My blog has moved to: whyimright.wordpress.com
Hope you all visit me there!!
Saturday, April 10, 2010
Friday, April 9, 2010
My Thoughts on Illegal/Undocumented/Aliens/Immigrants...?
I just read a rather unremarkable article concerning the attempts to grant citizenship to student who also happen to be in this country illegally. The topic of the article got me thinking of how I really come down on the issue of illegal immigration. I was born in this country, served it in the military and love it as much as anyone. I believe in the melting pot society that has developed over the last 200+ years, but I also believe that it is time to reevaluate our immigration policy. The United States is simply becoming too crowded and financially overburdened by people that chose not to follow the rules of entering our country.
Now I know I am going to get emails railing against me for not remembering that we are ALL immigrants in this country. To the contrary, I do remember. But let's be realistic, times were different then. With all due deference to the Native Americans that our ancestors displaced, we are where we are now. (I make no secret of the fact that this country was invaded, and the natives lost, but that is a subject for a different blog.) Back in this country's infancy, there was plenty of land and even more opportunity to be free. We were a destination for those that could not find freedoms in their own countries. An admirable quality for the US has turned into it's own worst enemy.
If we had unlimited wealth and unlimited resources, I would welcome all those that sought a better life...but we no longer have that luxury. We can no longer be the caretaker for those that are poor and/or unhappy. I am not an advocate for closing our borders, just strengthening both them and our immigration system. I would still welcome those that are willing to follow the rules to enter our country, and willing to be a productive member of our society. I work very, very hard just to live paycheck to paycheck. I owe a good chunk of money, and do my best to stay above water. It is difficult to see illegal immigrants receiving federal and state benefits that I am not even eligible to get. It is difficult to see them working under the table and not paying taxes, while my taxes pay for their housing, their children's education and more. Many work hard themselves, but they do so illegally.
I understand that I have not suffered the way some immigrants have, and I certainly know that MANY of them enter this country out of desperation. Again, I don't advocate closing our borders. I also don't have the answers...I'm just not that smart. But I do know what I would like to see happen. First, pass legislation that limits how you can enter this country legally, and more importantly enforce the resulting laws. I would also limit the number of legal immigrants per year...it just makes sense.
Secondly, I would grant immunity to all existing illegals in the country now, allowing them to register and start the process to be legal and productive citizens. I would change the laws that allow for children born in this country to automatically become legal citizens, and thus their mothers legal residents. If a family chooses to enter the country illegally to have a child (common in CA), medical care will not be denied, but deportation will follow.
Finally, I would decrease the amount of international aid we provide to the rest of the world and triple the funding to patrol and protect our natural borders. It does no good to take the above actions if our borders, especially those along Mexico, continue to be as effective as a colander collecting water. We can never prevent all the people from entering our country illegally, but we can certainly do much better. As somebody that follows the rules of our society, I find it unfair and insulting for others to not do so. I do have compassion, I simply no longer have any tolerance.
(I welcome your feedback, I just ask that you keep it civil.)
Now I know I am going to get emails railing against me for not remembering that we are ALL immigrants in this country. To the contrary, I do remember. But let's be realistic, times were different then. With all due deference to the Native Americans that our ancestors displaced, we are where we are now. (I make no secret of the fact that this country was invaded, and the natives lost, but that is a subject for a different blog.) Back in this country's infancy, there was plenty of land and even more opportunity to be free. We were a destination for those that could not find freedoms in their own countries. An admirable quality for the US has turned into it's own worst enemy.
If we had unlimited wealth and unlimited resources, I would welcome all those that sought a better life...but we no longer have that luxury. We can no longer be the caretaker for those that are poor and/or unhappy. I am not an advocate for closing our borders, just strengthening both them and our immigration system. I would still welcome those that are willing to follow the rules to enter our country, and willing to be a productive member of our society. I work very, very hard just to live paycheck to paycheck. I owe a good chunk of money, and do my best to stay above water. It is difficult to see illegal immigrants receiving federal and state benefits that I am not even eligible to get. It is difficult to see them working under the table and not paying taxes, while my taxes pay for their housing, their children's education and more. Many work hard themselves, but they do so illegally.
I understand that I have not suffered the way some immigrants have, and I certainly know that MANY of them enter this country out of desperation. Again, I don't advocate closing our borders. I also don't have the answers...I'm just not that smart. But I do know what I would like to see happen. First, pass legislation that limits how you can enter this country legally, and more importantly enforce the resulting laws. I would also limit the number of legal immigrants per year...it just makes sense.
