i am sitting here in the house sweating. it's about 88º inside and 101º outside. our air conditioner has finally worn out. it's been running for about 35 years. it is the original one installed when the house was built. workers are currently putting in a whole new system, and i am grateful and lucky to be experiencing it all.
i think about most of the people in this world who don't have enough to eat; who don't have jobs; who have no health care; who have no air conditioning and worse.
i am lucky to be in the place i am in. i am grateful to be where i am. sweating for one day without air conditioning is nothing compared to all the suffering in our world.
we must do something about all this suffering and misfortune and injustice. we can do something about it. we can all do something.
by tomorrow the new air conditioning system will have the house a chilly 75º. most of the people in the world will continue to suffer. i will rededicate myself to making a difference. i will make sure that every moment i'm alive, i will remember how grateful and lucky i am. i will never forget all the people in our world who have it much worse than i.
peace.
Monday, July 28, 2008
Sunday, July 27, 2008
Saturday, July 26, 2008
Tuesday, July 22, 2008
Monday, July 21, 2008
global warming?
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/7511356.stm
interesting article.
what do you think?
interesting article.
what do you think?
Sunday, July 20, 2008
what to do?
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/07/20/us/20mustangs.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
i don't think murdering them is the answer.
i don't think murdering them is the answer.
Friday, July 18, 2008
Thursday, July 17, 2008
b-bye
http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/technology/7508842.stm
for the record, i haven't had a mouse in ten years.
peace.
for the record, i haven't had a mouse in ten years.
peace.
Tuesday, July 15, 2008
"take a deep breath"?!
The New York Times
July 16, 2008
Bernanke Is Pessimistic, but Bush Urges a ‘Deep Breath’
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN
WASHINGTON — Warning of the risks of a further slowdown and higher inflation, Ben S. Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, offered a gloomy assessment of the economy on Tuesday as President Bush, speaking a few blocks away, urged Americans to have faith in the country’s financial foundation.
In testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Mr. Bernanke avoided the word “recession” in characterizing the current economy, noting instead that consumer spending and exports were keeping growth “at a sluggish pace” while the housing sector “continues to weaken.”
He added that spending for personal goods had “advanced at a modest pace so far this year, generally holding up somewhat better than might have been expected given the array of forces weighing on household finances and attitudes.”
While the risks to the overall economy were still “skewed to the downside,” he said, inflation “seems likely to move temporarily higher in the near term.”
Even as Mr. Bernanke fielded questions from senators, a different view of the economy emanated from the White House.
President Bush, speaking at a White House news conference that coincided with the Fed chair’s testimony, urged Americans to “take a deep breath.”
“My hope is — is that people take a deep breath and realize that their deposits are protected by our government,” the president said. He added that economic growth “was not the growth we’d like” but expressed confidence that the country would overcome “a time of uncertainty.” The nation’s troubled financial system is "basically sound," he added.
The president said that the economy and the pillars on which it rests were “basically sound.” And he dismissed questions about reports that wholesale prices rose 1.8 percent in June, the fastest 12-month inflation rate in more than a quarter century.
Mr. Bernanke’s mixed assessment of the economy appeared to signal that the Fed would not be lowering interest rates further in spite of the economic sluggishness, as it did earlier this year, out of concern that lower rates would spur more inflation. In June, the Fed declined to lower rates and instead suggested it might raise rates later in the year.
In his testimony, he was especially pessimistic about any easing of energy prices, dismissing suggestions that they were being driven by speculation in futures markets. Instead, he said high energy costs reflected the markets’ recognition that demand was outstripping supplies.
“Over the past several years, the world economy has expanded at its fastest pace in decades, leading to substantial increases in the demand for oil,” Mr. Bernanke said. “On the supply side, despite sharp increases in prices, the production of oil has risen only slightly in the past few years.”
President Bush’s remarks, and Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, came at an unusually turbulent time in financial markets, since it followed on the heels of the Fed’s announcement that it would temporarily open its discount window to the two troubled mortgage giants, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The actions to stabilize Fannie and Freddie occurred over the weekend as the Treasury secretary, Henry M. Paulson Jr., also called for Congress to approve emergency legislation giving the federal government power to inject billions of federal funds through investments and loans.
The actions announced Sunday echoed similar actions in mid-March, when the Fed moved to avert a financial collapse of the investment bank Bear Stearns by offering an emergency loan to facilitate its sale to JPMorgan Chase. At the same time, the Fed set up emergency lending facilities for major investment banks hit by the credit crunch.
“These steps to address liquidity pressures coupled with monetary easing seem to have been helpful in mitigating some market strains,” Mr. Bernanke said. But despite the “positive effects” of the Fed’s actions, he said that the problems of unstable markets continued because of “declining house prices, a softening labor market and rising prices of oil, food and some other commodities.”
After Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, Mr. Paulson and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Christopher Cox, took center stage.
In prepared remarks, Mr. Paulson focused on the government’s efforts to assist Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, complementing comments earlier by Mr. Bush, who urged Congress to pass housing legislation that would modernize federal regulatory procedures while stabilizing the two companies.
Continued confidence in the two companies “is important to maintaining financial system and market stability,” Mr. Paulson said. While lawmakers have said that they would attach the bailout plan to housing legislation, the timing was uncertain.
Representative Barney Frank, Democrat of Massachusetts and the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said Monday that a bill could be sent to President Bush by week’s end. But on Tuesday, Congressional Democrats said it would take at least until early next week for the House to act, citing resistance among some Republicans to the administration’s rescue plan for Fannie and Freddie.
In his testimony Tuesday, Mr. Paulson said Fannie and Freddie “are central to the availability of housing finance, which will determine the pace at which we emerge from this housing correction.”
“Our plan is aimed at supporting the stability of financial markets,” he said, “not just these two enterprises. This is consistent with Treasury’s mission to promote the market stability, orderliness and liquidity necessary to support our economy.”
David Stout contributed reporting.
Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company
July 16, 2008
Bernanke Is Pessimistic, but Bush Urges a ‘Deep Breath’
By STEVEN R. WEISMAN
WASHINGTON — Warning of the risks of a further slowdown and higher inflation, Ben S. Bernanke, chairman of the Federal Reserve, offered a gloomy assessment of the economy on Tuesday as President Bush, speaking a few blocks away, urged Americans to have faith in the country’s financial foundation.
In testimony before the Senate Banking Committee, Mr. Bernanke avoided the word “recession” in characterizing the current economy, noting instead that consumer spending and exports were keeping growth “at a sluggish pace” while the housing sector “continues to weaken.”
