This is typically the time of year when we conduct a short mental inventory of the past twelve months and look ahead to the new year. I'm no different. These thoughts mix the personal aspects of life with the public events we've experienced over the last year, and some expectations for the new year. So allow me to ramble a bit about Last Year and Next Year. I hesitate to make actual predictions. Those who do skate on very thin ice, and run the unenviable risk of looking silly. At my age, I do enough to look silly without purposefully inviting it.
Beginning on a personal note, I can report that my immediate family and I have weathered the year in pretty good shape, all things considered. We have had a few notes of concern about the health and well being of friends and some in our extended family, but have had no major losses or sadness. One never knows when matters such as these will change, but I am always grateful to know that strong people of great character, and uncommon kindness and love, inhabit the space closest to me and form the fabric of our family.
Our family has also been fortunate to enjoy continued success in our professions. As economic conditions stagnate and contribute to uncertainty, we've all kept our jobs and we've been able to support ourselves and each other through difficult times. Many around us have not been able to do this, so we have also tried to contribute some relief to members of our community who need our help, as well as our personal and political commitment to creating a more just world.
Even though I shy away from making predictions, there is one I can make with absolute certainty. Our family will greet and cherish a new member of the family in early January. Our younger daughter and her husband will present the world with a new baby girl to join her brother. She will be our fifth grandchild. This is a personal joy to us, and even more reason to work hard for a better world. Each new child represents great potential, and a great responsibility for those who come before them. I refuse to see the world through the narrow lens of my own lifespan. Instead, I find it more purposeful to embrace the duty of creating the best world possible for those who will inherit it. Will the next generation blame us, or thank us for the world we've left them?
The last year contained both horrible public events and some very heartening events as well- but isn't that the way of most years? It was a year of disasters: Japan earthquake and tsunami, Brazil landslides, New Zealand earthquake, U.S. east coast Hurricane Irene, Alabama and Missouri tornadoes, Texas drought and wildfires, Turkey earthquake, Bangkok and Philippines flooding, U.S. mid-Atlantic record snow storms, East Africa drought and starvation- just to name the major ones. Tens of thousands died and many more were left to suffer the ruins. It was a year of political upheaval here and around the world. World leadership changed in some countries with the death of both tyrants and heroes- while some were just replaced in the midst of global economic turmoil. Wars dragged on while others ended with no victory- no defeat, only the legacy of lost lives and limbs, and lost treasure.
This year we witnessed the near total breakdown of our political process as stubborn ideologies battered each other, seemingly forgetting their primary purpose of governing. Our government, and most particularly our Congress brought shame upon itself for acting foolishly. The real heartbreak of this year has been the steady erosion of the middle class, as more and more Americans slip into poverty. This has happened while the most wealthy have relentlessly increased their own wealth at the expense of the rest of us and with the complicity of the Congress, who are bought and paid for by the rich and powerful.
But, I did say there was heartening news too. I found it very encouraging that so many people here and around the world have exerted self determination for freedom and justice in the face of governments that could not, or would not do it on their behalf. The "Arab Spring" is a sign that humanity retains the spark of hope against tyranny and repression. Certain elections here last year tell us there is hope. The "Occupy Movement" reminds us that our liberties, and our sense of justice were born in protest against the Crown by our founders, and gave rise to our country. It tells us the voice of the People will be heard. This is a voice that has been too long silent- now awakened.
Our political season gets underway in earnest in January. If you've read my earlier blogs you know I've had some fun writing about the early posturing by the Republican field. But now it's time to get serious. This country has serious issues and must find a serious direction. So far, the Republican class of 2012 hopefuls have not distinguished themselves as worthy to lead this country. "Corporations are people, my friend", "there are serious questions about his birth place","yes, I would approve of water boarding", "oops","if you're not rich..blame yourself", "I would send the Capital Police to arrest them" (Federal Judges), "999", "in poor neighborhoods the children can clean the schools", "the fence would be electrified" "God told me to run", "God told ME to run"(different candidate). Republican audiences cheered executions; booed an active-duty, war zone serviceman who is gay; and shouted to let the uninsured die in the streets----silence from the candidates...................This is pathetic- and it not us.
We have allowed this crop to engage us in a race to the bottom- to see who can be the meanest, most backward thinking, science denying, reality ignoring, egomaniac who would be President. They have played upon our worst instincts and fears. My wish for the next year is that sanity will return and serious people will emerge who will restore decency and sensibility to the process. The next election will give us clear choices. But, I fear we may lose civility-I fear the race issue will boil over- I fear more polarization. I hope we all demand more and reject the usual politics of hatred and division. We need each other, even when we disagree with one another.
Over the last year I've attempted to expand my own interests and activities more. This blog is one such effort. I thank you for allowing me to share it with you. I've been heartened by the response I've gotten, and been encouraged. I am absolutely convinced that no matter how old we are, they is always room to explore new things- and it is the exploration of new activities and interests that keeps us vital, youthful and alive. I will make every effort to meet new people and experience new things in the year to come. I know these aren't the kind of essays you can look at for a few seconds and move on. Reading these blogs takes a few minutes, but I was determined to put something down that required some real thought on my part- and hopefully caused some different thoughts on your part. Whether you agree or disagree, I'm grateful to be part of the conversation and I thank you. I look forward to the next year- I know it will be an exciting year for me, my family, and all of you as we march together into the future.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, December 27, 2011
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
" A Christmas Carol" A Christmas Wish
Charles Dickens first published this amazing story in 1843 in Britain, the land of his birth, and the place where he encountered images and experiences that led him this tale of sadness and redemption. "A Christmas Carol" is my favorite Christmas story because, from my earliest recollections, it stuck a chord in me about the idea of conscience. Even as a small child I experienced this story, as told in cartoon fashion with Mr. McGoo in the lead role as Ebenezer Scrooge, with fright and wonder at was playing out before my eyes. As I grew to adulthood and learned more about the world, its history, and its injustices the story took on greater significance for me as I came to understand, in full, it's true meaning. Dickens' own life experiences plays heavily in the lessons he teaches us through this novella. He was impoverished for a time. His own father was separated from the family to serve time in a debtor's prison. Those experiences deeply influenced his writing, and led to a life advocating for the poor and the children of Victorian Britain. I hope you will treat yourself to a small journey of discovery by researching Dickens' remarkable life and the background of this work, and other works.
Dickens' genius is truly exposed in his placing of this message against the background of the Christmas holiday. He doesn't take the course of religious meaning, but instead guides us through this Christmas season along a path of awakening to charity and kindness for our fellow man. My own beliefs match well with this approach, and perhaps that explains my fascination with the story and the message it conveys.
In each part of the story there is a great lesson to be learned. Each character tells us something unique about the times and the context of life's experience. However, there is also a timelessness to this tale. We can easily compare the conditions of society then to the conditions we have now. Victorian Britain was a place of privilege and wealth for a few, but also a place of poverty and despair for the masses. We have the same situation now. The great pursuit of wealth (Scrooge),at the expense of the working class (Bob Cratchit), is a story for this age too. Scrooge was given his dire warning in the night when his departed business partner Jacob Marley appears in the chains of his riches, and tells Scrooge to change his ways. As Scrooge argues about the virtues of Marley's business success, Marley snaps back:
"Business! Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business: charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!"
This passage reveals the central theme of the story. The spirit of Christmas is not embodied in the selfish rich- but in the virtues he names (charity-mercy-forbearance-benevolence). Incidentally these are the same virtues that are embedded in Christian ideals, when truly practiced. Dickens offered no defense of the "job creators" of his time. He condemned them and blamed them for the plight of the poor and the children (Tiny Tim) who were needlessly doomed because of exploitation and greed.
Scrooge shrugs off the visit by Marley and is visited throughout the night by three spirits who show him his life in stages. The Ghost of Christmas Past reminds Scrooge of the love and happiness he lost in his quest for riches, as well as reminding him of the hurt he felt as a youth, when those around him did not embrace the spirit of the season. Scrooge begins to feel regret, but remains unconvinced. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge the celebrations of family members, and how they feel sorry for him, because he has chosen to ignore the love of his family. The Ghost shows him the home of Bob Cratchit, where family love is the most cherished reason to celebrate Christmas. This ghost also reveals others living in the world who are depraved and hardened by the harsh times their impoverished circumstances have caused. Finally the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come guides Scrooge through a dark and harrowing world created by greed, and the suffering of the masses. This tour goes through the Cratchit home where Tiny Tim has died, where only his crutch stands in the corner to remind them of the love they had for their dear lost son.The journey ends at Scrooge's grave where he is finally able to comprehend the real legacy of a life spent ignoring the plight of others, while ruthlessly pursuing wealth.
For me, the most important lesson is the one taught by the Ghost of Christmas Present. Before he leaves Scrooge he reveals two small, emaciated, and unearthly looking children who were hidden beneath his robes. Dickens described them as "wretched, abject, frightful, hideous and miserable". When Scrooge tries to ignore their obvious condition and asks if they belong to the spirit, the spirit says. "they are Man's". Then he goes on to introduce them with an ominous warning:
"This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware them both, and all their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that written which is Doom, unless the writing be erased."
We are told that Ignorance and Want will doom mankind- most particularly Ignorance. But we are also told that we can do something about these conditions- they can be erased. These should be the guiding principles for our leaders, and for us, as we chose our own path and that of our country. Unfortunately we see too many among us proposing a different path, one that assures more ignorance and more want- more economic injustice, while the "Scrooge's" count their money. Today we might call them the 1%.
Dickens ends the story with Ebenezer's reform and his salvation- having learned the true values of life from his ghostly visitors. In the end we see a man reborn, giddy with the spirit of Christmas, filled with charity and concern for his fellow man. We see a man who goes about this life from then on, happy in his service to others. In this we see the true spirit of Christmas, and Dickens ends "A Christmas Carol".
Thank you for allowing me to share this timeless story with you, and tell you how much it means to me. Our family hopes that all of you will enjoy happy holidays and a Merry Christmas. Our fervent wish for the new year is that the spirit of Dickens' message will reach those who need it most to rekindle the virtues that serve mankind best.
Thanks for looking in.
Dickens' genius is truly exposed in his placing of this message against the background of the Christmas holiday. He doesn't take the course of religious meaning, but instead guides us through this Christmas season along a path of awakening to charity and kindness for our fellow man. My own beliefs match well with this approach, and perhaps that explains my fascination with the story and the message it conveys.
In each part of the story there is a great lesson to be learned. Each character tells us something unique about the times and the context of life's experience. However, there is also a timelessness to this tale. We can easily compare the conditions of society then to the conditions we have now. Victorian Britain was a place of privilege and wealth for a few, but also a place of poverty and despair for the masses. We have the same situation now. The great pursuit of wealth (Scrooge),at the expense of the working class (Bob Cratchit), is a story for this age too. Scrooge was given his dire warning in the night when his departed business partner Jacob Marley appears in the chains of his riches, and tells Scrooge to change his ways. As Scrooge argues about the virtues of Marley's business success, Marley snaps back:
"Business! Mankind was my business. The common welfare was my business: charity, mercy, forbearance, and benevolence, were all my business. The dealings of my trade were but a drop of water in the comprehensive ocean of my business!"
This passage reveals the central theme of the story. The spirit of Christmas is not embodied in the selfish rich- but in the virtues he names (charity-mercy-forbearance-benevolence). Incidentally these are the same virtues that are embedded in Christian ideals, when truly practiced. Dickens offered no defense of the "job creators" of his time. He condemned them and blamed them for the plight of the poor and the children (Tiny Tim) who were needlessly doomed because of exploitation and greed.
Scrooge shrugs off the visit by Marley and is visited throughout the night by three spirits who show him his life in stages. The Ghost of Christmas Past reminds Scrooge of the love and happiness he lost in his quest for riches, as well as reminding him of the hurt he felt as a youth, when those around him did not embrace the spirit of the season. Scrooge begins to feel regret, but remains unconvinced. The Ghost of Christmas Present shows Scrooge the celebrations of family members, and how they feel sorry for him, because he has chosen to ignore the love of his family. The Ghost shows him the home of Bob Cratchit, where family love is the most cherished reason to celebrate Christmas. This ghost also reveals others living in the world who are depraved and hardened by the harsh times their impoverished circumstances have caused. Finally the Ghost of Christmas Yet to Come guides Scrooge through a dark and harrowing world created by greed, and the suffering of the masses. This tour goes through the Cratchit home where Tiny Tim has died, where only his crutch stands in the corner to remind them of the love they had for their dear lost son.The journey ends at Scrooge's grave where he is finally able to comprehend the real legacy of a life spent ignoring the plight of others, while ruthlessly pursuing wealth.
For me, the most important lesson is the one taught by the Ghost of Christmas Present. Before he leaves Scrooge he reveals two small, emaciated, and unearthly looking children who were hidden beneath his robes. Dickens described them as "wretched, abject, frightful, hideous and miserable". When Scrooge tries to ignore their obvious condition and asks if they belong to the spirit, the spirit says. "they are Man's". Then he goes on to introduce them with an ominous warning:
"This boy is Ignorance. This girl is Want. Beware them both, and all their degree, but most of all beware this boy, for on his brow I see that written which is Doom, unless the writing be erased."
We are told that Ignorance and Want will doom mankind- most particularly Ignorance. But we are also told that we can do something about these conditions- they can be erased. These should be the guiding principles for our leaders, and for us, as we chose our own path and that of our country. Unfortunately we see too many among us proposing a different path, one that assures more ignorance and more want- more economic injustice, while the "Scrooge's" count their money. Today we might call them the 1%.
Dickens ends the story with Ebenezer's reform and his salvation- having learned the true values of life from his ghostly visitors. In the end we see a man reborn, giddy with the spirit of Christmas, filled with charity and concern for his fellow man. We see a man who goes about this life from then on, happy in his service to others. In this we see the true spirit of Christmas, and Dickens ends "A Christmas Carol".
Thank you for allowing me to share this timeless story with you, and tell you how much it means to me. Our family hopes that all of you will enjoy happy holidays and a Merry Christmas. Our fervent wish for the new year is that the spirit of Dickens' message will reach those who need it most to rekindle the virtues that serve mankind best.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, December 13, 2011
Our Christmas Tradition
As we move precariously closer to the Christmas holiday I'm thinking quite a lot about Christmas traditions. Growing up, we didn't have Christmas traditions- we had iron clad Christmas regimens that had to be followed with military precision. Just the mere thought, let alone suggestion, of wavering from our Christmas regimen would draw icy stares from drawn-in faces within the family. If discovered in some clandestine whispered discussion about changing the routine, one might expect to be sent off to the gulag, never to be seen again. So you could say- yes, we had Christmas traditions.
The routine started Christmas eve after a better than usual evening meal. After dinner my grandparents would come over to our house to watch TV and spend time with us. They lived right next door, which made the trip very convenient. TV programming on Christmas eve was always some Christmas special.(in color!) It may have been a variety show where the stars sing Christmas songs and such. It may have been a movie on TV about the nativity or a classic Christmas movie. At 9 we all had some Lipton tea- hot tea with a good deal of sugar, plus some Christmas cookies, to keep us up for midnight mass. After the tea, my grandparents would return to their house for a quick rest and to dress for Christmas mass. We did the same, with my dad donning his Knights of Columbus tuxedo and ceremonial sword. We re-grouped at 11:20 p.m. to make the short trip to church. You had to get there early because there are a lot more Catholics on Christmas than any other time.
