you are set almost without regard to your performance. Teacher's unions keep us from having better teachers. Please don't take that comment wrong. I know there are some WONDERFUL teachers out there and they probably HAVE to join the union to remain a teacher. Problem is, there are a lot out there who are NOT so good and who do not seem to care very much about the kids who they are trying to teach.
So, as it stands right now, April 2010, the economy still is in tough shape. There are a LOT of union workers (in the trade) who are not working. I think they call it "on the bench." That really bites. Anyway, a few months ago on the way to work, I drove past a building where the parking lot/driveway was being repaved. Not knowing anything about anything, I figured out that the contractor doing the work there was probably a non-union company. How do I know you ask? Well, I can say the loser a-holes across the street with picket signs and a giant fricking inflatable rat kind of made it clear to me. What douche-bags! Hey, you guys aren't working, why don't you go out and picket?? THAT, my friends, is my biggest bitch about the unions. Really? Do you honestly think you are getting sympathy from anyone because some hard-working non-union guys are doing work you think you are entitled to? Do you think it is better to go out and try to make other people's lives miserable than it is to stay home wand wait for work to come up. Well, maybe it is. Regardless, EFF YOU!!
There was a time when unions protected people and were more necessary. I think they came into prominence around during World War 2. Maybe it was World War 1. Either way, this is a different time. Sure, unions today will argue that together they can speak with a louder voice and get what they want.
Sure, they can all speak together and the teachers can decide not to work. Okay, I do agree that for the most part, teachers ARE underpaid considering they are there to teach the youth of America and often have to teach some of the other life skills that many parents are too busy to teach themselves. Hope you picked up the sarcasm there.
Unions can go on strike and make us not have cabs, police, fire department, public transportation and much more. Heck, they can even make sure your trash doesn't get picked up. I remember those guys went on strike a few years back - the fricking dumpsters at the apartment building were overflowing and stunk like crap. Did I sympathize with the union? Hell no! I was pissed at them. Shut your mouths and do your effing jobs!
Do all these people really think they are entitled to something? They are NOT. None of us are! I will say it clearly - NOBODY OWES YOU AN EM EFFING THING! PERIOD!
Question for you - if you did not have to work, would you? I am guessing many people would say no. Of course not! Most of us work because we have to. We need to earn a living so we can have a home, a car, a family and so much more. If I was rich, I would not work. I would certainly find something constructive to do with my time. But, it would be more on MY terms. I would be my own boss most likely. Okay, I would probably hire someone who is a good business person and then that person could run things. I can tell you one thing I would NOT do - I would sure as hell not hire any union labor!
Unions in Chicago are very much responsible for the city losing so many conventions recently. Yeah, the unions! How? One word - gouging! It costs a FORTUNE to have an event downtown. I cannot imagine what it is like for exhibitors at the various conventions and trade shows. I have heard the following story from multiple sources, enough sources that I believe it and it will show you yet another reason unions suck.....
I've been told multiple stories about exhibitors showing up at trade shows in Chicago. These guys come to the show with their display. They go to plug in their lights and here comes some union clown to unplug it, make him pay and then plug it back in for him. I have heard of exhibitors setting up their booths/displays themselves and then here come the union guys, tell them to pay for their services (which were not used) and if the exhibitors refuse to pay, the union people dismantle the display and wait. Once they pay, they can get their stuff back. I have heard a story about someone refusing to pay and the union guys waited until the end of the show to return his display to him. Pretty unbelievable, huh? Whether this is all true or not, no one can deny that it COULD be the case. It's not really a well kept secret that this city is not completely on the level.
This was not really an example about Chicago. And there are other reasons things are so bad in Chicago - but, if I said what I thought here, I could get whacked! Anyway, I gave the preceeding example to show what unions are capable of. Heck, another example before I let you go. Can't believe I forgot this! When my brother was having his first home built, there were some union picketers by the construction site protesting the non-union labor working on his home. Not long after the shell of the house was built, the house strangely burned to the ground. Coincidence?
Oh one more - same town. There was a non-union paving company I believe. And you know, these guys just might have done work at my brother's place. Anyway, they were having issues with the unions and a strange thing happened - their pits were blown up. Yeah, explosives or something like that! Fricking crazy!
Just want everyone to think about unions and how they might not be the best thing out there anymore. Yes, SOME unions push education and safety. But, more often than not, they protect slackers, stick their noses in elections (something we did not even talk about here), and they force costs higher for everyone. Go ahead, deny it! Unions effing suck! And it's time for us to start getting rid of them.
Sunday, April 25, 2010
Inspiration #1
Okay, gonna try something completely different here - I'm offering something upbeat and inspirational. When you watch this video, think about all this guy does. I know one thing - I am going to thoroughly enjoy EVERY round of golf I play this summer! Kinda puts things in perspective. And no, you do NOT have to be a fan of golf to enjoy this. Just click the link below.
Meet Butch Lumpkin - Golf Channel
Meet Butch Lumpkin - Golf Channel
Wednesday, April 21, 2010
People Today - Changes
Ever sat and talked to your Dad or maybe even your Grandpa? Ever sat there and listened to them bitch and moan about how things are today? I sure have. And to be honest, most of the times I just sat there and politely listened, keeping my laughs AND opinions to myself.
These guys need to accept that things change. Actually, I think they know things change. They just need to understand that changes happen regardless of whether they like them or not. The world is not as it was when they were our age. Just because someone disagrees with you does not make them a commie. Listening to rap music does not make one a gangster. Putting spinners on your car does not make you a..... wait, yes it does. They are right on that one! Change is constant. They were part of change as they were growing up. So, things are pretty much the way they were except the changes have... changed.
For some things, though, they do make some valid points. As time has passed, we have gotten away from some of the things that made our country great. We as a country have tossed aside many of the values that our parents and grandparents had. That's quite unfortunate. Seemingly gone are the days where we were "all in this together" and where a guy could drive down the street and exchange a friendly wave with the car passing him in the other lane. Okay, that is still present in some of our smaller towns. But, in general, the world has gotten big and people have changed. It's sad really.
Why have people changed? A lot of the basic necessities in life are still the same - food on the table, potable water, roof over your head. But there are new "necessities" - checking email, playing video games, surfing the net. People have made themselves so fricking "busy" that there is no time to work on their social skills with family and friends. Put simply - communication. No one knows how to communicate anymore.
