I don't know about anyone reading this, but I can sure use a little break from all the negative and depressing news that continually bombards us everyday. So I went in search of some positive uplifting news. Its out there, it just may not be on the front page of any newspaper. Today we will jump to Brazil where an amazing story of human determination and ingenuity can offer inspiration for all of us. Orismar de Souza, a homeless man in Brazil, decided one day that he needed a car. Unable to afford one, he began saving money through collecting bottles and cans, going hungry, and pan-handling in order to buy sheet metal, $270 worth, to cut and shape into a car. He had no mechanical training and his only tools for shaping were a hammer and chisel. Once the body was done, he scrounged the area for a small motorcycle engine and other parts for his car. He was able to assemble these as well as adding a small gear box that would allow him to go in reverse. The final outcome, a car that reach 50mph on the highway. Using his new car, he was able to find a home and job in the outlying sugarcane fields.
I am sure that we have all heard the phrase "you can do anything if you set your mind to it", but how many of us truly believe this? These days there seems to be limitations placed on what we think we can do, partly by those in academics who say that you need an education in order to succeed, the business world that often adheres to this thinking, and ourselves who buy into this and get discouraged far to quickly when presented with a daunting task. There may be certain limitations preventing us from easily becoming a nuclear engineer or some other highly educated person, but most of the limitations that are out there are in our own minds. I believe that we too often readily accept what is presented to us as limitations and create a mental block within ourselves that essentially debilitates us and prevents us from doing what we want. Could all of us build a car out of scraps and sheetmetal? I believe that we could even though some would find it more challenging than others. The capability is there for us to do anything we set our minds to, all we need is the drive to make it work and the determination to struggle through any issues that arise before us.
Sometimes, it seems, is that all we need to really achieve something is a lack of limitations. This man in Brazil, who at times was laughed at for his endeavors, had nothing to lose. He was already homeless, he had no real means of transportation, and he had the time to devote to building his car. If this man can build a car with no mechanical training, we can surely achieve whatever we set our minds to. Granted, there will still be skeptics out there who say that this is a one in a million occurence, but that is only because other 999,999 people didn't have the gall to dream big and take a chance. All we need to do is step out of our comfort zone, take those risks, and set our mind to achieving what we want. For today, lets celebrate the human spirit, drive, and ingenuity. Without these basic tenets of who we are, our world would not be as technologically advanced as it is today. Our society thrives on those few who step out of their comfort zones and take the risks to advance their ideas and strive to make them work. Imagine what we could achieve if more of us stepped out on that shaky limb of the unknown and took a risk not knowing what the outcome would be. Take a risk today, small or large, and see where it leads you. It may not be easy, but the reward and satisfaction at the end will more than make up for any unease you may feel along the way.
Sunday, April 3, 2011
Saturday, April 2, 2011
Despicable Americans
I was trolling through the news this morning and came upon an article that absolutely sickened me. This article was about a congregation in Florida that held a "mock trial" of the Koran complete with prosecution and defense and as a result of the trial, found the Koran guilty and felt the need to put it to death by burning it. This "trial" and consequent burning happened on March 20, yet there was almost no news coverage of it in the United States. However, it was picked up by foreign countries, namely Afghanistan and Pakistan and sparked an attack on a United Nations compound in Afghanistan killing 12 people. Asked in an interview after the attack, the minister at the church (who shall remain nameless on this page) said that they didn't feel responsible for that. Has humanity retreated to the effect where our actions do not produce consequences? As horrible as it is that a mob killed 12 people, I find it even more sickening that this man (if we can call him such) can act and speak in a way that denies any accountability for his actions. His trial was streamed live on the internet from beginning to end for the world to see, yet he claims no responsibility. This man even goes so far as to demand retribution for the 12 deaths by the US and UN.
Unfortunately, this is just the latest in a string of attacks against Muslims in general, but in particular, against Muslims in the United States. How do they expect to live a free life in this country when we have our own radicals spewing anti-muslim sentiment and in a sense attempting to segregate them from the rest of our society? If you look at the facts, Muslims account for about only 1% of our population in this country yet are the victims of 14% of religious discrimination. Some in our country, such as a Senator from Long Island would have us believe that Muslims are trying to take over this country and that most of the Muslims here are radicals. How does that take into account that most of the information recieved about terrorists or terrorist activity is provided by the Muslims in this country? People it seems, view events abroad as general representation of a religion. With all the protests in the Middle East and North Africa, which are predominantly Muslim countries, people automatically relate the violence with Islam and their holy book, the Koran. What these people are fighting for, is in fact, freedom. Freedom to live a life as they choose.
Out of the three major religions, Islam, Christianity, and Judaeism; all have been the victims of religious discrimination and violence and have at some point perpetrated religious discrimination and violence. How are these actions in line with any of the core beliefs held by these religions? Most religions promote a belief in a supreme being (God) and an afterlife. Now I do not know all the intricacies of every religion, but to me it seems overly antithetical to promulgate violence against others for whatever reason and claim that it will bring you closer to God and the afterlife. Religions are based on leading a wholesome life, helping others, freeing yourself of vices, and being the best person you can be. If we, meaning humanity in general, act in ways that are in direct opposition to these core beliefs, how can we expect to reach "heaven". Now, that being said, every religion to a certain extent, believes that theirs is the only way to reach heaven. Believe what you will, but that does not release anyone from forcing others to accept their view either through discrimination or violence or any other means. (For this post I am admitedly leaving out athiests and agnostics although they are held by basic human decency).
