DEBATE SCHEDULE

Whoever prepared this, I'm grateful!

Global Views - a new forum for internationals

Sharing this online global forum with Lucy Lefters.  The recommendation comes from my friend Lyn, whose judgment and sensibilities I deeply trust:  

My friend Michael Sharnoff, PhD in Middle Eastern Studies, has created a very interesting online global forum, "GLOBAL VIEWS", that is well worth taking a look at, and I hope you will like it enough to subscribe and/or "like" it on Facebook. There has not really been a site quite like this available until now.

The first articles that I've read have been very intriguing. Global Views launched in September 2012 to serve as a unique open forum specifically for internationals to communicate and convey their views to Americans about politics, economics, technology, environment and other relevant issues. Global Views is non-partisan and does not endorse any contributor. Global Views' policy is that comments will not be censored or deleted unless they have content that promotes hatred or violence, uses profanity, contains personal attacks, or contains spam. Articles may be reproduced or electronically distributed as long as full citation including the the link to Global Views is provided.
I am attaching a link below, I hope you'll check it out!

 

http://www.global-views.org/promoting-moderation-and-balance/

Promoting Moderation and Balance

www.global-views.org

A Rational Republican's Take on Ryan Econmics

from Facebook/I love it when I wake up in the morning and Barack Obama is president.

VOTE FOR DEMS ASAP

(from the Pragmatic Progressive's Facebook page.  Thanks!)

African-Americans Aren't Single-Issue Voters

Letter to the editor appearing in today's State newspaper, Columbia, SC. 

http://www.thestate.com/2012/09/28/2459184/african-americans-arent-single.html

 

The State recently carried a story on black clergy and Christians “wavering” over whether to stay home on Election Day because of President Barack Obama’s stance on same-sex marriage and candidate Mitt Romney’s Mormon religion (“African-American Christians waver over presidential vote,” Sept. 17).
 

As a pastor and a participant in intra-denominational, ecumenical and interfaith circles, I haven’t detected a lot of African-American enthusiasm for candidate Romney, but that seems to be a result of his politics. I’ve worked with Mormons in interfaith circles, appreciate diversity in faith and don’t see Romney’s faith as an issue. The Mormons have a dubious history on matters of race, but the same is true of many Protestant denominations.
 

I haven’t detected any great African-American Christian reluctance to vote for President Obama, because most black voters heard him speaking not as Rev. Obama, but as President Obama. He’s the chief executive not of a theocracy but of a representative democracy, who must safeguard the rights of those of varying faiths and those who embrace no faith. Most African-American Christians I’ve spoken with understand that he was not dictating to the church but advocating what he sees as a civil right.

 African-Americans are not single-issue voters and usually vote for candidates whose overall positions best reflect their own. Most black voters are conservative on morality but progressive on equity and fairness. We generally take a dim view of those who express outrage about who loves whom and the rights of the unborn while promoting political division based on race and class and taking a mean and punitive attitude toward those struggling in humble and impoverished circumstances.
 

Most African-Americans are also leery of unfamiliar black spokespersons who materialize out of nowhere to proclaim what black people are thinking and of “leaders” whose words don’t reflect their positions. I found it curious that the “black clergy leaders” outraged by the president’s same-sex marriage stance haven’t expressed equal outrage about prejudicial voter photo ID laws, law enforcement racial profiling and inequity in public education.
 

No black clergy I know plan to “go fishing” on Election Day, as does the clergy person quoted in the article. Too many people sacrificed, suffered and died for the right to vote for any citizen to sit on the sidelines and cheapen a sacred right.
 

Rev. Joseph A. Darby
Senior Pastor, Morris Brown African
Methodist Episcopal Church
Charleston

Journalistic Integrity?

Editorial Page Editors: WSJ Lack Of Romney Advisers Disclosure "Inexcusable" And "Shameless" 

The Wall Street Journal's failure to disclose that 10 of its op-ed writers are Mitt Romney advisers has drawn criticism from veteran editorial page editors at some of the nation's top newspapers.

In a total of 23 pieces, the op-ed writers attacked President Obama or praised Romney without the paper acknowledging their Romney connections. 

Media Matters reached out to several veteran opinion editors who either criticized the Journal directly or noted that their papers handle such disclosures more openly.

To read more at Media Matters:

http://mediamatters.org/blog/2012/09/27/editorial-page-editors-wsj-lack-of-romney-advis/190152 

 

 

Time to DO Something!

I'm about to write letters to editors in the swing states—letters for our President and Dems in key Congressional races like MA, VA, MO, WI and OH (Sen. Sherrod Brown). 

 

We're nearing the end of this long slog.  Early voting has begun in a number of states!   Time to get it in gear for positive outcomes November 6, right?   Let's make a pact to do at least one thing a day to offset the voter suppression, Super Pac cash, and the hateful lies appearing in swing-state mailboxes, courtesy of the Romney campaign or Romney supporters.  Provided the nasty accusations don't stick and voter turnout goes against Republican hopes, Obama will prevail. In that happy scenario we'll have a good laugh and continue celebrating November 7.  (The hate and lies will simply turn into gifts for comedians:  The President with a bone in his nose, ha ha!  President Obama driving a train dressed like a Communist dictator, LOL. )   But the combination of the accelerating hate, the blatant racism, the Super Pac money and the voter suppression will impact the current favorable polls.  It's far from a "win" at this point.  So, if you live in a hopelessly red state, consider volunteering in the nearest swing state for a few days or longer if you're free to do that.  Campaigns often are able to provide housing.    Call or e-mail friends in states that have the greatest electoral impact.  By now we can talk easily about the President's accomplishments and how screwed we'll be if Romney wins:  The environment, the economy, health care, women's health and reproductive choices, national security, Wall Street, student loans . . . .

