No Labels

The inception of the NoLabels.org group (or, movement) may just be the perfect antithesis to the so-called "Tea Party Movement," which simply polarizes the American landscape even further, thus leaving the overriding national spirit in very hateful mood.  Although it remains to be seen exactly how this group will use its influence to yield any "real" positive changes, it sure is nice to see someone trying to mend society, as opposed to dividing (and subsequently conquering) it.

With the official lauch date of December 13, 2010,  this new-wave groups intends to "unite Republicans, Democrats and Independents with a simple, single idea -- our leaders need to work together to do what government was intended to do: solve problems.  No Labels is not a political party nor aspires to be one, our focus is on building a broad citizen movement, not running any one individual for office."  The purpose of this group just feels a lot better than the aforementioned Tea Party, which had ulterior motives oozing from its stubborn, conservative pores.

NoLabels.org claims to be merely asking conservatives, liberals, democrats, and republicans, not to abandon their core ideologies, but to merely put them aside in order to work together and find practical solutions to our nation's problems. Sounds good to me and as the 10,851st person to sign up in support of this group, I hope they mean what they claim.

My bottom line is that, we the people need to stop allowing ourselves to be lumped into these ridiculous socio-political categories by groups that care very little about change, but more about gaining power, influence, and of course money.

Men Be Careful...PLEASE!!!

"Homosexuality Will Ruin the Military???"

"If open homosexuals are allowed to serve in the U.S. military, it will harm recruitment, retention, and readiness and will without question weaken our national defense. Repeal is bad for the military and bad for the United States."  This is the bottom line statement the "American Family Association" asserts on its website. 

REALLY??!!

They are, of course, talking about the "DON'T ASK, DON'T TELL" debate currently ensuing on floor the U.S. House of Representatives.  Currently, a stand-alone bill repealing the 1993 legislation barring openly gay men and women from serving in the military is undergoing heated debate in the House and Senate.  Does any average citizen really care two-cents about this issue?  Is it (really) a burning topic of discussion across kitchen tables throughout America?  Let's see, are people more worried about the sexual habits of soldiers or rather the soldier(s) are well-trained; and, how are we going to pay this rent?  Being one of those average Americans that politicians so often speak of, I'll say that our major concern is for the latter debate.  Rent.

The American Family Association cite statistics and make broad statements, such as:

-at least 30% of active service members believe the repeal is problematic

-24% of active duty personnel indicated that they either would resign or would consider resigning from the military if open homosexuals are allowed to serve

-it is clear that allowing open homosexuals to serve will have the opposite effect. It will weaken rather than strengthen our military

-Repeal will mean the end of careers for conservative Christian chaplains, who have deeply held moral and spiritual objections to the normalization of homosexuality. This will bring to an end a tradition of conservative Christian chaplains that goes all the way back to our first commander-in-chief, George Washington, who made the appointing of such chaplains one of his first orders of business. General Washington knew that military success depended upon the spiritual strength of the military

-Repeal will be the end of careers for conservative officers. They will be forced to publicly affirm the normalcy of homosexual behavior

(http://capwiz.com/afanet/callalert/index.tt?alertid=20024566)

The aforementioned statements (by the AFA) are obviously the opinions of a few pseudo-conservative tight-a$$es spending far too much time bible thumping and less time actually living the principles of the GOOD BOOK.  Dont' get me wrong, I carry a few conservative principles myself.  For instance, I feel that the FCC has lowered its standards to very dangerous levels.  The loosening of our core cultural standards is leading our civilization down a slippery slope of destruction.  However, to profess that homosexuality will ruin the military is a gross over-statement.

I am a straight man, who has never had the privilege to serve in the military.  As such, I deeply appreciate any man or woman willing to place his or her life on the line for my freedom, regardless of that person's sexuality.  In stead harassing these soldiers, it would be nice if the AFA simply said, "thank you."

Instead of pretending the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" legislation is a major concern for us average Americans thus garnering a lion share of their attention by our congress, congress needs to have a very real discussion about the "Omnibus Bill."  Last time I checked, everyone was against earmarks --- right?

What Does Christmas Really Mean?

'tis the season for what reason? 

Christmas time can bring forth wonderful joy and memorable times...like the first bicycle you received or that GI Joe, with the kung fu grip :-), or the reuniting with long-lost family and friends, the slow-quiet evenings of great expectations and the melting away of all of one's troubles....(if only for a moment). 

But, what exactly does Xmas represent today?  Honestly.  Is it the birth of The King?  Does it represent the beginning of the winter solstice?  Does it truly represent an appreciation of God's gift to mankind?  Does it?  NO!!  In fact, the insinuation of God existence, in this holiday, is shunned and replaced with the glorification of "Black Friday," and "Xmas Specials" sales. Heaven forbid, one does have the means to purchase expensive gifts for one's family and friends...not only is s/he shunned by society, but that poor soul is made to feel like some sort of inferior ingrate.

Although it is not my place to place judgment on how anyone prioritizes this season, I will only ask that you take a moment to truly thank the creator, and try to give the greatest gift one can give....and that is 'of yourself.'  Shake a strangers hand or greet them with a smile, hold the door open for someone, give a holiday greetings card to a fellow public transit rider, remember to tell your mother what she means to you and thank God for her, really embrace the kindred spirit which connects mankind, shed a tear (as you shed away your past hurts), and laugh as hard as you can in order to invite positivity to plant its flag in your world.

So, what is the reason for the season?  You tell me....

Seasons Greetings!!!