There is a principle some call "the butterfly effect".
It says a random event in one part of the world
can have a dramatic effect on another.
Chaos is said to reign.
I believe in a different principle.
The knowledge principle
That knowledge allows us to steer
the course of events to grow economies.
Promote justice.
Even save lives.
The right information in the right hands
leads to amazing things.
Tuesday, December 20, 2011
Friday, December 9, 2011
In My Lifetime
In my lifetime I wish to see
A world where no child grows up hungry
and permanently disadvantaged through early malnutrition
A world where the threat of nuclear destruction
is nothing more than an exotic memory
A world whose inhabitants live in dignity
and pride and no longer feel the need
to act out of cruelty vengeance or retribution.
A world where no child grows up hungry
and permanently disadvantaged through early malnutrition
A world where the threat of nuclear destruction
is nothing more than an exotic memory
A world whose inhabitants live in dignity
and pride and no longer feel the need
to act out of cruelty vengeance or retribution.
Tuesday, December 6, 2011
A Better Way
Instead of putting a mop or broom in the hands of a child, how about giving them science and architecture and the stars and sky to study?
There is a great program called "Destination Imagination" that was popular at my children's school.
http://www.idodi.org/index.php/2011-12-season/2011-12-challenge-previews
This is what our children deserve.
There is a great program called "Destination Imagination" that was popular at my children's school.
http://www.idodi.org/index.php/2011-12-season/2011-12-challenge-previews
This is what our children deserve.
Monday, December 5, 2011
So Long Herman Cain
Mr. Cain ,my dear sir, you stayed to long.
Herman Cain's farewell speech indicated how totally incompetent he was from the start.
He showed us how a man with little moral character can rise to heights as high as the front-runner to the Republican candidate for POTUS.
He apologized for dropping out. What he should have apologized for was wasting our money and time.
We need to stop these ridiculous wasteful politics and get down to the meat of the issues that are draining our country.
Mainly, the handling of the national debt and de-leveraging our debt in addition to increasing our standard of living.
Once we reign in spending and cut the waste, we can then re-organize to a more efficient and constructive government.
On the issues of bipartisanship, we must recognize that until we come to an agreement on the importance of co-operation, no matter how far right or left our opinions may be, we lose sight of the reasons why we have a government in place.
Our goals are clearly stated in the US Constitution.
.....in order to form a more perfect union
establish justice
ensure domestic tranquility
provide for the common defense
promote the general welfare of our people
secure the blessings of liberty to our citizens
Maybe we should have our elected representatives re-read this every morning so that they are reminded of what their job duties are.
Herman Cain's farewell speech indicated how totally incompetent he was from the start.
He showed us how a man with little moral character can rise to heights as high as the front-runner to the Republican candidate for POTUS.
He apologized for dropping out. What he should have apologized for was wasting our money and time.
We need to stop these ridiculous wasteful politics and get down to the meat of the issues that are draining our country.
Mainly, the handling of the national debt and de-leveraging our debt in addition to increasing our standard of living.
Once we reign in spending and cut the waste, we can then re-organize to a more efficient and constructive government.
On the issues of bipartisanship, we must recognize that until we come to an agreement on the importance of co-operation, no matter how far right or left our opinions may be, we lose sight of the reasons why we have a government in place.
Our goals are clearly stated in the US Constitution.
.....in order to form a more perfect union
establish justice
ensure domestic tranquility
provide for the common defense
promote the general welfare of our people
secure the blessings of liberty to our citizens
Maybe we should have our elected representatives re-read this every morning so that they are reminded of what their job duties are.
Tuesday, November 29, 2011
I Am One Of The Dreamers
The dreamers are the saviors of the world.
The world is beautiful because they have lived.
He who cherishes a beautiful vision,
a lofty ideal in his heart,
will one day realize it.
Stainless beauty and perfect peace.
The world is beautiful because they have lived.
He who cherishes a beautiful vision,
a lofty ideal in his heart,
will one day realize it.
Stainless beauty and perfect peace.
If We Are Related We Shall Meet
It's time to change perspective on the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.Both sides must be understood through thier specific history and accept that our destinies are linked.
Instead of asking who started it, we should ask who will take the decisive steps to end it.
Instead of asking who started it, we should ask who will take the decisive steps to end it.
The Real Things We Desire
I have an idea~ a very clear idea about what makes a community or a particular region more desireable to live and work in.
Instead of our politicians concentrating on finger pointing we should be focusing on creating these elements so that we may attract buisness to our nation.
Globalization is here to stay so we had better get onboard with the idea that we can not think in terms of us vs. them.
The deciding factor for engagement should be how a potential partner treats their own people.
Are they a democratic nation or a dictatorship?
We need to pound away at the things that will create a better economy.
Great schools are paramount.
Reasonable taxes.
Less regulation.
A responsive government.
The quality of the workforce is what brings good companies to a region.
Quality of life is the determining factor.
Why do politicians neglect to concentrate on these basic principles now when we need it now more than ever?
Instead of our politicians concentrating on finger pointing we should be focusing on creating these elements so that we may attract buisness to our nation.
Globalization is here to stay so we had better get onboard with the idea that we can not think in terms of us vs. them.
The deciding factor for engagement should be how a potential partner treats their own people.
Are they a democratic nation or a dictatorship?
We need to pound away at the things that will create a better economy.
Great schools are paramount.
Reasonable taxes.
Less regulation.
A responsive government.
The quality of the workforce is what brings good companies to a region.
Quality of life is the determining factor.
Why do politicians neglect to concentrate on these basic principles now when we need it now more than ever?
Monday, November 28, 2011
The Gilded Age
Fashion is decadent this season colored feathers and sequins.
Bright vibrant color in brilliant hues.
These are the items that will take you season to season seamlessly.
Add some fur feathers and sequined pieces in glorious color but hold on to these.......
Invest in a statement coat.
Invest in a statement bag.
Invest in a LBD but pair it with one of this season's fabulous necklaces.
Invest in a statement skirt and pair this with a slim fitting cashmere top in a bright hue.
Invest in a classic tux and pair this with a glittering clutch.
Invest in a knee high boot but pair this with a below the knee skirt and peasant blouse.
Invest in a white blouse and pair it with bright trousers.
Invest in a tailored jacket and pair it with a black leather skirt.
Adding glittering sequined and bright bold colored accessories will carry you through this season.
Bright vibrant color in brilliant hues.
These are the items that will take you season to season seamlessly.
Add some fur feathers and sequined pieces in glorious color but hold on to these.......
Invest in a statement coat.
Invest in a statement bag.
Invest in a LBD but pair it with one of this season's fabulous necklaces.
Invest in a statement skirt and pair this with a slim fitting cashmere top in a bright hue.
Invest in a classic tux and pair this with a glittering clutch.
Invest in a knee high boot but pair this with a below the knee skirt and peasant blouse.
