But not this one.
There are ten words and terms that Muslims do not want to hear: The Clash of Civilizations, Secular, Assimilation, Reformation, Jihadi, Moderate, Interfaith, Freedom, Religious Freedom and Tolerance.
This is a bit rich coming from a largely secularised culture which demands the Catholic Church change but I digress. Islam has presented itself largely as a culture resistant to change, rigid in its interpretations and violent in its actions and words. This is not to suggest all Muslims are violent. However, considering the demands of Muslims within Western countries and places like Pakistan, the failure or unwillingness to discuss these terms point to one thing: that Islamic fundamentalism is an impediment- a very negative one- to a culture many of us know and enjoy.
The Clash of Civilizations: how could one better phrase this? When women are wearing burqas while other women have a more "liberal" form of dress, that is a clash. These women have set themselves apart from the predominant culture to appease a misogynist rule.
Secular: In countries where heterogeneous populations have cultural, linguistic and religious differences, the "live and let live" attitude of no state religion has by and large worked, even if some bristle at it. After all, Christians have had to adapt to things they find unamenable. Should they be alone in this adaptation?
Assimilation: not of the Borg kind but of the "blending into your surroundings" kind. People who deliberately set themselves apart will always be an outsider. They will never have a linguistic, cultural or communal union because they don't want to. Inevitably, children of immigrants will pull apart from the cultural leanings of their parents or grandparents. Why stop what is going to happen anyway?
Reformation: if kernels of goodness exist in Islam, then let a reforming of its more rigid standards must happen. This can only occur within the Islamic world.
Jihadi: a Jihadi is "a holy warrior". Despite the efforts of the Islamic PR groups, the West has yet to see how a Jihadi struggles internally, not externally through violence. It is in the Koran to lash against its enemies and not in a spiritual way.
Moderate: again, reformation must come from within the Islamic world. A moderate, less violent and less rigid approach to matters eases tensions in the community at large. One can disapprove without lobbing a fire bomb.
Interfaith: I, too, have problems with interfaith dialogues but only on a theological level. If nothing else, we can be civil, using whatever common ground other religions and groups may have for the betterment of the community at large. If the Muslim community wants benefits only for them, that is selfish. Why should other "interfaith" groups appease them but the Muslims do nothing in return?
Freedom: free will determines what we do and who we are. If Islam is based on the absence of free will then it points to fearing God rather than loving Him with one's whole heart. If one stays on the straight and narrow path because they fear physical violence where is the altruism?
Religious Freedom: this allows Muslims and everyone else to live in Western countries unhindered. Is Mass celebrated in Saudi Arabia? Christmas? Is there violence between Sunni and Shiite Muslims in Vancouver? Perhaps I've been away too long but I've never heard of suicide bombings in Canada.
Tolerance: again, tolerance exists because we allow differences not because we halt one for another. Not everyone observes Ramadan just as not everyone observes Lent. I wouldn't remind non-Catholics to fast from red meat but I have observe Ramadan because of one person? I don't think so.
The failure to accept these terms as a part of ongoing dialogue (as if we need that because adults should know the proper way to treat people in the first place) means that some people want something for nothing. This is unacceptable.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
I've Got Even More Mail!
I don't think these posters are the offending Anonymous but they were good enough to leave their thoughts which I will gladly share unedited.
The first:
I know why Earth Hour is popular. Enviro-celebrities like Al Gore (whose 9,000 square foot home is hardly the beacon of simplicity and ecological good sense) tell people that this hour is a way to help the environment by reducing energy and (I suppose to make it more plausible) to bring awareness of environmental problems. This one hour is meant to mollify masses whose daily practices are less than "green" and this will make them feel good about themselves. Once a year, they can do something which they have been made to believe is environmentally sound and they then cannot care for the rest of the year. That's not raising awareness; that putting a pacifier in a baby's mouth.
Turning off the lights for one hour and then turning them back on really is childish. The typical incandescent light bulb (the newer, "greener" light bulbs contain mercury which is dangerous to you) is a 60 watt bulb. It takes a 300 watt surge to turn on the light for just a 60 watt bulb. Leaving that one light on would allow the energy intake to go to 60 watts, instead of a whopping 300 watts. Turning the lights on and off repeatedly also diminishes the life of the bulb, making it less effective and eventually causing it to burn out. People should be measuring the lumens (light output) that a light bulb gives. Fluorescent light bulbs light up due to the phosphorus in the lining of the bulb. It takes a while to heat up to a desired light output. The phosphorus eventually diminishes over time, making it less fluorescent. In short, the act of repeatedly turning on a light bulb is more energy-consuming than leaving it on for however long you need it.
