I am totally amazed at the moment. Yesterday I watched the patriotic displays from New York and Washington D.C., the music and the pagentry highlighting America's beauty and greatness. I also watched the news of the passage of the "cap and trade" bill in the House of Representatives, which was another giant power grab by the government at the expense of all our freedom. Massive increases in the cost of power, government inspectors authorizing the sale of private property and punishing or rewarding those who don't or do have the correct government approved showers are only a few of the ridiculous "feel good" regulations in this bill. A bill, I might add, that was voted on with out anyone reading it. It was still being written as the vote was being forced through and, as many Representatives were demanding copies to read (and were being refused), it was passed. This is getting to be the norm in congress. I suppose as long as those in congress feel good about what they've done and it gains them that little bit of more power they need, it's just fine.
It takes me back to last year when the government passed a bill that mandated the exclusive use of mini fluorescent light bulbs--no more evil regular bulbs. The only problem is that those mine twist bulbs are full of mercury and if you drop and break one, according to the very same government forcing you to use them, you now have a chemical hazard scene in your home. To take care of it you only have to go to your computer and download a 17 page EPA guideline on how to handle the situation.
It doesn't really matter who's in charge; we're just merrily steamrolling down the hill toward the pure nanny state where every aspect of our lives are micro-managed by the all-powerful, purely benevolent, paternal state. Just don't cross it by disobeying or voicing criticism. a spanking from that daddy is REALLY going to hurt.
Sunday, July 5, 2009
Thursday, June 18, 2009
Happy Independence Day?
I've listened to his grand and glorious speeches (which don't come close to matching his actions), studied his nominees for his cabinet--the cabinet that would be the most ethical in history and wouldn't have any lobbyists--that ended up full of tax cheats and lobbyists and watched the news in wonder (and with just a bit of disgust) as he toured the world apologizing for America being America and I think I have our President figured out. He isn't concerned with bipartisanship, compromise or with upholding the "traditional American values" he constantly references. Nope: what he wants is what progressives have wanted for over a century: to lift humanity out of chaos and give it order and purpose--you know, make us all totally and completely dependent upon the nanny state. And for this Utopian bliss all we need do is trade our individualism for a life of acting, speaking and thinking as directed by our benevolent leaders while we worship at the feet of an all-knowing priesthood of government experts.
Control! This, throughout history, is what kings, queens, despots, tyrants, czars and dictators have lusted for. They gain power, they grow power, and then, believing that power and authority to be unassailable, they use that power to "make the world right" by forcing their version of happiness (read--obedience) on their people. Even our democratically elected presidents aren't immune from these desires. And it's both parties. The only difference being in degree and swiftness. Progressives (liberals) have always been more radical and aggressive in their approach--with the media supporting them--but, of late, the new conservatives have been catching up. As far back as Woodrow Wilson--inarguably the first fascist world leader--they've forsaken their role as leader in favor of focusing on remaking American society to fit an ideological dream.
And what of those who dare to voice opposition? In other cultures, their might be midnight raids, torture and even death but in America we are much more civilized in our approach. Our leaders use fear, and the tactics of personal destruction to silence and marginalize the "enemy."
From Wilson's secret civilian spy network to Bush's Patriot Act, our government, along with a complicit media to aid it, can--and will--do what it wants to intimidate its own people. So, should I be careful in what I say? Through my website for my photography business I communicate with people as far away as England. Am I on a CIA watch-list? Through this blog I voice my political views. Am I on an FBI watch-list? Though I'm not--bad health and bad grades in high school--my father is an Army veteran--a 21 year Army vet (Vietnam twice--Saigon during the Tet offensive--2 bronze stars). Is he on a Homeland Security watch-list as a possible domestic terrorist? Today, if you don't tow the politically correct line, you can be in real trouble.
I'm a student of history and know full well the heritage of this great nation, and with all its triumphs and failures. As an army brat, and later as a truck driver, I've been all around America and met people of every race, color and creed, and think I'm a better person for it. I like to think the only real prejudice I have is against those who prove themselves to be an ass: no matter what they look like or what they believe. I love this country. The tears well up when I hear the National Anthem or see the flag blowing in the breeze. I respect and admire those who have worn--and do wear--the uniform of our armed forces. I understand--and appreciate--the sacrifices made by so many over the centuries to build this nation. We all should. So why are we giving it all over to bureaucrats and so-called experts? What are we allowing to happen?
