An American Celebration: Most Admired and Least Admired American

Now that I have finished some of my research, ahead of schedule, I might add, while looking at Aral's blog, I had an idea for a good 4th of July post. By the way, if you have not seen aral's blog, it is one of the most colorful, cheerful blogs out there. In fact, her blogs, and posts, put a smile on my face each morning. Here it is:http://aralecho.blogspot.com/.

So in conjunction with my post below about what the 4th of July means to you, who, in your humble opinion would get your vote for the most admired American (s)? What about your vote for the least admired American(s)? You can pick more than one person if you desire, and it could be someone who is from the past or present, alive or deceased.

And on that note, I am off to my own legal world.

Thank you for your minds.

What does the 4th of July Mean to You?

Over the next week, I will be taking a bit of a break from blogging for a couple of reasons. For one, our son comes home from Israel (and Turkey) this Sunday, God willing. Second, next week, I am going to argue two cases at the Court of Appeal and need to prepare for them both. I may, however, post about my anxiety relating to such events, but other than that, I am not sure there will be room for provocative material or thought at my end. Of course, all good thoughts and luck will be most appreciated.

From the time I was young, I can remember being excited about the 4th of July. It was a true time to think about America and our freedoms, and what this county meant to us. Along with these reflections, came a sense of pride and glory about what it means to be an American and how we celebrate and reflect upon this. Many of us would display the American flag as a result, acknowledging all that is good about America.

Up until a couple of years ago, I would keep an American flag in front of our home. To me, being an American was something I took great pride in. I love my country and what it represents. I have stopped displaying the flag because, for me at least, this is a time in our country where I do not feel such great pride. There is too much going on now with which I do not feel a great sadness about, among which includes, but is not limited to, outsourcing of jobs, the price of gas, unaffordable health insurance for so many, treating all Americans equally, and the war in Iraq, and attempts to disrespect the separation of church from state.

On Tuesday, Mr. Bush indicated that we should all fly our American flags this Fourth of July to show support of our troops, with the underlying assumption that not to do so would make us unpatriotic,or even unsupportive. The President's popularity rate has gone down, and at last count, 56 percent of all Americans are opposed to the manner in which the Bush administration is handling the war in Iraq. I support our troops and want them to come home so that no more men and women suffer the ravages of a war that is really not ours to fight. The flag, in my opinion, is not a just symbol to represent support of our troops. Bringing these men and women back home safely is the first order of business in my humble opinion, and keeping them safe and out of harms way while fighting abroad is paramount.

There are many aspects and freedoms of this country that I love. For one, even throughout the Bush administration, I have seen, for the most part, how wonderful the checks and balance system works, and can see that our court system still functions as it should to insure that the appropriate laws are enforced and that peoples's rights are protected. This is one thingthat makes me truly proud to be an American today.

So here is the question of the long weekend: What does the 4th of July mean to you? Do you feel proud today to be an American? What makes you feel that way?

Thank you for your minds.

The Meaning and Definition of the Ten Commandments

I am going to play devil's advocate for a moment on my own blog. Part of this discussion comes from an interesting discussion I am having with rockofgallie on his blog: http://rockofgalilee.blogspot.com/. He raises some fascinating and provocative questions, by the way.

What if the Ten Commandments, instead of being religous in nature, were interpreted as a code for good moral conduct? Why could this be or not be so? Are these Commandments, by definition religious in nature, and if so, what is the source? If they were interpreted as moral codes, could there be an argument for them not violating the First Amendment? Why could this be or not be so?

Thank you for your minds.

Two Important Rulings Today from the US Supreme Court: Separation of Church From State

EDITED FOR CLARIFICATION:

Ending their term with a bang Monday, the U.S. Supreme Court made two separate rulings in two cases involving the display of the Ten Commandments,one in a Kentucky case, and the other originating out of Texas. I will summarize them as I understand their significance.

In the first case, coming out of Kentucky, the justices ruled that the purpose behind the display of the Ten Commandments on two Kentucky county courthouse walls was clearly religious and consequently violated the separation of church from state. In this case, the Ten Commandments promenantly appeared, by themselves on the grounds of the Kentucky courthouse. In the Texas case, in s 5-4 vote, the Ten Commandements were displayed as a granite monument sitting among 17 other monuments and 21 plaques on the grounds of the Texas Capitol in Austin.

What these two decisions appear to stand for, read together, is that when a display is mounted for clearly religious purposes and that such purposes are obvious, they are clearly unconstitutional and constitute a violation of the separation of church from state. The Ten Commandements, it was said is a sacred text and cariies an unmistakenly religious message. Justice O'Conner was the fifth vote in the Kentucky case emphasizing that its purpose was relevant in that it conveyed an unmistakable message of endorsement to the reasonable observer. Justice O'Connor went on to state that "Voluntary religious belief and expression may be as threatened when government takes the mantle of religion upon itself as when government directly infers with private religious practices." Justice O'Conner noted that the First Amendment has served us well, enabling religion to flourish in this country. The display of the Ten Commandements and its constitutionality in Texas seemed to be based upon the fact that it was not displayed alone, but existed as a monument and/or plaque among others on public grounds, concluding that if displayed inconspicously, it does not violate the First Amendment.

Please note again, that I have not read these important cases, and am summarizing them from one of the legal sites to which I subscribe.

Here is the question of the day: Do you agree with the rulings in the cases above? Do you think that the public display of the Ten Commandments on courthouse walls is clearly religious, violating the first Amendment? Is there really a difference if the Ten Commandements are displayed by themselves or inconspiciously if in fact they are concluded to be a sacred text?

Thank you for your minds.

Part II: Donald Rumsfeld as Secretary of Defense.

When Mr. Bush began his second term as President, he indicated that he wanted some fresh, new faces in his cabinet. Some top officials inside his administration left, like Powell and Ashcroft, but others remained, such as Donald Rumsfeld and Rice, who took over Powell's job. Prior to the war in Iraq, the Bush administration claimed that the conflict within Iraq would be short (less than 6 months) and inexpensive. If one were a revisionist, the actual facts as they exist are simply far from the truth, over two years later and over 1700 lives lost costing U.S. taxpayers over $200 billion dollars. Some commentators have opined that we could remain inside of Iraq for at least another decade.

Throughout this war, Rumsfeld has remained secretary of defense and the head architect behind the war in Iraq. This past weekend, Mr. Rumsfeld appeared on three morning talk shows claiming that no mistakes were made in Iraq. On Fox news, Chris Wallace noted that from the onset, Rumsfeld painted a glorious picture of how Iraq would emerge once the U.S. were there to lend a helping hand. Rumsfeld said that the representation was false, conlcuding that he had been very balanced and measured in his approach. Conservative Colmunist Bill Kristol stated that these soldiers deserve a better defense secretary than the one they have. Case in point: Rumsfeld stated that he knew that there were WMD, and that he knew where they were located as well:http://www.defenselink.mil/transcripts/2003/t03302003_t0330sdabcsteph.html. He also indicated that the conflict would last about 6 months, and that the Iraqui people would be greeted as liberators. We know today, that most of these comments are completely false.

Here is the question of the day: Should Mr. Rumsfeld resign? If not, why is Bush not asking for his resignation as part of his strategy for success that he articulated this week?

Thank you for your minds.

Embracing the Confusion of Life or Living with Dogma

Something that is clearly self-evident, by now, I am certain, is that I am a deep thinker. To be completely honest, this is a quality that I embrace, and genuinely like about myself, as it keeps me on my toes, and allows my mind to be open to questions and answers. Hence, I see myself as someone who is constantly learning and growing.

As mentioned, I am a person of faith, and as a Jew feel a continuing responsibility to the State of Israel and its existence. What is important to me is to be an honest person, and someone who practices good deeds for others. I make every effort not to judge nor condemn, and let people life their lives as they see fit, embracing their faith, or lack thereof, as they see fit, and living with the consequences as they may exist. I also like to live by setting a good example for my children and those around me.

What bothers me a great deal, and something that I cannot understand in others, are inherant contradictions. For example, those individuals who claim to be pious, and religious (in every faith), embracing the commandments and prohibitions of G-d, on the one hand, but are people who lie, cheat, commit adultery, abuse their husbands, wives and/or children and are unkind to others. As a friend of mine, in his infinite wisdom commented to me the other the other day in an email, what is better, to embrace the confusion of life or life with its dogma?

Here is the question of the day: How do you explain people who say that they are very religious, adhering to the commandments and prohibitions of G-d, on the one hand, but engaging in immoral and inappropriate behavior on the other? Is there a contradiction in what they believe and how they act? Is the dogma of the rules to extreme a burden to bear, resulting in more confusion and misbehaver in life? Are they doing the best they can? Or is the burden of such dogma too much to bear?

