235 Years and Still Going Strong

Today is a day we celebrate our Independence from Britain.  After a long revolution, the battle cries, the tea parties, the midnight rides, the letters and speeches, a final decision was made and a letter was written to our favorite penpal of yore; the Declaration of Independence was signed and sent to Parliament in Great Britain.  On July 4, 1776, it was adopted by Congress.  Democracy was established, a Constitution was written, and the Thirteen United States of America were in full swing.

Today is our 235th anniversary as a nation.  I read about the days when our founding fathers were laying the foundation of a powerful nation (no, they weren't working hard to abolish slavery, Ms. Bachmann), independent and strong, with a vision for a land of opportunities.  They had a vision.  Would they be proud of where we are today?

Let's think about it.  We have a Bill of Rights, permitting us such liberties as Freedom of Speech, Freedom of Religion, and the Right to Bear Arms.  We fought a Civil War.  Slavery was eventually abolished.  Women can vote.  People "of color" can vote and use the same facilities and services as the "Whites."  We have grown to 50 States.  We have our first black President in office.

While our nation may be young, we have come a long way over the last 235 years.  I'm not sure if the founding fathers would be proud of where we stand, but they would definitely say that we have grown.

Sure.  There are things that need work.  Our immigration policy, our foreign policy, and a handful of freedoms that have yet to be granted.  Is our government too strong?  Without it, we wouldn't be where we are today.  What do you think?

What would you change if you could?  

Political Influence...

Somebody recently asked me why the First Lady and our other leaders spend so much time traveling/touring the world, when we have so many problems here with the economy.

So I thought about it for a few minutes.  I once learned that 1% of the companies in the United States actually export.  And then I keep hearing about how poorly most of the world thinks of the United States right now.  So then, it only makes sense that they are trying to better our relationships with other countries to be able to partake in this global economy in which we live...

Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, "We must learn to live together as brothers or perish together as fools."  That applies to so many aspects of life!  But for today, let's look at it from a global standpoint.

Look at China's economy.  It's growing exponentially.  Why?  I would say it has a lot to do with their export rates.  It has nothing to do with Communism, but everything to do with Globalism.  And they understand that. Look at the European Union.  What a way to cross borders, languages, cultures, and governments!  The members of the EU really seem to have grasped the concept of Globalism.

Wait, what's "globalism?"  My dear friends at Merriam-Webster say that globalism is "a national policy of treating the whole world as a proper sphere for political influence."  So that makes it a lot easier to understand the extensive travel schedules of our leaders.  There are over 200 countries on this planet, which means there exist many an opportunity to have some sort of political influence.   Please note that I'm not saying that we should force our politics upon every other country.  I am admitting that having political influence is a great thing, economically speaking.  Show them that we have something they want.  


It's time to accept that we are not supreme in this world; but merely one country out of hundreds that could stand to compete a little.  Who wouldn't agree that our "Land of the Free" needs a little economic boost right now?  The best solutions to problems are usually found by looking outside of the box.  Perhaps we haven't mastered the art of self-sufficiency as much as we'd like to think we have!  Maybe the ultimate ideal is not closing our borders off to third-world countries, but to giving ourselves a first-world shot at setting an example in Globalism!  


Seriously...who wants to perish as a fool??

Are YOU a Terrorist?

A terrorist, with all fancy wording aside, is someone who imposes terrorism.  Once again, I'm enlisting the assistance of my friends over at Merriam-Webster's website to paint this picture.  Terrorism is defined as "the systematic use of terror, especially as a means of coercion."  Terror, my friends, refers to a "state of intense fear."

Photo courtesy of britannica.com

Have you ever been caught up in a conversation with someone, and all of a sudden they are talking about how much they hate a certain type of person, or what they would do if said type of person were to walk in front of them?  I have heard several people speak this way about the GLBT community.  I have heard people talk like that about black people, Hispanics, even non-religious people.  Or perhaps about religious people.  "I dare one of those forsaken fa***ts to walk in front of me right now!"  "In America we speak English; don't you dare talk to me in that Spanish-talk!"  "Don't even think about knocking on my door again; I don't care about your message!"  The examples are endless.  Americans, who have the luxury of shouting "U.S.A!" upon learning of the death of Osama bin Laden, are the same ones sometimes capable (and guilty) of a sort of terrorism on their own soil.

What happens is that the people attacked by these such statements are terrorized; coerced to live in "intense fear," denying who they are, afraid to speak out or reveal their "true selves."  Closeted gays are afraid to come out of the closet; they may be teased, ridiculed, beaten, or even killed.  Spanish-speakers are afraid to have an accent because they may be denied a job or other opportunity.  These people are living with the terror used by societal terrorists to force them to live in silence.  To live a lie.

This type of judgement is injust.  It's not fair to either party.  To close your mind to not allow diversity in your social or professional circles.  To live in intense fear of being yourself.  Once again, I seek an end to hatred.  Educate yourselves.  Ask questions.  Be tolerant and accepting.  Above all, do not be a terrorist.

Bin Laden's Dead. Now What?

