French and American: Really so different?

My wife and son just got back from Paris, and from what they told me and what has been going on lately, I'm beginning to think that the French aren't as different from Americans as many may think. I'm going to give just four examples here, and you can decide for yourself.

McDonald's: There are more and more of the restaurants in Paris. Surprisingly, it isn't just the food that attracts Parisians. In Paris, if you want to use the bathroom of a cafe or restaurant, you almost invariably have to buy something. Not at McD's. You can walk in and use a clean bathroom without buying. Americans take that for granted, but it's new in France and is a very popular idea. Unfortunately, it seems that artery clogging is becoming more common as well. The fast food craze is leading to higher levels of heart disease in France. How American is that?

Starbucks: Yes, that's right. Starbucks is in Paris and is growing by leaps and bounds. My son counted three within a few blocks of each other. Now why, you may ask, would Starbucks be so popular when you can get some of the world's best coffee at any sidewalk cafe? Besides the drinks, one reason is a very un-French reason: the drinks cost the same whether you drink it there or take it to go. In Paris, if you want to eat or drink at the restaurant or cafe, the price is higher because you are basically renting the table. However, that isn't the way in the U.S., and it isn't the way at Starbucks. You pay the same price for your beverage no matter where you're going to drink it. So, even though it goes against tradition, the Parisians are leaping at the idea. (Starbucks also does the bathroom thing that McDonald's does, but I won't go into that.)

Smoking: The French are getting ready for a ban on smoking in public places. Seems that Chirac stopped smoking a while ago and wants others to do the same. Very American, eh? Even though some are protesting the idea, chew on this fact. Another reason that Starbucks is popular in Paris is...that it is a non-smoking establishment! The French seem to be ready for the ban on smoking and there appear to be many who are already embracing it.

Politics: If you've read any of my previous posts, you know that I don't get involved in politics. But there is something similar going on in France and the U.S. that struck me, and I had to point it out. The most popular candidate for president of France right now is a woman named Segolene Royal. She is the Socialist candidate (leftist), is very attractive, has little real political experience, is a media darling, and has hoards of fans to the point where she is almost a rock star.
Where's the similarity? I present to you one Barack Obama. Let's see...left wing, attractive, little political experience, is a media darling, and has hoards of fans to the point...you get the picture.

So...are the Parisians and Americans really so far apart, or is it just another form of "let's hate someone who isn't just like us" going on? Time to quit picking on the French, folks. They're more like you than you might like to admit!

Online Translator Programs Crack Me Up!

Many years ago, there was a concern that computers would take over from humans. It's true that computers have changed life in many ways. Still, there's one area where computer software needs work: web-based translation programs. Why am I bringing this up? Not because I'm picking on those who are trying to succeed at this incredibly difficult task. No, it's just to point out some funny things that happen when you translate pages with Google.

I'm just going to give a few examples, but if you want to laugh, try using Google Translate on any page. (Mind you, it helps if you have at least some knowledge of the language you are translating to get the full humor.)

Here is some odd stuff from the front page of the web site for the Le Monde newspaper. (www.lemonde.fr)

In a section of the website focused on the Presidential election coming up in 2007, the headline is: La Campagne Heure par Heure, which means "The campaign hour by hour". Instead, it translates it "The countryside hour by hour". hmmmmm

Some other odd sentences:
Business the Russet-red one: silence, one doubts (huh??)
In Vernon, flamers of five and seven years (arsonists...not flamers )
Mr. the PEN does not see "not a disadvantage" with the pacs, promised with abrogation in the program of the FN. (Yikes!!! Let's start of with the man's name, Mr. LePen. The rest just gives me a headache!)
One more: Raffarin gives her support for Sarkozy for 2007 (In French, it's Raffarin apporte son soutien... how they got that Raffarin is a female, I'll never know, and I'm sure he wouldn't appreciate that!)

Anyway, it's fun to do. Try it! You never know what you'll get. And to those who are working so hard to get these programs working...keep working at it! You've made incredible strides. The problem is that it really takes the human element to really fine tune it. I'm not sure a computer will ever be able to handle the complexities of human language. That's a little comforting, isn't it?

A Shout Out to "Count Your Sheep"

Out in Internetland there are more online comics than you can shake a keyboard at. Some are quite good, while others....eh....

One of the absolute best, in my humble opinion, is a good-natured comic called "Count Your Sheep". The author and artist is Adrian Ramos, but he goes by Adis.

Link to "Count Your Sheep"

Now, I don't always see eye to eye with Adis, as my religious beliefs are obviously different than his. That having been said, Adis has created a webcomic that is charming, insightful, and just downright fun. I won't go into details...you have to see it for yourself. I'll give you a quick overview, though.

The main characters are Katie ( a little girl with a hatred for school and a love for soccer), Laurie (her widowed mother who is raising Katie on her own), and Ship the sheep. Ship is an imaginary sheep (as much as Hobbes was imaginary in Calvin's opinion). Ship is typical for his type of animal, as all Katie has to do is count him and she falls asleep. However, Ship is far more than that. He is a friend and confidant for Katie, but is also the same for Laurie, as Ship was Laurie's imaginary friend first. Laurie can still see him, so Ship is the family friend.

Anyway, I can't even begin to describe this comic except to say that you should take a look. Go back to the archives. Then, prepare to be won over.

As Adis concludes all his postings....now go to bed.

Excuses, excuses!

OK...so it's been awhile. Can I call it laziness? Yes. Will I? Yes, and no.

I can't really blame this on work. Even if things are crazy, they aren't crazy enough to keep me from writing something now and then.