 

Choose to volunteer.  Canvass or phone bank.   Work at the polls on election day.  Help get out the vote.   Give rides to the polls.  Help someone get an absentee ballot this week.   Urge like-minded friends to vote early wherever that's happening.  Call Democratic headquarters or Obama headquarters to learn how you can help.  Or you could sign up with MoveOn to make phone calls from home.  There are many available volunteer jobs.  (This is beginning to sound familiar.  I must have posted similar suggestions earlier.)  So, I'll stop writing here and get going on those letters to editors.  

 

 I'm glad we're all in this together.   I'm comforted by that.

 

 

 

Love My First Lady!

(Thanks, Curtis Hewston via The Pragmatic Progressive's Facebook Page)

Our President at the UN

Here's a link to President Obama's words today at the UN General Assembly.  Memorable and inspiring words on religious tolerance.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/2012/09/25/remarks-president-un-general-assembly

Essay on Encouraging Students to Vote

An excellent essay from Inside Higher Ed is one not only for college administrators but for activists who want to see a high voter turnout November 6.  Understanding that every vote CAN make a difference is critical to motivating every voter,  especially those affected by the  unconscionable "voter ID" laws—a solution looking for a problem.  Those most affected by these laws (intended to disenfranchise massive numbers of voters who traditionally vote for Democrats) are the elderly, minorities and students.  

Let's encourage students we know to get the ID they need (school ID must have an expiration date in some places) and to get absentee ballots if they aren't able to get to their home precincts to cast their critical vote.  Let's tell them their vote DOES matter.  Considering reading this essay and identifying some times in history when a small number of votes have made the difference.   This comprehensive piece is a great starting place for any activist working to turn out the vote—and for anyone who needs to be inspired toward that goal! 

 

http://www.insidehighered.com/views/2012/09/25/essay-role-colleges-encouraging-students-vote

Are We Better Off Today?

 

Better off in ohhhh so many ways.  Instead of disappearing, the auto industry and the many related industries are thriving; the war in Iraq has ended; we now have equal pay for equal work, at long last; people can serve in our military and openly love who they love at the same time; thousands more Americans have health care coverage and insurance companies can't stop paying benefits just because treatment gets more expensive than they like and pre-existing conditions are now covered.  Young people can stay on their parents' policies until age 26.  And as this front page from 2008 reminds us, the Obama administration kept us from going into a full-fledged Depression.  Private-sector jobs have been added every month since President Obama took office (huge numbers of jobs were being lost monthly prior to 2008.  The economy is turning around, all indications are showing.  As you've probably heard:  It takes longer to turn around a huge ship of state than to turn around a canoe.  We're getting this, and we're all in this together.  VOTE on November 6 or earlier if possible.  Please!

A Teacher's Experience With Governor Romney

Education is a critical subject—and it's usually overshadowed by foreign policy and economic issues in this campaign.  Education is in the spotlight this week at NBC.  "Education Nation" they're calling it.

 

 Early this morning a short educational video came to my attention.  It offers a glimpse of the Presidential candidate through the eyes of a Colorado school teacher who spent time with him on the campaign trail.  

 

For me, it was further confirmation that Governor Romney prefers being in charge to being informed.  I've heard him characterized as "clumsy" and "awkward" in his interactions with middle-class folks; this teacher speaks volumes to me about a man steeped in arrogance and a need for control that overrides the Golden Rule.  He displays bad manners that most mothers would feel compelled to correct.   Here's the link.

http://www.dailykos.com/story/2012/09/22/1135384/-Romney-to-teacher-I-didn-t-ask-you-a-question

Reflections on "Holding Paradox"

Although I've never met Parker Palmer in person,  he's a human being I admire.  I respect the straightforward clarity of his insights and his obvious desire to make the world a more harmonious place.   The author of Healing the Heart of Democracy (and eight other books) posted this essay today.  You can visit him at Parker J. Palmer on Facebook; after reading this, you're likely to go there and "like" his page.

REFLECTIONS ON "HOLDING PARADOX"

If I didn't have the idea of "holding paradox" to help me understand myself and the world around me, I'd be more lost than I am! For me, holding paradox means thinking about some (but not all) things as "both-ands" instead of "either-ors."

So many of our troubles, personal AND political, come from either-or thinking. For example, when I'm talking with a person who holds religious or political beliefs that differ from my own, either-or thinking can create a combative situation: "I'm right, so he/she is wrong. Therefore, my job is to win this argument by any means possible." How rarely such encounters bear fruit!

But both-and thinking can lead to something much more creative: "Maybe I don't have everything right, and maybe he/she doesn't have everything wrong. Maybe both of us see PART of the truth. If I speak and listen in that spirit, we both might learn something that will expand our understanding. We might even be able to keep this relationship and conversation going."

Think of how much more civil and creative our conversations across lines of difference would be if we thought that way more often! We'd be working to create a container to hold our differences hospitably instead of trying to win an argument.

Of course, like everything human, this issue begins inside of us, in how we hold our own internal paradoxes. If we can't hold our inner complexities as both-and instead of either-or, we can't possibly extend that kind of hospitality to another person.

Here's an ancient truth about being human: we cannot give gifts to others that we are unable to give to ourselves! That's why "inner work" done well is never selfish. Ultimately, it will benefit other people.

