I Want to Apologize to Mr. Obama

http://news.yahoo.com/blogs/sideshow/racist-don-t-nig-anti-obama-bumper-sticker-162917634.html


I just ran across this story on Yahoo.  What the hell?  If this does prove to be an actual bumper sticker, I am so sorry.  I don't want to believe some Americans have no respect the highest office in our nation --  let alone a human being who does have our best interest in hand.  I am literally shaking as I type this blog post.  I really did not want to believe we still have this evil here; in the country who's uniform I proudly wore for twenty years.

President Obama,  I apologize on behalf of of these folks who would do such a thing.  I am just so very ashamed and will go dry my tears elsewhere. 

Okay, Have Ya'll Been Looking Taxes?

I know I have! I have been knee deep in reading on the IRS.gov and organizing our own reciepts.  No major changes so far this year (2011) though, I believe many changes will be implemented with killing some 'deductions' and 'credits' on individual family' tax bills in or after 2012.  Like the child tax credit will go away or be cut in half for those with children under 17.  I will let ya'll know if I find any major rehauls of the tax code as I discover them.

Who knows with the dragging of congressional feet in the attempts of getting President Obama kicked out of office.  It has been stated since he won the election in 2008 the WHOLE GOAL of Republicans was to make him a one term president. I find this incredible because our leaders were hired to work for their constituents.  Instead Republicans block all attempts Obama tries even if it was a Republican goal. 

Now this pisses in my cheerios because I have long voted for Republicans as a Libertarian minded person. I believe folks can stand on their own feet for the most part but, firmly support Social Security for those over 62.  I also believe in Medicaid for children, the aged, and those with disablities who can not work.  Sure there are those who need a hand up when losing a job  or some other event in the event of medical necessity but, it should not take 2 years to find a job.  I do not believe in permanent welfare for those 'choosing' to pump out children.  I also do not believe minimum wage is what the economy (the rest of us) should advocate tossing those on public assistance onto low paying jobs as a solution.

http://documentaryheaven.com/occupy-movie/
http://www.occupythemovie.net/

For my new friend Moonqueenfashions,  I have a book for you if interested.  It is called 'Nickel and Dimed,' by Barbara Ehrenreich just email me for details. 

I know of your displeasure of seeing folks whom you feel are gaming the system of entitlements or government hand outs. Personally, I too know of a couple of people who have used those gov programs to live without putting in a honest days work.  It chaps my arse too.  However, I have to let that angst go, press on, and teach my sons about the need to support themselves & plan for their future. 

For the 2 or 3 people who 'game' the system; I believe there are 100s who really want to work and do what is necessary to support themselves and family.  I also have a stinking suspicion that the deck is stacked to keep the general populace ignorant, quiet, out of touch with their leaders and too busy to notice the mayhem swirling over them.  Who has time in this busy world to question the non-sense spoon-fed by media outlets? 

Next point,

All I do know is, the squeaky wheel gets oiled first.  Those who are protesting in the Occupy movements have the right idea.  They are just demanding their government listen to them.  I do not agree with some of the ideals protestors espouse but, I do believe in their rights to assemble to get their voices heard without being violently peppered sprayed or deadly force used on unarmed citizens.  I have looked at my belief system and ideology; it is the soldier in me that will consistently defend those whom my inner voice says is weaker and needs support.

I am my brothers' keeper. 

This is what I teach my sons and will continue to do so.

To Answer Moonqueenfashions

Hello Gentle Readers,


I am hoping all is well after the Christmas holiday season.  We have been busy here and are now just getting back into our homeschool groove.  So this morning, I came to check in on those who I follow during our vacation.  To find a commentator who asked questions.  This to me is a blessing because she allows me to further explain my rationale.  Thanks Moonqueenfashions for allowing me to opportunity to reach a more diverse audience.

"Okay, so I do agree with most of your post. I have two questions. 1) Do you consider people who spend aggregiously without consideration of what they are doing not at fault for their own poverty (i.e. people who run up massive credit card debt on non-essentials, buy a house way bigger than they need in an area they really can't afford, have to have a new car, won't buy used or generic anything, etc)? 2) Were you really complaining about making almost $40k with free housing, $300 a month for food and free medical care..PLUS a second income? Those benefits, based on what I pay for a house payment, utilities and health insurance (alone I might add), would equal almost $14,000 a year. That's a low estimate as I live very frugally, have a low house payment and only pay for one person for medical care (i.e. the benefits you are actually receiving for a family in that area may total to even more than $14k). Which brings your salary to nearly $60k or over. Some career teachers don't make that and they have to have one or two college degrees depending on the state. I have two college degrees and would never make that at my current job without becoming management or working here for 15 to 20 years. So yah, consider the less fortunate indeed. My parents fed, clothed, and housed two kids and themselves on less than $25k a year and we always had a car, tv etc. It's all in how much you are willing to live smart with what you have. I'm not saying there aren't a lot of unforutnate people, particularly people who become poor through forced unemployment or long-term illness, but there are a lot more that think they deserve to live outside of their means. Just because people on the tube have fur and diamonds, drive fancy cars, etc doesn't mean we are suffering if we don't have that life. At some point people forgot about the basics of getting by and started worrying about keeping up with the Jones. by Moonqueenfashions."


Moonqueenfashions,


1. No Ma'am, I do believe in personally responsibility especially fiscal. I do know from the experience of buying our first home at the ripe age of 39, the process is set up to confuse / bind people who are not ‘educated’ properly in personal finance, budgeting, and legal terminology to fail on their mortgages. For example; when my husband and I set out to buy this house our own lenders told us we could afford a house over 300k or calculate the mortgage payment to equal roughly 35% of our current income -- this made my head spin.

This is just not feasible because there are many factors our lenders did not figure in: we were moving, I was retiring, Hubby was not going to be employed, the lack of jobs in our immediate area we had purchased in, the upkeep of a home, the repairs needed to be done in the home, the repairs needed on the property of our home, and transportation to work when we found a job.

See, this is where lenders do not properly counsel first time buyers; a mortgage should not be anymore than 20-25% of a families' income because of factors such as I mentioned. We bought our home as a foreclosure that had been on the market empty for five years.  Fortunately, I told the lenders to calculate our net income to less than third of what we were earning back in 2005 to get a more accurate picture of our financial ability to meet our obligations.  Also, I knew if all came to worse my retirement check would at least cover the mortgage, insurances, car payment, credit card bill (at the time), and electricity as our basics.  Plus I know how to shop, plan, and use coupons effectively for food. 

2. Secondly, I was not complaining about my salary; I was merely stating numbers. What folks do not realize is at the time, our daughter had suffered a stroke on her 13th birthday and we had accumulated some debt not covered by the military health system. We had to float some debts on a credit just to get through the process of moving her from a remote hospital from Portugal to Germany and then to Washington DC. Then we also had to cover expenses not paid by the military to move our family on such short notice. We were able to emergency housing on base because of our daughter’s medical needs and hubby found a job luckily six months after we relocated.

