September 19, 2006
Talk like a Pirate Day
It's talk like a pirate day. Apparently, my pirate name is Iron Tom Rackem. Argh!!!
July 23, 2006
Coming Clean on France
I was the worst offender. I made the jokes about the French giving up. Yes, yes I did. But, now; thanks to a visit to this marvelous place, I am cured. You see, if you don;t like the French, the I have a simple plan -- go to France. I can hear you saying it, but they are rude. That is simply an outdated idea. It is very much the other way around. It is we Americans that are the rude ones. We walk into a store and immediately we start talking business.
"How much is this?"
"Do you speak English?".
The French are so much more polite and civilized than we. You walk into a store, say hello! Or Good Morning/afternoon/evening. Take a moment to be civil. Take a moment to remember that we are both human beings and some basic courtesy goes very far indeed.
I had the greatest week in Paris. The French people were wonderful. They were more than helpful. Between my limited (and Spanish-accented French) and their English ; we made it through. The metro clerk was even asking me how to say 55 cents. A far cry from the idea that they refuse to speak English. So, the next time someone takes the fashionable path and starts to bash the French, ask them if they have been there? If they have, ask them if they took some time to maintain their membership in the human race? And if they have not been there (or you for that matter), make a reservation and go see what the world is talking about. It is one of the greatest places on the planet.
"How much is this?"
"Do you speak English?".
The French are so much more polite and civilized than we. You walk into a store, say hello! Or Good Morning/afternoon/evening. Take a moment to be civil. Take a moment to remember that we are both human beings and some basic courtesy goes very far indeed.
I had the greatest week in Paris. The French people were wonderful. They were more than helpful. Between my limited (and Spanish-accented French) and their English ; we made it through. The metro clerk was even asking me how to say 55 cents. A far cry from the idea that they refuse to speak English. So, the next time someone takes the fashionable path and starts to bash the French, ask them if they have been there? If they have, ask them if they took some time to maintain their membership in the human race? And if they have not been there (or you for that matter), make a reservation and go see what the world is talking about. It is one of the greatest places on the planet.
An American in Paris
Beyond the Business class flight to London, the Eurostar train ride to Paris and navigating a new Metro system in French, the long road to Rue Cler was done. My son, David, and I were checked into the hotel on Rue Cler -- a little 3 block open-air market where many Parisians (and perhaps a few too many tourists in June) call home. As it was around 8:00 PM (20:00) that lovely evening, David and I set out to find the lightning rod of our motivation, Tour de Eiffel. We have all seen the pictures, in the nighttime light, in the day time sun -- unfortunately, on the Las Vegas Strip. The Eiffel Tower is in many ways synonymous with France itself. Gustav Eiffel's monument to man's dominance over the elements was set forth on the world in the last 19th century. No matter how many ways you see it, you have never seen it. Until you are there, with your own eyes in its presence, you have not seen anything. As it was night, the lights were on the tower. Great yellowish lights illuminating the focus of the city of light. I have seen many beautiful things in my life. I have seen the sight of the city from the top of the World Trade Center. I have seen the sight from a 10,000 tall mountain overlooking snow covered peaks. I have seen the first moments of my son's life in the delivery room. None of those could have compared me for what I saw that night. Maybe it was the sheer size of the tower or perhaps, it was the way the light hit it just so. In retrospect, I think it was the overwhelming fact that I, this poor kid from Brooklyn, was standing at the foot of a legend. I was so overwhelmed with emotion; I could not spare the tears. It was in many ways surreal. Was this real, a dream? Maybe it was one more of those simulations we Americans are so fond of doing, as if it could ever come close the seeing the real thing. No matter what the source of the emotion, I was clearly gazing at the most beautiful thing in the world. So tall, even somewhat scary, yet, so light and elegant. Is there any other way to describe traveling to a foreign city. I was ill prepared for the feelings. The fact that I was able to share this with my son made it all the more special. He is 12 years old and he has already seen some amazing things. I know the concept that we want more for our children than we have had. So, in many ways, it was fitting that we saw this together. You see, as I got the chance to see this magnificent homage to the industrial age with my son in hand, means this is always something we share. The world is filled with beauty -- manmade and natural. All you have to do is step back, and look at it. It may take a plane, train or simply a walk across the Potomac, but beauty is there for those that seek it. Viva la France!
April 06, 2006
The Time Value of Money
Here is a paper I wrote for a finance class I thought was a clever way to explain the Time Value of Money.
