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Healthy Lifestyles Neglected In Favor Of Pharmaceuticals
Commented Nov 24, 2009 at 15:51:31 in Living
“This country does not have health care, we have "disease care." Health care is about prevention and keeping people healthy, generally through natural methods. There is not a lot of money to be made off this, so it is vital for the "disease care" industry to get people on as many drugs as possible and never actually free them from disease, simply to manage it so that maximum profits are extracted over the lifetime of the patient.
Money dictates basically everything in this country and profits are more important than people. Its tragically funny, because by keeping so many from truly prospering, we are keeping incredibly brilliant people from getting the education and such needed to come up with amazing inventions for health and more. Our priorities as a whole are so far out of whack that we are circling the drain, and instead of realizing this and changing, we're drowning those who point this out. Profits now are more important than the health of this nation, the world and all her inhabitants. We've had some big wake-up calls and they will only get more intense and louder.”
Money dictates basically everything in this country and profits are more important than people. Its tragically funny, because by keeping so many from truly prospering, we are keeping incredibly brilliant people from getting the education and such needed to come up with amazing inventions for health and more. Our priorities as a whole are so far out of whack that we are circling the drain, and instead of realizing this and changing, we're drowning those who point this out. Profits now are more important than the health of this nation, the world and all her inhabitants. We've had some big wake-up calls and they will only get more intense and louder.”
Copenhagen: Obama Better Go Back
Commented Oct 01, 2009 at 16:23:01 in Green
“Look at what hasn't happened with PZEV vehicles and that will reveal what the administration thinks about the environment.
My parents went to buy one in San Diego and were amazed that there is very little known or talked about them. Their PZEV Subaru pollutes less than a Prius, yet until they got theirs I never heard of one.
They found that the EPA screwed auto dealers by making dealers go through costly, extensive "training" to sell these vehicles. Even though California's regulations are stricter than the feds, and the vehicles easily pass CA standards, the EPA still won't let all states sell them. Only a few states can sell them, so people in nearby states began going to other states to get them. So, the EPA said that if a state borders a state that can sell these vehicles then a neighboring state can as well. The dealers said if it easily passes in CA why can't the rest of the country do the same, instead of the bordering state idea.
This started during the Bush era and continues today. This is so sad, because it would be so easy to help the environment and the economy in one fell swoop. Apparently doing the easy, right thing is too difficult, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. With all the advisers, no one caught this or does anything, so don't hold your breath about Obama attending Copenhagen, as this administration can't even take care of the PZEV no brainer.”
My parents went to buy one in San Diego and were amazed that there is very little known or talked about them. Their PZEV Subaru pollutes less than a Prius, yet until they got theirs I never heard of one.
They found that the EPA screwed auto dealers by making dealers go through costly, extensive "training" to sell these vehicles. Even though California's regulations are stricter than the feds, and the vehicles easily pass CA standards, the EPA still won't let all states sell them. Only a few states can sell them, so people in nearby states began going to other states to get them. So, the EPA said that if a state borders a state that can sell these vehicles then a neighboring state can as well. The dealers said if it easily passes in CA why can't the rest of the country do the same, instead of the bordering state idea.
This started during the Bush era and continues today. This is so sad, because it would be so easy to help the environment and the economy in one fell swoop. Apparently doing the easy, right thing is too difficult, even in the face of overwhelming evidence. With all the advisers, no one caught this or does anything, so don't hold your breath about Obama attending Copenhagen, as this administration can't even take care of the PZEV no brainer.”
Why Would We Let Them Rig the Game?
Commented Sep 29, 2009 at 12:29:13 in Business
“The reality is that trying to convince those opposed to health care for all by appealing to their humanity does not work. One needs to speak in a way that they can hear since they value profits over people.
Since US based employers have to spend so much on health coverage, they cannot compete as well at home or abroad. Turn the tables on the so called "patriots" and ask why they want US businesses to fail. Connect the dots so they can see how the crippling health care system puts US businesses behind the 8 ball and take them on a journey through this reality.”
Since US based employers have to spend so much on health coverage, they cannot compete as well at home or abroad. Turn the tables on the so called "patriots" and ask why they want US businesses to fail. Connect the dots so they can see how the crippling health care system puts US businesses behind the 8 ball and take them on a journey through this reality.”
The Great Recession: It Ain't Over Til It's Over
Commented Sep 23, 2009 at 11:49:57 in Politics
“In this country, the bottom line is much more important to those in "control" than the masses. A jobless recovery suits them just fine as they continue to pillage as they please.
The tragically funny part is that most of the ways that the US has functioned no longer work, yet those very things are what is being "saved." We could have set things up to shift into ways of living that actually affirm life; sadly we're too stupid as a whole to get the bigger picture, and possibly won't until the fit hits the shan.
Let's hope we wake up and realize what's truly important(hint - its not the size of your bank account), for the benefit of all.”
