This blog post is so long over due that I have no excuse for its delay. So, here I am, Florence and the Machine screaming musical epicness into my brain, and pouring it all out.
So, here it is:
Dear Twilight Fans:
What happened?
Now, Ladies, this letter is not for those of us who read the book and then saw the movie, and recognized the numerous bad points (Kristen Stewart) and the good (the soundtrack), and didn't lie to ourselves about it. This is not for those of us who saw the movies and recognized them as the absolute waist of time and then vowed not to watch anymore, but still harbored a certain respect for the books.
Because, do not misunderstand me. Much of the Twilight movies was commendable. Much was just a horrific example of movie making. I mean, seriously. Who casts an expressionless person as the lead? And then tries to cover it up with sweeping landscape shots?
This is for those of you who mindlessly love the movies and fail to see just how completely awful they truly are. I mean, have you actually read the books? Not even the Twilight series, just a book in general?
For instance, have you read Jane Eyre? The story of a lonely women, abused by everyone around her, who stands up for herself and love, by leaving the very man she loves, and then proceeds, realistically, rather then bury herself in grief, to earn a living and make a life, until the man she loves is free to return her affections?
Or Pride and Prejudice? The story of sisters on the look out for matches, but refuse to be walked all over by any man. And do it in Edwardian England?
Or maybe, for a more modern reader, how about A Great and Terrible Beauty series? The story of a young women, trying to resurrect a secret society her mother was involved, and her ability to take on any force that comes her way, all in the confines of her Victorian boarding school.
How about Much Ado About Nothing? Ok, I know its a play, but still. A story of wrong accusation, and the consequences of jealousy. Still, riddled with strong women, and real men.
Stories, filled with dynamic characters, strong women who stand up for themselves, and true men, who, risk everything for love, but still manage to keep their honor. And who don't sparkle.
Ladies, you are obsessed with a dream. Aside form the fact that for thousands of years, vampires have been associated with evil and demons, a dream who would like nothing better then to eat you for lunch. And one who sparkles. And is perpetually 17. That is just awkward.
So what happened? Why aren't you looking for the Rochester's, and Darcy's, and Kertick's, and Benedict's of the world? Rochester, mysterious, and sometimes down right mean, but willing to do anything to have you. Darcy, brooding and always thinking of the honorable thing. Kertick, the one willing to sacrifice himself to let you live. Benedict, infuriating and frustrating, but the sweet guy who makes you laugh.
See, the thing is, they loved amazing, but everyday, ordinary women. Jane, plain, lonely, but made strong by her hardship. Lizzy, impulsive and compulsive, sometimes with foot in mouth syndrome, but strong and loyal to her family. Gemma, unsure of herself, but still devoted to a better world. Beatrice, sweet and spicy, mouthy, and only willing to give her heart to a man who won't break it.
The Darcy's and Rochester's of the world exist. But they aren't looking for an undynamic waist of space to fill their beds. They are looking for real women. Women who "carry on" even when they are gone. Women who are strong, even in their insecurity. Loyal women, to a fault, who will live life everyday in betterment of who they are. Women who recognize that true perfection lies in imperfection. Real women.
So, ask yourself. Are you a Bella Swan: vapid, paralyzed by the loss of your vampire love?
Or, are you a Jane, Lizzy, Gemma, or Beatrice: Strong, loyal, and real?
So, put childish dreams away, and look for the real women inside of you. And if you can't find her, then don't look for an "Edward" to make her for you. Look to the examples that are right in front you.
And do us all a favor. Read a real book.
Sincerely,
A Real Women.
Thursday, December 6, 2012
Tuesday, August 14, 2012
Feminism and Mothers
Is anyone else sick that I keep taking super long hiatuses from blogging? And then return with cookies in hand, heartfelt apologies and promises to do better? Maybe not the part about cookies. Anyone? Didn't think so.
So here I am, once again, a computer screen and a key board my only obstacles from pouring this impenetrable fog of thought into black and white sense.
I'm having a serious problem with confidence lately. Ok, that's not the only thing I am having a problem with (hence the restraints), but who asked the guys in the white lab coats?
The issue is that I just don't seem to think what I have to say is important anymore. Like its not relevant. Part of this is due to my sudden removal from the work force (thank you to my darling and loving husband). I thought that since I had all this time on my hands, I might find myself able to write more frequently and in longer blocks. No such luck. I find myself doing more housewifely things....like cooking. And cleaning. Did I mention cooking? Seriously, the smells coming out of the kitchen have driven the neighbors near to delirium with salivation.
Clearly I am not here to describe exactly why I am not blogging lately. You wouldn't be reading this if that where the case. This blog post would never even get written.
Hence, today's topic of choice on my mind:
Housewife. Stay-at-home-Mom. In today's feminist society, these terms are subject to much disdain and derision. Most women sneer at them. Men avoid them at all costs when seeking Miss Right so as not to give the impression of old fashioned ideals.
