Friday, November 28, 2008
Tuesday, November 18, 2008
Want? Bad! Well, sorta...yeah. Could be!
First, if anyone still checks this blog from the questions/statements posed to me regarding the Obama thing, I WILL respond. I'm just getting my ducks in a row and time is my foe in that process. I admit that there was a LOT of opinion in my post but there are facts to back many other statements I made. The problem with facts is that there is rarely real factual information. In other words, facts are two-sided. For example, take global warming. There are facts on both sides of the table of whether global warming is indeed only human-made or whether global is a natural phenomenon. So, I have a feeling that my posting facts will do nothing but throw fuel on the fire in the questions being answered in my last blog. That being said, let me move on. I've digressed from my original intent of this post.
I've recently had a personal epiphany. Wanting is bad in terms of how not getting what one wants is what I'm addressing. I've noticed that, especially in my family, that when one doesn't get what one wants then they get very upset. This goes from adults to children. So, I have three minutes to make my point and I simply can't do it in that short period of time. Think about it, though. When a person doesn't get what they want, how do they respond? How do they react? If we could get that one reaction down to something like, say, a mere disappointment with a focus on trying different ways to get what we want instead of throwing a tantrum or perhaps, instead, to merely realize that we will not get that thing that we desired and to move on without it and without some kind of negative reaction, then we'd be living in a much better world! It comes down to self and dare I say, pride.
Thoughts? Think about it! By the way, pride is literally, evil! But many people won't understand that either. Any time you put yourself before others then you're probably doing something wrong. I say any time. I'm open to believing that's not an absolute but only a tiny margin.
I've recently had a personal epiphany. Wanting is bad in terms of how not getting what one wants is what I'm addressing. I've noticed that, especially in my family, that when one doesn't get what one wants then they get very upset. This goes from adults to children. So, I have three minutes to make my point and I simply can't do it in that short period of time. Think about it, though. When a person doesn't get what they want, how do they respond? How do they react? If we could get that one reaction down to something like, say, a mere disappointment with a focus on trying different ways to get what we want instead of throwing a tantrum or perhaps, instead, to merely realize that we will not get that thing that we desired and to move on without it and without some kind of negative reaction, then we'd be living in a much better world! It comes down to self and dare I say, pride.
Thoughts? Think about it! By the way, pride is literally, evil! But many people won't understand that either. Any time you put yourself before others then you're probably doing something wrong. I say any time. I'm open to believing that's not an absolute but only a tiny margin.
Thursday, November 6, 2008
My response...
My reply to this post is at the end
From: Bradley Schneider
Election Hindsight
Share
Yesterday at 4:14pm
Now the election is over, and the country can move on to a new direction. Bush is finally out and Obama will soon be in as the new leader of the free world.
McCain
This was the first election that I could live with either candidate being president. Don't get me wrong - I wanted Obama to win. But McCain isn't the worst politician. He's an American who loves his country and its people. Though I disagree with him on almost every issue, I do believe that McCain is a good person who holds American prosperity above his own desire for power. The campaign did make a bunch of mistakes that put voters off, but overall it was still run better than that of the last president. Furthermore, I'd like to say that the final speech he gave on election night was absolutely perfect. He bowed out with humility, respect, and good intentions. I wouldn't be surprised if, like "The West Wing," Obama asks McCain to be Secretary of State.
Palin
In my opinion, she was the worst mistake made by McCain. Going for the female vote is a great idea, especially in such a popular governor. However, the vetting process clearly wasn't fully explored. This former beauty queen was investigated on I believe 2 corruption charges, and garbledygook came out of her mouth when she tried to answer tough questions. If you haven't seen the Katie Curic interview, then you haven't seen Palin at her worst. The only good thing that came out of her was Tina Fey's impression. There is now talk about her possibly running for president in 2012 (which would be a HUGE freaking mistake for the Republican party) or hosting a television show (which might be okay).
Obama
The first time I heard the name Obama was at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. The CNN commentators remarked about how this youg Senator was highly popular and could be a potential future Presidential candidate. Then I heard him speak. From that moment, I knew he would be President. Obama is a marvelous speaker. But even beyond that, he feels inspirational to me as a leader. People are passionate about him, which is vastly different than most peoples' feelings for politicians. After a disaster like Bush, we need a strong President that will inspire the people of the US, as well as the people of the world. We need a President who will repair relations with other countries and move us forward into a world of cooperation and respect. Obama is that man. Furthermore, I personally respect Obama for his sincere and complete honesty. I watched a CNN 2 hour program about Obama and his past, and he said in an interview about how he experimented with drugs when he was a kid. I love that honesty. I don't want a President who is a perfect person - I want a person who is perfect to be President.