I am forever grateful to the US Air Force and the medical personnel because without them; she would have died. We were lucky to only be 15K give or take in debt by the time she was able to get stable enough to be in physical, educational rehab, and back to semi-normal. There would have been no way she would have survived in the civilian sector with our limited income because her medical care would have cost us millions with repeated surgeries, air ambulance, rehab, and like.


3. All I am saying is; folks are desperate out there. There are people who spend unwisely or on foolish things. Those folks will always exist because they were not taught better or frankly they don’t give a shit. The world is a different place than when your parents brought your family up and the opportunities are much different for the working poor – middle class. For example, student loans will be the next bubble to hurt the US economy and I am expecting this burst to come in 2012 or 13 just like the housing dive back in 2008 to now. There is no way students will do as well as their families’ did because of accrued debt from student loans. There was a time when education was affordable or nearly free and those days are almost over. Without a degree, job experience, and lots of luck many of those students will be paying on those loans until their death. Student loans are the one area that will follow a person to the grave with accrued interest just rolling over and over.


4. I came from the back ground of a single parent struggling to make ends meet in south California and she worked two jobs. I later helped her by turning over my own paycheck when I turned 15 -- yep I started early.  There were many times we had nearly bare cupboards. I am one of the fortunate ones who had a mother drill into me about not spending what you don’t have. Yet, she got into financial disarray over my sister’s medical bills by the time I left to be on my own. Because I had seen her worry; I made it a point to learn about budgeting once I joined the Air Force.

I currently do not own any diamonds or furs (it is way too hot for them here) but, I have multiple degrees which do not matter. Why do the degrees not matter? Simple, there are no jobs around here for 100 miles that pay more than $10 an hour and we have decided to use my talents to home school our sons. So, that is a win – win situation and outcome in my book.

Thanks for giving me the opportunity to answer your questions. Mal

So how are ya'lls slices of heaven?

Before You Judge, I Just Feel Like Railing

Yesterday, I read a story about a mother who applied for Food Stamps for herself and two children.  She was so upset she pulled out a gun and took hostages.  After awhile, she turned the gun on her children and then killed herself. 

http://news.yahoo.com/state-mom-shot-kids-self-denied-food-stamps-204249288.html

I have an idea there is much more to this story than what is being reported.  What I don't understand is how many more people out there in America is facing the same humiliating doom of applying for public assistance.  Personally, I have seen folks in local stores make faces and comments to those carrying the Texas SNAP card.  Really???? Just who are we to judge others? 

This story just makes me so incredibly sad because there by the Grace of God could walk my family so far, we have been spared.  $296 a month may seem like a lot to others but, from experience with teenagers who constantly eat --- it's not near enough for growing children.  I understand the SNAP card is supplemental assistance meant to augment a meager income. 

Another thing that just pisses in my Cheerios, it pundits much like Mr. Gingrich wishing to abolish federal laws concerning on child labor.  All I can say is: "WHAT AN ASS."   How the heck are children who have enough trouble in their homes getting their nutritional needs met to concentrate on their studies; let alone be put to work as janitors, library aides, or crossing guards? 

This makes the assumption that said children have no working parents at home. 

I am sick to death of listening to others make harsh judgements on families they do not know.  Just perhaps, if we take that mirror and look at ourselves with the same critical eye --- we may just be shocked. 

-- Not everyone knows how to budget; a skill that has not been taught to the masses.
-- Not everyone has access to lawyers to explain credit applications.
-- Not many know how to plan meals and work with sales or coupons & rebates, or stockpiling when able.
-- Not everyone has access to free banking with over draft protection (those with large accts.)
-- Not everyone has low interest rate home loans.
-- Everyone does not have a reliable mode of transportation.
-- Not everyone has cadillac health insurance provided for them.
-- Not everyone has been lucky to have an education.

Let me tell you gentle reader; I am sick and tired of Republicans wanting to take away from government employees as well.  I will tell you all about my own income. 

When I joined the Air Force in 1986, I earned a total of $5,111 for ten months of active duty.  Upon my last year, I earned a whopping total of $34,898 after 20 years of honorable service to my country.  Granted, I lived on base in Maryland and got approximately $300 a month for food allowance, and had access to 24-hr medical care. We as a family was so fortunate (lucky lotto-winners) to have a second income from hubby's job. 

All that went away upon my retirement with the exception of 1/2 of my active duty pay under $1,200 a month when adding our insurances for health and life.  My hubby was lucky to find a job with the Army; we watch our spending throughout the year.  We save a little each month to cover holiday gifts and emergencies.  However, the retirement system my husband is enrolled in will not give him a retirement check --- those went away in the 1980s.  We will only have Social Security and my retirement check.  We are the lucky ones....................

So far, with this economy we are waiting for the other shoe to fall to wipe out our cushion. On this day as we remember those who scarificed during the attack on Pearl Harbor.  Please keep in mind those who are scarificing just to make ends meet.

Woman Against Herman Cain, Or Any Republican

Okay folks, I finally figured out why Hermain Cain is not the candidate for me.  Personally none of the Republican offerings this campaign have a flipping clue as to what middle America is like anymore.  Today as I listened to Cain's nonsense it dawn on me while my back was turned to the telecast about GOD and other ilk he was laying out to the national media.

He sounds just like Samuel L. Jackson's character from 'SNAKES ON A PLANE.'  I do not want the person who is representing me to start ranting like a maniac during a national crisis.  Another thing Mr. Cain reminds me of a banty rooster in a pimp daddy hat strutting around the hen house; knowing full well he will be mostly ignored.  I mostly feel sorry for Mr. Cain's wife because it feels like another Tammy Wynette moment of 'Standing By Your Man.'  Mr. Cain makes for awesome reality television viewing but, not as leader of the free world. Really does anyone take this person seriously? JMHO

Next, I could not vote for Mrs. Bachman either.  Anyone who does not fully support human rights and the ability for citizens to fulfill their life by marrying whom they wish; it just not my choice either.  No full rights for our gay population means Mrs. Lady means you need to pray for my vote yet, that is not happening on my watch.  Her flubs in other subjects just makes my head turn; how in the hell did she get elected to Congress in the first place?  Again my opinion.....

Newt Gingrich,  I personally could not support this man after what he did to his former wives.  No Way No How! Secondly America, do you not remember he was basically tossed out as Speaker of the House for corruption; go look up his record.  Third, he is sorely out of touch with suggesting 'poor kids' need to work so, they will learn how to join the working poor masses and not use welfare. 

