"True Grit", a remake of an old John Wayne movie about taking on the raw ways of the old west,is showing nation wide and might be a good way to start your new year. We may need a little old fashioned American grit as we wander into the unchartered territory of 2011. As 2010 limps to its tired conclusion, most of us look eagerly, but tentatively for a clean new year to round the bend. What will it hold? Surely it will bring us better times--won't it? Uh,well---not necessarily, pardner--- and not so fast,either. The best opinions by economists seem to be that the economy, growing at around 2.3 percent is getting better, but not as rapidly as it should, given the deep hole we fell into and past history. And there are those who gloomily predict that it could get worse, which is why it isn't getting better faster than it is---nobody really knows, and uncertainty breeds caution. But we've been living like this for a couple of years now, and have to a degree adjusted our thinking and living habits. Credit card debt is down and saving if not up, is a goal. People are becoming accustomed to the idea that it's going to be a hard slog back to a healthy economy, and that the "American dream" will possibly no longer be achievable as we once knew it. Which begs the question--- Will we, in the push to regulate, tax, and distribute income become another Europe? Or are we developing a bit of what our ancestors and John Wayne and his "Rooster Cogburn" character had----true grit? And will that enable us to climb back into prosperity?
As I thought over the past year, I remembered someone with true grit---a very good friend, who visited our town to publicly tell his story of one of Oscar Schindler's youngest survivors. Our friend, Leon Leyson had always embodied kindness and gentleness; yet after hearing his story of living through the holocaust, I saw a different man---a very tough, resilient man who must have decided at one point, he would bend, but never break---he would and did survive as did so many other holocaust survivors. They went on to give life to over 7000 more of their own children and grandchildren--descendents of a people who hung on, even when it seemed all was lost. Leon, along with many other refugees immigrated to an America that helped to heal their hearts and allowed for dreams to come true. We were known as the "land of opportunity" like no other country. Leon went to school, got a degree, learned to speak English, worked hard, and has lived a very fulfilling and successful life. He had true grit--and a country that gave him a second chance.
True grit can be found even in a homeless person, who stripped of everything, still finds reason to go on. I see them more and more often, and admire their will to continue. While some may argue that we don't do enough for these people, with an improved economic climate and more prosperity comes more help. Charitable giving, of course decreases as the economy breaks down. It is interesting to note that studies have shown voluntary giving to be higher among those who advocate less government help and believe in self reliance--just the opposite of what one would think. Could it be that true grit is often accompanied by true compassion?
Grit is certainly found in countless victims of cancer or other diseases, who know the odds are against them, but continue to wage battles to a victory or sometimes defeat. They show incredible strength and even cheer in the face of illness and all manner of darkness--they refuse to break. They find reasons not only to go on, but to relish what's left of their journey. Having looked death square in the eyes, they turned defiantly away -- back towards the light. Some say that the quality to endure is due to certain genes, but could it be simply a choice one makes---to fight back, never give up, even if for just a little longer. I like to think that the American spirit is exemplified by these people---we do not give up without a fight, and it won't be the medicine of government aid that saves us---it will be our spirit that refuses to break.
A new book , "Unbroken" tells the story of Louis Zamperini, a true American hero with grit to spare. He showed that will to win as a marathon runner in the 30's, then as a world war two fighter airplane bombardier. On a mission to save fellow soldiers, he crash lands in the pacific. The 48 days he spends on a rubbery raft with three, then only one other survivor, tests his grit beyond any others who had similar experiences at that time. His fate gets worse as he is eventually rescued , but by the Japanese and then becomes a prisoner of war. It is an incredible story of survival and the spirit of a man who kept choosing to live, bend, grit his teeth and move on. One of the other two soldiers in Louie's raft did not make it. He was just as healthy, and fit---but he chose to give up.
True grit---do we have it as a nation anymore? Or have we become soft,spoiled by our past wealth as a country, and expecting others to care for our every basic need? And does that not breed even more softness? The coming year will surely bring opportunities to develop true grit----will we break into pieces of cynicism, self pity, and surrender? Or will we ride into the wind, guns of self determination blazing, and find ways to overcome our shaky economy and high unemployment?
I'm not much of good-bye girl, but I've already packed the sorry baggage of 2010---Adios, amigo. Like a good, but not particularly likeable side kick, you have given us many teachable moments, like a health care bill that may have been crafted with good intentions, but lacked the stability of deeper thought and more team effort; the oil spill, which caused huge damage, angst, and drama, but which cleaned up faster and better than the media would have us believe;and a mid term election, which was a desperate attempt to correct a one sided congress, the results of which we will see when congress convenes in January--- lessons hopefully learned. Hello 2011---can hardly wait to know you. C'mon in, stranger, sit yourself down, and let's see what you've got in mind for us. Don't be thinkin' we're down yet. We're at least a little tougher, smarter, and grittier than we were last year. We may have lost our way for awhile, but we'll find it again by the compass of our grass roots soul and our historic heritage to win. So, bring it on---as John Wayne once said, "Courage is being scared to death---and saddling up anyway." Happy trails, everybody! Grab your grit, and let's ride---
Friday, December 31, 2010
Saturday, December 25, 2010
Christmas Crossroads---Danger Ahead??