He added that spending for personal goods had “advanced at a modest pace so far this year, generally holding up somewhat better than might have been expected given the array of forces weighing on household finances and attitudes.”
While the risks to the overall economy were still “skewed to the downside,” he said, inflation “seems likely to move temporarily higher in the near term.”
Even as Mr. Bernanke fielded questions from senators, a different view of the economy emanated from the White House.
President Bush, speaking at a White House news conference that coincided with the Fed chair’s testimony, urged Americans to “take a deep breath.”
“My hope is — is that people take a deep breath and realize that their deposits are protected by our government,” the president said. He added that economic growth “was not the growth we’d like” but expressed confidence that the country would overcome “a time of uncertainty.” The nation’s troubled financial system is "basically sound," he added.
The president said that the economy and the pillars on which it rests were “basically sound.” And he dismissed questions about reports that wholesale prices rose 1.8 percent in June, the fastest 12-month inflation rate in more than a quarter century.
Mr. Bernanke’s mixed assessment of the economy appeared to signal that the Fed would not be lowering interest rates further in spite of the economic sluggishness, as it did earlier this year, out of concern that lower rates would spur more inflation. In June, the Fed declined to lower rates and instead suggested it might raise rates later in the year.
In his testimony, he was especially pessimistic about any easing of energy prices, dismissing suggestions that they were being driven by speculation in futures markets. Instead, he said high energy costs reflected the markets’ recognition that demand was outstripping supplies.
“Over the past several years, the world economy has expanded at its fastest pace in decades, leading to substantial increases in the demand for oil,” Mr. Bernanke said. “On the supply side, despite sharp increases in prices, the production of oil has risen only slightly in the past few years.”
President Bush’s remarks, and Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, came at an unusually turbulent time in financial markets, since it followed on the heels of the Fed’s announcement that it would temporarily open its discount window to the two troubled mortgage giants, Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac.
The actions to stabilize Fannie and Freddie occurred over the weekend as the Treasury secretary, Henry M. Paulson Jr., also called for Congress to approve emergency legislation giving the federal government power to inject billions of federal funds through investments and loans.
The actions announced Sunday echoed similar actions in mid-March, when the Fed moved to avert a financial collapse of the investment bank Bear Stearns by offering an emergency loan to facilitate its sale to JPMorgan Chase. At the same time, the Fed set up emergency lending facilities for major investment banks hit by the credit crunch.
“These steps to address liquidity pressures coupled with monetary easing seem to have been helpful in mitigating some market strains,” Mr. Bernanke said. But despite the “positive effects” of the Fed’s actions, he said that the problems of unstable markets continued because of “declining house prices, a softening labor market and rising prices of oil, food and some other commodities.”
After Mr. Bernanke’s testimony, Mr. Paulson and the chairman of the Securities and Exchange Commission, Christopher Cox, took center stage.
In prepared remarks, Mr. Paulson focused on the government’s efforts to assist Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac, complementing comments earlier by Mr. Bush, who urged Congress to pass housing legislation that would modernize federal regulatory procedures while stabilizing the two companies.
Continued confidence in the two companies “is important to maintaining financial system and market stability,” Mr. Paulson said. While lawmakers have said that they would attach the bailout plan to housing legislation, the timing was uncertain.
Representative Barney Frank, Democrat of Massachusetts and the chairman of the House Financial Services Committee, said Monday that a bill could be sent to President Bush by week’s end. But on Tuesday, Congressional Democrats said it would take at least until early next week for the House to act, citing resistance among some Republicans to the administration’s rescue plan for Fannie and Freddie.
In his testimony Tuesday, Mr. Paulson said Fannie and Freddie “are central to the availability of housing finance, which will determine the pace at which we emerge from this housing correction.”
“Our plan is aimed at supporting the stability of financial markets,” he said, “not just these two enterprises. This is consistent with Treasury’s mission to promote the market stability, orderliness and liquidity necessary to support our economy.”
David Stout contributed reporting.
Copyright 2008 The New York Times Company
Sunday, July 13, 2008
Friday, July 11, 2008
Sunday, July 06, 2008
Sunday, June 29, 2008
Wednesday, June 25, 2008
today's quote
An intellectual is a person who has discovered something more interesting than sex.
- Aldous Huxley
- Aldous Huxley
Friday, June 20, 2008
what would you do?
June 20, 2008
Official recommends Manson follower stay in prison
The Associated Press
The state director of adult prisons is recommending that former Charles Manson follower and convicted murderer Susan Atkins be denied a compassionate release because of terminal illness.
A prison spokeswoman says director Suzan Hubbard made the decision Wednesday.
Officials at the California Institution for Women where the 60-year-old Atkins was held for decades before a recent move to the hospital to treat her brain cancer had recommended that she be released to die in the care of her family.
Hubbard’s recommendation is only advisory.
The Board of Parole Hearings must decide whether to take up Atkins’ case, and her original sentencing court in Los Angeles County would make the final decision on her release.
Atkins confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage with other Manson followers in 1969.
Official recommends Manson follower stay in prison
The Associated Press
The state director of adult prisons is recommending that former Charles Manson follower and convicted murderer Susan Atkins be denied a compassionate release because of terminal illness.
A prison spokeswoman says director Suzan Hubbard made the decision Wednesday.
Officials at the California Institution for Women where the 60-year-old Atkins was held for decades before a recent move to the hospital to treat her brain cancer had recommended that she be released to die in the care of her family.
Hubbard’s recommendation is only advisory.
The Board of Parole Hearings must decide whether to take up Atkins’ case, and her original sentencing court in Los Angeles County would make the final decision on her release.
Atkins confessed to killing pregnant actress Sharon Tate during a murderous rampage with other Manson followers in 1969.
Quote of the day
Do not condemn the judgement of another because it differs from your own.
You may both be wrong.
- Dandemis
You may both be wrong.
- Dandemis
Monday, June 16, 2008
Friday, June 13, 2008
Quote of the day
We are continually faced with a series of great opportunities brilliantly disguised as insoluble problems.
- John W. Gardner
so true!
- John W. Gardner
so true!
Thursday, June 12, 2008
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
another interesting article...
BBC uncovers lost Iraq billions
By Jane Corbin
BBC News
A BBC investigation estimates that around $23bn (£11.75bn) may have been lost, stolen or just not properly accounted for in Iraq.
For the first time, the extent to which some private contractors have profited from the conflict and rebuilding has been researched by the BBC's Panorama using US and Iraqi government sources.