This is a deep, perhaps complex question, but it is something I have been thinking about lately, as I see our politicians claim to be people of deep faith, interested in preserving life, yet going to war and killing, or making decisions maintaining a decent quality of life for those who are alive. It is also a question that has emerged from my observations of the very religious who claim to be pious, on the one hand, but engage in self-destructive and immoral behavior on the other.

Thank you for your minds.

Warn out in the best of all Possible Ways

These past two days have been extremely busy, and expensive, I might add. Ourdaughter came over for the weekend and decided that she wanted to spent some quality time with me. Not being much of a spender or shopper (sometimes I question whether she is truly my daughter), I decided it would be fun, and somewhat experimental, to take her to a couple of malls. She did not want to buy any clothing or shoes, as these things do not interest her much, but wanted to get a manicure, pedicure, new cell phone, a massage and have her makeup done. If the truth be told, she is a thinker like me. Thinking that it would be fun, and a chance for us to relate, and maybe for her to buy some new shoes, I was all game, showing complete enthusiasm at these rather extravagant ideas. So we went, spent the whole day together, had fun, talked, laughed and spent money on frivolous stuff like manicures, pedicures and massages.

To tell you the truth, I considered today's activities a great blessing for several reasons. First of all, during her teen-age years, our daughter did not want to spend much time with me, preferring her unbridled independence to the company of her mother. Second, she had been sick earlier on this year, and we were unable to go out to do anything together. Today, thank G-d, she is doing so much better today, and I look at each day as a great blessing and gift. And if the truth be told, I love the pedicure, the massage was a welcome luxury and the makeup something we could both talk about for some time to come.

The other good news is that my son has sent emails and spent some time yesterday on instant message with me, with the strong plea, 'please try not to worry so much.' I calmly said alright, thinking in the back of my mind of one of those wild senarios, once more, imagining that would could be drugged and robbed in a foreign city and kidnapped while he was traveling alone. Thankfully, most of my wild thoughts prove to be completely incorrect almost all of the time. In this case, for being wrong, I am truly happy.

Thank you for your minds.

Are you a Collector?

In an effort to write about a topic that has little to do with politics, religion or the media, I was inspired by looking at Erinberry's collection of miniatures the other day. She displayed these amazing and visually stunning little pieces that she has collected. See for yourself. EDITED: Here is the link: http://jesuswasnotarepublican.blogspot.com/

If the truth be told, everything I buy, to some extent or another turns into a collection of sorts. What I mean by this statement, is that it is difficult to stop at one, and consequently, I have many bottles of fragrances, eyeshadows, handbags, lipstick, etc. But when I look at it honestly, these items do not make up a collection. They are a result of obsessive and compulsive buying and spending, something that I am proud to say has diminished substantially today.

But in all truth, I do have a collection and I will tell you about it. My son started playing the violin at the age of 5. As someone who loves music, especially the violin, this made me jump for joy as I shleped him to all of his lessons and concerts when from the time he was 6 years old. What also surfaced from his playing was my love of anything that had to do with the violin. As a result, I have a collection of art, figurines, statutes, sculptures and old world chakas of men and boys playing the violin from all over the world. Everytime we went traveling, from the windy city of Chicago, to the cultural gates of New York, and beyond to Prague, Austria, France, England and Canada, Hungary I picked up something that had to do with the violin. I still remember buying what I thought was a beautiful hand carved wooden figurine in Budapest of a man, who was dressed in a folk costume, playing the violin only to be told by my husband that he resembled Stalin, and why would I buy this particular piece. The answer was simple: I collect violin pieces. Among my items include lithographs of Chagall, dancing Hasidic figures, men dressed up in coats and tails, metal objects, and an original lithograph by Groper of an old world fiddler dressed in the style of an Eastern European Jew.

So here is the question for the day: Are you a collector? What do you collect and how did your interest in these objects get started?

Thank you for your minds.

The Catholic Church, The Papacy and Homosexuality

One of my first posts on Women on the verge of Thinking discussed the issue of the sex abuse scandals and the catholic church. Since that time, my knowledge, awareness and audience of this issue, have gratefuly increased. As such, it seems time to revisit, and fine-tune this issue once again.

When the sexual abuse scandals surfaced inside the Catholic church, many people were stunned that men in such trusted positions as priests were taking advantage of young boys and in some instances girls inside their parishes. Rightly so, outrage and perplexity were the business at hand in an attempt to understand how men, who claimed to be servants of God, and were placed in such a trusted relationship with one's children, could in fact commit such horrible acts that amounted to sexual abuse.

This past year, a new Pope, Benedictt XVI was selected after the death of the beloved Pope John Paul II. Pope Benedict made it clear to the public from the onset that the Catholic Church t he was completely against homosexuality, and considered these acts to be a sin. Not being Catholic, this is an issue that interests me. There a section in the Bible that specifically states that man shall not lay with a man. As a side note, there is a fascinating book by an orthodox Rabbi, Stephen Greenberg called, Wrestling With God & Men: Homosexuality in the Jewish Tradition. I have not read this book so I will not comment on it, but do know that it received an award from the Jewish Book Council this year for anyone who is interested in reading it.

Here is the question of the day: How do you reconcile the stance taken by Pope Benedict regarding homosexuality with the growing number of cases of sexual abuse that have occurred inside the church, usually ones involving an act between a grown man and a young male? Why when discussing the sexual abuse scandals inside the Catholic church is the issue of homosexuality not acknowledged? Point of fact, to a large extent, it is swept under the carpet and treated as if it is not a non-issue in these scandals. Do you see this as a contradiction? What are your impressions and understanding of this issue?

Thank you for your minds.

Part III: The Downing Street Memo: Why the Mainstream Media is Catching On

The Downing Street Memo continues to spread in American political discussion despite efforts to dismiss its significance by many special interest groups. Thanks to the many media stories, and bloggers, such as yourself, this document which outlines how the Bush Admiinistration made up its own mind to attack Iraq and then went on to justify it afterwards is garnering much attention. Here is the website: http://www.downingstreetmemo.com . In one of the memos, British Foreign Office political director Peter Ricketts asks whether the Bush administration had a clear and complelling military reason for war.

Mr. Bush's popularity rate is at an all time low, and there are reported divisions within the Republican party on his position regarding Iraq. Senator Linsey Graham was this morning reported as questioning the decision to remain in this country where we are spending billions of American dollars and putting more lives in jeopardy.

The Downing Street Memo is significant because it really represents two stories: an emerging alternative history of how the United States came to attack Iraq and a story of how the News Media has usurped some of the old media's power to set the agenda. Many supporters of Mr. Bush and his administration are making an effort to diminish the importance of this story, or create a spin leaving the American to question the validity of the memo, feeling like a hamster on a tred-mill going along for a ride and unable to get off.

The real issue, and one which is most significant, is whether the Downing Street Memo warrants an investigation by Congress. If in fact the American people were misled to war, and more than 1700 American lives were lost and more lives and families wounded and shattered, costing billions of tax payer dollars, the American public, meaning you, me, and everyone, has a right to know.

Thank you for your minds.

What if Anything Has Been Learned?

From the perspective of an outsider looking in, and even from the cloudy lenses of my own eyes, from an insider looking within and out, by all reliable estimations, this has been a wildly unproductive and stressful week. Working from one's home does have advantages, as I can structure and organize the work time as I desire, but that does not mean that the work cannot get done.

As can be seen from many of my posts this week, I have been consumed with worry and fear. Fear about my son (I still have not heard from him), about my daughter, about the state of politics and alliances in America today,statements made or not made by politicans, others on their blogs, about Judaism, Israel, etc. etc. Consequently, I have spent a great deal of time with myself, preoccupied with my own thoughts, beliefs and words. A potentially dangerous and complicated place to be. Moreover, I have not slept much, waking up at 3:30 or 4am, and if the truth be told, I have spent more than enough, in fact way too much time this week on the computer, in unproductive ways. Since my daughter is on break from school this week, she has decided to turn her hours around, and 'chill' as she would say, staying up all night and sleeping all day, something she does not have an opportunity to do. So when I call her at 4am, I hear a bright, cheerful, expressive voice tell me, 'who else can you call at this hour to talk to you?'

Being a great optimist, and someone who must live and learn from each of her experiences, I ask myself, today, Friday, as I get ready for Shabbath, what lessons have been learned from this week, and what, if anything can be done to make today, and each day that follows better? We can learn from each and every lesson, and it can be a great opportunity from which to grow and cultivate gardens that blossom. For one, I have learned that even if I spend the entire week, and each minute of the day thinking and worrying about something, it is not going to change what is, and life is going to play itself out as it is supposed to be, not as I want it to happen. What I mean from this is that I can indulge and weigh myself down with the anchor of fear, worry and preoccupation, and the results are not going to change what is enven a bit. All is going to be as it is, in spite of me. What a revelation! As I have noted in many of my posts, having a quiet mind and a peaceful heart are what I strive for each day, for when I am in this state, I am closer to
God, to myself and to the rhythms, sounds and voices of the world.

