My Own Personal Audacity

Missing the Point...

Brian S. — Tue, 15 Jan 2008 12:02:06 EST

I feel the need to point something out. This should help anyone talking to friends, family, and potential supporters. While all of the recent endorsements are FANTASTIC, the most important news from the past couple of weeks is BLOOMBERG.

Bloomberg has made it very clear that his point in a potential candidacy is for UNITY. He wants the nominees to be sincere and vocal in their actions and words about bipartisanship. He feels very strongly that the next President must work with people from both sides of the aisle to form strategies and solutions for the myriad of challenges and problems we face. This is one of the main themes of Obama's campaign; and, indeed, his life's work.

Bloomberg will only run if Hillary Clinton is the Democratic nominee. He will NOT RUN if Obama is the nominee. This is very clear and has been confirmed by those closest to him.

Bloomberg was a Democrat before he ran as a Republican for mayor of NYC. He only ran as a Republican because it's easier to get the Republican nomination since there is much less competition. His social views are much more in line with the Democratic party's. Therefore, in a Presidential general election, he will take many more votes from the Democrat than the Republican.

Because of these obvious FACTS, if Hillary is the nominee, Bloomberg will run and take enough Democratic votes that she will LOSE. She CAN NOT WIN THE GENERAL ELECTION. Period. This is a fact. She enters the race with 47% (a conservative estimate) of the population saying they will NEVER vote for her. If she continues her negative, Rove/Bush-style campaign tactics, this number can only grow.

So, please, point these facts out to EVERY Democrat and Republican you speak with. This is VERY important. If we don't want another Republican in the White House, the ONLY CHOICE IS OBAMA!!!

Closing Argument...

Brian S. — Thu, 27 Dec 2007 02:54:42 EST

Well, we're coming down to the wire, folks...this is where the rubber meets the road. Are we excited? Nervous? Confident? Scared? Hopeful? Faithful? Count me as all of the above!

Since most agree that polls at this point are notoriously unreliable, it seems to come down to organization on the ground. By all accounts, we have a slight edge in that department. I truly believe we also have the edge in momentum and enthusiasm...but only time will tell.

The points I think we all need to stress in these final days when communicating with potential supporters are as follows:

1. JUDGMENT ~ even if you count all the "experience" other candidates claim for themselves, it doesn't mean a hill of beans without sound judgment. If you've been in D.C. for almost 20 years, but you still voted for the war in Iraq and to give Bush a blank check with regard to Iran, what good is your "experience?" We need NEW vision and intelligent decision-making!

2. ELECTABILITY ~ when nearly 50% of the American population say they will NEVER vote for you, you have a serious problem trying to win a national election. Fair or not, having another Clinton on the ticket will divide our country - perhaps even our party - and lead to another VERY close election - if not a loss. Democrats can NOT squander this opportunity to take back the White House and our country. We NEED a fresh face FREE of baggage and scandals...EVERY recent poll shows that Obama has the BEST CHANCE TO BEAT EVERY SINGLE REPUBLICAN running for President.

*Not to mention, that Clinton at the top of the ticket will BRING DOWN many Congressional candidates in key "purple" states and hurt our chances of maintaining control of the House & Senate.

3. UNITY ~ Barack Obama is the ONLY candidate who has the potential to bring our country back together and actually GET THINGS ACCOMPLISHED for the American people and SOLVE the important problems we face. Obama has the support of countless Independents and Republicans and a history of working together with both sides to solve problems without compromising his ideals. It doesn't matter which 10-point plan you have for healthcare or anything else if everyone is going to fight AGAINST you and you can't get it passed!

4. RESTORE OUR INTERNATIONAL IMAGE ~ The rest of the world will IMMEDIATELY look at America differently when Obama is sworn in as our next President...not just because of the color of his skin, but because of his heritage and background. He has lived in other countries, has RELATIVES who were muslim, and has an innate understanding of and empathy toward others in virtually every corner of the world. If you want the world to look up to America again, and for us to be a beacon of HOPE again, Obama is THE ONE!

5. ETHICS & VALUES ~ If you want to know how someone is going to govern the country, look to how they have run their campaign. Obama has consistently been the most POSITIVE candidate in either party, and has run the most ethical and CLEAN campaign. He has not had to rely on the politics of slice & burn or had to resort to the Rove-style campaigning by personal destruction. He doesn't have "surrogates" out there attacking and slandering other candidates while claiming he has nothing to do with it, and he doesn't have any 527's headed by former supporters running ads for him. He doesn't say he'll fight lobbyists and special interests and then say there's nothing he can do to stop "independent" groups from running negative ads against others...HE IS NOT A HYPOCRITE!

