A Letter to Pat Buchanan

The ignorance and denial of reality of Pat Buchanan and the paleo-conservatives who agree with him is amazing. Now I’m sure that I will receive angry comments from his followers and that’s fine. Ignorance always makes an effort to speak louder than Truth. I just want to warn those individuals that if you decide to comment with something negative or ignorant, you are giving me your permission to fully publish your information. I want you to have the opportunity to stand with your comments.

DISCLAIMER: I’m not speaking against all conservatives, that may be a shock to some who know me, but there are a few good Republicans out there that I actually like and have ideas and strategies that I can agree upon. It’s just too bad that they often get silenced by members of their own party, just like the Democrats silence members within their own party. Now that we have one who would have been silenced making a mark everyone, including some Democrats have picked up their rocks in their attempt to silence his message. I would love to see the day that we see the Republican equivalent to an Obama as the Republican Presidential Nominee.

I want to take this opportunity to thank Deborah Simmons of the Washington Times for her response to Pat Buchanan’s ridiculous HE titled, “A Brief for Whitey”. I believe that Ms. Simmons responded far better than I would. Please take the time to read her article which was published on April 4, 2008 can be found on the Washington Times website.

Simply click on the link below.

http://washingtontimes.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20080404/EDITORIAL03/550289392/1013&template=nextpage

For those who believe racism in America is a thing of the past, I recommend that you fasten your seat belts because you’re about to go on the same drunken ride that many people who have endured overt and covert oppression of various races (Racism is not a Black issue, but a human issue), religious beliefs, sexual orientation, disability and women have been on for more than the 40 years Mr. Buchanan is referring to.

When is this going to end? What is it about being Black do you believe is wrong? To add to that, what is it about being <ENTER YOUR RACE, RELIGION, ORIENTATION, DISABILITY OR GENDER HERE> do you believe is wrong? In the end we’re all going to be judged by the same God and spend eternal life in the same Heaven or Hell. (If you have a belief system) So why not just live life now how you will spend your eternal life?

I’m going to stop before I ask you to open your Bibles.

——-AMENDMENT TO POST——–

I would like to thank Thomas for correcting me on my use of the word neo-conservative. You will noticed that I change it to a more appropriate characterization. I honestly appreciate open-mindedness of his comments.

Neoconservatism is most associated with the Iraq war, which Pat Buchanan opposed, most notably by accusing neoconservatives of manipulating our foreign policy to do the bidding of Israel.

The most famous neoconservative response to Pat Buchanan was David Frum’s article, “ Unpatriotic Conservatives”. You can check it out at the link. http://www.nationalreview.com/frum/frum031903.asp

-Thomas M.

Richard Pryor on Sesame Street

This one is a switch up from the norm for me. I stumbled across this video of Richard Pryor on Sesame Street. You know that you’re a true King of Comedy when you can simply say the alphabet and make people laugh. 

Enjoy. I’ll have something serious to say a little later.

 

Good Job Hillary, You Won PA

 

Tonight, Hillary Clinton won PA, but in essence lost her last, best chance to make significant inroads in the pledged delegate count.  

The only surprising result from Pennsylvania is that in a state considered tailor-made for Hillary Clinton that she was expected to win, Barack Obama was able to improve his standing among key voter groups since the Ohio primary.   For example, among white voters, Obama narrowed the gap with Clinton by six points. Among voters over 60, he nearly cut the gap in half, from 41 points to 24 points.   And Independent voters – the group that will decide the general election and a group Obama is particularly strong with – were not able to vote in Not surprisingly, she led by as much as 25 points in the weeks leading up to the election.

As he has done in every state, Barack Obama campaigned hard to pick up as much support and as many delegates as possible and was able to stave off Clinton from achieving a significant pledged delegate gain from Pennsylvania. 

The bottom line is that the Pennsylvania outcome does not change dynamic of this lengthy primary. While there were 158 delegates at stake there, there are fully 157 up for grabs in the Indiana and North Carolina primaries on May 6.