Mass took exactly 75 minutes. Then home to hop in bed and await Christmas morning. Up at 7:00 a.m.. My sister and I would check out the tree. No time for breakfast but we were permitted a piece of chocolate fudge. My mom made a mean fudge, and this was the only time fudge was considered as an acceptable breakfast food. Then we all headed next door to my aunt, uncle and cousins' house. The grandparents were already there. You see, all three houses were located next each other. We would patiently watch as the cousins opened their presents along with my aunt and uncle. For some unexplained, and unalterable, reason they were always first in the compound to get Christmas. Then, by 8:40 a.m. it was over to my house where we opened our presents as they all watched us. This usually lasted until about 9:40a.m. This was followed by free time when everyone went there separate ways to sort through the Christmas loot and get rid of the wrapping paper. The communal burn barrel was conveniently located between the houses.
At 11:00 a.m. the whole clan reconvened at the grandparents' house where Christmas dinner would be served. The Turkey dinner was served at noon which gave us time for a Christmas drink. Adolescence was rewarded with a Christmas drink along with the adults. This part of the tradition was a big deal. Following the dinner and the cleanup there was free time again. Weather permitting, the male cousins played football in the perfect rectangle of our back yard. Late afternoon meant reconvening at the grandparents' house for a supper of left-overs and the last of the Christmas gathering.
Regimented as it was, I admit it was pretty nice. It simply became the way we experienced Christmas. Then it happened- we grew up. Growing up meant dating and eventually marrying people who were so inconsiderate as to have their own family Christmas traditions. Here's where the trouble starts.
Perhaps because Christmas is so heavily laden with emotion and family tradition, it can also be a holiday ripe for conflict. We've all seen it, or experienced it. The need to strictly maintain old traditions has, in some sad cases, caused some huge family fights. Family fights at Christmas are never forgotten-- precisely because this holiday is so deeply entrenched with emotions, and high expectations of togetherness. I suppose it's only natural that as more people are added to families through marriage or other necessities it just becomes impossible to adhere to all the old traditions. Logistics just become impossible as we come to grips with the immutable truth that you can't be in two places at once. For those in the older generation (and I count myself there now) feelings can be hurt as we try desperately to keep a tight grip on our traditions. The younger generations, now young parents themselves, struggle to meet the demands of two families- while trying so hard to create traditions of their own, for their children.
It is sad to see families going through times of hurt feelings and conflict. It is heartbreaking to see family conflicts escalate to levels where loved ones won't even speak to each other for long periods. I've seen this happen among folks in my own extended family. For me, and Lee, that would be a hell we could not accept or endure at Christmas or any other time.
Lee and I have decided that there will be only one unbreakable Christmas tradition. We will honor our family by gracefully accepting change and newness coming into our family, with all our love. We have decided that our children are entitled to create their own lives and their own special times to pass on. We see no need to hold our kin to old regimens that are nearly impossible to keep- and make everyone crazy along the way. We have come to know that acceptance is a huge part of family love- and that change and newness can open doors to even more closeness and stronger ties within our family. It's a great gift to give and to receive. Happily, I can report I'm hearing more stories all the time, from people I know, who are making a conscience effort to do things differently, and experience old holidays in new ways. Traditions have their place, and I've enjoyed many- but we must make room in our hearts for the birth of new experiences along the way.
Being in the older generation now I think it is our duty to live and act in ways that support our young parents, with all their challenges in this hectic world.. We've lived through many Christmas seasons now, and I find it remarkably refreshing to just relax, and admire how our children do all they can to bring holiday joy and happiness to their kids. These are proud moments for us. I would never want to get in the way of that by my insistence on tradition, for nothing more than tradition's sake. The true gift of this season is being with family, no matter where or how we do it.
Thanks for looking in.
The routine started Christmas eve after a better than usual evening meal. After dinner my grandparents would come over to our house to watch TV and spend time with us. They lived right next door, which made the trip very convenient. TV programming on Christmas eve was always some Christmas special.(in color!) It may have been a variety show where the stars sing Christmas songs and such. It may have been a movie on TV about the nativity or a classic Christmas movie. At 9 we all had some Lipton tea- hot tea with a good deal of sugar, plus some Christmas cookies, to keep us up for midnight mass. After the tea, my grandparents would return to their house for a quick rest and to dress for Christmas mass. We did the same, with my dad donning his Knights of Columbus tuxedo and ceremonial sword. We re-grouped at 11:20 p.m. to make the short trip to church. You had to get there early because there are a lot more Catholics on Christmas than any other time.
Mass took exactly 75 minutes. Then home to hop in bed and await Christmas morning. Up at 7:00 a.m.. My sister and I would check out the tree. No time for breakfast but we were permitted a piece of chocolate fudge. My mom made a mean fudge, and this was the only time fudge was considered as an acceptable breakfast food. Then we all headed next door to my aunt, uncle and cousins' house. The grandparents were already there. You see, all three houses were located next each other. We would patiently watch as the cousins opened their presents along with my aunt and uncle. For some unexplained, and unalterable, reason they were always first in the compound to get Christmas. Then, by 8:40 a.m. it was over to my house where we opened our presents as they all watched us. This usually lasted until about 9:40a.m. This was followed by free time when everyone went there separate ways to sort through the Christmas loot and get rid of the wrapping paper. The communal burn barrel was conveniently located between the houses.
At 11:00 a.m. the whole clan reconvened at the grandparents' house where Christmas dinner would be served. The Turkey dinner was served at noon which gave us time for a Christmas drink. Adolescence was rewarded with a Christmas drink along with the adults. This part of the tradition was a big deal. Following the dinner and the cleanup there was free time again. Weather permitting, the male cousins played football in the perfect rectangle of our back yard. Late afternoon meant reconvening at the grandparents' house for a supper of left-overs and the last of the Christmas gathering.
Regimented as it was, I admit it was pretty nice. It simply became the way we experienced Christmas. Then it happened- we grew up. Growing up meant dating and eventually marrying people who were so inconsiderate as to have their own family Christmas traditions. Here's where the trouble starts.
Perhaps because Christmas is so heavily laden with emotion and family tradition, it can also be a holiday ripe for conflict. We've all seen it, or experienced it. The need to strictly maintain old traditions has, in some sad cases, caused some huge family fights. Family fights at Christmas are never forgotten-- precisely because this holiday is so deeply entrenched with emotions, and high expectations of togetherness. I suppose it's only natural that as more people are added to families through marriage or other necessities it just becomes impossible to adhere to all the old traditions. Logistics just become impossible as we come to grips with the immutable truth that you can't be in two places at once. For those in the older generation (and I count myself there now) feelings can be hurt as we try desperately to keep a tight grip on our traditions. The younger generations, now young parents themselves, struggle to meet the demands of two families- while trying so hard to create traditions of their own, for their children.
It is sad to see families going through times of hurt feelings and conflict. It is heartbreaking to see family conflicts escalate to levels where loved ones won't even speak to each other for long periods. I've seen this happen among folks in my own extended family. For me, and Lee, that would be a hell we could not accept or endure at Christmas or any other time.
Lee and I have decided that there will be only one unbreakable Christmas tradition. We will honor our family by gracefully accepting change and newness coming into our family, with all our love. We have decided that our children are entitled to create their own lives and their own special times to pass on. We see no need to hold our kin to old regimens that are nearly impossible to keep- and make everyone crazy along the way. We have come to know that acceptance is a huge part of family love- and that change and newness can open doors to even more closeness and stronger ties within our family. It's a great gift to give and to receive. Happily, I can report I'm hearing more stories all the time, from people I know, who are making a conscience effort to do things differently, and experience old holidays in new ways. Traditions have their place, and I've enjoyed many- but we must make room in our hearts for the birth of new experiences along the way.
Being in the older generation now I think it is our duty to live and act in ways that support our young parents, with all their challenges in this hectic world.. We've lived through many Christmas seasons now, and I find it remarkably refreshing to just relax, and admire how our children do all they can to bring holiday joy and happiness to their kids. These are proud moments for us. I would never want to get in the way of that by my insistence on tradition, for nothing more than tradition's sake. The true gift of this season is being with family, no matter where or how we do it.
Thanks for looking in.
Friday, December 9, 2011
My New Boyfriend
GAWD! Dating is so hard these days. I'm just pissed. OK, let me introduce myself. I'm a Republican primary voter. You can call me Melissa, or Peggy, or John or Joe. It just doesn't matter. What matters is that I just can't find the right guy. I have tried so hard but all the good ones are taken, or they just aren't into the dating scene. Take Jeb, and Chris for instance. They won't even take my calls. I've tried flattery-I've tried guilt. I even tried to throw money at them- and now you can't get them to even answer a text. All they want to do is sit this one out and criticize everyone. See if you get asked out again!?! (And Chris, if you ever do want to get asked out again, you better get a handle on that eating problem- just saying.)
The last few years have been tough. I finally realized I just have to make some changes in my life. So I decided to really get back in the game after the terrible year I had in "08. But, who can blame me after the way Bush totally wrecked the dating scene for me? Barack Obama- Really? I got so frustrated with him I started calling him a Socialist, a Communist and a Fascist- all in the same sentence. I know it doesn't make sense, but he was making me nuts. (BTW- he's black) So I got serious and started looking around for a new boyfriend. Let me tell you- it ain't been easy. I even joined a social dating network called the Tea Party. They were great at first with all the attention and stuff, but that didn't work out either. Turns out they were just a bunch of old white folks who didn't know medicare IS a government program. Turns out they just like crazy hats and they had issues with anything Obama said. (BTW- he's black)
I kind of knew who was "on the market" in January. So I asked out a guy named Donald Trump. You may have heard of him. He's a real estate guy and has a TV show where he fires people. He is the only man in America who has gone bankrupt owning a casino. (three times) He was flashy and showy and I guess I got caught up in all the hype. I was even willing to overlook the obvious hair problem and the nutty Birther talk. At first everyone said he was the real thing, but it turned out he was a foolish megalomaniac, and a guy I could never take home to meet my mom.
Next I went to a "speed dating" event. You know, a Republican debate. They have them all over the place, every few days. I saw a guy there named Mitt Romney. He looked good. He's handsome, and he's loaded. The guy could be a mannequin at the Men's Warehouse. What a hunk- and just the right amount of graying at the temples. I wasn't ready to go all in on this guy then- but, you never know. He looks interesting but the rumor is that he's a guy who just can't "commit". Turns out there is a mountain of video tape to prove it.
Then I thought, maybe I'll experiment, and try a woman. This was my first time with a woman- I don't count Sarah Palin because she was just a big tease. Meet Michele Bachman. She was fun and exciting and new. I admit, I liked being with a woman more than I thought I would, especially after she won that beauty contest in Ames Iowa. She's a great name caller-and had some really weird, different ideas, and maybe I needed that in my life at that time. Turns out she had never taken an American history course and people kept making fun of her. I have to admit some of her ideas were just a little bit CRAZZZEEEE. We broke up- I'm a Republican, so being with a woman wasn't going to be a forever thing anyway. I feel sorry for her though. Now she can't get a date either.
Then HE came. The new guy everybody wanted- Rick Perry. He is so cool and he has a great name and he killed a lot of inmates in Texas. He is devilishly handsome and has a dreamy Texas accent. My uncle Bill even said "he's a good lookin' rascal". Let me tell you, it got hot and heavy in a New York minute! We fell in lust........ then he spoke. Oh No! He had every quality to be a President, except a brain. I really wanted to believe he was "the one", but even I was stunned at how dumb this guy is. Once you've seen the cowboy ride in on his big horse and he plays you that one song he knows on his harmonica- there wasn't much left to talk about. What a disappointment! He's outa there. I heard he is making late night info-mercials for Jesus now.
I thought about Ron Paul, but I'm just not that into him. I thought about Jon Huntsman too. He's smart and capable and all, but he just doesn't turn me on. He's like that guy in high school who is super smart, but nerdie- like his mom combs his hair for him. You can't bring yourself to hang out with him, but you always sit by him during finals so you can cheat off his test. Blah-blah-blah. Rick Santorum. Pulleeeze! What a loser. How does a guy think that losing his Senate seat qualifies him to date me? I'm dying to find a winner in this bunch.
Hey there! Hello Herman Cain. (BTW he's black) It's OK that Herman is black. He's not one of those really smart, president-y black guys. He's my kind of black guy. Even Ann Colter said "our black guys are better than your black guys". He is charming. He says all the things I want to hear. He has a great singing voice. He has a big, generous heart (That's according to him, in explaining his generosity to so many "troubled" women). I think he just wanted to get in my pants....pockets to sell me a book. In the end we broke up too. I guess his wife told him to get his butt back home where she could keep an eye on him. It wouldn't have worked out anyway. That 999 deal was stupid- and he didn't know Lybia from shine-ola. Not really the marrying kind when we're looking for commander-in-chief material, is he?
I'm down to the last guy. Since he is the LAST guy, I'm going all the way with him. It's Newt! I know- I know. I knew him years ago and I never thought he would be my new boyfriend. Back then I thought he was really creepy. He's the guy who invented modern congressional gridlock and eventually looked stupid when he went up against my uncle Bill. He's the guy with all the ex-wives and the affairs. He's the guy with all the ethics violations in Congress and eventually resigned in shame, having to pay that huge fine for corruption. He's also the guy who used his name to create a huge windfall on "K" St. as "not a lobbyist". He's got more baggage than Samsonite, and there's a lot more on the cart we haven't seen yet. Maybe he's changed. I hope so because I've just run out of available guys. Who am I kidding- he's still really creepy. But I'm so desperate, I'll get in bed with Newt. Yuk! Even though I know this is going to turn out very badly in the end- there just isn't anybody left out there to date. I have to hook up with somebody before next year, to take me to the election.
So, meet my new boyfriend Newt Gingrich. I know it's crazy. Maybe it's me. Maybe I'm just too fickle and I don't know what I want. I've been hurt and confused for a long time now. All I know is that I want to get rid of Obama (BTW he's bla- well, you know). Oh Mitt, if this relationship blows up like every other guy (and gal) I've dated, (and it probably will) I hope you'll still go out with me.
Thanks for looking in.
The last few years have been tough. I finally realized I just have to make some changes in my life. So I decided to really get back in the game after the terrible year I had in "08. But, who can blame me after the way Bush totally wrecked the dating scene for me? Barack Obama- Really? I got so frustrated with him I started calling him a Socialist, a Communist and a Fascist- all in the same sentence. I know it doesn't make sense, but he was making me nuts. (BTW- he's black) So I got serious and started looking around for a new boyfriend. Let me tell you- it ain't been easy. I even joined a social dating network called the Tea Party. They were great at first with all the attention and stuff, but that didn't work out either. Turns out they were just a bunch of old white folks who didn't know medicare IS a government program. Turns out they just like crazy hats and they had issues with anything Obama said. (BTW- he's black)
I kind of knew who was "on the market" in January. So I asked out a guy named Donald Trump. You may have heard of him. He's a real estate guy and has a TV show where he fires people. He is the only man in America who has gone bankrupt owning a casino. (three times) He was flashy and showy and I guess I got caught up in all the hype. I was even willing to overlook the obvious hair problem and the nutty Birther talk. At first everyone said he was the real thing, but it turned out he was a foolish megalomaniac, and a guy I could never take home to meet my mom.
Next I went to a "speed dating" event. You know, a Republican debate. They have them all over the place, every few days. I saw a guy there named Mitt Romney. He looked good. He's handsome, and he's loaded. The guy could be a mannequin at the Men's Warehouse. What a hunk- and just the right amount of graying at the temples. I wasn't ready to go all in on this guy then- but, you never know. He looks interesting but the rumor is that he's a guy who just can't "commit". Turns out there is a mountain of video tape to prove it.