So--- this was Christmas 2010 and the world seemed to have slowed as if to take a breath from the monumental and the mundane of world affairs. But still the world turns and behind closed doors and curtains of secrecy, events are taking place which will affect all of us in the year to come. Even now, before the new year begins, we have seen important legislation passed such as the extension of the Bush tax cut--for everyone. Thank you Republicans, and Mr. President for compromising on this controversial issue. At the same time, unemployment benefits will extend for another 13 months and our social security taxes will go down a little. All this is hoped to boost our still lagging economy, which seems inexhorably tied to the general mood of the public and the market place---anxious uncertainty about the future. While some indicators show a little up tick in consumer spending, corporations that drive big business and thus the market place are holding on to their capital. Even President Obama, who met with several business leaders, a.k.a "fat cats' in his earlier vernacular, was not able to persuade them to spend. Maybe they have a tiny problem with name calling. And after all, while he may be the CEO of the country, he's not a man who's ever lived in the business world, much less looked at a balance sheet and wondered whether he should order more widgets or hire more employees when he still has widgets left over from last year, and he's laid off most of his crew just to keep afloat this year.
The prospects for 2011 are not that clear or rosy looking. We want to feel optimistic, but when unemployment still hovers around 10 percent, we hear unsettling news of more and more states going broke, and our own budget and its advisors are insisting on cut backs, conservative spending, and a general attitude of austerity, it's hard to feel that "happy days" are here again. We have a ways to go. If we are to get our house in order, it appears there must be dramatic changes, yet the government continues to ignore this advice, simply printing up more money, and loading our debt to the hilt for the next generation.
Defeating the heavily earmark loaded Omnibus bill last weekend was a start in the right direction, but many more dramatic changes will have to be made. Pension plans, bonuses, and other generous state and federal employee benefits are all under heavy scrutiny as states like California are struggling to keep from buckling under their debt load. Is California the canary in the coal mine? Are we seeing a paradigm shift that could eventually change our entire structure of individual, independent states? It appears we are at a tipping point; yet the "lame duck" congress in a last ditch effort to win Democrat agenda victories, quite aptly pushed through legislation that has been on the back burner for months and which will add even more debt. They of course knew that the holiday urgency to get things done and wrapped up, gave them an edge in rushing through their bills without as much thinking and debate time as they should require. But did they not get the message,stated loud and clear at the last election? It is time to heed the warning signs and stop the out of control spending, even if it is dressed in well meant benefits for much deserving groups. The money simply isn't there, unless it is taken from other sources, which never seems to be acceptable. Europe and their staggering economies are showing us the result of too many government entitlements and is eventually unsustainable---like a boat that keeps taking on too many passengers, it will not continue to float and we may be left with a country we no longer recognize. Already, many feel that we are losing respect in the eyes of the international community, as they watch our financial house start to crumble and we continue to fight among ourselves over what to do about it. It would seem it is time for far fewer politics and more more merging of the minds to achieve practical solutions. But instead, we watch helplessly as our so called representatives continue playing politics at such a crucial moment in our history.
And as if we don't have enough to worry about---in a recent Time magazine article, editorialist, Mr. Zakaria wrote that he felt the over riding concern of the immediate future for America is something called microterrorism, or smaller attacks, and our seeming inability to come to terms with the insidious nature of the enemy. Scattered throughout the world, in places hard to control, prone to suicide bombs, and without western values, they are difficult to find and fight. They are determined to destroy not only us, but our entire way of life--- not necessarily by huge devastating events, but by slowly chipping away at our security,what the terrorists call "a thousand cuts" in order to "bleed us to death", rather than staging large scale events, such as 9/11. Mr. Zakaria depressingly goes on to predict that as technology allows more accessability to information, the violence will increase. It is a terrifying thought, and one we will have to grapple with in the coming years. This is not a problem that's going to go away or beaten back by traditional methods. It would seem we could better define our offensiveness by recognizing the enemy by calling them such and naming their attacks "war". But the current administration in an effort to play down the drama of the situation is against this type of labeling. We must be above this sort of childish behavior, it would seem is Obama's attitude. All well and good, if the stakes were not so high. Yet, the behavior goes on as we hear of many more thwarted and yet to be attempted attacks. Last year alone, according to the Department of Homeland Security, saw more acts of terrorism attempted in this country alone, than in any one previous year. Again, it would seem it's time to focus more on the reality than on the politics. At least, let's look the enemy in the eye, call him out for what he is, and finally become what we must-- even more acutely aware of the possible danger ahead, perhaps more pre-emptive, and just as determined as the enemy to win. But even if it means giving up some of our civil liberties? We, who fancy ourselves the "shining city on the hill", with freedom and justice for all-- perhaps now must fight to save ourselves with intolerance and suspicions for some? It is the great conundrum this nation now faces.
