Five Things: Life from Fran's Mind

Day 22-25

2011-07-18T20:50:00.000-07:00

Day 22: A picture of something you wish you were better at.

I'm all right, but I wish I was better at...dancing.

Day 23: A picture of your favorite book.

I don't have a picture...simply because I have WAY to many favorites.

Day 24: Something you wish you could change.
Abuse. Of men, women, children - born and unborn.

Day 25: A picture of your day.
Since it's summer time and I'm not studying my butt off....I'm at work. I love this place.

Days 18-21

2011-07-18T20:29:00.000-07:00

Day 18: A picture of your town.
There it is. Beautiful Main Street.

Day 19: A picture of when you were little.
When I was little...we didn't have digital.

Day 20: A picture of your night.
I sleep. As much as possible.

Day 21: A picture of something you wish you could forget.
Nightmares.

Days: 14-17

2011-02-25T17:28:00.000-08:00

Day 14: Post a picture of your best friend.
My sister. Best buds since day one. "Cosmic moments" for eternity.

Day 15: Post a picture of something you want to do before you die.

I want to...no...I AM...going to bunji jump in New Zealand, just like this happy fellow up above.

Day 16: Post a picture of someone who inspires you.

Gilbert Keith Chesterton. Enough said.

Day 17: Post a picture of your hometown.

Ain't it purdy?

This is my second "home": Carmel, CA. Grew up a majority of my life in that wonderful playground of the gods. I love visiting friends out West when I can.

Day 13

2011-02-25T17:13:00.001-08:00

Day 13: Post a picture of your favorite band or artist.

Sam Tsui. This guy is amazing. More than that. He's smart, attending Yale (majoring in Classic Greek), artistic...his talents are seemingly limitless: he can paint, draw, sing, compose, and play the piano/keyboard. His vocal range is incredible and I love watching him sing. I believe if you are going to do something - you do it well. Sam Tsui puts his whole being into his music and it shows. Check him out!

Days 11 & 12

2011-02-20T16:07:00.000-08:00

Day 11: Post a picture of something you hate.
I hate abuse of trust.

Day 12: Post a picture of something you love.
I love laughing with loved ones. Friends, family... laughter is something I love to hear, create, and, of course, participate in.

Days 9 and 10

2011-02-18T12:25:00.000-08:00

Day 9: Post a picture of someone who's helped you through the most.
Colin and Sarah. Amazing people. Love you both!

Day 10: A picture of someone who is awesome.

The girl I've known since I was 7 - Melody. Is one of the awesomest people I know.
I love you!

Day 8

2011-02-16T15:33:00.001-08:00

Day 8: Post a picture that makes you laugh.

This is my brother, John, on the flag pole at home. What started as a competition between him and my other brother, Joe, resulted in this hilarious image. I'm happy I had the ability to take the picture in the midst of all the laughing.

John has since found better ways to put his strength and dexterity to use. As of yesterday, he is now Private First Class in the United States Army National Guard. I'm so proud of him. He's going in as an E3 due to being an Eagle Scout and having an Associates degree. He'll finish up basic and advanced training as a Sargeant and upon graduating with his bachelors, he'll be a commissioned Lieutenant. I know he'll do well and those climbing skills will certainly come in handy. Congratulations, John!!

Day 7

2011-02-15T07:17:00.001-08:00

Day 7: Post a picture of your most treasured item.

In an emergency situation, I'd save family first and these letters second.

Day 6

2011-02-14T17:07:00.000-08:00

Day 6: Post a picture of someone you'd like to trade places with for a day.

Anne Coulter. How badass would that be?

Day 5

2011-02-13T15:30:00.000-08:00

Day 5: Post a picture of your favorite memory.

This is a two part honorary image. A) For when my cousin and I stayed up till 2 am on a beach in CA talking over Ben and Jerry's. B) When he came to visit for Christmas.

History In the Making...

2011-02-12T12:16:00.000-08:00

Fun Stuff:

Facebook, my least favorite social networking website, has yet another craze circling its way through the friend's lists: The Thirty Day Photo Challenge.

This time, I caved.

It actually is a pretty interesting way to learn about other people. For thirty days you post an image corresponding to the days' qualifications. Day one starts off with your mug shot and few quick, interesting facts. Day two is a picture of a person you've been closest to the longest, day three is your favorite TV cast....you get the idea. So far I'm on day four and have decided to post the images and captions to my blog to share.

Day 1: Post a picture of yourself with 15 facts

1) I have a wonderful, yet long, bucket list.

