The holidays elicit both positive and negative emotions. It is up to each of us to decide whether to enjoy the season or not. The glass can be full if you want it to be and empty if you decide that you prefer misery. Long dark winter nights are the reason humans have brought light into the season for generations.
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In his first inaugural address, President Franklin D. Roosevelt made the oft quoted remark, “The only thing we have to fear is . . .fear itself.” He said it during the great recession when the economic situation in the country was dire . He called fear a ”nameless, unreasoning, unjustified terror which paralyzes needed effort to convert retreat into advance. In every dark hour of our national life a leadership of frankness and of vigor has met with that understanding and support of the people themselves which is essential to victory.”
It was a masterful speech that went on to say the nation will endure as it has through all sorts of extreme challenges, that there is much to be thankful for despite hard times, and that we have to stand together to solve problems.
I wonder how his speech would be received today? Does the constant barrage by TV and electronic news programs make our fear worse? It is important to remember that the media is strongly motivated to keep us on edge in order to keep us consuming. The more often we return to their newscasts, the more ads they sell.
People frozen into inaction by fear are said to have agoraphobia. They may be unable to leave the house because they fear having a panic attack. Psychologist Jay Winner says this type of fear is a secondary emotion. Primary emotions are the direct result of something that made you sad, such a loved one being hit by a car. If the incident makes you too afraid to leave home because you too might get struck by a moving vehicle and, if you get angry at yourself for worrying unreasonably, the resulting emotions of fear and anger are secondary. Stress causes distress by imagining you should feel differently. THe result is prolonged agony.
Adrian Vilaca discusses fear in another way. She sees anxiety as keeping us back from taking leaps of faith. Adrian is a martial artist who fights in cages against opponents bent on beating her unconscious. She describes being gripped with fear as she walks toward the event coordinator in an arena filled with a screaming crowd and super loud music. As the MC raises his his hand and slowly folds finger after finger until none are shown, her tension increases. When the music defining her act starts playing and her team huddles round to provide support, she realizes how alone she really is.
Adrian moves forward even though s terrified of losing and letting people down. In that moment she forces a smile and gets into her fear. Once embraced she finds it motivating.for fear represents what she values and wants to do. She cherishes the ability to feel a full range of emotions.
Walking through life moves us toward our individual cages. The trip can can be crippling if you let it, for it represents the unknown—and, you could fail. However, if you believe what you are creating is more important than being afraid, it can give you strength.
I used to be afraid, very afraid, afraid of my shadow, some people would say, until the day a counselor asked me if I was afraid to succeed. Afraid to succeed? How strange, you might ask. How can that be?
The thought of success also freezes people to inaction, for success is often accompanied by unanticipated demands. Unsure of what they might be, I did not want to face added responsibility. So, I stayed in the bubble of a comfortable routine I could control. The counselor’s comment somehow enabled me to take a leap into the unknown. The potential rewards that might occur far outweighed the risks I had to take. And so, I started a science museum.
The political climate today causes many people to retreat into the safety of the familiar. I know individuals who are afraid to leave their homes. Some friends won’t say what’s on their minds because they fear reprisal. Others shake their heads in despair, spend their days in jitters, and can’t sleep at night. They are frozen by inaction—not a good way to embrace life.
Today’s political climate needs people willing to scale self imposed safety barriers and engage in a search for truth and understanding of those who hold differing opinions. The political divide is artificial, brought about by partisan interests and fueled by a media that benefits by inciting fear and confusion in their audiences. Most ordinary Americans are not as divided as you might think. They want the same things—to be respected and loved, to feel secure, to live in health, and to participate in activities that make them happy. With that in mind, it is easy to close the door on fear and open it to engagement. Being part of the solution to make neighborhoods safe and clean, children better educated, and all citizens well cared we will heed FDR’s words once again.
“ Happiness lies not in the mere possession of money; it lies in the the joy of achievement, in the thrill of the creative effort . . .These dark days will be worth all they cost us if they teach us that our true destiny is not to be ministered unto but to minister to ourselves and to our fellow men.”
References:
Winner, J. (2008) Nothing to Fear, but Fear Itself ? Psychology Today. retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/stress-remedy/200810/nothing-fear-fear-itself
Vilaca, A. (2016) Fear of the Walk – There is Nothing to Fear but Fear Itself.Wellness Motivation. retrieved from https://www.fearlessmotivation.com/2016/10/27/fear-of-the-walk-there-is-nothing-to-fear-but-fear-itself/
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Into the Unknown: Acrylic on Canvas / Ornate gold Frame / $ 599 / 23” x 19”
Reluctance to change
Life is about change, but how do you cope when you live or work with someone with ubiquitous resistance? Refusal to change manifests itself in many ways, from foot-dragging and inertia to petty sabotage to outright rebellion. A child, partner or business associate may be entrenched in their ways because of fear or just plain laziness. When you are convinced that change is necessary, what can you do about it?
