listen guys & gals - for those of you who are suggesting that this is some skin-head gone bad ... I'd say hold on. For those of you who try to suggest the opposite. Hold on. Austin, TX is not comprised of 100% guitar-playing, reefer-toking, peace-love-harmony hippies - true. We do have our fair share of haters & stereo-typical rednecks. They are just more sophisticated in their hate and have learned to do it in their Prada instead of the white hood ; )
also ... i am not opposed to folks owning a gun under responsible conditions. but i am opposed to any sort of automatic gun -- even if you state that the intended purpose is for hunting. any self-respecting hunter ought to be able to shoot their game the old fashioned way with a shot-gun. i mean, who wants to cook a dear that is all shot-up anyway! automatic guns do not belong in civilian hands - period.
when an automatic gun ends up in the hand of a deranged person, ask folks like me if i care more about the right to own guns or right to life...
as a pro-choice person; however, i find that the greatest way to honor "life" is to take care of those who are already among us : )
enough with the glorifying of shooting -- whether it is in rap music or by naming guns after a governor that shoot animals so he can show his macho prowess.
(there, i have offended the broadest spectrum possible!)
i realize that i am talking about the right to bear arms, right to life & freedome of speech. but - events like this ought to have us talking about the "big picture". Instead of these being wedge issues that get people's passions up for the benefit of politicians, we have to look at these issues as "quality of life" discussions and how rights & liberaties serve the country as a whole.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Tuesday, September 28, 2010
Monday, September 27, 2010
VP Biden is right - the democratic base needs to unite and stop whining
In response to VP Joe Biden's comment that the democratic base should stop "whining" ...
i can appreciate what biden is saying ... us democrats need to stand united & get fired up. we cannot be fair weather friends - we are in this for the long haul ... not just for the party - but for future generations and our country
i realize that many on the progressive side are very disappointed by the lack of more leftist agenda being accomplished (i.e. don't ask/don't tell, closing guantanimo bay, withdrawing more troops, etc.) also, many progressives are disappointed by the cabinet selections -- especially the financial policy advisers.
i can understand him selecting people he can trust ... and i can also understand that he selected other advisers and cabinet members based on "advise". i doubt any incoming president can make every decision perfectly while trying to please everyone or have all the answers.
but i can only say that the man we all had such high hopes for is doing the best he can with what he was given. he probably also found out that washington is run not by the president ... but by a system of power that is often not about the people -- but more about "off" the people.
from what i can tell ... there are quite a few on their way out and folks like elizabeth warren are on their way in
also ... it is worth noting that the republicans have been hell bent on the destruction of pres. obama's presidency -- they have cared so little about working cohesively so that the best interest of the American people will prevail. they are a nasty, vicious bunch!
so ... even though i don't agree with everything pres. obama has done and am frustrated by his desire to always reach across the aisle, I have no doubt who i will support -- the differences between the two parties are striking
do i wish pres. obama would take #'1 and kick ass, yes ... so much so, i wish i could help them do it in some way possible. the only way i know is to vote, volunteer and support : )”
i can appreciate what biden is saying ... us democrats need to stand united & get fired up. we cannot be fair weather friends - we are in this for the long haul ... not just for the party - but for future generations and our country
i realize that many on the progressive side are very disappointed by the lack of more leftist agenda being accomplished (i.e. don't ask/don't tell, closing guantanimo bay, withdrawing more troops, etc.) also, many progressives are disappointed by the cabinet selections -- especially the financial policy advisers.
i can understand him selecting people he can trust ... and i can also understand that he selected other advisers and cabinet members based on "advise". i doubt any incoming president can make every decision perfectly while trying to please everyone or have all the answers.
but i can only say that the man we all had such high hopes for is doing the best he can with what he was given. he probably also found out that washington is run not by the president ... but by a system of power that is often not about the people -- but more about "off" the people.
from what i can tell ... there are quite a few on their way out and folks like elizabeth warren are on their way in
also ... it is worth noting that the republicans have been hell bent on the destruction of pres. obama's presidency -- they have cared so little about working cohesively so that the best interest of the American people will prevail. they are a nasty, vicious bunch!
so ... even though i don't agree with everything pres. obama has done and am frustrated by his desire to always reach across the aisle, I have no doubt who i will support -- the differences between the two parties are striking
do i wish pres. obama would take #'1 and kick ass, yes ... so much so, i wish i could help them do it in some way possible. the only way i know is to vote, volunteer and support : )”
Wednesday, September 22, 2010
Sweet Music
A bit of loveliness .... Ella's take on "I Let A Song Out Of My Heart" ...