2) I can paint, draw, sing, dance, and cook...but not all at the same time.

3) I've lived more places than I can remember

4) I want to own a classic Harley, but I'll settle for a ride.

5) I love my loud, amazing Italian family.

6) I want to live/work in Alaska.

7) I'm best friends with the real-life Calvin.

8) One day, I'd like to have a whole posse of boys.

9) I will microwave my ice cream so I can scoop it.

10) I get scared being on ladders or lofts but get up there anyway.

11) I have the world's best 2am giggle partner - my sister.

12) I have amazing friends.

13) St. Patrick's Day is my all time favorite day of the year.

15) I love to learn and shall remain a fearless bookworm till the very end

Day 2: Post a picture of a person you've been closest to the longest

My 2 a.m. giggle partner - my sister.

Day 3: Your favorite TV show

I have four favorites: White Collar, Bones, Lie to Me, and House...White Collar wins on account of most intriguing plot.

Day 4: Post a picture of a place you'd like to visit

I'd like to re-visit, Bermuda. This is a picture of Port Royal Bay- at the western end of Horseshoe Bay. I've been there and I'd like to go back - this time...

I'll be old enough to dive off the rocks.

Serious Stuff:

Mubarak resigns!!!! This is history in the making. I am anxious to see what the next step is. In the meantime, to quote Mark Shea:

"First, I want say "booyah!" to the people of Egypt for their successful overthrow of a tyrant. May God bless you with prudence, justice, temperance and fortitude, to take the hard and merciful route rather than the easy way of vengeance, comeuppance, and a new tyranny to replace him. Father, hear the prayers of your children in Egypt that they might find their way to making a state of real justice and peace. Our Lady of Zeitoun, pray for them!"

The world watches as Mubarak resigns and Egypt enters into a new era; facing new challenges in gaining the democracy it longs for. Twenty-four year old, Ala Moussa said: "For 50 years, it was a police state and we adapted ourselves to it. The question now is, can we take another route. I hope so."

New Adventures

2011-02-04T09:36:00.000-08:00

January marks a time of new beginnings, resolutions, and spirit.

I took that to heart this year and embarked on a small(ish) adventure: moving out.

Finding an affordable, safe, and wholesome place is usually the biggest obstacle in leaving the security of home or dorm life - but, I lucked out. Best friends are amazing. Especially, when they have a big home that needs to be filled.

Every morning, for the past week and half, I awake with that "I can't believe I did it." feeling - and it's marvelous. The thrill of being in new surroundings may or may not wear off, but the sense of adventure will certainly not. I'm thoroughly enjoying this adventure and my newly adopted position as head cook.

I can't wait to find out what the next adventure is.

On a more serious note, I've been following the civil and political unrest in Egypt. One of my friends, a journalist, shared this on his facebook and I'm posting it here for others. http://goo.gl/LPPFK

Inside Scoop....

2011-01-14T06:50:00.001-08:00

Growing up with four brothers I knew some of this and suspected the rest; www.yahoo.com hosted an article written by Match.com's Matt Christensen giving us ladies the male perspective of today's fashion. Insightful, humorous, and WAY overdue, ladies, I give you: "What the Guys Think of Your Fashion".

These guys made my morning. Now, if everyone would just take good notes and toss the giant sunglasses...... :)

Christmas Angel

2010-12-26T18:15:00.000-08:00

Hey,Everyone!
So besides burrying my nose in books...I enjoy doodling, dabbling in photography, and helping out my creative pal, Colin Mason. He's a teriffic photographer and this was his beautiful Christmas creation: http://blog.colinmasonphoto.com/2010/12/belated-christmas-angel.html
I was privileged with the task of costuming and makeup. I made our model as statuesque as possible and wrapped her in approximately 24 feet of sheer white fabric. Colin used long exposure techniques for the light and fade-out effect. The wings were created with patience and a borrowed graphics stylus gizmo.
Happy viewing!

P.S. - Be sure to check out his other work as well! You don't want to miss it!