Invest in a white blouse and pair it with bright trousers.
Invest in a tailored jacket and pair it with a black leather skirt.
Adding glittering sequined and bright bold colored accessories will carry you through this season.
Tuesday, November 22, 2011
More Precious Than Gold
Who does not love a tranquil heart, a sweet tempered balanced life?
It does not matter whether it rains or shines
or what changes come to those possessing these blessings,
for they are always sweet, serene and calm.
That exquisite poise of character which we call serenity,
is the last lesson of culture,
it is the flowering of life,
the fruitage of the soul.
It is precious as wisdom
more to be desired than gold
yea, than even fine gold
How insignificant mere money seeking looks
in comparison with a serene life
a life that dwells in the ocean of truth
beneath the waves
beyond the reach of tempests
in the eternal calm.
As A Man Thinketh
James Allen
It does not matter whether it rains or shines
or what changes come to those possessing these blessings,
for they are always sweet, serene and calm.
That exquisite poise of character which we call serenity,
is the last lesson of culture,
it is the flowering of life,
the fruitage of the soul.
It is precious as wisdom
more to be desired than gold
yea, than even fine gold
How insignificant mere money seeking looks
in comparison with a serene life
a life that dwells in the ocean of truth
beneath the waves
beyond the reach of tempests
in the eternal calm.
As A Man Thinketh
James Allen
Friday, November 18, 2011
Fiscal Ammunition
This has been one of the hardest times for the Federal Reserve.
Last years QE2, where the Fed bought treasury bonds to keep interest rates low has not done what it was supposed to do.Growth in the economy has slowed and unemployment is still too high.
History proves that after the 1929 stock market crash, the Federal Reserve stood by and did nothing.
It was the worst decision to sit back and watch it all unfold.
In that crash, the economy collapsed, GNP plummeted by 27% and unemployment rose to over 30% by today's measurements and a 25% deflation crushed those
already in debt.
Compare that with today's economic situation.
"The Great Recession" saw GNP fall by only 5% and output has almost reached pre-crash highs.
Unemployment is just below 10% and price levels are steady.
The Federal Reserves aggressive moves to give reserves to keep the banking system above water and the financial markets functioning have made all of the
difference between then and now.
And thanks to the Feerderal Reserve the US has done better through this crisis than other countries whose central banks like the Bank of England and the ECB
(European Central Bank) have not done the same.
Operation Twist is the Fed's initiative that has lowered long term interest rates which has the 30 year mortgage rate at an all time low.
It's not over yet.
The Fed can also reduce the interest rate it pays banks on their excess reserves. The rate is 1/4 of 1%. It could be eliminated therefore giving banks less incentive
either to invest their reserves or lend them out.
The Fed's role has always been to keep inflation at 0% to 2% and provide liquidity in times of crisis.
What the Fed wont do is spur growth in productivity, stop excessive government regulation or fix the deficit problem.
We will need sound fiscal policy which should include long-term deficit reduction and short-term tax relief (maybe extending and enlarging the payroll tax
reduction?).
The US economy is driven by the confidence of consumers and investors and by the innovation of workers and entrepreneurs.
Let's use all of the tools we need so that we can get back to shared prosperity sooner than later.
(Stats from Wharton School study)
Last years QE2, where the Fed bought treasury bonds to keep interest rates low has not done what it was supposed to do.Growth in the economy has slowed and unemployment is still too high.
History proves that after the 1929 stock market crash, the Federal Reserve stood by and did nothing.
It was the worst decision to sit back and watch it all unfold.
In that crash, the economy collapsed, GNP plummeted by 27% and unemployment rose to over 30% by today's measurements and a 25% deflation crushed those
already in debt.
Compare that with today's economic situation.
"The Great Recession" saw GNP fall by only 5% and output has almost reached pre-crash highs.
Unemployment is just below 10% and price levels are steady.
The Federal Reserves aggressive moves to give reserves to keep the banking system above water and the financial markets functioning have made all of the
difference between then and now.
And thanks to the Feerderal Reserve the US has done better through this crisis than other countries whose central banks like the Bank of England and the ECB
(European Central Bank) have not done the same.
Operation Twist is the Fed's initiative that has lowered long term interest rates which has the 30 year mortgage rate at an all time low.
It's not over yet.
The Fed can also reduce the interest rate it pays banks on their excess reserves. The rate is 1/4 of 1%. It could be eliminated therefore giving banks less incentive
either to invest their reserves or lend them out.
The Fed's role has always been to keep inflation at 0% to 2% and provide liquidity in times of crisis.
What the Fed wont do is spur growth in productivity, stop excessive government regulation or fix the deficit problem.
We will need sound fiscal policy which should include long-term deficit reduction and short-term tax relief (maybe extending and enlarging the payroll tax
reduction?).
The US economy is driven by the confidence of consumers and investors and by the innovation of workers and entrepreneurs.
Let's use all of the tools we need so that we can get back to shared prosperity sooner than later.
(Stats from Wharton School study)
Tuesday, November 8, 2011
How I Wish He'd See It
I had another disagreement with my father ,Willie, on the way to Barnes & Noble this afternoon.
I don't know if it has anything to do with his Eastern European heritage or his age but all I hear is complaining.
He complains about his part time job.
He complains about his health.
He always does this in the car when he's driving.
I say he should be thankful he has work, even if it is part time.
He is the healthiest "80 something" year old I know.
OK so he's never been "money rich".
He has two daughters.
He has two grandchildren (my 2 children).
He has a wife who has taken care of him for 50 years.
Why is he so insistent on seeing life as "half empty"?
It used to discourage me and I have learned how not to let it get to me.
He is who he is.
I just wish he'd see how blessed he is.
(sigh) maybe tomorrow...................
I don't know if it has anything to do with his Eastern European heritage or his age but all I hear is complaining.
He complains about his part time job.
He complains about his health.
He always does this in the car when he's driving.
I say he should be thankful he has work, even if it is part time.
He is the healthiest "80 something" year old I know.
OK so he's never been "money rich".
He has two daughters.
He has two grandchildren (my 2 children).
He has a wife who has taken care of him for 50 years.
Why is he so insistent on seeing life as "half empty"?
It used to discourage me and I have learned how not to let it get to me.
He is who he is.
I just wish he'd see how blessed he is.
(sigh) maybe tomorrow...................
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Freedom
"They knew that to put G-d in the US Constitution was to put man out.
They knew that the recognition of a diety would be seized upon by fanatics and zealots as a pretext for destroying the liberty of thought.
They knew the terrible history of the church too well to place in her keeping or in the keeping of her G-d, the sacred rights of man.
They intended that all should have the right to worship or not to worship.
That our laws should make no distinction on account of creed.
They intended to found and frame a government for man and man alone.
