I had a great day and a half conversation with a dear friend who came to town for a visit. We talked politics and religion. It was the best conversation ever. (Ha! Who says you shouldn't bring those topics into polite conversation?)
Anyway, I filled her in on all my "world shakin", and she replied:
"You know Kel, you are just like my sister Diane. She has her causes, and bless her heart, she gets out there and fights for em. But I just don't have that fire in my heart. I never have.
I have always just felt the best I can do for the world, is to be the best I can be.
She then reminded me of this story:
The Zen Master and the Baby.
In the Shoin-ji temple of Hara, there stands a great Zen Temple. Zen practice is the way of harmony, of no problems, of living fully in each moment, accepting what comes without judgment, not looking backwards or forward, of just being.
In order to do this it is necessary to release ourselves and others from expectations that have little to do with who we truly are. All experiences are welcomed as part of the great journey.
Master Hakuin (1686-1769) was greatly revered in his village, and known as a wise and saintly man. Hakuin was praised by the people as a teacher living an exemplary life, in harmony with Zen. Master Hakuin always accepted all that life brought him without judgment or lament, no matter how difficult the test.
Across from the temple was a store, run by a prominent man, along with his wife and beautiful daughter. One day to the shock and dismay of her parents, the young girl revealed she was pregnant. Her parents were terribly angry, and demanded to know who the father was. The girl would not confess, but after much harassment, she pointed shyly at the honorable monk Hakuin, as he happened by.
In a fit of rage the parents went to the temple and scolded him in front of all the people of the village.
“You have made my daughter pregnant!” they cried.
“You are a terrible, terrible man!”
“You have taken advantage of an innocent young girl!”
Hakuin calmly replied “Is that so?”
All the townspeople were in shock. They stopped coming to the temple for his teachings. They stopped bringing food and offerings. They vilified Hakuin, and steered away from him on the streets, leering and calling him names.
"You are the worst of all beings," they said.
“You should be ashamed, old man!”
To which Hakuin would gently say "Is that so?"
When the baby was born, the family brought the child to Hakuin’s temple.
"This baby is yours, YOU take care of it." exclaimed the girls father, as he thrust the child into the arms of the old monk.
"Is that so?" Hakuin said, while smiling warmly at the innocent babe.
For the next three years, Hakuin devoted himself to the child. He begged for milk and bread on the streets, and spent every waking moment of his days caring for the baby.
He had lost his reputation. His disciples left him. He and the child were sent away from the temple, and now lived in a nearby cave. But Hakuin was not disturbed. He loved caring for the child, and found it to be one of the most rewarding experiences of his life. He was actually glad to be free of his priestly duties, so that he could fully devote himself to the babe.
In true Zen fashion, he lived within the moment, accepting the joys and sorrows of life, with passive acceptance; like clouds rolling across the sky. Some bring storms, while others bring shade, neither good or bad, right or wrong, all simply part of the whole, with necessary purpose, beyond the ability of the mind to comprehend.
On the occasion of the child’s fourth birthday, Hakuin brought the child into the store to buy a piece of candy. The young girl was now grown, and married. When she saw her child, she broke into tears, and announced to everyone that Hakuin was not the father. Her husband was the real father, but she was afraid that if she revealed this at the time, her parents would never have allowed the marriage.
The father and mother addressed Hakuin at once. Bowing low, they asked his forgiveness and apologized profusely.
“Great Master, we have shamed you wrongly, please forgive us, and release the child to his mother, where he rightly belongs. He is not your child Master Hakuin, he is ours.”
Hakuin expressed no more surprise or concern over the apologies than he had over the accusations. Although He loved the child as his own, he hugged his little wonder one last time, returned the babe into his mothers loving arms, and said,
“Is that so?”
*****************************************
Today, I honored the teaching of my friend, set my feminist political activism aside, and made the world a better place by building a treehouse with my son.
And while I will not give up the fight for right, I will, from now on, temper my frustrations on those issues with the words of Master Hakuin.
"Is That So?"
Friday, July 07, 2006
Give em HILL Baby!
Link
Rodham Clinton Calls For Affordable Access To Contraception, Pledges To Continue Hold On FDA Commissioner Nomination
Article Date: 16 Jun 2006 - 1:00am (PDT)
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) on Wednesday during a speech called for approval of a resolution (S Res 485) she introduced that says Congress should work toward providing affordable access to contraceptives to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies, CQ HealthBeat reports. While speaking at a National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association luncheon, Rodham Clinton also said she would continue the hold that she and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) have put on acting FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach's nomination to permanently head the agency until it issues a decision on whether to approve Barr Laboratories' application for nonprescription sales of its emergency contraceptive Plan B to women and girls ages 17 and older. "We're not telling [FDA] how to decide [on Barr's application]. We're telling them to decide it, because it would be indefensible to ignore the recent scientific investigations they've been given," Rodham Clinton said (Crowley, CQ HealthBeat, 6/13). In addition, she called on the country to "unite around a common goal of reducing the amount of abortions, ... not by making them illegal as many are attempting to do or overturning Roe v. Wade and undermining the constitutional protections that decision provided, but by preventing unintended pregnancies in the first place through education, contraception, accessible health care and services, empowering women to make decisions" (Hernandez, New York Times, 6/14). Rodham Clinton is sponsoring a measure (S 20) that would increase funding for family planning programs and a bill (S 2916) that would require state Medicaid programs to cover family planning services and supplies (Rodham Clinton release, 6/13).
Rodham Clinton Calls For Affordable Access To Contraception, Pledges To Continue Hold On FDA Commissioner Nomination
Article Date: 16 Jun 2006 - 1:00am (PDT)
Sen. Hillary Rodham Clinton (D-N.Y.) on Wednesday during a speech called for approval of a resolution (S Res 485) she introduced that says Congress should work toward providing affordable access to contraceptives to reduce the number of unintended pregnancies, CQ HealthBeat reports. While speaking at a National Family Planning and Reproductive Health Association luncheon, Rodham Clinton also said she would continue the hold that she and Sen. Patty Murray (D-Wash.) have put on acting FDA Commissioner Andrew von Eschenbach's nomination to permanently head the agency until it issues a decision on whether to approve Barr Laboratories' application for nonprescription sales of its emergency contraceptive Plan B to women and girls ages 17 and older. "We're not telling [FDA] how to decide [on Barr's application]. We're telling them to decide it, because it would be indefensible to ignore the recent scientific investigations they've been given," Rodham Clinton said (Crowley, CQ HealthBeat, 6/13). In addition, she called on the country to "unite around a common goal of reducing the amount of abortions, ... not by making them illegal as many are attempting to do or overturning Roe v. Wade and undermining the constitutional protections that decision provided, but by preventing unintended pregnancies in the first place through education, contraception, accessible health care and services, empowering women to make decisions" (Hernandez, New York Times, 6/14). Rodham Clinton is sponsoring a measure (S 20) that would increase funding for family planning programs and a bill (S 2916) that would require state Medicaid programs to cover family planning services and supplies (Rodham Clinton release, 6/13).
