The former Pakistani prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, has called for the immediate resignation of President Pervez Musharraf, according to an article in The New York Times. The call comes on the heels of the assassination of Benazir Bhutto.
Sharif said Musharraf is "a one-man calamity and the source of all [Pakistan's] problems.” He also believes that it will be impossible to hold fair and free election as scheduled on January 8. This comment comes after many polling places across the country have been damaged, or destroyed, in the aftermath of Bhutto's assassination.
Sharif, who is the last remaining experienced opposition political figure in Pakistan, better take extra precautions when he is out in public, or else face the same fate as his peer, Benazir Bhutto.
Monday, December 31, 2007
Conspiracy
After more than five days since the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, we are are still receiving conflicting reports over the cause of her death. This type of conspiracy leads me to ask the government of Pakistan why they would deliberately mislead the world about the cause of her death.
The government's official line is that she ignored security concerns and as a result she suffered a fatal blow to her skull as it struck her car's sunroof, as she fell back into her vehicle, after a suicide bomber detonated a bomb. This line, however, is disputed by the hospital's report on her death and a new video that has surfaced showing that the former prime minister may have suffered at least one gunshot before falling into her vehicle. The video also shows that the police did not evacuate Bhutto's vehicle from the scene after the incident; instead, they allowed the mob to maintain its close proximity to her vehicle.
I have a feeling that this will be a point of contention for years to come, if they do not exhume the body and do a proper post-mortem.
The government's official line is that she ignored security concerns and as a result she suffered a fatal blow to her skull as it struck her car's sunroof, as she fell back into her vehicle, after a suicide bomber detonated a bomb. This line, however, is disputed by the hospital's report on her death and a new video that has surfaced showing that the former prime minister may have suffered at least one gunshot before falling into her vehicle. The video also shows that the police did not evacuate Bhutto's vehicle from the scene after the incident; instead, they allowed the mob to maintain its close proximity to her vehicle.
I have a feeling that this will be a point of contention for years to come, if they do not exhume the body and do a proper post-mortem.
Sunday, December 30, 2007
Benazir Bhutto's son to lead party
The 19-year-old son of Benazir Bhutto, Bilawal Bhutto Zardari, has been elected by the Pakistan People's Party (PPP) as its leader. Originally, according to Bhutto's will, the post of chairman of the PPP was to go to her husband, Asif Ali Zardari; however, he passed the position on to their son.
I have to wonder what Zardari is thinking after the tragic deaths of his grandfather, uncles, and his mother. I hope one thing is clear, which is you cannot allow the mob that close to you. Bhutto's car was swamped with supporters and sinister elements, while it crawled at a snail's pace. Perhaps, this election will not mark him, as it has so many others in his family.
I have to wonder what Zardari is thinking after the tragic deaths of his grandfather, uncles, and his mother. I hope one thing is clear, which is you cannot allow the mob that close to you. Bhutto's car was swamped with supporters and sinister elements, while it crawled at a snail's pace. Perhaps, this election will not mark him, as it has so many others in his family.
Saturday, December 29, 2007
"Mmmbop"
Today, I stumbled across something that took me back in time to over ten years ago!
It was the song "MMMbop" by Hanson. When I was a senior in high school (all the way back in 1997), this song was a #1 hit. I remember one day going to my political science class and finding where some freshman had scribbled the song title on my table. I had to ask my friend what it meant. Then I discovered the song for myself. It is a pretty good song, because it is full of energy. I confess I hardly know what they are saying, but that really isn't the point, right?
I can dance to it...or any other activity which requires a lot of energy! (It was the 1990s...a different time.)
"Oh, so hold on to the ones who really care,
In the end they'll be the only ones there.
When you get old and start losing your hair,
Can you tell me who will still care?"
(God, that is so true. Thank you for being wise beyond your years.)
It was the song "MMMbop" by Hanson. When I was a senior in high school (all the way back in 1997), this song was a #1 hit. I remember one day going to my political science class and finding where some freshman had scribbled the song title on my table. I had to ask my friend what it meant. Then I discovered the song for myself. It is a pretty good song, because it is full of energy. I confess I hardly know what they are saying, but that really isn't the point, right?
I can dance to it...or any other activity which requires a lot of energy! (It was the 1990s...a different time.)
"Oh, so hold on to the ones who really care,
In the end they'll be the only ones there.
When you get old and start losing your hair,
Can you tell me who will still care?"
(God, that is so true. Thank you for being wise beyond your years.)
Hillary Clinton calls for an international investigation of Bhutto's assassination
After the assassination of Benazir Bhutto, Hillary Clinton has called on the government of Pakistan to allow an independent international investigation. She stated that President Musharraf has lost his credibility in the world's eyes, since he dismissed the country's judiciary and imposed martial law, in order to monopolize his personal power in Pakistan.
Hillary Ad: "President"
If Hillary had been president during the last 365-days, the world might have looked more like this...
Fred Thompson: "Who's running for president? Not me!"
Former Tennessee Senator Fred Thompson (R) announced today that he doesn't even want to be president. It's almost as if he announced to the world that he is more like a five year old child, instead of a grown man, when it comes to admitting to his poll numbers.
So what if he is loosing in the polls, even in places like South Carolina, where he once believed he was leading? He says he wasn't even running for president anyhow. "I’m not particularly interested in running for president," he said to drive his point home further.
If that is the case, then why have people been donating money to his presidential campaign? Why has he been attending Republican presidential debates? For a man who isn't running for president, he sure has been spending a lot of time doing it!
As I said before, he is like a little child who has decided he is going to be difficult and say the opposite of what he wants in hopes that people will take pity on him and give him the coveted toy he so eloquently and publicly professes not to be interested in obtaining, which in this case is the presidency.
If he's truly not running for commander-in-chief, then he needs to park his presidential campaign tour bus in the Iowa snow and let those who are running have the right-of-way, because he's just taking up precious space.
So what if he is loosing in the polls, even in places like South Carolina, where he once believed he was leading? He says he wasn't even running for president anyhow. "I’m not particularly interested in running for president," he said to drive his point home further.
If that is the case, then why have people been donating money to his presidential campaign? Why has he been attending Republican presidential debates? For a man who isn't running for president, he sure has been spending a lot of time doing it!
As I said before, he is like a little child who has decided he is going to be difficult and say the opposite of what he wants in hopes that people will take pity on him and give him the coveted toy he so eloquently and publicly professes not to be interested in obtaining, which in this case is the presidency.
If he's truly not running for commander-in-chief, then he needs to park his presidential campaign tour bus in the Iowa snow and let those who are running have the right-of-way, because he's just taking up precious space.
Friday, December 28, 2007
Benazir Bhutto, the day after
Forty-eight hours later the world is still wondering what happened to cause the death of Benazir Bhutto.
It is hard to know what exactly happened, because in twenty-four hours she has been put into the ground. Her body was at the hospital for only a matter of hours before it was given to the mob outside to be sent to its final resting place. Obviously, there was no post-mortem, considering religious reasons.
The "official" government line is that she banged her head on the sunroof of her SUV, which was caused by the concussive force of the suicide motorbiker's blast. I have banged my head plenty of times--albeit, not as a result of someone trying to assassinate me--however, it never led to a skull fracture, much less my death. It is more believable to accept that she was struck by bullets from the gunfire that preceded the explosion.
Why is the government engaging in such a blatant misinformation campaign? Some say it is because they do not want to make her a martyr. I doubt that we will ever get the true story of her death, except maybe from her family, if they know. What's obvious is Bhutto's presence in Pakistan was not applauded by the powers that be, including President Pervez Musharraf.
Perhaps, democracy in Pakistan can be the outcome of her death, which was her ultimate dream.
It is hard to know what exactly happened, because in twenty-four hours she has been put into the ground. Her body was at the hospital for only a matter of hours before it was given to the mob outside to be sent to its final resting place. Obviously, there was no post-mortem, considering religious reasons.
The "official" government line is that she banged her head on the sunroof of her SUV, which was caused by the concussive force of the suicide motorbiker's blast. I have banged my head plenty of times--albeit, not as a result of someone trying to assassinate me--however, it never led to a skull fracture, much less my death. It is more believable to accept that she was struck by bullets from the gunfire that preceded the explosion.
Why is the government engaging in such a blatant misinformation campaign? Some say it is because they do not want to make her a martyr. I doubt that we will ever get the true story of her death, except maybe from her family, if they know. What's obvious is Bhutto's presence in Pakistan was not applauded by the powers that be, including President Pervez Musharraf.
Perhaps, democracy in Pakistan can be the outcome of her death, which was her ultimate dream.
Thursday, December 27, 2007
Obama and his straws
David Axelrod, who is a high priced political advisor to the Barack Obama presidential campaign, made a rather ludicrous statement in the aftermath of Benazir Bhutto's assassination, which took place in Pakistan today.
Axelrod stated that the death of former Prime Minister Bhutto could be traced to Hillary Clinton! Basically, he was trying to pin the failed Bush policies on Senator Clinton, instead of President Bush. It is more accurate to blame her death on the Pakistani establishment, which did little to provide her with adequate security, or root out domestic terrorist elements.
At any rate, it is a bit premature to speculate as to who is behind the assassination of Bhutto, however, it is dead wrong to say it is directly linked somehow to Hillary Clinton. If that is the kind of foreign policy experience Senator Obama has to bring to America, then he is sorely confused about the direction we want to go in a post-Bush America. It's time to stop pointing fingers at people and diverting blame to someone else out of political expediency.
In 2009, after eight years of George W. Bush, the time we spent living with Republican blame and diversion tactics will have been more than enough!
Axelrod stated that the death of former Prime Minister Bhutto could be traced to Hillary Clinton! Basically, he was trying to pin the failed Bush policies on Senator Clinton, instead of President Bush. It is more accurate to blame her death on the Pakistani establishment, which did little to provide her with adequate security, or root out domestic terrorist elements.
At any rate, it is a bit premature to speculate as to who is behind the assassination of Bhutto, however, it is dead wrong to say it is directly linked somehow to Hillary Clinton. If that is the kind of foreign policy experience Senator Obama has to bring to America, then he is sorely confused about the direction we want to go in a post-Bush America. It's time to stop pointing fingers at people and diverting blame to someone else out of political expediency.
In 2009, after eight years of George W. Bush, the time we spent living with Republican blame and diversion tactics will have been more than enough!
Benazir Bhutto a martyr for democracy in Pakistan
No one is quite sure who did it. The suspects range from President Pervez Musharraf to the Taliban, according to Pakistani media outlets.
In the end, who will take credit for the assassination of former prime minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto?
More importantly, what will her death signify for democracy in this fragile nation, which just emerged from martial law? Many people, in Pakistan, have taken to the streets in protest, but I'm not sure if it is in horror over the death of Bhutto or one of the final death nails in a presidency marred by dictatorship, excess, and disregard for the law.
Only time can render that verdict.
In the end, who will take credit for the assassination of former prime minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto?
More importantly, what will her death signify for democracy in this fragile nation, which just emerged from martial law? Many people, in Pakistan, have taken to the streets in protest, but I'm not sure if it is in horror over the death of Bhutto or one of the final death nails in a presidency marred by dictatorship, excess, and disregard for the law.
Only time can render that verdict.
Wednesday, December 26, 2007
My Bliss
I decided to hold off on my big Christmas Eve question for D...until today, of course.
I was a bit casual about it, considering we were at the mall, rubbing elbows with hundreds of vagrants. I wanted to know what he thought about moving in with someone in general. He said, "It depends on the person and the circumstances."
Then he looked at me and asked, "So you want me to move in with you, huh?"
As casually as I could I told him, "Yes, I do. Is that okay with you?" He only smiled, nodded his head and put his arm around my shoulder.
In that single moment of seeming nonchalant banter I consigned myself to him. I know we didn't get married, but it is a very big deal to me. I've never been one to share my life with someone so openly and freely. But he just feels like the right person.
Now I've just got to find a way to tell my parents. (Oh, boy!)
I was a bit casual about it, considering we were at the mall, rubbing elbows with hundreds of vagrants. I wanted to know what he thought about moving in with someone in general. He said, "It depends on the person and the circumstances."
Then he looked at me and asked, "So you want me to move in with you, huh?"
As casually as I could I told him, "Yes, I do. Is that okay with you?" He only smiled, nodded his head and put his arm around my shoulder.
In that single moment of seeming nonchalant banter I consigned myself to him. I know we didn't get married, but it is a very big deal to me. I've never been one to share my life with someone so openly and freely. But he just feels like the right person.
Now I've just got to find a way to tell my parents. (Oh, boy!)
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
A Day in the Life of Any Teacher
There must be a lot of angst among us out there, when we reflect back on our lives as students and remember a teacher who was "strict."
Why do I say this?
In August, I wrote a blog called, "A day in the life of a 'strict' teacher." Specifically, out of all of my blog entries, this is the one that gets the most "hits" from Google. I hope it is not of out fear we remember strict teachers. In all honesty, those teachers that I presumed to hate in school, because of their Hitler-like classroom tactics, I now remember with fondness as being those teachers from whom I learned.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that you have to presume an air of hate to get the job done. I think I do pretty well in my classroom. I also remember the teachers who inspired me (not always the strict teachers). In fact, the teacher who inspired me to be a teacher was far from strict. She had something else, however, which was a passion for teaching and having her students learn.
What I remember most about this teacher was on a dreaded test day, she was walking around looking at what we were writing, and she stopped at my desk. (No one likes a teacher who breathes down your neck.) She looked at my essay, and she put her finger on it and shook her head. I was just "messing" my way through it without putting the facts that I knew in there. I was being lazy, in other words. It was more important to her that I expressed what I knew (and she knew I knew) instead of her taking it to her desk and marking all over it, without providing any other meaningful feedback.
That is one of the few direct memories of my education that still sticks in my mind. I appreciate that she took the few minutes to stand over my shoulder, in order to make me a more thoughtful student. In other words, she wasn't willing to accept "C" work from a student she believed could get an "A." (And consequently, I did get an "A" on that test.)
I'm not sure if I will ever be that teacher to a student. But what I know is that little things teachers do, which may not mean a lot to me as a teacher, will forever stick in the memory of a student. In the future, perhaps, they may garner internal support from it, or remember a time when someone else believed in them absolutely.
Whether your teacher was a tyrant who demanded perfection in everything you did, or an inspirational soul who gave you pause to reflect then and now, they probably will never know unless you take a moment to tell them your thoughts. I greatly appreciate those students who tell me little things about what they like about my class, or even those students from the past who come back to tell me that something they learned in my class directly relates to them now (either academically or personally). It is in those tiny moments of revelation--when everything up to that point has made you feel as if what you are doing is meaningless and every student has turned a deaf ear to you--that you really smile and realize you have made an impact on someone.
In the end, things like a student who comes back to say "hello," or even "thank you," are small blessings which mean the most to your teachers.
Why do I say this?
In August, I wrote a blog called, "A day in the life of a 'strict' teacher." Specifically, out of all of my blog entries, this is the one that gets the most "hits" from Google. I hope it is not of out fear we remember strict teachers. In all honesty, those teachers that I presumed to hate in school, because of their Hitler-like classroom tactics, I now remember with fondness as being those teachers from whom I learned.