Secondly, I would grant immunity to all existing illegals in the country now, allowing them to register and start the process to be legal and productive citizens. I would change the laws that allow for children born in this country to automatically become legal citizens, and thus their mothers legal residents. If a family chooses to enter the country illegally to have a child (common in CA), medical care will not be denied, but deportation will follow.
Finally, I would decrease the amount of international aid we provide to the rest of the world and triple the funding to patrol and protect our natural borders. It does no good to take the above actions if our borders, especially those along Mexico, continue to be as effective as a colander collecting water. We can never prevent all the people from entering our country illegally, but we can certainly do much better. As somebody that follows the rules of our society, I find it unfair and insulting for others to not do so. I do have compassion, I simply no longer have any tolerance.
(I welcome your feedback, I just ask that you keep it civil.)
Tuesday, March 30, 2010
Something In The Air
It's March 29th and I thought I smelled something familiar in the air today. I couldn't quite place it, but it evoked a sense of calm and relaxation, with just a hint of paradise. I took another whiff and the aroma became stronger...freshly cut grass, the faint scent of sausage, peppers and onions and the smell of broken in leather. Before I knew it, I was also hearing familiar sounds. I could hear the sound of a perfectly shaped piece of wood striking a leather bound rubber sphere. I could hear the muffled roar of a large group of people cheering, and even the melodic sounds of organ music.
What is that warmth I'm feeling inside? A long winter coming to an end, colors returning to the trees and lawns. Rain washing away the dreariness of a long 5 months without my love, my passion. I saw a little boy playing catch with his dad the other day, and to me it was like seeing the perfect work of art.
In 6 days, the 2010 Major League baseball season will be upon us. 30 teams will each play 162 games over the next 5 months. Add to that the tens of thousands of minor league, college and youth games around the country, and you have a little slice of heaven just bout everywhere you look.
The greatest sport ever invented is about to commence...go out and enjoy a few games. You don't have to spend a fortune, some of the best games I ever attended cost me about 6 bucks and took place in a Single A ballpark.
The boys of summer are taking the field...Go Sox!
Saturday, March 27, 2010
I'm Back and I'm PISSED!
I haven't been blogging lately, just don't seem to be able to find the time. However, with everything going on in the world lately...I see it as a good opportunity to make a comeback!
Today's Topic: The Vatican and the Pope
__________________________________________________________
In the spirit of full disclosure, I am a non-practicing Irish Roman Catholic. I was brought up in the church until I made my Confirmation, and then was allowed to make my own decisions. I am thankful to my parents for raising me that way, and I truly do believe in a higher power, if not the God that I worshiped as a child. My life experiences have molded my beliefs and I came to the conclusion that my God would not "require" me to worship Him in a church, that my God would not condone religious zealots, murdering abortion doctors or the meticulously amassed wealth of the Catholic Church.
That all being said, I have always maintained a distant loyalty to the church and a healthy respect for the pontiff. However, as the shame of the worldwide child molestation plague infests even the Pope, I have finally come to a point where I may wash my hands of the Catholic Church. It is one thing to systematically attempt to cover things up all these years (lest we forget that "Cardinal" Law is treated like a king at the Vatican these days), but when the holiest of the holy, the leader of our faith and the voice of God himself is implicated in the cover-up...well, it's just time to do the right thing.
The pedophile epidemic is nothing new to us here in the U.S., it is a permanent mark of shame on our country. But the rest of the world blamed our society for that shame. Now, the real truth comes out...Europe, Ireland and now Germany have shown that the infection was indeed worldwide. What is even worse is that the man responsible for allowing some of the molestations was then Cardinal Joseph Ratzniger...or as we know him now, Pope Benedict XVI. In 1980, he presided over a meeting of a priest accused of molesting children in Germany. He transferred the priest to another parish with no punishment. Six years later that priest was finally convicted of further molestations in his new parish. The Pope is responsible for those children being abused. I am ashamed to be a Catholic today. I am ashamed that my spiritual "leader" would accept the post knowing that he is complicit the rape and molestation of kids.
It is time that the Catholic Church itself is held responsible for these crimes. The Pope must do the right thing and step down. The victims must be compensated using the billions of dollars the church has in assets. I know this will never happen, but it is the right thing to do.