Sunday, July 02, 2006
Once upon a time
in a land far away,
a beautiful, independent,
self-assured princess
happened upon a frog as she walked
the shores of a sparkling blue lake
in a verdant meadow near her castle.
The frog hopped into the princess' lap
and said: " Elegant Lady,
I was once a handsome prince,
until an evil witch cast a spell upon me.
One kiss from you, however,
and I will turn back
into the dapper, young prince that I am
and then, my sweet, we can marry
and set up housekeeping in your castle
with my mother, where you can prepare my meals,
clean my clothes,
bear my children,
and forever feel grateful and happy doing so. "
That night,
as the princess dined sumptuously
on lightly sauteed frog legs
seasoned in a white wine
and onion cream sauce,
she chuckled and thought to herself:
I don't think so!
a beautiful, independent,
self-assured princess
happened upon a frog as she walked
the shores of a sparkling blue lake
in a verdant meadow near her castle.
The frog hopped into the princess' lap
and said: " Elegant Lady,
I was once a handsome prince,
until an evil witch cast a spell upon me.
One kiss from you, however,
and I will turn back
into the dapper, young prince that I am
and then, my sweet, we can marry
and set up housekeeping in your castle
with my mother, where you can prepare my meals,
clean my clothes,
bear my children,
and forever feel grateful and happy doing so. "
That night,
as the princess dined sumptuously
on lightly sauteed frog legs
seasoned in a white wine
and onion cream sauce,
she chuckled and thought to herself:
I don't think so!
Lets Put a Woman in the White House
Andy Rooney wrote a funny piece in which he asks, "Every time I think about it - which isn't very often - I think how wrong it is that we've never had a woman president of the United States. How did that happen? There has never been one American woman smart enough to be president? There isn’t a single woman alive as capable as George W. Bush? "
Andy makes a good point. IS there a woman in The United States as capable as Dubya? At this point, I am so ready for some diversity, I would vote for Edith Bunker!
Edith might be one donut shy of a dozen, but this "dingbat" was always the voice of reason, in the midst of partisan chaos. I can just picture Archie and The Meathead agruing over the war in Iraq:
Mike: We've got to get out of Iraq.
Archie: That's just like you commie liberals! A bunch of Cut and Run Chickens! Don't you realize if we don't fight the war over there, dem towel head terrorists is gonna bring it over here!
Mike: With what? They don'tt have any WMD's
Archie: Dey flew a plane into the world trade center!
Edith: Ohhhhh No Archie. That was Ol-Sammy-Been-layn. He ain't from Iraq, Archie. Sad-man-Who-Sane is the guy who gots his picture taken in his underwear. He's from a whole different country. You've got em mixed up, on account of they both have funny soundin names. The Sad-Man don't wear a towel Archie.
Archie: Dat don't matter now Edith, we're in there, and we has a duty as Americuns to stick it out until dem Iraquis becomes democrats, just like us.
Mike: I didn't know you were a democrat Archie!
Archie: That aint what I ment at all you Meathead! I'm talkin about Freedom and the Good Ol American Way!
Edith: I don't think you can force people to be free at gunpoint Archie. Maybe we should just let them decide about that for themselves.
(End of episode. Fade out.)
So, why is it that we have never had a woman president? There are more women voters than men in the U.S, so it stands to reason that if the women stood together we would have more women in public office. But in spite of the numbers, and the outstanding efforts of
The League of Women Voters, we have yet to put a Woman in the White House. Women apparently dont vote for women in this country.
Are we just trying to be polite, by not voting for ourselves, or are we so brainwashed by
the Cosmo covers and Action Hero - Damsel in distress archtype that we can not find one woman capable of taking on this job? It's only four years folks. It's not like we are risking a lifetime appointment.
As far as that goes, take a look at our supreme court judges.
Outside of the one token female, and African American, we've got us a black robe wearin gang of powerful old white guys. Not that I have anything against old white guys (OWG's), but the fact is, they've been hogging the buffet for way too long.
They are The Hells Angels of The Hill. A rip roarin bunch of rowdy red neck rebs, more powerful and dangerous than any gang on the street. But do we care? Do we pay attention? Do we use our votes to infuse our govenment with pluralistic diversity? No! We vote in OWG's, through the GOP because we are afraid of WMD's, the NAACP, NOW, and the ACLU, not to mention GLB's (Gays, Lesbians and Bi-Sexuals.)
If we the People are the ones doing the voting, why is it that our leaders are not reflective of the cultural diversity in this country? The president of The Great Melting Pot should look more like Tiger W than George W.
Before we go stormin around the globe, waving the flag and forcing democracy on other cultures, I suggest we take some time to practice the art at home. When we get to a point where our elected officials actually reflect our population demographics, we might discover other countries will open up to the idea without the diplomatic incentive of quaking under our big American WID's. (Weapons of Infidelic Destruction.)
Remember the old Coke Commercial?
What happened to that sense of diversity in America? Where have all the Hippies gone? (Long time pa-a-ssing) Is The United States doomed to be run by GOP OWG's who out spend, out shout, and out spin each other for the holy grail of Power? Are we so stupid and apathetic that we buy into this farce? Do candidates really have to suck up to people like Jerry Fallwell in order to get votes?
Enough already. Let's put a woman in The White House, A Native American on The Supreme Court, and fill the House and Senate with Asian Americans, Mexican Americans, Islamic Americans, Jewish Americans, and a few Suburban Pagan housewives too!
I think the country is ready for a girl like Sam to speak for The State, especially since she has a masculine sounding name. The problem of course, is Daren.
We might be ready for a Mrs. President, but can we handle a first husband?
All the other foreign leaders would make fun of him at parties. It would demoralize and demasculinize every OWG in America! It would destroy the sanctity of marriage! The OWG's would all become hopeless viagra addicts who act out in desperate cries for attention!
Then again, they already are. So wadda ya say ladies, shall we put a woman in the White House? And dont wriggle out of it with the party/platform excuse. We all know darned good and well that any candidate who makes it to the show is centerist, and we have a system of checks and balances to keep even the wild ones in line.
Get Progressive! Let's smash the highest level of the great glass ceiling! Do it for your mother, Do it for your daughter, Do it for yourself, or just do it for me.
