Awhile ago I asked the question, “What makes for Peace?” in hopes of getting answers regarding your ideas for how we journey towards and arrive at what we all can consider peace. If injustice anywhere is a threat to justice everywhere, then we must begin with this question.
We are intelligent people. There is little reason why we can not make a stride towards peace by addressing the obstacles in our path. I want to believe that we all are in support of world peace and global harmony. We know that is not always possible, but when it is we should work towards it. Just because it takes time doesn’t mean it isn’t possible.
I would like for us to continue this conversation for peace by considering our (United States) relationship with Cuba with a question that I hope you will share not only your thoughts, but you solutions in your response.
How long should we keep up this hatred of Cuba?
If we are suppose to be the purveyors of peace, should we at least make an attempt of seeking it?
We do not trade with Cuba because it’s a communist country, but nothing is said about our relationship as a borrower or trader with China. Our relationship with Vietnam is vital to the spirit of international harmony, but to hell with Cuba? How do we justify this standard?
The ultimate measure of our words is not what we say in moments of comfort and convenience, but what we do in times of challenge and controversy when no one is paying attention.
Let me make sure I understood what Michael Steele, Chairman of the Republican National Party said about the War in Afghanistan.
“Keep in mind again, federal candidates, this was a war of Obama’s choosing. This is not something the United States had actively prosecuted or wanted to engage in.” – Michael Steele; GOP Chairman
There is so much I could say, but why should I bother. It’s easier to just allow people to introduce themselves and their agenda. What else is there for me to say in response to this one? This one is so obvious that even FOX News can’t spin it and be taken seriously.
The War in Afghanistan began on October 7, 2001. Now I’m not a mathematician, but the last time I checked October 7, 2001 is before January 20, 2009.
So the question for those who agree with the Michael Steele is simple. Who was President on October 7, 2001? This is the one who choose this war?
You can deny what is true, but that doesn’t make what you say right.
Warning
This one may be too harsh for some to tolerate, but I’m not holding any punches on this one. So if you have a soft spot for injustice, fraud, lies, liars and crime, then this is not the post for you.
Now this is my warning, so don’t get mad at me for use of strong language. Don’t get upset with me if you find yourself within one of the groups I’m speaking about. I clearly understand that not all who may have identified themselves with the acceptable ideology of the culprits that I will soon mention are guilty.
I will not do what many that accuse the individuals on my side of doing. You’re not guilty by your association, but you are guilty if you continue to associate with the knowledge of a deed that has been proven was supported, acknowledge and approved of by the people you soon will know by name.
The Inconvenient Truth
The Inconvenient Truth – Now I’m not referring to Former Vice-President Al Gore’s Book & Movie, “Inconvenient Truth”, but on this Earth Day 2009 it seems like that’s what’s happening to the Bush/Cheney Legacy and those who supported them.
Inconvenient truths are being revealed in terms of some previously classified documents regarding the acknowledgment and approval of torture from top Bush/Cheney officials. The finger of truth that was water-boarded, repeatedly slapped, beaten and locked away, detained or should I say classified to never see the light of day again. But it seems the beaten and battered hand of truth is pointing in the direction of the two whose name in which the administration was named after.
How inconvenient is the truth for some and satisfying or vindicating it is for others. The truth always prevails regardless of how effective its opposition justifies or argues their actions.
To the purveyors of war whose only zeal of life seems to seek confusion of the facts, distort public perception and offer alternative reasoning, what many refer to as lying I say to you to not seek to polarize this into a political issue. You already achieve that when you were in power and decided to coop the Justice Department for your own purposed like you did FOX News. Now is your opportunity to get your story straight and tell the truth. Whether you want to admit it or not, judgment day is approaching and we will wait to see if you will accept the ideology of responsibility and accountability for your actions or continue to be defiant. Do the honorable thing and stop pulling the Republican Party fully into the political abyss. The stress and truth continues to mount.
How can ANYONE who proclaims to uphold the values of the Republican Party remain silent? Is torture and lying about it the value you really want to uphold? And you wonder why you’re having troubles recruiting a diverse group of Americans to the party.
Waterboarding
On the issue of whether waterboarding is torture or not. I can’t believe the audacity of some FOX News hosts assertions that water boarding isn’t torture. Glenn Beck leading his three blind sheep to follow his belief that waterboarding isn’t torture. Sean Hannity said he’s willing to be waterboarded to prove that it isn’t torture. Well I say let’s find out by allowing me to water board you. I will do it for at no charge, but I need you to sign this waiver of immunity in the case ‘something tragic was to happen to you and you actually died’. I’m willing to add Karl Rove, Rush Limbaugh and Bill O’Reilly add no cost.