In business, the telephone was replaced by the fax machine and now email. People never meet anymore. They never talk. How many times have people misunderstood you in an email? I sure have had that happen. And why? It's because a typed word is a typed word - their is no voice inflection or tone. The exact same words read by one person can be taken in a completely different way by someone else. You never told me that! Yes, I did! Simple as that.
So, how can we work on communication? Well, the first thing you can do (and have your kids do) is to TALK! Don't have family time huddled around a computer, TV or video game. Some is fine. But, too much is too much. And as the kids grow up and move out, talk to each other on the phone. Parents, check in from time to time and suggest the kids give their grandparents a call. I know I am VERY guilty of not calling my grandparents enough. Aside from keeping social skills up, you will also make the grandparents feel wonderful and loved.
Unfortunately, the less and less we talk to people, the more we lose our verbal communication skills. Have you noticed how many people seem to REALLY struggle in social situations? How many people have troubles holding a conversation? If people could speak using "brb, LOL, :-) and WTF", I think that would make at least a FEW more people comfortable. And if we could equate things to discussions about Halo or Grand Theft Auto, that could help things a little more. Man, we need to work on this!
In a way, we can make things better starting with the parents. We need to work on communication with each other again. We need to learn to respect others. We need to remember that our way might not be the ONLY way. And sometimes our way is NOT the right way. If we can accept that others think differently, we can then work on reaching resolutions to many of our problems. Sometimes, the right thing is to agree to disagree and then move on. This is a BIG issue with our government.
What do our government leaders do, especially today? They talk to others through the media. And they use big, scary and threatening words. Oh sure, these folks know how to communicate. But, are their tactics really doing us any good? Our leaders (not JUST here in the US) poke at others with sticks constantly. We have leaders in the Far East and Middle East trying to see how far they can push us and others. We've got another one in South America. Yes, they may all have some impressive weapons (or oil reserves) and may be getting a lot of other people to hate us. Not everyone has to LIKE us - life lesson. However, sometimes we need to step off our high horse (i.e., we're better than you attitude) and take the high ROAD to resolve some of these issues.
Maybe I am over simplifying. Taking the high road can be much more effective sometimes. And the high road might not necessarily be a pleasant place to be. You can still be tough! In regular words that I like to use - sometimes it's really cool to make that guy who is a total douchebag LOOK like a total douchbag to everyone else! Ahhh, satisfaction! Job finished. We all go home. A good example of this - 1991 NBA Playoffs. Chicago Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons. We told everyone all year AND the past several years that the Pistons were total assholes. When the Bulls won that series, all but a couple of the Pistons walked off the floor without even a handshake. Heck, without even any eye contact! Dickheads! If I am not mistaken, the only two who did hang around to shake hands were Joe Dumars and John Salley. The rest of those assholes proved what they were to the entire world. Finally! And how satisfying is that. Our work here is done!
Anyway, back to the bigger picture. No, I have NO interest in being a leader in our government. I choose to lead in a different way. I lead by asking questions. I lead by informing and getting people to think.
Teach your kids the values that you grew up with - those values taught by the same crotchedy dad and grandpa mentioned earlier. Teach the kids the art of communication. And for yourself, get out there and TALK to people. Even a short voicemail gets you practice. Cherish family dinner time and the conversation that ensues. Remember that we ARE all in this together. And if we quit thinking so much about what is easiest for us (email, text messaging, etc.) and get back to some basics (talking), together we can help America get back to being the great nation it once was.
These guys need to accept that things change. Actually, I think they know things change. They just need to understand that changes happen regardless of whether they like them or not. The world is not as it was when they were our age. Just because someone disagrees with you does not make them a commie. Listening to rap music does not make one a gangster. Putting spinners on your car does not make you a..... wait, yes it does. They are right on that one! Change is constant. They were part of change as they were growing up. So, things are pretty much the way they were except the changes have... changed.
For some things, though, they do make some valid points. As time has passed, we have gotten away from some of the things that made our country great. We as a country have tossed aside many of the values that our parents and grandparents had. That's quite unfortunate. Seemingly gone are the days where we were "all in this together" and where a guy could drive down the street and exchange a friendly wave with the car passing him in the other lane. Okay, that is still present in some of our smaller towns. But, in general, the world has gotten big and people have changed. It's sad really.
Why have people changed? A lot of the basic necessities in life are still the same - food on the table, potable water, roof over your head. But there are new "necessities" - checking email, playing video games, surfing the net. People have made themselves so fricking "busy" that there is no time to work on their social skills with family and friends. Put simply - communication. No one knows how to communicate anymore.
In business, the telephone was replaced by the fax machine and now email. People never meet anymore. They never talk. How many times have people misunderstood you in an email? I sure have had that happen. And why? It's because a typed word is a typed word - their is no voice inflection or tone. The exact same words read by one person can be taken in a completely different way by someone else. You never told me that! Yes, I did! Simple as that.
So, how can we work on communication? Well, the first thing you can do (and have your kids do) is to TALK! Don't have family time huddled around a computer, TV or video game. Some is fine. But, too much is too much. And as the kids grow up and move out, talk to each other on the phone. Parents, check in from time to time and suggest the kids give their grandparents a call. I know I am VERY guilty of not calling my grandparents enough. Aside from keeping social skills up, you will also make the grandparents feel wonderful and loved.
Unfortunately, the less and less we talk to people, the more we lose our verbal communication skills. Have you noticed how many people seem to REALLY struggle in social situations? How many people have troubles holding a conversation? If people could speak using "brb, LOL, :-) and WTF", I think that would make at least a FEW more people comfortable. And if we could equate things to discussions about Halo or Grand Theft Auto, that could help things a little more. Man, we need to work on this!
In a way, we can make things better starting with the parents. We need to work on communication with each other again. We need to learn to respect others. We need to remember that our way might not be the ONLY way. And sometimes our way is NOT the right way. If we can accept that others think differently, we can then work on reaching resolutions to many of our problems. Sometimes, the right thing is to agree to disagree and then move on. This is a BIG issue with our government.
What do our government leaders do, especially today? They talk to others through the media. And they use big, scary and threatening words. Oh sure, these folks know how to communicate. But, are their tactics really doing us any good? Our leaders (not JUST here in the US) poke at others with sticks constantly. We have leaders in the Far East and Middle East trying to see how far they can push us and others. We've got another one in South America. Yes, they may all have some impressive weapons (or oil reserves) and may be getting a lot of other people to hate us. Not everyone has to LIKE us - life lesson. However, sometimes we need to step off our high horse (i.e., we're better than you attitude) and take the high ROAD to resolve some of these issues.