As most loan sharks know, the interest is what generates the profit. While not condoning illegal behavior, the more seemly side of finance does illustrate a valid point: when people need money, someone has to be willing to lend it to them. But, this is not without its risks. Loan sharks typically charge a high interest rate – “the vig” – compared to other institutions. This is because they assume more risk of non-payment. Additionally, their collection policies are somewhat different than the corner bank. While perhaps an extreme example, this arrangement presents the same challenges as any other use of money. The shark must consider not only the potential of being repaid the principal of the loan – “the juice” – but the opportunity cost of the loaning the money to the customer. Opportunity cost is defined as "the advantage forgone as the result of the acceptance of an alternative” (About 2006). In this case, the loan shark could otherwise invest his money in gambling, racketeering, carting or some other activity. The future value of those enterprises with the same money must be weighed against the interest paid on the juice. If the loan shark loans $10,000 for 7 days in return for a total payment of $12,000, then the $2000 interest payment must be higher than the potential opportunities the $10,000 could have been used for in the interim 7 days. Depending upon the depth of the shark’s organization, $10,000 may indeed be able to generate more than $2000 in a 7 day period. This would be an example of the opportunity cost being more than the realized profit from the enterprise.
To bring this discussion into the realm of the legal, the same applies for countless examples in personal and corporate finance. In both of these areas, money must not only be considered as a current commodity, but for the investment vehicle it provides. Specifically, any potential investment must not only be considered in terms of the return but the potential of that money to perform in other ways. For example, while dipping into Retained Earnings to finance a new plant might be a way for a company to minimize debt, the potential advantages of liquidity must be outweighed by the incurrence of the debt. Many times, a corporation with cash-on-hand will still assume long-term debt since the retained earnings may be able to return more as an investment than the interest on the debt. While it would seem to be in the company’s best interest to carry as little debt as possible, it may actually cost money to not borrow money if borrowing cash means better earnings on other investments.
Another area that corporations (and loan sharks) must carefully analyze is the effects of recurring payments on money over time. For example, the protection money that the local deli pays to the Stunad crew is an example of an annuity as the money is paid in a fixed amount over time. The annuity would typically end with the untimely demise of the Stunad captain or the deli owner – whichever comes first. In paying this annuity, the deli owner must consider the opportunity cost of paying the money versus investing in his own business. However, as with all opportunities, the owner must also consider the ramifications of forgoing the investment in his personal welfare (specifically the aforementioned untimely demise). In the Stunad crew’s case, they must consider the cost of administering the annuity with items such as collection fees, opportunity costs of enforcement versus other enterprises and the value their other enterprises would reap in a long-term investment. Typically, this protection annuity is deemed to be in perpetuity as the organization would continue to collect even if the owner changed hands. Just as with the Stunad organization, large corporations must consider the long-term effects of annuity vehicles such as pension plans. Pensions must be funded from funds inherent within the pension or from net income. In a public company, this presents a charge against earnings each year that only continues as workers get older and continue to retire. The annuity in this case can present an undue burden upon the operations of the company and prevent future investment or expansion.
While it would seem that typical Mother’s and Father’s Italian Associations and large publicly-help corporation may be very different; within their business dealings they must consider some of the same issues. The ability to generate cash is but one factor in the successful operation of their business. They must also consider the cost of their investments and the cost of taking -- or leaving -- an opportunity. With proper attention to the time value of money, the whole family prospers.
References
About.Com (2006). Opportunity Cost – Every collar we spend is actually 6.7 lost forever. Retrieved April 6, 2006 from http://credit.about.com/cs/consumerwisdom/a/081100.htm.
April 02, 2006
Iran claims missile test - Mideast/N. Africa - MSNBC.com
Iran claims missile test - Mideast/N. Africa - MSNBC.com
Perhaps it is the tale of David and Goliath. Or the seemingly endless historical evidence that the underdog can win over the arrogant aggressor. Whatever the reason, leaders of other countries have always underestimated the resolve and the ability of the US at their own peril. Certainly, we are parochial in our view of our place in the world. We but into other's problems and try to apply our simplistic notions to complex centuries old conflicts. Be that as it may, as much as I would like to let these little gnats of government leaders save some face, all they are doing is testing our resolve. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is quoted to say "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve." Discussing the different effects that the US Civil War had on the North and the South, historian Shelby Foote say he thought the North fought the war with one hand tied behind its back and the South never really had a chance.