Now don't get me wrong, I'm not saying that you have to presume an air of hate to get the job done. I think I do pretty well in my classroom. I also remember the teachers who inspired me (not always the strict teachers). In fact, the teacher who inspired me to be a teacher was far from strict. She had something else, however, which was a passion for teaching and having her students learn.
What I remember most about this teacher was on a dreaded test day, she was walking around looking at what we were writing, and she stopped at my desk. (No one likes a teacher who breathes down your neck.) She looked at my essay, and she put her finger on it and shook her head. I was just "messing" my way through it without putting the facts that I knew in there. I was being lazy, in other words. It was more important to her that I expressed what I knew (and she knew I knew) instead of her taking it to her desk and marking all over it, without providing any other meaningful feedback.
That is one of the few direct memories of my education that still sticks in my mind. I appreciate that she took the few minutes to stand over my shoulder, in order to make me a more thoughtful student. In other words, she wasn't willing to accept "C" work from a student she believed could get an "A." (And consequently, I did get an "A" on that test.)
I'm not sure if I will ever be that teacher to a student. But what I know is that little things teachers do, which may not mean a lot to me as a teacher, will forever stick in the memory of a student. In the future, perhaps, they may garner internal support from it, or remember a time when someone else believed in them absolutely.
Whether your teacher was a tyrant who demanded perfection in everything you did, or an inspirational soul who gave you pause to reflect then and now, they probably will never know unless you take a moment to tell them your thoughts. I greatly appreciate those students who tell me little things about what they like about my class, or even those students from the past who come back to tell me that something they learned in my class directly relates to them now (either academically or personally). It is in those tiny moments of revelation--when everything up to that point has made you feel as if what you are doing is meaningless and every student has turned a deaf ear to you--that you really smile and realize you have made an impact on someone.
In the end, things like a student who comes back to say "hello," or even "thank you," are small blessings which mean the most to your teachers.
Monday, December 24, 2007
Reflection on Life
Alright, today was something special!
Firstly, Dwight decided he wanted to cook us dinner, which he did and it was very good. He refused to let me do a thing, besides set the table (I can do a pretty good table-scape...always with candles).
Secondly, while he was cooking, Tom came to cut my hair (it's rather short now...more than usual, but I like it). Tom left me with something to think about. He said, "Dwight is a delicious dish." (I couldn't agree more; I'm glad he noticed.) Further, he said I am getting on in years (how dare he?), and that I need to set some priorities in my life. He said I should "settle down" and let Dwight make me an "honest woman." (Ha! Ha!)
But he does have a point, really.
As we ate dinner, Dwight kept smiling at me and flashing me those damned eyes of his. They are child-like, large, deep and they tell complete stories simply in a moment's glance. I can't help but love them, and they are the first thing I noticed about him when we met. I could live in them. Back to what I was thinking, though. I kept coming to a conclusion in my mind that even though he is completely brash, which turns me on somehow, I love him. Love is often a dangerous venture, but I am prepared to tackle it. As with most things in my life, I will jump into the deep end and hold my breath until the last possible moment, before I hope I can make it back to the surface for air.
I have resolved myself to a single decision. I am going to ask him to move into my house. I have never asked a guy to do that before. It will be more than nice to have him here on a permanent basis. It will be more like a home, instead of a private asylum. I think he will be open to the idea, and in the end I believe he will accept it. If it doesn't work out, no harm done. It's not like I gave away a kidney.
Right now, he is with his family opening presents. Isn't that adorable? (My family hasn't done presents since I was ten. I envy him and his family.) When he returns I am going to ask him the question!
Firstly, Dwight decided he wanted to cook us dinner, which he did and it was very good. He refused to let me do a thing, besides set the table (I can do a pretty good table-scape...always with candles).
Secondly, while he was cooking, Tom came to cut my hair (it's rather short now...more than usual, but I like it). Tom left me with something to think about. He said, "Dwight is a delicious dish." (I couldn't agree more; I'm glad he noticed.) Further, he said I am getting on in years (how dare he?), and that I need to set some priorities in my life. He said I should "settle down" and let Dwight make me an "honest woman." (Ha! Ha!)
But he does have a point, really.
As we ate dinner, Dwight kept smiling at me and flashing me those damned eyes of his. They are child-like, large, deep and they tell complete stories simply in a moment's glance. I can't help but love them, and they are the first thing I noticed about him when we met. I could live in them. Back to what I was thinking, though. I kept coming to a conclusion in my mind that even though he is completely brash, which turns me on somehow, I love him. Love is often a dangerous venture, but I am prepared to tackle it. As with most things in my life, I will jump into the deep end and hold my breath until the last possible moment, before I hope I can make it back to the surface for air.
I have resolved myself to a single decision. I am going to ask him to move into my house. I have never asked a guy to do that before. It will be more than nice to have him here on a permanent basis. It will be more like a home, instead of a private asylum. I think he will be open to the idea, and in the end I believe he will accept it. If it doesn't work out, no harm done. It's not like I gave away a kidney.
Right now, he is with his family opening presents. Isn't that adorable? (My family hasn't done presents since I was ten. I envy him and his family.) When he returns I am going to ask him the question!
Christmas Bounty
This has turned out to be the best Christmas I can remember! Right now, Dwight is downstairs cooking Christmas Eve dinner.
How sweet is that?
I've never had a guy cook for me. He has gone to a lot of effort to do this. He told me to "get the hell out of the kitchen." (Kitchens and I aren't the best company.)
Maybe I should go see if he needs any help. I hate to think of him slaving alone down there.
Hmmm....
How sweet is that?
I've never had a guy cook for me. He has gone to a lot of effort to do this. He told me to "get the hell out of the kitchen." (Kitchens and I aren't the best company.)
Maybe I should go see if he needs any help. I hate to think of him slaving alone down there.
Hmmm....
Saturday, December 22, 2007
Winter Solstice
Today was much too warm to be categorized as the first day of winter (more like spring). It got up to 60 F, with lots of sunshine breaking through the clouds, which means no snow anytime soon.
I am hoping for a white Christmas (even wimpy snow will do).
I am hoping for a white Christmas (even wimpy snow will do).
Hail Mary, full of grace, Tony Blair is with you
In order to create a Christmas-like atmosphere, former prime minister of the United Kingdom, Tony Blair, orchestrated a real-life conversion from being a heretic Protestant by returning to the one, true Church, through communion of the saints.
(That's the official account of the conversion, at least.)
In other news, the Blair conversion caused his name to be crossed off of Bush's Good Old-Fashioned Crawford Ranch Christmas Soiree list, which is slated for Christmas Eve. Condi Rice stated, "President Bush cannot be expected to partake in holiday 'cheer' with non-evangelical Christians."
There you have it!
(That's the official account of the conversion, at least.)
In other news, the Blair conversion caused his name to be crossed off of Bush's Good Old-Fashioned Crawford Ranch Christmas Soiree list, which is slated for Christmas Eve. Condi Rice stated, "President Bush cannot be expected to partake in holiday 'cheer' with non-evangelical Christians."
There you have it!
Friday, December 21, 2007
Thursday, December 20, 2007
In this season of fanaticism...
There are people who feel as if their personal beliefs trump those around them, regardless of the personal beliefs of the other person.
Mostly there are people who would force me to hang the so-called laws of God, the Ten Commandments, in my classroom, even if it has been ruled unconstitutional by the federal courts. I said to one such person yesterday, "Would you like for someone to arrive at your church's doorstep and demand to hang up a document that was in the face of everything you believe?" Besides, I don't think those who have engaged in adultery, lied, stolen, committed murder (if only in their hearts), dissed their parents, put material things above God--either to own or be jealous of because their neighbor has it--hardly need to be reminded of their shortcomings as a human. (Subsequently, I just categorized every human being on earth who has been alive for more than 0ne minute.)
My humble opinion is simply worship in your heart, at church, wherever, but allow public places where many people of different faiths and beliefs congregate to remain neutral.
Mostly there are people who would force me to hang the so-called laws of God, the Ten Commandments, in my classroom, even if it has been ruled unconstitutional by the federal courts. I said to one such person yesterday, "Would you like for someone to arrive at your church's doorstep and demand to hang up a document that was in the face of everything you believe?" Besides, I don't think those who have engaged in adultery, lied, stolen, committed murder (if only in their hearts), dissed their parents, put material things above God--either to own or be jealous of because their neighbor has it--hardly need to be reminded of their shortcomings as a human. (Subsequently, I just categorized every human being on earth who has been alive for more than 0ne minute.)
My humble opinion is simply worship in your heart, at church, wherever, but allow public places where many people of different faiths and beliefs congregate to remain neutral.
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
Oh joy! Listen America: "I'm knocked up!"
Jamie Lynn Spears, the baby sister of Britney Spears, is eclipsing her big sis today with the news that she is going to be a teenage mother.
Congratulations, you're knocked up and proud!
Since OK! magazine debuted the article, the media has been up in arms over teenage pregnancy and its implications on our nation's youth. Is it new news? Yes, teenage pregnancy has been known to happen on occasion, and it's not surprising that this time it happened to a close Britney relative.
The thing is I don't give a crap!
God love, what are parents across this fickle nation going to do to shield their darling babies from this scandalous behavior? Will we survive?
(Did I mention I don't give a crap?)
Tell your darlings, as you put them to bed tonight, that the world is a horny place. They can rest easily, however, because Nickelodeon's industry lawyers are already working to terminate her contract--if she doesn't terminate the pregnancy. In addition, they will replace her on the show--I have never watched nor heard of--with another member of the Spears family.
I hear Britney is looking for a new gig.
I confess that my parents never gave me a talk about why a celebrity from television had to leave one of my shows under infamous circumstances. I guess Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood lacked child-friendly scandal.
Congratulations, you're knocked up and proud!
Since OK! magazine debuted the article, the media has been up in arms over teenage pregnancy and its implications on our nation's youth. Is it new news? Yes, teenage pregnancy has been known to happen on occasion, and it's not surprising that this time it happened to a close Britney relative.
The thing is I don't give a crap!
God love, what are parents across this fickle nation going to do to shield their darling babies from this scandalous behavior? Will we survive?
(Did I mention I don't give a crap?)
Tell your darlings, as you put them to bed tonight, that the world is a horny place. They can rest easily, however, because Nickelodeon's industry lawyers are already working to terminate her contract--if she doesn't terminate the pregnancy. In addition, they will replace her on the show--I have never watched nor heard of--with another member of the Spears family.
I hear Britney is looking for a new gig.
I confess that my parents never gave me a talk about why a celebrity from television had to leave one of my shows under infamous circumstances. I guess Sesame Street and Mr. Rogers' Neighborhood lacked child-friendly scandal.
Tuesday, December 18, 2007
Natalee Holloway
After re-arresting the same suspects and releasing them again, the authorities in the Netherlands' little Caribbean island territory, Aruba, have decided to label the disappearance of Alabama teenager, Natalee Holloway, a "cold case."
I hope she is enjoying her freedom in Brazil. It wouldn't surprise me if she turns up one day with some good stories to tell us all.
I hope she is enjoying her freedom in Brazil. It wouldn't surprise me if she turns up one day with some good stories to tell us all.
"The Hillary I Know"
Hillary Clinton's campaign has launched a new website, called The Hillary I Know, which is dedicated to the people who have directly been influenced by Senator Hillary Clinton.
It bridges political, influential, celebrity, and everyday people. The website takes Hillary's message from her own words to her deeds over the years, which have impacted so many individuals.
It bridges political, influential, celebrity, and everyday people. The website takes Hillary's message from her own words to her deeds over the years, which have impacted so many individuals.
Sunday, December 16, 2007
I'm cool now
Even though I think I am already pretty cool, this little decal on my car's window (thanks to someone who shall remain nameless in this particular blog), has turned me into someone uber cool. My students think it is the best thing that I have the FOX Racing decal on my car.
Who knew? Besides, I think he looks kind of cute there.
Bill Clinton on Obama
If we are an intelligent nation, which has learned it mistakes from eight years of tyranny under the George W. Bush administration, then we will heed the words of President Bill Clinton.
Senator Barack Obama has "star power," there is no doubt. But when it comes to being president of the United States, we will need more than a flashy smile. We will need someone who has practical experience in the realms of domestic and foreign policies.
As President Clinton said, we need someone who has made some mistakes to go along with his/her victories. Obama clearly does not meet this burden.
The voters of the United States cannot afford to be blindsided by the illusion that "star power" equates great policies down the road. I can know everything there is about the technical role of the presidency (and subsequently I do), but that does not prepare me for the actual office itself. America cannot afford to elect a president who will spend the first few days, weeks, months in office wondering what to do next. We need realistic policies that make sense for our country, which will start on January 20, 2009.
Even Bill Clinton, during his interview with Charlie Rose on PBS, conceded that he was pressured to run for president in 1988; he knew he had the practical know-how to do the job, however, he felt in his "bones" that he wasn't ready for the job.
In a single sentence, President Clinton outlined what any politician, and to a further degree the American voter, better understand when it comes to the 2008 presidential election, which is when it comes to learning from "failure and victory" the candidates better "learn something from both if [they] have any sense."
This is a succinct argument, because we take a chance if we elect someone who is essentially basing his record for the presidency on a single year in national office, which is the United States Senate.
In the end, there is only one clear choice for the presidency, and that is,
Senator Barack Obama has "star power," there is no doubt. But when it comes to being president of the United States, we will need more than a flashy smile. We will need someone who has practical experience in the realms of domestic and foreign policies.
As President Clinton said, we need someone who has made some mistakes to go along with his/her victories. Obama clearly does not meet this burden.
The voters of the United States cannot afford to be blindsided by the illusion that "star power" equates great policies down the road. I can know everything there is about the technical role of the presidency (and subsequently I do), but that does not prepare me for the actual office itself. America cannot afford to elect a president who will spend the first few days, weeks, months in office wondering what to do next. We need realistic policies that make sense for our country, which will start on January 20, 2009.
Even Bill Clinton, during his interview with Charlie Rose on PBS, conceded that he was pressured to run for president in 1988; he knew he had the practical know-how to do the job, however, he felt in his "bones" that he wasn't ready for the job.
In a single sentence, President Clinton outlined what any politician, and to a further degree the American voter, better understand when it comes to the 2008 presidential election, which is when it comes to learning from "failure and victory" the candidates better "learn something from both if [they] have any sense."
This is a succinct argument, because we take a chance if we elect someone who is essentially basing his record for the presidency on a single year in national office, which is the United States Senate.
In the end, there is only one clear choice for the presidency, and that is,
Hillary for President
Saturday, December 15, 2007
Christmas in Paris
After discussing Christmas plans with Dwight, we have decided that it would be more than fun to spend part of our holiday in Paris.
Even though it will only be for three days or so, because of our schedules, it will be a great get-a-way from the usual. December 20-23 looks as if it will be the best window for our little impromptu trip.
I just hope they haven't painted my favorite park bench in Le Jardin des Tuileries. I want us to sit there--hand-in-hand--looking out over the Seine River at the Eiffel Tower rising majestically above the city.