Terrorist leader Osama bin Laden.

I will start by saying that I was ashamed to see several of my fellow Americans posting racial slurs regarding the death of Mr. bin Laden.  Things along the lines of, "Are they sure they have the right guy?  They all look the same over there!"  Seriously?!  Where is your tact, your respect, your education?  The man was not the poster child for Arabs.  He just happened to be one of them.  That gives you no right to say what you have said.  Completely uncalled for.  End of point one.

Furthermore, Osama bin Laden was not the only man involved in the terror regime.  Will there be repercussions?  One can only hope not.  But it is, unfortunately, highly probable.  There are still lives at stake in Afghanistan (and now Pakistan).  While the death of bin Laden represents a (huge) victory in the War on Terror, it does not signal a new non-existence of hate in the world.

What is my point? -You may ask.  We should take advantage of the unity we are feeling as Americans right now.  We should rise up in the strength that is our nation's "indivisibility," and stop the hate.  Understand that "United we stand."  Support our leaders in the tough decisions they have to make in the coming days, weeks, months.  There are far more pressing issues than birth certificates, countries of birth, and bad comb-overs.  Over 300 people lost their lives last week in the South.  A large part of Texas is destroyed from widespread fire.  There are countless Americans without jobs, homes, or food.  In our unity in this victory, let's reach out to those in need on our own soil.  The one thing we have in common is our country.  "The Land of the Free, the Home of the Brave."

Let's make strides toward true "Liberty and Justice for all."  Let's not forget that, while there is a lot of excitement overseas right now, we have a country under our feet that needs the strength of her people. Be strong.  Take a stand.  Spread love, tolerance, liberty, and justice.  We are the United States of America, not the Divided States...

Take pride in our nation's diversity.  Become an Equal Opportunity Citizen.   

The Modern-Day Patriot

No, she doesn't have an American flag sewn on like a cape.  He doesn't break out in random bouts of the Star Spangled Banner.  There is no fanfare played when she walks into the room.  He doesn't trot along to the tune of Yankee Doodle Dandy.  Red, white, and blue glitter does not lace every word that comes out of her mouth.

He's intelligent.  Well-versed.  Votes in every election.  She has actually written (using pen and paper, envelope and stamp) to her Congressmen.  She can tell you about current issues.  He knows that our forefathers were not the ones to abolish slavery, and that Abraham Lincoln gave the Gettysburg Address.  Who am I describing?

The modern-day Patriot.

This post is the second in a series I started last week regarding patriotism.  You can read the first post here.  To be patriotic does not require one to quote the Preamble to the Constitution, nor does it mean that "USofA" is every third word coming out of your mouth.  It means that you pay attention to what's happening.  You don't buy into the "birther" crap.  You aren't afraid to say "I'm an American."  You understand that your country isn't perfect (really, what country is?), but it's a pretty darn good place to be.

Sure, maybe you didn't vote for Obama.  But you know what?  He's your President too.  He doesn't just lead the ones that voted for him.  He leads us all.  He has to listen to the Republicans and the Democrats.  One decision may have been suggested by the Republicans, but that doesn't mean it doesn't apply to the Democrats as well.  And the same with the Democrat-backed proposals.  Why all of the Obama-bashing?  Like it or not, he is President of the United States.  So why not suck it up and say, "You know what, Mr. President?  Even though I didn't vote for you and I probably won't vote for you in the next election, I'm going to stand behind you while you're in office.  I believe in this country, and I believe that we can make it the best place on Earth.  So cheers to you, Mr. President!  I will make known my opinions and what I'd like to see happen while you're in office so you can have as much knowledge of what the American People want while you're in office!"

Stand up!  Set an example!  Be an active American!!  Patriotism has to do with loving your country, so naturally you should do whatever is in the best interest of your country, and if that means jumping on board and supporting those in office while they're there, so be it.

DOMA v ROMA

DOMA is the commonly used acronym to represent the Defense of Marriage Act signed into law in 1996 by President Bill Clinton.  It is the law that defines "marriage" as between a man and a woman, or two members of opposite genders.  It also provides that an individual state does not have to recognize a same-sex "marriage" honored by another state.  Basically, it makes discrimination legal.


Those are the facts.  Now we'll enter into opinion.  This law has MUCH to do with the separation of church and state.  I know of several religions that define marriage as between a man and a woman.  John Locke, author of the principle of social contract, believed that the government had no business dealing with matters of individual conscience.  Now.  Isn't a relationship, which could possibly lead to marriage, a matter of individual conscience?  How many of you have a son- or daughter-in-law that you really don't like?  See where I'm going with this?  By defining "marriage" as between a man and a woman, we are bordering the adoption of arranged marriages in our culture.  If your brother happens to fall in love (read: matter of individual conscience) with another man, who does that harm?  Nobody.  With whom a person sleeps or spends the rest of their life should not depend upon another person's (or organization's) interpretation of marriage.  Just because the federal government may decide that same-sex marriages should indeed be recognized for legal purposes does not mean that you have to immediately marry a person of the same sex.  