If none of this is convincing enough, and the person you are speaking with is especially shallow, simply remind them that Michelle Obama is a MUCH BETTER DRESSER THAN HILLARY! LOL...well, it's kind of important, isn't it???

So, fasten your seatbelts - here we go!!! We are about to change the world!!!

Please Help!

Brian S. — Fri, 14 Dec 2007 00:13:12 EST

If anyone is looking for a fundraising page, I could use some help!

TO ENCOURAGE YOU, I WILL DONATE ANOTHER $10. FOR EACH AND EVERY DONATION MADE THROUGH MY PAGE. ALSO - I WILL PURCHASE 5 YARD SIGNS FOR EVERY DONATION THROUGH MY PAGE AND PLACE THEM ALL OVER MY STATE OF NEW JERSEY - A FEB. 5TH STATE!!!

I have been an Obama supporter and member of this site from DAY ONE...Thanks so much for your time and consideration...

http://my.barackobama.com/page/outreach/view/main/BrianS

Thanks everyone!!!

UNITED WE DANCE!

Brian S. — Mon, 12 Nov 2007 14:08:39 EST

The past couple of weeks have been phenomenal for our campaign!! The events of late have partly reinforced what I have been saying for many months, but have also provided some unexpected, and pleasant, surprises.

Let's start with the obvious...I have maintained since March that Clinton would do well in national polls mainly due to name recognition. Her undoing would be the Democrats' eventual realization that she would have a very difficult time winning a national election because of the very large number of people (Democrat, Republican, and Independent) who will simply NEVER vote for her. Her negatives are just too high. Hillary's electability, I have said, will be her downfall. This predicted realization is beginning to emerge. What is very exciting to me is that this realization is being reinforced by and buoyed by very strong evidence (both anecdotally and poll-proven) that Obama is winning over an impressive number of Independents and disaffected Republicans! Even I thought that the country was simply too polarized for this to happen. Yes, even before he has been chosen as the nominee, Obama is beginning to UNITE this country!! FANTASTIC!!!

Beyond Hillary's electability issues, we have been seeing signs of an actual implosion. I did NOT predict or expect this. I knew that she was very smart, calculating, and politically savvy, so I truly did not think that she would make many mistakes; certainly not any that would be repeatedly reported by the Clinton-happy media coronation machine. But, just in the past two weeks, we have seen a dismal debate performance, waffling and flip-flopping on key questions, criticism from women for her attempt to play the "gender" card, reports of planted questioners, and fairly substantial "dips" in her lead in the polling from key early states. Even the almighty Bill was chastised for his attempt to defend his wife by comparing Obama & Edwards' criticisms of her to swiftboating. Yes, it's been a very bad couple of weeks for the Clintons, and I can't help but feel a little giddy...Ok, a LOT giddy!!!

Now, I know we're not supposed to "attack" and "bring down" fellow Democrats, but I am really feeling the "urgency of now." ...and the possibility of Hillary in '08 does not bring much hope or excitement to even this very liberal Democrat. I do NOT want to go back to the polarization and nastiness of the '90's - as much as I liked Bill Clinton. I do NOT want to wait and see how long it takes the Republicans to find something with which to begin Impeachment proceedings against President Hillary. I don't want to sit around wondering how long it's going to take Hillary to attack Iran!!! No, I do NOT want to go there. I want to go to a place that I don't think even we Obama fans can even imagine yet. Not just back to our old standing in the world, but a new standing we've never achieved before. A standing on higher ground, built on a foundation of the UNITED States of America working TOGETHER for ourselves and the citizens of the world. ONLY Obama can take us there. ONLY Obama has the ability to even see it.

So, let's build on this momentum. Let's give until it hurts. Be inspired by the work done in Iowa over the weekend, and let it spill over into your own communities. TOGETHER we can do this. UNITED, not only do we stand, but UNITED will we walk, run, and DANCE!!!