Winter Break

2010-12-19T11:14:00.000-08:00

1. Go now.

2. Go BIG.

3. Go home.

4. Resist the urge to look back.

5. Be a Secret Santa.

6. Wish for snow.

7. Go sledding - on grass if necessary.

8. Celebrate in your own way.

9. Text holiday greetings.

10. Shine.

11. Wear red.

12. Layer it up and let all hang out.

13. Download Carols.

14. Refuse fruitcake - make Pannettone instead.

15. Wrap the perfect gift.

16. Share.

17. Make up for lost time.

18. Buy the first round.

19. Discover a new relative.

20. Save chestnuts - roast them by the fire later.

21. Roast marshmallows.

22. Light it up.

23. Laugh.

24. Go caroling.

25. Go out early - sleep in really late.

26. Carry mistletoe everywhere.

27. Give more than you get.

28. Give from the heart.

Non sibi sed familia

2010-12-15T18:20:00.000-08:00

"The best of all gifts around any Christmas tree:
the presence of a happy family all wrapped up in each other."

~ W.C. Jones

Christmas, in my loud, obnoxious, ever so wonderfully Italian family, has always been a time of caring, snowball-fights, laughter, snow-ball fights, time together, snow-ball fights, love, snow-ball fights, and, most importantly, remembering what Christmas is truly all about: the birth of one, very special Baby.

This year has been a rough one - losing both maternal grandparents in such a short time, Mom and Tim having to stay out in California most of the year, Dad losing his job and then getting it back. But the difficulties have given way to strengths. I've seen my brothers pull together to help out more than they ever did while Mom was home. I've seen my hardworking Dad, work harder to provide for his family. I've seen my sister learn how to take charge of some of my old responsibilities. I've watched my Mom - miles away, work through her parents' passing and the resulting legal duties. I am so proud of my family. They've modified the unofficial Naval motto of "Non sibi sed patriae" - not self but country, to "Non sibi sed familia" - not self but family.

My brothers and I are putting Christmas together for the family. Mom being miles away - can't work her Christmas magic, but we're giving her a good run for her money. The greatest gift we will be receiving this season, is her arrival on the 19th. (Coincidentally, that's her and Dad's Anniversary: twenty-three years and still going strong!) I haven't seen the house this lively and sparkling since a) Dad's returns from deployments and b) a new baby brother/sister coming back from the hospital. Every day, somebody has a new idea of what they can do to make Christmas more special for Mom and Tim. Maryanne has the guys cleaning on weekends - kudos to her fiestiness for dragging them out of bed.... James is gearing up for when Tim comes back - he's got all sorts of adventures planned, and Joe, John, and I have all turned into Santa's helpers getting presents and decorations squared away.

This will be the greatest and most memorable Christmas, not because the house looks pretty, the presents are bought, or anything like that. It will be the greatest Christmas because we've pulled together as a family- to be together and share in the Christ-filled joy of the season.

Requiescat in Pace

2010-08-20T22:10:00.000-07:00

"While I thought that I was learning how to live, I have been learning how to die."

- Leonardo DaVinci -

I've lost both my maternal grandparents within forty-five days. I'm still in shock over their passing, but I'm taking this as a chance to learn one final lesson from two people who I loved and admired all my life.

From my grandmother, I've learned to be ready.

Ready with a kind word, smile, cup of tea. Ready to care for a screaming baby in order to provide relief for a tired mother. Ready to soothe away nightmares. Ready in mind, body, and soul for life and for death.

I remember my first visit after she was diagnosed with multiple myloma. I went into her room to watch her put on her lipstick and my eyes shifted from watching her steady hand to browsing her bookshelves. Ever the bibliophile, I wanted to see if she had any new books for me to read. She did have new books - but none that I cared to read. She had begun her emotional and spiritual preparation for her final adventure and had stockpiled her reading nook with helpful aides. At seventeen, though, I didn't really feel like reading "On Death and Dying" and turned my attention back to watching Grandma get ready for our day out.

On my very last visit to her in March, I was still amazed at how ready she was. How eager she was to recieve the Sacraments. Regardless of my immediate concerns for her, I knew she was ready. Her final lesson to me lay in preparedness. I can't help but think she took the words: "for you know not the day nor the hour of my return" to heart.

I know I am not ready, not by any stretch of the imagination, but I have learned from her to be ready and to be prepared for anything - life or death. Because of her example, I hope to, one day, be as prepared as her.

From my Gramps - I've learned the power of love.

No...not the cheesy song...but the actual power of love. My Gramps was a people person. He loved being surrounded by people and especially his family. I watched how the simple act of smiling at one of us grandkids or making eye-contact with the bank teller could change the course of the day.

My Gramps gave of himself in everything. As a young boy, he helped his mother, my Nonni, in a country where she couldn't (initially) speak the language. As a young man, he served in the Army during World War II where he liberated Nordhausen. As a married man, he worked hard to provide for his wife and family. As a grandfather, he quietly provided guidance and support to his daughters and to his seven grandchildren.