The former Judge Advocate General of the U.S. Court of International Trade, Hon. Evan Wallach is quoted in the Washington Post as saying, “The media usually characterize the practice as ‘simulated drowning’. That’s incorrect. To be effective, waterboarding is usually real drowning that simulates death.”
I know how FOX and their followers so love the military, but will not offer their own sons and daughters would believe top ranked officers in the military.
Major General Scott Black; U.S. Army Judge Advocate General, Major General Jack Rives; U.S. Air Force Judge Advocate General, Rear Admiral Bruce MacDonald; U.S. Navy Judge Advocate General and Brigadier General Kevin Sandkuhler and John Fugh Marine staff Judge Advocate said that, “The use of a wet towel and dripping water to induce the misperception of drowning is unanimously and unambiguously agreed that such conduct is inhumane and illegal and would constitute a violation of international law, to include Common Article 3 of the 1949 Geneva Conventions.” Whew.
The argument of it’s just a difference in politics is ridiculous. You’re either for torture or against it. So to borrow and remix a line from George W. Bush, in regards to torture if you’re not with us then you’re against us. Obviously judging by the recent and upcoming developments many in the Bush Administration was against us.
Listen, if you want to accept the absurd and paranoid argument offered by Dick Cheney, Karl Rove and those who continue to fall in line, then you will need to come up with a justifiable case for torture. Essentially, that’s what the Bush Administration has tried to do and you see where this is leading them.
How do you reconcile your conscience knowing the truth? Do you continue to deny the truth? Do you find another area or person to place blame? No you hold yourself accountable and admit what is true, if you’re an honorable person.
How inconvenient it is to embrace truth? Obviously very inconvenient for some.
One Question
After all of this proof that smacks you in your face I am left with one question. One question for those who boldly supported the Bush Administration; one question for all of those who bought into the oxymoronic empty campaign motto compassionate conservative propaganda back in 2000; one question for the single-issue voters who demonstrate more concern for the unborn than the living. Listen I support pro-life, but in ever instance. You can’t be pro-life for one and pro-death for another, that’s essential makes you pro-choice, because you’re picking and choosing who you want to live.
I have one question for those concerned about higher taxes, but had NOTHING to say about their taxes going up under George Walker Bush. Can you be honest enough to admit you’re your aversion to President Obama has nothing to do with taxes or even policy? I bet the policy you protest in public doesn’t match up to the ones you profess in private. These are the same people who openly embrace the propaganda of fear. One question for the Christian Right who allowed themselves to be pimped by Karl Rove, George Bush and the GOP to be its Main Girl for political gain. Well it’s the morning after how do you feel now?
The fear of defeat should not control your ability to reason and to embrace truth. Where’s the accountability? If you are going to hold President Obama to a higher standard, why didn’t you apply that same standard to the guy you supported for eight years? What’s the difference?
The hypocrisy of those who refuse to accept reality will be forced to acknowledge the inconvenient truth it presents. What do you have to say for yourself?
How do you justify it not being torture when a person was waterboarded over 180 times in a single month? The United States doesn’t endorse torture, but the Bush Administration obviously sponsored it.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009 President Obama conducted a Press Conference from the White House. I offer my analysis on the issues, but in interest of time and space has limited my analysis to as many important or interesting topics covered.
For those who have not seen the press conference I’ve included it here in hopes to provide some clarity in what I’m analyzing.
I’m a patient person, but not everyone is willing to walk through the valley because they fear what may lurk in the shadows or the possibility of death. But the only way to get out of this mess is to work together. We can not walk alone.
The New American Gangsters
The executives at AIG and other financial institutions that required a bailout, but still want to bend the taxpayer over this is my solution. I recalled a quote by MLK that “a man can’t ride your back unless it’s bent”. I thought that was a very good point.
So I decided to reexamine my financial dealings to see if I had any financial connections to AIG, CITI and the other institutions that failed. Fortunately I got paid the loan from a subsidiary of AIG, I moved my accounts from Bank of America to another bank not connected to this mess and I’m working to disconnect myself from CITI as soon as possible. I’m tired of carrying these gangsters around on my back, so I decided to morally stand-up in terms of my financial deals. A man can not ride your back unless it’s bent.
