National Mental Illness Awareness Week: October 2-8

Eclipsing on the heels of the High Holy days this year is the observance of Mental Illness Awareness Week, or MIAW. This event occurs annually, usually in the month of October and was created by Presidential proclamation in 1990 to focus attention on the high incidence of mental illness in America. As many know, mental illness is a cause that I am truly passionate about, and I am an active supporter. For those who want further information, please see:
www.nami.org At least one in four families are in some way touched by mental illness, one form or another. Among those conditions are bi-polar disorder, schizophrenia, obsessive compulsive disorder (excessive handwashing, checking and ritual interfering with the ability to function properly), panic disorders and depression in one form or another.

Mental illness is the result of a chemical imbalance in the brain, and categorically referred to as brain disorders. Like physical illnesses, individuals and families, when faced with these issues, need support, guidance and friendship almost every step of the way. Just as someone would call upon or visit a person who is hospitalized for diabetes or cancer, someone who has been involuntarily committed to a mental health facility needs support and visits as well.

During MIAW, millions of Americans will honor those who suffer from challenges faced by living with mental illness, and celebrate the recoveries that have been achieved by loved ones. Recovery is possible, provided that proper medication, therapy, and education are achieved.

Nevertheless, many barriers remain and community education and support are key to fighting stigma associated with mental illness. For example, labels such as 'crazy,' 'loony,' 'nuts,' or 'wacko,' often are hurtful to individuals and impact on families who must deal with someone affected with mental health issues. It is ever so important to be vigilant, as well as aware of stigma, and, in my humble opinion, necessary to do one's part to be part of the solution, not the problem that these individuals face in America today.

It is truly possible that each one of us can heal the world by doing his/her part, in understanding mental illness by reducing stigma and raising awareness. Such activities may include participating in walks, causes, and drives, and most importantly, becoming educated and aware of what goes on in treatment and recovery of those with mental health issues in our country today.

Good Shabbos.

Thank you for your minds.

A Time For Reflection

Peppered throughout my regular posts will be my own personal thoughts and reflections as I prepare myself for the Days of Awe next week, beginning with Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish New Year. At the moment, we are in the period of silichot. Selichot are a series of penitential prayers recited in preparation for Judaism's High Holidays, Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. God's "Thirteen Attributes of Mercy" are a central theme throughout the prayers. These attributes derive from God's explanation to Moses, following the sin of the Golden Calf, of His system for relating with the world.Merciful God, merciful God, powerful God, compassionate and gracious, slow to anger, and abundant in kindness and truth. Preserver of kindness for thousands of generations, forgiver of iniquity, willful sin and error, and who cleanses. We look at these elements in the process as the examination of ourselves, our relationship with others and with God is explored.

As I embark upon this solemn journey, there are some questions that I am asking myself. Where have I been selfish, dishonest, petty or unreasonable with self and with others? Am I being rigorously honest? Do I seek forgiveness with the intention of not doing something again, or is my request meaningless, knowing that I do not intend to follow through? Have I been honest and diligent with my loved ones, husband, children, family and friends? Have I lied and thought I was being honest? Are my words self-serving, said only to get what I desire out of a situation, or do I truthfully take the needs of others into consideration? Am I into self-delusion, thinking that I am so right about something, when ultimately I am so wrong? Am I sincere in t'shuvah (repentance), putting myself and needs aside and sincere in seeking forgiveness from others? From God? Am I able to see my part in my actions, or must I always turn something around, blaming someone else and not see where I have been wrong?

Are my prayers half-hearted, or empty, or rote, offered up without love or respect towards God? Are the prayers devoid of true feeling and emotion? Do I pray to honor God, or is it more about what I can get out if it for myself? Do I truly appreciate and am I grateful for all of God's blessings, or do I take them for granted, failing to be thankful for what has been so freely given to me each and every day? Have I made promises to God and broken them, because I was too absorbed in myself, failing to honor Him and others in the process? When I hear the sound of the shofar, will it awaken in me a desire towards t'shuvah (repentance), tzedakah (charity) and tefillah (prayers) and will my promises be sincere or empty? Will I be able to love others who do not think like me, act like me, or do as I desire them to do? Can I truly tolerate and respect differences in others?

During these days of reflection, these are some of the questions I am asking myself, before the beginning of Rosh Hashanah next Monday night at sundown. This process takes honestly, and strength, and courage to admit wrongdoing, and to be able to make firm, lasting commitments for the year to come.

May I be given the tools and strength to be honest and forthcoming in these days to come.

Thank you for your minds.

FEMA and the Separation of Church and State

First of all, let me say thank you to everyone for your emails and comments regarding my decision not to post. I am truly humbled by all your kind words, thoughts, and deeds. Thank you! Most people do not want me to stop posting, and have asked if I would please re-consider my all or nothing decision. Especially appreciated are the comments about how this blog brings others together, through thought and discussion, which warms my heart. After reflection, and based upon your comments, it seems as if perhaps a middle ground can be reached with myself, and therefore, I will continue to post, but limit them to once or twice per week if possible. As a result, I can continue posting and reading all of your blogs and comments as well, which are truly enjoyable to me.

While on the tread-mill this morning, I was watching an interesting piece on Good Morning America about the role of FEMA in working with local church groups during the hurricane relief time of Katrina. What materialized is that FEMA is now reimbursing these groups and churches for funds that were provided to house, feed and shelter those who were displaced by the hurricane. Some groups are opposed to this reimbursement, on the grounds that it interferes with the prohibition against church and state, and that by using tax payer dollars to fund these groups, there is a violation of the First Amendment. The argument is that those people who are at the churches, many non-believers among them, are being forced, while in a vulnerable situation, to hear quotes from the Bible and there is a interference with freedom of religion.
Moreover, those opposed to the reimbursement claim that dollars are used to buy Bibles and pay for religious items.

Here is the question of the day: Do you believe that it is a violation of the First Amendment, requiring the separation of church from state when taxpayer dollars are used to help local churches fund and house those individuals affected by the hurricane?

Thank you for your minds.

A Moving Tribute from Liquid Plastic

While looking at the blog's of others, I found the most beautiful tribute in words of poetry from a fellow blogger: http://liquidplastic.blogspot.com/

Women on the Verge of Thinking (Acrostic)
Woman using word-blades
Opening vortexes of the
Mind, swimming in raw
Energy, creating defined
Nucleuses … quietly
Organizing the intellect
Nudging the birth of new
Thoughts; human diversitiesHammered out,
hidden ideas
Everted, and an individual
Voice sings orthodox tunes
Emerging to satisfy one
Rites of passage -- the
Gray areas before light’s
Evolution from darkness
Opening mental probabilities
Forging new friendships
Transmuting differences
Hungering for ideas that
Incorporate the old with the
New, without compromising
Kinships, culture, or spirituality
Intellectual understanding
Nestled in the arms of a
God that has blessed her

These beautiful words have brought me to tears, and I am so humbled. I truly do believe, each and every day that God has blessed me. Thank you so, so much!

Thank you for your mind.

Written on the Body

In my post below, An Inventory of the Soul, it is discussed how some of us search within ourselves, examining and evaluating our conduct and thoughts like a molecular scientist with a new instrument for exploration. In some ways, the entire process of examination is a daunting one, and all of the words that were used to formulate our thoughts and showcase our good deeds are imprinted on the body, laid out for exploration, as if the illuminated on an exterior canvas, disclosing all that is possible for one to see.

This process can indeed be difficult, requiring courage, strength, and conviction as self-examination begins to surface to tame the turbulance and quiet the soul. For me, at times, it seems as if I am going so deep inside myself that I am vanishing completely. This is the type of footwork that is necessary, at least for me, during this time of the year as a honest evaluation of the self is being made.

As this process is evolving, it seems as if there will be little time for blogging, at least for now. With these words, it means that I will be suspending my blogging for an indefinite period of time, I am sorry to say.

Let me say thank you to everyone who has come to my blog, for your words, your thoughts, your comforts, your smiles, and most significantly, your minds. You have all lit up my mind, in your own unique and delightful way.

May you all be well, finding peace in your hearts and souls.

May God bless you and may you be inscribed for a sweet year of good health and prosperity.

