It's Christmas Time in the City

Having been born and raised in the country, I enjoyed the feel and faithful convictions of a small town Christmas. It was a time of gathering together and reminiescing of times past. Memories of Christmas Pageans at the school where the big gym was fill with parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles and children of all ages participating. The knowledge that you were surrounded by everyone you knew was comforting and created a wonderful feeling abd image of the perfect Christmas. Then in a blink of an eye it all changed, Drastically. One moment I was that kid the next a young woman who had left the known went to the unknown, then came back to the town of childhood. Only to discover that I no longer felt the same about it. I spent a couple of years trying to recapture the feelings and comfort I had once felt, but it was gone. The people had changed; the the feel of the community was different; reality had been altered. The truth was I was different or was the unease, the need to see and do different things had always been there? Just buried beneath layers of social conditioning and traditions which seemed to suddenlychoke me. I left the country and went to the big city where I lived in an apartment in my mother's and stepfather's house. They owned a three story home in Queens, NY. The walk up flat was my stepfather's doctor office. The second floor was their home. I was on the third floor. It was a two bedroom one bath apartment. Gas stove and oven. Air conditioned and all mine! I loved it! I was employed at Chase Manhattan Bank and took the bus to work. This first year though, I spent four weeks training at the Chase Manhattan center next to the Empire State building. My first Christmas in the big city! It was definitely different and that was what I wanted. You see in order to get to training on time I had to take a bus to the 7 line in Queens then grab the subway into 5th Ave. After that I could grab another bus, train, or walk. Me; I chose to walk. It was exhilerating! The people, the sounds, the traffic, the stores ...WOW! The most fascinating item of this first Christmas in the city was the buildi I was inn was jusy down the street from Macy's. Yeah; the kid from the country watched with amazement as Macy's decorated for the Thanksgiving Parade and the whole city was being dressed for the holidays. I wondered around Macy's and saw the television stations setting up and catching glimpses of the cameras and crew! This was big stuff for me! I watched the parade every year (still do) and this particular year I was watching how it was set up and filmed. Talk about fascinating! Suddenly the parade and Thanksgiving was over - Manhattan was in full glory. Santa's stood on corner s ringing bells; an aroma I had never known wafted from venders on other corners; it was roasted chestnuts! Real roasted chestnuts! The topline stores on 5th Avenue had volleyed o out doing one another with their incredible Christmas windows. People lined up to view them for they were unbelievable. Then on one of my last days in Manhattan I did something I had always wantec to do- I saw the Macy's Santa Claus! He was awesome and the entire. Floor Macy's had him on was a winter wonderland! Yes, everyone there is a Santa and he is at Macy's! (Except when he is at Disney World)! I was lost in a dream world of Christmas! I went to Rockefeller Center and saw the huge tree and the decorations there. I stood outside St Patrick's Cathedral watching the worshipers and listening to the Mass which was filled with musicm. How can I even describe or explain what this Christmas meant to me. For once the words cannot even be found to bring my feelings and thoughts to justice. It is a memory which I treasure with delight. At my apartment, my tree stands in the front window, shining with muli colored lights, a star and glistening ornaments. My kitten has attacked it and it survived! My home fills with the scent of cinnamon and baking. A couple of presens are under the tree...Christmas music plays from my stereo and Roddie, my kitten races upvsnd down the stairs. I look out onto the snow covered street saddened by the change; yet content with where I am. A new Christmas; a new life; a new me which would in a couple of years change again and find happiness iin a Southern Christmas. You see while I was struggling with who I was, and trying to heal from my mental illness, I discovered something about Myself. I'm actually a survivor. I've learned to be content with where I am. I enjoy the simple pleasures of country life and the excitement and exaltation of city life. It took me awhile to figure it out, but it did get through. My Christmas in the city was wonderful and actually is a favorite memory. My hometown? Its there... containing family and friends whom I love and miss. But then again whom I love and miss...Merry Christmas! To you all! from the kiid who remembes the past but enjoys the present to a higher extent abd the future with promise.

A Day in Time

What a day! Ever said that phrase? I have, many times. Usually when I've declared it, the day in question has been filled with problems, obstacles, and headaches or heartaches of all sorts. My thought today is why do we blame the day. Yeah; that's what I asked why do we blame the day? After all it is what I do and maybe you do as well. So let me rephrase it; why do I blame the day? What did the day do? Absolutely nothing but exist. A day is just a matter of time. The time which is lived in 24 hour blocks. I even reduce it to minutes and seconds for some events. So this thought is an acknowledgement that the problems and obstacles I have encountered are events I created myself. Wait they're my creations? Yepper! That day I got the speeding ticket.. my fault... I was speeding why; I was late. Why was I late, simple, the dogs got out and I had to catch them. How did the dogs get out? I I was takingthem out and droppeand dropped a mug of coffee. They ran out the door I had left opened and I was covered in coffee and a mess on the floor. Let's face it. I was a mess that day! Okay, so it was definitely my fault...it was also a hypothetical morning, but I just wanted to illustrate how things I blame ob others is actually my fault. After all it was dogs fault they got out, it was the cop's fault I got a ticket. The dogs yanked my arm and made me drop the coffee and mug. It's always someobne else's fault. The truth though....it was all my fault. So today, I want to start doing something different. I want to accept responsibility for my all the events I create in my day. Yes, I did it. It's my time in,my day to face reality and the truth. Want to join me. After all what a day is nothing morethan a phrase and I want my day to be more than that. I want it to be an important aspect of my life. Have a great day and enjoy all the moments of the time we are given in life. Even if it means taking responsibility.

http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=300&pubid=iheartradio

http://www.addthis.com/bookmark.php?v=300&pubid=iheartradio

What the Heck is Dominionism? and why do so many Americans Believe in it?

Ever hear of Dominionism? I had; but had never really looked into it. Today I did. This is what I found " Many Writers including Chip Berlet [43] and Frederick Clarkson [28] distinguish between what they term "hard" and "soft" dominionism. Such commentators define "soft" dominionism as the belief that "America is a Christian nation" and opposition to separation of church and state, while "hard" dominionism refers to dominion theology and Christian Reconstructionism. Michelle Goldberg used the term "Christian Nationalism" for the former view, [37] and Berlet and Clarkson have agreed that "[s]oft Dominionists are Christian nationalists." [43] Unlike "dominionism", the phrase "Christian nation" occurs commonly in the writings of leaders of the Christian Right. Proponents of this idea (such as David Barton and D. James Kennedy) argue that the Founding Fathers of the United States were overwhelmingly Christian, that founding documents such as the Declaration of Independence and the Constitution are based on Christian principles, and that a Christian character is fundamental to American culture. [44][45][46] They cite, for example, the U.S. Supreme Court's comment in 1892 that "this [the United States] is a Christian nation," [47] after citing numerous historical and legal arguments in support of that statement. [48][49] And God blessed [ Adam and Eve ] and God said unto them, "Be fruitful, and multiply, and replenish the earth, and subdue it: and have dominion over the fish of the sea, and over the fowl of the air, and over every living thing that moveth upon the earth." —Genesis 1:28 (KJV) In the context of American evangelical efforts to penetrate and transform public life, the distinguishing mark of a dominionist is a commitment to defining and carrying out an approach to building society that is self-consciously defined as exclusively Christian, and dependent specifically on the work of Christians, rather than based on a broader consensus. [25] 1. Dominionists celebrate Christian nationalism, in that they believe that the United States once was, and should once again be, a Christian nation. In this way, they deny the Enlightenment roots of American democracy. 2. Dominionists promote religious supremacy, insofar as they generally do not respect the equality of other religions, or even other versions of Christianity. 3. Dominionists endorse theocratic visions, insofar as they believe that the Ten Commandments, or "biblical law," should be the foundation of American law, and that the U.S. Constitution should be seen as a vehicle for implementing Biblical principles" Interesting! Does this remind people of events and speeches which were given over the past two years? I hope it does! This is an extremely dangerous view to be considered in a country which boasts of its religious freedom! It is a theology which permeated throughout this part election! However that is just my view. All I ask is that you think about it and ask yourself one question: Do I believe this? Then think about what it really means. Look it up yourself! Read the Constitution! Find out what the Founding Fathers AND Mothers truly said and thought! Stop taking what pastors, politicians, and others say and make sure they speak the truth! That goes for the Bible as well! Study! Read! Learn! Become proactive and find the truth! When you do that, then power is in your hands! The power to elect the right people! The power to spread God's. Word the way Jesus taught! And the power to develop your own beliefs and views! Its time to start changing and growing so get going!