Enter ROMA.  The Respect of Marriage Act.  No, it doesn't require States to issue marriage certificates/licenses to same-sex couples.  However, it requires any state to recognize ("for the purposes of any Federal law") a same-sex marriage performed in a state that does recognize them.  It doesn't make you gay.  It doesn't mean that you have to accept or agree with homosexuality.  It doesn't require churches to perform religious ceremonies.  It does mean that gays can live happily in our country, the Land of the Free, as first-class citizens.  It means that gays can pay child support.  Alimony.  They can visit their loved ones in the hospital (or prison).  They can file their taxes jointly.  They may adopt a child into a loving home.  They can join the elite leagues of heterosexuals who can file for divorce.  I know of many "straight" relationships that have exercised their right to do any or all of the listed things here, and they don't even think twice about it.  Perhaps it's time to think twice.  


The American Psychological Association gives another argument in support of same-sex marriage: "financial, psychological and physical well-being are enhanced by marriage, and that children of same-sex couples benefit from being raised by two parents within a legally recognized union supported by society’s institutions."  See?  It doesn't harm.  In fact, being able to marry improves health!   


Do you agree?  Disagree?  What are your thoughts on the subject?  

Majority Doesn't Always Rule

Samuel Adams, a revolutionary superstar and the second president of this Great Nation, was very adept with words.  "It does not require a majority to prevail, but rather an irate, tireless minority keen to set brush fires in people's minds."

The Revolutionaries in the late 1700s wanted one thing: Freedom from England.  I'm sure that Samuel Adams was originally in a very, very small minority when the idea first started to spread.  Just look at what happened then.  Our forefathers were irate at the way England was trying to take advantage of the colonies, so they (read: the minority) mobilized an entire people to fight for what they believed in: freedom.

Martin Luther King, Jr, and the other civil rights leaders of the 1960s were not known as a majority.  But they definitely set such "brush fires" in the minds of enough to gain equal rights.  The African Americans were irate.  They were tireless.  And they were keen on being recognized as Americans, with the same rights the Whites had.  So what happened?  Boycotts.  Outcries.  Deaths.  And now, color is not an issue (for the most part) in the United States.

LGBT populations all over the United States are now shouting to be recognized as equal citizens, to have equal rights, and to end discrimination against them.  Hispanics are experiencing discrimination simply for their skin color.  Sound familiar?  Sure, it may seem like a minority to some.  But just wait.  Brush fires are being set.  A new civil rights revolution is in the works.  And before you know it, the outcry will become the common cry.

...and liberty and justice for all...

Can-Do Attitude!

This morning's headline at the top of the Huffington Post Politics page online:

'RADICAL VISION' 

Obama Ramps Up Criticism of GOP Medicare, Spending Plan

"So?" You might ask.  Let's explore the example modern politics are setting for Americans today.  All too often we see "smear campaigns" where candidates, instead of focusing on their own strengths (perhaps to mask the lack thereof), spend millions of dollars highlighting the mistakes and weaknesses of their opponents.  What happened to self-confidence?  If you run for office, shouldn't you run because you KNOW you're the best candidate for the job?  By pointing out others' mistakes, low-points, and flaws, you only end up looking worse yourself.  

Back to Obama's criticism of GOP proposals.  Okay.  So I'm fairly positive that it's not the best plan for America right now.  But if our Chief Executive is spending his interview time criticizing it and calling attention to how bad it is, wouldn't it be a better way to pass time by only talking of solutions?  

As a child, I often was instructed, "If you don't have anything nice to say, don't say anything at all."  Good advice, if you ask me.  How can we successfully teach this concept to future generations, along with patriotic responsibility, if all they hear from our "leaders" is negative and usually bashing others?  

Norman Vincent Peale, the author of The Power of Positive Thinking, once said, "Believe in yourself! Have faith in your abilities! Without a humble but reasonable confidence in your own powers you cannot be successful or happy."  Words to live by.  Even for politicians.  

To my representatives, officials, and Congressmen and Women: You are in your position because a majority vote believed in you!  Those who elected you into your office were positive you were the best for the job!  Now walk in confidence!  Don't shy away from your principles or focus on what you are against!  What are you for?  Don't focus on the weaknesses or the can'ts, focus on strengths and cans!  We can make this nation the greatest in the world again!  Our strength is our unity!  Stand up for what you believe is right!  Show us the same confidence you had when you campaigned for office!  Be the best!  You can do it!

From greatscat!: Rachel Maddow: Michigan Revokes Town's Local Repre...

"Rachel Maddow reports on the use by Michigan's Republican Governor Rick Snyder of a new ' financial marshall law ' to disband a struggling..."

This DOES NOT make me a happy person. Rachel Maddow, my hat goes off to you. You are my new hero.

Does Patriotism still exist?

"...and I'm proud to be an American, where at least I know I'm free..."

Have you ever heard that song?  Have you ever sung it?  Furthermore, are you proud to be an American?  Do you know you're free?  