What possible outcome could Iran hope for in escalating a war of words and actions against the US. Do they really think the US would allow them to develop a nuclear device Would Iran be extreme enough to actually use it? As with far too many events in the history of governments, the people suffer for the lack of foresight and false bravado of their leaders. The people suffered far more in Germany and Iraq than their leaders. Would the leaders of Iran force the US hand to detonate a warhead in Tehran in retaliation for an attack on the US? It is called mutually assured destruction for a reason! In this case, it would be limited destruction for the US and complete vaporization for the great people of Iran. Yet, these people elected a theocracy into power.
I am sure each "David" always believes they have a unique ability against their particular Goliath. But in this case, the only thing the leaders of Iran are going to do is strengthen our resolve and their people will suffer. While we may be the decadent West, the fact remains that Tehran would become a distant memory on a map with the contents of a single Los Angeles class submarine. Surely, they realize this and will not truly try our patience. Especially with this President!
Perhaps it is the tale of David and Goliath. Or the seemingly endless historical evidence that the underdog can win over the arrogant aggressor. Whatever the reason, leaders of other countries have always underestimated the resolve and the ability of the US at their own peril. Certainly, we are parochial in our view of our place in the world. We but into other's problems and try to apply our simplistic notions to complex centuries old conflicts. Be that as it may, as much as I would like to let these little gnats of government leaders save some face, all they are doing is testing our resolve. After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Admiral Isoroku Yamamoto is quoted to say "I fear all we have done is to awaken a sleeping giant and fill him with a terrible resolve." Discussing the different effects that the US Civil War had on the North and the South, historian Shelby Foote say he thought the North fought the war with one hand tied behind its back and the South never really had a chance.
What possible outcome could Iran hope for in escalating a war of words and actions against the US. Do they really think the US would allow them to develop a nuclear device Would Iran be extreme enough to actually use it? As with far too many events in the history of governments, the people suffer for the lack of foresight and false bravado of their leaders. The people suffered far more in Germany and Iraq than their leaders. Would the leaders of Iran force the US hand to detonate a warhead in Tehran in retaliation for an attack on the US? It is called mutually assured destruction for a reason! In this case, it would be limited destruction for the US and complete vaporization for the great people of Iran. Yet, these people elected a theocracy into power.
I am sure each "David" always believes they have a unique ability against their particular Goliath. But in this case, the only thing the leaders of Iran are going to do is strengthen our resolve and their people will suffer. While we may be the decadent West, the fact remains that Tehran would become a distant memory on a map with the contents of a single Los Angeles class submarine. Surely, they realize this and will not truly try our patience. Especially with this President!
February 28, 2006
The day the music died
On February 10th, 2006, my Mother passed away. She had been in and out
of the hospital and gave passed away shortly after an operation for a
kidney problem. The emotions on this are impossible to explain. I lost
my Dad 21 years ago, but then; someone else handled all the details.
This time, I handled the details. Planning a funeral is not something
that should be done by the people most effected by the death. This
should be done ahead of time.
Once I came home, I wrote a letter. I wrote what I want to happen to
me when I die. Where I want to be buried, the clothes I want to wear
(Hawaiian shirt - I made David promise me he would do this), where the
life insurance policies are. All the things someone will need to know
when they are going through your stuff. I encourage everyone reading
this to make a will and ensure your loved ones have it all laid out
for them. They should not have to think during this time. It would be
best to give a letter to the funeral director and say, "it is all in
there - call if you have any questions!". That is my intent. While
none of us want to think about our own death, I assure you all it will
happen. While it is important to plan the end for those left behind,
please do not forget that life is in the living.
Those that love you will certainly miss you, but they need good
memories to get them through. They need to know how you felt about
them. They should never doubt that you love and care for them.
Fortunately, I had the peace to know how much my Mother cared for me
and loved me. I understood that while we may have had our moments (I
was a teenager after all), we also understood each other enough to
realize were in many ways the same. I loved my Mother dearly and will
miss her for the rest of my life. But, I am able to continue on
because I can see her in the eyes of my son. I can see her in the
curiosity and intellect that is David. She always let me know how much
she loved me; it was never understated. I will always miss her and am
greatly comforted by the fact that she is now in peace. Mom, I miss
you, I love you and I am eternally grateful for the lessons you taught
me. I only hope that I can measure up and be the man you wanted me to
become.
of the hospital and gave passed away shortly after an operation for a
kidney problem. The emotions on this are impossible to explain. I lost
my Dad 21 years ago, but then; someone else handled all the details.
This time, I handled the details. Planning a funeral is not something
that should be done by the people most effected by the death. This
should be done ahead of time.
