And away we go.....................................
Number Five: Green Bay Packers linebacker AJ Hawk who took it upon himself to display his middle finger toward his own bench after sacking St. Louis Rams QB Sam Bradford last Sunday.
Hawk Flies The Bird
On the other hand, was it an obscene gesture? It could also equal the number of sacks Hawk has had in the past two years.
Number Four: Chivas midfielder, Marco Fabian, who after scoring his third goal in a 5-2 win over Tecos in a Mexican Premiere Division football (soccer) match, staged a mock execution of teammate Alberto Medina in "celebration".
Marco Fabian Stages A Mock Execution To Celebrate A Goal
While this action would not be funny or acceptable anywhere, in a nation that suffered 15,000 recorded murders last year, it is unconscionable.
Number Three: Susan Sarandon who recently referred to Pope Benedict XVI as a "Nazi".
Susan Sarandon Calls The Pope "Nazi"
You know, folks, I do advocate for freedom of expression, and Ms. Sarandon has every right in the world to call the pope, or any of the rest of us, anything she likes. However, my concern is that the careless use of Nazi allegations, accusations, and analogies serves to lessen the horror the Third Reich and the Holocaust.
Number Two: Minnesota Vikings cornerback Chris Cook, who has been charged with two counts of domestic assault. Details of Cook's arrest are not currently available.
Vikings CB Charged With Domestic Assault
I hate to be too accusatory about this when the man has just been charged, but he is being held without bail. I can only assume the incident was serious in order to warrant that type of action by the judge. So.................I've said it before, and I'll say it again................. NEVER, EVER PUT YOUR HANDS ON A WOMAN OR A CHILD IN ANGER!!!!!!!!!
Number One: We have a three way tie for the top spot of dishonor this week, friends. The top twatwaffles in this installment are: Thomas Gregory, 47, Eddie Wright, 49, and Linda Ann Weston, 51 of Philadelphia, who are alleged to have held four mentally disabled people in a filthy basement with no food and a bucket for a toilet. It is thought that the captives' social security checks were being stolen by the alleged perpetrators. The crime is now thought to extend well beyond the City of Philadelphia.
Mentally Disabled Held In Dungeon
Anyone who reads this column, knows me personally, or both will attest to the fact that one of my biggest causes, along with gay rights and first amendment issues, is the exploitation of the weak by the strong. This case is textbook example of just that, and I find it utterly repulsive.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Saturday, October 22, 2011
Thursday, October 20, 2011
Pat Robertson Promotes Lies About Mental Illness
You know what I don't understand? I don't understand why Pat Robertson insists on telling the same old lies about mental illness, specifically depression. News reports today discussed a large increase in the use of antidepressant medication in the United States.
Large Upswing In Anti-Depressant Use In America
Is this good news or bad? Is this healthy? Well, those would be logical question to ask, and one would hope that a fact based thoughtful discussion would ensue. It would seem that "fact based" and "logical" are beyond Robertson's grasp.
Observe:
Robertson Blame Rise In Antidepressant Use On People Not Believing In God
Where shall we begin?
Lie: We will take a Prozac and share a "happy moment".
Fact: Antidepressants are not "happy pills". Antidepressants effect brain chemicals, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine, in order to assist people suffering from depression from experiencing the severe, persistent low moods and sadness that can be crippling enough to affect the person's ability to function in both personal and work settings. They do not prevent normal sadness and anger. They do not prevent a person from feeling anything at all, and they most assuredly are NOT happy pills.
Lie: The message is "stay stoned".
Fact: One does not get "stoned" on antidepressants. They do not have intoxicating effects. They are not narcotics, nor are they street drugs or alcohol. When they are prescribed, it is to build them to a therapeutic level in order to achieve the desired outcome as outlined above.
Side Note: "What are some other antidepressants? I don't know."
You obviously don't know anything about depression or the medications used to treat it either.
Lie: Having "blessings" is a reason not to suffer from depression.
Fact: Depression, nay, mental illness as a whole, affects people from all walks of life from all around the world. One can realize that one has a good life and still be depressed. Depression is not flawed thinking, nor is it a refusal to understand that one has positive things in one's life. Indeed, it is an imbalance in chemicals within the brain. It is oblivious as to whom it afflicts.
Lie: To paraphrase, if you don't have God in your life, you have no hope; and that is what leads to depression.
Fact: Mental illness does not care if one is pious, a heathen, or something in between. The most devout can suffer from mental illness just as the most ardent non-believers. Wealth, social status, education, religious affiliation, gender, race, sexual orientation, or anything else of this nature has no bearing on the likelihood of having a mental disorder. No one suggests that cancer strikes those who don't believe in God more that those who do because it doesn't. Mental illness is exactly the same.
Lie: "They use this term 'self-medicating'".
Fact: Self-medicating occurs when someone uses a substance (ie alcohol or OTC medication) to try to alter the way one feels. One gets antidepressants by prescription only. By definition, this is NOT self-medication.
Friends, mental illness has, for hundreds of years, carried a stigma. The mentally ill were thought to be possessed by Satan or demons. They were locked into what were essentially dungeons and subjected to unspeakable abuse and maltreatment. They were subjected to ice baths, shock treatments, straitjackets, isolation, lobotomies, and inhumane restraints. The mentally ill were thought to be morally weak or criminal. They were thought to merely be seeking attention or using "insanity" as an excuse to commit offenses against society.