Maybe I am over simplifying. Taking the high road can be much more effective sometimes. And the high road might not necessarily be a pleasant place to be. You can still be tough! In regular words that I like to use - sometimes it's really cool to make that guy who is a total douchebag LOOK like a total douchbag to everyone else! Ahhh, satisfaction! Job finished. We all go home. A good example of this - 1991 NBA Playoffs. Chicago Bulls beat the Detroit Pistons. We told everyone all year AND the past several years that the Pistons were total assholes. When the Bulls won that series, all but a couple of the Pistons walked off the floor without even a handshake. Heck, without even any eye contact! Dickheads! If I am not mistaken, the only two who did hang around to shake hands were Joe Dumars and John Salley. The rest of those assholes proved what they were to the entire world. Finally! And how satisfying is that. Our work here is done!
Anyway, back to the bigger picture. No, I have NO interest in being a leader in our government. I choose to lead in a different way. I lead by asking questions. I lead by informing and getting people to think.
Teach your kids the values that you grew up with - those values taught by the same crotchedy dad and grandpa mentioned earlier. Teach the kids the art of communication. And for yourself, get out there and TALK to people. Even a short voicemail gets you practice. Cherish family dinner time and the conversation that ensues. Remember that we ARE all in this together. And if we quit thinking so much about what is easiest for us (email, text messaging, etc.) and get back to some basics (talking), together we can help America get back to being the great nation it once was.
Monday, April 19, 2010
The Middle East (and Near East) - Israel, Iraq, Iran and Afghanistan
Although the modern country of Israel has only been around since 1948, its history is long and deep. The conflict in the Middle East is not 60-some years old, it is THOUSANDS of years old. Think back to the Old Testament and the Philistines vs the Israelites. Who were these people? They are the same people who live today in Israel, Iran, Iraq and many more countries/nations including the Palestinian people who, by the way, SHOULD have their own state/country just as the Israelis have theirs.
Before we get going on this, I want to give a couple caveats. First, I am not a doctor of history and might have some things a little askew. Second, I am not extremely well read in the Bible. I know what I know and think what I think. You are entitled to agree or disagree with this as you are with ANYTHING else here and everywhere. It's a benefit of being human. Just form an opinion. More than anything, I want people to think. I want people to develop opinions and to gain knowledge about those things for which they know little. That being said, here we go....
Why was Israel created? You can say a number of things about why Israel was created. WAY before the Jews were forced to escape their homes or were collected by Adolph Hitler and his people in an attempt to eradicate them from Earth, the Jewish people had to fight to keep their homeland and were kicked out and allowed to return numerous times. So, do they deserve a place to call "home"? Sure they do, just like any other nation of people (think back to your Civics/Social Science days in high school where you learned the difference between country and nation). In this same respect, I am saying for the second time that the Palestinians deserve their own country as well. It is said that they were given that choice when the current Israel was created and they said no. I wasn't there. And if they said no, then I am sure there was more to it than just that.
Why WAS Israel created? Well, one important reason for this is biblical. The biggest proponents of the re-creation of Israel was the "West" - those countries who follow western religion. In fact, prior to 1948 when the current Israel became a country, it was under British rule. It is said in the New Testament that when Christ returns, He will go to Israel. And if the Israelis have no place to call "home", it is believed that Christ would not have a place to return. Ergo, here you go, Israel - you have your own country again.
Interesting. Ever heard that before? Taking that thought a step further, we sit here and play all high and mighty with other nations, particularly with the Muslims (often considered "the enemy" by the West) and many others for their holy wars and hatred of Israel and the Jews; yet, we (the US and it's many Christians and other believers in God) helped re-create the country of Israel because of our OWN beliefs. We helped this country return to the place right smack in the middle of the people who hate them most. Some might say this was an act of holy war. Was this not a focus of The Crusades hundreds of years ago? Perhaps there has not been much "violent" holy war waged by us (the US) or has there? Where are the majority of our armies right now?
Before I get to that, let's take a quick look at Muslims. These people follow the Qur'an. We have all heard of this and many of us have been told that it teaches that Muslims should kill non-Muslims. Death to the infidels? I did a little research on this. And here is what I found - yes, those things are said. But, we usually only hear a snippet of the whole thing. They DO say that Muslims should kill; but, the Qur'an includes that they should not be the aggressors. They Muslims should inflict violence only if violence is first inflicted on them. They should do it in retaliation only. Yes, the Qur'an says that they should fight to the death. However, it also says that when someone has repented or given in, that the violence should stop. There is plenty more here and we could go on and on. I just want to say, and no WAY am I defending the militant Muslims, that just because you are told something, you are not always being told the entire truth. Do you doubt that there are some militant Christians out there? If you do, then close this blog right now and don't come back because you are sadly mistaken!
Okay, back to where our armies are currently located...... Let's break it down.
Afghanistan (borders Iran on the west) - Why are we in Afghanistan? Well, we are told that we are there to rid the country of the Taliban and to hunt down Osama Bin Laden who we blame for destroying the World Trade Center in 2001 and who allegedly Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North many years ago said was the one person in the world who scared him. Our troops have been in Afghanistan since October of 2001 and still no Osama. When are we pulling our troops out?
Iraq (the cradle of civilization; one of five countries who invaded Israel the day after the country was recreated in 1948; borders Iran on the east) - Why are we in Iraq? Obviously it's because of all the weapons of mas destruction they have and.... Wait, they don't have any? Okay, then maybe it's because they have oil and we can...... Wait, we haven't said that? Okay, it's because we wanted to hunt down Saddam Hussein because he might have had something to do with the destruction of the World Trade Center. Maybe? How about it is also because Saddam Hussein tried to kill the first President Bush and "Junior Bush" was told to avenge his Dad? We'll have troops here for quite awhile yet. By the way, unless I am mistaken, Iraq is the location of the biblical "Babylon".
Israel (HATED by Iran) - We continue to back Israel because of the religious reasons noted earlier. I have more comments on Israel and their relationship with the Palestinians. But, that is for another time and worth taking the time to go through it fully. Anyway, this country is a common focus of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran. He claims that the Holocaust never occurred. I have thought about that and there are just too many facts to deny it. It happened and it was a horrific thing. Man, a lot of people hate these guys. Why do we stay there? Oh yeah, because of the Bible. I have some strong feelings about Israel. Some people do not like my views and they are entitled to that. For 60+ years, we have helped protect them. We have supplied them modern weaponry and military vehicles. And I always get this feeling that they are like the punk little brother. They will keep poking a guy with a stick knowing that if there is any retaliation, the big brother will come to its defense. This may not be the case; but, this is how I often see it. Sometimes I just wish their government would shut the eff up!