But honestly. What is wrong with these terms? How are they any more derisive then Professional? Or, say, Masters Degree? Or Business Owner? Why are they so frowned upon, when these other terms are smiled upon, even applauded and cheered?
Ladies, I'd like to encourage you, as well as my gentlemen readers. Careers are important, and I believe that women should have the opportunity to pursue said careers and the education that comes before hand. But ladies, not at the expense of your children and families.
See, readers, I used to have the same feminist ideals that subsist in today's society. For in my mind, what was a person with out a degree, or something to show for all those years of hard work and labor? But I since have been reformed. And trust me, that was not an easy task, for I fought it like wild cat about to lose its latest prey. Seriously, you should have seen the scratch marks.
So, let me ask you this: What is a feminist? A person who seeks to continually advance the position and standing of the female race. Then, what, I as you, is more feminine or female then making children? And what is more womanly then holding that child in your arms? So, now I ask, why would you put that same child in someone else's arms, forsaking your child to advance a career selfishly if you need not to?
No, do not misunderstand me. Some women have to work. Some family's survival hinges on the income she brings in. Some women are single mothers, providing for their children. And if you are one of those ladies reading this, I applaud you. It is not easy being in those situations, and it shows the adaptability of women to be able to do it.
I'm talking about the women who don't need it. The ones who have prescribed to this idea that women have to be in the work force to make something of themselves. That they have to be preparing continually for a future that their husbands can not provide for them. This is wrong.
Ladies, do you not know that your highest calling in this life is not to have a career. It is not to drive the right car and make that paper and take care of yourself financially. It is to be there for your children. It is to be the nurturer and the loving, calming presence in your household, as the Holy Spirit is to us. This is the highest calling of any woman.
Now, should women pursue careers and jobs outside of the house? If you must, then we are called to do everything as unto the Lord. But there is not a thing wrong with being a Housewife and a Stay-at-Home-Mom. There is nothing wrong with letting someone else take care of you financial. There is nothing wrong with taking care of the family and the house. Life does not end when children come. Women are not forced into the house and are never aloud to leave. There is life after work.
So, gentlemen, encourage your girlfriends and wives. Let them pursue those dreams. Encourage them to go to school and get those careers. But don't be afraid to tell them that it is ok if they don't work for the rest of their lives. Encourage us to find someone to take of us, so that we, in turn, can take of you.
Ladies, do not be afraid to go against the grain. Yeah, sure, be high-powered attorneys and judges and business owners and politicians. But don't look down on your sisters who have chosen a different path. There is no shame in it.
Now, I leave you with this quote: "If you bungle raising you children, I don't think whatever else you do matters very much." Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
Sincerely,
The Wondering Mind.
So here I am, once again, a computer screen and a key board my only obstacles from pouring this impenetrable fog of thought into black and white sense.
I'm having a serious problem with confidence lately. Ok, that's not the only thing I am having a problem with (hence the restraints), but who asked the guys in the white lab coats?
The issue is that I just don't seem to think what I have to say is important anymore. Like its not relevant. Part of this is due to my sudden removal from the work force (thank you to my darling and loving husband). I thought that since I had all this time on my hands, I might find myself able to write more frequently and in longer blocks. No such luck. I find myself doing more housewifely things....like cooking. And cleaning. Did I mention cooking? Seriously, the smells coming out of the kitchen have driven the neighbors near to delirium with salivation.
Clearly I am not here to describe exactly why I am not blogging lately. You wouldn't be reading this if that where the case. This blog post would never even get written.
Hence, today's topic of choice on my mind:
Housewife. Stay-at-home-Mom. In today's feminist society, these terms are subject to much disdain and derision. Most women sneer at them. Men avoid them at all costs when seeking Miss Right so as not to give the impression of old fashioned ideals.
But honestly. What is wrong with these terms? How are they any more derisive then Professional? Or, say, Masters Degree? Or Business Owner? Why are they so frowned upon, when these other terms are smiled upon, even applauded and cheered?
Ladies, I'd like to encourage you, as well as my gentlemen readers. Careers are important, and I believe that women should have the opportunity to pursue said careers and the education that comes before hand. But ladies, not at the expense of your children and families.
See, readers, I used to have the same feminist ideals that subsist in today's society. For in my mind, what was a person with out a degree, or something to show for all those years of hard work and labor? But I since have been reformed. And trust me, that was not an easy task, for I fought it like wild cat about to lose its latest prey. Seriously, you should have seen the scratch marks.
So, let me ask you this: What is a feminist? A person who seeks to continually advance the position and standing of the female race. Then, what, I as you, is more feminine or female then making children? And what is more womanly then holding that child in your arms? So, now I ask, why would you put that same child in someone else's arms, forsaking your child to advance a career selfishly if you need not to?
No, do not misunderstand me. Some women have to work. Some family's survival hinges on the income she brings in. Some women are single mothers, providing for their children. And if you are one of those ladies reading this, I applaud you. It is not easy being in those situations, and it shows the adaptability of women to be able to do it.
