Stacey's Panic Room

I've decided to retire this blog....

2011-01-02T10:29:00.000-08:00

...I just don't keep up with it anymore and I don't think that will change. I am now more into Facebook, which is more convenient for me as far as posting messages, sharing, etc. I will keep this blog up for awhile and I'll probably delete it at some point. I thank anyone who has given this a read. Occasionally I get a spammer or a troll who leaves a comment- no thank yous for them.
The KJS Fan Page and Chicks In Pointy Hats will still be up and running. I'm never getting rid of those.
Have a blessed 2011!

Happy Easter

2010-04-11T14:00:00.000-07:00

I love Easter. What's not to like? It's the beginning of warm weather, blooming flowers, of new life. A time to wear pretty colors and eat candy. But besides the nice frills, Easter is a reminder of rebirth, hope and starting anew.
In church, baptisms often take place at Easter, and those who already baptized renew the Baptismal Covenant. The baptismal vows are a tall order: each indivdual vow asks a lot of us, for instance- it is a daunting task to strive for justice and the diginity of every human being.
Difficult as it may seem, it is still something we should all work on as this is what our faith is supposed to be all about.
I think the bishop of my diocese has explained it nicely in his Easter message:

A Message from Bishop Michel…

April, 2010 – Dear friends of the Risen Lord, Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed, Alleluia! I hope that every reader of this Ministry Memo had a glorious and blessed Easter as we remember that we are the Easter People who live in the hope and promise of resurrection to eternal life. Alleluia!

Tom Ehrich, an Episcopal priest, wrote in a recent issue of “Episcopal Life”, :“I wish more people stood in a typical Episcopal narthex on Sunday and watched the lonely be loved, the stranger be welcomed, the child be heard, and young and old find common good—the radical inclusion that is so necessary in our divided, intolerant and ideology-driven society.” Does your parish church practice radical inclusion? Were your doors open to ALL people for Holy Week and Easter and all hearts and our doors to everyone, and especially to those who still say, “We wish to see Jesus.” We are living in somewhat desperate times with high unemployment, frightening economic crises, wars in America’s streets and on the other side of the world, and the list goes on. Politically, people are getting violent and ideologies running rampant over personalities and human justice issues. At times we seem to have lost our civility and there aren’t too many acts of human kindness being practiced on the streets of our cities or in Washington. So often, when times get bad, people pull together and work for solutions and remedies to a situation; but there are many who think that the only solution is violence and harsh rhetoric and division of the “right” from the “wrong”.

The Church has a message of hope with the story of the Resurrection and we can live out that hope with radical inclusion and hospitality as we remind folks that everyone is welcome, regardless of their opinions, their shortcomings or sinfulness, their color, economic status, sexuality or any of the other boxes that our society would put them in. All are welcome and all will be treated with love and respect and caring when they come to worship and be part of our congregations. But we have to be intentional about that and we may need to remind the People of God that God calls us to open ourselves and our congregations to be places of radical inclusion and outrageous hospitality. The Scriptures are rich with teachings about this and I would pray that during these great 50 days of Eastertide we will all be intentional about welcoming the stranger, the needy, the lonely, the hurting, the comfortable and the comfortless—all of God’s children—to our places of resurrection joy and hope. And then let’s keep on being radically inclusive and hospitable right into the long season after Pentecost and beyond.

God bless us all and keep on saying Alleluia! Christ is Risen! The Lord is risen, indeed. Alleluia!

+Rodney

Beautiful Stranger

2010-02-22T18:58:00.000-08:00

It was an honor and a privilege to stay at this place. I love Victorian buildings. I did not see any ghostly things during my stay. I did visit the gift shop that they speak of here. The 1888 Shop is awesome! And I do love this story of this young Victorian woman. Poor gal.

Why We Like Groundhog Day

2010-02-02T16:59:00.001-08:00

No...not the movie with Bill Murray.

Feb 2, Groundhog Day is silly- yet it gets national news coverage. Our attention turns to what looks like an oversized rodent that gets yanked out of it's hole. Why oh why do we care?

In short: it's a distraction and it's easy.

We've passed the joyous rushed holiday season and have hit the dead-of-winter doldrums. We endured the cold, long month of January. Aside from New Years Day and MLK Day, nothing much goes on in January except cold weather.

Groundhog Day is easy. It's not like a "real" holiday. You don't take off for it, you don't have to send cards for it or give gifts. There's no real preparation for Groundhog Day. All you have to do is watch TV or listen to radio to hear what the groundhog did.

While I don't doubt that the animal kingdom has it's ways of knowing what kind of weather is coming (consider how birds act just before a storm comes), I don't put much stock in the groundhog's shadow. Still, I found myself repeating to others the news of what the groundhog did today. A mindless predictor of the future- like a Magic 8 Ball. Silly, but fun.

We "asked" the groundhog if winter would be over soon.

The groundhog predicted 6 more weeks of winter. Damn.

I asked my Magic 8 Ball. It says: "Outlook not so good". Double-damn!

Maybe I should go read my horoscope instead.

Stacey's Panic Room: Why I Wear a Sand Dollar Cross

2010-01-13T12:56:00.000-08:00

Stacey's Panic Room: Why I Wear a Sand Dollar Cross

Why I Wear a Sand Dollar Cross

2010-01-13T12:54:00.000-08:00

I wear my silver "sand dollar cross" (pictured on my profile) very often. There's a poem attributed to the sand dollar in which the sand dollar symbolizes the star to follow to Christ, and the points of the cross on which he was crucified. The poem is hereSand Dollar Legend Poem. I have my own interpretation of the sand dollar cross. For me, the sand dollar represents the ocean, biology, nature and science. The cross, of course, represents the Christian faith. Both the sand dollar and cross represent two things I love: 1. the ocean, beach and nature and 2. My faith and church (specifically the Episcopal Church). For me, the sand dollar also symbolizes science: the beginnings of man and life as organisms from the water, of water and sea life we depend on, and the uniqueness of living creatures. It awes me that all those sand dollars you see for sale in beach town stores are not just knick-knacks: they were all once living things.
The sand dollar and cross put together also says to me that faith and science belong together. They are not adversaries. I wish more could see that. Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori is a living an example that you can be a person of faith AND science. She was an oceanographer before her ordained life. This is another reason I wear it: I am reminded of her as well when I wear my sand dollar cross.

Epiphany: The Ultimate "A- ha!" Moment

2010-01-09T18:14:00.000-08:00

We use this term "Epiphany" to describe the coming of the Magi- the first manifestation of Christ to the Gentiles, or in other terms, it is the Church's celebration of the 3 Kings following the star to the baby Jesus to honor him and to bring him gifts.
The word "epiphany" in our language also means to have a realization: to have a sudden understanding of something. It's a moment when we say or think, "A-ha! There's the answer!", or we say, "I've had an epiphany!" It can happen in the form of something as simple as figuring out directions to that electronic item you just got for Christmas, or it can be a more serious revelation about which way your life is suppose to take. Generally, "a-ha" moments feel very good, confusion dissipates and a sense of satisfaction and excitement settles in. Before these moments though, we can feel lost, uncomfortable or confused and not know where to go or what to do.
There was confusion and unrest before Jesus' birth, and then the birth of the new king gave the world new direction, hope, joy and peace. The Magi knew that they must find him, and figured out what to do and where to go. They knew to follow a star to the great king. What an "a-ha" moment that must have been!
The Magi just did not figure out what to do, but they also brought gifts.
Perhaps we should meditate on "following the star." I don't mean just following Jesus, but following the path that is meant for us. We all have a purpose, a goal and a path we are supposed to take. It may take some of us a awhile to "have an epiphany" and figure out just exactly what that is. Like the Magi, we should travel- no matter how long the road- with our "gifts". I do not mean just physical items like frankenscence and gold. Everyone has a talent that is a gift that should be shared, not just with the king but with all in his kingdom.
We should all have many blessings of "a-ha" moments, no matter how large or small. May these moments show us where to go next, give us peace, joy and make the world a better place.

Anyone else hooked on MSNBC's "Lockup"?

2010-01-03T16:43:00.000-08:00

They run mathathons of "Lockup", so I know its not just me watching it! It amazes me that these prisoners can make a weapon, or an instrument out of anything- they are like that show McGyver, haha. If only they put this talent to positive use in the first place, they wouldn't be locked up!

Happy 2010!

2010-01-03T16:12:00.000-08:00

Christmas was wonderful. I have been meditative this year, especially during Advent. I had a piece published in Episcopal Life- the newspaper of the national church- about my journey and growth into the Episcopal Church. I was looking back on my journey and decided to write it down, and being published in such a forum was the greatest Christmas gift I can ask for! My priest was very excited about it, I had put St. Luke's "on the map" with it. I admit when I saw the article in print, I could not believe it took up half the page- it was even bigger than the Presiding Bishop's column! I got some written responses in Episcopal Life afterwards- most were poaitive, but one such person said something negative. He said I failed to mention "Jesus", and that was bad. I found his contact info on the web, and asked him directly why he said the things he did. (A bold move, I admit!) At first I was kind of annoyed with him, but we got past that and we actually started a dialogue. I took the cue from our Presiding Bishop who has talked about "finding God in differences" in one of her books and I began to understand the background of this person, and how it shaped his opinion of my piece. We have sharply different views, but I see we are both devout in our faith. May peace be with him and all who I (or we) disagree with!
I did one of the readings in church on Christmas Eve and that was an honor and blessing. It's very special. It is a bit nervewracking too, I get that way in front of the "C and E crowd", I feel like I have to make a good first impression as a representative of my parish. All went well.
November took me again to the PA Dioscean Convention- this time in the vast PA Convention Center. Different events were going on in other parts of the Center and we all shared a common hallway. Apparently there was an arts show and karate competition going on, so in the hall you saw boys in karate outfits, artsy people with purple hair, and people in clerical collars! Quite a sight! The Convention itself went rather well and a positive feel; this was much needed after the past few Conventions that were saturated by the Bishop Bennison scandals- making a very uncomforatble atmosphere. I remember my first Conevntion- I was brand new, and had learned of Bennison's scandal only days before, and people at the Convention said such things, there was anger, such anger. Sex abuse scandals will bring that out. I was exhausted by the end of that Saturday. The next day, I remember bursting into tears in church after my priest's sermon. He was at the convention was quite spent from it too and he expressed that.
But that's all behind us now, there's a new dawn. After a painful period, new hope springs. Presiding Bishop Katharine also reminds me of this
in her books. We are blessed to have Bishop Rodney Michel oversee our Diocese and I can tell he is all about healing, mission and inclusion. Amen!
So this is how 2009 ended for me. There was also a surprise blizzard in between! Now it is January 2010 and I have the "post holiday" funk, I have bills, I have freezing cold weather, I have a ton of tasks facing me at work, I have to really, really get on the stick about excercise and my diet (seriously!), and I have to buckle down and write more, aim to be published more, and write that book/chronicle that I meant to write in 2009 and never did! I have to travel more and see what I've always wanted to see. I will be 41 years old soon. What am I waiting for?
I pray for strength, hope and paece for myself and all my family, friends and church family- and my internet friends too! May 2010 be a blessing!

2009-12-25T19:23:00.000-08:00

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

I promise to post more to this blog. Facebook has taken over some of my blogging/posting energy, and I've been neglecting Blogger, except for my KJS fan page.
On the last week of 2009, I will write a posting about the year in review.
For now, I wish everyone a safe and peaceful holiday season!

2009-09-08T15:55:00.000-07:00

Hey Kids: Stay in School, mkay?

President Obama addressed America's schoolchildren as they started a new academic year. The address was aired during the day, classrooms set up TVs so the students could watch.

http://www.whitehouse.gov/MediaResources/PreparedSchoolRemarks/
What struck me is the reaction of some parents to this gesture, prompting some to pull their kids out the classroom during the speech, or pulling them out of school altogether. Not suprisingly, those who opposed the speech in the schools tended to be right-wingers, who went so far as to call the speech "indoctrination."
Funny that they had no problem with G.W. Bush and Reagan when they chose to do the same, that is, make a speech to schoolchildren.
If we want to talk about indoctrination, let's talk about the American History that has been taught so long in schools. We were taught America was founded by the people, for the people, and everyone had liberties and rights and freedom. Well, we know that was not true. (Slavery, anyone? Native American slaughter anyone? Women not permitted to vote, anyone?)
The parents who protested and pulled their children out of class are showing a real immaturity. What about showing some tolerance instead? Also the speech made no mention of policies. This was not a political speech. The message was a positive one, and one I can remember hearing as a child: "Stay in school, work hard, and maybe you too can become President someday." Why would you want your child to miss out on being told that message?
I can remember being in second grade and writing a letter to the President along with the rest of the class. It was very exciting. No politics were discussed, no parents were upset, nobody accused anyone of pushing any agenda. I imagine such a harmless, fun act as writing the President would be met with contrition today. How unfortunate.

2009-08-31T18:42:00.000-07:00

TED KENNEDY, RIP.

"I know that I have been an imperfect human being, but with the help of my faith, I have tried to right my path."

I fall asleep to the TV often, but rarely to MSNBC. One night, I did just that. I awoke at 3am and saw "Ted Kennedy Dead" across the screen. It took a moment to compute what I was seeing.

We all knew the prognosis wasn't good, but still his demise came as a jolt for me. I sat up,

made the sign of the cross, said a prayer and then tears came. My family has long been liberal Kennedy fans. My mom and

grandfather both saw JFK in person. I saw "Teddy" in person in the 80's when I was touring the Capitol. I joined America's fascination with "our Royal Family".

He stood for so much that I stand for. His cause for healthcare for all is very dear to my heart, ever since I was a 20something youth with no health insurance.

His departure begs the question: "What now?" What will happen to the cause? Who will take up the torch? How do we begin picking up where someone of his longevity and accomplishments left off?

The memorials for him were so down to earth, so real, filled with genuine emotion, they were so Kennedy. You saw all kinds of people file pass his casket. All ages, races, nationalities. There were tributes from dignitaries, and even those from the other side of the aisle shared anecdotes and bowed their heads.

His final step was at Arlington. Lightening flashed in the distance in the dark sky. "Taps" was played. His brother's flame burning nearby. A letter he wrote to the Pope was read: part confession, part petition, part thanksgiving. Hollywood couldn't have come up with anything more dramatic and moving.

His death came a year after he spoke at the Convention, in support of Obama- the President he would help elect, and who would happen to be vacationing nearby when he died.

He was imperfect, indeed. But look at all he has accomplished in spite of all the pitfalls. There's something to be said about that.

God Bless You , Teddy. I hope you have reunited with your family who did not enjoy a full life as you did. Rest in peace.

2009-08-08T19:22:00.000-07:00

Well...that's right...I don't believe in that crap!

I've run into this "parody ad" quite a few times while searching for some Church related stuff and have been meaning to comment on it.

I believe this "ad" for the Episcopal Church was created in reponse to something that the Presiding Bishop said early in her term- in a nutshell she said that Mormons and Roman Catholics have theological reasons for reproducing a lot, wheras the Episcopal Church doesn't take that stance- hence why there's not a very large Episcopal population. (The last line of the "ad" offers to free birth control to Catholics and Mormons).

Though designed as a "slam" on the Church, I chose to take it as somwhat of a affirmation, as if to say, "Well.. YEAH, I don't believe in that crap!"

"Crap" :meaning the belief that women should know their place, that their "main purpose" is to pop out babies.

"Crap" : meaning that birth control "interferes" with God's Plan. What about "God helps those who help themselves?" Or being "stewards of the Earth?" Using birth control and population control fits right in with both those ideals.

"Crap": meaning that you are a total failure if you don't reproduce a lot. The Presiding Bishop and her spouse have only one offspring, so I guess she'd be deemed a failure in that department. As for myself, I have no offspring- by choice, and I suppose that not only am I a failure but I am sinful and hellbound.

When I was looking into church membership, a large part of the Episcopal Church's appeal to me was its respect for women and its belief in birth control and reproductive rights .

I couldn't belong to any faith that denies women control over their own bodies. I don't believe in that crap. And neither does the Episcopal Church! That's why I belong there!

2009-07-24T18:51:00.000-07:00

Let's Talk About the Episcopal Church's Convention, Shall We?

Ubuntu . This was the word and theme of the Episcopal Church's General Convention, it is a word that means unity. Some say that the very opposite took place: a "disunion" with the larger Anglican Communion. This may be correct, but does mean that this is "the end"? Let's think about this:

The Episcopal Church is a 2 million member denomination, and has been losing members and money. Budget troubles and membership troubles can be upsetting, and at its worst, can spell death to parishes, property and jobs. But even in such circumstances, I would rather belong to an inclusive church that is having monetary and membership troubles than a church which will sell out and cave in to those who want to be exclusionary. Some things are more important than numbers in the pews and the Almighty Dollar. I think we can all agree that we belong to a faith community for reasons much deeper than crunching numbers or "one-upping" the other faith communities. Additionally, we must take another look at this: on the surface, it may appear that the Episcopal Church is undergoing a mass exodus as we hear from the dissenters, who have not gone quietly. A "noisy" group can give the illusion of power, or of omnipresence, but we have to take a deeper look beyond the hype. Is it as bad as it seems? We also have to look to at opportunity. since it has been made known that TEC has become "open" to blessing same sex unions and ordination of gay people, this may actually increase membership in the long run. Instead of perceiving the recent media coverage as "bad press on a church that won't get along", we can look at it as unintentional advertising (and free advertising at that!) which practically said, "Feel like you don't belong? Come on in! The Episcopal Church Welcomes YOU!" This could be the proverbial shot in the arm that the church needs. Prior to these recent developments, the Church had already developed a reputation for being a place of welcome for those who felt that their opinions or lifestyle was being judged by their former spiritual homes. The fact that the majority of today's Episcopalians are converts from other faiths , or are from "unchurched" backgrounds is very telling. The Episcopal Church has come far from the "club like" establishment it once was.
Anglican Communion and Episcopal Church relations may appear chaotic now, but as our Presiding Bishop so brilliantly puts it: chaos can be met, and transformed. Chaos followed by transformation is nothing new in the Episcopal Church. If it did not choose to brave any chaos, there wouldn't be female priests today- let alone female bishops, let alone a female Presiding Bishop.We may lose global Anglican support, lose members, lose ground, lose money, lose footing in the process. Ties can be broken, a union can die, but sometimes there has to be death for new growth to emerge- isn't that what resurrection is all about?

2009-04-25T19:55:00.000-07:00

The PB and Me

It's no secret that I am a fan of Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts-Schori, she's been an object d'my blog a few times (see posts from June and later 2006), so when I got word that she'd be visiting my diocese, I was all over it.

She came to Church of the Holy Trinity in downtown Philly, to help celebrate CHT's 150th birthday and was Celebrant at the Sunday Eucharist. I'm not a CHT member, but all were invited to come, and came I did. I've been wanting to see her since her election in 2006.

2006 was also the year of my baptism so that year holds a lot of significance for me.

Her sermon was a message of understanding each other and breaking down barriers. Her sermon began with her greetings us on behalf of various dioceses around the globe and that "they all pray for you." Yes, this is true- in the Anglican Cycle of Prayer. That's a good reminder. It was wonderful to hear her message of peace, in that distinctly low-toned voice of hers- a different experience than just reading words.

