Tyranny of the Majority

The president and those yokels in congress have run amok. Seriously. Between what they've been preaching and the media's high horsed rants, so many people have climbed aboard the bandwagon of "give it to me for free!" Our country, our poor, poor country, was not established on the virtues of large take-care-of-everyone's-needs government. The successes we've seen in the history of this great nation have emminated from an attitude of DIY - Do It Yourself.

Was it right for AIG to give "bonuses" to executives, using the monies obtained through a hastily crafted, fault ridden, bohemoth of a bill that will continue to haunt our children's children for decades? Probably not. Retroactive taxing is no more appropriate now than it was before, though. The apparant lack of respect for the rights of people has left me flabergasted. I watch through tearful eyes as the basis upon which this country was built is torn assunder.

As I listen to the news broadcasts relating the events unfolding in Washington, I am almost constantly on the verge of breaking down, screaming at the television for all the good that would do. John McCain was riddiculed for suggesting that the fundamentals of our economy are strong. Yet, that statement was as accurate that day as it is today. Fundamentally, our economy is based on free trade. The markets are free to go up as well as down. It is when government intervenes that the shifts in the market go totally out of whack.

President Obama and his cohorts in congress are attacking the very fundamentals that make this country strong. In the name of safety, they are seeking to sieze control of private and publically held companies. Serious danger looms on the horizon.

I fear what will become of this nation when we've offered our last shred of liberty as a sacrifice to the gods of safety. That day is not too far away. I hope I am wrong.

Our hope. Our only hope rests with a few Democrats seeing the light and banding with conservatives in congress. MoveOn.org calls this a "nightmare scenario: a few conservative Democrats teaming up with Republicans to stop the progressive pieces of the President's agenda."

Abraham Lincoln suggested that what one man calls liberty is another man's tyranny.

“We all declare for liberty; but in using the same word we do not all mean the same thing. With some the word liberty may mean for each man to do as he pleases with himself, and the product of his labor; while with others, the same word may mean for some men to do as they please with other men, and the product of other men's labor. Here are two, not only different, but incompatible things, called by the same name - liberty. And it follows that each of the things is, by the respective parties, called by two different and incompatible names - liberty and tyranny.”

I'm thinking that much of what is going on in Washington is the Progressive effort to take what belongs to one man and give it to others. Taking the product of another's labor and doing with that as they please is not liberty but tyranny. This is not what our country is about. This is not what made America the strong country that it is today.

I cannot sit back and watch this from the comfort of my livingroom. What I would ask is that everyone call your representatives, your senators and write a letter or two. Write to your congressmen! Write to the President! Stop this injustice, stop it all!

Rising to Zion's Standard

Our gospel doctrine subject for the year is Church History and the Doctrine and Covenants. Although little time is spent on the subject, there has been some discussion about the challenges the Saints faced as they attempted to "Build up Zion unto the Lord" and failed. Their failure has given furtile ground for too many to speculate and judge. Too many have judged our forebears harshly because of this failure. How do we measure as we're judged against the same standards?

Elder D. Todd Christofferson suggested, "Under the direction of the Prophet Joseph Smith, early members of the Church attempted to establish the center place of Zion in Missouri, but they did not qualify to build the holy city. . . .

"Zion is Zion because of the character, attributes, and faithfulness of her citizens. Remember, 'the Lord called his people Zion, because they were of one heart and one mind, and dwelt in righteousness; and there was no poor among them' (Moses 7:18). If we would establish Zion in our homes, branches, wards, and stakes, we must rise to this standard. It will be necessary (1) to become unified in one heart and one mind; (2) to become, individually and collectively, a holy people; and (3) to care for the poor and needy with such effectiveness that we eliminate poverty among us. We cannot wait until Zion comes for these things to happen—Zion will come only as they happen."

If we are to succeed where others have failed, it is by establishing Zion in our homes first. Our families must become unified in one heart and mind. How can we look beyond the first building block of zion before it has been perfected?

Bo Dangker

You know Bo Dangker. I know you do. He might not answer to this name specifically but you know who I am talking about. He's a likable type of guy, very nice indeed. He might turn up at the office or in social situations. He might even be part of your family. You see, old Bo is that guy who seems to have it all together but when push comes to shove, can't quite deliver.

Ol' Bo will generally jump at the chance to be part of your team, bringing plenty of ideas to the table. He'll accept all kinds of responsibility. When you meet again, he'll come empty handed with nothing but excuses suggesting there is no reason he should take blame. Yep, he's Mr. Bo Dangker!