Iran (formerly Persia who ruled Israel for some 200 years in the time before Christ) - Iran is the reason we are still in Iraq, still in Afghanistan, have bases in Saudi Arabia (okay, they have a BUNCH of oil, too), Turkey and Kuwait (they have a lot of oil, too, and based on the events in 1991 should be GIVING us oil). Iran flaunts that they are enriching uranium. The two groups who most threaten Israel (and the return of Christ) are the Palestinians with whom we are promoting peaceful talks and Iran with whom we have much difficulty talking to at all. They are also hellbent on the destruction of Israel. We are keeping all our fighting forces in the Middle East because they are close to Iran and might someday soon be asked to fight Iran. Just watch! It sucks; but, it has a BIG chance of happening.
Okay, this is a lot to take in. There is SO much history in the Middle and Near East. What do YOU think?
Before we get going on this, I want to give a couple caveats. First, I am not a doctor of history and might have some things a little askew. Second, I am not extremely well read in the Bible. I know what I know and think what I think. You are entitled to agree or disagree with this as you are with ANYTHING else here and everywhere. It's a benefit of being human. Just form an opinion. More than anything, I want people to think. I want people to develop opinions and to gain knowledge about those things for which they know little. That being said, here we go....
Why was Israel created? You can say a number of things about why Israel was created. WAY before the Jews were forced to escape their homes or were collected by Adolph Hitler and his people in an attempt to eradicate them from Earth, the Jewish people had to fight to keep their homeland and were kicked out and allowed to return numerous times. So, do they deserve a place to call "home"? Sure they do, just like any other nation of people (think back to your Civics/Social Science days in high school where you learned the difference between country and nation). In this same respect, I am saying for the second time that the Palestinians deserve their own country as well. It is said that they were given that choice when the current Israel was created and they said no. I wasn't there. And if they said no, then I am sure there was more to it than just that.
Why WAS Israel created? Well, one important reason for this is biblical. The biggest proponents of the re-creation of Israel was the "West" - those countries who follow western religion. In fact, prior to 1948 when the current Israel became a country, it was under British rule. It is said in the New Testament that when Christ returns, He will go to Israel. And if the Israelis have no place to call "home", it is believed that Christ would not have a place to return. Ergo, here you go, Israel - you have your own country again.
Interesting. Ever heard that before? Taking that thought a step further, we sit here and play all high and mighty with other nations, particularly with the Muslims (often considered "the enemy" by the West) and many others for their holy wars and hatred of Israel and the Jews; yet, we (the US and it's many Christians and other believers in God) helped re-create the country of Israel because of our OWN beliefs. We helped this country return to the place right smack in the middle of the people who hate them most. Some might say this was an act of holy war. Was this not a focus of The Crusades hundreds of years ago? Perhaps there has not been much "violent" holy war waged by us (the US) or has there? Where are the majority of our armies right now?
Before I get to that, let's take a quick look at Muslims. These people follow the Qur'an. We have all heard of this and many of us have been told that it teaches that Muslims should kill non-Muslims. Death to the infidels? I did a little research on this. And here is what I found - yes, those things are said. But, we usually only hear a snippet of the whole thing. They DO say that Muslims should kill; but, the Qur'an includes that they should not be the aggressors. They Muslims should inflict violence only if violence is first inflicted on them. They should do it in retaliation only. Yes, the Qur'an says that they should fight to the death. However, it also says that when someone has repented or given in, that the violence should stop. There is plenty more here and we could go on and on. I just want to say, and no WAY am I defending the militant Muslims, that just because you are told something, you are not always being told the entire truth. Do you doubt that there are some militant Christians out there? If you do, then close this blog right now and don't come back because you are sadly mistaken!
Okay, back to where our armies are currently located...... Let's break it down.
Afghanistan (borders Iran on the west) - Why are we in Afghanistan? Well, we are told that we are there to rid the country of the Taliban and to hunt down Osama Bin Laden who we blame for destroying the World Trade Center in 2001 and who allegedly Lieutenant Colonel Oliver North many years ago said was the one person in the world who scared him. Our troops have been in Afghanistan since October of 2001 and still no Osama. When are we pulling our troops out?
Iraq (the cradle of civilization; one of five countries who invaded Israel the day after the country was recreated in 1948; borders Iran on the east) - Why are we in Iraq? Obviously it's because of all the weapons of mas destruction they have and.... Wait, they don't have any? Okay, then maybe it's because they have oil and we can...... Wait, we haven't said that? Okay, it's because we wanted to hunt down Saddam Hussein because he might have had something to do with the destruction of the World Trade Center. Maybe? How about it is also because Saddam Hussein tried to kill the first President Bush and "Junior Bush" was told to avenge his Dad? We'll have troops here for quite awhile yet. By the way, unless I am mistaken, Iraq is the location of the biblical "Babylon".
Israel (HATED by Iran) - We continue to back Israel because of the religious reasons noted earlier. I have more comments on Israel and their relationship with the Palestinians. But, that is for another time and worth taking the time to go through it fully. Anyway, this country is a common focus of President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad of Iran. He claims that the Holocaust never occurred. I have thought about that and there are just too many facts to deny it. It happened and it was a horrific thing. Man, a lot of people hate these guys. Why do we stay there? Oh yeah, because of the Bible. I have some strong feelings about Israel. Some people do not like my views and they are entitled to that. For 60+ years, we have helped protect them. We have supplied them modern weaponry and military vehicles. And I always get this feeling that they are like the punk little brother. They will keep poking a guy with a stick knowing that if there is any retaliation, the big brother will come to its defense. This may not be the case; but, this is how I often see it. Sometimes I just wish their government would shut the eff up!
Iran (formerly Persia who ruled Israel for some 200 years in the time before Christ) - Iran is the reason we are still in Iraq, still in Afghanistan, have bases in Saudi Arabia (okay, they have a BUNCH of oil, too), Turkey and Kuwait (they have a lot of oil, too, and based on the events in 1991 should be GIVING us oil). Iran flaunts that they are enriching uranium. The two groups who most threaten Israel (and the return of Christ) are the Palestinians with whom we are promoting peaceful talks and Iran with whom we have much difficulty talking to at all. They are also hellbent on the destruction of Israel. We are keeping all our fighting forces in the Middle East because they are close to Iran and might someday soon be asked to fight Iran. Just watch! It sucks; but, it has a BIG chance of happening.