Once I came home, I wrote a letter. I wrote what I want to happen to
me when I die. Where I want to be buried, the clothes I want to wear
(Hawaiian shirt - I made David promise me he would do this), where the
life insurance policies are. All the things someone will need to know
when they are going through your stuff. I encourage everyone reading
this to make a will and ensure your loved ones have it all laid out
for them. They should not have to think during this time. It would be
best to give a letter to the funeral director and say, "it is all in
there - call if you have any questions!". That is my intent. While
none of us want to think about our own death, I assure you all it will
happen. While it is important to plan the end for those left behind,
please do not forget that life is in the living.
Those that love you will certainly miss you, but they need good
memories to get them through. They need to know how you felt about
them. They should never doubt that you love and care for them.
Fortunately, I had the peace to know how much my Mother cared for me
and loved me. I understood that while we may have had our moments (I
was a teenager after all), we also understood each other enough to
realize were in many ways the same. I loved my Mother dearly and will
miss her for the rest of my life. But, I am able to continue on
because I can see her in the eyes of my son. I can see her in the
curiosity and intellect that is David. She always let me know how much
she loved me; it was never understated. I will always miss her and am
greatly comforted by the fact that she is now in peace. Mom, I miss
you, I love you and I am eternally grateful for the lessons you taught
me. I only hope that I can measure up and be the man you wanted me to
become.
January 28, 2006
Life
With the anniversary of Roe v. Wade, and the march in Washington, I began to ponder the question of abortion. We can call it right to life, or pro-choice - those are just names. We can call it any other polarizing phrase that comes to mind. When does conception start? How arrogant of man to think it starts when he defines. Before you believe I am of one side or the other, let me be clear. I think abortion is a terrible thing. I wish there was no need for it. I wish woman didn't use it as birth control. I know that sounds callous, but even after multiple abortions, I know woman that still use it as the ultimate backup plan. Even though I wish that it was not necessary, I will fight to the death for a woman's right to choose. I strongly believe that man cannot be the final arbiter of what happens in a woman's body. The fetus is in the woman's' body, not someone else's. If the woman chooses abortion, that is her right. I don;t believe that by limiting the choice of abortion, one less abortion will ever happen. It will simply switch to a state issue. Some states will rule it illegal, some states will rule it legal. Women that want abortions will simply go to the legal states. The only ones is will effect is that scared girl that has become pregnant and doesn't know what to do. Her life will change. She should of thought of that before, but we all know accidents happen. I have the sad experience of being involved in a relationship that resulted in an unwanted pregnancy. It was just to early in our lives - or I guess we were both scared of what it meant. Knowing the type of child I have now, I can't help but think what that child would have been like. As he would have had at least the same father as David, I cannot help to think the child would have had some of the same qualities. I regret the choice, yet it was not my choice to make. It is not like I resisted it though - I paid half the money!
It is far too easy for those unaffected by this issue to stand there outside the clinics or at the Supreme Court. They love the country that allows them the right to assemble and speak their mind. Yet, the abhor the very same principles when a woman chooses to terminate a pregnancy. I have been effected personally by this issue and I will always regret my complicity - yet I steadfastly remain supportive of a woman as the master of her own domain.
It is far too easy for those unaffected by this issue to stand there outside the clinics or at the Supreme Court. They love the country that allows them the right to assemble and speak their mind. Yet, the abhor the very same principles when a woman chooses to terminate a pregnancy. I have been effected personally by this issue and I will always regret my complicity - yet I steadfastly remain supportive of a woman as the master of her own domain.
October 12, 2005
Frist may not have avoided a conflict of interest - Politics - MSNBC.com
Stop! Be very quite. Listen carefully. You hear that? That sound? That was the sound of yet another politician's presidential ambitions going up in smoke. Gary Hart had his mistress, Teddy has Mary Jo, and Bill has HCA. Seems they never learn. Next!!!
September 18, 2005
Cash and 'Cat 5' Chaos - Newsweek Hurricane Katrina Coverage - MSNBC.com
My entire professional career, whenever crisis has hit; I was able to get things done. I worked at the Home Shopping Network when the phone lines to our main switch went down. We up and moved down the stripmall to customer service. We were able to start taking calls in an hour. The boss at the time was quite impressed with this ability and she subsequently gave me a shot in the computer room. The rest is history.
When I worked for Harris, we had to go to the plant in Northern California and mark everything for shipment to the offices in Salt Lake City. I went out there with another co-worker, and we did what we needed to do. Some people got bent out of shape, but the job got done.
We pussy foot around issues. We want to not make waves. We need to keep everyone happy and made to feel like they are part of the team. That is all a great illusion when things are not in crisis mode, but for Godsake, these people in New Orleans are dying. They need help, not some FEMA paper pusher going over the rule book in the ultimate insensitivity. Hey, Mr or Mrs. FEMA clerk, you attention to the rule book means squat! These are US citizens, they need their government's help, and if you cannot back down from your little empire because this is how youhave always done it, then, at the risk of insulting a McDonald's worker -- go work there as that may be more you style.