They wished to preserve the individuality of all; to prevent the few from governing the many, and the many from persecuting and destroying the few."
Robert Green Ingersoll
They knew that the recognition of a diety would be seized upon by fanatics and zealots as a pretext for destroying the liberty of thought.
They knew the terrible history of the church too well to place in her keeping or in the keeping of her G-d, the sacred rights of man.
They intended that all should have the right to worship or not to worship.
That our laws should make no distinction on account of creed.
They intended to found and frame a government for man and man alone.
They wished to preserve the individuality of all; to prevent the few from governing the many, and the many from persecuting and destroying the few."
Robert Green Ingersoll
Thursday, November 3, 2011
Make Mine Supreme
Here are some big cases coming soon to the US Supreme Court
FCC vs. Fox
Can the FCC prohibit the nasty filthy language that is used on broadcast tv?
Fox says it should be treated like cable and say whatever the @#$%^&*() it wants!
I think FCC oversight goes bye bye!
First American vs. Edwards
This case could allow lawyers to file "gotcha" class action lawsuits anytime they catch a company violating a law even though no money was lost.
Here it is in "he said, she said" verse......
Plaintiff says she/he suffered because defendants hurt her/him by not playing by the rules.
Defendant says the Constitution says you have to be hurt before you sue.
I say that it's going to be a "no boo-boo no moolah" decision.
Prometheus vs. Mayo
Prometheus labs patented a method of adjusting the dose of a drug acoording to a person's metabolic rate.
The Mayo Clinic says it's a basic technique that all med-nerds know and understand.
Big Pharma is scared that a decision in favor of Mayo could threaten many patents on drugs and treatment methods already on the market.
Is it time for Miracle Whip?
Can a thought process be patented?
Knox vs. Service Employees International
Can employees in Union contract be forced to contribute money to politics?
The SEIU says it can and will and then refund it later
Yeah, after the candidate is in office?!
Im rooting for the employees. "Down with The Man!"
Obamacare
Healthcare reform requires us to buy insurance from private companies.
This one is going to the administration.
FCC vs. Fox
Can the FCC prohibit the nasty filthy language that is used on broadcast tv?
Fox says it should be treated like cable and say whatever the @#$%^&*() it wants!
I think FCC oversight goes bye bye!
First American vs. Edwards
This case could allow lawyers to file "gotcha" class action lawsuits anytime they catch a company violating a law even though no money was lost.
Here it is in "he said, she said" verse......
Plaintiff says she/he suffered because defendants hurt her/him by not playing by the rules.
Defendant says the Constitution says you have to be hurt before you sue.
I say that it's going to be a "no boo-boo no moolah" decision.
Prometheus vs. Mayo
Prometheus labs patented a method of adjusting the dose of a drug acoording to a person's metabolic rate.
The Mayo Clinic says it's a basic technique that all med-nerds know and understand.
Big Pharma is scared that a decision in favor of Mayo could threaten many patents on drugs and treatment methods already on the market.
Is it time for Miracle Whip?
Can a thought process be patented?
Knox vs. Service Employees International
Can employees in Union contract be forced to contribute money to politics?
The SEIU says it can and will and then refund it later
Yeah, after the candidate is in office?!
Im rooting for the employees. "Down with The Man!"
Obamacare
Healthcare reform requires us to buy insurance from private companies.
This one is going to the administration.
Is a bad deal worse than no deal?
As far as the Republican candidates go, it's seems as though we must chose between confidence and competence.
The "stallwart" conservatives are saying that they would rather vote for Obama and have him win the election instead of another Republican who will spend like George Bush.
What is going on!?
There is a saying that "I will" matters more than IQ-not in politics.
The "stallwart" conservatives are saying that they would rather vote for Obama and have him win the election instead of another Republican who will spend like George Bush.
What is going on!?
There is a saying that "I will" matters more than IQ-not in politics.
Thursday, October 27, 2011
The Key
Andrew Carnegie insisted men be agreeable and harmonious in conduct.
The importance of a pleasing personality is stressed because it is a factor that enables one to render service in the proper spirit.
If one has a personality which pleases, and renders service in a spirit of harmony, these assets often make up for deficiencies in both the quality and quantity of service one renders.
Nothing, however, can be successfully substituted for pleasing conduct.
~Napoleon Hill
The importance of a pleasing personality is stressed because it is a factor that enables one to render service in the proper spirit.
If one has a personality which pleases, and renders service in a spirit of harmony, these assets often make up for deficiencies in both the quality and quantity of service one renders.
Nothing, however, can be successfully substituted for pleasing conduct.
~Napoleon Hill
Monday, October 24, 2011
Where To Go To Get The Big Ideas
1 Demo
demo.com
2 Global Entrepreneurship Week
unleashingideas.org
3 Milken Institute Global Conference
milikeninstitute.org
4 Opportunity Green
opportunitygreen.com
5 South By Southwest
sxsw.com
6 Ted Leadership Conference
ted.com
7 Tiecon
tiecon.org
8 WBENC
wbenc.org
9 Web 2.0 Summit
web2summit.com
10 World Economic Forum
weforum.org
demo.com
2 Global Entrepreneurship Week
unleashingideas.org
3 Milken Institute Global Conference
milikeninstitute.org
4 Opportunity Green
opportunitygreen.com
5 South By Southwest
sxsw.com
6 Ted Leadership Conference
ted.com
7 Tiecon
tiecon.org
8 WBENC
wbenc.org
9 Web 2.0 Summit
web2summit.com
10 World Economic Forum
weforum.org
Friday, October 21, 2011
Pop Culture
Listening to a popular radio station here in Atlanta, mostly hip-hop based, I understand the degradation of our children's standards in themselves and society.
Every other word I heard was a profanity, or the "N" word or some disgusting reference to violence or women or drugs.
It is not cool to break the law or treat young women as sex objects and curse.
I yearn for the days when positive standards of respecting ourselves first so that we can respect others returns as "cool" and it becomes totally "uncool" to curse, refer to young ladies as "b*tches" or strong black youth as "N*".
I commit to bringing about positive change in our world
anything less is unacceptable.
Every other word I heard was a profanity, or the "N" word or some disgusting reference to violence or women or drugs.
It is not cool to break the law or treat young women as sex objects and curse.
I yearn for the days when positive standards of respecting ourselves first so that we can respect others returns as "cool" and it becomes totally "uncool" to curse, refer to young ladies as "b*tches" or strong black youth as "N*".
I commit to bringing about positive change in our world
anything less is unacceptable.