WIT'S END

Brian S. — Fri, 14 Sep 2007 02:55:20 EDT

Well, here we are at the much-hyped "moment of truth" regarding the Iraq War; the report on the "surge" from General Petraeus (SIC?)...And - SURPRISE! - Bush isn't budging an inch... The Republicans in Congress will not put their votes where their mouths are... And I have the feeling that this is just going to drag on and on indefinitely. I am absolutely ready to throw up. I can't take it any more. Does anyone else feel this way???

What can we do? We can't just wait for the election and a new President. Thousands of people are dying in the meantime! It's the most amazing and despicable thing I've ever seen. And I feel absolutely helpless. Yes, we can do everything we can to support Obama, we can call and e-mail our congresspeople and senators, we can sign petitions, BLAH BLAH BLAH...Still nothing changes! How did this happen? How can one stubborn idiot have so much power?? I thought this was a democracy. I agree with everything Obama says, and I support him 150%, but it's just not enough. What can we do??

We have to stop being afraid. We have to start standing our ground even if it risks our chances in the next election. The majority in Congress - no matter how slim - must say enough is enough. I AM BEGGING EVERY DEMOCRATIC AND MODERATE REPUBLICAN IN CONGRESS TO STOP IT NOW. STOP FUNDING THIS WAR. STOP FUNDING THE GOVERNMENT IF NECESSARY. STOP THIS PRESIDENT AND THIS WAR NO MATTER WHAT THE POLITICAL COSTS.

I wish I thought the people who make these decisions were actually listening. I fear they are not. What can we do???

Lighten Up!

Brian S. — Fri, 16 Mar 2007 03:27:48 EDT

In a campaign, passions run high and principles are important. I understand that. I feel that. But sometimes we need to step back a little, take a deep breath and keep the finish line in sight. Visualize Victory!

Sometimes our passion about specific principles can be so intense that we shoot ourselves in the foot and defeat our own purpose. A perfect example is Ralph Nader. He claims to be so "principled" about the environment and consumers, but ALL he ended up doing by running for President in 2000 was get George Bush elected!! ...the exact OPPOSITE of what would have furthered his "causes." Rather than support Gore, who was obviously most aligned with his own positions, he decided to fight "the good fight" and handed us Bush on an oil-soaked styrofoam platter - thanks a lot, Ralph!

That's why I sometimes get frustrated with gay & lesbian activists who INSIST that every Democratic candidate clearly articulate exactly where they stand on "gay issues." Now, I'm certainly not putting down gay activists. They do a lot of important work and I admire and commend them. But I also feel that sometimes it's important to leave well enough alone and accept the country we live in ~ at least for a moment. I know where Barack stands on gay issues and how hard he would work for our community; most importantly in NOT working AGAINST our community. I've read, listened to, and watched his speeches and I know his voting record. I don't think he HAD to say that he believes that homosexuality is not immoral in response to General Pace's comments (although he since HAS). We really don't NEED to get that specific all the time. We don't NEED to hand the opposition every piece of ammunition. He's on our side - give him a break!

So before we force every candidate to watch gay porn and then declare how beautiful it is, let's be grateful that we have such an extraordinary candidate to rally behind! I am gay, but that's not ALL I am. I'm also a Christian, a consumer, an environmentalist, a ONE campaign supporter (www.one.org), and a person who wants healthcare for everyone, better education for ALL our children, more respect for our nation around the world, and an end to this STUPID WAR! I KNOW that Obama is the best man to do ALL these things, so I'm not going to force him to articulate every minute detail if it might POSSIBLY lead to another four tortuous years of a Republican President. I can't take that - I'll move to Europe, I swear!

And one more thing...what is up Al Sharpton's crawl? Yes, he needs to scrutinize each candidate, and, no, we don't expect him to support someone JUST because they're black, blah blah blah...but does he have to have such an EDGE in his voice when he discusses Barack? Does he really need to use that TONE? He really sounds like the Oscar-loser talking about how wonderful it is just to be nominated. It sounds reasonable, but you can tell they just don't MEAN it. Not REALLY...They're really just pissed off and jealous and want to scratch the winner's eyes out but they have to smile and sound magnanimous! There, I said it...

OVER THE TOP!