I continually get barraged with little pieces of advice about picking your battles to fight and getting obstacles put in my way by a process. Well, as I said, we can play that game when it does not appear to be life -threating. But, these people need help, not redtape. So, Mr and Mrs. FEMA person, get off you ass and help these people! You are going to be judged by how you treat these people, not if every line of your form is filled out. You are a public servent, not the other way around. You are only the facilitator of what these people need. They do not need your permission, only your clerical ability to get them what they need!
When I worked for Harris, we had to go to the plant in Northern California and mark everything for shipment to the offices in Salt Lake City. I went out there with another co-worker, and we did what we needed to do. Some people got bent out of shape, but the job got done.
We pussy foot around issues. We want to not make waves. We need to keep everyone happy and made to feel like they are part of the team. That is all a great illusion when things are not in crisis mode, but for Godsake, these people in New Orleans are dying. They need help, not some FEMA paper pusher going over the rule book in the ultimate insensitivity. Hey, Mr or Mrs. FEMA clerk, you attention to the rule book means squat! These are US citizens, they need their government's help, and if you cannot back down from your little empire because this is how youhave always done it, then, at the risk of insulting a McDonald's worker -- go work there as that may be more you style.
I continually get barraged with little pieces of advice about picking your battles to fight and getting obstacles put in my way by a process. Well, as I said, we can play that game when it does not appear to be life -threating. But, these people need help, not redtape. So, Mr and Mrs. FEMA person, get off you ass and help these people! You are going to be judged by how you treat these people, not if every line of your form is filled out. You are a public servent, not the other way around. You are only the facilitator of what these people need. They do not need your permission, only your clerical ability to get them what they need!
September 16, 2005
The US Constitution
Patrick Henry refused to go as he "smelled a rat" Rhode Island refused to send a delegate as they suspected it was an attempt to create a new government. Fortunately, for us; they were right and their worst fears came true -- the Constitutional Convention did produce a new government.
This government was far from perfect. Just a few years after its passing, the Sedition Act reminded us how fragile our right to free speech actually was. It is only though the litany of court cases brought forth since its signing, that the freedoms we hold near and dear to our hearts, really took shape. Without judges acting as the arbiters of liberty and the advocates of the defensless, this nation would surely perish from the Earth. As grandiose as that may sound, it beings into specific relief the issues we now face as a new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is selected. I was encouraged to see that the Senators chose to ask questions about the intersection of technology and privacy. For the next 20 years are going to be an age where the Bill of Rights will be challenged in ways never imagined when it was put forth as the mollification it was.
To actually see the document is truly a gift we should all share. I have the good fortune to work near the Archives so I may go over whenever I want.
To stand before the altar that is liberty;
and be both humbled and elevated by its breath.
To stand before the document through whose timeless gaze;
we beseech a free life.
To stand in wonder as its subtle power envelopes all we touch;
and grants us passage unto liberty.
The US Constitution is is something that belongs to all of us (although the guards at the archive will shoot you if you bring it home). So, next time you are watching a confirmation process or someone on Law & Order cites the 4th amendment (or Michael Corleone takes the 5th), remember what this is all about and be happy that Patrick Henry did smell a rat -- and it was we!
This government was far from perfect. Just a few years after its passing, the Sedition Act reminded us how fragile our right to free speech actually was. It is only though the litany of court cases brought forth since its signing, that the freedoms we hold near and dear to our hearts, really took shape. Without judges acting as the arbiters of liberty and the advocates of the defensless, this nation would surely perish from the Earth. As grandiose as that may sound, it beings into specific relief the issues we now face as a new Chief Justice of the Supreme Court is selected. I was encouraged to see that the Senators chose to ask questions about the intersection of technology and privacy. For the next 20 years are going to be an age where the Bill of Rights will be challenged in ways never imagined when it was put forth as the mollification it was.
To actually see the document is truly a gift we should all share. I have the good fortune to work near the Archives so I may go over whenever I want.
To stand before the altar that is liberty;
and be both humbled and elevated by its breath.
To stand before the document through whose timeless gaze;
we beseech a free life.
To stand in wonder as its subtle power envelopes all we touch;
and grants us passage unto liberty.