My Gramps loved with every ounce of his body. More importanly, he understood what it meant to love and passed that understanding on to those around him. Love is an action. Love doesn't have to broadcasted for the world to know. It can go on strong and quiet, or it can burst at the seams.

My grandfather had so much love for those near and dear to him - but he also love humanity. It's this love of humanity. This vivacious virtue that I learned from him I will strive to perfect as I grow older so that I too can love wisely and love well.

For my granparents:

Requiem aeternam dona eis Domine;

et lux perpetua luceat eis.

Requiescant in Pace.

Amen.

Bucket List

2010-07-25T13:44:00.000-07:00

1. Go snorkling.

2. Own a gun.

3. Own and ride this Harley - minus the tassles.

4. Make a difference in someone's life.

5. Pay-it-forward.

6. Bungee jump and sky dive in the same week.

7. See and photograph the Northern Lights.

8. Live in Alaska.

9. Go stargazing...hard core.

10. Sleep outside with nothing but sleeping bags and a fire.

11. Go on a blind date.

12. Travel to at least one of the many places I'd like to visit: Thailand, South Africa, Italy, Greece, Ireland, New Zealand....

13. Refine my salsa dancing.

14. Pack up my bags and just go somewhere - no plans, no nothing, just go till I run out of gas/money.

15. Have dinner with Harry Crocker.

16. Change the world.

17. Plan huge, annual family reunions for my immediate and extended family - either here or in Italy.

18. Visit Quebec and go to the French Quarter.

19. Celebrate St. Patrick's Day in Boston.

20. Get a tattoo.

21. Drive a Ferrari...or some other Italian sports car - in Italy.

22. Gondola!

23. Get married.

24. Have kids- hopefully all boys with imaginations as wild as Calvin's.

25. Make someone laugh or smile every day.

26. Go see the Boston Reds kick some Yankee ass.

27. Be politically involved in the local community.

28. Work for a newspaper.

29. Write something influential.

30. Visit New York City during Christmas.

31. Be in Mexico for Day of the Dead.

32. Participate in major European celebration - Octoberfest or Bull Running for example....

33. Re-visit Chincoteague Island.

34. Turn photography into wall-art.

35. Paint or draw one thing that is very special and beautiful either to me or to the one it's given to.

36. Go on an epic road or bike trip with my cousin, Isaac.

37. Save money to ensure that my future children will be comfortable.

38. Finish my bachelors degree with Honors.

39. Overcome my fear of galloping horses.

40. Go sailing - again.

41. Learn how to sail.

42. Learn how to make stained glass art.

43. Make an apron.

Team Nightlight

2010-07-23T09:50:00.000-07:00

I love the Harvard Lampoon.
This prestigious student run organization is insanely adept at pointing out the obvious - the Emperor is naked and Twilight...Twilight is an overly broody and hilarious young adult craze.

Their first novel in forty years (their last publication was Bored of the Rings, 1969 ), the Lampoon turns this bloodsucking madness into a source of great merriment for me and my kind: the few, the proud, the "Twi-haters".

"According to the Vintage release, Nightlight follows a "pale and klutzy" girl named Belle Goose, who moves to Switchblade, Oregon, and meets Edwart Mullen, a "super-hot computer nerd with zero interest in girls." The vampire-obsessed Belle becomes convinced Edwart is one of the undead after witnessing events she considers otherworldy ("Edwart leaves his Tater Tots untouched at lunch! Edwart saves her from a flying snowball!"). " (http://shelf-life.ew.com/2009/10/06/nightlight-twilight-parody-harvard-lampoon-meyer/)

For those of you who do not care to partake in the Gothic-Romance-Gone-Wrong of the Twilight series, I highly recommend Nightlight and even if you are a card carrying member of Team Edward...read this book - just for laughs if nothing more.

Vivat Dixie!

2010-05-25T11:25:00.000-07:00

"There was a land of Cavaliers and Cotton Fields called the Old South. Here in this pretty world, Gallantry took its last bow. Here was the last ever to be seen of Knights and their Ladies Fair, of Master and Slave. Look for it only in books, for it is no more than a dream remembered, a Civilization gone with the wind."

----Prologue, Gone With the Wind ----

Harry Crocker has done it again.

Using his wit and seemingly endless knowledge of history, Crocker has constructed an image of the South and the Civil War few have seen or heard of. We may have heard of Southern gallantry a la Ashley Wilkes, but we haven't read of how the Southern generals adhered to such civil dictums on and off the field.