Source: http://my.barackobama.com/page/community/post/samgrahamfelsen/gGCC5g

I couldn’t agree more with Mr. Graham-Felsen commentary. I would like to add to his statements. Although I admire Hillary’s Die-Hard spirit, it’s going to be a difficult and almost impossible argument to win with the super-delegates at the convention. Yes, you still have 9 more states, but the 2 minute warning has already sounded and we’re in the 4th quarter and Team Obama is in the lead, unless Eli Manning can throw a “Hell Mary” pass, the buzzer is going to sound in Obama’s favor. Although you’ve used Republican-like tactics, that raises several questions about how far you would go, I still give you credit for running a hard fought campaign. 

 

Get Ready, Get Ready, Get Ready

For my fellow Democrats, Independent & Open-Minded Republicans who are supporting Barack Obama. Get ready for the utterly ridiculous attacks from the typical republican attack machine. I personally would love to launch an equally negative attack ads on the republicans, but best attack ad that I could launch against John McCain would be to just show the condition of Americans today in every aspect of their lives in comparison to before the GOP strong-armed their way into office under the name of George W. Bush.

I came across another article from TIME magazine that I found interesting.

http://www.time.com/time/politics/article/0,8599,1733873,00.html?cnn=yes

We’ll see how much love Pennsylvania shows Barack. I just don’t see how Hillary can keep going on even if she wins tonight. The margin of victory, money and support just isn’t working for her this year. Perhaps, the comments of one of her prominent supports whom I have great respect for has come to bite back. “…I think Barack would make a great president, in 2016″ -Andrew Young

I think Hillary would make a good president, in 2016. Unless John Edwards or Bill Richardson decides to run again, then perhaps 2024.

Some Brotherly Love

On Tuesday, April 22, 2008 we’ll see how much brotherly love is exchanged in terms of votes for Barack from our friends in PA. We are at a crucial moment in our country and the world. Everytime you vote for Barack you’re standing up for change. It takes courage to take a stand against the politics and politicians of the past.

The politics of the past has helped build and in some cases was used to destroy our democracy. Today, voters in 44 states has made a stand for change in the face of the fierce opponents of hope and change. Tuesday, we get to hear from voters who will help solidify the voice of the nation and world that we want change in this country.

The change begins with you. The cynics have tried to persuade us to vote out of fear, misconceptions, misrepresentations and the false sense of trusting the decisions of people who put us in this position. But if I can paraphrase Barack, I’m asking you to vote your ambitions, not your fears.

Your vote is your voice to bring about real change, not only in Washington, not only in how we view politics, but real change in the world.

When you go to the polls Tuesday, place your vote for Barack Obama.

You Sound Like a Republican

Message to the Clinton Campaign: You sound like a Republican

Barack’s comments resonate with those who have suffered, the working-class, middle-class and the working poor. If this is your base that you’re so concerned about you would understand what Barack was saying instead of trying to stir something out of nothing to gain some political points.

An elitist are those who ignore or downplay the realities of the suffering and struggles that we have endured for decades. That includes the 1993 – 2000 Hillary.

For someone who was reluctant to release her tax returns because you didn’t want the millions you made seem like you’re an elitist, your newest attack actually makes me question what you wouldn’t do to get nominated.

Do you know what it’s like to have to determine what bill you can hold back until next month so you can buy gas to get to work? That’s not just the “Working-Class” you tout as your base, that’s people from various walks of life, from Churchville, PA to Charlotte, NC and even where I live.

Barack was speaking to the issues of Americans of every stripe. From the family renting the studio apartment in the smallest community to the guy who is writing this blog from his home outside of Nashville, TN.

If you want to start winning the hearts, minds, spirit and the imagination of the core of voters you claim is your base, stop this ridiculous attacks and twisting of words. You sound like a Republican.

OK, Alright, before I get hate mail from Republicans, let me rephrase the last sentence.

You sound like an elitist. (Now is that better?)