Black
Many people throughout the campaign have been discussing the role of Obama as a black man. Well, first of all, he's half white and half black. I mention this because people forget he's not exclusively black. I completely understand how black people feel about Obama being elected. Years of opression, discrimination, racism, and biggotry have scarred many millions of people in the US. Some, up until now, believed that black people couldn't attain positions of power the same way white people could. They are now relieved and elated. Now that we're past that, can we as a nation please stop complaining about minorities being opressed when they're not. For instance, every year the NFL comes out with a race report card to see ethnicity among NFL coaches. A couple years ago, the report card scored poorly because only two or three head coaches were black. Seriously? I don't care if every coach is white or every coach is black, so long as they are the best men for their jobs. Where are all the hispanic/latino coaches? Affirmative action still exists in many states as a way to ensure college enrollment wasn't being racist. Aren't we past that? Can we please move on now? I underestand a half black president doesn't solve all of America's problems with biggotry. I, as a Jew, still feel biggotry occasionally. But most of the biggotry I see is on a personal scale by individuals, not by a country, a state, or a major organization. And to those people in the nation who hate that there is a black president (racist bastards) - please move out of the country. You're not wanted. Go move in with Al Queda and its racist members.
Prop 8
Speaking of biggotry, I am ashamed of the millions of Californians who voted Yes on Propisition 8. This proposition will create a distinction between traditional marriage between a man and woman and disallow gay marriage. This sickens me. Why should gay people have their rights taken away? Because these people feel uncomfortable? Because they think Christianity doesn't allow it? I can't think of a single good excuse to allow Prop8. One of my friends recently laughed at me because she knew I would vote No on Prop8. I don't see this as a laughing matter. Passing it means that millions of people will lose their rights. Striking it down doesn't hurt anyone. Saying No on Prop8 only helps people with taxes, respect, and adopting children. Saying No only helps people with rights. 52% of California should be ashamed of itself for taking away the rights of millions of people. What if there was a proposition that stated you had to marry someone within 4 years of your age? Would that be fair? What if 2nd marriages were banned? What if only people with college educations could marry? What if only white people could get married? If you voted Yes on Prop8, you should absolutely be ashamed of yourself as a biggot.
Senate
It's hard to move onto another topic from something that angers me so much, but there's more to cover. Currently (I mean current projections for the next Senate), the Democrats occupy 56 seats and Republicans 40. I am a Democrat, and I am happy that the Dems control the Senate and House, but it kinda scares me at the same time. This nation is very center-Right, and moving far Left quickly is a bad thing. The US has always been known for slow, progressive change, and moving too far in any one direction will cause a backlash. This election is perfect proof - Over the past 8 years, the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches were all mostly controlled by conservatives. Look what happened in response. This nation gravitates toward the middle because it is so diverse, and radical action one way causes a radical reaction the other way (like motion in physics). However, I believe Obama understands this. He wants to change the nation and world, but he also knows the consequences of acting too quickly and radically. Going back to Prop8, I believe that is the reason why it passed - because moving too quickly toward a radical goal will cause a quick backlash reaction. So in conclusion I am glad that the Senate is controlled by Dems, but I am cautious in proclaiming that it is a good thing.
CNN
I watched a good 15 hours or so of CNN yesterday. They did an excellent job this election. There were holographic projections, map video screens that could seemingly do anything, and analysts that knew what they were talking about. Furthermore, CNN seemed especially cautious in proclaiming victory for any candidate in any race. This is especially true with Indiana. MSNBC proclaimed Indiana for Obama about 10 hours before CNN. North Carolina and Missouri are still up in the air despite McCain's concession. CNN did an overall amazing job.
Stats
Just a quick stat to enlighten people. Somewhere around 75% of people with a post-graduate degree voted for Obama. Despite the vast amount of wealth they may have, highly educated people voted for Obama over the Republican candidate who is supposedly good for rich people. To me this just shows that smart people choose who is good for the country instead who is good for their own pocketbook.
The World
After seeing the reactions of peoples and nations from around the world, I believe Obama can repair relations with other countries that were bruised, hurt, or destroyed by his predecessor. People around the world will maybe no longer hate Americans. Maybe.
Bush
Speaking of Bush... what a terrible President. Just awful. How can anyone like him as our leader? Since Bush become President, the US has been hit by a handful of huge terrorist attacks both around the world and on our own soil, has gone to fight a war which it cannot ever win and has pissed off a billion people around the world, and has fallen into an economic crisis that has encompassed every citizen and the world too. Remember Abu-grave, Guantanimo Bay, and supposed WMDs? Bush has made a mockery of his office, and our nation is hated by billions around the world now. Do you honestly think Bush was the best person for national security? Okay, maybe we haven't had any major terrorist attacks recently, but I don't remember any during the Clinton administration either. Bush completely dissolved the rocky Mid-East peace that Clinton created. France used to like us and look up to us. Now they hate us. Iran and North Korea are on the verge of nuking us, and Russia actually yelled at us for our efforts to stop them in Georgia. Bush hasn't created security for Americans - he's done the exact opposite. Bush failed running the Texas Rangers baseball team. He failed at an oil company. He failed as Governor of Texas. And he failed as President of the United States of America. The only good thing to come out of his presidency is Frank Calliendo's TV show.
Michelle Obama
She will make an amazing first lady. I liked Laura Bush, but I don't think we've ever had a Harvard Graduate as a first lady until now. Michelle Obama is guaranteed to do an amazing job.
I look forward to the next 4/8 years of Obama's reign and the direction that this country will turn.