Brian S. — Fri, 02 Mar 2007 02:20:28 EST

It's ridiculously easy to forget that it is SO early in this process! Every time a new poll comes out and after each story or revelation about one of the candidates I catch myself getting overly excited or upset. And then I remember ~ it's almost 11 months until the FIRST PRIMARY!!! I have to stay focused on small steps forward...maintaining and building momentum...spreading the word...raising money...building a foundation...But that's painfully difficult when you feel so passionately about something. At least for me. After six years of being assaulted and insulted by the incompetence, idiocy, and downright criminal behavior of this administration, I can finally see some light at the end of the Neo-Con tunnel...and I want to run to it NOW!

But let's talk about the recent polls a little bit anyway...it's fun! First and foremost, Barack has gained CONSIDERABLE ground on Hillary - especially among African-Americans. He has cut her lead in half overall, and actually taken over among black voters. This reinforces my belief that the more people know about Obama, the more they'll like him. The "product" sells itself!! Edwards has been pretty stagnant, but no one should underestimate him. And, of course, there's always the possibility that Gore will jump in. I just don't see how ANY of these others even compares to Barack...no worries...

On the other side, Giuliani has increased his lead over McCain. Romney's having trouble despite all the support from the Bush camp...How shocking considering the stellar poll numbers of W.! The Giuliani thing really confounds me. I've been saying and thinking for months that most Republicans, especially Evangelicals, just don't know him well enough yet, and once they find out about his social positions, they'll dump him faster than his ex-wives. But it still hasn't happened! Stay tuned I guess.

The most amazing poll I saw this week was one of several potential match-ups. Obama BEATS BOTH MCCAIN AND GIULIANI IN 1 ON 1 RACES AND HILLARY DOES NOT!!! Granted, they're pretty slim margins, and it's VERY early, but that's pretty amazing! Not to mention motivating...and exhilirating. God, it's fun to be excited about politics again. It's really been a long ABYSS!!

Anyway, I better get to bed so I can get up tomorrow and watch the "over the top" funeral of Anna Nicole Smith. Yeah, they actually said it was going to be "over the top." What's wrong with those people? Do you think they're really stupid? Ignorant? Evil? Greedy? I wonder what it is? Maybe it's just a perfect storm of bad genes and even worse upbringing. Combine that with "medicating" the few brain cells that actually work, and you have Howard K. Stern. At least he has the drugs to partially explain his behavior (birds of a feather...). What's Vergie's excuse?? There, I said it...

Methinks Hillary doth protest too much!

Brian S. — Fri, 23 Feb 2007 03:34:33 EST

I should preface all of this by saying that the Democrats really shouldn't beat each other up TOO much in the primaries...No matter who comes out on top, they will be better than the Republican alternative. And then we ALL have to rally behind him or her...But c'mon, Hillary - lighten up!!

Calling David Geffen's remarks about her a "vicious attack" is just ridiculous. And could she look MORE jealous and petty by demanding that he renounce the comments and RETURN THE MONEY?? HAHA!!! Of course, the Obama camp's response was right on...How can she get so upset over the Geffen remarks while simultaneously and enthusiastically accepting the endorsement from the South Carolina whatever-he-is who said every Democrat would lose with Obama at the top of the ticket because he's black. Give me a break. I guess they're just desperate to get the attention away from her REFUSAL (a la George Bush) to admit that she made a mistake with her Iraq vote. All in all, I think she's (unfortunately) proving David Geffen's point!

But let's move on...that's just too silly for words. Let's talk about the TOTAL pack of FLIP-FLOPPERS on the Republican side!! It's just too funny...I have never seen a bunch of people who will just say ANYTHING and actually expect everyone to forget everything else they ever said up until that point. Well, except George Bush...and Dick Cheney...and Donald Rumsfeld...ok, so it's not so new, but it's REALLY obvious! Just a few years ago, Mitt Romney was going to be a better champion of gay rights than Ted Kennedy! He also STRONGLY supported a woman's right to choose. Now that he's running for President, however, that's all changed. All of a sudden, he's the COMPLETE opposite. OK...Same thing with John McCain. When he ran in 2000, Jerry Falwell and that whole crew were "agents of intolerance." NOW, he's their best buddy and kissing up to them more embarassingly than Liz Taylor at a DeBeers Diamond conference! And then there's Rudy...He's not exactly changing his positions, but has decided that he would appoint judges that would rule in exact opposition to his core beliefs. Hmmm...OK...Do any of these guys really think the religious right is THAT stupid? Don't get me wrong, I think it's wonderful that there are actually that many Republicans that aren't bigoted, closed-minded idiots who like to beat people down with their interpretation of the Bible rather than lift them up with its message, but to see them boldly and proudly LIE about such important issues is just disgusting. To me, that's actually worse than being a bigoted, closed-minded idiot. At least have the courage of your convictions!