The US Constitution is is something that belongs to all of us (although the guards at the archive will shoot you if you bring it home). So, next time you are watching a confirmation process or someone on Law & Order cites the 4th amendment (or Michael Corleone takes the 5th), remember what this is all about and be happy that Patrick Henry did smell a rat -- and it was we!
September 07, 2005
Coffee a top source of healthy antioxidants - More Health News - MSNBC.com
Having lived in Salt Lake City for several years, one is always confronted with the majority religion: The LDS Church. Reading articles about the health benefits of coffee and prior articles about the health advantages of a glass of wine each day, I have to wonder: Are certain religions that demand abstinence from certain types of foods keeipng people from being as healthy as they could be? Surely, if it is proven that these things do have a long-term health benefit, then God would not choose to deprive anyone of this health benefit. Then again, that may be the plan. Perhaps, the original plan was a world where these things did not exist, and now someone gets a reprieve for awhile. Obviously, these are rhetorical questions.
Items like this continue to give us pause as we try to reconcile our definition of God with what we now know to be true through experience and science. 500 years ago if I had anyone of a dozen dieses, I would cetainly die. The locals would expain it away as they do now as its God's will. But, if I get that same ailment that can be cured easily today, I will live. If we use the logic that it is God's will that I live now, then why give me the ailment that can easily be cured? I fail to see how the death 500 years ago can be God's will, but today it can be God just wanting me to get sick? FOr if that cure didn't exist, we would say it is God's will.
I know, I know...the central issue is that these are man's saying and our way to try and understand and cope with things. I do not have a problem with that. As long as the next time I go to a funeral or listen to the reports from New Orleans, no one uses the trite excuse that God has a plan for each of us and that is why 10,000 men women and children deserved to die. In my book, that is simply the workings of a feckless thug.
This all goes back to my theory that God designed the universe and stated it off. The way it evolved and became what it is today, is entirely the implementation of the plan. I cannot believe that God has a hand in our day-to-day lives because if he did, then New Orleans would not have happened. BTW, I do know the arguments of if Hurricanes did not happen then much more damage would have happened, and God sparred New Orleans by making the storm swerve at the last minute -- those seem a little contrived and too simplistic, no? Nope, I believe that we are basically on our own and that society and our fellow man is the higher power we all share. I certainly have a higher power, but I refuse to believe a diety could look down and decide to change something in my life. Because if he could change something in my life, how in the world could he kill so many innocent people? If this sounds familiar, it is indeed the "Oh, God" school of religion. In the movie, George Burns' God says he created the worl, what we did with it was up to us. Free will it a bitch (to quote the devil from another movie). As the debacle in New Orleans shows, when you leave any enterprise up to the free will of man, his pety intellect and massive shortcomings will always get in the way. But, I will save that for another time.
Items like this continue to give us pause as we try to reconcile our definition of God with what we now know to be true through experience and science. 500 years ago if I had anyone of a dozen dieses, I would cetainly die. The locals would expain it away as they do now as its God's will. But, if I get that same ailment that can be cured easily today, I will live. If we use the logic that it is God's will that I live now, then why give me the ailment that can easily be cured? I fail to see how the death 500 years ago can be God's will, but today it can be God just wanting me to get sick? FOr if that cure didn't exist, we would say it is God's will.
I know, I know...the central issue is that these are man's saying and our way to try and understand and cope with things. I do not have a problem with that. As long as the next time I go to a funeral or listen to the reports from New Orleans, no one uses the trite excuse that God has a plan for each of us and that is why 10,000 men women and children deserved to die. In my book, that is simply the workings of a feckless thug.
This all goes back to my theory that God designed the universe and stated it off. The way it evolved and became what it is today, is entirely the implementation of the plan. I cannot believe that God has a hand in our day-to-day lives because if he did, then New Orleans would not have happened. BTW, I do know the arguments of if Hurricanes did not happen then much more damage would have happened, and God sparred New Orleans by making the storm swerve at the last minute -- those seem a little contrived and too simplistic, no? Nope, I believe that we are basically on our own and that society and our fellow man is the higher power we all share. I certainly have a higher power, but I refuse to believe a diety could look down and decide to change something in my life. Because if he could change something in my life, how in the world could he kill so many innocent people? If this sounds familiar, it is indeed the "Oh, God" school of religion. In the movie, George Burns' God says he created the worl, what we did with it was up to us. Free will it a bitch (to quote the devil from another movie). As the debacle in New Orleans shows, when you leave any enterprise up to the free will of man, his pety intellect and massive shortcomings will always get in the way. But, I will save that for another time.