Yep, America, Happy "Independence" day!
Control! This, throughout history, is what kings, queens, despots, tyrants, czars and dictators have lusted for. They gain power, they grow power, and then, believing that power and authority to be unassailable, they use that power to "make the world right" by forcing their version of happiness (read--obedience) on their people. Even our democratically elected presidents aren't immune from these desires. And it's both parties. The only difference being in degree and swiftness. Progressives (liberals) have always been more radical and aggressive in their approach--with the media supporting them--but, of late, the new conservatives have been catching up. As far back as Woodrow Wilson--inarguably the first fascist world leader--they've forsaken their role as leader in favor of focusing on remaking American society to fit an ideological dream.
And what of those who dare to voice opposition? In other cultures, their might be midnight raids, torture and even death but in America we are much more civilized in our approach. Our leaders use fear, and the tactics of personal destruction to silence and marginalize the "enemy."
From Wilson's secret civilian spy network to Bush's Patriot Act, our government, along with a complicit media to aid it, can--and will--do what it wants to intimidate its own people. So, should I be careful in what I say? Through my website for my photography business I communicate with people as far away as England. Am I on a CIA watch-list? Through this blog I voice my political views. Am I on an FBI watch-list? Though I'm not--bad health and bad grades in high school--my father is an Army veteran--a 21 year Army vet (Vietnam twice--Saigon during the Tet offensive--2 bronze stars). Is he on a Homeland Security watch-list as a possible domestic terrorist? Today, if you don't tow the politically correct line, you can be in real trouble.
I'm a student of history and know full well the heritage of this great nation, and with all its triumphs and failures. As an army brat, and later as a truck driver, I've been all around America and met people of every race, color and creed, and think I'm a better person for it. I like to think the only real prejudice I have is against those who prove themselves to be an ass: no matter what they look like or what they believe. I love this country. The tears well up when I hear the National Anthem or see the flag blowing in the breeze. I respect and admire those who have worn--and do wear--the uniform of our armed forces. I understand--and appreciate--the sacrifices made by so many over the centuries to build this nation. We all should. So why are we giving it all over to bureaucrats and so-called experts? What are we allowing to happen?
Yep, America, Happy "Independence" day!
Sunday, May 24, 2009
Do we remember Memorial Day
As I look at how we "celebrate" Memorial Day I am dismayed. On a day when we should be observing with reverence the sacrifices of those who defend and protect this nation, we instead scramble for the great bargains and load up on beer for the big barbecue. I asked a dozen or so people at work about Memorial day and only three could tell me what this holiday is all about. For those who don't know, it's about duty, honor and sacrifice. It's about giving all you have for all you believe in. It's about those who have taken on the sacred duty to defend their home and family and have lost their lives in the continuing battle to defend freedom.
Decades ago, this country as a whole would stop and show its appreciation for all those who gave their all for this country. There would be community-wide events to commemorate and
honor our fallen heroes. Today, the Honor Guards and VFW commanders still go the the local cemetery to show respect, but only a hand full of citizens attend. It's sad.
With so much wrong with this country right now, it would do us good to remember--and live up to--the example of those who gave all to preserve it.
Decades ago, this country as a whole would stop and show its appreciation for all those who gave their all for this country. There would be community-wide events to commemorate and
honor our fallen heroes. Today, the Honor Guards and VFW commanders still go the the local cemetery to show respect, but only a hand full of citizens attend. It's sad.
With so much wrong with this country right now, it would do us good to remember--and live up to--the example of those who gave all to preserve it.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
This is teaching?
Is there any wonder why our kids have a hard time in school? My son, a 4.0 student is in an
American history class where the teacher jumps from teaching the revolution one week and the civil war the next week; and how does he teach them about these two history changing events? By having the students watch NATIONAL TREASURE and NATIONAL TREASURE TWO.
WHAT THE---------------------------------?????????????????????
