I realize my little blog with it's low double-digit readership is probably not going to hold much sway over someone as inexplicably popular as Sarah Palin, but I still feel I have to try.
For the love of Zeus and all that is holy can this woman please, once and for all, just shut the fuck up?
We have been forced to listen to her mind-numbing drivel for over 2 years now and I'm not sure my brain can take another second.
Her latest gem? Slamming Michelle Obama for her efforts to curb childhood obesity, essentially calling it a "war" on dessert.
Holy shit! Are you kidding me? Yes, the first lady's seemingly well-intentioned concern for the health of our fat children is in fact part of a larger plan to kill Betty Crocker and Sara Lee.
These are the kind of comments I expect from the deranged guy on the subway platform, not from someone who holds sway over tens of millions of people.
And that's what makes it so fucking scary. Seemingly reasonable people all over the country listen to this woman and think 'wow, she's really got a neat point of view!"
What is it? The MILF thing? Her Fargo-esque accent? The wolf killing? What makes her so endearing to so many?
Whatever it is, just stop it. I'm begging you. If she ever becomes president, I'm going to have to move to Canada. And I fucking hate the cold.
Wednesday, December 22, 2010
Monday, December 20, 2010
Batshit crazy idea of the week
It's called the "repeal amendment" and it's gaining momentum. Essentially, it would allow states to overturn any federal law they found particularly repugnant, if they can get 2/3 of all states to agree.
The funny part is, the root of this absurd idea comes from those who cling to an absolutist, states-rights driven interpretation of the constitution. If the constitution is so damn perfect as is, why the fuck are you intent on changing it?
Yes, the federal government sometimes overreaches and passes an ill-advised law. But guess what? The constitution already allows us to throw people out of office and elect people who can vote to overturn those laws.
It's as if some people don't really want a country at all. Just a bunch of renegade states who occasionally come together to blow other countries up or invade people's bedrooms.
It also seems that people take a very selective reading of the constitution they claim to adore.
Anyone ever actually read the damn document? This little bit, called the preamble, seems to give the federal government a pretty broad scope.
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
There's also a whole section (Article 1, Section 10) that pretty explicitly calls out a bunch of shit that states don't have the right to do.
So before we go pulling out the muskets and marching off to Fort Sumter to start another civil war, let's get educated people.
If, after really reading the constitution, you still think we need a new law that essentially invalidates the whole document, go for it. Of course, that would involve actually reading something, and I have a hunch that's not really your thing.
The funny part is, the root of this absurd idea comes from those who cling to an absolutist, states-rights driven interpretation of the constitution. If the constitution is so damn perfect as is, why the fuck are you intent on changing it?
Yes, the federal government sometimes overreaches and passes an ill-advised law. But guess what? The constitution already allows us to throw people out of office and elect people who can vote to overturn those laws.
It's as if some people don't really want a country at all. Just a bunch of renegade states who occasionally come together to blow other countries up or invade people's bedrooms.
It also seems that people take a very selective reading of the constitution they claim to adore.
Anyone ever actually read the damn document? This little bit, called the preamble, seems to give the federal government a pretty broad scope.
"We the People of the United States, in Order to form a more perfect Union, establish Justice, insure domestic tranquility, provide for the common defence, promote the general welfare, and secure the Blessings of Liberty to ourselves and our posterity, do ordain and establish this Constitution for the United States of America."
There's also a whole section (Article 1, Section 10) that pretty explicitly calls out a bunch of shit that states don't have the right to do.
So before we go pulling out the muskets and marching off to Fort Sumter to start another civil war, let's get educated people.
If, after really reading the constitution, you still think we need a new law that essentially invalidates the whole document, go for it. Of course, that would involve actually reading something, and I have a hunch that's not really your thing.
Friday, December 17, 2010
Free to be a selfish prick
So the damn government wants to force me to buy health insurance, huh? Some nerve those Washington bureaucrats have. Asking me to be a responsible adult. It's an outrage! If I want to fly by the seat of my pants and never see a doctor until I get my cock caught in the rototiller, then who the fuck is Uncle Sam to tell me otherwise?
Sure, I don't expect to pay full price when I drag my mutilated junk into the ER. This is America, we don't pay full price for anything here. As long as I'm not no god-danged Mexican or something, I've earned the right to get my unit sewn up on the cheap. But forcing me to by insurance? That ain't right. What if I never get my dick stuck in anything? Then I've gone and wasted thousands of dollars just so some other dillweed can get his prostate checked on a regular basis? Sounds pretty gay if you ask me.
Thank the good lord we've got some decent folks in Washington who are trying to make sure this obamacare commie nonsense never sees the light of day. In fact, a good judge up in Virginia was kind enough to see things my way on the whole making me buy insurance crap. Nice to know some folks got their heads on straight.
Now, if you'll 'scuse me, I gotta go to the ER and get my nut sack untangled from the weed whacker. Again.
Sure, I don't expect to pay full price when I drag my mutilated junk into the ER. This is America, we don't pay full price for anything here. As long as I'm not no god-danged Mexican or something, I've earned the right to get my unit sewn up on the cheap. But forcing me to by insurance? That ain't right. What if I never get my dick stuck in anything? Then I've gone and wasted thousands of dollars just so some other dillweed can get his prostate checked on a regular basis? Sounds pretty gay if you ask me.
Thank the good lord we've got some decent folks in Washington who are trying to make sure this obamacare commie nonsense never sees the light of day. In fact, a good judge up in Virginia was kind enough to see things my way on the whole making me buy insurance crap. Nice to know some folks got their heads on straight.
Now, if you'll 'scuse me, I gotta go to the ER and get my nut sack untangled from the weed whacker. Again.
Thursday, December 16, 2010
Douche(s) of the day
This one is a few days late but still has me fired up. The following douchebags are the members of the Senate who voted against providing health care benefits to 9/11 responders and survivors.
I would love to get all of these fucknuggets into a room so they can try and explain exactly why they voted no. Not because I want to hear their lame excuses, but because it would ensure their mouths are open long enough for me to piss down their throats.
And now, with out further ado, your daily douchebags.