Fear

Fear is an emotion which is unlike any other. It grabs hold of you and will not relinquish its grasp until you cleave it off. Fear can rush at you or sneak up behind you. It doesn't care what age a person is; young, middle, or old; Fear clings to whpm ever it finds. Yes, Fear is an emotion which hholds onto a person. It can stay attached to an individual for an entire life span; clinging, expanding, and infiltrating into the person's very soul. Then Fear introduces its formidable partner, Anger. Once Anger has risen its powerful head, the individual becomes lost in a maze of untruths, falsehoods, and hypocritical prrceptions. Working together Fear and Anger overcome any resistance which may be left in a person. They keep feeding the Fear which in turns increases the combustion of Anger until their child, Hate is born; wailing, screaming, and kicking its way in the birth canal of a petson's mind. Hate the most powerful of all emotions save one rears its venomous head. As Hate takes over the soul has been poisoned and becomes filled with the rhetoric and expanses of revenge, misinformation, and murderous guile. Through hate comes the carnal corruption of love, the one emotion stronger than hate. However as the soul spins in the talons of Fear and Anger. Love is dismissed and Hate spreads its malice from one soul to another as it weaves its tale of dualistic concern. A concern covered by lies and false images which allows Fear to grasp another soul and another; beginning the cycle again. Does this mean that Fear,Anger, and Hate deprive us of hope? They can, but only if we allow them too. Like any emotion they can be overcome and thrown off a soul. It isnt easy, but it isnt hard eithet. It begins with immersing the soul with knowledge, truth, and comprehension. Dousing the flames of anger reduces the hate until it has been cleansed away. With Hate gone, anger begins to waver for the Fear that raised its fervor is being disembodied by actualization or reality. In the end Fear is overcome and vanquished when we no longer listen to it's lies for we now have retrieved our souls from thw grasp of darkness and have become free from its clammy clutches. We have redeemed ourselves from the hypocricy of prejudice, righteousness, and all the other reasons we give for falling to Fear, Anger, and Hate. Love is the hope and answrr to them and to our very souls.

The Truth of Risk

I was thinking about what to write this week, but I admit the presidential debate has been on my mind. I didn't want to write something political for I have offended some. Then I realized what I was allowing. - I was being coerced through ties if supposed friendship to end writing my views on subjects. That is something I will not fall too. If I offend anyone I'm sorry that you were offended, but what I write are my thoughts and I wish to share them and discuss them with others. Isn't this the whole purpose of writing blots; to share our ideas and thoughts with others in order to debate and come to agreements and understanding with one another? But you see speaking your own personal truth is a risk. Its put out there for all to see, to discuss, to alienate, to and yes, to bring together. Truth of any sort is a risk- but when applied to politics or religion, it is inflammatory! Yet, if we are truly friends or close associates we should be able to discuss our personal views without fear of hostility, the use of foul language, or censorship. If we are completely honest our beliefs and ideals could generate healing and communication leading to tolerance and understanding. Through diversity we become stronger and through compassion we become perceptive of others around us. So here's to taking a risk with truth! May we all grow and learn as we explore the truths of others! I'm placing this poem with this for it actually drew my attention to the risks of truth. Risk Writing Politics Religion if you would write about politics religion the world in graphic highlights beware power perturbed consequences writing about sly world religion politics with truth perception has cutting edges sharp edges cut all falling within range blades truth makes enemies of those hiding in shadows truth pisses off lazy blind ignorant excuses truth generates hate mail stalker consequences truth often sharp someone somewhere offends stalkers enemies means relevant observations as long as it offends truth responsibilities demands beware sight truth crusaders passion writers ask them of truth at peril of sting accuracy words Copyright © Terence George Craddock Terence George Craddock (Spectral Images and Images Of

Keep Climbing

When I was a child, a wonderful movie was released.  It was called, The Sound Of Music".  I was about 5 years old, but I loved it and I knew my mother did too.  I don't know how many times we went to the theatre to see it, but it was a lot.  Why did this movie mean so much to me and maybe to my mom?  I think it was a couple of songs... "Climb Every Mountain" and "I Have Confidence".  You probably understand why my mother would love this movie and songs; but why would a 5 year old kid?  I guess it's because I had already gone through 3 different surgeries, and almost died when I was 3.  Yep, that's just a few things to make me understand the need to hang in there and keep on climbing.  Life can throw a lot of punches at you and sometimes you duck and sometimes it lands fully.  That is why, I love them.  The lyrics help me grow and realize just who I am and what I can do.  Just like this quote from Colon Powell affects me as well.  They are all about continuing to climb and reach for your goal.  It's all about not letting others try to keep you on their level, just because they don't want you to go or from their own fears.  Colon's quote is wonderful for he puts everything into perspective; especially, when we are overcome with the advice of others.  I hope you enjoy it and maybe take some time to watch a great classic.  I think I will.  The hills are alive after all and calling to me!


“The less you associate with some people, the more your life will improve.
Any time you tolerate mediocrity in others, it increases your mediocrity. An
important attribute in successful people is their impatience with negative
thinking and negative acting people. As you grow, your associates will
change. Some of your friends will not want you to go on. They will want you
to stay where they are. Friends that don't help you climb will want you to
crawl. Your friends will stretch your vision or choke your dream. Those that
don't increase you will eventually decrease you.

Consider this:
Never receive counsel from unproductive people. Never discuss your problems
with someone incapable of contributing to the solution, because those who
never succeed themselves are always first to tell you how. Not everyone has
a right to speak into your life. You are certain to get the worst of the
bargain when you exchange ideas with the wrong person. Don't follow anyone
who's not going anywhere.

With some people you spend an evening: with others you invest it. Be careful
where you stop to inquire for directions along the road of life. Wise is the
person who fortifies his life with the right friendships. If you run with
wolves, you will learn how to howl. But, if you associate with eagles, you
will learn how to soar to great heights.
"A mirror reflects a man's face, but what he is really like is shown by the
kind of friends he chooses."

The simple but true fact of life is that you become like those with whom you
closely associate - for the good and the bad.

Note: Be not mistaken. This is applicable to family as well as friends.
Yes...do love, appreciate and be thankful for your family, for they will
always be your family no matter what. Just know that they are human first
and though they are family to you, they may be a friend to someone else and
will fit somewhere in the criteria above.

"In Prosperity Our Friends Know Us. In Adversity We Know Our friends."

"Never make someone a priority when you are only an option for them."
"If you are going to achieve excellence in big things,you develop the habit in little matters.
Excellence is not an exception, it is a prevailing attitude.."..”
― Colin Powell

The Truth

My daughter had always been a very happy and contented girl – a typical teenager.  The summer of 2008 changed that.  She would become angry and hostile.  To put it simply, she was hiding something she didn’t want us to know.  There was one problem, for I knew what her secret was.  Plus, I knew she was beginning to suffer from a disease which seems to be prevalent in my family; a disease that I still suffer from.  Luckily, I had shared my battle with my daughter and husband, unknowingly preparing them for the events to come.

            It all began when she met a girl at college.  They became fast friends and were always together.  It was easy to see that there was more to their relationship than friendship.  In the summer of 2008, my daughter collapsed in my arms and began sobbing relentlessly.  All night I stayed up watching over her.  I watched my girl go from that vibrant smiling cherub to an empty shell that just went through the motions of life.  I took her to our doctor who prescribed anti-depressants and then to a counselor for therapy.  Finally, in June, 2009 she accepted what I and her father already knew was true and accepted.  She came to us while we were sitting in the living room, and asked us if we could talk.  I could tell she was nervous; she always walks around and waves her hands as if she were Keith Lockhart directing the Boston Pops when she is excited or apprehensive.  She looked at us both and said, “I love you.  I know that I have to be what I was meant to be.  I can’t lie nor hide what I am.”   “So, what are you,” I asked.  She peered at us with fear that shook her slender body, but she bravely answered, “I am a lesbian”.  My husband and I exchanged a glance and broke out in laughter.  Our daughter stared at us as if we had lost our minds.  Finally, I pulled her close and kissed her.  “Sweetheart, don’t you know by now that you are always my girl and that we love you no matter what.  We don’t care if you’re a lesbian; we just want you to be happy”.  My husband echoes the same sentiment, and we watched as a tear trickled down her cheek.  Her voice quivering, she said, “I didn’t think you would ever call me, ‘your girl’ ever again”.  That simple phrase, “my girl”, was all she needed to know that we loved and accepted her.  It is the phrase I always use when I know she is feeling down for I realize it helps her recognize the truth about my love for her.