Home life? Well, other than a car being stolen and recovered, (and having two teen sons), I can't really say that this part of my world is interfering.

My spiritual life? Busy...very busy. New assignments, new responsibilities...but again, does it keep me from writing a little blurb now and then? No.

So...the only choice left seems to be laziness. I will take that as one reason. The other is that I just plain don't have a lot to say. Except this: I take full responsibility for not posting. Isn't that refreshing? Someone taking responsibility for themselves? This leads to my rant for the day.

So many people want to blame anyone but themselves for things that happen. Someone spills hot coffee on their lap and blames the fast food chain for the coffee being hot. You know how it goes.

In the end, though, we need to be responsible for our own actions. If someone makes a mistake, admit it! Then, the one who was on the receiving end should forgive and forget. Isn't that easy? Could you imagine the reduction in lawsuits, anger, road rage, and the like if people just applied the Golden Rule and its corollary, self-responsibility? Imagine! "Sir, I'm sorry that I forgot my turn signal. It was irresponsible and it won't happen again. You have my apologies." "That's okay. We all make mistakes." No guns. No loud arguments. And everyone moves on.

So, the next time you make a mistake, don't cover it up. Just admit it, apologize if anyone was hurt or inconvenienced, and learn from it. What a concept.

To all who actually read these posts...I apologize. I'll try to post more often. (I feel better now. Don't you?)

I'm still alive...I think...

It occurred to me that it's been a whole month since my last post. That isn't good form for a blog, is it? So, I struggled and struggled to figure out what to write today, and to be honest, I haven't the vaguest idea. Thus, I'm going to go to my old standby of writing whatever comes to mind, which could be very dangerous or, at the least, very boring.

SPORTS
I'm not a huge fan of the professional game these days. There is so much free agency that it's tough to keep up with a team. Add to that the drug accusations and the incredible amount of money some of these guys make, and it's enough to make a bookworm out of any fan. That having been said, there are a few things of note lately.

The Oakland A's are in the playoffs. Why is that interesting? Look at the payroll. They get by on less money than just about any team in the league, yet they are always right up there. It's nice to see young guys playing their hearts out and having fun, so go A's!!!

The two Bay Area teams are going to meet this weekend in the Ho-Hum Bowl. Does anyone really care which team wins? Who actually wants bragging rights in this case? San Francisco has one win, and the Raiders have none. Again...who cares?

The Sacramento Bee recently did a poll showing that two ballot measures designed to pay for a new arena for the city is failing miserably. As anyone knows, I'm not political. But I do have to ask what the people of Sacramento are thinking. A sales tax hike of one quarter of one percent? Big deal! Half of that money goes to community services, and the other half goes to building a new arena on some horrible looking railyards to replace an arena that has outlived its useful life. The new arena will not only make downtown look great, but if we don't get it, I don't want to hear any of these yo-yos whining that we never get any concerts or events in town. Where do they want these events held; a local park?? These whiners need to get real and understand that if they want to play, they need to play. It isn't about how much money the Maloofs have. It's about taking care of the city that doesn't want to be called a Cowtown anymore.

SCHOOL SHOOTINGS

Sad. Nothing else to say. Just sad.

CONGRESSMEN

Sick. Nothing else to say. Actually, a lot to say, but I'm not going to say it.

HOUSING BUBBLE

What in the world did people THINK would happen? They overextend themselves, take out interest only loans, pay double what a house is worth and think that they will resell it...did they think it would go on forever???

FINALLY...

I'm still in my Sociology class and I hate it. I'll be glad when this semester is done. It's important to reassess priorities in life, and I think that mine may be to not worry so much about finishing a stupid Associate's degree. I think I'll focus on learning French, studying my Bible, becoming a better minister, and taking care of my family. Far more important than a lousy degree, don't you think?

Sociology 1 Begins

Well, summer session is over, and I can proclaim my Cultural Anthropology class a success. For those of you who have any interest in learning how to view other cultures from a non-nationalistic viewpoint, give a class like this a try. If a person really makes an effort, a class like this can change how one views others, and perhaps make one a bit more understanding.

This term, I get to try my hand at Sociology. Even though I prefer the premise of Cultural Anthropology more, this class also seems to focus on seeing society with different eyes. However, if the first chapter of the textbook is any indication, this class is going to be a struggle. Which leads me to my rant: textbook writers.

Textbooks for college students are supposed to be challenging. They are supposed to make a student think. But that doesn't mean that the presentation is to be so wordy and obtuse that a student new to the subject is confounded and annoyed. I consider myself a well-read individual with a good vocabulary and a decent brain. Yet the first chapter of my Sociology text is written as though the authors are just trying to show the reader how much smarter the writers are compared to the students. How about this; try to make a difficult subject easier, and save the complex descriptions until after an intro? Do that, and you won't make your subject sound like the domain of a bunch of snotty-nosed egotists. Instead, you might be talking with some future enthusiasts of your subject.

Enough rant. I'm going to try to reprogram my stupid cellphone now. Word of warning: you might want to avoid the Sony Ericsson w600i. It's a pain.

Race isn't race

I have been working my way through a class in cultural anthropology this summer. As part of the class, we considered the meaning of "race". Now, like many, I was opposed to "racism" in all of its forms. But I have come to realize that this is not only a misnomer but is also damaging to improving the relationships between the so-called "races". How do I figure this? Let me explain.