We may have heard of military chaplains, but did we know that General Leonidas Polk was an Episcopalean Bishop?

We may have heard of the Emancipation Proclamation, but do we know to what extent it affected slavery?

We may have heard of Grant, Longstreet, Jackson, and Lee, but do we know them?

Crocker resurrects the Confederacy and brings its history, purpose, and spirit to life - instilling in his readers a fiery appreciation and understanding for the people who desired "peace at any sacrifice save that of honour and independance". (President Jefferson Davis, C.S.A.)

This is a must read for any individual who craves an accurate understanding of the Civil War.

Having been dragged across countless Civil War battlefields and memorials by my father at an age where all I wanted to do was play (and not sit in the car for hours on end), I thank Mr. Crocker for presenting a text that finally allows me to appreciate all that my Virginian born and bred Dad tried so despretely to share.

"Vivat Dixie!"

- The Politically Incorrect Guide to the Civil War -

Forays in the Field

2010-05-24T11:22:00.000-07:00

"Nuclear disamament" have been the World's and mainstream media's watchwords since the two day Nuclear Summit during April 12th and 13th.

Atlantic Television Network, an international news station based out of Brussels, Belgium assisted in the production of a show called "The Link". Students from Washington, D.C., London, England, and Tehran, Iran, were invited to discuss the pros an dcons of the recent Nuclear Summit and Global Nuclear Disarmament.

Chosen as a part of the audience in D.C., Kelly Mitchell and I brushed up on our knowledge of global benefits and consequences of nuclear weapons and energy prior to attending the debate. We also talked with Iranian friends to get their perspective and to see what mentality we'd be up against.

Upon our arrival we were given a pamphlet with the questions we would be asked during the show, as well as a few facts and statistics about nuclear proliferation.

As other American students arrived, we struck up a converstation with two American Universtiy students. We were dumbfounded by the lack of knowledge and concern they possessed regarding, not just the nuclear issue, but seemingly anything political. We also discovered that these particular individuals were majoring in Inertnational Studies. We couldn't believe it.

After we picked up our jaws off the floor, we were sent to the studio where we would be filming. Prior to walking into the studio, we had neither recieved any instructions or procedural explanations regarding audience interaction nor were we aware that this production was an international and live broadcast.

Minutes before airtime, our nuclear weapons and theory expert, Ward Wilson arrived. He was placed center stage and we students were placed around him to mimic a round-table discussion.

It was an experience and a half; we were so proud of ourselves for maintaining composure and some semblance of nonchalance as students in Tehran and D.C. ousted "evil, hegemonic America" during the show.

I was placed next to 2010's Jane Fonda. This very nice, earthy, CaliMomma named Lisa, announced to Tehran her "deepest sympathies" and shared her endevours in promoting the evilness of nuclear energy to today's youth. We were wracking our brains trying to deduce where she drew her environmental argument, as nuclear energy is the most reliable form of energy available. Though fossil fuels are efficient, the supply source is becoming scarce. Water and wind energy, though environmentally friendly, remains unpredictable and not dependable sources of energy. Nuclear energy does release toxic emissions but remains, at this point, the most reliable and environmentally friendly form of energy production to date.

Kelley was stationed next to Ward Wilson, who was visibly restraining himself as depicted by his body language. Wilson chose his words wisely due to the audience both immediatley aroudn him and in Tehran.

For the most part we agreed with Wilson's stance: nuclear energy - good, nuclear weapons - pointless; the real problem: Cold War mentality and fear. Wilson encouraged seeking alternate means of mass defense and offense. He also pointed out that the probabilty of a nuclear free world was slim. Definitely not happening in our lifetime.

The Iranians were as we had expected (and had been forewarned), vehement and angry: calling America "Israel's puppet" among other things. The obvious hatred a sight to see.

The Brits were a real mixed bag - as we had also foreseen. Some were for us, some against us. Paul Ingram tellied in as Britain's nuclear expert. He had some interesting points, but for the most part he and Ward Wilson were on the same page.

A lot of the debate wound up being on the evilness and atrocities of America. The anchor in Tehran had to keep calling the audience back on task.