She cuts a distinct figure, too- she's tall and thin and wears a colorful chasuble and mitre - I have seen these before in photos, but I found that photos do not do them justice. They are much more lovely in person.

As Celebrant, she did the consecration and gave communion. That's when it all hit me.

"Here I am. Look where I am.", I thought. I was thinking about how it was only 3 years ago I had set foot in an Episcopal church for the first time, and I became awed about how much it has added to my life. I was brand-spanking-new to the Church in 2006 when history was made with her election, and on that day, I thought to myself, " Yes. I made the right choice. Re-affirmed!"

I couldn't believe I was now going to stand in front of her and receive Eucharist.

So all of this is running through my head as I'm in the communion line as the choir sang, "Let Us Break Bread Together". Emotion ran high, I was almost shaking as I made eye contact with her as she said, "The Body of Christ" and placed it in my hands. I remember then turning to the church's rector to drink from the chalice, I drank and the ushers were guiding the way back, and I walked back to my pew, overcome by it all, in tears by this time. I kneeled in my pew with my head down, kind of embarassed, kind of a mess, tears even dripping on the bulletin I held in my hand. I know it sounds crazy. Words can't really explain it, but it was very special and a significant moment. Something defintely happened there.

After the service was over, she stayed around to talk. She was still near the altar, there was no "greeting line" at the exit like you usually see in a church. We were all free to just go up and talk to her. Now, before I set out on my trip, I consulted my good Beliefnet board friends about how to greet her if I got to talk to her. Well, memory escaped me and I wound up just saying, "Hello. It's an honor to meet you." rather than, "Good Morning Presiding Bishop..." I am lucky I got that much out, and I also managed to ask her to sign my copy of her book "A Wing and a Prayer." She was kind enough to put down her bishop's staff and grab a pen and I now have a signed copy. I also got to tell her that I was still new to the Church and baptized the same year of her election, and that I was so, so, happy to be here. She responded, with "Welcome home." as we shook hands. What a gesture that was! When I did finally exit the church, I was still dazed from the whole experience. It exceeded all expectations.

I took a few pictures with my cellphone, they are not the best but I will cherish them always. I love the one where the sunlight is shining through the church window right onto her!

2009-03-15T16:44:00.000-07:00

(I know....It's been TOO LONG since I posted anything. I've discovered Facebook and that's been taking up a lot of my time. But I have not forgotten Blogger!)

40 is the New 30??

On February 11 of this year, I turned 40. They say the teenage years are the "awkward years" but I think this is much more awkward. I have realized the following:

*Most sports stars and film stars are half my age.
*I now go to doctors who are 10-15 years younger than me
*I went to a church and realized I owned books, music and clothes that were much older than the newly ordained priest.
* Some of my coworkers don't remember tv before cable and have no clue what a vinyl record is.
*I'm too old for the "Young Professional Singles" group but too young for the 55+ groups.
*I've started reading up on menopause and started using face creams.
* I already get mail from AARP.
* I'm calling people in their 20's "kids".
*I know at least one person my age who is a grandmother(!)

In my teens, all I worried about was homework , going to the mall, and seeing the latest music videos on MTV.
The 40's are MUCH MORE AWKWARD!

2009-01-20T17:32:00.000-08:00

The Audacity of Hope

No more Bush. This means I have to change my blog description. I'll still call it the "Panic Room" because I am sure there will still be plenty of things to panic about- political and non-political alike!

It has not registered with me yet that Bush is no longer in office and it is President Obama I will be hearing about. I greet his Presidency with open arms, yet also with some reserve. I know millions are very excited, and understandably so. But I am still cynical of anyone in politics. I like what Obama says, but will he deliver? Time will tell. Every president has his "honeymoon period" in office. I suspect Obama will have his for awhile. I will be interested in how he handles everything that comes his way. I wish him luck.

A side note: I noticed that Obama and his wife started the Inaugural morning going to an Episcopal church in DC. Good choice!

2008-12-25T19:03:00.000-08:00

Joy to the World!

A Merry Christmas to all who are reading! After a haphazard Christmas Eve, I am grateful that I was able to relax, spend time with those who matter most to me, and enjoy gifts and good food, and generally just thank God for all that is good in my life. On Dec 24th, I supposed to work. I left my home early in the morning about 7:30am to navigate a sheet of ice from home to the bus stop. Freezing rain had wrecked havoc all over the region, tying up all forms of transit but I thought I could make it. While I was walking, I slipped on the ice and fell smack on my butt! I wasn't hurt, I got right back up, so I can laugh about it. I got to the bus stop and waited an hour and a half for a bus that didn't come. I called the transit company on my cell and got through after a dozen tries, and the answer I got was "We don't know when the bus will be there because of the conditions." Ah, OK. I cursed myself for not taking this day off in the first place. I turned my sore butt around and walked in super slow motion back home and called out of work. By now, it was 9am, the time I was supposed to be there. Next thing I know, my boss calls my cell- not knowing I was still home and staying there. It was all OK though, he was just calling because he wanted me to come by his office and get my Xmas gift! I explained to him my misadventure, and he was OK with it, so that was cool. Late afternoon, the tempertures went up and the ice disappeared in time to get to mass which for me started at 10pm and ended at midnight. There's something so special about being in church at night, with candlelight and song. It felt especially good to be there last night. O Holy Night, indeed.

2008-11-05T18:30:00.000-08:00

Congratulations Barack Obama!

History has been made. The racial barrier has been broken. The White House is no longer the White Man's House. And it's about time.

Another reason to feel good: No more Bush and no more Bush-alikes. And let's face it, McCain is a Bush-alike. He certainly made no efforts to dispute it, and I think America caught on to that. Add into the mix Sarah Palin, who, instead of quietly fullfilling the "get the female vote" criteria, showed up with more baggage than LAX. (Troopergate, the pregnant teen daughter, to name a couple of examples).

Obama based his campaign on hope. Hope is such a key word for me right now, as it is for many Americans. He is stepping into a huge mess left behind by Bush- coming to mind first is an ongoing war and an abyssmal economy. I really hope he can set things in the right direction. But the very fact that he has been elected is a glimmer of hope for the country. We've already started to pray for "Barack, our President-Elect" in church. While I was never too keen on praying for "George, our President", I am very sincere and eager in praying for Barack. He really needs it. The hopes of millions of people are hanging on him. God Bless him!

2008-10-30T20:13:00.000-07:00

CONGRATULATIONS PHILLIES 2008 World Champs!!

Oh, how can I NOT blog about this? After a rather bizarre World Series that included a game being split over a 2 day period because of cold, rainy Nor'Easter-ish storm that was as ubiquitous as Phillies fans, it was an absolute gas to finally see them win after 28 years. Seeing the Phandemonium erupt all over the city was amazing. This is part of why I love this city so much. Philadelphia fans are tough as nails, loyal, passionate and fun. Rough around the edges- yes, but that adds to character, in my opinion, anyway.
And the team! What a joy they were to watch! Thanks guys!!

2008-10-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

You GO, Girl!

Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts-Schori is showing that she means business. Under her leadership, 2 bishops from PA have been deposed in one week: one conservative who has been threatening to break away over the "gay issue", and one liberal whose coverup of his brother's sex abuse came back to haunt him decades later.

About the latter, Bishop Bennison, I will say a few things. He was bishop of my diocese up until now. In May 2007- just last year- I knelt before him and he placed his hands on me and confirmed me. I have a photo of him and myself from that day. I look back on it with mixed feelings. Though it was a joyous day for me, looking at an image of him stirs up unsettling emotions. I cannot understand how a "man of God" can think it is acceptable to let corruption of a minor happen over and over again- at the hands of another "man of God"- especially if that man is your blood brother. Some argue ( and I've even heard people in my own parish use this line in defense of him!) that "blood is thicker than water" and this is why he kept silent on the issue. But in my eyes, being that the offender is your brother is all the more reason to step in and try the best you can to put an end to it. If your brother is doing something morally wrong, not to mention illegal, and not to mention traumatic to a minor- you let the proper people know about it and try your damnest to stop it, and get your brother the help that he needs. It is especially imperative if your brother is representing the Church, and you are representing the Church. Last I checked, turning a blind eye was not part of pastoral care, or at least is isn't supposed to be. So as a brother, Bishop Bennison failed. He also failed as a priest, as a pastor, as a Christian role model and as an adult who did not protect a minor. I've also heard people argue that this "was so long ago, let it go!" Well, I wonder how these same people would feel if it was revealed that it was their own daughter or grandchild who was on the receiving end of such abuse, many years ago. I think they'd be singing a different tune.

So, this is why I am very pleased with the Presiding Bishop. She seems well intent on "cleaning house". I knew her job wasn't going to be easy, but she seems to be holding her own very well, and we are only slightly into her term. God bless her!

2008-08-31T11:32:00.000-07:00

Why Are Some People So Threatened by the "Childless by Choice"" Term?

Once in a awhile, I get into various discussions on many message boards. For the most part it is pleasant, but then there are those who stoop to cyberbulling and outright abuse. And I am talking about adults here.
There are those bullies who have checked out my blog and decided to slam my "childless by choice" comment on my bio and implied that there's something wrong with "announcing" this. My mind boggles at why in the world would this be an offense to a person?
Saying, "I am childless by choice" in a bio describes my lifestyle, just as someone saying, "I'm a married mother of 2" is decribing her lifestyle. It's just as benign as saying "I'm a Democrat", "I'm an Episcopalian" and "I'm single and have 2 cats." These are all choices that give insight to one's life and personality.

People have taken my "childless by choice" comment to be an "in-your-face" statement, or an "I'm better than you because I'm childless by choice" statement, and that couldn't be further from the truth. Like I said before, I posted it because it gives an insight to my life and my bio. It is also posted because I think it may attract some other childless by choice people out there and it may make them feel like they are not all alone in the world. There's no shame in this choice. I could very well delete my comment, but why should I? It is nothing to be ashamed of.

But apparently, some people do have a problem with it. At first, they will tell you they don't have a problem with it, but if you talk with them long enough, their true colors come out. These same people have made personal attacks on me and have stooped so low as to call me names like: crazy, ugly, spinster, fat, and make such remarks like "It's a good thing you're not having kids." or "No wonder you can't get a man." I even had my faith attacked and was told that I "pray to a made up God." And some of these comments are coming from parents. What kind of an example are they setting? I've tried to reason with them but bullies have a way of turning things around and making it all their victim's fault. They will say, "It's you who made me say that! You provoked this!" That's a classic mark of an abuser: he/she never thinks she/he is wrong.
A happy, healthy person does not feel the need to tear apart a person because of their choice, or because they choose to talk about their choice. I've learned in life that those who bully me most likely have worse lives than I do. This is why I should pray for my enemies. My enemies are worse off than I am and they need prayers, even if they think prayers are B.S. And if their lives get better, perhaps they won't bully me or anyone else anymore.

I won't let anyone like this get in the way of my happiness. To take a quote out of today's Gospel: "Get behind me Satan!" In this case, I am using "Satan" not to mean the actual devil or Lucifer but as a metaphor for anything or anyone bad I come up against who may get in my way.

Outta my way! Nothing's stopping me!
God bless you all and thank you for reading my blog, whomever you may be.

2008-08-14T17:08:00.000-07:00

EWTN: My 24 Hour "High Church" Fix!

Okay, I admit it. I enjoy EWTN. After all, I am Anglican with Anglo-Catholic leanings. This does not mean I agree with the Catholic Church's stance on a lot of issues, because I don't. But they way they worship really lights my candle. I like that I can relax with Daily Mass every day and answer the priest as if if I'm really there. I like anything about the saints, I like the rosary, I like looking at Rome and the awesome Vatican, and I like the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and Litany of the Sacred Heart. The programming I can really do without are the ones who rally against choice, birth control and stem cell research. Then I turn it off, that is what the remote is for.

There's a few priests on there I simply like to watch. Like Father Wade Menezes, (pictured above) who is on EWTN once in a blue moon. How can I NOT like watching him? ;)

Another favorite of mine is Father Anthony Mary. He always cracks a joke or 2 during his sermons, and he just has an appealing, gentle nature about him. If I was Roman Catholic, I'd like him for a Confessor or counselor. He is a "regular" on EWTN's Daily Mass. A younger, beardless version of him can also be seen on the Litany of the Sacred Heart.

EWTN is not without scandal. There was a very tall, bearded priest called Father Francis Mary who hosted "Life on the Rock", a Catholic TV talk show for teens. I noticed that he vanished from the network. A search gave me the reason why. In late 2007, he left because he counseled a widow and got "emotionally involved" with her (drawn your own conclusions here). And this doesn't jibe with being a priest, so he took leave from EWTN . Catholic blogs launched everything from prayers to disgust. The issue was called everything from "sin" to "following your heart." More can be read here:

http://fatherjoe.wordpress.com/2008/01/04/ewtn-scandals-problem-priests/

The Church can't afford another scandal, especially one from a network that is beamed all over the world. But you've got to admit, in this world of mea culpa reality TV, this would make a good ratings grabber. What will happen? Will he ditch the widow, repent and come back "home"? Will he get defrocked? Will he leave the priesthood and marry the widow? Will he join the Episcopal Church so he can be a priest AND marry? Stay tuned.....

2008-07-31T20:09:00.000-07:00

This Just In: Bloggers are the "Root of All Evil"!

I'm referring to, of course, to Comedy Central's show hosted by Lewis Black. There was a smackdown between blogging and extreme fighting, and blogging won.

Imagine that. Blogging is worse than extreme fighting! That is really, really bad.

Such testimony included a blog being interrupted by a Rick Astley video. Yeah, I'd say that is a pretty good argument there. Then further testimony had us imagine what it would have been like if our Founding Fathers blogged. Now come on, that isn't all bad. Wouldn't you want to know what Benjamin Franklin's favorite sites were? Or where he scored in the lastest "Which 'Sex and the City' Character are You?" quiz?

2008-07-05T18:24:00.000-07:00

RIP George Carlin

I was on vacation in Cape May, NJ trying to avoid hearing any news media when I heard on a radio that George Carlin had passed on. NBC Newsman Tim Russert's sudden passing had me taken aback recently, and now another unique person I enjoyed to watch had left this earth. Carlin was one of a kind. I loved his humor and his perspective on things. I read a few of his books. His long career was impressive in a field where it is so hard to stay afloat. In his honor here is his classic "7 Words You Are Not Allowed To Say on TV" bit. http://www.lyricsbox.com/george-carlin-lyrics-the-seven-words-you-can-never-say-on-tv-268qwb7.html I never did understand why you can say "teats" but not "tits" on TV. They mean the same thing and are only a few letters different. Makes no sense to me.
I hope George is up in the Great Beyond making fun of everyone and everything up there. I hope he runs into Jesse Helms, who died on July 4. There's tons of material right there alone!

2008-06-04T19:09:00.000-07:00

June is Adopt A Cat Month

I know this very well because in June 2004 I adopted my 2 cats from the shelter and I still have the papers. 4 years later, they are still sweet, happy, healthy cats. They make me laugh every day. They greet me every day when I come home, and purr with affection- and not just when they want to be fed. Sasha and Lily have given me so much joy. If you are "cat person", adopt a cat if circumstances permit, or treat your current cats extra special this month. They deserve it.

2008-05-18T18:53:00.000-07:00

Enough with the Cliches!
Once in awhile, I have a conversation where the issue of men, love and partnership comes up. I've been in short term relationships, and I've been in a long term one as well. I am 39 years old. I believe I am experienced enough to know what I speak of.
When a breakup has happened, people spout out the annoying cliche, "Oh don't worry, you will meet someone else." I find this particularly agitating because unless you have a crystal ball, you have no way of knowing that this person will meet someone else. In fact it is quite possible that they may never meet someone else. If the person you are talking to believes that they will never meet someone else, do not argue with them, they are entitled to believe this and they may be right. A better thing to say would be, "You'll do fine on your own, and I'm here as a friend." The same people who use the "meet someone else" cliche will sometimes try to support their case by giving examples of people they know, or don't know, it can be a friend of a friend of a friend. They will tell you "So-and -So just got married for the first time at 50 (or 60 or 70!) so there's hope for you!" Umm, how do you figure? What does their life have to do with mine, or yours or anyone else's? Just because something happened to So-and-So does not mean it will happen for me, or you or someone else. Besides do you even know if So-and-So picked the right person? Unless you've lived with So-and -So and their partner, you don't know the full story. Do not make assumptions, and use logic. Do not use false hope, it just makes you look silly. A better thing to do would be to keep your "examples" to yourself. Not "every pot has a lid." It's a cute saying, but also not true. Also, take into account that the person you are talking to may not want someone else, especially if they have had a litany of bad experiences. Do not discount their bad experiences or imply that their experience is limited by saying, "Not all men are like that." Fact is that all men in that person's life are, or were, like that. If they say, "All men have been liars and undependable to me.", just leave it alone even though it's easy to get defensive. If you must talk, please just say, "I am sorry about your bad experiences. You don't deserve that." Another cliche that is tiresome and needs to be killed is that "You'll find someone when you least expect it (or when you're not looking.)" Again, unless you have a crystal ball you have no way of knowing this. Secondly, this does not make any logical sense. How are you going to find someone (or even an animal, a place or even an object!) if you don't look for it? If I held that attitude about finding a job, I'd still be unemployed! If you stop looking, do you know what will happen? Absolutely nothing!
Hopefully, I've made some sense here. It's not a topic I write about much, but I am glad I said it!

2008-05-06T17:50:00.000-07:00

"Intelligent" Being?

Ben Stein has co-written and stars in a film called "Expelled: No Intelligence Allowed." I consider Mr. Stein to be a very smart, very achieved person, so it disappoints me that he would be behind an argument for "Intelligent Design" aka ID to be taught in the classroom. It amazes me and scares me that Darwin's 19th century theory still is being rejected by some in the 21st century. ID deals with the notion that evolution is "bunk" and that an "intelligent" being is responsible for man's life and origin on earth. It is a revamped, modern way of arguing for "Creationism."
ID does not belong in a Biology class. Interestingly, I thought about this argument when thumbing through an old book called The Episcopal Church: Its Message for Men Today. Though outdated and sexist in some respects, as a female I still find it a charming read, and a lot of it still holds up today. My revised copy was printed in 1957. The main characters of the book include a doctor, a rector and a judge. The doctor is new to the Church and is figuring out how his medical background can jibe with being a person of faith. The Rector tells him that the Bible is not meant to be a science book, nor is a science book meant to be a religious book. But you can still believe in God when reading either book. Each book has its purpose, each has its place.
Certain theories have their places too. If ID is introduced to the Biology class, will religion also work its way into Physics and denounce Einstein's theory of relativity? After all, what did Einstein know about light when it is God who created light and not he?

Separation of Church and State aside, there are just some things that need to be left alone.

Recenly Stein went on a Christian tv show and had this to say:
I was thinking to myself the last time any of my relatives saw scientists telling them what to do they were telling them to go to the showers to get gassed … that was horrifying beyond words, and that’s where science — in my opinion, this is just an opinion — that’s where science leads you.
Now this offends me on so many levels: first as a person involved in the science field, secondly a person of faith and thirdly as a someone of Jewish heritage. It is insulting to imply that scientists can be lead into anti-Semitism and mass murder, it is offensive that he seems to think he speaks for people who believe in God and faith, and it is inaccurate and minimalist to imply that Jews died simply because of science and not complicated, political Nazi rule.