And now, yes, it's time for Anna Nicole. Thank GOD that child is only 5 months old and has no idea what's going on. After a week of pure nonsense from everyone involved, the judge finally made the right and obvious decision. She will be buried next to her son. DUH! He could have decided that on Tuesday afternoon. But now the mother is appealing! She needs to be shot. Just let your daughter be buried next to your grandson!! It's no big woop. If you ever want to visit the grave, get the National Enquirer to follow you and take "exclusive" photos and they'll pay for the whole thing - right? And POOR Howard Stern! He only made $12,000. per year while her show was on TV and then NOTHING! He had to borrow money from his parents to get to the court hearing in Florida! YEAH, right! Anna Nicole Smith was a suffering addict who was completely surrounded by leacherous (SIC?) morons. No wonder she was on methodone! There, I said it...

HOLLYWOOD

Brian S. — Wed, 21 Feb 2007 02:55:43 EST

So, tonight was Barack's big fundraiser in Hollywood! I can't wait to see some clips of his speech there...Even more interesting will be what the conservatives have to say about it. They just LOVE to criticize anything and everything about Hollywood! And I'm REALLY tired of it!

I was just watching some music videos and was reminded of how incredibly talented and creative most musicians and videographers/filmmakers are. Many are absolute geniuses. For about the past 30-40 years, I believe that music has become the new poetry. Very few people actually sit down and write poems anymore, and even if they did, they'll hardly ever get read. Therefore, most of that creative energy now comes out in song. And I love it! Now, those words and emotions are expressed in music videos, films, and even live musical performances (read concerts). The people in Hollywood & New York are some of the brightest and most creative people in the world. So why do conservatives have so much fun bashing them and anyone associated with them? Why are so many of us considered the "Liberal Elite?"

I have my theories, but this campaign is about bringing people TOGETHER. Of course, Obama said it best when he talked about family values in blue states and gay friends in red states. But it seems to me that, basically, the Republican Party is the SELFISH party; no matter where one lives. They are most concerned with lowering THEIR taxes (not all the benefits others get from taxpayer money), limiting others' rights (gay marriage, abortion, etc.), and waging war against anyone who looks at us funny (or who just looks "funny"). It's a complete lack of empathy (see previous blog), and it's rooted in FEAR. The fear instilled in them by their religions (not ALL religions; just some "conservative" ones) from the time they were toddlers and the fear instilled in them by their leaders (BUSH). They aren't as idealistic and visionary. They don't take risks. They don't push their limits, and they don't think outside the box. I realize these are generalizations, but think about it... It's generally very true. What I don't believe is that this is an irreversible and unchangeable majority in the "Red states." All it takes is an inspirational leader with vision and COMMON SENSE to pull people out of their fear and into what CAN BE.

Well, it's time for a visionary. It's time for Obama, and the idealistic visionaries in Hollywood are leading the way (tonight)...and I am THRILLED!

Yesterday, Presidents' Day, we were treated to yet another look into the delusion-plex that is George W. Bush. While speaking at Mt. Vernon, he actually compared the current war to the Revolutionary War. Then, he even compared himself to George Washington: "I feel right at home here. After all, this is the home of the first George W." WHAT??!!! The man has completely lost it ~ if he EVER had it! The original George W. must have been SPINNING in his grave! And they say BRITNEY is losing her mind?

Actually, he may have had a point in one regard. Today we found out that the British are leaving!...Iraq. Somehow I don't think that's what he meant though.

Barbra Streisand and the Dixie Chicks are treated like pirana because they speak their mind as entertainers while Bush is STILL allowed to walk into the Oval Office every morning...After everything he has said and done over the past six years. They say HOLLYWOOD has no morals? Actors & Musicians shouldn't speak out?? Call me crazy, but I think this administration's lies, mistakes, and actual CRIMES (torture, domestic eavesdropping, CIA leaks, ETC. ETC.) far outweigh Britney Spears impulsively shaving her head or flashing her crotch!! There, I said it...

Separated at Birth?