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zdiy0U3pmNk
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Zdiy0U3pmNk
Monday, September 20, 2010
Nicholas Kristof Apologizes To Muslims On Behalf Of America
(in response to someone who commented about my original post on HP about Grace - Forgiveness - Understanding and that person's thought that he does not need anyone to apologize for him ... and he talked about the "real enemy" -- implying that Muslims do support violence directed towards America)
Grace - Forgiveness - Understanding ... all good things ... (folks say) only to follow-up with the conditional BUT and the crazy rhetoric that follows.
grace forgiveness understanding are not things we talk about - it is something that we do.
i was one of the lucky few -- because my devoutly christian parents expected me to study all major religions while in middle school so that I may come to know who i am and why i worship a God that i do. they encouraged us to travel & get to know as many people around the world ... so that we may get to know God in His fullness.
i travel -- not for work -- but for pleasure and find myself in the position of explaining to people that most Americans are kind & generous ... and yes, even though a large percentage have never left the country (or in many cases their state) are able to reach across. i have to tell them that America is not a bully and that we really are not as ignorant as those who get air time.
the real "enemy" is within made up of small-minded people, who are afraid of what is "different" and will respond to anyone who fear mongers & those motivated by economics (big business) and follks who want to remain in power (i.e. politicians).
being humble is not a defeatist attitude -- it just shows the greatness of the person willing to listen, share & consider another perspective -- and admit when they have gone off the rails
greatness is not something we expect from those on the "outside" ... it is something we expect from within.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Grace - Forgiveness - Understanding ... all good things ... (folks say) only to follow-up with the conditional BUT and the crazy rhetoric that follows.
grace forgiveness understanding are not things we talk about - it is something that we do.
i was one of the lucky few -- because my devoutly christian parents expected me to study all major religions while in middle school so that I may come to know who i am and why i worship a God that i do. they encouraged us to travel & get to know as many people around the world ... so that we may get to know God in His fullness.
i travel -- not for work -- but for pleasure and find myself in the position of explaining to people that most Americans are kind & generous ... and yes, even though a large percentage have never left the country (or in many cases their state) are able to reach across. i have to tell them that America is not a bully and that we really are not as ignorant as those who get air time.
the real "enemy" is within made up of small-minded people, who are afraid of what is "different" and will respond to anyone who fear mongers & those motivated by economics (big business) and follks who want to remain in power (i.e. politicians).
being humble is not a defeatist attitude -- it just shows the greatness of the person willing to listen, share & consider another perspective -- and admit when they have gone off the rails
greatness is not something we expect from those on the "outside" ... it is something we expect from within.
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Friday, September 17, 2010
John 3:16 & the Apostle's Creed conversation Continued ...
(John 3:16 & the Apostles' Creed conversation continued)
I will say Amen for observing God in all of His creation -- especially His children. It does not matter to me one bit whether they are saved, unsaved, believe or do not believe.
I do not speak to folks about "my God" ... if the topic comes up or someone asks me a question - i answer truthfully -- not necessarily from a cookie cutter perspective of other people's interpretation of God.
After all - who are we to limit God or define him based on our geopolitical-Christian sects?
Faith is not about what you talk about -- Faith is what you do.
Let us not forget that the Bible has been translated into several languages over several thousands of years -- and as time progressed, it was from the perspective of the anglo euro male.
The Catholic church, for example, had Popes (historically) who had such power over royal families & governance.
The point is ... the human bias (based on power & control) has always been prevelent. The Bible has been used for unspeakable evil ... along with good.
As to non-believers ... God LOVES them and the Bible also speaks about those who are blessed because they do not know any better but warns those who know Him and yet do not follow His greatest commandment: love thy neighbor as you love thy Lord thy God.
I find inspiration from the Bible ... but I find God's spirit in the forest, sitting in front of the great big ocean and in the wild Jesuit priest that encourages me to read, read, read ... from every subject ... because God insipres wisdom along with all things good -- and it is not exclusive to Christians.
So ... when I look at people -- I don't see believers and non-believers. I see God ... I see someone who needs my love. I see someone that needs to see God in me. That is a big enough responsibility - - memorizing and quoting scriptures is pharisee-cally too overwhelming.
You know ... at the end of the day, God cherishes and finds joy in my Amen ... as much as He takes joy in my friend Muhammad's volunteering at a homeless shelter.