Mental illness is no different from physical illness. It strikes without warning. It doesn't care about your lot in life. It is not a source of shame or embarrassment. It is not an effort to seek attention or an excuse for bad behavior. It is an illness. Nothing more, nothing less.
Sadly, Robertson's comments only go to further the stigma and negative baseless stereotypes. His remarks could be dismissed on face value if he did not have thousands of followers who believe his every word, no matter how inane. We must treat the mentally ill with unconditional positive regard. We must not believe the nonsense that is being promoted by Pat Robertson.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Large Upswing In Anti-Depressant Use In America
Is this good news or bad? Is this healthy? Well, those would be logical question to ask, and one would hope that a fact based thoughtful discussion would ensue. It would seem that "fact based" and "logical" are beyond Robertson's grasp.
Observe:
Robertson Blame Rise In Antidepressant Use On People Not Believing In God
Where shall we begin?
Lie: We will take a Prozac and share a "happy moment".
Fact: Antidepressants are not "happy pills". Antidepressants effect brain chemicals, specifically serotonin and norepinephrine, in order to assist people suffering from depression from experiencing the severe, persistent low moods and sadness that can be crippling enough to affect the person's ability to function in both personal and work settings. They do not prevent normal sadness and anger. They do not prevent a person from feeling anything at all, and they most assuredly are NOT happy pills.
Lie: The message is "stay stoned".
Fact: One does not get "stoned" on antidepressants. They do not have intoxicating effects. They are not narcotics, nor are they street drugs or alcohol. When they are prescribed, it is to build them to a therapeutic level in order to achieve the desired outcome as outlined above.
Side Note: "What are some other antidepressants? I don't know."
You obviously don't know anything about depression or the medications used to treat it either.
Lie: Having "blessings" is a reason not to suffer from depression.
Fact: Depression, nay, mental illness as a whole, affects people from all walks of life from all around the world. One can realize that one has a good life and still be depressed. Depression is not flawed thinking, nor is it a refusal to understand that one has positive things in one's life. Indeed, it is an imbalance in chemicals within the brain. It is oblivious as to whom it afflicts.
Lie: To paraphrase, if you don't have God in your life, you have no hope; and that is what leads to depression.
Fact: Mental illness does not care if one is pious, a heathen, or something in between. The most devout can suffer from mental illness just as the most ardent non-believers. Wealth, social status, education, religious affiliation, gender, race, sexual orientation, or anything else of this nature has no bearing on the likelihood of having a mental disorder. No one suggests that cancer strikes those who don't believe in God more that those who do because it doesn't. Mental illness is exactly the same.
Lie: "They use this term 'self-medicating'".
Fact: Self-medicating occurs when someone uses a substance (ie alcohol or OTC medication) to try to alter the way one feels. One gets antidepressants by prescription only. By definition, this is NOT self-medication.
Friends, mental illness has, for hundreds of years, carried a stigma. The mentally ill were thought to be possessed by Satan or demons. They were locked into what were essentially dungeons and subjected to unspeakable abuse and maltreatment. They were subjected to ice baths, shock treatments, straitjackets, isolation, lobotomies, and inhumane restraints. The mentally ill were thought to be morally weak or criminal. They were thought to merely be seeking attention or using "insanity" as an excuse to commit offenses against society.
Mental illness is no different from physical illness. It strikes without warning. It doesn't care about your lot in life. It is not a source of shame or embarrassment. It is not an effort to seek attention or an excuse for bad behavior. It is an illness. Nothing more, nothing less.
Sadly, Robertson's comments only go to further the stigma and negative baseless stereotypes. His remarks could be dismissed on face value if he did not have thousands of followers who believe his every word, no matter how inane. We must treat the mentally ill with unconditional positive regard. We must not believe the nonsense that is being promoted by Pat Robertson.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Limbaugh Shows His Ignorance Again
You know what I don't understand? I don't understand how Rush Limbaugh can continue to show his ignorance of the world around him, but continues to have untold thousands of followers. I present for your approval the latest example.
Recently, President Obama ordered 100 US troops into Central Africa for the express purpose of assisting in the capture of the Lord's Resistance Army's (LRA) leader Joseph Kony.
US Troops To Assist In Seeking LRA Leader Kony
The LRA is well known for committing atrocities such as mass murder, mutilation, rape as a weapon, and conscripting child soldiers in and around Uganda for well over 20 years.
LRA Background
Here are some examples of their handiwork:
For the record, these were some of the less graphic images available.
It would seem that the LRA and their barbarousness are well known to everyone except Limbaugh as he defended the LRA and essentially told his listeners that President Obama was sending troops to Africa to "kill Christians".
Limbaugh Defends LRA
Limbaugh Listeners Defend LRA
Really, Rush? Are you so clueless about what is happening in Africa that you actually believe what you said, or you just that desperate to disparage President Obama, who really doesn't need any help in looking badly of late? Yes, the LRA professes to be Christian, just like al Qaida profess to be Muslim, but neither is a true representation of their respective faiths. Are you so blind to what is actually happening in Central Africa that you use this issue to unjustly criticize the president? Are your listeners so clueless that they believe the nonsense that you spewed over this matter?