Saturday, October 15, 2011
What We Need
We do not need more material development
we need more spiritual development
We do not need more intellectual power
we need more moral power
We do not need more knowledge
we need more character
We do not need more government
we need more culture
We do not need more law
we need more spirituality
We do not need more of the things that are seen
we need more of the things that are unseen
President Calvin Coolidge
we need more spiritual development
We do not need more intellectual power
we need more moral power
We do not need more knowledge
we need more character
We do not need more government
we need more culture
We do not need more law
we need more spirituality
We do not need more of the things that are seen
we need more of the things that are unseen
President Calvin Coolidge
Thursday, October 13, 2011
There Are Other Paths Besides College
The School of Life
Richard Branson was a dropout at 16
He's worth 6.8 billion
Carl Lindner was a highschool dropout
He bought United Fruit (Now Chiquita Brand)
He's worth 1.7 billion
Francois Pinault quit highschool
He's the third richest man in France
He owns Gucci and Christie's Auctioneers, Samsonite, and Puma
He's worth 8.7 billion
Kirk Kerkorian was another highschool dropout in 8th grade
He's a mega-resort tycoon worth 3.1 billion
Amancio Ortega quit school at 14
He owns Indetex Zara and Mossimo Dutti
He's the richest man in Spain and worth 31 billion
Richard Branson was a dropout at 16
He's worth 6.8 billion
Carl Lindner was a highschool dropout
He bought United Fruit (Now Chiquita Brand)
He's worth 1.7 billion
Francois Pinault quit highschool
He's the third richest man in France
He owns Gucci and Christie's Auctioneers, Samsonite, and Puma
He's worth 8.7 billion
Kirk Kerkorian was another highschool dropout in 8th grade
He's a mega-resort tycoon worth 3.1 billion
Amancio Ortega quit school at 14
He owns Indetex Zara and Mossimo Dutti
He's the richest man in Spain and worth 31 billion
Wealth
I fully realize that no wealth or position can long endure
unless built upon truth and justice.
Therefore, I will engage in no transaction
which does not benefit all whom it affects.
I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces
I wish to use and the cooperation of other people.
I will induce others to serve me
because of my willingness to serve others.
I will eliminate hatred, envy,
jealousy, selfishness and cynicism, by developing love for all humanity
because I know that a negative attitude
towards others can never bring me success.
I will cause others to believe in me,
because I will believe in them and in myself.
Napoleon Hill
unless built upon truth and justice.
Therefore, I will engage in no transaction
which does not benefit all whom it affects.
I will succeed by attracting to myself the forces
I wish to use and the cooperation of other people.
I will induce others to serve me
because of my willingness to serve others.
I will eliminate hatred, envy,
jealousy, selfishness and cynicism, by developing love for all humanity
because I know that a negative attitude
towards others can never bring me success.
I will cause others to believe in me,
because I will believe in them and in myself.
Napoleon Hill
The Greatest Thing On Earth
What is the greatest thing on earth?
The master called it love
not man made rules, criticism, bitterness, slander or political "marriages"
but love.
The master called it love
not man made rules, criticism, bitterness, slander or political "marriages"
but love.
Friday, October 7, 2011
What Congress Should Remember
"Let this happy day give birth to an American Republic.
Let her arise not to devastate and to conquer,
but to re-establish the reign of peace and of law.
The eyes of Europe are fixed upon us.
She demands of us a living example of freedom
that may exhibit a contrast, in the felicity of the citizen,
to the ever increasing tyranny."
Continental Congress
Richard Henry Lee
Let her arise not to devastate and to conquer,
but to re-establish the reign of peace and of law.
The eyes of Europe are fixed upon us.
She demands of us a living example of freedom
that may exhibit a contrast, in the felicity of the citizen,
to the ever increasing tyranny."
Continental Congress
Richard Henry Lee
Thursday, October 6, 2011
The Real Joys of Life
The grasp of a child's hand in my own
the flavor of an apple
the embrace of a friend or lover
the touch of a man's hand
the sunlight on rock and leaves
the feel of music
the bark of a tree
the abrasion of granite and sand
the plunge of clear water into a pool
the face of the wind
the flavor of an apple
the embrace of a friend or lover
the touch of a man's hand
the sunlight on rock and leaves
the feel of music
the bark of a tree
the abrasion of granite and sand
the plunge of clear water into a pool
the face of the wind
The Role of Judges Under the US Constitution
A must watch for anyone interested in US Constitutional law
(click on webcast to watch)
Senate Judiciary Hearing~Hart Bldg 10-5-11
(click on webcast to watch)
Senate Judiciary Hearing~Hart Bldg 10-5-11
Tuesday, October 4, 2011
It's about Kayley Anthony not Casey
I watched a video of Casey Anthony watching the horrifying breaking news of the recovery of her 2 year old daughter's remains. She appeared to be weeping unconsolably. I believe she was reminded of how guilty she felt-nothing more than self-realization of the horrible act she had commited.
There will be no rest for her.
She will live with Kayley's memory every day for the rest of her life.
I am a mother of two teenagers.
There wasn't one moment when I didn't check on them or peek around the corner to make sure they were alright-especially at the tender age of 2.
I remember days spent following them without thier knowledge just for a little piece of mind.
Brittany and Cody were raised in a small New England town and we all watched out for one another and especially the children.
Especially the "little ones".
There will be no rest for her.
She will live with Kayley's memory every day for the rest of her life.
I am a mother of two teenagers.
There wasn't one moment when I didn't check on them or peek around the corner to make sure they were alright-especially at the tender age of 2.
I remember days spent following them without thier knowledge just for a little piece of mind.
Especially the "little ones".
Reading a newspaper
Reading newspapers are serendipity to me-the black ink on newsprint-the chance of being informed of some delicious turn of events, delighted by some aspect of civilization or perhaps an appreciation of an unknown person or group.
I love the chance to learn and be surprised when I turn the page.
I love the chance to learn and be surprised when I turn the page.
Tuesday, September 27, 2011
Monday, September 26, 2011
Ranking Our Laws
There has been much discussion on constitutional law so here's a breakdown of Federal vs. State laws and the checks and balances on US government.
Any state constitution or state law that conflicts with the US Constitution laws or treaties can not be enforced.
Highest to Lowest
1 US Constitution
2 US laws and treaties
3 State Constitutions
4 State laws
5 Local laws
A document of this kind is only as good as the people make it.
It must be enforced or it becomes meaningless.
We can make it effective by being well informed as to what our government is doing, by taking an interest in and voting in all elections, by writing letters expressing our opinions to our elected officials, by lobbies, by taking court action in what is called a "test case", against any law that we feel is non-constitutional, and by petition.
Checks and Balances
I Checks on Congress and the Supreme Court made by the President
A May veto bills of Congress
B May call special session of Congress
C May adjourn Congress if House and Senate can not agree on an adjournment date
D May withold information from Congress
E President may appoint Supreme Court Justices
II Checks on President and Supreme Court made by Congress
A May propose amendments to the Constitution that affect offices of the President and the Supreme Court
B May impeach and try President or Supreme Court Justices
C May override President's veto by 2/3 vote of each house
D Controls all spending of money in the US
E Senate may refuse to give it's consent to an appointment to the Supreme Court
F Senate may refuse to give it's consent to any other appointments or treaties made by the President
III Checks on the President and Congress made by the Supreme Court
A May declare law passed by Congress and signed by the President unconstitutional
B May bring suits or issue court orders against public officers
Any state constitution or state law that conflicts with the US Constitution laws or treaties can not be enforced.