            Unfortunately, not everyone feels the way we do about homosexuals.  We had been going to the same church for seventeen years.  Regrettably, what occurred in the middle of July, 2009 drove us from any chance of reconciliation with the church and its young pastor.  We heard a soft knock on our front door and when my husband answered it, there stood our young pastor.  We had not expected him for my husband had told him that we were looking for a new church.  Yet, Pastor had come again to question why we were leaving.  My daughter finally came forth with the true reason.  I can still see her standing in the living room, her riotous curly brown hair shook around her head as she punctuated every word to this young man; “If I want to love a woman that is none of your business”!  Saying this she dissolved into tears and fled the room with my husband pursuing her.  I stood frozen and felt that all of the work that had been done to help her had been destroyed by the vanity of this man.  I asked him three times to leave my home, but he would not go.  I countered him verse by verse, and he smirked when he said “sin no more.”  I gazed at him and said, “Pastor, I would like you to stop sinning right now.”  Astonishingly, he told me he would!  I knew then what a hypocrite and liar he was.  I knew of the verse that would end this witch hunt; nevertheless, I kept it to myself.  No matter what verse I would repeat, Pastor would remain antagonistic and cocky in his belief that gays were condemned to hell.  I went to my daughter, she sobbing uncontrollably, and my husband, trying in vain to comfort her.  My husband and I traded places, and I could hear my husband’s gentle admonishments to Pastor and his requests to leave.  Finally, Pastor left and with him went our desire to ever attend a church again.             

            This is the truth and the verse I knew is one that reflects truth:  “If we claim to be without sin, we deceive ourselves and the truth is not in us” (1 John 1:8).  You see I search for truth and I know that truth is what each one of us makes it.  Author, Parker Palmer, wrote these words in his book, Let Your Life Speak:  Listening for the Voice of Vocation, which I find very inspiring: 

“The world still waits for the truth that will set us free –

My truth, your truth, our truth –

The truth that was seeded in the earth

 When each of us arrived here

 Formed in the image of God.

Cultivating that truth, I believe,

Is the authentic vocation of every human being” (36).

Parker is right.  We all have our own truths which we must not only sow, but tend to, and allow to grow for it is not only a reflection of ourselves, but also God.  The truth, my daughter is a lesbian whom we love and enjoy!  Another truth, this all took place over four years ago and the majority of what I have written here was first done in the Fall of 2008.  We have been through many more events and they have sent us through the ringer.  The reactions of most who know have been overwhelmingly positive.  My girl knows this.  But there have been many who react to her the same as that young Pastor.  Full of hate and perpetuating condemnation, we’ve dealt with insults, the beating of my girl, and betrayal by people we thought were friends and discovered just how fair weather they really were.  No, homosexuals aren’t committing a sin, they have been born to love in a way that some heterosexuals don’t understand.  But then again it isn’t anybody’s business what goes on in the sexual life of others.  I know I sure don’t want to know about other couples around us and I really don’t know why that is so important to some.  But there is one thing I do know.  Read Mathew 19: 11-12, then think about it…really, you might just see the truth.  Now Accept it. 

 

Work Cited

Holy Bible. Grand Rapids.  Zondervon.  1991.

Parker, Palmer J.  Let Your Life Speak:  Listening for the Voice of Vocation.  San Francisco, Jossey-Bass. 2000.

 

John: Happy Birthday to the Man of Dreams and Hope

Today is the birthday of John Lennon.  For some reason this knowledge sent me reeling onto an emotional merry go round.  Why?  I have no idea.  Maybe because if he had lived, he would have been 72 years old.  Maybe its due to his having been murdered and his family and friends still mourn him.  Maybe its because I remember seeing him on the Ed Sullivan Show when I was 4 years old.  Maybe he is an imprint on my mind of being a child and growing up with his music.  Yeah, I grew up with his songs....first with the Beatles and then solo.  My favorite song by him is "Woman", followed by "Imagine".  Then come the Beatle tunes.  Yeah.  Loved John, Paul, George, and Ringo!  Paul was and is my favorite; but John, there is something extremely special about John.  I think its because John really didn't care what people thought of him.  He lived his life in his way, not worrying about conforming to societal rules and structures.  He stood up for people, peace, and love. In the end, he died violently at the hands of a fanatic.  Why is it that individuals who espouse peace, love, tranquility...seem to die violently.  Think about it.  Christ, Ghandi, JFK (to some extent), Lincoln, the list goes on.  No, I'm not saying that John was a messiah, I'm saying he spoke his mind on the subject of peace, of supporting all people and caring for them, of working toward equality to all, and doing it peacefully, through his music and his creativity.  John Lennon, 72 years old today if he lived...some where, sometime, we got old, but John, he will always be young.... and through him, we remain young and full of hope.  Maybe, that's why I was sent reeling...it seems as though hope has been pushed aside to allow fear to run rampant.  Yeah, we needed John then and we need his music and hope now.  It's time to rid ourselves of fear and fearmongers and time to bring back hope, respect, and consideration....but then again, maybe "I'm only a dreamer, but I hope you join me" and stop the hate and cherish the love.  Thanks John!  And Happy Birthday! 

American Democracy: Equality and Classes

Just thought I would add one of my papers that I wrote for my Intro to American Civilization class in 2010.  As a student of American Studies, I am constantly seeking to understand the nature of American culture.  This is just one look into the unique government which the founding fathers created in the 18th century.  I hope you enjoy it!

 

 

American Democracy: Equality and Classes

 

It was considered an experiment. An experiment which could seize the Old World and destroy its very philosophy concerning traditional roles of society; or it could be an experiment which ended in disaster and chaos for this newborn country which pursued the elusive conception of equality toward all its citizenry. Yet, this newborn country added another dimension to its philosophy of egalitarianism by encouraging the growth of capitalism within its ideology. Many watched this struggle by this infant nation as it writhed from the beliefs of its motherland and formed its own virtues and designs. A number of those of who scrutinized this process were convinced it would fail and would fall to the established views of tradition. Nevertheless, numerous others watched with delight as the new land overcame tradition, and established a new way of surviving and thriving with the principle of equality in a system dedicated to capitalism and a class system.

This ability to survive and thrive is due to the aptitude of individuals who through various means were able to cross social lines and rise in class. It is these means which can be used by any individual that allows for the continued growth and practice of this unique system. Two of the ways that individuals used in order to achieve this goal are: devotion to their goal and a tendency to improve oneself through education and resolves. One of the most important aspects of the principle of equality and capitalism’s class system is the capacity for growth and ascension into higher classes. In order to achieve this goal the need for determination and to strive forward even if failure occurs in some element of this aspiration. This ideal has been reflected frequently in books, letters, and essays of individuals who have achieved their dream. For instance, in Autobiography Of Benjamin Franklin, Mr. Franklin admits that when he tried to perfect himself, he came to the realization “that a perfect character might be attended with the inconvenience of being envied and hated; and that a benevolent man should allow a few faults in himself, to keep his friends in countenance” (1). However, Mr. Franklin did not give up on his goal. Instead, he realized that in order to attain his goal he had to realize that he needed to qualify which points needed to be enhanced and remain devoted to the major goal rather than to several offshoots of that goal.

Furthermore, Alexis de Tocqueville in his book, Democracy In America, writes about the progressiveness toward industry which Americans committed themselves to: “The Americans make immense progress in productive industry, because they all devote themselves to it at once” (1). Even this Frenchman notated just how devoted to a cause or goal Americans are when he traveled throughout the fledgling country in order to understand the principle of equality in this capitalistic country.