6 comments
Report Note
Raj'ae Mims (North Texas) wrote
at 4:44pm yesterday
Hmmm I agree with pretty much everything youve said except that Obama is only "half black". In this country, if you have dark skin and look black- you're black. There's no half to it. Obama himself says that he is a black man. Not a white man. Not bi-racial. And with his name, there's probably never been a day in his life where someone called him white and not black.
If I didn't know you and saw you in a store, my first reaction would be "oh thats a white guy" not that's a Jewish guy.
Report
Bradley Schneider wrote
at 4:50pm yesterday
True. I was just making a point.
Report
Angie Kreuser (Austin, TX) wrote
at 5:55pm yesterday
I, too, pretty much agree with everything you've said. However, I wanted to throw my two cents in here and mention that, in my opinion, no, race cannot just go away. Just because one African-American man got to the presidency does not mean that casual racism and disenfranchisement doesn't still exist. What it just means is that he's one man who managed to get above it. I do agree wholeheartedly that claiming racism or sexism when it really there is not good for us as a nation but I hesitate to say that, for the most part, it's "all better" and we should get over it. It's kind of a yes and no situation. Yes, we SHOULD get over it and lots of people have but there's lots of folks in American who haven't gotten over it and we have to be mindful that all sorts of bigotry and prejudice are floating out there. It's like saying "Well, we've had affirmative action and welfare for years and it should have worked by now so shouldn't we get over it?" Well, yes, in a perfect world where everything worked 100% well 100% of the time. But there's always going to be something that keeps a dream of a non-racist or non-prejudiced world from coming true. So we still need to talk about that kind of stuff.
I do agree with Raj'ae. If you look black, regardless of your genetic makeup, you ARE black. You know me, hon. I'm 1/4 Italian, 1/4 German, 3/8 African-American and 1/8 some random Native American that no one in the family remembers what tribe. I'm biracial and if we want to get technical I have more European DNA floating around in me than African-American. But I LOOK Black therefore to any observer I just AM Black. No one looks at me and muses, "Hm, there's that biracial girl with the pigtails." Also, few forms (governmental or otherwise) give you a choice of "multi-racial" so one gets used to filling in the race that most people are going to associate them with. But I do totally get your point. ;)
I love this post. Thanks for sharing. :)
Report
Kimberly Varhaug (Houston, TX) wrote
at 6:07pm yesterday
i didn't vote for him (don't kill me... i'm not predicting doom and gloom!), but i just have to say that race difference had absolutely nothing to do with it. but in any case, it's a very historic moment, and congratulations to him. it was a hard road for both, and it won't be easy.
Report
Scott Schneider wrote
at 10:19pm yesterday
Why does the government track marriages at all? The best thing to do would be to give absolutely no tax incentives to marry, have the government stop tracking marriages, and allow people to marry whomever (or whatever) they want under whichever god they want. If two men want to call themselves married, so be it. If a woman wants to marry her ipod, then go ahead and call yourself married. Until the government stops getting involved in the primarily religious institution of marriage, we will never come to a consensus.
Report
Teresa Mishler wrote
at 9:28am
Great Post! I really enjoyed reading it. Let's add all the homophobic people to the racists to be shipped out of the country!!
Alright Bradley, you know me so here goes. I will say this loud and proud. I'm extremely nervous of Obama and wish that he was not voted into presidency:
I'm going to comment here but I'm not intending to cause a fight, an argument, or anything of the sort. I'm simply expressing my opinions and thoughts. However, I'm almost positive that someone here will think I'm one of those religious bigots, or judgmental prudes, or something along those lines and someone if not a lot of people will take my comments personally and get furious with me. So be it. People will take my comments personal and rather than think through what I'm saying will almost immediately get defensive.
First? I appreciate that you were able to go with either candidate. That's good, only I've *never* understood how so many people were so for a candidate such as Obama. Actually, that's not true. I understand but am absolutely disgusted by how most people made their decisions for Obama, which was either by how he spoke, his skin-color, or perhaps even his ideals. For those who fell in line with his ideals, at least you were backing him on something you thought was concrete. Unfrotuantely, you also thought Obama aka a liar had your best-interest in mind. For those who fell in love with him because he was a popular candidate or a good speaker, well, you folks disappoint me. I'm curious, how many people really cared if he has terrorist ties or bigot ties of no short-term period? How many cared that he has *never* done anything he said he would do while serving his constituents. How many cared that he AND his wife backed late term abortions. which is illegal and murder? How many noticed that he rarely, if ever, answered the questions asked in the debates with an actual straight-forward answer (this is just a politician method, however, one that Obama was particularly good at). I fear that millions of people voted for Obama and had no clue or, worse yet, couldn't cared less about Obama's short-comings because they saw symbolism. WOW! Symbolism. Americans will vote someone into office because they are a symbol. Nevermind that they have no moral or ethical values whatsoever. Nevermind that they have never told the truth to the American people. Nevermind that while he was in the Senate for 144 days, he never drafted an official law. Nevermind that he has absolutely NO experience whatsoever. NONE. Lack of exerpience, lack or moral guidance and lack of true care and love for his country made Obama the WORST choice for president. Obama has proven to be a liar but Americans don't see or care about that. They just want a symbol to lead the free world. Obama does not care about America. He does not respect American sovereignty. He does not respect life. He does not care about me or you! All he cares about is being the leader of the free world and who really knows where a crooked man can go with that kind of power now? He only cares about himself.
