Why are we in Afghanistan?

Many ask that question – why, why are we in Afghanistan?  But this video is asking the American public why are we in Afghanistan AGAIN?

I understand very little about why we (Canadians, British and Americans) are there and ask the same question.  This video written a directed by Michael Zweig gave me answers that one does not read in the corporate media. Yes I believe that we should “rethink Afghanistan” before it is too late.  Perhaps it already is.

The video below is the “express” version and most definitely should be viewed.  The full length version can also be accessed from the link.

Why Are We In Afghanistan? Express Version from Why Afghanistan? on Vimeo.

Natural Disasters

We have heard so much as of late about natural disasters that have left thousands dead and millions homeless.

Most of us sit at home quite comfortably reading horrific tales of disaster on our lap tops, hoping that kind of disaster will never come our way.  And when it does,  we think are more prepared in the “west” than any country.  Well, we know that is not true after Katrina.

I read reports where people are amazed that help can not get to the people who have suffered from the world’s fury.  At the disgust of local officials.  My, what a short memory these people have.   Even here in Canada a few years back, many people in rural areas in the dead of winter were left without power for weeks!!  Oh we heard the excuses but one just had to wait.  In reality, man has no control over natural disasters.  No one, no matter how much technology, can inform people how much damage will occur.

Again, I turn to Cuba.  the fury that they see is hurricanes.  They are well prepared.  They prepare their people what to do.  Call it what you want, but their people listen and people live through the torment and human life is spared.  Perhaps it is time that nations should take note of what they do to protect their people.

My heart goes out to all who are at this moment suffering what nature has thrown in their path.   I wish I could help.  I wish I could be there – even if it is to hold someone while they cry of their loss.  But I cannot.  I will trust those who are more equipped and ready to send experienced people to help.  But is it not true, sometimes in adversity, all you want is some one to listen to you and some one to hold.  We are because of technology closer but it some ways we are farther apart.

the Beauty

beautiful - just beautiful

Time for a Change again

Well the word is out that apparently I am not meant to be a house cleaner……… hmmmmmm!!

My stint lasted six months – not bad. But damn hard work for $11 an hour and to be treated by many as though you are their servant!!! I was not amused. I do not mind hard work, nor do I mind helping people but to get on my knees and bow down to them – I don’t think so – not in this life time. Now then again if I could do this for myself and make double the money ………… the story may be a little different….. just a little.

I have never during all my experience as a bartender let people belittle me as their “server” and now because I am cleaning their house – HA!!! I don’t think so!! What gives these people the right to treat others as slaves?!!?  Are there still slaves in Canada?!!? Excuse me but where are we and what planet are we on and what year is it?!?!  Yet others are so grateful that you have reduced their burden …….. they are the ones who are real and have a life and can hire someone to help them keep their house in order. Nothing wrong with that. But to work around someone who is lounging around on their fat ass with an attitude of supremacy………. sorry I do not want to help them.

OK I am not saying that I will not clean houses but only under my terms baby – not theirs.

My beef for the day …………….

Maybe yes maybe it is time for a change again ………… I love change …. makes life interesting and a challenge!!

Time to Return

I look at the picture at the top of my page and my mind wanders back to Cuba. It has now been five months since my last visit. I miss Cuba. I miss my friends. I miss their love of life. I miss their attitude. It really is time to return.

But alas, I cannot return today, nor tomorrow, nor do I see my return happening within the next few months. And this makes me sad.

Why does this island, alone in the Caribbean call me back? I feel different when I am there. I feel alive. I feel the passion of life. Why? I keep trying to answer that question and I do not have the answer. The only thought comes to mind is the people. They are Cuba.

You may ask what is holding me back – HA!! No bloody money!! No work – no money – no return. So find work, buy a ticket and go where you do feel alive……easier said then done BUT I will return by the end of the year. Once if not twice …………

Cuba is calling me …….. it is time to return.

Dinner for One

I could not stop myself from laughing or posting this video.  If you need a laugh or even just a smile on your face anytime of the day, then you should watch this. The couple that made this obviously love life and their four legged friend. Kudoos to you!!

Interview with Roger & Pete

Roger Daltry & Pete Townshend were interviewed for Superbowl Halftime.  Kind of a weird interview.  One of Roger’s comments about the roadies who put the stage up for the 12 minute show is quite outrageous.  The interviewer had no idea how to respond …….. Roger was amazed how quickly and efficiently the stage was put together and suggested that the roadies that put up the stage should have been sent to war and it would all be over now…..

Do have a listen!

The Who at Superbowl

WOW WOW WOW !!!! Roger & Pete still are amazing!!! It was the only thing worth tuning into for Superbowl…..

Just clicked on in time ……….. ahhhhhhhh memories!!!!

View for yourself if you missed it!!!

Surviving the Storms

This is a great report from BBC on how Cuban people survive hurricanes over and over again. And what they are continuing to do, so Cubans can continue to survive. Nice to have a report without any politics.

Canadians should not be proud

I have been following James Rodriguez since I discovered him and although he does not report daily, his reports and photo essays are worth checking into whenever you can.

The one which grabbed my attention lately is about the indigenous people of Guatemala.  I had absolutely no idea what was /is going on and I am ashamed that a Canadian mining company is involved.  How can one company do this to people?  Whey should they?  What gives them the right?

Please read the whole story from James’ site and be informed.  If there is anything one can do is to be informed about what is happening in countries other than our own.  It is our duty.

Once you click to his site – scroll to the bottom and you will have reports and pictures from 2004.  Please read and be aware.  Thank you James.

Indigenous People – Guatemala

Changes Changes Changes

Many changes in my life over the past month, I am not sure where to begin.

After months of not working, I am finally working – and not just one job but two!! Some weeks it is 7 days a week …… is something wrong with this picture?

I spent 4 months this year sending hundreds upon hundreds of resumes which I am sure most ended up filed under “G” for garbage. Trust me I know that happens because I was once employed as a recruiter. It is very disheartening but it is a fact. Problem with me getting work, as I have stated before is that I am over qualified for may general office jobs and the employers know that I would be bored within weeks of being hired. And under qualified for a manager’s position because I do not have a university degree, although years under my belt. Also, I really did not want to return to the restaurant business – in that business I would be too old!!

So now I have two jobs ………. not really what I was expecting to do but one has to do what ever gets you through the day! I work now at a private fishing club – The Franklin Club – doing everything from cleaning bathrooms, making beds to serving dinners. The couple that run the club are fantastic and I am getting a taste of some gourmet food from a world renowned chef! Not bad! I am also working with a local lady who has a cleaning business ……. no need to go into details of what that is all about!! I am sure I will  at some point but not right now!

I now have a “house-mate”.  I have lived by myself with my two border collies for the past ten years, so this is very new to me!  We both needed some help, so we said “why the hell not!!”.  It’s not taking much time to get adjusted to each other and everything is falling into place amazingly fast.

And I went to Cuba again!!  The latest set of pictures are in the Picture Gallery – just scroll down to the last set.  I will write a little about my trip on another post when I have a spare moment.  All I will say now is that I had a fantastic time.  Even planning my next trip – but it will not be until March of next year…..or sooner – one just never knows!  One thing I did do while I was there – TWO new tattoos!!

That’s it for now ……… I think ………

Taino Sun Symbol

Taino Sun Symbol