I feel for the thousands, if not tens of thousands of children that were abused. As for me, I am now more conflicted than ever. My faith has always existed on the edge of my existence, and now I don't even have that to count on. I have always, and continue to believe in a merciful higher power; but I also hope He is a vengeful God. If there is a God, I beg of you...damn these pedophiles and their protectors to an eternity of pain and suffering...and let it begin soon.
Today's Topic: The Vatican and the Pope
__________________________________________________________
In the spirit of full disclosure, I am a non-practicing Irish Roman Catholic. I was brought up in the church until I made my Confirmation, and then was allowed to make my own decisions. I am thankful to my parents for raising me that way, and I truly do believe in a higher power, if not the God that I worshiped as a child. My life experiences have molded my beliefs and I came to the conclusion that my God would not "require" me to worship Him in a church, that my God would not condone religious zealots, murdering abortion doctors or the meticulously amassed wealth of the Catholic Church.
That all being said, I have always maintained a distant loyalty to the church and a healthy respect for the pontiff. However, as the shame of the worldwide child molestation plague infests even the Pope, I have finally come to a point where I may wash my hands of the Catholic Church. It is one thing to systematically attempt to cover things up all these years (lest we forget that "Cardinal" Law is treated like a king at the Vatican these days), but when the holiest of the holy, the leader of our faith and the voice of God himself is implicated in the cover-up...well, it's just time to do the right thing.
The pedophile epidemic is nothing new to us here in the U.S., it is a permanent mark of shame on our country. But the rest of the world blamed our society for that shame. Now, the real truth comes out...Europe, Ireland and now Germany have shown that the infection was indeed worldwide. What is even worse is that the man responsible for allowing some of the molestations was then Cardinal Joseph Ratzniger...or as we know him now, Pope Benedict XVI. In 1980, he presided over a meeting of a priest accused of molesting children in Germany. He transferred the priest to another parish with no punishment. Six years later that priest was finally convicted of further molestations in his new parish. The Pope is responsible for those children being abused. I am ashamed to be a Catholic today. I am ashamed that my spiritual "leader" would accept the post knowing that he is complicit the rape and molestation of kids.
It is time that the Catholic Church itself is held responsible for these crimes. The Pope must do the right thing and step down. The victims must be compensated using the billions of dollars the church has in assets. I know this will never happen, but it is the right thing to do.
I feel for the thousands, if not tens of thousands of children that were abused. As for me, I am now more conflicted than ever. My faith has always existed on the edge of my existence, and now I don't even have that to count on. I have always, and continue to believe in a merciful higher power; but I also hope He is a vengeful God. If there is a God, I beg of you...damn these pedophiles and their protectors to an eternity of pain and suffering...and let it begin soon.
Friday, February 19, 2010
Tiger Woods Dog & Pony Show
Good morning, and thank you for joining me. Many of you in this room are my friends (on my payroll). Many of you in this room know me. Many of you have cheered for me or you've worked with me or you've supported me.
Now every one of you has good reason to be critical of me. I want to say to each of you, simply and directly, I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior I engaged in (specifically getting caught).
I know people want to find out how I could be so selfish and so foolish(no we don't). People want to know how I could have done these things to my wife Elin and to my children. And while I have always tried to be a private person, there are some things I want to say.
Elin and I have started the process of discussing the damage caused by my behavior. As Elin pointed out to me, my real apology to her will not come in the form of words (it will come in the form of money); it will come from my behavior over time. We have a lot to discuss; however, what we say to each other will remain between the two of us (until Elin writes her book).
I am also aware of the pain my behavior has caused to those of you in this room (sorry mom). I have let you down, and I have let down my fans. For many of you, especially my friends, my behavior has been a personal disappointment. To those of you who work for me, I have let you down personally and professionally (I cost you a ton of money). My behavior has caused considerable worry to my business partners (I made them a laughing stock for believing in me).
(Warning: Gratuitous pat on the back follows!) To everyone involved in my foundation, including my staff, board of directors, sponsors, and most importantly, the young students we reach, our work is more important than ever. Thirteen years ago, my dad and I envisioned helping young people achieve their dreams through education. This work remains unchanged and will continue to grow. From the Learning Center students in Southern California to the Earl Woods scholars in Washington, D.C., millions (millions?? really??) of kids have changed their lives, and I am dedicated to making sure that continues.
But still, I know I have bitterly disappointed all of you. I have made you question who I am and how I could have done the things I did. I am embarrassed that I have put you in this position (I myself have used many positions).
For all that I have done, I am so sorry (insert pause for effect).
