Jonathan Schell's article "Too Late for Empire," in The Nation (August 14/21, 2006), presents an interesting argument that Bush's exploits of the Constitution and international law is simply a fluke in our democracy. He cites the Nixon years of the early-1970s and the McCarthy 'communists' as precedent. Sure, that makes sense, but I'm not really sure those things are equitable to the current situation in our country.
Will the United States become an empire as a result of Bush's policies? What do you mean "become"? We are already are!
Bush coronated himself absolute monarch of the United States, King George I (or King George VII, if he's keeping with the British tradition, he hasn't decided quite yet). He's a regular Napoleon Bonaparte. He snatched the make-shift crown, he made in Dick Cheney's arts-and-crafts class, from Pat Robertson's rigid hands and proclaimed, "I, alone, am the State," in his hokey, Texas accent, as he placed it on his graying head. He lives by that creed too. He is the State. He doesn't share. His second grade report card states as much, "Doesn't play well with others." Except, like Hitler and Mussolini, he lets his friend, Tony, come over for an occasional play-date.
King George likes to play with his soldiers too. He has about a million of them, a real world record for a Texan-born-in-Connecticut. He drills them everyday. They play in the sand and attack make-believe palaces in far off lands he's only dreamed about. His pretend enemies are a real devious bunch. They scheme and plot his demise in the darkest shadows, but Georgey gets them in the end. He's the good guy, after all. His soldiers sometimes get out of control and restless, but that's only when he's playing with his other toy, Congress.
What's this analysis have to do with empire? Plenty! He is one man, but he violates and controls so many laws. After all, he is the Commander-in-Chief, and he can sign laws where he has written on there he is above them. That's pretty nifty. But I thought the line-item veto was found unconstitutional?
So where will we be on January 20, 2008, at 12:01 pm? Well, if we're lucky, we'll have a president who will undo the things Bush has done to us. But, just if, what if the new president decides to follow the precedent set by Bush? We'll have another king (or queen?)!
Monday, July 31, 2006
What happened to the ceasefire?
Israel has ended it's self-imposed 48 hour ceasefire. That's very convenient for them. Tomorrow, another refill of my anti-anxiety medication. At least something positive will happen.
MySpace Blows
MySpace has more errors than George Bush's brain! They really should work the bugs out of that site.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Israel's Continued Aggression
It's much like beating someone after you've shot them to death. It's a rage against the memory, against the past. Israel is unbending in its assault against Lebanon. Today, many innocent people died, because of a miscalculation. They said, only Hezbollah targets should have been hit, not children. I'm sure that will smooth everything over with the Lebanese people. As if!
I believe in co-existence for Israel and Palestine. I believe every nation deserves to exist peacefully and without fear of attack and retribution. Israel has asserted itself time-and-time again. There is no doubt of this fact. The United Nations has called for an end to the violence, from both sides. Israel now risks alienation of its primary patron, the United States, which supports an end of violence and the introduction of a United Nations Peacekeeping Force, which will maintain the southern Lebanese border.
Israel must look at the long-term consequences of its actions; instead of simply evaluating the short-term goals they have met, which will not last in the greater scheme of things.
I believe in co-existence for Israel and Palestine. I believe every nation deserves to exist peacefully and without fear of attack and retribution. Israel has asserted itself time-and-time again. There is no doubt of this fact. The United Nations has called for an end to the violence, from both sides. Israel now risks alienation of its primary patron, the United States, which supports an end of violence and the introduction of a United Nations Peacekeeping Force, which will maintain the southern Lebanese border.
Israel must look at the long-term consequences of its actions; instead of simply evaluating the short-term goals they have met, which will not last in the greater scheme of things.
Friday, July 28, 2006
Multinational Force Agreement
Today, George Bush agreed to support a UN resolution to send a multinational peace force to southern Lebanon. I wonder if he realizes what he did? Anyhow, I believe sometimes it is better late than never. I would argue this decision should have been made last week, at the latest, but I hope that it does work to downplay the tension in the Middle East.
Of course, Tony Blair stated, the UN Force would only enter the region under peace and agreement from both sides. He said, they "won't fight their way" into southern Lebanon.
Of course, Tony Blair stated, the UN Force would only enter the region under peace and agreement from both sides. He said, they "won't fight their way" into southern Lebanon.
Thursday, July 27, 2006
Israel's Iraq
Israel has now officially inaugurated its very own "Iraq." Hezbollah is not alone. They have Hamas, and now al-Qaeda, it would seem, to help them fight the war against Israel. Now, Lebanon is simply the playing field for a much larger issue. Like the United States and Iraq, Israel should not have invaded Lebanon. Sometimes it is better to maintain the status quo than to try for something better. In these types of situations, where you are dealing with centuries old stereotypes and hate, you only end up making the situation worse. There is no honor on either side. Instead of making Hezbollah extinct, they have caused them to dig in deeper and draft in some of their buddies, like al-Qaeda, to join the fight. In essence, you decrease your security by taking a direct approach to this type of situation.
Who's to say how this situation will turn out? Al-Qaeda says the Israelis, along with the Crusaders (meaning the US), are trying to destroy Islamic nations. It will certainly make things difficult for the US in dealing (or in the case of Bush, not dealing) with this situation. With the US in Iraq and Israel now rooting into Lebanon, who is to say the Islamic beast will not pounce? It's like an animal caught in the corner. It may not see any other solution but to attack with full force.
Some people never learn from the past, nor search for alternatives.
Who's to say how this situation will turn out? Al-Qaeda says the Israelis, along with the Crusaders (meaning the US), are trying to destroy Islamic nations. It will certainly make things difficult for the US in dealing (or in the case of Bush, not dealing) with this situation. With the US in Iraq and Israel now rooting into Lebanon, who is to say the Islamic beast will not pounce? It's like an animal caught in the corner. It may not see any other solution but to attack with full force.
Some people never learn from the past, nor search for alternatives.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
It's time...