Bah-humbug? Sorry, but Christmas, 2010 finds us with little political good news to write home about. On the other hand, nobody promised us a "rose garden", did they? In spite of evil there are forces for good everywhere---while South and North Korea rattle their nuclear swords, we are working with Russia to encourage peace and minimize the manufacturing of nuclear war heads via the START treaty; and after years of discrimination, hate crimes, and endless debate, gays are finally not forced to lie when serving in our military. The repeal of "Don't ask, don't tell" was the right thing to do, is another huge step in the right direction. President Obama is to be commended on both of these peacemaking issues. We will all keep trying to get it all right, because that's who we are as a people. For all our faults,when you boil us down to our essence, our better instincts and desire to be good bubble to the surface and will guide and sustain us. As the full moon gazes placidly down upon us, and the winter solstice brings longer days which sends the message that light always overcomes darkness, we can hope that "happy days" will come again.
The webs that man weaves for himself are only that---webs of his own making. But the human spirit is not of our own making----it is divine in source, and can soar above earth's troubles and hope that all things will eventually work themselves out. Webs can be untangled, relationships healed, wars ceased---miracles can happen. Isn't that what Christmas is all about---"I bring you tidings of great joy-----"? Take a moment to consider the meaning of that message. The messenger went on to say, "Peace on earth, good will toward men".What a timeless thought---if the angels thought it possible, why can't we?
The prospects for 2011 are not that clear or rosy looking. We want to feel optimistic, but when unemployment still hovers around 10 percent, we hear unsettling news of more and more states going broke, and our own budget and its advisors are insisting on cut backs, conservative spending, and a general attitude of austerity, it's hard to feel that "happy days" are here again. We have a ways to go. If we are to get our house in order, it appears there must be dramatic changes, yet the government continues to ignore this advice, simply printing up more money, and loading our debt to the hilt for the next generation.
Defeating the heavily earmark loaded Omnibus bill last weekend was a start in the right direction, but many more dramatic changes will have to be made. Pension plans, bonuses, and other generous state and federal employee benefits are all under heavy scrutiny as states like California are struggling to keep from buckling under their debt load. Is California the canary in the coal mine? Are we seeing a paradigm shift that could eventually change our entire structure of individual, independent states? It appears we are at a tipping point; yet the "lame duck" congress in a last ditch effort to win Democrat agenda victories, quite aptly pushed through legislation that has been on the back burner for months and which will add even more debt. They of course knew that the holiday urgency to get things done and wrapped up, gave them an edge in rushing through their bills without as much thinking and debate time as they should require. But did they not get the message,stated loud and clear at the last election? It is time to heed the warning signs and stop the out of control spending, even if it is dressed in well meant benefits for much deserving groups. The money simply isn't there, unless it is taken from other sources, which never seems to be acceptable. Europe and their staggering economies are showing us the result of too many government entitlements and is eventually unsustainable---like a boat that keeps taking on too many passengers, it will not continue to float and we may be left with a country we no longer recognize. Already, many feel that we are losing respect in the eyes of the international community, as they watch our financial house start to crumble and we continue to fight among ourselves over what to do about it. It would seem it is time for far fewer politics and more more merging of the minds to achieve practical solutions. But instead, we watch helplessly as our so called representatives continue playing politics at such a crucial moment in our history.
And as if we don't have enough to worry about---in a recent Time magazine article, editorialist, Mr. Zakaria wrote that he felt the over riding concern of the immediate future for America is something called microterrorism, or smaller attacks, and our seeming inability to come to terms with the insidious nature of the enemy. Scattered throughout the world, in places hard to control, prone to suicide bombs, and without western values, they are difficult to find and fight. They are determined to destroy not only us, but our entire way of life--- not necessarily by huge devastating events, but by slowly chipping away at our security,what the terrorists call "a thousand cuts" in order to "bleed us to death", rather than staging large scale events, such as 9/11. Mr. Zakaria depressingly goes on to predict that as technology allows more accessability to information, the violence will increase. It is a terrifying thought, and one we will have to grapple with in the coming years. This is not a problem that's going to go away or beaten back by traditional methods. It would seem we could better define our offensiveness by recognizing the enemy by calling them such and naming their attacks "war". But the current administration in an effort to play down the drama of the situation is against this type of labeling. We must be above this sort of childish behavior, it would seem is Obama's attitude. All well and good, if the stakes were not so high. Yet, the behavior goes on as we hear of many more thwarted and yet to be attempted attacks. Last year alone, according to the Department of Homeland Security, saw more acts of terrorism attempted in this country alone, than in any one previous year. Again, it would seem it's time to focus more on the reality than on the politics. At least, let's look the enemy in the eye, call him out for what he is, and finally become what we must-- even more acutely aware of the possible danger ahead, perhaps more pre-emptive, and just as determined as the enemy to win. But even if it means giving up some of our civil liberties? We, who fancy ourselves the "shining city on the hill", with freedom and justice for all-- perhaps now must fight to save ourselves with intolerance and suspicions for some? It is the great conundrum this nation now faces.