Here I also understand Mr. Gingrich has read 'The Working Poor:, chapter 4 The Dauting Workplace' by David K. Shipler.   I am tired of folks who have not lived on Ramen noodles tell our country; all that is wrong with the poor is a work ethic.  Really Mr. Gingrich; you need to go back to your ivory tower or live on less than 10K a year. Go ahead Mr. Gingrich, I double dog dare you to live a life in the margins without access to a viable job, health care, housing, and food.  Our American schools are in shocking disarray and you suggest to have children become janitors instead of actually teaching them their required education subjects. Again......JMO

I can not vote for Mr. Romney either.  Any man who changes his mind with the blowing of the media wind or audience he is addressing is not trust worthy.  I could not pull the lever for any one who has rested upon his laurels without actually busting his / her tocks for anyone other than themselves. 

Santorum was a Bush Lackey............nuff said.

Ron Paul, I am still researching his record.
Mr. Huntsman, I am still researching.

Rick Perry has screwed up Texas and used federal handouts to balance the budget while cutting programs for the poor and public education.

After paying attention to the media circus for the last year.  I am under the impression the GOP, the Koch brothers, Grover Norquist and corporations have designed this campaign mess on purpose.  My way of thinking is, US political system is hi-jacked to keep Mr. Obama in office because he can get nothing done.  Mr. Obama is left twisting in the wind while Republicans are running amok and killing the American economy by wiping out the middle class and sequestering the poor under more and more scrutiny.

What better way for the Republicans to get a smaller government and more control by passing more laws: to limit personal freedoms, social reforms (deep cuts), a less educated populace, making deals with banks and so on.  By keeping Mr. Obama in office, Republicans and the weathly get exactly what they want.  Don't let the 8.6% unemployment numbers confuse you because this is a shell game.

While the troops are drawn back stateside, government positions are cut -- just where are all those people going to be? 

Folks,  we really need to wake up here.  Americans, the 99% are using the teachings of Gene Sharp to get their voices herd.  If you have time go check out books by Mr. Sharp. 

So pissed off at our societal issues, I am going to find a book in which to escape for a few days.
/////Steps off egg crate/////

I Am A Reader So...

After reading some articles I wanted to pass on to all of my readers.  I am really incensed after watching the Republican debates.  Yes, I do watch them because I want to know who is being set up at the sacrificial lamb (figure head) to led the free world. 

Mind you, I am not happy with President Obama nor did I vote for him in 2008.  I feel he just gives too many concessions to our GOP leaders.  In this I believe he was being a patsy up until; he started signing Executive Orders to right some of America's economic ills.  Thank you Mr. Obama for finally finding your voice and standing up to the 'NO MORE TAX INCREASES,' edict issued by Grover Norquist and signed many 'elected Republican officials.'  

And before you all consider voting for a Republican or say Libertarian just go look in many sources until you are comfortable with your candidates voting stance -- that is all I am saying.

By the way Mr. Cain, we do not purchase any oil from IRAN for the record.  LOL I almost passed out over that gaffe.  Also, if our candidates applaude or sanction water boarding or other torture techniques then, they are saying they are okay with the torture of our military or civilian abductees.  Just saying be careful of whom you are voting for because when one finger points three are pointing back in return.

Why I can not vote for a Republican this go around:
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/how-the-gop-became-the-party-of-the-rich-20111109?link=mostpopular1

One of the many reasons I can not ever indorse Mr. Perry:
http://www.rollingstone.com/politics/news/rick-perry-the-best-little-whore-in-texas-20111026

The Libertarian Party website:
http://www.lp.org/

On the divide for those who serve in the military and going back to civilian.  It is not easy:
http://battleland.blogs.time.com/2011/11/10/an-army-apart-the-widening-military-civilian-gap/

The entire Republican debate on foreign policy; brace yourselves it's long.  The one of foreign policy usually seals my vote since, the LOCK BOX and condensending tone of Al Gore's .  I just imagine the TO BE President talking to a hostile foreign leader.  If I can't see a war started right there then maybe:
http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7388072n&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+CBSNewsVideo+(News+Video%3A+CBSNews.com)

My books for the last week:

THE HELP by Kathryn Stocket (excellent read)

NIGGER by Dick Gregory (Excellent read and will use this in our curriculum.)

A MIGHTY HEART by Mariane Pearl (Excellent read and I cried for Daniel Pearl's family again.)

WISHFUL DRINKING by Carrie Fisher (Love her sense of wry humor and outlook dealing with her upbringing.)

DISPATCHES FROM THE EDGE by Anderson Cooper (Well written, sometimes people shock me too and the absurdity of the human condition in given disasters.)

I leave y'all to a wonderful week in your slices of heaven.  We are so fortunate and are still acknowledging our blessings as a family. 

Stay informed,
Mal

Complete Debate coverage online videos:
http://www.2012presidentialelectionnews.com/2012-debate-schedule/2011-2012-primary-debate-schedule/

Cain's Creepy Oompa Loompa Vibe

Did any of ya'll watch the horror show of a press conference yesterday? First he allowed his slander lawyer talk for five minutes about the 'women' who were coming forward with claims of Herman Cain's sexual harassment. 

For me, if a President (to be, or wanna be) brings out a lawyer this in itself says he is not ready to be the leader of the free world.  From my own experience of working in the testosterone laden military machine; my Liar Liar Pants on Fire pinger went off when Mr. Cain kept referring to himself in the third person. 

Also, Mr Cain the symantecs of your speech slammed me back into the days of Bill Clinton's "I Did Not Have Sexual Relations With That Woman."


Now another thing that bothers the heck out of me and thanks to my husband for putting a finger on it.  Mr. Cain reminds me of a geriatic Dave Chappelle from this skit (click the word) on Comedy Central. Here I insert shudders because to believe he still has a following and support of the American voters makes me feel nauseous; have we really gotten so morally corrupt this strutting rooster will be allowed to still have a campaign?

One word --- "Deplorable."


For Mr. Cain, I leave you with these lyrics from Willy Wonka.


"Oompa Loompa Doompadee Dah
If you're not greedy you will go far
You will live in happiness too
Like the Oompa
Oompa Loompa doompadee do"

Said by Herman Cain, "If you don't have a job and you are not rich, BLAME YOURSELF."


Chicken Momma says, "If you don't have remorse, and don't get placed into the White House even though; you are rich, BLAME YOURSELF."
_______________________
On another note:

I hope all you have been doing well. I have lots to write about just finding the time has been an issue. I do hope all of you who passed here are spending time with your families. My heart and prayers go out to the family and friends of those who died this passed week: Mr. Andy Rooney, Mr. Joe Fraizer, and Heavy D. All three held special places from my youth and adulthood.
May ya'll go in peace,
Mal

Occupy Wall Street: My Thoughts

Okay probably the folks who read my posts know how I feel about the bias of the BIG FIVE media: Fox News, HLN, CNN, MSNBC, and ABC.  Depending on which pundit you happened to be watching for a glimmer of real news determines the slant of the owner of the corporation. 