The tragically funny part is that most of the ways that the US has functioned no longer work, yet those very things are what is being "saved." We could have set things up to shift into ways of living that actually affirm life; sadly we're too stupid as a whole to get the bigger picture, and possibly won't until the fit hits the shan.
Let's hope we wake up and realize what's truly important(hint - its not the size of your bank account), for the benefit of all.”
Americans Have Been Taken Hostage
Commented Sep 14, 2009 at 13:19:14 in Business
“Take two parts greed, add one part hubris, a dash of money is king and mix with a society that teaches to crush the competition while getting yours at virtually any cost, and here we are.
Few people running the show get that less is more and that by taking care of all citizens a great society thrives and prospers. This round of crap has been rough on the nation; the next one will be even more intense due to the fact that all we've done is to put a band-aid on the nation's multiple gunshot wounds. We let the ones who pulled the triggers keep on taking us for all we have in a material sense, with no consequences. Just because us ordinary people can see this so clearly doesn't mean those in DC can, because its hard to see the forest through the sleaze.”
Few people running the show get that less is more and that by taking care of all citizens a great society thrives and prospers. This round of crap has been rough on the nation; the next one will be even more intense due to the fact that all we've done is to put a band-aid on the nation's multiple gunshot wounds. We let the ones who pulled the triggers keep on taking us for all we have in a material sense, with no consequences. Just because us ordinary people can see this so clearly doesn't mean those in DC can, because its hard to see the forest through the sleaze.”
I Am a Former Staffer of the President's and I Want Him To Fight Like He Promised Us
Commented Sep 06, 2009 at 12:42:41 in Politics
“The way Obama has approached the health care issue reminds me of when I used to work as an elementary school substitute teacher. I was told that right off the bat, you set the rules for the day and then when the kids first test you, to be really hard on them. This way they would know the consequences and once they knew I was in charge I could let up and be more of my usual fun loving self. However, my first day I went in as my fun loving self and got my butt handed to me by the kids.
The point is that Obama went in trying to be the nice guy instead of using the mandate he was given by the voters. Now that he has tried to play nice, he has lost his momentum. Since congress is just like a bunch of children, he will have to work at least twice as hard to show that he really is a leader, not just someone who can beautifully put words together. He has to realize that unless he immediately uses his power to do what is best for all citizens by doing what he was elected to do, he will not have the strength and support to do much of anything and us regular people will get the short end of the stick - yet again. You are a strong speaker Obama, let's see if you can really lead, for lots of people are counting on”
The point is that Obama went in trying to be the nice guy instead of using the mandate he was given by the voters. Now that he has tried to play nice, he has lost his momentum. Since congress is just like a bunch of children, he will have to work at least twice as hard to show that he really is a leader, not just someone who can beautifully put words together. He has to realize that unless he immediately uses his power to do what is best for all citizens by doing what he was elected to do, he will not have the strength and support to do much of anything and us regular people will get the short end of the stick - yet again. You are a strong speaker Obama, let's see if you can really lead, for lots of people are counting on”
evekendall replied on Sep 07, 2009 at 10:11:06
“Great post.”
tilted windmill replied on Sep 06, 2009 at 22:15:59
“You're absolutely right. I appreciate your sensible point of view. Fanned and marked as favorite.”
ArchAngel replied on Sep 06, 2009 at 14:55:14
“Brilliant!”
jadedinflorida replied on Sep 06, 2009 at 14:47:55
“Spot on... I hope he comes out and tells them alright kids play time is over let's get this mess cleaned up.”
Lehman Lament
Commented Jun 24, 2009 at 15:14:16 in New York
“Let's go to the scorecard.
1. Bailout of wall street and banks using our money - Check
2. Little to no changing of the "rules" for those making up #1- Check
3. The same people who created the financial mess are in charge of cleaning it up - Check
4. No consequences for those who created the financial mess - Check
5. Politicians saying lots and doing squat for Main street - Check
6. Main street losing jobs, benefits, some having to choose between medicine and food - Check
7. Nothing has really changed, except Main street is now a few trillion poorer - Check
In the head to head matchup its no contest - Wall Street pounds Main Street 7-0. Welcome to the era of extreme greed, where the greed of the few in charge of things is destroying our country and beyond, unless a drastic shift transpires.”
1. Bailout of wall street and banks using our money - Check
2. Little to no changing of the "rules" for those making up #1- Check
3. The same people who created the financial mess are in charge of cleaning it up - Check
4. No consequences for those who created the financial mess - Check
5. Politicians saying lots and doing squat for Main street - Check
6. Main street losing jobs, benefits, some having to choose between medicine and food - Check
7. Nothing has really changed, except Main street is now a few trillion poorer - Check
In the head to head matchup its no contest - Wall Street pounds Main Street 7-0. Welcome to the era of extreme greed, where the greed of the few in charge of things is destroying our country and beyond, unless a drastic shift transpires.”
pragmaticrealist replied on Jun 25, 2009 at 10:19:07
“Nice summary, Ned. And a good article Terry.