Personal Sacrifice
We can not sacrifice the long term growth with short term fixes. The immediate sacrifices many people are making are for their long term survival. Change is to adjust, modify and to sacrifice. A true measurement of a person’s character is often emphasized during times of crisis, urgency and sacrifice. The big problems often take time to resolve. If it was easy it would have already been done. Be patient.
Middle-Class Tax Cuts
We often talk about the middle-class, but many who were considered to be middle-class are falling into the working-poor and homeless. Those in Congress, both Democrats and Republicans who are only thinking about their own political interest are the ones working to alter the bill to their liking.
On the concerns of this issue on the budget I believe the President has been clear. Of course he will receive blame and criticism for things that Congress decides to leave out for their political and if examined partisan reasons. This is not limited to Republicans, although many may oppose it and it’s not limited to Democrats, although many may support it. You have members of congress who will say one thing and do another. I believe the President will stick to this one with very little deviation when the final bill hits his desk.
Budget & Debts
I believe President Obama answers this best.
1.Some of those Republicans have a short memory. As I recall I’m inheriting a $1.3 Trillion Annual Deficit from them.
2.Under the most conservative estimates by the CBO, we drive down the deficit over the first five years of our budget. The deficit is cut in half. Folks are not disputing that. The dispute comes from what happens in the out years. The difference between our [W.H.] budget and the CBO are the assumptions about growth.
a.They’re [CBO] are assuming a growth rate of 2.2%,
b.We’re assuming a growth rate of 2.6%.
c.Our assumptions are consistent with what the Blue Chip forecasters are saying. None of us know what’s going to happen 6, 8 or 10 years from now.
d.This is what I do know. If we do not tackle energy, education and healthcare, science, technology and infrastructure, we will not grow.
What’s interesting is that everyone wants to criticize, but they offer no alternative budget. Many throw rocks from the porches and windows of their glass houses. We have not seen all of the things that were left to resolve. What’s crazy is thinking that we can continue to do the same things expecting a different result. We’ve done this for 8 years now, let’s do something different.
AIG Outrage & Fiscal Responsibility
Since I’ve already touched on this I will leave this one to what I believe was the line of the night. “If it was easy it would have already been done and we can go home.” When the reporter came back with ‘interesting’ anger regarding his response to AIG the President handled it by saying, “I like to know what I’m taking about before I speak.”
I’m sorry, but I love that one. I wish I was that smooth. I would have just told him that he doesn’t know what you’re talking about.
Tent City
The most important thing the President can do is help their ability to obtain a job. The most important thing that all of us can do is help those who are forced to live in tents and who are homeless get out of that situation. We often push that responsibility off on someone else, but that someone else is you. You are somebody and they are too. We can not continue to look down upon those who are experiencing less fortune than you. You may be struggling paycheck to paycheck, but many in this situation don’t have a paycheck. What are you doing for others?
Race
I simply don’t understand what Ann Compton was thinking. Is this what people think people of other races do everyday?
Why in the Hell would the President concern himself with a single attribute or personal reality when dealing with the daily issues he confronts? He knows he’s Black. What does that have to do with the way he governs? Perhaps this is an example of how certain groups of people hear and perceive and respond to racial diversity.
There are some mysterious Black people out there, I can start a list beginning with some Aunts and Uncles, but the vast majority of Blacks including myself are not all that different from anyone else. How I would respond to a question, issue or crisis is determine on my individual personality, knowledge, temperament and upbringing. I choose not to be govern by the color of my skin, but the content of my character, actions and intellect.
President Obama addressed this question with style, substance and honestly. I would only have made it a teachable moment by explaining what you have to explain over and over and over again until people realize that a President who is Black experience things very similar if not better or worse than the last 43 White men who held the office.
Conclusion
In interest of time I’ll end it here, but I’m sure we will get to discuss these issues and many others not mentioned in this post soon.
For those who may be of a different political persuasion than me I respect your points of views and have no problem considering your arguments. I may align with the general approach and ideology of President Obama, but it doesn’t mean that I blindly follow. I hope you find my analysis interesting or insightful.
If you’re brave or crazy enough and are interested in following my thoughts, ideas and suggestions I ask you to subscribe to this blog and/or follow me on twitter. Thank you and your time and interest.