It's time for the United States to put the lid on Israel. Israel has continued its attacks over the past 12 days. Lebanon has been reduced to rubble and today an Israeli missile killed some UN observers in Lebanon. I wonder if this might influence the UN to put more pressure on Israel. The US could end it all today if they cut off Israel's financial lifeline.
It's only a matter of time before other Arab countries, like Syria and Iran, become directly involved in this conflict.
It's only a matter of time before other Arab countries, like Syria and Iran, become directly involved in this conflict.
Monday, July 24, 2006
Why should I?
Why should I have to wait until September 18 to see the freaking dermatologist?! MY GOD! Am I an animal? My skin has needs. I guess I'll have to discover the art of Chinese Botox. LOL. I'll leave some mayonnaise out in the sun and then inject it into my frown lines myself.
Why should he?
Why would George Bush call on Israel and Hezbollah to officially enter peace talks? All the press this conflict is getting is deflecting the central American issue from Iraq, where it should be. Let's let the Israelis and Arabs fight their own conflicts. They have been fighting for hundreds of years now. The United States deserves to know how its investments are being squandered. I am sure King George hopes the Israelis and Arabs fight forever. It takes the heat off of his back.
"What's going on in Iraq? What's Iraq? Have you heard about Israel and Hezbollah?"
"What's going on in Iraq? What's Iraq? Have you heard about Israel and Hezbollah?"
"This does not apply to me"
George Bush, again, says he is above the laws of the United States. Bush signs a bill into law with the caveat that he is above it, immune from it, or he can manipulate it. Does this even sound remotely Constitutional?
I think not.
Thankfully, the American Bar Association (ABA) is taking King George to task on this issue. Just because I scrawl across a bill, before I sign it, that it doesn't apply to me, doesn't make it so.
What a self-righteous wanker!
I think not.
Thankfully, the American Bar Association (ABA) is taking King George to task on this issue. Just because I scrawl across a bill, before I sign it, that it doesn't apply to me, doesn't make it so.
What a self-righteous wanker!
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Official Language Debate Continues in the Shadows
Some people say the US doesn't need an official language. Republicans are pushing for the adoption of English as the national language of the United States. For some reason, I find myself agreeing with them on this issue.
Every nation in the world has an official language, but the United States. If I hopped on a plane and traveled to Czech Republic, I wouldn't expect everyone in the country to learn English to pacify me. When I go to France, I don't expect to be greeted in English, and more than likely I won't be! But that's okay, because "when in Rome do as the Romans do." Right?
Admittedly, I do speak Spanish (write better than speak). It is a nice language, full of Romanticism and fluency, but it's not the language the government speaks. If you go to Washington, everyone in Congress speaks English. Even the president speaks a form of English. When Congressmen hold news conferences, it's in English. When the president delivers the State of the Union address, it's in English too. How can you expect to know anything about your adoptive country if you insist on speaking another language?
Now, I'm not saying Spanish, or any of the other minority languages that exist in this country, must die. Instead, I'm saying Spanish speaking students should learn to speak English. As a teacher, I have been required to prep my materials in Spanish, simply for one child who refused to learn English. She also knew the law was on her side, and no one could force her. I think she just liked forcing me to speak Spanish so she could laugh at me. If I moved to Mexico, I'd expect to conform to the society. I'd have my child learn Spanish. I wouldn't expect, nor require, the school to contort itself to provide English-only instruction to my child.
The funny thing is when students come to the United States to go to college, they take a test to prove they have a certain level of English language mastery before they can attend. Why should we expect any different from our public elementary and secondary schools? We don't thrust a student into a college class and then whisper to the professor, "Oh yeah, by the way, you're gonna have to learn Swahili to accommodate this new student...or else!"
Bottom line: we are all immigrants. Somewhere in our wretched pasts, a person, or family, set sail from a distant shore toward the shining horizon that is America. They knew they were coming to a British colony; perhaps they were English themselves (or if later, a former British colony). They understood the people there spoke English. It wasn't a problem for them; they'd adapt. Suddenly, immigrants today expect something different. They are become Americanized too quickly and expecting us to learn their languages. In time, if the trend continues, not only will teachers have to learn Spanish, but Chinese, and a host of other languages.
It's absurd.
Every nation in the world has an official language, but the United States. If I hopped on a plane and traveled to Czech Republic, I wouldn't expect everyone in the country to learn English to pacify me. When I go to France, I don't expect to be greeted in English, and more than likely I won't be! But that's okay, because "when in Rome do as the Romans do." Right?
Admittedly, I do speak Spanish (write better than speak). It is a nice language, full of Romanticism and fluency, but it's not the language the government speaks. If you go to Washington, everyone in Congress speaks English. Even the president speaks a form of English. When Congressmen hold news conferences, it's in English. When the president delivers the State of the Union address, it's in English too. How can you expect to know anything about your adoptive country if you insist on speaking another language?
Now, I'm not saying Spanish, or any of the other minority languages that exist in this country, must die. Instead, I'm saying Spanish speaking students should learn to speak English. As a teacher, I have been required to prep my materials in Spanish, simply for one child who refused to learn English. She also knew the law was on her side, and no one could force her. I think she just liked forcing me to speak Spanish so she could laugh at me. If I moved to Mexico, I'd expect to conform to the society. I'd have my child learn Spanish. I wouldn't expect, nor require, the school to contort itself to provide English-only instruction to my child.
The funny thing is when students come to the United States to go to college, they take a test to prove they have a certain level of English language mastery before they can attend. Why should we expect any different from our public elementary and secondary schools? We don't thrust a student into a college class and then whisper to the professor, "Oh yeah, by the way, you're gonna have to learn Swahili to accommodate this new student...or else!"
Bottom line: we are all immigrants. Somewhere in our wretched pasts, a person, or family, set sail from a distant shore toward the shining horizon that is America. They knew they were coming to a British colony; perhaps they were English themselves (or if later, a former British colony). They understood the people there spoke English. It wasn't a problem for them; they'd adapt. Suddenly, immigrants today expect something different. They are become Americanized too quickly and expecting us to learn their languages. In time, if the trend continues, not only will teachers have to learn Spanish, but Chinese, and a host of other languages.