"The Angels and the Furies," by May Sarton, challenges us to do some of the inner work that can help us hold the tensions of personal and political life more creatively. As I struggle with "the angels and the furies" within me, I often re-read this poem to get re-grounded.

The struggle is not easy. But I always find myself comforted by what Sarton has to say in the third and fourth stanzas about what it means to be human. I hope you'll find it as meaningful as I do...

Sunday Sermon

It's Sunday morning.  In churches throughout the USA messages from the pulpit are likely to include compassion for fellow humans, especially the less fortunate among us.  Congregants will listen in silent reverence.  When the benediction's done, some parishioners will gather in the parking lot, talking about "welfare cheats" or "the gays" and "what a shame our country can't get back to the way it was."  And they probably won't notice the irony.

 

The very short "sermon" resonating with me today is from Willie Nelson, who incidentally, is about to do yet another Farm Aid concert.  He practices what he preaches; no doubt he'd be stunned at being referred to as a "preacher. "

                                                       (Image from Teabonics/Facebook)

On November 6 I'm voting for public servants who feel that way and live it—Obama-Biden and Dems down the ticket!  Can I get an Amen?

A Must-Read from Ezra Klein

Ezra Klein's post on "Wonkblog" at The Washington Post today is a must-read.  Here Mr. Klein says what I attempted to express about Mr. Romney saying, "I didn't inherit anything."  And Klein gives it to us in lean, straightforward prose. Beautifully presented.   He delves into privilege and personal responsibility, opening a clean window so we can see the everyday realities faced by the poor in this Country.  We something of the enormous energy it takes to be responsible while in a David-Goliath struggle with poverty—a struggle too often unlikely to end in David's favor.

 Kudos, Ezra Klein, for every word in  "What Romney Doesn't Understand About Personal Responsibility."  You nailed it.

 Click the link and have yourself an illuminating read.  Then share it. 

http://www.washingtonpost.com/blogs/ezra-klein/wp/2012/09/20/what-romney-doesnt-understand-about-personal-responsibility/

Voters Lose, Money Wins

 "Voters Lose, Secret Money Wins" (9/18/12) at Common Dreams.

In a setback for those trying to curb the secrecy behind election year 'issue ads' funded by shadowy special interests groups, the DC Circuit Court today overturned a lower federal court’s ruling which made public disclosure of such spending a statutory requirement.  (Click link to read the entire article.)

http://www.commondreams.org/headline/2012/09/18-6

Political Quotes

Here we are on the threshold of Autumn—when the average American realizes it's time to pay attention to politics.  Since I've been paying attention all along, I'm devoting some time to "balance"on this day—as the equal hours of darkness and light invite us to do.  I'm opting for a little sloth, just to balance, and will post other people's words today.  Also, in in the interest of balance, I'll probably post long ones.   Hopefully clever enough to amuse you "smart elitists" whom I love so dearly. 

[A post-post note: So help me, peeps, I spent over a freaking HOUR trying to get the Reagan quotes to appear in the same size font as the others.  It's not because he's a Republican.  I think his quotes are the cleverest.  Just want to clear that up in case his son Ron pays a visit; I like him a lot. He inherited his father's wit but thankfully not his political views.] 

 

       ''The Democrats are the party of government activism, the party that says government can make you richer, smarter, taller, and get the chickweed out of your lawn. Republicans are the party that says government doesn't work, and then get elected and prove it.''

—P.J. O'Rourke, 'Parliament of Whores'

 

  ''Being president is like running a cemetery: you've got a lot of people under you and nobody's listening.''                  —President Bill Clinton 

''A conservative is a man with two perfectly good legs who, however, has never learned how to walk forward."                                   —President Franklin Roosevelt

 

*''I am not worried about the deficit. It is big enough to take care of itself.''   

—Ronald Reagan 

 

''Once you leave the womb, conservatives don't care about you until you reach military age. Then you're just what they're looking for.''—George Carlin  (You got that  right, George.)

*''Politics is supposed to be the second-oldest profession. I have come to realize that it bears a very close resemblance to the first.''

—Ronald Reagan

(Source:  Ask.com)

David Letterman's Interview With Our Prez

 This is entertaining and also has some good information.  Check it out!


http://www.cbsnews.com/video/watch/?id=7422156n

Senate Republicans Shaft Veterans

 Here's an excerpt from Robert L. Borosage's piece on Thursday's Senate's action ( HuffPost):

. . . So yesterday, in one final vile act before adjournment for the elections, Senate Republicans used a point of order to block passage of the Veterans Jobs Corps proposal that would have provided a modest $1 billion to hire veterans to tend federal lands or gain priority in hiring at police and fire departments. The bill was crafted with bipartisan support. 58 Senators supported the bill, but Republicans put together the 40 votes needed to block its passage. 

Mr. Borosage goes on to explore possible reasons for this irresponsible action by the Senate GOP that hurts returning war heroes:  Here's one:  . . . Is it because Senate Republicans remain committed to block any action that will produce jobs in their monomaniacal effort to make Barack Obama a one-term president. In the midst of the worst recession in generations, Republican Senate leader Mitch McConnell famously announced at the beginning of the term that "the single most important thing we want to achieve is for President Obama to be a one-term president."

 See this post in its entirety:

 http://www.huffingtonpost.com/robert-l-borosage/senate-republicans-shaft_b_1899480.html

Note:  If you have friends and relatives in states where key Senate races are happening, consider reminding them how important it is for the country—100% of the country which includes our veterans—to elect Democrats to the Senate and the House on November 6.  