So ... let us sing, dance, love and share for one another's joy -- because when we bring joy & hope to others ... we truly sing a song of praise to The Creator - God.
Being a judge of other people's Christ-God cred -- I'll leave it up to God.
I will say Amen for observing God in all of His creation -- especially His children. It does not matter to me one bit whether they are saved, unsaved, believe or do not believe.
I do not speak to folks about "my God" ... if the topic comes up or someone asks me a question - i answer truthfully -- not necessarily from a cookie cutter perspective of other people's interpretation of God.
After all - who are we to limit God or define him based on our geopolitical-Christian sects?
Faith is not about what you talk about -- Faith is what you do.
Let us not forget that the Bible has been translated into several languages over several thousands of years -- and as time progressed, it was from the perspective of the anglo euro male.
The Catholic church, for example, had Popes (historically) who had such power over royal families & governance.
The point is ... the human bias (based on power & control) has always been prevelent. The Bible has been used for unspeakable evil ... along with good.
As to non-believers ... God LOVES them and the Bible also speaks about those who are blessed because they do not know any better but warns those who know Him and yet do not follow His greatest commandment: love thy neighbor as you love thy Lord thy God.
I find inspiration from the Bible ... but I find God's spirit in the forest, sitting in front of the great big ocean and in the wild Jesuit priest that encourages me to read, read, read ... from every subject ... because God insipres wisdom along with all things good -- and it is not exclusive to Christians.
So ... when I look at people -- I don't see believers and non-believers. I see God ... I see someone who needs my love. I see someone that needs to see God in me. That is a big enough responsibility - - memorizing and quoting scriptures is pharisee-cally too overwhelming.
You know ... at the end of the day, God cherishes and finds joy in my Amen ... as much as He takes joy in my friend Muhammad's volunteering at a homeless shelter.
So ... let us sing, dance, love and share for one another's joy -- because when we bring joy & hope to others ... we truly sing a song of praise to The Creator - God.
Being a judge of other people's Christ-God cred -- I'll leave it up to God.
John 3:16 & the Apostles' Creed conversation continued
(John 3:16 & the Apostles' Creed conversation continued)
I will say Amen for observing God in all of His creation -- especially His children. It does not matter to me one bit whether they are saved, unsaved, believe or do not believe.
I do not speak to folks about "my God" ... if the topic comes up or someone asks me a question - i answer truthfully -- not necessarily from a cookie cutter perspective of other people's interpretation of God.
After all - who are we to limit God or define him based on our geopolitical-Christian sects?
Faith is not about what you talk about -- Faith is what you do.
Let us not forget that the Bible has been translated into several languages over several thousands of years -- and as time progressed, it was from the perspective of the anglo euro male.
The Catholic church, for example, had Popes (historically) who had such power over royal families & governance.
The point is ... the human bias (based on power & control) has always been prevelent. The Bible has been used for unspeakable evil ... along with good.
As to non-believers ... God LOVES them and the Bible also speaks about those who are blessed because they do not know any better but warns those who know Him and yet do not follow His greatest commandment: love thy neighbor as you love thy Lord thy God.
I find inspiration from the Bible ... but I find God's spirit in the forest, sitting in front of the great big ocean and in the wild Jesuit priest that encourages me to read, read, read ... from every subject ... because God insipres wisdom along with all things good -- and it is not exclusive to Christians.
So ... when I look at people -- I don't see believers and non-believers. I see God ... I see someone who needs my love. I see someone that needs to see God in me. That is a big enough responsibility - - memorizing and quoting scriptures is pharisee-cally too overwhelming.
You know ... at the end of the day, God cherishes and finds joy in my Amen ... as much as He takes joy in my friend Muhammad's volunteering at a homeless shelter.
So ... let us sing, dance, love and share for one another's joy -- because when we bring joy & hope to others ... we truly sing a song of praise to The Creator - God.
Being a judge of other people's Christ-God cred -- I'll leave it up to God.
I will say Amen for observing God in all of His creation -- especially His children. It does not matter to me one bit whether they are saved, unsaved, believe or do not believe.
I do not speak to folks about "my God" ... if the topic comes up or someone asks me a question - i answer truthfully -- not necessarily from a cookie cutter perspective of other people's interpretation of God.
After all - who are we to limit God or define him based on our geopolitical-Christian sects?
Faith is not about what you talk about -- Faith is what you do.