I have a lot to atone for, but there is one issue I really want to discuss. Some people have speculated that Elin somehow hurt or attacked me on Thanksgiving night. It angers me that people would fabricate a story like that. Elin never hit me that night or any other night (that's actually true...it was early morning!!). There has never been an episode of domestic violence in our marriage, ever (I never got beat up by no chick!)
The issue involved here was my repeated irresponsible behavior. I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated. What I did is not acceptable, and I am the only person to blame (I'm speaking in short sentences so my girlfriend will understand).
I stopped living by the core values that I was taught to believe in (My father was a dog too). I knew my actions were wrong, but I convinced myself that normal rules didn't apply. I never thought about who I was hurting (I'm a guy). Instead, I thought only about myself (I'm a guy). I ran straight through the boundaries that a married couple should live by. I thought I could get away with whatever I wanted to (I'm a rich guy). I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled (do you know who I am). Thanks to money and fame, I didn't have to go far to find them (chicks threw themselves at me).
I was wrong. I was foolish. I don't get to play by different rules. The same boundaries that apply to everyone apply to me. I brought this shame on myself. I hurt my wife, my kids, my mother, my wife's family, my friends, my foundation, and kids all around the world who admired me. (HAHAHA)
I've had a lot of time to think about what I've done. My failures have made me look at myself in a way I never wanted to before. It's now up to me to make amends, and that starts by never repeating the mistakes I've made (next time I won't get caught). It's up to me to start living a life of integrity (I'll look that word up later).
I once heard, and I believe it's true, it's not what you achieve in life that matters; it's what you overcome (I heard it last night when my handlers wrote this speech). Achievements on the golf course are only part of setting an example. Character and decency are what really count.
Parents used to point to me as a role model for their kids (umm...not really). I owe all those families a special apology (just write a check). I want to say to them that I am truly sorry.
It's hard to admit that I need help, but I do. For 45 days from the end of December to early February, I was in (hiding) inpatient therapy receiving guidance for the issues I'm facing (I was getting laid there too). I have a long way to go. But I've taken my first steps in the right direction.
As I proceed, I understand people have questions. I understand the press wants to ask me for the details and the times I was unfaithful. I understand people want to know whether Elin and I will remain together (no chance in hell, but will keep up appearance for now). Please know that as far as I'm concerned, every one of these questions and answers is a matter between Elin and me. These are issues between a husband (scumbag cheater) and a wife.
Some people have made up things that never happened. They said I used performance-enhancing drugs (Viagra). This is completely and utterly false. Some have written things about my family. Despite the damage I have done, I still believe it is right to shield my family from the public spotlight. They did not do these things; I did (I just dragged them into it).
I have always tried to maintain a private space for my wife and children (been a snob). They have been kept separate from my sponsors, my commercial endorsements. When my children were born, we only released photographs so that the paparazzi could not chase them (like that would stop them). However, my behavior doesn't make it right for the media to follow my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter to school and report the school's location. They staked out my wife and they pursued my mom. Whatever my wrongdoings, for the sake of my family, please leave my wife and kids alone. (No joke here...the wife is fair game, but NOT the kids.)
I recognize I have brought this on myself (you think?), and I know above all I am the one who needs to change. I owe it (lots of money) to my family to become a better person. I owe it to those closest to me to become a better man. That's where my focus will be.
I have a lot of work to do, and I intend to dedicate myself to doing it. Part of following this path for me is Buddhism, which my mother taught me at a young age (I am not too proud to pull out the mommy card and the spirituality card in one sentence). People probably don't realize it, but I was raised a Buddhist, and I actively practiced my faith from childhood until I drifted away from it in recent years (the day I entered college). Buddhism teaches that a craving for things outside ourselves (sex) causes an unhappy and pointless search for security (a pissed off wife). It teaches me to stop following every impulse and to learn restraint. Obviously I lost track of what I was taught (understatement).
As I move forward, I will continue to receive help because I've learned that's how people really do change (and that's what my people are making me do). Starting tomorrow, I will leave for more treatment and more therapy (because the chicks there are H-O-T!). I would like to thank my friends at Accenture and the players in the field this week for understanding why I'm making these remarks today (they needed the publicity anyway).
In therapy I've learned the importance of looking at my spiritual life and keeping in balance with my professional life. I need to regain my balance and be centered so I can save the things that are most important to me, my marriage and my children (I learned a new position).
That also means relying on others for help (threesome). I've learned to seek support from my peers in therapy (group sex), and I hope someday to return that support to others who are seeking help (gigolo). I do plan to return to golf one day, I just don't know when that day will be (British Open...out of the country).