Highest to Lowest
1 US Constitution
2 US laws and treaties
3 State Constitutions
4 State laws
5 Local laws
A document of this kind is only as good as the people make it.
It must be enforced or it becomes meaningless.
We can make it effective by being well informed as to what our government is doing, by taking an interest in and voting in all elections, by writing letters expressing our opinions to our elected officials, by lobbies, by taking court action in what is called a "test case", against any law that we feel is non-constitutional, and by petition.
Checks and Balances
I Checks on Congress and the Supreme Court made by the President
A May veto bills of Congress
B May call special session of Congress
C May adjourn Congress if House and Senate can not agree on an adjournment date
D May withold information from Congress
E President may appoint Supreme Court Justices
II Checks on President and Supreme Court made by Congress
A May propose amendments to the Constitution that affect offices of the President and the Supreme Court
B May impeach and try President or Supreme Court Justices
C May override President's veto by 2/3 vote of each house
D Controls all spending of money in the US
E Senate may refuse to give it's consent to an appointment to the Supreme Court
F Senate may refuse to give it's consent to any other appointments or treaties made by the President
III Checks on the President and Congress made by the Supreme Court
A May declare law passed by Congress and signed by the President unconstitutional
B May bring suits or issue court orders against public officers
The Moment
"Generations from now, we will be able to look back and tell our children that this was the moment.............when the rise of the oceans began to slow and our planet began to heal."
President Barack Obama
June 3, 2008
President Barack Obama
June 3, 2008
Tuesday, September 20, 2011
It's Not Nice To Mess With The President
In May 2011, I recall Israeli's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu speaking before Congress.
Prior to that, President Obama made clear his Middle East policy. His stand was that
1. Israel should NOT have to negotiate with terrorist groups like Hamas that deny it's right to exist.
2. Israel's security requires long term military presence in the disputed land borders with no timetable for full withdrawal.
3. Any Palestinian state must be demilitarized and President Obama would actively oppose any unilateral UN effort to declare Palestinian statehood.
The speech Netanyahu gave in front of Congress did not recognize these pro-Israeli positions.
The Prime Minister chose to basically "lecture" the President on the position President Obama had NOT taken-meaning the return to the "indefensible" pre-1967 borders.
Netanyahu basically has given support to the Republicans in 2012.
He must have known the political impact.
President Barack Obama is our American President.
It was inappropriate behavior for an American ally.
Prior to that, President Obama made clear his Middle East policy. His stand was that
1. Israel should NOT have to negotiate with terrorist groups like Hamas that deny it's right to exist.
2. Israel's security requires long term military presence in the disputed land borders with no timetable for full withdrawal.
3. Any Palestinian state must be demilitarized and President Obama would actively oppose any unilateral UN effort to declare Palestinian statehood.
The speech Netanyahu gave in front of Congress did not recognize these pro-Israeli positions.
The Prime Minister chose to basically "lecture" the President on the position President Obama had NOT taken-meaning the return to the "indefensible" pre-1967 borders.
Netanyahu basically has given support to the Republicans in 2012.
He must have known the political impact.
President Barack Obama is our American President.
It was inappropriate behavior for an American ally.
Wednesday, September 14, 2011
It Is What It Is
No matter what issues are at the forefront of politics~
The superior politician always wins.
Think about it.
Always.
The superior politician always wins.
Think about it.
Always.
Is Defense The Best Offense Now
I have been reading alot about Japan and their military submarine fleet.
They are producing submarines at a cost of approximately $2 billion a piece.
Would a US national defense program with a comprehensive MEM sensor system be more efficient?
I believe the metric of the future is not capacity but capability.
A "sensor" system of our nation's borders would secure them without building walls or fences.
I have also heard that in the northern part of our Mexican border there is very little illegal entry so I am not convinced that a "boots on the ground" approach to illegal entry is efficient in that region.
Walls and fences are not American.
Our country is what this is about and securing our borders without building walls should be the goal.
They are producing submarines at a cost of approximately $2 billion a piece.
Would a US national defense program with a comprehensive MEM sensor system be more efficient?
I believe the metric of the future is not capacity but capability.
A "sensor" system of our nation's borders would secure them without building walls or fences.
I have also heard that in the northern part of our Mexican border there is very little illegal entry so I am not convinced that a "boots on the ground" approach to illegal entry is efficient in that region.
Walls and fences are not American.
Our country is what this is about and securing our borders without building walls should be the goal.
Tuesday, September 13, 2011
$
Napoleon Hill's analogy of wealth is the best example I've read.
It goes;
"money is as shy and elusive as the maiden.
It must be wooed and won by methods not unlike those used by a determined lover
in pursuit of the girl of his choice.
That power when successfully used in the pursuit of money,
must be mixed with faith.
It must be mixed with desire.
It must be mixed with persistence.
It must be applied through a plan,
and that plan must be set into action.
Poverty needs no plan.
It needs no one to aid it,
because it is bold and ruthless.
Riches are shy and timid.
They have to be attracted."
It goes;
"money is as shy and elusive as the maiden.
It must be wooed and won by methods not unlike those used by a determined lover
in pursuit of the girl of his choice.
That power when successfully used in the pursuit of money,
must be mixed with faith.
It must be mixed with desire.
It must be mixed with persistence.
It must be applied through a plan,
and that plan must be set into action.
Poverty needs no plan.
It needs no one to aid it,
because it is bold and ruthless.
Riches are shy and timid.
They have to be attracted."
Friday, September 9, 2011
This I Believe
America is the place. The time is now.
She is in the begining of her greatest period in history.
A time of leadership in science art and human progress towards democracy.
We need to believe more strongly than ever before in America and in eachother, in our system by not exploiting our sorrows, successes or passions.
We should not be a slave to dogma.
We need to believe in the good of people.
It's hard. Democracy is not easy.
It is obtained by the slow method in which the dignity of A is acknowledged by B, without impairing the dignity of C.
And then there was 44
She is in the begining of her greatest period in history.
A time of leadership in science art and human progress towards democracy.
We need to believe more strongly than ever before in America and in eachother, in our system by not exploiting our sorrows, successes or passions.
We should not be a slave to dogma.
We need to believe in the good of people.
It's hard. Democracy is not easy.
It is obtained by the slow method in which the dignity of A is acknowledged by B, without impairing the dignity of C.
And then there was 44
Thursday, September 8, 2011
From Darkness Into The Light
I dared to reach out my hand into the darkness to pull another hand into the light.