Then I thought, maybe I'll experiment, and try a woman. This was my first time with a woman- I don't count Sarah Palin because she was just a big tease. Meet Michele Bachman. She was fun and exciting and new. I admit, I liked being with a woman more than I thought I would, especially after she won that beauty contest in Ames Iowa. She's a great name caller-and had some really weird, different ideas, and maybe I needed that in my life at that time. Turns out she had never taken an American history course and people kept making fun of her. I have to admit some of her ideas were just a little bit CRAZZZEEEE. We broke up- I'm a Republican, so being with a woman wasn't going to be a forever thing anyway. I feel sorry for her though. Now she can't get a date either.
Then HE came. The new guy everybody wanted- Rick Perry. He is so cool and he has a great name and he killed a lot of inmates in Texas. He is devilishly handsome and has a dreamy Texas accent. My uncle Bill even said "he's a good lookin' rascal". Let me tell you, it got hot and heavy in a New York minute! We fell in lust........ then he spoke. Oh No! He had every quality to be a President, except a brain. I really wanted to believe he was "the one", but even I was stunned at how dumb this guy is. Once you've seen the cowboy ride in on his big horse and he plays you that one song he knows on his harmonica- there wasn't much left to talk about. What a disappointment! He's outa there. I heard he is making late night info-mercials for Jesus now.
I thought about Ron Paul, but I'm just not that into him. I thought about Jon Huntsman too. He's smart and capable and all, but he just doesn't turn me on. He's like that guy in high school who is super smart, but nerdie- like his mom combs his hair for him. You can't bring yourself to hang out with him, but you always sit by him during finals so you can cheat off his test. Blah-blah-blah. Rick Santorum. Pulleeeze! What a loser. How does a guy think that losing his Senate seat qualifies him to date me? I'm dying to find a winner in this bunch.
Hey there! Hello Herman Cain. (BTW he's black) It's OK that Herman is black. He's not one of those really smart, president-y black guys. He's my kind of black guy. Even Ann Colter said "our black guys are better than your black guys". He is charming. He says all the things I want to hear. He has a great singing voice. He has a big, generous heart (That's according to him, in explaining his generosity to so many "troubled" women). I think he just wanted to get in my pants....pockets to sell me a book. In the end we broke up too. I guess his wife told him to get his butt back home where she could keep an eye on him. It wouldn't have worked out anyway. That 999 deal was stupid- and he didn't know Lybia from shine-ola. Not really the marrying kind when we're looking for commander-in-chief material, is he?
I'm down to the last guy. Since he is the LAST guy, I'm going all the way with him. It's Newt! I know- I know. I knew him years ago and I never thought he would be my new boyfriend. Back then I thought he was really creepy. He's the guy who invented modern congressional gridlock and eventually looked stupid when he went up against my uncle Bill. He's the guy with all the ex-wives and the affairs. He's the guy with all the ethics violations in Congress and eventually resigned in shame, having to pay that huge fine for corruption. He's also the guy who used his name to create a huge windfall on "K" St. as "not a lobbyist". He's got more baggage than Samsonite, and there's a lot more on the cart we haven't seen yet. Maybe he's changed. I hope so because I've just run out of available guys. Who am I kidding- he's still really creepy. But I'm so desperate, I'll get in bed with Newt. Yuk! Even though I know this is going to turn out very badly in the end- there just isn't anybody left out there to date. I have to hook up with somebody before next year, to take me to the election.
So, meet my new boyfriend Newt Gingrich. I know it's crazy. Maybe it's me. Maybe I'm just too fickle and I don't know what I want. I've been hurt and confused for a long time now. All I know is that I want to get rid of Obama (BTW he's bla- well, you know). Oh Mitt, if this relationship blows up like every other guy (and gal) I've dated, (and it probably will) I hope you'll still go out with me.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
100 People
Large numbers are both intimidating and mind-numbing at the same time. In an age when we are expected to grasp the concept of millions, billions, and trillions of things we start to lose our perspective on the actual meaning of such enormous numbers. Take, for example, the issue of dollars. In discussing our economy, it is nearly impossible to truly grasp the how much a $trillion is. Or, if we think of the notion of time, I doubt many of us can truly relate to the idea that the Earth is 4.54 billion years old or that the Universe is estimated to be about 13 billion years old, in the context of our own short lives. One of the principal reasons why many people cannot understand or accept evolution is because they simply can't relate to the massive amounts of time over which living things (including us) evolve. Let's face it- our mere 70 or so years of life don't amount to a micro speck in the vast continuum of time. Under some conditions a year can seem like an eternity to us- imagine 4.54 billion of them. Large numbers, in nearly every context, tend to numb us to the reality they represent.
A few years ago some brilliant person or persons (I don't know who) put together a model that realistically reduced the human condition to just 100 people. 100 is a much easier number to cope with than trying to analyze what 7 billion of us look like. I had seen these models before and thought they were truly a great way to reduce the large of number of humans to a more understandable picture. Please explore this model on your own- just Google "100 people". My reason for introducing you to this model is that I hope it will spur you to some different thoughts about how we compare to others in the world. Given our privileged life in this country I find this model interesting, sometimes embarrassing, and always humbling. So let's take a look at the world as if it were only 100 people.
50 are male- and 50 are female. That's good for the forces of reproduction, but even though females are exactly half of humanity, they don't have nearly half the wealth, power or control of the other half anywhere on Earth. hmm!
80 are adults- 20 are children. On a scientific basis we consider a person to reach adulthood when they reach sexual maturity and can reproduce, not when they reach their 18th birthday. In western cultures we tend to ignore the biological definition of adulthood and keep our offspring children much longer than nature would.
61 are Asian- 12 are European- 13 are African- 14 are from the Western Hemisphere. Asians have the decided majority on this count. It makes one wonder about why Western cultures always think of themselves as dominant, when most of the world views life from such a different point of view.
18 are white- 82 are non-white. (This is an essentially biased way to count- why don't we count who's black and who's non-black, for example) We, in the minority, have certainly been able to pull off some mighty big injustices against non-whites considering our puny numbers, haven't we?
31 are Christan- 21 are Muslim- 14 are Hindu- 6 are Buddhists- 12 practice some other religion, including just 1 Jewish person- and 16 practice no religion at all. We tend to think that Christians are the dominant religion in the world, and even though they represent the largest group, please note that 69 out of 100 are NOT Christian. In fact, the group that practices no religion is the third biggest.
17 speak a Chinese dialect- 8 speak Hindustani- 8 speak English- 7 speak Spanish- 4 speak Arabic- 4 speak Russian- 52 speak other languages.
1 has a college education- 99 do not. 1 owns a computer- 99 do not.
75 have some supply of food and a place to shelter them from wind and rain- 25 do not. This is disturbing when you multiply this number out by the 7 billion of us on the planet now. That means 1,750,000,000 people right now do not have access to adequate food and shelter.
1 is dying of starvation- 17 are malnourished- 15 are overweight. 83 have safe drinking water- 17 do not. This, again, is a staggering thought if you multiply it out for 7 billion people. 70,000,000 are dying of starvation as you're reading this.
So, there you have it- the world as represented by 100 people. There are other categories, but you can check them out for yourselves. It is important for all of us to see the world from a different perspective than we usually do. I, for one, can get caught up in seeing my world as only that world visible from my home, my town, or my country. But the actual world is very different than the relatively safe and comfortable world we have here in the United States. Far too many of us see the world like we see ourselves- predominantly white, Judeo-Christan, middle-class people living in homes with enough food all the time. As you can see, the world is not like that at all. Perhaps we have too much here. I'm pretty sure the rest of the world thinks we have too much here. Perhaps our view of ourselves is shaped more by our (relative) wealth than by anything else. We are very special in that way. The USA has 4.67% of the world's population and owns 25.4% of its wealth. No other country comes close to those proportions.
I only ask you to see the world a little differently from time to time because I think it's a useful reminder to be humble about all we have here. It is reminder to be tolerant of those who are different from us, are a different color than us, or worship a different God or in a different way than us, or don't worship a God at all. For as special as we think we are - there are many more people who live fundamentally different lives than us. They have value too- and it is good to know about the rest of humanity because it helps us understand more about ourselves and our place in the world.
Thanks for looking in.
A few years ago some brilliant person or persons (I don't know who) put together a model that realistically reduced the human condition to just 100 people. 100 is a much easier number to cope with than trying to analyze what 7 billion of us look like. I had seen these models before and thought they were truly a great way to reduce the large of number of humans to a more understandable picture. Please explore this model on your own- just Google "100 people". My reason for introducing you to this model is that I hope it will spur you to some different thoughts about how we compare to others in the world. Given our privileged life in this country I find this model interesting, sometimes embarrassing, and always humbling. So let's take a look at the world as if it were only 100 people.
50 are male- and 50 are female. That's good for the forces of reproduction, but even though females are exactly half of humanity, they don't have nearly half the wealth, power or control of the other half anywhere on Earth. hmm!
80 are adults- 20 are children. On a scientific basis we consider a person to reach adulthood when they reach sexual maturity and can reproduce, not when they reach their 18th birthday. In western cultures we tend to ignore the biological definition of adulthood and keep our offspring children much longer than nature would.
61 are Asian- 12 are European- 13 are African- 14 are from the Western Hemisphere. Asians have the decided majority on this count. It makes one wonder about why Western cultures always think of themselves as dominant, when most of the world views life from such a different point of view.
18 are white- 82 are non-white. (This is an essentially biased way to count- why don't we count who's black and who's non-black, for example) We, in the minority, have certainly been able to pull off some mighty big injustices against non-whites considering our puny numbers, haven't we?
31 are Christan- 21 are Muslim- 14 are Hindu- 6 are Buddhists- 12 practice some other religion, including just 1 Jewish person- and 16 practice no religion at all. We tend to think that Christians are the dominant religion in the world, and even though they represent the largest group, please note that 69 out of 100 are NOT Christian. In fact, the group that practices no religion is the third biggest.
17 speak a Chinese dialect- 8 speak Hindustani- 8 speak English- 7 speak Spanish- 4 speak Arabic- 4 speak Russian- 52 speak other languages.
1 has a college education- 99 do not. 1 owns a computer- 99 do not.
75 have some supply of food and a place to shelter them from wind and rain- 25 do not. This is disturbing when you multiply this number out by the 7 billion of us on the planet now. That means 1,750,000,000 people right now do not have access to adequate food and shelter.
1 is dying of starvation- 17 are malnourished- 15 are overweight. 83 have safe drinking water- 17 do not. This, again, is a staggering thought if you multiply it out for 7 billion people. 70,000,000 are dying of starvation as you're reading this.
So, there you have it- the world as represented by 100 people. There are other categories, but you can check them out for yourselves. It is important for all of us to see the world from a different perspective than we usually do. I, for one, can get caught up in seeing my world as only that world visible from my home, my town, or my country. But the actual world is very different than the relatively safe and comfortable world we have here in the United States. Far too many of us see the world like we see ourselves- predominantly white, Judeo-Christan, middle-class people living in homes with enough food all the time. As you can see, the world is not like that at all. Perhaps we have too much here. I'm pretty sure the rest of the world thinks we have too much here. Perhaps our view of ourselves is shaped more by our (relative) wealth than by anything else. We are very special in that way. The USA has 4.67% of the world's population and owns 25.4% of its wealth. No other country comes close to those proportions.
I only ask you to see the world a little differently from time to time because I think it's a useful reminder to be humble about all we have here. It is reminder to be tolerant of those who are different from us, are a different color than us, or worship a different God or in a different way than us, or don't worship a God at all. For as special as we think we are - there are many more people who live fundamentally different lives than us. They have value too- and it is good to know about the rest of humanity because it helps us understand more about ourselves and our place in the world.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
Christmas Giving
Thanksgiving is behind us now, and we can concentrate on the next big holiday- Christmas! There are very nice things about the Christmas season. This can be a time of family get-togethers, a time of gift giving to show our affection for those in our lives. For many in the western world, this is a time of religious significance. Christians celebrate the birth of their faith, Jewish people celebrate Hanukkah (festival of light) and Muslims this year will celebrate Ashura. Forgive my ignorance of eastern religions- but I'm sure they too have a significant celebration for this time of year. Our most ancient ancestors celebrated the winter solstice for thousands of years before the big religions even existed. This is also the time of year when charities, particularly religious charities, ramp up their requests for much needed donations. Just last week I, myself, participated in a candlelight march to help kick off Catholic Charities donation drive. All of us will see solicitations in our mailboxes, and be haled in person by volunteers standing outside stores. The plea will go out from pulpits everywhere to give generously at this "special time of year".
Requests for donations at this time of year are no accident. Religious groups count on the special feelings of the season to open our hearts to those less fortunate. In this time of giving to loved ones and giving to our selves, it's only natural to think we can be more persuaded to give to others too. And, it actually works! Charles Dickens even used Christmas as a vehicle to make his most effective statement about the treatment of the poor in "A Christmas Carrol". It's only right for those who are inclined to give to charities, to do so during the holiday season. Nothing wrong with that. And, if it makes feel us good or confirms religious values, then so be it. However, I suggest there is more we need to think about during these very trying times- particularly during this time of Christmas giving.
We are experiencing the worst economic conditions in the last seventy-five years. Unemployment is unacceptably high, and stuck there. The wealth gap between the rich and the rest of us is at an all time high. Homelessness is increasing- poverty rates are climbing. There are now more people living in poverty in American than at any other time in our history- nearly one in five of us. One in every four children in this country is poor. 60 million people have no health care. 45.8 million of us need food stamp assistance, that's15% of our country.
There are some in this country who will argue that charitable giving is the best way to address the enormous needs of our people. The conservatives will tell you that "in the good old days" the churches did it all and we need to return to those times-when people "took care of each other". If that were true, the numbers I cited in the paragraph above would not be true- and the churches themselves would be the first to tell you so. Tragically these numbers are real- and conditions continue to deteriorate for the poor in this country and around the world. So, whatever the level of our religious fervor and our charity- it is not enough! Not enough by a very, very long way. Charitable giving is only the kindling- it is not the fuel needed to meet the great needs of our people.
We have a source for the fuel needed to meet these needs. It is the source our founding fathers envisioned when they determined that our government had an obligation to "provide for the general welfare". The answer to the issues that plague our economy and have caused so much misery is to get people working again. There are proposals before Congress right now- but those proposals have been held up or stonewalled for political reasons. The President put a package before Congress many weeks ago. It included an infra-structure jobs program-extension of middle class tax cuts (payroll tax holiday)- jobs incentives to hire vets- increasing taxes on millionaires and billionaires, along with tax reform- and an extension of unemployment benefits till people can find work. It got no where because Republicans in Congress stopped it. Then the President offered to break it up and have it voted on in pieces. Again it stalled Congress, except for the veteran's piece (for obvious political reasons). The tax breaks for the middle class will likely go down to defeat this week, because Republicans will insist on more for the wealthy, before they do anything for the rest of us-even though it means more taxes on working people. They will also likely end the extension of unemployment benefits for up to 6 million more people.
So I ask, are we a people of conscience? If we are a people of conscience, whether our conscience is rooted in our sense of humanity or our core religious beliefs, then don't we have an obligation to speak out for those who are suffering? Is this not one of the core tenants of Christian doctrine? During this time of heightened religious belief, sensitivity, and giving could there not be a better time to act? I hope you"ll give to the charities that seek to assist the poor, but only if you realize the need exceeds any church's or organization's ability to solve the problem. If your belief system creates a moral/ethical obligation (religious or otherwise) then you must insist that our government leaders do what ONLY they can do to restore economic justice to the people. Just as you raise up your voices in church- raise your voice up to our leaders and tell them to put aside their pettiness and do what's best for the country. This is how we "take care of each other" now. If enough of us call or write to our congressional Representatives, our Senators and our President we will make a difference. Perhaps giving of ourselves to make this effort, becoming involved, may be the best kind of giving you can do this Christmas.