Lamar Alexander (R) TN
John Barrasso (R) WY
Robert Bennett (R) UT
Christopher Bond (R) MO
Scott Brown (R) MA
Jim Bunning (R) KY
Richard Burr (R) NC
Saxby Chambliss (R) NC
Thomas Coburn (R) GA
Thad Cochran (R) MS
Susan Collins (R) ME
Bob Corker (R) TN
John Cornyn (R) TX
Michael Crapo (R) ID
Jim DeMint (R) SC
John Ensign (R) NV
Michael Enzi (R) WY
Lindsey Graham (R) SC
Charles Grassley (R) IA
Judd Gregg (R) NH
Orrin Hatch (R) UT
Kay Hutchinson (R) TX
James Inhofe (R) OK
John Isakson (R) GA
Mike Johanns (R) NE
Mark Kirk (R) IL
Jon Kyl (R) AZ
George LeMieux (R) FL
Richard Lugar (R) IN
John McCain (R) AZ
Mitch McConnell (R) KY
Lisa Murkowski (R) AK
James Risch (R) ID
Pat Roberts (R) KS
Jefferson Sessions (R) AL
Richard Shelby (R) AL
Olympia Snowe (R) ME
John Thune (R) SD
David Vitter (R) LA
George Voinovich (R) OH
Roger Wicker (R) MS
I would love to get all of these fucknuggets into a room so they can try and explain exactly why they voted no. Not because I want to hear their lame excuses, but because it would ensure their mouths are open long enough for me to piss down their throats.
And now, with out further ado, your daily douchebags.
Lamar Alexander (R) TN
John Barrasso (R) WY
Robert Bennett (R) UT
Christopher Bond (R) MO
Scott Brown (R) MA
Jim Bunning (R) KY
Richard Burr (R) NC
Saxby Chambliss (R) NC
Thomas Coburn (R) GA
Thad Cochran (R) MS
Susan Collins (R) ME
Bob Corker (R) TN
John Cornyn (R) TX
Michael Crapo (R) ID
Jim DeMint (R) SC
John Ensign (R) NV
Michael Enzi (R) WY
Lindsey Graham (R) SC
Charles Grassley (R) IA
Judd Gregg (R) NH
Orrin Hatch (R) UT
Kay Hutchinson (R) TX
James Inhofe (R) OK
John Isakson (R) GA
Mike Johanns (R) NE
Mark Kirk (R) IL
Jon Kyl (R) AZ
George LeMieux (R) FL
Richard Lugar (R) IN
John McCain (R) AZ
Mitch McConnell (R) KY
Lisa Murkowski (R) AK
James Risch (R) ID
Pat Roberts (R) KS
Jefferson Sessions (R) AL
Richard Shelby (R) AL
Olympia Snowe (R) ME
John Thune (R) SD
David Vitter (R) LA
George Voinovich (R) OH
Roger Wicker (R) MS
Wednesday, December 15, 2010
Wiki Wiki What?
Everyone is up in arms about the whole Wikileaks phenomenon. Sarah Palin wants Julian Assange stoned to death. Michael Moore wants him canonized as a saint.
Guess, what? They are both wrong.
As a general rule, transparency is a good thing. The more we know about governments, corporations and other large organizations, the better.
But when it comes to our national defense, I tend to operate under the 'la la la la la I can't hear you' philosophy. You keep me safe, I don't really wanna know how you do it.
I'm not saying there shouldn't be any oversight, but let's get real for a second. There is a reason some shit is labeled classified or top secret. Some information could be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. How exactly am I benefiting by learning details of a covert mission overseas?
This false sense of outrage at what happens during a war is just ridiculous if you ask me. I've never been in the military, but I can only imagine how fucking confusing, scary, lonely, intense and chaotic it all must be.
I imagine sometimes things don't go as planned. And I would also imagine that even if it does go as planned, it's not all that pretty.
So unless you're prepared to strap on a helmet and see the reality of war first hand, let's drop the sanctimonious posturing and focus our energies on shit worthy of genuine outrage.
Guess, what? They are both wrong.
As a general rule, transparency is a good thing. The more we know about governments, corporations and other large organizations, the better.
But when it comes to our national defense, I tend to operate under the 'la la la la la I can't hear you' philosophy. You keep me safe, I don't really wanna know how you do it.
I'm not saying there shouldn't be any oversight, but let's get real for a second. There is a reason some shit is labeled classified or top secret. Some information could be dangerous if it falls into the wrong hands. How exactly am I benefiting by learning details of a covert mission overseas?
This false sense of outrage at what happens during a war is just ridiculous if you ask me. I've never been in the military, but I can only imagine how fucking confusing, scary, lonely, intense and chaotic it all must be.
I imagine sometimes things don't go as planned. And I would also imagine that even if it does go as planned, it's not all that pretty.
So unless you're prepared to strap on a helmet and see the reality of war first hand, let's drop the sanctimonious posturing and focus our energies on shit worthy of genuine outrage.
Friday, December 10, 2010
Douche(s) of the day
And the winner(s) is...
This lovely crew, from the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka Kansas.
As I am sure most people are aware, Elizabeth Edwards passed away the other day, after a difficult battle with cancer. In addition to the awful suffering that this disease can bring, she was also forced to deal with the public humiliation of her husbands infidelity.
So, you would think, the normal reaction to her passing would be a certain level of sadness and sympathy. You might possibly feel a bit of comfort knowing that her painful ordeal is over.
What you would not expect is a hate-filled protest at her funeral because she had the temerity to question her faith 14 years ago when her oldest son died. But, that's exactly how the single-toothed dickheads from the church of the small minded in Topeka have decided to pay their respects.
And what good is a protest without some well crafted signage? "Elizabeth is in hell now" and "Blasphemists get cancer" are a couple of the early favorites. It is expected that the group will bust out a few of their well-worn "God hates fags" signs as well, since Elizabeth was a supporter of gay rights.
As a skeptic, I question the existence of a higher power. But if he is up there, I can only imagine how proud he must be of this particular segment of his flock.
"I said I hate figs, you idiots! Figs!"
This lovely crew, from the Westboro Baptist Church in Topeka Kansas.