It's absurd.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Bush Vetoes Science
Today, Bush vetoed the stem cell research bill passed by Congress. This bill would have allowed for additional federal funding to the program and opening up the program for more embryos for research.
Just think: increased funding to embryonic stem cell research could have paved the way toward cures for such diseases as cancer, AIDS, neurological disorders, just to mention a few. It could also have provided means for treatment to nerve damage and spinal cord injuries.
When the next president comes along, a Democrat, we can finally move forward into the 21st century, rather than stepping back into the 20th century. I just hope I don't need it before the work can be finished.
Just think: increased funding to embryonic stem cell research could have paved the way toward cures for such diseases as cancer, AIDS, neurological disorders, just to mention a few. It could also have provided means for treatment to nerve damage and spinal cord injuries.
When the next president comes along, a Democrat, we can finally move forward into the 21st century, rather than stepping back into the 20th century. I just hope I don't need it before the work can be finished.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
300th Post!
This is my three-hundredth post! It doesn't seem that long ago I was posting number two-hundred.
Stem Cell Research
While George has been off playing across Europe, the Congress has passed a unique piece of legislation. It provides for more federal funding of stem-cell research! Wow! I never knew the Republicans had big enough balls to take on King George. It seems we should leave George Bush in Europe. He can sit around eating, with his mouth gaping wide open, like the buffoon he is, with food flying out, and cussing the European heads-of-state. But as with all progressive things, King George is going to veto the bill. Sadly, Congress, as of today, lacks the two-thirds votes to override his veto.
Monday, July 17, 2006
No end in sight
It would seem there is no end in sight for the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah (and Hamas) as we go into the seventh day of fighting. The United Nations may have a plan to move UN soldiers into southern Lebanon to create a "DMZ"-like area. Israel needs to step back a bit and see if diplomacy cannot end this conflict and create the resolutions it seeks. The world, and the terrorists organizations, see they mean business!
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Bush is making a mistake...yet again!
Today, Bush is trying to pressure Syria to stop backing Hezbollah. Now what's wrong with that you might ask? Instead of Bush bringing Israel, Hezbollah, Hamas, etc., to the table to negotiate their differences, he is playing favorites. Now, I've never been president of the United States, I'm not an ambassador, but I have enough sense to know that you can't pressure one side to stand down while the other side is blowing up jack.
As a good faith movement, the United States should ask Israel to implement a 48 hour cease fire in Lebanon, and then ask Hezbollah, through Syria, for the same. There, you have an even-handed approach to a situation that is quickly growing out of control. Both sides are being asked to do exactly the same thing. No side is being singled out as the bad guy. Then during that 48 hours you work like mad, openly with both sides, to create a long term cease fire, while creating a proactive dialogue for both sides. That people is what you call coming to the table! It's not George Bush in Russia telling Syria what it will do. I'm sorry, but that doesn't work. Did it work in Iraq? I don't think so! But here Bush is again trying to tell another country what to do. When are we going to impeach this asshole exactly?
I am in agreement with the prime minister of Lebanon; the escalation of hostilities is disproportionate with the abduction of Israeli soldiers. Instead of attacking Lebanon, perhaps Israel should have offered them economic incentives to implement military programs to root out Hezbollah from Lebanon's southern border. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar, Mr. Bush!
As a good faith movement, the United States should ask Israel to implement a 48 hour cease fire in Lebanon, and then ask Hezbollah, through Syria, for the same. There, you have an even-handed approach to a situation that is quickly growing out of control. Both sides are being asked to do exactly the same thing. No side is being singled out as the bad guy. Then during that 48 hours you work like mad, openly with both sides, to create a long term cease fire, while creating a proactive dialogue for both sides. That people is what you call coming to the table! It's not George Bush in Russia telling Syria what it will do. I'm sorry, but that doesn't work. Did it work in Iraq? I don't think so! But here Bush is again trying to tell another country what to do. When are we going to impeach this asshole exactly?
I am in agreement with the prime minister of Lebanon; the escalation of hostilities is disproportionate with the abduction of Israeli soldiers. Instead of attacking Lebanon, perhaps Israel should have offered them economic incentives to implement military programs to root out Hezbollah from Lebanon's southern border. You catch more flies with honey than vinegar, Mr. Bush!
Friday, July 14, 2006
The Middle East
Today, we saw an increase in the rhetoric from Hezbollah regarding the offensive attacks by Israel. It may also seem that Syria will continue to back Hezbollah (or increase it's support) over the next few days. I just wonder if that means they will become directly involved. I think Syria will restrain itself, unless it is attacked by Israel.
Israel may be betting on the fact the United States stands between it and Iran, but I'm not sure I'd take that bet, considering the US is involved in a futile war in Iraq. The United States couldn't even protect itself from an invasion, much less contain Iran from becoming involved in the Israel-Lebanon conflict.
Israel may be betting on the fact the United States stands between it and Iran, but I'm not sure I'd take that bet, considering the US is involved in a futile war in Iraq. The United States couldn't even protect itself from an invasion, much less contain Iran from becoming involved in the Israel-Lebanon conflict.
MY STOCKS
OMG! I had to sell all my shares in MasterCard, and reinvested my money into Mittal Steel, but now it is going down fast too!
WTF does Israel and the Middle East have to do with the steel industry?!
Here's a free stock tip: never invest in MasterCard. It just went public about a month or two ago, and it started out strong, but it never has been a strong stock over the long run. It fluctuates a lot and it has gone down a lot over the past month. It blows.
WTF does Israel and the Middle East have to do with the steel industry?!
Here's a free stock tip: never invest in MasterCard. It just went public about a month or two ago, and it started out strong, but it never has been a strong stock over the long run. It fluctuates a lot and it has gone down a lot over the past month. It blows.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Israel, et al.