As you say, Anonymous #1, "as if one hour can possibly make a difference". You're right. As I said before, people will be lulled into a false sense of altruism, an altruism that is not founded in fact. Wouldn't it be better to calmly explain to people how to not waste their resources than to tell them this one hour of sitting in the darkness is empowering (not the energy kind, mind you)? The North Koreans sit in darkness all the time. No one looks to them as an example of fine ecological behaviour. Furthermore, if you want global action against pollution and so forth, stop buying Chinese goods and put sanctions against Russia (i.e.- Chyornobyl, Gazprom, Magnitogorsk). In Canada, we have serious pollution concerns but they are not scratch on what China and Russia have done to the planet.
Breast cancer and other ailments under the ribbon rainbow are also a trend. Yes, I'm aware cancer exists and that it's terrible. Do we need to wear ribbons? What thinking, feeling person doesn't know about cancer and how horrible it is? Are we that bereft of common sense that we need some coloured piece of fabric on our lapels to remind us what a monster this disease is? You will never, ever get an argument out of me how this disease so horrible but if you think wearing a pink ribbon (made in China) will translate into a cure then forget it. All cancer sucks. Let me know when there is a cure.
Anonymous #1, you are trying to tell me that merely going through the motions somehow translates into action. It doesn't. Dare I paraphrase Saint Paul, works without love are going through the motions. If the environment is so important then every day should be "Earth Hour".
My mum thinks I'm enlightened and witty. I suppose that's all that matters as nine times out of ten I don't have to eat Christmas dinner with anyone else.
The second:
Anonymous #2, the creation of awareness in this case is a waste of energy itself. We beaten about the heads with "green power" but rarely are we informed how serious things are in North Korea. Not to detract from the issue at hand but I don't need celebrities who use more energy than the average person to tell me to be "green". You're right, though. We should turn off lights when we are not using them for long periods- all the time. Turning your lights and appliances off for one hour and then turning them right back on again points to just one aspect of silliness in this farce known as Earth Hour.
Apparently Earth Hour didn't take in the western provinces of Canada. Calgary barely noticed Earth Hour and Manitoba Hydro reported an eight percent spike in energy consumption. Some people are buried under snow and are worried about floods so I doubt Earth Hour made much of a difference to people who might lose their homes.
Just saying.
The first:
It appears that you are unfortunately out of touch with the popularity
and reasons for Earth Hour, and quite arrogant to boot. It is not designed to
prevent pollution, as if one hour a year could possibly make a difference. It is
simply a unified global statement for people to come together in proof that they
care about the environment. If you read up on any of it, you'd know this.In the
same way thousands of people march every year for Breast Cancer - we understand
that the concept of walking will not cure the disease. It is not a trend, but a
genuine collaborative effort to bring awareness, respect and results. Something
you obviously know little about. What a shame that you think you are so
enlightened and witty.
I know why Earth Hour is popular. Enviro-celebrities like Al Gore (whose 9,000 square foot home is hardly the beacon of simplicity and ecological good sense) tell people that this hour is a way to help the environment by reducing energy and (I suppose to make it more plausible) to bring awareness of environmental problems. This one hour is meant to mollify masses whose daily practices are less than "green" and this will make them feel good about themselves. Once a year, they can do something which they have been made to believe is environmentally sound and they then cannot care for the rest of the year. That's not raising awareness; that putting a pacifier in a baby's mouth.
Turning off the lights for one hour and then turning them back on really is childish. The typical incandescent light bulb (the newer, "greener" light bulbs contain mercury which is dangerous to you) is a 60 watt bulb. It takes a 300 watt surge to turn on the light for just a 60 watt bulb. Leaving that one light on would allow the energy intake to go to 60 watts, instead of a whopping 300 watts. Turning the lights on and off repeatedly also diminishes the life of the bulb, making it less effective and eventually causing it to burn out. People should be measuring the lumens (light output) that a light bulb gives. Fluorescent light bulbs light up due to the phosphorus in the lining of the bulb. It takes a while to heat up to a desired light output. The phosphorus eventually diminishes over time, making it less fluorescent. In short, the act of repeatedly turning on a light bulb is more energy-consuming than leaving it on for however long you need it.
As you say, Anonymous #1, "as if one hour can possibly make a difference". You're right. As I said before, people will be lulled into a false sense of altruism, an altruism that is not founded in fact. Wouldn't it be better to calmly explain to people how to not waste their resources than to tell them this one hour of sitting in the darkness is empowering (not the energy kind, mind you)? The North Koreans sit in darkness all the time. No one looks to them as an example of fine ecological behaviour. Furthermore, if you want global action against pollution and so forth, stop buying Chinese goods and put sanctions against Russia (i.e.- Chyornobyl, Gazprom, Magnitogorsk). In Canada, we have serious pollution concerns but they are not scratch on what China and Russia have done to the planet.
Breast cancer and other ailments under the ribbon rainbow are also a trend. Yes, I'm aware cancer exists and that it's terrible. Do we need to wear ribbons? What thinking, feeling person doesn't know about cancer and how horrible it is? Are we that bereft of common sense that we need some coloured piece of fabric on our lapels to remind us what a monster this disease is? You will never, ever get an argument out of me how this disease so horrible but if you think wearing a pink ribbon (made in China) will translate into a cure then forget it. All cancer sucks. Let me know when there is a cure.