More later.
American history class where the teacher jumps from teaching the revolution one week and the civil war the next week; and how does he teach them about these two history changing events? By having the students watch NATIONAL TREASURE and NATIONAL TREASURE TWO.
WHAT THE---------------------------------?????????????????????
More later.
Saturday, February 14, 2009
What America is About
Okay, we keep hearing about the trials and troubles of American life, how we're all in such dire straits that the president has to save us all and every petty special interest group is scrambling to make sure they get their piece of the bail-out and stimulus pie. It's both sad and sickening at the same time. This is not what America is supposed to be about. for a while I was somewhat depressed about the state we're in but a friend sent us an update on her life and reminded me
what this country is about and that there are still some who can prove it.
A dear friend of our family, Becky Oprean, e-mailed a detailed description of her adventures of the last few months. Though her family lives in San Antonio, many people here in the Valley know and adore this young woman. You see, shortly after her family moved to America from Romania in 1987, little Becky was born--with drastic problems. She was born with Spina Bifida and her parents were told that she wouldn't live too long. That was 21 years ago and she's still going strong; albeit, in a wheelchair and still with many health problems.
Her life is spent in giving and helping others, both in America and in Romania. During her teen years she was part of Joni and Friends, an organization that took wheelchairs and other medical aids to Eastern Europe. A few years ago Becky and her family began Beckyshope, which does the same thing, only on a smaller scale.
Last December President Bush, while on a trip to Texas, honored Becky for her volunteer work
and being the shy type of gal she is, she asked when she was going to get a tour of the white house. Well, three and a half weeks later, Becky-boo (as Mr. Bush calls her), her parents and her brother and sister-in-law were sitting in the oval office for a 20 minute private meeting with President and Laura bush, followed by a tour of the White House.
That's what America is about, people: an immigrant family, a young girl facing and overcoming incredible difficulties (and always cheerful and smiling), the TRUE spreading of hope and encouragement, and sitting in the most famous Office in the world. It isn't politics or ideology
or parties or presidents that gives me hope, it's someone like Becky who absolutely embodies
courage and determination who gives me hope.
what this country is about and that there are still some who can prove it.
A dear friend of our family, Becky Oprean, e-mailed a detailed description of her adventures of the last few months. Though her family lives in San Antonio, many people here in the Valley know and adore this young woman. You see, shortly after her family moved to America from Romania in 1987, little Becky was born--with drastic problems. She was born with Spina Bifida and her parents were told that she wouldn't live too long. That was 21 years ago and she's still going strong; albeit, in a wheelchair and still with many health problems.
Her life is spent in giving and helping others, both in America and in Romania. During her teen years she was part of Joni and Friends, an organization that took wheelchairs and other medical aids to Eastern Europe. A few years ago Becky and her family began Beckyshope, which does the same thing, only on a smaller scale.
Last December President Bush, while on a trip to Texas, honored Becky for her volunteer work
and being the shy type of gal she is, she asked when she was going to get a tour of the white house. Well, three and a half weeks later, Becky-boo (as Mr. Bush calls her), her parents and her brother and sister-in-law were sitting in the oval office for a 20 minute private meeting with President and Laura bush, followed by a tour of the White House.
That's what America is about, people: an immigrant family, a young girl facing and overcoming incredible difficulties (and always cheerful and smiling), the TRUE spreading of hope and encouragement, and sitting in the most famous Office in the world. It isn't politics or ideology
or parties or presidents that gives me hope, it's someone like Becky who absolutely embodies
courage and determination who gives me hope.
Saturday, February 7, 2009
leave the dirty laundry at home
We've all heard the saying about not "airing dirty laundry in public." It basically means that we don't want the general public to know all our petty little troubles and problems. Today, literally and figuratively, too many people don't care one bit about who experiences their dirty laundry.
This very day, as we roamed around Winco doing some grocery shopping, we were treated to a young man (who's face had at least a pound of metal studs in it) walking back and forth in an aisle as he talked on his cell phone. He was quite upset with some friends--former friends now--who wouldn't give back his boots: "his g*****n boots." Apparently he can't stand these people anymore. Then, as my wife and I were at a Wok and Grill for some supper, I was treated to a woman's cell phone conversation about problems with her children and their "rotten" behavior. Neither one of these people seemed to care one bit that they were sharing their lives with every total stranger around them. I can promise you that I really didn't desire in any way to be a part of their little soap operas.