The White House Project Mission
The White House Project, is a national, nonpartisan, non-for-profit organization, created to advance women’s leadership in government, from local elections to the U.S. presidency.
"By filling the leadership pipeline with a richly diverse, critical mass of women, we make American institutions, businesses and government truly representative. Through multi-platform programs, The White House Project creates a culture where America’s most valuable untapped resource—women—can succeed in all realms.
To advance this mission, The White House Project strives to support women and the issues that allow women to lead in their own lives and in the world. When women leaders bring their voices, vision and leadership to the table alongside men, the debate is more robust and the policy is more inclusive and sustainable. By supporting women and the values that allow women to succeed—the full range of health options, security platforms that utilize all our resources, economic stability for all—we work to create an equitable culture."
To find out more visitThe White House Project and cast a vote for REAL democracy.
Andy makes a good point. IS there a woman in The United States as capable as Dubya? At this point, I am so ready for some diversity, I would vote for Edith Bunker!
Edith might be one donut shy of a dozen, but this "dingbat" was always the voice of reason, in the midst of partisan chaos. I can just picture Archie and The Meathead agruing over the war in Iraq:
Mike: We've got to get out of Iraq.
Archie: That's just like you commie liberals! A bunch of Cut and Run Chickens! Don't you realize if we don't fight the war over there, dem towel head terrorists is gonna bring it over here!
Mike: With what? They don'tt have any WMD's
Archie: Dey flew a plane into the world trade center!
Edith: Ohhhhh No Archie. That was Ol-Sammy-Been-layn. He ain't from Iraq, Archie. Sad-man-Who-Sane is the guy who gots his picture taken in his underwear. He's from a whole different country. You've got em mixed up, on account of they both have funny soundin names. The Sad-Man don't wear a towel Archie.
Archie: Dat don't matter now Edith, we're in there, and we has a duty as Americuns to stick it out until dem Iraquis becomes democrats, just like us.
Mike: I didn't know you were a democrat Archie!
Archie: That aint what I ment at all you Meathead! I'm talkin about Freedom and the Good Ol American Way!
Edith: I don't think you can force people to be free at gunpoint Archie. Maybe we should just let them decide about that for themselves.
(End of episode. Fade out.)
So, why is it that we have never had a woman president? There are more women voters than men in the U.S, so it stands to reason that if the women stood together we would have more women in public office. But in spite of the numbers, and the outstanding efforts of
The League of Women Voters, we have yet to put a Woman in the White House. Women apparently dont vote for women in this country.
Are we just trying to be polite, by not voting for ourselves, or are we so brainwashed by
the Cosmo covers and Action Hero - Damsel in distress archtype that we can not find one woman capable of taking on this job? It's only four years folks. It's not like we are risking a lifetime appointment. As far as that goes, take a look at our supreme court judges.
Outside of the one token female, and African American, we've got us a black robe wearin gang of powerful old white guys. Not that I have anything against old white guys (OWG's), but the fact is, they've been hogging the buffet for way too long.
They are The Hells Angels of The Hill. A rip roarin bunch of rowdy red neck rebs, more powerful and dangerous than any gang on the street. But do we care? Do we pay attention? Do we use our votes to infuse our govenment with pluralistic diversity? No! We vote in OWG's, through the GOP because we are afraid of WMD's, the NAACP, NOW, and the ACLU, not to mention GLB's (Gays, Lesbians and Bi-Sexuals.)
If we the People are the ones doing the voting, why is it that our leaders are not reflective of the cultural diversity in this country? The president of The Great Melting Pot should look more like Tiger W than George W.
Before we go stormin around the globe, waving the flag and forcing democracy on other cultures, I suggest we take some time to practice the art at home. When we get to a point where our elected officials actually reflect our population demographics, we might discover other countries will open up to the idea without the diplomatic incentive of quaking under our big American WID's. (Weapons of Infidelic Destruction.)
Remember the old Coke Commercial?
What happened to that sense of diversity in America? Where have all the Hippies gone? (Long time pa-a-ssing) Is The United States doomed to be run by GOP OWG's who out spend, out shout, and out spin each other for the holy grail of Power? Are we so stupid and apathetic that we buy into this farce? Do candidates really have to suck up to people like Jerry Fallwell in order to get votes?
Enough already. Let's put a woman in The White House, A Native American on The Supreme Court, and fill the House and Senate with Asian Americans, Mexican Americans, Islamic Americans, Jewish Americans, and a few Suburban Pagan housewives too!
I think the country is ready for a girl like Sam to speak for The State, especially since she has a masculine sounding name. The problem of course, is Daren.
We might be ready for a Mrs. President, but can we handle a first husband?
All the other foreign leaders would make fun of him at parties. It would demoralize and demasculinize every OWG in America! It would destroy the sanctity of marriage! The OWG's would all become hopeless viagra addicts who act out in desperate cries for attention!
Then again, they already are. So wadda ya say ladies, shall we put a woman in the White House? And dont wriggle out of it with the party/platform excuse. We all know darned good and well that any candidate who makes it to the show is centerist, and we have a system of checks and balances to keep even the wild ones in line.
Get Progressive! Let's smash the highest level of the great glass ceiling! Do it for your mother, Do it for your daughter, Do it for yourself, or just do it for me.
The White House Project Mission
The White House Project, is a national, nonpartisan, non-for-profit organization, created to advance women’s leadership in government, from local elections to the U.S. presidency.
"By filling the leadership pipeline with a richly diverse, critical mass of women, we make American institutions, businesses and government truly representative. Through multi-platform programs, The White House Project creates a culture where America’s most valuable untapped resource—women—can succeed in all realms.
To advance this mission, The White House Project strives to support women and the issues that allow women to lead in their own lives and in the world. When women leaders bring their voices, vision and leadership to the table alongside men, the debate is more robust and the policy is more inclusive and sustainable. By supporting women and the values that allow women to succeed—the full range of health options, security platforms that utilize all our resources, economic stability for all—we work to create an equitable culture."
To find out more visitThe White House Project and cast a vote for REAL democracy.
Friday, June 30, 2006
Ownership
My Friend Trée
Do we own the things we buy, or do they own us?
Life is such a spending spree of stuff gathering. (Or as George Carlin says: "Mine is My Stuff, yours is Your Sh*t!"
Everything we own requires care. Cleaning, maintainance, a place to put it.
Own a farm? Ya gotta till it.
Own a dog? Ya gotta walk it, feed it, love it.
Own a collection? Ya gotta build shelves, pay rent or mortgage for the space, dust em, and whatever.
The things we own control what we do with our time, and thus dictate our very lives.
Own a computer?
Gotta Blog?