The best way to begin is to understand the sources of resistance that are most likely to occur and then strategize around them. Here are a few I’ve found to be the most common.
Change is likely to be good for you once you figure out why you want to alter your life. Perhaps you want to manage stress level, make more money, buy a new house, live in another state. Making a change requires identifying what you want to do, doing research and analyzing the pros and cons. When your change affects others, leadership is an essential tool for bringing them along with your dream. Leadership begins with confidence in yourself to bring others along.
Diagnosing the source of resistance is the first step toward getting buy-in. Sacrifices and consequences that might impact others have to be considered. People likely to be affected should be invited to express their concerns so a solution can be found that makes them feel more comfortable. They will be better able to cope if their feelings are acknowledged and they understand the dynamics behind the change.
References:
Kanter, R (2012) Ten Reasons People Resist Change.Harvard Business Review. retrieved from https://hbr.org/2012/09/ten-reasons-people-resist-chang
Griggs, U. (2019) How to Overcome Your Resistance to Change to Live a Better Life. Lifehack. retrieved from https://www.lifehack.org/822909/resistance-to-change\
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Heaven and Beyond/ Black frame / acrylic on canvas, 20” by 24” / $ 399
Who Are You?
Do you know who you are? How do you think of yourself and how would you describe that self to others. I recently heard a NPR broadcast suggesting listeners state twho they believe themselves to be in a concise sentence that starts with, “I am from . . . and I can . . . “
It was a formidable challenge to define myself in few words, but decided to give it a try.
“ I have moxie, independence, compassion and love, and I can dream, can do and can be.”
Once I put thoughts to paper I became intrigued with the process of describing oneself succinctly. Business coaches advise that it’s important to be able to identify your skills in brief during in a job interview, at networking events, or when developing a Linkedin profile. A way to organize you thoughts is to first identify who are you, then state for whom you do what you do, and finally mention how they will benefit.
“I am an executive and lay minister who helps museums, small businesses, and families become empowered through education, resources and information that improves careers and personal situations?”
I was on a roll, so after deciding not to describe myself in the Hausa Language. I took the plunge and tried a one-sentence definition to get me elected to political office.
“ I’m a mother of five, a fighter who loves our city and cares about leaving a healthier, vibrant, more compassionate community for the next generation.” Was that wishy-washy enough? Who can be against that sentiment? Perhaps I need to add “plus I’ll find a job for everyone.”
James Blanchard Cisneros says, “Enlightenment isn’t a change into something better or more but simply an expression of knowing who you are.” How in the world can you do that? One way to begin is by exploring your priorities, values, and interests. What makes you happy? What type of people do you like to be around? Describe your character, your style, and your overall emotional state? What are your boundaries? Does the exercise sound difficult execute in one sentence? No problem. . . break the rule and try two.
“I am a happy, engaged person who is curious, studious, and adventurous within limits set by my physical abilities and (most) societal norms. I like those who inspire me to reach outside my comfort zone, enjoy friends who make me laugh at life’s foibles and have such a bad memory that I forgive all who aggrieve me.”
Well now, that’s a that’s enough about me. What about you? Who are you? Take the challenge and share a sentence (or two) below.
A few images to get you started.
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Ellen: Wide Eyed and Ready / 20” by 16” / acrylic on canvas / $399
References:
LaCivita, A. (2019) How to describe Yourself in One Sentence: Elavorty PitchYouTube
Cisneros,J, (2015) A Journey of Self Awareness,. You Have Chosen to Remember Series ( A Journey of Self-Awareness, Peace of Mind and Joy) Chosen to Remember Books, Coconut Grove, Florida. Available in paperback and on Kindle on Amazon.
James,M Ph.D. ( 2012) Who are You? Psychology today. retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/focus-forgiveness/201212/who-are-you
This peaceful slew is impacted by the ebb and flow of ocean tides. Coastal areas are feeling the effects of rising seas, warmer ocean temperatures, stronger storms, and altered marine ecosystems. Streams that drain the coastal range carry increased runoff resulting from greater winter rainfall. This reverses itself in the summer with decreased rainfall which effects salmon and other cold-water species. Estuaries and wetlands are especially subject to rising sea levels that bring about sediment deposition, and changes to the shoreline. Invasive species and acidification effect clams, crabs, oysters and other shellfish.