For those who have followed this blog for any measurable length of time can conclude that I have a strong aversion to Dick Cheney to phrase it in a polite manner. On many occasions when referencing this Dick – Cheney I have worked very hard to tone my outrage down a few levels. I honestly strive to give people the benefit of my doubts and consider their point-of-view or the context for which they are speaking. This one may seem a bit partisan to some, but to reference the original name of this blog ‘someone has to say it’.
During an interview with CNN’s John King recently this Dick – Cheney said this in his response to President Obama’s policy agenda.
“Stuff happens. And the administration has to be able to respond to that, and we did.“
“Mr. Obama is making some choices, that, in my mind, will, in fact raise the risk to the American people of another attack.” – FORMER VICE PRESIDENT DICK CHENEY
What the Hell? Stuff Happens. Stuff does happen and you and your friends left your sh– stuff for someone else to clean up.
I really am trying not to curse or suggest any ill to Mr. Cheney, but I just can’t see how his bad heart continues to function when it’s so cold.
So Dick, you don’t like the fact that the President is keeping his campaign promise of closing Guantanamo Bay, ensuring that the U.S. follows the Geneva Convention, CIA Officers abide by the Army Field Manual’s rules on interrogations and promoting democracy by being diplomatic?
Well, you know what Dick. I Guess That’s Just Too Bad Isn’t It. Why don’t you take your lumps of coal, pitch fork and walk your delusional, narrow-minded, hateful ass on back to the dark side from which you came. The only benefit you bring to the conversation is to remind everyone why we’re in the mess we’re in. I guess I should thank you for raising the approval ratings of Democrats each time you speak.
“The best possible outcome for Americans is to ignore the former vice president’s advice… I guess Rush Limbaugh was busy so they trotted out the next most popular member of the Republican cabal.” – PRESS SECRETARY ROBERT GIBBS
Well this is why I’m not the Press Secretary, because I would address Dick Cheney with a very clear response of what I thought of him for the record.
Mr. Cheney, I swear I hope you and others pay for what you’ve done to so many with your soul.
I apologize for not being close to professional on this one and letting this fool annoy me, but I simply can’t stand this dude. Please feel free to chime in with your thoughts, ideas and suggestions for Dick Cheney and his latest contribution to society. And if there are any conservatives who agree with Dick Cheney fell free to chime in too. I may disagree with you, but I’m not going to verbally beat you up over it. I just want to hear the rational for anything Dick Cheney says.
“Look, by all accounts the Bush Administration defeated Al Qaeda. Al Qaeda was marginalized, been downgraded as a threat to the world. So we won the terror war. We won the war in Iraq at great cost no doubt. No doubt, but we won.” - Bill O’Reilly
Bill… Who do you think you’re fooling? If I’m to take you seriously, I would be forced to ask you to explain yourself. If what you say is true, then your statement does not support what Gen. David D. McKiernan said a few days ago in regards to the war. If Al Qaeda is just a little threat to the world, like nuclear war is a threat to the world then why would he say that we are not winning the war?
“As the U.S. prepares to commit 17,000 more troops to Afghanistan, the Commander of NATO and American Forces in Afghanistan said that the coalition was not winning the war against the resurgent Taliban in parts of the country.” - Gen. David D. McKiernan
General McKiernan basically reiterated what President Obama said in an interview. So Bill, tell me how you’re going to spin that? If by all accounts the Bush Administration defeated Al Qaeda it wouldn’t make sense to say they’ve been downgraded to a world threat.
Think about that, a world threat. What were they before? A threat to the universe.
Who should we believe?
I would like to offer this quote by Richard Pryor, “Who are you going to believe, me or your lying eyes?”
What is going on within the Republican Party? I’m getting tired of defending Republicans from the attacks of other Republicans.
In my best Sinfeld impression, “What is the deal?”
P is for Party Partisans
Although he’s finally gone, but the evidence of his presence lingers like a fart after a meal at Taco Bell, not the Former President George W. Bush, but his nephew, George P. Bush. (I think the P is for Partisan, but I can think of some other descriptive P words that may adequately describe his remarks, but I rather just call him Mr. Bush for now.)
Mr. Bush was speaking to an audience in Orlando, FL on 02/21/09 and had this partisan thing to say about his fellow Republican, Governor Charlie Crist (R-FL); “There’s some in our party that want to assume that government is the answer to all of our problems. I’m not going to name any names. You know who I’m talking about.” Now when reporters quested his statements he says, “That will be on his track record and people are going to remember that.”