Bah-humbug? Sorry, but Christmas, 2010 finds us with little political good news to write home about. On the other hand, nobody promised us a "rose garden", did they? In spite of evil there are forces for good everywhere---while South and North Korea rattle their nuclear swords, we are working with Russia to encourage peace and minimize the manufacturing of nuclear war heads via the START treaty; and after years of discrimination, hate crimes, and endless debate, gays are finally not forced to lie when serving in our military. The repeal of "Don't ask, don't tell" was the right thing to do, is another huge step in the right direction. President Obama is to be commended on both of these peacemaking issues. We will all keep trying to get it all right, because that's who we are as a people. For all our faults,when you boil us down to our essence, our better instincts and desire to be good bubble to the surface and will guide and sustain us. As the full moon gazes placidly down upon us, and the winter solstice brings longer days which sends the message that light always overcomes darkness, we can hope that "happy days" will come again.
The webs that man weaves for himself are only that---webs of his own making. But the human spirit is not of our own making----it is divine in source, and can soar above earth's troubles and hope that all things will eventually work themselves out. Webs can be untangled, relationships healed, wars ceased---miracles can happen. Isn't that what Christmas is all about---"I bring you tidings of great joy-----"? Take a moment to consider the meaning of that message. The messenger went on to say, "Peace on earth, good will toward men".What a timeless thought---if the angels thought it possible, why can't we?
Monday, December 13, 2010
MIRACLE IN THE SKY---And the Return of Angel Unleashed
Angel looked down once more at her flock, shook her head sadly, and thought--I must return to them again. They are not doing well at all.Perhaps if they could see me as I really am, they would respond differently to their lives. Even though I wrap my wings around them, and whisper comfort in their ears, they fail to respond---they are lost in their own misery and fears.How can I reach them? There is that lovely girl, who worries incessantly about her weight, the boy who no one accepts because of his disability, the dad who cannot find a job, and so many who have simply lost their faith somewhere along the way. I must find a way to raise them from their unhappiness back into the light----but how? I am just a lowly angel.
Then, a thought occurred to Angel---she would allow them to see her, not as a human, but as an angel--born of light and goodness, a spiritual being, and she would tell them there is so much more to live---and to die for. But first I must seek permission. Hm-m-m-m, probably not going to happen--He doesn't like us showing off and up like that---too many imposters have given us a bad name. It seems ostentatious, almost cheesy to show up as if to say---hey, look at me---I'm an angel No, her idea to return as an angel would never fly, so to speak. She would have to think of something else.
A few weeks later, the world was celebrating Christmas---it was announced that in the very noble and historical interest of dividing church from state, there would be no displays of religious themes, songs, or church services---any where.The world had become completely secular, free from all religious trappings. There were still decorations, fun winter songs and plays like "The Nutcracker".But no mention of Christ, or the reason for his birth.
Christmas day, dawned bright and sunny all around the world---Angel had been working very hard. She had a plan, and she prayed that it would work to ease the burdens of those that would see something they had never seen before.
Angel was somewhat of an artist--of cloud arranging. The clouds were all stacked and ready to go, to be formed into one huge sky portrait. There were white clouds, and pink clouds, and grey clouds---all fluffy and soft. As she moved them into one huge pile, over the area of her flock, she quickly began to shape, sculp, and weave the clouds into one fabulous image-----When she was finished, the result was magnificent-----a choir of angels and in the middle, a large figure with his arms outstretched. Angel was so pleased with herself---she looked down at earth and saw to her devastating surprise that no one was paying any attention.The scene could only be seen from heaven's perch.
Frustrated and sad, she went to her Father----how can I show them we love them, and that they are in your hands? What can we do? The Father looked at the angel and said: "You are doing all you can by yourself----perhaps you should look for some earthly assistance."Have you heard of earth angels? Look for them---they exist, and are looking for ways to help."