Let us not forget that the Bible has been translated into several languages over several thousands of years -- and as time progressed, it was from the perspective of the anglo euro male.
The Catholic church, for example, had Popes (historically) who had such power over royal families & governance.
The point is ... the human bias (based on power & control) has always been prevelent. The Bible has been used for unspeakable evil ... along with good.
As to non-believers ... God LOVES them and the Bible also speaks about those who are blessed because they do not know any better but warns those who know Him and yet do not follow His greatest commandment: love thy neighbor as you love thy Lord thy God.
I find inspiration from the Bible ... but I find God's spirit in the forest, sitting in front of the great big ocean and in the wild Jesuit priest that encourages me to read, read, read ... from every subject ... because God insipres wisdom along with all things good -- and it is not exclusive to Christians.
So ... when I look at people -- I don't see believers and non-believers. I see God ... I see someone who needs my love. I see someone that needs to see God in me. That is a big enough responsibility - - memorizing and quoting scriptures is pharisee-cally too overwhelming.
You know ... at the end of the day, God cherishes and finds joy in my Amen ... as much as He takes joy in my friend Muhammad's volunteering at a homeless shelter.
So ... let us sing, dance, love and share for one another's joy -- because when we bring joy & hope to others ... we truly sing a song of praise to The Creator - God.
Being a judge of other people's Christ-God cred -- I'll leave it up to God.
Thursday, September 16, 2010
Texas Textbook Massacre: State Board Suggests Books 'Tainted' With 'Pro-Islamic, Anti-Christian Distortions'
(Background: the Texas State board of Education -- appointed by the Governor -- gets to have huge influence over the curricula taught & text books used in the Texas public schools. The current Governor is a Conservative (Republican) and not surprisingly, the board is made up of a majority of Republicans; with no education background, to boot. Over the last year, they have exercised unimaginable control over the content that will be published in text books ... i.e. excluding some Black & Mexican civil rights leaders & historic figures from history books. So ... here's their latest undertaking:
"The Texas State Board of Education is expected to consider next week a measure that would prohibit textbooks from pushing Islam over Christianity, as they claim has happened in the past."
During my exchange with another commentator and his question about what my beliefs are about John 3:16 and the Nicene Creed ... I responded with the following)
disclaimer (of sorts): my parents are "Roman Catholic" so you know that I recited the Apostles Creed (a.k.a. Nicene Creed) like a parrot, growing up. but ... my most influential "friends" were Jesuit priests (danger, zone, right ! ha ha ha)
as to John 3:16 "for God so loved the world ..." God so loved the world He created with all its wonder from the Smokey Mountains to Mount Everest; from the Alps' majesty to the mystique of Patagonia (Argentina) ... from the Sahara desert to Great Sandy (Australia) ... from the glorious Coral reefs of Sri Lanka to those in E. Rennell's (Solomon Islands) From the pristine Biolewieza Forest of Poland to the Rain forests of Costa Rica ... and the glorious list goes on and on ...
amid this glory - I feel small and stand in awe.
yet, what takes my breath away is the beauty that's held within the eyes of a new born. In that moment - I don't care whether that child's eyes belong to a Jew, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist or anyone of any color, culture or region.
i simply say: I do get it ... for God so loved the WORLD -- His creation.
if so ... Jesus was His gift to everyone.
and it IS a gift. Have you noticed, you cannot shove a gift upon someone ... it has to be received.
and at the rate us Christians are going - we are shoving this so hard on people's lap and then chastising them for believing something different ... we have lost sight of the fact that it IS God's gift to offer through how we treat each other ... not how we get to shove it upon everyone else.
as to the Apostles' Creed -- there is one God - one creator. But it is not in the Bible -- it is a Creed created by the Catholic church (back in the old ages when religion was used to control & govern people).
if you speak with Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Buddhists, etc. -- they'll say that they do believe in God - The Creator.
so ... basically we all agree ... it is now just a matter of which version we have managed to limit God into our meeger human "box".
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
"The Texas State Board of Education is expected to consider next week a measure that would prohibit textbooks from pushing Islam over Christianity, as they claim has happened in the past."
