I usually don’t go in for New Year’s Resolutions. I just don’t see the point in waiting until then to make a change in oneself or one’s life. Just seems like a way of delaying having to do or stop doing something. If you are going to delay it, you will most likely not follow through with it. At least, that has been my experience and observation. That is why I didn’t wait until January 1st to quit smoking. I quit – cold turkey, so to speak – in July (I think)… maybe August. Not sure.
BUT
I am making a resolution right now. I resolve to stop thinking that everything will work itself out. I kind of have that problem. I feel that if something is supposed to happen, it will happen. That is not to say that I do not work for certain goals, or try to achieve things on my own, but I do everything that I can and let “fate” take over. I have to stop doing that. I should really try and come up with a way to continue working to get something/somewhere until I do or I am told that it won’t happen at all.
Don’t give up, I guess. Yes, that would be the most succinct way of putting my resolution.
As far as having the old year exit on the right note, I have some things to say:
S – You are an excellent mother and very good friend. I am sorry that things are hard for you, but I cannot do any more to help you. All it is doing is enabling you to be lazy and not take responsibility for yourself. I have gathered the courage to be more open with you, but I just don’t have the courage to say this to your face. I do not want that argument. There is too much at risk for you to feel slighted by my bluntness, but I know that down the road, you will agree that it is exactly what is happening.
J – I am not running. I am going nowhere. I will stop standing idly by while you emotionally shred yourself. You must change that or there will be many conversations about it leading to actually arguments. I do NOT want you to “pretend” that everything is great, either. I want you to realize that you are worth more than the constant barrage of negativity you unleash upon yourself. I will do anything I can to help.
Trolls, haters, and racists – Fuck off and die. Eat shit. Gag on mass quantities of Drano. How else can I put this? You are no better than the KKK or Jesse Jackson. I wish for you in the New Year to be faced with having to rely on someone that you hate to save your life. Yes, I want you all to be beaten, car or airplane wrecked or anything to within moments of death, only to have your worst “enemy” be the one to save you. With your mentalities, it still won’t make a difference.
Motto for 2007: Be good or be good at it!
Saturday, December 30, 2006
Sunday, December 24, 2006
PISD has me PISSED
My son is 5 years old. This is relevant because my son is in kindergarten in the Plano Independent School District (PISD). The PISD has come out on the subject of Christmas with a “We will not favor one religion above the others, so we will call it a Winter Break and the children can have a Holiday Party” stance.
I feel just fine with that. I think it is ridiculous, but I can live with the complete absence of any religion in the classroom.
Then tell me, why did my son make a menorah in his class? Is that not a religious icon for Hanukah? Is that not a Jewish holiday?
Don’t get me wrong, I really could not care any less if the schools want to have a Christmas party or Yule celebration or have the kids make Kwanza stuff. I want my son to LEARN about the world, so teach in school.
BUT, if you are going to say that children cannot bring candy canes to school for other children because they are signifying the shepherd’s crock, and thusly, Christ as the shepherd and all that shit (yes, it happened a couple of years ago right here in PISD), do NOT have my son make a drawing, cut-out, coloring or anything else of any religion!
I love freedom, but this shit has GOT to stop! No more pandering to the minorities, regardless of whom or what they are. We, the citizens of this country, must take action to get this rampant “political correct” pandemic under control. I fear it may already be too late, but here is what I suggest:
When you see someone trying to take advantage of the system so that they can continue to not have to be responsible for their actions (i.e. frivolous lawsuits, manipulating the Welfare system, trying to set someone else up for a quick and easy buck), call them on it. Get their personal information and spread the word. There is no law forbidding the telling of the truth.
There are more people that are honest than there are that are dishonest. That means, we, the honest folks, are the MAJORITY. Let’s use that weight and force our representatives in power (that we were supposed to have put there) to start SOLVING the problems instead of dancing around them.
I am just so sick of everyone trying so hard to make sure that no one gets their feelings hurt, so no one stands up and says, “You are acting like a child. You are wrong!”
There are people like this in EVERY race and EVERY religion. Call the wrong-doers out and take a stand.
Theodore Roosevelt, in a letter to the American Defense Society in 1919, said this:
"In the first place we should insist that the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equity with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace or origin. But this is predicated upon the man's becoming an American and nothing but an American. There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag, and this excludes the red flag which symbolizes all wars against liberty and civilization, just as much as it excludes any flag of a nation to which we are hostile. We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."
And for shit’s sake, stop getting all up in arms about the stuff that doesn’t matter in the long run.
Thanks for listening. I rambled a bit, but I have had some things on my chest, and now they are off.
I feel just fine with that. I think it is ridiculous, but I can live with the complete absence of any religion in the classroom.
Then tell me, why did my son make a menorah in his class? Is that not a religious icon for Hanukah? Is that not a Jewish holiday?
Don’t get me wrong, I really could not care any less if the schools want to have a Christmas party or Yule celebration or have the kids make Kwanza stuff. I want my son to LEARN about the world, so teach in school.
BUT, if you are going to say that children cannot bring candy canes to school for other children because they are signifying the shepherd’s crock, and thusly, Christ as the shepherd and all that shit (yes, it happened a couple of years ago right here in PISD), do NOT have my son make a drawing, cut-out, coloring or anything else of any religion!
I love freedom, but this shit has GOT to stop! No more pandering to the minorities, regardless of whom or what they are. We, the citizens of this country, must take action to get this rampant “political correct” pandemic under control. I fear it may already be too late, but here is what I suggest:
When you see someone trying to take advantage of the system so that they can continue to not have to be responsible for their actions (i.e. frivolous lawsuits, manipulating the Welfare system, trying to set someone else up for a quick and easy buck), call them on it. Get their personal information and spread the word. There is no law forbidding the telling of the truth.
There are more people that are honest than there are that are dishonest. That means, we, the honest folks, are the MAJORITY. Let’s use that weight and force our representatives in power (that we were supposed to have put there) to start SOLVING the problems instead of dancing around them.
I am just so sick of everyone trying so hard to make sure that no one gets their feelings hurt, so no one stands up and says, “You are acting like a child. You are wrong!”
There are people like this in EVERY race and EVERY religion. Call the wrong-doers out and take a stand.
Theodore Roosevelt, in a letter to the American Defense Society in 1919, said this:
"In the first place we should insist that the immigrant who comes here in good faith becomes an American and assimilates himself to us, he shall be treated on an exact equity with everyone else, for it is an outrage to discriminate against any such man because of creed, or birthplace or origin. But this is predicated upon the man's becoming an American and nothing but an American. There can be no divided allegiance here. Any man who says he is an American but something else also, isn't an American at all. We have room for but one flag, the American flag, and this excludes the red flag which symbolizes all wars against liberty and civilization, just as much as it excludes any flag of a nation to which we are hostile. We have room for but one language here, and that is the English language...and we have room for but one sole loyalty and that is a loyalty to the American people."
And for shit’s sake, stop getting all up in arms about the stuff that doesn’t matter in the long run.
Thanks for listening. I rambled a bit, but I have had some things on my chest, and now they are off.
Tuesday, December 19, 2006
Customer Service
Because my job also has me working partly in Customer Service, I have high expectations to any service I receive. I will try to keep in mind that the person on the other end of the phone is NOT responsible for whatever my problem is. I will say things like “please” and “thank you”. Basically, I will show them respect.
I know – first hand! – how frustrating it is to work in this field, so I give a LOT of leeway to the representative or agent I am working with. I also, if the situation warrants, will call to PRAISE the rep that I dealt with to his or her supervisor.
There is absolutely NO reason for ANY rep to get bitchy with me. I remain calm, even if I am not getting the satisfaction I am looking for.
So now, I rant:
I called the power company because the power went out all over my apartment complex. All business and housing AROUND my complex was still operational, but I was in the dark. I checked with neighbors, same situation. I called, and after a long time on hold (to be expected in this situation), I spoke with perhaps the rudest rep ever! She was antagonistic from the get go. She spoke in a short, tight manner as if I was a child and understood nothing.
I usually try and find fault in my half of the conversation for the attitude of the rep to which I talk. Yes, I do lose my temper every now and again. Frustration can only be checked for so long. But this time, I did nothing wrong… honestly!
I got her name and proceeded to inform her that I was only calling to make sure that someone was aware of the issue and, if so, see if there was an estimated time to restoration of power. Her flagrant disregard for civility and manners is a prime example of why her company is losing customers left and right to smaller companies. That and the ridiculous rates they charge the customers. She began to snap back and I interrupted her, telling her that she was not worth the time or the energy it would take to argue with her.
I hung up and immediately called back. When I got another rep, I asked for a supervisor. She tried to assist, but I refused to talk to her or anyone else that wasn’t a supervisor. I did this in a very calm and rational tone. When the supervisor came on, I explained the situation fully and calmly. She said she would speak with the rep and pull the recording of the conversation if there was one.
Will she do it? I don’t know. I really don’t care. I just want to make sure that I, the consumer, am heard.
I advise ALL of you reading this to stop taking poor service. Demand professionalism and respect.
This is ESPECIALLY true for waiters and waitresses. If I get poor service, I tip poorly. I generally start at 20% and the level of service I receive either raises it or lowers it. If I feel that the service I received was truly abominable, I will leave only what coins are left after the change is returned. Conversely, if the service I receive is spectacular, I will (and have done this this very week!) leave as much as 50%. I do not care if you’re counting on my tip; I reward good service and refuse to reward bad service. Want a better tip, provide service worth it.
Gratuity: 1. a gift of money, over and above payment due for service; tip 2. something given without claim or demand.
Where, in that definition, does it say anything about tipping being required? We, the customers and consumers, have the power to change this state of affairs. We can, but only if we stop rolling over and taking what is given to us.
Where you see a cane, I see a crock.
Where you see a crowd, I see a flock.
I know – first hand! – how frustrating it is to work in this field, so I give a LOT of leeway to the representative or agent I am working with. I also, if the situation warrants, will call to PRAISE the rep that I dealt with to his or her supervisor.
There is absolutely NO reason for ANY rep to get bitchy with me. I remain calm, even if I am not getting the satisfaction I am looking for.
So now, I rant:
I called the power company because the power went out all over my apartment complex. All business and housing AROUND my complex was still operational, but I was in the dark. I checked with neighbors, same situation. I called, and after a long time on hold (to be expected in this situation), I spoke with perhaps the rudest rep ever! She was antagonistic from the get go. She spoke in a short, tight manner as if I was a child and understood nothing.
I usually try and find fault in my half of the conversation for the attitude of the rep to which I talk. Yes, I do lose my temper every now and again. Frustration can only be checked for so long. But this time, I did nothing wrong… honestly!
I got her name and proceeded to inform her that I was only calling to make sure that someone was aware of the issue and, if so, see if there was an estimated time to restoration of power. Her flagrant disregard for civility and manners is a prime example of why her company is losing customers left and right to smaller companies. That and the ridiculous rates they charge the customers. She began to snap back and I interrupted her, telling her that she was not worth the time or the energy it would take to argue with her.
I hung up and immediately called back. When I got another rep, I asked for a supervisor. She tried to assist, but I refused to talk to her or anyone else that wasn’t a supervisor. I did this in a very calm and rational tone. When the supervisor came on, I explained the situation fully and calmly. She said she would speak with the rep and pull the recording of the conversation if there was one.
Will she do it? I don’t know. I really don’t care. I just want to make sure that I, the consumer, am heard.
I advise ALL of you reading this to stop taking poor service. Demand professionalism and respect.
This is ESPECIALLY true for waiters and waitresses. If I get poor service, I tip poorly. I generally start at 20% and the level of service I receive either raises it or lowers it. If I feel that the service I received was truly abominable, I will leave only what coins are left after the change is returned. Conversely, if the service I receive is spectacular, I will (and have done this this very week!) leave as much as 50%. I do not care if you’re counting on my tip; I reward good service and refuse to reward bad service. Want a better tip, provide service worth it.
Gratuity: 1. a gift of money, over and above payment due for service; tip 2. something given without claim or demand.
Where, in that definition, does it say anything about tipping being required? We, the customers and consumers, have the power to change this state of affairs. We can, but only if we stop rolling over and taking what is given to us.
Where you see a cane, I see a crock.
Where you see a crowd, I see a flock.
Monday, December 18, 2006
I got PROOF!
Check this out:
Wow. I never wouold have guessed!
| Your Social Dysfunction: Normal Being average in terms of how social you are, as well as the amount of self-esteem you have, you're pretty much normal. Good on you. | ||||
| ||||
| Take'>http://www.quizgalaxy.com/quiz.php?id=72">Take this quiz at QuizGalaxy.com Please note that we aren't, nor do we claim to be, psychologists. This quiz is for fun and entertainment only. Try not to freak out about your results. |
Wow. I never wouold have guessed!
Friday, December 15, 2006
My son, my fear, my problem
My son, my 5 year old, hit (or “punched” as was reported to me) two other children in his class, yesterday (December 14). As if that wasn’t enough, one of those kids was a girl.
A GIRL!!
What the fuck?
I have always emphasized that he, as a boy, NEVER hits a girl – he PROTECTS them from others that would try and hurt them!
Please reference the two entries on Degrading Women for more about how men should behave regarding women.
I asked him why he did it, and he said that they were calling him names. I asked what they were saying and he said that they called him a crybaby. When I went off (and I did) about him hitting a girl (one that was supposed to be his girl-friend), he said that he did it because she told him she didn’t want him.
Get used to that one, son! Some women will totally fuck with your emotions and your head. On the flip side, so will some guys (to women). They are present in both sexes, these assclowns.
I really wanted to spank him. This kind of behavior will not be tolerated and deserves corporal punishment, but I just couldn’t do it. I should have tanned his ass, big time! But, after everything I have been through in the past 2 years, I am afraid. I live in fear that the state of Texas will swoop down and claim me an unfit parent and take him away. I worry that he will mention getting a spanking and then CPS will step in and I will lose him, as I lost my daughter.