What churns my butter and keeps me up at night is this:

We the psuedo middle class, working poor, and indigent have been set up to believe that one day if we bust our proverbial balls; we can become rich through education, 60 hr work weeks, and devotion to our corporate leaders.  This is just not true. 

While it is true -- a few folks find a path by Natural Selection in the modern age to become sucessful.  For the majority; our career paths are basic a system of lottery or chance.  It all boils down to luck, determination, good health, knowing the right persons, working for the decent boss, and prudent planning.  We as a whole are told to trust the markets and invest so; we can become wealthy upon retirement -- have you watched the markets?  This is just another way to bleed off hard earned wages from folks who are scrapping by --- take your monies and pay off your mortgages instead. Wall Street will not be there if the banks foreclose to find you another home.

Now the banks are another issue.  Did you know the Federal Reserve is not a government entity?  Nope, they are a firm of privately owned banks; who basically own America and many other countries.  These bankers decide the rate at which we can apply for credit and loans -- the pay back.  The Fed Reserve buys up banks; we owe the Federal Reserve our livelihood, our homes, cars, education, and a chance to play in the lottery of financial security.  There is no such thing anymore......

I support those folks who are voicing their angst through protesting and picketing.  While I could actually bitch slap both the reporter and twenty something female who said she would not take a job if a banker offered her one.  This type of reporting gives a horrible insight into what is actually happening.  People can not survive on the minimum wage (or 2+ jobs), part time jobs, pay student loans, mandated health care insurance, multiple taxes coming our way through the Cap & Trade, find a home, or buy groceries.  My family is at risk; part of the 99% club who are just one job loss away from losing what we have worked for since we were 16.  My husband and I have been raised to work since birth, and contribute to society, pay taxes, provide an education to our children, do charitable works, save for a rainy day, and live within our means. 

The sad thing is......this new American economy is built on a house of cards laid out by bankers.  Our financial system is made to glean as much from the working 99% with the promise of the LOTTERY of possible wealth.  Funny thing is, the lottery is a diversion and basic method of placating the masses by lulling us to believe a win will make us just like Warren Buffet (or nearly). 

This too is a myth just like the myth of the American middle class.

To find out more about the people who are supporting the Occupy Wall Street or to add your voice:

http://civic.moveon.org/occupy/?id=31750-19021638-L378Z6x&t=1
http://www.facebook.com/#!/event.php?eid=216232091773255

For more information check out Free Speech TV, Link, Current, Democracy Now.

Steps off the egg crate,
waits for rain,
enjoy your weekend.

Have You Ever Read The Preamble?

Let me refresh your memory.

"We the people of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union, establish justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defense, promote the general welfare, and secure the blessing of liberty to ourselves and our prosterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States."

This was an introductory phrase written to outline the Constitution's guiding principles. Just think of the Preamble as a 'The DUMMIES GUIDE: To The U.S. Constitution.'   Does the average American take these words to heart?  My wager is to that question is, 'No.' If one was to take the preamble and breaks it down into parts just what does it mean?  Well for me the following are my core principals as a human being, citizen, defender of freedom, and most importantly as a parent. 

"WE THE PEOPLE of the United States, in order to form a more perfect Union,"  We are to come together as a nation. To work together as one, to reach across the aisle and compromise for the common good of man.  Has anyone seen this lately?

"Establish Justice,"  We have built a system of local, state, and federal laws. However, Lady Justice has been hog-tied. Justice has become unbalanced to give those with monetary means the ability to by pass common sense and decency through loop holes.  We need to put her blinders back on and take lawyers' fingers off the scales.  (Sorry waxing poetic there.)

"Insure domestic tranquility," We could not have 50 unique states trading and using 50 monetary systems -- trade is crucial to a 'union.'  We had to come together to have a single focus for roads, laws, immigration standards, language, and lay the framework to keep peace. It also means we (individual states) have equal representation in Congress based not only upon state population -- the House of Representatives but; representation not based upon size -- the Senate.   This also includes the role of the Supreme Court to insure no laws are unjust under the Constitution.

"Provide for the common Defense,"  this is our five branches of military, national guard, para-military, and public education (police, fire, and to me education because an educated UNION is more apt to be secure.) We had to have a 'common defense' to secure our national borders.  We have to have a 'common defense' to fight diease.  We have to have a 'common defense' to assist citizens during natural or man-made disasters.  We have to have a 'common defense' because we are humans who need the security of knowing we (the U.S.) will be here (collectively) tomorrow. 

"Promote general welfare,"  Now many folks have issue with the term welfare but, the actual term was originally used as such.

World English Dictionary  welfare (ˈwɛlˌfɛə) — n, 1. health, happiness, prosperity, and well-being in general http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/welfare

Only later did this word come to mean government assistance.  The general welfare in my opinion can be simply summed up as:  "I am my brother's keeper."  I have the responsibility as a citizen to assist those who need a hand up.  I have no issue helping those out of work keep their homes, feed their family, educate their children, and have access to medical care through paying taxes or contributing to charity. Because until the last head in our country has a safe place to lay his/her head; we have failed to protect ourselves.

The final part is: "and secure the blessing of liberty to ourselves and our prosterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States."  This is me simply outlines national goals of being a union; free to speak, become educated, seek medical assistance, congregate, build homes, set aside for our future & our childrens' future, find redress of concerns, worship, live, work, dream, hope, move about the country; etc.  Our Constitution is what we make it. 

Without folks actually learning what is in the document; we can never be truly free.

Steps off soapbox, heads into the classroom...............

The Strange History of Don't Ask, Don't Tell (DADT)

This weekend Directv has a free promo weekend allowing us to view HBO programming.  I stumbled on a documentary called 'The Strange History of: Don't Ask, Don't Tell." This is a great documentary for outlining the historical policies / discussions behind the decision to allow 'gays' to serve in the military.

(Shakes head here --- because they have been and will always be a part of humanity and not just seeking admittance to a single group.) 

Now you are probably wondering why I am writing about this topic? Right.....

Simple, I served from March 1986 until April 2006 in the United States Air Force.  My first job was in the intelligence field.  We had to attain, maintain, and retain a top secret clearance to just be able to work.  No problem right for most service members however, there is a caveat for serving honestly (honor code) and keeping no secrets -- to inform on other service members of their unlawful behavior to include what was then thought to be sexual misconduct. 

My first room mate was a lesbian and when I moved into our then room; she informed me at great peril to her career.  Personally, I did not care about her personal behavior and did not see homosexuality as a problem.  One reason for my acceptance of her and to not inform my superiors was simple.  I knew of a couple of family members who were also lesbians (though closeted) and knew homosexuality did not keep them from living honorable lives.  They had families, jobs, hopes and dreams.  I decided to love my friend more than myself and honor her disclosure even though I could have lost my career by staying silent.

Later in 1993, when DADT was passed I never understood the big deal because American soliders for the most part had already been living with that standard.  What chapped my arse was the DISHONESTY of DADT; the military was advising its members to stay silent.  To me the double standard was humiliating and dishonorable because to lie by omission is still a lie.  Why did I not 'TELL' was quiet a simple rationalization in my thinking process and I used a 4 Star's quote to cement my silence in uniform.   