It is still early in the morning here. I can see the full moon illuminated through the cracks of the blinds, staying bright, and defining its presence in the sky and in the world, in harmony with what is taking place around it. Bright light is ever so powerful. Illumination makes a powerful statement if and only if we pay attention.

Thank you for your minds.

Rekindling and Re-connecting: A beautiful solution

As many of you know, I have been pining away with worry about my son who is traveling about the remote areas Turkey without emailing or telephoning home for the past few days. The reality is clear: I can sit here, as I have been for the last two days, sifting over each and every horrible senario in my head about what could be, an exercise in useless speculation, or I can get in touch with my fear, turn it over, and make an effort to do something to bring about a quiet mind and peaceful heart. Waking up at 4am did not help, but because of all the energy from anxiety, I hardly feel tired at all. Stangely, I feel in a state of heightened energy, even if it is clouded by doubt and worry.

So here is what I did today to take care of myself. After spending the morning working, I decided to engage in my favorite pastime: shopping. I went out, bought some clothing and other stuff, and went back on the internet. Someone from my days on an informative fragrance internet site where I was an active member, posted about staying calm and not to worry too much about my son, and began to offer her kind words of comfort. Seeing her words made me aware that I was most definitely missing the stimulation and discussion and bonds that were formed on that board. So, in an effort towards self-care, I decided to re-join again today.
I was welcomed back with kindness and a sense of care that made me feel quiet good.

Here is the question for the day: When you are feeling anxious, worrisome, or down in the dumps, what do you do to make yourself feel better? How do you exercise in self care?

Thank you for your minds.

John Hostettler: His Remarks on Demonization

Not wanting to loose the point made below by Republican Rep. John Hostettler, I am going to make it a seperate post here.

Dick Durbin and Howard Dean are not the only ones saying engaging in outrageous banter these days. Here are the remarks made by Republican Rep. John Hostettler on the House Floor:
http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/apwashington_story.asp?category=1153&slug=Congress%20Religion

These remarks were made over a measure that would have put the House, on record as opposed to 'coercive and abusive religious proselytizing" at the U.S. Air Force Academy. In essence, Hostettler's remarks were such that he concluded that "Democrats can't help themselves when it comes to denigrating and demonizing Christians."

In my opinion, nasty and inapproriate remarks are wrong no matter who says them.

Here is the question of the day: Are these remarks appropriate for a member of the House to make on the House floor. Read the remarks for yourself. How, if at all are they any less appropriate from the remarks made by Dubin and Dean? For the record, I conclude that those remarks, were in fact inappropriate (see my comments below.)

Thank you for your minds.

Divided We Stand

As I look at America today, what speaks more loudly than anything else is how much we have become a divided nation. This staggering fact brings me great sadness, as I am a firm believe that through unity one becomes stronger, and division can result in downfall. What comes to mind, during what many felt was a strong acceptance from Mr. Bush was his acknowledge of this division, and his attempt to create a more united America. To date, I do not think that anyone from the Democatic party has been nominated for a job in his cabinet, nor has a Democrat been nominated to the federal judiciary. Last I heard, most democrats were in fact excluded from meetings and breakfasts had at the Capitol that did not involve Senate or House business. Although there was a statement to unite, the behavior is exclusionary by definition and heads in in the direction of division.

Some other points regarding division as they exist. Several comments have been made in the media, and have appeared on various blogs denouncing outrageous remarks made by Dick Durbin and Howard Dean. I am not defending these men, as the remarks made were in fact inappropriate. But let us be fair. What about the remarks made earlier this week by Republican John Hostettler? During a debate on the House floor over a measure that would have put the House on record ass opposed to coercive and abusive religious proselytizing at the U.S. Air Force Academy, Hostettler said that, "democrat's can't help themselves when it comes to denigrating and demonizing Christians." Here is the article: http://seattlepi.nwsource.com/national/apwashington_story.asp?Category=1153&slug=Congress%20Religion. Having the gun in his bag and pleading guilty to a charge of concealing a deadly weapon is not the issue here, but this is how many may have heard of Mr. Hostettler for informational purposes.

I have gone on record stating that disparaging remarks made, and those made by Dean and Durbin were in fact inappropraite and name calling and smearing are not what brings people together. But how many would come to the same conclusion about Hostettler's statements? Would there not be a spin to explain, minimize, underestimate or defend them? To me, nasty and inappropriate remarks are just plain wrong no matter who says them.

So here is my question for the day: Do you believe that America has become a divided nation?
If so, why? What, if any, steps can be taken to unite us more together? Should Mr. Bush make good on his promise to appoint more Democrats to his cabinet and the judiciary? How can be built this country back up towards a state of unity and not division?

Thank you for your minds.

Love in a time of Worry

Many of you mention that when you write your feelings down, many different reactions can occur. It can walk you through your own pain, anxiety, lust, desire or ability to think, and consequently, see reality for what it is. So, I am going to try this and see where it will lead.

As stated, our son is in the Middle East. He decided to venture out of Israel and go to Turkey, where he flew from Tel Aviv to Istanbul. From there, he took a long bus-ride to an exotic city called Cappordocia, lined with fairy tale caves and castles. A truly magical place, according to his email. Yesterday, he went on a 17 hour bus ride to a another place in Turkey, where he was to experience the beauty of the coast. Usually, he sends me an email or calls afterwards, but I did not hear from him yet.

People who know me say I have a vivid and wild imagination, but as you will see, this is not always such a great bonus. Today, my imagination is in full swing. Sometimes, I think, rather than the field of law, I should have gone into forenics, or better yet, become a mystery or screen writer. In one senario, a gang of terrorists seizes control of the bus, demands that all of the passengers hand over their belongings, ties them up and flees.Those poor passangers are left, stranded without food, water, or means of communications. In another, the bus, which must navigate many long, winding and unstable roads, has had some difficulties in reaching its destination, or G-d forbid, has had an accident and there is no where to find a telephone to call for help. In yet a third scene, a band of rebels decides to kidnap the passengers on the bus, holding them at gunpoint, demanding ransom and tickets fleeing the country. Do you get the picture?

My head, that matter between the ears, can be held in the jaws of fear, and consequently be the creator of such horrors that there are, at times, no room for peace. This does not change, by the way, because one's children grow and have their own lives. In some ways, as they become more independent, and fixated with their own lives, they take more risks, and as a result are put into situations where there is potential for harm and danger.

Of course there is a solution, at least for me, and that is to let life unfold as it must, and to trust that G-d is watching over my son and taking care of him as should be, and that all is well.

Thank you for your minds.

Addicted to Blogging

When I first discovered I could create a blog, it was like everything else: once I figured out the basic mechanics, i.e. how to post and comment, I had to dive into the project with thrashing passion, and make it an all or nothing pursuit. Daily posts and comments were going to be the norm, not the extreme. Hence, what you see is what I am!

Blogging, to me, is like anything else I have done it my life, be it exercise, reading, writing, going on another internet site, called Make-up Alley, Ebay, smoking or drinking, chewing gum (all four of these later vices are out of my life today) One is too many and a thousand are not enough. Once there, I stay with every ounce of steam and energy geared up until the bitter end, sometimes driving myself into a complete frenzy. Could it be akin to addiction?

According to Webster's Dictionary, addiciton is defined as one who is psychologically or physiologically dependent. In other words, hocked and unable to let go, resulting in an inability to surrender, and a state of powerlessness.

But not all addictions are bad, and some, I submit, so long as not self-destructive, and some are clearly better and more healthy than others. (just think about gambling or sexual addictions.) For instance, when I gave up smoking more than 10 years ago, I took up daily exercising. Some would say this is an addiction, but to me, it is a healthy one, and I am happy to have this particular outlet in my life.

So here is the question of the day: Do you have an 'addictive personality?' Are you or have you been addicted to anything (please do not answer if this makes you uncomfortable in any way)? Have you become addicted to blogging? If so, is it a healthy addiction, or potentially or becoming unhealthy?

Thank you for your minds.

Part II: The Downing Street Memo

During the discussions, there has been some attention paid to the fact that I have presented the AP version of the Downing Street Memo, and not the memo itself. For all of you who desire the memo in full, here it is: http://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2087-1593607,00.html.

Here is the question: Assume that the facts contained hereinin this memo turn out to be true and authentic, and that Mr. Bush did in fact invade Iraq at a time when he knew that the country did not have WMD, but went in and attacked anyway. Do you think the President mislead the country? Do you think he was being honest with the American people? Are you still willing to defend him and the decission by the Bush administration to invade Iraq, with 1,700 Americans dead, and countless others wounded if this memo turns out to be true? Should there be a Congressional investigation as to whether Mr. Bush committed an impeachable offense?