I am so excited I can barely contain myself!
Even though it will only be for three days or so, because of our schedules, it will be a great get-a-way from the usual. December 20-23 looks as if it will be the best window for our little impromptu trip.
I just hope they haven't painted my favorite park bench in Le Jardin des Tuileries. I want us to sit there--hand-in-hand--looking out over the Seine River at the Eiffel Tower rising majestically above the city.
I am so excited I can barely contain myself!
Michael Vick
In an impassioned plea, Michael Vick asked the federal judge for leniency in his dog cruelty case.
Mostly the part that is garnering so much attention (and I read the entire letter) is when he characterizes himself as a "shy...animal lover."
Isn't that sweet?
I envision a little boy with braces playing in his suburban front yard with his golden retriever; however, that is only the imagery Vick wants us to see, instead of the reality of his deeds, which are engaging in brutal, inhumane dog fights to the death and torturing dogs to death for sheer pleasure.
Additionally, he stated to the judge--in the same letter--that he has a problem saying "no" to a crowd, so he has a pack mentality. His justification goes further to say that he just didn't know being cruel to animals was a crime.
My daddy always told me that ignorance of the law is never a viable defense, but manipulation of the facts and character assassination of the prosecution's witnesses are.
So what will be Vick's fate? Personally, I hope he gets the maximum sentence allowed by law, because all golden retrievers frolicking on the front lawn aside, it is tantamount to gross atypical social behavior to garner pleasure from the torture and destruction of an animal.
Mostly the part that is garnering so much attention (and I read the entire letter) is when he characterizes himself as a "shy...animal lover."
Isn't that sweet?
I envision a little boy with braces playing in his suburban front yard with his golden retriever; however, that is only the imagery Vick wants us to see, instead of the reality of his deeds, which are engaging in brutal, inhumane dog fights to the death and torturing dogs to death for sheer pleasure.
Additionally, he stated to the judge--in the same letter--that he has a problem saying "no" to a crowd, so he has a pack mentality. His justification goes further to say that he just didn't know being cruel to animals was a crime.
My daddy always told me that ignorance of the law is never a viable defense, but manipulation of the facts and character assassination of the prosecution's witnesses are.
So what will be Vick's fate? Personally, I hope he gets the maximum sentence allowed by law, because all golden retrievers frolicking on the front lawn aside, it is tantamount to gross atypical social behavior to garner pleasure from the torture and destruction of an animal.
Friday, December 14, 2007
Major League Baseball
My God! The sky is truly falling today, considering the enhancement drugs that are being abused by members of Major League Baseball.
With our world in one hell of a mess, our country going down the drain, the biggest news today is that some over-paid, mental lightweights are abusing drugs. They travel around the country, throw a ball around, get paid millions of dollars, while over 40 million fellow Americans cannot buy the prescription drugs they need to stay healthy.
How will we as a nation cope with the horrible tragedy of steroid abuse in the MLB which is affecting each and every single American so deeply?
Personally, I'm not sure I can carry on anymore.
With our world in one hell of a mess, our country going down the drain, the biggest news today is that some over-paid, mental lightweights are abusing drugs. They travel around the country, throw a ball around, get paid millions of dollars, while over 40 million fellow Americans cannot buy the prescription drugs they need to stay healthy.
How will we as a nation cope with the horrible tragedy of steroid abuse in the MLB which is affecting each and every single American so deeply?
Personally, I'm not sure I can carry on anymore.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
More Drama from D (but in a good way)
Admittedly my relationship with D is young, but I find myself barrelling further and further toward a place of no return with him. I always feel like this in every relationship I have been in, but I have never felt as if the other person could completely possess me.
D owns me lock, stock and barrel, however!
He is the one man who can break my wild streak. All the other guys I have loved were gold diggers who were somehow intoxicated by my persona and they deferred to me in all ways. My D is the antithesis of them all. He is strong, independent, unassuming, and humble.
There is one secret about him that turns me on somehow. He told me he is bisexual. I have never been in a relationship with a bi guy before.
He can be the cruelest person in one moment and the most loving in the next. He can make me so upset that I can bite nails in half, but then he flashes me those damned, gorgeous eyes of his, a crooked smile and I'm putty in his hands all over again. It's like hitting "reset."
He does everything a stereotypical guy does. He loves his sports. He likes to hunt Bambi while wearing a repulsive orange vest, but I told him I'd put one on too if he wanted to take me out into the woods. But he is into racing mostly. Apparently, I am now a fan of Fox Racing apparel and gear. He put a sticker of their "fox" decal on my car's window. In a moment of brashness, he asked me to buy the company for him (I have no idea what it is worth; perhaps there is a hostile stock takeover in my future).
In a single sentence, I have never been with a guy quite like him. He puts me in my place. But now I just have to watch the girls. (They're always checking him out.)
D owns me lock, stock and barrel, however!
He is the one man who can break my wild streak. All the other guys I have loved were gold diggers who were somehow intoxicated by my persona and they deferred to me in all ways. My D is the antithesis of them all. He is strong, independent, unassuming, and humble.
There is one secret about him that turns me on somehow. He told me he is bisexual. I have never been in a relationship with a bi guy before.
He can be the cruelest person in one moment and the most loving in the next. He can make me so upset that I can bite nails in half, but then he flashes me those damned, gorgeous eyes of his, a crooked smile and I'm putty in his hands all over again. It's like hitting "reset."
He does everything a stereotypical guy does. He loves his sports. He likes to hunt Bambi while wearing a repulsive orange vest, but I told him I'd put one on too if he wanted to take me out into the woods. But he is into racing mostly. Apparently, I am now a fan of Fox Racing apparel and gear. He put a sticker of their "fox" decal on my car's window. In a moment of brashness, he asked me to buy the company for him (I have no idea what it is worth; perhaps there is a hostile stock takeover in my future).
In a single sentence, I have never been with a guy quite like him. He puts me in my place. But now I just have to watch the girls. (They're always checking him out.)
Wednesday, December 12, 2007
Democratic Congress
One year ago the voters of the United States decided to change course in our country by sending a Democratic majority to the Congress.
As one of the voters, I am disappointed at the direction this majority has taken--or not taken--our country. Many Americans wanted to end the war in Iraq, or at least curb it, but it continues to rage today as healthily as it did one year ago.
Congress will more than likely approve a $70 billion appropriation bill for the war before the holiday recess. Why did we need a Democratic majority, when the Republicans were doing so well? Is there some pull the president has over the Congress?
On December 6, Congress said it could not support a bill that made crimes against homosexuals hate crimes because it contained an appropriation for the war in Iraq. I hypothesized that it would be only a matter of time before they passed the bill. Ironically, it has only been a smidge over a week and they are ready to cave in to the demands of George W. Bush.
My question is now, why would they not support the December 6th bill, however, they now support passing the funding so readily? Is it because the Department of Defense is going to lay-off some of its civilian workforce? Did the president cast a spell over them?
So what?
The White House is determined to wage this war beyond all human contention. If the secretary of defense has to give some people pink slips, then they can blame the one person who is directly related to their misfortune: the president of the United States.
The Congress was elected to do the work of the American people, not the bidding of the president. We had a rubber stamp Republican Congress before, and now we have simply traded that travesty for a rubber stamp Democratic Congress. I honestly believed that a year later the United States would be on a different road, which included Iraq troop reductions.
It is just a shame that we had the opportunity to set a new direction for this country, but it has been squandered for submission and conformity to the status quo.
As one of the voters, I am disappointed at the direction this majority has taken--or not taken--our country. Many Americans wanted to end the war in Iraq, or at least curb it, but it continues to rage today as healthily as it did one year ago.
Congress will more than likely approve a $70 billion appropriation bill for the war before the holiday recess. Why did we need a Democratic majority, when the Republicans were doing so well? Is there some pull the president has over the Congress?
On December 6, Congress said it could not support a bill that made crimes against homosexuals hate crimes because it contained an appropriation for the war in Iraq. I hypothesized that it would be only a matter of time before they passed the bill. Ironically, it has only been a smidge over a week and they are ready to cave in to the demands of George W. Bush.
My question is now, why would they not support the December 6th bill, however, they now support passing the funding so readily? Is it because the Department of Defense is going to lay-off some of its civilian workforce? Did the president cast a spell over them?
So what?
The White House is determined to wage this war beyond all human contention. If the secretary of defense has to give some people pink slips, then they can blame the one person who is directly related to their misfortune: the president of the United States.
The Congress was elected to do the work of the American people, not the bidding of the president. We had a rubber stamp Republican Congress before, and now we have simply traded that travesty for a rubber stamp Democratic Congress. I honestly believed that a year later the United States would be on a different road, which included Iraq troop reductions.
It is just a shame that we had the opportunity to set a new direction for this country, but it has been squandered for submission and conformity to the status quo.
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Governor's Inagural Ball
Democrat Steve Beshear became the 61st governor of Kentucky today.
For the tonight's festivities, my family and I have been invited to attend the governor's ball in Frankfort. In an effort to have some fun, I have invited Dwight to be my "date." I think that he will have a lot of fun, not to mention he will look very handsome in his tuxedo (I wish he didn't make me wait to see him).
Here's to an excellent night of fun!
For the tonight's festivities, my family and I have been invited to attend the governor's ball in Frankfort. In an effort to have some fun, I have invited Dwight to be my "date." I think that he will have a lot of fun, not to mention he will look very handsome in his tuxedo (I wish he didn't make me wait to see him).
Here's to an excellent night of fun!
Monday, December 10, 2007
My D is Back
Last night, I found a surprise.
I had been out shopping until the early evening. When I returned home, I went into my house and felt nothing was out of the ordinary.
After turning on some lights, I went upstairs to my bedroom, where I found D sitting on the chair next to my bed. I was startled at first, but then I felt myself smiling. He was smiling too.
I told him that I was sorry for being a jackass the other day. He said that I was really upset, and that is why he gave me the time I needed to come to my senses and forgive him. How sweet is that?
I find myself going back to a rather juvenile fantasy, which is "love at first sight." Each time I see him it as if I am transported back to that first moment I laid eyes on him. My heart skips a beat and I swallow hard. I can't help it, it's completely natural. My eyes follow his ever move, because I am afraid I might miss something if I look away for a single second. His eyes are like a bottomless blue ocean; they're bright and wide.
I am happy that he is back.
I had been out shopping until the early evening. When I returned home, I went into my house and felt nothing was out of the ordinary.
After turning on some lights, I went upstairs to my bedroom, where I found D sitting on the chair next to my bed. I was startled at first, but then I felt myself smiling. He was smiling too.
I told him that I was sorry for being a jackass the other day. He said that I was really upset, and that is why he gave me the time I needed to come to my senses and forgive him. How sweet is that?
I find myself going back to a rather juvenile fantasy, which is "love at first sight." Each time I see him it as if I am transported back to that first moment I laid eyes on him. My heart skips a beat and I swallow hard. I can't help it, it's completely natural. My eyes follow his ever move, because I am afraid I might miss something if I look away for a single second. His eyes are like a bottomless blue ocean; they're bright and wide.
I am happy that he is back.
Sunday, December 09, 2007
Nobama, Nophrah; Yes to Hillary
Yesterday, Oprah Winfrey started her whirlwind of campaigning for Barack Obama, which will take her to Iowa and South Carolina this weekend.
Oprah, who touted that she has voted for Republicans as much as she has for Democrats in her life, felt compelled to step out of the shadows and throw her support behind Barack Obama. She spoke of change in America, and a move from the status quo onto a path of normalcy for our country.
One pundit expressed Oprah's qualifications on state as being equal to those of Obama: non-existent. Why would America be required to train another president? Look at what happened the last time we had to "train" a president. We landed ourselves into a state of seeming perpetual war. Barack Obama is still cutting his teeth in the United States Senate, which is his first time in Washington as anything besides a tourist. He is coming into his third year in that position. The same position Hillary has held for almost seven years.
While Barack Obama was learning the finer points of Shakespeare in middle school, Hillary, as an attorney, was working on children's issues for the Children's Defense Fund, and in Washington she was an advisor to the House Committee on the Judiciary following the Watergate scandal. While Barack Obama was first starting work in state government in Illinois, Hillary had been First Lady of the United States for three years, while having helped run seven gubernatorial campaigns for her husband, including her husband's two successful campaigns for the presidency.
While Obama was emerging from political obscurity by delivering the Democratic Keynote Address in 2004, Hillary had already made her own name in politics as a United States senator from New York.
Comparatively, Hillary Clinton has more first-hand, hands-on knowledge about the workings of the presidency than any other candidate running--both Democratic and Republican. How many can say they have worked intimately with a president of the United States for eight years? How many can say they understand the finer points of successfully drafting comprehensive foreign and domestic policies? How many can say they have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with heads-of-state from around the globe during times of war and peace?
In the end, we must answer the following questions about our next president's qualifications.
Who can bring all the things that are wonderful and unique about America back to the table? Who can restore the belief in ourselves as Americans after so much blatant misdirection, hate and war? Who can make America great again in the eyes of the world? Who can truly build those promised bridges to the 21st century after we have been left so far in the past? Who can bring a unified voice to our shouts from the shadows of almost seven years of darkness? Who can bring peace where there seems to be none?
Hillary Clinton is the answer to all those questions. She is leagues above the rest in experience and vision. Senator Clinton knows what it will take to make America a respected and strong world leader again.
To the media, I say NO to Obama and I say NO to Oprah. That is their new campaign slogan.
At a time in our nation's history when experience is so crucial, we will elect someone who has been there, who understands the costs of freedom and the price we can honestly afford to pay. It's not a time for half-measures, untried men, or for "I think I can" politics. It's about who can step up to the plate and deliver a home-run, because we're at the bottom of the ninth inning, the bases are loaded, and time is running out!
Oprah, who touted that she has voted for Republicans as much as she has for Democrats in her life, felt compelled to step out of the shadows and throw her support behind Barack Obama. She spoke of change in America, and a move from the status quo onto a path of normalcy for our country.
One pundit expressed Oprah's qualifications on state as being equal to those of Obama: non-existent. Why would America be required to train another president? Look at what happened the last time we had to "train" a president. We landed ourselves into a state of seeming perpetual war. Barack Obama is still cutting his teeth in the United States Senate, which is his first time in Washington as anything besides a tourist. He is coming into his third year in that position. The same position Hillary has held for almost seven years.
While Barack Obama was learning the finer points of Shakespeare in middle school, Hillary, as an attorney, was working on children's issues for the Children's Defense Fund, and in Washington she was an advisor to the House Committee on the Judiciary following the Watergate scandal. While Barack Obama was first starting work in state government in Illinois, Hillary had been First Lady of the United States for three years, while having helped run seven gubernatorial campaigns for her husband, including her husband's two successful campaigns for the presidency.
While Obama was emerging from political obscurity by delivering the Democratic Keynote Address in 2004, Hillary had already made her own name in politics as a United States senator from New York.