Anonymous #1, you are trying to tell me that merely going through the motions somehow translates into action. It doesn't. Dare I paraphrase Saint Paul, works without love are going through the motions. If the environment is so important then every day should be "Earth Hour".
My mum thinks I'm enlightened and witty. I suppose that's all that matters as nine times out of ten I don't have to eat Christmas dinner with anyone else.
The second:
I think the only sucker here is my vacuum cleaner. It about creating
awareness and an excellent reminder that we should be turning lights out when we
leave the room, or when they are not in use. I think the fact that you've
blogged about it proves my point : creation of awareness. I know many people who
are now more conscious regarding their energy use (or abuse) since this
"Stunt".
Anonymous #2, the creation of awareness in this case is a waste of energy itself. We beaten about the heads with "green power" but rarely are we informed how serious things are in North Korea. Not to detract from the issue at hand but I don't need celebrities who use more energy than the average person to tell me to be "green". You're right, though. We should turn off lights when we are not using them for long periods- all the time. Turning your lights and appliances off for one hour and then turning them right back on again points to just one aspect of silliness in this farce known as Earth Hour.
Apparently Earth Hour didn't take in the western provinces of Canada. Calgary barely noticed Earth Hour and Manitoba Hydro reported an eight percent spike in energy consumption. Some people are buried under snow and are worried about floods so I doubt Earth Hour made much of a difference to people who might lose their homes.
Just saying.
Monday, March 30, 2009
Start of the Week Post
British MP George Galloway will have to deliver his address via video as an injunction that would have allowed him into Canada has been denied in federal court. Good. Freedom of speech is a right that few countries- even Canada- afford to its citizens (just ask Ezra Levant). It shouldn't be abused by envelope-pushing attention-seekers, particularly ones who support Hamas and other terrorist organisations. If Galloway truly wanted to reach people, he would have gone on Youtube and spluttered about his love for the Jew-hating Hamas. He wanted attention and I don't think we should give it to him just because he is standing there.
South Korean president Lee Myun-Bak has decried any military action, no matter how slight, against North Korea's proposed launch later this week. The fears of ratcheting the tension between the two Koreas must be brooked. Proposed sanctions will not work, as they have not in the past. President Lee must prove to the North Koreans that he is not like the previous administration which had been criticised for its lax attitude toward them. The crisis will never end until it comes to a head.
Finally at least a few Khmer Rouge who perpetrated acts of indescribable cruelty might face justice. A court heard how Kaing Guek Eav, the warden for Cambodia's most notorious prison, Tuol Sleng, oversaw atrocities within its walls. The Vietnamese routed the Khmer Rouge in 1979. What took everyone so long to bring people like Kaing Guek Ev to justice? Surely the UN was on top of such things.
You should hear it here: tens of thousands of Spaniards march at a pro-life rally. Pass it on.
Great Britain proves once again why Ireland was right in bucking it decades ago. Apparently, more than 100, 000 Britons have downloaded a certificate of de-baptism. First of all, once you're in the club, you can't ever leave it. You're in it for life. Another sign the Irish dodged a bullet is the state of the Church of England. If the Archbishop of Canterbury is worried that the biased BBC is snubbing Christians he shouldn't have let his church become so irrelevant. Just saying.
Oh- and I still haven't gotten a response from Anonymous. I did get a response from someone who found Anonymous' comment absurd, though.
Oh, preach it, brother! If I had a dime for every time someone used some sanctimonious claptrap to defend their shaky ground, I'd be quite the social butterfly encrusted with rubies, I would.
On Kenney's "multiculturalism" later.
South Korean president Lee Myun-Bak has decried any military action, no matter how slight, against North Korea's proposed launch later this week. The fears of ratcheting the tension between the two Koreas must be brooked. Proposed sanctions will not work, as they have not in the past. President Lee must prove to the North Koreans that he is not like the previous administration which had been criticised for its lax attitude toward them. The crisis will never end until it comes to a head.
Finally at least a few Khmer Rouge who perpetrated acts of indescribable cruelty might face justice. A court heard how Kaing Guek Eav, the warden for Cambodia's most notorious prison, Tuol Sleng, oversaw atrocities within its walls. The Vietnamese routed the Khmer Rouge in 1979. What took everyone so long to bring people like Kaing Guek Ev to justice? Surely the UN was on top of such things.
You should hear it here: tens of thousands of Spaniards march at a pro-life rally. Pass it on.
Great Britain proves once again why Ireland was right in bucking it decades ago. Apparently, more than 100, 000 Britons have downloaded a certificate of de-baptism. First of all, once you're in the club, you can't ever leave it. You're in it for life. Another sign the Irish dodged a bullet is the state of the Church of England. If the Archbishop of Canterbury is worried that the biased BBC is snubbing Christians he shouldn't have let his church become so irrelevant. Just saying.