Action Over Anxiety
It’s easy to become overwhelmed paying attention to the stories of doom and gloom that circulate freely through the media. Most do represent real problems that can not be brushed aside. Talk of global warming, of war, gun violence, rape, homelessness, trade imbalances, a new arms race, affordable housing, a growing class divide, and Middle East unrest fill the airwaves.
How people process so many disturbing accounts varies, with some developing illnesses while others become activists. I am privy to numerous distraught individuals who fear getting out of bed each morning. During the day they glue themselves to daily newscasts that push them into serious depression. Most of us, however, reside great distances from where these horrific stories occur. Imagine what it would be like to live in a community where each day you watch past predictions of disaster unfurl.
Last week on NPR, a psychologist spoke about native populations living in the Arctic. She said that an escalating number of people suffer from severe anxiety depression. They are upset by what happening to their communities because of warming trends. These men and women are on the front lines, watching fragile habitats destroyed while fossil fuel reserves become more readily accessible for extraction, exacerbating the problem. To these residents, global warming is not a debate. It is a daily reality. They have a front row view of Arctic Sea ice melt and of when happens when oceans warm. They are the first responders, the canary in the mine that gives a warning all must heed.
Ice reflects sunlight, and water absorbs it. It is easy to understand that as ocean volume grows, more sunlight is absorbed which raises the temperature, warming the land and causing the weather to become more violent. In the far north, wildfires have already devastated large tracks of land. Melting permafrost topples houses, and disappearing glaciers cause riverbeds to stay dry. Fish die and wildlife lack water needed for their sustenance. Over the the past century, the seas have risen four to eight inches, depending on where you live. Arctic warming, however, in speeding up, occurring faster than originally thought. Experts currently predict the seas to rise 23 feet before the century is over. Following is a 50 year chart for the US put out by the Union of Concerned Scientists. You will see how the rise differs from coast to coast.
Look grim? It is, but that does not mean that you have to be frozen with fear. Living in a state of anxiety is not good for your health, nor does it solve problems at hand. Burying your head in the sand or saying God will solve situations brought about by humankind does not help. Troubles don’t go away unless they are tackled head on.
It is unreasonable to thing each of us can focus on every difficulty. And, it is not wise to worry about every issue brought to your attention. It is best to choose one concern that speaks to you and work towards a solution. By all means, learn as much as possible about a variety of issues, but put your vast knowledge into a worry-free box and let others take the lead. At the same time, work outside of the box. Find an issue you can get passionate about and get involved. Choose action over anxiety.
The Arcticpsychologist on NPR told listeners the same thing. We were told not to retreat from the news, but to form small discussion groups where feelings of helplessness can be challenged and you can engage in constructive self-talk to build a personal sense of resilience and optimism. She suggested focusing on what you can control and act accordingly. Making a positive difference locally does improve the mental health of those who participate. And, with thousands of people worldwide meeting in hometown groups, solutions are bound to emerge. Best of all, these good folks will have fun getting to know each other.
Action over anxiety. It worked for me by focusing efforts on youth homelessness. . I am appalled by what I see on the streets. I think about it and am continuously learning abut the subject. I adopted a homeless youth and wrote about the experience in order to help others understand street-life. I continue to work with others to end homelessness. I see progress and am fortified. Meeting people who share my concern makes me feel good. It’s been rewarding to get to know energized people and a pleasure to call them friend.
References:
Shankman, S & Horn,P. ( 2017) The Most Powerful Evidence Scientists Have of Global Warming. Inside Climate News. retrieved from https://insideclimatenews.org/news/03102017/infographic-ocean-heat-powerful-climate-change-evidence-global-warming gclid=Cj0KCQjwiILsBRCGARIsAHKQWLMtz09jHmgQO1YCLVaPnlnERLEqQNOda6-qIEqx9lZZzqtVdtz6vXIaAoi0EALw_wcB
Beltra, D. ( 2019) The Arctic and Global Warming. Greenpeace. retrieved from https://www.greenpeace.org/usa/arctic/issues/global-warming/
Pajer, Nicole (2019) How Therapists Are Dealing with Anxiety Around Global Warming. Huffpost. retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/anxiety-global-warming_l_5c69d43be4b01757c36c9e00
Exporting Jesus vs. Building Infrastructure
Last week, I took my car in for a recall adjustment and was driven to the service station by a Lift driver born in Kenya. Talking to him brought back memories of the wonderful experience I had years ago when participating in a research study of elephants passing through Tsavo National Park. I was surprised to discover that my fifty year old driver was a Kikuyu who planned to return to Kenya to become a farmer.
I asked him if he worried about the ground being too dry to grow crops due rising global temperatures. is answer surprised me. “No,” he said. “The Chinese dug wells connecting to a large underground aquifer. There’s plenty of water.