"Wasn't "The Cowboys" a group of an early version of organized cattle rustlers depicted in the Wyatt Earp films a few years ago? If so, how appropriate.
I have thought of this "situation," that we were witnessing "The Greatest Theft In History - Hidden In Plain Sight." Enabled, aided and abetted by those cloaked both in blue and in red party colors, whose votes and support have been acquired "the old fashioned way" - bought and paid for straight out.
Street hypnosis and three card Monty on the grandest scale yet seen. "Vince, the tv spokesman" couldn't do a better job himself, on his best day, let alone Bernie et al, of creating sophisticated-sounding, geeked-up new math, packaged and presented by intentional design with exotic names, charts and graphs to oh so smoothly seduce "the peeps" and capitalize on the ultimate human weakness of "wanting something for nothing... "Operation Money Suck."
It's just too damned easy for most people to "be bought."
So, for those surviving "Masters of The Universe" - a challenge: Prove You Are Worth It. No, not by using "free money" (in the form of subsidized cheap interest rates) to buy back cherry-picked assets at 40 to 50 cents on the dollar. Heck, any fifth grader can do that.
Create and produce something that is sustainable. New industries, not new illusions designed to "take the peeps last nickle."
My bet is that You Can’t…”
"Wasn't "The Cowboys" a group of an early version of organized cattle rustlers depicted in the Wyatt Earp films a few years ago? If so, how appropriate.
I have thought of this "situation," that we were witnessing "The Greatest Theft In History - Hidden In Plain Sight." Enabled, aided and abetted by those cloaked both in blue and in red party colors, whose votes and support have been acquired "the old fashioned way" - bought and paid for straight out.
Street hypnosis and three card Monty on the grandest scale yet seen. "Vince, the tv spokesman" couldn't do a better job himself, on his best day, let alone Bernie et al, of creating sophisticated-sounding, geeked-up new math, packaged and presented by intentional design with exotic names, charts and graphs to oh so smoothly seduce "the peeps" and capitalize on the ultimate human weakness of "wanting something for nothing... "Operation Money Suck."
It's just too damned easy for most people to "be bought."
So, for those surviving "Masters of The Universe" - a challenge: Prove You Are Worth It. No, not by using "free money" (in the form of subsidized cheap interest rates) to buy back cherry-picked assets at 40 to 50 cents on the dollar. Heck, any fifth grader can do that.
Create and produce something that is sustainable. New industries, not new illusions designed to "take the peeps last nickle."
My bet is that You Can’t…”
Kefir Madness
Commented Jun 13, 2009 at 14:49:14 in Living
“Good to hear you've jumped on the kefir train. I got my roommates hooked on it. Amazing stuff.
A quick aside - about 70% of the health of your immune system is in your digestive tract. Keep the daily probiotics going and reap the benefits.”
A quick aside - about 70% of the health of your immune system is in your digestive tract. Keep the daily probiotics going and reap the benefits.”
Time Is Money -- About Half a Million Dollars a Minute
Commented Jun 09, 2009 at 14:32:33 in Green
“A simple two part plan to create jobs, wean us off foreign oil and help the environment.
First, the federal government pays to have all rooftops in the country painted white with the most environmentally kind paint. The savings in lowered energy bills and reduced oil imports plus jobs created speak for themselves. http://www.good.is/post/signs-of-the-enwhitenment-how-painting-rooftops-could-slow-climate-change/
Second, the federal government pays to have all houses connected to the energy grid fitted with solar panels. All of the abandoned GM and Chrysler factories are retooled to make the panels and the former workers are retrained.
Each state will need new installers as well as distribution help, so job creation would be boosted even more. This will lead to increases in income and taxes, leading to more money for people and for states.
This all could begin immediately and the benefits would grow as the programs develop. We once were given the challenge of going to the moon, which was thought by many to be impossible. We did it in less than 10 years. When we use American ingenuity, we can do anything.”
First, the federal government pays to have all rooftops in the country painted white with the most environmentally kind paint. The savings in lowered energy bills and reduced oil imports plus jobs created speak for themselves. http://www.good.is/post/signs-of-the-enwhitenment-how-painting-rooftops-could-slow-climate-change/
Second, the federal government pays to have all houses connected to the energy grid fitted with solar panels. All of the abandoned GM and Chrysler factories are retooled to make the panels and the former workers are retrained.
Each state will need new installers as well as distribution help, so job creation would be boosted even more. This will lead to increases in income and taxes, leading to more money for people and for states.
This all could begin immediately and the benefits would grow as the programs develop. We once were given the challenge of going to the moon, which was thought by many to be impossible. We did it in less than 10 years. When we use American ingenuity, we can do anything.”
ConservativeHippie replied on Jun 09, 2009 at 16:03:45
“I like your plan. I think that wind power has a place in there too, at least in my area. It needs to be put into play by individuals and communities not corporations.