Thank you for your minds.

The Book of Laughter

Surely it is the case that most of you who read this blog have come to the conclusion that I am a deep, serious thinker. As such, asking questions is part and parcel of my normal way of thinking. Too much thinking, however, is not always what is best for one's mind and soul, and at times, it can even consume us in unhealthy, unproductive ways.

A new fact about me, and one that has not been dealt with too much on this blog, is my love of humor and laughter. Laughter can most definitely be the best medicine for us as we make our way through life. For example, I absolutely love slap-stick humor, and will confess that Curly, from the Three Stooges is one of my most all time favorite comedians who has ever lived. As a child, I can remember running home from school as fast as possible so I could watch him on television, blazing with his own unique brand of knuckle-head humor, which, at times, was so outrageous, so out of the ordinary, that he left me in a state of stitches . Today, my humor is a bit more refined, although according to those who know me, they may not completely agree about this, but I could Larry David from Curb Your Enthusiasm and Bill Maher to be among my absolute favorites.

Here is the question of the day: Who are your favorite comedian's and what about them makes you laugh out loud?

Thank you for your minds.

An Inventory of the Soul

Many who participate in twelve-step programs are familiar with the notion of conducting an inventory of oneself, a searching and fearless moral landscape of who we are and what we would like to be. During this time of year, Jews do the very same type of searching as they navigate their souls in the month of Elul, the one proceeding Rosh Hashanah and Yom Kippur. Deeply embedded in our tradition is an invitation, to think in vivid detail and with rigorous honesty about ourselves. Point of fact, we are encouraged to devote these days to cheshbon ha'nefesh, a truly beautiful and spiritual concept translating as an inventory of the soul. We evaluate who we are, how we think and behave towards ourselves, others and God, as we seek to make improvements. The focus is on ourselves, and as an inventory, we are asked to look at our part in the matter. Where have I been selfish, dishonest, or where can I make improvements. We do not blame the other person, nor become defensive, especially if our inventory is honest and forthright.

Looking deeply without ourselves, takes courage, strength and a certain type of conviction that we are willing to see ourselves honestly, for who we are, and the light can shine within, on the person we would like to become, as we turn towards God, towards others, and towards ourselves. Ultimately, we are asked to make changes, with our words and our behavior, and as a result, some relationships may be made stronger, and others may crumble during the process. Nevertheless, we look at ourselves, honestly, and sitting in the role of both judge and jury as we bring about a recipe for change and growth.

Thank you for your minds.

Living Life One Day at A Time

An emotional day, filled with tears was how today can best be described. My son, who has been home from college for two months, decided to go to Hawaii to seek employment, live with a friend from college and find out how he wants to live his life. He just left an hour ago, and when I hugged him to leave, the realization hit me that it may in fact be a long while before we see one another again. Needless to say, a floodgate of tears were dripping on the floor before my very eyes. My daughter, yesterday, decided that we need to speak less, and wants to put some distance between us so she can have her space. There goes that 'empty nest once again. To top matters off, my dog, Astro is hobbeling around and falling down, and my car hit 100,000 miles.

All of these activities, when looked at by me, with the proper vision, do not deserve tears of sorrow, but truthfully are a celebration for tears of joy. When we life one day at a time, appreciate each and every moment for what it has to offer us, rather than what we think should be, it is amazing how the joys of living can unfold before one's very eyes. For example, after this flood of tears, I can now see that my son's journey is an exciting one, as he tries to figure out what he wants to do, and how he sees himself inside an often difficult world. Instead of feeling offended by my daughter's wanting her distance, I am now thinking how wonderful that she can be honest with me about needing her space, and see this as a time for her own growth and development as a person. Now, my husband and I have more time together, for ourselves once again. And Astro, well, he is still alive, and I have the benefit of enjoying him for one more glorious day. How omnious is that? As far as the car hitting 100,000 miles today, this is such a good car, it has lasted me for 5 years, with 100,000 miles and has not needed any repairs other than the scheduled maintenances.

Truthfully, an attitude of gratitude is in order for all of these great gifts that are here for me for today.

Thank you for your minds.

'My Name is George B. and I'm an Alcoholic..."

Much speculation has been made over the past couple of weeks about Bush and his return to drinking. Bush, an admitted alcoholic, without a program of recovery, appears to be drinking once again, at least according to a recent story in the National Enquirer.
http://www.nationalenquirer.com/celebrity/63426 Inside the magazine, available at markets, is a picture of Bush holding a glass of alcohol in his hand. The story reports that his wife, Laura, is also worried about his drinking. Although I do not place much credibility in this newspaper as a source of truth, when I look at Bush and how he behaves, he embraces the classic personality of a typical alcoholic without a program if recovery.

For example, he makes statements, such as 'you are either with us, or with the terrorists.' Another classic symptom of the disease working in his mind is his ability to want to do something his way or no way. His need to divide people, and pit them one against the other is another classic symptom of the disease. His rigidity, inflexibility, dogma and self-centerdness embrace many of his beliefs and are expressive in his behavior at large, more typical symptoms of alcoholism.

Alcoholism is a disease effecting many men and women who have found a common solution to recovery. If Mr. Bush is indeed drinking once again, I have a message for him, truly one from the heart. There is a solution George B., and it can be found within the program of Alcoholics Anonymous, where the only requirement to recover is an honest desire to stop drinking. You can buy yourself a Big Book, go to meetings to receive support, work the steps and get a sponsor. You will find a new life beyond your wildest dreams!

Be mindful, that my observations are not in any way to jab at Bush if in fact he has sadly returned to drinking again, but it is truly the case that he exhibits classic symptons of an alcoholic without a program, or a 'dry drunk.' If it is the case that Bush has begun to drink once again, I am deeply sorry, offer a moment of silence for him, and it is my fervent wish that he gets himself into a program to help him recover from this seemely hopeless state of mind and body, so that he can live a life full of joy and serenity.


Thank you for your minds.

John Roberts: The Senate Backing

In the mist of evacuations along the Texas coast, and the pounding of hurricane Rita, John Roberts was backed 13-5 in the senate for as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. Republicans were unanamious in affirming him, five Democrats voted no, but five crossed party lines and voted to back his nomination. His confirmation is all but a certainty.

When Clinton was in the White House, he made it his business to cross party lines and appoint a few Republicans to his Cabinet. Bush has only appointed one to my knowledge. The lunchons that the Senate and House have after hearings are known to be divided up along party lines, with Democrats believing that they are meant to feel unwelcome. Here we have Democrats crossing party lines, whereas not one Republican would dare to do so, and vote in favor of the confirmation. Why is it that the Republicans believe that it is the Democrats who are inflexible, rigid and adversarial where history has demonstrated, especially during these past five years that it is the Republicans who are in fact affraid to cross party lines in any way, shape or form?

What, if anything are your feelings on this issue?

Thank you for your minds.

Simon Wiesenthal

Today, the voice and conscious of the Holocaust, Simon Weisenthal will be laid to rest in Israel.
He was a remarkable human being, with such strength and courage, that he will be truly missed.

In his own words:

When my life is over and I meet up with the victims of the Holocaust, I shall have the privilege of saying to them, I have never forgotten you" – Simon Wiesenthal

May God Bless his soul.

Thank you for your minds.

Good Shabbos and have a good weekend.

The Answer Is Blowing in the Wind

Who among us is not aware of everything that has gone on this year? Just look at today alone. We have seen New Orleans destroyed by a category 4 hurricane, with countless people, still today, left homeless, jobless, and in some cases separated from their children. Earlier on, we have learned of another hurricane, Rita, considered to be the third deadless in history develop stamina as it was upgraded to a category 5 storm, threatening to claim the coast along Galveston, Texas and the surrounding areas. Two separate hurricanes, with horrific consequences, considered the second and third worse in history occurring less than a month apart? What does it all mean? There was a Jet Blue plane which left from Burbank, California that had problems with its landing gear, having to make an emergency landing, with, thankfully a happy ending, bringing the plane down to safety with no one injured. What is going on inside the world that all of these events are colliding together as if on a collision course to disaster? Can we even begin to explain or understand the unexplainable?