During my exchange with another commentator and his question about what my beliefs are about John 3:16 and the Nicene Creed ... I responded with the following)
disclaimer (of sorts): my parents are "Roman Catholic" so you know that I recited the Apostles Creed (a.k.a. Nicene Creed) like a parrot, growing up. but ... my most influential "friends" were Jesuit priests (danger, zone, right ! ha ha ha)
as to John 3:16 "for God so loved the world ..." God so loved the world He created with all its wonder from the Smokey Mountains to Mount Everest; from the Alps' majesty to the mystique of Patagonia (Argentina) ... from the Sahara desert to Great Sandy (Australia) ... from the glorious Coral reefs of Sri Lanka to those in E. Rennell's (Solomon Islands) From the pristine Biolewieza Forest of Poland to the Rain forests of Costa Rica ... and the glorious list goes on and on ...
amid this glory - I feel small and stand in awe.
yet, what takes my breath away is the beauty that's held within the eyes of a new born. In that moment - I don't care whether that child's eyes belong to a Jew, Christian, Muslim, Hindu, Buddhist, Atheist or anyone of any color, culture or region.
i simply say: I do get it ... for God so loved the WORLD -- His creation.
if so ... Jesus was His gift to everyone.
and it IS a gift. Have you noticed, you cannot shove a gift upon someone ... it has to be received.
and at the rate us Christians are going - we are shoving this so hard on people's lap and then chastising them for believing something different ... we have lost sight of the fact that it IS God's gift to offer through how we treat each other ... not how we get to shove it upon everyone else.
as to the Apostles' Creed -- there is one God - one creator. But it is not in the Bible -- it is a Creed created by the Catholic church (back in the old ages when religion was used to control & govern people).
if you speak with Muslims, Hindus, Jews, Buddhists, etc. -- they'll say that they do believe in God - The Creator.
so ... basically we all agree ... it is now just a matter of which version we have managed to limit God into our meeger human "box".
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Vincent Gray Ousts Incumbent Adrian Fenty In DC Mayoral Contest
(background: Adrian Fenty was a "reform" mayor of Washington DC. He hired Chancellor Michelle Rhee who had a no-nonsense way about trying to clean-up a failing school system and often, offended the education establishment & even parents. so, his opponent, Vincent Gray ran on a platform that was anti-Fenti & anti-Rhee. Gray won ... much to my dismay)
Why is it that people think that Teaching is a right?
Teaching is a privilege.
On the other hand ...
Receiving a public education is a RIGHT
Our children have the right to receive the best possible education that is constantly evolving and holding not just the Students accountable -- but also holding Educators & Parents accountable.
These might be highly politically incorrect or even fighting words for some.
Tenure should never be granted ... and just like every other job -- Teachers' & Administrators' jobs should be based on performance & updated credentials and certifications.
Our children stand to learn very little if they have teachers who got a piece of paper 30 years ago ...
When are people going to learn that EDUCATION IS THE GREATEST CIVIL RIGHT that will shape the future of our nation?
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Why is it that people think that Teaching is a right?
Teaching is a privilege.
On the other hand ...
Receiving a public education is a RIGHT
Our children have the right to receive the best possible education that is constantly evolving and holding not just the Students accountable -- but also holding Educators & Parents accountable.
These might be highly politically incorrect or even fighting words for some.
Tenure should never be granted ... and just like every other job -- Teachers' & Administrators' jobs should be based on performance & updated credentials and certifications.
Our children stand to learn very little if they have teachers who got a piece of paper 30 years ago ...
When are people going to learn that EDUCATION IS THE GREATEST CIVIL RIGHT that will shape the future of our nation?
Read the Article at HuffingtonPost
Christine O'Donnell - news Tea Party sweetheart thinks Pres. Obama is Anti-American
The sad truth is ... those who support the Tea Party agenda are not going to care if folks like O'Donnell call President Obama un-American, a communist, Hitler, a nigerian, white, black or green!
Many have opted to blindly parrot the half truths twisted for rhetoric or repeat the downright lies -- and in the process ... good people who have a legitimate complaint have lost their soul, sense of perspective and decency.
Being angry is understandable ... but voting in candidates with no real ability beyond the spewing of ideology does not translate into winning agendas in DC for themselves, their community & their country. It is akin to a Toddler throwing a fit hoping something would happen.
The anger is misguided. They ought not be angry with President Obama ... they ought to train their lasers on the Republican party, its leadership & the comedic talking heads that have suffered from political ADD/ADHD along with a complete lack of a moral compass & decency.
If the Tea Party folks think that the Republican establishment really gives a rats ass about their plight in 'everyday-ville, America', they are highly mistaken.
The Republican party sold out its base, its soul and this country a few years ago. Now - we get to clean up the dirty mess -- and yes, it ain't a pretty picture.
But stop blaming the black man who got elected to do the dirty job; instead, help him. He is an American -- just like you and me.