Oh- and I still haven't gotten a response from Anonymous. I did get a response from someone who found Anonymous' comment absurd, though.
" .. judge not lest ye be judged .."
Exactly my point. The Left's most
effective tactic.
Oh, preach it, brother! If I had a dime for every time someone used some sanctimonious claptrap to defend their shaky ground, I'd be quite the social butterfly encrusted with rubies, I would.
On Kenney's "multiculturalism" later.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
I've Got Mail!
This kind of poster never fails to amuse me.
(Usual language warnings apply.)
Okay, Anonymous, if you can tell me why you turned off your lights and appliances, how it impacted the Earth for the better and how long you left your lights and computer on (especially after the magical hour you were convinced to abandon modernity), only then you can tell me how I was- if I may infer- judgmental.
I will wait for your reply. If don't get a reply whenever I post, I will let the good people who read this blog that you have declined to enlighten me.
(Usual language warnings apply.)
Wow. Judge not lest ye be judged eh? What a fucking bitch.
Okay, Anonymous, if you can tell me why you turned off your lights and appliances, how it impacted the Earth for the better and how long you left your lights and computer on (especially after the magical hour you were convinced to abandon modernity), only then you can tell me how I was- if I may infer- judgmental.
I will wait for your reply. If don't get a reply whenever I post, I will let the good people who read this blog that you have declined to enlighten me.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Earth Hour
We have to save the Earth and we have to save it now.We are asked for Earth Hour to turn off all of our lights and other electrical appliances in an effort to reduce our carbon footprint.
So, tomorrow night, turn off your lights, your computer and any other appliances you have on. Look out your window and count how many people don't turn off their lights. Sure, they might claim that this Earth Hour is "a compete scam" and "not at all helpful to the environment" but they'll get the message when you give them the scowling of a lifetime. Wait out the darkness with a scented soy candle (the lemon one is especially nice). Then, when the egg-timer goes off, turn everything back on. Get on your computer and blog to your online friends how you helped the planet. Leave your computer on for a while in order to communicate with those whose own Earth Hour is delayed due to different time zones. Enjoy a pot of coffee (non-fair trade) or several. Make sure the porch light is on, as well, for safety reasons. Are you watching TV? You should. Maybe- just maybe- there might be something good on while you are surfing online for free MP3s. The waiting, as you know, is the most difficult part. Leave the lights on in your bedroom in case you have to run in and grab off the shelf the latest copy of whatever millionaire Al Gore has out these days. Stay up for a while and make sure you've exhausted all avenues of Earth Hour discussion, ranging from using one sheet of toilet paper to the fresh produce farm you probably won't visit because you hate bees. Make sure to schedule another online chat with your Internet buddies for tomorrow night.
Do it. Do it for the Earth.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Cuddly Monkey Time
If this baby Francois Langur born in Australia’s Taronga Zoo isn't the cutest thing you've ever seen, then I don't know what to say.
Gaze upon this cuteness and tremble!
For more cuteness, go here.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Big Baby
The honeymoon, it is over.
Four months after the American electorate voted in a self-absorbed political amateur, Obama faces a rather mammoth task of rebuilding a fast dwindling economy. This is certainly no feat for a socialist, but, regardless of his nanny-state leanings, the Chosen One has promised to make everything right. When asked by the ever-smooching CNN why he didn't express "outrage" at the start of the AIG crisis (keep in mind- they were one of his biggest supporters during the election), Mr. President "icily glared" at the offending reporter.
He glared. Icily. At a reporter of little faith.
Why is anyone surprised? This was predicted months ago. A political amateur whose chief abilities include propping up his supposed greatness (but not bowling) and ignoring his allies can't expect that even CNN will always be on his side. Not wanting to look like idiots for having backed a disaster and not being able to cover up everything that goes wrong during the next four years, CNN is going to expect their misplaced faith rewarded. Let me know how that works out.
No, it is not "uncharacteristic" for the Chosen One to make gaffes. Remember the "lipstick on a pig" and "don't worry- we'll pull through this economic crisis"?
If it helps, a Special Olympics bowler has promised to outbowl Obama.
Now that's something to look forward to.
Four months after the American electorate voted in a self-absorbed political amateur, Obama faces a rather mammoth task of rebuilding a fast dwindling economy. This is certainly no feat for a socialist, but, regardless of his nanny-state leanings, the Chosen One has promised to make everything right. When asked by the ever-smooching CNN why he didn't express "outrage" at the start of the AIG crisis (keep in mind- they were one of his biggest supporters during the election), Mr. President "icily glared" at the offending reporter.
He glared. Icily. At a reporter of little faith.