A US gagging order is preventing discussion of the allegations.
The order applies to 70 court cases against some of the top US companies.
War profiteering
While George Bush remains in the White House, it is unlikely the gagging orders will be lifted.
To date, no major US contractor faces trial for fraud or mismanagement in Iraq.
The president's Democrat opponents are keeping up the pressure over war profiteering in Iraq.
Henry Waxman who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform said: "The money that's gone into waste, fraud and abuse under these contracts is just so outrageous, its egregious.
"It may well turn out to be the largest war profiteering in history."
In the run-up to the invasion one of the most senior officials in charge of procurement in the Pentagon objected to a contract potentially worth seven billion that was given to Halliburton, a Texan company, which used to be run by Dick Cheney before he became vice-president.
Unusually only Halliburton got to bid - and won.
Missing billions
The search for the missing billions also led the programme to a house in Acton in West London where Hazem Shalaan lived until he was appointed to the new Iraqi government as minister of defence in 2004.
He and his associates siphoned an estimated $1.2 billion out of the ministry.
They bought old military equipment from Poland but claimed for top class weapons.
Meanwhile they diverted money into their own accounts.
Judge Radhi al-Radhi of Iraq's Commission for Public Integrity investigated.
He said: "I believe these people are criminals.
"They failed to rebuild the Ministry of Defence , and as a result the violence and the bloodshed went on and on - the murder of Iraqis and foreigners continues and they bear responsibility."
Mr Shalaan was sentenced to two jail terms but he fled the country.
He said he was innocent and that it was all a plot against him by pro-Iranian MPs in the government.
There is an Interpol arrest out for him but he is on the run - using a private jet to move around the globe.
He stills owns commercial properties in the Marble Arch area of London.
By Jane Corbin
BBC News
A BBC investigation estimates that around $23bn (£11.75bn) may have been lost, stolen or just not properly accounted for in Iraq.
For the first time, the extent to which some private contractors have profited from the conflict and rebuilding has been researched by the BBC's Panorama using US and Iraqi government sources.
A US gagging order is preventing discussion of the allegations.
The order applies to 70 court cases against some of the top US companies.
War profiteering
While George Bush remains in the White House, it is unlikely the gagging orders will be lifted.
To date, no major US contractor faces trial for fraud or mismanagement in Iraq.
The president's Democrat opponents are keeping up the pressure over war profiteering in Iraq.
Henry Waxman who chairs the House Committee on Oversight and Government Reform said: "The money that's gone into waste, fraud and abuse under these contracts is just so outrageous, its egregious.
"It may well turn out to be the largest war profiteering in history."
In the run-up to the invasion one of the most senior officials in charge of procurement in the Pentagon objected to a contract potentially worth seven billion that was given to Halliburton, a Texan company, which used to be run by Dick Cheney before he became vice-president.
Unusually only Halliburton got to bid - and won.
Missing billions
The search for the missing billions also led the programme to a house in Acton in West London where Hazem Shalaan lived until he was appointed to the new Iraqi government as minister of defence in 2004.
He and his associates siphoned an estimated $1.2 billion out of the ministry.
They bought old military equipment from Poland but claimed for top class weapons.
Meanwhile they diverted money into their own accounts.
Judge Radhi al-Radhi of Iraq's Commission for Public Integrity investigated.
He said: "I believe these people are criminals.
"They failed to rebuild the Ministry of Defence , and as a result the violence and the bloodshed went on and on - the murder of Iraqis and foreigners continues and they bear responsibility."
Mr Shalaan was sentenced to two jail terms but he fled the country.
He said he was innocent and that it was all a plot against him by pro-Iranian MPs in the government.
There is an Interpol arrest out for him but he is on the run - using a private jet to move around the globe.
He stills owns commercial properties in the Marble Arch area of London.
interesting article...
"Republicans block extra taxes on oil companies
By H. JOSEF HEBERT, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 4 minutes ago
Senate Republicans blocked a proposal Tuesday to tax the windfall profits of the largest oil companies, despite pleas by Democratic leaders to use the measure to address
America's anger over $4 a gallon gasoline.
The Democratic energy package would have imposed a tax on any "unreasonable" profits of the five largest U.S. oil companies and given the federal government more power to
address oil market speculation that the bill's supporters argue has added to the crude oil price surge.
"Americans are furious about what's going on," declared Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.,
and want Congress to do something about oil company profits and "an orgy of speculation"
on oil markets.
But Republicans argued the Democratic proposal focusing on new oil industry taxes is not
the answer to the country's energy problems.
"The American people are clamoring for relief at the pump," said Sen. Pete Domenici, R-N.M., but if taxes are increased on the oil companies "they will get exactly what they don't want. The bill will raise taxes, increase imports."
The Democrats failed, 51-43, to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a GOP filibuster and bring the energy package up for consideration.
Separately, Democrats also failed to get Republican support for a proposal to extend tax breaks for wind, solar and other alternative energy development, and for the promotion of energy efficiency and conservation. The tax breaks have either expired or are scheduled to end this year.
The tax provisions were included in a broader $50 billion tax measure blocked by a GOP filibuster threat. A vote to take up the measure was 50-44, short of the 60 votes needed.
The windfall profits bill would have imposed a 25 percent tax on profits over what would be determined "reasonable" when compared to profits several years ago. The oil companies could have avoided the tax if they invested the money in alternative energy projects or refinery expansion. It also would have rescinded oil company tax breaks — worth $17 billion over the next 10 years — with the revenue to be used for tax incentives to producers of wind, solar
and other alternative energy sources as well as for energy conservation.
The legislation also would:
_Require traders to put up more collateral in the energy futures markets and open the way for federal regulation of traders who are based in the United States but use foreign trading platforms. The measures are designed to reduce market speculation.
_Make oil and gas price gouging a federal crime, with stiff penalties of up to $5 million
during a presidentially declared energy emergency.
_Authorize the Justice Department to bring charges of price fixing against countries that belong to the OPEC oil cartel.
Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has acknowledged that Americans are
hurting from the high energy costs but strongly opposes the Democrats' response and has ridiculed those who "think we can tax our way out of this problem."
"Republicans by and large believe that the solution to this problem, in part, is to increase domestic production," McConnell said.
A GOP energy plan, rejected by the Senate last month, calls for opening a coastal strip
of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil development and to allow states
to opt out of the national moratorium that has been in effect for a quarter century
against oil and gas drilling in more than 80 percent of the country's coastal waters."