Ol' Bo will think that the family potluck is a wonderful idea even taking charge early on. When deciding what he'll contribute, he'll be sure to sign up for something very extravagant - you know, the Turkey! He'll sign up for one of the more integral parts of the meal. When the time comes to deliver, good Ol' Bo will show up to eat his fill but he'll bring nothing to the table but a bowl full of justifications and a heaping side of "Yeah but I". Yep, he's cousin Bo Dangker!

Ol' Bo will slide in with a bunch of friends too. Deciding to meet up and do something fun, good Ol' Bo will see to it that he's not happy with just doing something fun. Yeah, he wants to make sure it is very special. The restaurant won't due unless it meets his criteria. Will there be any compromise? Sure there will. Everyone but Bo will give something in the name of fun. When everyone finally comes to a consensus on what you're doing where, Ol' Bo will do nothing but complain. Yep, he's Bo Dangker!

Don't be a Bo Dangker!

Incredible!

The interview was nearly over before it began because I refused to provide my Social Security number to an organization that hasn't given me a reason for needing it. 

Are you doing a background check? Not yet.

Are you offering me a job? Not 

yet.

Why do you need my social security number? We've always requested it.

Ok, I'll give you the social security number when you need to have it - either when you offer me a position or when you decide you need to do a background check as  prerequisite for hiring me.

Sir, we need to have your social security number before we can proceed.

Why?

Company policy.

Personal policy dictates that I do not share my personal information with just anyone to put into their files. When you offer me a position or need to do a background check prior to offering me a position, I will provide the social security number.

I do not think anyone has ever questioned this policy, sir.

We continued the interview process without the social security number. Only moments after continuing, though, I was surprised to find out the interviewer did not know Illinois was a state or where Illinios was. I can only hope the contempt I felt for her ignorance did not display itself as we completed the interview.

Social security numbers are pretty important. It might not hurt me to share it with strangers I don't know. It just might. World Geography is a major handicap for a good portion of America but I think we should all have a pretty good idea about national geography. Shouldn't we?

Interesting points MoveOn.org would have you believe...

I am a little less than impressed with politics lately. You see, the republicans cannot seem to pull it together and the move toward socializing just about every aspect of our lives is moving at an alarming pace. The far left (as depicted by such organizations as MoveOn.org) is giddy with what is going on. In a recent message from the group, MoveOn.org has presented a list of 10 aspects of President Obama's plan they feel make it a winner. The bold faced copy is the statement MoveOn.org has made. The comments following the statements are how I feel about the point they are making.

Makes a $634 billion down payment on fixing health care.  While our healthcare system is definitely broken, infusing more money into the system isn't necessarily the answer. I remember talking with a friend about their car and all the repairs they've had to make recently. The car is broken and it has become a great big money sink. Spending more money isn't going to make it better. Republicans and Democrats alike recognize the complete burden the healthcare system has become. Healthcare costs have risen at a pace that far outstrips all other inflationary data. This one point, that there needs to be a better solution, is probably the only thing on which MoveOn.org and I agree. The way to fix the problem, however, has not been so common.
 

Reduces taxes for 95% of working Americans. Reducing the taxes of those people who do not pay them just does not make sense. I just do not understand how this is a good thing. If they were working toward reducing the taxes for 95% of all taxpayers, I would probably be on board with this. "Reducing" the tax burden of those people who don't pay taxes is tantamount to another welfare program - taking money from those who pay taxes and giving it to those who do not. While this is the standard way of things, we don't need to add to the problem. Giving enough money for Jon Laborer to purchase a pizza dinner for his family once a month isn't going to stimulate anything but it does give Mr. Laborer a sense of entitlement. I don't think anyone should have a sense of entitlement about anything from the government beyond the standard - defense, trade, etc.
 

Invests more than $100 billion in clean energy technology. Government spending at its best, right? I have mixed emotions on this. I do not know that spending the money is the right way to go about this. Tax and other incentives are probably a better, more effective way to "create" home-grown jobs while trying to save the planet. President Obama has talked long and loud about the need to cut government spending. So far, I've seen a lot of spending but not a lot of cutting.
 

Brings our troops home from Iraq on a firm timetable. Interesting that the President has been given such accolades for a timetable that was established by the former administration - as agreed upon with the Iraqi government. Even the commanding officers in the field are happy with a timetable. It makes it easier to make plans. The troops are happy for the same reason. Open ended means unsurety. 
 