I contribute very little monetarily, but did send a contribution to Elizabeth Warren's campaign in Massachusetts.  We need her voice in that Chamber bigtime.  I'm also sending $20 to Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio.  He's being targeted by the big-bucks Super Pacs already flooding the airwaves with negative ads.   Republicans just can't take his hard-working dogged determination to keep the banks honest. Will write more about Senator Brown later.  Now I'm going to write a check! 

And at the Sports Bar

                                Thanks for posting, GOP Meme/Facebook.

More Fox "News"

Adding this post to the Fox commentary about the Pirate in the oval office.  (Thanks for sharing this on FB, Pragmatic Progressive.)   A few posts like this might be helpful to  Fox viewers whose common sense is still plugged in—and who are at least somewhat interested in finding truth in the news they consume.

When Liz Cheney has been challenged on the accuracy of her comments (on other networks!), she merely repeats the inaccurate accusation du jour and neither defends nor retracts what she said.  I generally fault the moderator for not pressing her, then remember there's only so much time between commercials; they do have to move on.  Why they invite her back is beyond me.   

Being with Barack Obama

Author Michael Lewis had unprecedented access to President Obama—on the basketball court, Air Force One and places in between— for six months.  Lewis was working on a piece for Vanity Fair.  Check out this article about his experiences with the President and listen to a story about it on NPR (Fresh Air).   Enjoy getting to know our President a lot better!
 
http://www.npr.org/2012/09/12/161003362/michael-lewis-studies-obamas-way

One of Many Reasons I Don't Watch Fox

“TOO BUSY FOR ISRAEL / PRESIDENT FINDS TIME FOR PIRATE, LETTERMAN,” Fox and Friends’ screen read Thursday. “This pirate got a sit-down in the Oval Office yesterday,” Fox and Friends co-host Brian Kilmeade said on-air. “So much for the Middle East peace. The White House doesn’t even have time to meet with Israel, but the president got a private sit-down with a pirate yesterday in the Oval Office. Sorry, Bibi,” Steeve Doocy added.

One small problem: the photo was taken in May 2009 for use as a joke during the White House Correspondents’ dinner. 

To read more of this at Talking Points Memo:  http://tpmdc.talkingpointsmemo.com/2012/09/fox-obama-pirate-israel.php?utm_medium=referral&utm_source=pulsenews

 My note:  Brings back memories, not of pirates, but of Foxy moves like this one:  Fox has been known to distort facts, make up their own "facts" and even alter video footage to suit its purposes.  Remember some march they promoted that didn't get anywhere near the expected turnout, and they just used crowd shots from a bigger event?  (Was that Glenn Beck?  Can't remember the details but well remember that video was edited in that way!)

When people believe my not wanting to talk politics is because my viewpoint differs from theirs, I have to correct that assumption:  In fact, I welcome civil, informed discussion on political issues.  But I'm unwilling to engage in dialog with anyone who watches Fox Cable News on a regular basis.  Sadly, Fox is the primary or sole source of information for a large swatch of the American populace.  Most of them adults who will vote.   Breaks my heart.  But, no, debating someone who's that poorly informed, or totally misinformed,is a waste of time. 

Jon Stewart on Romney's "47%"

 If you missed The Daily Show's take on this.  It's rich.  Like the supporters Romney values.

http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/09/19/jon-stewart-romney-47-percent-video_n_1896310.html

Exactly.

                               

And the Angels Sing: Ooooooooobama!

I have no doubt this awesome angel is working on behalf of America's highest good—including a second term for President Barack Obama.  Created by talented and totally delightful artist Bill Davis from Columbia, SC.  Visit his divas on Facebook (Divas by Bill Davis) when you feel like getting happy.

T

Reality Check

To have been brought up in a big, beautiful home where there was no fear or fighting about having enough money until next payday; where you were given the best possible education early in life and later got into Harvard and earned a law degree;  to  have been surrounded by elegance, good manners, and all the social graces that give a guy a head start in the business community and most everywhere, for that matter—well, all that's wonderful.   I'm happy for anyone with such good fortune.  I'm  just not happy when, with all those opportunities and privileges, you claim to have inherited nothing, Mr. Romney.   What you've been given can't dismissed as "nothing."  It's possible you don't understand that.  But we understand, and that's what matters. It matters because this election is too important for voters NOT to understand, as much as possible, who you are and what has shaped who you are today. 

Yep.

The Choice

"What a difference in character, temper, grace, humility, Statesmanship and care for Americans...Not just for 53% or uber wealthy, for everyone!  By the way, eight of the top 10 states with the highest number of non-tax-payers and welfare recipients are Republican States . . . ." ~  Ermine at the Pragmatic Progressive on Facebook.

David Brooks on Romney's "47% Video"

As you read this New York Times column, remember David Brooks is a Republican—from the fast-shrinking traditionalist GOP I call the rational wing.  The rabid, radical wing—dominated by Tea Partiers and religious fundamentalists and evangelicals who would have us living in a theocracy if they had their way.   They've taken over the Republican Party.  Just look at what Congress has done since the 2010 elections, with the influx of "Tea Party" members who, among others, believe "compromise" to be a bad thing.  They don't understand that it takes compromise to get anything done in Congress. 