My VP Shortlist (Obama Edition)

Most likely Senator Obama will be the Democratic Nominee. These are only a few people that I believe may be on the shortlist, but who knows. Perhaps, we’ll see some of these individuals within the Obama Administration or maybe to throw everyone off, I’ll get the phone call to be the running mate.

Democrats:
Gov. Tim Kaine (VA)
Governor Kaine was an early supporter of Obama and once you check out his background you will see why he’s a good match-up with Barack. He’s served as Lt. Governor, Lawyer, and Missionary and has created better access to healthcare to not only individuals, but business owners too. I’ve only paid attention to him for a short period of time, but am impressed with his accomplishments. My only concern is his lack of national name recognition. He would be an involved, active and good Vice-President.

Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (KS)
I believe that this two term Governor from Kansas has a good shot at the number 2 spot for multiple reasons. I would look for her in upcoming years as a possible presidential candidate. Becoming the Vice-President would just elevate that possibility. My only concern is the lack of national name recognition. She brings great accomplishments in public education and to healthcare. In my opinion, she would be the alternative to those die-hard Hillary supporters.

Frm. Sen. John Edwards (NC)
The selection of John Edwards would simply be ideal. The question would be would he accept it. He was the Vice-Presidential nominee in 2004. I’m not sure if he would want to be on the ticket again. An Obama/Edwards ticket would be difficult in my opinion to challenge with the enthusiasm it would bring. The nation already knows who he is, so an introduction is not necessary. I’m not sure Elizabeth Edwards would be excited, but who knows.

Sen. Jack Reed (RI)
This two-term senator is a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and the Appropriations Committee. He is also one of the most progressive members of the Senate. A former Army Ranger and a member of the 325th Infantry Regiment of the 82nd Airborne Division, Reed will back down to no one on military issues. The only issue is the lack of national name recognition. His credentials would be difficult for a republican to discredit. Although I feel that he has a good shot at it, I don’t see the advantages of having another person from the New England area on the ticket. Perhaps we’ll see him in a cabinet position.

Gov. Bill Richardson (NM)
Personally, I would absolutely love to see Bill Richardson as VP, but I think that may be too much for Non-Black and Non-Latino Americans to swallow at one time.

The unspoken statements it would say to have these two on the same ticket would be difficult for anyone to discredit. Although I believe that Bill Richardson would make a great Vice-President on multiple levels, I think he may just be Obama’s Secretary of State. That’s just my prediction.

He brings the national name recognition, the credentials on every level and would make a great president too. He’s only strike, which isn’t a strike in my opinion is that Non-Black & Non-Latino Americans may say that they are ready for diversity, but to have a Black man as President and a Hispanic man has Vice-President at the same time would send some in a culture shock. But those who sincerely enjoy diversity would find it difficult to contain themselves of these possibilities.

These are my predictions for Vice-Presidential Candidates with Obama. I list them in order of how I would like to see the shortlist.
1. Sen. John Edwards (D, NC)
2. Gov. Bill Richardson (D, NM)
3. Gov. Kathleen Sebelius (D, KS)
4. Gov. Tim Kaine (D, VA)
5. Sen. Jack Reed (D, RI)

I would accept the invitation if offered to be Vice-President, but I would probably have a better chances of winning American Idol before that would happen.

…better have my money

I’m the first person that would say that I understand what it’s like to be short on cash. I have also forfeit my desire to run for any federal political office, such as the President of the United States of America.

As I was reading another article, I ran across the headline “Cash-Strapped Clinton Fails to Pay Bills“. As I was reading the article that was written by Kenneth P. Vogel of Politico.com, it mentioned where some business owners in Ohio, Iowa, New Hampshire and New York was having difficulties getting paid for their services. I almost feel sorry for Hillary, but then I take another peek at her released tax returns and that sympathy goes away.

Seriously, I wanted to give Hillary the benefit of the doubt on this one. It costs a lot of money to run a campaign these days, not only in the U.S., but in virtually any country. I was sure that it was just a misunderstanding or a gap in communication some how. But when I read that a New Hampshire landlord, an Iowa office cleaner and a New York caterer was having similar issues it brings me to ask a question. Why should I believe your economic plan will work if your campaign can’t follow the basic fundamentals of economics and pay your bills on time?