Okay, this is a lot to take in. There is SO much history in the Middle and Near East. What do YOU think?
Tuesday, April 13, 2010
STFU Celebrities
When did actors decide they should be allowed to force their political views on others? There are SEVERAL actors who I cannot stand just because they open their mouths somewhere other than in the movies or on TV. A couple who come to mind quickly are fricking George Clooney and Michael Douglas. Guys.... shut the eff up!
You sit there and talk about all this political crap or Tibet or some other fricking thing. Oh man, fricking Brad and Angelina, too. Why am I even referring to them by just their first names? By the way, as I typed that, they adopted six more kids. Do you really think they work to raise these kids themselves? My guess is that there are plenty of nannies, maids and others to raise those kids. Hey, I need one of the kids for a photo op - you, #5, come here and smile.
I wish these people would just do their jobs and keep their mouths SHUT! On behalf of the whole world, thanks you a-holes.
You sit there and talk about all this political crap or Tibet or some other fricking thing. Oh man, fricking Brad and Angelina, too. Why am I even referring to them by just their first names? By the way, as I typed that, they adopted six more kids. Do you really think they work to raise these kids themselves? My guess is that there are plenty of nannies, maids and others to raise those kids. Hey, I need one of the kids for a photo op - you, #5, come here and smile.
I wish these people would just do their jobs and keep their mouths SHUT! On behalf of the whole world, thanks you a-holes.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
People, You've Got it All Wrong - Politics
There are a lot of good ideas out there. The problem is that people go and eff things all up. "Hey, look at this beautiful new Cadillac I just got. I think it will look great with spinners!" Why?!?! You may laugh at this; but, it is a nice lead in to a couple things that people, heck mankind, should never have messed with. Some things are just fine the way they were created and there is NO reason to screw them up.
First is politics. Political parties are a RIDICULOUS idea and do not work. They may have worked in the beginning as our forefathers built our country. But, they sure as hell are NOT working today! Why did we ever do this? Why does ANYONE do this? I can only speak for politics here in the US; but, I will bet that things are similar in some other countries as well. Do you know what political parties do for America? Not a DAMN thing! Do you know why the government is so fricking messed up right now? It's because of political parties. Sure, there are also quite likely a lot of incompetent people serving us. "Democrats vs Republicans" is why good legislation does not happen, is why the welfare system is messed up, is why there is less and less money for education, is why we are directionless in Iraq and Afghanistan, and so much more. These clowns who run the government, mainly the President (whoever that is at a particular time) and the upper echelon of government, senior senators and others, create such hostility between the parties and try to FORCE their fellow party members to follow the party line.
Look, there are a lot of people out there with some very good ideas. However, they are silenced or worse by their own parties because their ideas go against the party beliefs. Come on! Are we not all Americans first before we are Republicans or Democrats? If an idea is good, it is good. If an idea is bad, like this healthcare plan that the President is trying to FORCE through Congress / ram it down their throats, then it is bad. Do we need healthcare reform? Absolutely! Is the current plan on the table a good one. No way! Why? I will keep it simple - it is a bad idea because the government cannot manage ANY of its other programs! Why on Earth would I think THIS will work?? Do we need a way for the uninsured and just as importantly the under-insured to have proper affordable healthcare? Darn right we do! Do we need to get control of skyrocketing insurance costs? Definitely! The parties should work HONESTLY together to find a plan that can reel in the insurance companies and find something reasonable so that everyone can be insured. Should the government actually RUN a program? No effing way because they have proven time and time again that they cannot manage even the most simple government programs. This is IMPORTANT people! And it is VITAL that the government rethink this rather than have the Democrats force through THEIR program. The President wants this feather in his cap. I would prefer he try to push something through that is valuable to him as an American rather than something that he will try to hang his hat on in his Presidential resume.
What can we do to prevent this mismanagement and lack of good direction? Well, first, we can make damn sure to get out and vote every time we have a chance. Does your vote make a difference? It depends on whether you see only what is front of you or if you see the big picture. Your vote, as a single solitary vote, does not mean much when millions are cast. BUT, if you believe this and decide to stay home and not "waste" your time voting, your vote will not be counted. Considering that we regularly see 70% of voters stay home when it's time to vote, this means that only 30% of people vote for those who are there to represent ALL of us. If we can get another 30% (that's only 3 of every 10 non-voters) to come out and place their votes, we can DOUBLE the number of votes!! This will at minimum get us elected people who more accurately represent the "majority". Likewise, some of these referenda that show up on our local ballots might have better chances of passing if more of us vote. And if you are uneducated about one, ask questions! Read! So often, we only look at how much it will cost us. Is it not worth a few more dollars a year to make your community better? I will give you an example.
My fiancee's hometown has had a referendum the past couple ballots. One of the local high schools is in desperate need of repairs, renovations, additions, etc. The state has agreed to pay for the majority of this required work. The cost to the taxpayers is relatively minimal. Okay, so give me an example of how this high school is lacking. With pleasure. One of my fiancee's sister's classes RELIES on students missing class. Yeah, it's true. If all the kids in the class show up, the classroom will be short three desks. No, there will not be enough desks for the kids. Where would they sit? The floor? Folding chairs? This is ridiculous! Keep in mind, these kids might be our future leaders. Rather than half-ass things with them and just bitch about "kids these days", why don't we support them, give them what they need to have a healthy worthy education and fill them with the knowledge and confidence they need to run our country RIGHT when the time comes!
I got a little off track there. But, I do want to say one more thing about voting. I look at voting as my right to bitch. I go, place my vote, have my say and that's that. I vote because I want to improve my community and my country. Personally, I think that if you don't vote, you keep your effing mouth shut when it comes to government, taxes, and everything else!
One more thing about politics before I leave you. We need to keep an eye on our politicians. We vote them in and we can vote them out, too. What sucks is that everything is a crap shoot. When politicians are campaigning, they will say ANYTHING to secure your vote. Yes, they will lie. And I fear that they lie more than they tell the truth. Wait, I KNOW that's how it is! It's because once they are elected, they no longer represent you and me. Heck no! They represent their fricking POLITICAL PARTY! Also, we have people campaigning saying they have "plans". But, you know, they NEVER disclose these plans! Come on, spit it out. There is enough media coverage that if you are the first one to come up with a good idea and another candidate "steals" your idea, EVERYONE will know it's your idea in the first place. We need to stop electing Republicans and Democrats and start electing Americans who will share their ideas and who will truly be out there trying to represent us in a proper way.