Probably one of the most notable writings concerning the devotion to attaining a goal is from F. Scott Fitzgerald’s novel, The Great Gatsby. In the novel, Gatsby is a young man who was born into a poor family. However, his aspirations were to get ahead and become something better than what he had lived with. Upon his meeting Daisy, when he was in the Army for World War I, he realized that she was the catalyst of his goal. “…he found that he had committed himself to the following of a grail” (149). Yet, this devotion to a goal began when Gatsby was young for as his father says after his death: “he knew he had a big future in front of him. And ever since he made a success he was very generous with me” (172). Thus, Gatsby remained devoted to his goal of “making it big” (173) and to attain the most important aspect of his goal, the love of Daisy. It is this devotion to a goal which helps create equality within the capitalistic class system in American Democracy for it allows the upward and downward movement of people in the United States.

In addition, to this devotion to a goal is the desire to educate and grow in varied areas which are means that contribute to the egalitarianism within the capitalistic class system. Whereas, Tocqueville describes “how an aristocracy can be created by manufacturers” (1) he further states how “men of great opulence and education devote their wealth and knowledge to manufacturers” (1). With education the ability to be equal is approachable. However, as Tocqueville reiterates “an aristocracy can be created” (1) and it is up to “the friends of democracy to keep their eyes anxiously fixed on the conditions which could create a permanent inequality and aristocracy” (1).

This is an idea that is discussed in The Great Gatsby, as the reader discovers that several of the characters are from the working class and it is through their resolve and education that they are able to join the aristocratic class of the 1920’s. For example, Jay Gatsby’s father shows Nick Carroway a book in which his son had written several resolves that he wanted to attain: “Jimmy was bound to get ahead. He always had some resolves like this or something. Do you notice what he’s got about improving his mind: He was always great for than” (173). Again, one of the defining elements of climbing in society is the need to be educated and to expand one’s horizons to reach what many might have though to be unreachable.

Yet, there are many who like Tocqueville who felt that this would lead to an aristocracy. Fortunately, there are many more who believe that by educating all people and by tempering the number of resolves to one that may be of the most important, the ability to remain equal is fathomable in a capitalistic society. Benjamin Franklin writes: “I endeavored to cure myself of this vice (pride)…I made it a rule to forbear all direct contradiction to the sentiment of others and all positive assertion of my own” (1). In other words, Mr. Franklin worked on expanding his own viewpoints to the thoughts of others in order to prevent himself from becoming arrogant and aristocratic in nature. By doing this, he gives the formula for preventing inequality and establishing a rapport with others which conveys parity across social classes.

Thus, two methods used in order for the sociopolitical order based upon the principles of equality to survive and thrive in a capitalistic class society are devotion to a goal and the need for education and attainable resolutions. These are two ways which will continue the growth of evolution of equality within the American Democracy. Furthermore, as Tocqueville stated it is the “friends of democracy”(1) who must ensure the continuity of equality through these measures.

 

 

 

 

 

Work Cited

 

Fitzgerald, F. Scott. The Great Gatsby. New York. Scribner. 2004.

Franklin, Benjamin. Autobiography Of Benjamin Franklin. http://academics.eckerd.edu

/instructor/griggscm/pel/dir_intro_am_studies/ autobiography_franklin.htm.2010.

Tocqueville, Alexis de. Democracy In America. http://academics.eckerd.edu/ instructor

/griggscm/pel/dir_intro_am_studies/Book_II_Chap_19 and 20.htm. 2010.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

The Haunted Palace

The very first American author of horror was Edgar Allen Poe. His works gave been made into movies,plays, satires, paintings, and have been quoted in numerous media. How many have found themselves shivering from the results of reading his chilling tales or poems. I hope you enjoy this piece by him. The Haunted Palace In the greenest of our valleys By good angels tenanted, Once a fair and stately palace-Radiant palace- reared its head. In the monarch Thought's dominion-It stood there! Never seraph spread a pinion Over fabric half so fair! Banners yellow, glorious, golden, On its roof did float and flow, (This- all this- was in the olden Time long ago,) And every gentle air that dallied, In that sweet day, Along the ramparts plumed and pallid, A winged odor went away. Wanderers in that happy valley, Through two luminous windows, saw Spirits moving musically, To a lute's well-tuned law, Round about a throne where, sitting (Porphyrogene!) In state his glory well-befitting, The ruler of the realm was seen. And all with pearl and ruby glowing Was the fair palace door, Through which came flowing, flowing, flowing, And sparkling evermore,troop of Echoes, whose sweet duty Was but to sing, In voices of surpassing beauty, The wit and wisdom of their king. But evil things, in robes of sorrow, Assailed the monarch's high estate. (Ah, let us mourn!- for never morrow Shall dawn upon him desolate!) And round about his home the glory That blushed and bloomed, Is but a dim-remembered story Of the old time entombed. And travellers, now, within that valley, Through the red-litten windows see Vast forms, that move fantastically To a discordant melody, While, like a ghastly rapid river, Through the pale door A hideous throng rush out forever; and laugh, but smile no more. Edgar Allen Poe published. 1839

What Would You Do?

So,here it is another day. October is moving quickly for the days are shorter and the nights longer. Ive just finished watching an episode of JJ Abrams' new show, Revolution. Im not a big Abrams' fan at all, but the premise of the show caught my attention. What would we do if all electricity was just gone? In the show it took last than two weeks for total anarcy to occur. It is a rather cynical look at humanity in America; but is it a realistic view? You see this is why i love science fiction. The genre creates scenarios where social, economic, religious, scientific, and historical issues are discussed in a less offensive manner in order to attain a more intellectuals and non-combative discourse. I've watched and read a lot of science fiction/fanasy/horror and have entertained mainy discussions concerning issues due to this. Look at Star Trek : The Original Series; this one program took on issues of prejudice, discrimination, inter racial relationships, euthanasia, theoretical science, and so many other ones. The Star Trek franchise of books, movies, video games, and 4 other television shows engaged in discourses concerning reproduction, homosexuality, overcrowding, population growth, ethical research, education, the arts, business ethics, cloning, communication, personal responsibility, leadership...shall I continue? That's just one franchise of science fiction that has brought these issues to attention and have created interesting avenues of thought concerning them. I havent even gone into the Star Wars, Stargate, Alien, Halo, Mass Effect, or other tales in the genre. Once you look below the entertainment value of sci fi, you find multiple layers of stories which are interwoven through the impirtant events and issues of our lives. We see how ridiculous prejudice is when it is portrayed by two individuals; one whose face is black on the left and white on the right while the other was white on the left and black on the right. We confront our biases when we watch how being intolerant of another's culture leads to misunderstanding and violence. We view the full impact of degradation and dehumanizing of females, other races, and fellow beings when shown in the light of science fiction. Most importantly we are opened to awareness of problems when seeing the affects of extinction toward the environment and nature. Yes, this is why I love science fiction so much. It is a view of our times with all its problems set out before us in ways we can understand and contemplate. So, I ask again what would you do if all eletricity was lo...............

Why Spuyten Duyvil Is So Named

Its the time of year when spooky stories are told as friends and family gather around fire pits enjoying their time together. Some of the tales told are from my home state, New York. I hope you enjoy these tales as much as I have. Happy Spooky Time! WHY SPUYTEN DUYVIL IS SO NAMED The tide-water creek that forms the upper boundary of Manhattan Island is known to dwellers in tenements round about as "Spittin' Divvle." The proper name of it is Spuyten Duyvil, and this, in turn, is the compression of a celebrated boast by Anthony Van Corlaer. This redoubtable gentleman, famous for fat, long wind, and long whiskers, was trumpeter for the garrison at New Amsterdam, which his countrymen had just bought for twenty-four dollars, and he sounded the brass so sturdily that in the fight between the Dutch and Indians at the Dey Street peach orchard his blasts struck more terror into the red men's hearts than did the matchlocks of his comrades. William the Testy vowed that Anthony and his trumpet were garrison enough for all Manhattan Island, for he argued that no regiment of Yankees would approach near enough to be struck with lasting deafness, as must have happened if they came when Anthony was awake. Peter Stuyvesant-Peter the Headstrong—showed his appreciation of Anthony's worth by making him his esquire, and when he got news of an English expedition on its way to seize his unoffending colony, he at once ordered Anthony to rouse the villages along the Hudson with a trumpet call to war. The esquire took a hurried leave of six or eight ladies, each of whom delighted to believe that his affections were lavished on her alone, and bravely started northward, his trumpet hanging on one side, a stone bottle, much heavier, depending from the other. It was a stormy evening when he arrived at the upper end of the island, and there was no ferryman in sight, so, after fuming up and down the shore, he swallowed a mighty draught of Dutch courage,—for he was as accomplished a performer on the horn as on the trumpet,—and swore with ornate and voluminous oaths that he would swim the stream "in spite of the devil" [En spuyt den Duyvil]. He plunged in, and had gone half-way across when the Evil One, not to be spited, appeared as a huge moss-bunker, vomiting boiling water and lashing a fiery tail. This dreadful fish seized Anthony by the leg; but the trumpeter was game, for, raising his instrument to his lips, he exhaled his last breath through it in a defiant blast that rang through the woods for miles and made the devil himself let go for a moment. Then he was dragged below, his nose shining through the water more and more faintly, until, at last, all sight of him was lost. The failure of his mission resulted in the downfall of the Dutch in America, for, soon after, the English won a bloodless victory, and St. George's cross flaunted from the ramparts where Anthony had so often saluted the setting sun. But it was years, even then, before he was hushed, for in stormy weather it was claimed that the shrill of his trumpet could be heard near the creek that he had named, sounding above the deeper roar of the blast.