Do you love your country?  Are you devoted to it?  What happened to people who proudly stand up and say "I'm from the United States of America, the greatest country on Earth!"  I recently spent a year abroad, and until I was away from the United States for a while, I admit that I didn't really want too many people to know that I'm an American.  Why?  I don't really have an answer.  I guess it's because I hadn't really seen too much of my country that made me proud, that caused an uprising from within me that wanted to wear red, white, and blue everywhere I went.  But you know, there are a lot of things we have in America that don't exist elsewhere.  I know I criticize our government a lot.  And I know there are a lot of things that could use some improvement.  But I honestly think that if more people were proud of their country, they would do everything in their power to truly make it the "greatest country on Earth."  

Let's use an analogy.  Think of a small child, maybe six years old, who has just gone to the dentist and received a sticker for his good behavior.  He will wear that sticker with pride all day and make sure that everybody sees it!  He will proudly say, "I was a good boy at the dentist!"  And he will do everything within his power to preserve that sticker, to make sure it is still shiny and clean.  

You see, if you aren't proud of something, then you won't mind letting it go to waste.  Which is what seems to be happening to our country.  Our early principles, like "liberty and justice for all," have been forgotten, and personal agendas and financial gain have taken precedence.  Such a shame.  We mustn't allow money-hungry "politicians" decide what happens to our people; we should live up to our democratic ideals and let our voice be heard!  Being American isn't a bad thing; it is what you make it!  Let's make this country an amazing place again!  

No Taxation without Representation

***DISCLAIMER***  Due to technological difficulties, I have not been able to post since last week.  Your understanding is appreciated.

Here we are again, gearing up for yet another presidential election.  Didn't we just do this?  I mean, we are still in the second quarter of 2010!  Before you know it, your fellow countrymen will start wearing red, white, and blue whenever possible.  They will strike up conversations in line at Publix about Donald Trump and Sarah Palin.   Scenery changes to star-spangled elephants and donkeys.  All over the country.

The views expressed in this sign are not necessarily those of the blogger.

And people gear up to vote.  This is their big chance to "change the wrong back to right," or "decide on the fate of my country."  November 2012 is the one opportunity you will have to voice your opinions, so you better make it count!  Right?  WRONG.


Yes, the electoral process is a huge part of the democracy that created our nation.  No, Election Day is not your only chance to have a say in the next four years of policy-making and budget grappling!  I know I have touched on this subject before, but I must make it clear to you.  It is our civic duty, as U.S. citizens, to let our elected officials know what we think!

What happens if we don't?  People report to the polls on a beautiful Tuesday morning, receive their ballot, and fill it out according to their favorite candidates.  They leave, and proudly wear an "I Voted" sticker for the rest of the day.  In January, a new (or incumbent) President takes office, and begins to do his (or her) job, the best they know how.  Around March, the complaints begin.  "It's been two months, and President So-and-So has yet to legalize marijuana, I can't believe I voted for him!!" or any number of oddities I've heard right after a politician takes office.  And then the revolutionaries form new political movements determined to overthrow a particular party/politician.  And people swear to never vote for that political party again.  Congress changes majority party, and can't do something so seemingly simple as compromise.  This election-only type registered voter contributes to complete chaos in our political system and doesn't even know it!

So how do we avoid this turmoil?  Pay attention to the issues at hand.  Check your Congressman's website every once in a while.  Get involved in a community organization working for the better good of the people.  Sign a petition.  Call your Senator's office.  Strike up conversations at community events to help others become aware of an issue at hand (even if they don't take the same stance as you).

Let's pledge to be part of a more aware, more active United States!  Let's hold our Congressmen accountable for their votes!

Closed Borders, Closed Minds

Wasn't our country, in her early days, nothing but immigrants?  Settlers from Spain, Sweden, France, Germany, England.  Catholics, Puritans, Quakers.  Rich, poor, successful, not-so-successful...People looking for a second chance.  An opportunity to make a difference.  To "be somebody."  To be free from persecution by their former governments.  To create an ideal settlement, a colony, a new life.

You know, I read about our Nation's history and then I read about "Immigration Reform" and I get a little confused.  When did "Americans" decide to close our borders?  At what point did we forget that these United States happened only because other people left their own countries, seeking a better opportunity?  Seeking freedom?  Seeking domestic tranquility?

Immigration Reform is a term tossed around all over the news and internet these days.  People are arguing whether foreign nationals should be permitted to enter the US temporarily to do a job no American is willing to do.  (Have you ever been eager to pick tomatoes or okra?  It's not easy, nor fun.)

Now, people are afraid to try to enter the US.  Our border with Mexico is heavily guarded, and people trying to cross into our country do so in fear.  Why?  Why are we so against letting people from other countries come here for a better life?  If it weren't for settlers coming here in the first place, don't they realize that we wouldn't be where we are today?

Now, if you don't have a lot of money in the bank or a really good job in your home country, it is extremely difficult to get a visa to visit the Land of the Free.  Wasn't Georgia founded merely as a home for debt prisoners?  Didn't unsuccessful fisherman from France settle New Hampshire because they needed a better fishing spot?