Know what else he said?

Anyone? Anyone? Bueller?

Love of God and compassion and empathy leads you to a very glorious place, and science leads you to killing people.

I think Mr. Stein should refresh his memory about Salk, Jenner, Watson and Crick, Pauling and Pasteur. If is wasn't for at least one of these people, he may not be alive today talking about how scientists are killers.

2008-04-03T19:59:00.000-07:00

Pope John Paul II

3 years ago this week, Pope John Paul II completed his earthly life. On the day of his funeral, I had taken off from work because my great-aunt was being laid to rest as well. Like JPII, she was in her 80's and had been suffering from a long illness. She died peacefully as he did. She had a sharp sense of humor, and I think she would have gotten a kick out of her and the pope being buried the same day. I watched his funeral mass on tv as I prepared to leave for her service.

As a non-Catholic, I had only begun to pay attention to the life of JPII right before and after his death. I quickly became fascinated by his life from his childhood to his final days when he appeared for his people right up until, quite literally, his last breath.

I am as unlikely a fan of JPII as they come. I disagreed with him on a lot of issues, but that is because I disagreed with Catholic Church teachings. The teachings about women, birth control, stem cell research and homosexuality have made me angry enough to take communion "illegally" in a Catholic church not only for spiritual purposes but as a statement. It was almost like I was saying "F-you and your rules, I'm doing as I please and I am taking your bread/body!" I'm sure this will no doubt be offensive to some Catholics, but how I feel is how I feel.

Though I feel this way, I cannot fault JPII for some of what he said. His job was to defend the doctrine, and that he did. I also admire him for many of his kind gestures towards the Jews, his devotion to his flock, his ability to reach out to different faiths, and his ability to forgive the man who almost killed him.

He did not have an easy life. Aside from his twilight years filled with pain and weakness, his early life was a rough start. By the time he was 20 his immediate family- his mom, dad and brother were all dead. His good Jewish friends were being killed. His homeland of Poland offered no security and was being torn apart by war and dictators, he was on the run, and had to hide. Under such dire circumstances at such a young age one can go mad, or turn to vices, crime or violence. Instead, he became a priest. He was an innovative priest for his time- holding Mass in secret, in the woods, with oars for a cross and a canoe for an altar. His brillance and originality would escalate him quickly to the papacy. His mysticism and penchant for praying alone for hours at a time made him intriguing to me.

I was fascinated by his story, still am. His funeral was a testament to how special he was. All those people from all walks of life were there to pay homage. I was transfixed to it. With all the tv coverage, I fell in love with the beautiful chant, "Litany of the Saints" and it remains a favorite today. His passing was inspirational to me, and perhaps was a factor in my journey to my church; I was baptized almost a year after he died.

Whether he will be canonized or not, he is a saint for our times. No, he wasn't perfect. But he was something that comes along only once in a lifetime, something special.

2008-03-23T18:37:00.000-07:00

Happy Easter!

Today was Easter Sunday. It was a brisk, but sunny morning and I picked out my outfit carefully for church. Turned out though it did not matter what I wore because I got asked to be chalice bearer at the last minute, so the robe would be all anyone would see, really! That was ok with me. After all, being a fashion plate is not the reason for coming there. It was an honor to serve the wine/blood to about 75plus people- well above the usual crowd we get. The church was alive with loud joyful hymns, lilies all around, white hangings and a lit paschal candle. "Alleluia!" was being shouted at the tops of our lungs!

It had been kind of a long Lent for me. First off, it started in the dead of winter. Winter makes everything seem 10 times longer. I had given up crackers (successfully!) for Lent, and that was a challenge. I bet the Cheez-It makers are wondering what happened to me, haha! We also had an older parishoner pass away during Lent, adding more solemnity to an already solemn season. Lent also for me meant attending a weekly Lenten study at church, which I thought was going to be a cut-and-dry book discussion, but it turned out to be anything but. It was instead a journey of self-reflection, finding out your "true self" as opposed to the false self you project to the world. (Slight diversion: there was a song in the mid-1980's by a band called The Fixx, called "Are We Ourselves?", this popped into my head. Good lyrics- go Google it!) Over 4 weeks, a group of us discussed where we were in our spiritual journey, what our past was, and what we thought our path and purpose was now. We answered loaded questions like, "Do you have interests that

suggest a way that God is calling you in your life?" and "Do you compare your life to other people's lives?" It was exhausting at times, but I don't regret it. I am so glad I participated. I had realized that I had been attending this church for 2 years and I haven't said much about myself outside of general information like where I lived and worked. Most of my conversations revolved around activities planned for parish. And likewise, I haven't heard the stories from the people whom I sat with every Sunday.

I hadn't talked much about my faith. I have posted a lot on the net about it, but have not really spoken about it. I hadn't really had an opportunity to. Nobody had ever really asked me these kinds of questions before. Or maybe they had but I was too scared to address them. Now my rector was asking them and I was ready to answer.

When I spoke about my long, bumpy route to faith, and how I wound up at that church, I got very overwhlemed with emotion. I thought about how grateful I was to find the parish and how I grew to love everyone in it. I talked at length about how I was an Angliophile, loved royal history, loved Princess Diana, loved old beautiful churches and how it was all coming together and spelling out something for me. I was very tearful, not because of sadness. It was a bunch of strong, pent-up feelings coming out, flowing out like a river that had been held back too long.

The following Sunday, I had Altar Guild and was in the sacristy preparing for the service and my rector walked in. I greeted him with my head down, slightly embarrassed about my weepiness earlier that week, but I soon got over it. I knew it was OK.

At Coffee Hour, people thanked me for sharing my story. That was such a great thing to hear.

It was a memorable Lenten season. There are the stories of sacrifice, repentence, crucifixtion and so forth, but there's more than just Scripture to think about.

I had a lot to celebrate this Easter. Besides the resurrrection, rebirth, springtime, candy and so forth, I celebrated the fact that I was able to grow and share this season, and that I had such a great group to do it with.

2008-03-16T17:24:00.000-07:00

Chelsea Clinton- That Girl's Alright

The more I see Chelsea Clinton, the more impressed I am . As of late, she's become more visible because she is stumping for her mother Hillary. When I have seen her speak, she appears poised, intelligent and down to earth. She looks like Mom but prettier. I like that she will only speak to the press on her own terms. I know she's had years of training from her parents about how to handle herself, but you've got to admit, she did not have it so easy. Being a teen with a cheating Dad is awkward and stressful enough in Anywhere, USA. Multiply the awkwardness and stress a million fold when your Dad is President, and every detail down to his umm, "stains" on a dress is being discussed on every tv station, and every camera is aimed at Dad, the Other Woman, your mom, and yourself.

Chelsea managed to do extremely well in school, and get accepted at top colleges, earning degrees and graduate degrees. She also learned ballet and speaks German fluently. She could have done much worse. In a world where we constantly hear about young famous women and rehabs as if they go hand-in-hand, she is a breath of fresh air. A comment made about Chelsea recently earned a pundit a suspension. He accused the Clintons of "pimping out Chelsea." Not only is this poor taste, but it also suggests that Chelsea does not have a mind of her own. She has a high ranking job for quite sometime, she is a career women, she's had a steady man in her life, she is in her late 20's, dare I say pushing 30! She is an adult. She's not a child anymore. I'm sure she is not at the mercy of her parents and is not being "pimped" by them or anyone else. It's not the first time someone has made a crass comment about her. Consider this one:

Why is Chelsea Clinton so ugly? Because her father is Janet Reno."
-- Sen. John McCain, speaking to a Republican dinner, June 1998.

Oh no, Chelsea is not ugly. That remark, however, is very ugly. And little did he know in 1998 that this "ugly" girl would be out stumping for his opponent. Sometimes karma will get you!

2008-02-09T18:21:00.000-08:00

Holy, Holy, Holy....

If you haven't figured it out, I am a "church buff", which means I like to explore different churches. My rule of thumb is the older the better, and the more ornate the better. They are beautiful works of art and places to find peace and quiet in the stark, cold city atmosphere. I also have wanted to explore the Anglo Catholic branch of Episcopalianism for quite awhile. So when I had some time to kill in downtown Philly while waiting to meet a college friend for lunch, I decided to attend a Candlemas Saturday service at St. Clement's.http://www.s-clements.org/flash.html

I read about it on the ShipofFools "Mystery Worshipper" website (a haven for church buffs like me) and the reviews intrigued me, so off I went.

When I walked into the church, it was quite dark, quite Anglo (I heard Scottish and British accents) and quite Catholic (some female parishioners had their heads covered). My attempts to be inconspicuous were soon defeated, as I was looking for the restroom and tried to open about 3 doors before finding the right one. (Labeling it with a sign would be a good idea!). I was immediately identified as a new visitor!

The service was sparsely attended but I can tell the parish isn't hurting for cash, after all it's in ritzy Center City and they were selling glossy church calendars in the narthex for $6.00 a pop. During the service, a professional photographer snapped shots for the website, which is heavy on photos, videos and podcasts.

The media part is the most modern part of the church. The rest of it is like stepping back into a time warp, a pre-Vatican II one at that. The altar was crowed with 3 priests and 4 altar servers, the service was said in Latin and Rite I (Old English) and the priest leading the service spoke lowly and had an accent to boot, so it was a bit hard for me to understand the service, and his back was towards the congregation.

I must say the vestments were lovely, very ornate, and the church itself is a beauty. There's "old

school" confessionals in the back should you want to confess a sin or 2, confessions are heard Sundays before the High Mass. I've never been to Confession, but I wouldn't rule it out, but I'm in no hurry either. I don't fear going to Hell, but I fear doing or saying something stupid in the confessional and messing up the whole process and having the priest think I'm a nut, a fool or both.

About bells and smells: I love both. Their peal of bells is stunningly beautiful in sound, and the smell of incense stayed with me (literally, in my hair) for hours. Love it!

The prayer book (1928) and hymnal (1940), though Episcopal, was unfamilar to me as they were older and different versions than the ones used in my home parish. And while I was trying to balance unfamilar books with the service bulletin, I was holding a candle because it was Candlemas so everyone got a lighted candle. Made an awkward experience even more awkward. I must say that the choir and organ were both amazing. They have even cut a CD. Their chanting and singing alone is worth the trip, but what is up with the female choir members not wearing the white piece (cotta, I think it's called?) like the males are? Every choir I have ever seen had members that wore the exact same things. It just struck me as odd.

When the service was over, the greeter shook my hand, asked me my name and where I was from. I said I was from "here", and he was a little perplexed. I said, "I mean Philadelphia, but not this part." He said, "What brought you here?" I said, "I wanted to see an Anglo Catholic service and there's no Anglo Catholic churches where I live." He said, "Oh, that's why?" I said "Um, yeah." He said he hoped I'd be back. To be polite, I said, "I will."

I saw the Rector/Canon walk out of the sacristy in something that looked just like what a Roman Cardinal wears- a cassock with red trim.

Maybe I will be back if I want to feel more Catholic than the Pope. Really, you can feel as holy as Mary just by standing next to the church, it's so Catholic!

On the way out, I picked up some tracts that looked like they were printed in the last century (or the one before)! They had titles like "Death" and "Hell" and "Purgatory". The one about purgatory mentiones Dante's Inferno. Heavy stuff.

This church has a reputation of being one of the most "Highest" of Anglo Catholic churches in the USA. I can see why. It was an experience I won't soon forget.

2008-01-27T15:47:00.000-08:00

2008, so far...............

Well, January is almost over and I have to say 2008 is going ok for me so far. I have a big "to do" list already- I'm helping plan a 40th birthday party for my friend, who turns 40 in February, I will be turning 39 next month too and will take time to celebrate, I have things around the house to do, and of course there's work, and church activities, and personal goals like taking up yoga, dance and swimming. And I've also been meaning to write a short, but true story and submit it to wherever I can. It's a good "small miracle" type of story I have told orally but have not put time aside to put it in writing. Oh, and I have to find time to socialize more, go places that are on "my list" . I also have to make time to meditate, other than at my weekly contemplative prayer session at church. Oh, and I also have to make time to follow the news and the election. Big election year- in case you haven't heard. I don't like to vote uninformed. And then there's my reading list. There's some books I want to buy and read by Bishop Spong, and another book called "Take This Bread", and I'd also like to read a biography of somebody weird (any recommendations?). There's also a "to watch" list, I want to see "Jesus Camp" and "Sicko" and "An Inconvenient Truth", though I know all 3 are going to make me so upset that I'll probably be screaming at my tv screen.
Hopefully by December 31, 2008 I will have met most if not all these goals. It's a leap year, so I have an extra day to get some of them done!

2007-12-25T17:52:00.000-08:00

O Come All Ye Faithful

Merry Christmas to all who happen upon this blog!

What a delightful week- full of the usual family , friends, gifts, food, decorations, music, etc! It was capped off by Christmas Eve at my church, where I was the second reader. I read Titus 2:11-14, and then Prayers of the People. I was nervous as anything.!! I wanted to deliver a perfect reading on Christmas. I did well, and people told me so. Everything was perfect. Singing "Silent Night" by candlelight, in the darkness of the church was magical. The processional hymn, "O Come All Ye Faithful" was sung with feeling and passion, as was the closing hymn, "Hark the Herald Angels Sing." We are small in number, but we are a powerful group. Our energy bounces off the walls! On Christmas, there's no place like your home church. This is my 2nd Christmas with this church, and it only gets better. Like a good home, it is where I feel safe, where I feel appreciated and cared about, and where I feel at peace and it is where I want to be, and look forward to going to. I feel this way all year, but Christmas makes it all the more poignant.

2007-12-11T18:49:00.000-08:00

Pennsylvania's Not a Good Place to Get Shot or Raped

The PA state government won't favor the gun control legislation. Such legislation would limit qualified individuals to the purchase of no more than One Handgun a Month. That is ONE a MONTH! The gun advocates are acting like they won't be allowed to buy guns at all. It also befuddles me why anyone would NEED to buy more than one gun a month.You only have 2 hands, and you need both of them to shoot one gun. Why do you more than one gun at all? Another piece of legislation would require the reporting of lost and stolen guns. This is being blocked too. Gunshot victims and parents of dead children who have been shot have been very active and showing their faces at the state capital. So is the governor, so is the Philadelphia mayor-elect. Still nothing has changed. If you are a gunshot victim, don't look for support at the state house.

Another sad, and insulting thing came out of the state gov't: Legislation requiring hospitals to provide access and information on emergency contraception to rape victims collapsed in the state House when it became apparent there was insufficient support for it.This means that a medical worker can deny giving a rape victim the "morning after pill" if his/her "religious beliefs" don't allow it, and he/she won't be punished because there's no law against it. But it seems to be ok for the rape victim to be denied full access to the options available, it's ok to add insult to injury. I've never been a victim of rape, God willing, I never will be. But I'd hate to think that while I am suffering trauma, hoping I didn't contract HIV or any other STD, that I'd also have to pray that my attacker was "shooting blanks". What gave me a glimmer of hope was this: about half the state's hospitals have a written policy on offering the morning-after pill to sexual assault victims. The rest offer it without a policy or not at all. Well, thank goodness hospital administrators are looking out for the victims, because my state government does not seem to care. There was "insufficient support" for helping rape victims. Just think about how sad that is.

Just who is my state legislature looking out for? The gun lobby? The "Pro-life" lobby? I guess the rape victims and gunshot victims don't matter, or don't have enough bucks.

2007-12-02T18:21:00.000-08:00

The Things That Go Through Your Mind....

Today we had our first winter storm, it had rain, sleet, snow but it wasn't something that would stop you in your tracks. Of course, the local news here was having a field day with "special reports" complete with a correspondant planted in every region. The reporters told us "news" such as the "sidestreets can be slippery and drive with caution."

Yeah, "breaking news: Water is wet!"

"Duh!" is what went through my mind.

I was up at 6am and could not fall asleep again. So, I got ready for church and ventured out. Coincidently a Channel 6 news van was parked around the corner from church at a 7-11. The fearless winter storm correspondants needed a coffee break I guess.

Today I set up the altar AND I was chalice bearer at church. I laid out the priest's chausable wrong side up and he put it on backwards but he did fix it after a look of of "Huh?" . Oops. I'll never do that again! We had a total of 3 acolytes today, one of which was new, she's still "in training" so I whispered all kinds of cues: "Stand up", "Get the candle, get the Gospel book, get the plates, we're on page so-and-so ..." and so on. I was glad to be of help! It was kind of cute and funny at the same time. The new girl also got to be crucifer. How cool, that's quite an honor.

All kinds of things can go through my head when I am on the altar. For some reason, when I see everything that happens from the pew on days I am not serving, I think, "Yeah I know the routine by heart." but when I am on the altar I am suddenly like, "Ummm...what comes next??" Yikes. I had filled the flagon today with probably more wine than was needed and the priest poured the wine all the way up to the rim of the chalice and he cautioned me to be carfeul as I lifted it. NO I did not spill it- hooray! When he drank the wine/blood I thought to myself, "Drink it up so it's lower!! I don't want it near the rim!" I served the wine/blood without incident. Every time I have served, I have had the steadiest hands I've ever had. A sense of calm and concentration overtakes me. I say this is extrordinary because I am the biggest dropper of things you can ever meet. My nickname is "Ooops." So there is something to this ministry. I've had the thoughts run through my head that I did not expect like"Don't hurry, people need time to chew before they drink!" and "stay a good distance from the priest while he's serving the bread, lest he elbow me by accident and cause me to knock the chalice!" And say "'The blood of Christ, the cup of salvation' loud enough but don't talk over the priest when he is serving bread." You don't think of this stuff until you are up there! I've learned to be gentle and careful when giving the chalice to those who drink, not dip. I have not had much experience in putting cups to sipping lips, being I have no kids. Not that it's brain surgery, but you do learn that there's a way to do it, while bending to the kneeling communicants, it's kind of a liturgical dance in itself. A couple of people commented that I "look good up there." and that's reassuring, as I don't really see how I look up there. I love being up there., it's quite an experience.

2007-12-02T17:42:00.000-08:00

OK, It's Time to Blog Some More!

I've been slacking off on the blogging, but I had good reason. I was on an old computer with an old browser and Blogger and my old browser just did not click. It was impossible to make new entries. But now I have a new computer with a new browser, and plan to catch up with the rest of the world regarding mp3's, burning CDs, watching videos and whatnot. I don't have a clue about any of that stuff! But it's nice to be able to blog freely again!

2007-10-31T07:27:00.000-07:00

HAPPY HALLOWEEN!

I have a lot of good memories attached to Halloween. I love dressing up. I am a frustrated entertainer/costumer/showbiz star. All the world's a stage, and I love to be in the footlights!

Some memories are not so elaborate, but just funny.

One Oct 31 afternoon, I was home and relaxing. I had not gone out to buy candy yet. About 4 in the afternoon, someone knocks at the door. It was an older woman with a toddler boy in tow (her grandson, I am guessing). In a thick accent, she smiles and says, "Trick or treat." I could tell she'd been practicing this phrase, as it seemed she did not speak much more English than that. I was not sure where she was from, but I venture to guess Russia or the Slavic area as there are a lot of immigrants from that area where I live.

So here she was, trick or treating in daylight in the afternoon. Oh, and the child wasn't in a costume, he was just in regular clothes.