As I am sure most people are aware, Elizabeth Edwards passed away the other day, after a difficult battle with cancer. In addition to the awful suffering that this disease can bring, she was also forced to deal with the public humiliation of her husbands infidelity.
So, you would think, the normal reaction to her passing would be a certain level of sadness and sympathy. You might possibly feel a bit of comfort knowing that her painful ordeal is over.
What you would not expect is a hate-filled protest at her funeral because she had the temerity to question her faith 14 years ago when her oldest son died. But, that's exactly how the single-toothed dickheads from the church of the small minded in Topeka have decided to pay their respects.
And what good is a protest without some well crafted signage? "Elizabeth is in hell now" and "Blasphemists get cancer" are a couple of the early favorites. It is expected that the group will bust out a few of their well-worn "God hates fags" signs as well, since Elizabeth was a supporter of gay rights.
As a skeptic, I question the existence of a higher power. But if he is up there, I can only imagine how proud he must be of this particular segment of his flock.
"I said I hate figs, you idiots! Figs!"
Thursday, December 9, 2010
Descending into douchiness
Not sure when it happened, but at some point in recent history, it became okay to be a complete douche in public.
Perhaps it's a backlash to the political correctness movement, egged on by the supreme douchelords of our time, Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck. Oh, and don't forget the almighty douchess herself, Sarah Palin.
Used to be, people wouldn't say shit like this in a public forum. So, you're a pastor at a megachurch in Texas and you feel the spirit of the lord move you to claim that Islam is an 'evil religion'? How very 'godlike' of you. Personally, I think all religions have contributed more than their fair share of evil to our planet, but that's for another blog on another day.
Shouldn't those in positions of power feel some obligation to speak with some fucking reason?
Now this pastor is on a crusade to vilify local businesses who don't demonstrate a satisfactory level of Christmas spirit? What a wonderful idea. Nothing gets people feeling jolly like a good old fashioned jolt of public humiliation.
If it were just this Dallas-based douche that was mouth-crapping this nonsense upon his flock, that'd be okay. But it seems that the entire country has become infected with the 'if i think it i must say it' virus.
From possible presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich:
"Obama is so outside our comprehension that only if you understand Kenyan, anticolonial behavior can you begin to piece [him] together."
From Congresswoman Michele Bachmann of Minnesota:
"I find it interesting that it was back in the 1970s that the swine flu broke out then under another Democrat president Jimmy Carter. And I'm not blaming this on President Obama, I just think it's an interesting coincidence."
From former Senate candidate Christine O'Donnell:
"American scientific companies are cross-breeding humans and animals and coming up with mice with fully functioning human brains."
Now, some will say that people are just speaking their minds and how can that be a bad thing? Under normal circumstances I might agree. But judging from what I'm hearing out of all these nitwits lately, I think it's clear that some minds are best left unspoken.
Perhaps it's a backlash to the political correctness movement, egged on by the supreme douchelords of our time, Rush Limbaugh and Glenn Beck. Oh, and don't forget the almighty douchess herself, Sarah Palin.
Used to be, people wouldn't say shit like this in a public forum. So, you're a pastor at a megachurch in Texas and you feel the spirit of the lord move you to claim that Islam is an 'evil religion'? How very 'godlike' of you. Personally, I think all religions have contributed more than their fair share of evil to our planet, but that's for another blog on another day.
Shouldn't those in positions of power feel some obligation to speak with some fucking reason?
Now this pastor is on a crusade to vilify local businesses who don't demonstrate a satisfactory level of Christmas spirit? What a wonderful idea. Nothing gets people feeling jolly like a good old fashioned jolt of public humiliation.
If it were just this Dallas-based douche that was mouth-crapping this nonsense upon his flock, that'd be okay. But it seems that the entire country has become infected with the 'if i think it i must say it' virus.
From possible presidential hopeful Newt Gingrich:
"Obama is so outside our comprehension that only if you understand Kenyan, anticolonial behavior can you begin to piece [him] together."
From Congresswoman Michele Bachmann of Minnesota:
"I find it interesting that it was back in the 1970s that the swine flu broke out then under another Democrat president Jimmy Carter. And I'm not blaming this on President Obama, I just think it's an interesting coincidence."
From former Senate candidate Christine O'Donnell:
"American scientific companies are cross-breeding humans and animals and coming up with mice with fully functioning human brains."
Now, some will say that people are just speaking their minds and how can that be a bad thing? Under normal circumstances I might agree. But judging from what I'm hearing out of all these nitwits lately, I think it's clear that some minds are best left unspoken.
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Land of the free
So I walked into a store the other day and said I wanted milk, cereal, bread, juice, eggs, potatoes and peanut butter. Then I told them I didn't want to pay for any of it. They laughed at me and told me to get the fuck out of their store.
Next day, I wrote my congressman and asked for medical insurance and income support for when I'm older and security from people who want to kill me and my fellow Americans. Told him I didn't want to pay for any of it. He said, "no problem! I can even throw in two wars at no extra charge!"
God bless America.
Next day, I wrote my congressman and asked for medical insurance and income support for when I'm older and security from people who want to kill me and my fellow Americans. Told him I didn't want to pay for any of it. He said, "no problem! I can even throw in two wars at no extra charge!"
God bless America.
The death of icons?
So this is gonna make me sound like one of those crotchety old guys, but fuck it, I've come to terms with the fact that I am one of those crotchety old guys.
30 years ago, an icon was shot and killed in front of his apartment. John Lennon was not only a brilliant musician and songwriter, but he was a man of passion and ideals. A man who saw that the world needed changing and felt he could do something about it.
And he did. His music allowed us to imagine a world where people saw each other as human beings. A world where divisive groups and labels were unnecessary because we all felt united by a shared spirit.
Today, I look around and wonder who is our next John Lennon? I can't see one. Sure, we have musicians who are passionate about issues, like Lady Gaga for instance. But I do not hear this passion in her music nor do I expect that her songs will have any lasting resonance.
Musically, there are certainly quite a few artists putting out songs that will live on beyond today. I could easily see people listening to old Eminem or Jay-Z tunes 20 years from now. But I don't think either artist brings the kind of passion for ideas and ideals that Lennon brought.