What really pissed us off (and I haven't mentioned everything) was the utter ignorance of Americans. In response to the final question "What do you see as the real threat? Is it the possession of nuclear weapons, the mentality behind the usage...?", one American student blamed America. Her argument was based on the fact that America has been the only country, to date, who has used there nuclear weapons in a war situation. We are sure that America chose to use these weapons to save millions of American and Japanese lives - but cannot ignore the massive destruction they incurred. If that had been the extent of her argument, we would have been fine, but the girl continued to blame America. Touting America as being the root of all global problems, completely dismissing the wealth of good that this great nation has accomplished in it's two-hundred and thirty-four year history. In her eyes, America was no better than a communist state.

We were astounded by the lack of respect for our nation by the American students and the amount of ignorance our fellow students possessed. As a whole, we are ridiculously ignorant - but ignorant in the worse way. We have some of the picture, but refuse ot face the rest of in fear of hurting feelings. Negotiations and compromise rather than some good ole' Yankee bluntness....

Shalimar the Clown: Utopia Falls

2009-05-01T11:26:00.000-07:00

Okay, here goes my first (public) attempt at reviewing a book. I had to pick a non-Western author for a World Lit honors project, Salman Rushdie- this is the poor soul who I criticized to no end. (My review is far kinder than my rants.)

Utopian dissonance reigns supreme in Salman Rushdie’s 2005 novel, Shalimar the Clown. Shattered dreams, broken hearts, community and country torn apart: Rushdie’s work is hardly Brothers Grimm. Shalimar’s saga begins in California “whose body was its temple and whose ignorance was bliss” and continues on through time and space in Kashmir, Europe and elsewhere until Shalimar’s story comes full circle (Rushdie 8). Set in the Indian region of Kashmir, a relative utopia where Muslim and Hindu set their differences aside and partake in the Kashmiri credo of Kashmiriyat, or socio-cultural unity, Shalimar the Clown is the labyrinthine tale of Shalimar – his love, passion, and revenge on Boonyi, his only love. Boonyi is a beautiful, sensuous, Hindu dancer and Shalimar is the Muslim, handsome, passionate “clown” or tightrope walker. They fall in love at a young age, far too young for them to have achieved their goals or desires. Shalimar, sinisterly possessive, vows to Boonyi: “[If] you leave me now …I’ll never forgive you and I’ll have my revenge, I’ll kill you and if you have any children by another man I’ll kill the children also” (Rushdie, pg. 61). Thus begins the “time of demons” – a time where love and hatred share equal status and intimacy (Rushdie, pg. 84).

Rushdie has a propensity for the dark and histrionic. His language is dense, poetic (at times), full of religious symbolism but chronically sinister. Rushdie leaves no room for hope or peace within Shalimar. Shalimar is defined as a “novel” but perhaps should be called a poorly written tragedy. Rushdie’s lack of any positive character or character development is his most outstanding flaw. Rushdie teases his audience, giving us a wonderfully crafted and illustrated book only for us to discover the inside pages are blank. His characters are flat, two- dimensional beings with no hope for personal happiness simply because it is denied by their creator.

Rushdie’s novel is a running commentary on the loss of community within the Kashmir. He elevates and sensualizes the unity within Kashmir, idolizing its tolerance and values. Kashmir, nestled between India and Pakistan, served as a safe-haven for those who wished to avoid cultural discrepancies. Shalimar’s father, Abdullah, at the announcement of Boonyi and Shalimar’s wedding, states: “We are all brothers and sisters here. […] There is no Hindu-Muslim issue” (Rushdie, pg. 110); how quickly does that sentiment change. Rushdie mourns the emergence of violence and prejudices that, once put aside, erupted when surrounding politics ripped through the nation creating a battleground out of paradise. His intent was perhaps this: to write a commentary on Kashmir, however, he could have done far better. If Shalimar was intended as political commentary, Rushdie could have picked a better disguise – one cleverer than the soap opera. His histrionic, chaotic blend of the historic and fantastic is overstated and tenebrous. Rushdie would have fared better had he separated the two and devoted equal time (in separate accounts) to his characters and to his beloved Kashmir.

Students and Politics

2009-03-22T16:18:00.000-07:00

Why in your authors' opinion are, for example, college students (and many others) so disengaged from politics? Hint: especially Ch 1. Do you think this has changed in 2008, and if yes, why, if no, why.

Political engagement, according to some college students, is an ineffectual way to solve problems. This disengagement combined with skepticism of current officials and processes made for a very disinterested generation. Two years ago a Harvard poll indicated that one in four college students feel that their vote “doesn’t matter” and that they don’t have any voice in what the government does. Many students felt misinformed and stayed out of politics because they wanted more information before getting involved.