I had nothing to give them, as I hadn't been out to get candy yet. I tried to explain. "No, no. You are supposed to do this at night, and wear a costume." But I think it was lost on her. She did not understand a word I said, except "Sorry, no candy." She smiled and left.

Apparently nobody clearly explained the concept of Halloween to her, and I suppose they do not observe Halloween in her motherland the way we do here.

Poor thing. I hope she has learned something since that day. There is a learning curve for everyone, you are not born knowing this stuff.

I hope someone explains July 4th to her. I wouldn't want her setting of fireworks in broad daylight.

2007-10-24T12:59:00.000-07:00

St. Francis

October is a cool month for saints. A couple of cool saints: St. Francis, St. Luke, not to mention St. Ignatius are honored in October.

As an animal lover, I especially love St. Francis, and I love to see him honored with a Blessing of the Animals. Unfortunately, my church did not have a big turnout for the Blessing of the Animals event this year. No fear, I'll just go back to the drawing board and hype it better next year. Last year, it was organized and promoted well by a parishioner who has since passed on. I didn't want to see the event die with her, so I pressed on. While it was not the turnout I wanted, I am still glad that I at least tried.

One of my favorite prayers is the St. Francis prayer:

Lord, make me an instrument of your peace. Where there is hatred . . . let me sow love Where there is injury . . . pardonWhere there is doubt . . . faithWhere there is despair . . .hope Where there is darkness . . . light Where there is sadness . . .joy Divine Master,grant that i may not so much seek To be consoled . . .as to console To be understood . . .as to understand, To be loved . . . as to love For it is in giving . . .that we receive, It is in pardoning, that we are pardoned, It is in dying . . .that we are born to eternal life.

2007-09-11T18:12:00.001-07:00

9/11 and Beyond

Almost 3,000 people died on 9/11/01. Yes, it was tragic. But look what has happened since:

US Troops: 3,760 dead

Iraqi deaths: The United Nations reported that 34,452 violent deaths occurred in 2006, based on data from morgues, hospitals, and municipal authorities across Iraq.

And Iraq had nothing to do with 9/11.

Take a look at the stats on this page. It is quite disturbing.http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Casualties_of_the_conflict_in_Iraq_since_2003

In the meantime, there is an effort to "sell" the war to the American people: www.freedomswatch.org
Using sad piano music in the background and "average Americans" talking about how scary and upsetting it is that Congress is talking about pulling out, the campaign's attempt play on fear reminds me of that infamous LBJ campaign ad from the 60's with the little girl and the mushroom cloud. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Daisy_(television_commercial

It's going to take a lot more than a crafty ad to sell me on this idea.

2007-08-26T16:39:00.001-07:00

"It is through much tribulation that we enter the kingdom of Heaven." --The
Apostle Paul (Acts 14:22).

"If there be God -- please forgive me -- When I try to raise my thoughts to
Heaven -- there is such convicting emptiness."-Mother Teresa in newly released
letters in which she doubted her faith.

I suppose this will be disturbing to a lot of people. But for me it makes Mother Teresa all the more human. She was thought of as a saint even while still alive. That is a huge title to live up to. With all the suffering she saw, it is only logical, and only human nature that she would occasionally fall into despair and frustration. I mean, who wouldn't? With all these doubts and burdens, it is even more admirable to me that she was able to help the most desperate for some many years. The world is without her for 10 years now.

"I understand people's suffering, people's pain, more than you will every
know yourself...." -Quote by Princess Diana.
10 years ago we lost another person who was very familiar with despair and suffering- her own, as well as other people's- I speak of Princess Diana . She also had a title to live up to, and obligations to fill. With all of personal doubts and struggles, she was also able to be hands on about helping desperate people. Because of this, I admire her still. She had a hand, indirectly, and perhaps ironically- in my journey into the Episcopal Church. Like a lot of the world, I was fascinated by Diana. This fascination led to an interest in English royalty and history, which led to an interest in Anglicanism, which, of course, is called Episcopalianism in America. Along the way in my self guided studies, I found that the faith suited me like a hand in glove, I stopped in
my local parish, and the rest is history. Someday I plan to visit Westminster Abbey as a pilgrimage though she is not buried there. It hold significance to me because her funeral was there, and the Anglican funeral liturgy, her life and her death made me think about a lot about faith, life and death in general and those are things I had previously hadn't given enough thought and attention to. I needed to change that.
May we always remember both these brave, admirable women. May their inspiration for humanitarian efforts never wane.

2007-08-23T06:52:00.000-07:00

Do you know what a "Black Site" is? I think it's time you found out!

It boggles me that things like this aren't reported on the nightly news, MSNBC or CNN. I guess it's because it's not a ratings grabber like Britney or Paris.

http://www.northeasttimes.com/2007/0823/religion.html

2007-08-22T11:02:00.000-07:00

The 29% Man

President Bush's latest approval rating is 29%.
64% disapprove, 7% are "not sure".

Source: http://www.pollingreport.com/BushJob.htm

The 29% who approve boggles my mind enough, but even more pressing is the 7% who are not sure. How can you not be sure about something like this? As for the 29% who approve, even though I cannot relate to such a notion, I can understand it. Bush supporters will support him and are steadfast in their thinking no matter what happens. So that's them. But these "not sure" people I just don't get. Do they not watch the news enough to be sure? Pick a side! You look stupid riding that fence!

An off topic thought: what ever happened to that color chart about being on alert? You know, the one that had orange as high alert and red as highest alert, and there was also yellow, blue and green was low. (Like it is was ever going to be green!) I remember Bill Maher saying "So if it's yellow, should I take a sweater?" That's still funny to me.

2007-08-16T09:58:00.001-07:00

This post is just a test, I'm playing around with HTML

2007-08-14T13:37:00.001-07:00

I love this bumper sticker!

I wish I could put it in a better spot like under my photo or somewhere on the right but I can't figure out the freakin' HTML to do that on Blogger!

2007-08-13T10:58:00.000-07:00

Well, It's About Time I Made a New Post!

Yeah, I know I haven't posted anything. I have been busy, but I know that's a lame excuse.

Summer's going well and very hot. It included a quickie vacation to Cape May, NJ. I stayed at a place called the Holiday House. It is owned by the Episcopal Diocese of PA, and the Girls' Friendly Society uses and runs it. GFS is a worldwide organization for young girls affliated with the Episcopal Church that has been around since Victorian times. It teaches girls to be strong and charitable amongst other things (think Girl Scouts with but less camping and more spirituality) and I like that it is open to anyone of any faith. The Holiday House was like stepping back in time: no A/C, no TV in the rooms but hey, no complaints. A parishioner from my church was cooking all the meals there, and the quality was Food Network worthy. I was floored. The guests there were from all walks of life and I had a lot of great conversations. I didn't miss the TV or the Internet at all, and for me to say that is a big, big thing.
I'd call the Holiday House a kind of "loose retreat", meaning you do all the typical touristy things at Cape May and come back to the house to rest and eat. There's no strict religious regimen. You say grace before meals, there's no booze allowed and you are to coverup when wearing swimsuits and you are to be in by midnight. It's all ok by me. Not too "churchy". There's a nice sized chapel in the House, but the atmosphere still isn't "churchy", it is rather comforting. By the way, I did go to church around the corner from the House, and then to the beach. What a great combination for body, mind and soul. I want to go back!

2007-06-20T07:13:00.000-07:00

Isn't it ironic, dontcha think? A little too ironic...yeah, I really do think. (with apologies to Alanis Morrissette).

I was browsing MSNBC and learned that President Bush is set to veto stem cell research funding AGAIN. The argument is the same song and dance: “it’s killing innocent life, it’s immoral” and so on and so forth.
Ironically, right below this story on the same page was the news that the US Military killed some children while going after one man, a leader of Al Qaida. They knew children would be there, but felt it was “worth the risk.”

So goes the logic in the World of Bush:
Destroying cells that are not even close to a living, breathing human being to be used in research that can perhaps benefit millions of people: NOT worth it.
Destroying the lives of several living, breathing innocent children to catch one criminal: WORTH it.
When I hear that somebody is “pro-life”, I’ve automatically assumed that they mean that they are pro ALL life. But you know what happens when you assume….
Bush picks and chooses which kind of life he is “pro”. He should call himself “pro _____life” and fill in the blank with "stem cell", "fetus" and "embryo."
Words that would not show up in the blank are: "Iraqi child" and "American soldier."

MSNBC on June 20, 2007:
WASHINGTON - President Bush has chosen to use his veto pen three times — twice on the stem cell issue where politics, ethics and science collide.

In his veto threat, the president accused Democrats of recycling an old measure that he already vetoed and argued that the bill would mean American taxpayers would — for the first time — be compelled to support the deliberate destruction of human embryos.
“The president supports and encourages stem cell research, including using embryonic lines, as long as it does not involve creating, harming or destroying embryos,” White House Spokesman Tony Fratto said. “That is an ethical line that should not be crossed.”

Attack that killed kids targeted al-Qaida leader

Officials: Military knew children were present but considered risk worth it
U.S. special operations forces were targeting the leader of al-Qaida in Afghanistan — one of the organization's top commanders — when they launched an attack against a compound that killed seven children Sunday in Paktika province of eastern Afghanistan, U.S. officials tell NBC News.According to several officials, and contrary to previous statements, the U.S. military knew there were children at the compound but considered the target of such high value it was worth the risk of potential collateral damage.

2007-06-04T11:57:00.000-07:00

Chalice Bearing 101

(NO, this illustration is not me. It is is a cool piece of art by Rosetti of a woman with a chalice. I just really like it a lot!)

If you ever get a chance to be a Chalice Bearer, do it. It's really cool.In the Episcopal Church, as well as in many other churches, a Chalice Bearer (or Chalicer) is a lay person who gives people the wine after the priest has given the bread. It's a position of honor. So I did it for the first time today. After being told the obvious advice ("Don't spill it, and don't knock people in the teeth with the cup." Duh!), I learned how to process down the aisle, where to stand and re-learned how to tie a slipknot for my cincture (roped belt for the vestment robe). I also learned that the robes are quite hot and the high collar is not too comfortable. It gave me a new appreciation for the vestments and collars that clergy wear. They must be so uncomfortable, especially in churches with no A/C. Lights are usually bright around the altar and shine hot on you as well. I was sweating like crazy (partly due to nerves, hot lights and high humidity), and this was WITH A/C! The smell of the altar flowers was sweet and tickled my nose.
It's one thing to sit in the pew and watch the acts a billion times and think "I can do that, I've got it down." It is another thing to be actually up there in front of everyone. Upon learning I'd be the Chalicer, I started to practice at home with a wine glass and napkin to get the tip-wipe-turn coordination down. I bet I am not the only one to do this. My mind wandered to think of priests practicing Eucharist in front of a mirror.
I received communion from the priest and then followed him to serve the congregation with the lightweight, silver chalice of concecrated wine. A few things ran through my head: "Am I lowering the cup enough? Am I saying 'The Blood of Christ , the Cup of Salvation' loud enough? I don't want to be talk over the priest who is saying ' The Body of Christ, the Bread of Heaven!" Most of the parish intincts (dips the bread in the wine), but a few sipped. I was very gentle with the sippers and concentrating very much. Experience at my clinical job of drawing blood has taught me to have steady hands and be precise. Only today I was not at my job, and not taking blood. I was giving Blood!It felt like a real honor. To help people go through a ritual which means so much to them is very rewarding. It is very deep.The people and the priest seemed very satisfied with me, and during the closing hymn I had a feeling of ,"Whew! I did it, and I didn't trip or spill it!"I'm looking forward to serving a new round!

2007-05-14T12:57:00.000-07:00

Raising a future O'Reilly or Coulter? Then buy this book!

Must be seen to be believed:

http://www.amazon.com/Help-Mom-There-Liberals-Under/dp/0976726904

Help! Mom! There Are Liberals Under My Bed! This full-color illustrated book is a fun way for parents to teach young children the valuable lessons of conservatism. Written in simple text, readers can follow along with Tommy and Lou as they open a lemonade stand to earn money for a swing set. But when liberals start demanding that Tommy and Lou pay half their money in taxes, take down their picture of Jesus, and serve broccoli with every glass of lemonade, the young brothers experience the downside to living in Liberaland.

I take it that it wasn't an Alex's Lemonade Stand? Nah, charities are for bleeding hearts, aka liberals.I have not read the book, so I am wondering if Tommy and Lou get forced into gay marriages, are made to perform abortions while they burn the flag, and have their guns taken away. I mean, that's the left wing agenda, right? Does the money made from the stand say "In God We Trust" or did Liberaland do away with that?And when did broccoli become the official veggie of the left wing? Is that because Bush Senior hated it? If you have to assign a food to the liberals, I think crunchy granola would be a better choice. After all, broccoli can give you gas (bad for the environment, ya know!)

2007-04-18T07:37:00.000-07:00

Forgiveness

In the past weeks, the buzz has been about Don Imus and his "nappy headed hos" comment about the Rutgers women's basketball team. People got offended and outraged. Sponsors pulled out from his radio show and he was given his walking papers. A lifelong career was flushed down the crapper with one sentence. He apologized. People wondered if the stunned and hurt basketball team would ever forgive him. Both parties agreed to meet at the NJ governor's mansion. While en route to the meeting, NJ Gov. Corzine was critically hurt in a hit and run. The driver was eventually found and no charges have been pressed, as I write this. The governor has serious damage to his legs. Could he forgive the driver who hit him if he never walks again? I don't know.

I bought a book called "Forgive and Get Your Life Back" by Dennis Maynard. He's an Episcopal priest, so it's written from a pastoral perspective. I read an excerpt on Amazon and it just struck a chord with me, so I ordered it. Forgiveness has always been a tough thing for me. And my wounds are relatively small compared to a lot of people's. I've never been called a racial slur, I've never had a driver hit me and run off, I've never had a husband leave me for another woman, I never had someone murder my loved one, I never had a parent beat me, I've never been raped or sexually abused, I've never been shot. But I do have my wounds. Doesn't everybody? You think all is right and peaceful with your life until someone comes along and violates what you think is your "safety zone." And it usually happens so quickly that your head spins. You are now wounded. What do you do now? What happens now? How do you trust again? How do you feel safe again? I hope to learn the answer.

The day I got the book in the mail was also the day that the news broke at Virginia Tech. A gunman who was a student shot over 30 college students dead, then shot himself. Their safety zone has been violated, in a matter of hours. People have been wounded, a lot of them fatally. Parents are mourning their children. How do the remaining students feel safe again? Where does forgiveness fit into this equation? I don't know. I hope I learn. I hope we all do.

2007-03-31T18:08:00.000-07:00

Smile Jesus Loves You Sucker!

Well, they didn't mean it THAT way, but that's how I read it at first! The "religious suckers" are lollipops that say "Smile, Jesus Loves You",

which can be found on http://www.christiandollarstore.com/, where you can find the tackiest Jesus stuff on earth that is sold in all seriousness. I also found a not-so-serious site called http://www.jesusoftheweek.com/. (Warning: it's addictive!) Anyway...it's almost Easter and it's high holy season for cheezy Jesus stuff. Making the news lately is an art exhibit called "My Sweet Lord" that features a totally nude, lettin'-it-all-hang-out Jesus made up of chocolate. The exhibit was shut down after cries of blasphemy. To see the pic and story, go here:http://edition.cnn.com/2007/US/03/30/chocolate.jesus.ap/I'm not sure if it's the chocolate or the lack of loincloth (Jesus had a penis?? Gasp! Say it ain't so!) that is most upsetting to people. But what is irritating me is that I keep hearing it being called a NAKED Jesus. I learned years ago in Art Appreciation class that you do not call a sculpture of an unclothed human "naked." No...no.. you say, "it's a NUDE." The statue of David is a NUDE, he is not NAKED. Get the terminology right, people! I must say I was impressed with the artist's ability to sculpt something so humanlike, and out of chocolate, no less. He does have talent. Why he chose chocolate as a medium is anyone's guess. I suppose eating Jesus is upsetting to people. But don't we already eat "the body of Christ" at communion? (If only communion wafers were chocolate....mmmmm!) I also hear rabbit lovers are mad about chocolate bunnies being sold to be eaten. (Well, not really. That's a joke. Although I wouldn't put it past PETA organize a protest against it.) I think everyone should take a deep breath, step back for a minute and get a grip. There's more things that Christians (and everyone else) should concern themselves with than getting mad at tacky Jesus stuff or buying crappy Jesus stuff.

2007-03-13T17:35:00.000-07:00

Dateline's To Catch a Predator

I currently have this show on in the background. The stupidity of these so called "men" amazes me. (And their pedophilia disgusts me, but that goes without saying). Have these idiots NEVER seen the show? I mean, it's on almost every week for weeks now. When Chris Hansen confronts the internet predators after the underage girl "hookup" leaves, it always goes like this:

Chris: "Why'd you come here?"

Perv: "Just to talk."

Chris: "So what are the condoms for?"

Perv: "Ummm......."

Then Perv walks outside and the police swarm.

You'd think that these "men" would have at least HEARD about the show and thought, "Maybe I should not do this." You would think that they'd come up with semi-clever answers when confronted, like, "I came here hoping to get on Dateline and meet Chris Hansen! The dirty IMs were just a ploy to get myself on tv. "

Anyway...keep it going, Dateline! There's an endless cesspool of these pervs out there. Go get 'em!

2007-02-18T19:11:00.000-08:00

Walk Like an Egyptian: King Tutankhamun Exhibit

When news of the exhibit first broke and I heard Philly was on the list I squealed, "It's coming heeeere!!" Philadelphia is only 1 of 4 cities in the USA to host this exhibit (the others: Ft. Lauderdale, Chicago and Los Angeles). The exhibition includes approximately 130 objects from the tomb of King Tut and other Valley of the Kings ancestors. King Tut himself is not on this tour but objects that have rarely or never traveled abroad before are part of the exhibit. The objects are approximately 3,300 to 3,500 years-old. Artifacts include: a crook (a symbol of leadership- much like what a bishop carries) a mummy mask, alabaster jars for oils, a throne, jewelry boxes, a crown, a minature coffin that housed one of Tut's organs. There's plenty to see. The shiny gold, the jewels and the condition of the artifacts are remarkable. Some look brand new, like straight out of a Pier 1 catalog. Egyptian music plays in the background as you go from room to room. An optional audio tour is available narrated by actor Omar Sharif. The audio adds a lot to the tour.
It's the ultimate cold case.Young King Tut ascended the throne at age 9 and died mysteriously at age 19. Theories about the cause of death range from a blow to the head to an infection due to a fractured thigh. Modern forensics have been unable to come up with a definite cause of death.The Egyptians believed in an afterlife and that almost everything you needed in your earthly life would be needed in the next life. This is why tombs included so many objects, including small boats and funerary figures with spells from the Book of the Dead inscribed on them.Akhenaten (probably Tutankhamun's father) introduced the concept of one god. To implement this new religion, agents of the king traveled throughout Egypt, destroying the names and images of other deities. Even the plural word "gods" was obliterated. This practice would not last. Once Tutankhamun came to power, the young king worked hard to restore the worship rituals to honor plural gods.
Also check out the IMAX film "Mysteries of Egypt" about Howard Carter's discovery takes you back to 1922 when the tomb was found. It is highly recommended. Also, stop in the gift shop- there's something for everyone. There's even King Tut baseballs for sale. Tacky as the song by Steve Martin. I settled on a t-shirt and a stone statuette of an Egyptian scribe, which is very fitting because I like to write.
The exhibit is at the Franklin Institute until September 30.