My driver said that I wouldn’t recognize Kenya if I returned because of Chinese investments. Roads, buildings, power plants and plumbing projects have transformed Kenya and were helping the country prosper. He mentioned that Chinese involvement also worried him. It could plunge the country back into colonialism by making it a puppet of Asia rather than England.
Our conversation particularly interested me since watching “The Family,” a Netflix documentary based on books by Jeff Sharlet warning of the dangers of mixing fundamentalism and power with politics.” The series documents a secret society that promotes what they call “Jesus Plus” ideology. Since the late 1960w it’s been in existence behind closed doors under the leadership of an Oregon born man named Doug Coe (recently deceased). Doug subsidized Georgetown accommodations for congressmen who embraced a Christian religious agenda. Young adult graduates of elite colleges live in all male or female homes caring for congressmen who live in C Street and the dignitaries who visit. According to Sharlett“They (The Family) have more power now than ever.”
Military leaders, politicians and business leaders are united through prayer breakfasts attended by presidents from Eisenhower onward. Mike Pence is part of the group and President Trump has been anointed by it. Those on the Jesus Plus bandwagon do not believe in separation of church and state or that all men (women) are created equal. Conservatives only, never liberals, are invited to the table. Abortion rights, fair housing, equal access to voting, and global warming activists are rare and far between.
Based on Calvinist ideals around predestination, Coe’s movement rewards dictators, wealthy individuals, and Mafiosa strongmen by providing forgiveness when they rule oppressively. Believing that powerful men are chosen by God, they are not subject to the same sexual, moral, or financial/legal rules the rest of their countrymen follow. They say the poor, also marked by God, will always exist and must accept their lot. In my mind, The Family’s rational is reminiscent of India’s caste system, 14th century missionary zeal, and pre-Civil War rational for suppressing people of color.
My partner Ray pointed out that to build trade and spread influence, the United States leaders preaches Jesus to an international power elite while the Chinese construct infrastructure. Though self centered motivations may be at the base of both countries, one can’t but wonder which one benefits the majority.
By improving economic conditions in struggling countries, the also Chinese support businesses that create new markets for their goods. They build schools, roads, bridges, railways and hospitals. Their investments save deteriorating facilities, rescue jobs and create thousands of new ones. They carry a banner we used to wave at the end of WWII when the Marshall plan was in place. And, they are reaping many benefits.
The US also spends billions of dollars in foreign aid ($300 billion since 1970). I’ve read that 80 percent goes to companies in the United States for weapons and agricultural products while 20 percent is allocated for health and disaster relief. Much of the money winds up in the hands of corrupt individuals at home and abroad. Those in need are marginal beneficiaries.
There was a time when U.S. foreign aid was connected to the recipient’ country’s human rights track record. That is rarely true anymore. We (as does China) look the other way when it comes to countries like Saudi Arabia. China’s influence abroad benefits by their no-strings attached program promising growth. China spends half of its aid capital in Africa, benefiting from the continent’s rich natural reserves of oil, iron ore, timber, and copper. In exchange, China provides cheap manufactured goods, infrastructure, direct investments and billions of dollars in loans. Many of the projects they fund are implemented using Chinese labor. In 2014, China’s trade with Africa totaled over $ 200 billion.
Chinese foreign aid is rapidly shifting political influence away from the United States. The countries they help return the favor by voting China’s interests at U.N. and other international gatherings.
“We the People” of the United States are at a critical point in history. We face an identity crisis as to who we are and what we want to be in the future. Are we the loving, giving, compassionate, pluralistic society we consider ourselves to be or the self-centered, militaristic, racist, greedy one much of the world believes us to be? Do we honor dictators as men chosen by God or are ordinary people a manifestation of the Kingdom of God? Do white Christian men supposedly anointed by God rule or do we want a democracy that values all who reside within?
References:
Sharlot, J. (2009) The Family: The Secret Fundamentalism at the Heart of American Power, Harper-Collins Publishers, New York.
Manero,E. (2017) China’s Investment in Africa: The New Colonialism? Harvard Political Review: retrieved from http://harvardpolitics.com/world/chinas-investment-in-africa-the-new-colonialism/
Bonasso, D. (2019)US Foreign Aid to Africa: What we give and Why . the Borgen Project. retrieved from https://borgenproject.org/us-foreign-aid-to-africa-what-we-give-and-why/
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You Decide is acrylic on Canvas/ 40” by 16 “/ deep canvas/ $385
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Creating Passion in the Next Generation
When my grandson was seven, his main interest was around Star Wars. That year his parents gave him a Star Wars themed party which was attended by children ready to fight duels with their laser swards. Though every gift he opened had something to do with Star Wars, no two were alike. By the end of the day he had enough props to set up his own movie studio and enough themed science kits to turn him into a space scientist.