By H. JOSEF HEBERT, Associated Press Writer
2 hours, 4 minutes ago
Senate Republicans blocked a proposal Tuesday to tax the windfall profits of the largest oil companies, despite pleas by Democratic leaders to use the measure to address
America's anger over $4 a gallon gasoline.
The Democratic energy package would have imposed a tax on any "unreasonable" profits of the five largest U.S. oil companies and given the federal government more power to
address oil market speculation that the bill's supporters argue has added to the crude oil price surge.
"Americans are furious about what's going on," declared Sen. Byron Dorgan, D-N.D.,
and want Congress to do something about oil company profits and "an orgy of speculation"
on oil markets.
But Republicans argued the Democratic proposal focusing on new oil industry taxes is not
the answer to the country's energy problems.
"The American people are clamoring for relief at the pump," said Sen. Pete Domenici, R-N.M., but if taxes are increased on the oil companies "they will get exactly what they don't want. The bill will raise taxes, increase imports."
The Democrats failed, 51-43, to get the 60 votes needed to overcome a GOP filibuster and bring the energy package up for consideration.
Separately, Democrats also failed to get Republican support for a proposal to extend tax breaks for wind, solar and other alternative energy development, and for the promotion of energy efficiency and conservation. The tax breaks have either expired or are scheduled to end this year.
The tax provisions were included in a broader $50 billion tax measure blocked by a GOP filibuster threat. A vote to take up the measure was 50-44, short of the 60 votes needed.
The windfall profits bill would have imposed a 25 percent tax on profits over what would be determined "reasonable" when compared to profits several years ago. The oil companies could have avoided the tax if they invested the money in alternative energy projects or refinery expansion. It also would have rescinded oil company tax breaks — worth $17 billion over the next 10 years — with the revenue to be used for tax incentives to producers of wind, solar
and other alternative energy sources as well as for energy conservation.
The legislation also would:
_Require traders to put up more collateral in the energy futures markets and open the way for federal regulation of traders who are based in the United States but use foreign trading platforms. The measures are designed to reduce market speculation.
_Make oil and gas price gouging a federal crime, with stiff penalties of up to $5 million
during a presidentially declared energy emergency.
_Authorize the Justice Department to bring charges of price fixing against countries that belong to the OPEC oil cartel.
Republican leader Mitch McConnell of Kentucky has acknowledged that Americans are
hurting from the high energy costs but strongly opposes the Democrats' response and has ridiculed those who "think we can tax our way out of this problem."
"Republicans by and large believe that the solution to this problem, in part, is to increase domestic production," McConnell said.
A GOP energy plan, rejected by the Senate last month, calls for opening a coastal strip
of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska to oil development and to allow states
to opt out of the national moratorium that has been in effect for a quarter century
against oil and gas drilling in more than 80 percent of the country's coastal waters."
Monday, June 09, 2008
Quote of the day
There is still a difference between something and nothing, but it is purely geometrical and there is nothing behind the geometry.
- Martin Gardner
- Martin Gardner
Friday, June 06, 2008
Thursday, June 05, 2008
Quote of the day
If people never did silly things, nothing intelligent would ever get done.
- Ludwig Wittgenstein
- Ludwig Wittgenstein
Tuesday, June 03, 2008
Quotes of the day
Public speaking is the art of diluting a two-minute idea with a two-hour vocabulary.
- Evan Esar
Never believe anything until it has been officially denied.
- Claud Cockburn
- Evan Esar
Never believe anything until it has been officially denied.
- Claud Cockburn
Monday, June 02, 2008
Thursday, May 29, 2008
Tuesday, May 27, 2008
Friday, May 23, 2008
Indiana Jones
the new movie is great.
thumbs up!
lots of fun.
nice action.
happy ending.
i hope there's another one.
thumbs up!
lots of fun.
nice action.
happy ending.
i hope there's another one.
Wednesday, May 21, 2008
Tuesday, May 20, 2008
Saturday, May 17, 2008
Friday, May 16, 2008
two for one
1. Speed Racer gets a thumbs up.
=======================================
2. www.bloodline-themovie.com
VERY INTERESTING!
if it's not true, why would anybody care?
peace
=======================================
2. www.bloodline-themovie.com
VERY INTERESTING!
if it's not true, why would anybody care?
peace
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/17/sports/
olympics/17runner.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
more good news for humanity.
olympics/17runner.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
more good news for humanity.
Thursday, May 15, 2008
link of the day
http://www.nytimes.com/2008/05/16/us/
15cnd-marriage.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
a step in the right direction.
15cnd-marriage.html?_r=1&hp&oref=slogin
a step in the right direction.
Tuesday, May 13, 2008
E-Merge
i recently got a golf cart.
a Tomberlin E-Merge golf cart.
it's very cool.
using less gas will make a difference.
imagine, if we all used less gas, a lot less gas,
perhaps the price would be .99¢ per gallon?
anyway, we can all make a difference.
peace.
Tuesday, May 06, 2008
article of the day
http://www.huffingtonpost.com/greg-mitchell/
another-iraq-vet-suicide_b_100331.html
peace
another-iraq-vet-suicide_b_100331.html
peace
Friday, May 02, 2008
Wednesday, April 30, 2008
is it worth it?
i continue to ask this question and others.
"US troop deaths push monthly toll to 7-month high in Iraq
By SLOBODAN LEKIC – 1 hour ago
BAGHDAD (AP) — The killings of three U.S. soldiers in separate attacks in Baghdad pushed the American death toll for April up to 47, making it the deadliest month since September, the military said Wednesday.
One soldier died when his vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb. The other died of wounds sustained when he was attacked by small-arms fire, the military said. Both incidents occurred Tuesday in northwestern Baghdad.
A third soldier died in a roadside bombing Tuesday night in the east of the capital, the military said.
The statement did not give a more specific location. But the eastern half of Baghdad includes embattled Sadr City and other neighborhoods that have been the focus of intense combat between Shiite militants and U.S.-Iraqi troops for more than a month.
In all, at least 4,059 members of the U.S. military have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count."
"US troop deaths push monthly toll to 7-month high in Iraq
By SLOBODAN LEKIC – 1 hour ago
BAGHDAD (AP) — The killings of three U.S. soldiers in separate attacks in Baghdad pushed the American death toll for April up to 47, making it the deadliest month since September, the military said Wednesday.
One soldier died when his vehicle was struck by a roadside bomb. The other died of wounds sustained when he was attacked by small-arms fire, the military said. Both incidents occurred Tuesday in northwestern Baghdad.