I'm talking about the women who don't need it. The ones who have prescribed to this idea that women have to be in the work force to make something of themselves. That they have to be preparing continually for a future that their husbands can not provide for them. This is wrong.
Ladies, do you not know that your highest calling in this life is not to have a career. It is not to drive the right car and make that paper and take care of yourself financially. It is to be there for your children. It is to be the nurturer and the loving, calming presence in your household, as the Holy Spirit is to us. This is the highest calling of any woman.
Now, should women pursue careers and jobs outside of the house? If you must, then we are called to do everything as unto the Lord. But there is not a thing wrong with being a Housewife and a Stay-at-Home-Mom. There is nothing wrong with letting someone else take care of you financial. There is nothing wrong with taking care of the family and the house. Life does not end when children come. Women are not forced into the house and are never aloud to leave. There is life after work.
So, gentlemen, encourage your girlfriends and wives. Let them pursue those dreams. Encourage them to go to school and get those careers. But don't be afraid to tell them that it is ok if they don't work for the rest of their lives. Encourage us to find someone to take of us, so that we, in turn, can take of you.
Ladies, do not be afraid to go against the grain. Yeah, sure, be high-powered attorneys and judges and business owners and politicians. But don't look down on your sisters who have chosen a different path. There is no shame in it.
Now, I leave you with this quote: "If you bungle raising you children, I don't think whatever else you do matters very much." Jackie Kennedy Onassis.
Sincerely,
The Wondering Mind.
Thursday, May 31, 2012
Discriminated Against
My readers:
Once again, I have found something that sincerely has my mind racing in an incredible need to write down my thoughts.
For those of you out there interested: I am an American born, Middle Class white women, with roots in Northern, Middle and Southern Europe, as well as the Iberian Peninsula, with a tiny splash of Mexican decent. Do you see me complaining about the lack of equality for my ancestors?
Many of you don't believe me when I say that there was discrimination against most of my ancestors in America. Allow me to prove you wrong.
I'm Irish. Do you have any idea the descrimination in New York when my ancestors came over in the Potato famine? It was impossible to find jobs, much less equal pay.
Do you see me crying foul?
I am German. World War's 1 & 2 had the American people burning our books and calling us Krauts to our faces, refusing to buy our wares from the shops owned, blaming us for the havoc overseas.
We have not requested an apology of any kind.
I am Italian. We where the subject of numerous hate crimes and discrimination in the late 1800's and early 1900's, the most well known being the mob lynching of 9 Italians in New Orleans and subsequent arrest of hundreds of Italian Americans in 1891.
I'm not asking for any recompense.
I am English. The entire reason the US is here is because of Religious discrimination in England in 1600's, forcing Puritans to leave Europe for the New World in search of religious freedom and peace.
But see, I am also proud of who I am. I am descendant of great warriors and rulers, who all, in their own time on this planet, have in some way, shape, or form, contributed mightily to this world.
I am the descendant of Celts, a complex and intricate society hundreds of years before Julius Ceaser ever invaded Britain. Its culture, history and religion dates long before Rome, a society so complex and secret, they still baffle historians to this day.
I am of the Roman's, rulers of the Ancient World, long before England became a world power. The descendant of mighty strategist and warriors, capable of great good, and great evil, a civilization spanning a thousand years. They art and culture lives on to this day, effecting everything from Politics to Art.
I am German, home of the Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers in the history of the world. Also the home and birthplace of Martin Luther, who gave rise to the Lutheran Movement, of which every Christian who is not Catholic is a part of. Also home of the Holy Roman Empire, which lasted another thousand years after the fall of the Roman Empire.
I am English, the birthplace of the Magna Carte and the idea that all men are created equal, the Industrial Revolution, and foundation of modern American Politics.
I am also Mexican. The Aztec capital city, now modern day Mexico City was the largest capital in the world before the Spanish Conquest in 1519. To this day, the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica remain largely a mystery.
I am all of these things. But more then that, I am an American. I don't cry foul when ever someone brings up American history, because if I did, you would laugh at me. But see, my people have been discriminated against just as much as any other. Just because I am European and white doesn't mean that my people have never been discriminated against.
But its not about discrimination. Its about being proud of what you are. I am Celtic, Roman, German, English and Mexican. I am from great people. People who I will never know of. And I am proud that they gave rise to modern society and people. But this is America. Its about the blend. Its about exceptance of all races, without discrimination. Its about saying, above all of these races, I am an American, born, bred, and raised as such.
And when everyone gets a hold of that, be they white, black, brown or pink, we will truly have a great nation.
Once again, I have found something that sincerely has my mind racing in an incredible need to write down my thoughts.
For those of you out there interested: I am an American born, Middle Class white women, with roots in Northern, Middle and Southern Europe, as well as the Iberian Peninsula, with a tiny splash of Mexican decent. Do you see me complaining about the lack of equality for my ancestors?
Many of you don't believe me when I say that there was discrimination against most of my ancestors in America. Allow me to prove you wrong.