I don't rule out that it will be this year. When I do return, I need to make my behavior more respectful of the game (deal with the heckling). In recent weeks I have received many thousands of e-mails, letters and phone calls from people expressing good wishes (and twice as many calling me a prick). To everyone who has reached out to me and my family, thank you. Your encouragement means the world to Elin and me.
I want to thank the PGA TOUR, Commissioner Finchem, and the players for their patience and understanding while I work on my private life. I look forward to seeing my fellow players on the course (even though they would love for me to stay away).
Finally, there are many people in this room, and there are many people at home who believed in me. Today I want to ask for your help. I ask you to find room in your heart to one day believe in me again (treat me like a God again).
Thank you.
Now every one of you has good reason to be critical of me. I want to say to each of you, simply and directly, I am deeply sorry for my irresponsible and selfish behavior I engaged in (specifically getting caught).
I know people want to find out how I could be so selfish and so foolish(no we don't). People want to know how I could have done these things to my wife Elin and to my children. And while I have always tried to be a private person, there are some things I want to say.
Elin and I have started the process of discussing the damage caused by my behavior. As Elin pointed out to me, my real apology to her will not come in the form of words (it will come in the form of money); it will come from my behavior over time. We have a lot to discuss; however, what we say to each other will remain between the two of us (until Elin writes her book).
I am also aware of the pain my behavior has caused to those of you in this room (sorry mom). I have let you down, and I have let down my fans. For many of you, especially my friends, my behavior has been a personal disappointment. To those of you who work for me, I have let you down personally and professionally (I cost you a ton of money). My behavior has caused considerable worry to my business partners (I made them a laughing stock for believing in me).
(Warning: Gratuitous pat on the back follows!) To everyone involved in my foundation, including my staff, board of directors, sponsors, and most importantly, the young students we reach, our work is more important than ever. Thirteen years ago, my dad and I envisioned helping young people achieve their dreams through education. This work remains unchanged and will continue to grow. From the Learning Center students in Southern California to the Earl Woods scholars in Washington, D.C., millions (millions?? really??) of kids have changed their lives, and I am dedicated to making sure that continues.
But still, I know I have bitterly disappointed all of you. I have made you question who I am and how I could have done the things I did. I am embarrassed that I have put you in this position (I myself have used many positions).
For all that I have done, I am so sorry (insert pause for effect).
I have a lot to atone for, but there is one issue I really want to discuss. Some people have speculated that Elin somehow hurt or attacked me on Thanksgiving night. It angers me that people would fabricate a story like that. Elin never hit me that night or any other night (that's actually true...it was early morning!!). There has never been an episode of domestic violence in our marriage, ever (I never got beat up by no chick!)
The issue involved here was my repeated irresponsible behavior. I was unfaithful. I had affairs. I cheated. What I did is not acceptable, and I am the only person to blame (I'm speaking in short sentences so my girlfriend will understand).
I stopped living by the core values that I was taught to believe in (My father was a dog too). I knew my actions were wrong, but I convinced myself that normal rules didn't apply. I never thought about who I was hurting (I'm a guy). Instead, I thought only about myself (I'm a guy). I ran straight through the boundaries that a married couple should live by. I thought I could get away with whatever I wanted to (I'm a rich guy). I felt that I had worked hard my entire life and deserved to enjoy all the temptations around me. I felt I was entitled (do you know who I am). Thanks to money and fame, I didn't have to go far to find them (chicks threw themselves at me).
I was wrong. I was foolish. I don't get to play by different rules. The same boundaries that apply to everyone apply to me. I brought this shame on myself. I hurt my wife, my kids, my mother, my wife's family, my friends, my foundation, and kids all around the world who admired me. (HAHAHA)
I've had a lot of time to think about what I've done. My failures have made me look at myself in a way I never wanted to before. It's now up to me to make amends, and that starts by never repeating the mistakes I've made (next time I won't get caught). It's up to me to start living a life of integrity (I'll look that word up later).
I once heard, and I believe it's true, it's not what you achieve in life that matters; it's what you overcome (I heard it last night when my handlers wrote this speech). Achievements on the golf course are only part of setting an example. Character and decency are what really count.
Parents used to point to me as a role model for their kids (umm...not really). I owe all those families a special apology (just write a check). I want to say to them that I am truly sorry.