A third soldier died in a roadside bombing Tuesday night in the east of the capital, the military said.
The statement did not give a more specific location. But the eastern half of Baghdad includes embattled Sadr City and other neighborhoods that have been the focus of intense combat between Shiite militants and U.S.-Iraqi troops for more than a month.
In all, at least 4,059 members of the U.S. military have died since the Iraq war started in March 2003, according to an Associated Press count."
Tuesday, April 29, 2008
Sunday, April 27, 2008
The Hammer
i recently saw this film,
and give it,
two thumbs up.
good movie.
in my opinion.
peace and love
and give it,
two thumbs up.
good movie.
in my opinion.
peace and love
Tuesday, April 22, 2008
Friday, April 18, 2008
Tuesday, April 15, 2008
Sunday, April 13, 2008
shine a light
saw this rolling stones documentary today,
and loved it, and give it thumbs up.
rock on!
peace and love
and loved it, and give it thumbs up.
rock on!
peace and love
Wednesday, April 09, 2008
photos of the day
we are very proud parents of baby bananas.
and how about these clouds?!
enjoy.
peace and love.
Tuesday, April 08, 2008
"Tranquil Moments"
i have discovered a machine that helps me sleep.
it is called Tranquil Moments and you may purchase it at Brookstone.
it plays many sounds. it is a sound therapy system.
it works for me.
peace.
it is called Tranquil Moments and you may purchase it at Brookstone.
it plays many sounds. it is a sound therapy system.
it works for me.
peace.
Friday, April 04, 2008
Friday, March 28, 2008
life and death and life...
i've been thinking about life and death lately.
i've just completed a living trust, and a will, and realize it's going to happen eventually.
here's some of what i've been thinking.
seems you can't have one without the other.
there cannot be life without death, and there surely isn't death without life.
case in point number one:
the grapefruit tree. every day, almost, we rake up leaves from the grapefruit tree that have fallen to the ground. and of course every day, new, fresh, soft, shiny green leaves appear on the tree. life and death at the same time. as we pick and eat the fruit, life and death, we enable the tree to flower, bringing about more life.
case in point number two:
anytime something or somebody dies, there's always something or someone there to feed off it in order to sustain life. when a human dies, people profit and continue to live.
when a bug dies, it is recycled (eaten) by a critter who continues to live.
on the molecular level, an atom, a proton, or a neutron have lives of their own.
this is not my area of expertise, but i think these particles live forever.
even as the human body rots, life is sustained within. yucky bugs are feeding on what's left of us and living.
so a living trust and a will are simply plans for the future, the inevitable.
at least with car insurance you have about a 50/50 chance of ever needing it.
with a living trust and a will, you know for sure, 100%, it will be used.
i am comforted that life and death coexist.
i therefore conclude that i truly will live forever, in some form or another.
peace.
i've just completed a living trust, and a will, and realize it's going to happen eventually.
here's some of what i've been thinking.
seems you can't have one without the other.
there cannot be life without death, and there surely isn't death without life.
case in point number one:
the grapefruit tree. every day, almost, we rake up leaves from the grapefruit tree that have fallen to the ground. and of course every day, new, fresh, soft, shiny green leaves appear on the tree. life and death at the same time. as we pick and eat the fruit, life and death, we enable the tree to flower, bringing about more life.
case in point number two:
anytime something or somebody dies, there's always something or someone there to feed off it in order to sustain life. when a human dies, people profit and continue to live.
when a bug dies, it is recycled (eaten) by a critter who continues to live.
on the molecular level, an atom, a proton, or a neutron have lives of their own.
this is not my area of expertise, but i think these particles live forever.
even as the human body rots, life is sustained within. yucky bugs are feeding on what's left of us and living.
so a living trust and a will are simply plans for the future, the inevitable.
at least with car insurance you have about a 50/50 chance of ever needing it.
with a living trust and a will, you know for sure, 100%, it will be used.
i am comforted that life and death coexist.
i therefore conclude that i truly will live forever, in some form or another.
peace.
Wednesday, March 26, 2008
The Black Grace Dance Company
i saw this dance company last night and highly recommend them.
they really put on a good show.
they are from New Zealand.
if you have the opportunity, you should see them.
peace.
http://www.blackgrace.co.nz/
they really put on a good show.
they are from New Zealand.
if you have the opportunity, you should see them.
peace.
http://www.blackgrace.co.nz/
Sunday, March 23, 2008
Miss Pettigrew Lives For A Day
i recommend this movie.
it's a good one.
a fine romantic comedy.
with a happy ending.
my kind of film.
thumbs up.
peace
it's a good one.
a fine romantic comedy.
with a happy ending.
my kind of film.
thumbs up.
peace
Classic Rolls Royce
i took this picture from my cab on saturday, march 22, 2008, about 1pm, with my iphone.
sometimes i have time to take a photograph of something fabulous.
one day i'll pick up my sweetheart in a car just like this.
i reserve no rights to this photograph. enjoy it any way you wish.
peace.
Friday, March 21, 2008
Thursday, March 13, 2008
Friday, March 07, 2008
Saturday, February 23, 2008
Tuesday, February 19, 2008
Barack Obama
This website officially endorses Barack Obama for President of The United States Of America.
In our opinion, he is the best qualified and the best choice.
Peace.
In our opinion, he is the best qualified and the best choice.
Peace.
Sunday, February 03, 2008
please vote
super tuesday is near.
if you want change, please vote.
our democracy depends on participation.
if you don't vote, you cannot complain later.
voting is patriotic.
please vote.
thank you.
peace.
if you want change, please vote.
our democracy depends on participation.
if you don't vote, you cannot complain later.
voting is patriotic.
please vote.
thank you.
peace.
Wednesday, January 30, 2008
bucket list update
lower my blood pressure
love more
be kinder
be more compassionate
listen more
speak less and say more
practice silence more
hug more
age graciously and gratefully
write more
to be continued...
love more
be kinder
be more compassionate
listen more
speak less and say more
practice silence more
hug more
age graciously and gratefully
write more
to be continued...
Friday, January 25, 2008
tip of the day
go see the IMAX movie about lewis and clark.
it is very informative, not to mention beautiful.
peace.
it is very informative, not to mention beautiful.
peace.