Race, when considered in an anthropological sense, refers to different species. Thus, when we consider humans, we consider the human "race" as a whole. Now, that is the correct way to use the word. All people on earth are a part of this race. White, black...all are a part of the human race. When we classify a person's color as race, we are stating that they are of a different species, and thus make it easier to consider another person as less than human. That's where the danger and the difficulty comes in. In reality, most of us can trace ourselves to a different culture. Here is where we can differentiate, but we do so on an even keel. If an American considers someone from England, he generally doesn't view the English person as lower class or beneath him. (That is, if he looks at things fairly and reasonably.) Instead, he simply views the British person as from a different culture. In a similar vein, someone from Mali would be from a Malian culture. The race is still human, but the culture is different. Even within a city, a white man might come from, say, the Italian part of town and be of the Italian-American culture while an inner-city black man might consider himself of the African American or even the hip-hop culture. In this, there is no lowering of a person to a lesser race...just a different culture.

Is this making sense? If we were to regard people in this way, we wouldn't use the terms "racism" or "racist". Instead, someone could be a "culture snob" or a "cultural elitist" or a "culturalist" to coin a new phrase. Now we are saying things as they are. A black man is not lower than a white man or higher than a white man. Instead, anyone who tries to treat such a man as different is saying that they just don't like him because of his color and culture, and must therefore admit that he has no grounds for his prejudice. With the idea of race, a white supremicist would think himself justified in hating a black man because he sees the black man as a lower species, or race. With calling things as they are, the white supremicist hasn't a leg to stand on. He merely shows himself to be the cultural bigot that he is and should be mocked for such behavior.

Let's get rid of the race card. Instead, let's recognize that all people are equal and of the same race, and enjoy cultural differences the same way that world travellers do when they voyage with an open mind and an adventurous spirit.

OK...So Nobody is Perfect

Well, as you probably have read over and over again, Italy won the Cup. Yes, I confess, I had the wrong score. And yet, I take some small comfort in thinking how close to being correct I really was! It could have easily been 2 - 1 France. But a salute to Italy for their victory.

I can't close this without commenting on the Zidane situation briefly. I'm not sure at this time what was said to Zidane to cause him to explode the way that he did. It couldn't have been just harmless banter, however. Despite what Materazzi of Italy claims, there is no doubt that he DOES know what a terrorist is (give me a break...does he think that anyone believes him that he doesn't know???), and he wouldn't be one to avoid insulting another player in any way possible if it could win his team the Cup. And Zidane wouldn't have gone off, possibly costing his team the cup and himself his reputation, unless Materazzi said something so heinous to Zidane that he couldn't let it go.

Zidane's mother has been sick. If Materazzi had insulted Zizou's mother and sister, then it would explain the outburst. Nonetheless, it doesn't excuse the outburst. Zidane is a pro, who has been penalized for just such an attack in the past. Did he really think he wouldn't get penalized in the World Cup? Maybe the answer was that in the heat of the moment, he just wasn't thinking at all. And because of that, France may have missed out on a golden opportunity to send Zizou out as a hero, with a second star on their uniform.

Les Bleus Making Me Look Good!

Okay everyone. This is getting weird. My picks for the semifinals of the World Cup? Exactly right! I mean exactly!!! Take a look at the previous post and see.

I picked Italy to win in overtime over Germany. What happened? Italy scores two goals at the end of OT to beat Germany 2 - 0. I also picked France to beat Portugal in regular time, which they did 1 - 0. I'm not saying that I'm perfect or that I can predict the future, but pretty good guesses, eh?

Will my finals pick come true? Who knows? Remember, I said France 2 - 1 over Italy.

On a side note, let's hear it for Zizou! Proof positive that old guys can show the younger ones how it's done.

My wife is of Sicilian ancestry, so she can play both sides of the field. If Italy wins, she can be happy because of her Italian blood. If France wins, she can be happy because of her French birth. However, I told her that if I catch her voting for Italy, she's sleeping on the couch. I won't really make her do that, but you get the picture. ;-)

In the end, I really am cheering for France. They have had a lot of grief there lately, and it would be nice for the people to have something to cheer about for a change.

ALLEZ LES BLEUS!!! ALLEZ ZIZOU! ALLEZ THURAM! ALLEZ HENRY! ALLEZ RIBARY! ETC., ETC., ETC.

Wrong Score...Right Result

Well...I was wrong. I freely admit that. My guess about the quarterfinals of the World Cup was wrong.

I predicted a final score of 3 - 1. It was, in fact, 1 - 0. But unlike the vast majority of those who thought to predict the results of this match...I was right...simply, plainly, clearly...RIGHT!!!

OK, so gloating isn't the most becoming image. Still, when I look at the predictions on ESPN.com, SI.com, MSNBC.com, etc., etc., and see how many so-called experts predicted an easy victory for Brazil, my arm aches with patting myself on the back.

Yes..I predicted a France victory, against so many others' guesses. Not to gloat more, but according to my fantasy picks on ESPN.com, even though I did rather poorly in the group stage, I have predicted every single winner in the knockout stages up to this point. Yes, I even predicted a Portugal victory over England, as well as a German victory and an Italian victory. What does this mean? Absolutely nothing. I don't gamble. But boy...if I did!

Nonetheless, I just want to say how awesome Zinedine Zidane was. His elegance on a football field is nothing short of artistry. Ever since I saw the man play on television in 1998, I have been amazed at his ability to pass, control, fake, and see out of the back of his head. He is the premier soccer player of his generation, bar none. At age 34, in today's match he made Ronaldo and Ronaldinho look ancient. I also have a new player to support: Ribery. Now that he has his nerves under control, he has been nothing but trouble for other teams. His speed, his energy, and his drive make him a joy to watch. Keep it up, monsieur.