I guess I shouldn’t expect any less, you are a Bush. But why are you using this level of inflammatory language against your own party. It’s like the same level of language I’m using towards you now, but I’m not talking about another Democrat, I’m talking about you.
Although I’m beginning to get tired of defending Republicans from themselves, I find myself doing it again. Governor Crist is doing what you were too partisan to do; he’s concerned about his state, not the state of his next election or within the party. He’s the Governor of Florida not the Governor of Republican Florida. I think it was someone you know (Uncle George) who helped facilitate the means for the environment we all find ourselves in.
Those Republicans
“There’s a tug of war right now within the party as to where we go next,” Gov. Mark Sanford of South Carolina, one of the conservative Republican leaders, said in an interview. “I am in the camp that says we go back to basics. There are other folks who say something a little different. The answer will be determined in this tug of war.”
Among those tugging opposite him is Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger of California, who only last week concluded a battle to close his state’s $42 billion budget deficit over the opposition of Republican state lawmakers who opposed tax increases in the compromise.
But it seems to be almost another kind of Southern Strategy going on within the Republican Governors. Gov. Mark Stanford (R-SC), Gov. Bobby Jindal (R-LA), Gov. Haley Barbour (R-MS), Gov. Rick Perry (R-TX) and of course Gov. Sarah Palin (R-AK) who is not in the south, but…
Now I just want to see how these governors explain to the people of their state the real reasons why they didn’t accept the stimulus money when they have budget shortfalls and so many other things that the state could use that money for? Was it all in the name of your own political posturing? How do you explain that Govs. Stanford, Jindal, Barbour, Perry and Palin?
Perhaps you will offer your explanation when you announce your intentions to run for the 2012 Presidential Nomination of your party.
What all the rest of your Republican Gubernatorial colleagues understand is that this is not the time for posturing or party politics. The grand ole party will not be all that grand if no one has any money. That goes for the party of the people too. Quit the politicking and get down the political business of the people you represent, not just the Republican part of them.
Perhaps Gov. Crist should consider 2012? I personally don’t won’t him to win, but he seems to be the voice of reason within the Republican Party these days. (Source)
EMPTY WORDS OF INCONSEQUENTIAL LEADERSHIP
Now you would expect this sort of comment from a Democrat, but it’s coming from the Republican Governor of Utah, Jon Huntsman. What is going on with the GOP?
“I don’t even know the congressional leadership. I have not met them. I don’t listen or read whatever it is they say because it is inconsequential – completely.” Now the Governor had criticism for what he saw as a misdirected spending in the stimulus package, but added that Republicans had no credibility on fiscal responsibility.
“Our moral soapbox was completely taken away from us because of our behavior in the last few years,” he said. “For us to now criticize analogous behavior is hypocrisy. We’ve got to come at it a different way. We’ve got to prove the point. It can’t be as the Chinese would say, ‘fei hua,’ which means ‘empty words’.”
WOW!
NO ALLOWANCE FOR YOU
When the three Hebrew boys were refused to bow to the king he sent them into the fire to burn. Hold up that’s the wrong story.
When the three Republicans Senators, Collins, Specter & Snowe refused to bow to the sentiment of the party-line and exercised reason and consideration for the constituents of their state the GOP Kings got mad at them. Now GOP Chairman Michael Steele told the FOX News robot, I mean reporter Nick Cavuto that he was open to keep what is basically keeping their allowance during the next election cycle as an act of retribution for their vote.
YOU DOWN WITH THE GOP
Now this is the same guy that just recently proposes that he was going to attract the “Hip-Hop” generation to the GOP. Before I say this one I must first apologize, but I can’t resist it.
<turn me up in the headphones, yeah that’s the beat, little bit more bass>
Chairman Steele, now I’m probably more apart of the Hip-Hop generation of the 80’s and I admire your optimism, but I think you may have more success with the Country Music crowd than the Hip Hop crowd. But I would love to see a video with a group of Republicans chanting, “You Down with the GOP”, “Yeah You Know Me”, “Who’s Down with the GOP?” But you may be on to something since there was that little hit you all made around Christmas called “Barack the Magic Negro”. Also the last administration was pretty gangsta.
DON’T EVER TOUCH A BLACK MAN’S RADIO OR HELICOPTER
My man John McCain had this to say to President Obama regarding, well I’ll let you read it.