Israel has significantly increased its offenses against the terrorist group, Hezbollah, by attacking various regions of Lebanon, where they are headquartered. What will be the outcome of this offense? Israel has also bombed the main airport in Beirut and areas of eastern Lebanon, called the Bekaa Valley (which is dangerously close to Syria). Hezbollah's major patrons are Syria and Iran. It is possible Syria would become engaged in this conflict in the next few days. They have already strongly condemned the Israeli raids and bombings in Lebanon.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
My word....thank you very much!
I'm hearing my word being used a lot. The word I love most to illustrate Bush and his cronies. It's a somewhat strange word for everyday English language users, but I have been using it for years. I must be a child prodigy!
SYCOPHANT!
(Yeah, look it up young'un.)
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
Stocks suck this week!
God, my stocks are really suffering this week. I may have to sell, and then sell some more! My Berkshire Hathaway stock is really taking a nose dive since Warren Buffet announced he was giving large portions of his class B stock to the Gates Foundation. Also, my stock in Mittal Steel and MasterCard, both of which I invest heavily, are taking a nasty hit this week. I hope I don't go broke...OMG!
*cries into his hands*
*cries into his hands*
"C'est toi que j'aime"
The French-Canadian group, Les Respectables, rock. Even if I don't speak French tres bien. :)
Is Hell freezing over?
I thought that was the Bush Administration's policy on detainees at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba: they'll get the rights of prisoners-of-war when hell freezes over.
Today, the White House announced the prisoners in Cuba will receive the rights of the Geneva Convention regarding the rights and treatment of prisoners-of-war. This comes after years of pressure from the European Union and a bitch slap to Bush from the Judicial Branch last month. Last month, the Supreme Court said Bush can't create his own law and his very own little kangaroo courts which would have been outside the scope of the Constitution.
I'm glad. Bush is getting a much needed reality check!
Today, the White House announced the prisoners in Cuba will receive the rights of the Geneva Convention regarding the rights and treatment of prisoners-of-war. This comes after years of pressure from the European Union and a bitch slap to Bush from the Judicial Branch last month. Last month, the Supreme Court said Bush can't create his own law and his very own little kangaroo courts which would have been outside the scope of the Constitution.
I'm glad. Bush is getting a much needed reality check!
Monday, July 10, 2006
William H. Taft
Pondering my previous post, I thought of William H. Taft. Not only was the he the fattest man to be president, but he was also the only person to serve as the head of two branches of the federal government. First, as president of the United States, then as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the United States. It would seem all Taft ever wanted to be in his life was a jurist. Upon his appointment by President Warren G. Harding, and confirmation by the Senate, as Chief Justice, he wrote, "I don't remember that I ever was President." Which proves that some people see the presidency not as an end, but as a means to further service to America.
Federal Judge Rules Search of House Member's Office Is Legal
Today, a Federal judge ruled that the search of Congressman William Jefferson's office, in the House of Representatives, did not go outside the lines of Constitutional immunity, nor did it breach the clear distinction between the branches of the federal government.
I do not agree with this interpretation of the law as rendered by the Federal District judge. Article I, Section 6, of the Constitution, makes members of Congress immune from prosecution; however, it does make the distinction between treason and felony convictions, which are impeachable offenses, not prosecutorial offenses. The Constitution is vague as to whether the suspicion of a felony must have been levied against the member of Congress or whether the member of Congress must have been found guilty of a felony previously; however, this issue is moot considering further constitutional stipulations. Further, Article I, Section 5, of the Constitution, stipulates each House of Congress is the judge of its own members; to wit: "Each House shall be the judge of...[the] qualifications of its own members" (Art. I, Sec. 5).
This provision of the Constitution provides means for appeal to the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. By strictly interpreting the Constitution on this issue, it would stand to reason that William Jefferson, as an elected member of the United States House of Representatives, can only be tried inside the House of Representatives, by his peers, not by the Judicial Branch. I argue the Constitution provides duly elected members of Congress with judicial immunity; to wit: prosecution in a court of law.
I should be a federal judge! One day...
I do not agree with this interpretation of the law as rendered by the Federal District judge. Article I, Section 6, of the Constitution, makes members of Congress immune from prosecution; however, it does make the distinction between treason and felony convictions, which are impeachable offenses, not prosecutorial offenses. The Constitution is vague as to whether the suspicion of a felony must have been levied against the member of Congress or whether the member of Congress must have been found guilty of a felony previously; however, this issue is moot considering further constitutional stipulations. Further, Article I, Section 5, of the Constitution, stipulates each House of Congress is the judge of its own members; to wit: "Each House shall be the judge of...[the] qualifications of its own members" (Art. I, Sec. 5).
This provision of the Constitution provides means for appeal to the Federal Circuit Court of Appeals. By strictly interpreting the Constitution on this issue, it would stand to reason that William Jefferson, as an elected member of the United States House of Representatives, can only be tried inside the House of Representatives, by his peers, not by the Judicial Branch. I argue the Constitution provides duly elected members of Congress with judicial immunity; to wit: prosecution in a court of law.
I should be a federal judge! One day...
Congress can pass...
Congress can only pass two types of bills, it seems.
1. They can vote for a pay increase. Easy peasy.
2. They can vote for a summer recess. Simple pimple.
That's about it!
1. They can vote for a pay increase. Easy peasy.
2. They can vote for a summer recess. Simple pimple.
That's about it!
Sunday, July 09, 2006
"A little rebellion now and then is a good thing."
Thomas Jefferson uttered these words: "A little rebellion now and then is a good thing." He was more than the third president of the United States, but the writer of the single most significant document in the history of human freedom, the Declaration of Independence.
Rebellion against what? Jefferson hypothesized democracy and freedom were not natural to humans. It is something we desire, but we don't understand its core meaning. We want self-determination, but we give our power, as the people, to someone else. We "entrust" our values and rights to another person, essentially in the form of a government. Of course, government is made up of men (and women), who don't understand freedom any better than the rest of us. Moreover, we as humans have another value, another conceit, that rides deeper than our yearning for freedom and that is control and domination of others. We pretend as if it is not a factor in our lives. We say that we are for freedom, but that is a lie. We only want freedom for ourselves, and our family, perhaps. But our nature is to dominate the rest. It is akin to a pack of wolves. One is the leader (essentially free), while the rest are subservient to the pack leader (mindless followers who give up their freedom erroneously).