On a personal note, I know when it seems as if things are falling apart, it truly helps to look at what we have inside our own lives that make us grateful. Today, was a reminder that I need to look at all of life's blessings, when feeling a sense of helplessness. My husband, my children, my dog, Astro, who is still alive, my friends, and all the gifts, too many of which I can mention, that seem to constitute the porous thread holding all of our lives together.

Life is so fragile. We can see it here before our eyes, and forget how precious it, and everything else around us truly are. In times of pain and sorrow, let us be mindful of who we are and what we have to offer the world, and thank God, for each and every one of them.

On a side note, tonight I am off to see the opening of a Shakespeare play, King John. It is part of the new mission to reclaim my life again. Our son leaves Saturday night for Hawaii, to begin a new chapter in his life, which, of course brings about a new change to contend with in the moment.

Hurricane Rita, now updated to a category 5 hurricane, blowing at 175 m.p.h. is extremely strong, with potentially cathostrophic impact. All good thoughts are with everyone in Galveston, Houston and Corpus Christi, including those already hit by Katrina.

Good Shabbos and have a good weekend.

Thank you for your minds.

The Chabad Telethon (Sunday, September 25, 2005)

Every year, I volunteer and help out at the annual Chabad telethon. For those who do not know, Chabad is an organization, made up of relgious Jews, who have a successsful outreach programs all over the world. What this means, is that if a Jew lives in a remote place in China, away from family and/or friends, Chabad will welcome him/her to come and participate in a high holiday or Passover service. Once there was a boy in Alaska who wanted a bar mitzvah, and there were no synagogues in the area, and Chabad, made sure that a rabbi was available so that the young man could receive his bar-mitzvah. Additionally, Chabad has a successful drug and alcohol outreach live-in program in Los Angeles, with a very high level of success. These people who run the organization put it long, hard hours to make their programs work.

The telethon is not just a fund-raiser, but a source of lively and colorful entertainment, with many guest artists who appear, and this year, Governor Schwartenegger will make a showing as well. Personally, I am mezmorized by the singing, the dancing and the entire environment, and this year, if I am able, I will work a double shift. Chabad also has a special program set up for victims of Katrina, and has been working to help with efforts as well. My friend jokes with me and she says, how can you watch this for 4 hours. Easy, as it is a part of the old, familiar and comfortable culture of my grandparents, which brings light to my eyes.

Here is the website: http://www.tolife.com/index.php

One can watch a life internet telecast this Sunday from 3-midnight, or see it broadcasted from various stations throughout Los Angeles, New Jersey and New York.

Watch, donate, or simply be a part of this one of a kind event, a true gift from the heart.

On a side note, many good thoughts and blessings to those in the path or eye of huricane Rita.

Thank you for your minds.

Simon Wiesenthal 1908-2005

Today maked the passing of a truly extraordinary man, who lived to the long age of 96, and was known as the 'consciousness of the Holocaust.' Born into a well-off Jewish family in 1908, Mr. Weisenthal survived the horrors of the Holocaust, was a witness to the murder of many family members and friends, and saw the de-humanization of Jews under Nazi power. Mr. Wiesenthal was a survivor of the rarest breed, dedicating his life and legacy to those Jews who were exterminated, and was responsible for locating Eichmann in Argentina and bringing him to trial in Israel. For a story on Mr. Weisenthal,
please see: http://euronews.net/create_html.php?page=detail_info&article=309912&lng=1

May his blessed memory be remembered, and may God bless his soul.

Thank you for your minds.

I Wish I May, I Wish I Might

Most of us find ourselves dreaming in one form or another. We may be seduced by an accomplishment of some personal goal, dream, or wish, or our desires may in fact speak to a larger forum for something to occur in the world. Others, may dream in metaphors embracing the spiritual and/or religious elements of the world as like whirling dervishes from an old but familiar kabbalistic tale. Be that as it may, we all have dreams in one form or another.

This morning, our city was greeted with the most amazing lighting show and warm rain showers accompanied by loud thunder that we have experienced in a long time. While laying in bed, deciding whether to enjoy what I was hearing and seeing as the light was making its way into the world, I was thinking about dreams, what I would like to do or see happen during my own life time.

Here is what I came up with for the moment:

(1) Visit Israel and see peace there.

(2) Have grandchildren

(3) Publish a novel

(4) Conduct a symphony orchestra

(5) See a cure for cancer and aids.

Tell me about 5 things that you would like to do or see accomplished during your lifetime.

Have a good day.

Thank you for your minds.

Women and Men on the Verge of Meeting Deadlines

Some people love to push the envelope and wait until the very last second to turn in a paper, for school, or meet a work deadline. Personally, I like to work ahead of schedule as working up to the last moment is mind boggeling and anxiety producing for me. As I have blogged, I have been working diligenty to turn in a brief. It makes me feel edgy, frustrated, and a bit off balance working close to a deadline. This current project leaves me with a very small window of time to meet the deadline and have the document postmarked for mailing. The reason being was that part of the brief had to be re-written, and while waiting for someone else's comments, the deadline was literally hitting close to the last minute. The document must be written, with table of contents, table of authorities and printed and bound, with a Wednesday postmark at the latest.

As if working on parallel course, my daughter has a paper due today, which will bring an end to her summer school quarter. God willing, it will be turned in on time, she can rest, and get ready to start fall quarter next week. Her paper is due in less than an hour, and she is literally fighting the race to finish it. Since she always works like this, it is nothing unusual for her to go down to the last second before it is finished, and she runs to turn it in, but in the process, my teeth are clinched double today, having to deal with her deadline and mine as well.

Are you someone who finishes projects or work ahead of time or do you wait until the last minute? If the later, why do you cut time so close to the edge? Does it make you work better, and more efficiently in the end?

An update: We both finished our projects, and tomorrow, the mailing will be done! My newest resolution is to continue navigating and rediscovering myself through books, music and art before the next deadline looms larger than life once again.

Thank you for your minds.

What is the Meaning of a Balanced Life?

As some of you have read in the post preceding this one, a nagging philosophical question has descended upon me where I ask, about the direction in which my life goes. Many good comments below, and I can identify with so many of them. It seems Jean-Luc Picard, http://jlpicard.blogspot.com/ says it well when he concludes, that we cannot let blogging drain us from the joys of life. To me, as I have written before, blogging should be an expression of one's life, and not one's life itself.

With my own words in mind, I have sought to begin living a more balanced life once again. What does that mean? For me, it involves participation in activities that are joyful. For example, there is an amazing collection at the Skirball Cultural Center, of the art of Jewish German artist Libermann, whose impressionist paintings in the 1920s were considered to be some of the very best that existed in Germany at that time. (see http://www.skirball.org/index.asp?s=exhibit&a=liebermann.) We went to see his exhibit and it was powerful and alluring as well. Before it began, we ate lunch in the patio of the museum, and were entertained by a flemenco dancer and a guitar group. A very good day indeed. Today, we go to a housewarming and then plan to go to hear a lecture by the author Salman Rushdie, who will speak on his new book, Shalimar the Clown. As an added bonus, yesterday, I received a wonderful CD I ordered by Moshe Shulman singing cantorial music for the High Holidays.

All of these activities, made me patiently aware that balance has been missing from my life these days. When looking at my own profile, it seems as if a reminder must be had regarding the nature of my own interests in music, art and culture, as they seem to have disappeared down a slippery slope over the past few months.

What is the meaning of a balanced life to you? How do you strive to attain it in the best of all possible ways?

Enjoy your day. My blogging over the week may be hit and miss due to a busy work schedule, and life adjustment plan.

Thank you for your minds.

Confessions of the Quintessential Nerd: Where Did My Life Go, Anyway?

Most of us, when asked, would come to the conclusion that blogging can add meaning to one's life. As an exercise in reading, and writing, it is fun, and allows us to reach across the continent to connect with people whom we do not know, but may share our interests in a variety of subjects. Be that as it may, although blogging can be enriching, it may also be a drain of one's own time and resources, leaving one to wonder, and ask the proverbial question, where did my life go anyway?