Boone is talking about vehicles, mostly semi-trucks and larger vehicles that aren't realistically going to run on electricity. I have a 3/4 ton p/u that is used mainly for feeding hay to my cattle in winter and hauling them to sale. It runs on domestic propane and I love it. His plan is another piece to the puzzle.”
Boone is talking about vehicles, mostly semi-trucks and larger vehicles that aren't realistically going to run on electricity. I have a 3/4 ton p/u that is used mainly for feeding hay to my cattle in winter and hauling them to sale. It runs on domestic propane and I love it. His plan is another piece to the puzzle.”
GOP Pols Believe in Outsourcing -- the Dirty Work
Commented Jun 02, 2009 at 13:28:10 in Politics
“It is apparent that the system is so beyond broken that we'd have a better chance of putting Humpty Dumpty back together again than to fix the disgusting "politics" both sides are playing.
Politicians, banks and corporations had to get a king sized bed just to make sure they could all fit. Neither side really has the interest of the people at heart, rather they want all the power and money they can get so of course they don't rock the boat.
Its been a fun run we've had for a couple of centuries, but our turn is coming to an end. People thought Obama would bring us to the light at the end of the tunnel, except he didn't tell us its a train heading right for us.
Funny thing is that a couple hundred years ago some guys decided that taxation without representation was not cool and they did something about it. Here we are in the country the founders built and we are again experiencing taxation to fill the coffers of the wealthy, while getting some promises and an amazing job of going through the motions. When will we the people realize we're caught up in the biggest Ponzi scheme on the planet and actually do something about it?”
Politicians, banks and corporations had to get a king sized bed just to make sure they could all fit. Neither side really has the interest of the people at heart, rather they want all the power and money they can get so of course they don't rock the boat.
Its been a fun run we've had for a couple of centuries, but our turn is coming to an end. People thought Obama would bring us to the light at the end of the tunnel, except he didn't tell us its a train heading right for us.
Funny thing is that a couple hundred years ago some guys decided that taxation without representation was not cool and they did something about it. Here we are in the country the founders built and we are again experiencing taxation to fill the coffers of the wealthy, while getting some promises and an amazing job of going through the motions. When will we the people realize we're caught up in the biggest Ponzi scheme on the planet and actually do something about it?”
Will The Real Anne Bancroft Please Stand Up?
Commented May 23, 2009 at 14:38:52 in Living
“The US is a society based on the surface. Personas exist on the surface, so they are widely used here. In the depths of who we truly are, labels are dropped, because who we truly are is beyond words. Words at best are merely an arrow pointing in the direction of who we are. At the deepest levels, the similarities are so profound, yet in the physical, surface world we shoot for distinctions to separate ourselves from each other.
Few people can get what is behind the words another speaks, so one uses what is available - labels. Our society is designed to keep people from going/being deep since it is much easier to control people when they are only operating on the surface of life.
The following anecdote speaks directly to this.
A philosopher once visited Buddha and asked him: "Without words, without the wordless, will you tell me the truth?"
Buddha kept silence.
After a while the philosopher rose up gently, made a solemn bow and thanked Buddha saying: "With your loving kindness, I have cleared away all my delusions and entered the true path."
When the philosopher had left, Ananda, a senior disciple of Buddha, enquired: "O, Blessed one, what hath this philosopher attained?"
Buddha replied: "A good horse runs even at the shadow of the whip!"”
Few people can get what is behind the words another speaks, so one uses what is available - labels. Our society is designed to keep people from going/being deep since it is much easier to control people when they are only operating on the surface of life.
The following anecdote speaks directly to this.
A philosopher once visited Buddha and asked him: "Without words, without the wordless, will you tell me the truth?"
Buddha kept silence.
After a while the philosopher rose up gently, made a solemn bow and thanked Buddha saying: "With your loving kindness, I have cleared away all my delusions and entered the true path."
When the philosopher had left, Ananda, a senior disciple of Buddha, enquired: "O, Blessed one, what hath this philosopher attained?"
Buddha replied: "A good horse runs even at the shadow of the whip!"”
Cops Say to Legalize Drugs
Commented May 19, 2009 at 16:00:40 in Politics
“It's all about money and control, not what's best for the citizens and the country. Until we get our priorities straight, this mess will continue. Profits before people means the end of the country - death by 1000 cuts.
Politicians are too afraid of losing their power and are slaves to the lobbies that get them into office, so the right and best thing for the masses gets caught up in lies and obfuscation.
Hey Barack, what happened to "Yes we cannabis!"”
Politicians are too afraid of losing their power and are slaves to the lobbies that get them into office, so the right and best thing for the masses gets caught up in lies and obfuscation.
Hey Barack, what happened to "Yes we cannabis!"”
New Drug Czar: "We're Not at War With People in This Country"
Commented May 15, 2009 at 12:22:19 in Politics
“Reminds me of the old Abe Lincoln question
"How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg?