Now, I'd love to proven wrong on all of this. Because I think now, more than ever, the world could use a couple of icons.
30 years ago, an icon was shot and killed in front of his apartment. John Lennon was not only a brilliant musician and songwriter, but he was a man of passion and ideals. A man who saw that the world needed changing and felt he could do something about it.
And he did. His music allowed us to imagine a world where people saw each other as human beings. A world where divisive groups and labels were unnecessary because we all felt united by a shared spirit.
Today, I look around and wonder who is our next John Lennon? I can't see one. Sure, we have musicians who are passionate about issues, like Lady Gaga for instance. But I do not hear this passion in her music nor do I expect that her songs will have any lasting resonance.
Musically, there are certainly quite a few artists putting out songs that will live on beyond today. I could easily see people listening to old Eminem or Jay-Z tunes 20 years from now. But I don't think either artist brings the kind of passion for ideas and ideals that Lennon brought.
Now, I'd love to proven wrong on all of this. Because I think now, more than ever, the world could use a couple of icons.
Tuesday, December 7, 2010
Money is scary
So I had this dream the other day. Got a new job earning a million dollars a year. It was terrifying. I kept telling myself, why me, why me?
Why am I the one burdened by the possibility of paying almost $35,000 more of this income (above 250K) to the government? How am I supposed to survive? People making 20,000 a year don't have to pay an extra 35 grand in taxes. Why not? At least then it would be fair! The government must hate the moderately rich! Why else would they make me not want to earn more money?
I would much rather earn 50 grand a year, and pay nothing more to Uncle Sam versus earning a million and having to fork over thousands more every April 15th. That 35 grand could go towards new wheels on my moon rover!
I bet the lady who cleans my maids' aprons doesn't have to worry about stuff like that.
Lucky bitch.
Then I woke up and found out the tax rates won't be going up for at least another 2 years.
Phew! Crisis averted.
Why am I the one burdened by the possibility of paying almost $35,000 more of this income (above 250K) to the government? How am I supposed to survive? People making 20,000 a year don't have to pay an extra 35 grand in taxes. Why not? At least then it would be fair! The government must hate the moderately rich! Why else would they make me not want to earn more money?
I would much rather earn 50 grand a year, and pay nothing more to Uncle Sam versus earning a million and having to fork over thousands more every April 15th. That 35 grand could go towards new wheels on my moon rover!
I bet the lady who cleans my maids' aprons doesn't have to worry about stuff like that.
Lucky bitch.
Then I woke up and found out the tax rates won't be going up for at least another 2 years.
Phew! Crisis averted.
Friday, December 3, 2010
Close your mind
Having an open mind is great, if you're talking about the idea of being open to new experiences, people and places.
But for some people, open minded seems to be a euphemism for having no fucking clue.
If you are an adult, you should have opinions on shit. You should not be able to enter a voting booth unsure of where you stand on critical issues.
What do I think about abortion? I don't know, I'm trying to keep an open mind about it.
Translation? I'm a spineless twit who is afraid to actually commit to anything.
What do I think of the war in Afghanistan? Not sure. I don't feel like I have all the facts.
Translation? I'm a lazy twit who doesn't want to spend the time to actually find out the facts.
What do I think about healthcare? Well, I don't really have a point of view, I just know I want my care to stay the same.
Translation? I'm a selfish twit and I can't be bothered to care about anyone else.
So, next time you hear someone bragging about how open minded they are? Ask them why they are so proud of being a twit.
But for some people, open minded seems to be a euphemism for having no fucking clue.
If you are an adult, you should have opinions on shit. You should not be able to enter a voting booth unsure of where you stand on critical issues.
What do I think about abortion? I don't know, I'm trying to keep an open mind about it.
Translation? I'm a spineless twit who is afraid to actually commit to anything.
What do I think of the war in Afghanistan? Not sure. I don't feel like I have all the facts.
Translation? I'm a lazy twit who doesn't want to spend the time to actually find out the facts.
What do I think about healthcare? Well, I don't really have a point of view, I just know I want my care to stay the same.
Translation? I'm a selfish twit and I can't be bothered to care about anyone else.
So, next time you hear someone bragging about how open minded they are? Ask them why they are so proud of being a twit.
Wednesday, December 1, 2010
Battered Obama Syndrome
It's sad to witness someone who gets abused on a regular basis. It's even sadder when the abused makes excuses for their abuser, repeatedly.
Sound like a bad lifetime movie? Hardly.
It's the story of our president and his absurdly dysfunctional relationship with the republicans in congress.
Smack! Take some extra tax cuts with your stimulus. And we still won't vote for it!
Pow! Get rid of that commie public option for healthcare. And we still won't vote for it!
Bam! Water down that cap and trade bill until it means almost nothing. And, guess what? We still won't vote for it!
Like a good abuser, they republicans stood proud, steadfast in their belief that their actions were justified. Obama was 'asking for it', so to speak.
And like most abuse victims, Obama found himself, post election shellacking, begging for forgiveness and asking for one more chance to make things work.
If I give them their tax cuts for the rich, maybe they'll stop slapping me around.
If I focus more on the deficit and less on jobs, maybe they'll really love me.
If I start sucking up to business leaders maybe they'll finally realize I've seen the error of my ways.
And so the cycle of abuse continues.
Come to think of it, it is like a bad Lifetime movie.
Sound like a bad lifetime movie? Hardly.
It's the story of our president and his absurdly dysfunctional relationship with the republicans in congress.
Smack! Take some extra tax cuts with your stimulus. And we still won't vote for it!
Pow! Get rid of that commie public option for healthcare. And we still won't vote for it!
Bam! Water down that cap and trade bill until it means almost nothing. And, guess what? We still won't vote for it!
Like a good abuser, they republicans stood proud, steadfast in their belief that their actions were justified. Obama was 'asking for it', so to speak.
And like most abuse victims, Obama found himself, post election shellacking, begging for forgiveness and asking for one more chance to make things work.
If I give them their tax cuts for the rich, maybe they'll stop slapping me around.
If I focus more on the deficit and less on jobs, maybe they'll really love me.