I'm Irish. Do you have any idea the descrimination in New York when my ancestors came over in the Potato famine? It was impossible to find jobs, much less equal pay.
Do you see me crying foul?
I am German. World War's 1 & 2 had the American people burning our books and calling us Krauts to our faces, refusing to buy our wares from the shops owned, blaming us for the havoc overseas.
We have not requested an apology of any kind.
I am Italian. We where the subject of numerous hate crimes and discrimination in the late 1800's and early 1900's, the most well known being the mob lynching of 9 Italians in New Orleans and subsequent arrest of hundreds of Italian Americans in 1891.
I'm not asking for any recompense.
I am English. The entire reason the US is here is because of Religious discrimination in England in 1600's, forcing Puritans to leave Europe for the New World in search of religious freedom and peace.
But see, I am also proud of who I am. I am descendant of great warriors and rulers, who all, in their own time on this planet, have in some way, shape, or form, contributed mightily to this world.
I am the descendant of Celts, a complex and intricate society hundreds of years before Julius Ceaser ever invaded Britain. Its culture, history and religion dates long before Rome, a society so complex and secret, they still baffle historians to this day.
I am of the Roman's, rulers of the Ancient World, long before England became a world power. The descendant of mighty strategist and warriors, capable of great good, and great evil, a civilization spanning a thousand years. They art and culture lives on to this day, effecting everything from Politics to Art.
I am German, home of the Johann Sebastian Bach, one of the greatest composers in the history of the world. Also the home and birthplace of Martin Luther, who gave rise to the Lutheran Movement, of which every Christian who is not Catholic is a part of. Also home of the Holy Roman Empire, which lasted another thousand years after the fall of the Roman Empire.
I am English, the birthplace of the Magna Carte and the idea that all men are created equal, the Industrial Revolution, and foundation of modern American Politics.
I am also Mexican. The Aztec capital city, now modern day Mexico City was the largest capital in the world before the Spanish Conquest in 1519. To this day, the ancient civilizations of Mesoamerica remain largely a mystery.
I am all of these things. But more then that, I am an American. I don't cry foul when ever someone brings up American history, because if I did, you would laugh at me. But see, my people have been discriminated against just as much as any other. Just because I am European and white doesn't mean that my people have never been discriminated against.
But its not about discrimination. Its about being proud of what you are. I am Celtic, Roman, German, English and Mexican. I am from great people. People who I will never know of. And I am proud that they gave rise to modern society and people. But this is America. Its about the blend. Its about exceptance of all races, without discrimination. Its about saying, above all of these races, I am an American, born, bred, and raised as such.
And when everyone gets a hold of that, be they white, black, brown or pink, we will truly have a great nation.
Wednesday, March 7, 2012
Apathy
Today, my dear readers, I am disgusted. I am enraged, disturbed, and frankly, completely distressed.
What a way to start a blog, huh?
Have any of you ever heard of Joseph Kony? Rings a bell, right? This is one guy no one should forget about.
In 1988, Joseph Kony came to power in Uganda, and has since formed an army called the Lord's Resistance Army. Are you familiar with the Invisible Children?
Starting to click?
The Invisible Children are the young people of Uganda and the Congo who are forcible conscripted into the LRA. And I'm not talking about a simple "Join my army, or I shoot you". No, its far more twisted then that. Kony either kills or forces the children to kill their own families after their villages have been completely destroyed, leaving them with no option other then to fight for the LRA. They have no home to run to. The girls, if attractive enough, are forced to become "wives" to the grown men in the LRA to produce more offspring. And it doesn't matter if these girls want to or not. They are forced.
And its worse then that: (I suggest you skip this paragraph if you have a weak stomach)
Ready for the graphic stuff? When a child is not co-operative, they don't just kill the child. The cut off their ears, or their nose, or their lips, and then force them to eat it.
But its even worse that all of that. Because this sick mofo believes he is doing God's work in Uganda and the Congo. See, according to him, he is Spirit filled and is constantly visited by God's angels and gets his instructions straight for the Lord Himself.
His whole entire goal, supposedly, is to return Uganda to a theocratic government based on the 10 Commandments.
And that, more than anything else, has me furious beyond all possible belief. I don't even know if I want to finish writing this post.
But I will not be among the apathetic, who see and do nothing. My job, if nothing else, is to get the word out to you.
According to Kony, he has been visited by the angels of God. God has told him to do the things he does, such as killing and torture, so that Uganda can become a nation based on the 10 commandments. God even condones his horrendous crimes against children and humanity.
Here's the problem, as if the above stated wasn't enough.
The 6th Commandment: "Thou shall not kill". And every day, Kony kills more and more innocents, as well as the hope that every child has of a better future. Ironic, yes?
The 8th Commandment: "Thou shall not steal". And yet, Kony continues to steal resources and children from their homes to serve his army.
The 10th Commandment: "Thou shall not covet". And yet, Kony works to gain that which he desires more then anything in the world: The Ugandan Government and power.