I want to see how far you are willing to take this thing. Please read the memo for yourself as cited above.

Thank you for your minds.

Let my People Go...

Over the past week, I have been making an effort to interact with more Jews in blogsville. Living in an isolated, and primarily non-Jewish neighborhood, I have craved, actually longed for contact with those from my own religion. There is this void that I crave to be filled. When I stumbled upon a group of blogs created by Jews, I was delighted. I thought that I would learn something, and be able to interact, even share about something that was very important to me. To my complete surprise, quite the opposite was true. Let me say there are various levels of Jewish affiliation, some measured by the level of religious involvement, and the ones I discovered were considered the most religious and righteous. When I began to post, many unkind comments were said about me, and false assumptions made, until I left feeling as if I had been beaten up and left to die. After Shabbath was over, one of them made amends to me, and when I began to post on another's blog again, I was ignored, and even put down once again. With the exception of one kind soul from Israel, I was left to feel unwelcome, uninvited and unaccepted.

Here is my issue (as this post is just for me to write for clarification) People become attracted to one another by setting good examples. By setting an example of harsh tones, anger and mean-ness, nobody wants to go there by choice. Maybe to be compelled there by one's family is different, but to make a lifestyle attractive, the people must make one feel welcome and that what they have to offer is something to be desired. This was far from the truth, at least for me.

Today, I feel sad. Not because I leave my people, which is something I would never do. I love being a Jew and feel a great responsibliity to my people and the State of Israel. I feel as if my people, have, to a large extent, turned their back on me. They have let me go...

Thank you for your minds.

Letting Go

When I hear people say to let go, I think I understand what is meant, at least in theory. Letting go, in reality, involves our ability to accept life as it is, and not as we might want it to be. It sounds so easy, in theory and with these words, but in practice, this concept seems to have eluded me to such an extent, that holding on, for dear life, with guns blazing, like being inside a show-down at the O.K. coral, is more the order of business of the day. This is especially true when it comes to my children.

Both my children are older now, one just having finished college, and the other, a junior in college. My son, left for Israel and decided, to extend his trip to travel through that country and along the Middle-East. This does not bother me, contrary to questions I asked about my whether I am afraid for him to go to Israel. Actually, I was more afraid for him not to go, and this trip has been an eye opening journey for him. My daughter, on the other hand, just finished with her final exams last Friday. She is on break this week before summer school begins. She had been ill, and going back to school so quickly was something we did not expect, but to tell the truth, I thank G-d for each and every day for her good health.

So it may seem that this is a healthy, balanced and accepting mother speaking here, you might say, but herein lies the problem, which is mine, and I take full responsibility. I want my children to call me every day. Sometimes, I want to hear from them more often than every day. Sometimes, I want to believe that they are still small children, and I must know what they are doing, when and how often. This phenomenon of micro-management drives them, and my husband for that matter, mashunagah. (translated as completely batty) Me, to be honest, it does not bother so much, as I continue to engage in this behavior over and over again. Perhaps I neglected to mention that I have a passion for forensic shows, or those involving complex murder plots, where there are unsolved heinous crimes over the past 20 years. So, the senarios that are imagined inside of my active imagination when they do not call, are enough to produce a best seller mystery book.

Today, I am writing about these issues based on many of your comments yesterday regarding the role of your blog. Many of you said that by writing, it helped you to work out some of your own internal musings, and also be provided with input on how best to resolve matters. By writing these words, I am hoping that if by 9pm I do not hear from my children, that maybe, for my own sake, and that of my dear husband, I can learn to accept them for who they are, and for life as it is supposed to be.

Thank you for your minds.

Blogs As Public diaries

Over the past few weeks, I have spent time reading many of your blogs. As a result, much has been revealed about your likes, dislikes, passions, strengths, interests, families, ad infinitum. In some ways, the blog is like a long lens inside the lives and minds of others. Moreover, I have learned something valuable, over this past week, about myself, and what meaning this blog has to me. Since my blog is interactive, the audience is an important element, but then again, so am I, the author.

What has emerged, to a certain degree, is that these blogs have become public diaries, a place where we can write what we want, when we want and how we want, but nevertheless, we share them with the public whether we like it or not. The element of truth, we assume, but not necessarily, is the basis upon which we write, share and define our thoughts, and emotions.

Which brings me to the question of the day: To what extent is your blog like a public diary? Do you feel that it is within your right to share what you want, when you want, and how, as you are the ultimate author? Does this mean that you are free to write what you want, even if untruthful, or not with the sensitivity of the audience in mind?Is your blog like a public diary to you? What, if anything, have you learned about yourself, generally and specifically, from keeping your blog?

Thank you for your minds.

High Crimes and misdemeanors

U.S. Constitution Article 1, Sections 2 and 3 and Article II, Section 4 discuss the grounds for impeachment for U.S. Officers as follows: "The President, Vice-President and all Civil Officers of the United States shall be removed from office for impeachment of for and conviction of treason, bribery and other high crimes and misdemeanors." Abuse of power and services is considered to fit into this category.

Many of you have been following the Downing Street Memo. See my post below for more detailed information. Here is the link: http://www.downingstreetmemo.com/. Essentially, this memo finds that the U.S. had information about Iraq and its lack of WMD prior to its actual invasion.

Here is the question of the day: If Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney had intelligence information about there not being WMD in Iraq, and misled this country into war, is this the type of serious offense that would fall within the definition of high crimes and misdemeanors in the above-definition? Would this, in your opinion, be grounds for impeachment of both Mr. Bush and Mr. Cheney? With the Senate and House stacked with Republicans, what likelihood is there that such an impeachment would occur?

Thank you for your minds.

Loosing Our Numbers

As many can gather by now, being a Jew is something important to me. Judaism is a age old religion, (more than 2000 years) with a rich history and symbolism. Many have also heard that Judaism is also a culture, and for many of the most observant, it is a lifestyle, or way of life. Of course these two sentences simplify the subject much more than it deserves, but I will leave its rich and deep complexities to be torn apart and unraveled by those much more learned than myself.

Many of you know that my son went to Israel recently. As a matter of fact, he is now touring that region, and will return here the beginning of July. One of the reasons I wanted him to go to Israel is because as a Jew, I feel as if he has an obligation to carry on the religion and culture of his people. This is something very important to me, and I want both my children to experience the Jewish state first hand on their own, to be familiar with all the trials and tribulations of that region. (again an oversimplification.)

As Jews, there are only about 13 million of us left in the entire world. Many of our numbers were cut short by the horrors of the pogroms of Europe, and subsequently the horrors of the Holocaust. But something I have noticed lately that disturbs me is that we are loosing our numbers through assimilation and/or apathy. More often than not, you will hear someone say, "I am a cultural Jew," or "I was raised Jewish, but do not practice it." And then it slips away, slowly, bringing something so rich and beautiful to an undescribed halt.

Here is the question of the day: Why are we losing our numbers? What if anything can be done to keep the Jews we have, and pass these values down in the most meaningful of ways to our children to preserve our rich sense of history and selves?

Thank you for your minds.

Lessons Learned from Blogging

Yesterday, I posted a question about whether G-d favors some people who are more observant over others who are not. As you can see, that post has disappeared. The reason being is that the post was deleted by me. After much reflection, and a strange 'wake-up call,' I realized that as a Jew, this question was very personal to me, was something I had not really thought about, and needed to resolve it in my own private way. By asking it the way I did in this type of forum, I may have prevented a group of people from answering the very few question that I posed. To those who participated, thank you for your insightful comments and thoughts.

I think Whit and Miri, in their infinite wisdom, have commented that their blogs are more for their enjoyment than it is for yours, meaning the reader. My blog is interactive, and provocative questions are asked, with members in blogville weighing in with answers. Somehow, it seems, that along the way, as the post from yesterday illustrated, the one person who seems to have become lost in this equasion was me. My own blog was becoming more about what was important on the outside than what was meaningful within. A valuable lesson was learned by me yesterday, in a good way, because of the comments that I received, and also illustrated by those that were not. Living and learning is what life is about for me, in the best of all possible ways.

Happy Father's Day to all the father's out there.

Thank you for your minds.

Profiting from Crime or Good Deeds

Recently, there have been stories surfacing about those who profit from their crime or good deeds. Take the Runaway Bride, who just signed a million dollar deal for her story as the jolted bride. Who among us cannot forget how Martha Stewart, already a diva in her own right prior to her arrest, has now been courted by the Donald for a reality T.V. series. Or what about Mark Felt, also known as deep throat, who has exclusive book and movie rights for his now infamous story. There is also the famous witness, Amber Frye, who was writing her book as she was preparing her testimony against Scott Peterson. And then there is the heroic Ashlee Smith, known for her ability to talk a prisoner into surrendering after those horrible shootings in Atlanta. All people who are to make money from their 15 seconds of fame. (with the exception of Martha, who was already making money beforehand.)