Education
Times have changed.
Now as governments and parents tighten their belts-it's changing.
We need more people who place value on not following the academic path at any cost.
The best way to learn many skills is by practicing those skills- not sitting in a classroom.
Likewise, the best way to become an entrepreneur is by starting a business-but if you have to service 5 or even 6 figures of student debt in addition to starting the business-it's difficult.
College seems more like a 4-5 year party and it often serves as a way to avoid thinking about the future instead of preparing for it.
We should not judge the quality of the education system on the number of students who go to universities.
Design and creativity are so central to the nation's economic growth.
Background is no bar to betterment.
We should be matching creativity with commercial reality.
It produces students you would want to have working in your business.
In comparison, Chinese students lose the fun of being children.
China is good at teaching basic knowledge but western students are better at teamwork, communication, research and independent thinking.
Now as governments and parents tighten their belts-it's changing.
We need more people who place value on not following the academic path at any cost.
The best way to learn many skills is by practicing those skills- not sitting in a classroom.
Likewise, the best way to become an entrepreneur is by starting a business-but if you have to service 5 or even 6 figures of student debt in addition to starting the business-it's difficult.
College seems more like a 4-5 year party and it often serves as a way to avoid thinking about the future instead of preparing for it.
We should not judge the quality of the education system on the number of students who go to universities.
Design and creativity are so central to the nation's economic growth.
Background is no bar to betterment.
We should be matching creativity with commercial reality.
It produces students you would want to have working in your business.
In comparison, Chinese students lose the fun of being children.
China is good at teaching basic knowledge but western students are better at teamwork, communication, research and independent thinking.
Tuesday, September 6, 2011
The Chickens Are Clucking
OK I'm angry.
I'm disgusted by the incompetence and the crazies.
And angry with the instigators who stir up trouble hoping to benefit from it's turmoil either politically or financially.
It's tempting to blame the chicken that frantically screams, "The sky is falling".
But you can't.
He's just a chicken doing his chicken thing, scared for his life when there's a change in the forecast.
I don't blame him.
I blame the idiots who woke him up.
I'm disgusted by the incompetence and the crazies.
And angry with the instigators who stir up trouble hoping to benefit from it's turmoil either politically or financially.
It's tempting to blame the chicken that frantically screams, "The sky is falling".
But you can't.
He's just a chicken doing his chicken thing, scared for his life when there's a change in the forecast.
I don't blame him.
I blame the idiots who woke him up.
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Sunday, August 21, 2011
What Now?
I ask , "Are we a country that can think as a nation?"
President Obama needs to become proactive and I am hoping the jobs plan he "reveals" in September will show us what an effective leader he is.
He can use his executive power to suspend regulations that are slowing down job contracts. He needs to get in front of Congress and the Democratic Party and show his leadership that got him to office.
Isolate the extremes.
Tell them to get out of the way.
President Obama needs to become proactive and I am hoping the jobs plan he "reveals" in September will show us what an effective leader he is.
He can use his executive power to suspend regulations that are slowing down job contracts. He needs to get in front of Congress and the Democratic Party and show his leadership that got him to office.
Isolate the extremes.
Tell them to get out of the way.
Friday, August 19, 2011
Gwyneth Does Elle
I love her sense of style and her strength.
(click on title to see her Elle photo shoot)
(click on title to see her Elle photo shoot)
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Our Republican Candidate Hopefuls Have It Wrong
I believe in the right of all Americans to their First Amendment rights but how smart is it to personally criticize the President instead of focusing on the issues and not making it "personal"?
Big minds talk about issues.
Small minds talk about people.
Its smarter to incite the opposing party than ignite it.
Are we going to continue the smoke screen or come up with real solutions?
Oh yes, one more thing..........
I would try to follow this hierarchy of talking about President Obama, for sake of our country's dignity, at best
1Respect the President
2Protect the President
3Correct the President
Webster's dictionary defines tyranny as "cruel and unjust rule", treason as "betrayal of trust of country to an enemy.
Thought we all should get it right.
Big minds talk about issues.
Small minds talk about people.
Its smarter to incite the opposing party than ignite it.
Are we going to continue the smoke screen or come up with real solutions?
Oh yes, one more thing..........
I would try to follow this hierarchy of talking about President Obama, for sake of our country's dignity, at best
1Respect the President
2Protect the President
3Correct the President
Webster's dictionary defines tyranny as "cruel and unjust rule", treason as "betrayal of trust of country to an enemy.
Thought we all should get it right.
Tuesday, August 16, 2011
These Are The Times
These are the times that try men's souls.
The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis,
shrink from the service of his country
but he that stands it now,
deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.
Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered;
yet we have this consolation with us,
that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.
The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will, in this crisis,
shrink from the service of his country
but he that stands it now,
deserves the love and thanks of man and woman.
Tyranny, like hell, is not easily conquered;
yet we have this consolation with us,
that the harder the conflict, the more glorious the triumph.
Monday, August 15, 2011
National Security
National Cyber Security Article
Michael Joseph Gross's expose on the condition of our national cyber security issues and who is behind it in Vanity Fair's September Issue.
Saturday, August 13, 2011
The Real Threat
Originality trumps all.
There are people who will tell you that you have to look like this or wear that or worse yet believe in a certain religion or ideology to belong.
It's anti-American.
Our country was formed on the basis of these natural born rights.
Anyone who tries to convince you to be someone or something that you are not is only trying to break you.
We will not tolerate cult-like leadership.
Moral superiority is the real threat to democracy.
There are people who will tell you that you have to look like this or wear that or worse yet believe in a certain religion or ideology to belong.
It's anti-American.
Our country was formed on the basis of these natural born rights.
Anyone who tries to convince you to be someone or something that you are not is only trying to break you.
We will not tolerate cult-like leadership.
Moral superiority is the real threat to democracy.
Friday, August 12, 2011
Pardon me, my brain is in overdrive
The budget needs to protect the recovery.
What are we not producing today that we can sell tomorrow?
Mergers and acquisitions don't create revenue.
Research and development does.
Low corporate tax.
We need to concentrate on exports.
Private sector is better at creating jobs than government.
We are begining to comprehend and correct the problem.
I hear that we are in a better position than most EU countries.
Banks in the EU are having solvency problems.
USA is still the One.
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Shale Gas.....To Drill Or Not To Drill
China's coast has 6 new liquefied natural gas terminals under construction. They are predicting that by the end of 2015 they will have doubled the amount of LNG (liquefied natural gas) they can import.
On the other side of China, a new pipeline from Turkmenistan is pumping gas.
Deregulation of America's Natural Gas Policy of 1978 has encouraged entrepreneurial energy companies to gamble on new technologies allowing them to extract gas trapped in shale beds.
