The Conundrum of Politics and Politicians

So, again it has been a while.  I don’t want to say that there has been nothing about which to write, but I don’t write to say something; I write because of something to say. 

I am sure most people know that in Canada we are coming up on an election in October.  And perhaps people are as confused as I am of the platforms of the 3 major political parties, and how these plans may apply to our everyday lives.

I am the type of person that likes to know what is going on in the world.  I will never claim to be an expert.  I watch the news everyday, national and international.  In this age of the Global Village, what happens over there, affects what happens over here.  That doesn’t mean I always know how.  

I think my problem with politics is that it is dominated by politicians, who do not necessarily think like a civil servant, although technically, in my opinion, they fall under the same category. The Merriam-Webster Dictionary defines politician as such:

• a person experience in the art or science of government; especially one actively engaged in conducting the business of government;

• a person engaged in party politics as a profession;  

• (often disparaging) a person primarily interested in political office for selfish or other narrow usually short-sighted reasons. (https//www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/politician)

A civil servant is defined as such:

• a member of a civil service;

• a member of the staff of an international agency. (https//www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/civil%20servant)

I don’t know if this helps clarify anything for anybody or muddies the water even more. I have the benefit of being raised in a household where the problems of the world were tabled, discussed and solved at the dinner every evening.  Unfortunately the politicians were not privy to our dinner table.  But as I have gotten older, I am not sure if politicians have ever actually been interested in solving the world problems because with the many intelligent men and women who have held the role of leader of their respective countries, you would think they would be solved by now.  

So why are not living in a world of peace, and equality and respect for all?  Because, I hate to say it, politicians are not in politics to make the world a better place. As I have observed since those family dinners, those in political office fall into the third definition.  It may be to fulfill a family legacy; to boost a fragile ego; or for the fame and fortune. Oh, don’t kid yourself, there is money in politics.  

I can provide some examples.  Let’s start with Prime Minister Justin Trudeau.  If you are my age or older, I am sure you have at least heard of his father: Pierre Elliott Trudeau. He was the Prime Minister of Canada when I was born and the Prime Minster until I was 14 years old, except for a short period in 1979-1980. I will not say he was by any means perfect, and did not do many of the same things most all politicians have done.  But I do know he stood up to the Press.  I suggest you check out a video on YouTube. (Watch me). As Justice Minister, he intoroduced a bill decriminalizing gay acts performed in private. “There is no place for the state in the bedrooms of the nation.” He has been caught lying, which all politicians do, but he had the guts to challenge the status quo and he did not let himself get pushed around by the Press or anybody else.  He brought the Constitution to Canada made sure it included a policy of Multiculturalism.  And he even did a pirouette behind the Queen.

I think that many Canadians, including myself, expected this type of intelligence and grit from Mr. Justin Trudeau.  It was wrong of us to do so.  He is not his father.  Then why did he run for political office.  In my opinion perhaps it was expected; the Liberal Party counted his name to carry them to victory. It worked. Still, he has done positive things.  He has a gender equal Cabinet, he has enshrined in law the protection of transgendered people, and has pledged increase funding to international women’s health.  However, there is the whole SNC-Lavalin Affair and his less than stellar fulfillment to his commitment to the Paris Environmental Agreement. All this being said, it is difficult for me to say, and disappointing, but I do believe he is the lesser of the “evils” from which Canadians have to chose in October 2019.  That is one of the problem with politics and politicians.  It more a choice of who we dislike the least as oppose to who we like the most.  

Being Canadian, it is impossible not to be aware of the politics and administration of the United States. I have to say, in no uncertain terms, President Donald Trump scares me.  He is a man who has claimed to know more about Isis than the Generals. If it is not true, I am concerned as to why he feels the need to lie about something so integral to National Security.  If it is true, how did he obtain it, and why has he not shared it with the “Generals.” He has been accused of sexual harassment, has admitted to such, on tape.  He has spent a considerable amount of money on golf trips, during times of crisis.  He seems obsessed with being better than President Obama.  Has anybody else wondered why? Ego, inferirity complex?  Nonetheless, according to some, and of course himself, the American economy is better than it has been in a long time. This may be true, but I believe that Mr. Trump was more interested in winning an election than he is qualified for the responsibilities of President of the United States.  