My son deserved a spanking, but I am second guessing all of my parental decisions because of my fear of an overzealous arm of a heavy handed state government. This is not a good situation. My son knows better. He has been taught better than this… at least, I thought he had been taught better than this.
I will say this much, if he EVER hits another girl, I WILL spank him for it. I will make sure that my anger has subsided and I am calm and rational, but I WILL make him understand that you NEVER hit a girl, and his ass will feel the sting of a couple of good swats to help him remember it!
Yes, this one will keep me on my toes.
A GIRL!!
What the fuck?
I have always emphasized that he, as a boy, NEVER hits a girl – he PROTECTS them from others that would try and hurt them!
Please reference the two entries on Degrading Women for more about how men should behave regarding women.
I asked him why he did it, and he said that they were calling him names. I asked what they were saying and he said that they called him a crybaby. When I went off (and I did) about him hitting a girl (one that was supposed to be his girl-friend), he said that he did it because she told him she didn’t want him.
Get used to that one, son! Some women will totally fuck with your emotions and your head. On the flip side, so will some guys (to women). They are present in both sexes, these assclowns.
I really wanted to spank him. This kind of behavior will not be tolerated and deserves corporal punishment, but I just couldn’t do it. I should have tanned his ass, big time! But, after everything I have been through in the past 2 years, I am afraid. I live in fear that the state of Texas will swoop down and claim me an unfit parent and take him away. I worry that he will mention getting a spanking and then CPS will step in and I will lose him, as I lost my daughter.
My son deserved a spanking, but I am second guessing all of my parental decisions because of my fear of an overzealous arm of a heavy handed state government. This is not a good situation. My son knows better. He has been taught better than this… at least, I thought he had been taught better than this.
I will say this much, if he EVER hits another girl, I WILL spank him for it. I will make sure that my anger has subsided and I am calm and rational, but I WILL make him understand that you NEVER hit a girl, and his ass will feel the sting of a couple of good swats to help him remember it!
Yes, this one will keep me on my toes.
Sunday, December 03, 2006
McDonalds has deep pockets
My son loves McDonalds. He’s 5, so he has not developed acute culinary tastes, yet. He likes it for the Play Area. OK. I can suck it up and allow him to romp in an area made just for kids. He’ll have some fun.
Saturday, I take the young one to the Mickey-D’s on Belt Line near Plano Parkway. I pass it on a pretty regular basis and have always thought that the play area looked cool (kind of a central American jungle/Jurassic Park look to it). We get in there and the design is actually the worst in the world.
First off, the tables are tall with tall chairs. Kids that are shorter than 5 feet tall are going to have a problem getting into and out of these chairs. Shit, ADULTS were having trouble! My son was sitting on the edge, as he is 5 and excited to be in the play area, and slipped off the chair, pushing his arm (which was resting on the table) up at an awkward angle and height. Great crying ensued as he was in some noteworthy pain.
Along the back wall is a slide that is about 12 to 15 feet tall. Kids climb through the plastic maze to get to the slide and slide down. Great fun, as my son reported to me numerous times after sliding down. I watch and proceed to get pissed as several kids ranging in age from 3 to 12 start walking up the slide to get to the top instead of taking the ladder-maze thing! Kids are trying to slide DOWN the slide! At the base of the slide is a wall with a long bench on it. This is where the “parents” sit to “supervise” their children. NONE – NOT ONE – of these ….. these ….. BREEDERS (I now know what the CL poster meant by the difference in Parents and Breeders!) says anything to ANY of the children. So I do.
I get up, walk over to the bottom of the slide and yell up to all of the children that the slide is one way – DOWN! Walking up the slide is rude and dangerous to the children doing the walking as well as the children sliding down. I know the offending kids heard me; they all looked at me. I know the Breeders heard me; I wasn’t 2 feet in front of them and yelling over the din of laughing and screaming children. I walk away talking – very loudly to myself (in typical passive/aggressive style) about how I will have to step up and parent everyone’s children as none of them are doing it!
I get back to the table and look back and see that my son is now stuck in a traffic jam as another 10 year old looking fucker is walking up the slide and has stopped traffic 4-5 kids deep. I go get the manager and use key words like liability, safety violation, injury and lawsuit. The manager still says that there is nothing he can do, as the moment he walks away from the kids, they will just do it again.
This apathetic managerial style is unacceptable to me, so I pack up my son and we are out of there. I know that the loss of my patronage will do nothing to impact the profits of this internationally recognized and age-old institution of a fast food chain, but I urge ALL people to voice their disgust at poor to pathetic service.
Bad design, bad parenting and bad managing are making this great looking play area a lawsuit waiting to happen.
Saturday, I take the young one to the Mickey-D’s on Belt Line near Plano Parkway. I pass it on a pretty regular basis and have always thought that the play area looked cool (kind of a central American jungle/Jurassic Park look to it). We get in there and the design is actually the worst in the world.
First off, the tables are tall with tall chairs. Kids that are shorter than 5 feet tall are going to have a problem getting into and out of these chairs. Shit, ADULTS were having trouble! My son was sitting on the edge, as he is 5 and excited to be in the play area, and slipped off the chair, pushing his arm (which was resting on the table) up at an awkward angle and height. Great crying ensued as he was in some noteworthy pain.
Along the back wall is a slide that is about 12 to 15 feet tall. Kids climb through the plastic maze to get to the slide and slide down. Great fun, as my son reported to me numerous times after sliding down. I watch and proceed to get pissed as several kids ranging in age from 3 to 12 start walking up the slide to get to the top instead of taking the ladder-maze thing! Kids are trying to slide DOWN the slide! At the base of the slide is a wall with a long bench on it. This is where the “parents” sit to “supervise” their children. NONE – NOT ONE – of these ….. these ….. BREEDERS (I now know what the CL poster meant by the difference in Parents and Breeders!) says anything to ANY of the children. So I do.
I get up, walk over to the bottom of the slide and yell up to all of the children that the slide is one way – DOWN! Walking up the slide is rude and dangerous to the children doing the walking as well as the children sliding down. I know the offending kids heard me; they all looked at me. I know the Breeders heard me; I wasn’t 2 feet in front of them and yelling over the din of laughing and screaming children. I walk away talking – very loudly to myself (in typical passive/aggressive style) about how I will have to step up and parent everyone’s children as none of them are doing it!
I get back to the table and look back and see that my son is now stuck in a traffic jam as another 10 year old looking fucker is walking up the slide and has stopped traffic 4-5 kids deep. I go get the manager and use key words like liability, safety violation, injury and lawsuit. The manager still says that there is nothing he can do, as the moment he walks away from the kids, they will just do it again.
This apathetic managerial style is unacceptable to me, so I pack up my son and we are out of there. I know that the loss of my patronage will do nothing to impact the profits of this internationally recognized and age-old institution of a fast food chain, but I urge ALL people to voice their disgust at poor to pathetic service.
Bad design, bad parenting and bad managing are making this great looking play area a lawsuit waiting to happen.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
Poor Pitiful Bruised Psyches
OK.
Here we go again.
Let’s all jump on the “Poor Pitiful Bruised Psyches” band wagon. I am referring, of course, to the Michael Richards’ (the actor who played the Seinfeld character “Kramer”) outburst at the two black hecklers.
Mikey goes on the Jesse Jackson talk show, “Keep Hope Alive”, as a part of a series of apologies for the incident. What a stupid fucking name for a show that is. The only thing Jackson wants kept alive is racial strife! Without that, he’s out of a job. He says he wants racial harmony, but he’s the first to blow piddley shit like this into the entertainment headline it is today.
Stay on target.
Hecklers. Every comedian has to learn to live with them. It is an art to deal with them properly. I know this from personal experience. I did not have to deal with many hecklers, as I only performed at open mike nights and they were very rare at those. As a professional, I would expect that Mikey has had his fair share of those types of people. But the bottom line is this: If you have the balls to heckle a comedian – one you paid to see – you had better have the ability to suck it up when he rains down upon you.
This pansy-assed hurt feelings bullshit just doesn’t wash when you look at the fact they were the first to open their mouths. Imagine where we would be if Don Rickles, the king of insult comedy, had to deal with this type of shit!
Other minorities can make racial slurs, such as my favorite, Carlos Mencia, and they don’t get slapped with this shit. But a white guy?? Now he’s just being racist!
Stay on target.
Mikey’s publicist “Howard Rubenstein, said Saturday that Richards has begun psychiatric counseling in Los Angeles to learn how to manage his anger and understand why he made the racist remarks.” (AP News Sun Nov 26, 2006)
PSYCHIATRIC COUNSELING?? Are you fucking kidding me??!! He made racist remarks because he was angry, provoked, whatever. I guarantee you that these bastards claiming “injury” have let fly several racial epithets at non-blacks!
I realize that two wrongs don’t make a right, but adding another wrong – the highly publicized and blown out of proportion circus we now have, including counseling and acknowledgment “’that his statements were harmful and opened a terrible racial wound in our nation,’ Rubenstein said. ‘He pledges never ever to say anything like that again. He's quite remorseful.’"(AP News Sun Nov 26, 2006) – doesn’t help any, either!
Everybody just needs to grow the fuck up! Why can’t we all just get along? I’ll tell you why, Rodney, because there’s no money in it for the greedy! There’s no press for the tired old pimp that trots out the same tired old hookers called “Racism” and “Inequality”. Is this really worth getting all up in arms about?
That’s all I’m saying: Have we, as a society, degraded to the point that this minor rhetorical bullshit is all we have at which to gasp in shock and horror?
I do not think so.
God, I hope it isn’t, or we are in deeper shit than anyone imagined.
Here we go again.
Let’s all jump on the “Poor Pitiful Bruised Psyches” band wagon. I am referring, of course, to the Michael Richards’ (the actor who played the Seinfeld character “Kramer”) outburst at the two black hecklers.
Mikey goes on the Jesse Jackson talk show, “Keep Hope Alive”, as a part of a series of apologies for the incident. What a stupid fucking name for a show that is. The only thing Jackson wants kept alive is racial strife! Without that, he’s out of a job. He says he wants racial harmony, but he’s the first to blow piddley shit like this into the entertainment headline it is today.
Stay on target.
Hecklers. Every comedian has to learn to live with them. It is an art to deal with them properly. I know this from personal experience. I did not have to deal with many hecklers, as I only performed at open mike nights and they were very rare at those. As a professional, I would expect that Mikey has had his fair share of those types of people. But the bottom line is this: If you have the balls to heckle a comedian – one you paid to see – you had better have the ability to suck it up when he rains down upon you.
This pansy-assed hurt feelings bullshit just doesn’t wash when you look at the fact they were the first to open their mouths. Imagine where we would be if Don Rickles, the king of insult comedy, had to deal with this type of shit!
Other minorities can make racial slurs, such as my favorite, Carlos Mencia, and they don’t get slapped with this shit. But a white guy?? Now he’s just being racist!
Stay on target.
Mikey’s publicist “Howard Rubenstein, said Saturday that Richards has begun psychiatric counseling in Los Angeles to learn how to manage his anger and understand why he made the racist remarks.” (AP News Sun Nov 26, 2006)
PSYCHIATRIC COUNSELING?? Are you fucking kidding me??!! He made racist remarks because he was angry, provoked, whatever. I guarantee you that these bastards claiming “injury” have let fly several racial epithets at non-blacks!
I realize that two wrongs don’t make a right, but adding another wrong – the highly publicized and blown out of proportion circus we now have, including counseling and acknowledgment “’that his statements were harmful and opened a terrible racial wound in our nation,’ Rubenstein said. ‘He pledges never ever to say anything like that again. He's quite remorseful.’"(AP News Sun Nov 26, 2006) – doesn’t help any, either!
Everybody just needs to grow the fuck up! Why can’t we all just get along? I’ll tell you why, Rodney, because there’s no money in it for the greedy! There’s no press for the tired old pimp that trots out the same tired old hookers called “Racism” and “Inequality”. Is this really worth getting all up in arms about?
That’s all I’m saying: Have we, as a society, degraded to the point that this minor rhetorical bullshit is all we have at which to gasp in shock and horror?
I do not think so.
God, I hope it isn’t, or we are in deeper shit than anyone imagined.
Saturday, November 18, 2006
XM Radio and MY money
Wasn’t satellite radio advertised when it first came out as commercial free? Am I the only one that remembers this? That was why you were paying for a subscription, so you didn’t have to listen to commercials and you could choose a station that played a much finer selection of music…. Almost perfectly tailored to your preferences.
I’m in the truck with my brother-in-law. We are riding out to do a job. It’s a great day. He has satellite radio – XM – in his plush truck. Music is great! The song ends and the sultry woman’s voice declares the station ID – multiple times.
Yeah, I get it, thank you.
Then a Coors Light commercial comes on the radio. First of all, gross! Coors Light is like sex in a canoe. It’s fucking close to water! Second, it seems to be exponentially longer than those played on the commercial radio stations.
*Hmmmm, I wonder why it’s called “commercial” radio?*
I digress…
And third – and lastly – it is followed by another commercial…Then another.
When did the $20-25 a month become NOT enough for XM? When did they decide that they needed to air commercials on what was introduced and advertised as “commercial free radio”?
Don’t you know? Neither do I!
Do you know what this little peek into the world of satellite radio did? It insured that I will NEVER get satellite radio. I know, XM will not go out of business because they didn’t have MY $20-25 each month, but I only wanted it so that I could AVOID the irritating commercials that insulted my intelligence in the first place.
I wonder what the hullabaloo is all about with HD radio?
I’m in the truck with my brother-in-law. We are riding out to do a job. It’s a great day. He has satellite radio – XM – in his plush truck. Music is great! The song ends and the sultry woman’s voice declares the station ID – multiple times.