Today, however, more and more youth are actively following and engaging in politics. The recent presidential campaign did more to draw the youth of this nation than in any other previous election. By “modernizing” their campaigns through Facebook, Myspace, and youtube.com clips, the candidates attracted the youth to the polling booths. It’s not just the use of technology that has made the youth emerge as a driving force to be reckoned with – it’s a change of thinking as well. More and more young people are following political activity: Jonathan Krohn leading the way. Though definitely not a college student his example will encourage those both younger and older than him.

_________________________________________________________________

http://www.nytimes.com/2009/03/08/fashion/08conserve.html

History, Religion, and Politics

2009-02-22T08:54:00.000-08:00

I am taking a Political Science class this semester (see not all of my classes are Lit.). Part of my homework this week was to answer a variety of questions after reading and studying the Declaration of Independance and Constitution. One question in particular stood out. I have posted it here below along with my response. Enjoy.

One of Lipset's findings, so to speak, is that the US is a far more religious country than any of its western brethren. For instance, in Europe, it would seem unseemly for a politician, in general, to declare their religious views. In the US it seems exactly the opposite. Why do you think this is? And why is this more prevalent today than during the 40's, 50's, 60's, and even the 70's? For example, why is the teaching of evolution even being debated in the US today? You don't find that in ANY other country.

The United States was founded on Judeo-Christian principles, hence why we are a Christian nation.

In the 40’s -70’s politicians did discuss their religious views and religion was far more prevalent then, than it is today evidenced by the historical fact that television premiered with only two channels, a comedian by the name of Milton Berle and a Bishop by the name of Fulton Sheen.

In the 1940’s we had an Episcopalian president, Franklin Delano Roosevelt, who in his “Four Freedom’s” speech states:
“The second [freedom] is the freedom of every person to worship God in his own way – everywhere in the world.”
He of course was referring to America’s Bill of Rights. FDR unhesitatingly stated in an interview, when asked what his philosophy was:
“I am a Christian and a Democrat that is all.”
FDR was followed by President “Give’em Hell” Harry Truman, a fiery Baptist, in the 1950’s. In the 60’s we had Catholic president, John F. Kennedy, followed by Eisenhower.
Eisenhower signed the bill authorizing the addition of the words “under God” to the Pledge of Allegiance, on June 14, 1954. Eisenhower commented on this in his 1954 Flag Day speech:
“In this way we are reaffirming the transcendence of religious faith in America’s heritage and future; in this way we shall constantly strengthen those spiritual weapons which forever will be our country’s most powerful resource in peace and war.”
He was a Jehovah’s Witness turned Presbyterian.

I would argue the reverse to be true, that politicians and media were far more vocal fifty years ago than today. As for evolution, which remains a theory only, it is interesting such would be exemplified in this discussion on religious vocality. The ongoing debate on evolution remains lively in every country of the world where Christianity remains vocal, or active even underground, as the objection to evolution is not central to “change” but central to the existence of man’s soul which by definition elevates man above the animal kingdom and implies also an intelligent design, higher being, or God.

Every Day

2009-01-23T14:11:00.000-08:00

Yesterday marked the anniversary of Roe V. Wade and I, along with thousands of others, was in D.C. participating in the Pro-Life movement's "big event": the March for Life.

I saw signs depicting the gruesome and horrendous stages of abortion, heard the thunderous voices of youth chanting Pro-Life slogans like they were at their highschool football stadium, and met many young, interested teens and young adults.
Some of them were there because their parents made them go (you know the deal: "Go. Or I get the iPod for the week.) and some of them were there because they wanted to be there. Either way, once they arrived, they were proud to be there. Proud to be fighting for: life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness for all - born and unborn. A just cause indeed.
I wondered though on the ride home: "Sure, we marched. Yes, we made a stand...some of us were on live television - what a way to get the word out...but what about the every day, the ordinary? What can we do then?"

I know many people heavily active in the Pro-Life movement, active in groups such as PRI: Population Research Institute or the local pregnancy centers. I wondered what I could do on a daily basis that would help those I interact with see the value of a human life. Then I remembered Mother Teresa once said that "You cannot do great things, only little things with great love." As the eldest of six, sometimes just going grocery shopping willingly, with my siblings is enough to testify that I am Pro-Life.

Being Pro-Life, is not limited to attending a march every year at our nation's capital, or attending Pro-Life meetings - it is that and more. For me, it means that when my little brother spills Coke down my favorite shirt in the middle of dinner at a rather nice restaurant, I calmly clean it up, smile and tell the little guy "it is okay" and pour him another glass.