And so she did---she deputised them by whispering in their ears while they were asleep, that they could make a difference. And so, even though they did not know it, they became part of Angel's army. She managed to cross their paths with those who were in need. The angel helpers gave comfort, aid, encouragement, love, and loyalty to all they met---and little by little the world became a little better place. The girl with the weight problem was befriended by one of them who told her to love herself for herself, and not how she looked; the boy no one liked suddenly found another boy who felt the same way, and a man who had lost his faith, one day wandered alone into a church. Beside himself with grief, sadness, and disillusionment, he sank to his knees, surrendered his doubts, prayed, and began to feel the lightness of believing again. Angel and her army were busy beacons of help during this time and in the dark of someone's night; and everyone they helped, helped someone else. To this day, they are everywhere, and show up unexpectedly just when you might need a helping hand, or an angel's touch.
But the following Christmas, the angel, undaunted, decided to try the cloud trick again --- this time, she wisely asked for some heavenly help. She recruited as many angels as she could, and then she asked God to assist----duh! Why had she not done this before? Sometimes, even angels get ahead of themselves. God doesn't always say yes,but He adored this angel. She was perky, persistant, even pesky, and, well, just a little theatrical. She never took no for an answer and she thought all things were possible--even a heavenly production. He had taught her well. And so He agreed to her rather dramatic plan, and together He and all the angels flipped the newly sculpted cloud over---and there it was---this absolutely gorgeous view of a heavenly choir, with breathtaking peeks beyond the clouds of pink mansions, golden streets and landscapes beyond imagination. Then suddenly God himself appeared and said " Behold, I am the Amighty, everlasting God, your Father. There are no other Gods before me. You are my people, and I sent my son, Jesus Christ, to show you the way home. It's as simple as that, and much more complicated than you may ever know. Believe---and love one another". And then, He disappeared. The clouds began to swirl and blur the entire montage, until they were once again only clouds.
The people stood dumfounded---what had just happened? Was it real, or was it some sort of weather phenomena? But there had been music as well--beautiful, peaceful music. It had filled their senses and made them weep. Eventually everyone dispersed and returned to their homes. They told everyone what they had seen and heard---but nobody believed them. It was just too much--and terribly politically incorrect. Christmas was no longer thought of as religious, and was not to be spoken as such in public. And so the miracle in the clouds gradually became only a story that the people who had witnessed it told only a precious few---and even they who had seen it began to think it had been a mirage, or some kind of group illusion brought on by too much dust and pollution. The EPA (Environmental Protection Agency, and now supposedly in charge of the entire world's climate) even took it upon themselves to build a new forest of wind mills in that particular area, and began research on how to rid the sky of so many clouds, which were interfering with the capturing of the sun's rays, to say nothing of this ridiculous story of a heavenly vision. The next thing you know, they said, people will begin to believe in angels.
The angel once again despaired-- She went to her Father and said, "What can we do to make them see the glory and the wonder, God?" God said---"In good time, my child, in good time. It is all around them. They look, but they don't see. They hear, but they do not listen. They must first open their hearts." The angel said,"How does that happen, Lord?" The Lord smiled and said, "I have people working on that---and you are one of them. The angel began to weep and gazed adoringly at her God----"I am your servant, my Lord, I will keep trying, but some of them are so lost---please find a way to bring them all home." The Lord smiled at his dear angel--- "You are getting a little ahead of yourself again. Now, be an angel, and go tend to your flock---they need you, and time is running out".
It happened that the next Christmas, in a certain town, on a certain day, a few people looked up at the sky and saw a most unusual cloud formation----there seemed to be a group of letters that drifted and gathered until they read----"Merry Christmas!! Love, Your Guardian Angel." One of the onlookers swore he saw something that resembled an angel perched on top of the highest letter of the highest cloud. She was smiling as she threw a kiss---twirled around once---and took a bow.
Thursday, December 9, 2010
DID OBAMA BLINK?
It sure looked like it this week---when President Obama agreed to extend the Bush tax cuts for another two years for everybody, not just the middle class and including the very rich whom Obama had been targeting and villainizing for so long. But wait---there was a catch---the Republicans had to agree to a thirteen month extension of unemployment wages. You could call that a blink, but it seemed more of a nod--it wouldn't have looked good not to during this Christmas season, even though it's going to cost 56 billion dollars to fund it. Ah well, that's politics and what's another 56 billion? Yes, the Republicans came out ahead on this one. So, was it really a blink,on Obama's part--or was it a wink, that said, Okay, I'm busted. I'll give a little, you give a little, and we'll both live to fight another day? There are still plenty of issues ahead on Obama's agenda--the Health Care Bill, which is in danger of being revisited and revised, the START treaty with Russia, tougher or softer immigration laws , energy cap and trade controls, deep oil well drilling moratoriums on our shores, etc., etc. In order to move forward,Obama had to compromise and eat his rather smearing campaign words re "tax cuts for the wealthiest among us". But the rank and file left of left democrats are not at all happy with him, feeling he sold out to the "other side". President Obama, looking more like a politician eyeing his re-election prospects than a committed ideologist, stood firm and spoke double entendre words of wisdom on Mon., when he said, "it was the right thing to do." I wish he had really meant it was right not to raise taxes. For a brief moment in time,I naively thought he did and that maybe this man would finally learn to lead---I gave him points for standing up against some in his own party, and realizing that the time had come to rise above his own beliefs and do what he also promised to do--begin to stop the polarization so damaging to our country. But it has since become clear that he meant it was the right thing, the only thing he could do, given the "between a rock and hard place" situation he was in. It took a "shellacking" at the mid-term elections, for him to see that he wasn't going to become an effective President by forcing his will upon the people, and by shutting out the Republicans during the health care debate, and by making statements as he did to Senator John McCain ---"The campaign is over, John, and I won." His arrogance was constant and disturbing. But has he really changed? Or was he simply a man who knew when to fold his cards until the the next deal comes around? His comments to the press and his constituents since Monday have indicated he'll be back with a vengeance.