Now, if, due to your religion, you dress a certain way, you pray in a different language, or read Scriptures that are not the Bible, you are persecuted.  Trying to get on an airplane in a turban?  Forget it.  Wearing a headscarf to class?  You better not be a terrorist.  That's the attitude in most places around the country.  What is that??  That's not Freedom.  Weren't Massachusetts, Maryland, Rhode Island, and New Jersey all settled by persons/groups seeking freedom from religious persecution?

Our differences are what define the United States of America.  We came together in the late 1700s to unite ourselves for a common cause - freedom.  What has happened to our country since then?  Why do we not allow others to seek the same liberty for which we have always seemed to struggle?

Ignorance is Bliss...or is it?

We have a huge problem in the United States.  It's much greater than the recession, the budget crisis, the wars, and the lack of equal rights, combined.  Registered voters are voting (that's good...) without knowing what they are voting for/against!!!  Why is this a problem? Well, we end up with governors who are not so popular, i.e. Rick Scott of Florida, presidential candidates  who aren't exactly "top-notch," we get stuck in wars we have no business being in, and our governmental stability is threatened because we have representatives complicating our budget far more than necessary.

LZ Granderson, in his weekly column on CNN Opinion, wrote, "...Yet we all know people who gleefully admit they know nothing about politics, don't have time to find out what the current issues are or even know how the government works, but go out and vote. Want to know why it seems Washington is run by a bunch of idiots? Blame this hiccup in our political system for starters. What's a solution? Weed out some of the ignorant by making people who want to vote first pass a test modeled on the one given to those who want to become citizens."

I remember my high school Civics class; I learned so much about the way our country works, and enjoyed it, knowing that I would soon be able to take part in the democratic processes of this great nation.  It made me feel like it was an honor to register to vote, to join what I assumed was an elite group.  In reality, it was no big deal.  I registered in about five minutes, and felt no different after I filled out the generic form.  What if there was more to it than putting your address and personal info on the registration form?  What if there was a test, to prove that you are qualified to vote on issues that affect us all?

I think we should strongly consider it for any upcoming elections.  I mean, can anybody just show up on the field to play as a wide receiver for the Colts without ever having played a single game of football?  Can anybody stand in as an engineer designing a skyscraper in Dubai without showing proof of their qualifications?
So why should just anybody be able to elect the officials running our country?  


Over the next few days, we are going to go through a "refresher course," using basic questions from the Citizenship and Naturalization tests.  So we are all on the same page.

Are You Willing to Get Angry?

"There must be a positive Passion for the public good, the public Interest, Honour, Power, and Glory, established in the Minds of the People, or there can be no Republican Government, nor any real Liberty."

John Adams, the second president of our dear Nation, wrote these words in 1776 in a letter to Mercy Otis Warren, America's first female playwright.  I think he was onto something here...

"There must be a positive Passion for the public good...established in the Minds of the People..."  Do you have a positive Passion?  As you must know by now, I am very fond of word definitions.  "Passion" is defined as "intense, driving, or overmastering feeling or conviction; an outbreak of anger."  Would you be willing to break out in anger for the good of the public?  What about honor?  Power?  What is it that strikes a chord within you?  Mr. Adams said that if we don't have that intense conviction (or we aren't willing to get angry about it) within our minds, then we can forget about real Liberty.  I understand from this phrase that our freedom starts from within.  Think about that.  Do you feel free, from the very depths of your being?  Do you know that you are free?

"...the public good, the public Interest, Honour, Power, and Glory," all of these are ours.  If we are willing to fight for them.  If there is a passion burning within us, established in our minds, to have these things, then we can begin to have a real Republic.  I like Encyclopaedia Britannica's definition of Republic, "a form of government in which the people, or some significant portion of them, retain supreme control over the government."  You see, we have the right to vote, do demand representation from our elected officials, and to hold them accountable for the decisions they make on our behalf.  But we only retain that right, that supreme control over government, if we make our Passion for our rights public.

There is no such thing as passive activism.  For the last two and a half centuries, rights have been won, our Constitution has been interpreted time and again, not because of somebody waiting on their neighbor to take action, but because people have gotten angry. 

Shutdown 2011: Really??

So we are all aware of the Fed shutdown looming upon us in about 75 minutes.  But is there really anything to be afraid of?  Let's look at the effects, in terms we all understand:

Benefits Package

• SSI - Benefits are still being paid.  In the process of applying?  It may take a few days longer.  Patience is a virtue.  And they already apparently have a huge backlog, anyway.  So you still have to wait in line. 
• Medicare - Benefits are still being paid.  Thank goodness for trust funds, I guess...
• NIH - the National Institute of Health won't be beginning any new clinical trials.  I'm not sure that's a bad thing, according to what I've heard about some trials.  They also won't be taking any new patients for a few days. 
• Welfare - Your benefits were already approved through September.  And I'm pretty sure the government will un-shutdown before then.