Observing him become immersed in something he loved to do made me happy for it indicated that he would become an engaged adult. Feeling passion is addictive, similar to being on drugs without negative consequences. My grandson’s commitment provided a focus for learning. It required him to read, to concentrate, to create, and to communicate. I believe that an important job of parenting involves helping your child find passion by becoming totally hooked on something that has “legs.” By that I mean inspiring a willingness to tackle an engrossing, challenging activity. I don’t think it makes much difference what the project is as long as it is an absorbing one.
In my grandson’s case, interest in Star Wars improved his skills in reading. He was too impatient to wait for his parents to read to him so he pushed himself to learn more on his own. Neighborhood children used to meet in his basement conceiving plots that insured the future of planetary peace. Before performing for their parents and siblings, they had to sequence stories, memorized parts, and practice speaking to an audience. They also made scenery and handed out advertising leaflets. I could not have designed a better learning experience if I had been hired to do so.
Passion is a gift that combines spirit, mind and body enabling life to be experienced in all of its richness. It involves setting goals around something important. Having passion helps overcome obstacles and draws attention to what should be and what can be done. There will always be highs and lows in working towards a goal, but when you are passionate about what you’re doing you’ll look past the dull days and become more likely to conceive creative ways to move on.
Passion is not something to fear, though for a variety of reasons many people do. It’s easy to become overwhelmed and check out before beginning a journey, so it’s important to when starting to set incremental goals, to manage time strategically, and to maintain balance. I’ve known people who never pursued their dreams because they feared the time commitment. I know others who were afraid of failure and some who were fearful of how success might change them.
Embracing passion is engaging in adventure. It’s opening your mind to let sparks fly. Finding an interest and intensifying your involvement in it is the best way to dissipate fear. Doubts can’t be fed for they will smother fires that glow within. Talk you doubts, write them down and investigate where they came from to help them go away.
As parent and educator, I’ve always believed that helping children find and develop passion will aid society in the long run. Finding cures for debilitating diseases, writing a new symphony, fighting global warming and taking political action involves giving time, energy and soul to a cause. Passionate people make things happen. As adults, we can provide our children with engrossing opportunities that engender excitement and give pleasure so as adults they will crave to arouse similar feelings throughout their lives.
References:
Harmer, S. (2-19) 10 Reasons why Following Your Passion is More Important than Money. Lifehack. retrieved from https://www.lifehack.org/articles/money/10-reasons-why-following-your-passion-more-important-than-money.html
Carver,<. (2019) Why you Need Passion to Reach Your Goals. The Chopra Center. retrieved from https://search.yahoo.com/yhs/search;_ylt=AwrWpywK7FZd3DUAAB8PxQt.;_ylu=X3oDMTEza3NiY3RnBGNvbG8DZ3ExBHBvcwMxBHZ0aWQDBHNlYwNwYWdpbmF0aW9u?p=Achieving+passion&type=cl_appfocus531_cr&fr2=sb-top&hspart=adk&hsimp=yhs-adk_sbnt¶m1=20190624¶m2=fb58e1e6-408c-4546-bdb7-f62c02cea1da¶m3=classifieds_%7EUS%7Eappfocus531¶m4=4847-bb9%7EChrome%7Ebrian+norris+about+passion+flower%7E7B1F017D4CDFA6D6A9BB35F8264A536C&fr=yhs-adk-adk_sbnt&b=11&pz=10&bct=0&xargs=0
Carter,S (2013) The Power of Passion. Psychology Today. retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/high-octane-women/201304/the-power-passion
Flaxington,B. (2018) Finding Your Passion. Psychology Today. Retrieved from https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/understand-other-people/201806/finding-your-passion
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Last Night’s Dream: Acrylic on Canvas, 26” x 32” /$498
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NRA Lobbying expenditures are a hot topic of political contention, but there’s a more powerful group of lobbyists that politicians rarely mention. The NRA’s $1,690.000 annual outlay is dwarfed by the amount spent by military contractors to influence members of congress. Until this week, I never paid attention to details and ramifications of the military’s budget, though I’ve often heard soundbites about its magnitude. The U.S. spends 10 times more for defense than any other country. We have approximately 800 bases in 80 countries which doesn’t include troops stationed at embassies and missions (Russia has 26-40, The UK, France, and Turkey have 10 each). There are real concerns we need to address such as terrorism, cyberattacks, media lies, and drugs, but I wonder how effective allocated funds are at keeping us out of harms way and free from manipulation. Newspapers are full of the explosions caused by unsavory individuals.