Thanks for looking in.
Requests for donations at this time of year are no accident. Religious groups count on the special feelings of the season to open our hearts to those less fortunate. In this time of giving to loved ones and giving to our selves, it's only natural to think we can be more persuaded to give to others too. And, it actually works! Charles Dickens even used Christmas as a vehicle to make his most effective statement about the treatment of the poor in "A Christmas Carrol". It's only right for those who are inclined to give to charities, to do so during the holiday season. Nothing wrong with that. And, if it makes feel us good or confirms religious values, then so be it. However, I suggest there is more we need to think about during these very trying times- particularly during this time of Christmas giving.
We are experiencing the worst economic conditions in the last seventy-five years. Unemployment is unacceptably high, and stuck there. The wealth gap between the rich and the rest of us is at an all time high. Homelessness is increasing- poverty rates are climbing. There are now more people living in poverty in American than at any other time in our history- nearly one in five of us. One in every four children in this country is poor. 60 million people have no health care. 45.8 million of us need food stamp assistance, that's15% of our country.
There are some in this country who will argue that charitable giving is the best way to address the enormous needs of our people. The conservatives will tell you that "in the good old days" the churches did it all and we need to return to those times-when people "took care of each other". If that were true, the numbers I cited in the paragraph above would not be true- and the churches themselves would be the first to tell you so. Tragically these numbers are real- and conditions continue to deteriorate for the poor in this country and around the world. So, whatever the level of our religious fervor and our charity- it is not enough! Not enough by a very, very long way. Charitable giving is only the kindling- it is not the fuel needed to meet the great needs of our people.
We have a source for the fuel needed to meet these needs. It is the source our founding fathers envisioned when they determined that our government had an obligation to "provide for the general welfare". The answer to the issues that plague our economy and have caused so much misery is to get people working again. There are proposals before Congress right now- but those proposals have been held up or stonewalled for political reasons. The President put a package before Congress many weeks ago. It included an infra-structure jobs program-extension of middle class tax cuts (payroll tax holiday)- jobs incentives to hire vets- increasing taxes on millionaires and billionaires, along with tax reform- and an extension of unemployment benefits till people can find work. It got no where because Republicans in Congress stopped it. Then the President offered to break it up and have it voted on in pieces. Again it stalled Congress, except for the veteran's piece (for obvious political reasons). The tax breaks for the middle class will likely go down to defeat this week, because Republicans will insist on more for the wealthy, before they do anything for the rest of us-even though it means more taxes on working people. They will also likely end the extension of unemployment benefits for up to 6 million more people.
So I ask, are we a people of conscience? If we are a people of conscience, whether our conscience is rooted in our sense of humanity or our core religious beliefs, then don't we have an obligation to speak out for those who are suffering? Is this not one of the core tenants of Christian doctrine? During this time of heightened religious belief, sensitivity, and giving could there not be a better time to act? I hope you"ll give to the charities that seek to assist the poor, but only if you realize the need exceeds any church's or organization's ability to solve the problem. If your belief system creates a moral/ethical obligation (religious or otherwise) then you must insist that our government leaders do what ONLY they can do to restore economic justice to the people. Just as you raise up your voices in church- raise your voice up to our leaders and tell them to put aside their pettiness and do what's best for the country. This is how we "take care of each other" now. If enough of us call or write to our congressional Representatives, our Senators and our President we will make a difference. Perhaps giving of ourselves to make this effort, becoming involved, may be the best kind of giving you can do this Christmas.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
A Note From Brigitte
Several years ago I had the great pleasure of meeting a woman named Brigitte when she came to our house for a holiday party. We hosted the party for the folks who worked at St. Anne's Child and Family Center. My wife Lee is the Director there, and Brigitte was one of the child care staff employed at the Center. Brigitte worked in the infant room, caring for the babies. I had seen her before at the Center, but hadn't had the opportunity to talk with her before that night. We had a nice conversation as we all shared the food, potluck style. I learned a little about her, and later, my wife filled in a few other details.
The party included a gift exchange where you draw names to select unmarked gifts and have the option to take a gift already opened by someone else. You know the game. Brigitte's contribution to the gift pool was a wooden sculpture of a female African figure carrying water. It was a very popular item once revealed and was "stolen" a couple of times. It was in my hands at one point, but only briefly. I didn't end up with it by the end of the game, but I told Brigitte how beautiful it was, and that I wished I'd been able to hold on to it. But it was all good natured fun and the eventual owner was well pleased too.
All of us knew this was kind of special because it was Brigitte who brought it. It was very much a symbol of her. Brigitte is not African American- she is African. She came to this country as a political refugee with the assistance of Catholic Charity's Refugee Program. She comes from one of those small countries in western Africa where governments change with the seasons and the worst sorts of human atrocities occur with regularity at the hands of outlaw regimes. Refugees from that part of the world come here, if they're fortunate, to escape imprisonment, torture, and death. Just having her here with us seemed a triumph.
Brigitte looked to be about my age. She has a tremendous smile and a very warm personal appeal. She was also somewhat reserved and it was apparent she came from a culture that valued politeness and respect of others, with no hint at all of brashness. She expressed sincere gratitude for everything, and laughed easily. But there was also a real sadness behind her eyes as one might expect from such a harrowing life. I learned later that she was working with the government and agencies to get her son out of her country and reunited with her. I don't know her son's age- but suspect he wasn't real young, making it even harder to get him out. I could not imagine what it must be like to be driven from your homeland- in fear for your life, transplanted half a world away- knowing no one, and being separated and out of touch from your own son. Yet this woman was in my house-grateful to be enjoying this night with us.
After that night, I would see Brigitte at the Center occasionally and she always greeted me very warmly. I would return her smile, inquire about her, and always get a positive report. She was always friendly and gracious. A couple of years went by since the holiday party at our house and the Center did different events for the holidays- none at our house after that first one. But Lee came home one night just before Christmas, a couple of years after the house party, with a package for me, saying it was from Brigitte. I couldn't imagine what this was. I opened it to find a small brass sculpture of an African female figure carrying water. There was a handwritten note to me inside that read:
I was so struck by this gesture. That this woman, who had virtually nothing, took the time to remember me with this kindness, is an act I will never forget. The note is framed and hangs on the wall above my desk at home, with the brass figure right beside it. Each time I feel as if I don't have enough- of anything- I read this note to remember that in some parts of the world, and for too many people, the simple act of finding and drawing water brings such joy and happiness.
As we approach this Thanksgiving Holiday, with all the traditional excesses, the note from Brigitte serves as a reminder to be thankful for the simple, basic things in life. I think many of us, in this country, don't take the time to realize how difficult life can be for others. In America we are facing very difficult times and, even here in the richest country in the world, more of our people are falling into poverty every day. But around the world, many people face more extreme conditions and challenges than we can even conceive of. So this year I'm going to read Brigitte's note, focus my thankfulness on family, friends and basic comforts- and take a drink of water with gratitude to Brigitte.
Have a good Thanksgiving - and thanks for looking in.
The party included a gift exchange where you draw names to select unmarked gifts and have the option to take a gift already opened by someone else. You know the game. Brigitte's contribution to the gift pool was a wooden sculpture of a female African figure carrying water. It was a very popular item once revealed and was "stolen" a couple of times. It was in my hands at one point, but only briefly. I didn't end up with it by the end of the game, but I told Brigitte how beautiful it was, and that I wished I'd been able to hold on to it. But it was all good natured fun and the eventual owner was well pleased too.
All of us knew this was kind of special because it was Brigitte who brought it. It was very much a symbol of her. Brigitte is not African American- she is African. She came to this country as a political refugee with the assistance of Catholic Charity's Refugee Program. She comes from one of those small countries in western Africa where governments change with the seasons and the worst sorts of human atrocities occur with regularity at the hands of outlaw regimes. Refugees from that part of the world come here, if they're fortunate, to escape imprisonment, torture, and death. Just having her here with us seemed a triumph.
Brigitte looked to be about my age. She has a tremendous smile and a very warm personal appeal. She was also somewhat reserved and it was apparent she came from a culture that valued politeness and respect of others, with no hint at all of brashness. She expressed sincere gratitude for everything, and laughed easily. But there was also a real sadness behind her eyes as one might expect from such a harrowing life. I learned later that she was working with the government and agencies to get her son out of her country and reunited with her. I don't know her son's age- but suspect he wasn't real young, making it even harder to get him out. I could not imagine what it must be like to be driven from your homeland- in fear for your life, transplanted half a world away- knowing no one, and being separated and out of touch from your own son. Yet this woman was in my house-grateful to be enjoying this night with us.
After that night, I would see Brigitte at the Center occasionally and she always greeted me very warmly. I would return her smile, inquire about her, and always get a positive report. She was always friendly and gracious. A couple of years went by since the holiday party at our house and the Center did different events for the holidays- none at our house after that first one. But Lee came home one night just before Christmas, a couple of years after the house party, with a package for me, saying it was from Brigitte. I couldn't imagine what this was. I opened it to find a small brass sculpture of an African female figure carrying water. There was a handwritten note to me inside that read:
In the countries of Jahel close to the desert,
people go far to draw some water.
Can you imagine their happiness
when they find water and can draw it.
Have a wonderful holiday season.
Brigitte
I was so struck by this gesture. That this woman, who had virtually nothing, took the time to remember me with this kindness, is an act I will never forget. The note is framed and hangs on the wall above my desk at home, with the brass figure right beside it. Each time I feel as if I don't have enough- of anything- I read this note to remember that in some parts of the world, and for too many people, the simple act of finding and drawing water brings such joy and happiness.
As we approach this Thanksgiving Holiday, with all the traditional excesses, the note from Brigitte serves as a reminder to be thankful for the simple, basic things in life. I think many of us, in this country, don't take the time to realize how difficult life can be for others. In America we are facing very difficult times and, even here in the richest country in the world, more of our people are falling into poverty every day. But around the world, many people face more extreme conditions and challenges than we can even conceive of. So this year I'm going to read Brigitte's note, focus my thankfulness on family, friends and basic comforts- and take a drink of water with gratitude to Brigitte.
Have a good Thanksgiving - and thanks for looking in.
Friday, November 18, 2011
A Really Super Tuesday for Us
Lately the news people on television have gotten in the habit of calling every election, anywhere in the country, a "Super Tuesday" kind of election. One of the problems with having several networks broadcasting news 24 hours a day is that nearly everything is subject to outrageous hyperbole. Oh well, they have to do something to keep us coming back for more; and exaggeration is a time-tested method that works pretty well. But, Tuesday November 8th, 2011 ranks as a really Super Tuesday election.
By all measures this year's election was an off, off year election. There were no Congressional races- no Senate races- no big offices up for grabs to capture our attention. But several races and ballot initiatives around the country made this last election one to remember. This election is the beginning of the tide turning in favor of the people. In my view this wasn't an election about political parties (though one party in particular got a pretty good comeuppances)- it was about people finally standing up and saying what kind of country this should be. Let me give you a rundown of the people's election.
The big story was the Ohio vote that sought to repeal a law enacted this year by the Ohio legislature, which was proposed and supported by Republican Governor Kasich. Kasich is a very conservative, new in office, governor who campaigned on jobs but immediately set out to eliminate public employee's jobs by removing their collective bargaining rights. The new law included teachers, police officers and firefighters. (you know, the real villians of our society!) Ohioans collected twice the number of signatures needed for the referendum to repeal this law- and on election day voted to restore collective bargaining rights by over a 2-to-1 margin. This was an incredibly significant vote! This was Kasich's signature issue and it was soundly rejected. In a recent poll, Ohioans would not vote to re-elect him if they had the chance, again by a 2-to-1 margin. This is a case of major "buyer's regret".
In Maine, citizens there collected well over the required number of signatures to put a ballot measure up for a vote that would repeal a 2011 law disallowing same-day voter registration. Ultra conservative Governor Paul LaPage pushed through a bill that would have significantly suppressed access to voting. The bill narrowly passed the legislature's vote and became law in June. Mainers said NO! The vote overwhelmingly repealed the law and returned more voter access to Maine citizens. Mainers rightly rejected this phony issue of voter fraud influencing elections. This issue is coming up in a number of states- all, curiously, controlled by Republicans. They claim that voter fraud is a huge issue, but can't seem to cite a single election effected by this "rash of voter fraud". The new measures we're seeing always target young voters, students, minorities and the elderly.(i.e. traditionally Democratic voters) Also curious is that all recently enacted laws on this subject seek to limit access to voting, instead of promoting more participation in our democracy. I predict this issue will become a major point of discussion in the coming year
In Mississippi voters soundly rejected an Initiative that would have granted legal "person-hood" to a fertilized human ovum. The vote was basically 60/40 against this Initiative in what is the most socially conservative state in the union. Why? Mostly because voters there realized a vote for the Initiative would not only outlaw legal abortion, it would outlaw almost all forms of artificial birth control. This would have nearly entirely removed every woman's right to control her own reproductive life. Some very radical religious folks wanted this very thing- but even in Mississippi the people rejected this measure as going way too far. I always find it interesting the conservatives will argue to the death for smaller government- and at the same time want government totally involved in policing our sex lives and reproductive decisions. Imagine how big the government would have to be for that ambitious mission.
And, finally in Arizona there was a recall election of Republican State Senate Leader Russell Pearce. Among other things Pearce was seen as the face of the legislation that created Arizona's horrible immigration law. This law allows police racial stereotyping and undo seizure practices. It is being struck down piece by piece in the court system. Voters said, we want you out. Pearce had other problems too, but his authorship of the immigration law was the focus of his defeat, even at the hands of another conservative Republican.
Let's not forget what started it all. Wisconsin! Another beginner, right-wing Republican Governor teamed up with the Koch brothers and decided to abolish collective bargaining rights for teachers. In March, the Capital building was taken over by the citizens for weeks. Democratic legislators boycotted the capital, left the state, and the nation finally saw the real conservative agenda at work. And we didn't like it. The law did go into effect but in August enough Republican legislators were recalled over this issue that Gov. Scott Walker no longer has his Republican majority in the State Senate. Now there is a very robust effort to recall Walker himself. His approval rating is now around 35% and things look bad for him. The new state Senate will obviously rectify this law during the next session.
It seems the entire conservative platform was rejected by the people, all over the country, in one fell swoop. Think about this- these votes took place in northeastern state, Maine- southern state, Mississippi- midwestern state, Ohio- and western state, Arizona. That's every section of the country. It's interesting that in each case the losing side outspent the winning side. This begins to restore my faith in the people to overcome the rich and the powerful. People said no to destroying the working people who make up the middle class- by supporting hard-won rights of workers. They said no to suppressing the right of the people to heard at the ballot box. They said no to ultra-religious right-wing politicians who would reach into our lives to control the most intimate parts of our being. They said no to those who would strip the humanity anyway from people based in the color of their skin.
I really believe we are at a crossroads in this country. When I look at the really Super Tuesday we had, I see hope that we are turning into a better country. When I see people march in the Occupy Movement to stand for the 99% of us, then I'm heartened. When I see our President finally taking his message to the people and away from the dysfunction of Congress, I believe things might just improve. I believe it because the people are standing up against the power of money and greed- and its starting to work.
Thanks for looking in.