Now all you Hillary supporters put down your rocks. I’m actually not coming against her, just wanted to raise a question. You lead by example. The Economic examples of the three U.S. Presidential candidates campaigns should be a glimpse of how they would lead, shouldn’t it?

McCain was basically written off, but I guess the loans help? Clinton had to loan her own campaign money out of pocket. Well, I guess my contributions helped, because he have not had any money issues during the Obama campaign. Interesting.

Again, I understand what’s it’s like to “broke“, but I’m not running for President either, nor do I have an economic plan. I guess their years of Washington experience has taught them something.

Hillary360: The Story of the Woman from Meigs County

Matthew 12:37
“For by your words you will be acquitted, and by your words you will be condemned.”

Source:
Title: Debate Continues Over Senator Clinton’s Meigs County Tragedy Story
Posted: 5:48 PM Apr 7, 2008
Last Updated: 10:47 AM Apr 8, 2008
Reporter: Carrie Cline
URL: http://www.wsaz.com/news/headlines/17364654.html

I actually heard a news anchor say that Hillary’s story was an unfortunate mischaracterization of the truth.

That’s an elaborate way to say that her story is a lie, untruthful, misleading, you pick a word. What is unfortunate is that she continues to do the same thing and people who accuse Obama supporters of blindly following him are the ones who are real quiet each time she gets caught in another lie.

Now, I would support Hillary if she persuades, maneuvers, threatens, cries or even lie her way to the Democratic Nomination. I can do this because I’m a true Democrat; it’s unfortunate that you continue to hear reports of Clinton supporters not willing to do the same. Perhaps, it’s just the frustration of her not winning like Barack continues to do, but you have to ask yourself, is she really the person you want as President?

Over the years, Politians have gain and supported the repratation of being notorious liars and making promises that they can’t keep for one reason or the other. I’m sure during Obama’s first term he will have to eat his words. But at least I can trust the majority of what he says or wonder if this “war story” is true or not.

Whomever you decide to support, just think about their motivations. Although I will not vote for McCain for various reasons, I believe that he’s generally truthful in the stories he shares. The instantly makes me uncomfortable with Hillary is that I don’t trust her. Not because of race, gender or even ideology. It’s always something with her; you have to be weary of someone who would do anything to get what they believe they are entitled to have. Lie, cry, cheat, steal and/or destroy is what we have seen in most of our past few Presidents.

Anyway, people are going to do what they want to do. I just want you to think in-depth about how or what you’re casting your vote for.

Agent of Change: MLK

I decided to publish this post at the exact time the bullet silence Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. 40 years ago.

Today, April 4th at 6:01 PM CST marks the 40th Anniversary of the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. in Memphis, Tennessee. A few hours away from my hometown, Nashville.

As many people may offer today, I just wanted to share my thoughts of a man whom I have great respect and admiration for. I do so, not because it’s fashionable, political correct or care about what others think. I give this level of respect and admiration because I’ve taken the time to study his life, works and beliefs. Since I was born 4 years after his death, the most that I can do is read, listen, watch, study and research his contributions.

You will always peek my interest with a conversation about topics, situations and beliefs that align to those of Dr. King. If you have followed this blog for a period of time you will quickly discover that I often reference Dr. King or echo him in some way.

My interest began approximately a decade ago when I purchased the Autobiography of Martin Luther King, Jr. At that time, my objective was to read the book in a month or two and move on to another one. That never happened. I was so amazed, impressed and intrigued within the first few chapters I had to know more.

I began my quest to make the book more meaningful by visiting the King Center in Atlanta, GA. I took the book with me so I could start the timeline in the book where he stated, on Auburn Street. Although a few decades removed I wanted to get a since of what his surroundings were like as I was reading it. That lead me on a quest to visit as many of the notable locations as possible.