A few facts and then a few questions:
The military budget for 2019 is $989 billion dollars. It is the second largest item in the federal budget, after Social Security. We spend more on defense than the next nine countries combined. $576 billion goes to the base budget of the Department of Defense (DoD), $ 174 billion goes to DoD in overseas contingency operations to fight the Islamic State Group. The remainder goes to agencies that protect the nation— $93.1 billion to Veterans affairs, $51.7 billion to Homeland Security, $42.8 billion to the State Department, $16.5 billion to the National Nuclear Security Administration, and $26.1 billion for FBI and cybersecurity.
The base budget pays for day-to-day operations at DoD while Overseas Contingency Operations pays for wars and overseas operations. The overseas contingency is not an official part of the budget and therefore not subject to sequestration. It paid for the War on Terror including the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan and our involvement in Syria and Yemen.
Since 2003 when the war in Iraq started, nearly 5,000 U.S. service members died and 32,226 were wounded. The war George Bush started, caused the death of approximately 405,000 civilians with many more maimed. It is difficult to get an exact count, but it is estimated that 6 in 10 civilian deaths were at the hands of coalition forces due to airstrikes. It is difficult to say what good was accomplished by the war.
There is significant growth in the use of private military companies to fight wars though their actions are poorly supervised. The United States and The U.K are the only nations not to sign the U.N. Mercenary Convention. We hire private contractors to train armed forces of developing nations, provide armed security for government agencies, administer food services, and logistics, provide insurance, medical service, and intelligence and conduct research into military related technologies.
Mercenary armies are beholden to shareholders first and to the governments that employ them second. There are “no standards of conduct” for mercenaries because the companies they work for are not forced to abide by regulations set by the governments that employ them. Mercenaries can come from any country. They are usually paid lower salaries than the men and women in our military. The United States complains about manufacturing going to countries willing to pay low salaries, yet I hear little about the way private military contractors take away jobs from US citizens.
Private military contractors do not recognize United Nations Agreements or the Geneva Convention. Their militias cause conflicts all over the globe. Companies like Blackwater (today known as Academi) is well known for committing atrocities and for their involvement in CIA death squads. Military contractors use black mail to get what they want and conduct shady diamond dealings. They are involved with gold mining, the drug trade, and oil drilling. They abuse civilians and freely act above the law.
According to the American Conservative, nearly half the Pentagon budget ($304 billion in 2017) goes to Private Contractors. When the budget comes before congress each year, arguments ignore that fact. They are simply told that more money is needed to support our troops despite the fact the budget increases increases likely go to line the pockets of company executives, useless overhead, cost overruns on weapons systems and military hardware that is not needed and often performs poorly. The presidents of 5 companies were paid over $96 million dollars last year. Private companies spend excessive amounts on political contributions. In 2017, the defense sector spent $64,564,985 on lobbying according to the Center for Responsive Politics.
My readings about the military, raised many questions. I hope you will respond and provide insight with your answers.
It is time to bring details of the military budget into the political debates. The subject should not be taboo nor should financial obligations be hidden. Imagine what we could accomplish by cutting 15 percent ($45.6 billion) of the military contracts awarded private companies.
Resources:
National Rifle Assn. OpenSecrets.org .retrieved from https://www.opensecrets.org/lobby/clientsum.php?id=d000000082
Slater, A. (2018) The US Has Military Bases in 80 Countries. The Nation. https://www.thenation.com/article/the-us-has-military-bases-in-172-countries-all-of-them-must-close/
Number of U.S.Soldiers killed int eh Iraq War. Statistics. https://www.statista.com/statistics/263798/american-soldiers-killed-in-iraq/
Amadeo,K. (2019) US Military Budget Components, Challenges, and Growth. The Balance. retrieved from https://www.thebalance.com/u-s-military-budget-components-challenges-growth-3306320
Private Military Companies. Mercenary Jobs. retrieved from http://www.mercenaryjobs.org/private-military-companies.html
Poisuo, p (2014) 10 Frightening Facts about Private Military Companies. Listverse. retrieved from https://listverse.com/2014/01/07/11-frightening-facts-about-private-military-companies/
Hartung, W.(2017) Nearly Half the Pentagon Budget goes to The American Conservative . retrieved from https://www.theamericanconservative.com/articleW.