One may ask, what's the difference between him and any other politician? While it may be true that most politicians are indeed the same way, I hope that there are politicians who actually have an appreciation for the country in which they live and serve. Obama, in my opinion, does not have that at all! He and his wife are radical leftists who have done a wonderful job of pulling the wool over most American's eyes. This country is going down hill very quickly!
Before the election, the Democratic-marjority house was at an all-time low approval rating of 13% and that was going down! Why on EARTH did we put more democrats in Congress?
These are my predictions for the next four years.
* People are going to LOVE Obama just like they loved Clinton. Obama's going to smooth-talk Americans so well that they are not going to know the truth about the treachory that will be going on behind the scenes. Obama will continue to get advice from his terrorist friends. He may even go by advice given him from them.
* American jobs will continue and be encouraged to be exported to foreign countries. Obama is not an American citizen. He's a self-proclaimed world-citizen. Therefore, American sovereignty is nothing to him. He wants to be loved by the world. He's narcistic that way and will use America as his leverage.
* We will remain at war in Iraq and Afghanistan because it would be detrimental to how he's viewed by the world if he pulled our troops out (Iraq complains everytime we say we are going to leave). War in Iran will not occur under Obama's watch because Obama is going to attempt diplomatic means with the President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Obama will most likely give up American sovereignty, secrets, wepaons, and perhaps even other treasonous acts to create some kind of peace with a president who doesn't care for or desire to really make peace with America, but will be willing to take what we give them and use it against us in the future. Therefore, whoever the next president is after Obama will be left to deal with the hell from Iran and any other terrorist conutry.
* Taxes is going to go up minimally to set the way for a socialist society because this kind of change isn't one that can be done quickly. However, make no mistake, Obama will put this into play so that, once again, the future is screwed. This indicates how Americans simply don't appreciate hard work, responsibility, and prefer handouts from the government. Did I mention that the government doesn't give a crap about Americans as it is bloated, bureaucratic, and run by near-criminals. So, Americans are simply giving up and are unwilling to take matters into their own hands.
* The military will probably be reduced a la Clinton's time.
* Illegal immigration will become a thing of the past because Obama will do away with the borders. Once again, American sovereignty removed. UWO? I don't like to think of it as something of a reality but it sure seems like we're getting closer and closer to it.
* I will add onto this as I think of things.
Let me say that I didn't really like either candidate but I fear Obama because he is a liar! I can't trust him!!! I couldn't believe the news when the cameras were up in peoples' crying faces! People were crying!! The news showed Oprah and other actresses. COME ON! What a farce! Tell me this wasn't just a faux cade!! These people really believe that Obama is going to do us right. Wow! We are a lost nation.
This marks the true beginning of a horrible era for America in that I believe this is the beginning of the end of American sovereignty. There are millions of Americans who take this country and what it has to offer for granted. There are millions of Americans who couldn't care less if American borders were removed. There are millions of Americans who couldn't care less if their freedom to worship who they please was taken away. I don't believe that there is a majority of Americans who truly care about the freedoms that the government has been infringing upon for a while now. We have become the proverbial frog in the pot of water that while the water is cold the frog will remain. As the water slowly comes to a boil the frog will not notice and will eventually get cooked alive neverminding that point where it could have lept out of the water saving its life. We are that frog and the water just got hot!
Prop8
So many people believe that those who were for Prop 8 were all about removing peoples' rights when removing rights from people was never a thought on our mind. Our thoughts were about protecting marriage! We weren't sitting in a corner thinking, hmm, how can we remove rights from people. Those who were against prop 8 thought that we were all about hating the homosexual and indeed those against prop 8 snarled and hated (hates?) us because they thought it was a personal attack on them. It's not personal, I assure you. I couldn't care less if someone is gay or not. I don't condone the act but I also don't judge it. However, don't push your gay desires on me and my kids. There is no rebuttal to the notion that homosexuality is not natural. There is no rebuttal to the notion that heterosexuality is normal. Marriage *is* the only word that I am aware to describe a legally binding means between a man and a woman. I have nothing against a homosexual couple wanting to be unionized as that is their desire but please don't redefine the word marriage as a proper unionized relationship between homosexual couples.
http://tech.mit.edu/V124/N5/kolasinski.5c.html
http://www.robgagnon.net/SecularCase.htm
Media
I do not understand why people watch media and believe everything they are told. Even worse, people watch a single media outlet and believe that that media outlet has the interest of those watching it in mind. GET REAL PEOPLE! The media is there for one thing and one thing only: to make money! If the media can stir the hearts of those watching it so that the media is succeeding in getting people to watcht he sponsors the media needs to make more money.
So, how do we get the truth? Tough question. Everything we watch nowadays is bombarded with half-truths and strong opinions. The most important thing is that we watch this crap with the knowledge that what we are watching isn't real. Then maybe that will get us to seek the truth more thoroughly in order to make better informed decisions. Most of the world hates Bush because the leftist media is pushing that agenda. Does everyone remember when the leftist media was pushing for us to go to Iraq? I remember listening to NPR and they were strongly for us going to war. Now they are pushing the "we didn't know the truth back then" issue. Please! Nobody but the bureaucrats on high knew and not even all of them knew the truth (maybe even Bush??). The fact is that we get all strung up from what we learn in the media and that's exactly what the media wants us to do so that we will continue watching and pumping in the money.