Reverses growing income inequality. Tax the rich! Tax the rich! Tax those who might have the power to break the downhill slide! The facts are in. Those people who have the money to invest won't invest as much money if they are paying it to the government. The best time to raise taxes (or let lower taxes expire) is not in the middle of a financial crisis. I just do not understand the logic behind the call to tax the rich so we can give more money to the failed bureaucracies that have continued to waste our money for the past 50 years.
 

Closes multi-billion-dollar tax loopholes for big oil companies. The call to "close tax loopholes for the big oil companies" is misleading. Oil companies do not enjoy "loopholes" that are not enjoyed by other organizations. Reducing the money the oil companies can invest in new technologies didn't work in 1978. It won't work today. 
 

Increases grants to help families pay for college. I'm all about helping people go to college. I'm in a position that it would be nice to have the help my daughter needs to go to college. I have to wonder: will I get that help in time? Will I qualify for the help I need or will there be unnecessary burdens placed in my way because I don't fit some cookie-cutter idea of who really needs the help. 

Halves the deficit by 2013. President Obama inherited a legacy of huge deficits and an economy in shambles. I'll concede this point. However, I don't understand how anyone can claim they are going to reduce the deficit when all they've done is advocate spending more money. President Obama has called on us to make "hard choices" but when push comes to shove, he hasn't held his ground. While campaigning for change, Barack Obama said, "We need earmark reform, and when I'm President, I will go line by line to make sure that we are not spending money unwisely." But now the President is about to sign a huge 2,697 page spending bill with over 9,000 unnecessary and wasteful earmarks. I'll believe the President's tenacity when he has demonstrated his ability to hold his ground on this. 

Dramatically increases funding for the SEC and the CFTC—the agencies that police Wall Street. Will this help us? Again, is this a point of throwing good money after bad? 
 

Tells it straight. I don't know if I fully endorse the idea that President Obama has been on board the "straight talk express". (I know that's John McCain) Look, our country is currently nearly $11 trillion dollars in debt. Our projected deficit for 2009 alone is an alarming $2 trillion dollars. Just two weeks ago, President Obama signed a bill that the Democratic-led Congress passed to spend an additional $1 trillion in "stimulus spending." And on top of all of this, President Obama has requested $3.6 trillion in additional spending for 2010. On the heals of such measures, I'm supposed to believe he's acting any different than any of the previous adminstrations? Not yet.

In The Buff

You always hear about people having dreams about walking down the street naked or showing up to their finals late and just as they start taking the test they realize they forgot just one minor detail. They weren't wearing any clothes. Other such dreams include everything from weddings to court cases to first day of school. If it is an important day or event, there has probably been someone dreaming about it happening naked.

Well, you would have thought it was just a bad dream. I was in fact being interviewed and I was not wearing any clothes. . . As I shut off the water to the shower, my phone started ringing. I was thinking that it my be my wife and decided to make haste for the phone. When I didn't recognize the phone number, I answered anyway. An hour later, I was getting dressed having finished the interview.

The interview went pretty well. They've asked for my resume and some additional information. So, this was the most unusual interview I've had so far.

What?

Frustration leads to despair leads to anger leads to guilt leads to sorrow leads to tears leads to embarrassment leads to anxiety leads to panic leads to frustration - a seemingly endless cycle. 

Forty and counting . . .

Ah the blessing of the internet and job searches. I've found over 40 positions relevant to my experience just this morning. I remember just a few years ago, resources for finding jobs were quite different and finding ten positions in a single day would have been spectacular. Of course, back then, if I applied to that many companies, I was pretty much guaranteed one of them would pan out. With the modern world, there are so many applicants there is no guarantee that my resume will make it to the decision maker, let alone get me an interview.

Anyway. This morning has proven to be pretty busy. Most of these positions required me to fill out extensive job histories and answer a few job specific questions. I have to remain hopeful.

Apparently. . .

11 years ago, I left California. I took my family and we moved 2000 miles from the only place we had called home. I had a few friends in Southern California. Sadly, I lost contact with just about everyone. It is difficult when life and distance interfere with relationships.

Were we really that close? That is what I must consider now. Although I considered some of these wonderful people an integral part of my life, it seems obvious that my perception and reality weren't quite aligned. Sad, really.

So, now, I have friends in Illinois and I am living in Southern California. I am left to wonder. Will these relationships prove stronger than distance and life trials? If they do, what made these stronger than those relationships I had over 10 years ago?