At least this was the situation I found myself in this Friday morning. Working from home has its advantages, and one is the ability to set one's own schedule as he/she desires. Deciding that I would not turn on my computer until mid-afternoon, forced withdrawal, by the way, I would do those things that used to be done, which have been neglected recently. What does that mean? I cleaned by entire house, floors included, went to the library and got an esoteric book by Umberto Eco On Literature and pursued my massive CD collection and decided it was a fit day to hear L'Historie de Soldat, (a soldiers tale) by Igor Stravinsky, a piece that is narrated based upon a folk tale and tells the story of a man who sells his violin to the devil, causing him to fall under a diabolic spell and be lured down to hell. To be completely candid, these types of activities were commonplace for me, prior to the discovery of blogging. Yes, that terribly intellectual, rather nerdy life I used to lead seemed to slip away from me rather suddenly.

Since it is Friday, I am cooking for tonight, and the cholent is being heated, and the potato kugel is in the oven, and I am finishing up with the Stravinsky, and have decided as an encore to hear Bruckner's Symphony No. 7.

Where did my life go? Well, I suppose it has been here always, but somehow, it has been hiding behind some illuminated computer screen, disabled for the time being. Time to pick it up, put it back together and see what it all means.

Good Shabbos and have a good weekend.

Thank you for your minds.

ROE V. WADE

Throughout the Senate confirmation hearings of John Roberts, much interest has been spent on whether Mr. Roberts would vote to overturn Roe v. Wade. Decide in 1973, this case deals with the condtions under which a woman can terminate her pregnancy. If you would like to read this case, http://caselaw.lp.findlaw.com/scripts/getcase.pl?court=US&vol=410&invol=113.

A woman's right to terminate her pregnancy is not absolute as set forth in this landmark decision. There are indeed state restrictions that are in place. What puzzles me, I guess, and when I hear senators being interviewed, and those who claim that they want this case overturned, the one question not asked nor answered is why.

So here is my question of the day: Do you think that the law set forth in Roe v. Wade should remain? If not, why not? Do you believe that if a woman becomes pregnant, and decides not to keep a child that she should have the right to choose to terminate her pregnancy, even if you would not do so yourself? What if you, or your daughter or grandaughter became pregnant by rape or incest, should she have a right to terminate her pregnancy? If Roe v. Wade were overturned, how would you feel knowing that an unwanted baby was brought into the world, and would likely be a burden on our foster care and state systems? Would you want to see yourself going to an unlicensed doctor to terminate your pregnancy, exposing yourself to risk of injury or illness, as existed in a time before a woman had a right to chose, come back into play? What would you do?

Please post freely whether you believe this case should remain or be overturned. I am intersted in what people have to say on these questions raised.

This post will stay up for through the weekend.

EDITED: I have been asked to do a comparision study: How many who are not in agreement with a woman's right to terminate her pregnancy, as prescribed by state law, are in agreement with executions of murderers or for that matter putting military women and men in battle, often resulting in death, for the purpose of war?

Good Shabbos. Have a good weekend.

Thank you for your minds.

Sailing through the Winds of Change :An Attitude of Gratitude

For the past few days, I have not quiet been my unusual self. Plagued by the failing health of Astro, and the departure of my son to live in Hawaii next week for an indefinite period of time, it seems as if the relationships around me are beginning to change. Although many of us accept that life changes, and not necessarily according to our own plans, some of us are categorically opposed to change, and many do not like it at all. For me, intellectually, I know that change is a part of life, that it can be an opportunity to grow and blossom, but over these past few days, those messages are difficult to see or hear. So this morning, as I lingered in bed for almost 45 minutes before my feet hit the floor, which is completely unusual, I asked myself, what, if anything can I do to bring about a better understanding of what is going on around me? Is it an issue of attitude or perception?

Immediately, when I went downstairs, the golden blonde fur of Astro was shining through the window as he was sitting erect waiting for me to come down. Although blind now, he can feel my presence, and instead of speaking to him in that rather down, solemn voice I have been using over the past few days, interrupted by moments of tears, I began to use that high pitched voice, seeing him as my puppy again, speaking in the past tense, and went towards him. Immediately, he perked up, stood up, with difficultly, and followed me inside the house. I made him breakfast, took it to him and watched as he ate it all, followed my praised from me. When I went to get the newspaper outside, I left the front door opened, and lo and behold, Astro had followed me outside to the front lawn! Astonished, I let him go, roll around the grass until he was ready to come inside once again. Hobbling slowly, he finally made his way inside, but it became clear to me, that my attitude this morning had everything to do with how I perceived him and what I was willing to accept in him over these few days. My friend Scott W. Reminds us each and every day, on his blog, that we need to have an attitude of gratitude. Sometimes, when we get to consumed with all the 'stuff' of daily life, we or I forget that there is so much to be grateful for, that our attitude can change, inspire and pierce the hearts and souls of everyone and everything around us in one way or another.

Today, I am reminded of a quote from Elie Wisel: "Hope is like peace..It is not a gift from God, but a gift that we can give to one another."

Thank you for your minds.

Governmental Intrusions: Do we Want Less or More?

As I am watching the senate confirmation hearings for John Roberts, there is no doubt in my mind that he will be confirmed. Armed with an impressive resume and good legal mind, he seems to be quite fit for this job, at least on the surface. Moreover, I do not assume that he will be anything other than a conservative, since he was selected by Bush, and that he will echo many of his ideas when he rules on cases as well. Whether he will be an ideologue or truly look at cases on a case by case basis is to be seen. Political factions are lining up, as one watches the Republicans all take to the lectern on one side, and the Democrats on the other. Political division is sadly a fact of life in today's America.

All of us rely on our local, state and federal government, to a large extent and not all governmental regulation is intrusive. For example, most people would agree that it is prudent to send children to school, to fight against crime, regulate corporations, etc. Governmental intrusion and regulation to a large degree make for a smooth, non-archaic society. But when does government go too far, and under what circumstances?

I am too sad to write about my Astro, so here is the question of the day: Do you believe in more government or less government intrusion? Do you think the government, at both the state and federal levels should involve themselves in privacy issues as they pertain to individuals? For example, the right to chose, the right to marry, the right to die, the right to live? When and under what circumstances is governmental intrusion necessary? When do they go too far?
Do you think we have too much or not enough government intrusion in our laws today?

Thank you for your minds.

Chronicles of a Death Foretold

One of my favorite books by the great Nobel Prize for literature author, Gabriel Garcia Marquez, is titled, Chronicles of a Death Foretold. This slender paperback tells the story of a dead man walking, whose death is revisited 27 years later.

As many of you know, my beloved golden retriever, Astro, has not been doing too well. Since he was seven and diagnosed with cancer, I have been foretelling his death, in some way or another, but must confess that the reality of him dying was something that did not actually penetrate. Today, he keeps falling down more and more, and is unable to walk, as he seems to be in pain each and every day now. Putting him to sleep is an issue that I am facing, and it is very painful to me. In fact, most of today, I have spend lamenting about how the reality of the end of his life is truly here, right before my eyes now, and that at most, he may only have a week or two left. After many hours of tears, and trying to pick him up, and see him in a state of discomfort, the idea of him continuing to suffer is breaking my heart. I told myself that he would not be kept alive so that I could be comfortable, which will never be, so his best interests must be front and center for now.

Even today, when he saw me crying (my husband says hystrercal crying was more like it), he still tried to lick my face, and give me comfort, as if he wanted to say, 'don't worry, let us enjoy our last moments together, for as long as they last.'

So for the few days, or until that moment comes when he must be taken to the vet, I am going to celebrate Astro's life, enjoy every moment, and write about him, what he has meant to me, how and in what manner he has enlightened my spirit and my soul, with his sloppy slobbers, and his goofy smile. He has been a true friend here always, through thick and thin, not judging nor condemning, but accepting with unconditional love always.

Therefore, let me begin, if I am able, and tell the story about my Astro.....

Thank you for your minds.

Back to the Future: The State of the U.S. Supreme Court

Some of us found ourselves glued to the cases of Scott Peterson, Michael Jackson and even the murder trial of Robert Blake. Sensational cases are indeed entertaining, and can be a source of stimulation for those around us. To me, however, the future of the U.S. Supreme Court system and its leadership is much more pressing, as it will affect me, my children and possibly grandchildren and their individual rights. That being said, I am currently glued to the confirmation hearings of John Roberts.