So what will happen in the semis? Well, I'm not changing horses now. Here's my guess:
Italy upsets the home town heroes Germany in overtime, and France defeats Portugal in regular time, setting up a rematch from the European Cup of 2000, France vs. Italy. And in the finals? Who else? France defeats Italy 2 - 1, with Zizou holding the trophy up high as the champion that he is. Will I be right? I don't know...but I sure hope so...ALLEZ LES BLEUS!!!

France - The Good (World Cup), and the Ugly (Apple)

As you can tell from my previous postings, (if you have read them), I have a soft spot in my heart for France. My wife is French, my wife's family still lives there, and I have visited several times and love it. Therefore, I tend to comment frequently on France and things French.

Today I read a news report that the French legislature has once again done the stupid and are on the verge of shooting themselves in the figurative foot, especially in the areas of business and collecting taxes.

According to an MSNBC report (www.msnbc.msn.com/id/13630757/), the French legislature has decided that Apple must open up its iTunes music format to allow it to be played on other mp3 players. That basically means that Apple must give up its proprietory information to every other mp3 manufacturer on the block because France thinks that it is unfair that people are choosing iPods and iTunes by the thousands over any other player. What this means for Apple is that they must do one of two things: either give the information out and thus open up their music store for every other mp3 manufacturer on earth (not just France...do you really think that Sony is going to only manufacture such players for France?), or they will simply close up shop in France and stop selling their iPods and allowing iTunes downloads in that country. Guess which one Apple will choose? Which one would you choose? (DUH!)

What does this mean for France? First of all, they are going to have a whole lot of unhappy current iPod owners out there who can no longer download music for their device legally. In addition, France is going to be losing out on a huge amount of sales tax that these downloads and iPod sales generate. And for what? To appear morally superior? To appear to be dedicated to fair business practices? Give us all a break. France is so ridiculously unfair to businesses that they are bailing out of that country in droves. Between obscene taxes, ridiculous laws about hours to be worked, insane vacation requirements, and ludicrous strikes, the French government has made their country one of the least business-friendly countries on earth! The French people need to get a grip on their country and their economy, quit thinking they are entitled to everything they want, quit striking over every perceived slight, and grow up and join the 21st century economy. As for Apple, they have no choice. They will leave France if this law is signed. As well they should. They will simply be joining the exodus out of that quagmire of economic quicksand.

On a lighter note: To all those people who thought that Spain would destroy France in the group of 16 matches at the World Cup....nyah, nyah, nyah! And that includes my FRENCH brother-in-law who didn't give them a chance. It's pretty sad that an American citizen living in California had more insight into the French team than a French football fan. Now the French citizens are jumping, nay, stampeding onto the bandwagon! After a dismal 2002 World Cup performance followed by a dismal Europe 2004 performance, Les Bleus are challenging again. It goes to show that experience still counts for something, and I, for one, am more convinced than ever that Zinedine Zidane belongs on the same platform with men like Pele as one of the greatest footballers ever.

As for the quarter-final match against Brazil, I have seen many predictions at various sports websites. A good ninety percent are predicting a walkover for Brazil. These are probably the same people who saw Spain crushing France. Let's admit one thing: as good as Brazil is, they have looked very beatable in their previous matches. My prediction: France 3, Brazil 1. (Looks familiar? France 3, Spain 1 you say? Yep.) World Cup 98 rematch here, same result with different score. I sincerely hope I'm right, because I LOOOVE saying "nyah nyah nyah"!

Cell Phone Safety

Today's Sacramento Bee posted an editorial about cell phone safety.

http://www.sacbee.com/content/opinion/story/14272361p-15082704c.html

Now, I'm not opposed to people being safe on cell phones while driving. I, myself, use a Bluetooth earpiece and voice-activated dialing while driving. That's especially important as I use a stick shift! But to get back to the commentary, the editorial stated the following:

"Researchers have found that it is not just the act of pushing a key pad or answering the phone that causes distractions that lead to accidents. A person conversing on the phone while driving loses cognitive awareness, which impairs his ability to drive. And that happens whether the driver holds the cell phone in his hands or uses some kind of hands-free device."

The editorial is basically condemning all forms of cell phone communication while driving. It is stating that the act of talking itself is a large part of the danger of cell phone use. Well, let's take this one step further. Since talking while driving is a distraction, let's make it illegal to drive with a passenger. Rarely do drivers and passengers proceed to their destination in silence, unless a husband is in the doghouse with his wife. Therefore, since this conversation is a hazard, let's ban passengers. If that's the case, then let's get rid of all cars with more than one seat! And don't bring your baby or children in the car with you, as we all know that these little distractions are even worse than cell phones!

My point is this: driving while using a hands free set and voice dialing is no more dangerous than speaking with passengers in a car. Let's keep our eye on the ball, Sacramento Bee. There are so many more dangerous behaviors out there. Frankly, I'd like to see cops really ticket those who: 1) speak on cell phones without a hands-free device while driving, 2) blast their stereos so loud that they rattle the windows on 2nd floor apartments across the street, 3) speed through neighborhoods at 55 when the limit is 25, and 4) put on makeup, drive, and drink coffee at the same time.

Anyone for sanity?