Why is anyone surprised? This was predicted months ago. A political amateur whose chief abilities include propping up his supposed greatness (but not bowling) and ignoring his allies can't expect that even CNN will always be on his side. Not wanting to look like idiots for having backed a disaster and not being able to cover up everything that goes wrong during the next four years, CNN is going to expect their misplaced faith rewarded. Let me know how that works out.
No, it is not "uncharacteristic" for the Chosen One to make gaffes. Remember the "lipstick on a pig" and "don't worry- we'll pull through this economic crisis"?
If it helps, a Special Olympics bowler has promised to outbowl Obama.
Now that's something to look forward to.
A Strange Boycott
You couldn't make this up. Saudi women are boycotting lingerie stores until they start hiring women.
Women in one of the most repressive states in the Islamic world have decided that discussing their underthings with salesmen who may very well be perverts is just too much to bear and, as a result, will no longer frequent undergarment establishments until the absurd policy of not hiring women for such positions is gotten rid of.
It is well-documented that women in Islamic countries face unbelievable forms of discrimination. Where, if I may ask, are the women's groups? Where is NOW, or NACSOW?
Women in one of the most repressive states in the Islamic world have decided that discussing their underthings with salesmen who may very well be perverts is just too much to bear and, as a result, will no longer frequent undergarment establishments until the absurd policy of not hiring women for such positions is gotten rid of.
It is well-documented that women in Islamic countries face unbelievable forms of discrimination. Where, if I may ask, are the women's groups? Where is NOW, or NACSOW?
Role Reversal
This time, a Saint Bernard is saved by humans.
A Saint Bernard pup, Duke, found himself stranded and eventually frozen on a golf course pond. Firefighters had free the poor beast and haul him to shore.
How fates shift!
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Happy Saint Patrick's Day!
Today is the feast day of Saint Patrick, the bishop responsible for much of the evangelization of Ireland (let us not forget Saints Columba, Bridget and Brendan who discovered North America). Often this feast day is confused with the causes of Irish nationalism and drinking. Saint Patrick is the patron saint of Ireland and Nigeria. Nothing says: "Happy Saint Patrick's Day" like jollof rice.
It is also the feast day of Saint Gertrude of Nivelle, the patron saint of cats. Cats- according to some people- offer so much, like cuteness, music or humour. You decide.
Saint Joseph of Arimethia, who took Jesus' body from the Cross, also shares this feast day.
So next time you raise a glass of real beer (not Molson or other American swill) to the house band who performed "Black Velvet Band", remember this day is not just like any other.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
End of the Week Post
Christopher Pauchay, the Aboriginal man whose daughters froze to death on the Yellow Quill Reservation and whose penal fate was deemed inadequately dealt with by a “sentencing circle”, was finally sentenced to three years. Why bother? Why even waste time trying the man if in the end he will only spend the collective age amount of years of the people he killed? I, for one, am tired of hearing the tragedy of treaties meant to defraud people out of an existence (which was unethical, if not criminal) and residential schools, hence the need for some cockamamie “sentencing circle” which bears no reflection on any historical, sociological or moral customs of any of the Aboriginal cultures in Canada (the existence of this so-called sentencing circle only serves to preserve some remnant of “white guilt” a self-congratulatory bleeding-heart feels while hugging a random Aboriginal “activist” and which ends up being inadequate and inefficient in dealing with criminal and anti-social behaviour). Such arguments are morally and intellectually dishonest and beside the point. At the end of the day, a grown man refused to deal with his alcohol problem, preserve the lives of his children and accept the guilt he should have felt. Why is there no legal system that holds not only the accused but the lawyers and judges accountable for their actions? There should be no reason why Mr. Pauchay, a serial drunk, is allowed to walk free after a year or two in prison (no one really serves a full sentence these days) and, similarly, there should be no reason why a lawyer or judge should not be held accountable for such a minuscule dealing of justice. I imagine we’d hear of stiffer sentences if judges were scared of facing mobs angry that a predator was given a very light jail sentence.
As a side note, winds blowing at twenty miles per hour combined with a temperature of minus forty degrees Fahrenheit can cause frost bite in two minutes. It is possible in extremely cold temperatures for even the eyeballs to freeze. Mild hypothermia causes shivering and goosebumps but can treated with extra warm clothing, physical activity and carbohydrate intake. Extreme hypothermia causes muscle rigidity and cardiac and respiratory failure. Immediate core re-warming can save a life.
*** I am not a doctor. I got this information from a book. Consult a medical professional for advice. ***
North Korea is threatening South Korea and this time I think they mean it. Why the West prefers to sit on this or ignore it altogether is beyond me. North Korea is threatening to blow South Korean airlines out of the air. South Korean air routes pass parallel to the DMZ giving the North Koreans whatever sick reason to fire missiles at planes carrying innocent travelers and killing them all. For someone who has traveled those routes and for those who are flying or will fly, this is extremely unnerving. Why is the press not all over this the way they were when Hamas was getting hammered over its repeated rocket assaults on Israel? I imagine there is no political angle they can take with this, hence, silence.