Some things enhance our lives, while others load us down. Like the Janis Joplin tune says: "Freedom's just another word for nothin left to lose."
What stuff do you have that enhances your life?
Do we own the things we buy, or do they own us?
Life is such a spending spree of stuff gathering. (Or as George Carlin says: "Mine is My Stuff, yours is Your Sh*t!"
Everything we own requires care. Cleaning, maintainance, a place to put it.
Own a farm? Ya gotta till it.
Own a dog? Ya gotta walk it, feed it, love it.
Own a collection? Ya gotta build shelves, pay rent or mortgage for the space, dust em, and whatever.
The things we own control what we do with our time, and thus dictate our very lives.
Own a computer?
Gotta Blog?
Some things enhance our lives, while others load us down. Like the Janis Joplin tune says: "Freedom's just another word for nothin left to lose."
What stuff do you have that enhances your life?
Thursday, June 29, 2006
Only Four
Yesterday I had a house full of kids. The entire neighborhood seemed attracted by some sonar beacon or dog whistle, undetectable to adults. They Ran in and out from front door to back, up to the X-Box powered bedrooms, and down to the toy laden motherlode of a basement, that I refer to as "that place I dare not go."
I did my best to stay on top of things, but I felt like a cross between a cowboy on a cattle drive, and a San Francisco waiter, working during an earthquake.
At one point, I relinquished my post, for a brief and much welcomed moment of personal privacy on the porcelain throne. Before you could say "Hey mom, spell I-Cup," my moment of liquid zen ended with an abrupt "crgrunchh."
Little Jaylin was in the kitchen attempting to get a glass of water. Our refrigerator has water and ice service in the door. To use it, you slide the lever to WATER, CRUSHED ICE, or CUBED ICE, then push your cup against the button and fill er up.
"Zac's MOMMMM...I wannaglassawater!" CRGRUNCHHH.
"Slide the lever to where it says WATER, honey." CRGRUNCHHH
"Zac's Mom, Ice is commin out. I wannaglassawater!"
"Just a minute Jaylin, I'll be right there." CRGRUNCHHH
"Just a minute" is a phrase indecipherable to little ears, likely because of the interfering sound of the afore mentioned sonar beacon.
CRGRUNCHHH.
CRGRUNCHHH.
CRGRUNCHHH.
As I heard the sound of ice spilling all over my kitchen floor, I launched myself from the toilet like a sprinter pushing off the starting blocks at the beginning of the twenty yard dash. My mind shifted for a tenth of a nano second, to admire the brief remnant of my old athletic prowess as I managed to hurdle the couch, while simultainiously pulling up my undies and shorts. (An event sadly over looked by the Olympic Commitee.)
I rounded the corner to find the little boy looking like a guilty penguin on an ice flow. The blue "Barny" cup in his left hand, overflowed like a sno cone on steroids, while he cocked his head, put his right hand on his hip, and emphatically exclaimed in the cutest little southern drawl;
"Zac's Mom, I'm only four! I Can't Read!"
I did my best to stay on top of things, but I felt like a cross between a cowboy on a cattle drive, and a San Francisco waiter, working during an earthquake.
At one point, I relinquished my post, for a brief and much welcomed moment of personal privacy on the porcelain throne. Before you could say "Hey mom, spell I-Cup," my moment of liquid zen ended with an abrupt "crgrunchh."
Little Jaylin was in the kitchen attempting to get a glass of water. Our refrigerator has water and ice service in the door. To use it, you slide the lever to WATER, CRUSHED ICE, or CUBED ICE, then push your cup against the button and fill er up.
"Zac's MOMMMM...I wannaglassawater!" CRGRUNCHHH.
"Slide the lever to where it says WATER, honey." CRGRUNCHHH
"Zac's Mom, Ice is commin out. I wannaglassawater!"
"Just a minute Jaylin, I'll be right there." CRGRUNCHHH
"Just a minute" is a phrase indecipherable to little ears, likely because of the interfering sound of the afore mentioned sonar beacon.
CRGRUNCHHH.
CRGRUNCHHH.
CRGRUNCHHH.
As I heard the sound of ice spilling all over my kitchen floor, I launched myself from the toilet like a sprinter pushing off the starting blocks at the beginning of the twenty yard dash. My mind shifted for a tenth of a nano second, to admire the brief remnant of my old athletic prowess as I managed to hurdle the couch, while simultainiously pulling up my undies and shorts. (An event sadly over looked by the Olympic Commitee.)
I rounded the corner to find the little boy looking like a guilty penguin on an ice flow. The blue "Barny" cup in his left hand, overflowed like a sno cone on steroids, while he cocked his head, put his right hand on his hip, and emphatically exclaimed in the cutest little southern drawl;
"Zac's Mom, I'm only four! I Can't Read!"
Tuesday, June 27, 2006
The Enigmas by Pablo Neruda
You ask me what the lobster is weaving down there with its golden feet,
I tell you, the ocean knows this
You say who is the acedia waiting for in its transparent bell,
I tell you its waiting for time, like you
You say who does the macrocystis algae hug in its arms?
Study it. Study it at a certain hour and in a certain sea I know
You question me about the wicked tusk of the narwhale
and I respond by describing to you how the sea unicorn
with a harpoon in it, dies
Inquire about the kingfisher's feathers
which tremble in the purest springs of the southern shores
I want to tell you that the ocean knows this,
That life, in its jewel boxes, is endless as the sand,
impossible to count, pure
And the time among the blood colored grapes
has made the petal hard and shiny,
Filled the jellyfish with light, untied its knot, letting its musical threads fall
From a horn of plenty made of infinite mother of pearl
I'm nothing but the empty net which has gone on ahead of human eyes,
Dead in the darkness', of fingers accustomed to the triangle,
Longitudes in the timid globe of an orange
I walked around like you investigating the endless star
And in my net during the night I woke up naked
The only thing caught, a fish, trapped inside the wind
Monday, June 26, 2006
Summer Star Dreams
Summer:
Ice Cream, Picnics, and playtime. Imagination Rules. Cricket choruses for lightning bug fireworks, and long endless days of freedom and fun.
Here's one for the kiddies. A classic by Eugene Field.
(Nighty-night bumpkins.) ;)
Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod
Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod, one night sailed off in a wooden shoe;
Sailed off on a river of crystal light into a sea of dew.
"Where are you going and what do you wish?" the old moon asked the three.
"We've come to fish for the herring fish that live in this beautiful sea.
Nets of silver and gold have we," said Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
The old moon laughed and sang a song as they rocked in the wooden shoe.
And the wind that sped them all night long ruffled the waves of dew.