Brian S. — Sat, 17 Feb 2007 02:03:32 EST

WEEKEND EDITION

As some of you may have noticed, I'm going to try to make my blog a daily thing. It's fun and kind of therapeutic. Hopefully, some of you find it interesting and entertaining as well. While not as "serious" as most, my goal is to inject some humor and entertainment into a very serious and important endeavor. I'm sure I will offend some of you (or all of you) at some point with my caustic and sarcastic humor, but just remember that it's just sarcasm and humor. Get over it! lol

With that in mind, I had a revelation today while watching the news. As I'm sure you're all aware, it was Kim Jung Il's birthday today! As I was listening to the report about his characteristics and traits (some may call them personality disorders), I couldn't help but notice how much he and W. are alike!! I think they may be brothers, even twins, separated at birth!! Think about it...

Both have serious messianic complexes, believing they were BORN to rule; anointed by God himself (or herself). Both are sons of previous leaders of their respective nations. Both relish in their role as Commander-in-Chief, and both rule with an iron fist ~ any detractors are dealt with VERY seriously. Neither have a problem with torture; in fact, they consider it merely a means to a GREAT and NOBLE end. They both love to dress up in jumpsuits and uniforms, and they both just SAY THINGS (Bush STILL claims he never tried to link Sadam Hussein & Al Quaeda/ Kim Jong Il claims he shot 38 under par the very FIRST time he ever played golf) that have absolutely no basis in reality or fact; assuming that everyone will just believe it because THEY SAID IT...and, horrifyingly, most of their subjects actually do!! And, sadly, neither of them really care too much about the poor and hungry right in their streets, the lack of healthcare, or basic human and civil rights. As long as they stay in power, build their arsenals, and line the pockets of their small circle of friends, they're happy. Coincidence? I THINK NOT!

I know, I know, most of us have it much better than anyone in North Korea, but when you look at it this way, is it any wonder we're so hated around the world? It's obvious to all of us here in America that North Korea's leader is a frightening and dangerous disaster. But to others around the world, isn't our leader nearly as dangerous and frightening ~ just in a proper suit & tie? Instead of waging as many wars as possible and just trying to KILL or capture every "terrorist" we can find, why don't we focus on the CAUSES...the actual ROOTS of the problem? Of course, we're never going to change every radical's mind, but we could seriously limit their ability to recruit more. If we TRIED. If we REALLY cared. If we had a LEADER who understood what actual diplomacy was. If we had a leader who valued wisdom and vision over slogans of false bravado, we might actually get some respect! Unfortunately, we haven't earned much respect over the past six years. It's embarassing. It's dangerous. It's tragic. Could anyone else have reversed the worldwide goodwill we had following 9/11 so completely and justifiably if they TRIED? IN SO LITTLE TIME?? George W. Bush should be ashamed. He should be IMPEACHED! (except then we'd end up with Cheney who's just as bad, if not worse) What he has done to this nation and this Constitution (not to mention over 3,000 American lives!) is, literally, a sin. I don't know how he can call himself a Christian. I don't know how he can sleep at night. I bet TENS OF THOUSANDS of wives, husbands, children & parents of our fallen heroes have trouble.

When I go where I just went, I get angry...I get sad...And, now, I get MOTIVATED. I believe with all my heart that Barack Obama can turn this all around. My fear is that he is the ONLY one who can. We MUST help...We MUST do everything we can...We MUST sacrifice our time, money, and cozy little routines if we want to have any hope. We MUST make a difference. And we can. Thank God! If we don't ~ if we're too complacent ~ we will end up being envious of North Koreans! We're almost there, but WE still have a choice...For now... There, I said it...

Thank you, Rush Limbaugh!

Brian S. — Fri, 16 Feb 2007 03:48:52 EST

I suppose this is progress...The shockingly bigoted remarks of a former NBA player were all over the news today. No, that's not the progress. The good news is that Tim Hardaway's declaration that "I hate gay people," and his subsequent rant (which sounded an awful lot like "The Ladies' Man" character, didn't it?) about how there's no room IN THE WORLD or this country for "them" was greeted by near universal disdain. And there were actual CONSEQUENCES! The NBA bravely banished him from the upcoming All-Star festivities stating that his remarks were not consistent "with having anything to do with us." Good for them! But it always used to strike me as especially confounding when one minority is so bigoted toward another. Shouldn't he, as an African-American, of ALL people be more understanding of homosexuals (or Jews, or Hispanics, or whatever the case du jour may be)?? That used to baffle me and anger me to distraction, but Barack Obama has helped me to understand why it happens...More often than any of us care to admit.