For now,we see a President with a very low approval rating, attempting to stop the hemorrhaging of his weakening presidency and a lame duck congress. He must compromise, negotiate, and listen, perhaps more than ever he has before. This is the big time, not Chicago politics, and we're not a community to be organized. If that means disappointing some of the people who put him where he is, Obama must risk their wrath. Perhaps, all of them should realize, that being President transcends playing favorites---the office of the President of the United States was never actually meant to steer the ship of state with only his own idialogical flag. If he wants all hands on deck, all rowing somewhat together, so that we can get someplace, he must inspire and make us believe once again that he wants what many of us want---an America we can be proud of again. Some call this belief in our particular brand of patriotism, "exceptionalism". Is that so bad? Do we not deserve that title? We have, since our inception, stood for a breed of people and government the likes of which no other country had achieved. We were different. Free of an over reaching government, our anscestors gladly took on the responsibilities of making their own way, not continuously looking for assistance or hand outs We became a strong, resilient, optimistic, and respected country, able to lead and share our wealth and technology with others. We became great, not by trying to be like other countries, but by allowing for as much individual freedom to flourish as possible, thereby nurturing strength and independence from the bottom up. By daring to care for ourselves, rather than leaning on a big nanny, demanding, ever more taxing government, we became the envy of the world. Now, as we deal with an economic crisis and frighteningly high unemployment, our true metal is being tested again. Severe budget cuts are on the horizon, and all of us will have to sacrifice in some way. But giving the government more and more money to spend as they see fit, and driving us more and more into debt is not the answer.
Whether for reasons of diplomacy or survival,President Obama has taken the first step since his presidency to show that he can compromise-- unbelievable and impressive, given his past record. But if he expects to be more than a one term president, he may have to do a lot more than compromise. His economic policies have failed, Obamacare is extremely unpopular, and our international relationships are growing weaker. To be great sometimes means to step aside, to listen, and to lay down your mantle of power so that others may speak. Obama has been good at doing this with other countries--now he must do it with his own. He may or may not do this in the future---but it appears this week's decision was not so much a compromise, or even a strategic move, as it was a decision made because there was no other choice when faced by a mandate made clear at the last election-- a huge push back that said, no more taxes, Mr. President. No more entitlements, no more stimulus, and ix-nay on your ideas of spreading the wealth via taxes of any kind.
We may need to make some changes, but not perhaps what you had in mind. Here's what many of us have in mind--- for now, knock off the class warfare bit. It's getting a little tiresome, and most of us realize the rich pay their fair share. Do what you were elected to do---protect, lead, but don't divide by pitting us against each other by continuously using words like "fight" and "hostage taking by the Republicans" when referring to the heretofore stalled bill on extending unemployment benefits. We believe that we can rise again if you will stop trying to reinvent us into something we never intended to be--if not a socialist government, it's simply too close for comfort. If this week's decision was a blink--we'll take it. It it was a nod, we'll take that. We'll even give you another chance, if you move more to the center. But if Monday's language was a wink that really said,'I had to do it guys, but I'll be back for much more'---Katie, bar the door! Game on.