Now the incentives were greater for recovering it because it could get to market through pipelines newly obliged to offer "open access" to all comers. It changed how shale gas is traded globally.Large quantity of LNG export capacity was created with American markets in mind. If shale gas success is repeated elsewhere, a major source of energy will become available from a more diverse source of suppliers in more free markets. So different from the boom in oil after WWII-this growth can become superior political weaponry power to those with the biggest reserves. Shale could diminish the political clout of Russia, Venezuela, and Iran as part of their gas revenues.
Another form of energy, "tight gas" is found in sandstone and coal bed methane is promising.
In the future, gas frozen into hydrates in the planet's continental shelf is becoming an energy speculation. It is the cornucopian belief that human ingenuity will always find ways to increase availability of resources.
The World Energy Outlook sees the "Golden Age of Gas" world production rising trade in gas between the world's major regions double. Coal use will decline and by 2030 gas will surpass it providing one fourth of all the world's energy
Companies are sinking well tests in Poland. South Africa, which may have the largest reserve has attracted Shell Oil Company who is also in China, which may have the largest source on the planet.
The big question is will mankind's insatiable demands exhaust the planet's finite resources? Or will human ingenuity lead to the more efficient use of existing raw materials and the discovery of new sources of supply?
On the other side of China, a new pipeline from Turkmenistan is pumping gas.
Deregulation of America's Natural Gas Policy of 1978 has encouraged entrepreneurial energy companies to gamble on new technologies allowing them to extract gas trapped in shale beds.
Now the incentives were greater for recovering it because it could get to market through pipelines newly obliged to offer "open access" to all comers. It changed how shale gas is traded globally.Large quantity of LNG export capacity was created with American markets in mind. If shale gas success is repeated elsewhere, a major source of energy will become available from a more diverse source of suppliers in more free markets. So different from the boom in oil after WWII-this growth can become superior political weaponry power to those with the biggest reserves. Shale could diminish the political clout of Russia, Venezuela, and Iran as part of their gas revenues.
Another form of energy, "tight gas" is found in sandstone and coal bed methane is promising.
In the future, gas frozen into hydrates in the planet's continental shelf is becoming an energy speculation. It is the cornucopian belief that human ingenuity will always find ways to increase availability of resources.
The World Energy Outlook sees the "Golden Age of Gas" world production rising trade in gas between the world's major regions double. Coal use will decline and by 2030 gas will surpass it providing one fourth of all the world's energy
Companies are sinking well tests in Poland. South Africa, which may have the largest reserve has attracted Shell Oil Company who is also in China, which may have the largest source on the planet.
The big question is will mankind's insatiable demands exhaust the planet's finite resources? Or will human ingenuity lead to the more efficient use of existing raw materials and the discovery of new sources of supply?
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Apocalyptic Freedom
Very few people know that the original Greek translation of "Apocalypse" means "Lifting of the veil" or "Revelation"... the disclosure of something hidden from the majority of mankind in an era dominated by falsehood and misconception.
Far from being a horrible experience, Apocalypse represents the revealing of the true nature of things. It ushers in an era of forgotten freedoms and unprecedented clarity. This "Lifting of the veil" will set us free from the woes that have been the result of our ignorance or lack of information.
It really has nothing to do with religion.
It really has nothing to do with religion.
Monday, August 8, 2011
Angelus Novus
A Klee painting named Angelus Novus shows an angel looking as though he is about to move away from something he is fixedly contemplating. His eyes are staring, his mouth is open, his wings are spread. This is how one pictures the angel of history. His face is turned toward the past. Where we percieve a chain of events, he sees one single catastrophe which keeps piling wreckage and hurls it in front of his feet. The angel would like to stay, awaken the dead and make whole what has been smashed. But a storm is blowing from Paradise; it has got caught in his wings with such violence that the angel can no longer close them. The storm irresistibly propels him into the future to which his back is turned, while the pile of debris before him grows skyward.
This storm is what we call progress.
Walter Benjamin, "Theses on the Philosophy of History"
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Talk About Jobs
Forbes magazine published the "Nifty Fifty" list of innovative companies.
I am happy the Debt Balance Bill has passed and we can move on to job creation and economic growth.
Forbes Nifty Fifty List
I am happy the Debt Balance Bill has passed and we can move on to job creation and economic growth.
Forbes Nifty Fifty List
Friday, July 29, 2011
Lest we forget
The Bill of Rights of the US Constitution
1st Amendment: The freedom of speech, religion, press, the right to peaceful assembly and to petition the government.
2nd Amendment: The right to keep and bear arms and to have a well regulated militia.
3rd Amendment: No peacetime quartering of soldiers without consent.
4th Amendment: The right of a man's house as his castle to include all papers and effects against unreasonable search and seizure.
5th Amendment: A person can not be tried for a capital crime unless tried before a grand jury. It includes the double jeapardy clause which states a person may not be a witness against him/herself. Private property may not be taken for public use without just compensation. A person may not be deprived of life liberty or property without due processs of law.
6th Amendment: The right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury of the state with assistance of council.
7th Amendment: The value of an item over $20.00 in dispute gives a person the right to a trial by jury.
8th Amendment: Excessive bail is not required and may be considered cruel and unusual punishment.
9th Amendment: A persons rights may not be used to deny or disparage another person's rights retained by the people.
10th Amendment: Powers not delegated by the constitution and not prohibited by the states are reserved to the states or to the people.
The issue of the 14th Amendment use to answer the debt debate could be used if the debt incurred was
used to defend our nation.
I agree categorically.
1st Amendment: The freedom of speech, religion, press, the right to peaceful assembly and to petition the government.
2nd Amendment: The right to keep and bear arms and to have a well regulated militia.
3rd Amendment: No peacetime quartering of soldiers without consent.
4th Amendment: The right of a man's house as his castle to include all papers and effects against unreasonable search and seizure.
5th Amendment: A person can not be tried for a capital crime unless tried before a grand jury. It includes the double jeapardy clause which states a person may not be a witness against him/herself. Private property may not be taken for public use without just compensation. A person may not be deprived of life liberty or property without due processs of law.
6th Amendment: The right to a speedy and public trial by an impartial jury of the state with assistance of council.
7th Amendment: The value of an item over $20.00 in dispute gives a person the right to a trial by jury.
8th Amendment: Excessive bail is not required and may be considered cruel and unusual punishment.
9th Amendment: A persons rights may not be used to deny or disparage another person's rights retained by the people.
10th Amendment: Powers not delegated by the constitution and not prohibited by the states are reserved to the states or to the people.
The issue of the 14th Amendment use to answer the debt debate could be used if the debt incurred was
used to defend our nation.
I agree categorically.
Friday, July 22, 2011
Happy Birthday Daddy
It is my father's 81st birthday today.
We ate at one of his favorite restaurants for lunch. I asked if they would sing to him and got a quizzical look from the cashier helping us. It was worth a try. I had just purchased a brand new roll of film and it would have been a great picture to capture. Lucky for him, the restaurant staff did not oblige my request.