If no one shares their plans with us, how can we develop an opinion? If you agree or disagree with someone/something, at least you will develop an opinion! At least you might start talking about it and try to understand it. Or better yet, maybe you will think of something better. And then you share YOUR thoughts with anyone who will listen. Let's stop thinking as political parties and start thinking as Americans. We are ALL in this together, folks. And if we all unite and MAKE our leaders do the right thing, we will once become the best country on Earth. And if not, we will see ourselves continue on this downward spiral on our way to being some second-tier country. Do you want that?
First is politics. Political parties are a RIDICULOUS idea and do not work. They may have worked in the beginning as our forefathers built our country. But, they sure as hell are NOT working today! Why did we ever do this? Why does ANYONE do this? I can only speak for politics here in the US; but, I will bet that things are similar in some other countries as well. Do you know what political parties do for America? Not a DAMN thing! Do you know why the government is so fricking messed up right now? It's because of political parties. Sure, there are also quite likely a lot of incompetent people serving us. "Democrats vs Republicans" is why good legislation does not happen, is why the welfare system is messed up, is why there is less and less money for education, is why we are directionless in Iraq and Afghanistan, and so much more. These clowns who run the government, mainly the President (whoever that is at a particular time) and the upper echelon of government, senior senators and others, create such hostility between the parties and try to FORCE their fellow party members to follow the party line.
Look, there are a lot of people out there with some very good ideas. However, they are silenced or worse by their own parties because their ideas go against the party beliefs. Come on! Are we not all Americans first before we are Republicans or Democrats? If an idea is good, it is good. If an idea is bad, like this healthcare plan that the President is trying to FORCE through Congress / ram it down their throats, then it is bad. Do we need healthcare reform? Absolutely! Is the current plan on the table a good one. No way! Why? I will keep it simple - it is a bad idea because the government cannot manage ANY of its other programs! Why on Earth would I think THIS will work?? Do we need a way for the uninsured and just as importantly the under-insured to have proper affordable healthcare? Darn right we do! Do we need to get control of skyrocketing insurance costs? Definitely! The parties should work HONESTLY together to find a plan that can reel in the insurance companies and find something reasonable so that everyone can be insured. Should the government actually RUN a program? No effing way because they have proven time and time again that they cannot manage even the most simple government programs. This is IMPORTANT people! And it is VITAL that the government rethink this rather than have the Democrats force through THEIR program. The President wants this feather in his cap. I would prefer he try to push something through that is valuable to him as an American rather than something that he will try to hang his hat on in his Presidential resume.
What can we do to prevent this mismanagement and lack of good direction? Well, first, we can make damn sure to get out and vote every time we have a chance. Does your vote make a difference? It depends on whether you see only what is front of you or if you see the big picture. Your vote, as a single solitary vote, does not mean much when millions are cast. BUT, if you believe this and decide to stay home and not "waste" your time voting, your vote will not be counted. Considering that we regularly see 70% of voters stay home when it's time to vote, this means that only 30% of people vote for those who are there to represent ALL of us. If we can get another 30% (that's only 3 of every 10 non-voters) to come out and place their votes, we can DOUBLE the number of votes!! This will at minimum get us elected people who more accurately represent the "majority". Likewise, some of these referenda that show up on our local ballots might have better chances of passing if more of us vote. And if you are uneducated about one, ask questions! Read! So often, we only look at how much it will cost us. Is it not worth a few more dollars a year to make your community better? I will give you an example.
My fiancee's hometown has had a referendum the past couple ballots. One of the local high schools is in desperate need of repairs, renovations, additions, etc. The state has agreed to pay for the majority of this required work. The cost to the taxpayers is relatively minimal. Okay, so give me an example of how this high school is lacking. With pleasure. One of my fiancee's sister's classes RELIES on students missing class. Yeah, it's true. If all the kids in the class show up, the classroom will be short three desks. No, there will not be enough desks for the kids. Where would they sit? The floor? Folding chairs? This is ridiculous! Keep in mind, these kids might be our future leaders. Rather than half-ass things with them and just bitch about "kids these days", why don't we support them, give them what they need to have a healthy worthy education and fill them with the knowledge and confidence they need to run our country RIGHT when the time comes!
I got a little off track there. But, I do want to say one more thing about voting. I look at voting as my right to bitch. I go, place my vote, have my say and that's that. I vote because I want to improve my community and my country. Personally, I think that if you don't vote, you keep your effing mouth shut when it comes to government, taxes, and everything else!
One more thing about politics before I leave you. We need to keep an eye on our politicians. We vote them in and we can vote them out, too. What sucks is that everything is a crap shoot. When politicians are campaigning, they will say ANYTHING to secure your vote. Yes, they will lie. And I fear that they lie more than they tell the truth. Wait, I KNOW that's how it is! It's because once they are elected, they no longer represent you and me. Heck no! They represent their fricking POLITICAL PARTY! Also, we have people campaigning saying they have "plans". But, you know, they NEVER disclose these plans! Come on, spit it out. There is enough media coverage that if you are the first one to come up with a good idea and another candidate "steals" your idea, EVERYONE will know it's your idea in the first place. We need to stop electing Republicans and Democrats and start electing Americans who will share their ideas and who will truly be out there trying to represent us in a proper way.
If no one shares their plans with us, how can we develop an opinion? If you agree or disagree with someone/something, at least you will develop an opinion! At least you might start talking about it and try to understand it. Or better yet, maybe you will think of something better. And then you share YOUR thoughts with anyone who will listen. Let's stop thinking as political parties and start thinking as Americans. We are ALL in this together, folks. And if we all unite and MAKE our leaders do the right thing, we will once become the best country on Earth. And if not, we will see ourselves continue on this downward spiral on our way to being some second-tier country. Do you want that?
Thursday, March 11, 2010
Respect, or the Lack Thereof
People today amaze me, especially kids. When I was brought up, I was taught certain things by my parents. I was taught to say "please" and "thank you". I was taught to be honest. I was taught to be kind to others. I was taught to work hard. Okay, I will admit that I don't always work hard. But, at least I know I am supposed to. Also, I was taught to respect others, especially my elders.