2007-02-01T21:32:00.000-08:00

Funeral for a Friend

On Tuesday I went to a funeral for a friend. She was a fellow parishoner in the church, and someone I had gotten quite close with in my rookie year in the church. I don't know how much info I should be revealing out here on the net, so I will just say she was youthful, vibrant, kind hearted and funny. She was well liked by the whole parish, which is a small, tightly-knit parish. Her death was very sudden and very devastating. Upon hearing the news that she died, I just lost it. I hadn't sobbed that way and that hard in a long time.
This was my first Episcopal Church funeral experience. Actually, my first Christian funeral. You may think maybe I've have led a sheltered life, or that people don't die around me that often.But the thing is, I come from a Jewish background, and the memorial services I've been to were for elderly aunts and uncles who were Jewish, albeit not the temple-going types. I remember hating how impersonal the services were. They were led by a rabbi who never met the deceased, and the eulogy seemed to come from a template. "Today we remember (fill in dead person's name here) who loved (insert relatives' names) and also loved (insert hobbies). And then a prayer followed that went "Ba-rook-a-ta-a-do-nye..." and that's all I remember.I am not slamming Jewish funerals. I know they are not all like that. I am just speaking from experience.That said, it just struck me what a contrast Tuesday's service was to my past experiences. It was so personalized. Of course, it helped that the priest knew her, as she was very active in the parish. It was her church that she came to almost every Sunday. It was not a send-off in some random funeral chapel by a clergy person who never saw her.The homily was perfect and seemed to express what we all were feeling. Through tragedy I can see beauty. The beauty of a church full of people who care about each other deeply. That's an awesome thing, I don't know whether to call it the human spirit, the Holy Spirit, God's plan, or whatever. Someone asked me if her unfair, untimely death shook or diminished my faith and I thought about this. I concluded that, no, no it doesn't. If anything, I appreciate faith and everything else in life even more.And she will live in the hearts of many, mine included. Grant her thy servant eternal rest. Amen.

2007-01-28T16:45:00.000-08:00

United for Peace

On Saturday January 27, there was a march for peace in Washington, DC organized by United for Peace and Justice (unitedforpeace.org). Thousands gathered on the Mall in Washington in this anti-war march.I do regret that I was lax in signing up to go and did not attend. I am a on a member list of a regional Peace and Justice group and had the pleasure of meeting a few of them recently. They were collecting signatures in front of a supermarket for a petition to stop the war. I gratefully signed. I watched the march on CSPAN and was glad to see that the weather cooperated. The speakers were as diverse as the nation itself. I saw a 12 year old girl speak, a feminist speak, a woman from a black organization speak, and a Catholic bishop speak. The bishop mentioned the March for Life that had taken place in DC on the weekend before. He mentioned that the respect for life does not stop at birth. This was refreshing to hear, since a lot of what I hear from the pro-life movement seems to be "fetus-this and fetus that" and "embryo this and embryo that", but nothing about the people already born who are in danger of dying. War is not pro-life, yet Bush claims to be a pro-life president. He even phoned the March for Life officials from Camp David. He said, "The sanctity of life is written in the hearts of all men and women. And so I say, go forth with confidence that a cause rooted in human dignity and appealing to the best instincts of our citizens cannot fail." The rest of the text can be seen on the White House website. Is the sanctity of life in HIS heart? Since that March for Life date, more American troops have been killed, and he wants to send more off to be slaughtered. The Peace March was all about the sanctity of life. Only in this case the life being fought for was that of adults, not babies or unborn children. Did the Peace March get a phone call from President Bush? I bet you can guess the answer.

2007-01-07T16:41:00.000-08:00

Happy New Year! And Happy Epiphany!

It's Epiphany 2007. 2006 came and went. I could not decide who the winner of the CRASS Award 2006 should be. I think I should honorably mention O.J. Simpson even though he is not a conservative. Coming out with a book called "If I Did It" was extremely crass! What the hell was he thinking?? The guy got off scot free. He should quit while he's ahead.

It is still weird to me that Saddam Hussein is dead now. Not that I miss him. I mean, after years of hearing about how is doing and planning evil- in the *present* tense, it is just strange to me that he is now past tense. Unfortunately this war is not past tense. 3,000 troops dead and counting. Is this the "mission accomplished"?

Another dead guy I'd like to bring up is ex-President Gerald Ford. He was against the war. Too bad this info was not released sooner. He was a Republican I could stand- a rare breed anymore. He was barely mentioned in recent years until he died, and then I heard someone say he healed a rift in a turbulent time, and this pundint compared him to Lincoln. I think that's a bit of a stretch but there really was not one bad thing said about the guy. His Piskie faith got my attention, and I was able to follow along the televised National Cathedral service with my Book of Common Prayer.

In other news, yes Virginia (and Massachusetts, NY, PA, NJ, etc) there IS global warming. It was freakin' 75 degrees in the sun yesterday on Jan 6th! My grass is confused. Instead of dead, it's green and growing. This is insane.

2006-12-26T17:06:00.000-08:00

And So This Is Christmas

Well here is my obligatory Christmas post. It has been a nice one, a smooth one where everything went well. I had a luncheon from the bosses at work, the gift of wine from a coworker, more cookies than I should be eating, and a visit from a friend who came in from out of state. I got a lot of nice gifts that are totally "me": books, pink PJ's, jewelry, candles, music, candy and gift cards. Enough things to satisfy all 5 senses.

Christmas Eve was very special. It was my very first Christmas spent in my church. I had joined it in March during Lent, and it took guts on my part to join at such a serious repenting season. This was a late service beginning at 10pm. There's something special about being in a church late at night as opposed to in the day. I dressed up in something velvet. Poinsettas was all around the church, the creche laid at the front and candles burned in the windows. The altar was dressed in white, changed from the Advent blue that I've been seeing. The Advent wreath with all 5 candles burning looked beautiful. The opening hymn was "O Come All Ye Faithful". The readings were nicely done and the sermon was perfect. After communion we were each given a candle. The rest of the service was by candlelight and it was beautiful. My poor mother, who was a first timer at the church, was trying to juggle the prayer book, hymn book and the bulletin in the dark all while holding a candle! It is a daunting task for even a seasoned Episcopalian! But we were both happy. I was ecstatic. She took communion along with me even though I told her she didn't have to. It was nice, it was awesome. We ended with singing "Joy to the World" with a feeling, it became midnight and it was Christmas Day. We all said "Merry Christmas" to each other. I hugged my priest and my fellow parishoners who have been warm, patient and welcoming to me since I walked in the door in March. I was rejuvenated and charged with energy and spirit, and it took me hours to fall asleep once at home. It was perfect.

And may peace be with you.

2006-12-17T13:28:00.000-08:00

Now I Can Put This On My Resume:

Accomplishments: Elected Person of the Year by TIME Magazine, 2006.

Really, I'm honored.

TIME magazine says that no *one* individual stood out. However many anonymous people are making an impact on the world, on the web- with blogs, YouTube, My Space and so on.

So all you Internet users, CONGRATULATIONS!

Maybe next year we'll all win a Nobel Prize or something.

2006-12-04T18:25:00.000-08:00

Is The White House Now "Vatican West"? Let me count the ways:

1.Anti-abortion and anti-birth control:President Bush appointed Dr. Eric Keroack as deputy assistant secretary for family planning programs at the Department of Health and Human Services. Keroack is a Massachusetts gynecologist who works at a Christian pregnancy counseling organization.Dr. Keroack served as the medical director of A Woman’s Concern, a network of pregnancy counseling clinics across Massachusetts whose method of trying to dissuade women from having an abortion includes spreading the scary and medically inaccurate myth that having an abortion steeply increases the risk of breast cancer. The group also has a policy against dispensing contraception even to married women. The attorney general for Massachusetts has received numerous complaints in the past two years from women who maintained that they were misled by the pregnancy centers. The complaints indicate that women were told by A Woman’s Concern that they perform abortions, but once the women arrived for their appointments they were accosted and told that they were “killing [their] babies.”
The President's anti-choice agenda began early in his term: on January 22, 2001, when he signed an executive order banning federal funds to international family planning groups that offer abortion or abortion counseling. The order prohibits the allocation of U.S. funds to groups who support abortion, either by performing the procedure, or offering abortion counseling or lobbying governments abroad. Never mind that these groups can help give contraception to people who desperately need it- such as in the 3rd world, the poorest of the poor. The President's agenda is not just being felt here, but worldwide- much like the Vatican is against condoms in Africa to prevent the spread of AIDS.

2.Condeming Homosexuality: President Bush endorsed a constitutional amendment that would restrict marriage to two people of the opposite sex but leave open the possibility that states could allow civil unions. Though the USA is supposed to be a nation of separation of church and state, he refers to religion for the political move:"The union of a man and a woman is the most enduring human institution, honored and encouraged in all cultures and by every religious faith......marriage cannot be severed from its cultural, religious and natural roots without weakening the good influence of society.", Bush said.Though the Catholic Church has been vocal against same-sex marriage (I even saw a priest rant against "so called same same sex marriage", as he called it, in a sermon on EWTN), Bush does not speak for every religious demonination. While most if not all faiths honor heterosexual marriage, this does not mean that they are all against same-sex marriage. There are several denomnations that have no "official" stance on the issue.

3. War: Bush differs from the papacy on a major issue : war. Pope John Paul II told George W. Bush and the senior Bush that he did not approve of war. Pope Benedict XVI spoke likewise. Modern popes stand for peace, but that was not always the case. History shows us popes declared wars in the name of faith.The Crusades were sanctioned by the Pope, and Muslims were on the receiving end.Christian knights launched repeated attempts to capture Jerusalem over the course of several hundred years. Bush has used the word "crusade": "This crusade, this war on terrorism, is going to take awhile.", he said. His use of the word "crusade" did not sit well with the Muslim world, as the word is attached to the barbarous and unjust violence committed against them in the past.

I read somewhere that Bush "talks to God" every day. Does he think he's carrying out God's messages, or Christ's messages? I am hoping that Bush does not think he is infalliable, as in "papal infalliabilty." If he does, we're in even bigger trouble than we thought.

2006-11-25T17:27:00.000-08:00

Giving Thanks, etc, etc.

I always called Thanksgiving Day "Turkey Until it's Coming Out of Your Ears". I am not crazy for turkey. Every year, I eat it, and grin and bear it, since that's what I'm being served.

I don't like college football, either. I am not crazy for the parades. As far I'm concerned, you've seen one giant balloon, you've seen them all, and the same goes for marching bands.

And the history is rather sorted- yes the Native Americans and Europeans sat down together and ate, but at what price? The white men were religious fanatics along with men looking for a business venture, eventually becoming a monopoly that would drive out the Native peoples. It was an invasion, but the history books that care to be kind call it a "settlement."

But the "giving thanks" part, yes I can get into that. There's a prayer of thanksgiving in the Book of Common Prayer which I really like. One particular line deals with giving thanks "For minds to think, and hearts to love, and hands to serve.." What would we be without those things? Without those things, we couldn't appreciate the other things we are grateful for: a safe home, health, a secure job, loved ones, food on the table and so forth.

It should not be just once a year when we think about this.

In other news, I saw "Borat" today. It is perhaps the most politically incorrect film in history. Be warned- if you are offended by jokes about Jews, blacks, southerners, New Yorkers, californians, gays, retards, hairy naked men wrestling, masterbation, Pamela Anderson, college frat boys, incest, prostitution, rape and Russians- you may want to stay away from this film. Otherwise, go see it! I thought it was HILARIOUS!!

2006-11-08T19:33:00.000-08:00

BLUE TUESDAY

November 7, 2006 was Blue Tuesday in the United States of America.

(The photo is of myself and PA Gov. Ed Rendell at the Henri David Ball, Oct 31, 2006. He was there to win the gay/crossdresser/transgender/and hetero Halloween partier vote)

Democrats took the House, Nancy Pelosi(D) has become Madame Speaker, and as I write this, the breaking news is that Dems have the Senate as well.

Gov. Ed Rendell has taken the Governorship again over Lynn Swann- whom most people identify as "that ex football player with that female sounding name".

Senator Santorum has lost, and now he can dedicate his time to writing books about "values": the ones that he subscibes to, like that being gay is like having sex with a dog or a pig. Oh, he's just a peach, isn't he? A real charmer. Can you imagine him at the Henri David Ball?

In my district Congresswoman Allyson Schwartz(D) prevailed over Raj from "The Apprentice". Donald Trump didn't want him, and neither did Northeast Philly. Raj, you're fired. Again.

The other Donald, Donald Rumsfeld, has resigned as Sec'y of Defense out of pressure from the military honchos.

What was that rumbling noise? Oh, that would be the mass exodus of Republicans leaving Washington.

2006-11-04T19:01:00.000-08:00

Ted, you're fired!

So on the same day the Jefferts-Schori is installed, this big "Christian right" (which is NEITHER)-wingman falls from grace. God is interesting, isn't He?

COLORADO SPRINGS, Colo. (Nov. 4) - The Rev. Ted Haggard was dismissed Saturday as leader of the megachurch he founded after a board determined the influential evangelist had committed "sexually immoral conduct," the church said Saturday.Haggard had resigned two days earlier as president of the National Association of Evangelicals, where he held sway in Washington and condemned homosexuality, after a Denver man named Mike Jones claimed to have had drug-fueled trysts with him."It made me angry that here's someone preaching about gay marriage and going behind the scenes having gay sex," Jones said.Haggard, who had been president of the evangelical association since 2003, has participated in conference calls with White House staffers and lobbied Congress last year on Supreme Court nominees.

Now we know the Reverend is gay and churchless. And no Fundie church will ever touch him (both in the literal and figurative sense).

Where oh where should he go?

Hey Reverend- The Episcopal Church welcomes *you*!

Seriously, if he wants to live openly and start anew, I'd welcome him in. "Love thy neighbor as you love yourself" right?

2006-11-04T18:47:00.000-08:00

MAZEL TOV to the Presiding Bishop!

Oh boy, I would have killed to be there. Just reading it gives me chills. People on the Episcopal internet boards were saying they cried when they watched the webcast (which my slow computer could not handle), I'm sure I would have too.

Purple becomes her, doncha think? Well actually it's muticolored, which is cool. Only thing is, if she stands next to stained glass, she can get lost.

WASHINGTON – Presiding Bishop Katharine Jefferts Schori stood beaming Saturday in the Washington National Cathedral, a staff symbolizing her spiritual duties in hand. Surrounded by more than 3,000 well-wishers who celebrated her with prayer, song and dance, she had just become the first woman to lead The Episcopal Church – and the first female priest to head an Anglican national church worldwide.
Worshippers stood and faced the doors of the cathedral as Jefferts Schori knocked and entered, wearing a multicolored robe and miter with a sun design meant to represent a new dawn. She walked in a procession toward the front of the church, led by people waving streamers and flags, as applause and music filled the sanctuary. She was blessed in Hebrew by a rabbi, in Arabic by a Muslim scholar, and received prayers in several other languages.

She will now represent the American denomination to the Anglican world. Her job is complicated by her personal support for Robinson's election and for blessing same-sex couples, though she insists she won't impose her views on others. She said the U.S. church should be willing to compromise “for a season” to stay in the 77 million-member Anglican Communion.
That may not be enough to appease other branches of the Anglican family, which take a traditional view that gay relationships are prohibited by Scripture. Some Anglican leaders also reject the idea of women's ordination: Jefferts Schori has said they'll have to “get over it.”

Yes, "GET OVER IT!" Atta girl!!

2006-11-04T18:15:00.000-08:00

I think this guy is in the running for the CRASS Lifetime Achievement Award

Michael J. Fox was in a political ad that was pro-stem cell research. Rush Limbaugh told his listeners that the TV and movie star Michael J. Fox was "either off his medication or acting." He then mimicked Fox's Parkinson's induced gestures.

Yeah, well, Rush should know about meds, right?
Rush hasn't been called a "big fat idiot" for nothing.

2006-10-18T12:48:00.000-07:00

My Fundie Hell House

Well, I have talked about the Hell Houses that some Fundie churches are having on or around Oct 31. So, I decided to come up with my own version of Hell House called Fundie Hell House, to show what what will happen if you let the Christian Right take over the country. These scenes are guaranteed to make you run screaming in horror. Very scary indeed!

NOW FOR SALE: Scenes for creating your own Fundie Hell House! Only $45.00 each! Be the talk of the neighborhood! Comes with DVD, sound effects (Bible thumping in HDTV surround sound), hot air machine and free posters of Bush and Cheney.

Live in a blue state? Ask us about our Blue Light Special!

The Scenes:

Gay Closet Scene: Features a gigantic closet to which all gay people are rounded up shoved into. An additional scene features a gay wedding being crashed by several Republicans. Special guest star: Senator Rick Santorum.

The “Family Friendly” TV Scene: In this scene you will see a television that gets only 3 channels: one that airs Pat Robertson’s 700 Club, one that shows FOX News, and one that continuously shows the “Left Behind” series. Everything else has been boycotted and is not family friendly. Also had an additional scene of a banned books bonfire, with evil “Harry Potter” making up most of the fuel. Now you have nothing left to do except Focus on your Family! Aaaaahhhh!!!

The “Say CHRISTMAS!” Flogging scene: See those who dare to say, “Happy Holidays!” instead of “Merry Christmas” get flogged and called “Godless” and “anti-Christian.” Special guest star/flogger: Ann Coulter.

The Roe V. Wade Reversal Scene: See screaming women with coat hangers outside a closed up Planned Parenthood. Also you will see a museum of oddities featuring where you’ll see what the Birth Control and Morning After Pills used to look like- back in the days when wanton pharmacists gave them out to any woman who wanted them.

The Attack of the Red State Wives Scene: Just like The Stepford Wives only they carry a Bible in one hand, and the flag in the other. See them march and thump everyone senseless with the Bibles and Stars and Stripes as they demand women to leave the workplace and come home where they belong! Aaahhh! Run for your lives!!

The Intelligent Designers’ Studio Scene: See Darwin remade into a ghastly, ghoulish deranged creature! Watch the designers redesign the schools’ biology books into something that will make your hair stand on end!

The Terry Schiavo Memorial Human Vegetable Farm Scene: You’ll see an endless farm of bodies in a perpetual vegetative state, because “this is what Gawd (and Uncle Sam) wants.” And YOU may be next!! Muuuhahahahaha!

2006-10-16T13:19:00.000-07:00

Putting the FUN back in FUNdie!

Some Fundamentalist churches offer an “alternative” to Halloween and invite the kiddies over to not a “haunted house” but a “Hell House”. The purpose of the Hell House is to scare the crap out of kids about how they can spend all eternity in the fiery pit if they don’t behave themselves. (Take THAT, Nanny 911!) You have the option of buying several sinful scenes that you can set up in your church basement, hall or wherever.

No, this isn’t a joke.