By all measures this year's election was an off, off year election. There were no Congressional races- no Senate races- no big offices up for grabs to capture our attention. But several races and ballot initiatives around the country made this last election one to remember. This election is the beginning of the tide turning in favor of the people. In my view this wasn't an election about political parties (though one party in particular got a pretty good comeuppances)- it was about people finally standing up and saying what kind of country this should be. Let me give you a rundown of the people's election.
The big story was the Ohio vote that sought to repeal a law enacted this year by the Ohio legislature, which was proposed and supported by Republican Governor Kasich. Kasich is a very conservative, new in office, governor who campaigned on jobs but immediately set out to eliminate public employee's jobs by removing their collective bargaining rights. The new law included teachers, police officers and firefighters. (you know, the real villians of our society!) Ohioans collected twice the number of signatures needed for the referendum to repeal this law- and on election day voted to restore collective bargaining rights by over a 2-to-1 margin. This was an incredibly significant vote! This was Kasich's signature issue and it was soundly rejected. In a recent poll, Ohioans would not vote to re-elect him if they had the chance, again by a 2-to-1 margin. This is a case of major "buyer's regret".
In Maine, citizens there collected well over the required number of signatures to put a ballot measure up for a vote that would repeal a 2011 law disallowing same-day voter registration. Ultra conservative Governor Paul LaPage pushed through a bill that would have significantly suppressed access to voting. The bill narrowly passed the legislature's vote and became law in June. Mainers said NO! The vote overwhelmingly repealed the law and returned more voter access to Maine citizens. Mainers rightly rejected this phony issue of voter fraud influencing elections. This issue is coming up in a number of states- all, curiously, controlled by Republicans. They claim that voter fraud is a huge issue, but can't seem to cite a single election effected by this "rash of voter fraud". The new measures we're seeing always target young voters, students, minorities and the elderly.(i.e. traditionally Democratic voters) Also curious is that all recently enacted laws on this subject seek to limit access to voting, instead of promoting more participation in our democracy. I predict this issue will become a major point of discussion in the coming year
In Mississippi voters soundly rejected an Initiative that would have granted legal "person-hood" to a fertilized human ovum. The vote was basically 60/40 against this Initiative in what is the most socially conservative state in the union. Why? Mostly because voters there realized a vote for the Initiative would not only outlaw legal abortion, it would outlaw almost all forms of artificial birth control. This would have nearly entirely removed every woman's right to control her own reproductive life. Some very radical religious folks wanted this very thing- but even in Mississippi the people rejected this measure as going way too far. I always find it interesting the conservatives will argue to the death for smaller government- and at the same time want government totally involved in policing our sex lives and reproductive decisions. Imagine how big the government would have to be for that ambitious mission.
And, finally in Arizona there was a recall election of Republican State Senate Leader Russell Pearce. Among other things Pearce was seen as the face of the legislation that created Arizona's horrible immigration law. This law allows police racial stereotyping and undo seizure practices. It is being struck down piece by piece in the court system. Voters said, we want you out. Pearce had other problems too, but his authorship of the immigration law was the focus of his defeat, even at the hands of another conservative Republican.
Let's not forget what started it all. Wisconsin! Another beginner, right-wing Republican Governor teamed up with the Koch brothers and decided to abolish collective bargaining rights for teachers. In March, the Capital building was taken over by the citizens for weeks. Democratic legislators boycotted the capital, left the state, and the nation finally saw the real conservative agenda at work. And we didn't like it. The law did go into effect but in August enough Republican legislators were recalled over this issue that Gov. Scott Walker no longer has his Republican majority in the State Senate. Now there is a very robust effort to recall Walker himself. His approval rating is now around 35% and things look bad for him. The new state Senate will obviously rectify this law during the next session.
It seems the entire conservative platform was rejected by the people, all over the country, in one fell swoop. Think about this- these votes took place in northeastern state, Maine- southern state, Mississippi- midwestern state, Ohio- and western state, Arizona. That's every section of the country. It's interesting that in each case the losing side outspent the winning side. This begins to restore my faith in the people to overcome the rich and the powerful. People said no to destroying the working people who make up the middle class- by supporting hard-won rights of workers. They said no to suppressing the right of the people to heard at the ballot box. They said no to ultra-religious right-wing politicians who would reach into our lives to control the most intimate parts of our being. They said no to those who would strip the humanity anyway from people based in the color of their skin.
I really believe we are at a crossroads in this country. When I look at the really Super Tuesday we had, I see hope that we are turning into a better country. When I see people march in the Occupy Movement to stand for the 99% of us, then I'm heartened. When I see our President finally taking his message to the people and away from the dysfunction of Congress, I believe things might just improve. I believe it because the people are standing up against the power of money and greed- and its starting to work.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, November 15, 2011
High Priests and Football Coaches
We've been saturated in the coverage of the Penn State football scandal that broke a little over a week ago. In short it goes like this: Long time assistant football coach Jerry Sandusky was arrested for multiple counts of sexually abusing young boys. It appears from the charges that Sandusky is a predatory offender who has been doing this for years. That was the crime. The scandal is that many people in the football program and the athletic administration knew it and did not take proper action. In this case there was even a (rare) eye witness to the abuse who failed to either stop the incident, or call any legal authorities. This witness was, himself, an assistant football coach.
As the facts emerged it became clear that the venerable head coach Joe Paterno knew this and did precious little about it. For that Paterno was fired, which set off an immediate campus riot in support of the beloved JoePa. Paterno is the dean of college football- the winning-est coach in the history of the game and an institution in and of himself. He occupies a god-like status. Others were fired too, but at Penn State they are minor people compared to Joe Paterno- even if you're a university President. Make no mistake, Penn State football is the master of College Station, Pennsylvania, and Joe Paterno its lord.
The fact of this happening should not surprise us. We have all just witnessed this happening in the Catholic Church Sex Abuse scandal. It is virtually identical, and for all the same reasons. In the Catholic Church we discovered that young children were being abused over a period of many, many years by some Priests. That was the crime. The scandal was that many Bishops and other high church officials knew it and did not take proper action to stop it. In almost every case the Bishops moved the offenders to other communities, hushed up and covered up the offenses and went on about the Church's business, as if to suggest that was the Church's policy. But just like the deplorable inaction at Penn State, this behavior only led to more victims.
Why does this happen? The actual offenders are defective people. They exist all around us, more than you may know. They often place themselves in positions of trust to victimize children because their deviant desires overwhelm their lives. Unfortunately, no one has discovered an effective way to stop them or treat them. These offenders must be locked up. But, the true villains are the institutions that find these deviants in their midst, and decide it is more important to protect the institution than to protect the victims.
I cannot think of any institution more protective of itself than the Catholic Church. The Church has existed longer than any current government on earth. Though it is not the oldest religion, it is the dominant religion of the western world, and for several centuries it was the strongest political power in the western world. All of that adds up to power and wealth, well beyond the tenant's of the religious faith it was built on. Therefore the Church has a tremendous stake in maintaining its position in the world. As we saw, the Church would abandon its own values to protect itself from threats to its power and prestige. So the very institution whose founder and deity said "suffer the little children on to me" served them up in sacrifice to protect itself. That's an undeniable example of the ultimate seduction of institutional power.
What do we see in football? Actually many of the same attributes. We worship sports and our sports heroes. We have built up institutions around these new god-like figures and programs. Witness that even in the middle of the bible-belt (Alabama), the late Bear Bryant is more popular than God himself. Our culture has elevated this game of football to ridiculous heights. If you don't believe that, look at the salaries we pay athletes compared to the salaries we pay the President of the United States (for example). This includes college football too. To my way of thinking college football is even worse because the big programs pretend to be something they are not. That is, institutions that promote the values of higher education, when clearly football is king. At Penn State the revenues from football are near $80 million a year.The football program has a $58 million PROFIT. So, is it any wonder that normally good men would easily toss aside their values to protect this institution? If, as Marx said, "religion is the opiate of the masses", then surely football is the crack cocaine of the masses in our culture. It hypes us up and causes us to crave nothing more than a game- nothing more than a form of entertainment. It induces us to spend our money on their "licenced products" and in some extreme cases becomes the passion in our lives-blurring our values along the way. I admit entertainment is a good thing. I too, enjoy the game, and played it in high school with some modest success. But, for too many, this institution of football has become a compulsion, far beyond the simple enjoyment of a game. Witness now that our new cathedrals are the massive stadiums, mainly built on the backs of tax payers.
I'm certain in coming weeks more grisly details about Sandusky and the staff at Penn State will come out, just as they did with the Church. Once the dam breaks, the flood comes. And we can't count on anyone to regulate these matters. The Catholic Church has no over-seers, except its own High Priests. In college football the NCAA has proven itself to be as corrupt as the institutions it regulates- because they all have the same stake in the outcome. Take note that NCAA football has a major scandal every year. Last year it was Ohio State players selling off their school, and the shameless bidding for Cam Newton between Miss. State and Auburn. It all disappeared with a wink and a nod, and a dad taking the rap so he can get the big payoff the next year. Auburn got a National Championship and Newton is in the NFL. And all's right in the football world.
There is another common thread to these institutions, now so crippled by the same scandal. They are both controlled entirely by men. The Catholic Church simply doesn't allow women any say in the workings of the church. Yes, there are religious orders of nuns and sisters in the Church- but they are entirely subservient to the Church establishment. Women can be members- women can devote themselves to the church- but women can never minister in the church or achieve positions of leadership or influence in the church. It is nearly identical in the football world. Men control all of it. They play the game- they coach the game- they own the game- and they control every aspect of football. Every icon and every "legend" is a man. This is a critical point in understanding these two scandals. It is well established in human behavioral science that cultures (and sub-cultures) where women have equal or near equal standing with men are less likely to victimize both women and children. So, in these exclusive male institutions we can almost predict that the need to preserve the power structure becomes the overwhelming priority. Women and children beware.
As we look back on the many victims of both scandals, we should take stock of our priorities. We should always be wary of institutions built on power, money, and control. If there is a lesson to be learned, it is that when the needs of institutions to insulate and protect themselves conflicts with the needs of innocent victims- the innocents will likely be sacrificed. It is so clear now that many of these high priests and football coaches are not to be trusted as our guides in moral leadership or character building-they too are seduced by the very thing they built. We have to ask just how important these institutions are in our culture, and if it isn't time to re-think what is really important. I believe that time has come.
Thanks for looking in.
As the facts emerged it became clear that the venerable head coach Joe Paterno knew this and did precious little about it. For that Paterno was fired, which set off an immediate campus riot in support of the beloved JoePa. Paterno is the dean of college football- the winning-est coach in the history of the game and an institution in and of himself. He occupies a god-like status. Others were fired too, but at Penn State they are minor people compared to Joe Paterno- even if you're a university President. Make no mistake, Penn State football is the master of College Station, Pennsylvania, and Joe Paterno its lord.
The fact of this happening should not surprise us. We have all just witnessed this happening in the Catholic Church Sex Abuse scandal. It is virtually identical, and for all the same reasons. In the Catholic Church we discovered that young children were being abused over a period of many, many years by some Priests. That was the crime. The scandal was that many Bishops and other high church officials knew it and did not take proper action to stop it. In almost every case the Bishops moved the offenders to other communities, hushed up and covered up the offenses and went on about the Church's business, as if to suggest that was the Church's policy. But just like the deplorable inaction at Penn State, this behavior only led to more victims.
Why does this happen? The actual offenders are defective people. They exist all around us, more than you may know. They often place themselves in positions of trust to victimize children because their deviant desires overwhelm their lives. Unfortunately, no one has discovered an effective way to stop them or treat them. These offenders must be locked up. But, the true villains are the institutions that find these deviants in their midst, and decide it is more important to protect the institution than to protect the victims.
I cannot think of any institution more protective of itself than the Catholic Church. The Church has existed longer than any current government on earth. Though it is not the oldest religion, it is the dominant religion of the western world, and for several centuries it was the strongest political power in the western world. All of that adds up to power and wealth, well beyond the tenant's of the religious faith it was built on. Therefore the Church has a tremendous stake in maintaining its position in the world. As we saw, the Church would abandon its own values to protect itself from threats to its power and prestige. So the very institution whose founder and deity said "suffer the little children on to me" served them up in sacrifice to protect itself. That's an undeniable example of the ultimate seduction of institutional power.
What do we see in football? Actually many of the same attributes. We worship sports and our sports heroes. We have built up institutions around these new god-like figures and programs. Witness that even in the middle of the bible-belt (Alabama), the late Bear Bryant is more popular than God himself. Our culture has elevated this game of football to ridiculous heights. If you don't believe that, look at the salaries we pay athletes compared to the salaries we pay the President of the United States (for example). This includes college football too. To my way of thinking college football is even worse because the big programs pretend to be something they are not. That is, institutions that promote the values of higher education, when clearly football is king. At Penn State the revenues from football are near $80 million a year.The football program has a $58 million PROFIT. So, is it any wonder that normally good men would easily toss aside their values to protect this institution? If, as Marx said, "religion is the opiate of the masses", then surely football is the crack cocaine of the masses in our culture. It hypes us up and causes us to crave nothing more than a game- nothing more than a form of entertainment. It induces us to spend our money on their "licenced products" and in some extreme cases becomes the passion in our lives-blurring our values along the way. I admit entertainment is a good thing. I too, enjoy the game, and played it in high school with some modest success. But, for too many, this institution of football has become a compulsion, far beyond the simple enjoyment of a game. Witness now that our new cathedrals are the massive stadiums, mainly built on the backs of tax payers.
I'm certain in coming weeks more grisly details about Sandusky and the staff at Penn State will come out, just as they did with the Church. Once the dam breaks, the flood comes. And we can't count on anyone to regulate these matters. The Catholic Church has no over-seers, except its own High Priests. In college football the NCAA has proven itself to be as corrupt as the institutions it regulates- because they all have the same stake in the outcome. Take note that NCAA football has a major scandal every year. Last year it was Ohio State players selling off their school, and the shameless bidding for Cam Newton between Miss. State and Auburn. It all disappeared with a wink and a nod, and a dad taking the rap so he can get the big payoff the next year. Auburn got a National Championship and Newton is in the NFL. And all's right in the football world.
There is another common thread to these institutions, now so crippled by the same scandal. They are both controlled entirely by men. The Catholic Church simply doesn't allow women any say in the workings of the church. Yes, there are religious orders of nuns and sisters in the Church- but they are entirely subservient to the Church establishment. Women can be members- women can devote themselves to the church- but women can never minister in the church or achieve positions of leadership or influence in the church. It is nearly identical in the football world. Men control all of it. They play the game- they coach the game- they own the game- and they control every aspect of football. Every icon and every "legend" is a man. This is a critical point in understanding these two scandals. It is well established in human behavioral science that cultures (and sub-cultures) where women have equal or near equal standing with men are less likely to victimize both women and children. So, in these exclusive male institutions we can almost predict that the need to preserve the power structure becomes the overwhelming priority. Women and children beware.
As we look back on the many victims of both scandals, we should take stock of our priorities. We should always be wary of institutions built on power, money, and control. If there is a lesson to be learned, it is that when the needs of institutions to insulate and protect themselves conflicts with the needs of innocent victims- the innocents will likely be sacrificed. It is so clear now that many of these high priests and football coaches are not to be trusted as our guides in moral leadership or character building-they too are seduced by the very thing they built. We have to ask just how important these institutions are in our culture, and if it isn't time to re-think what is really important. I believe that time has come.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
The Witch of November
The wind in the wires made a tattle-tale sound,
as the waves broke over the railing.
And, ev'ry man knew, as the Captain did too,
'Twas the witch of November come stealing.