"Little is much in the hands in the Lord." Even when I question, "Is this really helping any?", I have found it really does. People look up and smile as if to encourage and silently convey: "Keep up the good work!"

Buon Natale

2008-12-24T18:53:00.000-08:00

Happy, happy Christmas, that can win us back to the delusions of our childish days; that can recall to the old man the pleasures of his youth; that can transport the sailor and the traveller, thousands of miles away, back to his own fire-side and his quiet home!

~Charles Dickens, The Pickwick Papers

The Supreme Court has ruled that they cannot have a nativity scene in Washington, D.C. This wasn't for any religious reasons. They couldn't find three wise men and a virgin.

~Jay Leno

Only in souls the Christ is brought to birth, And there He lives and dies.

~Alfred Noyes

Merry Christmas to all!

Peace!

Move over Repicheep...

2008-12-22T08:45:00.000-08:00

...Hello Despereaux.

With the enduring credo of "Courage, Chivalry, and Honor", The Tale of Despereaux leads us in the timeless battle against evil (and rats). Despereaux battles not only recognized evils but lukewarm stereotypes as well. You see, in Mouseland, it is a crime to be brave and all young mice are taught at an early age to "cower, scurry, and hide." Despereaux, however, is in frequent trouble for his "odd" behavior. He's a frequent visitor to his principals office for many atrocities including (horror of all horrors) drawing a picture of a cat in his notebook. Despereaux lives up to his motto and introduces the concept of true chivalry to others along the way.

Universal Studios has done a fantastic job of bringing to life a well loved children's tale and maintaining the charm and charisma of it's hero - Despereaux.

This movie provides a new fairy tale hero - one far better than any Prince Charming. What we find here is a true hero, gentleman, and "man" of honor.

Love in the 2000's

2008-12-08T09:05:00.000-08:00

“No matter how good she (he) looks to you, someone, somewhere is tired of her (him).” – D. Jenkins

“She’s so fine there’s no telling where the money went.”

Professor N. scratched these phrases on the board, turned to us and said: “Okay, today in your journals you will write about love in the thousands. Tell me what you think of it.”

Heads bent, pens and pencils scratching, I could tell by what I saw and heard that my fellow classmates had a lot to say about “love in the thousands.” Raised Catholic and working to promote sexual integrity, I knew that this question would have an easy answer, but I also thought it would be unique.

I waited to hear the other responses, and I was surprised at what I heard. The majority of my class (twenty-seven students total) were all in accord. They were all saying what I knew: that culture today has made it easy to meet people, but hard to stay in a committed, pure, loving relationship.

The students went on to say that there has been a huge role reversal in that girls are now more likely to “chase” guys. The only married man in the class stated that “today’s fashion, culture, and music has made it hard to remain committed to one spouse. All around us we see men and women jumping from partner to partner as soon as they are bored.”

A twenty-something, single man went on to say that “Chivalry died with feminism.” I could have hugged him.

This comment brought on an onslaught of agreement with only some objection from two students who think today’s culture is perfectly fine. Most of the girls, though, wondered why the advent of feminism and women’s lib meant a loss of their feminine dignity. “Why can’t things be ‘normal’ again? Why can’t we go back to the days when guys brought the girls flowers and the girls allowed the guys to pursue, rather than hunt?” one girl asked.

My professor was obviously pleased that he had such a well-rounded group of kids on his hands, and asked, “So what do you think of today’s culture? Is it helping people to learn how to love and commit? Or do you think that it’s easy to quit and move on to the next ‘one true love?’”

“Oh, definitely easier to quit!” one girl interjected. The same young man who had spoken before continued, saying, “But if you truly love someone, you will stay committed and work through your problems.”

Professor N. decided to play the devil’s advocate, “But why should I have to work at love? Love is supposed to be easy, right? I mean come on – why work when I can divorce and move on to the next pretty lady?”

The class was quiet for a minute; you could hear a pin drop – then the responses came. Hands went up, equal numbers of girls and guys, all saying: “If you love them you will work through anything!” and “You have to work at love! That’s why love is something that grows.”

Many more responded the same way, showing me that my answer was not original. Rather, most kids these days realize that love, work, and commitment go hand in hand, and that we are no longer the silent majority, but the vocal majority. We are ready to show those in authority that “kids” know the difference between love and lust, relationships and one-night stands.