It's hard to admit that I need help, but I do. For 45 days from the end of December to early February, I was in (hiding) inpatient therapy receiving guidance for the issues I'm facing (I was getting laid there too). I have a long way to go. But I've taken my first steps in the right direction.
As I proceed, I understand people have questions. I understand the press wants to ask me for the details and the times I was unfaithful. I understand people want to know whether Elin and I will remain together (no chance in hell, but will keep up appearance for now). Please know that as far as I'm concerned, every one of these questions and answers is a matter between Elin and me. These are issues between a husband (scumbag cheater) and a wife.
Some people have made up things that never happened. They said I used performance-enhancing drugs (Viagra). This is completely and utterly false. Some have written things about my family. Despite the damage I have done, I still believe it is right to shield my family from the public spotlight. They did not do these things; I did (I just dragged them into it).
I have always tried to maintain a private space for my wife and children (been a snob). They have been kept separate from my sponsors, my commercial endorsements. When my children were born, we only released photographs so that the paparazzi could not chase them (like that would stop them). However, my behavior doesn't make it right for the media to follow my two-and-a-half-year-old daughter to school and report the school's location. They staked out my wife and they pursued my mom. Whatever my wrongdoings, for the sake of my family, please leave my wife and kids alone. (No joke here...the wife is fair game, but NOT the kids.)
I recognize I have brought this on myself (you think?), and I know above all I am the one who needs to change. I owe it (lots of money) to my family to become a better person. I owe it to those closest to me to become a better man. That's where my focus will be.
I have a lot of work to do, and I intend to dedicate myself to doing it. Part of following this path for me is Buddhism, which my mother taught me at a young age (I am not too proud to pull out the mommy card and the spirituality card in one sentence). People probably don't realize it, but I was raised a Buddhist, and I actively practiced my faith from childhood until I drifted away from it in recent years (the day I entered college). Buddhism teaches that a craving for things outside ourselves (sex) causes an unhappy and pointless search for security (a pissed off wife). It teaches me to stop following every impulse and to learn restraint. Obviously I lost track of what I was taught (understatement).
As I move forward, I will continue to receive help because I've learned that's how people really do change (and that's what my people are making me do). Starting tomorrow, I will leave for more treatment and more therapy (because the chicks there are H-O-T!). I would like to thank my friends at Accenture and the players in the field this week for understanding why I'm making these remarks today (they needed the publicity anyway).
In therapy I've learned the importance of looking at my spiritual life and keeping in balance with my professional life. I need to regain my balance and be centered so I can save the things that are most important to me, my marriage and my children (I learned a new position).
That also means relying on others for help (threesome). I've learned to seek support from my peers in therapy (group sex), and I hope someday to return that support to others who are seeking help (gigolo). I do plan to return to golf one day, I just don't know when that day will be (British Open...out of the country).
I don't rule out that it will be this year. When I do return, I need to make my behavior more respectful of the game (deal with the heckling). In recent weeks I have received many thousands of e-mails, letters and phone calls from people expressing good wishes (and twice as many calling me a prick). To everyone who has reached out to me and my family, thank you. Your encouragement means the world to Elin and me.
I want to thank the PGA TOUR, Commissioner Finchem, and the players for their patience and understanding while I work on my private life. I look forward to seeing my fellow players on the course (even though they would love for me to stay away).
Finally, there are many people in this room, and there are many people at home who believed in me. Today I want to ask for your help. I ask you to find room in your heart to one day believe in me again (treat me like a God again).
Thank you.
Friday, January 22, 2010
Legion - Lots of Anticipation, Little Reward
I have been counting down the days until the opening of Legion, a movie that represents a genre I really enjoy. Well, I saw it today (12:30p showing, me and 6 other people in the whole theater!) and I really could've waited for the DVD.
The plot of the movie was no surprise. Angel falls to Earth to protect unborn baby from other angels, God has grown weary of man, etc...see any oneof the Prophecy movies for similar plot lines...Gabriel always the "bad" angel. I expected little in the way of surprises plot-wise, but with today's technology in film, I DID expect much more in special effects and visual dazzle.I was sorely disappointed.
Although the fight between the two angels, Michael and Gabriel, was half-way decent, there was little other action scenes to enjoy. A lot of gunfire and some cheesy death scenes were lame at best. To compound the disappointment, the entire movie takes place in one location (with the exception of 2 plot building scenes). The movie would have been much better if it had multiple locations...and a whole lot more angels!