Why, you ask? The answer lies with Rush Limbaugh! His declaration today that Obama should "renounce" his heritage (or his "Half-rican American"ism - CAN YOU BELIEVE THIS GUY??!!!) since he said on 60 Minutes Sunday night that he didn't "choose" his race (DUH!) offers yet another glimpse into, believe it or not, the SAME core problem that "inspires" these ignorant statements...which come from ignorant beliefs. Both Tim Hardaway and Rush Limbaugh (among countless others, of course) suffer from an EXTREME lack of EMPATHY. Do you think Rush Limbaugh would make those comments if he had to walk around for ONE DAY disguised as an African-American? Do you think Tim Hardaway would feel the same way if he wasn't TAUGHT that being homosexual was a choice or a behavior? Of course not...but even these two stellar examples of intolerance are completely unable to look at things beyond their own narrow experience. Even Mr. Hardaway, who is black...Even Mr. Limbaugh who is an addict...

Empathy is one of my favorite topics about which Barack Obama writes and speaks so eloquently. And I believe it is THE MAIN difference between Democrats & Republicans, liberals & conservatives (with some exceptions, of course). What is empathy? Without looking it up in the dictionary, to me, it means the ability to put oneself in another's "shoes" and to attempt to imagine how it would "feel" to be them or to be in their situation...And THEN, most importantly, to act, react, and make decisions on that basis. It's not easy and it doesn't come naturally to most people, but it enables one to occasionally escape from the human tendency to be selfish and self-seeking...to stop asking, "what's in it for ME?" Above all, it's a spiritual gift, whether you're religious or not, whether you believe it or not...And Obama has it in ABUNDANCE!

THAT is what will make him a GREAT leader. THAT is what makes him so obviously genuine. THAT is probably what has brought, to some degree or another, each and every one of us to this point; to this website; to this campaign. And, THAT is what will help all of us, if we make a decision to be aware of it, embrace it, and practice it, to rise above bigotry, selfishness, closed-mindedness, short-sightedness, fear tactics, and even attack ads (you know, ALL the Republican traits & strategies!). It starts with each of US. If we are able, whenever we can, to ask ourselves if we're being empathetic in any given situation, and change it if we're not, that will effect the person or situation with which we're dealing. It may inspire them to do the same. It's contagious. Try it...

Unfortunately, there's no new BIG story yet to distract me from Anna Nicole Smith. I desperately searched for another culturally significant topic to discuss, but there's nothing really FUN happening. So, we have to be satisfied with the nationally televised "hearing" today about what should happen to the corpse of Anna Nicole (yuck!). All I want to know is WHERE did they find that judge? And why does HE want the body now, too? Is he related to Judge Judy, or just sound, act and look like it?

I'm over it! We need new dirt! Why won't Laura Bush just admit how much medication she's on (as evidenced by her permanent Stepford-Wives-glazed-look)?? There, I said it...Admit it, you thought it...

Rage Against the Machine

Brian S. — Thu, 15 Feb 2007 02:21:04 EST

Well, it's going to be a LONG campaign, but I truly believe that WITH OUR HELP, Obama can WIN this nomination AND the election! What's the "machine" to which I refer in today's title? It refers to two things, which are really one in the same...The Hillary Machine and the (Democratic) Establishment Machine have already begun.

The first, most obvious development is the NY Times article by Maureen Dowd. She's awfully (and I think unfairly) critical of Obama, but it actually should have been expected. Correct me if I'm wrong, but didn't she write several very favorable articles and books about Hillary? Even so, as an obvious Democrat, I think Dowd should leave the Obama-bashing to Fox News. Do we really have to destroy all our own candidates before they even get to the General Election?? Have some foresight!

I also read that two prominent African-American leaders in South Carolina are endorsing Hillary over Obama. They actually said that having Obama on the ticket would DESTROY the Democrats' chances in the election, and we would even lose the House & Senate because of a black man as the Presidential nominee. It's a travesty that that still may be the case in South Carolina in 2007, but I think the rest of the country is a little more advanced in that area. But, after several calls from Bill Clinton, they agreed to endorse Hillary. Oh well...