Yeah, I get it, thank you.
Then a Coors Light commercial comes on the radio. First of all, gross! Coors Light is like sex in a canoe. It’s fucking close to water! Second, it seems to be exponentially longer than those played on the commercial radio stations.
*Hmmmm, I wonder why it’s called “commercial” radio?*
I digress…
And third – and lastly – it is followed by another commercial…Then another.
When did the $20-25 a month become NOT enough for XM? When did they decide that they needed to air commercials on what was introduced and advertised as “commercial free radio”?
Don’t you know? Neither do I!
Do you know what this little peek into the world of satellite radio did? It insured that I will NEVER get satellite radio. I know, XM will not go out of business because they didn’t have MY $20-25 each month, but I only wanted it so that I could AVOID the irritating commercials that insulted my intelligence in the first place.
I wonder what the hullabaloo is all about with HD radio?
Saturday, October 21, 2006
Play nice!
OK. My problem is simply this: I hate people.
I know, this is the real world and I have to deal with them. But come on! Did everybody wake up and eat a big bowl of Stupid this morning??
Why are you in such a foul mood today? What has your undies in a knot?
Well, I am just so tired of stupid people! Isn’t that enough?
Key spark for today: I took my son (5 y/o) to a bank grand opening today. I had heard on the radio that Scooby-do was going to be there and he is (currently) my son’s “Big Thing”. It turned out to be a huge deal. There were all kinds of things for kids to do and free hotdogs and stuff. We were having a great time.
At this point, I should tell you that I am raising my son per the directives listed in this blog, but specifically the last 2 posts.
We are in line at the balloon animal maker guy when a – well, it’s not mean if it is accurate – toothless bitch decides she wants her kid to get a balloon animal, too. She is line two people behind me. I hear her swearing at her kid, yelling for her husband (or whatever) to “get the fuck” over there so that she can go sit down and being a general pain in the ass to everyone within earshot.
The people between her and I eventually leave the line (I don’t blame them as I do not want my son learning that type of language at 5, but I’m me and will not pander to lesser idiots), bringing her right behind me.
“I bet all these little fuckers are gonna get real big balloon animals,” she says – loudly and to no one in particular. At this, I turn and begin with politeness.
“Would you mind not swearing like that around my son, please?”
“It’s a free country, asshole. I have Free Speech in my Constitution!” (Nice reply, right?)
I swear I am not making this up. This is how it truly happened.
I turn back around to my son and try to keep his focus on me and not on her.
“Brent (the husband), will you get the fuck over here? I want to sit for a minute!”
Brent is in the next line getting an autograph from a former Dallas Cowboy. This means that Brent is NOT moving.
I turn again and say, “Ma’am, I asked you nicely and would like for you to show me a little respect by not using vulgar language in front of my son. If you cannot do that, I will see if there is someone that will help me make you stop.”
Not really a threat, but trying to show that there is a line and she is dancing real close to it.
“My husband will kick your ass if you keep talking to me like that.”
It’s now over. Brent, as I said, is in the next line. He is about 6 people away from getting what will surely be the centerpiece for his mantle for years to come. Behind him is a Dallas DART cop. Brent is the last in line.
“Excuse me, Officer. Will you please explain that this vulgar, abusive, and unnecessary language is not tolerated in public? I have asked twice now for her to stop, but she is just not understanding that she – and her language – is offensive!”
Cop, “Ma’am, if you do not refrain from using inappropriate language, I will have to ask you to leave.”
Bitch, “I got rights. I can say anything I want to. I came here with my family to have some fun and goddammit, I’m gonna!”
Cop, pulling out radio and saying something I couldn’t hear.
Next thing I know, there are 4 officers around her and her son, escorting her away. Brent passes me and gives me an attitude, saying something about it being MY fault he won’t get his coveted autograph.
“If you would teach your wife not to be a bitch, you would be getting that autograph right about now, Brent,” I say as he turns to follow his yelling, obscene bitch of a wife.
I just want everyone to play nicely for a while. Not get all bent out of shape if someone asks for a little consideration. I don’t. Why can’t anyone else do this?
I know, this is the real world and I have to deal with them. But come on! Did everybody wake up and eat a big bowl of Stupid this morning??
Why are you in such a foul mood today? What has your undies in a knot?
Well, I am just so tired of stupid people! Isn’t that enough?
Key spark for today: I took my son (5 y/o) to a bank grand opening today. I had heard on the radio that Scooby-do was going to be there and he is (currently) my son’s “Big Thing”. It turned out to be a huge deal. There were all kinds of things for kids to do and free hotdogs and stuff. We were having a great time.
At this point, I should tell you that I am raising my son per the directives listed in this blog, but specifically the last 2 posts.
We are in line at the balloon animal maker guy when a – well, it’s not mean if it is accurate – toothless bitch decides she wants her kid to get a balloon animal, too. She is line two people behind me. I hear her swearing at her kid, yelling for her husband (or whatever) to “get the fuck” over there so that she can go sit down and being a general pain in the ass to everyone within earshot.
The people between her and I eventually leave the line (I don’t blame them as I do not want my son learning that type of language at 5, but I’m me and will not pander to lesser idiots), bringing her right behind me.
“I bet all these little fuckers are gonna get real big balloon animals,” she says – loudly and to no one in particular. At this, I turn and begin with politeness.
“Would you mind not swearing like that around my son, please?”
“It’s a free country, asshole. I have Free Speech in my Constitution!” (Nice reply, right?)
I swear I am not making this up. This is how it truly happened.
I turn back around to my son and try to keep his focus on me and not on her.
“Brent (the husband), will you get the fuck over here? I want to sit for a minute!”
Brent is in the next line getting an autograph from a former Dallas Cowboy. This means that Brent is NOT moving.
I turn again and say, “Ma’am, I asked you nicely and would like for you to show me a little respect by not using vulgar language in front of my son. If you cannot do that, I will see if there is someone that will help me make you stop.”
Not really a threat, but trying to show that there is a line and she is dancing real close to it.
“My husband will kick your ass if you keep talking to me like that.”
It’s now over. Brent, as I said, is in the next line. He is about 6 people away from getting what will surely be the centerpiece for his mantle for years to come. Behind him is a Dallas DART cop. Brent is the last in line.
“Excuse me, Officer. Will you please explain that this vulgar, abusive, and unnecessary language is not tolerated in public? I have asked twice now for her to stop, but she is just not understanding that she – and her language – is offensive!”
Cop, “Ma’am, if you do not refrain from using inappropriate language, I will have to ask you to leave.”
Bitch, “I got rights. I can say anything I want to. I came here with my family to have some fun and goddammit, I’m gonna!”
Cop, pulling out radio and saying something I couldn’t hear.
Next thing I know, there are 4 officers around her and her son, escorting her away. Brent passes me and gives me an attitude, saying something about it being MY fault he won’t get his coveted autograph.
“If you would teach your wife not to be a bitch, you would be getting that autograph right about now, Brent,” I say as he turns to follow his yelling, obscene bitch of a wife.
I just want everyone to play nicely for a while. Not get all bent out of shape if someone asks for a little consideration. I don’t. Why can’t anyone else do this?
Saturday, October 07, 2006
Degrading Women part 2
The solution seems to be simple, at least to me.
Teach respect. This next part is where I might lose a lot of you folks reading this. Teach respect to BOTH little boys AND little girls. Let's address these individually, starting with the more obvious point of view:
Little boys.
Men, teach your little boys to be respectful to everyone they meet. I was witness to a common phenomenon just the other day.
Two people that considered one another a friend met and developed their friendship on line. They both had similar views and enjoyed the banter they had going between them. They were both heterosexual males that had wives that they loved, they were faithful to their respective families, they shared corresponding religious views and even kept the same secret from each other: each was mildly racist. Both felt no shame in that fact, but realized that there is a time and place to express those ideals.
They had talked for a couple of months on line and decided they would meet at a Starbucks to see each other face to face for the first time... to try and move the "on line" friendship to a "real" friendship. The day arrives and "Friend One" (a black man) and "Friend Two" (a white man) see each other for the first time. Both are angered with themselves because they have become friends with a member of a disliked race (as I said earlier, both are MILDLY racist). The friendship ends there. They just cannot get over that hurdle.
How does this relate to the respect point? Like this:
Both had been taught by their families that people of the other race were not worth their respect. When they did not know that the other was black or white, respect was given and a bond formed. Because of what they had been taught, the bond was broken. Both are now happy in their own lives and still send the occasional email, but the friendship is lost.
To bring it back around to the point, it is your responsibility, brother, fathers and step-fathers, to show the young boys each and every day how to be respectful to everyone, especially women. Women are different than men, and with those differences come certain feelings by some of superiority or inferiority. I don't personally agree with that, but I know some men feel like they are better than women. I know some men that feel like they are not worthy of women, as well.
An example: Men can only destroy life; Women can both destroy AND create it. We, as different sexes, are NOT equal. Neither is one above the other. We are simply very different. Man's strength compliments Woman's weakness, and visa-versa. We, as a species, cannot yet exist one without the other.
THEREFORE
Teach respect of girls/women to the young boys and they will grow up following that creed. Teach them to respect everyone until the individual loses it, and they may not miss out on a fulfilling friendship because of outdated and bigoted feelings passed down to each generation for no reason.
Little girls.
Teach them, sisters, mothers and step-mothers, to show self respect. Again, this is accomplished by example. If you dress like a street-walking hooker, then they are going to think that it is alright to show that much skin and dress like that. If you allow the men in your life to treat you a certain way (physically abusive or like a warm place to put their penises and nothing more), the little girls will grow up thinking that is all that they are to men - that it is normal to be hit and demeaned by the very people that are supposed to love you. Worse still, they might grow up thinking that the only way to show affection is through physical abuse. Then they search it out.
Teach them, brother, fathers and step-fathers, to DEMAND respect from the men they invite into their lives. My brother did something for his daughter and I want to do it for my daughter when she is old enough. He took her out on her first date. It happened like this:
He picked her up on time, dressed nicely in clean clothes and well groomed, and introduced himself to her parents. He opened her car door for her to get in and get out, held the door at the restaurant, and held her chair for her to sit. When she got up to go to the restroom, He stood as she did and sat after she was out of sight. He then stood when she returned, held her chair again, and only after she was settled did he sit. He spoke of subjects that interested them both in a very respectful tone and was a perfect gentleman.
They, then, went to pay mini-golf. He was attentive and polite. He never gloated over a victory or became angry at a loss. He did not ogle her at any time. He did not ogle any other women he saw while they were together. He did not push a kiss goodnight at the end of the evening.
Later, when my niece and her mother were talking, she said that she had a wonderful time and saw why her mother liked her father so much. Later still, when my brother sat down with my niece, he explained that she should expect nothing less that the behavior she received that night with him when she goes out on a date with a boy. If he does not demonstrate that type of behavior, he is not worth her time, and certainly not her affection.
She has excellent self-esteem and always conducts herself with dignity and grace... and every boyfriend she has had has been a gentleman. None have ever stooped to cat-calling, bragging or disrespectful behavior in regards to her. She learned that from BOTH parents.
I welcome any and all feedback.
Teach respect. This next part is where I might lose a lot of you folks reading this. Teach respect to BOTH little boys AND little girls. Let's address these individually, starting with the more obvious point of view:
Little boys.
Men, teach your little boys to be respectful to everyone they meet. I was witness to a common phenomenon just the other day.
Two people that considered one another a friend met and developed their friendship on line. They both had similar views and enjoyed the banter they had going between them. They were both heterosexual males that had wives that they loved, they were faithful to their respective families, they shared corresponding religious views and even kept the same secret from each other: each was mildly racist. Both felt no shame in that fact, but realized that there is a time and place to express those ideals.
They had talked for a couple of months on line and decided they would meet at a Starbucks to see each other face to face for the first time... to try and move the "on line" friendship to a "real" friendship. The day arrives and "Friend One" (a black man) and "Friend Two" (a white man) see each other for the first time. Both are angered with themselves because they have become friends with a member of a disliked race (as I said earlier, both are MILDLY racist). The friendship ends there. They just cannot get over that hurdle.
How does this relate to the respect point? Like this:
Both had been taught by their families that people of the other race were not worth their respect. When they did not know that the other was black or white, respect was given and a bond formed. Because of what they had been taught, the bond was broken. Both are now happy in their own lives and still send the occasional email, but the friendship is lost.
To bring it back around to the point, it is your responsibility, brother, fathers and step-fathers, to show the young boys each and every day how to be respectful to everyone, especially women. Women are different than men, and with those differences come certain feelings by some of superiority or inferiority. I don't personally agree with that, but I know some men feel like they are better than women. I know some men that feel like they are not worthy of women, as well.
An example: Men can only destroy life; Women can both destroy AND create it. We, as different sexes, are NOT equal. Neither is one above the other. We are simply very different. Man's strength compliments Woman's weakness, and visa-versa. We, as a species, cannot yet exist one without the other.
THEREFORE
Teach respect of girls/women to the young boys and they will grow up following that creed. Teach them to respect everyone until the individual loses it, and they may not miss out on a fulfilling friendship because of outdated and bigoted feelings passed down to each generation for no reason.
Little girls.
Teach them, sisters, mothers and step-mothers, to show self respect. Again, this is accomplished by example. If you dress like a street-walking hooker, then they are going to think that it is alright to show that much skin and dress like that. If you allow the men in your life to treat you a certain way (physically abusive or like a warm place to put their penises and nothing more), the little girls will grow up thinking that is all that they are to men - that it is normal to be hit and demeaned by the very people that are supposed to love you. Worse still, they might grow up thinking that the only way to show affection is through physical abuse. Then they search it out.