Happy Birthday Dad!

A Happy Birthday to my father whose quiet calm has always been a trait I wish I had inherited. Although the distance is great, I see and feel his love surround me as I look at the memories I have of our family. Thank you tor all you have given and all you have taught me. We will celebrate your birth and life on this special day. Love you fer much: Your daughter. Father was a Farmer: A Ballad by Robert Burns MY father was a farmer upon the Carrick border, O, And carefully he bred me in decency and order, O; He bade me act a manly part, though I had ne’er a farthing, O; For without an honest manly heart, no man was worth regarding, O. Then out into the world my course I did determine, O; Tho’ to be rich was not my wish, yet to be great was charming, O; My talents they were not the worst, nor yet my education, O: Resolv’d was I at least to try to mend my situation, O. In many a way, and vain essay, I courted Fortune’s favour, O; Some cause unseen still stept between, to frustrate each endeavour, O; Sometimes by foes I was o’erpower’d, sometimes by friends forsaken, O; And when my hope was at the top, I still was worst mistaken, O. Then sore harass’d and tir’d at last, with Fortune’s vain delusion, O, I dropt my schemes, like idle dreams, and came to this conclusion, O; The past was bad, and the future hid, its good or ill untried, O; But the present hour was in my pow’r, and so I would enjoy it, O. No help, nor hope, nor view had I, nor person to befriend me, O; So I must toil, and sweat, and moil, and labour to sustain me, O; To plough and sow, to reap and mow, my father bred me early, O; For one, he said, to labour bred, was a match for Fortune fairly, O. Thus all obscure, unknown, and poor, thro’ life I’m doom’d to wander, O, Till down my weary bones I lay in everlasting slumber, O: No view nor care, but shun whate’er might breed me pain or sorrow, O; I live to-day as well’s I may, regardless of to-morrow, O. But cheerful still, I am as well as a monarch in his palace, O, Tho’ Fortune’s frown still hunts me down, with all her wonted malice, O: I make indeed my daily bread, but ne’er can make it farther, O: But as daily bread is all I need, I do not much regard her, O. When sometimes by my labour, I earn a little money, O, Some unforeseen misfortune comes gen’rally upon me, O; Mischance, mistake, or by neglect, or my goodnatur’d folly, O: But come what will, I’ve sworn it still, I’ll ne’er be melancholy, O. All you who follow wealth and power with unremitting ardour, O, The more in this you look for bliss, you leave your view the farther, O: Had you the wealth Potosi boasts, or nations to adore you, O, A cheerful honest-hearted clown I will prefer before you, O.

A New Chance For a New Beginning

So here we are. Another month beginning and a chance for new beginnings. That's what today is all about; a new month, a new quarter, a new day. We are given so many chances to begin anew, but how many have we thrown away or disregarded just because we were afraid of change? How many others went by due to our apathy or complacency? Too many, I would predict...way to many. So how do we break out of our fear or apathy? Sadly,quite often. We don't. We are comfortable and do not want to leave the confines of our safe zones. We enjoy our positions in our communities and say this is what we know and undersrand. We are secure, but are we alive? By remaining in our same situations are we becoming stagnant and dead since we refuse to move forward? Life is too short to always "play it safe"! Once a chance is gone it never comes back. However, other opportunities do appear. So why are we given all these avenues? Simple. Humanity always strives to move forward. We are constantly pushing and prodding our way across all obstacles and walls. This is the reason we leave our safety nets. It is an urge in us which is primal and for some of us it becomes so strong and urgent that we must answer it. By lifting off the security blanket that we have cocooned ourselves in, we remove the fallacy we have been living with. Our minds are opened ; our eyes see; our ears hear ; and we become reborn. Yes, reborn for we have moved through the struggles of the birth canal.and are facing the life we are too live. Not one based upon our family's or friends' desires, but the one which is our dream. If someone you know is positioned to take flight, support them! Help them lift off and reach for their dreams; for they will be the ones who delight in helping you achieve your "fantasies " when the naysayers try to divert you! Live life and enjoy the ride for we all walk the hills and valleys' of our journeys and we can all overcome anything as long as we hold hope and compassion in our minds and hearts! Have a great October 1st and seize the moment for growth and change!

My Pets: The Joys of My Life

I love my pets. They are a wonderful source of enjoyment. The antics they pull and the things they get into are hysterical at times. Sometimes it isn't funny at all and an injury has to be taken care. It is then when you realize just how much your pet means to you. You see, they aren't just some "dumb" animal like a few people may think. No, my pet (and the pets of many others) are family members. They are my "other" children whom I take care of, love, and cherish. Yep, they are my joy and love and they give me unconditional love back. We have 5 babies. Two dogs and three cats. Each and every one of them is unique and special in their own way. Their personalities are distinct and they are completely in control of the house. That's right! They control and own us; we do not own them. Each one chose their favorite human and spend a great deal of time with that one. However, they do give love to the other humans in the house as well. My daughter is the pet of two male cats. They love her and dote on her. The one even disciplines her if she utters a, hmmm, shall we say a naughty word. How he knows the difference is amazing, but he is right there for her when ever she needs him. That's why we were so worried when he became injured after playing with the other male. He wound up at the Vets 3 times last week and he is finally on the mend. Seeing him in so much pain and taking care of him this past week was a sharp reminder of just how important he and the others are to us. Thankfully, he is getting better and is jumping on and off my daughter's bed. It's great to see him coming back to full health and strength.

Now the newest member is young Mikael. He is incredibly mischeivious, but this is due to his only being 5 months old. Mikael is into everything. He has climbed the living room drapes; he has clawed a bottle of Coke; he runs behind the sofas and flys across their backs; he attacks toes and feet when we are asleep; and he jumps and tumbles with the other ones as well. Mikael, is a reminder of what it is to be young and new to the world for he is intensely curious and watches everything. The most comical thing he has done was flushing the toilet and then racing away from it at full speed. Yes, he flushes toilets...like I said, he's curious! He has also gained the nickname "Goat" due to his eating everything in sight; and "Spawn of Satan" due to his devilish antics. He didn't always have it so good. My daughter found him under her car during a rain storm. He was tiny, scared, cold, wet, and hungry. He was screaming so loudly my daughter went out to find him...Mikael came to her and has been with us since. We've always wondered where he came from but nobody ever claimed him. He is our love and joy for he brought sunshine to us on a rainy day.

Padme is an amazing cat. She is our oldest cat and is going to be 10 years old this year. She hippity hops around and is small and compact. Padme gives love to all of us, and is highly independent. She and Vader are a loving couple (yes, all of our pets are "fixed") and she tolerates young Mikael (well, sort of). She did a back flip this morning off a wall and raced through the house. She may be the oldest of the 3 cats, but she is still very playful and full of mischief. A sweet girl with a big heart and a loud purr who loves to cuddle up, but only when she wants to!

Now, the pups are a world all their own. Loyal, loving, playful, and protective; they fill our home with the yips and barks of happiness and of protection. They are both companions to us and to each other; backing one another up when "battling" with the cats. They are hilarious and full of fun. They smile at us, laugh, and romp around the house with complete freedom. They frolic outside and chase toads and lizards. Full of love, they show their joy of seeing us when we come home with plenty of wet kisses, barks, yips, tail wagging and thumping!