Over the years, under the leadership of William Rehnquist, we saw individual rights being chiseled away at year after year, especially as the composition of the Court changed and the impact this had on the interpretations given to the Constitution in general. The rule of law, as it will exist, and be interpreted, is significant. Most of us are worried about Roe v. Wade and the manner in which it may affect the right to privacy in terms of a women's right to choose in the future. I know, if the need were to present itsekf, I would not want to see women, nor my daughters nor their daughters have to risk their health to secure an abortion in an illegal manner if that were to be the case, thereby putting their lives in danger. What about Brown v. Board of Education, where the Court specifically ruled against segregation of individuals. Who is to say that those rights may not once again be affected, and individuals who have a different religion or race rights will not be told that they can and will be treated differently based upon who they are (black, Jew, Asian) rather than being an individual in America today.

As I watch these hearings, I ponder on what the future of our Court system will be, how individual rights will be defined and protected within the meaning of the law, as they affect me, my children, and their children in the future. Already, the media is spinning the meaning of the who is 'winning' and who has the match point, as if this were some type of game, with a right way to speak and a wrong way, polarizing people as our media frequently does these days. Are we going to have a Justice who is a ideologue or one who choses to interpret the Constitution, on a case by case basis? Do we want to go backwards? Is this in fact a possibility given the nature of the country and the direction where we are headed?

Thank you for your minds.

Divided We Stand, Divided We Fall

Experiencing some insomnia, I decided to write about a subject that has caught my attention recently. Over the past several weeks, it has become quite clear to me, especially in blogsville, that many people are divided politically. Some divisions are along ideological lines, with morality as a core component of the differences. Others, prefer to be divided politically, with barbs thrown and lashes had if an opinion is expressed contrary to one's own. The result may be unflattering name calling, such as that dumb conservative, or loonie liberal, the later being a particularly distasteful label, and one which stigmatize those who suffer from mental illness. Be that as it may, this country seems to be becoming more and more divided by the day, which, frankly, breaks my heart.

My personal disatisfaction with Bush and this administration will come as a suprise to nobody, and it has been a topic looming large in my own blog in one form or another. I have hoped, and even prayed, for a more compromising President, one who would not view the world in rigid terms, such as my way or the highway, but this is not to be had during the Presidency, I see. Not present are diplomacy with other countries around the world, along with a lack of compassion or understanding for the common, non-corporate, man and woman in America today. I accept him for who he is and the way he leads this country, but I do not agree with it nor like it. Make no mistake, I love my country, and to conclude otherwise, and label me a 'loonie liberal' is insulting and patently false. This is my country too, and it pains me to see the direction in which it is headed.

The recent horrors of Katrina, with the ravages of earth, wind and fire have created a division in our nation even more, along class, race and ethnic lines. Some gross generalizations are established as a result, with some people pointing the ever long finger at the federal government, or conversly chastising local officials and state government. Regardless, of the 'name and blame game,' there is a clear division of opinion, regardless of fault, which is usually accorded to one group or the other. There is little, if any middle ground that exists anymore, and division appears to be along extreme lines pitting one group in dramatic opposition to the other.

Here is the question of the day: Do you believe that the country is becoming even more divided in light of the Katrina disaster? If so, what, if anything can be done, to unite the people of this nation once more? Will divisions among us ultimately cause our down-fall, like a civil war, between 'red' vs. 'blue' or are they needed to achieve some type of necessary balance?

Thank you for your minds.

MEME TAGGED By Turtleheart Cove & Regreg23

I have been graciously tagged by:http://turtleheartcove.blogspot.com/.
Let me thank you for tagging me. This type of MEME is very personal, and meaningful to me.

1. Why do you choose the religion you embrace?

As many of you know, I am a Jew by birth (my mother is Jewish, which makes me a Jew, and my father was a Jew as well, a Kohan, which makes me a bat Kohan, literally translated as a daughter of a Kohan, or the High Preist in Judaism.) I did not choose to be a Jew, but was born one. Neither of my parents were very religious, but all of my grandparents were extremely relgious, or as you might have heard called, frum Jews. I feel a sense of responsibility and duty to Jews all over the world, and consider it my obligation to practice Judaism and pass it down to my children as I have. My husband is a Jew as well, although he is not relgious at all. Both of my children consider themselves Jews as well. I love being a Jew, and find it rich in tradition, culture and symbolism. I could not have chosen a better religion for myself, and am very proud of it. Dispite years of persecution, and discrimination, we are here, to experieince and thrive in 2005.

.2. How religious are you? How often do you practice your religion?

How religious am I is probably a relative term. For those frum, or very observant Jews, they would probably not consider me very religious at all, since I do not obey all of the dietary laws, nor practice all of the prohibitions and commandments. I am definitely more than a 3 day a year Jew, which means that I honor my religion on days other than Rosh Hashana and Yom Kipper. I light candles every Friday night, and do not leave my home, and make Shabbath dinner, and keep the Shabbath as holy as possible for me. I do turn on the computer, drive, and participate in other activities, that many religious Jews would frown upon, but this is who I am, and I am proud of it. I also celebrate some other major holidays, and am observant of them as well.

3.Why is this religion the right one for you?

Since I was born a Jew, it is necessarily the right religion for me. The more I have studied Jewish texts and books, the more convinced I am that this is the religion that is completely right for me. I have a very deep belief in God, as well. Sometimes, the idea of God as punishing or fearing is difficult for me to handle, but I do completely agree with the idea that if I love God,then He will protect me.

4. How does the practice of this religion improve your life or what benefit do you recieve from its practice?

Being a Jew gives meaning and value to my life. It centers me, and puts me into contact with others who practice this relgion as well. I pray every day, which makes me feel even more connected.More often than not, I feel an immediate connection with most other Jews. (there are some exceptions, but few rather than more.) There are some Jews who are religious who may seem to be aloof, not talking to other Jews who are less observant then themselves. This has always bothered me, and in the end, I believe that if we cannot find some type of unity among us, then the likelihood of our religion continuing into the furture (maybe for the next 500 years or beyond) is not something that will likely happen, and if it does, there will not be many of us left. Also, many Jews believe in a Messiah, or Moshiach, and one of the ways we can tell when he arrives is when there is peace in Israel, and all Jews get along.

5. Are you spiritual as well as religious? or is one more prevalent than the other?

I am a very spiritual person as well as a religious person. It is difficult for me to define what spirituality means, but I definitely believe in God (see above) and believe that God loves and protects me and my family and loved ones. I also have learned how to trust in God, especially when I am afraid, and know that I am in His good hands always.

Thank you so much turtleheart for this great MEME! It has really enlightened me~

If you want to be tagged, please let me know. Otherwise, if they are able to share, I would like to tag NormalJew, Scott W.,Scott, AP3, Oleah Chadasha, and Lucy Stern. Please copy and past the questions on your own post and answer them accordingly.

Here are the questions from regreg23:

Barbara, you've been tagged...once again! Here are my 5 questions:
1. What is your favorite book? What strikes you most about that book?

There are so many good books, it is difficult to chose one, so I will chose two: The first is The Trial by Franz Kafka. I love this book, as it can be interpreted at so many different levels, from the point of view of the fairness of the legal system, the surpession of sexuality or the drama of dream interpretation. I re-read this book every year and get something new from it. Also, Kafka was a Jew, and I took an on-line class asking us how this particular book could be considered a Jewish book. My other favorite for the shear beauty of the writing and story is The Magician of Lublin by Isaac Bashavias Singer.
2. Where does your love for the people and State of Israel come from?

My love for the State of Israel surfaced later on in life especially when I became familiar with Holocaust literature. I was made aware of how important a Jewish state was for our people, particularly after the extermination of so many Jews during that unfortunate period of time. I feel as sense of deep loyalty to Israel, and would fight for that country and state if it were necessary. I want to move there one day.

3. What do you consider your role in your community/the Jewish community to be?

I am not sure I understand this question, but I consider my role as a Jew to have a responsibility towards my people and my religion, its laws, customs, and rituals. I have raised my children to be Jews, and it is my greatest hope that they will do the same with their children.