Four. Calling the tail a leg doesn't make it one."
Let's see...
One of the highest incarceration rate of citizens - yep
Tremendous amount of violence directly related to "drugs" - yep
Say little and do less politicians - yep
Lobbies and corporations deeply invested in the status quo - yep
Billions of dollars in taxes lost by keeping the WOD going - yep
Basically, our "politicians" are too scared of their masters and losing their powers to do what's best for the country and its citizens. As one of our greatest documents should now read - "of the corporations, by the corporations, for the corporations."”
"How many legs does a dog have if you call the tail a leg?
Four. Calling the tail a leg doesn't make it one."
Let's see...
One of the highest incarceration rate of citizens - yep
Tremendous amount of violence directly related to "drugs" - yep
Say little and do less politicians - yep
Lobbies and corporations deeply invested in the status quo - yep
Billions of dollars in taxes lost by keeping the WOD going - yep
Basically, our "politicians" are too scared of their masters and losing their powers to do what's best for the country and its citizens. As one of our greatest documents should now read - "of the corporations, by the corporations, for the corporations."”
GreatNews27 replied on May 15, 2009 at 16:54:17
“Agree totally.”
Ending the War on Drugs: The Moment is Now
Commented May 15, 2009 at 12:04:49 in Politics
“The powers that be - the corporations, politicians and so on are too invested in the status quo to change. They all take care of each other first and the rest of us as an afterthought. That's why even though the unwashed masses are the ones who fuel the economy the banks and such get bailed out.
Due to this reality, there are some very vested interests, the DEA, prison lobby, big cotton, and pharmaceutical companies who will fight legalization tooth and nail. They don't care about what 's best for people, just what will keep money flowing their way. Big pharma doesn't make money off plants anyone can grow themselves. They make a ton off some lab created "medicines" that have side effects out the wazoo, which can easily lead to being hooked, having to take more "medicine" to counteract the effects of the first pill/s or who knows what else.
Basically our country is like the frog in the slowly warming pot(pun intended) of water. Cooking our own interests away so that profits can be made in the short term. Only when we are willing to place people above profits will things change. Until then, enjoy the lip service. Oh yeah, and check your back, since as they were talking nice and saying what we want to hear you've probably got a knife stuck there.”
Due to this reality, there are some very vested interests, the DEA, prison lobby, big cotton, and pharmaceutical companies who will fight legalization tooth and nail. They don't care about what 's best for people, just what will keep money flowing their way. Big pharma doesn't make money off plants anyone can grow themselves. They make a ton off some lab created "medicines" that have side effects out the wazoo, which can easily lead to being hooked, having to take more "medicine" to counteract the effects of the first pill/s or who knows what else.
Basically our country is like the frog in the slowly warming pot(pun intended) of water. Cooking our own interests away so that profits can be made in the short term. Only when we are willing to place people above profits will things change. Until then, enjoy the lip service. Oh yeah, and check your back, since as they were talking nice and saying what we want to hear you've probably got a knife stuck there.”
discourse jockey replied on May 15, 2009 at 12:47:01
“Couldn't agree more. It's a simple conflict of interest: their revenue vs. the greater good. In other words: Them vs. us.”
apolloguide replied on May 15, 2009 at 12:24:30
“I agree. until they can figure a way to put a power meter on the sun this is the best $ scam in town.”
Mr. Cheney, You Did Not Keep Us Safe
Commented May 14, 2009 at 12:25:43 in Politics
“Dick Cheney land is not the world the rest of us live in.
Dick, if waterboarding is not torture then please undergo it yourself for 1 hour and have it videotaped and show the world how gentle it is.”
Dick, if waterboarding is not torture then please undergo it yourself for 1 hour and have it videotaped and show the world how gentle it is.”
Arianna On "Countdown," Discusses How Dem Senators Screwed Homeowners
Commented May 02, 2009 at 11:31:56 in Politics
“There are two sets of rules in this country although we are led to believe that there is only one set. One can see it with the bailout of the bankers with no consequences for their actions and through allowing the former administration to literally get away with murder with no consequences.
The banks, corporations and government are all in bed together and making the majority of regular people support them while sticking a knife in our collective backs.
We have capitalism without ethics, which is basically organized economic anarchy for those playing with the big boys. Even worse, we are socializing the risks of the big boys while being told that socialism goes against what this country stands for. When it works for the big players it is a necessary part of keeping their system going. When it would actually benefit the masses, it is fought tooth and nail and called every name in the book. What those in charge don't realize is that when the middle class is strong they thrive even more, and when the middle class gets the short end of the stick like now, that it will come back and bite the big boys in the ass. Unfortunately, things are so enmeshed that many regular people will be brought down as well - so far its only the tip of the iceberg. This is what a country gets when greed overshadows basic humanness.”