From: Bradley Schneider
Election Hindsight
Share
Yesterday at 4:14pm
Now the election is over, and the country can move on to a new direction. Bush is finally out and Obama will soon be in as the new leader of the free world.
McCain
This was the first election that I could live with either candidate being president. Don't get me wrong - I wanted Obama to win. But McCain isn't the worst politician. He's an American who loves his country and its people. Though I disagree with him on almost every issue, I do believe that McCain is a good person who holds American prosperity above his own desire for power. The campaign did make a bunch of mistakes that put voters off, but overall it was still run better than that of the last president. Furthermore, I'd like to say that the final speech he gave on election night was absolutely perfect. He bowed out with humility, respect, and good intentions. I wouldn't be surprised if, like "The West Wing," Obama asks McCain to be Secretary of State.
Palin
In my opinion, she was the worst mistake made by McCain. Going for the female vote is a great idea, especially in such a popular governor. However, the vetting process clearly wasn't fully explored. This former beauty queen was investigated on I believe 2 corruption charges, and garbledygook came out of her mouth when she tried to answer tough questions. If you haven't seen the Katie Curic interview, then you haven't seen Palin at her worst. The only good thing that came out of her was Tina Fey's impression. There is now talk about her possibly running for president in 2012 (which would be a HUGE freaking mistake for the Republican party) or hosting a television show (which might be okay).
Obama
The first time I heard the name Obama was at the 2004 Democratic National Convention. The CNN commentators remarked about how this youg Senator was highly popular and could be a potential future Presidential candidate. Then I heard him speak. From that moment, I knew he would be President. Obama is a marvelous speaker. But even beyond that, he feels inspirational to me as a leader. People are passionate about him, which is vastly different than most peoples' feelings for politicians. After a disaster like Bush, we need a strong President that will inspire the people of the US, as well as the people of the world. We need a President who will repair relations with other countries and move us forward into a world of cooperation and respect. Obama is that man. Furthermore, I personally respect Obama for his sincere and complete honesty. I watched a CNN 2 hour program about Obama and his past, and he said in an interview about how he experimented with drugs when he was a kid. I love that honesty. I don't want a President who is a perfect person - I want a person who is perfect to be President.
Black
Many people throughout the campaign have been discussing the role of Obama as a black man. Well, first of all, he's half white and half black. I mention this because people forget he's not exclusively black. I completely understand how black people feel about Obama being elected. Years of opression, discrimination, racism, and biggotry have scarred many millions of people in the US. Some, up until now, believed that black people couldn't attain positions of power the same way white people could. They are now relieved and elated. Now that we're past that, can we as a nation please stop complaining about minorities being opressed when they're not. For instance, every year the NFL comes out with a race report card to see ethnicity among NFL coaches. A couple years ago, the report card scored poorly because only two or three head coaches were black. Seriously? I don't care if every coach is white or every coach is black, so long as they are the best men for their jobs. Where are all the hispanic/latino coaches? Affirmative action still exists in many states as a way to ensure college enrollment wasn't being racist. Aren't we past that? Can we please move on now? I underestand a half black president doesn't solve all of America's problems with biggotry. I, as a Jew, still feel biggotry occasionally. But most of the biggotry I see is on a personal scale by individuals, not by a country, a state, or a major organization. And to those people in the nation who hate that there is a black president (racist bastards) - please move out of the country. You're not wanted. Go move in with Al Queda and its racist members.
Prop 8
Speaking of biggotry, I am ashamed of the millions of Californians who voted Yes on Propisition 8. This proposition will create a distinction between traditional marriage between a man and woman and disallow gay marriage. This sickens me. Why should gay people have their rights taken away? Because these people feel uncomfortable? Because they think Christianity doesn't allow it? I can't think of a single good excuse to allow Prop8. One of my friends recently laughed at me because she knew I would vote No on Prop8. I don't see this as a laughing matter. Passing it means that millions of people will lose their rights. Striking it down doesn't hurt anyone. Saying No on Prop8 only helps people with taxes, respect, and adopting children. Saying No only helps people with rights. 52% of California should be ashamed of itself for taking away the rights of millions of people. What if there was a proposition that stated you had to marry someone within 4 years of your age? Would that be fair? What if 2nd marriages were banned? What if only people with college educations could marry? What if only white people could get married? If you voted Yes on Prop8, you should absolutely be ashamed of yourself as a biggot.
Senate
It's hard to move onto another topic from something that angers me so much, but there's more to cover. Currently (I mean current projections for the next Senate), the Democrats occupy 56 seats and Republicans 40. I am a Democrat, and I am happy that the Dems control the Senate and House, but it kinda scares me at the same time. This nation is very center-Right, and moving far Left quickly is a bad thing. The US has always been known for slow, progressive change, and moving too far in any one direction will cause a backlash. This election is perfect proof - Over the past 8 years, the Executive, Legislative, and Judicial branches were all mostly controlled by conservatives. Look what happened in response. This nation gravitates toward the middle because it is so diverse, and radical action one way causes a radical reaction the other way (like motion in physics). However, I believe Obama understands this. He wants to change the nation and world, but he also knows the consequences of acting too quickly and radically. Going back to Prop8, I believe that is the reason why it passed - because moving too quickly toward a radical goal will cause a quick backlash reaction. So in conclusion I am glad that the Senate is controlled by Dems, but I am cautious in proclaiming that it is a good thing.