Speaking of media silence, the new Camelot couple is running the risk of being called “cheapskates”. Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife bestowed up the Obama family children’s books and clothes, a penholder made from the HMS Gannet and a commissioning paper of the HMS Resolute and a leather-bound biography of Winston Churchill. In return, the Brown children were treated to toy helicopters bought at the White House gift shop (I didn’t know they had one, actually) and a DVD set of classic American movies (I’m not sure they would play in Great Britain). Far be it for me to question the value of a gift but surely something of great historical interest or even something fun could have been handed it out. Yes, I realize it’s not the monetary value of a gift that counts but really! Some of the best gifts I’ve gotten were what some might consider “cheap”. Hand-made cards with big-eyed caricatures and a box of Nutchos to remind me of Christmases past meant (and mean) a lot to me. Enough about me. What do the fawning masses think? I mean- had George Bush or even Stephen Harper done this, everyone would have called them skinflints and ran report after endless report about their cheap-skatery. For a man who made one point seven million dollars American in 2005, Mr. President gave less to charity than “Dubya”, who made less money but gave more to charity***. I guess the recession has really hit some people in the gut.
*** I obtained this fact from Peter Schweizer’s Makers and Takers, and he got it from Dennis Conrad’s “Obama’s Income Put at $991,296”, Associated Press, April 16th, 2007.
Proposition Eight. What’s the point? One could argue the immorality of homosexuality, the effect such couples have on children or how marriage is being distorted. One could even argue that the gay lobby had so much time to legitimately sway public opinion their way and didn’t so they, therefore, have no one to blame but themselves. One could point out how gay people DO have rights not enjoyed in some parts of the world such as the right to live, own property, hold down jobs, congregate, form social and political groups, vote and even marry (but not each other). One can point that marriage is really a privilege that is not afforded to everyone, i.e., the very young, mentally ill and relatives (except in Canada where people can marry their cousins to which I resound a very emphatic EEEEWWW!). One can even point out how votes- everyone’s votes- can become null and void simply because a minority objects to it. Democracy, where is thy sting?
The Canadian Human Rights Commission wants to enforce a "contempt-of-court" charge if the "accused" disobeys an order. Oh please. First of all, it would have to be a real court and HRCs are hardly courts of law but kangaroo courts and therefore don't count. The man in question may be head-cheese but I wouldn't hold him accountable to a brownshirt witch-hunt fest.
As a side note, winds blowing at twenty miles per hour combined with a temperature of minus forty degrees Fahrenheit can cause frost bite in two minutes. It is possible in extremely cold temperatures for even the eyeballs to freeze. Mild hypothermia causes shivering and goosebumps but can treated with extra warm clothing, physical activity and carbohydrate intake. Extreme hypothermia causes muscle rigidity and cardiac and respiratory failure. Immediate core re-warming can save a life.
*** I am not a doctor. I got this information from a book. Consult a medical professional for advice. ***
North Korea is threatening South Korea and this time I think they mean it. Why the West prefers to sit on this or ignore it altogether is beyond me. North Korea is threatening to blow South Korean airlines out of the air. South Korean air routes pass parallel to the DMZ giving the North Koreans whatever sick reason to fire missiles at planes carrying innocent travelers and killing them all. For someone who has traveled those routes and for those who are flying or will fly, this is extremely unnerving. Why is the press not all over this the way they were when Hamas was getting hammered over its repeated rocket assaults on Israel? I imagine there is no political angle they can take with this, hence, silence.
Speaking of media silence, the new Camelot couple is running the risk of being called “cheapskates”. Prime Minister Gordon Brown and his wife bestowed up the Obama family children’s books and clothes, a penholder made from the HMS Gannet and a commissioning paper of the HMS Resolute and a leather-bound biography of Winston Churchill. In return, the Brown children were treated to toy helicopters bought at the White House gift shop (I didn’t know they had one, actually) and a DVD set of classic American movies (I’m not sure they would play in Great Britain). Far be it for me to question the value of a gift but surely something of great historical interest or even something fun could have been handed it out. Yes, I realize it’s not the monetary value of a gift that counts but really! Some of the best gifts I’ve gotten were what some might consider “cheap”. Hand-made cards with big-eyed caricatures and a box of Nutchos to remind me of Christmases past meant (and mean) a lot to me. Enough about me. What do the fawning masses think? I mean- had George Bush or even Stephen Harper done this, everyone would have called them skinflints and ran report after endless report about their cheap-skatery. For a man who made one point seven million dollars American in 2005, Mr. President gave less to charity than “Dubya”, who made less money but gave more to charity***. I guess the recession has really hit some people in the gut.
*** I obtained this fact from Peter Schweizer’s Makers and Takers, and he got it from Dennis Conrad’s “Obama’s Income Put at $991,296”, Associated Press, April 16th, 2007.