Now the little stars are the herring fish that live in that beautiful sea;
"Cast your nets wherever you wish never afraid are we!"
So cried the stars to the fishermen three - Winkin', and Blinkin', and Nod.
So all night long their nets they threw to the stars in the twinkling foam.
'Til down from the skies came the wooden shoe bringing the fisherman home.
'Twas all so pretty a sail it seemed as if it could not be.
Some folks say 'twas a dream they dreamed of sailing that misty sea.
But I shall name you the fisherman three - Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
Now Winkin' and Blinkin' are two little eyes and Nod is a little head.
And the wooden shoe that sailed the skies is a wee one's trundle bed.
So close your eyes while mother sings of the wonderful sights that be.
And you shall see those beautiful things as you sail on the misty sea,
Where the old shoe rocked the fishermen three - Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
*Allison Slikker illustration available at: http://www.artwanted.com/artist.cfm?artid=2008
Ice Cream, Picnics, and playtime. Imagination Rules. Cricket choruses for lightning bug fireworks, and long endless days of freedom and fun.
Here's one for the kiddies. A classic by Eugene Field.
(Nighty-night bumpkins.) ;)
Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod
Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod, one night sailed off in a wooden shoe;
Sailed off on a river of crystal light into a sea of dew.
"Where are you going and what do you wish?" the old moon asked the three.
"We've come to fish for the herring fish that live in this beautiful sea.
Nets of silver and gold have we," said Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
The old moon laughed and sang a song as they rocked in the wooden shoe.
And the wind that sped them all night long ruffled the waves of dew.
Now the little stars are the herring fish that live in that beautiful sea;
"Cast your nets wherever you wish never afraid are we!"
So cried the stars to the fishermen three - Winkin', and Blinkin', and Nod.
So all night long their nets they threw to the stars in the twinkling foam.
'Til down from the skies came the wooden shoe bringing the fisherman home.
'Twas all so pretty a sail it seemed as if it could not be.
Some folks say 'twas a dream they dreamed of sailing that misty sea.
But I shall name you the fisherman three - Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
Now Winkin' and Blinkin' are two little eyes and Nod is a little head.
And the wooden shoe that sailed the skies is a wee one's trundle bed.
So close your eyes while mother sings of the wonderful sights that be.
And you shall see those beautiful things as you sail on the misty sea,
Where the old shoe rocked the fishermen three - Winkin', Blinkin', and Nod.
*Allison Slikker illustration available at: http://www.artwanted.com/artist.cfm?artid=2008
Saturday, June 24, 2006
Things Republicans Believe
-Author Unknown
Copied from a link courtesy of Bitch PhD
Things you have to believe to be a Republican today:
* Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary Clinton.
* Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is Communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.
* The United States should get out of the United Nations, but our highest national priority is enforcing U.N. resolutions against Iraq.
* A woman can't be trusted with decisions about her own body, but multinational corporations can make decisions affecting all humankind without regulation.
* The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches, while slashing veterans' benefits and combat pay.
* If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won't have sex.
* A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our longtime allies, then demand their cooperation and money.
* Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy, but providing health care to all Americans is socialism.
* HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart, as do oil companies.
* Global warming is junk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.
* A president lying about an extramarital affair is an impeachable offense, but a president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.
* Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.
* The public has a right to know about Hillary's cattle trades, but George Bush's driving record is none of our business.
* Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you're a conservative radio host. Then it's an illness and you need our prayers for your recovery.
* What Bill Clinton did in the 1960s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the '80s is irrelevant.
Copied from a link courtesy of Bitch PhD
Things you have to believe to be a Republican today:
* Jesus loves you, and shares your hatred of homosexuals and Hillary Clinton.
* Trade with Cuba is wrong because the country is Communist, but trade with China and Vietnam is vital to a spirit of international harmony.
* The United States should get out of the United Nations, but our highest national priority is enforcing U.N. resolutions against Iraq.
* A woman can't be trusted with decisions about her own body, but multinational corporations can make decisions affecting all humankind without regulation.
* The best way to improve military morale is to praise the troops in speeches, while slashing veterans' benefits and combat pay.
* If condoms are kept out of schools, adolescents won't have sex.
* A good way to fight terrorism is to belittle our longtime allies, then demand their cooperation and money.
* Providing health care to all Iraqis is sound policy, but providing health care to all Americans is socialism.
* HMOs and insurance companies have the best interests of the public at heart, as do oil companies.
* Global warming is junk science, but creationism should be taught in schools.
* A president lying about an extramarital affair is an impeachable offense, but a president lying to enlist support for a war in which thousands die is solid defense policy.
* Government should limit itself to the powers named in the Constitution, which include banning gay marriages and censoring the Internet.
* The public has a right to know about Hillary's cattle trades, but George Bush's driving record is none of our business.
* Being a drug addict is a moral failing and a crime, unless you're a conservative radio host. Then it's an illness and you need our prayers for your recovery.
* What Bill Clinton did in the 1960s is of vital national interest, but what Bush did in the '80s is irrelevant.
Thursday, June 22, 2006
Powerful Voices
Chrisse France is executive director of the Preterm Clinic in Cleveland, Ohio.
She attended the abortion hearing on HB228, and wrote a hard hitting comentary for The Women's Media Center. In addition, she has prepared a theater piece, that I hope will be put on film and widely distributed.
Rock on Chrisse!
She attended the abortion hearing on HB228, and wrote a hard hitting comentary for The Women's Media Center. In addition, she has prepared a theater piece, that I hope will be put on film and widely distributed.
Rock on Chrisse!
You Are Here: The Blogger Remembers Being Idealistic, Once...
While browsing The latest Carnival of Feminists I came across an essay by an attorney named Jean, who makes a "Kick-Ass Case" regarding our constitutional freedoms and responsibilities.
You Are Here: The Blogger Remembers Being Idealistic, Once...
You Are Here: The Blogger Remembers Being Idealistic, Once...
Monday, June 19, 2006
Abortion Speech Summary
I thought I would post the low down from the hoe down, for anyone who is interested.
As most of you know, I recently prepared for an appearance before The Ohio House of Representatives regarding House Bill 228, a proposal to ban all abortion in Ohio.
It was a crazy day at the Statehouse. Because of the large number of people, Chairman White decided to form two panels, giving each side a chance to make their best case. Planned Parenthood/NARAL formed one side, and a Pro Life group headed by Janet Folger represented the other.
Sadly, the people of Ohio were left out of the debate.
Below is the series of correspondence that evolved. Its will take a few min. To read, but it proves that democracy CAN work:
------------------------------------------------
Mr. Chairman and members of The House Health Committee,
I am an Ohio citizen, who attended yesterdays hearing on HB 228. Like
many of your constituents, I spent weeks preparing my written testimony.