Perhaps, Rush, a better thing to do would have been to explain to your audience that the LRA is not representative of Christianity, that they are criminals and barbarians, and that as the moral compass that we fancy ourselves, America should play a role in eradicating this vermin from the planet. There is a time and a place for partisan politics, but this is not it.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Recently, President Obama ordered 100 US troops into Central Africa for the express purpose of assisting in the capture of the Lord's Resistance Army's (LRA) leader Joseph Kony.
US Troops To Assist In Seeking LRA Leader Kony
The LRA is well known for committing atrocities such as mass murder, mutilation, rape as a weapon, and conscripting child soldiers in and around Uganda for well over 20 years.
LRA Background
Here are some examples of their handiwork:
For the record, these were some of the less graphic images available.
It would seem that the LRA and their barbarousness are well known to everyone except Limbaugh as he defended the LRA and essentially told his listeners that President Obama was sending troops to Africa to "kill Christians".
Limbaugh Defends LRA
Limbaugh Listeners Defend LRA
Really, Rush? Are you so clueless about what is happening in Africa that you actually believe what you said, or you just that desperate to disparage President Obama, who really doesn't need any help in looking badly of late? Yes, the LRA professes to be Christian, just like al Qaida profess to be Muslim, but neither is a true representation of their respective faiths. Are you so blind to what is actually happening in Central Africa that you use this issue to unjustly criticize the president? Are your listeners so clueless that they believe the nonsense that you spewed over this matter?
Perhaps, Rush, a better thing to do would have been to explain to your audience that the LRA is not representative of Christianity, that they are criminals and barbarians, and that as the moral compass that we fancy ourselves, America should play a role in eradicating this vermin from the planet. There is a time and a place for partisan politics, but this is not it.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Monday, October 17, 2011
Remembering Dan Wheldon
As most of you know, two time Indianapolis 500 champion, Dan Wheldon was killed in a horrific crash during the IndyCar Las Vegas 300 on Sunday.
Dan Wheldon Dies In Fiery IndyCar Crash
Dan Wheldon Remembered
True race fans are fully aware of the danger inherent to the sport. For the record, by "true race fans", I am not referring to those who attend the Indy 500 for no reasons but to see how much beer they can drink and how obnoxious they can be. Indeed, I am referring to those of us who attend races, watch races on television, follow the championships, and who know and respect the drivers. Despite the massive improvements in safety over the past 30 to 35 years that I have followed this sport, the risks involved in strapping oneself into a guided missile with wheels, some of which are capable of speeds in excess of 300 mph (483 km/h), are always in the back of everyone's minds from the fans to the crew members to the officials to the drivers themselves.
That being said, events like those that took Dan from us far too soon are still shocking and sobering. I read a clip earlier that said "Everyone in IndyCar died a little with Dan". Dare I take this sentiment further and say that every race fan worldwide died a little bit as well? The world of motorsport is a little darker, and it was a black day indeed.
As for me, I cheered Wheldon when he took car owner Michael Andretti to Victory Lane at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It was the first time an Andretti had been in Victory Lane since 1969, and Wheldon went on the win the IRL championship this season. I rooted against him when he drove for rival Chip Ganassi, but the respect and admiration never waned. I cheered him again when he captured his second Indy 500 this May. He raced hard. He raced clean. In a sport known for prima dona drivers and cookie cutter interviews, Wheldon was a breath of fresh air and a man who always took time to genuinely interact with fans, myself included. He was a class act.
Racing lost a true champion and a good man. A young family lost its husband and father.
Dan, please give our love and respect to Ayrton, Roland, Gilles, Mark, Ricardo, Wolfgang, Gordon, Jovy, Scott, Jeff, Greg, Tony, Paul, Bill, Pat, Eddie, Swede, Jerry, Adam, Clifford, Dale, Kenny, Neil, Davey, and countless others. Like them, you will be missed, but never forgotten. Rest In Peace, Dan Wheldon.
Godspeed.
Dan Wheldon Dies In Fiery IndyCar Crash
Dan Wheldon Remembered
True race fans are fully aware of the danger inherent to the sport. For the record, by "true race fans", I am not referring to those who attend the Indy 500 for no reasons but to see how much beer they can drink and how obnoxious they can be. Indeed, I am referring to those of us who attend races, watch races on television, follow the championships, and who know and respect the drivers. Despite the massive improvements in safety over the past 30 to 35 years that I have followed this sport, the risks involved in strapping oneself into a guided missile with wheels, some of which are capable of speeds in excess of 300 mph (483 km/h), are always in the back of everyone's minds from the fans to the crew members to the officials to the drivers themselves.
That being said, events like those that took Dan from us far too soon are still shocking and sobering. I read a clip earlier that said "Everyone in IndyCar died a little with Dan". Dare I take this sentiment further and say that every race fan worldwide died a little bit as well? The world of motorsport is a little darker, and it was a black day indeed.