Proposition Eight. What’s the point? One could argue the immorality of homosexuality, the effect such couples have on children or how marriage is being distorted. One could even argue that the gay lobby had so much time to legitimately sway public opinion their way and didn’t so they, therefore, have no one to blame but themselves. One could point out how gay people DO have rights not enjoyed in some parts of the world such as the right to live, own property, hold down jobs, congregate, form social and political groups, vote and even marry (but not each other). One can point that marriage is really a privilege that is not afforded to everyone, i.e., the very young, mentally ill and relatives (except in Canada where people can marry their cousins to which I resound a very emphatic EEEEWWW!). One can even point out how votes- everyone’s votes- can become null and void simply because a minority objects to it. Democracy, where is thy sting?
The Canadian Human Rights Commission wants to enforce a "contempt-of-court" charge if the "accused" disobeys an order. Oh please. First of all, it would have to be a real court and HRCs are hardly courts of law but kangaroo courts and therefore don't count. The man in question may be head-cheese but I wouldn't hold him accountable to a brownshirt witch-hunt fest.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
The Rest....
I saw this on Small Dead Animals. I might buy that there are flaws in capitalism but none so obviously apparent as the gaping flaws in socialism and communism. An MIT student, in all her well-meaning vigor, has produced a washing machine/bicycle contraption. If you've ever washed clothes by hand or pedalled uphill on your bike, you might understand why this device can be construed as child slave labour. Why not encourage people to give freely to nuns who are motivated by the love of God to work in places with terrible poverty and strife? Why not set up infrastructures to make things easier for people, like roads, clean water and electricity? Why not stand up to governments that repress their own people? Why outsource when you can hire local people to work for fair wages? If someone from MIT can make some tiring clothes-cleaning bike contraption, surely it must have crossed their minds to make the bigger picture brighter as opposed to construct some experimental thing someone might see on Mythbusters (that show is awesome, by the way).
Just saying.
You know it's bad when Gorbachev criticises you. Putin (who, let's face it, still runs Russia) has driven Russia to its limit, at least economically. It remains to be seen if state-run news agencies will tow the line or end up as other journalists have.
Syria's Assad wants to reach out the the US. This is just another sign that the current administration in the US might just be a tragic mistake. After all, Obama wants to "engage", not pressure a dictator into respecting the rights of its citizens. And after relations are normalised with Syria, then what?
I will now lighten the mood with funny animals.
Is someone skimping on the good cat food?
A rather disappointed cat.
Space odyssey.
And peace. Or something.
Just saying.
You know it's bad when Gorbachev criticises you. Putin (who, let's face it, still runs Russia) has driven Russia to its limit, at least economically. It remains to be seen if state-run news agencies will tow the line or end up as other journalists have.
Syria's Assad wants to reach out the the US. This is just another sign that the current administration in the US might just be a tragic mistake. After all, Obama wants to "engage", not pressure a dictator into respecting the rights of its citizens. And after relations are normalised with Syria, then what?
I will now lighten the mood with funny animals.
Is someone skimping on the good cat food?
A rather disappointed cat.
Space odyssey.
And peace. Or something.
Out of Love
Europeans are showing signs of buyer's remorse with the new American president. With the recession, the "Buy American" policy, the missile defence system and the Afghanistan troop situation, Europeans are starting to realise- however slowly- that they cheered for the wrong man. The European Union has one of the lowest birthrates in the world. They have the highest expectations, too. They don't want to deal with another George Bush whom they felt was too brusque. I'm not sure how anyone can reassure them given their perennial implacable nature. There are strikes, rising immigration woes and an insufferable arrogance toward anyone not "continental". Obama will not bring the "hope and change" they would gladly strike for. They backed the wrong horse.
Whoops.
Whoops.
Why Pop Psychology and Liberalism Should Never Mix
Oh please! Sarah Palin was too attractive that she cost McCain the election? Where do we start with what's wrong with all of this?
Governor Palin must have people running scared if they are still attacking her long after the election. Could they be frightened that after four years of an elitist socialist president with more experience patting himself on the back than leading a country, the American electorate could vote for anyone, even (gasp!) Sarah Palin?! Oh, heaven forbid!
What was the point of comparing Governor Palin to Angelina Jolie? Were both women equal in physical appearance and brood size? Mrs. Palin looks after her own kids while Miss Jolie has nannies for each of her multi-cultural spawn. And Governor Palin has never made a crappy film. Not that I'm accusing Angelina Jolie of making bad films (or am I?) or anything. I will be watching her father in all his delicious evil on 24. This season is turning out really well.
Maybe the popular press just can't hide its misogyny any more. Will we ever see the day when a male press flunkie slaps his female counterpart on the bum and tells her to run to the kitchen and get him some pie? Who knows with the way things are going. I thought men were supposed to get their own pie. I guess not.