This was a deeply personal and emotional exercise for many of us, as we
struggled to find the words we needed, and the courage to express them
publicly.
I prepared a powerful 8 minute speech, but was advised to "keep it under 6
minutes." After the edits, I was then told a 3 minute cap would be enforced
because of the large number of people who planned to testify.
When I reduced my testimony to fit the time limit, it lost all of the
supporting arguments necessary for an effective persuasion speech.
I can not begin to express my frustration over this feeling of being
stifled by my elected leaders. I felt muzzled, and desperate to be heard,
not for my own sake, but for the next generation of Ohio women who will be
affected by this type of legislation.
I noted with dismay the fact that the people were not heard. The "panels"
chosen consisted of PAC organizations that both have big dollars at stake.
Planned Parenthood relies on federal funding, and the "life groups" use the
issue to generate millions of dollars in fund raising, not to save children,
but to control elections.
Janet Folger is not even an Ohio resident. Ms. Folger moved to Fort
Lauderdale, Fla., in 1998 to become national director of the Center for
Reclaiming America, an advocacy group of Coral Ridge Ministries, a
multimedia evangelical organization.
According to Ralph Reed, former executive director of the Christian
Coalition, "Janet is an example of what I like to think of as an issue
entrepreneur. Some entrepreneurs try to figure out what the new hot stocks
are. Janet is an ideological entrepreneur, someone who tries to pick the hot
new issues."
This woman is a ringer, supported by religious extremists; a paid
professional who makes her living by exploiting hot button issues. She even
used the time of this committee to promote her book!
Why is it that this Florida woman got to dominate the entire morning
session with no time limit on her Christian evangelizing, while Ohio
residents were locked out of the debate and sent to the atrium overflow
area?
Shame on you for giving her unlimited time on the floor while ignoring the
voices of real Ohio voters.
Sincerely,
Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio
P.S. I commend representatives Redfern, Smith, Brown, DeBose, and
Reidelbach for their insightful questions and commentary.
Thank you for your study of this issue, and for supporting the rights of
Ohio women.
-----------------------------------------
A Pro Choice Democrats response:
Dear Ms. Bell:
I thank you for expressing your disappointment with the HB 228 proceedings on Tuesday, June 13, 2006. Your view on representative democracy is insightful and well received within this caucus. If you approve, I would like to forward your e-mail to the media. I think its time the media learn about the general publics disgust with the proceedings and its lack of a true public forum. Please reply promptly because I believe we need to strike while the issue is still hot. I look forward to your response. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Stephen Caminati
Legislative Aide, to
State Representative Michael DeBose, District 12
-------------------------------------
A Pro Life Republican response:
----- Original Message -----
From: Peterson, Jon
Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 9:53 AM
Subject: [SPAM] District 02 Auto Reply
Thank you for your recent email. Due to the high volume of emails this
office receives, we will give priority to constituents of the 2nd Ohio House
District (Delaware County). For this reason, it is important that you
include your full name and mailing address in your correspondence. If it is
an emergency, please contact this office at 614-644-6711. Thanks again for
your email.
Warmest regards,
Jon Peterson
Ohio House of Representatives
2nd House District
----------------------------------
Dear Rep. Peterson,
My message was signed:
"Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio"
For your information: Powell, Ohio IS in the 2nd Ohio House District
(Delaware County)
As an experienced representative, I am shocked that you do not know your own
district.
"Powell is located at 40°N, 83°W . The city sits between the
Scioto and Olentangy Rivers, about fourteen miles north of the state capital
of Columbus, centered on the intersection of state highway routes 315 and
750."
Considering the sensitive nature of the debate regarding HB228, I am
offended by your response. My e-mail provided you with enough information
to know what voting district I represent, what my stand is on the issue, and
how to contact me.
Your rude brush off has been duly noted.
Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio
------------------------------------
Kelley,
We receive thousands of emails and you are the first to complain
about the auto-response. Most compliment our office on wanting to focus on
serving our constituents and using this technology to assist us in that
regard.
Our office is among the busiest in the House (next to the Speaker) and we
pride ourselves on constituent relations. We are sorry your first
experience with our office was a negative one.
Jon Peterson
State Representative
Delaware County
(Former Powell resident)
------------------------------------
-----Original Message-----
From: Kelley Bell
To: Peterson, Jon
Subject: Re: [SPAM] District 02 Auto Reply
Thank you Sir.
I truly appreciate your reply. It seems that even a generic auto response
can be seen as dismissive in regard to this issue.
What this reveals is a history of small indignities suffered by women
and minorities. It is an infectious wound, slow to heal, and hyper
sensitive to even the slightest touch.
It is imperativeitive that we use our legislature to move forward, as a nation
that values diversity, and shows respect for all Americans, regardless of
gender, race, or religious belief, and work together to heal these old
wounds.
I thank you for extending the olive branch in that regard.
Below is an essay on the matter that might be of interest.
Abortion: Over Easy, Please
By Kelley Bell
Copyright 2006
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
The answer depends on your perspective, of course.
If you look to the dictionary, chicken precedes egg. The chicken came
first.
Unless of course you define a chicken as a hen, then the egg came first.
If we ask the question from a creationist point of view, the answer is
unknowable, as the creator could have made either one first.
The evolutionary perspective, tells us the first hen must have been a
mutation of some other avian life form, which laid the egg that hatched the
first chicken. Scientifically speaking, the egg undoubtedly came first.
So when does the egg become a chicken? Is it a chicken when it hatches, or
is it a chicken while it is still an egg? I don't know about you, but I have
never been offered a barbecued egg, or a hard boiled chicken. An egg is not a
chicken. If you don't believe me, ask your grocer.
On the issue of abortion, the three minute question boils down to this; when
does an embryo become a human being?
The pro-life advocates say that life begins at conception. When the sperm
and egg connect, the result is a human life that will eventually grow into a
baby, a child, and an adult. It is living tissue, with a complete set of
DNA, and is therefore a living human being worthy of protection under the
law.
During an Ohio House of Representatives hearing on the issue, I heard a
Jewish Rabbi explain the Talmud teaching of a man who hit his wife in the
stomach, causing a miscarriage. "This was not murder," explained The Rabbi,
"because the fetus within her did not yet have a soul." He said that the
soul enters the body when the child is born. The fetus was indeed living
tissue, with the potential to become a human being, but according to Jewish
law, it is not a human being until it has a soul.
Buddhists, Taoists and other Asian philosophies teach us that "breath is
life." When a baby comes into the world and takes that first breath,
something miraculous happens, something indefinable. It is no longer an
egg in the process of cell division, absorbing nutrients from the host. At
the moment of birth, it crosses over into our world as a viable life form of
its own. It breathes life.