"Integrity is what you do when no on is looking,' RET Gen M. McPeak. 

I still choose to support the gay community to have the same laws to include marriage recognition as a man/woman has the right.  When 'we the government' deny one group its inalienable rights to pursue their lives in the manner of their choosing then; the next step of the community is to limit others. 

http://insidetv.ew.com/2011/09/17/dont-ask-dont-tell-hbo-doc-clip/

The marriage arugment is a kicker because it was once a form of property laws awarded to a man.  Marriage bound a woman to a man and all she brought with her into the marriage became the property of her husband.  And if one was to research even further to say 'rape,' this was also a property law because women either were the property of their fathers or husbands. Meaning if a woman was raped it was a crime committed against her father or her husband.  (sobering thought eh?)

Nowadays,  marriage definitions have changed THANK GOODNESS.  This is just my humble opinion; if a person wants to marry is it not my business to say if they are awarded that right as long as both parties are adults.  If a person is gay; it is not my business what life choices they make as long as he / she is an adult. 

ENOUGH SAID ALREADY!

Keep government out of our bedrooms, homes, and careers!

Have a great day in your slices of heaven.
Mal

So What Will Be the Next Bubble?

Our economy has seen the credit (banking) market basically dry up and the housing market is barely limping along.  Lately, I have been wondering what will be the next market to take a direct hit and in my opinion there are three for profit markets that are next to be hit:  Education, Food, and Fuel.  

In our family, we have felt the affects of going to college (trade school) and upon graduation with honors two of two have not been able to find jobs in their given fields for over 1 year.  In the mean time, both had to pay for their education by taking a job outside their ideal career path.  Given, eventually both found work to support their families. 

Yet, what each did not foresee was the need to keep educating themselves because in this day and age;

it is not only what you know today but, what you need to know tomorrow along with -- who you know right now to get a job. 

Today's college graduates are not really looking at the market to see which areas are really growing or need fresh graduates.  Nope, instead for profits schools are pimping pipe-dreams (gathering profits) say in Journalism, Business Administration, basket weaving instead of; equipping students with real knowledge about expanding markets for those with heavy backgrounds in: economics, financial, and engineering. 

Secondly, as America's manufacturing jobs moved overseas because of the high cost of US wage earners.  Big Corps did not foresee foreign markets not only killing the American work force but, concurrently losing their employees' innovation to improve their processes and technology.  Meaning, Big Corps shot themselves in the foot now that wages are rising 20 to 40% per year for a foreign work force. Big Corps did not count on the volatility of the foreign market place. (I guess they did not pay attention to what happened to American economy growth in the 50 and 60s?) 

So Big Corps are left with moving back to the US to keep themselves flush and their hold on innovation because the wages in America hold pretty darn steady.  The sad but true fact is Americans earn less now than say in the 90s.  Here is the final straw, as Big Corps move back manufacturing on American soil; will they find a work force that will be willing to kow tow and build widget even though the worker has a degree in say: Journalism, Business Admin, or basket weaving?  Just think of how much training those workers will need; who no longer have a background in assembly line work. It will be a sharp learning curve for both Big Corps and the American work force. 

Food prices are going to continue to soar as the effects of Mother Nature come into play with floods, droughts, fires, and other over the top events.  So what should we do?  We have agumented with small garden beds and stock piling non-perisishables (only when on sale and with coupon) to build up our larder. I am so against Monsanto and its GMO grains which requires the pesticide Round Up to grow.  Any time for pro-fit starts messing with DNA and Bio-Diversity to wage war on small farmers; those who will be buying the end product so take heed.  Because not only are products on the market today; the consumer may be eating food that is not truly a food as nature intended.  Just saying.........

Fuel, If you have been following the news around the world then you should be noticing a pattern.  This is one of the last areas the "Haves" (big oil companies) are digging in deep.  Yes there is a lot of growth in Texas right now for building pipelines and fracking for natural gas, oil, and coal seam gas. What surprises me is folks who have gotten paid by these companies have no compunction for their neighbors or even their property's future --- folks are just so desparate to get paid they are basically signing away their birth rights.  What chaps my hide is:  we have only 5 acres so if neurotic neighbor man next door decides to lease to an Oil Company near our property line?  Well he can and there is nothing we can do about ground water contamination, chemical accumulation, or the noise. 

So get this America ---

not only do you work for THE MAN for lower wages, you buy His Cars on loan, use and over spend on His credit cards & bank loans, eat His genectically engineered grain, accquire mercer or give birth in for-profit hospitals, burn His fuel to get to work/live but, you also live in the houses He owns.  Now given my cynicism -- just push my horrible outlook over to the side; what are we going to do as the serfs around this horrible kingdom of Oz?

PS.  I am also sick of the American Media. LOL go figure.

PPS.  You can lead a horse to water but, you can not make him think. 

Steve Israel DCCC Chairman Had No Reply

Yesterday, I recieved this email solictation from the DCCC asking for a donation to help re-elect President Obama.

"From: "Rep. Steve Israel, DCCC Chairman"

To: Malissa T saenznzephyr@xxx.xxx
Sent: Tuesday, August 9, 2011 11:19 AM


Subject: Tea Party Downgrade

Malissa --

When the Tea Party tells House Republicans to jump — the only question House Republicans ask is “How high?”

First, Speaker Boehner, Majority Leader Cantor, and the rest of the House GOP allowed the Tea Party to bring us to the brink of a catastrophic default. Now those very same extremists are trying to pin the blame on President Obama for our nation’s first ever credit downgrade.


We can’t let them get away it.


We just launched our “Accountability August” campaign to hold Republicans accountable for their extreme agenda while they are home in their districts. We’re putting Republicans on the defensive across the country but we must raise an additional $100,000 to fully fund our Rapid Response operation for next week.


Please contribute $20 or more to our Rapid Response Fund right now, and help us reach our $100,000 goal by tomorrow night.


It’s critical we stand strong and united against Republicans’ all-out assault on Democrats and President Obama.

Your dollars will be put to work immediately to hold them accountable. Our August Accountability campaign includes radio ads, billboards, phone banks, door-to-door canvasses, and grassroots organizing in key Republican districts across the country.

Stand with President Obama, and help us fight back and hold Republicans accountable while they’re home in their districts by contributing $20 or more today.


Rep. Steve Israel
DCCC Chairman"

------

My Reply back to Mr. Israel surprisingly I have gotten no response in return. (sarcastic hope here)

"Sorry, we no longer have any discretionary funds to support either party. Since we are a family that depends on a military retirement check (mine, 20 yr AF, SAHM homeschooling mother) and husband's a current government employee (who may be terminated) to live and pay our bills. Personally sick of both parties and not one person to include President Obama who will share in the blame though this fiscal mess has been happening for over 30 years. So good luck in raising monies from people who are living on rice and beans, white bread bologna sandwiches, and iced tea instead of 30K+ plates for a birthday dinner.