4. In light of the current situation with Astro, would you consider the possibility that animals, in general, are kinder/more thoughtful than humans?

Interestingly, animals understand unconditional love in a way quite different from humans. They do not have the baggage and expectations of people, and are they to please us and love us always no matter what. Humans have different expectations, and come with strings often, but then again there are so many dfifferences. Astro and I have a special bond, and I have had him since he was a puppy. He is kind of like everyone rolled into one, and when his time comes, I will miss him tremendously.


5. In your opinion, would John Kerry approach the situation in Iraq differently from George W. Bush? If so, what would he do and what would you do for that matter?

This is a difficult question to answer as I am uncertain that Kerry would have gone to war with the information that Bush had available to him. KNowing that there were no WMD, I think he would have waited to see if in fact Iraq posed any type of actual threat to the United States.

Thank you Eitan for these interesting questions.

Thank you for your minds.

September 11th

We among us does not remember exactly what we were doing the moment that the planes hit the twin towers, the pentagon, and landed in a vacant field in Pennsylvania 4 years ago today?
The images from that day will remain imprinted on our minds and hearts for many years to come, and bleed with pain and sadness.

As for me, I was driving through NYC two weeks to the day, prior to the planes landing there. I had dropped my son off in Philadelphia, where he was ready to begin college that weekend. We were on our way to Queens to visit some family and then we would head back to the unversity, and I would fly back home. On that day, 9/11/04, at 5:40 am, I had was exercising on the tred mill, before the hour and a half drive to down-town where I would go to work in court. Before my eyes, I saw Charlie Gibbons and Diane Sawyer announce that an airplane had crashed into one of the Twin Towers in NYC, unknown was its cause. Within several minutes, I watched as the other plane hit the towers, a live view, and gasped, as my heart sank deep into the ground. Somehow, I knew what it had meant. That terrorism was descending upon us and our nation. Still uncertain what was happening, I got dressed, started on my way to work, and then heard that another plane had crashed into the Pentagon building. Moments later, I heard the same thing had happened in Pennsylvania, and my heart sank as I was thinking about my son, so many thousands of miles away as he was starting his new life. I drove back to my home, and my daughter was getting ready for school, with my husband, as we watched in absolute horror as our country had been invaded by terror.

Almost 4 years ago to the day, we watched as citizens of our country had been affected, like an invasion, by wind and water that caused so much destruction and devastation, reminisent of that painful day, 4 years ago.

My heart goes out to the men, women and children, and all of the families affected by both of these tragedies, and it is sincerely hoped that the wounds of war and nature can heal us, make us stronger and allow us to unite together as a country once again.

Thank you for your minds.

What if anything Can Americans Do?

As we approach the 4 year anniversary of the war against America tomorrow, 9/11, it seemed to be a time to have my own reflections on our 'state of the union address.' America, considered one of the most wealthy, prosperous and compassionate of all the nations, upon reflection, has some significant issues to tackle today, as a country. Perception of America as a great country is loosing footing both among our own citizens and from the perspective of the world at large.

Four years after our country was attacked, we have an administration having badly bungled a war and a major disaster, a budget that is unmanageable, and gas prices completely out of control. Our President is loosing the popularity contest, and his numbers are plummeting each and every day, but in the end, does it really make any difference? Faced with an unpopular President, and a rich country who presently is in terrible state, what, if anything can be done anyway?

Our political system, although containing safeguards for outsting a President, given the current state of the composition of the Senate and the House, with a Republican majority, is rather safe so that this administration can sail through without much accountability for its actions. Besides, when one looks at the divisions along party lines, and the lack of unity in this country at the present time, most Republicans, as a matter of fact, back Bush no matter what he does. Party loyalty seems to have replaced blood in the public spectrum, and is in fact thicker than water as the old saying goes. Can it truly be said that whether we like what is happening or not, we must accept it and face the music no matter where it takes us on any given day?

Here is the question of the day: Do you believe that as an American your voice can be heard today and that you can still make a difference? Do you think that anything can really be done with Bush and his administration given the current state of politics? What remedies do you think we have as Americans today? Are we any safer today than we were 4 years ago? Are we any better off as a country?

Thank you for your minds.

FEMA Director Brown Removed From Hurricane Katrina Recovery

After a rather relaxing day, away from the computer, I might add, upon coming home, I was met with the news that Michael Brown was removed from hurricane Katrina recovery efforts.:
http://www.bloomberg.com/apps/news?pid=10000103&sid=aU3u4JWIQvmA&refer=us
Apparently, he has gone back to his desk job, and Thad Allen was appointed by the head of homeland security to oversee this job for the time being. Many welcome this changing of the guard, and believe that the job that the job of maintaining those in need from the devastation from Katrina will now function without a hitch!

It is certain that heads will roll. It appears that Mr. Brown's short neck, along with his stellar face, will be served on a platter over the next few days, typical of moves in the Republican administration when something goes wrong. My guess, is like Ashcroft and Colin Powell, Mr. Brown will suddenly resign.

But is it not the case that Mr. Brown was appointed by Mr. Bush? How do we forget this gentleman, whose name escapes me now, who was first named to head Homeland Security, a policeman in NYC, and prior to his being nominated, he stepped down because he was not investigated properly, and had some skeletons inside of his own closet? Did Bush not also appoint Chernoff, the current head of Homeland Security, who must have some role in this controversy as well? Is it not truly the case that when we get right down to it, the lap where these heads should land belongs to George W. Bush himself?

Good Shabbos and have a good weekend.

Thank you for your minds.

Not My Beloved Book Collection!

In a few weeks, my son will be going to Hawaii to live for awhile. While there, he is hoping to find a job to earn him some money so he can pursue his own impossible dream to travel for several months before he looks for a serious job . As he is packing his belongings, he has decided that he wants to read and take some exotic books with him.

Many of you probably know by now that I am a voracioius reader. Books are most prized possession, and probably, I have close to 1,000 of them. My son compiled a list of his most desired books, and went into my office, which many would conclude looks like a small library. Before long, I saw many of most beloved books in his arms, stacked on upon the other. In his arms lurked the collection I had built over the past few decades, including the works of Nabikov, Calvino, Garcia Marquez, Bashevis Singer, Borges, e.e. cummings, and Mario Vargas Losa! 'Do you have Portnoy's Complaint,' he asked, by Phillip Roth? 'What about Crime and Punishment by Dostoevsky, and The Unbearable Lightness of Being by Milan Kundara?' Rather startled, I said, 'do you know it has taken me most of my life to collect these works? They are a part of me?' He responded, 'well have you read them?' When I said yes, of course, his conclusion was if that is the case, these books should be given to my children to enjoy and devour carnivoriously, as I had over these past several years.

Parting with some items is like giving up a piece of oneself, at least so it feels with my book collection. Can it not be said, that it is best to wait until one is deseased to let go of certain aspects of his/her property? Most certainly, I feel this to be the case with my books. Is there a kind of strange uniqueness to them, by definition, as they relate to the history of who I am, and what I am all about? Is my being truly attached to and defined in relationship to these books?

Knowing that his reasoning is logical, it still feels as if I am giving up a huge part of myself...My books...The essence of my being. Thankfully, or maybe not so, the more I think about it, he did not see all the works I have on the Holocaust, or my beloved The Magician of Lublin by Bashevis Singer, hidden deep inside of some unknown book shelf!

Nevertheless, I am happy that I have a son who has inhereted my love for reading, my tolerance for others, and the pursuit of knowledge, no matter where it is. Books bring perspective and knowlege, thereby power.

Thank you for your minds.

California Assembly Passed a Bill to Legalize Same Sex Marriages

In a 41-35 vote, the California Assembly, late Tuesday night, passed a bill to legalize same-sex marriages. With no votes to spare, lawmakers became the first in the United States to act without a court order to sanction same sex marriages. No Republicans voted in favor of the bill. The bill, which would change the legal definition of marriage from 'a civil contract between a man and a woman' to 'a civil contract between two persons' now goes before governor Schwartzneger, who is expected to veto the bill.