I don't understand much of what his generation has seen change in this world. His generation has experienced the most change. They have gone from recovering from the Great Depression to the age of computers and the Digital Age. What a ride.
My father is a simple man by many accounts on the surface but he is from another time~a dimension of time when men do not idly chat. The men of his age are the strong silent type. My household was a patriarchial in every respect. Friends who know me well refer to my parents as the real "Edith and Archie Bunker". No lie.
My father was raised in Brooklyn, NY, drafted into the US Army and fought in the Korean War. I am told he considered marrying a Korean girl that he met overseas and my grandmother screamed, cried and then fainted. He was a nice jewish boy from Brooklyn, after all.
He met my mother outside a dance hall in Brooklyn, once back in the states. (He and his buddies could not afford the price of admission)
The story gets a little vague here. I ask how he popped the question and my mother and him just giggle. It is a secret between them that no one knows for sure.
My father has raised 2 daughters who he took to baseball games, bought us hot dogs and cotton candy and just wanted to share an all American past-time with. I feel bad now remembering how we complained that the seats were "this or that" or that it was too hot or cold. We spent most of the game out of our seats walking around or going to the ladies room, unaware how much it meant to him.
Every Summer he would take his vacation time and gladly spend every day with his family, traveling from Canada all the way to Florida. He always shared everything with us. I am sure there were times he might have wanted to do a "guy" thing. He was a family man through and through. My childhood was happy because we knew he cared for us and my mother. It was where he wanted to be.
I hope I have made him proud. I hope that he can look at me and smile, say to himself , "That's my daughter. She is what I wished for."
I know I got the better deal ;)
I love you Daddy.
Happy and healthy birthday.
All my love,
Ilene
Thursday, July 21, 2011
The Vision
The vision that you glorify in your mind
The ideal that you enthrone in your heart
This you will build your life by
This you will become.
What do you think?
Make it good.
Friday, July 15, 2011
Voluptuous Women of Italian Vogue
It was refreshing to see "not your average" body types in a high profile magazine such as Italian Vogue.
A slightly different perspective on sexy.
Beauty is not defined by waist size.
It's about confidence.
Bravo!
Bellissima!
(Caution: Not for young viewers)
Belle Vere Vogue Italia
Saturday, July 2, 2011
Runway Looks Fall/Winter 2011
Tuesday, June 28, 2011
Senryu
Friday, June 24, 2011
Rock N Roll Baby
Monday, June 20, 2011
A Weiner Story
Thursday, June 16, 2011
A Journey
I have been on a journey.
A journey of self-discovery.
I can honestly say that I have learned much and not enough.
Some of my lessons have been good and some I will choose to forget.
I have been to church and learned the beautiful teachings of Jesus and Christianity.
I have had meaningful conversations with Muslims about their hopes and wishes for thier children.
I have reached deep down into my own life and family for answers to what is the meaning of it all.
A wish for health and peace top my list.
Quality of life diminishes in the absence of either.
Prosperity is the third on my list.
I appreciate the fact this word is included in our US Bill of Rights.
I have been told that a belief in G-d and/or a higher power are essential to joy.
It's been said that the reason some nations can not progress is due to their leaders being G-dless.
I believe it is more about a lack of spirituality.
Spirituality over dogma.
I graduated from a religious private school with close family relatives who were Orthodox Jews.
This gave me gifts of immeasureable value.
It opened my mind to the questions of existence and life's meanings that I would not have had the capacity for otherwise, for this I am forever grateful.
I did see, however, how religious dogma can trap someone into a false sense of self-righteousness.
To be a "mensch" is greater than any ritual I perform.
Loving my neighbors and doing good deeds that advance all of humankind collectively, is what is best.
My identity is wrapped in Judaism and I am proud but it does not lessen the importance and significant contributions of other nations.
It is simply my point of reference for what is good in this world.
When I talk about good I mean pure.It is harder to do the right thing and maintain a pure heart throughout life's difficulties.
It can corrupt a man's thoughts when he loses the ability to see things with a pure heart.
A "hardened heart" is a result of letting the pain manipulate action.
Spirituality is food for my soul when I lose sight of hope.
I still believe.
A journey of self-discovery.
I can honestly say that I have learned much and not enough.
Some of my lessons have been good and some I will choose to forget.
I have been to church and learned the beautiful teachings of Jesus and Christianity.
I have had meaningful conversations with Muslims about their hopes and wishes for thier children.
I have reached deep down into my own life and family for answers to what is the meaning of it all.
A wish for health and peace top my list.
Quality of life diminishes in the absence of either.
Prosperity is the third on my list.
I appreciate the fact this word is included in our US Bill of Rights.
I have been told that a belief in G-d and/or a higher power are essential to joy.
It's been said that the reason some nations can not progress is due to their leaders being G-dless.
I believe it is more about a lack of spirituality.
Spirituality over dogma.
I graduated from a religious private school with close family relatives who were Orthodox Jews.
This gave me gifts of immeasureable value.
It opened my mind to the questions of existence and life's meanings that I would not have had the capacity for otherwise, for this I am forever grateful.
I did see, however, how religious dogma can trap someone into a false sense of self-righteousness.
To be a "mensch" is greater than any ritual I perform.
Loving my neighbors and doing good deeds that advance all of humankind collectively, is what is best.
My identity is wrapped in Judaism and I am proud but it does not lessen the importance and significant contributions of other nations.
It is simply my point of reference for what is good in this world.
When I talk about good I mean pure.It is harder to do the right thing and maintain a pure heart throughout life's difficulties.
It can corrupt a man's thoughts when he loses the ability to see things with a pure heart.
A "hardened heart" is a result of letting the pain manipulate action.
Spirituality is food for my soul when I lose sight of hope.
I still believe.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
A Thought About The Economy
Listening to the 2012 Presidential hopefuls I can't help but think they should try to stop explaining away the problem in soundbites and just stare at the problems in the face and fix it.
It comes down to practicalities.
Our government should offer firms temporary subsidies to forestall outsourcing labor.
Too much of our ideas come to fruition overseas nowadays.
Corporate leaders can work to churn out a labor force with the right skills. Approach universities or trade schools with matching criteria and assure that graduating classes have the right assets.
It isn't that hard.
It's been done before.
It comes down to practicalities.
Our government should offer firms temporary subsidies to forestall outsourcing labor.
Too much of our ideas come to fruition overseas nowadays.
Corporate leaders can work to churn out a labor force with the right skills. Approach universities or trade schools with matching criteria and assure that graduating classes have the right assets.
It isn't that hard.
It's been done before.
Tuesday, May 31, 2011
Found Money
Friday, May 13, 2011
The 411 on the ATL
Sunday, January 23, 2011
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