Sen. John McCain – One area I wanted to mention that I think consumed a lot of our conversation on procurement. It was the issue of cost overruns and the Defense Department. We all know how large the defense budget is. We all know that the cost overruns, your helicopter is now going to cost as much as Air Force One. I don’t think that there’s anymore graphic demonstration of how good ideas have cost taxpayers enormous amount of money. So the — we will and I know that you’ve already made plans to try to curb some of the excesses in procurement. We really have to do that. We’re going to have to pay for Afghanistan as you well now and we’re not done in Iraq, but most importantly, we have to make some tough decisions, you, Mr. President have to make some tough decisions, not only about what we procure, but how we procure it…
President Barack Obama – This is going to be one of our highest priorities. By the way, I’ve already talked to [Defense Secretary Robert] Gates about a thorough review of the helicopter situation. The helicopter I have now seems perfectly adequate to me. Of course, I’ve never had a helicopter before. You know? Maybe — maybe I’ve been deprived and I didn’t know it. But I think it is an example of the procurement process gone amuck and we’re going to have to fix it. Our hope is that you, Senator Levin and others can take leadership on this and one of the promising things is, I think Secretary Gates shares our concern and recognizes that simply adding more and more does not necessarily mean better or safer and more secure.
First, “cost overruns and the Defense Department” wasn’t you the one who called to bomb, bomb, bomb, bomb Iran? Bombs cost money. What about that 100 year war you were talking about? Anyway it was a good question and I’m glad someone is concerned about the vehicles of transportation of the President. Perhaps he can just catch a cab, hold on he’s Black that won’t work. Maybe he can just charter a helicopter, no that won’t work because it costs too much. What would you have done John if you had won 57% of the vote? Sen. McCain, how do I say this… Marine One comes with the whole Presidential Transportation Package. He gets to use a car, a plane and yet a helicopter. Now the Presidential motorcycle is optional.
The title of this section was a reference to the movie Rush Hour for those who may not have seen it.
CULTURALLY UNAWARE
The culturally unaware mayor of Los Alamitos, California is coming under fire for an e-mail he sent out that depicts the White House lawn planted with watermelons, under the title “No Easter egg hunt this year.” You just have to wonder where some of these people have been all of their lives. Do you know ANY Black people that could have told you not to do this?
Mr. Grose (Mayor) confirmed to the AP that he sent the e-mail to Price and said he didn’t mean to offend her. He said he was unaware of the racial stereotype that black people like watermelons. Sounds like the NY Post. Again, how unaware are you?
He said he and Price are friends and serve together on a community youth board. “Bottom line is, we laugh at things and I didn’t see this in the same light that she did.” So that makes it acceptable.
What I find astonishing about this is how some people can be so culturally sheltered that they are unaware of offensive language, gestures or even associations. The “I have a Black Friend” defense is not a defense. I have Kurdish, Jewish, Catholic, Muslim, Black, Latin & White friends, that will not excuse me from permitting or suggesting something that’s culturally insensitive towards them.
FINAL WORD
I’m sorry if I’ve offended anyone, I’m just having fun with this. There are Republicans I like; I’ve defended some of them here. These are the ones I think are demonstrating reason, but they have a hard fight ahead of them.
You have to admit that it’s silly. Personally I’m enjoying it. I’ve beat up on enough Democrats last year. Seriously I do not want to see you eat yourself into a party of one. You’ve got to get this under control, before it’s too late.
Now don’t be mad at me, I did defend some of the party. I just use a bit of bad humor to bring out a point. The party is beginning to implode.
On this day of service many honor the life, legacy and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. not by with lip service, but with service. Far too often people equate Dr. King to a dream, but fail to realize the nightmare he was speaking about. Many are in Washington D.C. today to witness what is in essence the symbolic cashing of that check Dr. King reference on August 28, 1963.
The irony of history has brought us to this day, a day before the Presidential Inauguration of Barack Obama. An improbably journey traveled by many will soon be realized. Don’t allow yourself to mistake this as a journey that should be celebrated by Black folks, because it was a shared journey, a collective struggle with mutual sacrifices by across the spectrum of race, culture and class.
Tomorrow may bring a gratifying smile to a group of people with a history of servitude and suffering, but let this be the emancipation of our emotional ties to slavery, Jim Crow and all of the wrong this country has inflicted on its people. I am not naïve to believe that racism is no more, but as we begin our “watch night” service on this promise of America lets not forget those who continue to encourage us to Strive Toward Freedom.
We often find ourselves hating each other because we fear each other; we fear each other because we do not know one another; we don’t know one another because we fail to communicate; we can not communicate because we separate ourselves.