Gordon Lightfoot
The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald
Gordon Lightfoot wrote these lyrics to describe the events leading up to the sinking of the iron ore freighter Edmund Fitzgerald in November 1975 on Lake Superior. Lightfoot has always been a favorite of mine because he is such an expressive musician- and particularly because of the way he uses words to create unforgetable images. If you aren't familiar with his work, I hope you will spend some time learning about this legend in folk music. He is considered a national treasure in his beloved homeland, Canada. I hope you will pay great attention to the language he uses in describing feelings and events through his music.
In this verse, I was very drawn to his apt description of the month of November-as a Witch. This depiction is so very perfect. November is a Witch. November is the season when we first feel the damp, cold of winter swirl around us. Lighter fare gives way to our winter armour of heavy coats, our collars turned up to protect us from lashing winds. November is the time when the colors of autumn turn into gray landscapes, blending with gray skies. The trees become barren, and their branches form the pointed, bony fingers of the Witch herself. The Witch of November steals our light, little by little, until the daytime is only a brief interruption of long,cold, dark nights. Lightfoot has named this month so well. At this time of year you can almost hear the Witch cackling in the twilight of a November sky at dusk.
If this sounds a bit dark and foreboding, then that is what I intend. This November I am struck with how the darkness of this month is enveloping people I know. Last month I wrote about two people in my life who are facing very difficult medical challenges. (Two Illnesses) It is during this month when they will both deal with the most critical aspects of those conditions. Both they, and their families, will come face-to-face with agonizing and uncertain times. So, during these long cold nights of November, they will face many nights sleepless with worry. They are being visited by the Witch of November. Aside from my own small sense of helplessness, can only offer my best thoughts and whatever support I can give.
It is also during this month that I had occasion to give advise to two different families I know concerning child welfare matters. I was approached by these friends because of my professional experience with "the system". The situations were very different. In one instance, the family is dealing with a teenager who is in open, destructive rebellion against her own family. In the other matter a young single mom is trying to protect her young child from sexual abuse, while the child is with the other parent. They came to me in hopes I could give them a prediction of how our great system of child welfare would help them achieve some justice for themselves and their children. My predictions were a failure. In both situations the system reacted badly and left both families feeling the pain and frustration of injustice. I feel badly for them both, and I'm left doubting my own profession and the institutions I have always believed in. The Witch of November is stealing a bit of our spirit too.
I believe the only way to endure this awful time of losing our light, bracing against the advancing cold of winter, and the gloom that falls over us, is to remember that near the end of next month, the season will begin to change again. Nature always has a way to right herself, and us with her. Winter solstice will come and the days will begin to lengthen. The light begins to return and the Witch of November retreats to wait until next year. From the time before history was written, our ancient ancestors knew the light would return and that our lives would experience renewal. They counted on it, as I do now. My best hope for those who are feeling pain right now, is to have faith that renewal always comes, just like the changing of the seasons. Even though I'm saddened now by your challenges and pain, I remain grateful to know each of you, and have you be a part of my life. That is my renewal. Perhaps it would proper to end with another set of more hopeful lyrics-
Rainy day people always seem to know when its time to call
Rainy day people don't talk, they just listen till they've heard it all
Rainy day lovers don't lie when they tell you they've been down like you
Rainy day people don't mind if you you're cryin' a tear or two
If you get lonely all you really need is that rainy day love
Rainy day people all know there's no sorrow they can't rise above
Gordon Lightfoot
Rainy Day People
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
275% Redux
For the last couple of days I've been working on this week's essay, here and there, when I had a few minutes to devote to it. The original title was "275%". I wrote my usual length offering but, after re-reading it, I just couldn't subject you or me to many of the same things I've been writing about since last March. So I decided to make this a short one. A redux, if you will. My original piece had some detailed arguments on how the economic and political fortunes of this country started changing under the Reagan administration and have continued up to this day. I attempted to eloquently explain how changes in government tax policy, labor policy, and corporate business policies have led us directly to this state in our country. I explained how "the rich" influence lawmakers to rig the system in their favor at the expense of the middle class. It's not a complicated thing to understand if you just examine the facts. But you've heard all that from me before. So this time it's just the facts- and I'm sure you'll get the point!
According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, in a report released last week, after tax income/wealth distribution increased as follows over the last thirty years.
- Top 1% increased income/wealth by 275%
- Top 20% (averaging in the top 1%) increased income/wealth 65%
- Bottom 80% saw virtually no change in income/wealth
- income/wealth disparity is at the highest level in our history
So there you have it- no fancy analysis needed. This is a perfect picture of economic and social injustice. This is a perfect prescription for the economic disaster we're living with now. This is the perfect explanation of why we need to get the money out of politics. This is the perfect reason to stand with the 99% Movement/Occupy Wall Street movement. It's really all you need to know.
Thanks for looking in.
-
According to the non-partisan Congressional Budget Office, in a report released last week, after tax income/wealth distribution increased as follows over the last thirty years.
- Top 1% increased income/wealth by 275%
- Top 20% (averaging in the top 1%) increased income/wealth 65%
- Bottom 80% saw virtually no change in income/wealth
- income/wealth disparity is at the highest level in our history
So there you have it- no fancy analysis needed. This is a perfect picture of economic and social injustice. This is a perfect prescription for the economic disaster we're living with now. This is the perfect explanation of why we need to get the money out of politics. This is the perfect reason to stand with the 99% Movement/Occupy Wall Street movement. It's really all you need to know.
Thanks for looking in.
-
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Two Illnesses
For the last few weeks I have experienced an undercurrent of sadness and concern stemming from the illnesses of people in my life. You see, over these weeks two people close to me have experienced very serious medical conditions, with the gravest of consequences. What struck me was how these two individuals came to be in their respective conditions, and how their reactions have been so very different. I keep searching my own thoughts for some meaning to all this, yet end up in much the same place where I began.
It's important that you know something about the folks I'm referring to. This is dicey for me because I don't want to wander over any line of decency or privacy that should rightly exist. In times of crisis, particularly medical crisis, there should be some boundaries that aren't crossed. Both have graciously allowed me the privilege to share these events. As I tell this story I hope I haven't violated any boundaries, and that I write about them with all the respect they deserve. The two people involved are very different people, with very different conditions, and they occupy very different stages in life. It is these differences that got me thinking about this essay.
The first woman I'll describe is our daughter's mother-in-law. Her name is Lynn. Lynn is approaching her mid-sixties and has suffered from chronic poor health for many years. She's divorced and has two grown sons, both in there thirties. My son-in-law is her younger son. From the time we've known Lynn she has struggled with health issues leading to this point. She has has weight problems, and personal habits that have contributed to a series of orthopedic surgeries to replace hips, and the need to use oxygen continuously. She recently moved to an assisted living apartment because she couldn't manage on her own any longer. I think you understand the situation and there is no further need for details. But what's important to know is that she is now approaching the end of her life. She finally succumbed to the inevitable, and has been hospitalized for nearly two weeks. None of this was a surprise- yet the reality of her situation has proven to be a painful and difficult event for our son-in-law, and therefore our family. Thankfully, he is coping well with these realities now in spite of the daily ups and downs of Lynn's condition. He has the support of his family and many others.
The situation with Lynn takes me back to my late twenties. Both of my parents died within six months of each other, both from chronic illnesses. So the certainty of a parent's death in coming weeks or months is a feeling not lost on me. Who knows if I handled it as well as would be expected by the experts in these matters. I'm not sure if there is text-book response. But, I think I did OK with these losses, and the loss of several other very close relatives who passed away in short succession. In the nearly thirty years since then, I hope I have developed a perspective that can be helpful to my family as we keep watch over Lynn's final days.
The other woman is Molly. I've known Molly since she was twelve years old. I helped coach her youth softball team when she played along side my kids. She didn't go to the same high school as my girls, so I lost track of her until about eleven years ago. One day I went into a Super Cuts and there she was, cutting hair. Since then we've struck up a great friendship that I value so much. She cuts my hair. We talk. I know her parents. I did the photography for her engagement, her wedding, and the first baby pictures when she brought Sophia home. I have always found her to be open, honest and engaging as a friend. I really enjoy having friends outside my own generation, both younger and older. It adds more richness to life. Molly has certainly added more richness to my life. She's one of the most unique people I know, so every month when I show up for a haircut- it's a talk fest that makes me glad I know her. About three weeks ago she texted me to say she had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I confess, I was a stunned. Molly is 34. Sophia is 6. Molly's mom is just getting past a couple of years recovering from her own bout with breast cancer. Molly's husband is doing all he can for her.
Molly and I have talked a couple of times since she found out she has cancer. I won't recount the events she's shared with me as she endures the tests, the MRI's, genetic testing, the endless consultations, and the choices she and her husband must face. But her cancer will require radical treatment, surgery and a long period of chemo- with all that that implies. Molly's illness is eliciting many of the same responses from friends and family that Lynn's illness is. People express their sympathy. People say that they are praying. People send heartfelt wishes and their shared thoughts and worries. The difference is that these thoughts, prayers, and wishes are comforting to Lynn and her family; but serve only to sometimes frustrate and annoy Molly. Molly has decided to use her emotions (which includes anger), and her resolve, to fight her illness, whereas Lynn cannot. There is no question in Molly's mind that she will survive, but in Lynn's case there is no question that her end will come soon.
I don't approach Molly with traditional expressions of sympathy or Hallmark Card emotions. She doesn't want them. We agreed I would just be the friend she could have normal conversations with. Too many people now want to treat her differently because she has the big C. And if you show up around her with a pink ribbon, you're going to catch hell. She doesn't need any more cancer awareness, thank you. Don't talk to her of prayers. She has faith- but she's finding no comfort in it now. She'll work that out on her own without the normal religious cliche's. She's taking the fight to cancer-and I know she'll win because she is, and always has been, tougher than I can describe. She's been a type 1 diabetic since the softball days of her childhood and she knows how to beat the odds. She even had a baby when they told her she couldn't. She is stubborn in her approach to this thing- but I admire her single minded will to fight, to survive, and come out the other end as she wants to be. And, she will.
When people in our life have serious issues, they tend to become our issues on some level, if we care about them. Over the last weeks the two situations I've described have been so poignant for me because they have some similarities, and such glaring differences at the same time. I am not one to search for deep spiritual or religious meaning in these situations. And, as I said in opening this essay, I keep coming back to the same place. It is a place of peace in my own mind; and one I try to share with those closest to their problems. I derive that peace from my belief there is no grand plan, or no grand planner, that makes us sick or heals us. There is certainly no observable record of any such plan. I don't believe that everything "happens for a reason" -and that reason is somehow beyond our ability to understand it. The randomness of how our lives come into being and how they end doesn't suggest any plan at all. I believe we are just a part of the natural world around us. As part of nature, our bodies will eventually fail and fall to the fate of all living things. Some earlier, some later than others. I can't believe there is a grand rationale as to why some will live for 90 years, while some will die as infants- other than it is just our nature as inhabitants on this earth. To me that's actually a comforting notion. So, with this in mind I make my best effort to accept what must be accepted- and to be supportive where support and friendship is needed. These two illnesses have reinforced for me there is no one way to react- no correct answer; except to give of ourselves in a way other people need us to, without judgment or reservation. Lynn and Molly's futures will not be the same, but I will do my best to be there for them in whatever way they need me to be there for them.
Thanks for looking in.
It's important that you know something about the folks I'm referring to. This is dicey for me because I don't want to wander over any line of decency or privacy that should rightly exist. In times of crisis, particularly medical crisis, there should be some boundaries that aren't crossed. Both have graciously allowed me the privilege to share these events. As I tell this story I hope I haven't violated any boundaries, and that I write about them with all the respect they deserve. The two people involved are very different people, with very different conditions, and they occupy very different stages in life. It is these differences that got me thinking about this essay.
The first woman I'll describe is our daughter's mother-in-law. Her name is Lynn. Lynn is approaching her mid-sixties and has suffered from chronic poor health for many years. She's divorced and has two grown sons, both in there thirties. My son-in-law is her younger son. From the time we've known Lynn she has struggled with health issues leading to this point. She has has weight problems, and personal habits that have contributed to a series of orthopedic surgeries to replace hips, and the need to use oxygen continuously. She recently moved to an assisted living apartment because she couldn't manage on her own any longer. I think you understand the situation and there is no further need for details. But what's important to know is that she is now approaching the end of her life. She finally succumbed to the inevitable, and has been hospitalized for nearly two weeks. None of this was a surprise- yet the reality of her situation has proven to be a painful and difficult event for our son-in-law, and therefore our family. Thankfully, he is coping well with these realities now in spite of the daily ups and downs of Lynn's condition. He has the support of his family and many others.
The situation with Lynn takes me back to my late twenties. Both of my parents died within six months of each other, both from chronic illnesses. So the certainty of a parent's death in coming weeks or months is a feeling not lost on me. Who knows if I handled it as well as would be expected by the experts in these matters. I'm not sure if there is text-book response. But, I think I did OK with these losses, and the loss of several other very close relatives who passed away in short succession. In the nearly thirty years since then, I hope I have developed a perspective that can be helpful to my family as we keep watch over Lynn's final days.
The other woman is Molly. I've known Molly since she was twelve years old. I helped coach her youth softball team when she played along side my kids. She didn't go to the same high school as my girls, so I lost track of her until about eleven years ago. One day I went into a Super Cuts and there she was, cutting hair. Since then we've struck up a great friendship that I value so much. She cuts my hair. We talk. I know her parents. I did the photography for her engagement, her wedding, and the first baby pictures when she brought Sophia home. I have always found her to be open, honest and engaging as a friend. I really enjoy having friends outside my own generation, both younger and older. It adds more richness to life. Molly has certainly added more richness to my life. She's one of the most unique people I know, so every month when I show up for a haircut- it's a talk fest that makes me glad I know her. About three weeks ago she texted me to say she had just been diagnosed with breast cancer. I confess, I was a stunned. Molly is 34. Sophia is 6. Molly's mom is just getting past a couple of years recovering from her own bout with breast cancer. Molly's husband is doing all he can for her.
Molly and I have talked a couple of times since she found out she has cancer. I won't recount the events she's shared with me as she endures the tests, the MRI's, genetic testing, the endless consultations, and the choices she and her husband must face. But her cancer will require radical treatment, surgery and a long period of chemo- with all that that implies. Molly's illness is eliciting many of the same responses from friends and family that Lynn's illness is. People express their sympathy. People say that they are praying. People send heartfelt wishes and their shared thoughts and worries. The difference is that these thoughts, prayers, and wishes are comforting to Lynn and her family; but serve only to sometimes frustrate and annoy Molly. Molly has decided to use her emotions (which includes anger), and her resolve, to fight her illness, whereas Lynn cannot. There is no question in Molly's mind that she will survive, but in Lynn's case there is no question that her end will come soon.
I don't approach Molly with traditional expressions of sympathy or Hallmark Card emotions. She doesn't want them. We agreed I would just be the friend she could have normal conversations with. Too many people now want to treat her differently because she has the big C. And if you show up around her with a pink ribbon, you're going to catch hell. She doesn't need any more cancer awareness, thank you. Don't talk to her of prayers. She has faith- but she's finding no comfort in it now. She'll work that out on her own without the normal religious cliche's. She's taking the fight to cancer-and I know she'll win because she is, and always has been, tougher than I can describe. She's been a type 1 diabetic since the softball days of her childhood and she knows how to beat the odds. She even had a baby when they told her she couldn't. She is stubborn in her approach to this thing- but I admire her single minded will to fight, to survive, and come out the other end as she wants to be. And, she will.