CNN
I watched a good 15 hours or so of CNN yesterday. They did an excellent job this election. There were holographic projections, map video screens that could seemingly do anything, and analysts that knew what they were talking about. Furthermore, CNN seemed especially cautious in proclaiming victory for any candidate in any race. This is especially true with Indiana. MSNBC proclaimed Indiana for Obama about 10 hours before CNN. North Carolina and Missouri are still up in the air despite McCain's concession. CNN did an overall amazing job.
Stats
Just a quick stat to enlighten people. Somewhere around 75% of people with a post-graduate degree voted for Obama. Despite the vast amount of wealth they may have, highly educated people voted for Obama over the Republican candidate who is supposedly good for rich people. To me this just shows that smart people choose who is good for the country instead who is good for their own pocketbook.
The World
After seeing the reactions of peoples and nations from around the world, I believe Obama can repair relations with other countries that were bruised, hurt, or destroyed by his predecessor. People around the world will maybe no longer hate Americans. Maybe.
Bush
Speaking of Bush... what a terrible President. Just awful. How can anyone like him as our leader? Since Bush become President, the US has been hit by a handful of huge terrorist attacks both around the world and on our own soil, has gone to fight a war which it cannot ever win and has pissed off a billion people around the world, and has fallen into an economic crisis that has encompassed every citizen and the world too. Remember Abu-grave, Guantanimo Bay, and supposed WMDs? Bush has made a mockery of his office, and our nation is hated by billions around the world now. Do you honestly think Bush was the best person for national security? Okay, maybe we haven't had any major terrorist attacks recently, but I don't remember any during the Clinton administration either. Bush completely dissolved the rocky Mid-East peace that Clinton created. France used to like us and look up to us. Now they hate us. Iran and North Korea are on the verge of nuking us, and Russia actually yelled at us for our efforts to stop them in Georgia. Bush hasn't created security for Americans - he's done the exact opposite. Bush failed running the Texas Rangers baseball team. He failed at an oil company. He failed as Governor of Texas. And he failed as President of the United States of America. The only good thing to come out of his presidency is Frank Calliendo's TV show.
Michelle Obama
She will make an amazing first lady. I liked Laura Bush, but I don't think we've ever had a Harvard Graduate as a first lady until now. Michelle Obama is guaranteed to do an amazing job.
I look forward to the next 4/8 years of Obama's reign and the direction that this country will turn.
6 comments
Report Note
Raj'ae Mims (North Texas) wrote
at 4:44pm yesterday
Hmmm I agree with pretty much everything youve said except that Obama is only "half black". In this country, if you have dark skin and look black- you're black. There's no half to it. Obama himself says that he is a black man. Not a white man. Not bi-racial. And with his name, there's probably never been a day in his life where someone called him white and not black.
If I didn't know you and saw you in a store, my first reaction would be "oh thats a white guy" not that's a Jewish guy.
Report
Bradley Schneider wrote
at 4:50pm yesterday
True. I was just making a point.
Report
Angie Kreuser (Austin, TX) wrote
at 5:55pm yesterday
I, too, pretty much agree with everything you've said. However, I wanted to throw my two cents in here and mention that, in my opinion, no, race cannot just go away. Just because one African-American man got to the presidency does not mean that casual racism and disenfranchisement doesn't still exist. What it just means is that he's one man who managed to get above it. I do agree wholeheartedly that claiming racism or sexism when it really there is not good for us as a nation but I hesitate to say that, for the most part, it's "all better" and we should get over it. It's kind of a yes and no situation. Yes, we SHOULD get over it and lots of people have but there's lots of folks in American who haven't gotten over it and we have to be mindful that all sorts of bigotry and prejudice are floating out there. It's like saying "Well, we've had affirmative action and welfare for years and it should have worked by now so shouldn't we get over it?" Well, yes, in a perfect world where everything worked 100% well 100% of the time. But there's always going to be something that keeps a dream of a non-racist or non-prejudiced world from coming true. So we still need to talk about that kind of stuff.
I do agree with Raj'ae. If you look black, regardless of your genetic makeup, you ARE black. You know me, hon. I'm 1/4 Italian, 1/4 German, 3/8 African-American and 1/8 some random Native American that no one in the family remembers what tribe. I'm biracial and if we want to get technical I have more European DNA floating around in me than African-American. But I LOOK Black therefore to any observer I just AM Black. No one looks at me and muses, "Hm, there's that biracial girl with the pigtails." Also, few forms (governmental or otherwise) give you a choice of "multi-racial" so one gets used to filling in the race that most people are going to associate them with. But I do totally get your point. ;)
I love this post. Thanks for sharing. :)
Report
Kimberly Varhaug (Houston, TX) wrote
at 6:07pm yesterday
i didn't vote for him (don't kill me... i'm not predicting doom and gloom!), but i just have to say that race difference had absolutely nothing to do with it. but in any case, it's a very historic moment, and congratulations to him. it was a hard road for both, and it won't be easy.