Tuesday, January 22, 2008
my bucket list
(NOTE: this list is ongoing and never complete, like me)
feed the birds every day
be awed and inspired every day
fly in a biplane
fly in a hot air balloon again
teach and live peace every day
take a world cruise, maybe with my IRA money at age 60?
buy a hybrid car
exercise more
eat less
stand on a street corner and hand out dollar coins
drive a 600-hp dodge viper
have another dog and cat
get a huge wall-mounted HDTV
create more art
help more people
...to be continued...
feed the birds every day
be awed and inspired every day
fly in a biplane
fly in a hot air balloon again
teach and live peace every day
take a world cruise, maybe with my IRA money at age 60?
buy a hybrid car
exercise more
eat less
stand on a street corner and hand out dollar coins
drive a 600-hp dodge viper
have another dog and cat
get a huge wall-mounted HDTV
create more art
help more people
...to be continued...
Friday, January 18, 2008
Wednesday, January 16, 2008
Friday, January 11, 2008
Sunday, January 06, 2008
Saturday, January 05, 2008
too many killing fields
no doubt, there are far too many killing fields, and way too many victims.
you may have seen the film, "the killing fields", or read the book.
it is a very powerful and sad story.
i recently met somebody who was right in the middle of all that.
his family was murdered, and he somehow managed to escape to Thailand.
he asked me if i'd help him write his story down on paper.
he said he'd like to make a book of it.
i said that was a good idea, but i didn't know if i was the right person to help him.
his story has been told before.
i think it never hurts to repeat such stories, because then we'll never forget, and hopefully never permit any more killing fields or holocausts.
perhaps some newspaper will want to print his story.
at any rate, i have decided to do everything i can to prevent any more killing fields.
peace and tolerance and understanding is truly what will save us all.
peace
you may have seen the film, "the killing fields", or read the book.
it is a very powerful and sad story.
i recently met somebody who was right in the middle of all that.
his family was murdered, and he somehow managed to escape to Thailand.
he asked me if i'd help him write his story down on paper.
he said he'd like to make a book of it.
i said that was a good idea, but i didn't know if i was the right person to help him.
his story has been told before.
i think it never hurts to repeat such stories, because then we'll never forget, and hopefully never permit any more killing fields or holocausts.
perhaps some newspaper will want to print his story.
at any rate, i have decided to do everything i can to prevent any more killing fields.
peace and tolerance and understanding is truly what will save us all.
peace
Tuesday, December 25, 2007
the current National Treasure movie
good movie.
go see it.
tell me what you think.
i say, thumbs up.
by the way, did santa come to your house this morning?
peace
go see it.
tell me what you think.
i say, thumbs up.
by the way, did santa come to your house this morning?
peace
Wednesday, December 19, 2007
hmm...
fire in dick cheney's office.
how terrible?
and/or how terribly convenient?
you decide.
and stay tuned.
you can't make better news up.
peace
how terrible?
and/or how terribly convenient?
you decide.
and stay tuned.
you can't make better news up.
peace
Friday, December 14, 2007
acupunctured
i did something yesterday that i'd never done in my 54 years.
actually it was done to me.
i got acupunctured.
i experienced acupuncture.
it was very relaxing and calming.
i was aware of each and every needle being inserted.
there was a slight unpleasant sensation, like somebody's just stuck a needle in you.
after they're all in, i had very little feeling or awareness of them.
i did feel some itching and the acupuncturist explained this was my chi balancing.
addicts who are unable to quit their addiction of choice by any other means, seem to be able to quit with acupuncture. i've seen a film of open heart surgery being done with only acupuncture as the anesthetic. there is definitely something to acupuncture. it's been around for thousands of years. as long as it makes people feel better, it's OK by me. it made me feel better and more relaxed. would i do it again? probably.
i do find a good massage more rewarding than acupuncture.
i've never been adjusted by a chiropractor, even though one has told me i'm "out of alignment", whatever that means.
if you're in pain, i recommend acupuncture. if you've never tried it, you'll never know.
next week i will not be skydiving. no interest there.
peace.
actually it was done to me.
i got acupunctured.
i experienced acupuncture.
it was very relaxing and calming.
i was aware of each and every needle being inserted.
there was a slight unpleasant sensation, like somebody's just stuck a needle in you.
after they're all in, i had very little feeling or awareness of them.
i did feel some itching and the acupuncturist explained this was my chi balancing.
addicts who are unable to quit their addiction of choice by any other means, seem to be able to quit with acupuncture. i've seen a film of open heart surgery being done with only acupuncture as the anesthetic. there is definitely something to acupuncture. it's been around for thousands of years. as long as it makes people feel better, it's OK by me. it made me feel better and more relaxed. would i do it again? probably.
i do find a good massage more rewarding than acupuncture.
i've never been adjusted by a chiropractor, even though one has told me i'm "out of alignment", whatever that means.
if you're in pain, i recommend acupuncture. if you've never tried it, you'll never know.
next week i will not be skydiving. no interest there.
peace.
Thursday, December 13, 2007
us
what does it say about us when:
we're not on time?
we don't do what we say we'll do?
we break our promises?
few things or people in this life are on time.
fewer of us keep our promises or do what we say we will do.
this often angers and frustrates people.
one fact is true. we're all interconnected.
when i'm late i impact somebody else.
few of us are islands. our actions and behavior have consequences that we sometimes don't realize.
what does it say about me if i choose to be angry and frustrated because somebody has broken a promise to me? most emotion is a choice. there must be times when we display emotion without thinking and choosing. no doubt.
the best we can do is this:
be on time.
keep our promises to one another.
do what we say we will do.
why this is so rare i do not know. i suspect it has become acceptable in our culture.
some people say being late is part of being flexible. i cannot buy this.
we must live in reality and that means that far too often promises will not be kept,
people will be late, and somebody will not do what they say they will do.
i believe our reaction is as important as the action. that is to say, my reaction to somebody being late is as important to why they are late. usually there is no good reason for being late, in my opinion. please don't tell me we're meeting at noon if you're going to show up at 12:15pm. i am learning that my reaction and my choices reflect greatly on me and determine my health and well-being. nobody can hurt my feelings without my permission.
flexibility is great, and can only be taken so far.
i continue to be positive and optimistic. i trust people will be on time and do what they say they will do. i can only do this until they show me otherwise. at that time i must choose carefully my reaction and response.
in the meantime, i continue to write about my feelings and experiences, and make a point of being on time.
peace
we're not on time?
we don't do what we say we'll do?
we break our promises?
few things or people in this life are on time.
fewer of us keep our promises or do what we say we will do.
this often angers and frustrates people.
one fact is true. we're all interconnected.
when i'm late i impact somebody else.
few of us are islands. our actions and behavior have consequences that we sometimes don't realize.