That is the nature of our beast. There is no way to get around it. If you allow people to be in charge for too long, or if we allow them to become overbearing and negligent of our rights and liberties, then we are yoked to a turbulent tide. We are cast against the rocks and sand without any self-control or determination, by those we deem as being in "charge." Jefferson understood this tragedy of our kind.
As citizens of the United States, we are the true power. Don't allow anyone to confuse you or trick you into believe otherwise. We have the voice, we have the rights, but we believe, in error, the government is the voice, it has the rights, and it wields the unchecked power. Thomas Jefferson gave us a message about this exact issue by giving us a voice over 200 years ago. Jefferson knew that government cannot be trusted to have so much power. So what is his message?
Jefferson's message is simple. Occasionally, it becomes necessary to "overthrow" those people in "charge." In other words, revolution is a "good thing." It is a way to cleanse the political stagnation, which festers in our halls of government. It is a way to renew our rights as citizens and awaken the patriotic soul that is currently asleep in each of us. Some revolutions are bloody; others are as simple as going to the voting booth and reclaiming our rights and liberties through a single act as simple as suffrage.
President Jefferson also left us with these words to live by, regarding revolution: "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure." How radical, yet true, is that statement?
[This message is to the Department of Homeland Security, NSA, et al.: These are not my ideas, but they are my personal beliefs. Revolution is not treason, it is our right as Americans. Further, my idea of revolution is through elections and impeachment of elected officials who habitually abuse their power and mislead the public which they serve. These are my rights and liberties as a citizen, which are guaranteed, and protected, by the Constitution of the United States of America. Additionally, this constitutional document, which you may not be familiar with at this time supersedeses the authority of the king, excuse me, president of the United States, the Congress of the United States, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Additionally, if you do not agree with the opinions expressed herein, you may find their original author, who you may wish to "interrogate" further for such radical ideas and notions, in his grave, which is located at his home, Monticello, in the Commonwealth of Virginia.]
Rebellion against what? Jefferson hypothesized democracy and freedom were not natural to humans. It is something we desire, but we don't understand its core meaning. We want self-determination, but we give our power, as the people, to someone else. We "entrust" our values and rights to another person, essentially in the form of a government. Of course, government is made up of men (and women), who don't understand freedom any better than the rest of us. Moreover, we as humans have another value, another conceit, that rides deeper than our yearning for freedom and that is control and domination of others. We pretend as if it is not a factor in our lives. We say that we are for freedom, but that is a lie. We only want freedom for ourselves, and our family, perhaps. But our nature is to dominate the rest. It is akin to a pack of wolves. One is the leader (essentially free), while the rest are subservient to the pack leader (mindless followers who give up their freedom erroneously).
That is the nature of our beast. There is no way to get around it. If you allow people to be in charge for too long, or if we allow them to become overbearing and negligent of our rights and liberties, then we are yoked to a turbulent tide. We are cast against the rocks and sand without any self-control or determination, by those we deem as being in "charge." Jefferson understood this tragedy of our kind.
As citizens of the United States, we are the true power. Don't allow anyone to confuse you or trick you into believe otherwise. We have the voice, we have the rights, but we believe, in error, the government is the voice, it has the rights, and it wields the unchecked power. Thomas Jefferson gave us a message about this exact issue by giving us a voice over 200 years ago. Jefferson knew that government cannot be trusted to have so much power. So what is his message?
Jefferson's message is simple. Occasionally, it becomes necessary to "overthrow" those people in "charge." In other words, revolution is a "good thing." It is a way to cleanse the political stagnation, which festers in our halls of government. It is a way to renew our rights as citizens and awaken the patriotic soul that is currently asleep in each of us. Some revolutions are bloody; others are as simple as going to the voting booth and reclaiming our rights and liberties through a single act as simple as suffrage.
President Jefferson also left us with these words to live by, regarding revolution: "The tree of liberty must be refreshed from time to time with the blood of patriots and tyrants. It is its natural manure." How radical, yet true, is that statement?
[This message is to the Department of Homeland Security, NSA, et al.: These are not my ideas, but they are my personal beliefs. Revolution is not treason, it is our right as Americans. Further, my idea of revolution is through elections and impeachment of elected officials who habitually abuse their power and mislead the public which they serve. These are my rights and liberties as a citizen, which are guaranteed, and protected, by the Constitution of the United States of America. Additionally, this constitutional document, which you may not be familiar with at this time supersedeses the authority of the king, excuse me, president of the United States, the Congress of the United States, and the Supreme Court of the United States. Additionally, if you do not agree with the opinions expressed herein, you may find their original author, who you may wish to "interrogate" further for such radical ideas and notions, in his grave, which is located at his home, Monticello, in the Commonwealth of Virginia.]
Mr. Bush, Thanks for Democracy
Today in Iraq, over forty people, including children, were slaughtered simply for being Sunni Muslim.
Stay the course, Mr. Bush? It sounds like we went way off course a long, long time ago. I think it started when you decided to use US forces as your own private mercenary army to invade Iraq to avenge your family's own grudges and sins.
Stay the course, Mr. Bush? It sounds like we went way off course a long, long time ago. I think it started when you decided to use US forces as your own private mercenary army to invade Iraq to avenge your family's own grudges and sins.
Let's let the Iraqis ask themselves, "Are [we] better off now than [we] were four years ago?" I think the vast majority of them would answer, "No!" You have failed miserably as a nation-builder. It's time to admit defeat and recall US forces to the United States where they belong. The Iraqis should be able to create what ever country they want. Sure, it will cost a civil war, but isn't that civil war going on even now as you pretend it doesn't exist? Let the Iraqis finally create their theocracy, like Iran. It will be your legacy as the worst president in American history: radical militant Islam.