Teach them, brother, fathers and step-fathers, to DEMAND respect from the men they invite into their lives. My brother did something for his daughter and I want to do it for my daughter when she is old enough. He took her out on her first date. It happened like this:
He picked her up on time, dressed nicely in clean clothes and well groomed, and introduced himself to her parents. He opened her car door for her to get in and get out, held the door at the restaurant, and held her chair for her to sit. When she got up to go to the restroom, He stood as she did and sat after she was out of sight. He then stood when she returned, held her chair again, and only after she was settled did he sit. He spoke of subjects that interested them both in a very respectful tone and was a perfect gentleman.
They, then, went to pay mini-golf. He was attentive and polite. He never gloated over a victory or became angry at a loss. He did not ogle her at any time. He did not ogle any other women he saw while they were together. He did not push a kiss goodnight at the end of the evening.
Later, when my niece and her mother were talking, she said that she had a wonderful time and saw why her mother liked her father so much. Later still, when my brother sat down with my niece, he explained that she should expect nothing less that the behavior she received that night with him when she goes out on a date with a boy. If he does not demonstrate that type of behavior, he is not worth her time, and certainly not her affection.
She has excellent self-esteem and always conducts herself with dignity and grace... and every boyfriend she has had has been a gentleman. None have ever stooped to cat-calling, bragging or disrespectful behavior in regards to her. She learned that from BOTH parents.
I welcome any and all feedback.
Sunday, September 17, 2006
Degrading Women part 1
This problem has recently come to my attention:
Guys cat-calling, whistling at, commenting with such things as, "I'd tap dat", or generally disrespecting women.
I have always known that some "men" (I use the quotation marks because, other than having the male anatomy, these creatures are anything but real men) do this. There are many factors as to why "men" behave in this fashion.
1. Nature gave us the "mating impulse". True. This is a natural state for men to try and propagate the species. However, centuries of conditioning should have taken the method to new heights. This type of answer is a cop-out. It's the male saying, "I have no control over myself". A good analogy would be, centuries ago, it was natural to piss on one's self (the concept of bathrooms or cleanliness not yet being invented). You modern "men" learned not to wet yourself, even in your sleep, so why can't you control your mouth when an attractive woman walks by? You are awake, right? You are in control of your faculties, right?
Excuse dismissed.
2. The girl was asking for that attention with the clothes she was wearing. So, you are saying that if you, as a red-blooded "man", see a good looking woman showing a fit leg or flat, smooth tummy, you have to degrade her?! And make yourself look like an uneducated jerk at the same time???!! Wow. That's like saying, "she was a stripper, so it's not rape". Doesn't make much sense, either.
Excuse dismissed.
Lastly, my personal favorite
3. They like the attention. While I'm sure that woman chooses clothes to get her noticed, just as you do, she would rather be told that she is beautiful, or sexy, or enchanting, or enticing, or any of a billion other adjectives that could be used there without making her feel like a piece of meat you "men" are slavering over. Women (and men) like attention, but not that type of attention.
I am basing this on more than just my opinion. I have actually conducted a small poll in downtown Dallas to find out what women really think of this type of behavior. Here are the top three responses:
1. Juvenile
2. A turn-off
3. Degrading
Yup, that is what over 200 women REALLY think! (My poll was 227 women ranging in age from 18-57, chosen randomly in Dallas Alley on a Saturday afternoon)
We have established the problem. Next post will tackle the solution.
Guys cat-calling, whistling at, commenting with such things as, "I'd tap dat", or generally disrespecting women.
I have always known that some "men" (I use the quotation marks because, other than having the male anatomy, these creatures are anything but real men) do this. There are many factors as to why "men" behave in this fashion.
1. Nature gave us the "mating impulse". True. This is a natural state for men to try and propagate the species. However, centuries of conditioning should have taken the method to new heights. This type of answer is a cop-out. It's the male saying, "I have no control over myself". A good analogy would be, centuries ago, it was natural to piss on one's self (the concept of bathrooms or cleanliness not yet being invented). You modern "men" learned not to wet yourself, even in your sleep, so why can't you control your mouth when an attractive woman walks by? You are awake, right? You are in control of your faculties, right?
Excuse dismissed.
2. The girl was asking for that attention with the clothes she was wearing. So, you are saying that if you, as a red-blooded "man", see a good looking woman showing a fit leg or flat, smooth tummy, you have to degrade her?! And make yourself look like an uneducated jerk at the same time???!! Wow. That's like saying, "she was a stripper, so it's not rape". Doesn't make much sense, either.
Excuse dismissed.
Lastly, my personal favorite
3. They like the attention. While I'm sure that woman chooses clothes to get her noticed, just as you do, she would rather be told that she is beautiful, or sexy, or enchanting, or enticing, or any of a billion other adjectives that could be used there without making her feel like a piece of meat you "men" are slavering over. Women (and men) like attention, but not that type of attention.
I am basing this on more than just my opinion. I have actually conducted a small poll in downtown Dallas to find out what women really think of this type of behavior. Here are the top three responses:
1. Juvenile
2. A turn-off
3. Degrading
Yup, that is what over 200 women REALLY think! (My poll was 227 women ranging in age from 18-57, chosen randomly in Dallas Alley on a Saturday afternoon)
We have established the problem. Next post will tackle the solution.
Wednesday, August 23, 2006
Fashion statement says "Slob!"
I have never understood the current trend of today's fashion. I am speaking of the overly baggy jeans/shorts with the underwear visible over the waistband. I remember when it was just the waistband visible over hip-hugger jeans. In the past 7 years or so, the pants have fallen farther down to the point of the waistband of the pants being below the ass cheek!
This is supposed to look good??
What's the point of wearing pants at all? Why not just wear your boxers??
I actually have a theory.....
This trend was developed by racist police officers in an effort to make the chase of suspects shorter. See, it works like this: Get the "gansta" look to include pants worn so low that the crotch is around the knees, thereby making the stride of the suspect shorter because he (personally, I have never seen this look on a female) cannot fully extend his legs. Better still, the suspect would trip and fall on his own pant-legs!
I am working on generalizations here, but I feel that they are, more often than not, pretty accurate.
In any case, I think that this "look" is very unattractive. It shows absolutely no respect for yourself or anyone you are with. Couple this with the "grille" and you look like you wasted all of your cash on a shabby appearance.
BTW, job interviews, meeting your girlfriend's parents, and court dates warrant clothes that fit. The first impression is hard to get rid of, especially when the person you make that impression on may heavily influence your life (boss, in-law, judge, etc.).
Show some respect for yourself and at least have one or two outfits that are not 6 or 7 sizes too big for you.
This is supposed to look good??
What's the point of wearing pants at all? Why not just wear your boxers??
I actually have a theory.....
This trend was developed by racist police officers in an effort to make the chase of suspects shorter. See, it works like this: Get the "gansta" look to include pants worn so low that the crotch is around the knees, thereby making the stride of the suspect shorter because he (personally, I have never seen this look on a female) cannot fully extend his legs. Better still, the suspect would trip and fall on his own pant-legs!
I am working on generalizations here, but I feel that they are, more often than not, pretty accurate.
In any case, I think that this "look" is very unattractive. It shows absolutely no respect for yourself or anyone you are with. Couple this with the "grille" and you look like you wasted all of your cash on a shabby appearance.
BTW, job interviews, meeting your girlfriend's parents, and court dates warrant clothes that fit. The first impression is hard to get rid of, especially when the person you make that impression on may heavily influence your life (boss, in-law, judge, etc.).
Show some respect for yourself and at least have one or two outfits that are not 6 or 7 sizes too big for you.
Sunday, August 13, 2006
This is for me
Here it is, the 21st century, and people still haven't become any more enlightened. I perused Craig's List and found that there is an abunance of stupidity in the world. Juvenile comments about one poster's weight launched a virtual littany of slander and genuine anger.
People, this is the pinnacle of freedom. If you do not like what someone has to say, don't listen (or in this case, read!). I do not expect to ever get any feedback or validation for my opinions. Why? Because I'm doing it on the internet as a means to an end FOR ME!
"I just want to get (whatever) off my chest!"
I like reading the opinions and ensuing arguments because it is so easy to see that everyone on the board is trying to feel superior to someone --- ANYONE! I think that this is just as cathardic for them as my blog here is for me. It is just sad that the people need to feel superior to be able to feel ok with themselves.
As for the others that berate and belittle those unlike themselves: you have no self esteem and a pea-brained intellectual view. No one wants to hear you opinion if it nothing constructive....except maybe those others of similar intellectual smallness.
Which brings me to the question, "Where does one go to find a vapid audience that all wish to feel superior to everyone else?"
Might I suggest Craig's List?
People, this is the pinnacle of freedom. If you do not like what someone has to say, don't listen (or in this case, read!). I do not expect to ever get any feedback or validation for my opinions. Why? Because I'm doing it on the internet as a means to an end FOR ME!
"I just want to get (whatever) off my chest!"
I like reading the opinions and ensuing arguments because it is so easy to see that everyone on the board is trying to feel superior to someone --- ANYONE! I think that this is just as cathardic for them as my blog here is for me. It is just sad that the people need to feel superior to be able to feel ok with themselves.
As for the others that berate and belittle those unlike themselves: you have no self esteem and a pea-brained intellectual view. No one wants to hear you opinion if it nothing constructive....except maybe those others of similar intellectual smallness.
Which brings me to the question, "Where does one go to find a vapid audience that all wish to feel superior to everyone else?"
Might I suggest Craig's List?
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
WTF!!
I just read that Andrea Yates was found not guilty by reason of insanity. Really??!!
Fo those of you that do not know, she is the woman in Houston, TX that drown her 5 children. I am just shooting from the hip here, but wasn't it a given that the woman was not all there? That still doesn't give her the right to kill 5 children! These kids never had a chance. Their lives were ENDED by their own mother!
Short and to the point, she should be killed. I think that I could find a few people that would do it, too! Now, she will live in a psychiatric hospital and has the very good possibility of being released when the counselors there feel she has returned to sanity. Not good enough. If she was able to commit the crime deliberately, she should be punished. If she is not able to be held accountable due to mental illness, wait until she is no longer ill, then kill her.
In the meantime, we, the taxpayers, are footing the bill to keep her alive. She confessed to intentionally killing her own children. I do not want to pay for her to live. It is not my wishes that my tax money goes to keeping her alive. Killing or hurting children in any way is the worst kind of crime.
Just my 2 cents...
Fo those of you that do not know, she is the woman in Houston, TX that drown her 5 children. I am just shooting from the hip here, but wasn't it a given that the woman was not all there? That still doesn't give her the right to kill 5 children! These kids never had a chance. Their lives were ENDED by their own mother!
Short and to the point, she should be killed. I think that I could find a few people that would do it, too! Now, she will live in a psychiatric hospital and has the very good possibility of being released when the counselors there feel she has returned to sanity. Not good enough. If she was able to commit the crime deliberately, she should be punished. If she is not able to be held accountable due to mental illness, wait until she is no longer ill, then kill her.
In the meantime, we, the taxpayers, are footing the bill to keep her alive. She confessed to intentionally killing her own children. I do not want to pay for her to live. It is not my wishes that my tax money goes to keeping her alive. Killing or hurting children in any way is the worst kind of crime.
Just my 2 cents...
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Humans vs. Automation
I work (half of the time) in a "customer service" environment. I like it because I do get the opportunity to help resolve problems. It gives me a feeling of satisfaction. I miss the days of REAL customer service.
I get it at my bank, because I go to the same branch every time. I know them and they know me. I would not get the same level of service at another branch unless I cultivated it myself, by going repeatedly to the new branch.
I get it at my grocery store. Same reason.
That's about as far as it goes.
I try and do all of my business face-to-face. Obviously, there are certain instances where this is just not possible. Sometimes I have to use the phone. I hate that because I always get that automated service that tries to be helpful, but in reality, it is not. The automated service for, just as an example, say, my power company will ask for my account number. What does the operator ask for right off when s/he FINALLY gets on the line? Yup! My account number.
WHY?
All the automated service really does is give the impression that you are getting somewhere or accomplishing something until an operator can assist you. You remain on hold until they are able (or decide they are ready) to deal with you.
I've worked in an incoming call center before. They have the ability to sign off of the phone system and do whatever needs doing (from finishing comments on the previous caller's account to having an unofficial smoke break). Don't be fooled by the "helpful computer voice".
I've seen it done. Honestly, I've DONE it!
Having said that, I will say that I have used the automated operator to pay my bill over the phone and not really need to speak to a real operator. All I would like to see is the option right up front offering either one. It would go something like this:
"Thank you for calling Gexa Energy. If you would like to use the automated system, press 1. If you would like to speak to a customer service representative, press 2."
Easy, right? Did you also notice that you did not get the option of speaking another language? See my previous posts on that subject. After pressing 2, you could be told that you approximate wait time is however many minutes, then be offered the automated system again. Kinda like this:
"Your approximate wait time is 12 minutes. If you would prefer to use the automated system at any time, press 9."
That way, you can wait for a while, get good and mad, and when you can take it no longer, you can do your business with a machine.
I like it.
Businesses, take note of this. You will keep more customers if you provide better customer service. Here is one suggestion.
I get it at my bank, because I go to the same branch every time. I know them and they know me. I would not get the same level of service at another branch unless I cultivated it myself, by going repeatedly to the new branch.
I get it at my grocery store. Same reason.
That's about as far as it goes.
I try and do all of my business face-to-face. Obviously, there are certain instances where this is just not possible. Sometimes I have to use the phone. I hate that because I always get that automated service that tries to be helpful, but in reality, it is not. The automated service for, just as an example, say, my power company will ask for my account number. What does the operator ask for right off when s/he FINALLY gets on the line? Yup! My account number.
WHY?