Serez vous ma valentine

Be my Valentine, for I

Each day have thought of you.

My whole life couldn't manage what

Your ready smile can do,

Vanquishing my loneliness

As though all light were new.

Let me be your Valentine

Even as you're mine,

Needing what I have to give

That each might each define

In friendship and in harmony,

Now you, now I the melody,

Each helping each to shine.

Valentine’s Day. The day of the romantic couple. Sending valentine cards first became fashionable in Great Britain in the 19^th century. Since the 19^th century, handwritten notes have given way to the more mass-produced commercial greeting cards. Esther Howland created and sold the first mass-produced valentines in the United States. The Valentines Day frenzy is hot and furious but no one could suggest it isn’t a moneymaker for greetings card companies and florists alike.

This year my Valentine’s Day plans aren’t going to be spectacular but I’d like my Dearest to know how important she is to me.

 

Bucket List

I really enjoyed the movie, Bucket List. It didn't hurt much that a couple of my more favorite actors were involved heavily in the movie. It’s a very entertaining movie about two old guys who aren’t like many people I’ve ever met, suffering from cancer in a way that is a lot less like cancer than anything I’ve ever seen and setting off on adventures like no one has ever done. Believable? Not really. Entertaining? Absolutely. The title of the movie refers to this list that Morgan Freeman’s character whimsically begins to compile. Things he wants to accomplish before he dies. I’ve never actually taken the time to make such a list, probably because I haven’t ever really accepted the fact that I am mortal. If I accepted that, I would probably eat differently, exercise more regularly and sleep a few more hours every night. Mortality is nothing I would like to consider – haven’t the time.

In any case, Roger Ebert laments that "The Bucket List" “thinks dying of cancer is a laff riot followed by a dime-store epiphany. The sole redeeming merit of the film is the steady work by Morgan Freeman, who has appeared in more than one embarrassing movie, but never embarrassed himself. Maybe it's not Jack Nicholson's fault that his role cries out to be overplayed, but it's his fate, and ours.” I for one found the movie rather entertaining. It was also this movie from which I gleaned the idea of a bucket list having never heard of one prior. I cannot remember the last time I agreed with Roger so I guess I should not take offense to his opinion about the movie.

So, here’s a list someone else started to compile. I’ve added to it. Every moment I continue to think about this I add something more to the list. Accordingly, this is not nearly complete. I thought I would mark those items I’ve done in my life. I think this might be a good start for my list.

(X)  Gone on a blind date

(X)  Skipped school

(X)  Watched someone die

( )   Been to Canada

(X)  Been to Mexico

( )   Been to Florida

( )   Been to Hawaii

(X)  Been to the Orient

(X)  Been on a plane

( )   Been on a helicopter

(X)  Been lost

( )   Gone to Washington, DC

(X)  Swam in the ocean

(X)  Cried yourself to sleep

(X)  Played cops and robbers

(x)  Recently colored with crayons

(X)  Sang Karaoke

(X)  Paid for a meal with coins only

( )   Been to the top of the St. Louis Arch

(X)  Done something you told yourself you wouldn't.

(X)  Made prank phone calls

( )   Been down Bourbon Street in New Orleans

(X)  Laughed until some kind of beverage came out of your nose & elsewhere

(X)  Caught a snowflake on your tongue

(X)  Danced in the rain-naked

(X)  Written a letter to Santa Claus

(X)  Been kissed under the mistletoe

(X)  Watched the sunrise with someone

(X)  Blown bubbles

(X)  Gone ice-skating

(X)  Gone to the movies

(X)  Been deep sea fishing

(X)  Been Scuba Diving

(X)  Driven across the United States

( )   Been in a hot air balloon

( )   Been sky diving

(X)  Gone snowmobiling

(X)  Been Snowboarding

(X)  Lived in more than one country

(X)  Lay down outside at night and admired the stars while listening to the crickets

(X)  Seen a falling star and made a wish

(X)  Enjoyed the beauty of Old Faithful Geyser

( )   Seen the Statue of Liberty

( )   Seen Mount Rushmore

(X)  Seen the Grand Canyon from the ground (Not An Airplane on the way to Chicago )