For now,we see a President with a very low approval rating, attempting to stop the hemorrhaging of his weakening presidency and a lame duck congress. He must compromise, negotiate, and listen, perhaps more than ever he has before. This is the big time, not Chicago politics, and we're not a community to be organized. If that means disappointing some of the people who put him where he is, Obama must risk their wrath. Perhaps, all of them should realize, that being President transcends playing favorites---the office of the President of the United States was never actually meant to steer the ship of state with only his own idialogical flag. If he wants all hands on deck, all rowing somewhat together, so that we can get someplace, he must inspire and make us believe once again that he wants what many of us want---an America we can be proud of again. Some call this belief in our particular brand of patriotism, "exceptionalism". Is that so bad? Do we not deserve that title? We have, since our inception, stood for a breed of people and government the likes of which no other country had achieved. We were different. Free of an over reaching government, our anscestors gladly took on the responsibilities of making their own way, not continuously looking for assistance or hand outs We became a strong, resilient, optimistic, and respected country, able to lead and share our wealth and technology with others. We became great, not by trying to be like other countries, but by allowing for as much individual freedom to flourish as possible, thereby nurturing strength and independence from the bottom up. By daring to care for ourselves, rather than leaning on a big nanny, demanding, ever more taxing government, we became the envy of the world. Now, as we deal with an economic crisis and frighteningly high unemployment, our true metal is being tested again. Severe budget cuts are on the horizon, and all of us will have to sacrifice in some way. But giving the government more and more money to spend as they see fit, and driving us more and more into debt is not the answer.
Whether for reasons of diplomacy or survival,President Obama has taken the first step since his presidency to show that he can compromise-- unbelievable and impressive, given his past record. But if he expects to be more than a one term president, he may have to do a lot more than compromise. His economic policies have failed, Obamacare is extremely unpopular, and our international relationships are growing weaker. To be great sometimes means to step aside, to listen, and to lay down your mantle of power so that others may speak. Obama has been good at doing this with other countries--now he must do it with his own. He may or may not do this in the future---but it appears this week's decision was not so much a compromise, or even a strategic move, as it was a decision made because there was no other choice when faced by a mandate made clear at the last election-- a huge push back that said, no more taxes, Mr. President. No more entitlements, no more stimulus, and ix-nay on your ideas of spreading the wealth via taxes of any kind.
We may need to make some changes, but not perhaps what you had in mind. Here's what many of us have in mind--- for now, knock off the class warfare bit. It's getting a little tiresome, and most of us realize the rich pay their fair share. Do what you were elected to do---protect, lead, but don't divide by pitting us against each other by continuously using words like "fight" and "hostage taking by the Republicans" when referring to the heretofore stalled bill on extending unemployment benefits. We believe that we can rise again if you will stop trying to reinvent us into something we never intended to be--if not a socialist government, it's simply too close for comfort. If this week's decision was a blink--we'll take it. It it was a nod, we'll take that. We'll even give you another chance, if you move more to the center. But if Monday's language was a wink that really said,'I had to do it guys, but I'll be back for much more'---Katie, bar the door! Game on.
Thursday, December 2, 2010
DO YOU HEAR WHAT I WANT TO HEAR?
"I heard the bells on Christmas Day"---I love that song, and wish every year that I could hear those bells. Where are they? Did the author hear them from the sky, on the street, or in his head? December has arrived, and with it, all the signs of Christmas. We are still in low gear, but the pace will quicken as time moves frantically towards the big day, but the little days leading us forward are worth noticing. Our street is lit up like a Christmas tree--lots of them, as it turns out. People seem to like our " white lights only" street, and they drive slowly up and down, gazing at our attempt to light the night with cheer, and elegance. The stores are decked out too, in all their holiday finery--and the only bells I hear are the sound of cash registers, ca-ching, ca-ching--- buy, buy. Then on the way home, I hear the Salvation Army bells, as they ring sweetly outside my grocery store----maybe those are the ones. They are saying "give, give"---a nickel, here, a dollar there, and every year an anonymous someone drops in a gold piece---atonement for the rest of our paltry offerings? I always wonder who gives so selflessly without wishing for or needing any recognition---a present day good samaritan, for sure.
The news continues to reflect a troubled world, where wars and talk of more wars have become common place. Good tidings? Not many this year. Add to the Christmas news stew a man by the name of Julian Salange, who fancies himself an heroic journalist with a lust to expose all the secrets that go on behind closed military and political doors, has chosen to publish private documents, which could in turn seriously weaken foreign relations everywhere. Of course, he claims to have only noble transparency in mind. But he cares not about the consequences---a little self serving man, attempting to become big by potentially sacrificing many. Unlike the anonymous donor, he craves publicity.
For now, the Christmas season reminds us that there is still reason for joy and hope for better times, and much of that hope lies within all of us. If you live in a small town, as I do, homeless people are not often seen, though we do have them. They are everywhere, and on a very cold night, recently, one of them in plain sight, froze to death. No one had stopped to help. People do not readily speak of their misfortunes . They are suffering silently, but sometimes you will see a sign of distress. Today as I stopped my car at a stop light , a young woman on the side of the road, with a piece of lettered cardboard held to her chest approached---the words said something about her daughter being ill. The light changed as I started to reach for my wallet, and so I drove off instead and glanced at the woman, embarassed that I had not found a way to help. I smiled apologetically at her as I drove by, expecting a scowl or worse. She smiled back as though she understood. That was the second time that day I had passed a person with a cardboard sign, begging for help----but the fear of strangers getting too close, and years of conditioning not to help those who appear able to help themselves, stopped me from stopping to help. I promised myself to find a way to go back soon and lend something besides a sorry glance. I was hearing no bells, only the sound of my own conscience---"you could have done better". There are people who do---I personally know someone who regularly goes out of his way to help a man who cannot help himself, and who welcomes a night in jail just to get a bed and a meal for one night. My friend stays in touch with this man, who is mentally ill, and offers support and a bit of money to get him by. When I asked my friend how he had happened to meet this needy, seedy person---he said, he had just crossed his path one day----and he stopped to help.