Preview of the Brooks piece: ".  . . as a description of America today, Romney’s comment is a country-club fantasy. It’s what self-satisfied millionaires say to each other. It reinforces every negative view people have about Romney."  And I would add, it's also said by Repubs who aren't millionaires, only self-satisfied.

 http://www.nytimes.com/2012/09/18/opinion/brooks-thurston-howell-romney.html?smid=pl-share

Words to Ponder

"I am also very proud to be a liberal. Why is that so terrible these days? The liberals were liberators—they fought slavery, fought for women to have the right to vote, fought against Hitler, Stalin, fought to end segregation, fought to end apartheid. Liberals put an end to child labor and they gave us the five day work week! What's to be ashamed of?"
                                                                                               —Barbra Streisand


"If we are to achieve a richer culture, rich in contrasting values, we must recognize the whole gamut of human potentialities, and so weave a less arbitrary social fabric, one in which each diverse gift will find a fitting place."
                                                                                              —Margaret Mead


"We stand now where two roads diverge. But unlike the roads in Robert Frost's familiar poem, they are not equally fair. The road we have long been traveling is deceptively easy, a smooth superhighway on which we progress with great speed, but at its end lies disaster. The other fork of the road—the one "less traveled by"—offers our last, our only chance to reach a destination that assures the preservation of the earth."
                                                                                                 — Rachel Carson 


"Cautious, careful people, always casting about to preserve their reputation and social standing, never can bring about a reform. Those who are really in earnest must be willing to be anything or nothing in the world's estimation, and publicly and privately, in season and out, avow their sympathy with despised and persecuted ideas and their advocates, and bear the consequences."
                
                                                                                                   -Susan B. Anthony 

"I have no idea of submitting tamely to injustice inflicted either on me or on the slave. I will oppose it with all the moral powers with which I am endowed. I am no advocate of passivity."

                                                                                                   -Lucretia Mott 

"I think, with never-ending gratitude, that the young women of today do not and can never know at what price their right to free speech and to speak at all in public has been earned." 
                                                                          
                                                                                                   -Lucy Stone(1893)  

WOMEN, WE MUST VOTE.   WE MUST.   WE MUST BE SURE OUR FRIENDS VOTE 
NOVEMBER 6.   LET'S COMMIT TO DRIVING SOMEONE TO THE POLLS,  HELP A HOMEBOUND WOMAN GET AN ABSENTEE BALLOT,  MAKE SOME CALLS.  TALK WITH NEIGHBORS .  THINKING WOMEN KNOW IT'S IN OUR BEST INTEREST TO VOTE FOR OBAMA-BIDEN AND FOR DEMOCRATS IN CONGRESS.   LET'S GET IT DONE!
 

Republican Obstructionists

For those without the luxury of time to monitor Congress,  here's a sample of worthy legislation Senate Republicans have been blocking.  Job-creating legislation.
Another example would be the President's Jobs Bill, among others .  Please keep this in mind when you hear the right-wing "job creation" campaign rhetoric—often coming from the very people who cast a vote against measures like this one!

These right-wing Senators are playing by the #1 rule their leader, Mitch McConnell announced just after President Obama took the oath of office.  That is, Republicans should stop any legislation that might be popular with the American people.  And you know the why of it.  The goal has been to keep our President from winning a second term, even when their obstructionism is detrimental to the well-being of our Country!  Shame.  Shame.

We need more Dems in the Senate and the House.  Send any help you can to Senator Sherrod Brown of Ohio (Republican Super Pac money is pouring into Ohio to defeat him; that tells you he's a good, hard-working public servant courageous enough to take a stand when having the courage to take a stand is something we don't often see.)  And we could give some help to Elizabeth Warren in Massachusetts.  Middle and low income Americans especially need her presence to keep down the Wall Street/banks abuse of consumers.  

Our Democrats in Congress don't sign a pledge to vote against any taxes under any circumstances.  How foolish is THAT for raising revenue and reducing our debt?  There's a guy named Grover Norquist who has been successful in getting the GOP candidates/members of Congress to sign his pledge.  NO new taxes?  What does a country run on?  Monopoly money?  Jeeez.

Anyway, vote right.  Vote early or absentee if you can!

Our Wise President

President Obama was strong in letting newly-elected Egyptian president Mohammad Morsi know what's expected after the death of four Americans including U. S. Ambassador Chris Stevens.  The Romney campaign and hate-radio and TV talkers have portrayed the President's not-an-ally, not- an-enemy statement as a gaff; in reality the President's words were no accident, but a calculated part of his effective "hardball" approach to a difficult and delicate situation.

Here's an excellent article on the subject:
http://www.juancole.com/2012/09/obama-plays-hardball-and-egypts-morsi-folds.html

It's wonderful waking up this beautiful Sunday morning knowing Barack Obama is my President.

Missing Molly Ivins

Wouldn't it be wonderful if the feisty, funny Molly Ivins were around for this election?  Maybe she is and we just can't see her.  Maybe she's operating from the angelic realm, reminding us to laugh at every opportunity during this too-often-grueling exercise in Democracy.  There's plenty of opportunity for laughter if only we don't wander too far into the hell of it.  And worry about the serious consequences of the outcome.  Which I do all too often.

If for some reason you didn't know Molly's work, you have a treat in store.  Just google her, check out some of her columns and her books.  She was to written political commentary what Stewart and Colbert are to political TV.  Nothing was sacred to Molly, and I especially enjoyed her delicious pokes at the Texas culture. 

Molly died in 2007—age 62, breast cancer.  God, I miss her.

She could illuminate the most serious situation in the light of her sharp humor.  And she was a tireless advocate of having fun—which I find Liberals more inclined toward than Repubs.  That was clearly demonstrated at the two Conventions recently.  Democrats showed up and celebrated.  Republicans just showed up.  Fun wasn't part of the Tampa experience.  (Somebody observed that Gov. Romney and the Republican Party are in something of a loveless marriage.  Not much fun.)

Seeing these words from Molly makes me want to read more.  And I will.

