“Our democracy is a light, a beacon really, around the world because we affect change at the ballot box and not because of these outbursts of violence.” ~ U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, March 25, 2010 I’ve reached the end of mourning, the occasion marked as I was watching Sarah Palin say she’s a victim of “blood libel.” She’s had days to compose a response, and this is it? There are a lot of things she could have done here, but…
I’m going to let all the things I could say about Palin’s speech pass today, and let FactCheck.org (and Media Matters and The Progress Report) point out lies and distortions, of which there were many. There was a whole bunch of snideness, and even more dishonesty. But… I’m on board in one way. Why? Because there is one thing she said that gives me long-term hope. She encouraged people to stand up and speak, and if some do, so will…
Sarah Palin enthusiastically defends the cruel practice of shooting wolves from the air. Palin has proposed legislation – and even cash incentives – to encourage this practice. She offered aerial hunters a state payment of $150 for every wolf killed before it was defeated by the state superior court as an illegal use of bounty payments. Back in 2007, she had already approved spending $400,000 of state money to counter a citizens’ initiative at halting the killing of animals from…
Too bad I couldn’t find the custom canines, but I think the fangs are clearly implied. I am so very happy that I can celebrate such things. Jehovah’s Witnesses and other groups who can’t find the spirit in Hallowe’en are really missing out. As the photos de-monstrate, I embraced my shadow and it was as thrilling and as unnerving as always. Found a few more worthy bits to reposition, save and integrate. Such exploration is palpably good for the soul…
I’ve been profoundly disturbed by seeing certain kinds of beliefs and accusations that I’m observing – not only from under-informed folk at rallies, but even from so-called christian blogs and in emails from people who should really know better. We have a deep need to feel better about ourselves as a nation, but lying to ourselves isn’t the way to do it, and neither is hate or fear or scapegoating or any of those other strategies that have been used…
There is much to say, but I’m not in the mood. Barack Obama – Has my vote. He’ll be terrific, and we need him – and a Democratic Congress, too. Teddy Kennedy – Captain, my captain, my forever Senator. Hillary Clinton – Strong, inspiring, gracious. Bill Clinton – Love that man. ‘Nuff said. Joe Biden – Trustworthy. Talk to the people, Joe. And relax. John McCain – Has turned his back on what made him worthy of respect. Sarah Palin…