Last week, as I was walking, I heard an adult voice say "I like you". I turned to see a mentally and physically challenged woman speaking to another lady who was helping her up a curb. The helper replied, "Thank you, I like you, too." I don't know who seemed more beautiful at the moment, the helper or the helped, who was not too proud to speak words of affection. Those words were somehow, if not bells, the sound of Christmas , and they gave me a lift as I went on my way. Christmas is coming ---but it's already here all around us. Look for it everywhere and let it find you in unexpected places--even by the side of the road. Rejoice in the smaller moments. Stop or bend to help another. Do you hear what I long to hear-- above the hustle bustle, the over riding sense of aching to feel the joy, but not quite getting there? Over and beyond the bittersweet memories of Christmases past, the wishing for a cozy Norman Rockwell painting Christmas, the empty lonliness for people no longer with us, the sadness for all those so in need and seemingly beyond our reach? I strain to hear ,above it all , the bells of Christmas---clear, pure, and sweet, pealing truly good news and imploring us to listen---and to stop.
"I did what I could, what I had to do, what my conscience told me to do"
Oskar Schindler
The news continues to reflect a troubled world, where wars and talk of more wars have become common place. Good tidings? Not many this year. Add to the Christmas news stew a man by the name of Julian Salange, who fancies himself an heroic journalist with a lust to expose all the secrets that go on behind closed military and political doors, has chosen to publish private documents, which could in turn seriously weaken foreign relations everywhere. Of course, he claims to have only noble transparency in mind. But he cares not about the consequences---a little self serving man, attempting to become big by potentially sacrificing many. Unlike the anonymous donor, he craves publicity.
For now, the Christmas season reminds us that there is still reason for joy and hope for better times, and much of that hope lies within all of us. If you live in a small town, as I do, homeless people are not often seen, though we do have them. They are everywhere, and on a very cold night, recently, one of them in plain sight, froze to death. No one had stopped to help. People do not readily speak of their misfortunes . They are suffering silently, but sometimes you will see a sign of distress. Today as I stopped my car at a stop light , a young woman on the side of the road, with a piece of lettered cardboard held to her chest approached---the words said something about her daughter being ill. The light changed as I started to reach for my wallet, and so I drove off instead and glanced at the woman, embarassed that I had not found a way to help. I smiled apologetically at her as I drove by, expecting a scowl or worse. She smiled back as though she understood. That was the second time that day I had passed a person with a cardboard sign, begging for help----but the fear of strangers getting too close, and years of conditioning not to help those who appear able to help themselves, stopped me from stopping to help. I promised myself to find a way to go back soon and lend something besides a sorry glance. I was hearing no bells, only the sound of my own conscience---"you could have done better". There are people who do---I personally know someone who regularly goes out of his way to help a man who cannot help himself, and who welcomes a night in jail just to get a bed and a meal for one night. My friend stays in touch with this man, who is mentally ill, and offers support and a bit of money to get him by. When I asked my friend how he had happened to meet this needy, seedy person---he said, he had just crossed his path one day----and he stopped to help.
Last week, as I was walking, I heard an adult voice say "I like you". I turned to see a mentally and physically challenged woman speaking to another lady who was helping her up a curb. The helper replied, "Thank you, I like you, too." I don't know who seemed more beautiful at the moment, the helper or the helped, who was not too proud to speak words of affection. Those words were somehow, if not bells, the sound of Christmas , and they gave me a lift as I went on my way. Christmas is coming ---but it's already here all around us. Look for it everywhere and let it find you in unexpected places--even by the side of the road. Rejoice in the smaller moments. Stop or bend to help another. Do you hear what I long to hear-- above the hustle bustle, the over riding sense of aching to feel the joy, but not quite getting there? Over and beyond the bittersweet memories of Christmases past, the wishing for a cozy Norman Rockwell painting Christmas, the empty lonliness for people no longer with us, the sadness for all those so in need and seemingly beyond our reach? I strain to hear ,above it all , the bells of Christmas---clear, pure, and sweet, pealing truly good news and imploring us to listen---and to stop.
"I did what I could, what I had to do, what my conscience told me to do"
Oskar Schindler
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