(X)  Gone to the top of Seattle Space Needle

( )   Been on a cruise

(X)  Traveled by train

( )   Traveled by motorcycle

(X)  Been horse back riding

(X)  Ridden on a San Francisco CABLE CAR

(X)  Been in Sears Tower in Chicago

(X)  Been in the TransAmerica Building in San Francisco

(X)  Been to Disneyland

(X)  Truly believe in the power of prayer

(X)  Been in a rain forest

(X)  Seen whales in the ocean

( )   Been to Niagara Falls

(X)  Ridden on an elephant

(X)  Ridden on a camel

( )   Swam with dolphins

(X)  Been to the Olympics

( )   Walked on the Great Wall of China

( )   Saw and heard a glacier calf

( )   Been spinnaker flying

(X)  Been water-skiing

(X)  Been snow-skiing

( )   Been to Westminster Abbey

( )   Been to the Louvre

( )   Swam in the Mediterranean

(X)  Been to a Major League Baseball game

( )   Been to a National Football League game

(X)  Been to a Major League Hockey game

(X)  Been to a Major League Basketball game

(X)  Played in the snow

( )   Golfed at St Andrews

(X)  Backpacked the Sierra Nevadas

( )   Backpacked Mt Rainier.

( )   Pike’s Peak or Bust!

(X)  Bought Fish at Seatle’s Pike Place Market

( )   Driven an Italian Sports car in Italy

( )   Had Fish and Chips in London

( )   Tried to straighten the leaning tower of Pisa

( )   Stood in the center of the Roman Coliseum

( )   Been to Independence Hall

( )   Had a tea party in Boston Harbor

( )   Read the Address in Gettysburg

(X)  Been to Nauvoo, Illinois

( )   Been to Independence, Missouri

(X)   Been to Temple Square in Salt Lake City, UT

( )   Been to the Hill Cumora

( )   Ran with the Bulls in Pamplona, Spain

( )   Made Tomato Puree in La Tomatina in Bunyol, Spain

( )   Walked among the pyramids in Peru

( )   Touched the Giza pyramids

A Long Hard Fight, Wasn't.

A while ago, I remember sitting down at the terminal to post something about a trial or two I was struggling to overcome. Ultimately, I decided against hitting the “Publish Post” button. Looking back on that experience: it was actually pretty cool. I remember how I felt so very overwhelmed by the whole ordeal. I remember how the struggle seemed to drag on for eternity. I remember how I felt like the world was crushing in on me. I remember how I struggled to maintain my focus, persevering through it all. I remember that it was not really all that bad.

So, what is it about our lives that can make such a contrast of realities coexist? We struggle, work, force our way through the grime and when we look back we say to ourselves, “those were the best of times.” What is wrong with how we remember?

Happy Birthday!

Today, my youngest daughter turns 14. Circumstances as they are, I still think she'll have a fine day. We're meeting her mother for lunch after which she will go shopping for the afternoon. She'll be with family and friends all day. We'll finish the day with the dinner of her choice.

Thousands of years ago birthdays were considered a time when the bad spirits as opposed to the good spirits were able to harm you as this day changed a person's life. It was believed that the only way to keep the bad spirits at bay was to have your friends and family around you so that their good wishes and present giving would keep them at bay.

Also noisemakers are thought to be used at parties as a way of scaring away the evil spirits.

The custom of lighting candles originated with people believing that the gods lived in the sky and by lighting candles and torches they were sending a signal or prayer to the gods so they they could be answered. When you blow out the candles and make a wish this is another way of sending a signal and a message.

Salt Lake Temple

The design of the Salt Lake temple was intended to represent the priesthood, with the Melchizedek Priesthood and its five offices represented by the higher, east spires and the Aaronic Priesthood and its four offices represented by the lower, west spires.

I love to walk temple square. The peace that pervades the entire area is wonderful. And though it has been years since my last visit, I still remember the feelings quite vividly. Luckily, the solace can also be found at any of the Lord's temples. Upon entering His house, I feel His love and concern for my well-being. It is important to draw on His strength at all times lest I find myself wallowing in times of dispair in times of greater need. 

This Week In Review

Incredible. I guess the jobless report for January was released this week. Almost 600,000 jobs ceased to exist in January. The national unemployment rate exceeds 7%. These are just two of the employment statistics for January. February's statistics aren't but four weeks away. I do not know what those will suggest. Sadly, those numbers will include me. Yes, my job was a casualty this week and I have entered the running for a new job.

So, this road on which I embark is a little crowded. A journey I would prefer I didn't share with anyone will be shared with thousands of others.

I have worked hard this week to remember that I am not an expression of the sum total of my job. Although my job is part of who I am, it hasn't and cannot define me. I am more than just a manager. I am more than just a business man. Still, depression, worry, frustration and anxiety are dark ominous shapes crowding in from every direction.