As for me, I cheered Wheldon when he took car owner Michael Andretti to Victory Lane at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway. It was the first time an Andretti had been in Victory Lane since 1969, and Wheldon went on the win the IRL championship this season. I rooted against him when he drove for rival Chip Ganassi, but the respect and admiration never waned. I cheered him again when he captured his second Indy 500 this May. He raced hard. He raced clean. In a sport known for prima dona drivers and cookie cutter interviews, Wheldon was a breath of fresh air and a man who always took time to genuinely interact with fans, myself included. He was a class act.
Racing lost a true champion and a good man. A young family lost its husband and father.
Dan, please give our love and respect to Ayrton, Roland, Gilles, Mark, Ricardo, Wolfgang, Gordon, Jovy, Scott, Jeff, Greg, Tony, Paul, Bill, Pat, Eddie, Swede, Jerry, Adam, Clifford, Dale, Kenny, Neil, Davey, and countless others. Like them, you will be missed, but never forgotten. Rest In Peace, Dan Wheldon.
Godspeed.
Friday, October 14, 2011
Twatwaffles Of The Week
And away we go..................................
Number Five: An unidentified Eastern European man who decided he would get out of a speeding ticket by claiming police brutality after punching himself in the face.
Man Claims Police Brutality After Punching Himself
There was only one problem with this brilliant plan. He was being video taped while sitting in the police cruiser. Utterly amazing.
Number Four: An unidentified man who repeatedly stabbed a New Haven, CT tattoo artist because the assailant was unhappy was the work the tattoo artist did on his girlfriend. The tattoo artist escaped and was treated for minor injuries.
Tattoo Artist Stabbed Over Alleged Shoddy Work
I know that tattoos are supposedly forever, but so are lengthy prison sentences. Perhaps a better plan of action would have been to sue the artist for the money to pay for a cover tattoo from another artist versus trying to kill the guy. Just a thought......................
Number Three: Catholic Bishop Robert W. Finn of the Kansas City-St. Joseph diocese, who along with the diocese itself, have been indicted by a grand jury on a charge of failure to report suspected child abuse by a priest. The prosecution alleges that Finn "had reasonable cause to suspect a child may be subjected to abuse" by Father Shawn Ratigan, a priest from Independence, Missouri, who was indicted in August on 13 counts related to child pornography. Finn "had reasonable cause to suspect a child may be subjected to abuse due to previous knowledge of concerns about Father Ratigan and children". The reasonable cause allegedly includes pornographic photos of underage females.
Kansas City Bishop Indicted On Child Endangerment Charges
You know, the faithful often say that they separate their religion from the flawed humans who practice it, and that does make sense. That being said, how does a man of the cloth rationalize having this type of knowledge about a member of his diocese and not notifying the authorities? The Catholic Church has taken a well deserved savage beating over this issue during the past several years, and this is one more blow. Disgraceful.
Number Two: We have a tie for number two on the dishonor roll this week, folks: Ausar Allah-El and Serenity Sol-El who were recently arrested in New Orleans on charges relating to abducting their now five year old son two years ago after losing custody of him in Los Angeles. The boy was found undernourished and weighing 38 pounds, Los Angeles County authorities said Tuesday. He and his parents are believed to have been living on the streets in New Orleans.
Five Year Old CA Boy Found Malnourished Two Years After Abduction
The parents had lost custody of their son after Los Angeles County officials made "repeated attempts" to help the parents care for their son and found the boy suffering "from numerous medical conditions that could have been prevented with the proper care and medication," the statement said.
"His parents refused to provide the child with necessary medical appointments, dental exams, occupational therapists and ophthalmology appointments," the statement said.
Asked why the parents allegedly did this, Parker said, "Apparently, they have some type of belief that affects what they feed him and what type of medical care that they will allow him to receive."
Ladies and gentlemen, my view is that freedom to believe what you like ends when you endanger your child. Agreed?
Number One: Charlie Post, 33, of Lower Burrell, PA, who gunned down police Patrolman Derek Kotecki outside a local Diary Queen. Kotecki was dispatched to the area to apprehend Post after he fired shots at his boss at a local motel earlier this month. Post was also killed in the incident, but it is unclear if he took his own life or was killed by responding officers.
Police Officer Killed Outside Dairy Queen
It sounds like the shooter had mental health issues, and that certainly needs to be taken into consideration. However, there is nothing more tragic that a public servant losing his life in the line of duty. Please keep the officer's family and friends in your thoughts.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Number Five: An unidentified Eastern European man who decided he would get out of a speeding ticket by claiming police brutality after punching himself in the face.
Man Claims Police Brutality After Punching Himself
There was only one problem with this brilliant plan. He was being video taped while sitting in the police cruiser. Utterly amazing.
Number Four: An unidentified man who repeatedly stabbed a New Haven, CT tattoo artist because the assailant was unhappy was the work the tattoo artist did on his girlfriend. The tattoo artist escaped and was treated for minor injuries.
Tattoo Artist Stabbed Over Alleged Shoddy Work
I know that tattoos are supposedly forever, but so are lengthy prison sentences. Perhaps a better plan of action would have been to sue the artist for the money to pay for a cover tattoo from another artist versus trying to kill the guy. Just a thought......................