Random Thoughts for the end of May

Just a few thoughts that have been bouncing around in my brain that can't make a big old post in themselves:

The other day, a young up-and-coming stock car driver died in a crash while driving back to the West coast from North Carolina. He lost control of his vehicle and he and his passenger were thrown out of the car. Neither was wearing seat belts. With the safety devices found in race cars today, and with the importance placed on safety, why was this young man without a seat belt? My condolences to his family, but this guy should have known better, and wasn't very bright for his failure. http://www.lasvegassun.com/sunbin/stories/nevada/2006/may/23/052310988.html

The West Wing series is over, after seven years. A lot of people really liked the final episode, but my family was disappointed. Yes, it was classy. Yes, it was sad. But there were very few resolutions in the final episode! What was Toby's reaction to his pardon? Who is Sam Seaborn engaged to? What happened to Ainsley Hayes? So many things cried out for this series to continue. So my question is...who will be the one to start writing West Wing novels?

With all of the garbage on TV these days, is it any wonder that my favorite network is the Food Network? Thank goodness for Iron Chef America, and my favorite...Good Eats with Alton Brown. Seriously...Alton Brown rules. He is funny, smart, and I learn something every time I watch his show. Besides, how often can you laugh out loud at a food show? Emeril can go away anytime soon, by the way, and he can take Racheal Ray with him.

Am I the only person in this country who refuses to watch American Idol? Why are shows called "reality shows" when there is no link to reality at all?

My wife looks in the mirror as she gets dressed every day, and all she can see is that she "is getting old". First of all, everyone does. Second of all, I'm no spring chicken myself. And third...no one else can tell. She looks beautiful and I am blessed to have her as my wife.
(No reason for adding this....just felt like it. So sue me.)

Speaking Without Knowing

The man Job had been dealing with three "comforters" for days, who had berated him and telling him that God was punishing him for his deeds. Job defended himself, but in so doing, became a little too confident in his own righteousness. Jehovah gently corrected his thinking by giving illustrations and stating facts. Upon hearing these things, Job humbly admitted, "Therefore I talked, but I was not understanding...In hearsay I have heard about you, but now my own eye does see you. That is why I make a retraction, and I do repent in dust and ashes." (Job 42: 3, 5, 6)

It is folly to claim to be able to speak on a subject of which one knows little, and that which one knows is merely hearsay. Why bring this up? Mainly because I am more than a bit tired of hearing some people tell others what Jehovah's Witnesses believe. I read some of the comments, and I am absolutely amazed, not just with the venom that is sometimes spewed, but with the lies and incorrect information that is spread about our beliefs, by those who don't really have the vaguest idea. For example, the most common piece of misinformation is that Witnesses don't believe in Jesus. Where did they get that nonsense? Obviously they have never listened to one of Jehovah's Witnesses. Witnesses do believe in Jesus, and that his ransom sacrifice made possible a reconciliation with God and the opportunity for eternal life. What we do NOT believe is that Jesus is equal to God or is part of a trinity.

Yet, this and other pieces of misinformation continue to be thrown about carelessly by people who think they know. But unlike the man Job, even when told the truth they refuse to listen and claim to know better than a Witness what Witnesses believe.

It is okay not to agree with Jehovah's Witnesses. It is also fine if a person doesn't want to discuss the Bible (although they don't need to be rude...they can simply say "no thanks"). But please, don't discuss the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses with others if you don't really know the beliefs. If you want to know what we believe, ask us. Don't ask people who have never even read a Watchtower magazine, much less delved into our Bible-based beliefs.

Really, I can't tell you anything about the gestation cycle of the African elephant. I can't explain how television signals are converted into pictures. If you want to know these things, I would tell you to consult the experts, or at least material written by those who know for sure; those who work in the field. I also cannot tell you about the numerous beliefs contained in the Muslim faith. Want to know about them? Ask a Muslim! But to those who ask non-Witnesses what Witnesses believe, and to those who claim to know our beliefs and don't....talk to a Witness! Even if you don't want to become one of Jehovah's Witnesses, we are happy to clarify misconceptions about us and our faith. And to those who spread lies just to get people to dislike Witnesses...shame on you.

Once people actually find out the truth about our beliefs, and find out that we are very nice, God-fearing people who care about our neighbors, perhaps those who have spoken incorrectly will emulate Job, who said "What shall I reply to you? My hand I have put over my mouth." (Job 40:4)

By the way, to find information about the gestation cycle of the African elephant, go to the experts: http://www.zoo.org/educate/fact_sheets/elephants/africel.htm
It's really quite interesting! And now I know the facts, not the fallacies.

France, Religion, and Taxes...with a shot at Uzbekistan

It's been a few days since my last rant, so the venom is ready to spew forth once again. Well, maybe not venom...more like incredulousness.

Religious persecution is nothing new. The Pilgrims fled Europe to avoid persecution, and one only has to crack open a history book to see numerous other examples of it. Whether you agree with a religion or not, if a country has a constitution, and within that constitution there is a guarantee of religious freedom (even a limited amount), then by law that country's security forces and political powers are bound to abide by that law. And yet...here are just two small instances of remarkable persecution taking place in our very day. One is in a former Soviet bloc country, so it may be less surprising to some. But a remarkable display of chutzpah is taking place in a country considered a part of the West; my second home, France.

Here is the situation. The French government has decided that Jehovah's Witnesses as an organization are to be taxed for all donations received from its members. Mind you, Jehovah's Witnesses, whether you agree with them or not, are an acknowledged and approved religion in the country of France. No other religious group is being taxed in this manner. Yet for some unknown reason, the French courts have agreed with this move and have ordered that this tax be paid. Not only that, but here's another kicker: the tax rate is 60%!

http://www.jw-media.org/newsroom/index.htm?content=europe.htm

(Click on the link for France)

The courts have acknowledged that the organization "was run in a completely benevolent fashion, and that its activities were not commercial or for profit." So why the tax? That is what all people who believe in religious freedom should be asking. Even the members of other religions are concerned about this matter. If it can happen to Jehovah's Witnesses, who is next?