Barbecue Bacon, What Next?

I didn't find this without some direction. I am always looking for something new. Unfortunately, there isn't always something that sings to me. Most of the time I approach these new ideas with extreme caution. Well. This is something that looks like it would be an excellent appetizer on one of those days I've set aside for Brisket. A smoked brisket takes about nine hours and I get hungry while I make that effort.

INTRODUCING THE BACON EXPLOSION

This Week . . .

Linkin Park's Given Up (WARNING: PG-13):

Wake in a sweat again

Another day's been laid to waste

In my disgrace

Stuck in my head again

Feels like I'll never leave this place

There's no escape

I'm my own worst enemy

[chorus]

I've given up

I'm sick of feeling

Is there nothing you can say

Take this all away

I'm suffocating

Tell me what the &$&^#$# is wrong

With me

[end chorus]

I don't know what to take

Thought I was focused but I'm scared

I'm not prepared

I hyperventilate

Looking for help somehow somewhere

And no one cares

I'm my own worst enemy

[chorus]

I've given up

I'm sick of feeling

Is there nothing you can say

Take this all away

I'm suffocating

Tell me what the &$&^#$# is wrong

With me

[end chorus]

[bridge]

Goddddddd!!!!

Put me out of my misery

Put me out of my misery

Put me out of my

Put me out of my *&^%^0 misery

[end bridge]

[chorus]

I've given up

I'm sick of feeling

Is there nothing you can say

Take this all away

I'm suffocating

Tell me what the &$&^#$# is wrong

With me

[end chorus]

World Nude Day, 2009

Some religions teach that clothing was invented to cover up the shame of our carnality, "Quick Hide." Other religions adhere more closely to a doctrine of sanctity and respect. While still others are simply quiet on the subject. Some people contend, however, that clothing is simply the best way to cover up the flopping shame that is naked jogging. I am ever so grateful that our society has chosen to "hide".

There's a day for everything and everything has its day. How many weird holidays must we have?

Dueling PACs

Well, the United States legislature is working hard to find a solution that will boost our economy. At least that is what they want us to believe. In the past week, I've been contacted by both MoveOn.org and Country First. On the subject of the Stimulus Package they have very different tales to tell. One organization claims the Republicans are trying to stall any attempts the Democrats are making to move the country out of the financial malaise. The other is holding strong to the opinion that the current legislation is not about stimulating the economy so much as it is about spending money.

My opinion doesn't mean a lot to many others but I believe that any legislation claiming to be a stimulus plan should focus on just that - stimulating the economy. Do we need a spending bill or do we need something that will actually help the people. I think everything in the bill needs to be weighed against what it does to stimulate the economy. If its cost is greater than its benefit, it doesn't belong. If it isn't going to help, it is going to hurt. This is a black and white situation. We need something that will directly create jobs, jolt the economy and in short help people.

MoveOn.org wants my money to support their efforts to run advertising in key states where they claim republicans are preventing the passing of this legislation. Yes, their emails and solicitations all call on me to give them money. Reviewing the little I can actually find about the legislation in question, I am hardly inclined to give money to MoveOn.org.

Country First took a different approach. Country First asked me to sign a petition. Yes, there was a link provided if I wanted to support them financially. However, their message seemed to be more about educating me on the stance the republicans have taken.

Maybe you'd like to be heard? You can sign the petition or you can donate some money to MoveOn.org.

Propaganda Posters

When designed effectively, a political poster can communicate so much. Political posters, you know those aimed at pushing people into believing one thing or another, are not the only posters that try to effectively use propaganda. Propaganda is a type of message that aims to influence the opinions or behavior of people. Although not all propaganda is false, it often deliberately misleads using logical fallacies.

American Use of Propaganda

I look at these posters that appeal to the Soldier's sense of patriotism to help him avoid situations in which he could contract VD and am reminded that our society has evolved somewhat since the 40's. "You can't beat the Axis if you get VD" is a little over the top, don't you think?

I have to wonder how successful this poster was. I doubt it would be very effective today.

Chinese Propaganda

Chairman Mao. When I think of propaganda posters, the very first thing that comes to mind is The Chairman. I think I've seen far too many movies - propaganda in and of themselves - that depict China in a not so favorable light. I consider my perspective to be rather distorted but I picture posters like these plastered all over the enormous country that is China.