The banks, corporations and government are all in bed together and making the majority of regular people support them while sticking a knife in our collective backs.
We have capitalism without ethics, which is basically organized economic anarchy for those playing with the big boys. Even worse, we are socializing the risks of the big boys while being told that socialism goes against what this country stands for. When it works for the big players it is a necessary part of keeping their system going. When it would actually benefit the masses, it is fought tooth and nail and called every name in the book. What those in charge don't realize is that when the middle class is strong they thrive even more, and when the middle class gets the short end of the stick like now, that it will come back and bite the big boys in the ass. Unfortunately, things are so enmeshed that many regular people will be brought down as well - so far its only the tip of the iceberg. This is what a country gets when greed overshadows basic humanness.”
Suzeeq replied on May 02, 2009 at 13:08:11
“well said. this decision of the goverments part will bite them on the butt. we have all been playing along with this inflated, unrealstic, unsubstainable economy. let it fall and let it keep falling until we find honesty, integrity and humanness again.”
Beard replied on May 02, 2009 at 12:20:30
“I believe the time has come for a worker/consumer boycott. If we refuse to participate in the market place by withholding our discretionary spending we could put real pressure on the ruling class to take our needs into serious consideration. If we don't purchase anything but necessities it would put serious pressure on these financial entitiles that are currently pulling our strings. Just a thought,as it seems hopeless to count on our elected officials to put our interest first.”
Artemis34 replied on May 02, 2009 at 12:20:06
“Not only no negative consequences for the bankers but positive consequences like continued huge salaries, bonuses and perks for wrecking the company and the country!
Quite a double standard. Can't give American taxpayers a ray of hope when they are in dire straights, but REWARD the crooked b@stards that brought us here!”
Quite a double standard. Can't give American taxpayers a ray of hope when they are in dire straights, but REWARD the crooked b@stards that brought us here!”
RedneckDem replied on May 02, 2009 at 12:03:55
“Good post. We need another Contract for America, where protecting the worker while conducting business in an ethical and moral way is the norm.”
Don't You Think Forgiveness is Overrated?
Commented May 01, 2009 at 18:23:30 in Living
“In the end the person who holds onto the anger is the one who suffers. Dive deeper into what real forgiveness is and you will find much more than the surface parts you have written about. Do people get hurt to their core - yes, it is a possibility of the human experience. The way for the wound to heal is to realize that the other person may be viewed as a total a**hole, but each second of holding onto the anger pointed towards that person is valuable time that could be used to move forward in life.
Buddha said it well, "Holding onto anger is like holding onto a hot coal waiting to throw it at someone; you're the one getting burned."
It takes lots of internal energy to hold onto anger, but freedom comes when we let go of it and can breathe more easily. Life opens up in other ways as well since there is more energy that can be used in healthier ways.”
Buddha said it well, "Holding onto anger is like holding onto a hot coal waiting to throw it at someone; you're the one getting burned."
It takes lots of internal energy to hold onto anger, but freedom comes when we let go of it and can breathe more easily. Life opens up in other ways as well since there is more energy that can be used in healthier ways.”
johnqsittinzen replied on May 01, 2009 at 18:40:15
“There is no point in responding to her post with reason and insight, this is nothing more than a self-important, ego-maniacal screed wherein a wounded narcissist demands with a verbal foot stomping that the world's language be altered to suit her extremely enlightened sensibilities, as well it is an invitation to the self-congratulating minions in the cult of Self to agree with her. It is so full of contradictions that a closer read will make your head spin.
I repeat, with genuine concern, she ought to remove entirely the phrase "makes me ill" from her thoughts and speech.”
I repeat, with genuine concern, she ought to remove entirely the phrase "makes me ill" from her thoughts and speech.”
My Late Night Visits from the Ghosts of Financial Outrages Past, Present, and Future
Commented Apr 25, 2009 at 16:38:22 in Business
“Let's see...
Same guys running the economic and financial sectors who helped create this mess. No consequences for the CEO's of banks and financial corporations who co-created this mess. Taxpayers bailing out these rich greedy "geniuses." Our tax dollars being used for their bonuses, lobbying against our interests, and to keep the "integral players" in the too big to fail companies.
There is no impetus for doing anything differently. Without holding them accountable and responsible, we are enabling our own demise. Like watching a train wreck in slow motion. The foxes are still in charge of the hen house. The current administration is using 20th century financial methods in a 21st century world. Stop trying to put band-aids on a gunshot wound. The old ways no longer work and need radical CHANGE, not a fresh coat of paint.
The nation continues down the road of financial destruction and will take many with her, as now its all global. Things are in motion that cannot be controlled, and the world will be vastly different as this cycle ends. The house of cards is collapsing as we have collectively lost our way.”
Same guys running the economic and financial sectors who helped create this mess. No consequences for the CEO's of banks and financial corporations who co-created this mess. Taxpayers bailing out these rich greedy "geniuses." Our tax dollars being used for their bonuses, lobbying against our interests, and to keep the "integral players" in the too big to fail companies.