The case will be brought before the European Court of Human Rights, which has consistently overruled such ridiculous rulings time and again. I am confident that they will uphold the rights listed in the French constitution. And still, we must ask ourselves; if it can happen in France, where next?

I would like to direct everyone's attention to the events in Uzbekistan as well. It isn't just Jehovah's Witnesses being attacked there, although reports consistently come in relating to one abuse or another against them. In this case, the government is directly ignoring their own constitution to persecute members of any religion they see as opposing their own.

http://www.forum18.org/Archive.php?article_id=774

Isn't it sad that with all the progress that these countries are claiming, that the fruitage that their progress is bearing is that of oppression and persecution reminiscent of the former Soviet Union.

(For further information on religious persecution around the world, please visit the excellent reporting site of Forum 18 at www.forum18.org)

France Takes a Big Step Backwards

Let me repeat that I am not political. I just see things as they are. I am also extremely interested in cultural issues. I am especially interested in France, since I married into a French family. Thus, I feel compelled to write a quick note on the situation in France.

Yesterday, Jacques Chirac decided to pull the law that would allow employers to fire people under the age of 26 for any reason within the first year of hiring. Why did he do so? He caved to the labor unions who have turned France into the economic joke of the E.C.

France needs to change. Unemployment is high. Taxes are enormous. Employers are leaving the country in droves because the situation there is impossible for them to succeed.

The current situation in the country gives workers at least 6 weeks vacation to start, a virtual job for life unless they do something like shoot their boss, and the employers are required to pay tons of money in taxes and other monies to the government to cover employees' health and welfare in abundance. In the meantime, employees abuse the system and go on strike at the drop of a hat. When will the people realize that they are going to have to give up some of these unreasonable perks in order to compete on an equal basis with the rest of the world? The problem is that no one wants to be first. But someone is going to have to. Until the labor unions sit down at the table with the government officials, economists, and employers to try to hash out a realistic way of changing things, France will continue to spiral downward and become irrelevant in the world.

It's sad. France used to be the darling of diplomacy and an unrivalled European state. Now, it's just a joke, and its people are seen to be rioting, stubborn, and lazy. What a shame, because such behavior could lead to the loss of a truly wonderful culture. I'm not sure which is worse; the American government's behavior of late or the French people's behavior. Maybe it's a tie. Two different winners (losers?) in two different categories.

We've Been Saying This For Years

What a shock. Can you believe it? An article on MSNBC.com today states that content in movies, television, and music can affect our children! Next they're going to tell us that stopping breathing is dangerous.

Here's the link to the article on MSNBC's website:
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/12130036/

So, basically what the study says is that the increased sexual content in the media is causing young people to have more sex and more promiscuous sex at an earlier age. This flies in the face of all of those who say that "it's just music" or "it's just a movie". No, it isn't. When the brain takes in images and words, it processes them. It cannot be ignored. The brain is too powerful for that. Instead, the information goes in and stays in, whether in the conscious or subconscious.

Think back to television in the late 50s and early 60s. Lucy and Desi didn't even sleep in the same bed! They wouldn't say the word "pregnant". Yes, that was probably too extreme on the side of caution. It was also too extreme to say that Barbara Eden couldn't show her navel in "I Dream of Jeannie". But compare that to the blatant sex, language, violence, and immorality we see today! Is it any wonder that our children view these acts as normal and even preferable?

Allow me to point you to a couple of scriptures in the Bible. Use whatever translation you prefer. Read the MSNBC article. Then check out Ephesians 5: 3-5 and Colossians 3: 8, 9 for a start. Anyone who thinks that the Bible isn't a guide for our day isn't thinking clearly.

Folks, pay attention to what your children are watching and listening to in the media. Find out what music they hear and what movies and television shows they watch. Then exercise your authority as parents and eliminate the bad things. (This includes video games, by the way.) As the years go by, you will see just how valuable such guidance is, and how it helps our children to grow into well-balanced and decent adults. And don't we need more of those?

More Culture Clashes

Once again, the news is filled with problems. Two of the big ones today are the protests in France and the Hispanic protests over new bills in the U.S. designed to curb illegal immigration. Granted, these are two very different subjects, but both involve a group of people trying to influence their respective governments.

In Paris, there is violence, car burnings, confrontations with police and general mayhem. The law that is being protested is an attempt to bring down unemployment and to move France into the modern world. Currently, if you get a job in France, it is almost impossible to be fired from it. Employers have no way of getting rid of poor employees unless the employee does something illegal. Because of this, employers don't want to hire many people, so unemployment stays high. Even though I don't take sides in political issues, it certainly appears that France has to do something with their economy now, or they won't be able to compete. However, the main aspect of this that fascinates me is the attitude of the French worker. It is an attitude of entitlement. They feel as though they are entitled to jobs for life, free health insurance, money for having babies, etc., etc. Yet they don't seem to understand that they are paying for this with a sales tax of 22%, high income taxes, television taxes, etc., etc., etc. And so, they strike, they protest, they burn cars, and they look like rabble.

Let's contrast that image with the Hispanics who are opposed to new laws that would treat illegal immigrants as felons and would punish employers who hire them with huge fines. How did the nation's Hispanic population react? They protested. However, there was a marked difference in how they handled themselves as opposed to how the French did. In Los Angeles, there was a march of over 500 thousand protesters. Five...hundred...thousand! But the amazing thing is that it was peaceful. In other cities there was more of the same. There were walkouts from schools and from jobs; there were discussions with civil leadership; and there was calmness. This was truly an example of how a group can get their message out. No violence, no burnings, and no vandalism.