The book didn’t become surreal for me until I got to the National Civil Rights Museum in Memphis. Once I had the opportunity to tour the site where the movement paused, it made it real for me. It was at the end of the tour where we got to see room 306 at the Lorraine Hotel that I realized the magnitude of the sacrifice and the lost.

I now began to understand that inescapable desire to learn about the untold, more than what is told about our history. It’s not just apart of Black History or the Civil Rights History, but it’s apart of American History because my history is your history.

When you make an assertive effort to learn the meaning, beliefs and purpose of his life. Then incorporate it into your everyday life you begin to develop a broader perspective.

It’s one thing to know a few lines from, “I Have A Dream”, but can you understand the similarities of his speech, “Why I Oppose The War In Vietnam” and the sermon of Dr. Jeremiah Wright “Confusing God & The Government”? You may not if you haven’t taken the time to dig deeper.

The closest connection I have to Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. is a signed response to a letter I wrote Mrs. Coretta Scott King in 2002 and the opportunity to personally listen to the response to a question asked of Mr. Martin Luther King, III at Vanderbilt University in 2005. Like millions of people in this world I feel that unique connection with the message of Dr. King when I listen and read his thoughts, ideas and suggestions.

It’s now 40 years later and we all ask ourselves what has changed? Well that’s a mixed bag. There have been a lot of accomplishments in our world and society, but there are still a lot of things that are exactly the same if not worse. But to borrow a phrase from one of his books, “Where do we go from here?”

Do we follow the distorted model some influential members of our family, local & national media, religious leaders or some political leaders have given us of Dr. King? Or do we take it upon ourselves to make the effort to learn for ourselves and incorporate the teachings of Dr. King into our everyday lives? Well, that’s up to you. I’ve made my decision long ago. I encourage you to do the same. If not, we will continue to go down the same path we have done for the past 40 years. We’ll have some successes, but will still be faced with the same questions and situations, deferring the solution for another day.

April 4, 1968 to April 4, 2008
http://benfrank.net/nuke/mlk-vietnam_speech_audio.html

Thank You CNN: AC360

Thank you AC360 for your piece that aired on 4/3/08 at 10:50 p.m. CST. The piece was on a comparison of controversial statements made by Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., 41 years ago (4/3/1967 at the Riverside Church, NYC) and the sermon by Dr. Jeremiah Wright, made 7 years ago (9/16/01 at Trinity Church, Chicago, IL). The same comparison I made a week ago that a few people didn’t understand. Perhaps coming from CNN they’ll believe it since it’s television.

Evaluate Your Relationships

Why would you take council with someone who is not on one accord or striving to become on one accord with your beliefs and/or aspirations?

Why should you continue to stay around or prolong your interaction with someone who you tolerate and/or they tolerate you?

Why are you not around people who you sincerely celebrate, encourage and support and they precipitate the gesture for you?

I am generally a friendly guy. I believe people whom I come into contact; whether it is briefly or frequently, see that attribute. We all have family who we for the sake of peace we tolerate. I have worked with people who I tolerate for the sake of money. But after I asked these questions of myself a few years ago, I had to speak truth, regardless of the circumstances or who liked it or not. I was surprised and often amazed by the responses, but I soon learned the truth of the relationship with that person. Proverbs 17:17 became obvious.

Evaluate your relationships with your friends, family and associates by the standards in Proverbs 17. If you discover inconsistencies in the people you associate with in terms of friends and even family, perhaps you need to take inventory of your relationship.

Keep in mind that not everyone is going to openly accept the truth, regardless of how pretty its packaged. People didn’t agree with what Dr. Martin King had to say about the war in Vietnam, “…the arc of the moral universe is long, but it bends toward justice”.

Perhaps James Russell Lowell may shape it better when he wrote, “Truth forever on the scaffold, wrong forever on the throne. Yet that scaffold sways the future. And behind the dim unknown stands God, within the shadow keeping watch above his own.”

When you evaluate your relationships, you will receive plenty of opposition. You may find yourself like the Apostle John, standing alone on your own version of Patmost.

* I’ll end here, because I see that I am creeping into a forthcoming blog before it’s time.