What we need most in this world right now is an expansion of basic human decency. In terms of religion, this means that while we may hold our own beliefs to be true, we should not look down on others for their beliefs or for that matter slander or in any way denegrate their beliefs as less than ours. Muslims, Jews, Christinas, etc. all hold their beliefs to be true and there is abolutely nothing wrong with that. If we search for a greater understanding of their beliefs and their basic underlying human story, we might see past our differences and accept them for who they are. Too often we are quick to pass judgement on a whole group based on the actions of a few. That would be like saying that every disgruntly employee, angry at our government is exactly like Timothy McVey, the Oklahoma bomber. It goes both ways however. This congregation in Florida is not indicative of the whole population of the United States and I can only hope that others abroad can see that. Regardless of where you live or what religion you believe in, we must all treat others with decency and respect. If we get sucked into all the vitriol circulating in our society, humanity and our world will suffer. We must rise above our differences and seek to expand our understanding of other beliefs. What do you believe in and how do you act towards others? Every large movement starts small. Lets start by expanding our own understanding and then move to motivate others to do the same.
Unfortunately, this is just the latest in a string of attacks against Muslims in general, but in particular, against Muslims in the United States. How do they expect to live a free life in this country when we have our own radicals spewing anti-muslim sentiment and in a sense attempting to segregate them from the rest of our society? If you look at the facts, Muslims account for about only 1% of our population in this country yet are the victims of 14% of religious discrimination. Some in our country, such as a Senator from Long Island would have us believe that Muslims are trying to take over this country and that most of the Muslims here are radicals. How does that take into account that most of the information recieved about terrorists or terrorist activity is provided by the Muslims in this country? People it seems, view events abroad as general representation of a religion. With all the protests in the Middle East and North Africa, which are predominantly Muslim countries, people automatically relate the violence with Islam and their holy book, the Koran. What these people are fighting for, is in fact, freedom. Freedom to live a life as they choose.
Out of the three major religions, Islam, Christianity, and Judaeism; all have been the victims of religious discrimination and violence and have at some point perpetrated religious discrimination and violence. How are these actions in line with any of the core beliefs held by these religions? Most religions promote a belief in a supreme being (God) and an afterlife. Now I do not know all the intricacies of every religion, but to me it seems overly antithetical to promulgate violence against others for whatever reason and claim that it will bring you closer to God and the afterlife. Religions are based on leading a wholesome life, helping others, freeing yourself of vices, and being the best person you can be. If we, meaning humanity in general, act in ways that are in direct opposition to these core beliefs, how can we expect to reach "heaven". Now, that being said, every religion to a certain extent, believes that theirs is the only way to reach heaven. Believe what you will, but that does not release anyone from forcing others to accept their view either through discrimination or violence or any other means. (For this post I am admitedly leaving out athiests and agnostics although they are held by basic human decency).
What we need most in this world right now is an expansion of basic human decency. In terms of religion, this means that while we may hold our own beliefs to be true, we should not look down on others for their beliefs or for that matter slander or in any way denegrate their beliefs as less than ours. Muslims, Jews, Christinas, etc. all hold their beliefs to be true and there is abolutely nothing wrong with that. If we search for a greater understanding of their beliefs and their basic underlying human story, we might see past our differences and accept them for who they are. Too often we are quick to pass judgement on a whole group based on the actions of a few. That would be like saying that every disgruntly employee, angry at our government is exactly like Timothy McVey, the Oklahoma bomber. It goes both ways however. This congregation in Florida is not indicative of the whole population of the United States and I can only hope that others abroad can see that. Regardless of where you live or what religion you believe in, we must all treat others with decency and respect. If we get sucked into all the vitriol circulating in our society, humanity and our world will suffer. We must rise above our differences and seek to expand our understanding of other beliefs. What do you believe in and how do you act towards others? Every large movement starts small. Lets start by expanding our own understanding and then move to motivate others to do the same.
Friday, April 1, 2011
Syria in Decline, Surprise?
Is it any surprise that yet another entrenched mideast president is facing thousands of protestors demanding reform and as yet will offer no concessions? Not really. We have seen a similar scenarios play out over the past few months across the Middle East. Populations are unhappy with their country and its policies, there are no signs of changes from the leadership, and a breaking point is reached and protests ensue. Some countries have been able to transition rather peacefully while others, Syria included, have resorted to killing protesters in an effort to stifle the protestors and send them packing. It seems that a growing part of the problem is that the leaders, especially the "presidents" are out of touch with their citizens, have no concept of what they are going through, and frankly probably don't care. Mr. Assad, president of Syria, in a show of just how disillusioned he really is, is specifically not offering concessions and blames the protests and uprising on "foreign consipracies" seeking to fragment Syria and to promote an Israeli agenda.