All the automated service really does is give the impression that you are getting somewhere or accomplishing something until an operator can assist you. You remain on hold until they are able (or decide they are ready) to deal with you.
I've worked in an incoming call center before. They have the ability to sign off of the phone system and do whatever needs doing (from finishing comments on the previous caller's account to having an unofficial smoke break). Don't be fooled by the "helpful computer voice".
I've seen it done. Honestly, I've DONE it!
Having said that, I will say that I have used the automated operator to pay my bill over the phone and not really need to speak to a real operator. All I would like to see is the option right up front offering either one. It would go something like this:
"Thank you for calling Gexa Energy. If you would like to use the automated system, press 1. If you would like to speak to a customer service representative, press 2."
Easy, right? Did you also notice that you did not get the option of speaking another language? See my previous posts on that subject. After pressing 2, you could be told that you approximate wait time is however many minutes, then be offered the automated system again. Kinda like this:
"Your approximate wait time is 12 minutes. If you would prefer to use the automated system at any time, press 9."
That way, you can wait for a while, get good and mad, and when you can take it no longer, you can do your business with a machine.
I like it.
Businesses, take note of this. You will keep more customers if you provide better customer service. Here is one suggestion.
Sunday, July 02, 2006
This is rich!
The following is going to be my (hopefully) last post on immigration reform. I say this because I am just tired of it. I wasn't going to any more after my last oone until the government passed something - ANYTHING - but I stumbled across the following. It is from a speech by Jesse Jackson.
Yup. You guessed it. It's a doosie!
On a day of sharp opposition to a House bill aimed at immigration reform, the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson energized hundreds at the Midwest Airlines Center on Friday by calling on Latinos and other immigrants "to keep marching" against deportations, exploitation of undocumented workers and attempts to weaken the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
(read the 1965 act, you boob!)
"Don't take Bush's agenda lightly," he said. "The Confederates have risen again."
(it was only a matter of time)
Like other speakers Friday, Jackson framed the debate as one to define the nation.
"Is this the nation of 'Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses who yearn to breathe free?' " he asked, "or a nation that rejects all except those who have money? Is this about a nation of, for and by the few? Or is it the hands that sweat and toil and make us strong . . .
"Are we the nation that builds bridges, or the nation that builds walls?"
That was an excerpt from an article by Mark Johnson markjohnson@journalsentinel.com and it just set me off!
First, let me say that the "undocumented workers" (henceforth referred to as illegal immigrants) have absolutely NO bearing on the Voting Rights Act as they are not allowed to vote due to them not being American Citizens!
Second, the "exploitation" he mentions would not be an issue except those who knowingly employ illegal immigrants are fully aware that they can pay as little as they want. Who are the illegals going to complain to? It's not like they would win a lawsuit for unfair wages. They are here ILLEGALLY!
Third, when you sneak into a nightclub without paying the cover, what do they do? Throw you out! It's kinda the same thing with a national border. Deportation is the only fair thing to do! That way, I do not have to have my tax dollars go to supporting an illegal immigrant as he lives in our jail... FOR FREE! See? Send them back home.
Fourth, playing the race card is only serving to incite other minorities with inflammatory mental images. Equating the government's view of illegal immigrants today with the DEFEATED Confederacy of 1865 is an excuse to use (and hence, keep alive) racism. That sore has festered for so long already. People like Jackson continue to use it, pick at it, and propogate the infection. And the worst part of that? They are doing it for their own gain! Jackson yells racism and he is still commanding audiences as a figurehead for the "cause". He keeps it alive so that he may continue to make the money that allows him to live in his big house and drive his big car.
Sorry, I digress.
Fifth, I have never heard of anyone being turned away from our customs desks because they had no cash. We, as a country, are NOT saying that you have to be rich to be here, just that you have to sign in before going up to your room. It is not a nation of, by and for the few, as he so eloquently states, but rather the majority. The few would be the illegal immigrants. Think about it. Are there really more illegal immigrants in this country than actual citizens?
Didn't think so.
Sixth, and last, We are a nation of bridges. I agree with that. Again, my problem is with the ILLEGAL immigrants. To shore up our borders, we should be building a few more walls. You know, like the one Jackson has around his home.
In parting, allow me to give you the last line of the column:
"We're not going to go away," he (Jaime Contreras, an El Salvadoran immigrant who leads the Service Employees International Union Local 82) vowed. "If they deport us, who's going to build the wall at the border?"
This man has been watching - and plagiarizing - Carlos Mencia. If he truly feels that way, he is propogating the "exploitation" and setting his cause back years. If not, perhaps he should fire his speech writer, or send a Thank You check to Mencia.
Yup. You guessed it. It's a doosie!
On a day of sharp opposition to a House bill aimed at immigration reform, the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson energized hundreds at the Midwest Airlines Center on Friday by calling on Latinos and other immigrants "to keep marching" against deportations, exploitation of undocumented workers and attempts to weaken the 1965 Voting Rights Act.
(read the 1965 act, you boob!)
"Don't take Bush's agenda lightly," he said. "The Confederates have risen again."
(it was only a matter of time)
Like other speakers Friday, Jackson framed the debate as one to define the nation.
"Is this the nation of 'Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses who yearn to breathe free?' " he asked, "or a nation that rejects all except those who have money? Is this about a nation of, for and by the few? Or is it the hands that sweat and toil and make us strong . . .
"Are we the nation that builds bridges, or the nation that builds walls?"
That was an excerpt from an article by Mark Johnson markjohnson@journalsentinel.com and it just set me off!
First, let me say that the "undocumented workers" (henceforth referred to as illegal immigrants) have absolutely NO bearing on the Voting Rights Act as they are not allowed to vote due to them not being American Citizens!
Second, the "exploitation" he mentions would not be an issue except those who knowingly employ illegal immigrants are fully aware that they can pay as little as they want. Who are the illegals going to complain to? It's not like they would win a lawsuit for unfair wages. They are here ILLEGALLY!
Third, when you sneak into a nightclub without paying the cover, what do they do? Throw you out! It's kinda the same thing with a national border. Deportation is the only fair thing to do! That way, I do not have to have my tax dollars go to supporting an illegal immigrant as he lives in our jail... FOR FREE! See? Send them back home.
Fourth, playing the race card is only serving to incite other minorities with inflammatory mental images. Equating the government's view of illegal immigrants today with the DEFEATED Confederacy of 1865 is an excuse to use (and hence, keep alive) racism. That sore has festered for so long already. People like Jackson continue to use it, pick at it, and propogate the infection. And the worst part of that? They are doing it for their own gain! Jackson yells racism and he is still commanding audiences as a figurehead for the "cause". He keeps it alive so that he may continue to make the money that allows him to live in his big house and drive his big car.
Sorry, I digress.
Fifth, I have never heard of anyone being turned away from our customs desks because they had no cash. We, as a country, are NOT saying that you have to be rich to be here, just that you have to sign in before going up to your room. It is not a nation of, by and for the few, as he so eloquently states, but rather the majority. The few would be the illegal immigrants. Think about it. Are there really more illegal immigrants in this country than actual citizens?
Didn't think so.
Sixth, and last, We are a nation of bridges. I agree with that. Again, my problem is with the ILLEGAL immigrants. To shore up our borders, we should be building a few more walls. You know, like the one Jackson has around his home.
In parting, allow me to give you the last line of the column:
"We're not going to go away," he (Jaime Contreras, an El Salvadoran immigrant who leads the Service Employees International Union Local 82) vowed. "If they deport us, who's going to build the wall at the border?"
This man has been watching - and plagiarizing - Carlos Mencia. If he truly feels that way, he is propogating the "exploitation" and setting his cause back years. If not, perhaps he should fire his speech writer, or send a Thank You check to Mencia.
Walking and chewing gum
I was on my way to work yesterday when I realized that I was only driving 20 miles per hour. The speed limit was 45. Frustrated, I looked for the cause of the slow pace. The car two ahead of me was setting this lightning velocity. I moved into the left hand lane... only to be cut off by the same car. Thankfully, the driver, an attractive blonde, continued into the left turn lane and I past her.
This was when I noticed it... not that she was an attractive blonde, but that she was going so slowly because she was on the phone!
I realize that I could take many different paths here. Such as:
1. Female drivers. I have found, however, that most female drivers are better than most male drivers.
2. Blondes. I have yet to meet a majority that make the stereotype true. I have met some that fit it, though.
3. The ability to multi-task. This one I will take.
I you cannot do several things at once, don't try. Practice where you won't impede or endanger other people until you can do the several things at once that you want to do. In this case, I doubt she even knew how slow she was going. She had been driving at that speed for quite a distance before I tried to get around her, so it's not like I'm jumping to any conclusion out of hand, here. Her action (her speed) was a sign that she was not paying attention. I am thankful that the result of this is only my frustration with her and not something more serious... or even fatal. Was her phone call THAT important? I honestly don't know. In all probability, it was not.
But what I DO know is that it endangered everyone on that road. She should be paying attention to what she is doing, as she is driving around in a 2 ton death machine if mistakes are made.
Hang up and drive. I love that bumper sticker. I will pull over to talk on the phone if I am not able to concentrate on my driving. I have done it many times.
On a slightly related topic, if you don't know how to drive an SUV, don't own one! They aren't as manuverable as little cars. You can't park in those tiny spaces and you will need more room to move than a Honda would. Learn to drive an SUV if you have one!
This was when I noticed it... not that she was an attractive blonde, but that she was going so slowly because she was on the phone!
I realize that I could take many different paths here. Such as:
1. Female drivers. I have found, however, that most female drivers are better than most male drivers.
2. Blondes. I have yet to meet a majority that make the stereotype true. I have met some that fit it, though.
3. The ability to multi-task. This one I will take.
I you cannot do several things at once, don't try. Practice where you won't impede or endanger other people until you can do the several things at once that you want to do. In this case, I doubt she even knew how slow she was going. She had been driving at that speed for quite a distance before I tried to get around her, so it's not like I'm jumping to any conclusion out of hand, here. Her action (her speed) was a sign that she was not paying attention. I am thankful that the result of this is only my frustration with her and not something more serious... or even fatal. Was her phone call THAT important? I honestly don't know. In all probability, it was not.
But what I DO know is that it endangered everyone on that road. She should be paying attention to what she is doing, as she is driving around in a 2 ton death machine if mistakes are made.
Hang up and drive. I love that bumper sticker. I will pull over to talk on the phone if I am not able to concentrate on my driving. I have done it many times.
On a slightly related topic, if you don't know how to drive an SUV, don't own one! They aren't as manuverable as little cars. You can't park in those tiny spaces and you will need more room to move than a Honda would. Learn to drive an SUV if you have one!
Saturday, July 01, 2006
I just can't get away from it!
I heard a news report that brought it all up again. It stated the plight of thousands of Undocumented Workers. Huh?? So now it's not alright to call them Illegal Immigrants? Even though they are Illegal??!! And they Immigrated to the US as Illegal Immigrants??!!
Oh, no! That classification might stigmatize them or hurt their feelings.
Tough Shit!! It is an appropriate "classification"! I work my ass off to not be classified as someone below the poverty line, but if I fall below that point, you can call me poor. Not this "nice-sugar-coated-fuzzy-sweet-emotionally-reinforcing BULLSHIT" label like, "financially challenged" or "credit hindered". I would be poor! LEGAL, but poor!
My point is this:
Pandering to groups of any kind in such an insignificant manner as what "classification" to which they are referred only serves to bring down the majority. In this case, all of the LEGAL people in this country. Is that what you want to do? Do you want to speak about or to them in a condescending tone? Do you want to continue to support the ridiculous lawsuits being filed because someone referred to someone else as "poor" instead of "financially challenged" or, to play the race card, "black" instead of "African American"?
Grow up and learn that we are all human beings! I am from Scottish heritage, but you don't see me demanding the right to be called "Scottish American". I am an American. For the minority (of ANY sort) to demand - and WIN - the rest of the world cater to them is the most UN-American thing I can think of!
My in-box is already prepared for your angry responses. And I will write back to each and every one of you that wish to disagree with me.
Oh, no! That classification might stigmatize them or hurt their feelings.
Tough Shit!! It is an appropriate "classification"! I work my ass off to not be classified as someone below the poverty line, but if I fall below that point, you can call me poor. Not this "nice-sugar-coated-fuzzy-sweet-emotionally-reinforcing BULLSHIT" label like, "financially challenged" or "credit hindered". I would be poor! LEGAL, but poor!
My point is this:
Pandering to groups of any kind in such an insignificant manner as what "classification" to which they are referred only serves to bring down the majority. In this case, all of the LEGAL people in this country. Is that what you want to do? Do you want to speak about or to them in a condescending tone? Do you want to continue to support the ridiculous lawsuits being filed because someone referred to someone else as "poor" instead of "financially challenged" or, to play the race card, "black" instead of "African American"?
Grow up and learn that we are all human beings! I am from Scottish heritage, but you don't see me demanding the right to be called "Scottish American". I am an American. For the minority (of ANY sort) to demand - and WIN - the rest of the world cater to them is the most UN-American thing I can think of!
My in-box is already prepared for your angry responses. And I will write back to each and every one of you that wish to disagree with me.
Saturday, June 24, 2006
The Ego vs. Self-Confidence
I really don't have a single topic today, but I did come across some interesting tag lines. Here is my favorite:
Egotism is the anesthetic for the pain of stupidity.
Just says it all, doesn't it? Think about it next time you are in a situation where somebody always has to one-up everyone else. These self-absorbed people that think they are the end-all/be-all of mankind blather on and say nothing of any importance. I do not like - no, I plain can't stand - when someone has to know everything about everything. They will just curl up into a little husk of a ball if they are not the center of attention.
Listen to others around you, you moronic boob!
It is through the art of listening that one gleans knowlege from their surroundings. Listening is the first step in learning. You will not be any less of an interesting person if you shut up and open your ears. In fact, you might be considered more interesting, because you will not show your ignorance by flapping your jaw.