Yep, our babies control us. They shower us with love, companionship, antics, and joy. They give much and take little. They are distinct, separate, and full of their own personalities and quirks. Yet, there are those who deem them nothing but a dumb animal. Others consider them less worthy and trivial. These wonderful companions are thought to be souless as well. To put it bluntly, animals were given to humanity in order for us to be stewards of them; not to exploit them. They are our hope and bring us resources for needs. Yes, the animal kingdom is important to humanity; after all are we really anything more than animals ourselves? How many times do we call someone an animal as though to degrade them? I wonder if the truth is, we humans are the animals, and are the real beasts of the world. It is a question I ponder from time to time why humanity seems on a collision course with destroying the very beings we need in order to survive. Yes, the five that we share our home with are members of our family. We share our loves, happiness, sadness, and joy with one another. We listen and hear each other and have learned to understand the language of all our children. This is my home and family. I hope that yours is just as wonderful and joyfull as mine.

It Must Be October

Maybe I'm jumping the start, but October is a wonderful month for so many reasons. I hope you enjoy this poem and begin the pleasures of October.

It Must Be October The harvest moon hangs round and high It dodges clouds high in the sky The stars wink down their love and mirth The Autumn seasons is giving birth Oh it must be October The leaves of red bright gold and brown To Mother earth come tumbling down The breezy nights the ghostly sights The eerie spooky far off sounds Are signs that its October The pumpkin yellow big and round Are carried by costumed clumsy clowns Its Halloween lets celebrate Come one come all and don't be late We know now its October We'll roast and toast some luscious food For apples we'll be bobbin While tales are told around the fire Of timely ghosts and goblins Oh how we love October The moon has grown pale The stars have grown dim Our Halloween party is over With a hi-de-ho homeward we'll go What a delightful month October Pearl N. Sorrels

What If Monsters Are Real

"What if all the monsters were real". I love that line...Bella says this in "Twilight" and I remember that I stopped reading and thought about it. What if all the monsters ARE real. It actually something to think about. Let's talk about werewolves. Do they really exist? Maybe not in the way you think...I was talking about this with my daughter the other day. I think they are real. Okay, no I'm not some sort of clown who is believing in fairy tales. However, fairy tales do have some truth to them; they've just been enhanced with fabrications in order to get their point across. Now, back to werewolves. Yes, I believe werewolves exist. I think that in the past, individuals with certain types of mental illnesses may have been labeled werewolves due to the changes in themselves. Think about it. How would uneducated people describe someone who is bipolar, or some other mental illness? It was a way in which the people could understand the change from "normal" to an individual who attacks others for no apparent reason. I'm not putting down mental illness, I suffer from depression and anxiety myself. My daughter suffers from severe depression and social conduct disorder. She calls herself a "werewolf", and she hates it when that side of her breaks through. So, maybe that is what a werewolf was, an individual who suffered from mental illness, and if we look at history, we see that the villages where "werewolf" attacks took place, hunted the individual down...not to help, but to kill. Think I'm making this up? In Medieval France, 30,000 people found themselves being called "werewolves" from 1520 to 1630. They were captured, interrogated, tortured, and whether they confessed or not; burnt on the stake. So, I guess there were a lot of scared peasants running around and that is just in France. By the way, there are still cases of lycanthropy today....many are found to have abnormal brain chemicals. Hence, my idea of a werewolf being real is based upon fact. Alright, now, you are going to ask, how about a vampire? My daughter asked me that one. Here's my answer: What does a vampire represent? Vampires are seductors, sexually explicit, drink blood, and are called the undead. Okay, got it....well, back in ancient times there are tales concerning vampires. However, I'm going to concentrate on the ones from Bram Stroker's "Dracula". First of all, during the time period of the 13th to the 20th century an individual who was known to be extremely sexually active was accorded one of two thoughts. A male would have been viewed as a seductor or "Don Juan". He would have been invited to all the social gatherings, not because of his conquests but of society wanting to have a look at him and perhaps, tempt him with a beauty. Now, on the other hand, a woman who was known to be a seductress, would have been ridiculed, by those of her own gender. She would have been "dead" socially. Hence, the idea of the undead. Now the drinking of blood...well, there are those who do have a compulsion to drink blood...but in the way I am looking a vampirism, a nice burgundy or red wine would definitely give the appearance of blood....there are many other thoughts on that issue, but I think you understand what I am saying. This is why I believe that vampires have been around for a long time. Now, who's next? My daughter brought up everyone's favorites, zombies! My thoughts, well a zombie is a mindless husk who obeys the orders of the master...kind of like a Tea Party member. Okay, that was nasty I admit...just joking, I've heard a lot of nasty things about Democrats lately, so I just had to have a little fun. However, I am adament that a zombie is a person who follows the crowd and is driven by mindless obediance. Any way, that's my thought on the subject of zombies. So, are monsters real? I think so! If you think up any other monsters, let me know. I would love to talk to you about them! By the way, October is coming...

Contact: Signal heard

Suppose just for the moment that somewhere on Earth a signal is being heard. That's right a signal. A scientist has heard something;something that had never been received before. That scientist contacts others and these other scientists tune their instruments into the same coordinates. They too, hear that same signal. Excitement runs rampant as they collect data from the signal and correlate its direction. They begin working on deciphering the signal; discovering that it is based upon mathematical design. What then? For those who have watched the 1997 film, Contact, starring Jody Foster you already know this tale. If you've read Carl Sagan's novel of the same title you know it as well. The actions are pretty much realistic as to what humanity would do if a signal was heard from space. Military would want to take control and be placed on alert. Extreme religious zealots would do everything in their power to make sure contact with aliens would not occur. Politicians would argue over how to use the message and capitalists would do everything the could to make profit from it. But there is one particular scenario I find very interesting. You see, only one human can take the journey in the machine that the countries of the world build together. That's right; out of the 7,041,653,526 individuals on this Earth only one can journey to where the signal comes from. How in the world do you decide? Well, in the story a committee is compiled and then a list of 10 candidates is made. Still think about that figure. 10 out of over 7 billion people. Here's the interesting question which was asked to Jody Foster's character : "Do you believe in God"? That's the question that will guide the committee to make its decision. Seems rather strange doesn't it? The candidates for this experience are asked if they are spiritual. Why? Was my first reaction. It may be yours ad well. Why would believing in a God or being spiritual have any bearing on this quest? Then I realized the answer just before it was revealed in the film. 95% of the Earth's human population have some spiritual or faith. That leaves only 5% who sk not. For many sending someone with no faith is akin to ignoring the reactions of melting ice cream in a cone. Yet, it is this question which haunts me. How could you choose a representative from all the different religions...but this is what must be remembered.it wasn't what religion; it was are you spiritual? That makes it a esteeming factor. I won't give out any more about the film; but I do leave one thought; if this scenario were true, who would you want to go on the journey? What qualifications would you seek for the person who would represent all of Earth to beings of another world? Its quite a thought isn't it?

One of THOSE Days

You ever have one of those days? You know what I'm talking about. A day where no matter what you do it goes wrong. Yeah, one of those days. That's what I had today. A day where I wish I had crawled back into bed and stayed there with the covers over my head. It was a day where I woke up in a mood which forebade bad tidings and it just went completely down hill from that moment on. That's the way some days are, you have to deal with it even though every neutron and ion within your body is screaming to high tail it back to your favorite spot and remain there curled up until the swells of the turbulent sea stop batting you around. Yeah, one of THOSE days. Where chaos seems to reign supreme and you are in the middle of it. Where in the world do those days come from? Do we create them in our subconscious? Like I said, I woke up in a mood which was not coesive to a happy day. Nope, I was in the mood to tear someone to pieces. Yet, not really, I was just in a bad mood and it seemed to get worse as the day went on. So, where do they come from? These days which we all dread. How can waking up, put someone in a bad mood? Something to think about, but not to dwell on. Oh yeah, my night? A great deal better than my day. It turned around and the sea has calmed. The night is filled with happiness,relaxation, and peace....What's the dif? My own frame of mind...that's where those days come from....at least mine do...they come from me....I finally got tired of being grumpy and bickering, and decided to spin my night from my day. A quiet time of writing, a time of reading, a time of listening to smooth jazz....The day - it's gone. A memory....The night? Just as chaos fled from the day, so to did the forebading leave my mind. Just as the sun and light give illumination, so to did my thoughts give me sight. Now as the moon rises and darkness covers the land as a blanket; so too, does my mind react to the stumulus of quiet and peace which the night brings me.... Yeah, one of those days! Thank God it's over and I am moving forward again on my journey of exploration of the mind.