Comparatively, Hillary Clinton has more first-hand, hands-on knowledge about the workings of the presidency than any other candidate running--both Democratic and Republican. How many can say they have worked intimately with a president of the United States for eight years? How many can say they understand the finer points of successfully drafting comprehensive foreign and domestic policies? How many can say they have stood shoulder-to-shoulder with heads-of-state from around the globe during times of war and peace?
In the end, we must answer the following questions about our next president's qualifications.
Who can bring all the things that are wonderful and unique about America back to the table? Who can restore the belief in ourselves as Americans after so much blatant misdirection, hate and war? Who can make America great again in the eyes of the world? Who can truly build those promised bridges to the 21st century after we have been left so far in the past? Who can bring a unified voice to our shouts from the shadows of almost seven years of darkness? Who can bring peace where there seems to be none?
Hillary Clinton is the answer to all those questions. She is leagues above the rest in experience and vision. Senator Clinton knows what it will take to make America a respected and strong world leader again.
To the media, I say NO to Obama and I say NO to Oprah. That is their new campaign slogan.
At a time in our nation's history when experience is so crucial, we will elect someone who has been there, who understands the costs of freedom and the price we can honestly afford to pay. It's not a time for half-measures, untried men, or for "I think I can" politics. It's about who can step up to the plate and deliver a home-run, because we're at the bottom of the ninth inning, the bases are loaded, and time is running out!
Hillary for President
Saturday, December 08, 2007
Why's it so complicated?
In an effort to find out the truth of the situation surrounding D, I did what any red blooded guy would do, I called his mother. (Remember: even if God doesn't know where you are, a gay guy's mother knows where her son is, and all of his deepest secrets too.)
Apparently, he is sulking. She told me that he is so tender-hearted that if someone says something negative to him that he just goes off and sits in a corner for a while. She also told me that he'll snap out of it soon enough. I hate to think he is suffering because of me. I'm going to go find him, and make him listen to me, if it's the last thing I do tonight!
Apparently, he is sulking. She told me that he is so tender-hearted that if someone says something negative to him that he just goes off and sits in a corner for a while. She also told me that he'll snap out of it soon enough. I hate to think he is suffering because of me. I'm going to go find him, and make him listen to me, if it's the last thing I do tonight!
Bill or Oprah?
This weekend Barack Obama unleashed his private ace unto the campaigns of Iowa and South Carolina: Oprah Winfrey. In an effort to neutralize this action, Hillary Clinton has fully unleashed her own ace: Bill Clinton.
Although, Bill Clinton has been campaigning for his wife, he has been a bit more demure in his campaign and rhetoric. To paraphrase Harry S. Truman's saying, that Hillary likes to quote often, it's time to turn up the heat in the kitchen and see who can't take it. The best way she can turn up the heat is by dumping millions of dollars onto the airwaves of Iowa and New Hampshire. Oh yeah, she must turn Bill Clinton completely loose, as she has done recently, and allow him to stump for her 24/7.
I was watching the 1992 presidential debate--Clinton, Daddy Bush, and Perot--and there was a stark reminder of the charisma that is Bill Clinton. In a question that was posed to President Bush first by a member of the audience, which he stammered on and on about, President Clinton connected to the lady on a personal level by giving his voice to her. It was like watching a play whose main lead is good, but then seeing the same performance by an actor who is brilliant.
In the end, Oprah may connect to housewives on a certain level, but she is not Bill Clinton.
My money (literally) is still on Hillary.
Although, Bill Clinton has been campaigning for his wife, he has been a bit more demure in his campaign and rhetoric. To paraphrase Harry S. Truman's saying, that Hillary likes to quote often, it's time to turn up the heat in the kitchen and see who can't take it. The best way she can turn up the heat is by dumping millions of dollars onto the airwaves of Iowa and New Hampshire. Oh yeah, she must turn Bill Clinton completely loose, as she has done recently, and allow him to stump for her 24/7.
I was watching the 1992 presidential debate--Clinton, Daddy Bush, and Perot--and there was a stark reminder of the charisma that is Bill Clinton. In a question that was posed to President Bush first by a member of the audience, which he stammered on and on about, President Clinton connected to the lady on a personal level by giving his voice to her. It was like watching a play whose main lead is good, but then seeing the same performance by an actor who is brilliant.
In the end, Oprah may connect to housewives on a certain level, but she is not Bill Clinton.
My money (literally) is still on Hillary.
D is killing me
I don't know what I have done to experience such treatment from anyone.
Dwight has become a recluse, when it comes to me. He is playing some sort of game, that much I am certain of, but I am not familiar with any of the rules. All of his friends are shut mouth about him when I ask them questions beyond their storyline. They each have a carefully scripted story to tell me about where he is. I have heard everything from he is at home sick, in the hospital, been in a car wreck, left the state, to he is just trying to make me jealous. I imagine the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Mostly I know that the truth lies with D.
Whatever game he is playing it is working. I feel like my stomach has been hollowed out with a blunt knife.
Dwight has become a recluse, when it comes to me. He is playing some sort of game, that much I am certain of, but I am not familiar with any of the rules. All of his friends are shut mouth about him when I ask them questions beyond their storyline. They each have a carefully scripted story to tell me about where he is. I have heard everything from he is at home sick, in the hospital, been in a car wreck, left the state, to he is just trying to make me jealous. I imagine the truth lies somewhere in the middle. Mostly I know that the truth lies with D.
Whatever game he is playing it is working. I feel like my stomach has been hollowed out with a blunt knife.
Thursday, December 06, 2007
Gay Hate Crime Bill
Congress has decided to abandon a bill that would make crimes based solely on sexual orientation a hate crime.
Democratic members decided that since the bill had a major spending provision for Iraq that they could no longer support it.
The thing is that in a few of weeks (or months) George W. Bush will send the Iraq appropriation bill back to the Congress, put on a pony and dog show, strong-arm congressional members, and get it to pass.
So what is the point of delaying it now? They will merely capitulate later, after they claim they have no choice in the matter (even though the legislative branch is independent of the president).
Democratic members decided that since the bill had a major spending provision for Iraq that they could no longer support it.
The thing is that in a few of weeks (or months) George W. Bush will send the Iraq appropriation bill back to the Congress, put on a pony and dog show, strong-arm congressional members, and get it to pass.
So what is the point of delaying it now? They will merely capitulate later, after they claim they have no choice in the matter (even though the legislative branch is independent of the president).
Hillary Clinton
In an effort to continue my support for Senator Clinton's campaign, I have forwarded an $800 contribution to her office.
This, in combination with my other contribution of $1,500, puts me at the $2,300 threshold, which is the maximum amount an individual can contribute to a candidate during the primary cycle.
I have also worked hard to get additional campaign contributions from friends and family members. (Although, my attorneys inform me federal law prohibits Ingersoll-Rand, which is listed as a foreign company [incorporated in Bermuda], from setting up a political action committee to raise contributions, it doesn't preclude my family, who are American citizens, from contributing.) I believe that every dime Hillary can raise in this quarter will be instrumental to her winning the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary next month.
This, in combination with my other contribution of $1,500, puts me at the $2,300 threshold, which is the maximum amount an individual can contribute to a candidate during the primary cycle.
I have also worked hard to get additional campaign contributions from friends and family members. (Although, my attorneys inform me federal law prohibits Ingersoll-Rand, which is listed as a foreign company [incorporated in Bermuda], from setting up a political action committee to raise contributions, it doesn't preclude my family, who are American citizens, from contributing.) I believe that every dime Hillary can raise in this quarter will be instrumental to her winning the Iowa caucus and New Hampshire primary next month.
Omaha Shooting
Yesterday, when a young man decided to shoot up some people at his local mall in Omaha, Nebraska, he left a note at his home prophesying that the act of killing people, including himself, would make him famous.
Guess what?
It worked.
As in any shooting, the media his hyping it up for all it is worth. It took a depressed, psychotic individual's delusions of grandiosity and turned them into reality. A person who was relatively unknown yesterday to the rest of the world was suddenly thrust into the spotlight today. His name is now the leading story in every major U.S. news source (and it has been picked up for page six by many international news outlets).
Guess what?
It worked.
As in any shooting, the media his hyping it up for all it is worth. It took a depressed, psychotic individual's delusions of grandiosity and turned them into reality. A person who was relatively unknown yesterday to the rest of the world was suddenly thrust into the spotlight today. His name is now the leading story in every major U.S. news source (and it has been picked up for page six by many international news outlets).
D & Me
It seems like such a long time that I have known Dwight, but in reality it has been only a few weeks. He is a very sweet and devilish person. In many ways he completes me as a person. We are perfect for each other. Unfortunately, we had a bit of a spat. I was a bit too harsh with him. I'm not even sure what the whole thing was about now, but I haven't heard from him in a few days.
His friend told me that he is sick, but I don't believe it. Another friend told me that he is upset at me (which I believe). I suppose I'll have to do what any self-respecting person would do in this situation which is go on my hands and knees and beg for his forgiveness. I thought about it a lot today. I miss being with him. I miss the feeling I get when I see him after being apart. I long for the touch of his soft, gentle hand when he holds mine. I want the butterflies in my stomach to return.
His friend told me that he is sick, but I don't believe it. Another friend told me that he is upset at me (which I believe). I suppose I'll have to do what any self-respecting person would do in this situation which is go on my hands and knees and beg for his forgiveness. I thought about it a lot today. I miss being with him. I miss the feeling I get when I see him after being apart. I long for the touch of his soft, gentle hand when he holds mine. I want the butterflies in my stomach to return.
Monday, December 03, 2007
Obama beating Clinton?
In a shocking turn of events, Barack Obama seems to be giving Hillary Clinton a run for her money in Iowa.
Will it last until Iowa's caucus, which is only thirty-one days from today?
I am not sure that it can last that long, however. I see his numbers trending downward again.
I'm not convinced that one state--or even two--should determine the course of the national election. Perhaps, there should be a federal law that requires all states in the United States to hold their primaries and caucuses on the same day. In that way, other states/voters do not feel disenfranchised.
Will it last until Iowa's caucus, which is only thirty-one days from today?
I am not sure that it can last that long, however. I see his numbers trending downward again.
I'm not convinced that one state--or even two--should determine the course of the national election. Perhaps, there should be a federal law that requires all states in the United States to hold their primaries and caucuses on the same day. In that way, other states/voters do not feel disenfranchised.
My Apologies
I wish to express my apologies to the people of Venezuela. In an effort to deter absolute authority, the voters of Venezuela rejected the sixty-nine amendments to their constitution, including allowing the current president, Hugo Chavez, to serve for unlimited consecutive terms.
In another shocking move, Chavez seems to have accepted the rejection of the country's electorate.
In another shocking move, Chavez seems to have accepted the rejection of the country's electorate.
Sunday, December 02, 2007
Chavez on dictatorship
Venezuela, in a moment of rather unparalleled national stupidity, is currently voting to expand the powers of President Hugo Chavez.
Under the expansion of powers in the nation's constitution, Chavez can be president for life.
Chavez has threatened the United States by stating he will cut off Venezuela's oil exports to the United States if it attempts to meddle in the election. Of course, he better be careful, considering I place Hugo Chavez a few notches beneath George W. Bush when it comes to despotic rulers who have a chip on their shoulders.
Under the expansion of powers in the nation's constitution, Chavez can be president for life.
Chavez has threatened the United States by stating he will cut off Venezuela's oil exports to the United States if it attempts to meddle in the election. Of course, he better be careful, considering I place Hugo Chavez a few notches beneath George W. Bush when it comes to despotic rulers who have a chip on their shoulders.
Montel Williams
In a moment of poor judgement, former television talk show host Montel Williams threatened some reporters with physical harm. It might hurt his work with the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPA); it seems to be his only gig these days too.
Williams reportedly threatened some local reporters, which included a high school newspaper reporter, who is working as an intern for Savannah Morning-News. He came up to them with a bodyguard and insisted that he is a "big star" and he could "find where [they] live and blow [them] up."
By the way, whatever happened to Sally Jessy Raphael?
Williams reportedly threatened some local reporters, which included a high school newspaper reporter, who is working as an intern for Savannah Morning-News. He came up to them with a bodyguard and insisted that he is a "big star" and he could "find where [they] live and blow [them] up."
By the way, whatever happened to Sally Jessy Raphael?
Putin Digs in His Heels
After today's parliamentary elections in Russia, Vladimir Putin's party has won a strong victory in the Duma.
In a feat, which probably has Boris Yeltsin reaching for another drink in his still flushed, vodka-soaked grave, Putin is looking at expanding his powers further. Not convinced that the end of his eight years as president of the former Soviet Union's largest member is enough, he is looking at becoming the next prime minister or even president again.
The latter part has many people worried about democracy in Russia.
The Russian constitution forbids Putin from running for a consecutive third term; however, he would be eligible to run again in the 2012 presidential election. Also, there are some constitutional analysts who believe Putin could resign before the end of his second term as president and be eligible to run again in the 2008 presidential election, considering he did not serve two, full consecutive terms in the presidency.
Putin, an ex-KGB agent, who is only 55 years old, is certainly not ready to count his blessings or slip off into the night to assume a life of leisure and silent reflection in retirement.
In a feat, which probably has Boris Yeltsin reaching for another drink in his still flushed, vodka-soaked grave, Putin is looking at expanding his powers further. Not convinced that the end of his eight years as president of the former Soviet Union's largest member is enough, he is looking at becoming the next prime minister or even president again.
The latter part has many people worried about democracy in Russia.
The Russian constitution forbids Putin from running for a consecutive third term; however, he would be eligible to run again in the 2012 presidential election. Also, there are some constitutional analysts who believe Putin could resign before the end of his second term as president and be eligible to run again in the 2008 presidential election, considering he did not serve two, full consecutive terms in the presidency.
Putin, an ex-KGB agent, who is only 55 years old, is certainly not ready to count his blessings or slip off into the night to assume a life of leisure and silent reflection in retirement.
Saturday, December 01, 2007
Dad's Dog
I think I upset dad today when I told him that I wanted to put his dog to "sleep."
He is not even a year old, but he is as big as a bull moose. He is the most obnoxious thing I have ever encountered. Mostly I have a grudge against him because I do not enjoy being around dogs.
Anyhow, I told dad that if he dies before the dog, then the dog is going to be joining him, because he is the only reason the dog lives.
Was I too harsh?
He is not even a year old, but he is as big as a bull moose. He is the most obnoxious thing I have ever encountered. Mostly I have a grudge against him because I do not enjoy being around dogs.
Anyhow, I told dad that if he dies before the dog, then the dog is going to be joining him, because he is the only reason the dog lives.
Was I too harsh?
Salvation Army
Why do the people who ring the bells for The Salvation Army look like criminals?
I am very reluctant to give money to someone who looks as if he/she is going to take 100% of the charitable proceeds for himself/herself. I am sure, however, the money is going to a legitimate cause, but I can't help but feel apprehensive.
Can't people who don't have long, greasy hair and skull tattoos all over their bodies donate their time to collect money also?
I am very reluctant to give money to someone who looks as if he/she is going to take 100% of the charitable proceeds for himself/herself. I am sure, however, the money is going to a legitimate cause, but I can't help but feel apprehensive.
Can't people who don't have long, greasy hair and skull tattoos all over their bodies donate their time to collect money also?