Respectfully,
Sorely-Pissed Off Voter
M Torres"
 
-----
 
The sad thing is;
 
I know no one in my community that is any better off by electing our government officials in 2008 and 2010.
 
Not one of our leaders has inspired HOPE or CHANGE other than the need to go without and the constant threat of economic ruin. 
 
Washington leaders do not care about the people they represent anymore because frankly they don't have to -- since folks continue to vote them into office. 
 
I have a hard time believing in a system that gerry-manders to keep seats, ear-marks funding for their districts, accepts special interest funding, wants to get rid of labor unions, says 'we will read the bill after it's law and then gets an exemption (Obama-care) for their state,' and threatens to not pay for "ENTITLEMENTS" that have been rightly earned by serving our country, paying into medicare and social security for decades. 
 
Somethings I would like to see though:
 
Popular vote of US citizens on Congressional Pay, Benefits, Vacation Time, and Health Care tied to their job performance based annually.  I don't believe they should automatically earn those hefty salaries.
 
Recall rights for all  Senators and Representatives.
 
A balanced budget agreement.
 
No funding for re-election by special interest groups or  corporations.
 
Term limits on: congressional leaders, welfare and other social programs, drug testing for all of the above.
 
Jail time for congressional leaders who do not honor their oath of office much like the UCMJ.
 
Then again I am just a middle-aged mother who has two sons to raise and educate in this lopsided country.  I am fearful for their future and the future of our three older children who are struggling to make ends meet.  I am worried for my husband's career and lack of job availability if he gets laid off from a government workforce he has faithfully served the US for 22 years.
 
I see so much disparity in this country and want to know just what the working poor is supposed to do to survive?  I don't even have to leave my house just look across our property line to our neighbors plight and struggle.  No one is safe from the bread line and lack of basic human needs are no longer attainable for many.
 
So what do ya'll think?

Do Ya'll Talk To Your Children

About politics, politicians, economy, and national issues affecting your family? With the start of the new school year upon us; I have been explaining the three branches of the national government to our boys.  It is a very hard thing to explain to a child why Mommie and Daddy are really paying attention to the new hot topic about the economy, national budget, and unprofessional antics of our elected leaders.

I firmly remember growing up in Southern California during the national gas crisis.  I remember when K-Mart, Wal-mart, and Target was a dirty word and only those preceived to be poor  had to shop there.  I rightly remember grocery shopping with my single-parent mom; who could not fill her cart with anything other than: rice, beans, sugar, flour, pasta, Koolaide, white bread, hamburger meat, bologna, and no fresh produce other than bananas. 

I firmly believe as a parent the reason we as a country have gotten into the economic mess we are facing now is our leaders are still using a credit card to pay another bill.  Our economy while complex is quite simple; the United States has a spending problem. 

So this week, I have been having firm discussions with our boys about the necessity of living well within our means.  However, it will be a tough go for us because we really do not spend on frivalous things like: prepared foods, eating out, entertainment, vacations, clothing, games, or other luxury items.  We also depend on our government to honor my military retirement and healthcare.  My husband is a government employee facing the possibility of being cut from his job.  The rest of this year we as a family will be looking for more ways to stretch our already limited budget. 

I am going to have a hard time though explaining why Mr. Obama just held a birthday dinner in which the plates cost 35.8K when our family's meal was rice, carne guisada, and beans for less than $3 for the entire meal..... Just saying

Playing Chicken....No I Don't Mean The Useful Kind

I am personally sick of our elected leaders playing chicken.  I wrote the following and put it into draft around 2 months ago:

"Balance our national budget?  Seems like our Legislative and Executive Branch are just postering over who's ideals will get met in order, to raise the debt ceiling.

 I am wondering what would the everyday American would do?

 Mind you 'certain' promises have been made like  Social Security, Medicare, Medi-aid, Military Retirements, Veterans Affairs and a plethora of other programs so, those will have to be dealt with first. Mind you working class Americans have paid into social security for decades only to be threatened with it becoming unfunded. Social Security funds has been used for other programs by Presidents nearly since inception for programs like war or military interventions etc.  


I am more than willing to give more for our health insurance and forego Cost Of Living Allowances (COLA) for my monthly retirement checks because we need to raise monies to refill our national coffers.   However, our play-acting legislators will keep our mothers and fathers from possibly getting paid their 'fixed income retirement'  by not taking care of business.  Since, the House seen a gain tilted to the Republican side; the American budget has been in peril because not one budget has been passed on time. 


Think about that; what would happen to your household if you chose to ignore meeting your financial obligations for over 2 years?


What the common American may not be aware of;


If America defaults this could set the scene for the world not using the DOLLAR as the world currency.  Does that cause anyone passing here concern?  It should because once a new World Currency replaces the US dollar; America will find many things will raise in cost like: fuel, food, electricity, interest rate increases and so on.  For example: have you ever wondered why the cost of a barrel oil is reported in dollars? Because all countries but, the United States have to first convert their currency into dollars before purchasing oil for themselves. 


However, if our government cancels or defaults this will effect nearly all aspects of the US marketplace because the US dollar will lose even more of it's value. 


What stokes my internal fires is knowing all this posturing is for naught; meaning the debt ceiling will have to be raised.  As it stands, China owns approximately 10% of our national debt.  Can you imagine what would happen if we do not repay what we owe?  Like Greece, will we have to lease out our national treasures or simply list them on eBay?


Since, Mr. Obama has taken office the debt has risen from 10.6 to 14.5 trillion dollars; I firmly believe this has not all be due to enacting the Healthcare but, finally proper accounting for wars on three fronts are being actually accounted for in the public arena.  That should not surprise anyone because we as a country are embedded either on actual foreign soil or using technology to 'attack' other nations under guise of protecting us from terrorism -- think drone attacks here. 


What chaps my hide is; America used to be the most stable economy in the world.  We were the free-thinkers, innovators, scholars, and favored the pursuit of life, liberty, and freedom.  Now, sadly I am believing we are becoming sheeple too busy with our heads down to not hold some fire to the azzez of those we appointed to lead.  Your thoughts????, (written May 12th saved into drafts.)

-------------------------
All I know is; if I had not have completed my duty.  I could have been brought up on charges of dereliction, been demoted, charged a fine, separated and/or sent to military jail.  Where is the justice for the American Public?

Update on family issues:

Hubby has been home since Tuesday with pnuemonia -- I hate it when my menfolk are ill.  I need to have corrective surgery on my lasik'ed eyes since, I can not see properly for typing, blogging, teaching, and just plain reading has been a chore.  I personally called for a break in our school days so; I would not have to do much reading.  Just don't tell my boys they think they are on summer vacation.