Again, I don't take sides on any political issue. I see both sides of the French and Hispanic issues. Do I see logic on one side or the other? Sure. I have been to France on a number of occasions and have seen the problems created by unemployment and an over-regulated group of employers. I know many Hispanics, as I live in California. I see the hard work that many of them do, whether they are in landscaping, hotel work, or other jobs that caucasians don't seem to want. Granted, there are many Hispanics in higher positions and even the Attorney General of the United States. But I'm focusing on the "lower" jobs that most people don't want. These immigrants work hard for the most part, and I am frequently impressed with the modesty and kindness I receive when I speak with them.

My point? I have a couple. First; the French people need to quit whining. If they want to compete with the big boys, they need to change. And they also need to stop with the constant strikes, protests, and vandalism. The rest of the world watches this and wonders what has happened to these people who used to be the epitome of diplomacy. Second; people need to quit blaming illegal immigrants from Mexico for the problems in California, Arizona, Texas, and other states. Create a program where they may work legally without fear of deportation, and have employers take a set tax amount from their checks. Easy, right? Nonetheless, the French could take lessons from the Hispanics on how to conduct themselves. Classy protest, amigos. Classy, calm, and effective.

Personal Responsibility

As I was driving to work today, I was listening to sports radio. (I'm a guy...what can I say?) The conversation, as it frequently is, was about Barry Bonds and steroids. One caller said that it is the parent's responsibility to teach their children the dangers of steroids, to watch over them, and to recognize that men like Bonds are not role models.

That is true. However, we also need to teach our kids personal responsibility. If they take steroids to be like Bonds, there have to be reasons behind it. There is the "win at all costs" attitude that prevails in the world today. But the kids choose to take the 'rhoids. They get them from somewhere, and it usually isn't the parent that is providing them.

In a way, this is a symptom of the "not my fault" generation. In many cases, this generation of adults has moved away from the principle of hard work to earn their money and have looked for the "quick fix" method. There is the gambling method, where someone continues to plow money into the lottery or gambling trying to get the easy millions. (Eventually, even the winners end up miserable because they found that money didn't solve their problems...but that's a topic for another time.) My favorite method is the "let's sue them" method. I hear that phrase over and over, especially on the news. Someone is suing McDonalds because their food made them fat. Really? Junk food three times a day can make you fat? What a concept! Another person sued McDonalds because they spilled coffee in their lap and the coffee was...hot!! Another surprise! You order hot coffee and you get hot coffee! Come on now. When I get something from the drive-through from a minimum wage employee, I always check to be sure the lid is on tight because I don't want to wear my drink. Yet this person who didn't check thinks McDonalds should be sued because the coffee was hot. That isn't the real reason. They want an easy buck, and that is the attitude of society today. Look for a reason to sue and sue.

Okay folks. Tell me that this attitude hasn't affected our kids. I dare you. Whether it is teen sex, drug use, stealing, materialism, or whatever; society's example has infected our kids. And how can we stop it? One way is to set the example. Bonds should take responsibility for what he did, confess it, take the spanking, and move on. As parents, we should display the benefits of hard work and not look for the quick buck. We also should teach our children the necessity of taking responsibility for their actions. If they get in trouble at school, don't go down and yell at the teacher like it is her fault! Nine times out of ten it is the child's fault, and he or she should take whatever punishment is doled out. That is how we teach it. That is how they learn it.

Winning isn't everything, and money isn't happiness. And Barry...take the blame. You did it. You know you did. Be a man.

Why is everything a "phobia" now?

As I was reading the "Scene" section in the local newspaper, I noticed what is becoming an all-too-common accusation. Because the film Brokeback Mountain did not win the Oscar, some were accusing the Academy members of being "homophobes". Basically, the term has come to mean anyone who doesn't approve of homosexuality. But what is a phobia, really? One online dictionary describes it as:

an anxiety disorder characterized by extreme and irrational fear of simple things or social situations

OK...with that definition in hand, can the members of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences really be called "homophobes"? For that matter, can anyone who doesn't approve of homosexuality be called "phobic"? I don't see these people running in abject terror from anyone who is openly gay. Nor do they see psychiatrists in order to conquer this phobia. Let's face a simple fact: the word homophobia is being used as an attack word to group anyone who doesn't agree with such a lifestyle into one negative gang.

Now, let's be realistic and discern if I can be called a homophobe. I am a firm believer in what the Bible says about homosexuality. In both the Hebrew and Greek Scriptures, homosexuality is not tolerated. God does not approve of those kinds of sexual appetites. Thus, as a Bible student and believer, I agree that homosexuality is not acceptable. When I see an openly gay person on the street, however, I don't break out in a cold sweat and run like a crazed rabbit in the opposite direction! Nor do I treat homosexuals as though they have the plague. No, I don't condone their choices or behavior, but I am not afraid of gay people, nor am I hostile towards them. Yet by the standards of those who love labels and are so quick to go on the defensive, I would be called a homophobe.

Isn't this just another way to attack anyone who doesn't agree with someone's lifestyle or choices? I have the right to my opinions about various subjects. I can be opposed to political matters. If I am opposed to politics, do I become a "politiphobe"? I am opposed to murder. Am I now a "killophobe"? If the gay community doesn't like the fact that I disapprove of their lifestyle, they have the right to say so. They cannot, however, force their opinions on me and they should not group me in the same category as those who feel that homosexuals should be physically injured or those that feel that they shouldn't be seen or heard.