It is sounding as if Mr. Assad is taking lessons from Mr. Amagonnapoop in Iran, blaming outside influences and consipirators for riling their citizens into action. The only conspiracy there is, (and it really isn't a conspiracy) is the ability to use social media sites, designed and created in the U.S., to organize and initiate these protests. Mr. Assad, whose family has held power in Syria for four decades now, seems extremely out of touch with current affairs in his own country. There has been emergency law in place for years now and although there is talk of maybe lifting it, many view that declaration has merely lip service with no effectual outcome. Even with most of his government's cabinet resigning over the protests, there is no indication that any meaningful change will be made. It is clear that the orders come from him, he is ready and willing to fight this battle, and he will not step down any time soon.
There are massive protests and demonstrations scheduled today, Friday April 1st, in Syria. Hopefully people are not scared off by Mr. Assad's harsh words of being ready to fight the battle. With over a hundred dead so far as a result of the protests, we can only hope that no new deaths will occur with the new protests. Today, the protests are supposed to be nationwide instead of just localized in specific cities. Hopefully they will have a greater effect at showing Mr. Ass that his way of ruling is simply not working anymore and meaningful change needs to happen, starting with him stepping down. He is inherently afraid of democracy, as most leaders are in that region, because it means that his hold on power will most likely come to an end. With the choice left to the people, very few would elect to keep him in power. Let other countries learn from Egypt. The people are a powerful force and one man's will can not be shoved down the throats of millions.
There are those, even in our country, that would say democracy must be handled carefully in the Middle East. Why, because of the chance that extremists might be voted into positions of power and then advocate against the United States. This line of thinking is crap. We must show that we support democracy regardless of who is elected into power and hold democracy as the ultimate goal. If we promote a shift to democratic rule, regardless of who is elected as a leader, then maybe these countries might not take as harsh a view of us as they currently are. Many of these countries view us as meddlesome conspirators, only interested in how we will benefit ourselves in the region. Maybe by offering our support and help in setting up these democracies irregardless of ideology or beliefs, we can show that we really do stand for freedom and democratic rule. But first, the protestors must succeed in removing their current leaders. To do that they need as much support as they can get. There is a facebook page set up for the Syria Revolution of 2011. Lets offer our support on their page, show them that we as a people will stand behind them as they seek to oust their current president. This may sound like a repeat of other blog posts, but this is still an issue that needs our attention as millions suffer under totalitarian rule. But in the end, if you live in free country, embrace that freedom and be the change you want to see happen. (Coming soon, a three part series on individualism and the pitfalls of socialism.)
It is sounding as if Mr. Assad is taking lessons from Mr. Amagonnapoop in Iran, blaming outside influences and consipirators for riling their citizens into action. The only conspiracy there is, (and it really isn't a conspiracy) is the ability to use social media sites, designed and created in the U.S., to organize and initiate these protests. Mr. Assad, whose family has held power in Syria for four decades now, seems extremely out of touch with current affairs in his own country. There has been emergency law in place for years now and although there is talk of maybe lifting it, many view that declaration has merely lip service with no effectual outcome. Even with most of his government's cabinet resigning over the protests, there is no indication that any meaningful change will be made. It is clear that the orders come from him, he is ready and willing to fight this battle, and he will not step down any time soon.
There are massive protests and demonstrations scheduled today, Friday April 1st, in Syria. Hopefully people are not scared off by Mr. Assad's harsh words of being ready to fight the battle. With over a hundred dead so far as a result of the protests, we can only hope that no new deaths will occur with the new protests. Today, the protests are supposed to be nationwide instead of just localized in specific cities. Hopefully they will have a greater effect at showing Mr. Ass that his way of ruling is simply not working anymore and meaningful change needs to happen, starting with him stepping down. He is inherently afraid of democracy, as most leaders are in that region, because it means that his hold on power will most likely come to an end. With the choice left to the people, very few would elect to keep him in power. Let other countries learn from Egypt. The people are a powerful force and one man's will can not be shoved down the throats of millions.
There are those, even in our country, that would say democracy must be handled carefully in the Middle East. Why, because of the chance that extremists might be voted into positions of power and then advocate against the United States. This line of thinking is crap. We must show that we support democracy regardless of who is elected into power and hold democracy as the ultimate goal. If we promote a shift to democratic rule, regardless of who is elected as a leader, then maybe these countries might not take as harsh a view of us as they currently are. Many of these countries view us as meddlesome conspirators, only interested in how we will benefit ourselves in the region. Maybe by offering our support and help in setting up these democracies irregardless of ideology or beliefs, we can show that we really do stand for freedom and democratic rule. But first, the protestors must succeed in removing their current leaders. To do that they need as much support as they can get. There is a facebook page set up for the Syria Revolution of 2011. Lets offer our support on their page, show them that we as a people will stand behind them as they seek to oust their current president. This may sound like a repeat of other blog posts, but this is still an issue that needs our attention as millions suffer under totalitarian rule. But in the end, if you live in free country, embrace that freedom and be the change you want to see happen. (Coming soon, a three part series on individualism and the pitfalls of socialism.)
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