So here is the question of the day: Do individuals, whether criminals or heros, have a right to profit from their acts of heroism or criminal behavior? Do you distinguish between profiting from crime vs. profiting from acts of heroism? Where do you draw the line? Please weigh in on the subject.

Thank you for your minds.

The Veil of the Internet

For the past couple of days, I have been blog surfing and stumbled across some very interesting sites. Without going into any specific detail, as I do not want to be negative nor direct any particular attention to anyone in specifically, I discovered a string of blogs whereby people were opening talking about subjects and in manners that they would not reveal in the real world. In some ways, it reminded me of those situations where people who drink alcohol say that the drink frees them to be, act and think in ways that they would not be but for the power of the intoxicant. In other words, men see themselves as looking like George Clooney, and women, who may be reticent or shy are now dancing on the tables, or talking about subjects that normally would escape them, some disclosing intimate details about their personal lives.

So here is the question of the day: To what extent does the internet allow you to talk about subjects that you would not normally discuss in your real life? Are you still true to yourselves, or do you invent an entirely new persona and create someone different than who you really are in the world at large? If so, are you hiding behind the veil of the internet, or is the 'real you' longing to surface?

Thank you for your minds.

Terri Schiavo and the Autopsy Findings

Who among us can forget the sad case of Terri Shiavo, and the tug of war that transpired between her parents and her husband, and ultimately this country on the issue regarding her medical condition and her public death. There were constant tears, one court battle after another, and Mr. Bush signed a special law meant to help Shiavo's parent's keep her alive. Jeb Bush, after countless efforts, conceded that intervention was even beyond his power.

Yesterday, the autopsy reports were released. After a through examination, it was concluded that no treatment could have reversed Ms. Shaivo's persistent vegatative state in the final days, despite claims to the contrary. The size of her brain, at death, was reported to be about half that of a normal sized brain, and it was concluded that it was unable to process any memory, sight or movement. These results were all contrary to statements made by conservative Republicans that Ms. Schiavo could respond to people and was processing information. Bill Frist, Senate Majority Leader, who is a doctor, did not ever examine Schiavo, but led this country to believe that she could in fact respond to those around her, and was not in a vegetative state. As you can see from yesterday's autopsy results, he was clearly wrong.

This tragic and sad case has passed, but a re-current pattern seems to be emerging with the Bush administration, once all of the actual facts are examined. What is clear in this case is that the conservatives were proven wrong by the actual facts.These individuals seem to base many of their conclusions on facts that turn out not to be true. In fact, most of them are flat out lies. They assume that by the time the actual truth surfaces, no one will care anymore about their lies. Furthermore, the spin will be that there was confusion, misstatement and misrepresentation, and the ball will be thrown into the other court to play catch, and those telling the truth will appear as if they are being insensitive, un-patriotic, or cruel.

Here is the question of the day: How do you feel today knowing that the autopsy findings were contrary to what was represented by many conservatives in this country about Ms. Shiavo and her medical condition? What lessons have we learned now that these findings are available?Why is the Bush administration able to get away with this culture of deception that they have created around so many important issues in our country? Do you feel that something must be done to put an end to this pattern of misrepresentation? Why do people in the country continue to support someone, and believe in information that turns out to be untrue? What values does this teach about honesty and proper role models to our children? What, if anything, in your opinion should be done?

Thank you for your minds.

Happy Anniversary

Today is our 25th wedding anniversary, and I dedicate this post to my dear husband. As you can imagine, in 25 years, there are many experiences to share and beautiful memories together.
When our son comes back from his trip to Israel, Egypt and the Middle-East, we will go to Miami where we spent part of our honeymoon.

To my dear sweet, kind husband, with whom I share this very special day, and my life. Happy anniversary.

Thank you for your minds.

Cockfighting

I can just see my dear friend Miri (here is her blog: http://cestchic.blogspot.com/), lurking over this post, with bulging eyes and quickened breathe expecting a new twist to the penis chronicles. (no this is not about the dueling dicks...Sorry miri.) It is about those individuals who raise chickens and or foul for the purposes of recreational fighting. Yes, men and women pay money and sit in a sports arena to watch these birds engage in combat. CNN had a small segment on this very issue tonight featuring those who were in the business of raising these birds for such purposes, including a man named Butch, and animal rights activities who are against the use of the foul for such aggressive purposes.

On the one hand, you have those who say that there is nothing wrong with this activity. That the birds are fed and housed properly, and in some instances, even eat and live better than chickens that are kept for slaughter and shipped off to poultry markets. The animal activists, on the other hand, say that such an act constitutes cruelty to animals, and that the chickens are put in circumstances and bred for the very purpose of aggression.

So the question of the day: What, if any, opinions do you hav on cockfighting? Should it continue to be legal in some states and does it result in cruelty to animals in any way?

Thank you for your minds.

The Downing Street Memo

A friend of mine sent me an interesting email last night regarding what is referred to as the Downing Street Memo. Essentially, this is a memorandum of an actual document transcribed during the meeting with Mr. Blair on July 23, 2002, which took place eight months prior to the U.S. invasion of Iraq on March 20, 2003. Here is a copy of the memo:http://www.downingstreetmemo.com/. Media coverage of this document has been kept to a minimum, and when the subject is broached, like other issues dealing with Iraq, it is often minimized by this administration.

Mr. Bush's popularity is down to an all time low now in the polls, the last heard was less than 45 percent approval rating of him as President. Moreover, the rest of America is beginning to question the decisions and judgments of Mr. Bush and his administration, including his efforts for judicial and other appointments. No jubilation is going on here, as what is anticipated are more tactics to distract, twist and hide what is true from us, the American public. When forced to confront the Dowing Street Memo, Mr. Bush and his administration downplayed its importance and accuracy.

We trust our leaders will only lead us into a war if in fact absolutely necessary to protect our nation. (the issue of what business we have spreading democracy to other parts of the world is a separate issue.) Here is the question of the day: In hindsight, do you conclude that it was absolutely necessary that we invade Iraq? Has President Bush misled this nation in going to war, and has he concealed some important facts about why we went to Iraq in the first place? Do you believe there should be a congressional investigation into this issue?

Tomorrow, a light fare will be on the menu.

Thank you for your minds.

"Wake me up at 3:30 am, please"

Being an morning person, I usually get up about 5:30 am. There is something extraordinary about the early morning. Watching the pitch black sky turn gradually turn into cloudy light, and hear the quiet unfold into the symphony of sounds associated with nature is an exhilarating experience. For me, the morning is the best time of the day. This time of the morning, however, 3:30 am., has its own uniquely quiet qualities. All that can be heard is the staccato sound of the chirping crickets as they announce their presence to the world. That being said, there is something definitely strange when one is awake before the newspaper arrives.

This morning, however, my daughter, who is a junior in college, and does not live at home, has a final exam. Knowing that I am an early morning person, she asked me would I please call to wake her up at 3:30 am.Earlier this year, my daughter was ill and had to take a quarter off from college. In fact, it was uncertain that she would be able to go back so soon. Would I wake her up at 3:30 am, she wanted to know? Absolutely, in a heartbeat...in a New York minute. In fact, I would be thrilled to participate in your life in this way to help you. The phone can ring off the hook in the glorious key of A as it greats her this morning.

If there is something that this entire experience this year has taught me it is to live in the moment. To be grateful, and thank God for each and every good day. When you think of it, each one of us only has today, and if we can learn to live each day to its fullest, then this is definitely a great gift.

Enjoy this beautiful day.

Thank you for your minds.

The Power of the Jury

It is difficult for most of us, especially me, to really show jubilation or elation over the actual verdict in the Michael Jackson case. Let us not forget, that Mr. Jackson was accused of acts that involve molesting children, and allegations of giving alcohol to minors. Who among us, whether attorneys or otherwise, who are parents, do not take these allegations with some degree of seriousness. Hence, there are no parades or banners outside of my home in celebration. In point of fact, I was genuinely suprised by the jury verdict of acquittal on all ten counts.

What I can comment on, however, with some degree of jubilation, is the power of the jury to speak even in the midst of the court of public opinion, that is the powerful media and Court T.V.
Who among us does not remember how Nancy Grace and her maidens, including Diane Diamond, and the other talking heads, had Mr. Jackson convicted way before the verdict was ever read. To me, that kind of presumption of guilt is equally as heinous and barbaric as the very acts for which Mr. Jackson stood accused. How annoying it was, each and every day, to hear these women spin over and over on the results of conviction, alleviated from court remand, to wearing wigs, to prison food, to skin color and hair dye. The media spoke, but it was deflated at each and every junction. These women, who had Mr. Jackson's cell picked out, were spinning up until the verdict was read. I watched Nancy Grace as she said, 'oh the jurors are not looking at Jackson...you know what that means...The must have found him guilty. " The fact remainds, that dispite her speculation, she was just plain WRONG.