Tomorrow the devotees of the status quo will be forced to ask themselves a question. A question that I hope convicts them to reconsider some of their actions. Dr. King once said that life’s most urgent question is, “What are you doing for others?”
Now the previous administration has done a lot for others, but far too often it was for their own self interest wrapped with the red gift wrap of creative marketing to persuade a people to support their agenda.
These devotees are not just Republicans, but include Democrats and Independents too. I only ask that they reconsider their perceptions of power. Once you begin to rise above the narrow confines of your own realities into a broader concern of all humanity then will you realize the power of change.
As I along with those who choose to celebrate the life, legacy and works of Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. I ask that you see the man beyond the confines of a single speech. He was more than a dreamer, but a practical visionary who understood that when you grasp for great vision, no one is in chains.
Dr. King’s dream was integration, not assimilation of an already dysfunctional societal and governmental system. He was not some idle dreamer, but that of a freedom fighter. Now is the time for us to honor the journey and those who has helped us make it and march together into history tomorrow.
Regardless of your race, regardless of your desired beliefs, regardless of your party affiliation, regardless if you’re an American or living under the fear of another Israeli attack in Gaza, deplorable human conditions in Sudan, suffering a cold winter by the lack of Gas by the hands of Russia or even suicide bomber in Iraq, now is the time for us to make what Dr. King worked for a reality. We must work to create the dream of a Beloved Community a reality. We can not walk alone.
We the people of America of all races, colors, cultures and creeds have come such a great distance in our social interactions, morals and philosophy. It hasn’t been pretty or easy, and we have not “stepped into the promise land” as of yet. But we’re on the right road.
Although we all continue to face barriers and biases due to individuals who embrace false perceptions, ignorance and a dysfunctional relationship with their God, I still choose to adopt the principles that Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and so many others stood for…
Tomorrow will be seen by some as the redemption of the unearned suffering of many who are not able to witness it. Many who knew that this journey would be considered improbably, but if it wasn’t for them I now believe that it is possible.
The substance of the Dream is not the dream itself, but the vision, belief and courage that it can be expressed in what we know now are these profound words, “I Have a Dream”.
References & InspirationsThoughts, Ideas & Suggestions – 06/19/08 “We the People: My Celebration of Juneteenth”Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – Book: “Strive Toward Freedom”Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – 08/28/68 “I Have a Dream”
More than 1000 Palestinian dead by the hands of our ally, Israel. Nearly a 1/3 of the dead are children, and then another 5000 are injured. I really do not want to scream and shout, but if that is what’s required to spark some sort of empathy for our Palestinian friends then I’ll scream.
As I’ve tried to write about Dr. Martin Luther King this week I just couldn’t overlook what’s going on in this section of our world, but then the words of King begin to chime clear even during this crisis because it was he who said that “in the end, we will remember not the words of our enemies, but the silence of our friends.”
If America is to be a true friend of Israel we must be willing to insist that these actions endanger our continued friendship and urge them to cease these aggressive acts and engage in diplomacy.
A nation or civilization that continues to produce soft-minded men purchases its own spiritual death on the installment plan. Perhaps that’s at the heart of the lack of boisterous outrage from the US. I thought we were the purveyors of diplomacy, but I guess that’s kind of difficult to argue while we’re in Iraq. But the spotlight of indignation should be directed at this crisis for the moment.
I know that the US and other countries such as Egypt and the U.N. are working to broker a ceasefire agreement with Israel, but true to the American ways of late we overwhelming fail to speak up and out against things not in our own backyard. We are all caught in an inescapable network of mutuality. What affects one affects another.
I’m not placing sole blame of responsibility on Israel or Gaza, but someone has to have some common sense on this highway of life.
Reference & Inspiration:
BBC News – 01/14/09 “More Than 1,000 Killed in Gaza”
Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. – 04/04/67 “Beyond Vietnam”
Here’s my question for American Christians, Advocates of Peace and anyone who proclaims to have associations with a Moral Majority whether it be spiritual or secular in regards to the reports of violence between Israel and Gaza…
Where’s your outrage?
If we are to be people of faith regardless of belief system whether Christian, Hindu, Muslim, Agnostic, Atheist, Jewish, Catholic or Buddhist you all hold a level of morality. I cannot speak for any other faith or belief system other than Christianity, but I can assume that none would condone murder or violence against one another.
So how can we just stand on the sidelines of democracy and humanity as we watch these activities continue without speaking up. Regardless if it is our friends committing, participating or the victim of an act of violence how can we not say anything.