When people in our life have serious issues, they tend to become our issues on some level, if we care about them. Over the last weeks the two situations I've described have been so poignant for me because they have some similarities, and such glaring differences at the same time. I am not one to search for deep spiritual or religious meaning in these situations. And, as I said in opening this essay, I keep coming back to the same place. It is a place of peace in my own mind; and one I try to share with those closest to their problems. I derive that peace from my belief there is no grand plan, or no grand planner, that makes us sick or heals us. There is certainly no observable record of any such plan. I don't believe that everything "happens for a reason" -and that reason is somehow beyond our ability to understand it. The randomness of how our lives come into being and how they end doesn't suggest any plan at all. I believe we are just a part of the natural world around us. As part of nature, our bodies will eventually fail and fall to the fate of all living things. Some earlier, some later than others. I can't believe there is a grand rationale as to why some will live for 90 years, while some will die as infants- other than it is just our nature as inhabitants on this earth. To me that's actually a comforting notion. So, with this in mind I make my best effort to accept what must be accepted- and to be supportive where support and friendship is needed. These two illnesses have reinforced for me there is no one way to react- no correct answer; except to give of ourselves in a way other people need us to, without judgment or reservation. Lynn and Molly's futures will not be the same, but I will do my best to be there for them in whatever way they need me to be there for them.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
It's OK To Be Angry!
In the world of day-time talk shows, and self indulgent magazine articles that seek to make us all much better people, the word "anger" is a dirty word. The emotion itself is one to be spurned and rejected. We have been told over a generation or more that anger and resentment are poisonous ingredients of twisted people. We have been conditioned to give ourselves pause when we feel this hideous side rise up within us. We are told to let the feeling pass or we can become consumed by dark impulses. Whole industries have sprung up to help us cope with or manage anger.
On most levels of personal interaction I too believe that sustained anger seldom leads to great outcomes. The problem with anger is that it can (but not always) erode our ability to think straight. It can come in the form of pure emotion that robs us of our rational side. It can even have a violent outcome- most often the violence of anger is played out against those closest to us. Unchecked anger is dangerous-scary- and harmful. However, I would argue that there is a place for anger. Anger in, and of, itself can also be a useful thing. The trick is let anger be one of the emotions that drive and motivate us to action. Malcolm X said, "Usually when people are sad, they don't do anything. They cry over their condition. But when they get angry, they bring about a change".
Throughout history the use of anger on a cultural scale has been the catalyst of change. Forgive my ignorance of far eastern history, but I can cite great change movements in western history that were surely the result of anger. Anger over injustice is typically at the root of change. Throughout history, those who have too much find themselves eventually brought down by the the masses who harness anger over injustice and force change. Rome was destroyed by the people of the provinces who tired of paying tribute to the ruling class and the emperors. Rebellion and loss of control finally ate away at the Roman empire till it was no longer there. The great monarchies of Europe fell to revolution in the 16th and 17th centuries when the poor rose up against them and the caste system. The best example was the French Revolution. The once powerful monarchy of Russia fell to the Communists in the 20th century-who in turn fell, when the USSR went broke in Afghanistan and couldn't feed her people. It wasn't Ronald Reagan's finger wagging that brought down the Soviets- it was economic injustice and the will of the people-as it was in Poland and Romania.
It was anger from those who were the have-nots that created change. You might argue that these examples only depict violent change. But there are many examples of anger fueling non-violent change as well. Gandhi never argued for passive resistance. He was passionate in his insistence for Indian Independence from Great Briton. He used anger, and incited anger in his enemies to move his country towards freedom. He just insisted it be non-violent. History tells us Martin Luther King Jr. felt anger over the lack of civil rights for African Americans in his lifetime. He followed the example of Gandhi- but his hatred of injustice and racism was evident. King himself said, "the supreme task is organize and unite people so that their anger becomes a transforming force".
Today we are finally seeing the result of anger move our people towards much needed change. Until the "Occupy Wall St." movement began I feared that all those talk shows and magazines had washed away our basic, and necessary, anger to act on the injustices of the last thirty years. This movement doesn't surprise me. Honestly, what surprises me is that more of us aren't angry. If we can't be angry about injustice, then we have become sheep to be led into exploitation and hopelessness. Let's think about the reasons to angry today.
Our country began a major cultural change when Reagan broke the Air Traffic Controllers union. It was the first act of an undeniable slide downward for the middle class. News story after news story has documented how the middle class in this country has fallen behind in real income since then. This is not political rhetoric. It is fact. Because of this, the gap between the rich (the 1%) and the rest of us ( the 99%) is the highest ever. Also a fact. During the last ten years the banks and other financial institutions created phony financial instruments, passed them off as valuable securities, then bet against them knowing they were a fraud. When the fraud was finally uncovered and those fancy products were deemed worthless, tens of ($)trillions of wealth were lost. It all happened because of the greed and criminal behavior of bankers. Millions of homeowners lost their homes- lives were damaged-pensions were gone-the economy tanked and the middle class had to pay to bail them out.
These, among other things make me angry. They anger me because they threaten the future for my children and grandchildren. My anger doesn't belong to just one political party. I'm angry that my President's Justice Department hasn't gone after even one of those criminals who did this to us. Instead of giving themselves big bonuses, they should be on the perp walk to hell for the lives they've ruined. I'm angry that Mr. Obama wasn't strong enough in the beginning, when it came to protecting the middle class. I'm angry that the Republicans in Congress will not provide even one piece of legislation to get us moving again. I'm angry they keep putting out a pack of lies about tax breaks for "job creators" and trying to destroy the programs that made us safe in our old age so the corporations can profit more. There isn't a single example in modern western history to support their economic ideas during times like these- but they just won't tell the truth about these things. And, that's because the only truth they did tell was their intent to defeat and ruin this President- even if it ruins us all in the process. I'm angry with the Supreme Court for the Citizens United case. This is perhaps the single biggest blow to democracy ever inflicted on us. In a 5-4 decision (with conservative- Republican appointees leading the majority-particularly the two G.W. Bush appointees) the Court allowed unlimited funds to be given to political candidates from corporations. It made corporations people, and permitted money to trump democracy. We should all be angry about this one. And there, I covered all three branches of Federal Government.
So, I invite you to be angry with me. Be angry along with the hundreds of thousands here and in other countries around the world who are now standing up to corporate greed, and the politicians who are bought and paid for by their corporate masters. The "Occupy" movement is about people saying "we've had enough!" They are demanding economic and social justice. The critics of the movement will complain that the people haven't said what they want. The critics need to open their eyes and see that this is about about reversing the very obvious trend towards too few 'have's" and too many "have-nots". Anger should not blind us- but instead open our eyes to these injustices. Our anger should not allow us to accept the 30 second political commercial as truth- but cause us to dig deeper for truth-to seek knowledge beyond the spin of political tricksters. I urge you to follow Dr. King's "supreme task" and let your anger be a "transforming force". Express your anger in knowledge, and use your anger to move you towards action- if not in the streets, then without fail in the voting booth.
Thanks for looking in.
On most levels of personal interaction I too believe that sustained anger seldom leads to great outcomes. The problem with anger is that it can (but not always) erode our ability to think straight. It can come in the form of pure emotion that robs us of our rational side. It can even have a violent outcome- most often the violence of anger is played out against those closest to us. Unchecked anger is dangerous-scary- and harmful. However, I would argue that there is a place for anger. Anger in, and of, itself can also be a useful thing. The trick is let anger be one of the emotions that drive and motivate us to action. Malcolm X said, "Usually when people are sad, they don't do anything. They cry over their condition. But when they get angry, they bring about a change".
Throughout history the use of anger on a cultural scale has been the catalyst of change. Forgive my ignorance of far eastern history, but I can cite great change movements in western history that were surely the result of anger. Anger over injustice is typically at the root of change. Throughout history, those who have too much find themselves eventually brought down by the the masses who harness anger over injustice and force change. Rome was destroyed by the people of the provinces who tired of paying tribute to the ruling class and the emperors. Rebellion and loss of control finally ate away at the Roman empire till it was no longer there. The great monarchies of Europe fell to revolution in the 16th and 17th centuries when the poor rose up against them and the caste system. The best example was the French Revolution. The once powerful monarchy of Russia fell to the Communists in the 20th century-who in turn fell, when the USSR went broke in Afghanistan and couldn't feed her people. It wasn't Ronald Reagan's finger wagging that brought down the Soviets- it was economic injustice and the will of the people-as it was in Poland and Romania.
It was anger from those who were the have-nots that created change. You might argue that these examples only depict violent change. But there are many examples of anger fueling non-violent change as well. Gandhi never argued for passive resistance. He was passionate in his insistence for Indian Independence from Great Briton. He used anger, and incited anger in his enemies to move his country towards freedom. He just insisted it be non-violent. History tells us Martin Luther King Jr. felt anger over the lack of civil rights for African Americans in his lifetime. He followed the example of Gandhi- but his hatred of injustice and racism was evident. King himself said, "the supreme task is organize and unite people so that their anger becomes a transforming force".
Today we are finally seeing the result of anger move our people towards much needed change. Until the "Occupy Wall St." movement began I feared that all those talk shows and magazines had washed away our basic, and necessary, anger to act on the injustices of the last thirty years. This movement doesn't surprise me. Honestly, what surprises me is that more of us aren't angry. If we can't be angry about injustice, then we have become sheep to be led into exploitation and hopelessness. Let's think about the reasons to angry today.
Our country began a major cultural change when Reagan broke the Air Traffic Controllers union. It was the first act of an undeniable slide downward for the middle class. News story after news story has documented how the middle class in this country has fallen behind in real income since then. This is not political rhetoric. It is fact. Because of this, the gap between the rich (the 1%) and the rest of us ( the 99%) is the highest ever. Also a fact. During the last ten years the banks and other financial institutions created phony financial instruments, passed them off as valuable securities, then bet against them knowing they were a fraud. When the fraud was finally uncovered and those fancy products were deemed worthless, tens of ($)trillions of wealth were lost. It all happened because of the greed and criminal behavior of bankers. Millions of homeowners lost their homes- lives were damaged-pensions were gone-the economy tanked and the middle class had to pay to bail them out.
These, among other things make me angry. They anger me because they threaten the future for my children and grandchildren. My anger doesn't belong to just one political party. I'm angry that my President's Justice Department hasn't gone after even one of those criminals who did this to us. Instead of giving themselves big bonuses, they should be on the perp walk to hell for the lives they've ruined. I'm angry that Mr. Obama wasn't strong enough in the beginning, when it came to protecting the middle class. I'm angry that the Republicans in Congress will not provide even one piece of legislation to get us moving again. I'm angry they keep putting out a pack of lies about tax breaks for "job creators" and trying to destroy the programs that made us safe in our old age so the corporations can profit more. There isn't a single example in modern western history to support their economic ideas during times like these- but they just won't tell the truth about these things. And, that's because the only truth they did tell was their intent to defeat and ruin this President- even if it ruins us all in the process. I'm angry with the Supreme Court for the Citizens United case. This is perhaps the single biggest blow to democracy ever inflicted on us. In a 5-4 decision (with conservative- Republican appointees leading the majority-particularly the two G.W. Bush appointees) the Court allowed unlimited funds to be given to political candidates from corporations. It made corporations people, and permitted money to trump democracy. We should all be angry about this one. And there, I covered all three branches of Federal Government.
So, I invite you to be angry with me. Be angry along with the hundreds of thousands here and in other countries around the world who are now standing up to corporate greed, and the politicians who are bought and paid for by their corporate masters. The "Occupy" movement is about people saying "we've had enough!" They are demanding economic and social justice. The critics of the movement will complain that the people haven't said what they want. The critics need to open their eyes and see that this is about about reversing the very obvious trend towards too few 'have's" and too many "have-nots". Anger should not blind us- but instead open our eyes to these injustices. Our anger should not allow us to accept the 30 second political commercial as truth- but cause us to dig deeper for truth-to seek knowledge beyond the spin of political tricksters. I urge you to follow Dr. King's "supreme task" and let your anger be a "transforming force". Express your anger in knowledge, and use your anger to move you towards action- if not in the streets, then without fail in the voting booth.
Thanks for looking in.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Sunday Dinner: CORRECTION
In reviewing my last post I saw that a section of the post was missing. For some unknown reason the draft I was working on did publish entirely. I don't know why that happened, and the truth is that is was probably my fault- though I'm usually quick to blame the computer or the web site. At any rate, I apologize about the missing section.
In the phantom paragraph I noted that most private agencies get a great deal of their funding from government programs, grants, or projects. I discussed the idea that cutting government programs therefore has the effect of causing severe cuts to private agencies and their clientele too. I used the example of Catholic Charities building a new apartment complex to supply housing to the poor, and how the funding is all coming from state revenues. The point being that most voters simply don't realize the the vital connection between government and private organizations, and our politicians lack true intellectual honesty when they harken back to the old days when churches and other private charities cared for the poor alone, as a reason to argue for government cuts.
I thought the part of the post that went missing in the original published post was an important link in the argument, so upon noticing it was missing, I wanted to share it with you now. Thanks again for looking in.
In the phantom paragraph I noted that most private agencies get a great deal of their funding from government programs, grants, or projects. I discussed the idea that cutting government programs therefore has the effect of causing severe cuts to private agencies and their clientele too. I used the example of Catholic Charities building a new apartment complex to supply housing to the poor, and how the funding is all coming from state revenues. The point being that most voters simply don't realize the the vital connection between government and private organizations, and our politicians lack true intellectual honesty when they harken back to the old days when churches and other private charities cared for the poor alone, as a reason to argue for government cuts.
I thought the part of the post that went missing in the original published post was an important link in the argument, so upon noticing it was missing, I wanted to share it with you now. Thanks again for looking in.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Sunday Dinner
One of my favorite activities is to cook and enjoy a big Sunday dinner with my family. We've always been the kind of family that has dinner together, and now that the kids are married and have their own kids it's particularly enjoyable for us to have a big sit-down meal together. If you've read some of my earlier posts on this blog, you know that I grew up in this tradition, surrounded by extended family. Some of my fondest memories involve the Sunday dinners my grandparents would cook. There wasn't a great deal of variety with the menu. Typically we would have some sort of Italian food- what you might call comfort food. We ate pasta, meats we raised and butchered right there (beef-chicken-pork), risotto (long before the Food Network made it fashionable), stews and the like. Even though the food was great, the gathering was the important thing. This was a time to discuss our lives and the events of importance to us; three generations, grandparents, parents, aunts and uncles, and kids all gathered at one table. Children, like me, could join the conversation or we could listen to the adults talk about the world, politics, the high school football game from last Friday night, the price of Walla Walla Sweet Onions, or the tone of the sermon at Sunday mass. It was always an interesting time.
Because we believe these gatherings were such an important part of learning to be an adult, we've tried to make that tradition a part of our grand children's lives too. We're lucky our family all live here and we can do this for them. Sometimes those dinners happen at our daughters' homes- but mostly at our house. It's a regular part of our lives.
Every now and then there comes a Sunday when circumstances, previous commitments, or schedules just don't permit the Sunday dinner. Last Sunday was one of those. However, we did a Sunday dinner of another kind that proved to be a valuable experience just the same. We attended the Bishop's Poor Man's Dinner at the House of Charity. This is an annual fund raising event sponsored by Catholic Charities of Spokane and the Bishop of the Spokane Catholic Diocese. My wife works for Catholic Charities as a Program Director, which gives us an outstanding view of the agency's work. I've been familiar with Catholic Charities for many years through my own work, but now I have a special opportunity to see it from an even closer vantage point. In case you didn't know, Catholic Charities is the largest social service agency in eastern Washington and literally serves many thousands of poor people every year through a variety of programs. Once again, if you've read from my past posts, you know that issues associated with poverty are very important to me.