Money Matters

• IRS - If you haven't filed your tax return yet, shame on you.  W2s have been out since Jan 31.  Refunds are being delayed.  But, of course, if you owe, they will gladly accept and take your check.
• Mortgages - The Federal Housing Administration will not be issuing new mortgages right now. 
• Food Stamps - No need to worry until May.  You've already received your April benefits. 
• Banks - The FDIC insures all depositors up to a certain amount.  Uncle Sam's taking care of your money.  No need to hoard your cash underneath your mattress.  Yet.   

Miscellaneous

• Passports - This one's unclear.  Issuance of passports and/or visas could be delayed.  Or stopped.  But they don't know yet. 
• USPS - The postal service will continue to run as normal. 
• Military - They still earn money.  The receipt of their paychecks might be delayed...

The People who Refuse to Agree

• As far as I know, the members of Congress will still be receiving their full paychecks.  On time.  Do you see anything wrong with this picture?  The men and women overseas fighting in a war they didn't start may not be paid on time, but the people responsible for this "shutdown" will.  Priorities, anyone?

There are several other federal activities being minorly affected by this discord, but Congress will be paid.  How many incumbents do you foresee taking office again after this term?

Budget, Shmudget

As I write this, our entire country is sitting on the edge of their recliners and sectional sofas, counting down to the government shutdown that could happen at the end of this week, should the Republicans and Democrats not reach an agreement on how we should stop spending because we need money.

Earlier this week I read about presidential campaign fundraising goals for 2011.  Some of the projected goals top a million dollars.  If these guys (and gals) are so eager to raise funds for promoting their personal agendas, then maybe we should give them an offering plate to start passing around on behalf of the Federal Budget as well.  Can you imagine the silence in the chambers of Congress if they all were staring at the plate looming before their eyes, dreading its arrival?  What if we were to shave a mere $10,000 from the salaries of each Representative, and $15,000 from each Senator?  Let's see...that would total to...$4,350,000 from the House, and...$1,500,000 from the Senate.  There are almost 309 million residents in the US right now.  What if we each gave $10?  If my math is correct, then that would total to over 3 billion dollars.  How much money are we trying to raise/save/stop spending again?  That'd be a pretty good start.  And then we could stop all new dog park construction for the year (I have nothing against dog parks.  I just believe that they shouldn't be priority in a year of economic crisis).  And what about the refurbishments throughout the corrections department of each state?  Do our prisoners really need new refrigerators right now?  Seeing things like these listed on my state's budget make me question the seriousness of our nation's crisis...or at least question the methods being used to "fix" it.

I don't claim to be perfect, or to have all the answers.  But with a little common sense and a fair amount of intelligence, I don't think our budget problem would be that difficult to solve.  How would you modify the federal budget to cover the deficit?

IMPACT Invitation

Over the past few years, I have been interested in becoming involved in LGBT advocacy in the community, and have tried to "get in" with SAVEDade and Unity Coalition.  But it has proven to be a lot more difficult than I originally thought, due to seemingly "closed" circles that surround these organizations.  And now that I am back in Miami, I am ready to take action again.  This time, instead of trying to join the ranks of an already-established organization, I (along with a group of other interested activists) have decided to form a real advocacy group, IMPACT - Individuals Motivated to Produce Actual Change Today.

 We hope to represent the diversity of the LGBT community and have an open and transparent agenda which welcomes the participation of all. We intend to concentrate on legislative issues, but will also work on educational campaigns and other projects as our members and our community see fit.

Our first order of business will be to get every municipality in Miami-Dade County (as Miami Beach has done) to pass a resolution in support of the Uniting American Families Act, a bill in Washington that seeks to amend the Immigration and Nationality Act to eliminate discrimination in the immigration laws by permitting "permanent partners" of United States citizens and lawful permanent residents to obtain lawful permanent resident status in the same manner  as spouses of citizens and lawful permanent residents. We are already writing language for the resolution and have made calls to elected officials in Coral Gables and Doral about placing it on their city agendas. Once we get a supporting resolution from every municipality, we might go to Broward County and get support from the governments there before forwarding them to the bill's advocates in committee.

We can also take on other issues, such as anti-hate and anti-bully education (making it a legislated requirement) in schools, among other timely issues, but we want to include more of you in the discussion before we take any direction.

We would love for you to join us. It does not take a huge commitment of time. Maybe you just want to attend the community conversations so that we may "pick your brain" so to speak, get your ideas and opinions on issues, so that we can make decisions and move on issues that are more representative of the community. In fact, strength in numbers can also have impact so by joining, you help. If you want to become involved with IMPACT, please let me know. We are trying to get a nice group together for the Miami Beach Pride event April 16 so that we can do some outreach there. We will soon have a Facebook page to keep everyone informed on our activities (we will post when we are before a town council or city commission so you know if it's your elected officials and you can be there to lend support). Also, feel free to forward the information on the new group along to your friends and colleagues in the community, LGBT or not, who want to make a difference.