There is no impetus for doing anything differently. Without holding them accountable and responsible, we are enabling our own demise. Like watching a train wreck in slow motion. The foxes are still in charge of the hen house. The current administration is using 20th century financial methods in a 21st century world. Stop trying to put band-aids on a gunshot wound. The old ways no longer work and need radical CHANGE, not a fresh coat of paint.
The nation continues down the road of financial destruction and will take many with her, as now its all global. Things are in motion that cannot be controlled, and the world will be vastly different as this cycle ends. The house of cards is collapsing as we have collectively lost our way.”
fumes replied on Apr 25, 2009 at 17:52:33
“''The foxes are still in charge of the hen house.''
it's their hen house silly.”
it's their hen house silly.”
2p0p replied on Apr 25, 2009 at 17:40:59
“that pretty much sums it up ,as it stands now.Individuals must now reinvent their own lives and begin to build something better.At least now it's out in the open ie. the fact that the people in charge don't care about the 'common' people.”
We're Running Our World Like a Ponzi Scheme!
Commented Apr 09, 2009 at 12:15:33 in Green
“A 21st century update of the Malthusian Model - well done.
The Native Americans are wise enough to know that their choices need to be thought out for 7 generations. The "leaders of the free world" aka the USA have shown that we as a whole have a tough time looking ahead for 7 years. Actually let's be real - its not 7 years, 7 months, or even 7 weeks. 7 days may even be a stretch.
All of the "crisis" stuff going on is part of a wake up call that rang loudly, but as a whole we've chosen to try to make things the way they were. The systems are broken, and the choice is to try and patch them up instead of looking for more powerful, sustainable ways. The next wake up call will be even louder and the reality is that people only really change when there is no other option. I thought this one would be enough to wake us all up, but outdated ways of living are so ingrained that we haven't done much more than take a rusted out 1976 Gremlin and put a shiny new bumper on it.
But hey, at least we have stories out the wazoo about whether Michelle Obama's arms should be covered or not.”
The Native Americans are wise enough to know that their choices need to be thought out for 7 generations. The "leaders of the free world" aka the USA have shown that we as a whole have a tough time looking ahead for 7 years. Actually let's be real - its not 7 years, 7 months, or even 7 weeks. 7 days may even be a stretch.
All of the "crisis" stuff going on is part of a wake up call that rang loudly, but as a whole we've chosen to try to make things the way they were. The systems are broken, and the choice is to try and patch them up instead of looking for more powerful, sustainable ways. The next wake up call will be even louder and the reality is that people only really change when there is no other option. I thought this one would be enough to wake us all up, but outdated ways of living are so ingrained that we haven't done much more than take a rusted out 1976 Gremlin and put a shiny new bumper on it.
But hey, at least we have stories out the wazoo about whether Michelle Obama's arms should be covered or not.”
Matthew Stein replied on Apr 09, 2009 at 18:43:49
“You got me laughing really hard. Now that we have shifted our media's focus from Britney Spears, or Brad and Janet, to a new focus on Michelle Obama's arms, does this mean we have gone from 98% asleep to only 97% unaware?”
The Virtue of Hate
Commented Apr 06, 2009 at 10:53:56 in Living
“Buddha said "Holding on anger is like holding onto a hot coal waiting to throw it at someone. You're the one getting burned."
While it may seem to be counter intuitive, genuine forgiveness brings about amazing healing on many levels. Of course we can hold on to whatever we choose, with some things being healthier than others. Holding onto anger or hate eats away at a person and robs them of their life.”
While it may seem to be counter intuitive, genuine forgiveness brings about amazing healing on many levels. Of course we can hold on to whatever we choose, with some things being healthier than others. Holding onto anger or hate eats away at a person and robs them of their life.”
Listen To The Rioters In London -- They've Got a Point
Commented Apr 03, 2009 at 11:41:43 in World
“This whole experience is a wake up call. This one has been loud enough for all on Earth. Yet, our "leaders" are once again snatching defeat from the jaws of victory. We could have really heard the wake up call and changed things in a huge way. Instead we have gotten the old ways propped up again.
The next wake up call will be louder and much more intense than this one. They will continue until we learn our lessons or perish. Humanity is at a crossroads - and we've basically been sent down a very similar road to what got us here in the first place. With what I've seen, we will have to get to a point where drastic change is the only option, for humanity as a whole will only change when no other way is possible.
It is fascinating because this new way of being is being presented to us now, yet we do not see the grand scope of what is happening. So many are clinging to the old ways even though they do not work at this level. We are shifting into a higher state of being, yet the old, lower vibrational crap is having its last hurrah and captivating those running the big economies of the world. Our priorities are so out of whack that we will basically need to be hit over the head to bring the change that is necessary. Hopefully we wake up and listen.”