Report
Scott Schneider wrote
at 10:19pm yesterday
Why does the government track marriages at all? The best thing to do would be to give absolutely no tax incentives to marry, have the government stop tracking marriages, and allow people to marry whomever (or whatever) they want under whichever god they want. If two men want to call themselves married, so be it. If a woman wants to marry her ipod, then go ahead and call yourself married. Until the government stops getting involved in the primarily religious institution of marriage, we will never come to a consensus.
Report
Teresa Mishler wrote
at 9:28am
Great Post! I really enjoyed reading it. Let's add all the homophobic people to the racists to be shipped out of the country!!
Alright Bradley, you know me so here goes. I will say this loud and proud. I'm extremely nervous of Obama and wish that he was not voted into presidency:
I'm going to comment here but I'm not intending to cause a fight, an argument, or anything of the sort. I'm simply expressing my opinions and thoughts. However, I'm almost positive that someone here will think I'm one of those religious bigots, or judgmental prudes, or something along those lines and someone if not a lot of people will take my comments personally and get furious with me. So be it. People will take my comments personal and rather than think through what I'm saying will almost immediately get defensive.
First? I appreciate that you were able to go with either candidate. That's good, only I've *never* understood how so many people were so for a candidate such as Obama. Actually, that's not true. I understand but am absolutely disgusted by how most people made their decisions for Obama, which was either by how he spoke, his skin-color, or perhaps even his ideals. For those who fell in line with his ideals, at least you were backing him on something you thought was concrete. Unfrotuantely, you also thought Obama aka a liar had your best-interest in mind. For those who fell in love with him because he was a popular candidate or a good speaker, well, you folks disappoint me. I'm curious, how many people really cared if he has terrorist ties or bigot ties of no short-term period? How many cared that he has *never* done anything he said he would do while serving his constituents. How many cared that he AND his wife backed late term abortions. which is illegal and murder? How many noticed that he rarely, if ever, answered the questions asked in the debates with an actual straight-forward answer (this is just a politician method, however, one that Obama was particularly good at). I fear that millions of people voted for Obama and had no clue or, worse yet, couldn't cared less about Obama's short-comings because they saw symbolism. WOW! Symbolism. Americans will vote someone into office because they are a symbol. Nevermind that they have no moral or ethical values whatsoever. Nevermind that they have never told the truth to the American people. Nevermind that while he was in the Senate for 144 days, he never drafted an official law. Nevermind that he has absolutely NO experience whatsoever. NONE. Lack of exerpience, lack or moral guidance and lack of true care and love for his country made Obama the WORST choice for president. Obama has proven to be a liar but Americans don't see or care about that. They just want a symbol to lead the free world. Obama does not care about America. He does not respect American sovereignty. He does not respect life. He does not care about me or you! All he cares about is being the leader of the free world and who really knows where a crooked man can go with that kind of power now? He only cares about himself.
One may ask, what's the difference between him and any other politician? While it may be true that most politicians are indeed the same way, I hope that there are politicians who actually have an appreciation for the country in which they live and serve. Obama, in my opinion, does not have that at all! He and his wife are radical leftists who have done a wonderful job of pulling the wool over most American's eyes. This country is going down hill very quickly!
Before the election, the Democratic-marjority house was at an all-time low approval rating of 13% and that was going down! Why on EARTH did we put more democrats in Congress?
These are my predictions for the next four years.
* People are going to LOVE Obama just like they loved Clinton. Obama's going to smooth-talk Americans so well that they are not going to know the truth about the treachory that will be going on behind the scenes. Obama will continue to get advice from his terrorist friends. He may even go by advice given him from them.
* American jobs will continue and be encouraged to be exported to foreign countries. Obama is not an American citizen. He's a self-proclaimed world-citizen. Therefore, American sovereignty is nothing to him. He wants to be loved by the world. He's narcistic that way and will use America as his leverage.
* We will remain at war in Iraq and Afghanistan because it would be detrimental to how he's viewed by the world if he pulled our troops out (Iraq complains everytime we say we are going to leave). War in Iran will not occur under Obama's watch because Obama is going to attempt diplomatic means with the President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad. Obama will most likely give up American sovereignty, secrets, wepaons, and perhaps even other treasonous acts to create some kind of peace with a president who doesn't care for or desire to really make peace with America, but will be willing to take what we give them and use it against us in the future. Therefore, whoever the next president is after Obama will be left to deal with the hell from Iran and any other terrorist conutry.
* Taxes is going to go up minimally to set the way for a socialist society because this kind of change isn't one that can be done quickly. However, make no mistake, Obama will put this into play so that, once again, the future is screwed. This indicates how Americans simply don't appreciate hard work, responsibility, and prefer handouts from the government. Did I mention that the government doesn't give a crap about Americans as it is bloated, bureaucratic, and run by near-criminals. So, Americans are simply giving up and are unwilling to take matters into their own hands.
* The military will probably be reduced a la Clinton's time.