Many have opted to blindly parrot the half truths twisted for rhetoric or repeat the downright lies -- and in the process ... good people who have a legitimate complaint have lost their soul, sense of perspective and decency.
Being angry is understandable ... but voting in candidates with no real ability beyond the spewing of ideology does not translate into winning agendas in DC for themselves, their community & their country. It is akin to a Toddler throwing a fit hoping something would happen.
The anger is misguided. They ought not be angry with President Obama ... they ought to train their lasers on the Republican party, its leadership & the comedic talking heads that have suffered from political ADD/ADHD along with a complete lack of a moral compass & decency.
If the Tea Party folks think that the Republican establishment really gives a rats ass about their plight in 'everyday-ville, America', they are highly mistaken.
The Republican party sold out its base, its soul and this country a few years ago. Now - we get to clean up the dirty mess -- and yes, it ain't a pretty picture.
But stop blaming the black man who got elected to do the dirty job; instead, help him. He is an American -- just like you and me.
Monday, September 13, 2010
Gay Saudi Diplomat seeks Asylum in the US
In response to someone who said this was "More fodder for Gay sex clubs" ..
I asked: "You mean to say that homosexuality is genetically excluded from Muslims?”
His response was a sanctimoneous, anti-west, holier than thou response that included this: "Gay sex can be advocated & propagated in a society just like any other kind of conduct"
So, here was my response: You say, Gay sex can be advocated & propagated in a society just like any other kind of conduct. Does that also include the right of women to have equal social, economic, opportunity & moral standing in any given society?
Obviously - your views about homosexuality are in great contrast with scientific, social and historic context.
I would argue that ignorance, extreme view points laced with moral superiority & hate is a choice -- not sexual orientation.
Obviously - you ARE not a practicing Christian; so i will assume you are a Muslim because no practicing Hindu or Buddhist would dare have your judgemental & far-reaching opinion about sexuality or the right to choose.
I would also assume you are not an American - because your assumptions about American support & Saudi Arabia's acceptable Islamic credentials are dangerously biased.
You seem to support the kind of extreme, suppressive altruistic opinion that dictates to one or more groups in society borne out of insecure self-loathing.
Thank God (yes, God) that people's sense of freedom to be, feel & worship in America aren't based on your kind of thinking -- or else, even YOU would not be able to express your opinions in an open format such as this.
Often, some people approach life & others with a high moral judgement of "my God's way are more superior ... " because of their own inability to discover humility in the face of their human-ness and an inability to discover intimacy with God & each other.
Ultimate, the repressed find power by oppressing others.
I asked: "You mean to say that homosexuality is genetically excluded from Muslims?”
His response was a sanctimoneous, anti-west, holier than thou response that included this: "Gay sex can be advocated & propagated in a society just like any other kind of conduct"
So, here was my response: You say, Gay sex can be advocated & propagated in a society just like any other kind of conduct. Does that also include the right of women to have equal social, economic, opportunity & moral standing in any given society?
Obviously - your views about homosexuality are in great contrast with scientific, social and historic context.
I would argue that ignorance, extreme view points laced with moral superiority & hate is a choice -- not sexual orientation.
Obviously - you ARE not a practicing Christian; so i will assume you are a Muslim because no practicing Hindu or Buddhist would dare have your judgemental & far-reaching opinion about sexuality or the right to choose.
I would also assume you are not an American - because your assumptions about American support & Saudi Arabia's acceptable Islamic credentials are dangerously biased.
You seem to support the kind of extreme, suppressive altruistic opinion that dictates to one or more groups in society borne out of insecure self-loathing.
Thank God (yes, God) that people's sense of freedom to be, feel & worship in America aren't based on your kind of thinking -- or else, even YOU would not be able to express your opinions in an open format such as this.
Often, some people approach life & others with a high moral judgement of "my God's way are more superior ... " because of their own inability to discover humility in the face of their human-ness and an inability to discover intimacy with God & each other.
Ultimate, the repressed find power by oppressing others.
Saturday, September 11, 2010
More thoughts - September 11, 2010
There were demonstrations on both sides at the proposed Islamic Community Center two blocks from the site of the 9/11 tragedy. Some of the talk is downright hateful. Some of the opinion is borne out of hatred - others out of ignorance ... but nearly all out of fear. Those in favor speak of idealism that mimic that of our founding fathers ... but even they -- I imagine -- have a fear of their ideology or way of life being threatened.