And have we forgotten the Greatest Commandment of all? The Golden Rule? "Love thy neighbor as yourself." Would a man who is doing God's work, really kill his neighbors, the people he should love?
At first, I didn't really want to write this blog. The subject matter just turns my stomach to much. The thing is, if I don't, then who will? This the reason Kony isn't a big deal and no one really knows about him. Because everyone just turns away in disgust, thinking its to much to handle.
Or worse, that someone else will. Its apathy, and that's the biggest crime anyone can commit. Bad things happen when good men do nothing, and I won't do nothing.
So my readers, I have no question today. I just have one request. You get the word out there too. Do your research, and tell as many people as you can about Joseph Kony and his crimes against humanity. Don't just close out this browser and think to yourself that someone else will take care of it, that its to much for you to handle. It just takes a drop of water to break a dam.
Because in the end, its apathy that kills.
The Wondering Mind
www.kony2012.com
What a way to start a blog, huh?
Have any of you ever heard of Joseph Kony? Rings a bell, right? This is one guy no one should forget about.
In 1988, Joseph Kony came to power in Uganda, and has since formed an army called the Lord's Resistance Army. Are you familiar with the Invisible Children?
Starting to click?
The Invisible Children are the young people of Uganda and the Congo who are forcible conscripted into the LRA. And I'm not talking about a simple "Join my army, or I shoot you". No, its far more twisted then that. Kony either kills or forces the children to kill their own families after their villages have been completely destroyed, leaving them with no option other then to fight for the LRA. They have no home to run to. The girls, if attractive enough, are forced to become "wives" to the grown men in the LRA to produce more offspring. And it doesn't matter if these girls want to or not. They are forced.
And its worse then that: (I suggest you skip this paragraph if you have a weak stomach)
Ready for the graphic stuff? When a child is not co-operative, they don't just kill the child. The cut off their ears, or their nose, or their lips, and then force them to eat it.
But its even worse that all of that. Because this sick mofo believes he is doing God's work in Uganda and the Congo. See, according to him, he is Spirit filled and is constantly visited by God's angels and gets his instructions straight for the Lord Himself.
His whole entire goal, supposedly, is to return Uganda to a theocratic government based on the 10 Commandments.
And that, more than anything else, has me furious beyond all possible belief. I don't even know if I want to finish writing this post.
But I will not be among the apathetic, who see and do nothing. My job, if nothing else, is to get the word out to you.
According to Kony, he has been visited by the angels of God. God has told him to do the things he does, such as killing and torture, so that Uganda can become a nation based on the 10 commandments. God even condones his horrendous crimes against children and humanity.
Here's the problem, as if the above stated wasn't enough.
The 6th Commandment: "Thou shall not kill". And every day, Kony kills more and more innocents, as well as the hope that every child has of a better future. Ironic, yes?
The 8th Commandment: "Thou shall not steal". And yet, Kony continues to steal resources and children from their homes to serve his army.
The 10th Commandment: "Thou shall not covet". And yet, Kony works to gain that which he desires more then anything in the world: The Ugandan Government and power.
And have we forgotten the Greatest Commandment of all? The Golden Rule? "Love thy neighbor as yourself." Would a man who is doing God's work, really kill his neighbors, the people he should love?
At first, I didn't really want to write this blog. The subject matter just turns my stomach to much. The thing is, if I don't, then who will? This the reason Kony isn't a big deal and no one really knows about him. Because everyone just turns away in disgust, thinking its to much to handle.
Or worse, that someone else will. Its apathy, and that's the biggest crime anyone can commit. Bad things happen when good men do nothing, and I won't do nothing.
So my readers, I have no question today. I just have one request. You get the word out there too. Do your research, and tell as many people as you can about Joseph Kony and his crimes against humanity. Don't just close out this browser and think to yourself that someone else will take care of it, that its to much for you to handle. It just takes a drop of water to break a dam.
Because in the end, its apathy that kills.
The Wondering Mind
www.kony2012.com
Friday, February 10, 2012
Absolute Power
My dear readers,
I recently re-read the Constitution of the United States of America. That'll shoot your blood pressure into the rafters. I was reluctant at first to post anything about what I read, since I was so upset. Not to mention, my mind refused to take a single simple path and follow it to its end.
But then, a friend of mine, whose political views have been labeled "radical", convinced me of the necessity, not just importance, of posting what was on my mind. Thus, today's blog post is concerned mostly with the Constitutional rights of the Government, and how they have utterly and completely screwed up their end of the deal.
Our Founding Fathers where a group of men dedicated to the idea that all men and women deserved the right to live their lives with out interference of government. They believed that all men had been given this right by "their Creator", therefore, completely inalienable or unable to be ignored or taken away. This is why the Constitution was written. It is "not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, is is an instrument for the people to restrain the government." (Patrick Henry)
And yet, it seems that the further we get from the Ratification of the Constitution, the more the government seems to forget that.
The American people tend to think that it is completely within the Constitutional Right of the Government, for the government to completely run and regulate our lives. For instance, the FDA. Or the IRS.