The whole listing is here:

http://www.godestiny.org/hell_house/HH_resources_scenes.cfm

You know, nothing says “Halloween fun” like watching something like this:

A sample:
Hell House Resources - Sex Scene Package

This scene deals with the out-of-control sexual appetite our youth are demonstrating in their dating lifestyles. The scene is portrayed in a tasteful, yet sizzling fashion by a young married couple playing two teens who have planned for this event and are in her parents' bed. Mom and dad are gone for the weekend, but what the teens don't realize is that they’re not alone! The tour guide has been a part of orchestrating this delicious temptation that will “execute the pearl of her virginity as she gives away what she can never regain”. A powerful underwater drowning sequence is utilized to illustrate the killing of her purity at the hands of the demon. This package includes the drowning video and the drowning background effects track on CD. $45 (USD)

2006-10-15T18:12:00.000-07:00

Hiding Pedophilia? That's ok as long as you didn't KILL ANYBODY!
"I know the speaker didn't go over a bridge and leave a young person in the water, and then have a press conference the next day. Dennis Hastert didn't kill anybody." Republican Congressman Chris Shays
Oh now that's just CRASS!

Really,how desperate do you have to be to bring up a car accident that happened 37 years ago??Would he be making the same careless statement if it was own son or daughter who was violated? I think not.If Hastert knew what was going on, and covered it up- then HE HAS TO GO!
Hastert- I blogged about him before because he's 3rd in line to the throne, err, presidency. At the time I was imagining Bush and Cheney impeached but it looks like Hastert may be the 1st to go!
You know, I don't like Clinton did, but at least Monica was of age.
And one side note: where the hell was Dateline's "To Catch a Predator" when all this was happening? They should have set up a decoy right there on Capitol Hill!

2006-10-10T19:30:00.000-07:00

Bells, Smells and My Reproductive System: My Childfree and Piskie Pride comes together in a Zine!

Hooray!! I have been published on a new online childfree 'zine! Please check out Unscripted.net

Here's a copy of the article:

Breed For Your Religion? Part I
by Stacey Carmody
Required to breed for God? Encouraged to check your mind at the door? Not if you’re an Episcopalian.
The Episcopal Church has often been called the “middle way” between the Protestant and Catholic faiths. While appearing superficially much like the Roman Catholic church, the Episcopal Church does differ from Roman Catholicism in several significant ways. For example, priests and bishops can be married and they may be female. Nor are there official positions against abortion or birth control.
Another trait of the Episcopal Church is that there is room for many styles of churches. Houses of worship vary from high churches, which look very Roman Catholic (you may see stained glass, incence, candles and bells); to low churches (meaning that they are plainer and more “Protestant-looking”); and broad churches, which fall somewhere between high and low.
Just as the buildings vary, so do the parishoners inside. Both conservative and liberal members worship side by side, and while they may disagree on issues like homosexuality and the ordination of women, they continue to coexist within the faith. The Church prides itself on encouraging its members think for themselves. As a statement on an official Episcopal Church website states: “We may not have all the answers, but we welcome all your questions. That’s because we believe we all have something more to learn from one another – and always more to learn about our world, our God, and ourselves. The Episcopal Church does not ask you to check your mind at the door. Our ability to reason is a gift from God.”
While there is no official doctrine from the Church on being childless by choice, the Church does officially come out in favor of birth control. Citing the problems that come with population growth, the Church approves contraception and the availability for safe and reliable reproductive care for everyone. While the Church’s position on abortion is that it should only be used in dire circumstances, the Church supports abortion being safe and legal. In addition to this, the Episcopal Church has members who march in Washington in support of women’s reproductive rights.
The Church’s stance on reproductive freedom and “using your mind” can be very attractive to the childfree. Clergy, like Reverend Scott Stevens, have also come out in support of those who have chosen not to have children. Reverend Stevens is a deacon at St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, in Windham, Connecticut, and works as a marriage and family therapist. He also serves as an editorial advisor for FaithLinks, an online magazine for Episcopalians. He says, “Childfree couples need all the support they can get; voluntary childlessness is often seen as a selfish act. It is interesting that people who are often feeling saddled with children view childless friends as self-centered.”
Statements such as this, the tolerance of reproductive choice, and the invitation to think for oneself can make the Episcopal Church very appealing to childfree persons who desire to be part of an organized faith.

2006-09-11T18:10:00.000-07:00

9/11/2001

Just some of the fleeting memories I have

What a clear, cool day it was. Jeans jacket weather.

I forgot my cell phone that day of all days.

Radio on in our office at work, tv on in the lobby with a crowd around it. I saw the Towers fall on this tv. I saw them in person once. They seemed to reach into the clouds.

Pentagon being hit, and thinking "Shit, we are screwed. If we are all going to die, I hope its quick." Boy I did not want to die at work. Does anybody?

Sitting at my desk accessing the web, it was jammed. Couldn't access CNN. I finally got up the MSNBC site. Fiery Towers blazed on the webpage.

My mom calling my work phone saying "What's happening??!!" I said the World Trade Center was gone. Gone totally. The Pentagon is hit too. "What? Gone?? Pentagon??", she said. And a 4th plane.

Finishing up my work in a daze, and packing up things that were supposed to be shipped by air. They wouldn't be picked up. All planes grounded. I was alone in my workspace. I really like working alone and in quiet, but that day I did not want to be alone. Or in quiet. No, not that day.

Schools dismissed early. The kids looked happy to get out of school. Weren't they told WHY they got out so early?? Their happiness looked grossly out of place.

Staring at the tv at home until my body demanded sleep.

I had a penpal from the UK. Hadn't heard from her in ages, and then she sent me a card saying how sorry and sad she was about America and its people. I still have it. It still makes me cry.

I actually got on a plane in November 2001. Went to Disneyworld. Went with someone I thought I'd be with forever. But nothing is forever.

Nothing is forever.
Live for today.

2006-08-26T18:28:00.000-07:00

Sounds Like a "Plan" to Me! Hooray FDA!

Plan B, also known as "the morning after pill" has been ok'd by the FDA to be sold without a prescription to people 18 and over. Minors will need a prescription.
Plan B works by stopping ovulation, or, if the egg has been fertilized, by decreasing the chance it will attach to the uterus. It contains a high dose of the ingredient in birth control pills and when used within 72 hours of unprotected sex it can lower the risk of pregnancy by almost 90 percent.
Plan B is basically a strong birth control pill. When I initially heard about the decision about Plan B, I was very happy to hear it, I still am. The prescription factor had me conflicted though. I currently need a prescription to get my regular strength birth control pills, but I can get Plan B, a stronger pill, without a prescription? I understand that with plan B time is of the essence- you can't waste time (72 hours) waiting for a script to be filled or it will be too late. But then why do minors need a prescription when they are the group that will most likely need Plan B, and will be the most likely to be afraid to ask for a prescription? I can see the argument for this, however. Needing a prescription will require a teen to see a doctor, which she should be absolutely doing if she's sexually active.The doctor will most likely do a much needed exam , tell her how to take pill, and inform her of any side effects that may occur- much like my GYN did when she first prescribed me my birth control pills.(By the way the most common side effects are nausea, breast tenderness, irregular bleeding, dizziness, and headaches).
Perhaps the "under 18 prescription move" was done to pacify the religious right who would cry, "Now all the teens are gonna have sex more often- and without consequences!" if Plan B was readily available to teens. What is overlooked is the fact that teens are going to do what they want to do- with or without a prescription. Teens find ways around things- how many times do the underage get their hands on booze and smokes? My guess is that Plan B won't be any different. They'll find a way to get it- even "on the down low."
My hope is that a teen in need of Plan B will get it safely, will be able to see a doctor in confidence, get a script, and get it filled in a decent amount of time without hassle. Hopefully she won't run into one of those pharmacists who won't fill it "due to personal and religious beliefs." That will only make a bad situation worse.
If you want more info on Plan B- I want to tell you where NOT to go. A Google search on "morning after pill" turned up this site in the #1 spot : http://www.morningafterpill.org/ It is NOT a medical site, it is a site with a pro-life agenda. AVOID it like you should be avoiding unprotected sex!

2006-08-25T20:11:00.000-07:00

C'mon Get Happy!

Even the liberal media wants to censor Bush's stupidity!

CBS, NBC Clean Up Bush's 'Happy' Talk

NEW YORK - August 25 - During his August 21 press conference, George W. Bush responded to a question about the Iraq War by saying that "sometimes I'm happy" about the conflict. But many readers and TV viewers never heard the remark, since journalists edited the statement to save Bush any possible embarrassment.
Bush's unedited comment was as follows:
Q: But are you frustrated, sir?
BUSH: Frustrated? Sometimes I'm frustrated. Rarely surprised. Sometimes I'm happy. This is -- but war is not a time of joy. These aren't joyous times. These are challenging times, and they're difficult times, and they're straining the psyche of our country. I understand that.
Viewers of CBS Evening News (8/21/06) saw a carefully edited version of that response—one better suited to presenting Bush as serious and concerned with the effects of the war. Reporter Bill Plante previewed the answer by saying that Bush "conceded that daily reports of death and destruction take a toll, both on the nation and on him." The edited quote that followed:
Frustrated? Sometimes I'm frustrated, rarely surprised. These aren't joyous times. These are challenging times, and they're difficult times. And they're straining the psyche of our country. I understand that.
CBS was not alone in massaging Bush's response—many outlets excised Bush's "happy" remark, or found other ways to clean up Bush's performance. NBC Nightly News (8/21/06) worked around Bush's awkward answer; reporter Kelly O'Donnell noted that Bush "offered an unusual glimpse into his thinking," but then proceeded to edit the comments to Bush's advantage:
BUSH: Frustrated? Sometimes I'm frustrated. Rarely surprised.
O'DONNELL: ...and acknowledged Iraq's weight on the nation.
BUSH: They're difficult times, and they're straining the psyche of our country. I understand that.
So instead of airing Bush's "happy" remark, NBC's reporter stressed the fact that Bush was serious about Iraq's "weight on the nation."
Print outlets also generally left out Bush's remark and praised his performance. The New York Times (8/22/06) interpreted Bush's "occasionally rocking back and forth" as a sign that he was "generally upbeat," while the Los Angeles Times was more effusive: "Bush's appearance suggested he was settling into a pattern of regular, wide-ranging interactions with reporters in which he can appear confident and presidential" (8/22/06).
Of course, Bush can only appear that way if the press decides to present his comments in the most flattering light. With the Iraq War widely unpopular with the public, many viewers may have found Bush saying that it sometimes made him "happy" jarring and distasteful. CBS and NBC apparently thought it was more appropriate to shield viewers from Bush's words—and, perhaps more importantly, shield the White House from that public response.
ACTION: Contact CBS and NBC and ask them why they decided that Bush's comments about the Iraq War making him "happy" should be excised from their reporting.
CONTACT:CBS Evening Newsevening@cbsnews.com
CBS Public Eyepubliceye@cbs.com
NBC Nightly Newsnightly@nbc.com

2006-08-20T17:26:00.000-07:00

Osama Who?

Okay, I guess I was wrong about the Korean leader being the next villian. That was before this mess in the Middle East erupted. My point is still the same- Osama Bin Laden still seems to be "so last year." (Or "so FIVE years ago"). He just seems so off the radar anymore- figuritively AND physcially as well.
Meet Sheik Hassan Nasrallah- leader of Hezbollah in Lebanon

http://www.motherjones.com/news/update/2005/04/nasrallah_265x336.jpg
Favorite phrase: "Death to Israel"
Additional quote: In The Washington Post, Nasrallah said "I am against any reconciliation with Israel. I do not even recognize the presence of a state that is called "Israel." I consider its presence both unjust and unlawful. That is why if Lebanon concludes a peace agreement with Israel and brings that accord to the Parliament our deputies will reject it; Hezbollah refuses any conciliation with Israel in principle."
Hezbollah's military wing is believed to have been behind a large number of deadly attacks, hijackings, kidnappings of Westerners, including Terry Waite, and the bombing of the US Marine barracks in Beirut which killed 241 people in 1983.
For him, Hezbollah isn’t just a resistance group. He believes that it carries a message that depends on the Islamic belief.
Now this is the part I find extremely obscene. What part of "and that you shall not kill - for that is forbidden by Allah - except for a just cause." -this basic verse that is found three times in the Koran- doesn't he understand?
I guess he deems HIS cause a "just cause"? That is scary stuff.

2006-08-05T16:25:00.000-07:00

Minimum Wage, Maximum Apathy
The Senate on Thursday rejected, 56-42, legislation that would have cut estate taxes and raised the hourly minimum wage to $7.25 from $5.15 over three years. Senators needed 60 votes to advance the bill, which passed the House last week.
It's been a decade since Congress raised the minimum wage. Since then, 21 state legislatures have made their own increases. Thank goodness for power of the states.
The defeated bill included extending some popular tax breaks for the rich - research and development credits for businesses and deductions for college tuition and state sales taxes - in addition to the minimum wage and estate tax provisions.
Left behind are more than 5 million hotel maids, dishwashers, fast food and janitorial workers and other minimum wage earners stuck at $5.15 an hour. Adjusted for inflation, the minimum wage is the lowest it's been in 50 years.
Congress has no problem giving themselves raises though. They have given themselves 10 raises in the past 10 years.
Despite record low approval ratings (which are much-deserved), House lawmakers accepted a $3,300 pay raise on June 13 that will increase their annual salaries to $168,500.Our national debt is more than $8.3 trillion. More than 45 million Americans don’t have health insurance. Money is pouring in a war every day that we are not winning. Gas prices keep going up.And Congress just plain DOES NOT CARE.

2006-07-28T19:27:00.000-07:00

The Keyboard is my Stairmaster: Exercising my First Amendment Rights

My blog entry here about stem cell research was also a Letter to the Editor. It got printed in 2 local publications this week. Yaay me!

My letter shared the page with this numbskull who submitted this letter below. Apparently his red, white and blue panties are in a bind:

Freedom of speech can be too free:

"In his Speaking of Religion column in the July 6 issue, the Rev. Dr. Tim Griffin states that we don’t need an amendment to ban flag burning. He sides with those who call it freedom of speech.
I wonder what he would call it if someone relieved themselves on the altar of his church or painted a swastika on it?
I bet he wouldn’t call it freedom of speech, and neither did the courts. They called it desecration. So, what’s good for the church should be good for the flag. It’s God, country and family.
He should use his column to spread true religion, instead of spouting the radical left’s position and its propaganda." -Don Benson, Walton Park

He's referring to this column: http://www.northeasttimes.com/2006/0706/religion.html

This a weekly column that I am a huge fan of, as it is living proof that not all religious people are Bush-loving morons who are stuck in a different century. This is proof that liberals are not godless, though Ann Coulter would tell your otherwise. So I take issue with Don Benson.

Dear Don Benson,
If you would stop watching FOX News for a sec and try to actually THINK for YOURSELF, you may just realize that the desecration of a church you mentioned is a "hate crime" , and is also vandalism of someone's property. Its TOTALLY DIFFERENT than buying your own flag and burning it at a rally to make a statement. Big difference.
Also, you seemed to miss the point of the column which was that we should care more about what the flag STANDS FOR than the piece of red, white and blue material itself. Do you even "get" that you are able to say what you wanted to say in a public forum NOT because of the flag, but because of freedom of speech which you claim is "too free"? Or were you too busy waving your banner to notice? And please spare me the old "God, country and family" slogan that right wingers slap on everything to justify their narrowminded agendas and to push their twisted version of "true religion."
I've said it before and I'll say it again: the "CHRISTIAN RIGHT" is NEITHER!
Lastly, I say that if you don't like the column and its "radical left propaganda", then STOP READING IT. Put down the paper, and go back to watching "credible" people like Bill O'Reilly. I'm sure he'll keep you well informed.*cough*
Sincerely and liberally yours,
Stacey's Panic Room

2006-07-19T21:09:00.000-07:00

Kill the Troops. Protect the Embryos. Why Bush's Veto is an Insult to So Many

Bush vetoed a bill that would allow federally funded embryonic stem cell research. Sadly, Congress had not been able to override the veto.The 2 Senators from my state of PA are on opposite ends of the issue: Rick Santorum (R)- known to compare homosexuality to bestiality and abortion to a holocaust, opposes embryonic stem cell research. Alren Specter (R), a cancer patient, is for it.
Says the President:"This bill would support the taking of innocent human life in the hope of finding medical benefits for others. It crosses a moral boundary that our decent society needs to respect, so I vetoed it,'' Bush said to a standing ovation before an invited audience in the White House East Room including families with children born from in-vitro fertilization.The "innocent life" he speaks of is the size of a grain of sand. How sad is it that the President puts a mere speck of "life" above fully grown human beings that are dying every day in Iraq. He has not done a thing to withdrawl the troops. I suppose since they are not "innocent life", they don't count?Bush and his supporters on this issue fear that using embryos would somehow degrade humans (they see embryos and humans as one of the same) . They fear humans will be only valued as a "product", not as people. The same lame argument was heard about organ donation- that people would only be valued for their parts, and this couldn't be further than the truth. And thousands are saved every year because of organ donation. Why can't we give embryos- that are going to be discarded anyway- the same potential? Senator Frist (R), a transplant surgeon as well as a conservative pro-life politician even opposes Bush on this matter.Bush has also insulted the field of medical research by reinforcing the stereotype that researchers can put science and notoriety above human dignity and therefore treat people as mere "guinea pigs". I work in the field of medical research and its not that simple. To even get a study started, you need approval by so many people on so many levels and you need to adhere to several different laws that protect the study subjects. So many provsions are in place. Its a very involved process- very far from the "pretending people are lab rats" scenario that a lot of people imagine.Not only is this veto a slap in the face to the troops, and to researchers, but its also a slap to those who have incurable diseases those who pin their hopes on this type of research.Mr.President, you have not defended life. You have done the complete opposite.

2006-07-19T17:44:00.000-07:00

Lebanon Baloney

The US State Department was actually CHARGING AMERICANS TO GET TO SAFETY!
That's right, the Department required that Americans sign papers promising payment so they could get out of Lebanon, which is now a war zone. If they wouldn't or couldn't, they were going to be stranded there.

Due to all the outcry and fears of it becoming Katrina: The Sequel, the Department waved the billing practice.
Read it and believe it: Normally, if you are an American who is trying to escape with your life from a foreign land, you will be expected to pay to get out by plane, but Congresspeople, who are NOT running for their lives, get to fly around for free on private jets supplied by corporations and lobbyists. And although they are not supposed to, some do this while they are campaigning too. Tom Delay was a real pro at this before he did it a little too much and got caught.Did you know members of Congress are permitted to take all-expense-paid travel related to their legislative work, as long as they disclose the trips within 30 days?

Maybe they should all fly to Lebanon.

2006-07-06T19:59:00.001-07:00

Will the Next Villian Please Stand Up?

Meet Kim Jong-il. The leader/dictator of North Korea.

Maybe it's just me, but he's not mean looking enough. The cheeks are a little too cute.

I can almost envision Bush and Company saying, "Pssst...uh, we already caught Saddam, we can't find Osama, so we need a new enemy. Better break out the new villian 'cause this Iraq war thing is starting to get old and the American people aren't scared anymore." Breaking "news" blared of North Korea testing missles. The way they trumped it up, you may think it was the Cuban Missle Crisis. Time for a new Scare! Yes, they tested missles. You know what? So do we! So? So WHAT? So...be on the alert for the administration to warn us of Korean WMDs that we have to go "find and take out" by using "peacekeeping missions" (Bushspeak for "troop movement"). You read it here first.