And when you are caught in a lie or exaggeration while trying to be cool and in-the-know, just stop talking. You are busted - don't add to the humiliation of being proven a liar (exaggerator, at the very least) by trying to deny the statement. Suck it up and take it.
Perhaps next time you will stick to what you really know and you might find that others are a great deal more interested in hearing what you have to say.
(Added after an email response):
OK, let me break out the Crayons and explain. I just received a rather bitchy email from a fellow blogger. She has an interesting blog and I thought I would introduce myself. A couple of emails go by, not saying much, and then I get this last one. She says that a good ego is VERY attractive to her. Hmm. I will say that someone that has a good dose of SELF-CONFIDENCE can be attractive, but an ego is rather.....self-involved.
She went on to say that we did not have anything in common and would like to discontinue contact. That was the nice way of putting it, in deference to her. Also, she thought she would point out a typo and allude to it being indicative of my lack of intelligence.
Just kinda proves the theory.
Egotism is the anesthetic for the pain of stupidity.
Just says it all, doesn't it? Think about it next time you are in a situation where somebody always has to one-up everyone else. These self-absorbed people that think they are the end-all/be-all of mankind blather on and say nothing of any importance. I do not like - no, I plain can't stand - when someone has to know everything about everything. They will just curl up into a little husk of a ball if they are not the center of attention.
Listen to others around you, you moronic boob!
It is through the art of listening that one gleans knowlege from their surroundings. Listening is the first step in learning. You will not be any less of an interesting person if you shut up and open your ears. In fact, you might be considered more interesting, because you will not show your ignorance by flapping your jaw.
And when you are caught in a lie or exaggeration while trying to be cool and in-the-know, just stop talking. You are busted - don't add to the humiliation of being proven a liar (exaggerator, at the very least) by trying to deny the statement. Suck it up and take it.
Perhaps next time you will stick to what you really know and you might find that others are a great deal more interested in hearing what you have to say.
(Added after an email response):
OK, let me break out the Crayons and explain. I just received a rather bitchy email from a fellow blogger. She has an interesting blog and I thought I would introduce myself. A couple of emails go by, not saying much, and then I get this last one. She says that a good ego is VERY attractive to her. Hmm. I will say that someone that has a good dose of SELF-CONFIDENCE can be attractive, but an ego is rather.....self-involved.
She went on to say that we did not have anything in common and would like to discontinue contact. That was the nice way of putting it, in deference to her. Also, she thought she would point out a typo and allude to it being indicative of my lack of intelligence.
Just kinda proves the theory.
Saturday, June 17, 2006
Ever since 9/11
The coverage of news during 9/11 created a new irritant. At the bottom of the screen on TV, they used a scrolling text that updated the viewer to new developments. This technology wasn't new at that time, but this was the catalyst that launched into the mainstream. At that time, it was not an irritant. All-news broadcast stations used them and they were fine. But now we have it on every channel during the programs we choose to watch giving us nothing more than a commercial for other shows on that channel.
Wait a minute..... that doesn't seem so bad.
Hang on, friend, there's more!
It started getting bigger. Now it started taking up the lower 1/8th of the screen. Then it evolved to one corner or another, still taking up 1/8th.
I was watching a major network just the other day. One of those "free commercials", as I call them, for another show came on and took up damn near 1/2 the screen!
NOW it's an irritant!!
TV stations get paid money by the advertisers to air commercials for their products. It used to be that advertising the TV stations' other shows or news hooks cut into that advertising time. Now, the TV stations have found a way of advertising their shows without losing advertising time, hence making more money. They do this during every show!
I like period movies. Some of them will use subtitles. Guess what happens. Yup! The TV stations' 1/2 screen free commercial covers the subtitles and aids in ruining the movie event. The standard commercials already make it hard to get into the feel of a movie, but now it is just impossible.
Message to the TV stations:
We already know your line-up. We are intelligent consumers that have chosen your network to watch and do not need to be reminded of the network name or other shows that you air. If there is breaking news, a weather alert or major disaster, then let us know in any manner you wish, just knock off the free commercials for other shows.... at the VERY least, go back to the tiny, slightly less obtrusive scroll that all of this started with.
Wait a minute..... that doesn't seem so bad.
Hang on, friend, there's more!
It started getting bigger. Now it started taking up the lower 1/8th of the screen. Then it evolved to one corner or another, still taking up 1/8th.
I was watching a major network just the other day. One of those "free commercials", as I call them, for another show came on and took up damn near 1/2 the screen!
NOW it's an irritant!!
TV stations get paid money by the advertisers to air commercials for their products. It used to be that advertising the TV stations' other shows or news hooks cut into that advertising time. Now, the TV stations have found a way of advertising their shows without losing advertising time, hence making more money. They do this during every show!
I like period movies. Some of them will use subtitles. Guess what happens. Yup! The TV stations' 1/2 screen free commercial covers the subtitles and aids in ruining the movie event. The standard commercials already make it hard to get into the feel of a movie, but now it is just impossible.
Message to the TV stations:
We already know your line-up. We are intelligent consumers that have chosen your network to watch and do not need to be reminded of the network name or other shows that you air. If there is breaking news, a weather alert or major disaster, then let us know in any manner you wish, just knock off the free commercials for other shows.... at the VERY least, go back to the tiny, slightly less obtrusive scroll that all of this started with.
Saturday, June 10, 2006
No habla espanol... I can't even TYPE it!
I read a newspapser story about a restaurant in Philadelphia that posted a sign saying, "This is America....when ordering speak English". Roberto Santiago, executive director of Philadelphia's Council of Spanish Speaking Organizations, was outraged. Of course he was! Look at the organization he works for! It comes down to this: If you move to a new country, you must adapt to the ways of that country. Don't move to England and expect to get a couple of paid days off in November for Thanksgiving. That holiday is strictly a North American holiday. I know several Asian people that have moved here, learned English, then actually speak it! At home, they use thier native tongue, but if they have visitors, they speak English out of respect for them.
Come to think of it, I have never heard of any group like this council for any other language. I wonder why that is?
But I digress.
First, the sign is a courtesy to let patrons know that languages other than English may not be able to be understood. So if you want to get a philly cheesesteak, you better know how to say it in English!
Second, owners and operators have the right to refuse service to anyone, regardless of the reason. And nobody can scream racism because if hispanic people can order in English, or even point to the item they want (as it states in the news article), they will be served.
I do not speak any languages other than English. I would like to learn, but I don't have the time nor the energy right now. If I moved to Mexico, I would have to make the time to learn Spanish. If I did know Spanish and I was talking to someone that didn't know English, I would utilize my knowlege out of respect for them. All I ask is the same, but more because you or your family made the decision to move here. Now you must learn to LIVE here. To do so, you must respect our culture. Our culture is NOT one that speaks Spanish, or Greek, or Italian, or German, or French, or anything but English.
I feel like when society placates a group or ethnic faction, that is an example of society being hospitable. When the ethnic factions demand that courtesy, that is rude laziness. You decided to live here, you learn to speak our language. That is your responsibility to this culture!
If you don't like it, try another country!
That's it!!
It just hit me..... It's all about repsect! I respect you, your love for your heritage, family, culture, etc., now it's your turn. Show that you respect America by speaking English if you move here. I respect people that visit America and do not know English. I will bend over backwards to try and understand and help you if you are one of those people. But if you come to America from Mexico, France, Italy or Mars to live as a citizen, you had better at least try to communicate in OUR language. Respect this country, this culture, these people! It is just that simple.
Come to think of it, I have never heard of any group like this council for any other language. I wonder why that is?
But I digress.
First, the sign is a courtesy to let patrons know that languages other than English may not be able to be understood. So if you want to get a philly cheesesteak, you better know how to say it in English!
Second, owners and operators have the right to refuse service to anyone, regardless of the reason. And nobody can scream racism because if hispanic people can order in English, or even point to the item they want (as it states in the news article), they will be served.
I do not speak any languages other than English. I would like to learn, but I don't have the time nor the energy right now. If I moved to Mexico, I would have to make the time to learn Spanish. If I did know Spanish and I was talking to someone that didn't know English, I would utilize my knowlege out of respect for them. All I ask is the same, but more because you or your family made the decision to move here. Now you must learn to LIVE here. To do so, you must respect our culture. Our culture is NOT one that speaks Spanish, or Greek, or Italian, or German, or French, or anything but English.
I feel like when society placates a group or ethnic faction, that is an example of society being hospitable. When the ethnic factions demand that courtesy, that is rude laziness. You decided to live here, you learn to speak our language. That is your responsibility to this culture!
If you don't like it, try another country!
That's it!!
It just hit me..... It's all about repsect! I respect you, your love for your heritage, family, culture, etc., now it's your turn. Show that you respect America by speaking English if you move here. I respect people that visit America and do not know English. I will bend over backwards to try and understand and help you if you are one of those people. But if you come to America from Mexico, France, Italy or Mars to live as a citizen, you had better at least try to communicate in OUR language. Respect this country, this culture, these people! It is just that simple.
Sunday, May 28, 2006
Blame nobody but yourself
I am working. Just doing my thing and keeping my head low. For a short background, let me explain what I do: I am a computer operator responsible for the overseeing of several large information packets during the backup process. Same packets everyday. Little variation. A guy, we will call him Dick, used to be the Lead Operator, but now is in charge of the backups, but has absolutely no authority over any of the operators. Why, you may ask? Because he is abrasive, rude, demeaning, and has a problem with feeling superior. In short, he is Dick.
Anyway... Dick is at his home and has the capability to enter the system and perform duties from his home, so he does. (Side note, if you are going to be screwing around with a function in this manner, at least email the person to give them a heads-up. It's just common courtesy.)
BUT... he made a mistake and launched the same application 3 times. This slowed down the entire system. I, still being relatively new (3 months) on the job, see it, but think that it is what Dick wanted. He knows what he is doing, right? He's been here for years. So many, in fact, that when all of the operators complained about his Dick-ness, he was removed from the Lead Operator position and had a job title created for him so that he may continue to perform the sterling work his reputation claims.
An hour goes by and then Dick calls. He asks:
"Did you notice that the system is running extremely slow?"
"Yes."
"Did you also notice that one of the applications is running three times concurrently?"
"Yes, I saw that."
"Didn't you think it was odd?"
"Yes, but I thought the person that kicked them off did it intetionally."
(I knew it was he that had kicked them off.)
"Why would that happen?!"
"I don't know. I thought whoever did it knew what they were doing."
"I'm so tired of you operators not paying attention. Whenever you see something odd or unusual, call me and tell me about it."
"Will do, Dick!"
When did his mistake become my responsibility? I rely on him to catch his own mistakes. He is so quick to catch any of ours. I am trying to learn this job, but I only work 3 days a week and am still getting the finer points down.
Moral: When you make a mistake, fix it and move on. Don't be a Dick and try to blame others for not catching your own mistake.
Anyway... Dick is at his home and has the capability to enter the system and perform duties from his home, so he does. (Side note, if you are going to be screwing around with a function in this manner, at least email the person to give them a heads-up. It's just common courtesy.)
BUT... he made a mistake and launched the same application 3 times. This slowed down the entire system. I, still being relatively new (3 months) on the job, see it, but think that it is what Dick wanted. He knows what he is doing, right? He's been here for years. So many, in fact, that when all of the operators complained about his Dick-ness, he was removed from the Lead Operator position and had a job title created for him so that he may continue to perform the sterling work his reputation claims.
An hour goes by and then Dick calls. He asks:
"Did you notice that the system is running extremely slow?"
"Yes."
"Did you also notice that one of the applications is running three times concurrently?"
"Yes, I saw that."
"Didn't you think it was odd?"
"Yes, but I thought the person that kicked them off did it intetionally."
(I knew it was he that had kicked them off.)
"Why would that happen?!"
"I don't know. I thought whoever did it knew what they were doing."
"I'm so tired of you operators not paying attention. Whenever you see something odd or unusual, call me and tell me about it."
"Will do, Dick!"
When did his mistake become my responsibility? I rely on him to catch his own mistakes. He is so quick to catch any of ours. I am trying to learn this job, but I only work 3 days a week and am still getting the finer points down.
Moral: When you make a mistake, fix it and move on. Don't be a Dick and try to blame others for not catching your own mistake.
Saturday, May 27, 2006
Self-Esteem
I glanced over my profile and realized that I should clarify a statement made there. I ask that everyone have their own opinion and the self-esteem to voice it. I do not have the confidence I am seeking in others. This blog is the only "public place" in which I give my grievances voice, so to speak. When my friends and I are talking, I will give my uncensored opinion on subjects, but I lack the self-confidence to voice my opinion to other people that do not know me. I was hoping that this blog would help me vent my anger and frustration regarding topics of stupidity while granting me an audience with others of like mind and similar ilk.
Finding these others, I would then have the opportunity to develop friendships or, at the very least acquaintances, with these people in hopes of allaying my own fears that I was alone in the world and forever resigned to observe the idiocy of the masses.
I really think I should find someone with whom I could actually discuss these feelings, as they are slipping one to another and very difficult to keep control of.
Also, I think I should not watch several episodes of Deadwood before blogging. It makes all of my thoughts here sound like a monologue from one of the characters. Not really me, but, as is evident by this posting, a trait that I could adopt. I have always said that an extensive vocabulary allows for the proper expression of any feeling.
Finding these others, I would then have the opportunity to develop friendships or, at the very least acquaintances, with these people in hopes of allaying my own fears that I was alone in the world and forever resigned to observe the idiocy of the masses.
I really think I should find someone with whom I could actually discuss these feelings, as they are slipping one to another and very difficult to keep control of.