The FDA wasn't brought into effect until 1906. It doesn't say anywhere in the Constitution that the government has the right to regulate our food. The IRS, though formed in 1862, was meant to be a temporary war-time tax. In 1894, it was declared un-Constitutional. But in 1913, we had the ratification of the 16th Amendment, which allows for income tax. That's fine, but at the time, only incomes of more then $3,000 where required to file. Today, adjusting for inflation, that amount would be $68,612. But the income level to file is, in actuality, $9,350. How is that fair?
But, back to the point. The Constitution was written to define the roles of each part of the government. And now? It seems as though the Constitution has been thrown out the figurative window.
The role of the Federal Government is, as defined by Article 1, Section 8 are as follows:
Now...I'm off my figurative expounding plank, but let me just add: Government that has to much power will not just use. But they abuse it. No matter how good you think a man is, he will always be corrupted by power. "Absolute power corrupts absolutely, and great men are almost always bad man." (Lord Acton). Because our Founding Fathers where Great Men, they recognized that power would corrupt them, if given the chance. This was the reason they wrote safe guards into the Constitution. To protect them, us, and future generations from the corruption of power.
I recently re-read the Constitution of the United States of America. That'll shoot your blood pressure into the rafters. I was reluctant at first to post anything about what I read, since I was so upset. Not to mention, my mind refused to take a single simple path and follow it to its end.
But then, a friend of mine, whose political views have been labeled "radical", convinced me of the necessity, not just importance, of posting what was on my mind. Thus, today's blog post is concerned mostly with the Constitutional rights of the Government, and how they have utterly and completely screwed up their end of the deal.
Our Founding Fathers where a group of men dedicated to the idea that all men and women deserved the right to live their lives with out interference of government. They believed that all men had been given this right by "their Creator", therefore, completely inalienable or unable to be ignored or taken away. This is why the Constitution was written. It is "not an instrument for the government to restrain the people, is is an instrument for the people to restrain the government." (Patrick Henry)
And yet, it seems that the further we get from the Ratification of the Constitution, the more the government seems to forget that.
The American people tend to think that it is completely within the Constitutional Right of the Government, for the government to completely run and regulate our lives. For instance, the FDA. Or the IRS.
The FDA wasn't brought into effect until 1906. It doesn't say anywhere in the Constitution that the government has the right to regulate our food. The IRS, though formed in 1862, was meant to be a temporary war-time tax. In 1894, it was declared un-Constitutional. But in 1913, we had the ratification of the 16th Amendment, which allows for income tax. That's fine, but at the time, only incomes of more then $3,000 where required to file. Today, adjusting for inflation, that amount would be $68,612. But the income level to file is, in actuality, $9,350. How is that fair?
But, back to the point. The Constitution was written to define the roles of each part of the government. And now? It seems as though the Constitution has been thrown out the figurative window.
The role of the Federal Government is, as defined by Article 1, Section 8 are as follows:
1. To borrow Money
2. To regulate Commerce
3. To decide citizenship
4. To regulate currency and punish those who counterfeit said currency
5. To establish what is now the US Postal Service
6. To create copy right laws
7. To create what is now the Court System
8. To define and punish piracy on the "high seas"
9. To Declare and regulate our own Wars
10. To raise and support an Army
11. To raise and maintain a Navy
12. To make rules and laws about maintaining said Army and Navy
13. To make there is a system for protection in place in case of war, rebellion, etc
14. Maintaining that system
15.To be the final word in Government over our country
16. To make laws that are necessary for the functioning of this country.
Basically, government is supposed to regulate commerce and protect the country. That's about it.
And what have they chosen to do? Regulate the lives we live in every possible way and call it protection. Epic fail, right?
See, according to the Constitutions, they have no right to tax you unless it is for things like maintaining the Army or Navy. But, if you take a look at every single one of your receipts, you'll notice a little something at the bottom, called tax. And what do they use that money for? Only about a fifth of it goes towards military.
But I'm getting off track....My point is very simple. The government is far to large for its own good. It has to much power, more power then was ever intended in the Constitution, because, out of fear, we gave it to them. In the name of protection and serving justice and seeking retribution, we gave up essential freedoms out lined for us by the Constitution in the roles of the Government.
They don't have the right to take your money and call it tax, but use it for something completely other then what it should be used for.
They don't have a right to tell you that you must have health care and call it helping the less fortunate.
They don't have a right to tap your phones or track your whereabouts and call it National Security.
And they definitely don't have a right to limit the internet and freedom of speech and call it copy right laws.
16. To make laws that are necessary for the functioning of this country.
Basically, government is supposed to regulate commerce and protect the country. That's about it.
And what have they chosen to do? Regulate the lives we live in every possible way and call it protection. Epic fail, right?
See, according to the Constitutions, they have no right to tax you unless it is for things like maintaining the Army or Navy. But, if you take a look at every single one of your receipts, you'll notice a little something at the bottom, called tax. And what do they use that money for? Only about a fifth of it goes towards military.