Number Three: Catholic Bishop Robert W. Finn of the Kansas City-St. Joseph diocese, who along with the diocese itself, have been indicted by a grand jury on a charge of failure to report suspected child abuse by a priest. The prosecution alleges that Finn "had reasonable cause to suspect a child may be subjected to abuse" by Father Shawn Ratigan, a priest from Independence, Missouri, who was indicted in August on 13 counts related to child pornography. Finn "had reasonable cause to suspect a child may be subjected to abuse due to previous knowledge of concerns about Father Ratigan and children". The reasonable cause allegedly includes pornographic photos of underage females.
Kansas City Bishop Indicted On Child Endangerment Charges
You know, the faithful often say that they separate their religion from the flawed humans who practice it, and that does make sense. That being said, how does a man of the cloth rationalize having this type of knowledge about a member of his diocese and not notifying the authorities? The Catholic Church has taken a well deserved savage beating over this issue during the past several years, and this is one more blow. Disgraceful.
Number Two: We have a tie for number two on the dishonor roll this week, folks: Ausar Allah-El and Serenity Sol-El who were recently arrested in New Orleans on charges relating to abducting their now five year old son two years ago after losing custody of him in Los Angeles. The boy was found undernourished and weighing 38 pounds, Los Angeles County authorities said Tuesday. He and his parents are believed to have been living on the streets in New Orleans.
Five Year Old CA Boy Found Malnourished Two Years After Abduction
The parents had lost custody of their son after Los Angeles County officials made "repeated attempts" to help the parents care for their son and found the boy suffering "from numerous medical conditions that could have been prevented with the proper care and medication," the statement said.
"His parents refused to provide the child with necessary medical appointments, dental exams, occupational therapists and ophthalmology appointments," the statement said.
Asked why the parents allegedly did this, Parker said, "Apparently, they have some type of belief that affects what they feed him and what type of medical care that they will allow him to receive."
Ladies and gentlemen, my view is that freedom to believe what you like ends when you endanger your child. Agreed?
Number One: Charlie Post, 33, of Lower Burrell, PA, who gunned down police Patrolman Derek Kotecki outside a local Diary Queen. Kotecki was dispatched to the area to apprehend Post after he fired shots at his boss at a local motel earlier this month. Post was also killed in the incident, but it is unclear if he took his own life or was killed by responding officers.
Police Officer Killed Outside Dairy Queen
It sounds like the shooter had mental health issues, and that certainly needs to be taken into consideration. However, there is nothing more tragic that a public servant losing his life in the line of duty. Please keep the officer's family and friends in your thoughts.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Thursday, October 13, 2011
Is There No Respect For Human Life Anymore?
You know what I don't understand? I don't understand what seems to an utter lack of regard for human life in this day and age. Just from today's news, I have four examples of what I mean.
Home Invasion Mastermind Found Guilty
Custody Battle May Have Led To Shooting Rampage
Body Of 6 Week Old Infant Found In Woods
Body Found At Waste Facility
Now that you have read these articles, dear readers, and are sufficiently disgusted, do you see my point? I realize that humans have killed each other since the beginning of time, but am I alone in thinking that the crimes are more frequent and more horrific than in the past? Do we no longer have respect for the gift of life? It almost seems like our species has become desensitized to violence and death. It as if murder has been glamorized, and the killers try to be as cruel as possible.
How did we get here, ladies and gentlemen? What has happened to our society? What has happened to us as human beings? As for me, I feel that the continued focus of so many people on themselves, and themselves only, with no regard to others or others' feelings. What do you think, friends?
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Home Invasion Mastermind Found Guilty
Custody Battle May Have Led To Shooting Rampage
Body Of 6 Week Old Infant Found In Woods
Body Found At Waste Facility
Now that you have read these articles, dear readers, and are sufficiently disgusted, do you see my point? I realize that humans have killed each other since the beginning of time, but am I alone in thinking that the crimes are more frequent and more horrific than in the past? Do we no longer have respect for the gift of life? It almost seems like our species has become desensitized to violence and death. It as if murder has been glamorized, and the killers try to be as cruel as possible.
How did we get here, ladies and gentlemen? What has happened to our society? What has happened to us as human beings? As for me, I feel that the continued focus of so many people on themselves, and themselves only, with no regard to others or others' feelings. What do you think, friends?
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Wednesday, October 12, 2011
Before You Pass Judgement........................
Pray don't find fault with the man that limps or stumbles along the road unless you have worn the shoes he wears or struggled beneath his load.
There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt though hidden from away from view or the burden he bears, placed on his back, might cause you to stumble too.
Don't sneer at the man who is down today unless you have felt the blow that caused his fall or felt the shame that only the fallen know.
You may be strong but still the blows that were his if dealt to you in the selfsame way at the selfsame time might cause you to stagger too!
Don't be too harsh with the man that sins or pelt him with word or stone unless you are sure--yea, doubly sure--that you have no sins of your own.
For you know, perhaps, if the tempter's voice should whisper as soft to you as it did to him when he went astray it might cause you to falter too.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
There may be tacks in his shoes that hurt though hidden from away from view or the burden he bears, placed on his back, might cause you to stumble too.
Don't sneer at the man who is down today unless you have felt the blow that caused his fall or felt the shame that only the fallen know.
You may be strong but still the blows that were his if dealt to you in the selfsame way at the selfsame time might cause you to stagger too!