Obviously - there will always be those who will douse this flame for their own gain.
I want to be angry ... and often, i am angry when I read these articles & opinions. But then it occurred to me just how wonderful this discourse is; even with all of its hatred, nasty rhetoric and political propaganda. It keeps people talking, shouting their ideas (since talk is probably secondary). The more dialog there is - the easier it is to flush out those who douse these flames for their own gain.
At some point, ignorance ... like crap on a polluted river ... floats to the top!
But the good news is ... that Democracy is alive and well. Not even for a painful or difficult day as September Eleventh should we allow Democracy to suspend. Not for decency; not for appropriateness.
Democracy is the ability to demonstration agreement & disagreement. Patriotism is protecting the rights of those we disagree with -- so that our right to disagree is protected.
Obviously - there will always be those who will douse this flame for their own gain.
I want to be angry ... and often, i am angry when I read these articles & opinions. But then it occurred to me just how wonderful this discourse is; even with all of its hatred, nasty rhetoric and political propaganda. It keeps people talking, shouting their ideas (since talk is probably secondary). The more dialog there is - the easier it is to flush out those who douse these flames for their own gain.
At some point, ignorance ... like crap on a polluted river ... floats to the top!
But the good news is ... that Democracy is alive and well. Not even for a painful or difficult day as September Eleventh should we allow Democracy to suspend. Not for decency; not for appropriateness.
Democracy is the ability to demonstration agreement & disagreement. Patriotism is protecting the rights of those we disagree with -- so that our right to disagree is protected.
Love & Hate ... Remembering 9 - 11
Septemeber Eleven: it happened to all of us.
I found this picture of an American flag drawn by a child who wrote these words: Hope, Dream, Indivisible, Peace, Love, Proud, Unity, Liberty. This kid gets it when many adults do not.
Seeking peace with an absolute goal of Love is the ultimate antidote for hate & ignorance.
Being an American is the freedom to define who you are as an American -- not who others are in their Americanism or imposing our Americanism ideals upon others.
Seeking peace with an absolute goal of Love is the ultimate antidote for hate & ignorance.
Friday, September 10, 2010
Atheist, Billboards & Right-wing Christians
So ... the Atheist in Oklahoma put up a giant Billboard that says:
Don't believe in God?
.... join the club
Apparently, the Christian community is upset. And they say "it is not a question of can you; it is a question of should you". Funny no one seem to speak up early on when the lunatic Pastor decided he was going to burn Qurans. OK ... maybe I will save that anger for another blog?
"It is like poking a finger in your eye" ...
Good Lord - someone needs to tell these folks Jesus the most politically incorrect person a Christian could encounter.
I am a believer and lover of Christ.
I believe in the Divine - a Creator -- and believe in a God that is Love. I am ashamed by the way these right wing Christians act out on behalf of their faith -- this is certainly not the Love doctrine i believe in.
The atheist have the right to believe, accept or do whatever they see fit when it comes to religion and spirituality. Honestly - they seem the least hateful ... compared to those who claim to have discovered the Divine.
These so called Christians are hypocrites who use hate to bring people to Christ -- but Christ was all about unconditional Love, Grace & Acceptance.
Thankfully - there are many like me who believe in the pure & simple message of love that has to be lived from the inside out ... instead of sitting on pompous dogmatic judgement while wagging the righteous Christian finger.
Don't believe in God?
.... join the club
Apparently, the Christian community is upset. And they say "it is not a question of can you; it is a question of should you". Funny no one seem to speak up early on when the lunatic Pastor decided he was going to burn Qurans. OK ... maybe I will save that anger for another blog?
"It is like poking a finger in your eye" ...
Good Lord - someone needs to tell these folks Jesus the most politically incorrect person a Christian could encounter.
I am a believer and lover of Christ.
I believe in the Divine - a Creator -- and believe in a God that is Love. I am ashamed by the way these right wing Christians act out on behalf of their faith -- this is certainly not the Love doctrine i believe in.
The atheist have the right to believe, accept or do whatever they see fit when it comes to religion and spirituality. Honestly - they seem the least hateful ... compared to those who claim to have discovered the Divine.
These so called Christians are hypocrites who use hate to bring people to Christ -- but Christ was all about unconditional Love, Grace & Acceptance.
Thankfully - there are many like me who believe in the pure & simple message of love that has to be lived from the inside out ... instead of sitting on pompous dogmatic judgement while wagging the righteous Christian finger.