Disrespect is one of my biggest pet peeves. Lying and cheating are certainly ranked higher; but, this one irritates the piss out of me. If everyone would just approach each new person with a basic respect, we could have a much more peaceful planet. Instead, we all to often form an opinion of this person before we even meet him.
On a big scale, for example, we have many Muslims raised to hate Jews and vice versa. I remember watching some documentary on HBO a few years ago and they followed a Palestinian boy around and he told how he was raised to believe that the Jews are the enemy (among many other words). Not only was he taught to not respect them, he was taught to HATE them. It is quite possible that an Israeli child might be brought up the same way. The power of a parent's words is tremendous!
On a smaller and more individual scale, we have kids who show NO respect, not even to their own parents. To watch some of these kids interact with their parents sometimes makes my jaw drop. Did he/she just say THAT?? And if they act like that with their parents, how would they act around others?!?!? I'm not a parent yet; but, I can tell you that my kids will be brought up with the same values that I was. Live by the Golden Rule - "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Treat not only your elders with respect, but ALL people.
How does one learn respect? First of all, parents need to let their kids know when they step out of line. Don't turn away from it. Take responsibility for your children. Would YOUR parents have let YOU get away with what your kids are getting away with? I am guessing the answer is 'no'.
I will admit that I play my share of video games. However, I think that video games are WAY too prominent in families these days. Now, say a family has a Wii and they play games together, use Wii Fit and maybe some family oriented games. I am cool with that to an extent. Just please do not let the video games become your kids' babysitter OR the only thing that brings the family together. Likewise, please do not let the TV be the babysitter either.
Once again, I have to admit that I watch WAY too much TV. And I understand why parents like those portable DVD players for the kids on road trips. Hey, it makes sense. But, you know, when the family is at home, why let the TV babysit? If the family is watching together, that's different. But, how often are you watching together? And how often are you watching something with any human value versus some movie with questionable content and language?
Language - here's where I start showing my age. There is entirely WAY too much language and sex on TV. Did I really just say that? I did. Don't let the TV be where your kids learn life skills. Sure, once you hit a certain age, the rules change a bit. But, I don't think I swore in front of my parents until I was probably 20 years old. Don't quote me on that. I think that once a kid hits 17 or 18, things can loosen up a bit. However, a 12 year old or a 15 year old swearing in front of their parents is NOT right. Sure, teens will be teens. But, there is a limit and it is up to the PARENTS to teach them what is right and what is wrong.
People wonder why their kids end up with the wrong crowd or end up all messed up. "Oh I don't know why he acts like that." "I don't know where she got that attitude." I have a feeling a lot of it can be traced back to how they were raised and how much their parents were around. If you have kids, PLEASE teach them right. Teach them to be upstanding citizens. Teach them how to act properly in public. If you do not teach them these things, someone else will. And that person may not have the same values as YOU.
On a big scale, for example, we have many Muslims raised to hate Jews and vice versa. I remember watching some documentary on HBO a few years ago and they followed a Palestinian boy around and he told how he was raised to believe that the Jews are the enemy (among many other words). Not only was he taught to not respect them, he was taught to HATE them. It is quite possible that an Israeli child might be brought up the same way. The power of a parent's words is tremendous!
On a smaller and more individual scale, we have kids who show NO respect, not even to their own parents. To watch some of these kids interact with their parents sometimes makes my jaw drop. Did he/she just say THAT?? And if they act like that with their parents, how would they act around others?!?!? I'm not a parent yet; but, I can tell you that my kids will be brought up with the same values that I was. Live by the Golden Rule - "do unto others as you would have them do unto you." Treat not only your elders with respect, but ALL people.
How does one learn respect? First of all, parents need to let their kids know when they step out of line. Don't turn away from it. Take responsibility for your children. Would YOUR parents have let YOU get away with what your kids are getting away with? I am guessing the answer is 'no'.
I will admit that I play my share of video games. However, I think that video games are WAY too prominent in families these days. Now, say a family has a Wii and they play games together, use Wii Fit and maybe some family oriented games. I am cool with that to an extent. Just please do not let the video games become your kids' babysitter OR the only thing that brings the family together. Likewise, please do not let the TV be the babysitter either.
Once again, I have to admit that I watch WAY too much TV. And I understand why parents like those portable DVD players for the kids on road trips. Hey, it makes sense. But, you know, when the family is at home, why let the TV babysit? If the family is watching together, that's different. But, how often are you watching together? And how often are you watching something with any human value versus some movie with questionable content and language?
Language - here's where I start showing my age. There is entirely WAY too much language and sex on TV. Did I really just say that? I did. Don't let the TV be where your kids learn life skills. Sure, once you hit a certain age, the rules change a bit. But, I don't think I swore in front of my parents until I was probably 20 years old. Don't quote me on that. I think that once a kid hits 17 or 18, things can loosen up a bit. However, a 12 year old or a 15 year old swearing in front of their parents is NOT right. Sure, teens will be teens. But, there is a limit and it is up to the PARENTS to teach them what is right and what is wrong.
People wonder why their kids end up with the wrong crowd or end up all messed up. "Oh I don't know why he acts like that." "I don't know where she got that attitude." I have a feeling a lot of it can be traced back to how they were raised and how much their parents were around. If you have kids, PLEASE teach them right. Teach them to be upstanding citizens. Teach them how to act properly in public. If you do not teach them these things, someone else will. And that person may not have the same values as YOU.
A Letter to Milton Bradley
In response to Milton Bradley who signed with the Seattle Mariners for the 2010 season blaming the team and the fans for his poor play in 2009 with the Chicago Cubs.
Dear Milton,
You sit there and take jabs at the Cubs and their fans. You blame us for your crap year in 2009. Was pressure put on you to perform? Maybe. But, why shouldn't pressure be there considering you were hired to play a game and get paid more than $6 million in 2009 to play that game for the Cubs.
You say it's our fault you sucked in 2009? Really? I will be honest with you, a LOT of us did not want you here. You have been a troublemaker for several years before you came to Chicago and we wanted no part of that.
If you wanted us to like you, the least you could have done was perform! We actually give a lot of credit for TRYING. However, your batting average did not hit .200 until the end of May. Pitchers were out-hitting you! Your fielding in 2009 was fair. However, I had the great displeasure of being at the Cubs-Brewers game on June 12 where you forgot how many outs you had. You showboated by making a basket catch. Then you looked smugly into the stands and then tossed the ball to the crowd. Nice move asshole! Fortunately, it didn't cost the team a run. Do you really think you made fans that day? No. You LOST fans that day. And do you know why? It's not because you made a dumb error. Everyone makes errors. It was the manner in which you did it. The Cubs fans do not react well to your technique. You are a douche-bag. Bottom line!