We must recall the efforts by Bush last year to amend the U.S. Constitution to define marriage as a contract between a man and a woman. This amendment was vetoed, and did not pass, primarily because an amendment to the U.S. Constitution is a drastic measure which should not be taken lightly.

Here is the question of the day: Do you agree with California's new definition of marriage as a contract between two persons? If so, why and if not, why not? Do you believe that it is the responsibility of states to legislate morality between individuals?

Thank you for your minds.

Images of Loss and the Meaning of Change

Over the past few weeks, when watching the news, and hearing stories from my family and friends, I heard about and saw pictures of loss, or voices of change. Specifically, we think about those images from Katrina as it ripped through the gulf coast, causing lives of so many to change in a moment, or the loss of Chief Justice Rehnquist and his death from cancer. Some of the losses are more grandious than others. The most visible of those images were permanent fixtures, such as homes, businesses, cars, all ripped away from individuals in a blink of the eye. Some lost their spouses, children, parents, or other loved ones. Other types of losses related to news of an illness or failure relationship, some type of event that caused someone or something to change.

Loss and change can be difficult, and there is no quick fix or bandage that can be placed upon oneself to soothe the scars of desolation or destruction. At times, we are left with a feelings of pain and confusion once something is taken from us, unable to understand why this has happened or what it means for us in terms of time, place, and destination. One individual may begin to ask, 'why,' effecting his/her relationship with God, self, or others. Some realtionships fall apart, and others come together. As some of you know, I lost my father in mid-July. Cosequently, I too had to take a look at what myself as a result of his sudden death.

When we lose someone or something, it often means that we must engage in a process of re-examination, and look at our lives through a new pair of glasses, as our dreams are thwarted, or homes destroyed, or jobs taken away us., or relationships with others fall apart. It is what we do with ourselves, and the process of how we move forward, that provides a glimmer of insight into the way we deal with loss or change as it occurs.

One image that I saw last night on the news, was that many of the survivors of the hurricane are accepting their losses, and have come to an understanding that this may be time to establish a new beginning for them to go forward with their lives and accept the changes that have surfaced. On a similar note, a new selection for Chief Justice has been announced, quickly, I might add, with an understanding that change is ineffable, and, the business of the Court will carry on, as usual, but with some element of newness to it.

Often, when we lose someone or something, we ask 'why' rather than 'what.' For myself, I may ask whether God is testing me, or why something has happened to me, to cause so much pain. What does it all mean, ultimately?

Although simplistic, it can truly be said that for every moment of change is an opportunity to grow, depending upon our state of mind and wilingness to go forward without regret or resentment. I am reminded of the beautiful words of Martin Buber who said, "all journies have secret destinations of which the traveler is unaware." In these times of change and loss, it is important not to loose hope, to cling to our beliefs, to have faith, wherever that may be found, and use the meoories of what was, to allow us to stand strong and be strengthened.


Thank you for your minds.

Politics: Is it All in the Family?

Over this past weeks, my husband, son, and various family members have been discussing what has been going on in the world today. It surely comes as a surprise to no-one that I feel as if our current administration demostrates poor leadership, and I am unhappy with the direction in which this country is going. Well, to be more frank and candid, there are moments of complete disgust.

My son, who went to a very good, east coast Ivy League university often found himself surrounded by a circle of roomates who were questioning the politics of me, his mother. A few asked if I was like one of those old Communists, or more specifically, just too 'far left and liberal' (whateverthat means, personally, I felt honored!) My daughter seems rather a political, and my parents were rather conservative, thinking that Franklin Roosevelt was a hero, in spite of the role he and this country played in reaction to the Jews in the hands of the Nazis during WWII. My husband is a bit more conservative than I do, but he understands and respects, and more often than not agrees with my point of view. When my son and I are talking about politics, my husband usually says, 'you know that he (our son) will agree with you completely, so why do you even bother to ask?'

Here is the question of the day: How do you and your children, spouses , significant others, parents tend to view politics? Do you agree, disagree, or find yourself on opposite ends of the spectrum, with one another? How and in what ways? I know that our family of PEZ'S will probably be pretty much on the same page, but I would like to hear it from their own mouths.

Thank you for your minds.

Have Bush's Prayers Been Answered?

Not to lessen nor make light of the loss of life and tragedy that occurred in the Gulf Coast, or the subsequent death of Chief Justice Rehnquist, but a question surfaced in my mind yesterday regarding the state of our nation and what this means for the Bush administration.

As many know, there are a number of questions regarding what the federal government, specifically FEMA did not react more speedily to the disaster that occurred in Louisiana, Alabama and Mississippi over the past several days. Unanswered are what, if anything, the federal and state government could have done to prevent such a disaster from reaching the magnitude that it did, resulting in loss of so many lives, (perhaps 10,000 are estimated), and destruction of property to such a magnitude that many individuals are left homeless and without proper jobs.

Turning a negative into a positive, at least for himself, has been a factor that this administration has been able to capitalize on in epic proportion. As you can see, the stories about Abu Grahb, the Downing Street Memo and Carl Rove have mircleously disappeared, taking a back seat to other issues that surface daily in this administration. It has been said, on Michael Moore's website, that Haliburton has acquired the contract to clean up the Navy bases as a consequence of the devastation of Katrina. Meanwhile, Bush now has two seats to fill on the U.S. Supreme Court, which will surely change the balance of power and laws of this country in a dramatic way over the next twenty-five years.

Here is the question of the day: Do you think that in light of what has happened over the pass few weeks, with the hurricane, and the aftermath, now in search and rescue mode, and the vacancies of the US Supreme Court that Bush's prayers have been answered? Is the fact that the costs of oil will go up even higher now, and the large corporations will likely gain strength and power, as a result of rebuilding efforts that will take place, along with the vacancies in the U.S. Supereme Court a complete win/with for Bush and his administration?

frightening, is it not!

Thank you for your minds.

Wandering Through a Sea of Shamatas

This entire week has been troubling to me, especially with the devastation caused by Katrina, compounded with the failure of leadership of our government, and the subsequent death of the Chief Justice. Of course, worrying about my family every day, does not make matters any easier, so I try to keep faith and hope, and stay as positive and strong as possible, even though that is not always the case. Life seems to get constantly in the way...

Something I have been thinking about this week, and a bright spot, actually, was how I had been able to re-discover Yiddish. All my grandparents spoke the language, fluently, as did my father. As a child, I was able to understand phrases here and there, but could not be fluent with the language. As I have re-discovered, Yiddish is a very colorful and passionate language, and in some ways, speaks in a voice of a people who were destined to suffer, and in spite of it, could make the most of life and engage in humerous and often intersting interactions with one another through the magic of words. Some of the language can be insulting, such as se zol dir girhmen in boych, translated as, you should get a stomach cramp, but no matter what, the flavor is fantastic, and suitable to me completely. So, even in middle-age, I have decided to learn it, and see where that goes.

If anyone wants to write Yiddish, please email me, and let me know. Please keep it clean or ech hob dir in drerd.

On a side note: another bright spot today was the discovery that Garbiel Garcia Marquez, a truly prolific writer, has a new novel coming out October 25th called, Memories of My Meloncoly Whores. From the brief reivew in the paper, it sounds like it will life up to its already anticipated and admired awaited reputation!

Here is the question of the day: What, if anything, have you longed to do your entire life and would like to learn now? Can you do it, and if not, what obstacles might be in your way?

Thank you for your minds.

Chief Justice William Rehnquist Dies at 80: What does it all mean for us as a Nation?

EDITED:

In what seems like a strange end to a surreal week, Chief Justice of the U.S. Supreme Court The Honorable William Rehnquist died at about 11pm EST last night at the age of 80. Known for his lone dissents when first appointed, and his brilliant judicial mind, the Chief Justice was a complicated man, with a judicial philosophy rather than an agenda. He dissented in Roe v. Wade and was known as a strong proponent of state's rights, and authored the opinion in the case of Bush v. Gore, and presided over the impeachment hearings of Bill Clinton.