". . . keep fightin' for freedom and justice, beloveds, but don't you forget to have fun doin' it.  . . . let your laughter ring forth.  Be outrageous, ridicule the fraidy-cats, rejoice in all the oddities that freedom can produce.  And when you get through kickin' ass and celebratin' the sheer joy of a good fight, be sure to tell those who come after how much fun it was."  ~  Molly Ivins

Tomorrow's A Significant Day

On Thursday, September 13, 2012 the Supreme Court of Pennsylvania will hear arguments on the "Voter ID" law.  What they will decide is huge, historically and for the immediate and long-term future of the ballot.  Of freedom in our Democracy.   I'll tell you  more tomorrow about why tomorrow matters.  Today's events have worn me out; still, before surrendering to sleep, I'm thinking positive thoughts and trusting the Court will do the right thing.  Someone near and dear to me in PA is not so sure justice will prevail.  He hopes he's wrong.  So do I.  We shall see.

Keep the faith.  Any other choice is unthinkable.

Now it IS September 13 and not a Friday.  The PA Supreme Court has heard the arguments and could rule as early as tomorrow or sometime next week.  I hope these justices are wise beings who understand the magnitude of their ruling.  I hope to write something about what's at stake here and a little Voting Rights/Poll Tax history for younger voters.  The rest of us have "been there"—the rest of us Progressives/Liberals, at least.

I"ll be back soon (I say to Lucy Left visitors, both of them!  :-))  Keep keeping the faith, pals. We still have miles to go!

Remembering What Love Can Do

"Darkness cannot drive out darkness; only light can do that. Hate cannot drive out hate; only love can do that."
Martin Luther King, Jr.

Read more at http://www.brainyquote.com/quotes/topics/topic_love.html#XtUIbAWViZQVW6ec.99

In the midst of intensifying political strife—which I enter regularly and with great passion—I want to remember that quote of Dr. King's.  I strive mightily to stop short of hate in my reactions to the bias, the distortions, and the lies told about President Obama and what he has and has not done during his first term.  But that's not a worthy goal, stopping just short of hate.

It's time to direct my energy, my personal power,  into being an informed voice for truth—and here's the hard part:  while keeping my heart open, even to those who do not value the truth as much as I do.   May I reflect the light more than deepening the darkness.  That's my intention for today.  During this highly-charged political season, I'll need to revisit that intention on a regular basis, taking it one day at a time like the 12-step programs advise.  This doesn't mean I'll be silent, nor does it mean I won't express anger, even outrage, at times.  It doesn't mean I will stifle the passion.

I'm not aiming for sainthood, after all; that wouldn't be a good fit for me.  I simply want to remember to keep my heart open.  To offer the kindness and respect I want to receive from others.

And of course I want to see Democratic victories from the oval office on down the ballot come November 6!

Please don't let the negativity become an excuse to surrender.  There are vast differences between the two candidates, the two philosophies and where these two philosophies will take us.  The global economic  situation is not likely to get better immediately, nor are the financial conditions of many of us Americans—that is, Americans who are not in the top 2% or so of the economy.  Conditions are improving VERY slowly, but they are moving forward.  The Republican ticket (noticeably light on details) would generally stick to the usual formula of lowering taxes (on the wealthy) and cutting spending even further.  The middle class and the poor will be the ones to bear the burden if they're elected.

The Romney ticket and the Republican platform clearly show that—while they abhor "government"— they're fine with  criminalizing pregnancy terminations, even in cases of rape or incest.   One of a number of anti-choice bills Paul Ryan voted for was the "personhood act which would outlaw, not only abortion, but stem cell research and birth control!   Romney has said one of the first thing he'll do is eliminate Planned Parenthood, the source of healthcare for thousands of women who could not afford care otherwise; by the way, only a small fraction of their services are related to abortion.  Primary services are cancer screenings and counseling.   It's hard for me to see how any self-respecting woman could vote  Romney-Ryan.  (Sisters, we're all "pro life", and those of us in the pro choice category simply don't want government interfering with our bodies.)

There are many more reasons to vote:  "Let Detroit go bankrup," Mr. Romney said before President Obama made the decision to lend money to the dying  auto industry.  The loans have been paid back at high interest (according to a number of reliable sources, including the CEO of Chrysler in a "60 Minutes" interview.)  I like knowing the President exercised good judgment in saving an industry which is the backbone of America; now GM is #1 in the world!

I recall President Bush's campaign for a second term when the key "selling point" was that he had "kept America safe."  And that's a good thing.  Let's not overlook the fact that under President Obama, the master planner of the 9/11 attacks and a number of other key terrorist leaders have been eliminated—no small achievement.  

As promised in his last campaign, the President did get a health care coverage passed for all Americans.  This accomplishment remains controversial because of negative publicity from the opposition and because the benefits haven't been well explained.  History tells us that Social Security and Medicare were strongly opposed until people began to reap the benefits.  I believe the same will hold true for the Affordable Care Act, a.k.a. "Obamacare."

The President also promised to end the war in Iraq and that has happened.

Our President knows how to interact with others with grace, diplomacy and strength, when needed.
Mr. Romney managed to anger our greatest ally when he said he wasn't sure the Brits were ready for handling the Olympics.  Mr. Romney, although I'm sure a fine husband and father and maker of money for his companies, is clumsy with personal interaction.  It concerns me to think of turning him loose on the world stage.

Last, and most important to me:  I care about cleaner  air and water, safe food, green energy and leaders who understand that global climate change is fact, not fantasy—leaders who will do everything possible to restore our planet to health.  You know Democrats are the ones who will do the most toward that end.  And I must say that our government isn't doing enough to suit me on environmental issues; however,  if some of the obstructionists in Congress are replaced by more progressive thinkers in  November, we're likely to see more action toward healing the earth and hopefully modifying current weather extremes.