In other news, Ken Lay of Enron scandal fame, bit the dust. People are pissed because he didn't even get to see the inside of a pen. "Damn him for dying on us!" Oh well. If he went to the pen, it would have been probably Club Fed and he probably would have had a nice time there. Isn't 6 feet under a worse punishment? I find the conspiracy theories really entertaining. He offed himself/someone offed him/ he faked it and he's in the Caymans right now/take your pick. Maybe he's with Elvis. We'll start hearing about "Lay sightings" soon.

2006-07-03T21:28:00.000-07:00

Happy 4th of July!

You what has annoyed me for sometime? Every time July 4th rolls around, you hear "Born in the USA" by Bruce Springsteen. It is not the song itself that bothers me, it is the fact that people tend to think it is an uplifting, patriotic song when it is in fact very negative. The first verse:

Born down in a dead man's town
The first kick I took was when I hit the ground
You end up like a dog that's been beat too much
Till you spend half your life just covering up
Born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.

Now does that sound like a happy tale to you? Figures that the Reagan people wanted it for their song!
The song is about a disillusioned man who fought in Viet Nam, the same man the film "Born on the Fourth of July" is about. I remember I actually did sit and watch this film one year on July 4th. If you feel like bawling your eyes out, watch it. But really, it is a great film and great story, and it was made back when Tom Cruise didn't go around acting like a loon.

Got in a little hometown jam
So they put a rifle in my hand
Sent me off to a foreign land
To go and kill the yellow man
Born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A.
I was born in the U.S.A.
Born in the U.S.A.

In other news: Bush took the Prime Minister of Japan to Graceland because the Japanese PM is a big time Elvis freak. I kid you not. Bush has been using the word "buddy" for the PM. Why do I keep thinking of Gilligan and The Skipper? I don't blame Dubya for sucking up to Japan. After all his daddy went over there and threw up for all the world to see, so he kind of wants to make a nicer image after that.

If you want to burn the flag, have fun, because.....

The Senate this week decided NOT to pass a law that would outlaw flag burning. They used all kinds of posters and diagrams to state their cases, including one of Kid Rock with his head through a flag. The question was "Is this offensive?"

No. It's a poncho. Next question...

According to the Boy Scouts of America, if you want to retire a flag you MUST burn it. So I guess anybody burning a flag at a rally can just say, "I'm just RETIRING the flag!" and it would be cool.I remember when I went to Girl Scout camp and I was one of the color guards and we unintentionally hoisted the flag upside down. We were embarassed and quickly fixed it. We also would sing a number of patriotic and religious songs at camp. It was so ultraconservative back then. I'm amazed I turned into such a bleeding heart liberal.

Anyway, Happy Independence Day from the city that started all the ruckus- Philadelphia! As part of my celebration of freedom, I am going to curl up with "America: the Book" by Jon Stewart of "The Daily Show" fame. God Bless America!

2006-06-18T17:26:00.000-07:00

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Man, I Feel Like a Woman

Habemus Episcopus!

Woman chosen as top US Episcopal Church bishop

COLUMBUS, Ohio (Reuters) - The U.S. Episcopal Church on Sunday chose Bishop Katharine Schori as its new leader, the first woman to head the 2.3 million-member denomination since its founding in colonial times.
Her election came 30 years after the Episcopal Church, the U.S. branch of he worldwide Anglican Communion, approved the ordination of women to the priesthood.
Schori, who holds degrees in biology and oceanography and taught religious studies at Oregon State University before her 1994 ordination, was selected by bishops attending the church's triennial convention from a field of several candidates.

The feminist within me is very happy to hear this. I am sure many other women are happy too.

We are strong, we are invincible.....

Where's that Helen Reddy song when you need it?

Today the Episcopal Church, tomorrow the White House, baby!

2006-06-15T19:23:00.000-07:00

Your Tax Dollars at Work

The Senate Judiciary Committee gave a nod Thursday to a constitutional amendment to protect the American flag from desecration, moving it to the Senate floor where vote-counters on both sides say it could bewithin one vote of passing.
http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/06/15/flag.amendment.ap/index.html

I do recall hearing in the past that our troops in Iraq don't have the protection that they need- that they did not have the proper armor and so forth.

But we can be assured that the flag is nice and safe.

And.....Congress voted themselves a raise for all the sweat and toil that they go through while coming up with these measures:
http://www.sltrib.com/utah/ci_3934380
Your tax dollars at work, ladies and gentlemen....

2006-06-15T19:14:00.000-07:00

If Only Humans Would Act Like Animals

The other day I saw a scene I have witnessed many times in the past in the malls, in the hallways at work, in stores, and just about any public place.

A couple engaged in a conversation was walking in the mall , and about a good 10 feet behind them was a boy that I would guess was no older than 5. After a good minute or 2, or even 3, the female half of the couple turned around and said in an annoyed voice, "Will you COME ON?" "Come on, let's GO!" to her child who walked slightly faster than before and caught up- his legs being twice as short (maybe more) than adult legs. And she expects him to keep up the pace?Now, I'm no parent, but logic tells me that its not a wise idea to walk ahead of your child, especially a small child. You may as well give any lurking abductor the green light to snatch your kid while you "only turn away for a minute." It only TAKES a minute for an abduction.

There's a whole slew (or "colony", the proper term) of stray cats living in my neighborhood. Yesterday I saw a stray kitten in my front yard, I guess it was a month old, maybe? It was calico, and I assume female since almost all calicos are female. I don't know about you but I can watch kittens all day long. There's something about their alertness, their curiosity, their energy and they way they explore and play that I find so entertaining and precious. Its almost magical. The kitten pranced around the yard, making small leaps back and forth over fallen branches on the ground. Only a couple few away I saw something else- an adult cat, also a calico. I presume she was the kitten's mom. She sat there fully attentive and alert, her eyes on her offspring- a built-in maternal instinct being used to its fullest. I watched in awe.
There's something very askew when I am witnessing better parenting coming from a cat than a human being.

2006-06-10T19:27:00.000-07:00

Breaking News From Ann Coulter: "The Episcopal Church is Barely Even a Church!"

Auntie Ann slams Episcopalians, and says that Jews are Christians.

Yep, you read right.

A footnote on Page 3 of her book "Godless: The Church of Liberalism" reads: "Throughout this book, I often refer to Christians and Christianity because I am a Christian and I have a fairly good idea of what they believe, but the term is intended to include anyone who subscribes to the Bible of the God of Abraham, including Jews and others."
She also says: "Howard Dean left the Episcopal Church -- which is barely even a church....left the Church of the Proper Fork ..."
AND:
"The Episcopals don't demand much in the way of actual religious belief. They have girl priests, gay priests, gay bishops, gay marriages — it's much like The New York Times editorial board. They acknowledge the Ten Commandments — or 'Moses' talking points' — but hasten to add that they're not exactly 'carved in stone.' After Bush said that the most important philosopher to him was Jesus Christ, the Episcopal bishop in Des Moines, Iowa, C. Christopher Epting, pronounced the answer 'a turnoff.' So there isn't a lot of hair-shirt-wearing and sacrifice for the Episcopalians."

I wouldn't take being compared to the NY Times Editorial Board as an insult at all, in fact, its complementary. They print "all the news that's fit to print" after all.

GIRL priests? I'm pretty sure you have to be a grown woman first before you become a priest.

And the Bishop is right. Because ANY answer out of Bush is a turnoff.

OK....So, Episcopalians, who ARE a denomination of Christianity are not "real Christians", according to Ann, but Jews ARE Christians.

Oy Vey! This reminds me of those crazy questions on the SATs that went something like:"Answer if the following statement is True or False: All Dweebs are Dorks and some Dorks are also Doofusses, so all Doofusses are Dweebs."

(What the heck did those stupid questions have to do with college anyway?)

And where do I stand if I'm a Jew who converted to the Episcopal church? Help me, Ann!! I'm lost!!
It's getting late. I have to go get ready for Sunday at my local Church of The Proper Fork. I graciously invite Ann to stop by for Coffee Hour.

2006-06-08T18:53:00.000-07:00

It's Time for Another C.R.A.S.S. Award already!

Congratulations Ann Coulter!

Ann Coulter Calls 9/11 Widows ‘Witches’Conservative author Ann Coulter sparked a storm today after describing a group of Sept. 11 widows as millionaire "witches" who were "reveling in their status as celebrities and stalked by "grief-arazzis."
"I've never seen people enjoying their husbands' deaths so much," she writes in her new book "Godless: The Church of Liberalism."

I am thinking Ann will be a repeat recipient of CRASS. I saw NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams. At the end of the broadcast, he showed Ann Coulter on the Today Show with Matt Lauer. She was sitting there clad in a sleeveless minidress. She wore neckchain with a cross, as good Christians like to do. She then opened her mouth and spewed her hate of the 9/11 widows. That's right, she was picking on people who lost spouses in the 9/11 attacks. From what she said, you may think its just peachy knowing your loved one got murdered in a burning building or plane. Especially if you get money because of it. Perhaps I should have called the CRASS Award, "What are ya, *&%$-ing kiddin' me?"After the clip, Brian Williams said that there's a line that you just do not cross. He looked genuinely disgusted. But you know, one question brings to mind is this: Ann is a conservative. Conservatives are FOR the war in Iraq. And an argument for the war in Iraq is that 9/11 happened and lives were lost. So, shouldn't she be SYMPATHETIC to the 9/11 widows if she wants to be like her conservative ilk and push the agenda for war? But then again, I am asking a logical question and we are not dealing with a logical person.By the way, I have emailed a note of congratulations to John Gibson on winning my first ever CRASS. I will also email Ann a note of congrats for winning her CRASS. I'll let you know if either respond.

2006-06-08T18:46:00.000-07:00

Gay Marriage - Part Deux

Gay marriage on the PBS show, "Religion & Ethics Weekly":
http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/week940/feature.html

Also, not directly about gay marriage, but interesting: an interview with Episcopal Church Bishop V. Gene Robinson, who is openly gay and who has been a flashpoint for controversy.http://www.pbs.org/wnet/religionandethics/week940/exclusive.html

The ECUSA holds its General Convention soon, and I'd love to be a fly on the wall there. Hopefully, it won't be the ugly mess that some people are predicting.
Another blurb of interest:

Liberals Defend Gay Marriage As Religious Right By JENNIFER SIEGELMay 26, 2006
With the Senate slated to vote in three weeks on a constitutional amendment banning same-sex marriage, an interfaith coalition of liberal clergy is arguing that the measure would violate their religious liberty.
The coalition, billed as Clergy for Fairness, opposes the Marriage Protection Amendment, which would constitutionally define marriage as a union between a man and a woman. Nearly two-dozen organizations — including the Alliance of Baptists and the Episcopal Church USA, the National Council of Jewish Women and the Reform movement's Central Conference of American Rabbis, and several Sikh groups — belong to the coalition, which sent 35 religious leaders to Washington on Monday to meet with members of Congress.
One month ago, 50 conservative Jewish and Christian leaders signed a letter backing the marriage amendment.
In recent years, gay rights advocates have primarily argued that a ban on same-sex marriage unlawfully impedes the civil rights of homosexuals — an argument that has held sway in a handful of state courts, including those in Massachusetts and Vermont. The liberal clergy members have reiterated that argument, but are also objecting to the amendment as a perilous blow to religious liberty. The whole story is here: http://www.forward.com/articles/7845

Dubya did not get his way. The Senate voted him down. I do find it interesting that those who support such an amendment are using words like "protecting" and "defending" traditional marriage. How naive a thought that is that a law can protect marriage! Do they not see the divorce rate? I myself know more people that have been divorced than not. They champion "traditional" marriage because a husband and a wife can produce children. And the children will grow up stable, and moral, because they have a mom and dad and they are not being raised in a gay marriage. Did these people not ever here of single parents? Or deadbeat dads? I myself am a child of an absentee/deadbeat dad. (I'm just one of 6 children he left behind) I think my mother would have been better off married to another woman than to him. I don't recall ever hearing about deadbeat lesbian moms.

2006-06-05T20:27:00.000-07:00

Wedding Crashers- Dubya & Company's Anti-Gay Marriage Agenda

Republicans Renew Push for Gay Marriage BanDebate Opens in Senate, Where Measure Is Likely to FailBy DEB RIECHMANN, AP
WASHINGTON (June 5) - Cheered by conservative supporters, President Bush gave a push Monday to a constitutional amendment to ban same-sex marriage as the Senate opened debate on an emotional, election-year measure that has little chance of passing."Our policies should aim to strengthen families, not undermine them," Bush said in a speech. "And changing the definition of marriage would undermine the family structure."
All Senate Democrats, except Ben Nelson of Nebraska, oppose the amendment, and critics say Bush's efforts are primarily aimed at energizing conservative voters for the November elections. Together with moderate Republicans, the Democrats are expected to block a yes-or-no vote, killing the measure for the year.
"This proposed constitutional amendment is being used to satisfy the most extreme right-wing supporters and politicians," said Sen. Patrick Leahy, D-Vt. "The Constitution is too important to be used for such a partisan political purpose."
Sen. Wayne Allard, R-Colo., who sponsored the measure, acknowledged that politics played a part in the timing of the debate, but for a different reason: to force senators to take a stand and answer for their votes on the campaign trail.

The amendment would prohibit states from recognizing same-sex marriages. To become law, it would need two-thirds support in the Senate and House, and then would have to be ratified by at least 38 state legislatures.
Bush said a constitutional amendment is needed because laws that state legislatures have passed defining marriage as being between a man and a woman are being overturned by a few judges.
"When judges insist on imposing their arbitrary will on the people, the only alternative left to the people is an amendment to the Constitution - the only law a court cannot overturn," the president said.
"A constitutional amendment would not take this issue away from the states, as some have argued," Bush said. "It would take the issue away from the courts and put it directly before the American people."
Vice President Dick Cheney, whose daughter, Mary, is a lesbian, splits with Bush on the issue. Cheney said he thinks Americans should do everything they can to accommodate any type of relationship, and that there should not necessarily be a federal policy in this area.
On the left, Caroline Fredrickson, director of the ACLU legislative office in Washington, said lawmakers rightly rejected the amendment in 2004 and should do so again. "Discrimination has no place in America, and certainly not in our founding document," she said.
On the right, Matt Daniels, president of the Alliance for Marriage, argued that same-sex marriage advocates are trying to circumvent the democratic process and redefine marriage through the courts. "Marriage is the social glue that unites the two halves of the human race to share in the enterprise of raising the next generation," Daniels said.

I find it interesting that the GOP- the party who tends to pride itself on being "less government" and the party that will keep the government "off your back" is the very party who wants to tell who you can and cannot marry. In the meantime, they are also the party who claims to be "pro-family" as they support a war which is tearing familes apart as the casualties add up day by day. I also find it interesting when people who have been divorced (some who have been divorced more than once, even) come out against gay marriage. I just think its rather arrogant to say who should and shouldn't marry when you couldn't even hold your OWN marriage(s) together. In some states, it is still legal to marry while still in your teens. Correct me if I'm wrong, but if you are under 18, aren't you still a child? Why aren't these "pro-family" people concerned about banning the marriage of child brides/grooms? Continously, they bark up the wrong tree. Finally, the "pro-family" people are not pro- ALL families. They are only pro-husband, wife and child(ren). As Matt Daniels said, "Marriage is the social glue that unites the two halves of the human race to share in the enterprise of raising the next generation". This is an assumption that all married couples can, or will choose to have children. The couples in the United States who are childless by circumstances or childless by choice are completely ignored by groups like the Alliance for Marriage. Do they not know that non-parents can and do vote? Also, I think its unfortunate that Daniels deems males and females as "two halves". I wish to believe that both men AND women- straight and homosexual alike are both WHOLE in their own right. And what is better for a union than two WHOLE people coming together?

2006-06-04T18:29:00.000-07:00

Introducing the C.R.A.S.S. Award(tm) for the Conservative Right Articulating Something Stupid.

Keith Olberman has "Worst Person in the World", and I have C.R.A.S.S.

My first CRASS Award goes to John Gibson, a PUNdint on Fox News, or what I like to call it: Comedy Central 2.
His actual words are below:

Gibson: "Make more babies" because in "[t]wenty-five years ... the majority of the population is Hispanic"Summary: On The Big Story, John Gibson urged viewers to "[d]o your duty. Make more babies," because he had found out, from a recently released report, that nearly half of all children under the age of five in the United States are minorities. Gibson added: "You know what that means? Twenty-five years and the majority of the population is Hispanic." Gibson later repeated: "To put it bluntly, we need more babies."On the May 11 edition of Fox News' The Big Story, host John Gibson advised viewers during the "My Word" segment of his program to "[d]o your duty. Make more babies." He then cited a May 10 article, which reported that nearly half of all children under the age of five in the United States are minorities. Gibson added: "By far, the greatest number [of children under five] are Hispanic. You know what that means? Twenty-five years and the majority of the population is Hispanic." Gibson later claimed: "To put it bluntly, we need more babies." Then, referring to Russia's projected decline in population, Gibson claimed: "So far, we are doing our part here in America but Hispanics can't carry the whole load. The rest of you, get busy. Make babies, or put another way -- a slogan for our times: 'procreation not recreation'."
As The Washington Post reported, the U.S. Census Bureau recently released population estimates that found that nearly half (45 percent) of U.S. children under five are racial or ethnic minorities, and that "the percentage is increasing mainly because the Hispanic population is growing so rapidly." The U.S. Census notes that, "[e]stimates usually are for the present and the past, while projections are estimates of the population for future dates." The U.S. Census last released its population projection in March 2004 and found that, by the year 2030, Hispanics will account for roughly 20 percent of the total population in the United States. The U.S. Census also projected that Hispanics will make up 24 percent of the nation's population by 2050. The two-year old projection has not been updated to take into account the new data on the race and ethnicity of children under five.
Gibson also noted that Europe is "not having enough babies to sustain their population," adding that "[c]onsequently, they are inviting in more and more immigrants every year to take care of things and those immigrants are having way more babies than the native population, hence 'Eurabia'."
From the May 11 edition of Fox News' The Big Story with John Gibson:
GIBSON: Now, it's time for "My Word." Do your duty. Make more babies. That's a lesson drawn out of two interesting stories over the last couple of days.
First, a story yesterday that half of the kids in this country under five years old are minorities. By far, the greatest number are Hispanic. You know what that means? Twenty-five years and the majority of the population is Hispanic. Why is that? Well, Hispanics are having more kids than others. Notably, the ones Hispanics call "gabachos" -- white people -- are having fewer.
Now, in this country, European ancestry people, white people, are having kids at the rate that does sustain the population. It grows a bit. That compares to Europe where the birth rate is in the negative zone. They are not having enough babies to sustain their population. Consequently, they are inviting in more and more immigrants every year to take care of things and those immigrants are having way more babies than the native population, hence Eurabia.
Why aren't they having babies? Because babies get in the way of a prosperous and comfortable modern life. Peanut butter fingerprints on the leather seats in the BMW. The Euros are particular -- in particular can't be bothered with kids. Underscore that second point.
A second story, today, reports that [Russian President] Vladimir Putin is so concerned about the declining and imploding population of Russia, he is paying couples to have babies. Imagine, procreating for cash in Mother Russia. Putin has taken this step because at the rate things are going, Russia will lose close to 45 million in population in the next 45 years. Russia will be two thirds of today's population.
This is not a good trend for Russia and it won't be here either if that should happen. To put it bluntly, we need more babies. Forget about that zero population growth stuff that my poor generation was misled on. Why is this important? Because civilizations need population to survive. So far, we are doing our part here in America but Hispanics can't carry the whole load. The rest of you, get busy. Make babies, or put another way -- a slogan for our times: "procreation not recreation." That's "My Word."