If I start sucking up to business leaders maybe they'll finally realize I've seen the error of my ways.
And so the cycle of abuse continues.
Come to think of it, it is like a bad Lifetime movie.
Tuesday, November 30, 2010
Stick your head in gravy
I read a book recently that compared the US to a teenager, struggling to assert itself as a relatively young nation.
I think the the author was being generous.
I think we are more similar to a group of 5-year-olds on the playground, all struggling to get everything they want without concern for anyone else's feelings.
How else can you explain our obsessive pursuit of individual liberty?
"I wanna fire my gun wherever I want! But the government's being a big meany!"
"I wanna drive my truck really fast! But stupid signs keep telling me to slow down!"
"I don't wanna buy health insurance! Can't make me!"
Well, first of all, I think the group of kids in that school across the street from you might have a different opinion on your gun usage.
Secondly, the 600 thousand or so auto accidents each year makes me think you should be keeping an eye on your speedometer.
And, last of all, unless your willing to forgo medical treatment next time you get conked in the head by a backhoe, I don't wanna hear your crying about health insurance.
We all share space in this country. Which means, you need to be a teeny bit accommodating once in a while, even if it means not being able to do exactly what you want.
If you want absolute freedom, go buy yourself a private island where you can shoot the shit out of stuff, drive your truck off cliffs and rely on your wits to keep you healthy.
What's that? You can't afford your own island? There you go again, crying like a 5 year old.
I think the the author was being generous.
I think we are more similar to a group of 5-year-olds on the playground, all struggling to get everything they want without concern for anyone else's feelings.
How else can you explain our obsessive pursuit of individual liberty?
"I wanna fire my gun wherever I want! But the government's being a big meany!"
"I wanna drive my truck really fast! But stupid signs keep telling me to slow down!"
"I don't wanna buy health insurance! Can't make me!"
Well, first of all, I think the group of kids in that school across the street from you might have a different opinion on your gun usage.
Secondly, the 600 thousand or so auto accidents each year makes me think you should be keeping an eye on your speedometer.
And, last of all, unless your willing to forgo medical treatment next time you get conked in the head by a backhoe, I don't wanna hear your crying about health insurance.
We all share space in this country. Which means, you need to be a teeny bit accommodating once in a while, even if it means not being able to do exactly what you want.
If you want absolute freedom, go buy yourself a private island where you can shoot the shit out of stuff, drive your truck off cliffs and rely on your wits to keep you healthy.
What's that? You can't afford your own island? There you go again, crying like a 5 year old.
Monday, November 29, 2010
The best medicine
In a world that makes people angry, sad and confused so frequently, a person who can make us laugh is truly a gift. For me, Leslie Nielsen was one of the funniest movie actors I've ever witnessed.
His deadpan delivery was unmatched. And he left us with an endless supply of quotable lines that will live on forever. If you ever find yourself in need of a pick-me-up, just watch Airplane or one of the Naked Gun movies and I guarantee you will soon be smiling.
Rest in Peace, Leslie.
His deadpan delivery was unmatched. And he left us with an endless supply of quotable lines that will live on forever. If you ever find yourself in need of a pick-me-up, just watch Airplane or one of the Naked Gun movies and I guarantee you will soon be smiling.
Rest in Peace, Leslie.
Tuesday, November 23, 2010
The little idiot who cried Hitler.
Senator-elect Rand Paul has apparently compared our president to Hitler.
Surely he must realize that Barack Obama is in fact nothing like Hitler.
I did some research and learned that Hitler, at last count, has murdered some 6 million more people than the president.
Hitler also wrote a book whose primary thesis was "The Jewish Peril". Obama wrote a book about "Hope".
It is also believed that Hitler had a pretty wicked meth habit. I'm pretty sure Obama's near perfect teeth are proof that he is clean.
But yet, the comparisons persist. And persist. And persist.
And as time goes on, more of us will continue to ignore. And ignore. And ignore.
So what's the big deal?
Well, what happens when someone who actually is like Hitler comes along? And Mr. Paul or someone similar calls attention to the similarities.
Will we ignore him, like the little boy who cried wolf?
In case you don't remember, that's story didn't end well.
Surely he must realize that Barack Obama is in fact nothing like Hitler.
I did some research and learned that Hitler, at last count, has murdered some 6 million more people than the president.
Hitler also wrote a book whose primary thesis was "The Jewish Peril". Obama wrote a book about "Hope".
It is also believed that Hitler had a pretty wicked meth habit. I'm pretty sure Obama's near perfect teeth are proof that he is clean.
But yet, the comparisons persist. And persist. And persist.
And as time goes on, more of us will continue to ignore. And ignore. And ignore.
So what's the big deal?
Well, what happens when someone who actually is like Hitler comes along? And Mr. Paul or someone similar calls attention to the similarities.
Will we ignore him, like the little boy who cried wolf?
In case you don't remember, that's story didn't end well.
Monday, November 22, 2010
Deny. Distract. Defer.
Need something done but don't have the will, energy or balls to do it? There's a simple solution. Do nothing.
This has become the new mantra of our nation. Instead of tackling the issues at hand with the necessary ferocity, we channel our energies into finding new ways not to get things done.
And why not? It's so much easier to ignore something than to actually do anything.
Global warming is going to destroy the world as we know it? No worries! I don't believe in global warming. Check that one off the list. Next!
Housing market crash? Oooh, sounds terrible. Did you hear they're building a mosque down at ground zero? Let's spend a few months fighting about that instead.
Need to tackle that nasty deficit? Sure, no problem! Just as soon as I give everyone a massive tax cut costing trillions of dollars.
Not getting stuff done has become so prevalent, members of congress should not hold hearings about it. Talk show hosts should dedicate entire shows to anything other than it. And journalists should absolutely not write about it.
This would go a long way towards ensuring we never get anything done. Which is pretty impressive, if you don't think about it.
This has become the new mantra of our nation. Instead of tackling the issues at hand with the necessary ferocity, we channel our energies into finding new ways not to get things done.
And why not? It's so much easier to ignore something than to actually do anything.
Global warming is going to destroy the world as we know it? No worries! I don't believe in global warming. Check that one off the list. Next!