Ready to take action,

Megan Conyers

Founding Member, IMPACT

Politics vs. Social Status

Of how many "advocacy groups" are you currently aware?  I thought so.  Quite a few, if you put yourself to think about it.  National groups such as the NAACP, state groups like Environment Florida, and local groups, such as your local Chamber of Commerce.  (Just because I mention specific groups does not mean that I am against them in any way, shape, or form.  They are merely examples of more commonly known advocacy groups.)

Now, let's explore a little deeper.  Have you ever tried to become involved with one of such advocacy groups, because you really liked the way their mission statement sounds?  A lot of active verbs, a lot of great causes, and a lot of magnificent imagery that flashes through your mind as you imagine changing the world with your fellow group members?  You check out the website of the group, find out where to send your application or interest form, and fill it out, brimming with energy and excitement for the revolution you feel is further underway with every stroke of the keyboard!  You e-mail the form, because you *know* they'll get your data on their smartphones and immediately call you and...nothing happens.  You wait patiently.  You see several advocacy campaigns and events advertised, you see the cars lined down the block near the director's country club estate for the "by invitation only" VIP cocktail party for which you weren't on the guest list.  Your illusions and dreams of one day being able to say "I was on the committee that was responsible for changing the world," dissipate.  You quickly realize that this group obviously doesn't want your help, even though they advertise a "new-member drive" all over Facebook, Twitter, and on signs in your neighbor's yard.  

So what's the deal?  You ask.  It seems as if these groups (especially the local ones) are more of a social revue than anything else.  They want to save the world, but only by the side of people just like them.  They want to say they're starting a political revolution, but all they seem to do is "celebrate."  When do they work? When do they fight legislation?  Phone banking - with a never-ending flow of wine and a constant smoke break?  How does a cocktail party (labeled "VIP" to make it sound posh) cause legislative reform?  

Sure.  Networking is a huge key to success.  But when does the networking convert to fruition of your purpose statement?  You just got an award, but for WHAT?  Where are the politics?  When do you involve your community - both those for you and against you?  How can I help?  Really help?   

Unfortunately, many of today's "advocacy groups" are cliques.  Just like in high school.  The "cool kids."  The "rich kids."  The socialites of our day.  And it's next to impossible (it seems) to be "accepted."  

What can we do about it?  Stand up and TAKE ACTION.  Be the change!  A movement really can start with one person.  Start talking.  You'll be amazed to find that you are not alone.  That others feel "left out" just like you.  What do you want to see accomplished?  What do you want to advocate for?  What was it about that mission statement that you liked?  Who in your local government (start small - more on this later) sits on the legislative committee involved with that?  How can you get on the agenda at a city council meeting?  Change has to start somewhere.  And if you aren't willing to get involved, then why should anybody else be?  It's time to actually produce change, not just talk about it over coffee!  

First World Rights + Rhetoric

My country 'tis of thee, sweet land of [limited] liberty...

Industrialization, as I have learned, is the primary deciding factor for a First World Country.  There exist several First World Countries and many Third World Countries.  No in-betweens.  Does it entail anything else besides the driving factors of a country's economy?  What about Rights?  Do we automatically qualify for First World Rights if we live in a First World Country such as the United States of America?  Let's explore...

• If I am in Arizona, do I have to carry my birth certificate with me at all times just in case I need to prove my citizenship status to a suspecting officer?  Isn't this First World Country the Land of the Free?
• If my friend marries his boyfriend in Massachusetts, should he have to stay there in order for his marriage certificate to be valid and to avoid discrimination?    Are gays not members of this First World Country?
• If my classmate, a follower of the Muslim faith, wears her headscarf in public, should she have to be afraid that a member of another religion will taunt her and demand she not be allowed to practice her faith in the US?  Do we no longer have freedom of religion in this First World Country?
• If my teacher is fired due to budget cuts and is no longer able to find a job, should she have to sit back silently while her local government instead funds the construction of a new dog park?  Isn't this First World Country the Land of Opportunity?

What makes any of these scenarios proper in a First World Country?  Oppression, in its most passive state, is nonetheless oppression.  Remember learning about "No Taxation without Representation?"  It's happening again, this time on our shores.  Some of our elected officials are no longer voting in the best interest of their constituents, but in the best interest of their wallets.  And it's not completely their fault.  We need to speak up.  Let's let them know what bothers us.  What worries us.  What we'd like to see change in our lifetime.  An election is not the only time in which we as citizens have a say in our government.  We can call them.  We can write them.  We can let them know that we are not yet satisfied.  We have to inform our representatives of how we feel.  We can turn this First World Country into a First Rate Country.  It starts with me and you.  Ready?

What are YOU?

Today most politics somehow seem to revolve around the parties involved.  The Republicans and the Democrats.  The Conservatives and the Liberals.  Right-wing, Left-wing.  But should all issues be separated into those categories?  Should we have to vote with a particular party just because "that's how we registered," even if we don't fully agree with certain items on a politician's platform?

I am not registered as a Democrat, nor as a Republican.  I am currently registered as Independent.  Why?  Because I don't want to be pressured to fill out a ballot in a certain way just to be in line with my "party affiliation."  It's not that I don't believe in small government, like the Republicans do  It's just that I believe in merely holding my government accountable.  For using my vote to demand accountability from my government.