The Poor Man's Dinner was held at the House of Charity, a facility that's a shelter for many of our community's homeless citizens. They have a large, clean, dormitory upstairs to house about 90 homeless men every night. They serve over 77,000 hot meals and the same number of continental breakfasts a year, almost all from donated foods, the staff skillfully arrange into actual meals. They also have a free medical clinic and various other services for our fellow, less fortunate citizens. They do not ask a person's religion or seek to convert anyone. They serve "according to need-not creed" as they like to say. Catholic Charities operates in accordance with the principles of basic human dignity, human respect, and a profound sense of social justice. These values form the creed of Catholic Charities and at the same time, to me, transcend religion. I say that because these core values cannot and should not be constrained to Catholicism or any religion, but should also be cherished and embedded in us as fundamental human values.
As I listened to the speakers talk about this special place I was filled with a sense of pride in being there to witness a devoted crowd support, and contribute to, this cause; and a sense of sadness in the realization of the tremendous unmet needs of so many of our people. The House of Charity cannot possibly house and feed the number who need their services. They turn away many in need. Even generous contributions cannot meet the demands. We were told the increase in meals served last year rose 17% from the previous year.
So I'm left to ponder these questions about values with you. If we revere and respect the values and work of great agencies like Catholic Charities, why do we not demand the same set of a values from those we elect to govern us? Why is it noble to care for our fellow man in church, but not in Congress? Why do seek and applaud social justice at the House of Charity- but seek and applaud budget cuts aimed at the poor and the elderly in the House of Representatives? Why do we give to the collection plate with one hand- and vote for politicians who will take away funding for the very same programs with the other hand?
As a movement is growing now on the streets of this country (Occupy Wall Street and beyond) more people are rising up to call for social justice- they call for economic justice- they call for fairness. Those are the same basic values Catholic Charities calls for. Some Republicans have called them "a mob", "unAmerican", or said to them "if you're not rich -blame yourself!". They are called "dangerous radicals". Well, I had Sunday dinner in a place where people know better. I ate a small bowl of lentil soup, a piece of bread, and small bit of apple dessert. It wasn't the Sunday dinner I usually enjoy with my family- but it was an important meal, just like the only meal hundreds of our citizens get every day at the House of Charity. It has caused me to refocus on that value we call social justice. I hope you will too.
Thanks for looking in.
Because we believe these gatherings were such an important part of learning to be an adult, we've tried to make that tradition a part of our grand children's lives too. We're lucky our family all live here and we can do this for them. Sometimes those dinners happen at our daughters' homes- but mostly at our house. It's a regular part of our lives.
Every now and then there comes a Sunday when circumstances, previous commitments, or schedules just don't permit the Sunday dinner. Last Sunday was one of those. However, we did a Sunday dinner of another kind that proved to be a valuable experience just the same. We attended the Bishop's Poor Man's Dinner at the House of Charity. This is an annual fund raising event sponsored by Catholic Charities of Spokane and the Bishop of the Spokane Catholic Diocese. My wife works for Catholic Charities as a Program Director, which gives us an outstanding view of the agency's work. I've been familiar with Catholic Charities for many years through my own work, but now I have a special opportunity to see it from an even closer vantage point. In case you didn't know, Catholic Charities is the largest social service agency in eastern Washington and literally serves many thousands of poor people every year through a variety of programs. Once again, if you've read from my past posts, you know that issues associated with poverty are very important to me.
The Poor Man's Dinner was held at the House of Charity, a facility that's a shelter for many of our community's homeless citizens. They have a large, clean, dormitory upstairs to house about 90 homeless men every night. They serve over 77,000 hot meals and the same number of continental breakfasts a year, almost all from donated foods, the staff skillfully arrange into actual meals. They also have a free medical clinic and various other services for our fellow, less fortunate citizens. They do not ask a person's religion or seek to convert anyone. They serve "according to need-not creed" as they like to say. Catholic Charities operates in accordance with the principles of basic human dignity, human respect, and a profound sense of social justice. These values form the creed of Catholic Charities and at the same time, to me, transcend religion. I say that because these core values cannot and should not be constrained to Catholicism or any religion, but should also be cherished and embedded in us as fundamental human values.
As I listened to the speakers talk about this special place I was filled with a sense of pride in being there to witness a devoted crowd support, and contribute to, this cause; and a sense of sadness in the realization of the tremendous unmet needs of so many of our people. The House of Charity cannot possibly house and feed the number who need their services. They turn away many in need. Even generous contributions cannot meet the demands. We were told the increase in meals served last year rose 17% from the previous year.
So I'm left to ponder these questions about values with you. If we revere and respect the values and work of great agencies like Catholic Charities, why do we not demand the same set of a values from those we elect to govern us? Why is it noble to care for our fellow man in church, but not in Congress? Why do seek and applaud social justice at the House of Charity- but seek and applaud budget cuts aimed at the poor and the elderly in the House of Representatives? Why do we give to the collection plate with one hand- and vote for politicians who will take away funding for the very same programs with the other hand?
As a movement is growing now on the streets of this country (Occupy Wall Street and beyond) more people are rising up to call for social justice- they call for economic justice- they call for fairness. Those are the same basic values Catholic Charities calls for. Some Republicans have called them "a mob", "unAmerican", or said to them "if you're not rich -blame yourself!". They are called "dangerous radicals". Well, I had Sunday dinner in a place where people know better. I ate a small bowl of lentil soup, a piece of bread, and small bit of apple dessert. It wasn't the Sunday dinner I usually enjoy with my family- but it was an important meal, just like the only meal hundreds of our citizens get every day at the House of Charity. It has caused me to refocus on that value we call social justice. I hope you will too.
Thanks for looking in.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Our Grandson Turned 9
Over the last weekend our grandson Micah turned nine years old. He is a great kid and I know that if you met him you'd like him. He's got a big heart and has feelings that run pretty deep for a nine year old kid. He plays all that kind of coy though, and often doesn't come right out with all that's going on in that head of his. But, I tell you this, he can crack you up or completely undo you with a certain look he has. In that way he reminds me a lot of his mother. He's a bit on the small size, but he's supremely coordinated and athletic-an outstanding soccer player. There's a great deal more I could say to describe him, but I'll get back to that later.
Zoe is Micah's sister, who will be eleven years old in a few months. She is our first grandchild and as such had about 500,000 pictures taken of her that first year of life. She, too, is a very endearing child and very special to us. She has a maturity about her that belies her young age, along with a whimsical way that's playful and cute. Like her brother, there is always more going on just below the surface. She is an avid reader and is whip smart. She's a good little athlete too, but hasn't found her niche just yet. But she's a fearless soul when it comes to trying new things, and I predict great things in her future.
Micah and Zoe have a step-brother named Jaydn who is just older than Zoe. We have really come to love this kid. There are always adjustments when families blend, but things generally work out well when there is patience and love to go around. My daughter and her husband have made sure of that. Jaydn is a vivacious boy, who like all 6th graders, is starting to get that grown up look about him. He's always trying new things and is eager to please. He has an easy manner and is constantly on the move. He's easy to talk with and he really craves adult conversation.
Our youngest daughter and her husband have another of our grandsons. Ben will be six years old in January. He is very special to us as well. He had an early and unexpected entry into the world. But he overcame that small setback and is now a very robust, energetic kindergartner. I know this is starting to sound redundant and like nothing more than grandparent pride, but he is a very smart young kid with lots of potential. Add that to a killer smile and lots of charm and you have a pretty great kid. Ben will have to start sharing his parents with yet another granddaughter due in January.
To say we are fortunate to have all these great kids in our lives is a monumental understatement. We loved being parents, but there is something so special about the grandparent role. It enables a person to have a very close relationship with a child, to teach (and learn), encourage, and support these young people in ways a parent can't. Parents have the most important job- but grandparents can be there for these kids in a way that can't be duplicated. Having them all here in town with us makes us particularly fortunate and appreciative.
Without playing favorites, let's get back to Micah. His ninth birthday this past week gave me a special reason to think about him, me, and the future for all the kids I've just introduced you to . It got me reflecting back to the year of my 9th birthday. I think this was the first year in my life where I actually began to see the world as a complicated and sometimes difficult place. Don't get me wrong- I had a fairly secure and safe upbringing. I was surrounded by an extended family who cared about me. But it was also the first year I can remember where I had thoughts about the world outside my safe upbringing.
In 1963 I completed the 3rd grade with a great teacher who really encouraged us to learn about ourselves and do things differently than the schooling I had received up till then. I was in a Catholic school, but had only been taught by the Sisters. In third grade I had a lay teacher (as they were called then). She was an older lady and I can still picture her. My guess is that she taught in a Catholic school because she probably didn't fit in to the public school mold. Nonetheless, I remember her as being quite different and I remember that year as my favorite one in the Catholic grade school.
Later in 1963, as a 4th grader, the country and I experienced the assassination of JFK. Nothing can shock your childhood world more than a national crisis that every single person in your life is reacting to with sorrow and confusion. Being only 9, I couldn't comprehend the meaning of these things but I knew a major and unprecedented event had just occurred. Then, the Sunday after JFK was killed, as my dad and I watched, Lee Harvey Oswald was murdered right in front of us on live TV. So this was the age I started seeing the world beyond my own home. I know that Micah is seeing that world too. Conversations with him leave no doubt he has reached the point of recognizing the issues and uncertainties of the world, as well as its great wonders and treasures. In lots of ways I kind of envy him the great discoveries he will make within himself and in the world he lives in. Every time I see him I can see his mind at work. What a time of growth. Jaydn and Zoe have already been there and continue to discover new ideas, great new people, and the problems the world faces.
As Micah is passing through this doorway now, I feel a special responsibility to him. I feel it for Jaydn, Zoe, Ben, and our "player to be named later" too. Perhaps, this is the reason I've taken to speaking out more in my personal life, and in this blog, about the things that concern me. It's not my future I'm concerned for- it is theirs! We are making huge decisions now that will determine what their life will be like only a few short years from now. And I don't like the tone of things. There is a selfishness, a smallness, and a pessimism that is invading our spirit these days. Too many of our people want to reverse the progress we've made and take huge steps backwards. I don't want that for my grand kids.
I'd like to see a future for them that is not threatened by global climate changes that will make clean water and food scarce, and foul the air with the residue of burned fossil fuels. I'd like to see a future for them that is not controlled by privileged few, while the masses scrape by. I'd like to see a world for them where our best values are the rule of the day- not beliefs that are born out of fear, hatred, and repression for convenience sake. I'd like to see a future for them that relies on the truth of science and reason- not superstitions rooted in ancient dogma. I've got wonderful grandchildren, as other grandparents do. I'd like to see the world they inherit be better than it is right now. Our grandson turned 9- I hope we will have made the right choices by the time he turns 18.
Thanks for looking in.
Zoe is Micah's sister, who will be eleven years old in a few months. She is our first grandchild and as such had about 500,000 pictures taken of her that first year of life. She, too, is a very endearing child and very special to us. She has a maturity about her that belies her young age, along with a whimsical way that's playful and cute. Like her brother, there is always more going on just below the surface. She is an avid reader and is whip smart. She's a good little athlete too, but hasn't found her niche just yet. But she's a fearless soul when it comes to trying new things, and I predict great things in her future.
Micah and Zoe have a step-brother named Jaydn who is just older than Zoe. We have really come to love this kid. There are always adjustments when families blend, but things generally work out well when there is patience and love to go around. My daughter and her husband have made sure of that. Jaydn is a vivacious boy, who like all 6th graders, is starting to get that grown up look about him. He's always trying new things and is eager to please. He has an easy manner and is constantly on the move. He's easy to talk with and he really craves adult conversation.
Our youngest daughter and her husband have another of our grandsons. Ben will be six years old in January. He is very special to us as well. He had an early and unexpected entry into the world. But he overcame that small setback and is now a very robust, energetic kindergartner. I know this is starting to sound redundant and like nothing more than grandparent pride, but he is a very smart young kid with lots of potential. Add that to a killer smile and lots of charm and you have a pretty great kid. Ben will have to start sharing his parents with yet another granddaughter due in January.
To say we are fortunate to have all these great kids in our lives is a monumental understatement. We loved being parents, but there is something so special about the grandparent role. It enables a person to have a very close relationship with a child, to teach (and learn), encourage, and support these young people in ways a parent can't. Parents have the most important job- but grandparents can be there for these kids in a way that can't be duplicated. Having them all here in town with us makes us particularly fortunate and appreciative.
Without playing favorites, let's get back to Micah. His ninth birthday this past week gave me a special reason to think about him, me, and the future for all the kids I've just introduced you to . It got me reflecting back to the year of my 9th birthday. I think this was the first year in my life where I actually began to see the world as a complicated and sometimes difficult place. Don't get me wrong- I had a fairly secure and safe upbringing. I was surrounded by an extended family who cared about me. But it was also the first year I can remember where I had thoughts about the world outside my safe upbringing.
In 1963 I completed the 3rd grade with a great teacher who really encouraged us to learn about ourselves and do things differently than the schooling I had received up till then. I was in a Catholic school, but had only been taught by the Sisters. In third grade I had a lay teacher (as they were called then). She was an older lady and I can still picture her. My guess is that she taught in a Catholic school because she probably didn't fit in to the public school mold. Nonetheless, I remember her as being quite different and I remember that year as my favorite one in the Catholic grade school.
Later in 1963, as a 4th grader, the country and I experienced the assassination of JFK. Nothing can shock your childhood world more than a national crisis that every single person in your life is reacting to with sorrow and confusion. Being only 9, I couldn't comprehend the meaning of these things but I knew a major and unprecedented event had just occurred. Then, the Sunday after JFK was killed, as my dad and I watched, Lee Harvey Oswald was murdered right in front of us on live TV. So this was the age I started seeing the world beyond my own home. I know that Micah is seeing that world too. Conversations with him leave no doubt he has reached the point of recognizing the issues and uncertainties of the world, as well as its great wonders and treasures. In lots of ways I kind of envy him the great discoveries he will make within himself and in the world he lives in. Every time I see him I can see his mind at work. What a time of growth. Jaydn and Zoe have already been there and continue to discover new ideas, great new people, and the problems the world faces.
As Micah is passing through this doorway now, I feel a special responsibility to him. I feel it for Jaydn, Zoe, Ben, and our "player to be named later" too. Perhaps, this is the reason I've taken to speaking out more in my personal life, and in this blog, about the things that concern me. It's not my future I'm concerned for- it is theirs! We are making huge decisions now that will determine what their life will be like only a few short years from now. And I don't like the tone of things. There is a selfishness, a smallness, and a pessimism that is invading our spirit these days. Too many of our people want to reverse the progress we've made and take huge steps backwards. I don't want that for my grand kids.
I'd like to see a future for them that is not threatened by global climate changes that will make clean water and food scarce, and foul the air with the residue of burned fossil fuels. I'd like to see a future for them that is not controlled by privileged few, while the masses scrape by. I'd like to see a world for them where our best values are the rule of the day- not beliefs that are born out of fear, hatred, and repression for convenience sake. I'd like to see a future for them that relies on the truth of science and reason- not superstitions rooted in ancient dogma. I've got wonderful grandchildren, as other grandparents do. I'd like to see the world they inherit be better than it is right now. Our grandson turned 9- I hope we will have made the right choices by the time he turns 18.
Thanks for looking in.
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