Michigan left twisting in political wind
After scheduling its primary for January 15, Democratic Party members voted to suspend Michigan's delegates to the Democratic Party's 2008 national convention.
Democratic Party rules only allow certain states--Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina--to hold caucuses and primaries before February 5.
Democratic Party rules only allow certain states--Iowa, New Hampshire, Nevada, and South Carolina--to hold caucuses and primaries before February 5.
Hillary is back on the campaign trail
After the hostage situation at a regional office in New Hampshire yesterday, Senator Clinton has resumed her presidential campaign.
She was wise to have canceled her speech to the DNC, in light of the situation. It is not many candidates who have seen the impact going forward with the speech would have had on the polls.
She was wise to have canceled her speech to the DNC, in light of the situation. It is not many candidates who have seen the impact going forward with the speech would have had on the polls.
Friday, November 30, 2007
My Teddy Bear, Mohammed
It is wholly ironic that people would take to the streets in violent demonstration over a teacher who allowed her students to name a teddy bear, Mohammed.
We know, of course, that this incident is possible, considering a teacher was imprisoned after being found guilty of "insulting religion," and thrown into a Sudanese slammer for fifteen days. Gillian Gibbons, who is a teacher from the United Kingdom, was in Sudan teaching when the incident arose. Since her conviction, people have taken to the streets in protest, even calling for her execution as an infidel.
It seems as if these people need to take a "chill pill" and relax. I do not believe Christians would get upset over a teddy bear named Jesus. This unfortunate incident goes to the heart of a bigger issue, I believe. In any faith, it should be seen as excessive to protect the image of a mere mortal. People have gotten away with much worse crimes when it comes to insulting a religion other than naming a harmless toy after a religious figure.
Moreover, shouldn't the children in the teacher's classroom be punished as well, since they are the ones who named the teddy bear? Perhaps, I shouldn't say that, because they might find themselves being punished much more harshly since they are "practicing" Muslims.
In the spirit of religious tolerance, I am going to name my teddy bear, "Mohammed." But don't get worked up over it. He is a harmless, non-practicing Jew.
We know, of course, that this incident is possible, considering a teacher was imprisoned after being found guilty of "insulting religion," and thrown into a Sudanese slammer for fifteen days. Gillian Gibbons, who is a teacher from the United Kingdom, was in Sudan teaching when the incident arose. Since her conviction, people have taken to the streets in protest, even calling for her execution as an infidel.
It seems as if these people need to take a "chill pill" and relax. I do not believe Christians would get upset over a teddy bear named Jesus. This unfortunate incident goes to the heart of a bigger issue, I believe. In any faith, it should be seen as excessive to protect the image of a mere mortal. People have gotten away with much worse crimes when it comes to insulting a religion other than naming a harmless toy after a religious figure.
Moreover, shouldn't the children in the teacher's classroom be punished as well, since they are the ones who named the teddy bear? Perhaps, I shouldn't say that, because they might find themselves being punished much more harshly since they are "practicing" Muslims.
In the spirit of religious tolerance, I am going to name my teddy bear, "Mohammed." But don't get worked up over it. He is a harmless, non-practicing Jew.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Gay Students
I had several students inform me that two students at my school are gay.
It is none of their business--nor mine--but I had kind of figured that one out on my own. But what brought it into the consciousnesses of the other students is the fact they are now "going out." I think it is kind of funny, in a good way, of course, since everyone at my school is very much conservative when it comes to that subject. They are brave souls for being able to express their feelings openly. It is a feat I have yet to truly master.
Being the ever-watchful teacher, I have decided to make it my mission to make sure they don't get harassed as much as I possibly can. I have already put several people in their places over the situation. It is surprising to note that many students are supportive of their relationship. (I wish I had known that way back when.)
It is none of their business--nor mine--but I had kind of figured that one out on my own. But what brought it into the consciousnesses of the other students is the fact they are now "going out." I think it is kind of funny, in a good way, of course, since everyone at my school is very much conservative when it comes to that subject. They are brave souls for being able to express their feelings openly. It is a feat I have yet to truly master.
Being the ever-watchful teacher, I have decided to make it my mission to make sure they don't get harassed as much as I possibly can. I have already put several people in their places over the situation. It is surprising to note that many students are supportive of their relationship. (I wish I had known that way back when.)
A Mother's Love
My mother can be rather uncouth when it comes to sharing her ideas and opinions.
Earlier today, my mom looked at me and said, "You are getting fat!"
Admittedly, I had been thinking about that for a few days, but I didn't expect to be hit on the head like a bag full of hammers by my mother who made this unsolicited comment. She seems to think my weight fluctuates with my mood. She is probably right. She insists that when I am happy I gain weight, which is odd, considering you would think depression would be the precursor to weight gain (or so I think). I am a freak in every definition of the word.
I think, perhaps, my happiness goes back to one, my Dwight.
(Note to self: I should lose weight immediately!)
Earlier today, my mom looked at me and said, "You are getting fat!"
Admittedly, I had been thinking about that for a few days, but I didn't expect to be hit on the head like a bag full of hammers by my mother who made this unsolicited comment. She seems to think my weight fluctuates with my mood. She is probably right. She insists that when I am happy I gain weight, which is odd, considering you would think depression would be the precursor to weight gain (or so I think). I am a freak in every definition of the word.
I think, perhaps, my happiness goes back to one, my Dwight.
(Note to self: I should lose weight immediately!)
Musharraf gets naked
Former General Pervez Musharraf has shed the skin of his former life, to wit: his military uniform, to be inaugurated into his third term as president of Pakistan.
It took him a few more days than he had previously pledged to return to civilian life before assuming the country's presidency.
In addition, Musharraf has declared he will end martial law and reinstate the constitution on December 16, which is ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
It took him a few more days than he had previously pledged to return to civilian life before assuming the country's presidency.
In addition, Musharraf has declared he will end martial law and reinstate the constitution on December 16, which is ahead of parliamentary elections scheduled to be held in Pakistan.
"CNN/YouTube" Republican Debate
The winner of last night's CNN/YouTube Republican Debate was Hillary Clinton.
The greatest fear for any of those fine, white gentleman is the terror that consumes them wholly if they win the Republican Party nomination and have to face-off with Hillary Clinton. Her name was out of their mouths more than anything else (and in their political ads, too).
The night's biggest loser was poor old Ronald Reagan, who is dead and gone.
Republicans still cling to him, even though he is completely irrelevant to anything remotely recognizable when it comes to modern-day America, just like Republican Senator John McCain.
The greatest fear for any of those fine, white gentleman is the terror that consumes them wholly if they win the Republican Party nomination and have to face-off with Hillary Clinton. Her name was out of their mouths more than anything else (and in their political ads, too).
The night's biggest loser was poor old Ronald Reagan, who is dead and gone.
Republicans still cling to him, even though he is completely irrelevant to anything remotely recognizable when it comes to modern-day America, just like Republican Senator John McCain.
Sunday, November 25, 2007
Obama: "I'm trying to be like Bill Clinton," please love me
Bill Clinton was heralded and detested for his confession of having used marijuana in his early life during the 1992 presidential election.
Senator Barack Obama has taken a page from Bill Clinton's book, seemingly, and admitted that as a "young man" he experimented with marijuana. In what must be an attempt to take one step beyond Clinton's confession, he admitted that he inhaled the marijuana smoke, which--according to Obama--"was the point" of smoking dope.
I'm not sure that admitting to smoking dope is the same as saving the rainforest, but I suppose it depends on your personal values.
Senator Barack Obama has taken a page from Bill Clinton's book, seemingly, and admitted that as a "young man" he experimented with marijuana. In what must be an attempt to take one step beyond Clinton's confession, he admitted that he inhaled the marijuana smoke, which--according to Obama--"was the point" of smoking dope.
I'm not sure that admitting to smoking dope is the same as saving the rainforest, but I suppose it depends on your personal values.
When I'm Prime Minister
Nawaz Sharif, who was the former prime minister of Pakistan, has returned. He denied any claims that he has struck a deal with President Pervez Musharaff regarding his return, which comes approximately three years before his imposed ten year exile was scheduled to end.
His Saudi-government plane arrived in Lahore and was greeted by security guards and a mass of well-wishers. Sharif's goal is to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections, which had been scheduled to take place in the next month or so.
Like Bhutto and Sharif, I hope to return from my self-imposed exile from Pakistan and stand for elections and become Pakistan's next prime minister. Of course, I am not from Pakistan, I have never been there, but after watching all the news coverage, it would make little difference. I could probably make the claim and show up at the airport and be greeted by masses of people who want to see me be prime minister yet again!
I love this country.
Media Release:
"After many years of self-imposed exile in the United States, former prime minister, Jackson Leslie, has decided to return to his beloved Pakistan, in spite of fears spurred on by the current government of Pakistan relating to his personal safety. Leslie describes his homecoming as 'bittersweet' and hopes that it will work to decrease tensions in the region. In time for the parliamentary elections, which have currently been suspended by President Pervez Musharraf, he hopes to stand for election and regain the prime ministerial position. Although, the exact time-table for Mr. Leslie's return is not certain, it is expected to occur in the next seven days, at the Lahore airport, and fall on the heels of the homecomings of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif."
His Saudi-government plane arrived in Lahore and was greeted by security guards and a mass of well-wishers. Sharif's goal is to participate in the upcoming parliamentary elections, which had been scheduled to take place in the next month or so.
Like Bhutto and Sharif, I hope to return from my self-imposed exile from Pakistan and stand for elections and become Pakistan's next prime minister. Of course, I am not from Pakistan, I have never been there, but after watching all the news coverage, it would make little difference. I could probably make the claim and show up at the airport and be greeted by masses of people who want to see me be prime minister yet again!
I love this country.
Media Release:
"After many years of self-imposed exile in the United States, former prime minister, Jackson Leslie, has decided to return to his beloved Pakistan, in spite of fears spurred on by the current government of Pakistan relating to his personal safety. Leslie describes his homecoming as 'bittersweet' and hopes that it will work to decrease tensions in the region. In time for the parliamentary elections, which have currently been suspended by President Pervez Musharraf, he hopes to stand for election and regain the prime ministerial position. Although, the exact time-table for Mr. Leslie's return is not certain, it is expected to occur in the next seven days, at the Lahore airport, and fall on the heels of the homecomings of Benazir Bhutto and Nawaz Sharif."
Saturday, November 24, 2007
Sharif will return to Pakistan...again
Former Pakistani prime minister, Nawaz Sharif, will make his second homecoming trip tomorrow.
During his first return trip to Pakistan, he was greeted at the airport by police who placed him on a return flight back to Saudi Arabia, where he has been in exile since 2000. Sharif, who was found guilty of tax evasion and treason, entered into an agreement of ten years of exile in Saudi Arabia.
Sharif's government was overthrown in a bloodless coup in 1999, which was led by current president of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf, who just won approval from the newly installed Pakistani supreme court in regards to his extra-constitutional third term as the country's president and de facto dictator.
The return of Nawaz Sharif will come on the heels of another ex-patriot and former prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, who also returned home to Pakistan from self-imposed exile in Dubai, last month. Since her return, she has been subjected to assassination attempts and home arrest. She hopes to stand for election in the forthcoming Pakistani parliamentary elections. Those elections, however, have been placed on hold since Musharraf imposed martial law and suspended the constitution. Musharraf has made bold plans for this weekend. Included in those plans are his pledge to resign as the chief of the army as he steps into his unprecedented third term as president.
Will Sharif actually make it out of the airport this time? Only time will tell. Maybe his flight will be early and Musharraf will be caught off-guard.
During his first return trip to Pakistan, he was greeted at the airport by police who placed him on a return flight back to Saudi Arabia, where he has been in exile since 2000. Sharif, who was found guilty of tax evasion and treason, entered into an agreement of ten years of exile in Saudi Arabia.
Sharif's government was overthrown in a bloodless coup in 1999, which was led by current president of Pakistan, General Pervez Musharraf, who just won approval from the newly installed Pakistani supreme court in regards to his extra-constitutional third term as the country's president and de facto dictator.
The return of Nawaz Sharif will come on the heels of another ex-patriot and former prime minister, Benazir Bhutto, who also returned home to Pakistan from self-imposed exile in Dubai, last month. Since her return, she has been subjected to assassination attempts and home arrest. She hopes to stand for election in the forthcoming Pakistani parliamentary elections. Those elections, however, have been placed on hold since Musharraf imposed martial law and suspended the constitution. Musharraf has made bold plans for this weekend. Included in those plans are his pledge to resign as the chief of the army as he steps into his unprecedented third term as president.
Will Sharif actually make it out of the airport this time? Only time will tell. Maybe his flight will be early and Musharraf will be caught off-guard.
Australia's New Prime Minister
The Bush loving prime minister of Australia, John Howard, was forced to concede defeat to Kevin Rudd, of the Labor Party, after Saturday's national parliamentary elections.
Will the Queen, however, approve?
Will the Queen, however, approve?
Oral Roberts University President says, "Buh-bye!"
Richard Roberts, the embattled Oral Roberts University president, tenured his resignation to the school's board of regents yesterday.
I am guessing that a back-room deal was hatched to spare him and his family any further investigation and/or prosecution in the matter, which saw multiple misuses of the university's monies. The board of regents may have promised him the presidency again in the future, once the black clouds of the current storm blow away into the sunset, of course.
I am guessing that a back-room deal was hatched to spare him and his family any further investigation and/or prosecution in the matter, which saw multiple misuses of the university's monies. The board of regents may have promised him the presidency again in the future, once the black clouds of the current storm blow away into the sunset, of course.
Time for a deal with the devil
It is possible to convict someone of murder without an actual body, which has been pointed out by a prosecutor in Aruba, who is investigating the Natalie Holloway case. It is possible under English common law, as well, considering you have a mountain of forensic evidence, such as the murder weapon laced with the victim's blood and with the suspect's fingerprints all over it, a videotape showing the actual act, or a credible witness who can testify to such an act.
Even in Aruba, under liberal Dutch law, you cannot do it by pulling it out of your hat, like a rabbit.
The prosecutor's last-best-hope is that one of the suspects turns "state's evidence" against the other two, or at least one.
Even in Aruba, under liberal Dutch law, you cannot do it by pulling it out of your hat, like a rabbit.
The prosecutor's last-best-hope is that one of the suspects turns "state's evidence" against the other two, or at least one.
Friday, November 23, 2007
Holloway Reprisal
What have the prosecutors in Aruba cooked up this time to pin the "death" of American Natalie Holloway on three defendants?
Police have re-arrested the three individuals who were originally held on suspicion of her murder, but they were subsequently released. Of course, we have little knowledge of the evidence that is being presented to the judge in Aruba regarding this seeming cold case.
In an American court, the following evidence is true for any good defense attorney worth his $600/hour fee:
Police have re-arrested the three individuals who were originally held on suspicion of her murder, but they were subsequently released. Of course, we have little knowledge of the evidence that is being presented to the judge in Aruba regarding this seeming cold case.