Also, I think I should not watch several episodes of Deadwood before blogging. It makes all of my thoughts here sound like a monologue from one of the characters. Not really me, but, as is evident by this posting, a trait that I could adopt. I have always said that an extensive vocabulary allows for the proper expression of any feeling.
Saturday, May 20, 2006
I can't hold it back any longer.
OK. Immigration Reform. Hot topic. Everybody has an opinion. That's great. Just one thing, though: please, try and have an EDUCATED opinion.
My target tonight is a US Congressman from Virginia, I think. He made a statement that was broadcast across the nation that shows how incredibly pea-brained he really is. I do appologize that I do not have it word for word, but it was something like this:
I do not agree with deploying National Guard troops to the US-Mexican border. People live out there and that kind of military presense sends a very bad message. I certainly wouldn't like to have armed military troops patroling my neighborhood.
A. It is a federal issue as it is a US border.
B. You live in Virginia! You don't have the problems of a bordertown (crime, drugs, people entering the country through you backyard fence!) in a nice, cushy, upscale neighborhood such as yours. The worst you have to deal with are hillbillies coming in from the mountains!
And C. This is a genuine problem in this country. Eventually we are going to have to be mean about it.
Remeber 9/11? What if those terrorists had come in through the laxly guarded Mexican border? Yes, I know, they didn't. But what if? Don't you think that we should do everything in our power to protect ourselves? Maybe enforce the boundry between these two countries?
I'm not saying that people shouldn't be allowed to come here, even make this their home, but do it legally. Illegal immigrants are not always the kind gardeners in Beverly Hills. Not all of them come here to work hard to better themselves and their lives. If we grant amnesty to ANY illegal immigrants, we do a great disservice to all of the citizens of this country, especially the ones that came here from another country LEGALLY.
When an illegal immigrant is caught, send him home. Spend the extra money to make the US-Mexican border real, not an international joke and not a potential entry point for future terrorists.
And they are hurting somebody, they are hurting every immigrant that followed the law and came here for a new life.
In parting: The US-Mexican border is only laxly guarded (as I referred to it earlier) because of financial constraints. I applaude the dedicated officers that work that lonely, thankless job. We need more officers, more fencing, more diligence and less red tape in dealing with those who break the law!
That is the long and short of it, after all: Illegal immigrants broke the law. Hence the "illegal" part of the term.
My target tonight is a US Congressman from Virginia, I think. He made a statement that was broadcast across the nation that shows how incredibly pea-brained he really is. I do appologize that I do not have it word for word, but it was something like this:
I do not agree with deploying National Guard troops to the US-Mexican border. People live out there and that kind of military presense sends a very bad message. I certainly wouldn't like to have armed military troops patroling my neighborhood.
A. It is a federal issue as it is a US border.
B. You live in Virginia! You don't have the problems of a bordertown (crime, drugs, people entering the country through you backyard fence!) in a nice, cushy, upscale neighborhood such as yours. The worst you have to deal with are hillbillies coming in from the mountains!
And C. This is a genuine problem in this country. Eventually we are going to have to be mean about it.
Remeber 9/11? What if those terrorists had come in through the laxly guarded Mexican border? Yes, I know, they didn't. But what if? Don't you think that we should do everything in our power to protect ourselves? Maybe enforce the boundry between these two countries?
I'm not saying that people shouldn't be allowed to come here, even make this their home, but do it legally. Illegal immigrants are not always the kind gardeners in Beverly Hills. Not all of them come here to work hard to better themselves and their lives. If we grant amnesty to ANY illegal immigrants, we do a great disservice to all of the citizens of this country, especially the ones that came here from another country LEGALLY.
When an illegal immigrant is caught, send him home. Spend the extra money to make the US-Mexican border real, not an international joke and not a potential entry point for future terrorists.
And they are hurting somebody, they are hurting every immigrant that followed the law and came here for a new life.
In parting: The US-Mexican border is only laxly guarded (as I referred to it earlier) because of financial constraints. I applaude the dedicated officers that work that lonely, thankless job. We need more officers, more fencing, more diligence and less red tape in dealing with those who break the law!
That is the long and short of it, after all: Illegal immigrants broke the law. Hence the "illegal" part of the term.
Sunday, May 14, 2006
Participate or Shut Up!
As someone that has always been politically active, I find it absurd that people who do not vote feel compelled to tell anyone that is in earshot what is wrong with this country. I vote each and every election. I may not like any of the candidates, but my greatest power is my vote. I wish that I had better choices than "bad" and "worse", but of the choices given, I choose the individual I feel will do the best job.
What brought this on, you ask?
I am minding my own business when a co-worker decides to open up about the war in Iraq. As always when a political subject comes up from someone wishing ill about the current state of things, I asked if she voted.
Shocked and appalled that I would ask, she replied, "No. I didn't like my party's candidates."
Can you see the two separate issues I am about to launch into here?
First: Aligning yourself with a political party of ANY kind is a big bowl of doom. Why not, say, examine the issues you feel strongly about and look for a person that will best suit your needs? Both of my parents were republican, and I just can't limit myself to one set of idiots (any party) making my decisions for me. I research ALL of the candidates and find out where they stand on fundamental issues and current "hot" issues. That is my process of elimination for the candidates. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a single candidate that I can agree with 100%. But, I cast my vote and hope my voice makes a difference.
Second: Shut the hell up about the current state of affairs if you didn't even TRY to make a difference! You people that whine and complain about how horrible life is in this country, yet can't be bothered to use the system we currently have to attempt to better it (you know who you are!) can go suck an egg! I wish I could use a more descriptive vocabulary, but I am limited to my own code of honor and decency.
Lastly: When the candidates that I vote for win, I am happy. When they don't, I deal with it. I will support what my government does because I had a hand in creating it. I do feel at liberty to voice my opinions about the members of our government, but in the end, they are what the majority of people WHO TOOK THE TIME TO VOICE THEIR DESIRES chose. My right is to vote for people whom I think will be the best governing body. My duty is to support my governments' actions as a whole. I will not be a sheep and follow blindly, though. I have the right as a participant to complain. If you didn't participate, you don't get to say a damn thing!
Basically, if you are given a free meal and you couldn't be bothered to help cook it, don't bitch about the food!
What brought this on, you ask?
I am minding my own business when a co-worker decides to open up about the war in Iraq. As always when a political subject comes up from someone wishing ill about the current state of things, I asked if she voted.
Shocked and appalled that I would ask, she replied, "No. I didn't like my party's candidates."
Can you see the two separate issues I am about to launch into here?
First: Aligning yourself with a political party of ANY kind is a big bowl of doom. Why not, say, examine the issues you feel strongly about and look for a person that will best suit your needs? Both of my parents were republican, and I just can't limit myself to one set of idiots (any party) making my decisions for me. I research ALL of the candidates and find out where they stand on fundamental issues and current "hot" issues. That is my process of elimination for the candidates. Unfortunately, I have yet to find a single candidate that I can agree with 100%. But, I cast my vote and hope my voice makes a difference.
Second: Shut the hell up about the current state of affairs if you didn't even TRY to make a difference! You people that whine and complain about how horrible life is in this country, yet can't be bothered to use the system we currently have to attempt to better it (you know who you are!) can go suck an egg! I wish I could use a more descriptive vocabulary, but I am limited to my own code of honor and decency.
Lastly: When the candidates that I vote for win, I am happy. When they don't, I deal with it. I will support what my government does because I had a hand in creating it. I do feel at liberty to voice my opinions about the members of our government, but in the end, they are what the majority of people WHO TOOK THE TIME TO VOICE THEIR DESIRES chose. My right is to vote for people whom I think will be the best governing body. My duty is to support my governments' actions as a whole. I will not be a sheep and follow blindly, though. I have the right as a participant to complain. If you didn't participate, you don't get to say a damn thing!
Basically, if you are given a free meal and you couldn't be bothered to help cook it, don't bitch about the food!
Saturday, May 13, 2006
A Moment to Gaze at the Decent Side of Humanity
You know, I was all ready to open up regarding immigration reform and that pile of steaming idiocy, but I stumbled across a blog, WanderingScribe (look for it, I don't know how to set it up here as a link, but I will try in my links area) and realized that, while I feel that I am right in my opinion (who doesn't feel that they are right in their opinion??), there are bright spots in the world. Before you jump the gun and say how horrible I am for finding this eloquent woman's plight a "bright spot", allow me to elaborate.
This woman, who requested to remain anonymous, has used this forum in the same fashion that I have: as a cathardic device. A place to open and share without having to be singled out. One can blog and never have to hear another word from anyone else that breaks them down or makes them feel ashamed. A way of releasing long-suppressed emotions in a public forum to get feedback (if you are so inclined), but in a private way. Public/private/personal therapy.
Anyway...she is at rock bottom and has quite a following of supporters from around the world. These supporters encourage and, thanks to PayPal, aid in financial areas. She never asked for donations. She was told about the PayPal Donations button and encouraged to put it on her blog. She thanks each and every person for their donation via email.
Again, anyway...she is still able to see beauty in the world around her and the London skyline. She is working her way back into society with class. But the amazing part is that she was completely alone and found dozens of people touched in one way or another by her story. Now, she has a global network. She puts a face to a plague in every country and allows one to see that we are all susceptible to the position she is in. I know at this moment I am one paycheck away from living in my car. If you think that you are too rich to be concerned with hitting that stage of rock-bottom, allow me to remind you of a crisp day in October, the year was 1929. Yes, living historical proof that the tallest blade of grass is the first to be cut down by the lawnmower!
Anyway...she was able, in her blog as well as in the comments made by readers, to reaffirm a fading belief - hope, even - in the goodness of mankind.
In parting, please let me sway you to say hello to a stranger, genuinely smile at an enemy, hug a friend, and give a deep, passionate kiss to you true love at least once a day.
And WanderingScribe, if you are reading this, all my hope and prayers are with you, with my eternal thanks. You may have just saved my life, if not my soul.
This woman, who requested to remain anonymous, has used this forum in the same fashion that I have: as a cathardic device. A place to open and share without having to be singled out. One can blog and never have to hear another word from anyone else that breaks them down or makes them feel ashamed. A way of releasing long-suppressed emotions in a public forum to get feedback (if you are so inclined), but in a private way. Public/private/personal therapy.
Anyway...she is at rock bottom and has quite a following of supporters from around the world. These supporters encourage and, thanks to PayPal, aid in financial areas. She never asked for donations. She was told about the PayPal Donations button and encouraged to put it on her blog. She thanks each and every person for their donation via email.
Again, anyway...she is still able to see beauty in the world around her and the London skyline. She is working her way back into society with class. But the amazing part is that she was completely alone and found dozens of people touched in one way or another by her story. Now, she has a global network. She puts a face to a plague in every country and allows one to see that we are all susceptible to the position she is in. I know at this moment I am one paycheck away from living in my car. If you think that you are too rich to be concerned with hitting that stage of rock-bottom, allow me to remind you of a crisp day in October, the year was 1929. Yes, living historical proof that the tallest blade of grass is the first to be cut down by the lawnmower!
Anyway...she was able, in her blog as well as in the comments made by readers, to reaffirm a fading belief - hope, even - in the goodness of mankind.
In parting, please let me sway you to say hello to a stranger, genuinely smile at an enemy, hug a friend, and give a deep, passionate kiss to you true love at least once a day.
And WanderingScribe, if you are reading this, all my hope and prayers are with you, with my eternal thanks. You may have just saved my life, if not my soul.
Thursday, May 04, 2006
Are you a MAN?
My wife and I were cleaning on Saturday and it hit me like a ton of bricks: Men and Women are different. Not so impressive and rather obvious, but the brick part was how different we really are. Define "clean". Women actually CLEAN things. Men simply arrange things to the point of not impeding movement. Men will find cubby holes, drawers, shelves, etc. to stash things. It is out of the way, therefore clean. My closet has three laundry baskets, all of which are empty because the clothes are on the closet floor. I can clean the kitchen in under half an hour. I put the dishes in the dishwasher (who rinses?), use a damp sponge to wipe down the counters and take the trash out.....once in a while. Quick, easy, done!
My wife can get it done in just over half an hour. And she uses miricles of cleansing power that she sprays on the counters, stovetop and sink that makes them sparkle and smell vaguely of lemons. She rinses the dishes before putting them ito the dishwasher. She actually moves things off the counter, like the blender, can opener, etc., and wipes them down, too! Did any of you guys know that there is an item called a "hood" over you stovetop? It holds the light and smoke-sucking fan. It gets dirty and should be cleaned as well. Women know about these things! They spend jus a tiny few minutes longer and do an exponentially better job of cleaning. If a man needs a fork and there are none in the drawer, we get one out of the dishwasher and wipe it off with our shirt tail or an our jeans. Presto! It's clean!
Laundry: Apparently, there are more than just "whites" and "everything else". There are delicates, red tones (NEVER EVER wash these with the whites. Trust me!), cold water items, hot water items, all kinds of things that I never knew about, and I bet 90% of the general male population are also ignorant about. It doesn't take her long to do her chores, and I seem to be taking forever.
I know why. I use the broom as a microphone and sing with the radio for a while. I might actually use it to sweep, too! Most men do this, so be warned! Men, admit it!! I try and work methodically, but end up making things harder for me and just get exhausted. When we are done cleaning, I look exhausted, too. Not my wife! Women can clean the entire house in 1/3 the time it takes us men, do a better job and finish looking fresh and beautiful.
Next time you see a male walking down the street, ask him if his shirt is clean. If he has to smell it before answering, then he is a real man.