Thursday, September 9, 2010
Pure Love
Me: Brandon ... why do people love you so much?
Brandon: because I love them!
This conversation is engrained in my heart & spirit. It took place about 7 years ago. Brandon was a 4 year old boy that grew up in abject poverty and in a turbulent environment. I wanted to help him -- but soon, I discovered, he helped me.
Brandon was the 3rd of 4 children ... with a mother who could not find love within herself -- so brought any man into the house who promised her the hint of love because her husband was either "on the road" or in and out of jail.
Often, the children would not get 3 meals a day. Their rental home was a mishmash of smelly carpet, mangy pets, broken toys and sheets for curtains. The mother tried - I think ... but often couldn't find the strength to keep it up. She tried to rent in a good neighborhood with good schools -- things were OK when the husband or lover du jour provided with extra money. Often, she would struggle trying to make the rent payment. The family & my sweet Brandon eventually were evicted.
With 4 children, little self-esteem and high expectation ... I understood why Brandon's mom would often give-up.
I loved his smile that tugged @ my heart. I still remembered the blonde kid with the piercing blue eyes. I still remember him ringing my friend's door bell looking for "Reena". My friend lived in the same neighborhood.
Years have gone by ... I think about Love -- and the first person that comes to mind is Brandon. The Brandon who had every reason to not understand Love ... yet understood the simplest rule of Love:
Love ... and Love, Loves (back).
Brandon: because I love them!
This conversation is engrained in my heart & spirit. It took place about 7 years ago. Brandon was a 4 year old boy that grew up in abject poverty and in a turbulent environment. I wanted to help him -- but soon, I discovered, he helped me.
Brandon was the 3rd of 4 children ... with a mother who could not find love within herself -- so brought any man into the house who promised her the hint of love because her husband was either "on the road" or in and out of jail.
Often, the children would not get 3 meals a day. Their rental home was a mishmash of smelly carpet, mangy pets, broken toys and sheets for curtains. The mother tried - I think ... but often couldn't find the strength to keep it up. She tried to rent in a good neighborhood with good schools -- things were OK when the husband or lover du jour provided with extra money. Often, she would struggle trying to make the rent payment. The family & my sweet Brandon eventually were evicted.
With 4 children, little self-esteem and high expectation ... I understood why Brandon's mom would often give-up.
I loved his smile that tugged @ my heart. I still remembered the blonde kid with the piercing blue eyes. I still remember him ringing my friend's door bell looking for "Reena". My friend lived in the same neighborhood.
Years have gone by ... I think about Love -- and the first person that comes to mind is Brandon. The Brandon who had every reason to not understand Love ... yet understood the simplest rule of Love:
Love ... and Love, Loves (back).
Morning Sounds
I sit on my front porch, coffee in hand. The familiar sounds -- all to often taken for granted -- come ot the forefront.
A Bullfrog sounding off a bullhorn in the hopes of trying to attract a mate ...
A Texas Cicada screaming out his deafening sound -- calling out a mate -- not to be outdone by the bullfrog
A Squirrel trying to warn off another from eating the pecans he's been eying ...
A Parrot's chirping -- warning the couple of dozen others who have called a large tree home ..
A Pigeon cooing away happily after finding its morning worm ...
A Crow cawing mercilessly -- trying to wake-up the sleepy heads ...
Then there's my dog ... silently sitting beside me with her ears perked up -- listening & watching.
She probably doesn't understand why the City busy, cars and people have to outdo the beautiful sounds of nature. She probably doesn't even realize that we live in a big City. She doesn't realize what I know -- the blessings of these glorious sounds that remind me that I am alive - nature is alive - life is happening all around us!!
A Bullfrog sounding off a bullhorn in the hopes of trying to attract a mate ...
A Texas Cicada screaming out his deafening sound -- calling out a mate -- not to be outdone by the bullfrog
A Squirrel trying to warn off another from eating the pecans he's been eying ...
A Parrot's chirping -- warning the couple of dozen others who have called a large tree home ..
A Pigeon cooing away happily after finding its morning worm ...
A Crow cawing mercilessly -- trying to wake-up the sleepy heads ...
Then there's my dog ... silently sitting beside me with her ears perked up -- listening & watching.
She probably doesn't understand why the City busy, cars and people have to outdo the beautiful sounds of nature. She probably doesn't even realize that we live in a big City. She doesn't realize what I know -- the blessings of these glorious sounds that remind me that I am alive - nature is alive - life is happening all around us!!
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