September 05, 2005
Bush makes second trip to battered Gulf Coast - Hurricane Katrina - MSNBC.com
President Bush has sealed his legacy. While the White House enters a game of blaming the locals (as if these people need more beating than they have already received), his legacy will now be of the MBA President that is far more theory than execution. The President that dictated he would not be a man of the polls. A President that feigns compassion based on what his handlers tell him. President Bush lacks compassion, sincerity and clearly judegment in the people he chooses to surround himself with in his administration.
Now, I am not going to say this is fair. I know the detractors are saying it takes time to mobilize the Federal government. Working in a government agency, I know this to be true. Many people are doing their level best to get the help to where it belongs. Unfortunately for the President, politics -- and more so -- history are NOT fair. We could chalk this up to bad luck. To lost a major part of New York to 9/11 and not to lose an entire city on your watch can be thought of as nothing less than bad luck. Clearly, more preparation is necessary in preparing responses. Perhaps we all lauded the entry of the non-professionals arrival in Washington. Appointing friends and political cronies to positions in DHS and FEMA may not have been the best of ideas. Then again, as I said before; the only thing history will judge is the response. Does anyone believe President Clinton would not have been a far more compassionate human being in response to this tragedy? Do you doubt it for a minute? President Bush may be the most compassionate person in the world, but I feel his handlers will simply not let him be. Then again, maybe the demon inside him keeps him from truly feeling for these people. Hey, I guess the slacker President was not such a good idea afterall. God Bless the people of New Orleans and the rest of the states. Hopefully, history is kinder to President Bush than it has been to New Orleans. And finally, I sincerely hope this President that seems to publicly favor accountability will stand up, take responsibility and do what is right to restore confidence in our Federal Government.
Now, I am not going to say this is fair. I know the detractors are saying it takes time to mobilize the Federal government. Working in a government agency, I know this to be true. Many people are doing their level best to get the help to where it belongs. Unfortunately for the President, politics -- and more so -- history are NOT fair. We could chalk this up to bad luck. To lost a major part of New York to 9/11 and not to lose an entire city on your watch can be thought of as nothing less than bad luck. Clearly, more preparation is necessary in preparing responses. Perhaps we all lauded the entry of the non-professionals arrival in Washington. Appointing friends and political cronies to positions in DHS and FEMA may not have been the best of ideas. Then again, as I said before; the only thing history will judge is the response. Does anyone believe President Clinton would not have been a far more compassionate human being in response to this tragedy? Do you doubt it for a minute? President Bush may be the most compassionate person in the world, but I feel his handlers will simply not let him be. Then again, maybe the demon inside him keeps him from truly feeling for these people. Hey, I guess the slacker President was not such a good idea afterall. God Bless the people of New Orleans and the rest of the states. Hopefully, history is kinder to President Bush than it has been to New Orleans. And finally, I sincerely hope this President that seems to publicly favor accountability will stand up, take responsibility and do what is right to restore confidence in our Federal Government.
August 27, 2005
World66 - Visited States - United States
Here is a fun site. You can make a map of states. This is the states that I have actually been in (in one way of another). This could include just passing through in a car.
create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide
This next one is states I have actually spent a night in (as in slept in).
create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide
Apparently, I need to sleep around some more. (Well, you know what I mean).
create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide
This next one is states I have actually spent a night in (as in slept in).
create your own personalized map of the USA
or check out ourCalifornia travel guide
Apparently, I need to sleep around some more. (Well, you know what I mean).
August 05, 2005
It's President Bush!!!
Listen to any news article or broadcast, and people insist on using just the President's last name. I have never understood this. To me, when you speak of the President of the United States, you say President Bush, or President Clinton. Not Bush or Bush 1, or Slick Willy. You can have any political disagreement you want with the occupant of the Oval office, but it shows as an American that you have a fundamental respect for the Office, even if not the man. I disagree with the current administration on a great many things, but I always say President Bush.