Of course, there are certainly other posters that have come from that country. I commented on Yao Ming's appointment as the Country's "model worker" for the 2005 May Day Celebration and included a little thought about Iron Man Wang. That was a propaganda poster of exceptional quality. It was certainly a feel good poster that would boost the average Chinese citizen's spirits.

I don't want to suggest that all propaganda relies wholly on falsehoods and exaggerations. Simply put, there is a tendency to do just that.




Soviet Propaganda

When a group or individual forces its way into power, there is a limited time in which it has to enforce an acceptance of the new regime. The Soviets were masters at manipulation it seems.

(Left to right: Joseph Stallin, Vladimir Lenin, Lev Davidovich Trotsky)

Anti-American Propaganda

A very common theme has to be the Anti-American propaganda that seems to be rather pervasive throughout many countries since at least World War II.


Political Propaganda

It is interesting how well designed these posters can be. They impart a feeling of solidarity, a feeling that change must happen and that you have to be part of this change. Climb on board the bus is leaving. You don't want to be left behind. You want to be on the right side of this issue or else.

Through posters like these, the artists are proclaiming the government policies, asking for support, and demanding greater efforts - all with the goal of building up a communist party or intensifying Soviet power.





US Presidential Propaganda

I am embarrassed at my initial response upon viewing the Barack Obama Presidential posters, brochures and stickers. Seriously. I felt terrible that my first reaction to these were to compare them to the Communist propaganda posters. The feeling I get, however, is certain. I am not confused and I do not feel like I am stretching to make the association.

Not a Single Republican Vote

"When you've got 800-plus billion dollars to spend, you'll have an equal number of opinions on how it should be spent," said Chris Galen, spokesman for the National Milk Producers Federation, the dairy industry's main lobbying group.

Yesterday, the house passed President Barack Obama's stimulus plan. All 825 Billion Dollars and not a single Republican voted for its passing. Some how, I have started getting MoveOn.org emails. Boy, they were quick to point this out! I am not going to think it is best for everyone to jump on board with this plan just because the most liberal organization in the United States is all over it.

It will be interesting to see if the Senate responds in similar fashion. You see, they can't pass it with the mandatory 60% without at least a couple Republicans to climb onto the bandwagon. As always I worry about the longer term impacts - the unintended consequences. According to the Congressional Budget Office, government borrowing prompted by the enactment of the plan would add another 347 billion dollars. This increases the estimated cost of the stimulus plan to an excess of one trillion dollars.

I seem to remember talking about the Financial exceeding the Astronomical... It is true. The costs are exceptionally greater than just Astronomical.

Washington, you said it!

At a moment when the outcome of our revolution was most in doubt, the father of our nation ordered these words be read to the people:

"Let it be told to the future world that in the depth of winter, when nothing but hope and virtue could survive, that the city and the country, alarmed at one common danger, came forth to meet it."

America, in the face of our common dangers, in this winter of our hardship, let us remember these timeless words; with hope and virtue, let us brave once more the icy currents, and endure what storms may come; let it be said by our children's children that when we were tested we refused to let this journey end, that we did not turn back nor did we falter; and with eyes fixed on the horizon and God's grace upon us, we carried forth that great gift of freedom and delivered it safely to future generations.

Barack Obama, January 20, 2009, Inaugural Address

Quoting the first president, the rallying cry from forty-fourth is a strong call to arms and a call for hope. Will America hear this call and respond? So far the common thread has been more about what the government can do for me rather than what I can do for our country.

The Power of a Leader

For as much as government can do and must do, it is ultimately the faith and determination of the American people upon which this nation relies.

It is the kindness to take in a stranger when the levees break; the selflessness of workers who would rather cut their hours than see a friend lose their job which sees us through our darkest hours.

It is the firefighter's courage to storm a stairway filled with smoke, but also a parent's willingness to nurture a child, that finally decides our fate.

Our challenges may be new, the instruments with which we meet them may be new, but those values upon which our success depends, honesty and hard work, courage and fair play, tolerance and curiosity, loyalty and patriotism -- these things are old.

These things are true. They have been the quiet force of progress throughout our history.

- Barack Obama, January 20, 2009, Inaugural Address.

Mr. President, our prayers go with you. Truth is our strength. The path forward is not going to be easy but let us not burden our decendants with undue cost because we're too selfish to bear them ourselves. In all that we do, remember we should be building a foundation upon which those generations can continue to build a greater country, a greater world.

Broiling to the London Beat!