In an American court, the following evidence is true for any good defense attorney worth his $600/hour fee:
- Natalie Holloway simply abandoned her life. She used her senior trip as a springboard into a new life. Perhaps, she now lives in Venezuela or Brazil. After all, there is no body to prove she is even dead. Furthermore, there is no physical evidence to support foul play on the part of the defendants which links them to the act that led to her alleged death.
But why?
- Perhaps, there was sexual and mental abuse in Natalie's home in Alabama. She feared for her own safety, and in a last ditch effort she abandoned her home.
Even though, Aruba is a Dutch protectorate and litigates under Dutch laws, there is little reason to believe that such a defense would not work there as well.
My Trap
Every year I fall into the same trap, as a teacher. Each new year, I say, "Nope, not this year, I swear to God!" But guess what? It happened yet again.
It's not something that I plan. It's not something that I look forward to at all. They just sort of spring up out of the darkness, like a terminal disease, and then I'm doomed.
I always end up playing favorites among my students, and it makes my job much more difficult. I am usually a very serious person. There is always one student (or two in this case) who just takes up the cause of becoming "teacher's pet" in my classroom.
This is a subject that I never thought about when I was growing up. Of course, you always noticed there were certain students who got away with murder while others got the proverbial gas-chamber for something rather minor.
I never dreamed it would happen to me.
For some reason, they always rely on me a little too much, play my good graces like a professional pianist, and manipulate my ignorance like a convicted felon. In my mind, it is a dark art, because I do not realize what they have done until it is too late; it's like being painted into a corner and the paint dries much too slowly.
Normally, I am like a steel trap. It ruins things for me on a professional level when this happens. I hate to be harsh. And when you finally do get harsh, they always say, "You remember that time you didn't get mad when I did that." Then you sort of back off and they win again.
Luckily, I've never let things get as bad as my first year as a teacher. I had a student who liked to be the boss. He reminded me a lot of myself at that age. I was his "get out of jail free card" for everything grizzly and horrific. When he crossed the line with another teacher or fellow student, he came running to me hoping that I'd bail him out. Being a schmuck, I did.
The other students absolutely abhorred him. They always called him "teacher's pet." I can already see it happening all over again, to a certain degree. They don't seem to mind the seeming stigma of being labeled as a teacher's pet. There must be a deterrent for this type of behavior. The best idea would be to find it before the behavior begins.
I suppose I really must think of a plan to handle this situation! I admit, however, it is not likely to occur.
It's not something that I plan. It's not something that I look forward to at all. They just sort of spring up out of the darkness, like a terminal disease, and then I'm doomed.
I always end up playing favorites among my students, and it makes my job much more difficult. I am usually a very serious person. There is always one student (or two in this case) who just takes up the cause of becoming "teacher's pet" in my classroom.
This is a subject that I never thought about when I was growing up. Of course, you always noticed there were certain students who got away with murder while others got the proverbial gas-chamber for something rather minor.
I never dreamed it would happen to me.
For some reason, they always rely on me a little too much, play my good graces like a professional pianist, and manipulate my ignorance like a convicted felon. In my mind, it is a dark art, because I do not realize what they have done until it is too late; it's like being painted into a corner and the paint dries much too slowly.
Normally, I am like a steel trap. It ruins things for me on a professional level when this happens. I hate to be harsh. And when you finally do get harsh, they always say, "You remember that time you didn't get mad when I did that." Then you sort of back off and they win again.
Luckily, I've never let things get as bad as my first year as a teacher. I had a student who liked to be the boss. He reminded me a lot of myself at that age. I was his "get out of jail free card" for everything grizzly and horrific. When he crossed the line with another teacher or fellow student, he came running to me hoping that I'd bail him out. Being a schmuck, I did.
The other students absolutely abhorred him. They always called him "teacher's pet." I can already see it happening all over again, to a certain degree. They don't seem to mind the seeming stigma of being labeled as a teacher's pet. There must be a deterrent for this type of behavior. The best idea would be to find it before the behavior begins.
I suppose I really must think of a plan to handle this situation! I admit, however, it is not likely to occur.
Is anyone listening?
Fred Thompson attacked Rudy Giuliani's stance on gun control, especially during his tenure as mayor New York City.
I want to know if anyone is listening to Fred Thompson anymore?
I want to know if anyone is listening to Fred Thompson anymore?
The Sharks' Lair
Even though, I thought I had better common sense, I was talked into going out on the busiest shopping day of the year. In a first, I was taken to the last remaining bastion of purely, unadulterated capitalism, Wal-Mart.
Dwight thought it would be fun to see me have a panic attack, apparently. The people were shoulder to shoulder as they moved forward at a snail's crawl. People were everywhere, but mostly they were in my way as I clawed my way past them.
In a strange sense, it was kind of fun to see what lengths people will go to save a buck. In the parking lot, Dwight taught me how to do the Soulja Boy dance. Who knew all the things you can learn on a day of shopping at Wal-Mart?
Dwight thought it would be fun to see me have a panic attack, apparently. The people were shoulder to shoulder as they moved forward at a snail's crawl. People were everywhere, but mostly they were in my way as I clawed my way past them.
In a strange sense, it was kind of fun to see what lengths people will go to save a buck. In the parking lot, Dwight taught me how to do the Soulja Boy dance. Who knew all the things you can learn on a day of shopping at Wal-Mart?
Wednesday, November 21, 2007
Clinton/Obama
Senator Barack Obama has picked up some steam for his presidential campaign in the states of Iowa and New Hampshire. Also, there are a lot of political attacks from the Clinton and Obama campaigns, against each other.
Here's how I see it:
Although, Obama is a lovable person (seemingly), he is not going to connect with many American voters. I hate to say it, but most of those will be in the South. Although, it may sound incredibly racist to concede this point; however, I have been a firm believer--for many, many years--that America will have to accept a white woman as president before a black man can make it. (By the way, that is not my personal opinion of how things are, but rather it is the reality of our country, and I am a pragmatist when the situation warrants.)
Obama accuses Clinton of playing the gender card, but will he play the race card?
At this critical juncture of the impending primary season, if Clinton and Obama do not find a way to settle their differences and focus their campaigns on the issues that Americans want to hear, then they are going to somehow get overtaken by John Edwards in the polls. The voters will concede, "Oh! There is a white-Democrat-man running for president, after all."
I see Edwards standing in the wings grinning as he--and America--watch Clinton and Obama beat each other over the head to be firsts in their respective categories.
It's time to be the bigger person, and step up to the plate.
Here's how I see it:
Although, Obama is a lovable person (seemingly), he is not going to connect with many American voters. I hate to say it, but most of those will be in the South. Although, it may sound incredibly racist to concede this point; however, I have been a firm believer--for many, many years--that America will have to accept a white woman as president before a black man can make it. (By the way, that is not my personal opinion of how things are, but rather it is the reality of our country, and I am a pragmatist when the situation warrants.)
Obama accuses Clinton of playing the gender card, but will he play the race card?
At this critical juncture of the impending primary season, if Clinton and Obama do not find a way to settle their differences and focus their campaigns on the issues that Americans want to hear, then they are going to somehow get overtaken by John Edwards in the polls. The voters will concede, "Oh! There is a white-Democrat-man running for president, after all."
I see Edwards standing in the wings grinning as he--and America--watch Clinton and Obama beat each other over the head to be firsts in their respective categories.
It's time to be the bigger person, and step up to the plate.
D & Me
So, I just had a very weird conversation with my mother about boys.
After my fitful experience a couple of weekends ago, I discovered a new guy, named Dwight.
He is the sweetest thing I have known in a long time. Yes, he is as young as a summertime wine, but he is more mature than me in many ways. (In other words, age is overrated, even if I do like them while they can still locate their high school diplomas.)
Now, back to mother.
Mom asked me, "Do you like boys?"
With my mouth agape, I said, "Why do you ask that?"
"Well, I saw you and that new guy at a shop." (FYI: I didn't see mom there, so I was oblivious.)
I stalled, "So?"
"Usually having your hand on a guy's butt means that you're more than poker buddies."
I almost fainted, but I kept my chin held high, almost certain of the wrath that was about to ensue; however, I was surprised.
"He's the prettiest boy I've seen you with," she went on. "He seems to be a very nice guy."
I am still stunned by this most awkward mom-son conversation!
She is inclined to have him over for Thanksgiving dinner. (YIKES!)
After my fitful experience a couple of weekends ago, I discovered a new guy, named Dwight.
He is the sweetest thing I have known in a long time. Yes, he is as young as a summertime wine, but he is more mature than me in many ways. (In other words, age is overrated, even if I do like them while they can still locate their high school diplomas.)
Now, back to mother.
Mom asked me, "Do you like boys?"
With my mouth agape, I said, "Why do you ask that?"
"Well, I saw you and that new guy at a shop." (FYI: I didn't see mom there, so I was oblivious.)
I stalled, "So?"
"Usually having your hand on a guy's butt means that you're more than poker buddies."
I almost fainted, but I kept my chin held high, almost certain of the wrath that was about to ensue; however, I was surprised.
"He's the prettiest boy I've seen you with," she went on. "He seems to be a very nice guy."
I am still stunned by this most awkward mom-son conversation!
She is inclined to have him over for Thanksgiving dinner. (YIKES!)
Tuesday, November 20, 2007
Stem Cells
The New York Times reports that scientists have unlocked the key to harvesting "stem cells" without destroying human embryos. The process utilizes skin cells, which are reprogrammed by introducing four genes to the genetic code of the skin cell, which renders it a blank slate; thereby, a stem cell.
I hope this pleases ignorant Republicans, even though they might argue that human skin objects to being violated by the donation of a few cells.
This method promises to broaden science toward the search for cures of diseases that have plagued humanity since the beginning of time. It is shameful that almost eight years have been lost due to ignorance among people, like George W. Bush, who see the use of human embryos as murder.
Consider the possibilities of cures and treatments that could have been adapted and identified over this course of lost time. It is just too staggering to fathom!
I hope this pleases ignorant Republicans, even though they might argue that human skin objects to being violated by the donation of a few cells.
This method promises to broaden science toward the search for cures of diseases that have plagued humanity since the beginning of time. It is shameful that almost eight years have been lost due to ignorance among people, like George W. Bush, who see the use of human embryos as murder.
Consider the possibilities of cures and treatments that could have been adapted and identified over this course of lost time. It is just too staggering to fathom!
Sunday, November 18, 2007
Ditch Mitch
Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell (R-KY) is up for re-election in 2008. Many pundits believe that he is unstoppable, even though he has been a firm supporter of George W. Bush over the past six years, which has won him no accolades of late.
In 2002, when McConnell ran for re-election against Lois Combs Weinberg (D), he was in a different political climate. The United States was fighting against the war on terror, Republicans were the good guys, and many Americans were still flying the American flag from 9/11, which was not even a year old.
Since then there has been a drastic change in the political landscape in Kentucky. McConnell, who campaigned hard for fellow Republican U.S. Representative Ernie Fletcher to successfully win the gubernatorial race in 2003, found out that his powers of influence have been blunted more than a bit. This realization came during the most recent gubernatorial race, which saw Ernie Fletcher lose his bid for re-election, even with old Uncle Mitch's dirty money and support.
Although, a Democratic challenger has yet to emerge, McConnell has already begun to release some of his $9 million war chest for political advertisements on television across the state. It is hard to believe that someone who has so much power and influence in Kentucky and Washington would be so hard pressed to begin airing political advertisements against a non-existent challenger.
It is safe to bet, however, that McConnell understands his bid for re-election in 2008, with a Democrat slated to win the White House, will be an uphill battle. Although, I accept the inevitability that he will probably win his campaign, considering he will muster all of his unholy powers to save himself, unlike his good pal, Ernie.
In 2002, when McConnell ran for re-election against Lois Combs Weinberg (D), he was in a different political climate. The United States was fighting against the war on terror, Republicans were the good guys, and many Americans were still flying the American flag from 9/11, which was not even a year old.
Since then there has been a drastic change in the political landscape in Kentucky. McConnell, who campaigned hard for fellow Republican U.S. Representative Ernie Fletcher to successfully win the gubernatorial race in 2003, found out that his powers of influence have been blunted more than a bit. This realization came during the most recent gubernatorial race, which saw Ernie Fletcher lose his bid for re-election, even with old Uncle Mitch's dirty money and support.
Although, a Democratic challenger has yet to emerge, McConnell has already begun to release some of his $9 million war chest for political advertisements on television across the state. It is hard to believe that someone who has so much power and influence in Kentucky and Washington would be so hard pressed to begin airing political advertisements against a non-existent challenger.
It is safe to bet, however, that McConnell understands his bid for re-election in 2008, with a Democrat slated to win the White House, will be an uphill battle. Although, I accept the inevitability that he will probably win his campaign, considering he will muster all of his unholy powers to save himself, unlike his good pal, Ernie.
Saturday, November 17, 2007
Hillary's got appeal
After watching the Las Vegas Democratic debate on Thursday night, I was greatly appreciative of the amount of support the audience gave Senator Clinton.
I couldn't help but smile when Barack Obama and John Edwards were booed and heckled by the audience when they questioned the policies of Senator Clinton.
I believe it translates into one simple premise, which is: American voters are not interested in hearing scare tactics, personal attacks or mud-slinging, which is exactly the basis for the campaigns of Obama and Edwards. They fear Hillary and it shows deeply in their rhetoric.
Instead, let's hear some poignant debate over national issues.
People are not interested in the trivial issues. I want to know that the candidate has the ability to lead the nation onto a starkly different road after eight years of failed Bush policies and political blunders.
Can Hillary do it?
Hell yeah!
I couldn't help but smile when Barack Obama and John Edwards were booed and heckled by the audience when they questioned the policies of Senator Clinton.
I believe it translates into one simple premise, which is: American voters are not interested in hearing scare tactics, personal attacks or mud-slinging, which is exactly the basis for the campaigns of Obama and Edwards. They fear Hillary and it shows deeply in their rhetoric.
Instead, let's hear some poignant debate over national issues.
People are not interested in the trivial issues. I want to know that the candidate has the ability to lead the nation onto a starkly different road after eight years of failed Bush policies and political blunders.
Can Hillary do it?
Hell yeah!
Make-Believe Justice
A Saudi court condemned the victim of a gang rape to six months in prison and ninety lashes (originally it was six months in prison and 200 lashes). The rapists won an appeal, which came with a sentence of ten months to five years in prison.
The rape victim's attorney stated that under fatwa, or laws based on the Qu'ran, the rapists should have received a death sentence.
I have no respect for a country's laws, which come with a footnote attached citing a religious text as its authority.
It's despicable and unfathomable in a modern world.
The rape victim's attorney stated that under fatwa, or laws based on the Qu'ran, the rapists should have received a death sentence.
I have no respect for a country's laws, which come with a footnote attached citing a religious text as its authority.
It's despicable and unfathomable in a modern world.
Thursday, November 15, 2007
Snow
It snowed today; well, sort of.
I do love the snow! So I hope it comes back soon with vengeance.
I do love the snow! So I hope it comes back soon with vengeance.
Wednesday, November 14, 2007
Red State Update: "Wax Museum of Failure"
This video for the YouTube Republican Debate is too funny. I love the "wax museum of failure" line. That is just too much!