A related story is that I was at an Amway convention -- yes, I did that for awhile :) ) and President Reagan was the on the agenda to speak. Some of the people in my party remained seated when he came onto stage. I actually told the woman to get up as she should have a respect for the office even if she disagreed with the man (as I do as well). We have lost so much in terms of civility in our political discourse. I think reserving a basic respect for the 43 men that have held that job. Oh and even after the next election, only 43 men will have held that job :)
A related story is that I was at an Amway convention -- yes, I did that for awhile :) ) and President Reagan was the on the agenda to speak. Some of the people in my party remained seated when he came onto stage. I actually told the woman to get up as she should have a respect for the office even if she disagreed with the man (as I do as well). We have lost so much in terms of civility in our political discourse. I think reserving a basic respect for the 43 men that have held that job. Oh and even after the next election, only 43 men will have held that job :)
August 04, 2005
Bush remarks on 'intelligent design' fuel debate - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com
Bush remarks on 'intelligent design' fuel debate - washingtonpost.com Highlights - MSNBC.com. I must say that I am quite amazed at all the ruckus caused by the Intelligent Design (ID) group. I remember back in 1991, I sat down with a Catholic priest and discussed that I was sure evolution happened, but I believed there must be a plan as I did not believe it could have been by chance. I guess that was ID. The thing I find amazing is that the only fact in ID is evolution. I think people that support ID in a veiled attempt to teach creation as shooting themselves in the foot because to accept ID, you must accept evolution. I am sure beyond any doubt that evolution happened. For me, I have faith that there was an intelligent designer behind it. This does not mean I believe in creation. I think the story of the garden of Eden is a fairy tale. Creation was through evolution -- there is far too much scientific evidence to sustain anything else.
The place the ID people lose me is if today it is teaching that there is an alternative to evolution, then tomorrow we say, well; that thing we said about a creator was right, but not the evolution part. It really took place in seven days!." That is where the ID people will do more harm then they can imagine.
I say that the scientific community should embrace ID as it means people in churches that have been closet skeptics of the story of creation, can now openly believe in evolution. So what if they believe an intelligence was behind it. In the end, regardless of if there was an intelligence or not, the agreement is that we evolved from lower forms of animals -- in both camps; that is indisputable.
The place the ID people lose me is if today it is teaching that there is an alternative to evolution, then tomorrow we say, well; that thing we said about a creator was right, but not the evolution part. It really took place in seven days!." That is where the ID people will do more harm then they can imagine.
I say that the scientific community should embrace ID as it means people in churches that have been closet skeptics of the story of creation, can now openly believe in evolution. So what if they believe an intelligence was behind it. In the end, regardless of if there was an intelligence or not, the agreement is that we evolved from lower forms of animals -- in both camps; that is indisputable.
July 31, 2005
Ah, what a view...
If anyone ever wants to know what I miss about Salt Lake City, just look at the picture below. Are those the greatest mountains you have ever seen, or what? I got the picture from a listing on craigslist (here)
July 29, 2005
July 28, 2005
July 27, 2005
Bill to shield gun makers, dealers up for vote - Politics - MSNBC.com
Here is an article about a proposed law written by the NRA to shield gun manufacturers from liabiity for the use of their product. While I rarely ever agree with the NRA, I do agree with this idea. I, as paradoxically as this will sound, am a liberal that believes in personal responsibility. If I am killed by a gun tomorrow, then I blame the person that used the gun. Society has laws to punish those that offend. I believe the only reason some want to go after the gun manufacturers is that they have the money. I am afraid to say that this seems to be a case of the lawyers going after the ones with the money.
Now, here comes the place I part company with this line of thought. If you want to shield gun manufacturers from liability, you have to apply the law equally. If I manufacturer tobacco or alcohol, don't I deserve the same protection. What about the manufacturers of the game, Grand Theft Auto. They are being sued in at least one case for a teen killing 4 police officers. Surely if a gun manufacturer is not liable for the use of its product, a game manufacturer is not liable for what some fool thinks would be cool to emulate.
The broader theme here is that we tend to put blinders on toward a a philosophy depending upon how it effects us. We are by nature partial to decisions that have an effect. I suppose this trait is simply human nature. I believe in a law that is applied fairly. I may not like what the video game does, but I fail to see how I could ask for a liability shield for one group and not the other. Part of personal ethics is the ability to apply my ethics in a uniform method. When we start to pick and choose the battles based on how it impacts us, then at the end of the day, we stand for nothing.
Now, here comes the place I part company with this line of thought. If you want to shield gun manufacturers from liability, you have to apply the law equally. If I manufacturer tobacco or alcohol, don't I deserve the same protection. What about the manufacturers of the game, Grand Theft Auto. They are being sued in at least one case for a teen killing 4 police officers. Surely if a gun manufacturer is not liable for the use of its product, a game manufacturer is not liable for what some fool thinks would be cool to emulate.
The broader theme here is that we tend to put blinders on toward a a philosophy depending upon how it effects us. We are by nature partial to decisions that have an effect. I suppose this trait is simply human nature. I believe in a law that is applied fairly. I may not like what the video game does, but I fail to see how I could ask for a liability shield for one group and not the other. Part of personal ethics is the ability to apply my ethics in a uniform method. When we start to pick and choose the battles based on how it impacts us, then at the end of the day, we stand for nothing.
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