I want my granddaughter to have the best possible world to call home.  A vote for President Obama is one way I can help make that happen.

Small Business Voter

I officially started my writing and creativity coaching business in 2008, and that year I did not break even. I was told to believe in change, so I did. I kept going. Since we always file an extension, I just finished the taxes for 2011, and I did way more than break even. I am officially a small business woman in the black. Coincidence? Maybe. But I sure know who I'm voting for.
                                                                                                        ~ Cassie Premo Steele

That Facebook post from author Cassie Premo Steele got my attention this week.  About the same time I learned  that small businesses have received eighteen (18!) tax cuts during the Obama administration. Apparently the Right has been ignoring "fact checkers" and independent agencies' data about small businesses.  Truth is, this President supports small businesses and wants to see them all thrive.

Sharing Article Link

 This is a long and "worth it" read.   I read it incrementally; might go through it again and take notes!  

Kudos to Reader Supported News andTom Hayden's in-depth journalism.

http://readersupportednews.org/opinion2/277-75/13331-focus-saving-obama-saving-ourselves

FOCUS | Saving Obama, Saving Ourselves

www.readersupportednews.org

'History will show that the first term was better than most progressives now think.' Tom Hayden, Peace Exchange Bulletin

Taking Sides

"We must always take sides. Neutrality helps the oppressor, never the victim. Silence encourages the tormentor, never the tormented." ~~ Elie Wiesel

I'm on the side of fairness, social justice, human decency, personal freedom and responsibility, healing the earth and doing whatever's possible to reverse global climate change and the pollution of our planet. I'm on the side of caring for our fellow humans, especially the most fragile among us, and on the side of treating one another with respect. I'm on the side of economic patriotism which, to me, means Americans paying their fair share of taxes and keeping their money in banks inside the USA.  I'm on the side of affordable health care.  I'm on the side of those who understand that the arts in our culture are essential, not something we can afford to eliminate by withdrawing support.  I'm on the side of truly understanding that we are created equal—all of us.  I'm on the side of those who respect women and know we are due the same rights as men. I'm on the side of Peace and the side of those who would not initiate wars of choice motivated by economics or ego.  I'm on the side of tolerance and respect.  I'm on the side of those willing to open their minds and hearts and engage in critical thinking, in listening to opposing viewpoints.  I'm on the side of President Barack Obama.

The Closer

The Convention's far from over, but the case is made:  Barack Obama has earned a second term.  Who'd have guessed, four years ago, that the reasons our President deserves a second term would be brilliantly and wholeheartedly presented by President Bill Clinton.  He gave a riveting, educational and entertaining stem-winder of a speech.  As my friend Rebecca said, "Damn, Bill Clinton still has it in spades!"

 The speech itself— and the body language of the two Presidents as they greeted one another afterwards— should dispel any notion of animosity between these two.  Media and all pundits, it's time to drop the speculation about the Clinton-Obama relationship.  While it's doubtful theirs is a bromance, the connection seems solid.  Healing happens.  And that's bigger news, in my book, than any current feud you could conjure.

   (Photo from TheRoot.com via Facebook)


If you run into any undecided voters—and it's unlikely you'll find many—direct them to the Clinton speech.   It will be a gift to anyone sincerely struggling over the presidential vote.

Video of Full Speech: Former President Bill Clinton's Speech to the 2012 Democratic National Convention

Security Reminder

Remember when President George W. Bush ran for a second term with the theme of "having kept us safe" from another terrorist attack?  And remember President Obama's "national security" ability being questioned during the McCain-Palin campaign?  Well, not to jinx it, but I'd say he's done a fine job so far!  The ever-clever Chris Rock came up with a great idea for the Democratic Convention.  Gotta share it.

Yep!

The First Lady

I can't remember a First Lady connecting more deeply with people of all ages, life experience, gender, and ethnicity.  She's the real deal, and the audience knew it.   Her words last night at the Democratic Convention offered us a heartfelt, passionately-delivered incentive to vote and work for Barack Obama's second term.  She shared an intimate portrait of our President and their lives together, reminding us of their backgrounds and values.  If anyone at home on the couch was undecided about  a Presidential candidate, I'll bet they decided to ensure Michelle Obama has four more years to shine her light on us all.  Amazing woman, breathtaking speech by our unassuming, brilliant rock star.  How did we get so lucky?   I'll post a video link later today.

A FB post rom one of my favorite teacher-writers, Joan Borysenko. I couldn't agree more!
  
"Michelle Obama is a remarkable woman. Her speech was so authentically revelatory of the characters of the first couple. It was humbling to watch her and an affirmation of the potential good of all people- a good that she and Barack naturally evoke. That "meta-political" agenda- the evocation of human potential- has my vote. Cultivating the field of human goodness is crucial to the health of our nation. From it stems radical creativity for the benefit of the whole. That is real change. It comes from all of us!"

Thought for Today

"Racism" is not my first thought when I hear something negative, or even a lie, about President Obama.  But it's there, ever-present, even when manifesting in subtleties or coded words and images.  One case in point:  The GOP ad proclaiming Obama has removed the work provision from the "welfare to work"requirement.  First, it's blatantly false; quite the opposite is true.  The new provisions give states (something Republicans generally love) more latitude and incentives to strengthen the work provision.  But the ad is in keeping with the usual tactic of repeating something often enough and people will believe it, regardless of its proven inaccuracy.  Sadly, even intelligent people are buying it as truth.