The next wake up call will be louder and much more intense than this one. They will continue until we learn our lessons or perish. Humanity is at a crossroads - and we've basically been sent down a very similar road to what got us here in the first place. With what I've seen, we will have to get to a point where drastic change is the only option, for humanity as a whole will only change when no other way is possible.
It is fascinating because this new way of being is being presented to us now, yet we do not see the grand scope of what is happening. So many are clinging to the old ways even though they do not work at this level. We are shifting into a higher state of being, yet the old, lower vibrational crap is having its last hurrah and captivating those running the big economies of the world. Our priorities are so out of whack that we will basically need to be hit over the head to bring the change that is necessary. Hopefully we wake up and listen.”
Will Everyone Grab a Bucket? This Thing is Sinking
Commented Mar 11, 2009 at 12:28:14 in Politics
“An ending is upon us. We are much like Rome during her decline. Some similarities are:
Power in the hands of a few
Few rich people with lots of "others"
They had the gladiator fights, we have MMA , video game death galore, and TV
Both have been spread thin by being in too many places at once
If we look at the USA using the cycles of the moon, we are in the waning cycle. Societies like ours and ancient Rome get built up, rest on our laurels, and then decline rapidly.
We still have further to go in this decline since we have not united. As the saying goes, united we stand and divided we fall. How much further will we have to fall before we unite?”
Power in the hands of a few
Few rich people with lots of "others"
They had the gladiator fights, we have MMA , video game death galore, and TV
Both have been spread thin by being in too many places at once
If we look at the USA using the cycles of the moon, we are in the waning cycle. Societies like ours and ancient Rome get built up, rest on our laurels, and then decline rapidly.
We still have further to go in this decline since we have not united. As the saying goes, united we stand and divided we fall. How much further will we have to fall before we unite?”
If the Republican Party Represents Family, Then How Come Their Two Leaders Are Childless?
Commented Mar 06, 2009 at 14:04:45 in Living
“Is it fortunate that these two have not chosen to have children. At least their ideologies are not being passed down biologically.”
Don't Let Anyone Tell You What to Eat
Commented Mar 02, 2009 at 18:45:05 in Living
“It all comes down to keeping people under control. By telling others how they are supposed to be and eat, etc., control is realized from the outside. People end up losing touch with intuition and forget how to listen to their own body over what the "experts" say. Much easier to bend people to your will when they have forgotten how to listen to themselves.
The best diet for any person is what their body wants to eat. Not what they think they should eat, or what the latest fad is. So many don't know how to tune into what their body wants.
As we look around it is easy to see how little people listen to themselves in so many areas of their lives and how easy it is to take advantage of them. Take back your personal power by listening to your own inner guidance first and foremost. Do this throughout your life and you will notice incredible things happening externally and most importantly internally. Don't take my word for it, try it yourself and see what shows up - have fun.”
The best diet for any person is what their body wants to eat. Not what they think they should eat, or what the latest fad is. So many don't know how to tune into what their body wants.
As we look around it is easy to see how little people listen to themselves in so many areas of their lives and how easy it is to take advantage of them. Take back your personal power by listening to your own inner guidance first and foremost. Do this throughout your life and you will notice incredible things happening externally and most importantly internally. Don't take my word for it, try it yourself and see what shows up - have fun.”
hp blogger Irene Rubaum-Keller replied on Mar 02, 2009 at 19:06:56
“Thank you for your comment NedFlanders. I agree with you completely.”
Ending the "War on Drugs": The Fierce Urgency of...When?
Commented Feb 28, 2009 at 12:15:37 in Politics
“End the War on Americans?!?
But it's been such a success. We've already achieved one of the main goals, which is to have the greatest percentage of our population in prison, more so than anywhere else. We've also been able to keep people safe from natural products by ensuring that factory generated pills are in readily accessible.
Who could forget that we spend precious resources each year on agents, policing, weapons, prisons, guards, and more. This money could go a long way towards helping us chart a path out of the current mess we're in.
Until we speak loudly enough, politicians will do what they do best - nothing. The USA has a long standing tradition of only adapting sound strategy after years of idiotic policy. Powerful lobbies and corporations are the puppeteers for politicians content with being reelected for keeping the status quo.
Fear, once again, trumps reality...and the beat goes on”
But it's been such a success. We've already achieved one of the main goals, which is to have the greatest percentage of our population in prison, more so than anywhere else. We've also been able to keep people safe from natural products by ensuring that factory generated pills are in readily accessible.
Who could forget that we spend precious resources each year on agents, policing, weapons, prisons, guards, and more. This money could go a long way towards helping us chart a path out of the current mess we're in.
Until we speak loudly enough, politicians will do what they do best - nothing. The USA has a long standing tradition of only adapting sound strategy after years of idiotic policy. Powerful lobbies and corporations are the puppeteers for politicians content with being reelected for keeping the status quo.
Fear, once again, trumps reality...and the beat goes on”
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