Mashal, Mujib. (2019) Afghan and U.S. Forces Blamed for Killing More Civilians This Year Than Taliban Have. The New York Times. retrieved from https://www.nytimes.com/2019/07/30/world/asia/afghanistan-civilian-casualties.html
Bump, P. (2008) 15 years after the Iraq War began, the death toll is still murky. Washington Post. retrieved from https://www.washingtonpost.com/news/politics/wp/2018/03/20/15-years-after-it-began-the-death-toll-from-the-iraq-war-is-still-murky/?utm_term=.c7f9a1071a9f
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Heaven and Beyond
Acrylic on Canvas, Black wood frame/ 20” x 24”/ $ 399
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#FestivalWisdom
After four days of frolicking, dancing, swimming and talking to visitors in my “Do You Need A Mother Booth?” I returned home from Shift Festival impressed with the dreams, creativity, and desires young adults have to live purposefully in a loving community. Approximately 1300 science, engineering and art buffs who enjoy techno music and electrified art attended. They were well educated, multi-generational, culturally diverse adults who averaged thirty-five years. Most are happily employed, but a surprisingly large number are upset about the direction their journey is taking them.
My “Mother Booth” was a magnet for those trapped by a reality they want to shed. It attracted dreamers not knowing how to attain their goals and college graduates unable to find jobs in their fields. I met those struggling to overcome the trauma of war and of losing a job or love one to illness or divorce. I heard confused voices worried by overpopulation, environmental degradation, nationalist hatred and greed.
College debt forced many graduates to take employment with Uber, Lift or Amazon. Some became barristers at coffee shops or served tables in restaurants. It was not what they wanted to be doing. At thirty they gave up on marriage and bringing children into a world in disarray. Instead they seek escape from what they are doing by floating from concert to party to festival where they take drugs in a search for community and meaning.
I left the festival saddened after listening to bright, intelligent people with so little hope for their future and realized what a difficult a struggle they do have before them. They face a different world than my friends and I did as young adults. We were a white privileged class who married during our twenties and raised children who along with our jobs, defined our purpose. Family provided meaning and kept us employed in work we grew with over the years. We were employed long enough to develop friends and lived in neighborhoods that contributed to our sense of belonging.
It wasn’t until the sixties and seventies that we became aware of social inequalities and decided to do something about it. Working to change the status quo added to the purpose of our lives. We joined the civil rights and women’s movements and boycotted grapes to help farm workers. We marched against the Vietnam war and held rallies for a woman’s right to choose. We were loving, fought for justice and were empowered by our ability to bring about change. Most of all, we were passionate and alive with ambition and purpose.
I look into the eyes of young adults, today, hoping to see determination and desire to improve humanity. All too often I see apathy, fear and burn-out from trying to survive. Even those with adequate salaries falter in mid-life to ask why continue to work at hollow endeavors. Yet, though they speak of injustice, they don’t take action for change. They continue to be underpaid teachers, social workers, nurses, waiters, farmers, and scientists and crave to be part of the the 1 percent of high paid lawyers, developers, bankers and media executives. During free hours they escape to social media sites and entertainment while complaining that their existence has no purpose.
Well . . . too bad. Bringing about change means getting involve and grappling with the problems of our time. In a world of automation, overpopulation, and robots there may never be enough “meaningful’ jobs for everyone. However, that does not mean there are not plenty of opportunities to leave your mark and find purpose. There is much that needs to be done by those willing to put in the time an effort to bring about change.
I believe that three undertakings give life meaningful. The first involves staying curious and continuing to learn, grow and try new things. Second is to work for social justice and to leave the world a better place that it was when you arrived. Third is to be kind, compassionate, and willing to help family, friends and neighbors. Those following these precepts will never be lonely but will continue to dream, feel connected and maintain purpose throughout their lives. They will know life as a journey and enjoy its many rewards.
Eastern Oregon Contemplative by Marilynne Eichinger
Acrylic on Canvas / Gold Frame / 21’ by 25” / $389
Works of art are always for sale. Contact me at marilynne@echingerfineart.com
First Fight
People curse when angry yet use the same words trying to be funny.
“What’s in a name? that which we call a rose
By Any Other Name would smell as sweet”
By William Shakespeare
When I was a young child, my mother washed my mouth with soap whenever I uttered a curse word. We lived in a lower-class neighborhood, and according to Mom, only lowlife used obscenities. Therefore, I never used profanities, and when I heard others doing so, I thought poorly of them. Those I associate with don’t curse publicly, though they may do so in the privacy of their own homes.
Another lesson learned when first married, was that words slung in anger, become imbedded in the target’s memory. Hurts and stings are difficult to erase and be forgotten. I remember having a discussion about fighting with a psychologist friend who was also newly married. He believed spouses should express anger fully, in every dimension short of hitting. Shouting, cursing and slinging hurtful half-truths was healthy as far as my friend was concerned. I, argued the opposite, believing that words said in anger can’t be taken back. It wasn’t long before he and his wife divorced. Today, an increasing number of people participate in non-violent communication classes to learn ways to argue productively.