The racist thing here is that "welfare" is a well-known buzz word for "lazy people" here in the South, and maybe in other parts of the Country.   It's is part of the mythology that somehow persons of color are lazy and enjoy taking advantage of the public assistance program called welfare.  Truth is, pale people like me make up the majority of welfare recipients!

Another example:  How many past presidents have been thought of as foreign,  as "not one of us," and had to have the place of his birth relentlessly questioned (Hawaii was a state when Barack Obama was born there, people.)  Someone said something like he could have been born on the 4th of July inside an apple pie in the middle of a Kansas wheat field as a country singer crooned "God Bless the USA" —and still be seen as foreign!  And the "He's not really a Christian" thing.   Any other presidents had that accusation dogging them for years?

 Much as I've respected Clint Eastwood's talent, his performance at the Republican Convention last week was loaded with racism.  Talking down to an invisible man isn't in and of itself racist; it's been done before (although it took me back to the days when black people felt, and sometimes, to white people, WERE invisible.)  But to portray President Obama as angry and vulgar was to invoke the myth of the "angry black man" to me.  Our President is neither angry nor vulgar.  I'd like to see him get angry more often and channel the anger into more liberal action. Into less efforts at bi-partisanship—which the Republicans consistently reject and the Democratic base often resents.   But acting out of anger isn't in his nature.  Our President is a gentle man.  A gentleman.  It's refreshing thing to see in contemporary politics, even though it doesn't always serve his best interests.

I could go on about more instances of racism, but to ramble on about it serves no good purpose.  You got the point.  I have learned that some people simply can't come to terms with a black man being in the White House, especially a black man who's likely brighter and more successful than they.

 No doubt racism is learned; I like to believe it also can be unlearned.  Maybe this President is here to teach the lesson of "unlearning."

Labor Day 2012

Labor Day, the first Monday in September, is a creation of the labor movement and is dedicated to the social and economic achievements of American workers. It constitutes a yearly national tribute to the contributions workers have made to the strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country.  (Source:  US Department of Labor)

Hard-working members of the U.S. labor force continue to contribute to the "strength, prosperity, and well-being of our country." They're the backbone of the "Middle Class," of America itself.  And yet workers (including school teachers and fire fighters) have been demonized by many in the Republican Party.  A variety of GOP leaders have  been doing all they can to rid America of unions.  It stands to reason, I suppose.  After all, unions—with their ability to bargain collectively— make it harder for wealthy corporations to trample on a worker's right to a fair wage.  Fair wages can cut into corporate profits.  And corporations support leaders' re-election efforts; therefore, a number of elected officials must pay the piper, so to speak, by fighting unions. 

Collectively, union members have a say in the conditions at their workplaces.   Uniting is the only way for workers to have a voice and get their needs met.  The power is in the hands that hold the fat purse—except when hard-working people unite for a common purpose.   That would be "people power," generally discouraged  by management and owners of big business.  Having a safe and healthy work environment sometimes costs the corporate "front office" money they'd rather not spend.

It's becoming the norm for corporations to "downsize," laying off or terminating workers.  The work force is pared down as close to the bone as possible without inflicting a mortal wound. (Being "people," corporations could bleed to death unless rushed to a hospital by ambulance; very messy, a corporation bleeding in a speeding ambulance.)  The remaining employees (workers) must then do the added work of those who have departed.  I've seen how that goes with people in my own life:  They're so grateful to have a job at all that they're willing to work longer hours with more responsibilities, while getting little to no additional compensation.  Weary and pushing themselves beyond belief to "get the jobs done."  And that's exactly what the business powers-that-be count on.  Yes, indeed:  We're so grateful to have this/these jobs.  They banked on employees accepting outrageous work loads for inadequate compensation without complaint.  Remaining employees see their buddies can't find jobs and, until their luck changes, see them struggling to feed their families with an unemployment check.  (By the way, if you're someone who complains about unemployment compensation deterring people from looking for work, and if you actually believe people enjoy living on the meager amount—here's a challenge:  Let's see you and your family (or just you if you're single) live on that amount for, say, three months. (And to make it realistic, be sure not to have more than a little money in the bank when you do this.  No fair going into your savings or depositing/cashing your own checks.)  Then get back to me about whether you'd be fine  "taking it easy" on unemployment.

Union workers don't have as much to fear in terms of being bullied by "the man" or "the woman."  Yet they have to tolerate being characterized by GOP candidates and officeholders  as "bullies" and worse.  Just for demanding fair treatment.  Sad when fairness must be demanded, isn't it? 

                                          

Over the past weeks I've heard the Republican presidential nominee, his VP pick, and an array of surrogates ranting about the number of unemployed Americans.  I sometimes talk back to them from my couch, asking about all the off-shored and outsourced  jobs they and/or their corporate donors have taken out of our country to enhance their profits.  We could use a little financial patriotism about now, couldn't we?  I mean, "Make a healthy profit here in the Lower 48, just let go of the colossal greed."

 Yep, there's lots of unemployment today, even though the situation is slowly improving; there's been some gain in jobs each month since President Obama took office—as opposed to a huge number of job losses during the previous administration.  I need to look up the number of losses per month from five or six years ago; it's pretty impressive.   But I won't research that now.  I want to add a little more information about Labor Day for any info-hungry readers and then, to honor the great American worker, I plan to watch Norma Rae.    I hope you're enjoying a fine day off today— if you aren't working 2 or 3 jobs in a non-union workplace. Either way, keep the faith and remember to look for the (union?) "Made in the USA" label!

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