It's Your Fault!!!!! No, It's Mine!

Lately there has been a great deal of anger released due to the elections which are less than 45 days away. Bitterness, hatred, and frustration has been fueled by the words from politicians, media,and let's face it, extremists from all sides. Words, speeches, and rhetoric have been twisted in order for allegations and mudswinging to be tossed about; and we, the people are the ones who must distingush the difference between truth and fallacy. So, that is what is what has been happening. The past 3 presidential elections have been filled with this anger and it is spilling over into every segment of our lives. From our religious beliefs, to civil rights, to immigration laws, to voter displacement, and even into the school house with teachers being blamed for so many of the wrongs people feel have been done to them. We argue over every item that is brought forward and spend our time venting to others about our slights. We even talk friends into battling for us; instead of handling our own disagreements in an adult manner. We blame the government, the teachers, the politicians, the police, and religion for everything. It's our neighbors fault, or the senior's faults, or the young people's faults; everyone else is at fault. Notice who isn't at fault? Yeah, that's right, it is never our own fault about anything. I really hate to say it, but yes, it's our own fault. It's my fault, it's your fault. It's time to take responsibility for what each one of us has down. It was my own greed, that helped create this mess. It was my own pride which helped overlook my mistakes. I stood by and turned my head away, when someone who needed help cried out for it. Why, because, I was better. Yeah, when we get right down to it, we do not want to admit that we were wrong...I didn't want to admit I was wrong. I was better....To the Christians this should be something that we know is wrong. Jesus taught it time and time again.... Luke 18:9 The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector 9 To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: 10 “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. 11 The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. 12 I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’ 13 “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his breast and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ 14 “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.” See! This parable is so true to what I am thinking about today. How many of us do this? I have and still do much to my dismay! Truth is looking us straight in the face and we run from it with our tails tucked in. It isn't religions fault at all... it's humanity's interpretation of spiritual works which is at fault....Again, we take the words and twist them in order for them to coincide with our own personal views and ideals. Extremists do this in all faiths; but lately in this country, it seems as though Christians are forcing their beliefs and ideals on other Americans who do not believe as they. Remember, not all Christians believe the same...there are many of us, who do not condone the use of condemnation of others; nor do we believe in establishing a state religion based on Christianity. No, it isn't religions fault...Nor is it the teachers' or academia's fault...Nope, teachers, schools, colleges, etc. are not at fault. They do the best they can with what little we give them. Are there individuals who should not be teaching? Yes! But that is not every teacher out there! Do you work with individuals who may not be competent for the position they are in? What happens? Are you all at fault? I doubt it. We need to look at the individual, not the group. Plus, how about the teachers complaints? How many of us would do what they do? They deal with issues, we do not even have the foggiest idea about. When was the last time you tried to teach a classroom of 30 or more kids? Think it's easy? Think again, better yet, try it out, I bet you will change your tune! Now, when it comes to the kids, let's think about the fault there. Yes, the kids have some responsibility in their actions and inactions. They really do, and so do their parents. You got it! Each one of we parents are responsible for what our children do. Not the teachers, not the education field, not the religions, we parents are! The same is true for everything I mentioned above! Even the government! WE the people are responsible for what occurs there! What? You are screaming! It's the politicians fault! To one extent it is, but the truth of the matter is, we voted the politicians into office. We are the ones who must be held responsible and then we must hold our politicians responsible for inactivity! We do that by participating in government, through voting, through correspondence, through our own activity in being kept up to date as to what is occurring. Yep! It's the same thing throughout everything we howl about and blame others for. Sorry, but its our own individual fault for we remained quiet and didn't take action when we should have. This is the last time I will write on this subject. Instead, I'm going to become active and become a part of my community. No, I'm no better than anyone else...I'm the same and so are you. We CAN make a difference, but it means accepting responsiblilty and taking action. There is hope and it comes from within....it comes from each one of us...stop the blaming and get in there! It's time to move forward!

"A Plague on Both Your Houses"!

"A plague on both your houses"! So screams Mercutio as he falls dead in front of Romeo who accidently caused Mercutio's death, by coming in between Mercutio and Tybalt as they fought. The rage of Romeo is evident as he races after Tybalt to avenge his friend's death. Ahh, the plays of William Shakespeare and the drama,adventure, and tragedy this particular one provides. Imagine what this would have been like in the 1500s when it was first performed in Elizabethan England. Too see it performed in that time would have been incredible. The line that Mercutio screamed would have made perfectly good sense to the audience. The Black Death had devastated Europe from 1340-1400. The plague would have been remembered by all, who survived it; just as we today remember the polio and tuberculosis scares of the 20th century. Yet, the play, "Romeo and Juliet", is usually known for the romance and tragedy of the two young lovers. They caught our attention and are mimicked or performed all over the world. Yes, it is a wonderful drama that William gave to us. Of even more significance is the fact that this was one of Shakespeare's early plays and was first performed around 1597. Just think, this is a piece of work that has survived the ravages of time for 415 years! I wonder how many of today's works would last that long. However, that is in the future and the future is an unknown quantity. That is a lesson that Romeo and Juliet learned quite thoroughly. Maybe it is one of the many teachings Shakespeare wanted us to see. The future is one item which we cannot control. It bothers us beyond belief. We make plans with friends and family in the future. We save funds for the future. We look to future events with pleasure and dislike. We do everything we can to control the future; but we really do not achieve that goal. Yes, most of the time things go according to the way we want them to, but at what cost. Like Romeo and Juliet, we plan for love and happiness; yet, life is filled with trials which can destroy the joy we have worked for. The two young lovers lost at everything; gaining only a few precious moments to share with one another. Mercutio's curse consumed the two as it was their two houses which he screamed about. A plague was on both the houses. In the same was, a plague can be laid on all of us for our contentment in never filled. We like the Capulets and Montegues engage in fights and battles as we gossip and spread rumors about others. We bicker and argue among our own families; instead of accepting one another. Yes, we are more alike the people of the 16th century than we wish to accept. We need to learn the same lessons and realize the senselessness of warring with one another over some ridiculous slight that we feel has been given. At the end of the play, Romeo, Juliet, Tybalt, and Mercutio are all dead. The houses of the families, the Capulets and the Montagues, have lost their young, their hopes, their dreams, and are instead joined together in mourning and lost; rather than in the love and happiness that would have been theirs with Romeo's and Juliet's marriage. Here, the future has been changed gravely and the world as they knew it was gone forever. The future is there beyond our view, it is cloudy, chaotic, always in motion. Today, we are here, able to stop the bitterness, the anger, the hatred, the jealousy. Mercutio's curse could continue or it could be ended if only we treated each other the way we profess we do. I know I going to do this; I hope others will join with me. No, I'm not planning on doing this in the future; I'm doing it now....with love, compassion, and consideration.

The Path of Chance

As we walk the path of our journey we are given many obstacles to overcome. In like manner we are also the recipients of multiple opportunities. How often do we turn our backs on these chances due to our fear of what the future could bring? We are overcome with the thought of failure, ridicule, loss, and the whisperings from friends concerning our age, health, or some other variable. Sometimes we fear success for others may change their perceptions toward us. For some reason we forget the gains we would achieve from going for the opportunities! The experience, the knowledge, the abilities, and the chance to partake in something new and exciting! Age should never be a reason for

not taking a chance! Did my ancestor, William and Mary Brewster allow their ages to stop them from boarding the Mayflower and beginning a new life in an unknown world? NO! Mary Brewster was over 50 years old when arrived in the new world! She and William took the opportunity to leave behind everything and everyone they knew in order to have a life of freedom! This is the ancestry I am descended from. Individuals who took the chance and found themselves rather than always playing it safe! Life is what we make it and we are the ones who determine our journeys. This determination depends on our handling of both obstacles and opportunities. We take control of our own destinies. We can either grow or remain where we are. Which path will you take? The one of least resistance or the one which brings you the most growth? I know my path - now go and find yours! SLIGO GLEN: WALKING OUT OF SILENCE (excerpt) ...So that you suddenly realized you were given the complete and utter gift of your own transparency, the revelation of your own exact boundary with the world. The frontier between silence and speech exactly the line you must cross to give yourself while saving yourself, the gleam in your heart and your eye, another sun rising, the old memories alive after a long night of absence and the world again suddenly worth risking, worth seeing, worth innocence, worth everything. -david whyte

The World I See

Sometimes we need to sit back and realize that there is a big world and that we are just an extremely small part of it. That's why I wanted to share this poem which is by my favorite Russian writer, Ardent Tarkovsky. I hope you enjoy it and the photo I chose from weheartit.com.