I’m not speaking as citizen of a nation who’s apart of an unjust war with Iraq, because I have issues with that too, but I’m speaking as a citizen of the world and as a Christian. I’m speaking as a Christian who can appreciate others who does not believe as I believe. We all have value.
If the church is considered to be the moral majority, a benchmark or a standard bearer for the world why is it so difficult to find many people of faith stand up to oppressive behavior.
Thomas Jefferson once said to “question with boldness even the existence of a God; because, if there be one, he must more approve of the homage of reason, than that of blind-folded fear.”
It appears that many people in and out of the church have subscribed to blind-folded fear when it comes to this conflict between Israel and Gaza.
I am not suggesting that one side is wrong and the other is right. I’m suggesting what David Borenstein once said; “one can not subdue a man by holding back his hands. Lasting peace comes not from force” but love.
Will those who proclaim to be apart of The Church help raise attention for a peaceful revolution or contribute in the inevitability of the violent revolution we are seeing today?
I can easily admit that I do not understand the depths of the heart of the persistent conflicts in the world including the one between Israel and Gaza, but I do understand as Ralph Waldo Emerson do, “Peace can not be achieved through violence, it can only be attained through understanding.”
Moral people cannot continue to present themselves soft on selective issues for the sake of social views, popularity, and political or moral expediency. Regardless if the issue includes your ally (i.e. Israel & Gaza) you must rise above the narrow confines of your own concerns to the broader concerns of humanity.
I rather be apart of a boisterous moral minority than a silent moral majority.
With all of the rhetoric from both sides we hear another desperate attempt coming from the McCain/Palin Campaign.
Do you really want to go there again John? I can easily rehash all of the articles that document how you voted against the troops on multiple occasions. As matter-of-fact, let’s go there.
Supporting the Troops Argument — This time it comes from Cindy McCain. What’s amazing is how she can have the nerve to attack Barack Obama’s vote and did not mention the same NO vote from her own husband on the same bill that came up two month later.
Perhaps I can get the assistance from the Iraq & Afghanistan Veterans of America on your version of support for our troops. Let’s start with Project Vote Smart. Project Vote Smart provides easy access to Congressional and State voting records and maintains a collection of key votes grouped by issue. Key votes typically include the initial passage of legislation and final conference report votes versions.
Since John & Cindy McCain wants you to believe that he’s always there for our troop’s maybe you can explain why he did not vote for a bill that would provide $1 Billion in supplies for our National Guard troops?
Explain how in October 2003 John McCain did not vote for a bill that would give $322 Million in safety equipment for our troops in Iraq?
Since John McCain is always there for our troops maybe you can explain how in March 2004 he voted against tax loop holes that would have increased veterans medical care by $1.8 Billion?
Perhaps you can explain why VoteVets.org and WesPAC, a group formed by former Supreme Allied Commander in Europe General Wesley Clark had to persuade you John McCain vote yes to provide improved education benefits for soldiers returning home from the two wars. (Source: Military.com “Vets to McCain: Back New GI Bill” 04/10/08)
John, Cindy, Sarah and anyone else who has purchased the McCain/Palin Snake Oil; save your disingenuous outrage for someone who will not fact check your claims or is govern by the same ideology of fear you are promoting to win an election. You put your country first when you put integrity and truth first.
I can only image what’s next. I’m just waiting for someone in your campaign to just speak freely and call Barack Obama a N-Word. Why not? Some of you think it, why not be brave and honest enough to say it instead of hiding behind your “Country First” banner?
I believe the Next Generation Veterans may know a little something about the country and our veterans. I wonder what they have to say about Senator Obama.
Don’t worry, I’m going to put one up for McCain too.
For those who have followed this blog for any measurable length of time can conclude that I have a strong aversion to Dick Cheney to phrase it in a polite manner. On many occasions when referencing this Dick – Cheney I have worked very hard to tone my outrage down a few levels. I honestly strive to give people the benefit of my doubts and consider their point-of-view or the context for which they are speaking. This one may seem a bit partisan to some, but to reference the original name of this blog ‘someone has to say it’.
The culturally unaware mayor of Los Alamitos, California is coming under fire for an e-mail he sent out that depicts the White House lawn planted with watermelons, under the title “No Easter egg hunt this year.” You just have to wonder where some of these people have been all of their lives. Do you know ANY Black people that could have told you not to do this?