Let's get rid of the "phobe" suffix, folks. There are too many people who truly suffer from phobias to minimize the psychological condition by labelling opinions as phobias. If you don't like my opinion towards gays, you are free to discuss it with me. You may even imply that I am closed-minded (which I am not) or very religious (which I am). But don't use "homophobia" as a grouping for all of the people who do not approve of the practice. The film didn't win because the film didn't win.
Period.
Deal with it.
Or are you an "Academyphobe"?

Random Thoughts for February

It has been a busy couple of months, which doesn't excuse my failure to post, but may explain it. Still, now that I have a few minutes, I would like to jot some random thoughts about events that have been going on recently. These are in no particular order of importance or interest.

Mohammed cartoons - OK, so this whole thing has gone far beyond a simple protest of Dutch cartoons. First of all, was it right to print the cartoons that have created such strife? My answer: yes and no. You see, there is indeed such a thing as freedom of speech. There is also freedom of the press and freedom of expression. In that sense, the cartoons were legal. The question then becomes: Was it moral and was it insensitive? There are laws that say that you cannot shout "Fire!" in a crowded movie house, as it would endanger the public welfare. (I've heard that it is also illegal to yell "Movie!" in a crowded firehouse, but I digress.) The fact is that the publication of the cartoons was indeed insensitive toward the beliefs of Muslims. However, newspapers and news broadcasters have never been known for their sensitivity towards people's feelings. One sees this when a reporter sticks a microphone in the face of a woman whose husband has just died and asks her what she is feeling.
One more question arises here: Did Muslims in the middle East overreact? The answer to that is a definite "yes". Here in California, Muslims were unhappy about the cartoons. But rather than riot, they decided that a campaign to educate people about their beliefs made more sense. Bravo to them. That shows what calm minds can do. They not only made their point, but they showed class. However, in the Middle East, the governments and extremists used the cartoons as another excuse to vandalize and take part in acts of violence. Embassies were attacked, as were people. In one African nation, 15 people who were said to be Christian were killed as a reaction to the cartoons. Frankly, this smacks of just another excuse to get violent and another excuse for extremists to cause trouble. They don't seem to care about the grief they cause for moderates who believe in peaceful solutions. When extremists react as they did, they harm other members of their faith and create a cycle of hatred and violence that will not end until one side destroys the other.
Come on folks. If you find the cartoons violate the tenets of your faith, write letters, educate people, but don't use it as an excuse to plunder and pillage. That's just ridiculous.

Hot Cross Buns in England OK, here's another fun one. A school district in England has decided that they will no longer serve hot cross buns in their cafeteria to avoid creating a hostile environment for Jehovah's Witnesses, who find the cross to be another form of idolatry. One commentator described Witnesses as "Russelites" (which is an old, old form of attack against the Witnesses) and that they are oversensitive and want nothing more than the destruction of everything and everyone. (I'm paraphrasing here, because I don't want to give this imbecile any more press than he deserves.) The Witnesses in England never asked the buns to be removed. No, they do not eat them. So? That is their right, just as people who don't eat meat have the right to eat only veggies. The bigger issue here is that some twit with a so-called degree in theology feels the need to attack Jehovah's Witnesses with false accusations and name calling. Yes, I'm resorting to name calling in this blog just to show how ridiculous it is. I don't know this man, so how can I call him names? In the same manner, this man obviously knows nothing of the beliefs of Witnesses and thus has sunk to the base practice of name-calling and lies.
If someone wants to know something about Islam, that person should consult someone who practices the religion. If someone wants to know about the beliefs of Jehovah's Witnesses, he or she should not consult someone who knows nothing of them and should not consult those who, for one reason or another, have left the organization or been removed for unrepentant practices. If you want to know about the beliefs of Witnesses, contact a Witness. Is that so hard to figure out? And for those news reporters who want a story about a belief, will you please quit going to these other folks who are bitter and nasty and lying about the organization? Every time I see an article where a reporter interviews someone from one of these groups and doesn't interview an active Witness, it makes my nerves jump. That is poor reporting that belongs on the pages of the National Enquirer or the Star. Hack Journalism at its finest.

Cop killing - Over the weekend, the State of California witnessed the death of its fifth California Highway Patrol officer in the last year. That may not seem like a lot if you are talking about a war zone, but for a state like California, that is a lot. Two of the five have been officers who stopped a car for a traffic violation, walked up to the driver, and had the driver shoot them point-blank. If you think that this blog is to simply say how wrong that is, then go to your corner and think a little while. No, what I want to say is this: the next time you see a news report where a copy may seem a little rough on a suspect, think about what these guys face every day. Every traffic stop could be an incident of violence. Every disturbance call could lead to a concealed weapon being drawn. You wonder why cops are nervous? Get a clue. They are nervous because these guys have weapons with cop-killer bullets and bullet-proof vests! Folks, the police may seem like they are just out to give you a ticket for travelling 3 miles per hour over the speed limit, but remember, 3 miles over the speed limit is still OVER the limit. You don't want a ticket? Drive under the limit. If you do get a ticket, don't blame it on the cop. Blame it on yourself. Period. And show these guys some respect. The majority of them have earned it. The Bible tells us to obey the superior authorities as long as their demands don't contradict God's laws. Last I checked, speed limits don't conflict. Killing cops does. Give them a break, and if you notice a cop walking by, maybe you could say "thank you". They really could use it right now.