So many possibilities. . . One of my favorite grill choices is London Broil. It's almost like having a big steak you can share with your whole family and maybe even a few friends. A very inexpensive cut of beef, it can be rather tough if not prepared or sliced properly against the grain. Marinade and direct heat, this baby is pretty much a no brainer. You don't need a big thick cut, either. About an inch and a half to two inches will make cooking it easy - 4 to 5 minutes per side, you'll have yourself a nice medium rare London Broil. Slice in thin slices against the grain and at a 45° to 60° angle through the meat.

The Marinade

1/4 cup balsamic vinegar
1/4 cup soy sauce
2 tablespoons worcestershire sauce
1/4 cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves, Crushed
1 teaspoon rosemary
1/4 teaspoon ground black pepper

Preparation

Stir it all together into your marinating container of choice. My tupperware works for me so very well but a large zip lock bag will work well if your London Broil will fit. Place the meat into the marinade and let it bathe for 3-4 hours in the refridgerator (up to 24 is ok). Turn it over a couple times to make sure the marinade gets all the sides. Remove from the 'fridge about 30 minutes before you're going to start cooking it. Prepare your grill. You want a medium-high heat. Depending on thickness, you cook for 4-6 minutes per side.

This goes well with Asparagas or Brocoli. A nice baked potato is a good complement as well.

The Bad Story

I bought a thick cut (about 3 1/2 inches) London Broil this past week. When I went to cook it, I didn't allow for the thicker cut and it didn't get cooked long enough. Luckily, the family enjoys a rarer slice of beef. Still, there is nothing like feeding a family of five for less than $10.

The Historic Nature of the Obama Administration

So, today we'll witness history. Barack Obama will take the oath of office and become the POTUS - the First black President of the United States of America. A very distinctive landmark that a very short generation ago could hardly be conceived possible in the next 100 years. The atmosphere is nearly intoxicating. Claims that more people will view the televised inauguration than will tune into the Super Bowl are bandied about on network and local television alike – these are not unrealistic views either.

So, history has been made. What now? Can the new President rise above his race? Barack Obama was born into his situation. By reason of his parents' union, not by something Barack Obama did. Can his administration create a legacy that supercedes what has become an historic event? President Barack Obama is coming to office at a very difficult point in our nation’s history. We’re fighting wars on two fronts, the economy is faltering, and the national debt is rising at a historic pace and many other problems...

What does the new President propose in answer to these pressing concerns? In mid-December, President Barack Obama called on congress to pass a stimulus package with a price tag between 650-750 billion dollars – he admitted he would accept up to 850 billion. Whoa! That’s a lot of dough! Is this what we’re getting as an answer to these problems? Is this spending programs marketed as stimulus?

Much of Barack Obama’s “middle-class tax cut” goes to people with no federal tax liability. It provides a $500 per worker tax credit. Is $20 a week in welfare going to stimulate the economy? That’s not even enough to feed my family pizza on Friday night!

He suggests his plans will save jobs. Boy, I hope so. The number of jobs he’s saving, however, seems to be rising. On November 22, Mr Obama claimed his plans would save 2.5 million jobs. On December 20, it was up to three million. Then, it was over 3.5 million. By the middle of last week, the claim exceeded 4 million jobs. It doesn’t matter how impossible it will be to verify how many jobs he really “saved.”

I’m pretty interested in what Barack Obama has promised as far as job creation is concerned. Since there are so many people already out of work, there needs to be something we can do for those people. The President’s plans include creation of more than 450,000 jobs in the “green” sectors and an additional 244,000 government jobs. You know there are less than 7,000 people working for companies the manufacture solar cells in America? The largest wind equipment maker employs just over 2,000. This will be very easy to track and a lot of people are watching. Expanding the government by 244,000 jobs will be the largest expansion of the government since LBJ’s Great Society.

I am honestly very hopeful for our future. I hope the hyperinflation that could happen from the rapid influx of new money into the market doesn’t hurt too badly. I hope some of the claims people who know more than I do are absolutely wrong. I hope our country gets stronger. I hope we will be victorious against that band of “gadianton robbers” we call Al’Queda. I hope. See, I am not hopeless.

15, not a round number . . .

She's 15. She's anxious. She's growing too fast. Yeppers.

15 years ago today, their poor mom was shocked into labor by the unrelenting tremors of the Northridge earthquake. It was early, I was tired and just wanted to go back to sleep. Grace wasn't going to wait for me to get some beauty rest. So, I was ugly for the third installment of The Most Beautiful Day in My Life. An incredible day it was. An incredible 15 years it has been.