Housing market crash? Oooh, sounds terrible. Did you hear they're building a mosque down at ground zero? Let's spend a few months fighting about that instead.
Need to tackle that nasty deficit? Sure, no problem! Just as soon as I give everyone a massive tax cut costing trillions of dollars.
Not getting stuff done has become so prevalent, members of congress should not hold hearings about it. Talk show hosts should dedicate entire shows to anything other than it. And journalists should absolutely not write about it.
This would go a long way towards ensuring we never get anything done. Which is pretty impressive, if you don't think about it.
Thursday, November 18, 2010
The pussification of business
I've been reading a lot about how business leaders in this country are afraid to start hiring because of economic 'uncertainty'. If only they had a clearer sense of how the next few years were going to play out, then they could finally put our country back to work.
Hmm. Can someone please pinpoint for me exactly when the folks who run businesses in this country became a bunch of raging pussies?
Uncertainty? Really? When the fuck have things in this country ever been certain? In the past 150 years we've been through a civil war, two world wars with a great depression sandwiched in between, a long drawn out conflict in South Asia, the cold war, 9/11 and the near collapse of our financial markets. Yet through it all, business people found a way to persevere. In fact, typically, business has thrived in this country when faced with an uncertain future. Our entrepreneurial spirit usually kicks into high gear when the going gets especially rough.
But not this time, apparently. Now, after our government has shelled out over a trillion dollars to keep our economy from complete collapse, business leaders have never seemed more despondent.
But my taxes might go up! They want us to follow rules! The president called me names!
Ahh, so there it is. It's not uncertainty that you don't like, it's the fact that you are going to have to change your ways and adapt to a new reality that holds businesses accountable for their actions. You don't want certainty, unless it's your own particular brand of certainty.
Fucking pussies.
Hmm. Can someone please pinpoint for me exactly when the folks who run businesses in this country became a bunch of raging pussies?
Uncertainty? Really? When the fuck have things in this country ever been certain? In the past 150 years we've been through a civil war, two world wars with a great depression sandwiched in between, a long drawn out conflict in South Asia, the cold war, 9/11 and the near collapse of our financial markets. Yet through it all, business people found a way to persevere. In fact, typically, business has thrived in this country when faced with an uncertain future. Our entrepreneurial spirit usually kicks into high gear when the going gets especially rough.
But not this time, apparently. Now, after our government has shelled out over a trillion dollars to keep our economy from complete collapse, business leaders have never seemed more despondent.
But my taxes might go up! They want us to follow rules! The president called me names!
Ahh, so there it is. It's not uncertainty that you don't like, it's the fact that you are going to have to change your ways and adapt to a new reality that holds businesses accountable for their actions. You don't want certainty, unless it's your own particular brand of certainty.
Fucking pussies.
Wednesday, November 17, 2010
My best friend's wedding?
OMG, I am so happy for Will and Kate! I can't believe they are finally getting married. I mean, they have been together for like, ever. I was starting to wonder if she was the 'one', ya know?
I just totally know they are going to have an amazing life together. He is smart and handsome and kind and she is such a fabulous dresser! How cute are their pictures going to be? I cannot wait to see them!
And this wedding is going to be, like, the party of the millennium. I am sure her dress is going to be just completely stunning. And he, well, he is a prince for gosh sakes, what more could you want!?!
You can totally tell how much they love each other. It really is a fairy tale come true! And I can't believe I get to be a part of it!
Oh, wait. I don't get to be a part of it. Because I don't fucking know them. Oh, well.
I just totally know they are going to have an amazing life together. He is smart and handsome and kind and she is such a fabulous dresser! How cute are their pictures going to be? I cannot wait to see them!
And this wedding is going to be, like, the party of the millennium. I am sure her dress is going to be just completely stunning. And he, well, he is a prince for gosh sakes, what more could you want!?!
You can totally tell how much they love each other. It really is a fairy tale come true! And I can't believe I get to be a part of it!
Oh, wait. I don't get to be a part of it. Because I don't fucking know them. Oh, well.
Tuesday, November 16, 2010
Safe and sexy
Airline travel is about to get sexier! That's right folks. Next time you take to the skies, you may have the pleasure of a full body scan in full view of everyone at the airport. You also get a healthy (not really) dose of radiation, at no extra charge! But wait, there's more. If you travel now, you can also have your digital semi-nudes published across the world by bored TSA agents who have unfettered access to your images, for an unlimited time!
Not interested? Well, you can also choose what's behind door number 2! That's right, if flashing your jibbly bits all over the world is not your thing, you can elect for a more intimate experience—a one-on-one full body, every nook and cranny, pat down from your choice (not really) of security personnel. You don't even have to tip them when they're done. Sweet!
The best part of it all? No matter which option you choose, you'll not only feel sexier, you'll also feel safer! You won't actually be safer, but who cares? As long as you feel warm and fuzzy while the guy next to you on the plane carries a load of C4 in his colon, it's all good, right?
And think about how much more secure you'll feel than those lowly people who travel by bus or train. They get to where they're going without exposing themselves or getting felt up at all. So sad.
I, for one won't stand for it. As of today, I am starting a movement to make sure that all travelers enjoy the same sexy, safe-feeling travel that airline passengers experience.
Who's with me?
Not interested? Well, you can also choose what's behind door number 2! That's right, if flashing your jibbly bits all over the world is not your thing, you can elect for a more intimate experience—a one-on-one full body, every nook and cranny, pat down from your choice (not really) of security personnel. You don't even have to tip them when they're done. Sweet!
The best part of it all? No matter which option you choose, you'll not only feel sexier, you'll also feel safer! You won't actually be safer, but who cares? As long as you feel warm and fuzzy while the guy next to you on the plane carries a load of C4 in his colon, it's all good, right?
And think about how much more secure you'll feel than those lowly people who travel by bus or train. They get to where they're going without exposing themselves or getting felt up at all. So sad.
I, for one won't stand for it. As of today, I am starting a movement to make sure that all travelers enjoy the same sexy, safe-feeling travel that airline passengers experience.
Who's with me?