Red State Update: It's basic Reaganomics!
Mirror, mirror on the wall, who is the most like Reagan of us all?
Monday, November 12, 2007
Obama Fire?
The media seems to think Barack Obama has the energy now to take on Hillary Clinton for the Democratic Party nomination.
Psht! Whatever.
Psht! Whatever.
Preserve & Protect
A federal judge has ordered that White House staff must preserve and protect all electronic mail (e-mail) that orginate from or are received by the White House.
Despite the fact that the Federal Records Act prohibits the destruction of government documents, which are federal property, including e-mails, the White House has come up short in accounting for five million e-mail messages. (That's a lot of poor records keeping! Perhaps, Bush borrowed the Enron shredders.)
This judicial order stems from two lawsuits currently before the courts regarding the destruction, or mishandling, of the infamously misplaced e-mails.
Despite the fact that the Federal Records Act prohibits the destruction of government documents, which are federal property, including e-mails, the White House has come up short in accounting for five million e-mail messages. (That's a lot of poor records keeping! Perhaps, Bush borrowed the Enron shredders.)
This judicial order stems from two lawsuits currently before the courts regarding the destruction, or mishandling, of the infamously misplaced e-mails.
"Apologize"
A friend told me that the song "Apologize," by OneRepublic, was written just for me by a former boyfriend. Apparently, I am a sadistic force in the lives of those around me. I admit that I am toxic in a relationship. I start off strong, but then it just falls apart. I am a very loving, giving individual, in the beginning. Sometimes those around me try too hard to please, which I can find as a turn-off, but at the same time erotic. I suppose I am one of those guys who gets bored in a relationship and moves on after a while. Maybe that is my curse. Also, the same friend tells me that I should try dating older guys, instead of the young ones I love so much. I appreciate their unpredictability and youthfulness. I'll always have a younger man at my side. I'll be 86 with a 22-year-old beautiful boy on my arm. Who cares if it is strictly a financial arrangement? That's okay with me. What marriage isn't, after all? I'll leave everything to my little gold digger! He'll have earned it.
(And, yes, I do apologize a lot!)
I'm holding on your rope,
Got me ten feet off the ground
I'm hearing what you say, but I just can't make a sound
You tell me that you need me
Then you go and cut me down, but wait
You tell me that you're sorry
Didn't think I'd turn around, and say
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
I'd take another chance, take a fall
Take a shot for you
And I need you like a heart needs a beat
But it's nothing new,
I loved you with a fire red
Now it's turning blue, and you say
"Sorry" like the angel heaven let me think was you
But I'm afraid
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
It's too late to apologize, yeah
I said it's too late to apologize, yeah
I'm holding on your rope, got me ten feet off the ground
(And, yes, I do apologize a lot!)
I'm holding on your rope,
Got me ten feet off the ground
I'm hearing what you say, but I just can't make a sound
You tell me that you need me
Then you go and cut me down, but wait
You tell me that you're sorry
Didn't think I'd turn around, and say
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
I'd take another chance, take a fall
Take a shot for you
And I need you like a heart needs a beat
But it's nothing new,
I loved you with a fire red
Now it's turning blue, and you say
"Sorry" like the angel heaven let me think was you
But I'm afraid
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
It's too late to apologize, it's too late
I said it's too late to apologize, it's too late
It's too late to apologize, yeah
I said it's too late to apologize, yeah
I'm holding on your rope, got me ten feet off the ground
Veterans Day
When I think of soldiers risking their lives on the battlefield for a failed international policy (i.e., George W. Bush), I seldom envision a soldier who is young.
Today, at my school, I hosted a soldier, from the National Guard, who spoke to various social studies classes about Veterans Day. What struck me most was that someone who is supposed to be tough has braces on his teeth. I couldn't help but laugh a little to myself about it, but he was cute anyhow.
I wonder if he spent a year in Iraq with braces? (That's the one question that I never asked him, but I really wanted to ask.)
What also struck me was how upbeat he was about the Bush policies relating to Iraq. He refused to accept that Iraq is a nation in chaos. Instead, he stated that the media sensationalizes the things that happen there. (Of that I have no doubt.) He said that he believed that many things, from his perspective, are going quite well with the war. (It's hard to debate someone without firsthand knowledge, but that didn't stop me).
Today, at my school, I hosted a soldier, from the National Guard, who spoke to various social studies classes about Veterans Day. What struck me most was that someone who is supposed to be tough has braces on his teeth. I couldn't help but laugh a little to myself about it, but he was cute anyhow.
I wonder if he spent a year in Iraq with braces? (That's the one question that I never asked him, but I really wanted to ask.)
What also struck me was how upbeat he was about the Bush policies relating to Iraq. He refused to accept that Iraq is a nation in chaos. Instead, he stated that the media sensationalizes the things that happen there. (Of that I have no doubt.) He said that he believed that many things, from his perspective, are going quite well with the war. (It's hard to debate someone without firsthand knowledge, but that didn't stop me).
Saturday, November 10, 2007
Twist
This evening I spent in a rather peculiar manner.
I got into my car and just started to drive. While I was driving, I ended up at some interesting places (or so I think). It is amazing what unfettered melancholy will do to an individual. The air was so cold, but I drove with all the windows down. I felt as if my whole body was numb from the dark, icy air that moved around me, but it made me feel strangely warm on the inside. I smiled, as if what I was doing was naughty.
I got into my car and just started to drive. While I was driving, I ended up at some interesting places (or so I think). It is amazing what unfettered melancholy will do to an individual. The air was so cold, but I drove with all the windows down. I felt as if my whole body was numb from the dark, icy air that moved around me, but it made me feel strangely warm on the inside. I smiled, as if what I was doing was naughty.
I found myself at the bank, firstly. I parked in the private, covered garage. It was so eerie. I had never been there so late while being alone. The somber lighting created strange shadows along the walls and floor as I walked. I took the elevator to the third floor where the board room is located. I sat in the darkness with only the light from the hallway permeating through the ajar doors. I found myself in tears. I cried so hard. Then I noticed the portraits that hang around the room's perimeter. They were strangely watching me, I could feel them. Many of their eyes reminded me of my own.
I still don't know why I was there. I just was.
The next place is the strangest of all. I left the bank and headed out of the city. I found myself driving on a narrow road that leads through low rolling hills which are only a mile--or so--from the Ohio River. Setting on a secluded hill rose the marble mausoleum that houses so many of my family's dearly departed. It was flanked by an incandescent orange glow that hung heavy in the cold night. It was almost as if I were looking through the eyes of ghosts as I neared. I'm not sure if I felt a cold chill rise along my spine, considering a cold wind was whipping around my body through the open windows of my car. Knowing where the key is hidden, I easily opened the tall vault-like doors and peered inside. I turned on the overhead lights and noticed the final resting places of my dead family members, which line the walls behind sealed concrete and capped with marble. I sat calmly on the large bench that stands in the middle of the room.
I asked them audibly if they were proud of what I had become. Of course, the dead are great listeners, but seldom offer tangible advice. They never interrupt, however, which I appreciate. I wanted to know if I was a product of their collective genetic flaws, or should I look somewhere else for my unhappiness. I stayed there for who knows how long. It seemed quite peaceful, though--almost like Romeo and Juliet. I was surrounded, after all, by the bones of my kin.
(I hope I locked the doors when I left. I hate to think any of them got carried away in the night.)
Next, I drove toward the city. I found myself driving slowly down a familiar street, which took me past my parents' house. It sat eerily dark in the distant shadows. I know they were home, or so I think. I quickly saw the lake's surface shimmering in the lights that dot the property. I almost decided to drive to it, but I decided against it, as the gate would alert them someone was on the property. I'm not convinced that my emotional situation stems from those bones in the graveyard or from the warm bodies behind those high walls.
My parents never taught me how to love. They taught me dependence, instead; I think. I depend on them far too much. In many ways, I am still a small boy, who calls out to his mother in any harrowing situation. My father is a man whose real family is his work. He never took me to do the things that a father does with his sons. He never taught me to play catch (not that I like sports). He never taught me how to drive even. My mother compensated for it, I believe, in her own way. She dotes on me, and my brothers, but mostly me. I was my mom's confidante, and I still am, as I grew up. She tells me things she would never tell another living soul. I got everything I could ever want, except my father's deepest approval, from her. I guess moms can't do everything. Even though, my parents have been married for over thirty years, I am not sure I was taught the lessons which lead to a meaningful, healthy relationship.
Finally, I returned home. How do I feel now?
Surprisingly, I feel quite better--almost at ease. My stomach is calm. My mind is at peace. All-in-all, I think it was a very sobering drive. (I should do it more often.)
My Depression
It has become blatantly clear to me, in recent days, how unfulfilled my life has become. It starts as an ache in the pit of my stomach and works its way throughout my body. It is a numbness, a terminal disease that consumes me completely. My mind feels as if it is on fire, but I am so far detached I barely notice it, yet it obsesses me.
I just sent an e-mail to someone from my past lamenting on the fact of how little meaning my life has. I see people with families of their own, but not me. To an outsider, I have everything a person could possibly want. It is merely material wealth, however. They are the "toys" that I buy to dull the pain that ebbs and flows inside of me. On the inside, I am a ticking time bomb that is waiting to explode, but hopefully not loudly enough for another living soul to notice.
I get this way occasionally. I sob and quietly complain, then it sort of goes into remission. I see all the potential I have, and it only makes the weight in my soul that much heavier to bear. The category of love has always eluded me the most. I want a home that I share with someone who I love. That single person who completes me somehow. Instead, I come home to emptiness and shadows. I live pretty much the way you might expect a monk in a monastery to live.
I am a nun who gets none. It is chronic.
Even now, it consumes me, eating away at my insides. My tears flow freely now, as I think of the failures of my past. You would think that something like love is free and plentiful, but for me it is meager and elusive. I fear one day that I will find myself completely alone and isolated from the rest of the world. I will be an old man who never found the true meaning of life. I will have sailed aimlessly through the void and crashed into the rocks hidden barely beneath the surface. I will have sank and drowned, and no will have been there to save me, or even notice I am gone.
I envy those people who have found love. Honestly, I deplore them. I tighten my jaw and feel the blood rising in my neck. It keeps getting hotter and hotter until I am left breathless in fury and self-loathing. I want to scream at the top of my lungs, but I contain myself.
What has brought about this level of depression and malevolence?
Recently, I have been reading these fantasy romance books. Yeah, it sounds corny, but I enjoy them, even if they leave me in a saddened stupor. Some people have so much love they find it hard to utilize. They are bombarded with warm hands and eyes that look at only them. I haven't seen those eyes or felt those hands in so many years now. I always force myself into a false sense of belief that those feelings are not for me. There is still a part of me--a large part--that yearns for a carnal dose of humanity.
Even now, I feel cold chills run along my spin. I go back into my mind and realize that there is only silence in this house. I am its only occupant, a prisoner of circumstance. They say there is someone for everyone. I haven't found that person yet. Perhaps, I am special. Maybe those other people simply settled for someone who isn't their special someone. I am looking, but not really holding out much hope for him.
Mostly I am stoic, but today I am cynical; it hurts.
I just sent an e-mail to someone from my past lamenting on the fact of how little meaning my life has. I see people with families of their own, but not me. To an outsider, I have everything a person could possibly want. It is merely material wealth, however. They are the "toys" that I buy to dull the pain that ebbs and flows inside of me. On the inside, I am a ticking time bomb that is waiting to explode, but hopefully not loudly enough for another living soul to notice.
I get this way occasionally. I sob and quietly complain, then it sort of goes into remission. I see all the potential I have, and it only makes the weight in my soul that much heavier to bear. The category of love has always eluded me the most. I want a home that I share with someone who I love. That single person who completes me somehow. Instead, I come home to emptiness and shadows. I live pretty much the way you might expect a monk in a monastery to live.
I am a nun who gets none. It is chronic.
Even now, it consumes me, eating away at my insides. My tears flow freely now, as I think of the failures of my past. You would think that something like love is free and plentiful, but for me it is meager and elusive. I fear one day that I will find myself completely alone and isolated from the rest of the world. I will be an old man who never found the true meaning of life. I will have sailed aimlessly through the void and crashed into the rocks hidden barely beneath the surface. I will have sank and drowned, and no will have been there to save me, or even notice I am gone.
I envy those people who have found love. Honestly, I deplore them. I tighten my jaw and feel the blood rising in my neck. It keeps getting hotter and hotter until I am left breathless in fury and self-loathing. I want to scream at the top of my lungs, but I contain myself.
What has brought about this level of depression and malevolence?
Recently, I have been reading these fantasy romance books. Yeah, it sounds corny, but I enjoy them, even if they leave me in a saddened stupor. Some people have so much love they find it hard to utilize. They are bombarded with warm hands and eyes that look at only them. I haven't seen those eyes or felt those hands in so many years now. I always force myself into a false sense of belief that those feelings are not for me. There is still a part of me--a large part--that yearns for a carnal dose of humanity.
Even now, I feel cold chills run along my spin. I go back into my mind and realize that there is only silence in this house. I am its only occupant, a prisoner of circumstance. They say there is someone for everyone. I haven't found that person yet. Perhaps, I am special. Maybe those other people simply settled for someone who isn't their special someone. I am looking, but not really holding out much hope for him.
Mostly I am stoic, but today I am cynical; it hurts.
Friday, November 09, 2007
Bhutto detained, then released
Former prime minister of Pakistan, Benazir Bhutto, was detained at her home in Islambad, after the government decided she had no business attending a demonstration.
Bhutto attempted to pursuade the soldiers guarding her to give her free pass from her home, but they refused her request. Washington called on General Musharraf to grant Bhutto release from house arrest, which included other members of her Pakistan People's Party (PPP).
After a day long showdown, Bhutto was finally permitted to leave her home.
Since the institution of martial law, Bhutto has been permitted to only meet with selected members of the PPP at her home.
Bhutto attempted to pursuade the soldiers guarding her to give her free pass from her home, but they refused her request. Washington called on General Musharraf to grant Bhutto release from house arrest, which included other members of her Pakistan People's Party (PPP).
After a day long showdown, Bhutto was finally permitted to leave her home.
Since the institution of martial law, Bhutto has been permitted to only meet with selected members of the PPP at her home.
Mukasey sworn
Former federal judge, Michael Mukasey, became the eighty-first attorney-general of the United States today, after winning confirmation from the United States Senate only hours earlier.
How long until Bush retires? Just a bit over a year! Ugh!
How long until Bush retires? Just a bit over a year! Ugh!
"Twilight"
A few years back, I wrote a poem called, "Twilight Asunder." Little did I realize that this poem would be a bit of a self-fulfilling prophesy for me.
You see, I fell in love with a vampire. Yes, it's true.
Twilight, by Stephanie Meyer, is a book based on the love of a vampire by a teenage girl. It's not the typical Brom Stoker Dracula imagery that many times the word "vampire" conjures up in our over-active imaginations.
Edward, the vampire, is a person perpetually stuck at the age of 17 (you'll have to read the book to find out why). Edward is a perfect, yet flawed, individual. He is stunning physically, while he is tender, aloof and charismatic emotionally. (He knocks your socks off while making your knees buckle, but don't worry, he'll catch you in his strong arms.)