Clearly, when we explore the soul, and the processes of life and creation,
we have crossed over from the realm of science, into the realm of religion.
This is key, for here in The United States, we are a pluralistic democracy.
The very foundation of our government is based on the premise of freedom of
religion. To enforce one religious viewpoint over others is against the
principles for which we stand.
I empathize with the religious perspective that life begins at conception,
and I understand the pain these people feel due to their beliefs
about the beginning of human life. From their theological perspective,
abortion is murder. I understand that. But we do not all share the same theology, and our constitution demands we confine our laws to show respect for all
religious beliefs.
It is also of great social concern that we recognize the subjugation of
women in relationship to this one religious belief. When women are shamed
for abortion, when they feel guilt or remorse, or feelings of depression and
suicide, these feelings stem from religious teachings regarding abortion. Such complications only occur as a medical side effect of religiously based guilt, promoted through graphic protests, pulpit pounding, and social pressure within the
congregational community.
What the religiously motivated Pro-Criminalization advocates need to understand, is the vital importance of our right to freedom of religion is in this country. They need to comprehend the slippery slope they are asking us to tread when they lobby to enforce their beliefs as law. If we allow one interpretation of faith to become the rule of law, we are no longer a democracy, but a theocracy; A theocracy that
subjugates women.
We sent our children to Afghanistan to die in the name of democracy and
freedom. Yet we are so blinded by our own beliefs, that we do not see our
nation is walking the exact same road. The leaders of The Taliban do not
see themselves as evil. They see themselves as moral men, devoted to
enforcement of theocratic law, as handed down from Abram, to his sons Isaac
and Ishmael, who then spread those teachings, to Mohammed, and the twelve
tribes of Israel. Muslims, Christians and Jews are all practicing
variations of the same religion. The only thing that sets us apart from one
another is our interpretation of those teachings. As Americans, our
constitution decrees that no one interpretation can take precedence over
another in matters of law. This ideal is what we stand for, what we fight
for, and what we must sacrifice for, even in the case of abortion.
Do we support our constitution, and the freedom of religion on which this
great nation was founded, or would we be better off as a theocratic nation
like Afghanistan?
The chicken or the egg question may seem like a silly children's riddle, but
no matter how you scramble it, in reality, it asks us to explore and all the
secular, scientific and religious philosophies of creation and lawmaking.
Would you like a side of Taliban with your eggs? Not me thanks. That's too
hard to digest. I'll take mine over easy, please.
-----------------------------
Response from Rep. Peterson:
Kelley, thank you for sharing the essay - very insightful. As a seminary student, I was particularly interested in the perspectives of other faith traditions on this issue. Shame on me, but I had not taken the time to do research in this area on my own.
Thank you again,
Jon Peterson
------------------------------------
Hmm.
I dont know if he will change his vote, but at least he's thinkin.
As most of you know, I recently prepared for an appearance before The Ohio House of Representatives regarding House Bill 228, a proposal to ban all abortion in Ohio.
It was a crazy day at the Statehouse. Because of the large number of people, Chairman White decided to form two panels, giving each side a chance to make their best case. Planned Parenthood/NARAL formed one side, and a Pro Life group headed by Janet Folger represented the other.
Sadly, the people of Ohio were left out of the debate.
Below is the series of correspondence that evolved. Its will take a few min. To read, but it proves that democracy CAN work:
------------------------------------------------
Mr. Chairman and members of The House Health Committee,
I am an Ohio citizen, who attended yesterdays hearing on HB 228. Like
many of your constituents, I spent weeks preparing my written testimony.
This was a deeply personal and emotional exercise for many of us, as we
struggled to find the words we needed, and the courage to express them
publicly.
I prepared a powerful 8 minute speech, but was advised to "keep it under 6
minutes." After the edits, I was then told a 3 minute cap would be enforced
because of the large number of people who planned to testify.
When I reduced my testimony to fit the time limit, it lost all of the
supporting arguments necessary for an effective persuasion speech.
I can not begin to express my frustration over this feeling of being
stifled by my elected leaders. I felt muzzled, and desperate to be heard,
not for my own sake, but for the next generation of Ohio women who will be
affected by this type of legislation.
I noted with dismay the fact that the people were not heard. The "panels"
chosen consisted of PAC organizations that both have big dollars at stake.
Planned Parenthood relies on federal funding, and the "life groups" use the
issue to generate millions of dollars in fund raising, not to save children,
but to control elections.
Janet Folger is not even an Ohio resident. Ms. Folger moved to Fort
Lauderdale, Fla., in 1998 to become national director of the Center for
Reclaiming America, an advocacy group of Coral Ridge Ministries, a
multimedia evangelical organization.
According to Ralph Reed, former executive director of the Christian
Coalition, "Janet is an example of what I like to think of as an issue
entrepreneur. Some entrepreneurs try to figure out what the new hot stocks
are. Janet is an ideological entrepreneur, someone who tries to pick the hot
new issues."
This woman is a ringer, supported by religious extremists; a paid
professional who makes her living by exploiting hot button issues. She even
used the time of this committee to promote her book!
Why is it that this Florida woman got to dominate the entire morning
session with no time limit on her Christian evangelizing, while Ohio
residents were locked out of the debate and sent to the atrium overflow
area?
Shame on you for giving her unlimited time on the floor while ignoring the
voices of real Ohio voters.
Sincerely,
Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio
P.S. I commend representatives Redfern, Smith, Brown, DeBose, and
Reidelbach for their insightful questions and commentary.
Thank you for your study of this issue, and for supporting the rights of
Ohio women.
-----------------------------------------
A Pro Choice Democrats response:
Dear Ms. Bell:
I thank you for expressing your disappointment with the HB 228 proceedings on Tuesday, June 13, 2006. Your view on representative democracy is insightful and well received within this caucus. If you approve, I would like to forward your e-mail to the media. I think its time the media learn about the general publics disgust with the proceedings and its lack of a true public forum. Please reply promptly because I believe we need to strike while the issue is still hot. I look forward to your response. Thank you.
Sincerely,
Stephen Caminati
Legislative Aide, to
State Representative Michael DeBose, District 12
-------------------------------------
A Pro Life Republican response:
----- Original Message -----
From: Peterson, Jon
Sent: Wednesday, June 14, 2006 9:53 AM
Subject: [SPAM] District 02 Auto Reply
Thank you for your recent email. Due to the high volume of emails this
office receives, we will give priority to constituents of the 2nd Ohio House
District (Delaware County). For this reason, it is important that you
include your full name and mailing address in your correspondence. If it is
an emergency, please contact this office at 614-644-6711. Thanks again for
your email.