Okey Dokey. I was looking for something to do tonight , so.......

But this means I should procreate not recreate with a "regular American" guy, and forget the Hispanics.
Darn, this means I have to cancel my romp with Antonio Banderas and Marc Anthony. (Well, not really. But a girl can dream, right?)
So, I guess I should look for a babydaddy like John Gibson? Because...well...just, EWWWW and not if he was the last man on the face of the earth!
Regarding the underpopualtion in Russia, well maybe all the American couples who adopted orphaned babies from Russia should send them back. Wouldn't that help their "crises"?
And the reason for not populating there, or anywhere else that he gives is quite interesting. I chose not to have children for many reasons, and NONE of them include a BMW or peanut butter.
So I guess 25 years from now when the dreaded Hispanics are running amok in a country renamed Estados Unados, you can say its ALL my fault.

Seriously, I hope HE is not condsering procreating any time soon.

2006-06-04T17:46:00.000-07:00

They're cleared because...well, STUFF happens.

U.S. Troops Cleared in Ishaqi Raid ProbeInvestigation Into Civilian Killings by Marines KIM GAMEL, AP
BAGHDAD, Iraq (June 3) - A military investigation into allegations that American troops intentionally killed civilians in Ishaqi, a village north of Baghdad, has cleared them of misconduct, the U.S. said - even though it acknowledged the deaths of up to 13 Iraqis in the March raid.The probe was part of U.S. investigations into possible misconduct by American troops in at least three separate areas of Iraq . Besides Haditha and Ishaqi, seven Marines and a Navy corpsman could face murder, kidnapping and conspiracy charges in the April shooting death of an Iraqi man west of Baghdad.
Defense Secretary Donald H. Rumsfeld defended the training and conduct of U.S. troops and said incidents such as the alleged massacre of Iraqi civilians at Haditha shouldn't happen.
"We know that 99.9 percent of our forces conduct themselves in an exemplary manner. We also know that in conflicts things that shouldn't happen, do happen," he said. "We don't expect U.S. soldiers to act that way, and they're trained not to."

In other words, Donald Rumsfeld said, "Well, shit happens."

2006-06-03T13:27:00.000-07:00

My Girls

This is totally off topic, but I just wanted to say Happy Gotcha Day to my furdaughters, Lily and Sasha. I brought them home from the shelter on the day in June 2004. By the way June is Adopt a Cat Month. Please give a homeless cat a home, please spay and neuter all your pets.

(this has been a public service announcement from Stacey's Panic Room!)

2006-05-31T19:05:00.000-07:00

Oh That Funny Pat Robertson

Looks like Pat has had himself a hobby in between predicting bad weather, professing doom, and wishing foreign dignitaries dead.
The 76 year old claims he can leg press 2,000 lbs (907.184 74 kilograms for those who speak metric)
The story is here:http://msnbc.msn.com/id/13027545/

His "Christian" Broadcasting Network website even has a video of him supposedly doing this. There's also a plug for his protein shake mix that supposedly keeps him healthy enough to do this. Looks like the CBN is turning into a Body by Pat show.

Fine. Let him claim it. I am beyond taking this man seriously.

By the way, a short word about televangelists:There's a stereotype about Jews and money that still persists to this day. There's the stereotype that they are all about money and cheap and are always counting the sheckles. To this day, I have never seen a rabbi go on tv and ask for money. There are no Jewish televangelists. Yet there are people who will believe the stereotype about Jews being all about money- as they are pledging money to the 700 Cult, err, Club which is obviously not Jewish. I just don't get it.

2006-05-30T21:01:00.000-07:00

Go Ahead, Tap my Phone!

With the recent revealations about domestic phones being being spied on by the NSA since 9/11/01:

http://www.cnn.com/2006/POLITICS/05/11/nsa.phonerecords/index.html

I thought, "What if they tapped mine?"

They wouldn't hear much because I hardly use the phone, especially to talk politics or terrorism or war. That's what this BLOG is for!
My home phone line is also my line to the modem and therefore, the net. If they tapped my home line, they'd hear nothing but that annoying modem/fax sound for hours on end.

The last time I actually used my home phone line to call someone was on Saturday night to order a pepperoni pizza. Seriously, I doubt what I like on my pizza is of any interest to the NSA.

My cell phone isn't much different. Lately I used that to talk to my grandmother about the weather, what she ate today and what aliments are bugging her.

Go ahead, NSA. Tap away! If you want to invade my privacy and you get bored to tears by what you hear...well, it serves you right!

2006-05-30T17:43:00.000-07:00

Bloody Murder- the saga continues:

'I Can Still Smell the Blood'
Marine Recalls Scene of Attack That Killed Iraqi Civilians; Military Probe Continues
By JONATHAN KARL, ABCNews.com

(May 29) - As military officials investigate the Haditha killings in Iraq, one of the Marines involved has spoken out about what he saw last year.

Only hours after Iraqi civilians were killed, a second team of Marines was sent in to take the victims' bodies to a local morgue.
Lance Corp. Ryan Briones was among the Marines sent in to recover the bodies, and he told the Los Angeles Times he is still haunted by what he saw, including a young girl who was shot in the head.
"[The victims] ranged from little babies to adult males and females," Briones told the newspaper. "I can still smell the blood."
Briones says he and another Marine were told to photograph the bodies. Military officials say those photos -- which they say show people shot at close range in the head and chest -- clearly contradict initial reports that the civilians were killed by a roadside bomb.
'Something Broke Down Here'
Officials familiar with the investigation say Sgt. Frank Wuterich was the top-ranked Marine to enter the houses where the civilians were killed and is the center of the investigation.
In an interview with "Good Morning America" today, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff said there are now two investigations into the killings that occurred last November.
"One is to find out what happened. The other is to find out, why did it take us so long to find out what happened?" said Gen. Peter Pace.

· More than two months after the incident Time magazine asked the military to respond to allegations of the killings.
The magazine says a Marine spokesman responded with an e-mail stating, "I cannot believe you're buying any of this. This falls into the same category of al-Qaida in Iraq propaganda."
It was only after Time magazine showed a video in February to another military spokesman in Baghdad that an investigation was begun.
"Something broke down here in the sense that no investigation was conducted immediately," said Gen. Jack Keane. "Therefore, people most likely in the chain of command who had knowledge and should have taken action appropriately did not and they will be under investigation for the failure to do that."
5/30/2006 11:44:23 EDT
Copyright 2006 ABCNEWS.com

2006-05-29T14:29:00.000-07:00

Me Thinks The People Protest Too Much

When people protest a book, a movie or a tv show, all I can think is, "what a major waste of time and energy." The same goes for protestors who protest a celebrity (The Dixie Chicks, Michael Moore, et al) whenever he or she says something against the President.It never ceases to amaze me that these very people who yell bloody murder over what a singer or actor or film maker says are the same people who will give you a blank stare if you ask them, "Do you know who your Congressperson is and what THEY have said lately?"The point is that if you are ranting about a celebrity, your energy is being used in the wrong direction. You should be a lot more concerned about the people who REALLY represent YOU. The people you VOTE for. So the next time you are voting for who is to be the next American Idol, perhaps you should take a minute or so to find out who your legistators are at both the local and national levels. Its pretty important. Its easy to do. The League of Women Voters: www.lwv.org will lead you there, or you can call your local LWV. They're in the phone book.
Speaking of protestors who are misdirecting their energy, I'd like to say a word or 2 about people who protest at abortion clinics. How is standing there with a big poster of a giant fetus productive? How is harrassing women who are going into the clinic productive? My uterus (and whatever contents it may or may not have) is nobody's business but mine. Do they even care about babies once they are "saved" from an abortion? Perhaps their energy would serve better if they got involved in helping critically ill babies, crack addicted babies, babies born into poverty and so on. It's easy to just show up at a clinic with a sign and stand there for a few hours and then get in your car and drive home to nice 'ol suburbia. There's no crack babies there. It's easy to get behind a cause when you don't have to get your hands dirty.

2006-05-29T08:07:00.000-07:00

Memorial Day

As of this week the total is 2,460 U.S. troops killed since the war began in March, 2003.

That's almost as much as the number killed in the 9/11 attacks (2,986).

That's something to really think about on this Memorial Day.

2006-05-22T18:27:00.000-07:00

So Dark the Cannes of Man (or how "The Da Vinci Code" surprised me)

After hearing all about the lukewarm (if even THAT) reviews about the "Code" at the Cannes Film Festival, I was expecting a dog of a movie.

Yes, I read the book. No, I don't believe the theory. Now that that's out of the way, I'll get to the film.
It was long, but worth it. The pace was perfect, it captivated you from the first minutes, even seconds, and I did not find it slow at all. It was true to the book, and I loved seeing it come to life. It certainly was visually more elaborate than anything my imagination created as I read the book. I even liked the soundtrack, but I have a soft spot for musical scores and Gregorian chants. I think Tom Hanks was great in the role, as was the supporting cast.
No matter what you believe, it is an action adventure and mystery, and a good one at that. It also may intrigue you and make you go on your own search for the mysteries that surround Jesus, the grail, The Templar, Opus Dei, and so forth, and draw your own conclusions. To paraphrase an exchange between Sophie and Robert towards the end of the saga, "It does not matter what you do or don't do with the knowledge....it's WHAT YOU BELIEVE that matters." Ah, that's beautiful!

The people who are boycotting it are missing out on something worthwhile.

2006-05-20T18:47:00.000-07:00

America Will Liberate All of You.....Give or Take a Few (or more) Women and Children

Rep. Duncan Hunter, R-Calif., said a committee hearing will not address the substance of the incident last November in Haditha but will review how the investigation was carried out.
The military at first described the encounter as an ambush during a joint U.S.-Iraqi patrol that involved a roadside bombing in which a Marine died and then a firefight. However, residents of the neighborhood contended that only U.S. forces were shooting after the explosion.
A day later, Arab television aired a videotape that showed images purportedly taken in the aftermath of the encounter: a bloody bedroom floor, bullet holes in walls and bodies of women and children. An Iraqi human rights group called for an investigation of what it described as another deadly mistake that had harmed civilians.

The military began its administrative investigation to review whether the Marines involved had lied about what happened.
Hunter, the House Armed Services Committee chairman, said Friday that the results of the investigation are expected to be delivered to Lt. Gen. Peter Chiarelli, commander of Multi-national Corps Iraq, late next week, and a hearing could occur shortly thereafter.
On Wednesday, Rep. John Murtha, D-Pa., said the attack by Marines was far worse than originally reported. Murtha said that Marines killed innocent women and children "in cold blood" and that nearly twice as many people were killed than first reported.
Military officials said Thursday their investigation was incomplete but would not comment on Murtha's charge that the incident was more serious than initial reports indicated.
Officials have said 15 Iraqis, eight insurgents and a Marine were killed, and Hunter said he expected the report to show that "in the neighborhood of 20 or so" people died.
Separately, the Naval Criminal Investigative Service has opened a criminal investigation.
About a dozen Marines from the 3rd Battalion, 1st Marine Regiment, 1st Marine Division, are being investigated for war crimes in connection with the incident to determine if they violated the rules of military engagement.
05/19/06 21:05 EDT
Copyright 2006 The Associated Press.

Was this part of the "Mission Accomplished"?

2006-05-12T18:14:00.000-07:00

I Guess Dan Brown Won't Be Meeting with the Pope Anytime Soon

The Vatican wants people to ban the movie and book The DaVinci Code. Do they not know it is FICTION??I guess what is troubling them is that SOME people do, or may, believe that the "Holy Grail" is indeed Jesus' wife Mary Magdelene and any child they had together.As for my opinion, there's just not enough evidence to convince me. If you look at ANYTHING long enough, you'll start to see "hidden meanings". I am not convinced the feminine looking character in "The Last Supper" is a secret message that Christ had a gal pal. I think the painting is just a painting, like the saying goes, "sometimes a cigar is just a cigar."On the other hand, the revealation that Christ was not asexual would not shock me, nor would it change anything for me.The truth is that you cannot prove it either way. And I think the Vatican has more things to address than a novel or film. This week a retired Roman Catholic priest was found guilty of murder. And he did not just murder anyone, he murdered a nun, while he was a priest. Isn't that something that the Vatican should be concerned with? And let's not even go into the sex abuse issues.....Just for giggles, I think I will go see The DaVinci Code movie dressed as nun. I bet people would look at me funny. It would especially get interesting if protestors show up at the theatre.

2006-04-10T20:08:00.000-07:00

President Hastert

In the event that both and Bush and Cheney get impeached, this is our next POTUS.

Dennis Hastert, Speaker of the House:

Key facts:

He is a Republican.

He is from Illinois.

He was born in 1942.

Sorry, I don't know his favorite color or whether he wears boxers or briefs.

Perhaps his claim to fame is this: his comments on Katrina-

Hastert generated controversy when he said spending Federal money to rebuild New Orleans from the devastation of Hurricane Katrina "doesn't make sense to me."Hastert went on to say that "It looks like a lot of that place could be bulldozed".
Hastert's web site responds to this controversy with the following statements: "It is important that when we rebuild this historic city that we consider the safety of the citizens first. I am not advocating that the city be abandoned or relocated."

Sounds like the right guy for the White House, eh?

2006-04-10T19:50:00.000-07:00

Bush attempts to make leaking info seem patriotic:

Bush Says He Declassified Pre-War Intelligence
By DEB RIECHMANN
AP
WASHINGTON (April 10) - President Bush said Monday that he declassified sensitive prewar intelligence on Iraq back in 2003 to counter critics who claimed the administration had exaggerated the nuclear threat posed by Saddam Hussein.
"I wanted people to see the truth and thought it made sense for people to see the truth," Bush said during an appearance at Johns Hopkins University's Paul H. Nitze School of Advanced International Studies.
"You're not supposed to talk about classified information, and so I declassified the document," he said in a question-and-answer session after delivering a speech on Iraq. "I thought it was important for people to get a better sense for why I was saying what I was saying in my speeches. And I felt I could do so without jeopardizing ongoing intelligence matters, and so I did."
It was Bush's first comment since more detail about the release of a prewar intelligence document surfaced last week in a court filing by U.S. prosecutor Patrick Fitzgerald.
In the filing, Fitzgerald wrote that Vice President Dick Cheney's former chief of staff, I. Lewis Libby, told a grand jury that Bush authorized him, through Cheney, to leak information from a classified document that detailed intelligence agencies' conclusions about weapons of mass destruction in Iraq.
A lawyer knowledgeable about the case said Saturday that Bush declassified sensitive intelligence in 2003 and authorized it to be publicly disclosed to rebut Iraq war critics. But the lawyer said Bush did not specifically direct Libby to disseminate information about prewar intelligence to reporters.
Sen. Chuck Schumer, D-N.Y., sent a letter to Bush on Monday asking him for details about how the document was declassified. "There are many questions that the president must answer so that the American people can understand that this declassification was done for national security purposes, not for immediate political gain."
Bush's decision in July 2003 to disclose sensitive prewar intelligence assessments came amid a growing public realization that Iraq had no weapons of mass destruction. The failure to find such weapons undermined a chief rationale Bush and Cheney used for the U.S.-led invasion of Iraq.
On Sunday, Sen. Arlen Specter, R-Pa., said Bush and Cheney should speak publicly about the CIA leak case so people can make their own judgments about what happened. But Bush said he can't talk about an ongoing legal proceeding.
"You're just going to have to let Mr. Fitzgerald complete his case," Bush said. "And I hope you understand that. It's a serious legal matter that we've got to be careful in making public statements about it."
Libby faces charges of perjury, obstruction and lying to the FBI regarding the disclosure that Valerie Plame, the wife of war critic Joseph Wilson, worked for the CIA. Libby is accused of making false statements about how he learned of her CIA employment and what he told reporters about her.
Plame's CIA employment was disclosed by conservative columnist Robert Novak eight days after her husband, Wilson, accused the Bush administration of manipulating prewar intelligence to exaggerate the Iraqi threat from weapons of mass destruction.
Copyright 2006 The Associated Press.

Ummm, yeah, he did it so that the people would know "the truth". This is right up there with "I did not have sex with that woman." and "I am not a crook."

2006-04-08T12:00:00.000-07:00

Harry Taylor, will you marry me?

http://www.thankyouharrytaylor.org/wordpress/

This is my kind of dude: a guy who has the balls to tell off the President of the United States! That's HOT!

With Cindy Sheehan mysteriously gone from the headlines as of late, we needed someone like this to make the news.

More on this story can be found on http://www.smirkingchimp.com/
I post there under "Dubyahaz2go", by the way.

!

2006-04-05T18:57:00.000-07:00

Well, Gee, I feel REALLY safe NOW!
Homeland official arrested in online sex sting Agency's deputy press
secretary held for soliciting for a child on Internet
BREAKING NEWS Updated:
10:34 p.m. ET April 4, 2006 MIAMI - The deputy press secretary for the
Department of Homeland Security was arrested Tuesday for using the Internet to
seduce what he thought was a teenage girl, authorities said. Brian J. Doyle, 55,
of Silver Spring, Md., was arrested on seven charges of use of a computer to
seduce a child and 16 counts of transmission of harmful material to a minor. The
charges were issued out of Polk County, Fla. Doyle had a sexually explicit
conversation with what he believed was a 14-year-old girl whose profile he saw
on the Internet on March 14, the Polk County Sheriffs Office said in a
statement. The girl was an undercover Polk County Sheriffs computer crimes
detective, the sheriff's office said. Doyle sent the girl pornographic movie
clips and had sexually explicit conversations via the Internet, the statement
said. During other online conversations, Doyle revealed his name, that he worked
for the U.S. Department of Homeland Security and offered his office and
government issued cell phone numbers, the sheriff's office said. Doyle used
the Internet to send hard-core pornographic movie clips to the girl and used the
AOL Instant Messenger chat service to have explicit sexual conversations with
her, the sheriff's office said. Doyle also sent photos of himself to the girl,
but authorities said they were not sexually explicit. On several occasions,
Doyle instructed her to perform a sexual act while thinking of him and described
explicit activities he wanted to have with her, investigators said. Homeland
Security press secretary Russ Knocke in Washington said he could not comment on
the details of the investigation. We take these allegations very seriously,
and we will cooperate fully with the ongoing investigation, Knocke said.
Doyle was expected to be placed on administrative leave Wednesday morning. We
will go after child predators, no matter where they live, to protect our
innocent children, said Polk County Sheriff Grady Judd, in a statement from
his office. This investigation shows that the long arm of the law can reach
anyone, anywhere, anytime, who tries to harm our youth, Judd said. There
is no question that Doyle believed that he was having these disgusting, obscene
discussions, online and on the phone, with a young girl. His conduct is vile and
inexcusable.© 2006 The Associated
Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast,
rewritten or redistributed.

You know, its not just the part of him being a pervert that shocks me. Sadly, perverts are a dime a dozen. The part that gets me is that he actually SAID he is part of Homeland Security and he GAVE OUT HIS PHONE NUMBER to some stranger on the net! I suppose he would have given out government secrets too. You watch: this place will go ka-plooey and buh-bye not because of some well-orchestrated plots by terrorists but because one of OWN is too busy thinking about how to get off.