This was a jury who listened to the testimoney and did not speak from a place of personal opinions. Point of fact, this group of jurors, and the jury system, in its infinite wisdom, withstood the test of time, and were able to apply the standards that the court provided and evaluate the evidence as it was presented to them, and not evaluate the case as the media wanted it to be heard. Hurrary to the jurors!

This post is truly about celebrating the power and independence of the jury, and how it works in our criminal and civil justice systems.

Thank you for your judicious minds.

America and its Policy on Africa

Last week, President Bush ignored a plea from prime minister Tony Blair which called for a doubling of aid to Africa. Mr. Blair, along with other European leaders, believe that their nations ought to help give more aid to Africa in an effort to fight poverty and assist those dying from Aids.

According to Mr. Bush, the U.S. provides a generous amount of money already to African nations, and there is no room in the U.S. budget to assist any more. Be mindful, that we are too busy spending billions of dollars in Iraq in an attempt to 'spread democracy' to all nations. (the issue regarding whether it is our business to take on such a task is enough for a separate post)
Be that as it may, the facts are quite different. The total annual U.S. aid for all of Africa, according to the Los Angeles, is about $3 billion, which equals roughly two days of Pentagon spending.Among the leading causes of death in Frica are HIV/Aids, heart disease, poor nutrition, syphillis. Need any of us forget what happened in Rwanda?

Here is the question of the day: Should the U.S. be doubling its aid to Africa? Why are we turning our back on Africa and not on countries like Iraq? Is our failure to help Africa a means of depriving the nations of democracy that Mr. Bush feels is so necessary to assist those in the world?

Thank you for your minds.

The Meaning of Relationships

This Wednesday, June 15th., is our 25th wedding anniversary. As a coincidence, this week also celebrates the Jewish holiday of Shavout, a time which celebrates how Jews once heard God's voice at Sinai. Some more observant individuals are known to stay up all night, reading the Torah and attending service, to deepen their love and relationship with God.

Not intending to equate the personal relationships we have we God and with those of our spouses, mates or children, the onset of these two events, however, made me think a bit more about the meaning of the important relationships in my life and what they mean. Specifically, how they are grown, blossomed, or developed in ways unknown to me.When I first got married, the idea of what that relationship would be is completely different from what it is today. At the beginning, one, at least this one, wants that sense of drama, passion and flames that come with romantic love, but as we grow, change and mature, a deeper, richer sense of love is present. Of course, having children can and does change that eqasion, for the better, in my humble opinion. Today, with one child who just graduated from college, and another about to take her finals next week from college and get ready to finish up her last year, I can finally breathe with some relief. But one valuable lesson that I have learned is to be grateful for each and every day, trying to live in the present moment.

So here is the question of the day: Tell me about your important relationships, whether they be with your husband, wife, partner or significant other. What makes this person special to you today and how has your relationship deepened over the years? Is it what you thought it would be, even better, or still blossoming?

On a side note, I hope most of you have noticed the 'new face lift' that Barbara from California now has thanks to the technical wizzardy of dddrrragon! I am calling it, Astro in pezland..I absolutely love it, and it is the perfect symbol for this blog, reminding all that substance is not what it may apppear to be, and in the end, is as, if not more important than form.

Thank you for your minds.

A very special thank you!!!

Thanks to the technical wizardy of dddragon, I am now able to post a photo! The first one, will be none other than this very special creation done by her. Is this woman talented or what!!! Please have a look at the very special, and one and only photo at the profile side.

Thank you so much dddragon. Here is her blog for a list of one of a kind photos:

http://dddragon.blogspot.com/

and here is the adorable Pez:

http://www.creative-visions.com/della_images/golden_pez.jpg



P.S. How do you put the photo someplace else? I still am working on that.

Thank you for your talents.

What are you Driving At?

As many know, California is a multi-cultural land. Surrounded by trees, oceans, mountains, and many other exotic fauna, we also have many different individuals from various parts of the world. Being so close to the Mexican boarder, the area speaking Spanish, which I do fluently, is definitely a plus. In addition, in my neighborhood, I am surrounded by many Asian and Indian families as well. It is a real opportunity to see the different faces of the world.

At the last November election, one of my good friends was running for Superior Court judge. As I was campaigning for her, I noticed a petition being passed around, which somewhat surprised me. It was an attempt to get an initiative on the ballot that would restrict driver's licenses to those individuals who are here legally. I thought about this, and all its ramifications, pitfalls, and what it would mean. Children, who are driven to school by their parents, who do not have legal status, forced to go elsewhere for transportation, some people driving anyway, if it passed, without a licenses, thereby affecting the safety of those now on the road. People who pay taxes for various services now being denied the right to drive? This is a complex question. It also made me think of times when I had encountered various up scale drivers in my own neighborhood, of Asian nationality, some unable to speak the language, as I was telling them to please watch where they were going. Did they undertand what I was saying about keeping their eyes on t he road?

So here is the question for the day: Should those individuals who are here illegally be denied the right to a state driver's license? What are some factors in favor and against such meansures? Should the driver's test be in English only?

Thank you for your minds.

For the love of fragrance, music and ......

Shifting to a lighter, and sweeter gear, (no penises for the day, I promise) many of you know that I have a passion for fragrances. I used to log on to a site where we spent many a day talking about our favorite Orientals, woods, florals, foody or classic scents. Some of the women from that site come here to visit this blog, and I have continued to maintain a wonderful relationship with many of them. Before I visited that site, I had maybe two or three fragrances that I wore religiously. Now, I have bottles of them, ranging from exotic blends from Paris, to department store ones from Nordstrom. Regardless of the nature or quality of the scent, my love for fragrances is something that continues to intoxicate me. But I must say, honestly, that for today, I have enough! Actually, I have many passions, ranging from music to books to Judaism, to family, to my dog, but for this post, I will limit myself to fragrances.

Here is the question of the day and it is written with my dear friend winterwheat in mind: Tell me something that you feel passionate about? What is it that thrills you, makes your heart beat fast? What do you really love? What got you interested in this passion and do you share it with anyone else?

Thank you for your minds.

Abortion and The Right to Choose

Since there seemed to be such interest generated in yesterday's post regarding a pharmacist and h/h right to refuse to dispense birth control, I thought today would be devoted to the issue regarding women's right to choice and her body, also known as the abortion issue. I have edited this question for clarity.

Many people have strong, sometimes passionate feelings, about whether a woman should be entitled to obtain an abortion . We already have federal and state laws that are in place on the issue and many people are clearly familiar with the U.S. Supreme Court case of Roe v. Wade. This landmark case was decided in 1973 and the majority opinion was written by Justice Blackmun. The case is primarily known for deciding the issue of state involvement regarding the termination of a woman's pregnancy during the second trimester of pregnancy. Challenging access to abortion is not new, and this landmark case does not give a woman an absolute right to terminate her pregnancy nor does it give states the absolute right to make this decision at every stage, and allows women the right to make the choice during the first trimester of her pregnancy. Please read Row v. Wade for yourself to understand the significance and history of this important case. It can be found at: http://www.tourolaw.edu/patch/Roe/ (this is an abridged version. For the actual case see 410 U.S. 113 (1973).

Here is the question for the day: What is your personal opinion on a woman's right to choose whether to have an abortion? When answering these questions, please consider the following: Should a women's right to choose the stage upon which to terminate her pregnancy stay the same as set forth in Roe v. Wade ? If not, should the issue be decided by federal law or remain in place as decided by state law? Should our government have an absolute right to tell a woman that she cannot make a choice regarding the termination of her pregnancy as set forth by law?How is your opinion influenced by religion or morality, if at all?

This is a sensitive subject: Please be kind, civil and gentle in your discussion.

Thank you for your minds.

Medicine and Morality

Yesterday was such a busy work day, and one filled with family obligation, that little time was given to this blog or viewing others. It is time to stir up a bit of emotions here for today. Let me thank everyone who has visited my blog and let you know how much I appreciate all the provocative comments. Today's subject is generated by a comment from elsie from yesterday.

Recently, a growing number of pharmacists across America have refused to provide birth control pills, and in some instances, the morning after pill, to women with valid prescriptions from doctors arguing that the dispensing of such medications violates their religious and moral convictions. The issue has generated much controversial, and become heated in several states, which already have laws allowing pharmamacists to refuse to fill prescriptions for contraceptives, including birth control pills.

On the one hand, you have Arizona, where the House of Representatives recently approved legislation that would put into place a conscience clause for pharmacists who have objections to handing out birth control. On the other, in Illinois the governor filed a rule requiring pharmacists to dispense all such prescriptions immediately without question.