But I'm getting off track....My point is very simple. The government is far to large for its own good. It has to much power, more power then was ever intended in the Constitution, because, out of fear, we gave it to them. In the name of protection and serving justice and seeking retribution, we gave up essential freedoms out lined for us by the Constitution in the roles of the Government.
They don't have the right to take your money and call it tax, but use it for something completely other then what it should be used for.
They don't have a right to tell you that you must have health care and call it helping the less fortunate.
They don't have a right to tap your phones or track your whereabouts and call it National Security.
And they definitely don't have a right to limit the internet and freedom of speech and call it copy right laws.
Now...I'm off my figurative expounding plank, but let me just add: Government that has to much power will not just use. But they abuse it. No matter how good you think a man is, he will always be corrupted by power. "Absolute power corrupts absolutely, and great men are almost always bad man." (Lord Acton). Because our Founding Fathers where Great Men, they recognized that power would corrupt them, if given the chance. This was the reason they wrote safe guards into the Constitution. To protect them, us, and future generations from the corruption of power.
And now, my dear readers, it is time for your question of the day:
Do you think I'm blowing smoke when I say the government has gone to far, or are they just doing what is necessary to keep the country going?
Any thoughts or comments, as always, are appreciated. (They let me know you are there, and you are listening)
Much Love,
Do you think I'm blowing smoke when I say the government has gone to far, or are they just doing what is necessary to keep the country going?
Any thoughts or comments, as always, are appreciated. (They let me know you are there, and you are listening)
Much Love,
The Wondering Mind
Friday, January 13, 2012
Inherently Flawed
Guess what? I'M BACK!!! Happily married and settled. Things got a little crazy there in the last few months, but now, I am ready to get back in that glorious game of politics, religion, and the continious commentary of life in general. Did you miss me? :)
So, let us begin.
For my own reasons, I have chosen to start the year off with a discussion on faith and religion. I know I discussed in some detail the difference as it pertained to American politics, but today, my focus is a little more personal.
People seem to think that faith and religion are the exact same thing. There is a huge difference. Let me explain.
Religion is an organized set of beliefs and laws, usually centered around a single belief system.
Faith is personal. It is what someone believes outside of religion, but can also correspond directly to that religion. Its a relationship.
Here is where it gets a little messed up. Religion, being that it is a construct of humanity, is inherently flawed. It is meant to satisfy an unfillable void. But, being that it is flawed, it is incapable of doing what it was designed to do.
Faith, however, is directly personal, and therefore only meant to takes place between a soul and God Himself. Its very different. The only thing able to fill that void I mentioned early is faith.
Now, lets have a conversation about Religion and Jesus and Faith.
When I say Religion and Christianity people tend to cringe. Here is why:
Christianity is a religion. And over and over again, unneccessary evils have come to pass in the name of Jesus and God. Wars are started, genocide happens. Its the same with any religion, be it Islam, Judaism or Hinduism. They all preach peace and good will to all men, but in the end, cause great pain and suffering.
That's because the system is broken. People mistake Religion for Faith. They mistake the outward appearance for the inward work of God.
This goes for everything. Religion causes people to put on a false facade of perfection, when all they while, inside they are screaming for more then religion can give them. They are unsatisfied, that void still unfilled.
Faith is deeply personal. It is real and completely honest. Faith is the thing that says "I have work that needs to be done in me." Not "I am completely done growing and perfect."
Faith is about God. It says "My walk is my own, and not dictated by the Church or by Religion." Not, "This is how I should act, so I will."
Faith is not a rule book. Its a way of life. Its completely open and honest about the work being done inside, no matter how unbecoming or unseemly the issue is.
God is not found in a church, or in a religion. People are. Before there was an organized religion, there was only faith. And this is why faith is more important. Because God is greater then a church building or a systematic set of beliefs. He operates outside of them. Religion seeks to put God "in a box" so that we can understand Him. And this is wrong.
Faith is about seeking God. Its about finding Him on our own, and filling that constant void that eats us all up inside. Because in the end, only God can.
Faith is about relationship. And we constantly seek that relationship with God. We seek something, so we go to the only place we think we can find it, when all along, we're just looking for God.
And really, how human is that?
Much love,
The Wondering Mind
So, let us begin.
For my own reasons, I have chosen to start the year off with a discussion on faith and religion. I know I discussed in some detail the difference as it pertained to American politics, but today, my focus is a little more personal.
People seem to think that faith and religion are the exact same thing. There is a huge difference. Let me explain.
Religion is an organized set of beliefs and laws, usually centered around a single belief system.
Faith is personal. It is what someone believes outside of religion, but can also correspond directly to that religion. Its a relationship.
Here is where it gets a little messed up. Religion, being that it is a construct of humanity, is inherently flawed. It is meant to satisfy an unfillable void. But, being that it is flawed, it is incapable of doing what it was designed to do.
Faith, however, is directly personal, and therefore only meant to takes place between a soul and God Himself. Its very different. The only thing able to fill that void I mentioned early is faith.