Don't be too harsh with the man that sins or pelt him with word or stone unless you are sure--yea, doubly sure--that you have no sins of your own.
For you know, perhaps, if the tempter's voice should whisper as soft to you as it did to him when he went astray it might cause you to falter too.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Tuesday, October 11, 2011
Is Scott Brown A Male Chauvinist?
The latest kerfuffle emerging from the highly entertaining 2012 election year involves a spat between incumbent Sen. Scott Brown (R-MA) and Democratic frontrunner Elizabeth Warren. In 1982, Sen. Brown posed nude for Cosmopolitan magazine and used the proceeds to help pay for his education. During a recent debate among the Democratic contenders to face Brown in November, a question was asked regarding how the potential challengers paid for their education in light of Brown baring all 29 years ago. Much to the delight of the crowd, Ms. Warren responded that she "kept her clothes on". After hearing of Warren's remark, Brown later retored, "Thank God."
Brown and Warren Spar Over Nude Photo Shoot
Was Sen. Brown's comment in bad taste? Certainly so. Is he a male chauvinist? I find that highly unlikely. To me, this was an off the cuff quip that most likely does not reflect any sexist attitudes on Brown's behalf. (For the record, I have no issue with his posing nude either.)
However, I think this speaks to a deeper issue. Why in 21st Century America are we still basing our opinions and forming judgements of women based on their appearance? There is an old saying that basically says that men will listen to other men and then decide if they like what they hear, but men will look at a woman and decide if they like what they see before paying any attention at all to what she says. I can't tell you how many times my criticism of Sarah Palin has been greeted with "Yeah, but she's hot" from my male readers. Are we to base our opinions of Ms. Palin, or any other female in the public eye, on her sex appeal? Have we not progressed beyond this type of Neanderthal thinking?
The fact of the matter is this, friends and frenemies. Women are equal members of our society from the boardroom to the hallowed chambers of government to Wall Street to Main Street. They deserve respect, dignity, appreciation, and equal opportunity. What they do not deserve is to be judged in any way on their physical attributes.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Brown and Warren Spar Over Nude Photo Shoot
Was Sen. Brown's comment in bad taste? Certainly so. Is he a male chauvinist? I find that highly unlikely. To me, this was an off the cuff quip that most likely does not reflect any sexist attitudes on Brown's behalf. (For the record, I have no issue with his posing nude either.)
However, I think this speaks to a deeper issue. Why in 21st Century America are we still basing our opinions and forming judgements of women based on their appearance? There is an old saying that basically says that men will listen to other men and then decide if they like what they hear, but men will look at a woman and decide if they like what they see before paying any attention at all to what she says. I can't tell you how many times my criticism of Sarah Palin has been greeted with "Yeah, but she's hot" from my male readers. Are we to base our opinions of Ms. Palin, or any other female in the public eye, on her sex appeal? Have we not progressed beyond this type of Neanderthal thinking?
The fact of the matter is this, friends and frenemies. Women are equal members of our society from the boardroom to the hallowed chambers of government to Wall Street to Main Street. They deserve respect, dignity, appreciation, and equal opportunity. What they do not deserve is to be judged in any way on their physical attributes.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Saturday, October 8, 2011
Twatwaffles Of The Week
And away we go.............................
First, my friends, we have a Dicknozzle Of Douchebaggery: The suits that control the New York Yankees who recently suspended long time (35 years) beer vendor (yes, you read that correctly BEER VENDOR), Steve Lazarus for engaging in some playful banter with Boston Red Sox, and former Yankee, pitcher, Alfredo Aceves. Lazarus was accused of "harassing" Aceves and was escorted from Yankee Stadium as if he had engaged in criminal activity.
New York Yankee Beer Vendor Punished For Joking With Red Sox Pitcher
Folks, I love the Yankees, and I HATE the Red Sox. I understand this is one of the greatest, most heated rivalries in professional sports; but for the love of Pete, they punished a beer vendor for cracking a joke with an opposing player, who I should note played along with the joke like a good sport. Unbelievable.
Number Five: Former Vice-President Dick Cheney who recently said that the Obama administration owed the Bush administration "an apology" for their criticism of the Bush administration for their conduct after 9/11.
Cheney Says Obama Owes Bush Administration An Apology
How about this, Mr. Vice-President? Those of us, myself included, who routinely criticised you and President Bush will apologize to you as soon as you apologize for trampling the Constitution, ignoring civil rights, and invading the wrong country. Fair enough?
Number Four: An unidentified 16 year old Ohio high school football player who is alleged to have placed a tack in his glove and subsequently punctured the hands of 27 opposing players during the traditional post game handshake. The victims all received tetanus shots after the incident.
Football Player Pricks The Hands Of Opposing Players
Dear readers, this has to be one of the most disturbing acts of an individual "athlete" that I have seen in years. Not only did the offending player not even play in the game, but the fact that his act also tarnished the cherished tradition of showing sportsmanship and appreciation to your opponents after a game only makes it that much more repulsive.
Number Three: Dr. Robert Jeffress, the pastor of a Dallas megachurch, who showed the religious tolerance that the Christian Right in this country is so well known for when he stated that Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, a Mormon, is in a "cult" while endorsing Texas Governor Rick Perry's run for the Republican presidential nomination. In his defense, Perry did say that he doesn't believe that Romney is a cultist; but since Jeffress has made this statement before, I don't see how Perry could have been surprised.