Here is the question of the day: Do pharmacists have a right to refuse to fill prescriptions on moral or religious grounds? Should they continue to be employed by the pharmacy? If you believe that such refusal is warranted, where do we and who draws the line for what can and cannot be filled by an individual pharmacist?

Thank you for your minds.

Nancy Grace: Guilty until proven Innocent

This morning, Katy Couric had an interview with Nancy Grace, one of the anchors of the infamous program, Court T.V. Let me just begin by stating that I do not like Ms. Grace. I feel as if her opinions and approach to our criminal justice system is dangerous, and that consequently, many viewers conclude her opinions to be one of fact rather than her own personal bias. To me, Ms. Grace does not preserve the time honored and cherished premise of guilty until proven innocent.

Ms. Grace has an agenda rather than a policy. Her fiance was murdered, which was a true shame. To heal herself, she went to law school, obtained her degree, and began working for the District Attorney where she prosecuted those in similar situations as herself. After that job, she began a co-anchor with the late Johnny Cochran and eventually acquired her own T.V. show.

Please do not be mistaken: there is nothing wrong with someone having an opinion about our justice system and acquiring an appropriate job as a channel for that opinion. But Ms. Grace does more. She has her own spot on a popular T.V. show. Operating from the premise that a criminal defendant is guilty until proven innocent, Ms. Grace does everything within her power to spin that premise and try to convince you, the T.V. viewer of a defendant's guilt. This is not only done by her voice, but she includes guests that support her own opinion. For example, Tuesday, I was watching Court T.V. She had several guests on her show spouting about what would happen to Michael Jackson while he was in jail, from his inability to wear a wig, to a special diet to visitors, etc. Mr. Jackson has not as of yet been convicted by any jury. Nevertheless, her views were vehemently contrary to Mr. Jackson receiving due process of law.
Is it not the job of each defense attorney to give his/her client the best defense possible?

Here is the question of the day: Do you believe in our criminal justice system? Do you think the media should be excluded from televising criminal trials, in progress, with unsequestered juries, i.e. juries who are not locked into a hotel with supervision or access to T.V.? Do you truly believe that everything should be done to preserve the presumption of innocence until proven guilty?

Thank you for your minds.

Supreme Court Rules that U.S. Can Ban Medical Marijuana

Yesterday, the U.S. Supreme Court, in a 6-3 decision, ruled that the federal government has the power to seize and destroy marijuana that is used as medicine by seriously ill patients. In its ruling, the Court found that federal drug laws trump state laws on the use pot for medical purposes.

Since the Constitution is the supreme law of the land, if there is a conflict between federal and state law, federal law prevails. The court specifically did not rule on whether marijuana may be appropriate medicine, but the ruling focused on whether the federal government had the power to enforce its zero tolerance policy on pot in 10 states. Suprisingly, you might find, that the 3 conservative judges on the court joined on the side of California marijuana user's to limit federal authority.

As a practical matter, since law enforcement is carried out by local officials, the marijuana laws that are in effect will continue to have practical significance.

Here is the question of the day: Do you agree with the ruling of the U.S. Supreme Court? Do you think that the question should be one of state law?

If you read closely between the lines, you can see that there may be a contradiction between the goal of some labeled as conservatives on their desire to limit governmental control in some arenas but not others.

Thank you for your minds

Seduction by Mail Order

Another light subject for the day, one in which many can identify, I am certain. For those who have stayed away from posting because some of the subjects appear to generate controversary, here is your chance to weigh in on something that perhaps affects many of us.

Yesterday, I received a package in the mail that I had ordered. While on the tred-mill, that never-ending hotbed of stimulation for thinking, I saw an informercial on a product that was guaranteed to make one's face look younger, and diminish the appearance of wrinkles. After seeing this product pumped up and advertised, I decided to call in an order. When the order was placed, I was told a couple of things about it: one, the shipping would be $12.95 for UPS, and second, that I would automatically be placed in their 'club', which entitled me to purchase the product at a discount every month. What this meant, I subsequently found out, was that my credit card would automatically be billed for $40.00 plus shipping.

The product arrived yesterday. Instead of coming by UPS, it arrived in a dinky white box by USPS, and came from the city right next to mine. "For this I paid $12.95, I was lamenting," as I scurried to call the company demanding an appropriate explanation for this mishap. To make a long story short, I was told that this was how the package was mailed, and whoever told me otherwise was mistaken. So I sat, and pondered, and informed them that I did not intend to participate in the monthly club membership to please cancel it.

Which brings me to the question of the day: how often do products seen seductive to us on T.V. or in advertisements, only to arrive and be so simple or unappealing when we see them in person? Has the marketing from television, computer, or catalogue given products, (or even people for that matter), a certain elevated sense, so that when they arrive they are disappointments to us in the end? Tell me about something you have ordered and that it was not what it purported to be for you.

Thank you for your minds.

For the love of those Pets

Today is a new day, and the sun is ready to peak from under the misty clouds.

Something light, cheerful and non-controversial, for the day, is what this blog needs. As I have read of various blogs, I have noticed that many people have a menagerie of pets that they seem to post about. The common thread holding all of these felines and fantastic mammals together is the joy and comfort that they bring to those around them.

As some of you know, I have an aging, but truly loved golden retriever, Astro. This past month, he has begun a physical decline, which has been truly apparent to me. Lately, he seems to fall down stairs, and has trouble walking, but nevertheless, he seems to always have that goofy 'smile' on his wonderful face! He is a large dog, rather like a member of the family, in fact, he could be said to be at the very top of the pecking order. We have had him since he was a puppy, and he has seen us through so many moments of our lives, including all the joys and sorrows as well. In the same vein, we have seen him through a bout of cancer in the year 2000, which resulted in half of his lower jaw being removed. He has survived, and been the most wonderful of all pets possible. Each day is a great gift with him.

The question of the day: Tell me about your pets, why you love them, and what makes them unique and important to you. If you do not have a current pet, it can be a pet from your past.

Thank you for your minds.

The Power of Fear

Fear is that one emotion that can take hold, leaving me in a state of turmoil and utter despair. It is as if I am clamoring, standing naked, exposed to all of the elements of nature, but left frozen in the warm ice, waiting for it to heat up so that it will eventually disappear and let go in one strong, forceful swoop. The power of fear is so compelling with its strength taking hold of me like a tenacious octopus, gripping all fibers of my being with all eight of her tentacles, holding on for dear life as if I were inside the very jaws of death. What keeps fear alive, strong and evasive is the human mind, it its most unquiet state resulting in the inability to stop thinking, worrying, waiting, wanting something to happen or not. Sometimes, I want to chisel away at its lining, but find that it remains there despite what efforts can be asserted. It is so much bigger than me. I keep saying, "go away, leave me alone...I don't want to worry," but find that no matter what, it is there, pressing, invading into the core of my being so that peace is unknown in any real form.

I want the fear to go away, but it will not.

Thank you for your minds.

Donald Rumsfeld as Secretary of Defense

Staying on the warpath, as my husband would say, will probably continue for me for at least a few more days.Like a true warrior, I intend to see this one through until the bitter end! Not surprisingly, today, I read in the newspaper how the White House is downplaying the abuse issues involving the Queran. Truthfully, I am not surprised, as this administration has been less than honest when it comes to taking a look at themselves and their mistakes. A key example is the role of Donald Rusmfeld as Secretary of Defense.

Despite many recent mounting concerns regarding Abu Graub, the incidents with the Koran, and the presence of the United States inside of Iraq, Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld continues to remain in office. In fact, curious is the situation, how when the Bush administration claimed that Colin Powell was leaving, because the idea of having new people in office, both Rumsfeld and Rice remained inside the Bush cabinet. As recently as yesterday, Mr. Rumsfeld made a statement challenging China on its buildup of weapons: Here is the story: http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/8091198/. Replacing diplomacy with threats and challenges, Rumsfeld continues to occupy center stage inside the Bush administration. Now, it appears as if he is challenging China which is likely to result in strained relations between the U.S. and this powerful country. The main problem, however, is that China has more than triple the number of people that we have here in the United States.

Here is the question of the day? Is Donald Rumsfeld an albatross for our country? Is his presence and antagonistic tone putting straining relations between the United States and other European nations and now China as well? Should he be forced to resign?

Thank you for your minds.

Should the Bush Administration Be Held Accountable?

It is truly the case, as my husband would say, that I am on the warpath. (no puns nor mean-spiriteness inteded here, I assue you.) Just this morning there was a confirmed report that there were in fact known abuses to the holy book, the Koran. Here is a link with the story: http://www.cbc.ca/story/world/national/2005/06/03/quran050603.html.
Admissions that this holy book was in fact being subjected to inappropriate handling and treatment.

When I look at the newspapers today, I see many innocent people being killed in Iraq. Here is an illustration of soldiers honoring those who have fallen: http://www.msn.com/.