Milton, if you were TRULY a professional, you would have sucked it up and soldiered on.... like Alfonso Soriano. He has had WAY more disappointing moments with the Cubs than good ones and I personally think the team would be better off without him and his $17 million salary for 2009. Just ask any Cub fan. However, not once did he blame his lack of performance on the fans, the team or the city. I give him credit for going out there every day and playing. Sure he does that stupid little hop when he tries to catch a fly ball. And sure he poses like an a-hole when he gets a hold of one. BUt, he goes out there and plays and blames no one but himself for his lack of performance.
Are you a professional? No fricking way! You are no more a professional baseball player than I am. Sure, you were blessed with some talent that lets you hit and throw a baseball well enough to make you millions of dollars. A professional would take responsibility for his actions or lack thereof. He would try harder. He would say the right things to the reporters. The only times the fans hear you speak are by the words and videos of the reporters. On April 24, you told the media that you don't like them. After saying that, did you really think your positive press would increase? You did this to yourself. You played like crap and got bad press. All we needed you was to get in a fight with a teammate and we would have been set.
I am so glad you are out of Chicago. And for the sake of the Seattle Mariners, I hope you have a year that helps them make the playoffs. One way to do that is to not rile up the fans and most importantly - shut your effing mouth!
Sincerely,
A Lifelong Cub Fan
Dear Milton,
You sit there and take jabs at the Cubs and their fans. You blame us for your crap year in 2009. Was pressure put on you to perform? Maybe. But, why shouldn't pressure be there considering you were hired to play a game and get paid more than $6 million in 2009 to play that game for the Cubs.
You say it's our fault you sucked in 2009? Really? I will be honest with you, a LOT of us did not want you here. You have been a troublemaker for several years before you came to Chicago and we wanted no part of that.
If you wanted us to like you, the least you could have done was perform! We actually give a lot of credit for TRYING. However, your batting average did not hit .200 until the end of May. Pitchers were out-hitting you! Your fielding in 2009 was fair. However, I had the great displeasure of being at the Cubs-Brewers game on June 12 where you forgot how many outs you had. You showboated by making a basket catch. Then you looked smugly into the stands and then tossed the ball to the crowd. Nice move asshole! Fortunately, it didn't cost the team a run. Do you really think you made fans that day? No. You LOST fans that day. And do you know why? It's not because you made a dumb error. Everyone makes errors. It was the manner in which you did it. The Cubs fans do not react well to your technique. You are a douche-bag. Bottom line!
Milton, if you were TRULY a professional, you would have sucked it up and soldiered on.... like Alfonso Soriano. He has had WAY more disappointing moments with the Cubs than good ones and I personally think the team would be better off without him and his $17 million salary for 2009. Just ask any Cub fan. However, not once did he blame his lack of performance on the fans, the team or the city. I give him credit for going out there every day and playing. Sure he does that stupid little hop when he tries to catch a fly ball. And sure he poses like an a-hole when he gets a hold of one. BUt, he goes out there and plays and blames no one but himself for his lack of performance.
Are you a professional? No fricking way! You are no more a professional baseball player than I am. Sure, you were blessed with some talent that lets you hit and throw a baseball well enough to make you millions of dollars. A professional would take responsibility for his actions or lack thereof. He would try harder. He would say the right things to the reporters. The only times the fans hear you speak are by the words and videos of the reporters. On April 24, you told the media that you don't like them. After saying that, did you really think your positive press would increase? You did this to yourself. You played like crap and got bad press. All we needed you was to get in a fight with a teammate and we would have been set.
I am so glad you are out of Chicago. And for the sake of the Seattle Mariners, I hope you have a year that helps them make the playoffs. One way to do that is to not rile up the fans and most importantly - shut your effing mouth!
Sincerely,
A Lifelong Cub Fan
Saturday, March 6, 2010
Yack's Blog Numero Uno
Welcome to Blog #1. I've wanted to have my own blog thingy for several years now and FINALLY, here it is! Why did I want to do blogs? It's simply because I have an opinion about pretty much everything and I think everyone should hear what I have to say! So, thanks in advance to reading my rants, raves, etc.
What can you expect to see here? Certainly, taboo topics like politics, religion and things like that will be a must. Yeah, I have plenty of things to say. Current events will probably be the main fuel that feeds the fire here.
How often will I post? I have no idea. Just check back every now and then. I have a bunch of ideas that I will be starting with including the economy, the Middle East (Israel, Iraq and Iran), Metallica, gas prices, home prices and unions. I will look for a way for readers to add comments. For now, if you know me, just email me and I will reply or maybe not.
As Rush Limbaugh has said, "if you don't know what to think, I'll tell you." No, I am not a Ditto-Head; but, I sure like that philosophy.
A warning to those of you who are too insecure or too sensitive, this blog is not the place for you. Please forget that you were ever here. There will be colorful language, things you may disagree with, things that might offend you and much more. That, I can promise. Personally, I say lighten the eff up. If everyone would quit taking themselves so effing seriously or taking things so effing literally, this world would be a MUCH better place.
For those of you who do not fit in the previous paragraph, welcome! Please grab a cup of coffee, sit back, buckle in and enjoy the ride!
What can you expect to see here? Certainly, taboo topics like politics, religion and things like that will be a must. Yeah, I have plenty of things to say. Current events will probably be the main fuel that feeds the fire here.
How often will I post? I have no idea. Just check back every now and then. I have a bunch of ideas that I will be starting with including the economy, the Middle East (Israel, Iraq and Iran), Metallica, gas prices, home prices and unions. I will look for a way for readers to add comments. For now, if you know me, just email me and I will reply or maybe not.
As Rush Limbaugh has said, "if you don't know what to think, I'll tell you." No, I am not a Ditto-Head; but, I sure like that philosophy.
A warning to those of you who are too insecure or too sensitive, this blog is not the place for you. Please forget that you were ever here. There will be colorful language, things you may disagree with, things that might offend you and much more. That, I can promise. Personally, I say lighten the eff up. If everyone would quit taking themselves so effing seriously or taking things so effing literally, this world would be a MUCH better place.
For those of you who do not fit in the previous paragraph, welcome! Please grab a cup of coffee, sit back, buckle in and enjoy the ride!
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