And, you know what? If I hear ONE MORE pundit on TV say that no one knows Obama's positions and he needs to start being more specific and start taking stands on issues, I'm going to scream! For supposedly being intelligent and inquisitive beings, they seem completely unable (or unwilling) to visit a website, read a speech, read a book, or read legislation he's introduced. Barack is actually one of the most prolific and open candidates in the arena! If you pay attention, you know more about him than any of them! Oh well, we see what we want to see...

My main point in this whole "machine" discussion is to remind us all that we cannot allow Obama to get DEAN'ed...He had all the momentum (not JOE-mentum - whatever the hell that was!) up until the last minute. Then, for some reason yet to be explained & exposed, some very important people in the media and the Democratic party must have decided that Kerry had a better chance than Howard Dean. They blew his "scream" so far out of proportion and played it over and over again on every news channel that it just ruined him. Mark my words, they're going to try to do the same thing to Obama. Hopefully, he'll handle it better than Dean. He's certainly getting more time to practice...

Please note: Don't get me wrong ~ I will vote for Hillary if she wins the nomination as she is much better than any Republican, but I have some major problems with her and I don't think she's the BEST choice for the Democrats. I'd love to see a woman President some day, too, but not her. Maybe Michelle Obama in '16!!

Finally, let's take a quick look at "the other side." My top pick for the Republican nomination is DEFINITELY Mike Huckabee!! What a dream! I pray every night they nominate him. Can't you just see the Huckabee vs. Obama debates?? I think I'll buy my Huckabee yard signs right now! I live on the Main Line, so they'd probably be pretty effective...lol Also, did you read that Giuliani's first (of three) marriages lasted 14 years...and he was married to his SECOND COUSIN??? It may help him in West Virginia, but I think the religious right may have a few choice words about that! Can't wait for that to come up...kind of brings new meaning to "Family Values" doesn't it??

And, of course, I can't resist my daily Anna Nicole Smith fix (bad choice of words, I know, but it applies). After all, we know more about her than any of these silly candidates! Beyond the obvious sadness of the spectacle of the circling vultures, is the reality of addiction & alcoholism. As someone who knows quite a bit about this disease, Anna Nicole's sudden and unexpected death is neither. As most addicts do, she surrounded herself with enablers, and pushed away everyone who tried to help. It's "fun" to focus on her beauty, glamour, fame, and fortune, but the real story here is the disease of addiction and its logical end without a miracle. We STILL belittle people for "running & hiding" in rehab...We STILL joke about public "messes" and celebrity "train wrecks"...and we STILL wonder why people "turn" to drugs and alcohol - even those who seem to "have it all." It's past time for everyone to WAKE UP and educate themselves. This IS a disease and the victims need all the help they can get to fight it. We wouldn't stigmatize someone for seeking chemo. & radiation for their cancer. Every time a public figure makes an uneducated, demeaning, or sarcastic remark about an addict or alcoholic not seeking help, seeking help, or showing signs of their disease, they are KILLING the next Anna Nicole Smith...and orphaning the next Danielynne...and enabling the next Howard K. Stern...There, I said it...

Hello World!

Brian S. — Tue, 13 Feb 2007 14:31:03 EST

It's far too early in my day to be very creative or witty, and I should be working, but I just created this blog, so I thought I better write SOMETHING... Barack Obama is my hero!! What a great weekend for him and our country. I am so excited about this campaign, I can barely express it. FINALLY, a clean, articulate...oh - scratch that!! (lol) Seriously: FINALLY a candidate who inspires and excites rather than scares and spins. Someone who speaks genuinely and thoughtfully about religion & politics, the war, healthcare and all those other "liberal" issues. Someone who isn't afraid to say "gay people" in his announcement speech! WOW...

I'll write more tonight when I have the brain and the time, but I just wanted to introduce myself to all of you HIGHLY intelligent people in ObamaLand. Welcome...Let's get started...Let's take the energy from this thrilling first weekend and ROLL with it!! (If only Dick Cheney hadn't ordered the hit on Anna Nicole Smith last week, Obama would have gotten even MORE press coverage! haha - it's a JOKE, secret service people!) Speaking of which, I suppose I can't sign off without at least weighing in on the biggest news event of the month (sigh)...Howard K. Stern OBVIOUSLY killed her, the Prince is OBVIOUSLY the baby's father, and in order to most closely replicate the upbringing that poor baby would have had (my heart DOES ache for HER) the courts MUST award custody to Zsa Zsa Gabor!!! There, I said it...