My friend asked me today if I believed that the forefathers of our nation knew what they were doing when they wrote and signed the Constitution, setting the plans for their new nation.  My answer: To some extent.  They thought things out well.  They accomplished what they set out to do; they set the groundwork for a government limited by...itself.  Checks and balances.  Her opinion?  "I think they gave us a perfect blueprint for a successful government."  The kicker? The club of our forefathers eventually formed a political party (to go against Hamilton's bank nationalization plan, no doubt) called the "Democratic-Republicans."  And over the last 200 or so years, we have separated from that unity which formed our country, and, well...look at us now!

Are we better off now than we were then?  I'd say yes and no.  "Yes," because we have progressed in defining our Constitution in so many ways.  Has it been easy? NO!  But now women can vote.  People of colored skin can go to the same restaurants and the same schools and use the same water fountains as the whites (they can even be President!).  I have the freedom of speech to write blogs about whatever I want.  We are all entitled to a fair trial process.  And much, much, more!  But on the contrary, a country that was founded by immigrants and prisoners (including murderers, thieves, those declaring bankruptcy) is now trying to close its doors to foreign nationals.  A country that was formed because we didn't agree with another country's government is now trying to impose our democratic beliefs upon other nations.  Here in the "land of the free and the home of the brave," we still don't have marriage equality.  Here in the "land of opportunity," the unemployment rate is at 9% or so.

So what can we do about it?  Does it depend on your party affiliation, whether you coincide with the President or not?  Does it depend on whether your state is red or blue on the political map? NO!  It starts with one voice, speaking up for what is believed to be right.  I guarantee you're not alone!

Insuring Domestic Tranquility

Do you have health insurance?  Car insurance?  Renter's insurance?  Homeowner's insurance?  What about Domestic Tranquility Insurance?  As the second item on Jefferson's list of demands from the ideal country, I'm assuming this is a pretty big one.  (The first is to establish Justice, which we're going to come back to.)


Now, I'm not 100% sure if they just spelled "ensure" as "insure" back in the 1700s, but I'm going to say no, for my sake, and presume that TJ (Thomas Jefferson) knew what he was doing and used "insure" for a reason.  Let's refer once again to my dear friends at Merriam-Webster.  Their definition of "insure" is "to make certain especially by taking necessary measures and precautions."   Let's pause for a moment and take that in.  If you'll remember from my last post, a state of Tranquility involves freedom.  Freedom from agitations of mind or spirit.   Be honest with me.  When you watch the news, or take your children to school, or push a shopping cart through Publix (or your grocery store of choice), do you feel that freedom?   No agitations.  A tranquil mind, a tranquil spirit.  We are talking about something so seemingly basic, but in the 21st century in which we live, we are still battling for basic civil rights in our "first world country!"   


Let's look at it from a slightly different angle.  If you look up "insurance" in the dictionary, it's defined as "coverage by contract whereby one party undertakes to indemnify or guarantee another against loss by a specified contingency or peril."  I consider the U.S. Constitution as a contract between We the People and our government.  So if we all qualify for this Domestic Tranquility Insurance simply by being citizens, then we should ALL be covered!  And honestly, in most areas of my life I have been guaranteed against loss.  But I'm not allowed to marry the person I love.  And that, to me, is a contingency..  A failure to indemnify me against peril.  I saw today where a recent study has shown that the human brain registers heartbreak and being burned in the same manner.  Being burned is a peril, wouldn't you say?  


What, in your opinion, is a recurring infraction upon your domestic Tranquility?  Do you feel like our government is doing all they can to uphold this part of the Constitution?   What would TJ say if he were alive today?  

We the People

Welcome to A More Perfect Union, my new blog about the political and somewhat social atmosphere surrounding the basic rights and responsibilities that we possess as U.S. citizens.  My goal is for this blog to serve as a channel for thought-provoking debate.  All questions, comments, and opinions are welcome, as long as they are all written with all due respect.  

Mr. Jefferson had a great thing going when he first penned the Preamble to the United States Constitution:

"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic Tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general Welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our Posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America"

Let's dissect that while reading it again.

"We the People" (refers to a collective, including all citizens) "of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union," (does that mean that they admitted that it wasn't perfect?) "establish Justice," (defined by Merriam-Webster as "the quality of being just, impartial, or fair") "insure domestic Tranquility," (I like this definition of tranquil: "free from agitation of mind or spirit") "provide for the common defence," (the old-school spelling to say we're all protected) "promote the general Welfare," (I don't think they meant food stamps) "and secure the Blessings of Liberty" (this envelopes all of the other freedoms included in being a free nation) "to ourselves and our Posterity," (all future generations - so we're covered, too!) "do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."

Thomas Jefferson and his associates had a pretty good idea, if you ask me!  Over the next few posts, I am going to further explore my interpretation of the Preamble to our nation's Constitution, and then any and all worthy ponderings of the role "We the People" should take in order to continue to strive for "a more perfect Union."