Most of the acting was forced and over the top, and the cinemetography was lacking a lot. Paul Bettany (Knights Tale, DaVinci Code) was really good as Michael. The director was clearly trying to be artsy and attempted subtle film shots to add suspense. Unfortuantely, all he/she succeeded in doing was boring the audience. There was an awful lot of film time that could have been filled with more action and plot.
Bottom line...a good DVD rental, but a not-so-good movie. 2 out of 5 stars
The plot of the movie was no surprise. Angel falls to Earth to protect unborn baby from other angels, God has grown weary of man, etc...see any oneof the Prophecy movies for similar plot lines...Gabriel always the "bad" angel. I expected little in the way of surprises plot-wise, but with today's technology in film, I DID expect much more in special effects and visual dazzle.I was sorely disappointed.
Although the fight between the two angels, Michael and Gabriel, was half-way decent, there was little other action scenes to enjoy. A lot of gunfire and some cheesy death scenes were lame at best. To compound the disappointment, the entire movie takes place in one location (with the exception of 2 plot building scenes). The movie would have been much better if it had multiple locations...and a whole lot more angels!
Most of the acting was forced and over the top, and the cinemetography was lacking a lot. Paul Bettany (Knights Tale, DaVinci Code) was really good as Michael. The director was clearly trying to be artsy and attempted subtle film shots to add suspense. Unfortuantely, all he/she succeeded in doing was boring the audience. There was an awful lot of film time that could have been filled with more action and plot.
Bottom line...a good DVD rental, but a not-so-good movie. 2 out of 5 stars
Friday, January 15, 2010
Haiti - The World Watches...
On Tuesday, January 12th, a magnitude 7.0 earthquake hit Haiti. Over the next 72 hours, my faith in humanity and of the inner strength of those involved has been strengthened...as it so often is in times of major disasters. It is with a heavy, yet hopeful heart that I share these thoughts.
As I write this, the death toll is estimated to reach 50,000. An additional 300,000 people are estimated to be homeless. In a country that on it's best day is as corrupt and poorly prepared for normalcy, this disaster has presented a seemingly overwhelming challenge. Haiti, as has been often repeated on the news, is the poorest country in our hemisphere. There is no military (other than UN peacekeepers) and the police are of questionable integrity. Despite these obstacles...these citizens of our planet deserve and are receiving the help they so desperately need.
My Observations of Sorrow
The scenes of death and despair are on the level I have not seen in many years. Hundreds of bodies are lining the streets, and hundreds more are piling up outside those hospitals still operational. I have seen cars with arms and legs protruding from the trunk, and even more disturbing...various body parts sticking out of the rubble...a somber reminder that rescue is still the priority rather than recovery. Today, CNN is reporting that mass graves are being created (and filled) a few miles outside of Port-au-Prince. The lack of resources is resulting in the necessity to remove the decaying bodies from the streets. The result is that thousands of Haitian will never know what happened to their loved ones, as the majority of these bodies have not been identified. I am also anticipating that "The Orphans of Haiti" will be a term the world becomes all too familiar with...how many children have lost their parents?
My Observations of Hope
Some of the first pictures out of Haiti were those of people digging through rubble by hand to reach the survivors. I watched the story of people that moved concrete for over 6 hours to save a 15 year old girl...she survived. I watched today as hundreds of Haitians marched through the streets of Port-au-Prince singing songs of hope. They were not looting, they were not rioting...they were singing. The very first nation to answer the call for help was the Dominican Republic, a nation that shares almost 200 years of hostility and hatred with Haiti. In addition, the United States, Britain, Iceland, Chile, Norway, Japan, China, Brazil and many other countries have already responded with supplies and manpower.
My Observations on the Power of Social Networking
We have been witness to an amazing leap forward in the power of technology. Within MINUTES of the earthquake, social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook were abuzz with the news. Within HOURS, the ability to donate money towards relief efforts were up and running, and within a DAY, more money had been raised that anyone thought humanly possible. This was directly attributed to social networking and people like you and I donating $5 or $10 dollars at a time. It was reported this morning that more money has been raised as a result of social networking than was raised for both Katrina and the Tsunami COMBINED. The Red Cross is raising money through text messages at a rate of $200,000 per hour. Talking to my friends online, many confirm that they made contributions. Some of these people (like me) live paycheck to paycheck, but shame on any of us that cannot afford to donate $5 to help save a fellow human being. What impresses me the most about the social networking phenomenon, is that it is mostly the younger people that are making this happen. Although I am a little older, many of my cyberspace friends are younger...and they have made me very proud. Here are some ways you can help:
Wyclef Jeans Organization Yele Haiti
Text YELE to 501501 to donate $5
American Red Cross
Text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10
There are many more agencies that are directly working in Haiti and you can google for information on how to donate to them.