Ignatyevo Forest The last leaves' embers in total immolation Rise into the sky; this whole forest Seethes with irritation, just as we did That last year we lived together. The path you take's reflected in our tear-filled eyes, As bushes are reflected in the murky flood-lands. Don't be difficult, don't touch, don't threaten, Don't offend the forest silence by the Volga. You can hear the old life breathing: Clumps of mushrooms growing in damp grass -Though gnawed to the very core by slugs, They still inflame the skin. All our past is like a threat -Look, I'm coming, watch, I'll kill you! The sky shivers and holds a maple, like a rose, -May it burn still stronger - right into your eyes.

The "Rashomon "Effect

The US Ambassador to Libya has been killed along with 3 other staffers of the embassy. Republican presidential candidate, Mitt Romney, appears at a press conference shaming the present administrations lack of response. He emphasises an apology instead that the White House has perceived to have been made. A nation and its leaders both Republican and Democrat respond with stunned exclaims at Romney's tone and expression. A photo circulates showing a smirk on his face as he leaves the podium. His words offer no respect to the 4 dead; nor does he acknowledge that 10 Libyans were killed ad well- trying to protect the Embassy and its staff from extremists. Romney's own leading party members condemn his inflammatory rhetoric. Even the world is astonished at the deaths in Libya and at Romney's speech. Republican s and Democrats both warn of responding quickly and rashly at what occurred. The need for silence during a threat to American ambassadors and their staffs is necessary in order to handle the situation quietly, quickly, and without further loss of life. Romney has placed a new agenda before that ; his desire for the presidency and power has overshadowed the goals of foreign policy and diplomacy. Moreover, his lack of respect to those who have been killed seems cold and unsympathetic. However, lets say that we see things from his point of view. I watched a movie in my "Media in Society " class that really affected me. "Rashomon " is a 1950 Japanese crime drama directed by Akira Kurosawa. It concerns the murderer of a man. So what does this have to do with Romney? Simple the movie looked at the murderer from everyone's point of view. From the man arrested to the wife of the one killed to believe it or not the dead man's perception as well. Each one had a totally different view on the crime. Yet, they were all there witnessing the same exact event! Maybe Romney really did see the events occurring in Libya and the US response to it in the way he ascribes too! We all have different perceptions and our own unique responses to situations. Unfortunatly, Romney comes across as a callous, power hungry man who has no clue as to what to do in a critical event in the world. That is what is wrong. Romney's image has been tarnished not only Ny leading representatives of the Republican and Democrat parties, but also by many people in the United States and the world as well. There are many in the US who see a military strike to be immediate and necessary,but to what extent? Who would be the target? This is when calm and intelligence must prevail. The Ambassador and his fellow staffers were killed by angry extremists. The extremists killed their own fellow citizens who were protecting the embassy and staff. The Ambassador had worked with the people of Libya du

ring last year's revolution against the controlling dictatorship. So where am I going with this? Simple, isn't it wiser and smarter to go after those who killed the Ambassador, his staff, and those who were protecting them? But you see that is my point of view. There are those who wouldn't agree. Yet, I do believe that those killed should be given and shown the respect they deserve from the citizens of the United States and its leaders. This is what Romney did not show or give. In reality his remarks were those of an individual in desire of power rather than a candidate for president. This isn't just my viewpoint, many leaders of this country feel this way as welll. However, we have to see events as Romney does for his perception is very important as we the people head to our election booths and vote. I pray that reason, calmness, and intelligence is elected over emotional, antagonistic, powermongers.

Somthing In The Air

There is something in the air.

A feeling of change. It weaves and wafts its way through the air, the sky, the waves of the ocean, and the motion of stars. It is a touch of coolness; a taste of sweetness ; a scent of spices; and the sight of a position change of the sun. Yes, a change is coming and each day we move closer to its purpose. A new beginning! A new season! A joy of relief from the stagnant humid heat of summer! An aviance of gatherings and the warmth of friendships is foretold as the sun lowers itself earlier into the western horizon. Imaginings of the storyteller races to find the tales that will be shared in the glow of companions and the sweet taste of apples in a mug of cider! Behind us the past fades into memories of youth and childhood. In front of us the essence of growth and celebration which comes with rest and relaxation! A cinnamon donut - a cup of cocoa - friends to share with the glow of hope and rebirth! There's something in the air and we are all a part of it; to enjoy or ignore. Me, I'm going to enjoy the sweet, fun times of Autumn! Autumn is my favorite time of the year. Its the beginning of colors and cooler temperatures in the Northern Hemisphere. Autumn is filled with memories and fun. Enjoy the promise it brings and the delight of children as they jump into leaf piles. The following poem is by Robert Frost and with it is an image that takes me back to my childhood and the farm I lived on. Enjoy! The Cow In Apple-Time by Robert Frost Something inspires the only cow of late To make no more of a wall than an open gate, And think no more of wall-builders than fools. Her face is flecked with pomace and she drools A cider syrup. Having tasted fruit, She scorns a pasture withering to the root. She runs from tree to tree where lie and sweeten. The windfalls spiked with stubble and worm-eaten. She leaves them bitten when she has to fly. She bellows on a knoll against the sky. Her udder shrivels and the milk goes dry.

The Journey: 09-11-2001 Day Of Remembrance

The Journey: 09-11-2011 Day Of Remembrance: Today is Tuesday, September 11,2012. Exactly eleven years ago I received a phone call from my sister telling me that a plane had crashed in...

09-11-2011 Day Of Remembrance

Today is Tuesday, September 11,2012. Exactly eleven years ago I received a phone call from my sister telling me that a plane had crashed into one of the World Trade Center Towers in New York City. I turned on the news and found myself watching in horror as a second plane went into the remaining tower. From that point on I watched horrified at the scenes being played out on the news. A third plane crashing into the Pentagon in Washington, DC - a fourth stopped from its destination of the White House by the passengers; but it too, crashed in a field in Pennsylvania killing everyone on board. Over 3,000 people killed in the most horrendous act of terrorism in modern American history. On this day, Americans are gathering together to remember the victims of this attack. We put our differences aside and find ourselves looking at the past; and we should. Yet, we also need to look at our present and the future. Eleven years ago we were a country that was divided. We were bickering over who actually won the presidential election. The truth is we were acting like children. Then a disaster occurred. We stopped and stood in silence as the reality of the attack was forced into our minds. Over and over we watched the planes slam into the World Trade Centers, the Pentagon, and that field in Pennsylvania. Over and over we listened to the conversations that took place between those who died and the loved ones they left behind. Many of us know exactly where we were and what we were doing when the events unfolded before our bewildered eyes. Suddenly it didn't matter who was president. We gathered together, joining in our sorrow of the lives taken that day. The moms, dads, grampas, grammas, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters, sons, and daughters. We called them all Americans who died that day- even though they included individuals from every country of the world. The world mourned with us as well and we turned together as one to the one person who could give us some sort of reason or explaination. That's right we turned to our president. All arguing ended as we listened to President George W Bush as he took charge and brought us through the nightmare we found ourselves in. Was he perfect? No, but how many of us are. At that moment and time he was what we needed and we took. The world became astonished for we Americans put aside our differences and became one. We stood tall and worked hard at overcoming the shock we had suffered. We rose and as one moved to finding a path toward healing and helping one another. We stood together proud and strong holding true to our American Dream and beliefs. Now, today let us gather again to remember the loss, but let us also remember that when we put aside our differences we are an even stronger country. Let us stop the bickering and the raging and ranting of us versus them. Let us gather together and work to build a more America which is true to its goals of being a "government of the people, by the people, and for the people. All the people. Just ad the terrorist attack eleven years ago did not discriminate the dead let us not discriminate the living. May God bless you all. And may you all remember the sacrifice of that day and of the sacrifices that have been made since that day.!