Thank you, Mr. Bush.
Saturday, July 08, 2006
American filmmaker sues Rumsfeld over detention in Iraq
Why not sue Bush? I've seen lots of people suing Rumsfeld. In fact, that isn't even proper. Rumsfeld works for Bush, simply as a Cabinet member. That's all Rumsfeld is. He's not the president of the US, he's not the commander-in-chief, he's not a Jesus-incarnate. He is a CABINET SECRETARY!!!!!! Essentially, he is an advisor to the president, that is all. He can't wipe his ass at the Pentagon without the President's approval. He's not the reason an Iranian-American producer was held in Iraq for 50-or-so days. It is George W. Bush's belief that he is above the Constitution of the United States, the Charter of the United Nations, and the Geneva Convention. Let's assign blame where it belongs.
Harry S. Truman's "buck stops" with Bush, not Rumsfeld.
Harry S. Truman's "buck stops" with Bush, not Rumsfeld.
Friday, July 07, 2006
Columbine Shooting
Preface: After skimming through the Columbine papers, I have formulated some ideas regarding their actions; however, I do not condone what happened, nor the actions of the individuals involved.
There are almost one-thousand pages of documents that have been released revolving around the Columbine shooting. These include receipts, personal journals, classwork, and other related information. From what I see, these are two kids who were torn between reality and fantasy. They were playing a dangerous game that spun out of control and tempted fate. They admired the work of the Nazis, as seen in research papers they wrote for school. They also admired mysticism, specifically that relating to Hitler and the pagan religions of ancient Europe.
What struck me most were entries in their day planners. Interspersed with racial slurs and hate were assignments for school. Eric Harris had recorded when papers were due, when tests were, and soccer games. To me this doesn't say that he really saw it as something life-altering. It wasn't something which encompassed his life fully. If I knew I was going to be committing suicide after shooting so many people, I don't think I'd care about when my math test was for the following week. Of course, there is the blatant racism, which everyone focuses on. For some people, this is simply a way of life. For others, it is an initiation into a group of people with whom you desire acceptance. It's not necessarily something you believe whole-heartedly; it's a code of conduct.
Also, among the hate, school assignments, were listings for a diversion program Eric Harris was ordered to participate in by a court of law. Apparantly, he was engaged in illegal activities. One of which, he broke into a man's vehicle and was ordered to write a letter of apology by his diversion program officer. Although, he was in the court system, no where did I see meetings listed for psychological evaluations or counseling in his day planner. It's interesting to note that an individual with so many problems was not receiving court ordered counseling. Basically, the court was punishing him over-and-over without any conscious effort to understand the root of his problems.
Another factor is the research papers written by Harris. They were about extreme Nazism, more-or-less. I read some of his writings, which were pretty good for a high school student. To me, if a student writes about Hitler and the Nazis that is an acceptable historical topic. Harris, although, took it to the next level. There was blatant admiration for what Hitler had done with the Jews and other minorities in Europe. He admired the symbolism of the "Nazi cult." His English teacher even noted on the side of the paper that he (or she) was thrilled with his level of knowledge pertaining to the topic and he had learned a lot by simply reading the paper. As a teacher, if I saw recurring themes of admiration and obsession within a student's writing I would become concerned. Instead, he was praised and encouraged by his English teacher to carry on the good work, after each attempt.
Of course, hindsight is 20/20.
Using hindsight, what these individuals did was horrendous. Moreover, it was a final cry that society failed these individuals. They felt isolated, and they harbored disdain for those individuals who set them apart. Perhaps, there lesson to us all is to better understand the people we come in contact with on a daily basis. This is more true for teachers than anyone else. Look for patterns in work that may suggest rage and hate, and look for changes in behavior, which may include violence, isolation, and overt secrecy.
They were not completely at fault, even though the media makes them appear as if they are.
There are almost one-thousand pages of documents that have been released revolving around the Columbine shooting. These include receipts, personal journals, classwork, and other related information. From what I see, these are two kids who were torn between reality and fantasy. They were playing a dangerous game that spun out of control and tempted fate. They admired the work of the Nazis, as seen in research papers they wrote for school. They also admired mysticism, specifically that relating to Hitler and the pagan religions of ancient Europe.
What struck me most were entries in their day planners. Interspersed with racial slurs and hate were assignments for school. Eric Harris had recorded when papers were due, when tests were, and soccer games. To me this doesn't say that he really saw it as something life-altering. It wasn't something which encompassed his life fully. If I knew I was going to be committing suicide after shooting so many people, I don't think I'd care about when my math test was for the following week. Of course, there is the blatant racism, which everyone focuses on. For some people, this is simply a way of life. For others, it is an initiation into a group of people with whom you desire acceptance. It's not necessarily something you believe whole-heartedly; it's a code of conduct.
Also, among the hate, school assignments, were listings for a diversion program Eric Harris was ordered to participate in by a court of law. Apparantly, he was engaged in illegal activities. One of which, he broke into a man's vehicle and was ordered to write a letter of apology by his diversion program officer. Although, he was in the court system, no where did I see meetings listed for psychological evaluations or counseling in his day planner. It's interesting to note that an individual with so many problems was not receiving court ordered counseling. Basically, the court was punishing him over-and-over without any conscious effort to understand the root of his problems.
Another factor is the research papers written by Harris. They were about extreme Nazism, more-or-less. I read some of his writings, which were pretty good for a high school student. To me, if a student writes about Hitler and the Nazis that is an acceptable historical topic. Harris, although, took it to the next level. There was blatant admiration for what Hitler had done with the Jews and other minorities in Europe. He admired the symbolism of the "Nazi cult." His English teacher even noted on the side of the paper that he (or she) was thrilled with his level of knowledge pertaining to the topic and he had learned a lot by simply reading the paper. As a teacher, if I saw recurring themes of admiration and obsession within a student's writing I would become concerned. Instead, he was praised and encouraged by his English teacher to carry on the good work, after each attempt.
Of course, hindsight is 20/20.