Now, lets have a conversation about Religion and Jesus and Faith.
When I say Religion and Christianity people tend to cringe. Here is why:
Christianity is a religion. And over and over again, unneccessary evils have come to pass in the name of Jesus and God. Wars are started, genocide happens. Its the same with any religion, be it Islam, Judaism or Hinduism. They all preach peace and good will to all men, but in the end, cause great pain and suffering.
That's because the system is broken. People mistake Religion for Faith. They mistake the outward appearance for the inward work of God.
This goes for everything. Religion causes people to put on a false facade of perfection, when all they while, inside they are screaming for more then religion can give them. They are unsatisfied, that void still unfilled.
Faith is deeply personal. It is real and completely honest. Faith is the thing that says "I have work that needs to be done in me." Not "I am completely done growing and perfect."
Faith is about God. It says "My walk is my own, and not dictated by the Church or by Religion." Not, "This is how I should act, so I will."
Faith is not a rule book. Its a way of life. Its completely open and honest about the work being done inside, no matter how unbecoming or unseemly the issue is.
God is not found in a church, or in a religion. People are. Before there was an organized religion, there was only faith. And this is why faith is more important. Because God is greater then a church building or a systematic set of beliefs. He operates outside of them. Religion seeks to put God "in a box" so that we can understand Him. And this is wrong.
Faith is about seeking God. Its about finding Him on our own, and filling that constant void that eats us all up inside. Because in the end, only God can.
Faith is about relationship. And we constantly seek that relationship with God. We seek something, so we go to the only place we think we can find it, when all along, we're just looking for God.
And really, how human is that?
Much love,
The Wondering Mind
Friday, August 19, 2011
Bridal Dresses and Movits!
Yes, my readers, I am back on the inter-webs (as Philip de Franco is so fond of saying). Yes, its been a while, and yes, I have missed your smiling faces and opinions. I am now T-minus 2 months from a wonderful wedding, and the idea of starting a new life is both exhilarating and completely petrifying at the same time. Like showing up to your first rehearsal for your very first play. Needless to say, I have been busy, and I still have no idea what to expect.
But, on the subject of weddings, I was reading the news today and I came across something very interesting, that kind of threw my thinking for a loop. Once again, I find myself on the subject of gay-marriage, as it seems to be a major issue in the country. Here is the article that caught my attention, and I will sum up for those of you who don't want to read it. As you know, in the state of New York, gay-marriage has been made legal. And if you didn't fail 4th grade geography, you also know that New York and New Jersey are right next to each other. So, this bridal shop owner in New Jersey has a bride come in a try on dresses for her big day. The visit was accompanied by a follow-up call to the bride by the store owner. This, as I have learned recently, is a customary act for a bridal store. It was at this time that the store owner noticed that the bride crossed out "groom" on her contact sheet and put instead "partner." To which the store owner asked curiously "why"? Before I go any further, it is totally normal for people to ask questions about the bride and the groom. It gives them a clearer picture of who the couple is in order to serve them better. When the bride explained that she was gay, the store owner responded by telling that she could do no further business with the bride, that it was illegal in the state of New Jersey, and followed it all by saying as nicely as she could: "There is right and there is wrong. And this is wrong." This has caused a great amount of flying mud as the bride took the story to the media. The Bridal Shop has been down graded from a five-star shop to a one-star shop, and everyone is posting hate mail to this business owner.
So, here is my thinking. This store owner has a right to refuse business to anyone, since it is her store. She doesn't have to explain herself. If she doesn't want to do business with someone because they are blond instead of brunette, tall instead of short, or has a Southern accent, she can tell them to kick rocks, and she will be with in her rights. So, she also has the right to refuse business to a gay women.
Now most of you will scream discrimination on the bases of sexual orientation. That may be so, but, this women is still with-in her rights to deny the bride.
And this brings up another point. As the bride has such a problem with the business owner, she is equally with in her rights to go to a different store that has the dress she was looking for. It is not as if the bride came in, tried on a dress, was paying for is, and then the business owner refused to sell it to her. The business owner was making a follow up call to see if the customer was still interested. I do not see why the bride has to go to such great lengths to destroy this business owner.
You know, I find it fascinating that the gay and lesbian community is so intent on being accepted and being treated equally by all, when they have such a problem treating others equally. Any other person with an issue with a bridal store would simply go to another one. But this women calls the press and screams discrimination. I just feel like she's way out in left field. If her plan was to destroy this business, it isn't working, since the Bridal Shop has actually down well since this story came out.
So, tell me what you guys think:
Was the store owner with in her rights to deny the bride's business, or was the bride right in crying foul? Or where they both right and wrong?
And finally, on a parting note, I'd like to introduce you to my favorite band at the moment. Please do not be put off by the fact that they are Swedish, because they totally are awesome. Allow me to present: Movits! Tell me what you think in the comment section, as well as answer the question of the day :)
Much love,
The Wondering Mind
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