In the 1980, while in law school, I grew up on the legal opinions of the Chief Justice,as I watched the pendulum swing from a court of liberalism to one towards conservatism. Although more often than not I was in disagreement with the conclusions of Justice Rehnquist, he had a brilliant legal mind, and was an outstanding jurist, standing in a league of his own.

May the Chief Justice rest in peace.

Within moments after his death was announced, Bush said, that this was a great loss for the nation. It is curious why Bush's response to those who were ravaged by Katrina this week did not come with the the same speed, considering that many people died, others became homeless, and cities were literally under water without support.

One of my friends, someone who is more conservative than me, said this is bad for you! I said, no, this is bad for you as well.

Now this leaves two vacancies in the United States Supreme Court for Mr. Bush to fill. Given his horrible examples of lack of leadership this week in the Gulf coast, and his inability to protect and give federal aid to those who were in imminent danger, you can bet that he will act swiftly when it comes to filling the shoes of the Chief Justice. For me, what it means when Bush acts, is even more staggering, and to tell you the truth, I want to go into my bed and pull the covers over my head after such a difficult week has come to an even more stunning end.

Can anything be made of this week? Are there any lessons to be learned or garnished about personal responsibility, governmental response to action, the manner in which we should take personal responsibility, and act, the way our Congress can react? Have the effects of the hurricane, its aftermath, and now the death of the Chief Justice, brought us to a point where we now say, enough is enough! Is it now time for our Congress to act and deal with the lack of leadership in this country?

EDIT: This blog put a smile on my face today:

http://www.ididnotvote4bush.com/pages/1/index.htm

New thoughts brought about as a new day dawns.

Thank you for your minds.

Is the United States of America Prepared for Another Terrorist Attack?

In light of the failure to act by our government to hurricane Katrina, I am questioning whether we, as a nation, are truly prepared for handling a terorist attack on our country.
In the gulf coast, thousands of people still remain homeless after six days. Up until yesterday, help was slow to come to that region, where many people, mostly poor blacks and whites remained and waited in frustration while our government took its time to begin rescue efforts. Let us not forget that it took our own President over five days to mosey on down there to see what was going on himself. Many people, without food, shelter, medical supplies, or family members began to loot take some drastic measures to protect and care for themselves and loved ones. Meanwhile, word was out that our government could have prevented this type of damage if it had been better prepared, especially in securing the levies in New Orleans. The federal response was a complete disaster and failure, even considering that we have a homeland security division, which should be protecting these very types of events.

Where is Dick Cheney in all of this mayhem? Would it not be appropriate to hear the voice and even see the face of our own Vice President? He seems to have disappeared. We did see Trent Lot yesterday, who sadly lost his home in Mississippi, where Bush said that he should not worry, he would have another home. I do not doubt that for a minute, and think that his home will be bigger and better than ever, with flocks of corporations coming to get it built as quickly as possible. Lott and his wife, after looking at thier property loses, were immediately whisked away by helicopter to safety. Bush said he would have zero tolerance for loters in these situations. Why should be not apply the same standard, and have zero tolerance for our own federal government, who could not get its act together to take care of its own citizens in this country. All of our resources and supplies are too tied up with taking care of Iraq, making sure that we spread democracy to a country that is not ever our own, as we watch people in America scramble for safety, food and shelter.

Personally, I am disgusted and feel a sense of disgrace that the leadership in this country has demonstrated in response to and lack of preparation for Katrina and the citizens of this county.

Do you believe in light of what you have seen over this past week that the United States of America is prepared for another terrorist attack on our soil? What if anything could this government be doing to show us, its citizens of the United States of America, its preparedness, and its response should such an event ever, God forbid, occur?

This post will stay for the entire long weekend, for us all to ponder the possibilities.

Thank you for your minds.

The Role and Value of Our Fellow Blogger

Last night, after a night of some insomnia, and deep thought, I began to think about the blogging community and what it means to me. In more ways than not, it has been an arena where my life has become enriched, or even embarrassed. Where could I have learned so much about being a Jew, the many complexities and threads make us uniquely who we are, from a religious as well as a personal point. To be truthful, I have become so fascinated by my own people, all of the prohibitions and commandments, and the contradictions and resolutions that surface. Also, I have learned about the computer as a workable machine, been given lessons in fragrances, ( a great sensual love of mine), recovery, been challenged and participated into heated debates with others about everything from religion, sex, politics, penises and people. It has been a great and meaningful ride as I have encountered some great people, and then at times others, who have not been so kind or nice.

We take on many different roles in the blogging world, that of teacher, friend, agent provocateur, therapist, surrogate mother and/or child, and the list goes on and on. Unknown to me was the fact that I would develop an interest in Yiddish once again.

My eyes have been opened widely to the complex world around me as a result of the blog and my fellow blogger.

Most importantly, in addition to interaction, blogging has allowed me to engage in my greatest of all possible loves writing! Every day, I come here and engage in discourse with my most passionate lover, the written word!

And because of the blog, I have my 'other blog, where I continue to write erotica.

Some of you have decided to email me in Yiddish. In fact, I am falling in love with the language, and have decided to learn it on my own. Please be clean and nice in your correspondence, or A chaleyre. Ech hob dir in drerd!

Here is the question of the day: what has blogging done for you and your life? How have you become enriched, enlightened, disturbed or provocated in some way?

Good Shabbos. Have a good weekend.

Thank you for your minds.

The Pittiful State of Our Nation

As I write this post, I am completely saddned and angry at the state of our nation. As men and women continue to fight in Iraq, without any resolution in sight, thousands of people in New Orleans and Mississippi continue to struggle, some begging for help, being without homes, jobs, or any type of public assistance. The National Guard is trickeling in, and meanwhile, we, as a country, continue to have most of our troups fighting in and for a war that has little, if anything to do with the United States. According to Drudge Report, Bush is not supposed to go to these battered area until Friday:
http://www.breitbart.com/news/2005/09/01/D8CBGP7G1
Meanwhile, gas in the south is raising, with some cities reporting a cost of close to $6.00 per gallon and growing.

It would sure be a kind and heartfelt gesture if some of those Bushes would make private donations from their own oil money to help these poor souls in need until the government can get its act together and do an appropraite job.

When is this administration going to begin to take any type of real interest in the citizens of the United States of America? Why is help not on the way, faster, and in a more efficient way to those poor souls affected by the hurricane who remain desparate and in a state of need? Should some efforts not be made to bring back our troops from Iraq and take care of the business here at home?Has this country become so unfeeling and numb to the needs of its own citizens, that private people, enterprises and movie stars need to put together packages, auctions and pleas of support?
What is this country all about anymore? Are these the values that you want to instill and teach to your children? Is looting a necessitity in order to survive because this administration cannot and will not do its proper job and act?

I am as mad as hell...

Whew....I feel so much better...And my brief is finished!

Thank you for your minds.

Saddened by the State of the World

September lst has always been such a meaningful day. It was a reminder that summer was about to end, the children were going to be returning to school, the weather would be changing, and usually so would I. Today, I see September through a rather different, out of focused lens.

As I woke up this morning, the news is glom and dark. Pictures from the ravages of hurricane Katrina loom large on the front page of the newspaper showing the damage and destruction from its grandeur. To top it all off, people are acting poorly, looting from many stores and businesses, and tempers are flying, and anger is surfacing. People are left without jobs, homes and cars. It makes me sad. To top matters off, more than 845 people were killed in Bagdad yesterday as a result of a stampede in the streets, killing mostly innocent women and children, these individuals appearing to be of lesser value to a where women are not as important as men. The gas at the pump is almost $3.00 per gallon, and I continue to worry about my cousin and my dear friend. Even the keypad to the computer seems to be crocked this morning for some strange and illogical reasons, as if like everything else, it is out of place.

When life seems to be unbearable, grabbing us like unsolicited octapus, what does one do to stay centered and balanced to keep from falling down that black hole? For one, I pray, it keeps me centered and focused. I also remember, as my friend Scott W. Reminds us each and every morning, to stay grateful for all that is good in our lives, and know that this too shall pass.

On a pro-active note, I think one thing we can all do is not be complacent. If able, we can get out there and help in the best way possible. Donate money, blood, send clothing or other items to organizations who are set up for those services as well.

Thank you for your minds.