What are vampires, anyhow, but symbolism for gay men who repress their sexuality, but it only comes out more pronounced, as a result, it drives straight women wild?
That's who Edward is.
Poor Edward has spent most of the twentieth century looking for his "soulmate." He spends his time "looking" and "experimenting" with the idea of heterosexual love, but it is seemingly unsuccessful. It doesn't fulfill him. As a result, he has spent most of his "life" looking in the wrong place for that special person who will complete him.
Bella, the girl, is deeply in love with Edward. She has never seen anyone quite like him in her life, or her dreams. He makes her heart stop, while causing her body temperature to rise to a sexual crescendo that is brought to a screeching halt because he just can't seem to make it past first base, even though he really wants to make it (yeah, right!). I have to admit that he brought my heart to a stop on several occasions, simply by reading the book.
Her lust for him is haphazard, but real; however, I am not sure it can ever be returned to her in the way she wants or needs.
Although, he cares for her on a very deep level, his inability to satisfy her "human" needs is telling. He protects her and spends every waking hour with her. He is Bella's confidante, simply. (That sounds familiar.) He is the perfect man, in other words. (How many times have I heard that from the ladies? Oh, about a hundred times. Mostly straight women do not get the fact that gay men are their best friends, but they want that sexual element, also, which will rarely happen.)
Edward is a painful creature. He is everything I could ever want in a "mate." He is beautiful, attentive, courageous, sensual and a very good dresser. (Did I mention he's beautiful?) His aloof mannerisms are the fabric from which my very core is woven. There were parts where I had goose-flesh, because I saw myself in Bella's place (I enjoy living vicariously).
Last night, instead of being afraid of vampires, I wished secretly that one, like Edward, would come take me away. I closed my eyes and listened to the sound of the night. I have found a new understanding of the meaning of "twilight" time. It has a sexual connotation that is beyond the sins of the flesh. It is the place where Edward and his kind live perpetually.
You see, I fell in love with a vampire. Yes, it's true.
Twilight, by Stephanie Meyer, is a book based on the love of a vampire by a teenage girl. It's not the typical Brom Stoker Dracula imagery that many times the word "vampire" conjures up in our over-active imaginations.
Edward, the vampire, is a person perpetually stuck at the age of 17 (you'll have to read the book to find out why). Edward is a perfect, yet flawed, individual. He is stunning physically, while he is tender, aloof and charismatic emotionally. (He knocks your socks off while making your knees buckle, but don't worry, he'll catch you in his strong arms.)
What are vampires, anyhow, but symbolism for gay men who repress their sexuality, but it only comes out more pronounced, as a result, it drives straight women wild?
That's who Edward is.
Poor Edward has spent most of the twentieth century looking for his "soulmate." He spends his time "looking" and "experimenting" with the idea of heterosexual love, but it is seemingly unsuccessful. It doesn't fulfill him. As a result, he has spent most of his "life" looking in the wrong place for that special person who will complete him.
Bella, the girl, is deeply in love with Edward. She has never seen anyone quite like him in her life, or her dreams. He makes her heart stop, while causing her body temperature to rise to a sexual crescendo that is brought to a screeching halt because he just can't seem to make it past first base, even though he really wants to make it (yeah, right!). I have to admit that he brought my heart to a stop on several occasions, simply by reading the book.
Her lust for him is haphazard, but real; however, I am not sure it can ever be returned to her in the way she wants or needs.
Although, he cares for her on a very deep level, his inability to satisfy her "human" needs is telling. He protects her and spends every waking hour with her. He is Bella's confidante, simply. (That sounds familiar.) He is the perfect man, in other words. (How many times have I heard that from the ladies? Oh, about a hundred times. Mostly straight women do not get the fact that gay men are their best friends, but they want that sexual element, also, which will rarely happen.)
Edward is a painful creature. He is everything I could ever want in a "mate." He is beautiful, attentive, courageous, sensual and a very good dresser. (Did I mention he's beautiful?) His aloof mannerisms are the fabric from which my very core is woven. There were parts where I had goose-flesh, because I saw myself in Bella's place (I enjoy living vicariously).
Last night, instead of being afraid of vampires, I wished secretly that one, like Edward, would come take me away. I closed my eyes and listened to the sound of the night. I have found a new understanding of the meaning of "twilight" time. It has a sexual connotation that is beyond the sins of the flesh. It is the place where Edward and his kind live perpetually.
Tuesday, November 06, 2007
AP: Kentucky Governor loses bid for second term
From The Associated Press
"Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher, a Republican whose lone term was dogged by a hiring scandal, lost badly Tuesday despite an election-eve effort to woo conservative voters by displaying the Ten Commandments in the state Capitol.
"Democratic challenger Steve Beshear, a former attorney general and lieutenant governor, pulled off a political comeback 20 years after last holding office.
"With 71 percent of precincts reporting, Beshear had 431,566 votes, or 60 percent, to Fletcher's 285,297 votes, or 40 percent.
"Beshear reminded voters at every opportunity of accusations that Fletcher directed the hiring of political allies for jobs protected by the state's merit system.
"He also made religion a centerpiece of his campaign, citing his religious upbringing and running television ads showing him in front of a church in western Kentucky.
"On Monday, Fletcher ordered that the Ten Commandments be displayed alongside other historical documents in the state Capitol, after a federal judge ruled that a previous injunction in a separate court case did not apply to the display.
"Fletcher, the state's first GOP governor in more than 30 years, was indicted on misdemeanor charges that were later dismissed in a negotiated deal after a judge said he could not be tried in office. But the grand jury later issued its findings, saying Fletcher had approved a "widespread and coordinated plan" to skirt state hiring laws."
"Kentucky Gov. Ernie Fletcher, a Republican whose lone term was dogged by a hiring scandal, lost badly Tuesday despite an election-eve effort to woo conservative voters by displaying the Ten Commandments in the state Capitol.
"Democratic challenger Steve Beshear, a former attorney general and lieutenant governor, pulled off a political comeback 20 years after last holding office.
"With 71 percent of precincts reporting, Beshear had 431,566 votes, or 60 percent, to Fletcher's 285,297 votes, or 40 percent.
"Beshear reminded voters at every opportunity of accusations that Fletcher directed the hiring of political allies for jobs protected by the state's merit system.
"He also made religion a centerpiece of his campaign, citing his religious upbringing and running television ads showing him in front of a church in western Kentucky.
"On Monday, Fletcher ordered that the Ten Commandments be displayed alongside other historical documents in the state Capitol, after a federal judge ruled that a previous injunction in a separate court case did not apply to the display.
"Fletcher, the state's first GOP governor in more than 30 years, was indicted on misdemeanor charges that were later dismissed in a negotiated deal after a judge said he could not be tried in office. But the grand jury later issued its findings, saying Fletcher had approved a "widespread and coordinated plan" to skirt state hiring laws."
Other Kentucky Elections
It would seem that the Kentucky electorate is splitting a bit between the political parties. Although, Democrats have won most state offices, there are two that remain in Republican hands. Those are the offices of Secretary of State and Commissioner of Agriculture.
The one I want to comment on most is the office of Commissioner of Agriculture. Currently, this office is held by Richie Farmer. Farmer's singular claim to fame is that once upon a time he was a star player for the University of Kentucky's basketball program.
That's a great qualification, right?
Apparently, that is enough to get you a state office. I wonder if they would even be willing to look at his real qualifications? Luckily this office is minimal; otherwise, I'd be really upset about it.
_________________________________________________
Governor's Race:
With all of Kentucky's 120 counties' precincts reporting, except forty of them, Beshear's victory is at 60%.
The one I want to comment on most is the office of Commissioner of Agriculture. Currently, this office is held by Richie Farmer. Farmer's singular claim to fame is that once upon a time he was a star player for the University of Kentucky's basketball program.
That's a great qualification, right?
Apparently, that is enough to get you a state office. I wonder if they would even be willing to look at his real qualifications? Luckily this office is minimal; otherwise, I'd be really upset about it.
_________________________________________________
Governor's Race:
With all of Kentucky's 120 counties' precincts reporting, except forty of them, Beshear's victory is at 60%.
Kentucky Governor's Race: Update
With 68% of the precincts reporting, Beshear is still ahead by about 24-points (62%-38%).
Fletcher is being obstinate.
Fletcher is being obstinate.
Kentucky Governor's Race
With all of the state's precincts now closed, and over 33% of them having reported their results, Democratic challenger, Steve Beshear, has over 62% of the vote.
This is coming primarily out of eastern and central Kentucky, since the western part of the state, located in Central Standard Time, has only recently closed. Of course, this part of the state is heavily Democratic.
Governor Fletcher may wait until fifty-percent of the vote is reported before he gives his concession speech.
It is a good day!
This is coming primarily out of eastern and central Kentucky, since the western part of the state, located in Central Standard Time, has only recently closed. Of course, this part of the state is heavily Democratic.
Governor Fletcher may wait until fifty-percent of the vote is reported before he gives his concession speech.
It is a good day!
Mukasey is carbon copy of Gonzales
Nominee for attorney general, Michael Mukasey, is a carbon copy of former Attorney General Alberto Gonzales.
Mukasey is simply going forward with the work that Gonzales started, under the tutelage of George W. Bush. In all honesty, if Bush was going to find a clone of his former attorney general, then why push for his resignation?
As always, Bush thinks that Americans are pretty dumb when it comes to politics. He believes that he can simply change the mask on his policies and no one will be wiser as to what he has done.
Think again!
In another disgusting move, it appears as if the Senate Judiciary Committee is going to send Mukasey's nomination to the floor of the Senate for a vote. I have no idea why Democrats on the Judiciary Committee would vote for Mukasey. I believe the majority of Americans, in 2006, voted to send Democrats to Congress in hopes that they would act as Bush's Dr. Jekyll, or alter-ego. Instead, like the Republican-majority before them, they seem to piss themselves when he calls for their support.
Mukasey is simply going forward with the work that Gonzales started, under the tutelage of George W. Bush. In all honesty, if Bush was going to find a clone of his former attorney general, then why push for his resignation?
As always, Bush thinks that Americans are pretty dumb when it comes to politics. He believes that he can simply change the mask on his policies and no one will be wiser as to what he has done.
Think again!
In another disgusting move, it appears as if the Senate Judiciary Committee is going to send Mukasey's nomination to the floor of the Senate for a vote. I have no idea why Democrats on the Judiciary Committee would vote for Mukasey. I believe the majority of Americans, in 2006, voted to send Democrats to Congress in hopes that they would act as Bush's Dr. Jekyll, or alter-ego. Instead, like the Republican-majority before them, they seem to piss themselves when he calls for their support.
Monday, November 05, 2007
Election Eve
Tomorrow, Kentucky will elect new leadership. It will remove the shackles which have limited progressive growth of businesses and turned back the clock on many social issues.
Despite Ernie Fletcher's hate for casino gambling and abhorrence of homosexuals, he will not succeed in receiving a second term as governor from the voters of Kentucky. Finally, Frankfort will be purged of the monstrous Mitch McConnell political machine. It will be like the air after a brief, hard summertime thunderstorm; it'll be sweet, calm, and peaceful.
As I write this blog, I am preparing to fly, with other members of my family, to Southeastern Kentucky, where we will campaign in the heavily Republican area for Democrats. Southeastern Kentucky holds a rather special place in our hearts, as it is our home, and the people their have a special place in their hearts, too, for my family. Republicans overwhelmingly voted to send my grandfather, who was a Democrat, to the Governor's Mansion. We hope that they will elect another Democrat to do the same important work my grandfather did.
Despite Ernie Fletcher's hate for casino gambling and abhorrence of homosexuals, he will not succeed in receiving a second term as governor from the voters of Kentucky. Finally, Frankfort will be purged of the monstrous Mitch McConnell political machine. It will be like the air after a brief, hard summertime thunderstorm; it'll be sweet, calm, and peaceful.
As I write this blog, I am preparing to fly, with other members of my family, to Southeastern Kentucky, where we will campaign in the heavily Republican area for Democrats. Southeastern Kentucky holds a rather special place in our hearts, as it is our home, and the people their have a special place in their hearts, too, for my family. Republicans overwhelmingly voted to send my grandfather, who was a Democrat, to the Governor's Mansion. We hope that they will elect another Democrat to do the same important work my grandfather did.
Bush: "It ain't easy"
Pervez Musharraf has created a bit of a dilemma for the Bush administration. It has even forced George W. Bush to deliver a rather strongly worded statement, which colloquially including the word "ain't."
The Bush administration is pushing for Musharraf to "take off his [military] uniform." Also, they believe that the elections scheduled for January 2008 must continue as schedule, or suffer irrevocable harm.
On this single issue--and this issue only--I find myself agreeing with George W. Bush.
I understand that General Pervez Musharraf is a third rate hack with a pretty good gig, and he doesn't want to give it up so easily. He is afraid of what the Supreme Court of Pakistan is/was going to say about his re-election to a third term, which flies in the face of the nation's constitution.
What is the breaking point of this tentative situation?
Instead of creating a permanency for his position, he will, instead, alienate Pakistan from the British Commonwealth to a greater degree. The United States, also, is working on limiting the amount of aid it sends to the country. He will create fear and animosity among Pakistan's citizens toward their government. They must now decide whether to fight for the rule of law or unconditionally accept a dictator's tantrum, which selfishly impedes their liberties and rights. Perhaps, General Musharraf should do what is best for his country. He should let the country return to civil rule. True democracy is the ability to accept failure and rejection from the people who you serve, as well as their love and admiration. Democracy isn't about winning an election and then setting yourself up for indefinite rule. Even George W. Bush must accept the finite solvency of his term as president.
The moral of this lesson is one person cannot supersede the will of the people, or the constitution; it just "ain't" right.
The Bush administration is pushing for Musharraf to "take off his [military] uniform." Also, they believe that the elections scheduled for January 2008 must continue as schedule, or suffer irrevocable harm.
On this single issue--and this issue only--I find myself agreeing with George W. Bush.
I understand that General Pervez Musharraf is a third rate hack with a pretty good gig, and he doesn't want to give it up so easily. He is afraid of what the Supreme Court of Pakistan is/was going to say about his re-election to a third term, which flies in the face of the nation's constitution.
What is the breaking point of this tentative situation?
Instead of creating a permanency for his position, he will, instead, alienate Pakistan from the British Commonwealth to a greater degree. The United States, also, is working on limiting the amount of aid it sends to the country. He will create fear and animosity among Pakistan's citizens toward their government. They must now decide whether to fight for the rule of law or unconditionally accept a dictator's tantrum, which selfishly impedes their liberties and rights. Perhaps, General Musharraf should do what is best for his country. He should let the country return to civil rule. True democracy is the ability to accept failure and rejection from the people who you serve, as well as their love and admiration. Democracy isn't about winning an election and then setting yourself up for indefinite rule. Even George W. Bush must accept the finite solvency of his term as president.
The moral of this lesson is one person cannot supersede the will of the people, or the constitution; it just "ain't" right.
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