Banjo went back to the vet and will have to keep his stitches, drains, and cone of shame for another week.  Poor little guy; just don't feel sorry for him.  He spends his days with me and has taken up the habit of trying even to go to the restroom with me.  I am so not liking that neediness at all.

 Here he is with Saenz trying out some ear phones.  Banjo likes Nickelback.

 What a cutie even with the 'cone of shame', eh?

For the love of my sanity please send some rain.

PS: Forgive any typos, or grammactical errors. Hee Hee!

Congressional Jackazzez Do It Again

My Gracious! Is anyone watching the store while the thieves are allowed to plunder our nation's monetary coffers?

I am in firm belief that we need to just remove all our congressional leaders from office. Those people are just so out of touch with reality it is ri-damn-diculous. 

"According to the Sunlight Foundation, a watchdog group that pores over congressional expense data, top salaries go to chiefs of staff, who earn around $120,000 a year. But farther down the pay scale, the group says the average salary for a communications director is about $58,000; schedulers average about $41,000 and staff assistants bring in about $30,000 a year."

http://www.cnn.com/2011/POLITICS/06/27/congressional.bonuses/index.html

Now my rant as follows:

These folks are on salary; meaning they are there to work either 10 or 100 hrs kinda like our military men or women.  If these folks are not making enough money shouldn't they either look for another job just like the rest of Americans or their bosses raise their annual salaries to match or near match competitors?  HELL last time I worked 12 hours on and 12 hours off for months on end; I did not get a nice bonus tucked into my paycheck.  As a matter of freaking fact; paychecks would have been delayed for military men and women because our politicians can not pass an annual budget on time. 

Another cause for concern.  Military retirement benefits are on the chopping board again as well as health care premiums for retirees.  I guess it is easy to cut from the life blood of our military working man/woman instead of cutting the fat from legislative arses first.  I am sure without some Senators or Representatives  running around pandering to big business; our American way of life would be in jepardy right?

Think of this ya'll; those Navy Seals who went and hunted down Bin Laden in a foreign country make approximately 60K annually if they are E6s with about 8-15 years of active duty.  Our leaders earn three times as much in annual pay not including benefits; and here is the kicker.  Those Seals will be denied access to care if they retire in 10 or 15 years (only to get 40% of their base pay as a retirement plan at age 57) if Congress gets their way.  Because our Congressional leaders are so busy scratching their own behinds; they fail to realize our men and women give their bodies and souls to serve. 

Then again, I wager to think our legislative branch feels they're in harm's way since they have to deal with occassional paper cut or overtime.  GEESH Give me a break!  Hell, I am willing to do any of their job for half of their salary.  Seriously, doesn't 80K a year sound really good to you.  I would not even ask for any of those perks either.

Grrrrrrrrr, so sick of the bull crap!
Steps off milk crate hands back the microphone.

My Thoughts On Bin Laden

Personally, I do understand the party atmosphere that the news of Bin Laden's death has caused.  On the other hand, I sit and think about how he was able to escape from the United States.  He had not only his own inherited monies, US education, and a thorough grasp of westernized living/ways of thinking but, the financial, spiritual, and physical protection of many others who would do harm to America.   Yes, he had friends, family, and other idealists that kept him hidden for the last twenty years to include those in governments, military, and other far reaching people of power.  Now that one shoe has fallen; will America go back to sleeping after the party instead of seeing their last unwanted guests (Corruption, Avarice, and Indifference) out for the night?

Bin Laden had his hands bloodied with not only thousands of Americans deaths but, also of tens thousands of others to include Muslims world wide. Corruption, avarice and indifference is what brought the terriorists to our shores in the first place.  Today, I am not celebrating his death but, will again start watching what our government does while most are not paying attention.  The question is; will you continue to slap ourselves on the back or will you stand watch for the other shoe to drop?

Continuing Resolution? Just Shakes Head

Okay all -- year  -- month and especially this week; I have been keeping an eye on the congressional budget fight over 'riders' -basically add ons to fund things like Planned Parenthood / NPR / EPA monitoring etc. etc. etc..... All the while, ignoring the fact the US Government was essentially not funded properly.  Though congressional leaders did pass 'Stop Gaps' measures to limp along and wage war on three fronts, government funding, and pet projects that should be privatized; up and running.

Mind you;  Gentle Readers this budget  was for Fiscal Year 2011 which actually began on 1 Oct 2010.

Seems our congressional leaders did not want to make decisions in 2010 since, the Republicans were poised to take over the House and maybe the Senate during the mid-term elections in which Republicans did take the House.  Sadly, we pay 435 representatives and 100 senators approximately 14.5K monthly (7.75 million) to do their jobs and yet; we still have no budget.

Get this ---- Fiscal Year 2012 budget should already be on the table for debate.  So while this event will again be in the news all week just remember: Men and Women who are in uniform will again see only a partial payment if this mess does not get worked out by Friday. 

If the budget is not layed in; our military will still get up and wear the uniform, possibly be killed in action while their loved ones wait for a pay check or back pay.  I know from personal experience as a young enlisted -- single / without children; I had barely two nickels to rub together even before I became a married Airman let alone a six month savings built up.  When I saw the one congressional woman on the news complaining she lived pay day to pay day and needed her congressional pay check to survive on 14.5K monthly.  I wanted to climb through the screen........

If you want to know what your military members are being paid for basic pay; remember the bulk of the military are young soliders, marines, airmen, sailors who have been in less than 1 enlistment just look at the pay scale for an E1 through E5.  Then you tell me if we need to pay a congressional member as much as we do?????

http://www.militaryfactory.com/military_pay_scale.asp

I am giving our Congress and President
a personal 'Continuing Resolution,'
 I am voting all of you out in 2012 / 2014 / 2016
We need a clean slate
Still disgusted but carrying on.....

I Wish They Would Flipping Make Up Their Minds

Okay Ladies and Gents,

This post is a rant so if you can't handle the heat time to push away from your computer screen. 

As you know Congress is considering allowing for a government shut down.  This means employees would go into a furlough (not be able to go to work) but, would still be employees with no affect to their status or benefits.

However, a two week furlough actually means 1000s of workers (millions of mouths will go without money for basic necessities of which my hubby is one) --  would go without a paycheck for over a month.  Mind you, we the American taxpayer pays for Congress to be in their seats to work out this issue in a timely manner.

REALLY???? I MEAN REALLY?

Consider, this budget arguement has been going on for well over a flea flicking year.  With just limp along amendments to keep the government moving along until our Congress decides to get off their collective Arses and get to work really building a compromise.  Now what will happen if a shut down does go into effect. 