At the same restaurant, we were also treated to the sight of a young man walking by our table and proudly wearing his pants down to his lower butt cheeks; his somewhat ratty boxers on display for all to see. Of course that is exactly what he wants to show, as that's the fashion. I just wonder why a person would want to show his nasty, skid marked drawers or, in the case of the fashionable female, her stretched out, stringy thong underwear. I'm sure most of these people have something more to share with the world than the fact that they know how to put underwear on. At least one would hope so.
Of course if you look at the soap opera or underwear sharing folks in any sort of disapproving way, they will lose their temper and yell at you for looking at them. Even though all they do is designed to make people look at them. "Hey, look at me, I'm talking on a cell phone." "Hey, look at me, I'm wearing underwear and tripping on my baggy, dragging pants." "HEY, LOOK AT US, WE'RE IDIOTS." But when you look at them as though they were idiots, you're accused of invading their privacy or attacking their freedom of expression.
As far as I'm concerned, if you're not shy about sharing your private lives around me, I won't be shy about commenting about it and if you just have to flash your boxers or thongs, then I just have to laugh at you. That's MY free expression.
So, if you don't appreciate my comments about your "dirty laundry," then don't air it in public anymore.
Thanks
This very day, as we roamed around Winco doing some grocery shopping, we were treated to a young man (who's face had at least a pound of metal studs in it) walking back and forth in an aisle as he talked on his cell phone. He was quite upset with some friends--former friends now--who wouldn't give back his boots: "his g*****n boots." Apparently he can't stand these people anymore. Then, as my wife and I were at a Wok and Grill for some supper, I was treated to a woman's cell phone conversation about problems with her children and their "rotten" behavior. Neither one of these people seemed to care one bit that they were sharing their lives with every total stranger around them. I can promise you that I really didn't desire in any way to be a part of their little soap operas.
At the same restaurant, we were also treated to the sight of a young man walking by our table and proudly wearing his pants down to his lower butt cheeks; his somewhat ratty boxers on display for all to see. Of course that is exactly what he wants to show, as that's the fashion. I just wonder why a person would want to show his nasty, skid marked drawers or, in the case of the fashionable female, her stretched out, stringy thong underwear. I'm sure most of these people have something more to share with the world than the fact that they know how to put underwear on. At least one would hope so.
Of course if you look at the soap opera or underwear sharing folks in any sort of disapproving way, they will lose their temper and yell at you for looking at them. Even though all they do is designed to make people look at them. "Hey, look at me, I'm talking on a cell phone." "Hey, look at me, I'm wearing underwear and tripping on my baggy, dragging pants." "HEY, LOOK AT US, WE'RE IDIOTS." But when you look at them as though they were idiots, you're accused of invading their privacy or attacking their freedom of expression.
As far as I'm concerned, if you're not shy about sharing your private lives around me, I won't be shy about commenting about it and if you just have to flash your boxers or thongs, then I just have to laugh at you. That's MY free expression.
So, if you don't appreciate my comments about your "dirty laundry," then don't air it in public anymore.
Thanks
Friday, January 23, 2009
there are still good people
we made the trip yesterday to Salt Lake to see the doctors at the Shriners Hospital. It was the six week check for our son after his back surgery last December. These people are wonderful. With no expectation of anything but the feeling of doing good things for children and their families, they treat and take care of children from all over the world. And it isn't just the Shriners who do this; it's also the many people who support the Shrine organization. Schools hold benefits to collect toys and blankets to give to the children in the hospital. The local National Guard does the same thing. There are so many people who want to help those who help the children it brings even someone as hard hearted as I to tears.
Here's how you can help them too. Of course money always helps but in these hard times anything will do. If your kids have outgrown their stuffed animals or toys, box them up and send them to the nearest hospital and it doesn't have to be a Shrine hospital, it can be any children's hospital. As long as they take care of kids, they need all they can get.
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