what does it say about me if i choose to be angry and frustrated because somebody has broken a promise to me? most emotion is a choice. there must be times when we display emotion without thinking and choosing. no doubt.
the best we can do is this:
be on time.
keep our promises to one another.
do what we say we will do.
why this is so rare i do not know. i suspect it has become acceptable in our culture.
some people say being late is part of being flexible. i cannot buy this.
we must live in reality and that means that far too often promises will not be kept,
people will be late, and somebody will not do what they say they will do.
i believe our reaction is as important as the action. that is to say, my reaction to somebody being late is as important to why they are late. usually there is no good reason for being late, in my opinion. please don't tell me we're meeting at noon if you're going to show up at 12:15pm. i am learning that my reaction and my choices reflect greatly on me and determine my health and well-being. nobody can hurt my feelings without my permission.
flexibility is great, and can only be taken so far.
i continue to be positive and optimistic. i trust people will be on time and do what they say they will do. i can only do this until they show me otherwise. at that time i must choose carefully my reaction and response.
in the meantime, i continue to write about my feelings and experiences, and make a point of being on time.
peace
Tuesday, December 11, 2007
Thursday, December 06, 2007
the joys of shaving or not
I've been shaving now for about forty years.
I have yet to find much joy in it.
Recently I've discovered the greatest joy of all:
having somebody else shave me.
For the last month, I've been going to my barber Kim from Cambodia (which is a whole other article).
He now shaves me every Friday.
It is pure joy.
The hot towels, the moisturizer, the after shave and the talc, oh boy!
I cannot begin to tell you how joyful the experience is.
One must experience this first hand or perhaps that should be, first face.
I only get shaved on Fridays.
The rest of the week I let it grow.
I understand the unshaved look is in.
However, I know only what I know about fashion, which is this, if I'm comfortable with it,
then it's OK.
I may never shave myself again.
I know I'll never shave myself as well as Kim shaves me.
If you're looking for something you've never done before, I recommend getting a shave.
Next time I will tell you about another joy of mine, getting a pedicure.
Peace.
I have yet to find much joy in it.
Recently I've discovered the greatest joy of all:
having somebody else shave me.
For the last month, I've been going to my barber Kim from Cambodia (which is a whole other article).
He now shaves me every Friday.
It is pure joy.
The hot towels, the moisturizer, the after shave and the talc, oh boy!
I cannot begin to tell you how joyful the experience is.
One must experience this first hand or perhaps that should be, first face.
I only get shaved on Fridays.
The rest of the week I let it grow.
I understand the unshaved look is in.
However, I know only what I know about fashion, which is this, if I'm comfortable with it,
then it's OK.
I may never shave myself again.
I know I'll never shave myself as well as Kim shaves me.
If you're looking for something you've never done before, I recommend getting a shave.
Next time I will tell you about another joy of mine, getting a pedicure.
Peace.
Thursday, November 29, 2007
Thursday, November 22, 2007
a few things i'm thankful for
my partner, my love, my soul-mate
my health
my positive attitude
my ability to see good in everything and everyone
i am grateful i have:
most of my own teeth
clean running water
a roof over my head
enough food to eat
warm clothes
shoes
soap
shampoo
a toothbrush
i am grateful i have lived in a time with martin luther king jr, jfk, and john lennon
i am grateful we'll elect a new president in about 349 days
i am most grateful i have:
a job
money in the bank
peace of mind
friends
flowers
a pot full of fresh basil
a pot full of fresh lavender
a pot full of tomatoes
i am grateful that:
most people are not at war
my health
my positive attitude
my ability to see good in everything and everyone
i am grateful i have:
most of my own teeth
clean running water
a roof over my head
enough food to eat
warm clothes
shoes
soap
shampoo
a toothbrush
i am grateful i have lived in a time with martin luther king jr, jfk, and john lennon
i am grateful we'll elect a new president in about 349 days
i am most grateful i have:
a job
money in the bank
peace of mind
friends
flowers
a pot full of fresh basil
a pot full of fresh lavender
a pot full of tomatoes
i am grateful that:
most people are not at war
Sunday, November 18, 2007
hugh's views
from time to time i post articles i think are worth reading and passing along.
here's one. enjoy. peace.
WALKING
Recently I learned of a study comparing the average walking speed of people from different countries. The people with the fastest pace are in Japan. The U.S. is in the top five, which also includes other industrialized nations. At the bottom of the list—the slowest pace—are people from Malawi.
Now that I am semi-retired and have more leisure time, I have decided to do more errands by foot rather than by car. I have always done a lot of hiking and walking recreationally, but this is something different. When I need a haircut or have to go the post office, I go out my front door and hit the pavement. There’s a lot within a mile and a half of my home, and I truly enjoy walking the three-mile round-trip. Because of this behavioral change, there is quite a difference in how I feel, and I’ve noticed that my pace is probably getting closer to the folks in Malawi than to those in Japan.
Walking provides an opportunity to see things that I never would have observed when I traveled by car. It is interesting to see the variety of plant life along the path, and how houses have such interesting designs. There are scores of things I see now that before were just a blur as I hurried in my auto to get to the next place. It’s also far more civil when one walks. We fellow walkers generally greet each pleasantly, as opposed to the tension and disregard that typifies interactions between fellow drivers competing for position. Sometimes even a conversation develops with others, or if you see someone you know, there’s an opportunity to get reacquainted. I expect all this has reduced my blood pressure, pulse rate, and irritability quotient, as it feels to me like the rat race is occurring on some track that I am not on.
On the negative side, there’s the smell of gas fumes and the sight of litter that one would not be aware of if not walking. But the worst observation is how hurried and harried people seem to be while driving. No one appears to have enough time to get where they are going as they speed along, using up fossil fuel, not getting any exercise, and feeling tense on the roadway. Believe me, I know from where I speak, as that was surely a picture of me for a very long time, and occasionally still is.
I suppose in an ideal world we would all live about a 10-minute walk to our jobs and we would have enough discretionary time to feel unhurried. It’s difficult in a metropolitan area to slow down our pace, observe the world that surrounds us, and interact pleasantly with others. There are times that nothing but our automobiles will do, but there are times when we probably do not need a car, yet are just in the bad habit of using one.
Similar to starting a diet, developing new, healthier habits can take time. But depending on your living situation, walking more to do errands may be a habit worth considering. It might even make your life more interesting and pleasant, and perhaps lengthen it as well because of the cardiovascular health benefits. Just think, if the worldwide supply of oil continues to be less available and more expensive, you could be well ahead of your friends and neighbors if you get started right now on this new 21st century essential behavior called walking.