Friday, November 12, 2010
Hypocrisy is not patriotism
So, yesterday I spoke about my distaste for those who disrespect our veterans. But I think I let some people off the hook too easily—politicians.
As bad as it is for ordinary citizens to thumb their noses at our veterans, the treatment our vets receive from our elected officials is exponentially worse.
They like to fuck our military from all sides. It starts with the tough talking, my dick is bigger than yours bullshit. But that doesn't last long before they like to whip it out and inject our troops into far away lands where the objectives are sketchy and the motives unclear. Once they get inside, the action gets really hairy, thanks to a lack of support, inadequate armor and on-the-fly mission changes.
And when our politicians realize they're never going to finish what they started? They still insist on pumping more money and manpower into what is ultimately, an exercise in futility. Which puts more and more lives at risk.
Eventually, they pull out. And decide to treat our returning troops like a used up whore, barely acknowledging their existence and hoping they'll just keep quiet about the whole experience. Gone is the false bravado that led us into war, replaced by empty promises to 'honor our vets". The final shot in the eye comes in the form of inadequate medical care, homelessness and quite often, a lifetime of post-traumatic stress.
The worst part of it all is the hypocrisy. The photo-op patriotism that rears its ugly head each year on Veterans Day (and Memorial Day and any other day there's a spare soldier around for a quick picture).
Instead of pressing flesh and flashing your overly whitened grin, how about thinking for more than 2 seconds before sending the troops you claim to respect into harms way? How about adopting a rational budgeting process that eliminates wasteful spending and leaves more room for things that soldiers actually need to do their jobs? How about including a few more bucks in that budget for programs that ensure our veterans can return home and live dignified, productive lives worthy of their sacrifice?
And you can still have your photo op. Only now, the soldiers might actually be smiling too. It's so much easier to put on a happy face when your not worried about the guy next to you stabbing you in the back.
As bad as it is for ordinary citizens to thumb their noses at our veterans, the treatment our vets receive from our elected officials is exponentially worse.
They like to fuck our military from all sides. It starts with the tough talking, my dick is bigger than yours bullshit. But that doesn't last long before they like to whip it out and inject our troops into far away lands where the objectives are sketchy and the motives unclear. Once they get inside, the action gets really hairy, thanks to a lack of support, inadequate armor and on-the-fly mission changes.
And when our politicians realize they're never going to finish what they started? They still insist on pumping more money and manpower into what is ultimately, an exercise in futility. Which puts more and more lives at risk.
Eventually, they pull out. And decide to treat our returning troops like a used up whore, barely acknowledging their existence and hoping they'll just keep quiet about the whole experience. Gone is the false bravado that led us into war, replaced by empty promises to 'honor our vets". The final shot in the eye comes in the form of inadequate medical care, homelessness and quite often, a lifetime of post-traumatic stress.
The worst part of it all is the hypocrisy. The photo-op patriotism that rears its ugly head each year on Veterans Day (and Memorial Day and any other day there's a spare soldier around for a quick picture).
Instead of pressing flesh and flashing your overly whitened grin, how about thinking for more than 2 seconds before sending the troops you claim to respect into harms way? How about adopting a rational budgeting process that eliminates wasteful spending and leaves more room for things that soldiers actually need to do their jobs? How about including a few more bucks in that budget for programs that ensure our veterans can return home and live dignified, productive lives worthy of their sacrifice?
And you can still have your photo op. Only now, the soldiers might actually be smiling too. It's so much easier to put on a happy face when your not worried about the guy next to you stabbing you in the back.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
No thanks?
Today is the day we have set aside to honor our veterans. Seems like the least we can do if you ask me. But since we've gotten ourselves involved in 2 unpopular wars I've noticed that support for our returning servicemen and women has been less than enthusiastic from some people.
To those people, I would like to deliver a warm, hearty "go fuck yourself."
A group of young men and women volunteer to defend you from people who want to kill you and you can't muster up a thank you? Because you don't agree with the politicians who sent them there? Seems like your antipathy is bit misplaced.
Can you even begin to imagine what it must feel like to go to work each day knowing you might get shot? Do you think it sucks any less because the person looking through the scope is not 'the real enemy?'
I've also heard some people rationalize their lack of support by expressing their distaste for military 'types'. Uh, okay. We're talking about a group that is dominated by kids barely out of high school. How many 19 year olds aren't douchebags? I mean, I don't like the jackass who checks me out at Target but that doesn't keep me from giving a polite "thanks" as he moves on to ignore the next customer.
Point is, you don't have to like someone to appreciate what they do. For instance, I may not like you, but I appreciate that you are an ungrateful bastard.
To those people, I would like to deliver a warm, hearty "go fuck yourself."
A group of young men and women volunteer to defend you from people who want to kill you and you can't muster up a thank you? Because you don't agree with the politicians who sent them there? Seems like your antipathy is bit misplaced.
Can you even begin to imagine what it must feel like to go to work each day knowing you might get shot? Do you think it sucks any less because the person looking through the scope is not 'the real enemy?'
I've also heard some people rationalize their lack of support by expressing their distaste for military 'types'. Uh, okay. We're talking about a group that is dominated by kids barely out of high school. How many 19 year olds aren't douchebags? I mean, I don't like the jackass who checks me out at Target but that doesn't keep me from giving a polite "thanks" as he moves on to ignore the next customer.
Point is, you don't have to like someone to appreciate what they do. For instance, I may not like you, but I appreciate that you are an ungrateful bastard.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
Surely you can't be serious
Just a quick note for those people who think we need to cut our federal budget deficit and yet don't want to see cuts in social security, medicare or defense. if you don't think you need to cut all of these, along with raising taxes, you are not interested in deficit reduction, you are interested in magic.
Science is not everyone’s gospel
For many of us, science allows us to answer life’s biggest questions.
But for millions of Americans, science is just another subject they were forced to suffer through in high school.
Why does this matter? Because for those of us who are convinced that we need to do something drastic to save our planet from the effects of global warming, we need to convince these people before anything real will actually happen.
So when we dismiss the client change deniers as ‘lunatics’ or dismiss their arguments as ‘faux science’, we are not actually advancing our cause. For those who don’t worship at the alter of science, this just sounds like elitist name-calling. And it only serves to make skeptics dig their heels in deeper.