Here is my question: Why is an investigation not being held and a call being made for the resignation of Secretary of Defense Donald Rumsfeld? The fact that this man was behind the horrors that took place in Abu Graub, and is still in office is staggering. Should he and the Bush administration at some point be held accountable? Look at the double standard and hypocrisy that takes place: Clinton, who fought over the definition of a word, and engaged in immoral conduct outside of his marriage, was impeached for lying! Here we have many lies, holy books being desecrated, many people being killed, and somehow, we are turning our backs.
Strangely, it seems to be sinful and inappropriate to lie about sex, but alright to lie about invading a country on a faulty assumption, i.e. that they were weapons of mass destruction, and to lie about horrible acts being committed against prisioners. Are our troops made up of individuals, like pawns, caught inside of a sea of lies? My own heart breaks for each of them! Where is that line that Bush so envelopes to be drawn? Is lying the type of Christan value that Bush wants us to embrace in this country?

Here is the question of the day: Should the Bush administration be held accountable in any form? Why are the leaders of this nation not calling for an investigation and possible resignation of Secretary Rumsfeld?

Thank you for your minds.

In Defense of Understanding Mental Illness

The other night, I was watching an episode of Crime Scene Investigation, aka, CSI. This particular show dealt with a murder and its investigation inside of a mental hospital. All of the individuals were male. They were depicted as criminals, and most of their offenses were serious, such as murder, rape, arson, and assault and were also shown to be violent people. As the show progressed, many play on words were used by the CSI investigators, including 'looney,' 'crazy' and many off colored jokes were also told between the lines. Much speculation was done that the crime had been done by one of the inmates. In fact, when all the evidence was gathered and put together, the murder was committed by one of the nurses assigned to that facility.

Mental illness is a condition that affects more than 2 million people. They are many forms, including serious depression, bi-polar disorder, obsessive compulsive disorder, schizophrenia and schizo-affective disorders. Most individuals who suffer from mental illness are not violent nor hospitalized. For an excellent summary of mental illness, treatment and its impact on society and the family see http://www.nami.org/.

When we see someone on the street homeless, without work or food, more often than not, this is the very best that this individual can do for him/herself. If afflicted with schizophrenia, people see delusions and hallucinate and often talk to themselves. This does not mean that they are violent or out to hurt you. More often than not, it is the result of internal stimulation inside of their brains resulting in a chemical imbalance. Rather than fear these people, I have developed a practice of lending them a compassionate hand and buying them a meal.

As you can see, mental illness is complicated, and understanding the stigma that is associated with those who are afflicted is a subject that I am very passionate about. Education is the key to understanding and acceptance.

Rule of the day: Next time you see someone sitting and talking to himself/herself, do not be afraid. Instead, be of service, and do a good deed. These gestures will mean more than you know.

Thank you for your minds.

Hillary Clinton: Is she the Compelling presidential Candidate for 2008?

Beginning rather late this morning, I noticed an interesting article in our newspaper. It was an a political and entertainment piece titled, 'Hollywood rallies for Sen. Clinton.' The article seeks to show how Hillary Clinton is a uniter, not a divider for the Democratic party in 2008. She has been known as a fighter on various issues, and is known as a woman who stands up and speaks her mind, in full articulate sentences, I might add. The first step in that fast sea of declaration of one's candidacy, stepping inside the boxing ring if you will.

I personally like Bill Clinton as a politician. I think he is a brilliant, capable man, one who would definitely be an asset as a husband to any president. More importantly, I truly believe that during his term in office, he united this country alone party lines more often than he divided it. polarization seemed to reach its peak when his moral conduct was in question, resulting not only in a true division between the parties, but also in a new way of perceiving that was set forth by the American media. While President Clinton was in office, he chose many to serve in his administration from the Republican party, a move that this president will not even consider at any time. Not only is his administration composed of all Republicans, but they are conservatives, many with the right wing agenda in place. I could go on and on, but there would be so many different subjects to address, that they are best saved for separate posts.

So here is the question: what are your opinions about Hillary the Presidential candidate in 2008? Do you think she is the best candidate for the Democratic party?

Thank you for your minds.

Blogging: What does it Mean to You?

When I first started this blog, it was mean as a vehicle to commit me to write each and every day, no matter what the subject, to exorcise those fears about sharing my words with others. For me, words are like notes are to a musician, and are means by which I can express myself in the best and most creative of all possible ways. As someone who loves to write, it has been difficult to share my thoughts and words with others. With only a few exceptions, I have kept my writing to myself for many years. Yes, I am the 'true' closet writer.

From what I have seen blogs are for many different purposes. They can be a source of information about fragrances, animals, plants, photographs and politics. Some individuals have created entire personas and developed interesting storylines from them: (a good example of this is http://www.askthepope.blogspot.com) Others have sought to personalize their blogs and set forth their own daily feelings, emotions and rants about various subjects in the world today on issues such as politics, religion, the church, or local government. Regardless of the intent, the blog is an intersting vehicle to get to know someone and his/her beliefs, thoughts and feelings.

Many of you seem to enjoy my blog when it is interactive in character and asks for your comments, feedback thought and debate on various subjects. As the never-ending thinker, I believe that this has been a wonderful forum to exchange information, gather opinions and garner some stimulating debate. To those of you who have participated regularly in this process and forum, I am humbled and grateful to you for all your comments.

Here is the question of the day: What does blogging mean to you? Do you still have the original format of your blog intact and if not, how has it changed.

Thank you for your minds.

The Presumption of Innocence

Over the past several months, there have been many real life court cases played out on television. In fact, there is even a station devoted to the programming, viewing and editing of court cases called, COURT T.V. This station is graced with interesting women as commentators, some former prosecutors, lawyers and even judges all weighing in and giving blow by blow commentary on the events of the day. Since cameras are excluded from some, not all of the trials, are televised live, and more often than not what you see is a summary of what the T.V. person whats you to hear and know via a court feed, i.e. a commentator giving bits and peaces of what transpires inside the courtroom.

Take the Michael Jackson case as an example. Regardless of your personal feelings about Mr. Jackson's guilt or innocence, how many of us are actually listening to the real evidence and applying the presumption of innocence to his case? I often hear comments by many people about what a 'nut job' he is or 'how could he have slept with those young boys,' or 'wacho jacko' some conclusions which I may share as well. But the fact remains that we have a judicial system that is in place to judge him made up of a court and in this case a jury and there is that old presumption of innocence until proven guilty that lurks in the background How could the media be seen as a responsible entity and these women fill their oaths as attorneys to be fair and impartial yet broadcast and tell the story as they want it to be. Is it not often the case that our own feelings about someone or something replace the state of the evidence as it exists in coming to a conclusion about someone's innocence or guilt?

Which brings me to the question of the day: has the presumption of guilt replaced the presumption of innocence in the American judicial system?

Thank you for your minds.

Book of the Month: A Salute to Reading

Being a voracious reader,each first of the month, I would like to include a post with your comments please regarding books that you have read, are reading or are about to read in the future. Are they any current recommendations for books that you have to share with others on line? They can be fiction, non-fiction, poetry, short-stories, anything that you like and would like to share.

I am currently reading Never Let Me Go by Kazuo Ishiguro. This book is fast reading, with a slow to develop plot about an exclusive school, Hailshram, which holds some type of secret. Words such as donor, carer, guardian and possibles are used. (this is as much as I can say without giving away the plot.) Ishiguro's is known for being a good writer whose prose speak in elegant words. This book departs a bit in style from his last one, The Remains of the Day. Since I am not finished with it yet, I will wait to comment, and let the plot unfold.

Also noteworthy are, The Execution of the Hangman of Riga by Anton Kuenzle and A Tale of Love and Darkness by Amos Oz.

I look forward to your recommendations.

Thank you for your minds.

The Penis Chronicles

The first day of June...A new beginning...A new area of discussion, the sound of birds chirping in the distance, flowers blooming. Today, I truly do intend to stay away from politics and bring you another provocative subject, I promise.

Now that I have a large male audience, I thought it would be a good idea to re-address, or undress, if you will, the subject that was so much in demand on my April 29th post, the penis.

In that post, I asked the question as to why men do not like to talk about their penises. It seems that men will talk ad infinitum about politics, hunting, fishing, score cards, sports, racing, drinking, guns, and even gay marriage, but when the subject of their penises comes up, they seem to freeze like snowmen in the cold.

So for those of you who did not have the good fortune to participate, or if you wish to re-address this subject once again I will ask, why do men not like to discuss their penises? Women will talk about their body parts at length, with each other and with other men, for that matter. Why will a man talk about homosexuality and sexuality, even 'gay marriage' without reference to talking about the penis? What is it all about, if you know?

Please be assured that this post is not intended to offend men, or women, for that matter, in any way. It is a legitimate subject of inquiry, in my opinion. I would like to hear the opinions of both men and women please on this subject.

Thank you for your minds.