Warmest regards,
Jon Peterson
Ohio House of Representatives
2nd House District
----------------------------------
Dear Rep. Peterson,
My message was signed:
"Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio"
For your information: Powell, Ohio IS in the 2nd Ohio House District
(Delaware County)
As an experienced representative, I am shocked that you do not know your own
district.
"Powell is located at 40°N, 83°W . The city sits between the
Scioto and Olentangy Rivers, about fourteen miles north of the state capital
of Columbus, centered on the intersection of state highway routes 315 and
750."
Considering the sensitive nature of the debate regarding HB228, I am
offended by your response. My e-mail provided you with enough information
to know what voting district I represent, what my stand is on the issue, and
how to contact me.
Your rude brush off has been duly noted.
Kelley Bell, a constituent from Powell, Ohio
------------------------------------
Kelley,
We receive thousands of emails and you are the first to complain
about the auto-response. Most compliment our office on wanting to focus on
serving our constituents and using this technology to assist us in that
regard.
Our office is among the busiest in the House (next to the Speaker) and we
pride ourselves on constituent relations. We are sorry your first
experience with our office was a negative one.
Jon Peterson
State Representative
Delaware County
(Former Powell resident)
------------------------------------
-----Original Message-----
From: Kelley Bell
To: Peterson, Jon
Subject: Re: [SPAM] District 02 Auto Reply
Thank you Sir.
I truly appreciate your reply. It seems that even a generic auto response
can be seen as dismissive in regard to this issue.
What this reveals is a history of small indignities suffered by women
and minorities. It is an infectious wound, slow to heal, and hyper
sensitive to even the slightest touch.
It is imperativeitive that we use our legislature to move forward, as a nation
that values diversity, and shows respect for all Americans, regardless of
gender, race, or religious belief, and work together to heal these old
wounds.
I thank you for extending the olive branch in that regard.
Below is an essay on the matter that might be of interest.
Abortion: Over Easy, Please
By Kelley Bell
Copyright 2006
Which came first, the chicken or the egg?
The answer depends on your perspective, of course.
If you look to the dictionary, chicken precedes egg. The chicken came
first.
Unless of course you define a chicken as a hen, then the egg came first.
If we ask the question from a creationist point of view, the answer is
unknowable, as the creator could have made either one first.
The evolutionary perspective, tells us the first hen must have been a
mutation of some other avian life form, which laid the egg that hatched the
first chicken. Scientifically speaking, the egg undoubtedly came first.
So when does the egg become a chicken? Is it a chicken when it hatches, or
is it a chicken while it is still an egg? I don't know about you, but I have
never been offered a barbecued egg, or a hard boiled chicken. An egg is not a
chicken. If you don't believe me, ask your grocer.
On the issue of abortion, the three minute question boils down to this; when
does an embryo become a human being?
The pro-life advocates say that life begins at conception. When the sperm
and egg connect, the result is a human life that will eventually grow into a
baby, a child, and an adult. It is living tissue, with a complete set of
DNA, and is therefore a living human being worthy of protection under the
law.
During an Ohio House of Representatives hearing on the issue, I heard a
Jewish Rabbi explain the Talmud teaching of a man who hit his wife in the
stomach, causing a miscarriage. "This was not murder," explained The Rabbi,
"because the fetus within her did not yet have a soul." He said that the
soul enters the body when the child is born. The fetus was indeed living
tissue, with the potential to become a human being, but according to Jewish
law, it is not a human being until it has a soul.
Buddhists, Taoists and other Asian philosophies teach us that "breath is
life." When a baby comes into the world and takes that first breath,
something miraculous happens, something indefinable. It is no longer an
egg in the process of cell division, absorbing nutrients from the host. At
the moment of birth, it crosses over into our world as a viable life form of
its own. It breathes life.
Clearly, when we explore the soul, and the processes of life and creation,
we have crossed over from the realm of science, into the realm of religion.
This is key, for here in The United States, we are a pluralistic democracy.
The very foundation of our government is based on the premise of freedom of
religion. To enforce one religious viewpoint over others is against the
principles for which we stand.
I empathize with the religious perspective that life begins at conception,
and I understand the pain these people feel due to their beliefs
about the beginning of human life. From their theological perspective,
abortion is murder. I understand that. But we do not all share the same theology, and our constitution demands we confine our laws to show respect for all
religious beliefs.
It is also of great social concern that we recognize the subjugation of
women in relationship to this one religious belief. When women are shamed
for abortion, when they feel guilt or remorse, or feelings of depression and
suicide, these feelings stem from religious teachings regarding abortion. Such complications only occur as a medical side effect of religiously based guilt, promoted through graphic protests, pulpit pounding, and social pressure within the
congregational community.
What the religiously motivated Pro-Criminalization advocates need to understand, is the vital importance of our right to freedom of religion is in this country. They need to comprehend the slippery slope they are asking us to tread when they lobby to enforce their beliefs as law. If we allow one interpretation of faith to become the rule of law, we are no longer a democracy, but a theocracy; A theocracy that
subjugates women.
We sent our children to Afghanistan to die in the name of democracy and
freedom. Yet we are so blinded by our own beliefs, that we do not see our
nation is walking the exact same road. The leaders of The Taliban do not
see themselves as evil. They see themselves as moral men, devoted to
enforcement of theocratic law, as handed down from Abram, to his sons Isaac
and Ishmael, who then spread those teachings, to Mohammed, and the twelve
tribes of Israel. Muslims, Christians and Jews are all practicing
variations of the same religion. The only thing that sets us apart from one
another is our interpretation of those teachings. As Americans, our
constitution decrees that no one interpretation can take precedence over
another in matters of law. This ideal is what we stand for, what we fight
for, and what we must sacrifice for, even in the case of abortion.
Do we support our constitution, and the freedom of religion on which this
great nation was founded, or would we be better off as a theocratic nation
like Afghanistan?
The chicken or the egg question may seem like a silly children's riddle, but
no matter how you scramble it, in reality, it asks us to explore and all the
secular, scientific and religious philosophies of creation and lawmaking.
Would you like a side of Taliban with your eggs? Not me thanks. That's too
hard to digest. I'll take mine over easy, please.
-----------------------------
Response from Rep. Peterson:
Kelley, thank you for sharing the essay - very insightful. As a seminary student, I was particularly interested in the perspectives of other faith traditions on this issue. Shame on me, but I had not taken the time to do research in this area on my own.
Thank you again,
Jon Peterson
------------------------------------
Hmm.
I dont know if he will change his vote, but at least he's thinkin.
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