Have you ever taken a look at a climate change skeptic’s web page? To the untrained eye, it can be pretty convincing. They line up ‘facts’ that look just as ‘facty’ as the ones our side puts up. They use arguments that sound just as reasonable as ours. And they quote scientists whose jackets are just as white as the ones our guys and gals wear.
So how do you counter these arguments?
You can start by acknowledging that they exist. Then, you can take on their claims in a way that does not condescend or patronize. You can admit that lots of folks stand to gain money and power from the advancement of our solutions, just as their side does.
Lastly, you need to come across like a fucking human being. Stop pretending that the sacrifices required to combat climate change are no big deal. You’re asking people to change virtually every aspect of their lives. Drive an electric car. Put up solar panels. Stop working at the coal plant. Eat less meat.
Is this your first day on the planet? Have you not noticed that people hate change? A sliver of empathy could go a long way here. Perhaps we need Bill Clinton to take the lead and feel everyone’s pain.
If not, we’ll all be feeling the pain soon enough, and we’ll have no one to blame but ourselves.
Tuesday, November 9, 2010
It's all natural to me
Ever hear someone say they love nature or things that are ‘all natural’?
Take chemicals for instance. People say ‘i won’t eat that, it’s filled with chemicals”. Wanna know what I say to those people? Chemicals are delicous.
And as far as I’m concerned they’re as ‘natural’ as homemade apple pie or a baby snow leopard's foreskin. Why? Because everything that went into making that shit came from the earth somewhere. Including the scientist who mixed it all up in a lab. So why the fuck isn’t he natural?
And what about people who hate cities because they want to be near nature? Guess what? The city is nature. We built it. We’re part of this planet. It’s nature. And quite frankly we’re a lot better at building shit than any creature you’ll find in the damn woods. You wanna hang out in a bird’s nest? Go for it. You wanna sit and admire a dam that some hairy ass beaver created? Have fun.
Me? I’ll be sitting in a nice air conditioned restaurant eating chemically enhanced food, served by women with fake breasts. And loving every minute of it.
Take chemicals for instance. People say ‘i won’t eat that, it’s filled with chemicals”. Wanna know what I say to those people? Chemicals are delicous.
And as far as I’m concerned they’re as ‘natural’ as homemade apple pie or a baby snow leopard's foreskin. Why? Because everything that went into making that shit came from the earth somewhere. Including the scientist who mixed it all up in a lab. So why the fuck isn’t he natural?
And what about people who hate cities because they want to be near nature? Guess what? The city is nature. We built it. We’re part of this planet. It’s nature. And quite frankly we’re a lot better at building shit than any creature you’ll find in the damn woods. You wanna hang out in a bird’s nest? Go for it. You wanna sit and admire a dam that some hairy ass beaver created? Have fun.
Me? I’ll be sitting in a nice air conditioned restaurant eating chemically enhanced food, served by women with fake breasts. And loving every minute of it.
Homophobia is so gay
seriously. there is nothing gayer than seeing a grown man squirming in his seat at the mere sight of a homosexual.
it's as if they are afraid that said homo is going to lunge for their penis at any moment. it's all quite humorous to me. first of all, get over yourself. second of all, wake the fuck up. are we ever going to get to a point where we just accept people as people, in all of there shapes, sizes, colors and genital preferences?
i just don't get it. why do you care who someone likes to have sex with? and why are you so worried that you are going to get hit on by a gay person? is it really that different than being hit on by a straight person that you're not interested in? you don't want to sleep with either of them, so what's the big deal? a simple no thanks usually does the trick in either case.
in recent years, the big push has been to make sure that gays can't marry like everyone else. members of congress will rant for hours about the 'sanctity of marriage' in an effort to keep gays out of the club.
really? is that the best you can come up with? are you going to follow that argument up with the old 'God didn't create adam & steve' line? it's ridiculous.
first of all, why are you using a word like 'sanctity' to describe a state sponsored institution like marriage? seems to be crossing the old separation of church and state line, if you ask me. i mean, we're not talking about banning gay marriage in a church, we're talking about making it illegal in the eyes of the government. so keep your 'sanctiomonious' arguments out of it.
secondly, it's time to stop the denial and just spit it out already—you're afraid of gay people. you think they are going to swoop into your neighborhood, redecorate your houses, teach you how to dance and then put their penises in your mouths.
well, your house probably could use some updating, you most likely can't dance and i'm all for sticking anything in your mouth that will get you to shut the fuck up for a few minutes. so i say, welcome homosexuals into your lives and we'll all be better off.
it's as if they are afraid that said homo is going to lunge for their penis at any moment. it's all quite humorous to me. first of all, get over yourself. second of all, wake the fuck up. are we ever going to get to a point where we just accept people as people, in all of there shapes, sizes, colors and genital preferences?
i just don't get it. why do you care who someone likes to have sex with? and why are you so worried that you are going to get hit on by a gay person? is it really that different than being hit on by a straight person that you're not interested in? you don't want to sleep with either of them, so what's the big deal? a simple no thanks usually does the trick in either case.
in recent years, the big push has been to make sure that gays can't marry like everyone else. members of congress will rant for hours about the 'sanctity of marriage' in an effort to keep gays out of the club.
really? is that the best you can come up with? are you going to follow that argument up with the old 'God didn't create adam & steve' line? it's ridiculous.
first of all, why are you using a word like 'sanctity' to describe a state sponsored institution like marriage? seems to be crossing the old separation of church and state line, if you ask me. i mean, we're not talking about banning gay marriage in a church, we're talking about making it illegal in the eyes of the government. so keep your 'sanctiomonious' arguments out of it.
secondly, it's time to stop the denial and just spit it out already—you're afraid of gay people. you think they are going to swoop into your neighborhood, redecorate your houses, teach you how to dance and then put their penises in your mouths.
well, your house probably could use some updating, you most likely can't dance and i'm all for sticking anything in your mouth that will get you to shut the fuck up for a few minutes. so i say, welcome homosexuals into your lives and we'll all be better off.
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