Pastor Who Endorsed Perry Say Romney Is In A Cult
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have studied quite a bit of Constitutional Law at the university level, and I have yet to find the part that requires the president to be a Christian. What I did find, however, was the First Amendment, which guarantees religious freedom in the nation. While the same amendment protects Jeffress' statement, and while I will defend his right to say it to my dying breath; comments like his only go to inflame the religious bigotry and intolerance shown by the Christian Right in America. It is counterproductive and intolerant. This country was founded on the right to religious freedom, and the religious right must not be allowed to erode this fundamental right of every citizen.
Number Two: In another example of religious bigotry, a Southwest airlines crew who removed Irum Abbasi, a Muslim woman, from a flight to San Jose when a crew member thought she said "It is a go" into her cell phone. She actually said, "I've got to go." As if this weren't bad enough, after the TSA cleared Abbasi to fly, Southwest would not let her reboard the flight because a crew member was "uncomfortable" having her on the plane. Perhaps a better solution would have been to leave the uncomfortable crew member behind.
Muslim Woman Removed From Flight Sues Southwest Airlines
Lest we forget that Southwest also removed film director Kevin Smith from a flight for being "too fat" and Green Day frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong, because his pants were "saggy". But, hey, they don't charge bag fees!!!! Seriously, folks, do we really think anyone who wasn't wearing traditional Islamic clothing would have been treated this way for such an innocuous incident? I think not. I understand that Muslim extremists (key word) were responsible for the 9/11 attacks. I also understand that mainstream Muslims were not. It is too bad that Southwest doesn't understand this as well.
Number One: Duewa Lee , 35, of Sacramento, CA, who has been charged with ten counts of endangering the life or health of a child, and one count of torture for allegedly beating her 12 year old step-daughter as well as burning her with an iron and using a stapler on her ears.
Woman Accused Of Torturing 12 Year Old Girl
I say it week in and week out folks. I don't make this stuff up. I just report it.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
First, my friends, we have a Dicknozzle Of Douchebaggery: The suits that control the New York Yankees who recently suspended long time (35 years) beer vendor (yes, you read that correctly BEER VENDOR), Steve Lazarus for engaging in some playful banter with Boston Red Sox, and former Yankee, pitcher, Alfredo Aceves. Lazarus was accused of "harassing" Aceves and was escorted from Yankee Stadium as if he had engaged in criminal activity.
New York Yankee Beer Vendor Punished For Joking With Red Sox Pitcher
Folks, I love the Yankees, and I HATE the Red Sox. I understand this is one of the greatest, most heated rivalries in professional sports; but for the love of Pete, they punished a beer vendor for cracking a joke with an opposing player, who I should note played along with the joke like a good sport. Unbelievable.
Number Five: Former Vice-President Dick Cheney who recently said that the Obama administration owed the Bush administration "an apology" for their criticism of the Bush administration for their conduct after 9/11.
Cheney Says Obama Owes Bush Administration An Apology
How about this, Mr. Vice-President? Those of us, myself included, who routinely criticised you and President Bush will apologize to you as soon as you apologize for trampling the Constitution, ignoring civil rights, and invading the wrong country. Fair enough?
Number Four: An unidentified 16 year old Ohio high school football player who is alleged to have placed a tack in his glove and subsequently punctured the hands of 27 opposing players during the traditional post game handshake. The victims all received tetanus shots after the incident.
Football Player Pricks The Hands Of Opposing Players
Dear readers, this has to be one of the most disturbing acts of an individual "athlete" that I have seen in years. Not only did the offending player not even play in the game, but the fact that his act also tarnished the cherished tradition of showing sportsmanship and appreciation to your opponents after a game only makes it that much more repulsive.
Number Three: Dr. Robert Jeffress, the pastor of a Dallas megachurch, who showed the religious tolerance that the Christian Right in this country is so well known for when he stated that Massachusetts Governor Mitt Romney, a Mormon, is in a "cult" while endorsing Texas Governor Rick Perry's run for the Republican presidential nomination. In his defense, Perry did say that he doesn't believe that Romney is a cultist; but since Jeffress has made this statement before, I don't see how Perry could have been surprised.
Pastor Who Endorsed Perry Say Romney Is In A Cult
Ladies and Gentlemen, I have studied quite a bit of Constitutional Law at the university level, and I have yet to find the part that requires the president to be a Christian. What I did find, however, was the First Amendment, which guarantees religious freedom in the nation. While the same amendment protects Jeffress' statement, and while I will defend his right to say it to my dying breath; comments like his only go to inflame the religious bigotry and intolerance shown by the Christian Right in America. It is counterproductive and intolerant. This country was founded on the right to religious freedom, and the religious right must not be allowed to erode this fundamental right of every citizen.
Number Two: In another example of religious bigotry, a Southwest airlines crew who removed Irum Abbasi, a Muslim woman, from a flight to San Jose when a crew member thought she said "It is a go" into her cell phone. She actually said, "I've got to go." As if this weren't bad enough, after the TSA cleared Abbasi to fly, Southwest would not let her reboard the flight because a crew member was "uncomfortable" having her on the plane. Perhaps a better solution would have been to leave the uncomfortable crew member behind.