I am currently writing my first fictional novel with characters from many walks of life. In my writer’s critique group, members suggest I use expletives in my dialogues to express anger. I find this difficult to do since curse words do not come naturally.
I never understood why audiences laugh when comedians say fuck or shit. To me it seems like a cheep excuse for a joke by performers who do not know how to laugh cleverly at life’s foibles.
Children say “naughty” words as a way of showing their friends that they know something they aren’t supposed know. They find it fun to fool their parents, a feeling that stays with them into adulthood. And so, as they age, they continue to react as youngsters who laugh bathroom jokes and forbidden language. Laughter disguises their embarrassment with natural bodily functions.
Over the centuries, thousands of words have been coined to disguise body parts and functions considered private. Following are a few of the hundreds of words that disguise penis, vagina, buttocks, and where babies come from.
Penis —Doodle, Spindle, Fiddle, Pin, Bollocks, Knick-Knack, Child-getter, Bayonet, Cracksman, Cuckoo, Bush-whacker, Majesty, Charmer, Tickle-Faggot, Dingle, Cob, Pencil, Hot member, Nightstick, Joystick, Dingbat, Tiny Tim, Jurassic Pork, Dora the explorer, Tuna torpedo, Cave hunter, Woody Womb Pecker.
Vagina —Cunt, Pussy, Twat, Clit, House, Casse, Pie-corner, Porridge, Coffer, Mrs. Fubbs’ parlor, Thatched cottage, Lady’s low toupee, Nature’s treasury, Nub, Canal, Her essence, Slit, Wet curls, Scabbard, Mons, Sheath, Sperm bottle, Goop chute, Cookie, Penis glove, Muff, Fish Lips, Beaver, Kitty, Pink panther, Banana basket, Coin purse, Hot pocket, Funny Furnace, Golden Palace, Holiest of holies.
Buttocks —Bottom, Behind, Butt, Booty, Fanny keister, Tush, Tail, Buns, Caboose, Posterior, Sit-upon, Steam bum, Arse, Duff, Heinie, Ass, Prat.
Ever wonder where babies come from? They come from places I never thought possible.
a) Babies are made when mommies and daddies have too much love. When it overflows, God gives the family a baby to love.
b) We wanted a baby so mommy grew one in her belly.
c) Babies grows in the mom’s bellybutton and the doctor cuts the baby out.
d) When two people love each other the dad buys a pumpkin seed and gives it to the mom. Then her stomach gets big like a pumpkin.
e) The doctor brings the baby to the front door.
f) Babies come from apple seeds.
g) Babies come when mommies and daddies kiss for a very, very long time.
h) Babies come from eggs that pop out of a mommy’s butt.
It’s difficult not to laugh at some of these answers and think them “cute.” Yet, it is not a good idea to lead children astray with false answers. A truthful straightforward response, is the healthier way to go.
Children need to know the correct names of body parts. An abused child should be able to explain accurately what happened to a trusted adult. Children who use pet names can confuse medical care givers. They are less credible witnesses when justice is pursued through the courts. A child who says, “Stop! Don’t touch my vagina!” signals to a potential abuser that he or she is empowered with body safety knowledge. Pedophiles are wary of children who use anatomical names because they know that their parents will not dismiss a touch to private parts as harmless fun.
Speaking openly and accurately about the body, teaches children they have ownership over it. Knowledge provides a positive boost to self image, increases confidence, and demonstrates that parents are trustworthy, easily approachable sources of information about sensitive issues. When a child who knows anatomically correct names, suddenly starts using pet terms, it becomes a red flag causing adults to investigate.
Today’s parenting classes, child development books, and pediatricians encourage parents to teach anatomically correct words to their children. The practice is so wide spread that according to several classroom teachers I know, children no laugh when they’re used. Honest language, along with anti-bullying and non-violent communication programs in schools discourage use of foul language. They promote effective ways of disagreeing that hopefully will impact their generation. I imagine comedians of the future are going to have to come up with novel ways , other than cursing to get a laugh from their audiences.
References:
A Rose by any Other Tame. (43-44, Act-II, Scene-II of Romeo and Juliet). Literary Devices. retrieved from https://literarydevices.net/a-rose-by-any-other-name/
Body Parts: Find Nicknames : https://www.findnicknames.com/blog/nicknames-for-body-parts/
Sanders, J (2017)Eight Reasons Not to Cally Your CHild’s Genitals ‘Pet’ Names. Huffpost.com, retrieved from https://www.huffpost.com/entry/8-reasons-not-to-call-your-childs-genitals-pet-names_b_58743186e4b0eb9e49bfbec3
Art Work is always for sale. Contact me at Marilynne@eichingerfineart.com.
The Fight : Acrylic on canvas/ 36” x 25”/ $ 325