My wife can get it done in just over half an hour. And she uses miricles of cleansing power that she sprays on the counters, stovetop and sink that makes them sparkle and smell vaguely of lemons. She rinses the dishes before putting them ito the dishwasher. She actually moves things off the counter, like the blender, can opener, etc., and wipes them down, too! Did any of you guys know that there is an item called a "hood" over you stovetop? It holds the light and smoke-sucking fan. It gets dirty and should be cleaned as well. Women know about these things! They spend jus a tiny few minutes longer and do an exponentially better job of cleaning. If a man needs a fork and there are none in the drawer, we get one out of the dishwasher and wipe it off with our shirt tail or an our jeans. Presto! It's clean!
Laundry: Apparently, there are more than just "whites" and "everything else". There are delicates, red tones (NEVER EVER wash these with the whites. Trust me!), cold water items, hot water items, all kinds of things that I never knew about, and I bet 90% of the general male population are also ignorant about. It doesn't take her long to do her chores, and I seem to be taking forever.
I know why. I use the broom as a microphone and sing with the radio for a while. I might actually use it to sweep, too! Most men do this, so be warned! Men, admit it!! I try and work methodically, but end up making things harder for me and just get exhausted. When we are done cleaning, I look exhausted, too. Not my wife! Women can clean the entire house in 1/3 the time it takes us men, do a better job and finish looking fresh and beautiful.
Next time you see a male walking down the street, ask him if his shirt is clean. If he has to smell it before answering, then he is a real man.
Responsibility
I had my power turned off yesterday. It sucked. The power company claims they sent a ten day notice, but I never received it. I believe them, I just have crappy mail service here. I have had many items late or never delivered, so it doesn't surprize me. But I thought about it and asked the power company why they could not turn it back on and I would pay them Friday (payday). They said once a notice or letter or bill leaves their offices, it is no longer their responsibility. So I asked the question, what if I sent you out a check and you never received it? Who would be responsible? They replied that I would. "So you mean to tell me," I responded, "that if I do not get your letter to me, it is I that faces consequences ?" "Yes," they said. "And if you do not receive the check I sent you, it is ALSO I that faces the consequences?" "Yes," they said. "Well that doesn't seem fair, does it?"
Long silence.
Now, I will take full responsibility for not paying my bill. Other things came up and it was delayed. I will pay the late fees, surcharges, reconnect fees, etc., but I feel that if an error is made, responsibility must be accepted. Why does it sem that I am the only one accepting responsibility?
On a slight tangent:
If a government agency has the authority to take an action, does it not also seem that they should have the responsibility to ensure that the action taken is warrented? Isn't that what the Constitution is saying when it says that the PEOPLE of the U.S. have the right, nay DUTY, to hold it's governmet body responsible or to replace the officials, or the entire government, with one that operates fairly? Justly? In the interests of the spoken majority???
Common sense isn't so common after all, huh?
Long silence.
Now, I will take full responsibility for not paying my bill. Other things came up and it was delayed. I will pay the late fees, surcharges, reconnect fees, etc., but I feel that if an error is made, responsibility must be accepted. Why does it sem that I am the only one accepting responsibility?
On a slight tangent:
If a government agency has the authority to take an action, does it not also seem that they should have the responsibility to ensure that the action taken is warrented? Isn't that what the Constitution is saying when it says that the PEOPLE of the U.S. have the right, nay DUTY, to hold it's governmet body responsible or to replace the officials, or the entire government, with one that operates fairly? Justly? In the interests of the spoken majority???
Common sense isn't so common after all, huh?
Saturday, April 29, 2006
Anger and Civility
I have been ordered to go to Anger Management classes by the state. I am not going to go into the reasons at this time, suffice it to say I do not have an anger problem, especially as defined by the class I have been ordered to attend.
Anger is an emotion that many want to see eliminated. That is so wrong on so many levels. Anger is natural and to suppress it is to bottle it up and that leads to an explosion. That is where so many people get hurt. Express your anger in a positive way. That's what they say, at any rate. Anger is not a "positive" emotion. How can you express it in a positive way?
Easy.
Tell the person at whom you are angry that they have caused you to be angry. Do it when you are angry. Not later, when you cool off. That will not allow you to release that anger. This is all coming from what I have learned in my life. If it is not a person, but, say for the sake of arguement, a government branch or official. You will almost never get the chance to vent your anger at the object of inspiration in this situation. But you can still vent it. There is no way a judge will allow you to say, "You're fucking wrong!". You will end up in jail on contempt charges. You can, however, state the fact that said judge is acting on incomplete or incorrect information and jepardizing the very freedoms he or she was elected or appointed to protect in the first place by not allowing common sense into the courtroom. This opens a door for you to make an arguement, not just be arguementative. Work it out in your head before you speak. Acknowledge your emotions, but do not be ruled by them. Let the piddley shit go, face your anger and voice it, but do not lose control. If you do this, eventually you will not feel like you will lose control because you have faced all of the factors that have made you angry and let them know they have made you angry, thus not bottled anything up and carried it to the next incident. No anger carried forward, no threat to self control.
Be angry. It is natural. But be smart about it.
Voice your anger at the time you are angry. It will only help in the long run.
Anger is an emotion that many want to see eliminated. That is so wrong on so many levels. Anger is natural and to suppress it is to bottle it up and that leads to an explosion. That is where so many people get hurt. Express your anger in a positive way. That's what they say, at any rate. Anger is not a "positive" emotion. How can you express it in a positive way?
Easy.
Tell the person at whom you are angry that they have caused you to be angry. Do it when you are angry. Not later, when you cool off. That will not allow you to release that anger. This is all coming from what I have learned in my life. If it is not a person, but, say for the sake of arguement, a government branch or official. You will almost never get the chance to vent your anger at the object of inspiration in this situation. But you can still vent it. There is no way a judge will allow you to say, "You're fucking wrong!". You will end up in jail on contempt charges. You can, however, state the fact that said judge is acting on incomplete or incorrect information and jepardizing the very freedoms he or she was elected or appointed to protect in the first place by not allowing common sense into the courtroom. This opens a door for you to make an arguement, not just be arguementative. Work it out in your head before you speak. Acknowledge your emotions, but do not be ruled by them. Let the piddley shit go, face your anger and voice it, but do not lose control. If you do this, eventually you will not feel like you will lose control because you have faced all of the factors that have made you angry and let them know they have made you angry, thus not bottled anything up and carried it to the next incident. No anger carried forward, no threat to self control.
Be angry. It is natural. But be smart about it.
Voice your anger at the time you are angry. It will only help in the long run.
Saturday, April 22, 2006
Technology
I love modren technology! To me, this is the best time to be alive. Less than 40 years ago, we put a man on the moon. Cars were huge! There was no easily portable music, and certainly no music of our own personal choosing that could be taken anywhere! Now look at us. We have mp3 players, to which we can download exactly what we want to hear, that are no bigger than credit cards.
Remember when video cassettes were new? They were just amazing! Recording television or watching an actual movie on your TV! Wow! You could watch it again and again.
Now we have DVD. Same thing, just no rewinding and you can start your movie from any "chapter" you like. And also there is DVR. Record TV, skip through the commercials at light speed, such a marvel of conveinience.
Phones were made portable. Huge and bulky, but now you could call someone from your car. They, too, have become refined and smaller. And you can use your phone as an mp3 player, camera, game statioon, and movie player as well.
This begs the question, just because you can do something, should you?
Do we really need a camera in our phone?
Has modern technology created the demand for conveinience, or visa versa?
Is the fact that there are now machines that can do the menial tasks making people lazier and more stupid?
Still, I love the instant gratification I have with my iPod and mobile phone. This is a great time to be alaive.
Remember when video cassettes were new? They were just amazing! Recording television or watching an actual movie on your TV! Wow! You could watch it again and again.
Now we have DVD. Same thing, just no rewinding and you can start your movie from any "chapter" you like. And also there is DVR. Record TV, skip through the commercials at light speed, such a marvel of conveinience.
Phones were made portable. Huge and bulky, but now you could call someone from your car. They, too, have become refined and smaller. And you can use your phone as an mp3 player, camera, game statioon, and movie player as well.
This begs the question, just because you can do something, should you?
Do we really need a camera in our phone?
Has modern technology created the demand for conveinience, or visa versa?
Is the fact that there are now machines that can do the menial tasks making people lazier and more stupid?
Still, I love the instant gratification I have with my iPod and mobile phone. This is a great time to be alaive.
Sunday, April 16, 2006
And another thing....
I hope that all are having a great Easter, though inevitably, somebody will get pissy beacuse of.... ok, just read the last posting. I just think that if people put as much energy into making life better for everyone as they do into trying to look like they are making life better for everyone, success may be alot closer than you think.
(ahem)
I just had brunch with my family today before work. It was nice to hang with my sister and her husband and my mother. I feel like there just isn't enough time to build and strengthen those familial bonds. Now I'm working two jobs and never have any time for my own family, much less my mother and siblings (of which are my sister, Christi at 45, John-Scott at 41, then me at 36). There are so many things I want to say and do but never have the "opportune moment".
Now that the whining is out of the way, I can see to fixing it.
If my wife continues to work at her job, and I can get my foor in the door for a full time gig at my second job, I won't have to work two.
OK
First, support my wife in her career choice and let her know my plans for my own.
Second, bust ass to prove myself at second job.
Third, do not let first job know about plans for second job. Don't want to shoot myself in the foot.
See how easy that was? What makes it impossible for so many people to look at the problem and get it fixed? My wife lives by the adage, "Fix it and move on". Stop dwelling on what wrongs you feel you have suffered and make a point to live today and tomorrow, learning from yesterday, but not letting yesterday's disappointments become a crutch you use to make excuses for yourself. Simple, right?
(ahem)
I just had brunch with my family today before work. It was nice to hang with my sister and her husband and my mother. I feel like there just isn't enough time to build and strengthen those familial bonds. Now I'm working two jobs and never have any time for my own family, much less my mother and siblings (of which are my sister, Christi at 45, John-Scott at 41, then me at 36). There are so many things I want to say and do but never have the "opportune moment".
Now that the whining is out of the way, I can see to fixing it.
If my wife continues to work at her job, and I can get my foor in the door for a full time gig at my second job, I won't have to work two.
OK
First, support my wife in her career choice and let her know my plans for my own.
Second, bust ass to prove myself at second job.
Third, do not let first job know about plans for second job. Don't want to shoot myself in the foot.
See how easy that was? What makes it impossible for so many people to look at the problem and get it fixed? My wife lives by the adage, "Fix it and move on". Stop dwelling on what wrongs you feel you have suffered and make a point to live today and tomorrow, learning from yesterday, but not letting yesterday's disappointments become a crutch you use to make excuses for yourself. Simple, right?
Saturday, April 15, 2006
I am too tired of stupidity
I come before you, the great virtual masses, to explain myself. Enjoy it, because I am loath to do this, but I find it a moral imperative. I see it all the time. You probably do, too, but we all (myself included) just accept it as normal. Stupid people with their stupid ideas running amok in society. Not only that, but the majority in this country seem to think that these mental midgets should be elected to office so that they can implement their stupid ideas into law! What kind of world did we create for ourselves that requires us to follow the narrow-minded? Case in point: political correctness. What boob thought that this was a good idea? Now the majority (be it race, ideaology, theology, whatever) must censor its words - its very ideas - so as to not offend the minority. Here's a thought: Grow up! Let the majority have Christmas decorations and Christmas themes in school or at work. Tell the few other students/co-workers that they may also celebrate their holidays with just as much pride and fervor. And for those that are raising their children to believe that there is no God, let them use these times of religious celebration to teach their kids about taking the high road or, on the other end of the spectrum, about the sheep mentality of the religion in question. Why should 500 people shelve their beliefs to coddle to the 5 who don't agree?
Tangent:
Stop getting offended by petty crap. I get more offended that millions of dollars are wasted every year on unnecessary "cosmetic" programs while people still go hungry and sleep on the streets. Fix the problems and stop pointing to a useless victory!
I have got to stop or I will write on this subject for way too long! See my next post for more.
Tangent:
Stop getting offended by petty crap. I get more offended that millions of dollars are wasted every year on unnecessary "cosmetic" programs while people still go hungry and sleep on the streets. Fix the problems and stop pointing to a useless victory!
I have got to stop or I will write on this subject for way too long! See my next post for more.
Sunday, April 09, 2006
Another day exploring the web
OK, I now have a MySpace.com site. It seems cool, but everyone on there seems contradictory. There was one (I will not use names) that has, under her reasons for being there, "Friends, Serious Relationships, Dating", yet she states in her "About Me" section that she has no desire to meet anyone, she just wanted a place where she could blog. Hello? Does the mind not boggle at the vapid state in which she must live? There are hundreds of sites, like this one, where she could go and blow off some steam without the pitfalls accompanying a place like MySpace.com. I like feedback, but do not really want to make an impression that I am out there to date or "hook up" as I am very happily married. This blog is therapy for me. I want to know that I am not alone in my own mind. I want real people that can make decisions for themselves. And I want to keep kind of a weekly journal or diary where I don't have to worry about hurting your feelings. If I do, don't come back to this blog. I make no appologies for my opinions. Don't make any for yours. If I don't like yuors, it doesn't mean you are wrong, it just means I don't agree. That is not a bad thing. If everyone blindly followed a single idea, thinking it was right without question, where would we be? Question everyone's reasons for everything they do. It's like sit-ups for your intellect. And don't forget to even question yourself and your beliefs. Are they truly yours, or are they just what you were taught?
Saturday, April 08, 2006
The New and The Old
Well, webbers, I have pulled myself out of the 20th and into the 21st. I think that this format will be very theraputic and I look forward to many uses of this to let all know what I am thinking.... the best part is that if you are one of those who don't like what I have to say, tough shit. Don't read it. Want to argue with me? Fine, but be prepared to back up your statements with intel, because I hate stupidity and the blind sheep of this society. I love new ngles on things, don't get me wrong, but I want real reasoning behind ideas, not some regurgitated ideology that you have always been told was right. Think for yourself, damn it. Is it really that hard?
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