*** I would like to make it clear that I have nothing against pie or those who make them.***
Governor Palin must have people running scared if they are still attacking her long after the election. Could they be frightened that after four years of an elitist socialist president with more experience patting himself on the back than leading a country, the American electorate could vote for anyone, even (gasp!) Sarah Palin?! Oh, heaven forbid!
What was the point of comparing Governor Palin to Angelina Jolie? Were both women equal in physical appearance and brood size? Mrs. Palin looks after her own kids while Miss Jolie has nannies for each of her multi-cultural spawn. And Governor Palin has never made a crappy film. Not that I'm accusing Angelina Jolie of making bad films (or am I?) or anything. I will be watching her father in all his delicious evil on 24. This season is turning out really well.
Maybe the popular press just can't hide its misogyny any more. Will we ever see the day when a male press flunkie slaps his female counterpart on the bum and tells her to run to the kitchen and get him some pie? Who knows with the way things are going. I thought men were supposed to get their own pie. I guess not.
*** I would like to make it clear that I have nothing against pie or those who make them.***
Extremely Important
Gao Zhisheng, a Chinese human rights activist, has been abducted, possibly by his own government. Please see here how you might affect change in this situation.
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Whither the Middle-Class?
Shouldn't a task force on the middle-class actually have someone from the middle-class on it? I mean- they will be taxed back into the Stone Age, I think it's only fair to have some input from them.
Not that I'm accusing the Obama administration of being elitist, money-stealing snobs or anything.
Not that I'm accusing the Obama administration of being elitist, money-stealing snobs or anything.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
And Then There's This Guy...
I want to hear again how Obama- whose wealth of experience is "community organization"- is going to face down the Russians. I want to hear how his silken charms can melt the heart of a totalitarian state that has its own journalists killed. A leader with real intestinal fortitude would just build the missile defence system and say to hell with Putin and his hand puppet, Medvedev. Obama, on the other hand, wants to talk.
This is why we don't hand over reins of power to an amateur who longs to build a nanny state because he thinks he knows what is good for everyone else.
As long as CNN is more concerned with Michelle Obama's fat butt and what thousand dollar designer dress is covering it, only bloggers will stare agape at this imminent train wreck of an administration.
I still want to hear why people voted for Obama and how he will magically bring "hope and change" to everyone and everything.
This is why we don't hand over reins of power to an amateur who longs to build a nanny state because he thinks he knows what is good for everyone else.
As long as CNN is more concerned with Michelle Obama's fat butt and what thousand dollar designer dress is covering it, only bloggers will stare agape at this imminent train wreck of an administration.
I still want to hear why people voted for Obama and how he will magically bring "hope and change" to everyone and everything.
Monday, March 02, 2009
The Defeat of Bluntness
Prime Minister Stephen Harper's extremely frank claim that the Taliban cannot be defeated is being dissected as I type. Is he being practical or simply defeatist?
It is true that the Taliban terrorists (not insurgents as a true insurgents rise up to revolt; the Taliban have had their iron grip over Afghanistan since the late 1990's) cannot be defeated by the mere presence of foreign forces. As long as the Taliban operates either within Afghanistan or Pakistan, there will always be fresh forces being provided with fresh arms to kill or maim international troops (it is interesting to note that the Taliban was aided against the Soviet invasion by Jimmy Carter, who now fancies him an engineer of peace). Humanitarian works such as bridges, medical clinics and schools for girls (who were not allowed to be educated under the Taliban) might sway the populace into a more politically or socially moderate mindset.
That can all be undone, however, if the Taliban is allowed to regain a foothold or if those who are currently running the Afghan government do not operate under a system of checks and balances. Canada, of course, cannot- and should not- be the permanent policeman in Afghanistan but while it is there, it must be vigilant and work for a more stable country. One hundred and seven soldiers died for that cause. Mr. Harper's words (on CNN, the lackey network, no less) must point in the direction of victory and hope.
It is true that the Taliban terrorists (not insurgents as a true insurgents rise up to revolt; the Taliban have had their iron grip over Afghanistan since the late 1990's) cannot be defeated by the mere presence of foreign forces. As long as the Taliban operates either within Afghanistan or Pakistan, there will always be fresh forces being provided with fresh arms to kill or maim international troops (it is interesting to note that the Taliban was aided against the Soviet invasion by Jimmy Carter, who now fancies him an engineer of peace). Humanitarian works such as bridges, medical clinics and schools for girls (who were not allowed to be educated under the Taliban) might sway the populace into a more politically or socially moderate mindset.
That can all be undone, however, if the Taliban is allowed to regain a foothold or if those who are currently running the Afghan government do not operate under a system of checks and balances. Canada, of course, cannot- and should not- be the permanent policeman in Afghanistan but while it is there, it must be vigilant and work for a more stable country. One hundred and seven soldiers died for that cause. Mr. Harper's words (on CNN, the lackey network, no less) must point in the direction of victory and hope.
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