My Observations on the Sick Side of this Crisis
Rush Limbaugh and Pat Robertson. May they both die in a horrific manner on par with those in Haiti that they dismissed as unimportant. That's all I have to say about those two monumental scumbags.
My Final Thoughts
I am both touched and proud of my friends, my countrymen and my species. Once again the true value of life has been proven to outweigh the petty disagreements between us. There is no doubt that Haiti faces even more dire times to come. There will inevitably be the looting and fighting, and the criminal element will of course attempt to profit from this crisis. But for now, the eyes of the world are on the tiny country of Haiti - population 10 million. Those people need our positive thoughts, our prayers and most importantly our help. Please donate.
As I write this, the death toll is estimated to reach 50,000. An additional 300,000 people are estimated to be homeless. In a country that on it's best day is as corrupt and poorly prepared for normalcy, this disaster has presented a seemingly overwhelming challenge. Haiti, as has been often repeated on the news, is the poorest country in our hemisphere. There is no military (other than UN peacekeepers) and the police are of questionable integrity. Despite these obstacles...these citizens of our planet deserve and are receiving the help they so desperately need.
My Observations of Sorrow
The scenes of death and despair are on the level I have not seen in many years. Hundreds of bodies are lining the streets, and hundreds more are piling up outside those hospitals still operational. I have seen cars with arms and legs protruding from the trunk, and even more disturbing...various body parts sticking out of the rubble...a somber reminder that rescue is still the priority rather than recovery. Today, CNN is reporting that mass graves are being created (and filled) a few miles outside of Port-au-Prince. The lack of resources is resulting in the necessity to remove the decaying bodies from the streets. The result is that thousands of Haitian will never know what happened to their loved ones, as the majority of these bodies have not been identified. I am also anticipating that "The Orphans of Haiti" will be a term the world becomes all too familiar with...how many children have lost their parents?
My Observations of Hope
Some of the first pictures out of Haiti were those of people digging through rubble by hand to reach the survivors. I watched the story of people that moved concrete for over 6 hours to save a 15 year old girl...she survived. I watched today as hundreds of Haitians marched through the streets of Port-au-Prince singing songs of hope. They were not looting, they were not rioting...they were singing. The very first nation to answer the call for help was the Dominican Republic, a nation that shares almost 200 years of hostility and hatred with Haiti. In addition, the United States, Britain, Iceland, Chile, Norway, Japan, China, Brazil and many other countries have already responded with supplies and manpower.
My Observations on the Power of Social Networking
We have been witness to an amazing leap forward in the power of technology. Within MINUTES of the earthquake, social networking sites such as Twitter and Facebook were abuzz with the news. Within HOURS, the ability to donate money towards relief efforts were up and running, and within a DAY, more money had been raised that anyone thought humanly possible. This was directly attributed to social networking and people like you and I donating $5 or $10 dollars at a time. It was reported this morning that more money has been raised as a result of social networking than was raised for both Katrina and the Tsunami COMBINED. The Red Cross is raising money through text messages at a rate of $200,000 per hour. Talking to my friends online, many confirm that they made contributions. Some of these people (like me) live paycheck to paycheck, but shame on any of us that cannot afford to donate $5 to help save a fellow human being. What impresses me the most about the social networking phenomenon, is that it is mostly the younger people that are making this happen. Although I am a little older, many of my cyberspace friends are younger...and they have made me very proud. Here are some ways you can help:
Wyclef Jeans Organization Yele Haiti
Text YELE to 501501 to donate $5
American Red Cross
Text HAITI to 90999 to donate $10
There are many more agencies that are directly working in Haiti and you can google for information on how to donate to them.
My Observations on the Sick Side of this Crisis
Rush Limbaugh and Pat Robertson. May they both die in a horrific manner on par with those in Haiti that they dismissed as unimportant. That's all I have to say about those two monumental scumbags.
My Final Thoughts
I am both touched and proud of my friends, my countrymen and my species. Once again the true value of life has been proven to outweigh the petty disagreements between us. There is no doubt that Haiti faces even more dire times to come. There will inevitably be the looting and fighting, and the criminal element will of course attempt to profit from this crisis. But for now, the eyes of the world are on the tiny country of Haiti - population 10 million. Those people need our positive thoughts, our prayers and most importantly our help. Please donate.
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