* Illegal immigration will become a thing of the past because Obama will do away with the borders. Once again, American sovereignty removed. UWO? I don't like to think of it as something of a reality but it sure seems like we're getting closer and closer to it.
* I will add onto this as I think of things.
Let me say that I didn't really like either candidate but I fear Obama because he is a liar! I can't trust him!!! I couldn't believe the news when the cameras were up in peoples' crying faces! People were crying!! The news showed Oprah and other actresses. COME ON! What a farce! Tell me this wasn't just a faux cade!! These people really believe that Obama is going to do us right. Wow! We are a lost nation.
This marks the true beginning of a horrible era for America in that I believe this is the beginning of the end of American sovereignty. There are millions of Americans who take this country and what it has to offer for granted. There are millions of Americans who couldn't care less if American borders were removed. There are millions of Americans who couldn't care less if their freedom to worship who they please was taken away. I don't believe that there is a majority of Americans who truly care about the freedoms that the government has been infringing upon for a while now. We have become the proverbial frog in the pot of water that while the water is cold the frog will remain. As the water slowly comes to a boil the frog will not notice and will eventually get cooked alive neverminding that point where it could have lept out of the water saving its life. We are that frog and the water just got hot!
Prop8
So many people believe that those who were for Prop 8 were all about removing peoples' rights when removing rights from people was never a thought on our mind. Our thoughts were about protecting marriage! We weren't sitting in a corner thinking, hmm, how can we remove rights from people. Those who were against prop 8 thought that we were all about hating the homosexual and indeed those against prop 8 snarled and hated (hates?) us because they thought it was a personal attack on them. It's not personal, I assure you. I couldn't care less if someone is gay or not. I don't condone the act but I also don't judge it. However, don't push your gay desires on me and my kids. There is no rebuttal to the notion that homosexuality is not natural. There is no rebuttal to the notion that heterosexuality is normal. Marriage *is* the only word that I am aware to describe a legally binding means between a man and a woman. I have nothing against a homosexual couple wanting to be unionized as that is their desire but please don't redefine the word marriage as a proper unionized relationship between homosexual couples.
http://tech.mit.edu/V124/N5/kolasinski.5c.html
http://www.robgagnon.net/SecularCase.htm
Media
I do not understand why people watch media and believe everything they are told. Even worse, people watch a single media outlet and believe that that media outlet has the interest of those watching it in mind. GET REAL PEOPLE! The media is there for one thing and one thing only: to make money! If the media can stir the hearts of those watching it so that the media is succeeding in getting people to watcht he sponsors the media needs to make more money.
So, how do we get the truth? Tough question. Everything we watch nowadays is bombarded with half-truths and strong opinions. The most important thing is that we watch this crap with the knowledge that what we are watching isn't real. Then maybe that will get us to seek the truth more thoroughly in order to make better informed decisions. Most of the world hates Bush because the leftist media is pushing that agenda. Does everyone remember when the leftist media was pushing for us to go to Iraq? I remember listening to NPR and they were strongly for us going to war. Now they are pushing the "we didn't know the truth back then" issue. Please! Nobody but the bureaucrats on high knew and not even all of them knew the truth (maybe even Bush??). The fact is that we get all strung up from what we learn in the media and that's exactly what the media wants us to do so that we will continue watching and pumping in the money.
Tuesday, November 4, 2008
IT'S A BOY!!
Ok. So we haven't had our baby yet but at least we know what it is and I am excited! I went to my first-ever ultrasound! It was quite amazing. It was one of the coolest things I've ever seen; my own child in the womb of my beautiful wife!
So we were in there and the tech was looking around the belly and stuff. We were talking and I was a little surprised that she didn't just get straight to showing us the gender. In fact, we were in there for probably 20 minutes before I asked if we could see the gender. She stated that she wasn't sure we wanted to know and that was why she didn't show us earlier. It didn't take long for her to get to that area of his body and it certainly didn't take long to know what we had. WOW! :)
Anyway, so I'm excited that we are having a boy. I wasn't sure what I wanted. A big chunk of me was hoping for a girl because I relate to girls better having grown up with them all of my life. Another part of me wanted a boy to carry on the family name. Once I learned we were having a boy I was very excited. Now we have a lifetime of joy, sadness, hard times, etc ahead of us. Right now I'm reveling in the moment knowing I am going to be the biological father to a little baby boy in the next few months.
So we were in there and the tech was looking around the belly and stuff. We were talking and I was a little surprised that she didn't just get straight to showing us the gender. In fact, we were in there for probably 20 minutes before I asked if we could see the gender. She stated that she wasn't sure we wanted to know and that was why she didn't show us earlier. It didn't take long for her to get to that area of his body and it certainly didn't take long to know what we had. WOW! :)
Anyway, so I'm excited that we are having a boy. I wasn't sure what I wanted. A big chunk of me was hoping for a girl because I relate to girls better having grown up with them all of my life. Another part of me wanted a boy to carry on the family name. Once I learned we were having a boy I was very excited. Now we have a lifetime of joy, sadness, hard times, etc ahead of us. Right now I'm reveling in the moment knowing I am going to be the biological father to a little baby boy in the next few months.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