Muslim Woman Removed From Flight Sues Southwest Airlines
Lest we forget that Southwest also removed film director Kevin Smith from a flight for being "too fat" and Green Day frontman, Billie Joe Armstrong, because his pants were "saggy". But, hey, they don't charge bag fees!!!! Seriously, folks, do we really think anyone who wasn't wearing traditional Islamic clothing would have been treated this way for such an innocuous incident? I think not. I understand that Muslim extremists (key word) were responsible for the 9/11 attacks. I also understand that mainstream Muslims were not. It is too bad that Southwest doesn't understand this as well.
Number One: Duewa Lee , 35, of Sacramento, CA, who has been charged with ten counts of endangering the life or health of a child, and one count of torture for allegedly beating her 12 year old step-daughter as well as burning her with an iron and using a stapler on her ears.
Woman Accused Of Torturing 12 Year Old Girl
I say it week in and week out folks. I don't make this stuff up. I just report it.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Thursday, October 6, 2011
The Death Of An Icon
Let me see if I have this straight. Steve Jobs, may he rest in peace, created overpriced toys for adults who have a cornucopia of everything, and his untimely death is greeted by banner headlines, breaking news updates, a massive amount of media attention, social media websites filled with expressions of grief, and mourning usually set aside for an elder statesman or revered religious leader.
Meanwhile, Rev. Fred J. Shuttlesworth, a civil rights icon, who was bombed, beaten, repeatedly arrested, and hailed by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., passed away Wednesday, and his death barely registers a blip in the media, on the Internet, or in the blogospere.
Rev. Shuttlesworth Biography
What does that say about who we in America consider to be heroes? What does this say about our priorities in this country? While I agree that Mr. Jobs was a brilliant, innovated, upstanding, and passionate man; does he warrant more accolades than a man who put his life on the line on a day to day, hour to hour, basis to fight for African American equality? I think not, and I think it speaks volumes about how shallow, historically ignorant, self-centered, and self-absorbed American society really is.
RIP, Rev. Shuttlesworth. You are in a far better place now, and your legacy will live on forever.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Meanwhile, Rev. Fred J. Shuttlesworth, a civil rights icon, who was bombed, beaten, repeatedly arrested, and hailed by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., passed away Wednesday, and his death barely registers a blip in the media, on the Internet, or in the blogospere.
Rev. Shuttlesworth Biography
What does that say about who we in America consider to be heroes? What does this say about our priorities in this country? While I agree that Mr. Jobs was a brilliant, innovated, upstanding, and passionate man; does he warrant more accolades than a man who put his life on the line on a day to day, hour to hour, basis to fight for African American equality? I think not, and I think it speaks volumes about how shallow, historically ignorant, self-centered, and self-absorbed American society really is.
RIP, Rev. Shuttlesworth. You are in a far better place now, and your legacy will live on forever.
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
Seven Simple Truths
Seven rules to help you stay positive:
Rule #1
Wait to worry - only 8% of what we worry about ever comes
true
Rule #2
Keep an attitude of gratitude - count your blessings and jot
them down.
Rule #3
Your health is your wealth - if you lose your health, you
lose everything. Exercise, get enough sleep and eat healthier.
Rule #4
Joy boomerangs - do something for someone else; the good you
do boomerangs back to you.
Rule #5
Learn to say "no" - we have limits to our time,
interests and energy.
Rule #6
Understand the power of discipline - hold yourself
responsible for higher standards.
Rule #7
Surround yourself with positive people - find people who
will challenge you, believe in you and inspire you.
Attitudes are contagious - is yours worth catching?
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
Monday, October 3, 2011
Does The Calendar Control What You Wear?
You know what I don't understand? I don't understand why, on a gorgeous, sunny 75F (24C) day in West Lafayette, IN, I observed people wearing jackets and sweaters. Mind you, this was in the middle of the afternoon when it was wonderfully warm and sunny. Why in heaven's name would someone wear a jacket and/or sweater? Is it because the calendar says "October"? The thermometer still says 75F (24C).
I just don't get that. Is 75F (24C) cooler in October than in June because I will be you good money that these same people would have been wearing shorts and T-shirts if this were spring instead of fall? Of course, I've seen people wear sweatshirts inside a 70F (22C) office because it is cold outside. It is cold outside, but it is still warm in the office. Why wear a sweatshirt inside in the winter when you wear a short sleeve shirt in the same office in the summer? I've yet to see anyone freeze to death during their five minute walk from the car to the building. Humans truly are odd creatures, aren't they?
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
I just don't get that. Is 75F (24C) cooler in October than in June because I will be you good money that these same people would have been wearing shorts and T-shirts if this were spring instead of fall? Of course, I've seen people wear sweatshirts inside a 70F (22C) office because it is cold outside. It is cold outside, but it is still warm in the office. Why wear a sweatshirt inside in the winter when you wear a short sleeve shirt in the same office in the summer? I've yet to see anyone freeze to death during their five minute walk from the car to the building. Humans truly are odd creatures, aren't they?
Peace and love, my brothers and sisters.
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