Hugh R. Winig, M.D.
www.hughsviewsandmore.blogspot.com
here's one. enjoy. peace.
WALKING
Recently I learned of a study comparing the average walking speed of people from different countries. The people with the fastest pace are in Japan. The U.S. is in the top five, which also includes other industrialized nations. At the bottom of the list—the slowest pace—are people from Malawi.
Now that I am semi-retired and have more leisure time, I have decided to do more errands by foot rather than by car. I have always done a lot of hiking and walking recreationally, but this is something different. When I need a haircut or have to go the post office, I go out my front door and hit the pavement. There’s a lot within a mile and a half of my home, and I truly enjoy walking the three-mile round-trip. Because of this behavioral change, there is quite a difference in how I feel, and I’ve noticed that my pace is probably getting closer to the folks in Malawi than to those in Japan.
Walking provides an opportunity to see things that I never would have observed when I traveled by car. It is interesting to see the variety of plant life along the path, and how houses have such interesting designs. There are scores of things I see now that before were just a blur as I hurried in my auto to get to the next place. It’s also far more civil when one walks. We fellow walkers generally greet each pleasantly, as opposed to the tension and disregard that typifies interactions between fellow drivers competing for position. Sometimes even a conversation develops with others, or if you see someone you know, there’s an opportunity to get reacquainted. I expect all this has reduced my blood pressure, pulse rate, and irritability quotient, as it feels to me like the rat race is occurring on some track that I am not on.
On the negative side, there’s the smell of gas fumes and the sight of litter that one would not be aware of if not walking. But the worst observation is how hurried and harried people seem to be while driving. No one appears to have enough time to get where they are going as they speed along, using up fossil fuel, not getting any exercise, and feeling tense on the roadway. Believe me, I know from where I speak, as that was surely a picture of me for a very long time, and occasionally still is.
I suppose in an ideal world we would all live about a 10-minute walk to our jobs and we would have enough discretionary time to feel unhurried. It’s difficult in a metropolitan area to slow down our pace, observe the world that surrounds us, and interact pleasantly with others. There are times that nothing but our automobiles will do, but there are times when we probably do not need a car, yet are just in the bad habit of using one.
Similar to starting a diet, developing new, healthier habits can take time. But depending on your living situation, walking more to do errands may be a habit worth considering. It might even make your life more interesting and pleasant, and perhaps lengthen it as well because of the cardiovascular health benefits. Just think, if the worldwide supply of oil continues to be less available and more expensive, you could be well ahead of your friends and neighbors if you get started right now on this new 21st century essential behavior called walking.
Hugh R. Winig, M.D.
www.hughsviewsandmore.blogspot.com
Friday, November 16, 2007
Friday, November 09, 2007
fred claus
just saw this film and i give it a thumbs up.
very sweet and cute.
this holiday season let's really remember what it's all about and live it each and every day.
peace and love and peace on earth.
peace
very sweet and cute.
this holiday season let's really remember what it's all about and live it each and every day.
peace and love and peace on earth.
peace
Thursday, November 08, 2007
Kid Nation
Kid Nation is one of the best shows on TV, in my opinion.
it's on CBS, at 8pm, on wednesday.
check it out.
peace
it's on CBS, at 8pm, on wednesday.
check it out.
peace
Wednesday, November 07, 2007
people we meet
i meet remarkable people from time to time in my work. as a cab driver, i never know who will be getting into my cab. the other day i met somebody worth telling you about.
this is a ninety year old woman who was a member of the women's air corps in world war two.
that is a remarkable story alone.
there were over a thousand women in the WAC, (women's air corps). there are now about three hundred and many of them recently attended a reunion in palm desert, california. i chauffeured one of these woman to the airport. she had many tales to tell, all remarkable and interesting. i cannot begin to relate them here.
the women of the WAC essentially flew missions that men could not, because all the men were in combat duty. without the WAC, i doubt world war two would have ended the way it did. these women made a huge difference. i personally thanked this woman for her patriotic contribution and sacrifice to her country, to our planet, and specifically to me. who knows, had it not been for such women, perhaps i would never have been born.
since the end of the war, these women were rarely recognized, compensated or even thanked. in fact, it wasn't until about 1985 when these women were officially made veterans who could then qualify for health care and a pension.
that is another sad story.
this pilot was joyful and grateful and full of life even for 90. she taught me many lessons on the thirty-five minute cab ride to the airport. and she gave me a good tip. i will never forget this hero of history who was so humble and kind.
when you think about it, we all meet hero's and remarkable people every day. we must recognize and be sure to thank them in the moment. we must be aware of every moment and be mindful to live and love within each and every second.
peace
this is a ninety year old woman who was a member of the women's air corps in world war two.
that is a remarkable story alone.
there were over a thousand women in the WAC, (women's air corps). there are now about three hundred and many of them recently attended a reunion in palm desert, california. i chauffeured one of these woman to the airport. she had many tales to tell, all remarkable and interesting. i cannot begin to relate them here.
the women of the WAC essentially flew missions that men could not, because all the men were in combat duty. without the WAC, i doubt world war two would have ended the way it did. these women made a huge difference. i personally thanked this woman for her patriotic contribution and sacrifice to her country, to our planet, and specifically to me. who knows, had it not been for such women, perhaps i would never have been born.
since the end of the war, these women were rarely recognized, compensated or even thanked. in fact, it wasn't until about 1985 when these women were officially made veterans who could then qualify for health care and a pension.
that is another sad story.
this pilot was joyful and grateful and full of life even for 90. she taught me many lessons on the thirty-five minute cab ride to the airport. and she gave me a good tip. i will never forget this hero of history who was so humble and kind.
when you think about it, we all meet hero's and remarkable people every day. we must recognize and be sure to thank them in the moment. we must be aware of every moment and be mindful to live and love within each and every second.
peace
Tuesday, October 30, 2007
Wednesday, October 24, 2007
Sunday, September 30, 2007
two films to see and an evening visitor
i recommend seeing the films "millions" and "the game plan".
both are sweet.
and have a look at our recent evening visitor.
Sunday, September 23, 2007
3:10 To Yuma
i saw this movie today at the IMAX.
thumbs up. worth seeing, especially at the IMAX.
peace.
thumbs up. worth seeing, especially at the IMAX.
peace.
Wednesday, September 19, 2007
Tuesday, September 11, 2007
Thursday, September 06, 2007
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