Using hindsight, what these individuals did was horrendous. Moreover, it was a final cry that society failed these individuals. They felt isolated, and they harbored disdain for those individuals who set them apart. Perhaps, there lesson to us all is to better understand the people we come in contact with on a daily basis. This is more true for teachers than anyone else. Look for patterns in work that may suggest rage and hate, and look for changes in behavior, which may include violence, isolation, and overt secrecy.
They were not completely at fault, even though the media makes them appear as if they are.
Wednesday, July 05, 2006
Little Man, Big Worry
The propaganda on the American street is "Dear Leader" Kim Jong-Il, of North Korea, has some issues with his mind. The government, through back channels, characterize him as a loathing midget who is essentially an idiot. I dare say that is not true. True, he may not be the tallest man in the world, but he understands precisely what he is doing. He is provoking some attention for his faltering regime.
By test firing short range and long range missiles, Kim creates world interest in his country. He pegs himself as a world power, who deserves attention and respect. North Korea devotes almost 25% of its GDP (according to published US estimates) toward its military. That's a heck of a lot. You'd imagine they are developing something with that much funding. Of course, they are developing missile technology. They are developing nuclear technology in the form of weapons. They have a kick ass biological and chemical warfare program. In addition to their advancements, they have the fourth largest standing army in the world. That's not too shabby for a little country that inhabits half of a peninsula!
So in all fairness, let's give Kim Jong-Il the respect he deserves, even if he is cut from the same cloth as George W. Bush, a despot with megalomania.
By test firing short range and long range missiles, Kim creates world interest in his country. He pegs himself as a world power, who deserves attention and respect. North Korea devotes almost 25% of its GDP (according to published US estimates) toward its military. That's a heck of a lot. You'd imagine they are developing something with that much funding. Of course, they are developing missile technology. They are developing nuclear technology in the form of weapons. They have a kick ass biological and chemical warfare program. In addition to their advancements, they have the fourth largest standing army in the world. That's not too shabby for a little country that inhabits half of a peninsula!
So in all fairness, let's give Kim Jong-Il the respect he deserves, even if he is cut from the same cloth as George W. Bush, a despot with megalomania.
Tuesday, July 04, 2006
North Korea Celebrates the Holiday with Its Own Fireworks
"North Korea test-launched a Taepodong-2 missile early Wednesday along with two short-range rockets, but the long-range missile apparently failed, U.S. officials said.
"North Korea's preparations for a long-range missile test have been closely monitored for weeks. A senior State Department official told CNN the Taepodong-2, which some U.S. analysts fear could hit the western United States, appears to have failed in flight.
"Military officials told CNN the long-range missile appeared to have failed less than a minute after launch.
"Two smaller North Korean missiles were fired from a different site shortly before the larger missile was tested, U.S. intelligence and State Department officials said.
"U.S. military sources said those two missiles landed in the Sea of Japan, one closer to Russia and the other closer to Japan.
"A senior State Department official said the launches were timed to coincide with the launch of the space shuttle Discovery from Florida, calling it 'a provocative act designed to get attention.'
"Analysts said the tests appeared to have been intended to draw international attention back to North Korea -- and to the stalled talks aimed at convincing Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear weapons program.
"North Korea is believed to have the capability to produce several nuclear weapons but has never tested one.
"'They are trying to send quite a signal not only to the United States but to the rest of the world that they should be taken quite seriously,' said Wendy Sherman, a former State Department official who held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il during the Clinton administration.
"Washington and North Korea's Asian neighbors -- South Korea, China, Russia and Japan -- have been trying to persuade North Korea to give up its nuclear program since 2002, but those talks have stalled in recent months.
"Jim Walsh, a national security analyst at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the intent of the test appeared to be aimed at drawing attention back to North Korean demands in the six-party talks. But Walsh said the tests "do not represent an immediate military threat to the United States."
"'It's very difficult technology. They very clearly have not mastered it,' he said. 'Most estimates are they will not master it for another 10 years.'
"The United States, Japan and other countries have warned North Korea against a long-range missile test. The North Koreans fired a Taepodong-1 missile over Japan in 1998, but declared a moratorium on future tests in 1999.
"There was no official response to Wednesday's tests from either the White House or from Japan, which had threatened to seek economic sanctions against already-impoverished North Korea if it conducted a missile test.
"'One would expect from any administration for there to be sanctions, for there to be a tough response to this,' Sherman said.
"On Monday, North Korea's state-run media accused the United States of harassing it and vowed to respond to any pre-emptive attack 'with a relentless annihilating strike and a nuclear war with a mighty nuclear deterrent.'
"The White House has dismissed that threat as 'hypothetical.' But the U.S. Northern Command increased security measures at its Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a few weeks ago, a military official confirmed Tuesday.
"The base is the seat of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, and some of its command-and-control operations might be used if the United States attempted to use its ballistic missile interceptors to shoot down a Taepodong-2 test.
"But a Pentagon official said the missile appears to have failed on its own, without any American effort to knock it down.
"In other planning measures instituted in the past several days, Northern Command, along with the Federal Aviation Administration, has put standby commercial flight restrictions into place over Vandenberg Air Force Base in California and Fort Greely, Alaska, where U.S. interceptor missiles are based.
"President Bush warned last week that the isolated Stalinist state would face even further isolation if it launched the Taepodong-2, which U.S. analysts fear is capable of reaching the western United States.
"'The North Koreans have made agreements with us in the past, and we expect them to keep their agreements,' Bush said last month at the end of a European Union summit.
"'It should make people nervous when nontransparent regimes, that have announced that they've got nuclear warheads, fire missiles,' Bush said.
"'This is not the way you conduct business in the world. This is not the way that peaceful nations conduct their affairs.'"
Source: CNN
"North Korea's preparations for a long-range missile test have been closely monitored for weeks. A senior State Department official told CNN the Taepodong-2, which some U.S. analysts fear could hit the western United States, appears to have failed in flight.
"Military officials told CNN the long-range missile appeared to have failed less than a minute after launch.