Our military will continue to show up and aptly do their given jobs.  Until they basically run out of bullets, pens, and paper etc. etc. etc and then start charging.  Civilians employees have been hard at work determining which workers are considered emergency essential to keep basic operations up and running say like Command and Control centers, transportation, hospitals, comm, and so on.  If we run out of bandaids --- government credit card holders simply go out and charge for them. (and many other supplies until maxed out) 

Now when this furlough happened back in 95 / 96, I was in uniform.  I showed up for work and my civilian counter parts did not.  I got to not only do my job (as did other military personnel) but, I picked up the work of those who were not allowed to come in.  Then later, when the budget was passed, all went back to normal and those employees were given back pay. 

YEPPERS for the job they were not allowed to come do but, in essence I and many others did for them.

Yes I am pissed!  As I have been keeping check on what is happening on both the House and Senate floors; I see this headline today:

"Obama announces reelection bid 04/04/11 President will begin to raise money for 2012 campaign next week."

Really? 

Mr. Obama,

I have kept quiet for a long time watching the kind of job you have been doing for the last three years.  Sadly Sir, I am not impressed with your leadership.  As the leader of the free world, you have not inspired those of us in the ranks to want to rise up, exceed excellence, do their given jobs, and take over the lead.  Could you please just have our elected officials get off their arses and stop grand-standing over nit noy pieces of legislation in order, to get themselves re-elected? 

While, my family will be able to weather a two week layoff; not many in our (US) economy can not do so.  And for the love of GOD and our country please post the 'real' numbers of unemployment some where.  You know those folks who have been out of work so long; they no longer show up on the COOKED BOOKS of the government keeps releasing.  I have yet to see; the 'transparency' you promised. 

I implore each congressional member to include supreme court justices and POTUS give up their paychecks for double the amount of time civilian are furloughed but, still report to work.  See how it really affects you after awhile.

OH Wait! it will not have that big of an affect on your check books because; you earn 3 to 10 times the amount say that my husband earns and your healthcare, lodging, transportation is paid for by the American people. 

So those who are continuing to read this post.  Say a pray for the many who may be facing this impending event if our elected leaders don't sit down and work on our budget. Personally, I am going to vote each of the people out and seriously pray for a better system of checks and balances.

http://www.govexec.com/

Sorely Pissed Off,
Mal

A Soul Generated By Love

This day to me is special because I reflect on my own behaviors I project onto my children.  Each day am I making a conscience effort not to be ruled by the human flaw of racism?  Am I a prejudiced person? I would like to believe I am not but, I must be.  I am a flawed human and must work daily to over come the ideal that I am superior to anyone. 


 One of my favorite quotes by Dr. Martin Luther King Jr is,

"Everybody can be great... because anybody can serve. You don't have to have a college degree to serve. You don't have to make your subject and verb agree to serve. You only need a heart full of grace. A soul generated by love."

So I ask myself today, have I the 'served' the world by teaching our sons to accept and love others?   I would like to believe I have and will one day see if our actions as parents will bring forth Men who, also will serve humanity for a greater good.

Another favorite quote from Dr. King is,

"We will have to repent in this generation not merely for the hateful words and actions of the bad people but for the appalling silence of the good people." - Martin Luther King, Jr., "Letter from Birmingham Jail"

 
I ask myself -- have I always been on my best behavior or have I allowed things to go by with silence?  I firmly believe humans who are stronger should always assist those who are unable to help themselves through adversity, hardship, and or an unjust battle.

And while I love my sons with all my heart; I pray we have raised good servants.  I hope we have taught them to love others just as we do.  I look forward to seeing them move about the world as men of character who, are willing to risk their comfort for their fellow man.  I leave you with this last quote.

"If a man hasn't discovered something he will die for, he isn't fit to live." - Martin Luther King, Jr

Been Thinking

Just the other day,  I found myself weeping after seeing the coffin of Little Miss Green being loaded for burial.  It was such a sad thing to witness; a small coffin being lifted into the herse.  I had never met the slain child who was an innocent bystander in the Arizona shooting that targeted Rep Gabby Giffords but, I cried at the loss.  Just the sight alone moved me emotionally because I am a mother.  I felt such loss for her parents.  I also must add that I watched the memorial service at the Arizona University in which President Obama delivered a beautiful eulogy on behalf of those who died with mention to those folks who put themselves in harm's way.

Now you are probably wondering why I am writing; well this is about personal responsibility.  I have been thinking if we all took on some personal responsibility and apologize more perhaps we can help others; especially those in dire need of assistance.  Yes, there will always be the rogue person who takes on violent acts to get a reaction which catapults them into the media spotlight. 

I will give you an example that just really pissed me off to no end which happened at the local court house when trying to register my Volvo. (Yeppers it is still not accomplished.)

My husband and I purchased the car on the 29th of December and had to wait until the following Monday to take the paperwork to the court house due to the holidays.  No problem we had his vehicle, so on the 3rd we went and was told that we didn't have the correct forms and the Affadavit of Repair had to be notarized.  Okay, so that meant a trip back to San Antonio on the 8th since, I could not drive the car on the road legally yet and had to wait until hubby had a day  off.  We did make the trip and got the Affadivit of Repair signed and notarized.  Well, this week I waited until I was not dragging the boys out of the house into inclement weather since, they -- we were just getting over the ICK.  So yesterday, I went to the court house with my paperwork and the notarized form.  Paid the taxes, got the plate and the registration sticker and took the boys to lunch.

No sooner than I got back home; I received a phone call saying I had given the Court House the wrong Affadvit notarized, the state inspection form had the wrong date and VIN on it.  What the Hay?  Those forms were the ones the Court House staff had checked not only just that morning but also on the 3rd.  OH and now I had to pick up the paperwork before they closed for the day.  WHAT???? No apologies No, I am sorry for making a mistake from the staff.  Off I packed up Zephyr, Saenz had taken some cold medicines and was already taking a nap. 

Get this, not only did they keep the Salvage TITLE, The Bill of Sale, The Incorrect State Inspection Paperwork, My Insurance Card; THE CHICK there told me I needed to Listen to HER tell me How I had made the mistake in front of other Customers. LOL  (OKAY this is where I was like thinking of the trajedy in Arizona.) No Wonder Folks who are not well grounded wind up resorting to violence. I also entertained in my head, snatching that smug, little ole, state government employee, lady's wig off and unfurling it around the court house but, I refrained and left quietly. 

In this case, perhaps if those 'official employees' had taken on some responsibility for making a mistake and said "I am sorry to put you through this again."  Then I would not have felt so angry?  But NO, in today's society no one apologizes or takes responsibilities for their actions.  Even the words that are written by others are said to carry no weight or the owner only takes the 'positive actions' for their written words.  I am here to tell all who care to read. 

WORDS ARE  THE RESPONSIBLITY of those who speak or write them, writers are responsible for their incendiary words, and perhaps we all should be looking for ways to help others who are still hurting or are angry.

If any of you who read this are upset. I apologize for my intent is to start discussions, exhange ideas, or similiar experiences.  For on Tuesday, I will still go back to the courthouse and know; I did the best job I could while trying to follow government instructions.