"Two smaller North Korean missiles were fired from a different site shortly before the larger missile was tested, U.S. intelligence and State Department officials said.
"U.S. military sources said those two missiles landed in the Sea of Japan, one closer to Russia and the other closer to Japan.
"A senior State Department official said the launches were timed to coincide with the launch of the space shuttle Discovery from Florida, calling it 'a provocative act designed to get attention.'
"Analysts said the tests appeared to have been intended to draw international attention back to North Korea -- and to the stalled talks aimed at convincing Pyongyang to abandon its nuclear weapons program.
"North Korea is believed to have the capability to produce several nuclear weapons but has never tested one.
"'They are trying to send quite a signal not only to the United States but to the rest of the world that they should be taken quite seriously,' said Wendy Sherman, a former State Department official who held talks with North Korean leader Kim Jong Il during the Clinton administration.
"Washington and North Korea's Asian neighbors -- South Korea, China, Russia and Japan -- have been trying to persuade North Korea to give up its nuclear program since 2002, but those talks have stalled in recent months.
"Jim Walsh, a national security analyst at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology, said the intent of the test appeared to be aimed at drawing attention back to North Korean demands in the six-party talks. But Walsh said the tests "do not represent an immediate military threat to the United States."
"'It's very difficult technology. They very clearly have not mastered it,' he said. 'Most estimates are they will not master it for another 10 years.'
"The United States, Japan and other countries have warned North Korea against a long-range missile test. The North Koreans fired a Taepodong-1 missile over Japan in 1998, but declared a moratorium on future tests in 1999.
"There was no official response to Wednesday's tests from either the White House or from Japan, which had threatened to seek economic sanctions against already-impoverished North Korea if it conducted a missile test.
"'One would expect from any administration for there to be sanctions, for there to be a tough response to this,' Sherman said.
"On Monday, North Korea's state-run media accused the United States of harassing it and vowed to respond to any pre-emptive attack 'with a relentless annihilating strike and a nuclear war with a mighty nuclear deterrent.'
"The White House has dismissed that threat as 'hypothetical.' But the U.S. Northern Command increased security measures at its Cheyenne Mountain Air Force Station in Colorado Springs, Colorado, a few weeks ago, a military official confirmed Tuesday.
"The base is the seat of the North American Aerospace Defense Command, and some of its command-and-control operations might be used if the United States attempted to use its ballistic missile interceptors to shoot down a Taepodong-2 test.
"But a Pentagon official said the missile appears to have failed on its own, without any American effort to knock it down.
"In other planning measures instituted in the past several days, Northern Command, along with the Federal Aviation Administration, has put standby commercial flight restrictions into place over Vandenberg Air Force Base in California and Fort Greely, Alaska, where U.S. interceptor missiles are based.
"President Bush warned last week that the isolated Stalinist state would face even further isolation if it launched the Taepodong-2, which U.S. analysts fear is capable of reaching the western United States.
"'The North Koreans have made agreements with us in the past, and we expect them to keep their agreements,' Bush said last month at the end of a European Union summit.
"'It should make people nervous when nontransparent regimes, that have announced that they've got nuclear warheads, fire missiles,' Bush said.
"'This is not the way you conduct business in the world. This is not the way that peaceful nations conduct their affairs.'"
Source: CNN
230 Years of Patriotism
"Patriotism, [Thomas] Paine observed, is not best measured in times of national comfort and quiet. It is in times of crisis, when the summer soldiers and sunshine patriots have retreated to the safety of official talking points and unquestioning loyalty, that those who truly understand the meaning and merit of the American experiment come to its defense."
[Sherman, S., (2006, July 17/24), The Nation, American patriots, 3, 5.]
[Sherman, S., (2006, July 17/24), The Nation, American patriots, 3, 5.]
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Ah! The truly important things in life
"Police in this western Massachusetts town say they have seized a digital camera with images of celebrity couple Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie in Africa for an investigation by Los Angeles authorities.
"Local police, accompanied by state police and Secret Service officers, went to the Westfield home of William Keys on Tuesday to recover a digital camera's memory stick after three photos that appeared on the Internet were tracked to Keys, police said Friday.
Officers then went to Precision Camera and Video Repair in Enfield, Connecticut, where Keys works, and recovered the camera. It remains in custody of Westfield police.
No one has been arrested or charged in the case. It was unclear who took the photos.
"'It's an ongoing investigation, and we cannot comment,' said Jane Robison, a spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County prosecutor's office."
Source: CNN
________________________________________________
People are truly idiots if this is what matters to them. Firstly, who gives two rips if someone took pictures of these people? Not me! It took place in Namibia, but the police and US Secret Service are involved. I doubt if someone took pictures of me in Namibia the local police, nor the FBI or Secret Service, would d0 anything about it. Even if I felt violated and exposed.
Let's get a grip on reality and let the police stick to matters that really matter, like fighting crime and taking drugs off of the streets!
"Local police, accompanied by state police and Secret Service officers, went to the Westfield home of William Keys on Tuesday to recover a digital camera's memory stick after three photos that appeared on the Internet were tracked to Keys, police said Friday.
Officers then went to Precision Camera and Video Repair in Enfield, Connecticut, where Keys works, and recovered the camera. It remains in custody of Westfield police.
No one has been arrested or charged in the case. It was unclear who took the photos.
"'It's an ongoing investigation, and we cannot comment,' said Jane Robison, a spokeswoman for the Los Angeles County prosecutor's office."
Source: CNN
________________________________________________
People are truly idiots if this is what matters to them. Firstly, who gives two rips if someone took pictures of these people? Not me! It took place in Namibia, but the police and US Secret Service are involved. I doubt if someone took pictures of me in Namibia the local police, nor the FBI or Secret Service, would d0 anything about it. Even if I felt violated and exposed.
Let's get a grip on reality and let the police stick to matters that really matter, like fighting crime and taking drugs off of the streets!
Space Shuttle
Let the space shuttle fly. They postponed it to July 4th. I wonder if that is meant to be patriotic or what?
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