But it is not all the fault of the politicians. We the citizens must be take our share of the blame. First and foremost, let’s get our butts out to vote.  I do not understand why elections do not have 100% turn out every time.  I have heard it said that it will not make a difference. Well, of course it won’t make a difference if you don’t vote.  If everyone came out, politicians will have to change their motives. you have a public voice, use it or lose it.  

I was flabbergasted once, while waiting for my turn to cast my ballot, someone complain about the wait time.  It was no more 10 minutes and she considered not voting at all.  10 MINUTES, really? In 1994, South Africa had its first truly free election, after the end of the racist and brutal policy of Apartheid.  Voters had to wait hours and maybe days in line to vote, and were grateful for the chance to finally influence the destiny of their country.  Of course that has not made South Africa a utopia for all, but still a lot better than it was for the Black majority, who spent decades as the persucuted second class. There are so many people on the planet who are prohibited from participating in a free democracy, for a multitude of reasons.  If you have the chance, do it.  

I believe it my responsibility as a productive member of society to know the issues, all of them, not just the ones that apply to me directly.  In fact, social issues rarely occur without affecting many others.  I have to be knowledgeable of the politicians and the political parties they represent.  I need to know the platforms of the party on the issues and most importantly HOW they intend to improve my country and the world.  

 

 

 

 

Great Spirits

I have often said that when one realizes one cannot die of embarrassment, life becomes much easier. 

I have reached another epiphany. You become blessed with a freedom that cannot be imagined by those still trapped by the restrictions of the opinions of others. Suddenly a whole  new way of thinking, feeling, and acting is opened up to you. There is no end to the possibilities or horizons. 

You no longer consider why, but why not. 

You no longer worry that it has not be done, but how it can be done. 

You no longer think I can’t do it, but I can do it. 

Think of those innovators who pushed the boundaries of the conventions of their time. They braved ridicule from their peers and being panned by critics. 

Picasso was following the artistics norms of the time. He no longer wanted to be confined to the restrictions of portraying reality and true form in his paintings.  As seen below, one of his earlier works, The Old Guitarist (1904), is painted in what was the accepted style. However, the next painting is in style that is unique and unlike anything seen before. This is Les Demoiselles d’Avignon (1907). When he revealed it to close friends they were less than impressed. And though Picasso was discourage, he returned to this work, privately.  He showed it again and reaction was still hostile.  He hid it for nine years before showing it in public.  It was then called the most original painting in 700 years.

This type of creativity is not limited to the art world.  In 1970 on Apollo 13, one of the many moon missions by NASA, a serious unforseen accident occurred.  An oxygen tank on the Command Module exploded and the crew was forced into the Lunar Module. At some point the carbon dioxide levels got too high and a tank from the Command Module needed to be used to replenish oxygen. There was one huge problem.  The tank to be used was square and the connection was round.  The engineers at the NASA base at Houston were forced to come up with a solution to save the astronauts, using only the materials that were on the space craft.  Using a sock, a plastic bag, cardboard, a hose, and a plastic cover the crisis was averted and the tank was able to be connected. 

Creativity is a human function that has been  around since pre historic times.  One of our very very distant ancestors had something to say.  S/he used sounds, and those sounds were eventually organized and the sounds were made into words. This new idea caught on and over time, probably a long long time, language was created. 

As far as we know, humans are the only species that have the ability to imagine and hence change the world, even if it is only their little corner of it. But it is that imagination that has not only ensured  humans to survive, but to thrive. 

The are many quotes with which I can end this post.  I chose my favourite. 

“Great Spirits have always

encountered violent opposition

from mediocre minds."

Albert Einstein.

BE THE GREAT SPIRIT, 

NOT THE MEDIOCRE. 

Souces. 

Time Magazine Special Edition. Summer 2018. 

Under the Hood of Creativity.  Anthony Brandt and David Eagleman. 

 

The Nemeses of Driving

Top ten piss offs of my driving experience. 

10.  Slow drivers in the passing lane.

I am well aware that the left lane is NOT a fast lane. However, when I am attempting to pass slower traffic and slowers drivers remain in the left lane, I become aggravated. Drivers! Please check your mirrors. Know where drivers are around you. And get out of the way. 

9.    Cell phone talkers

It is the law. If it isn't hands free, put it down. 

8.    Not turning into the appropriate

       lane. 

When you are turning right, it is common sense that you turn into the nearer lane: the right hand lane. Allowing those turning left to turn into the left lane. This allows traffic to move smoothly. The opposite applies to those turning left. Avoid accidents and slowing down traffic flow. Stay in the appropriate lane when turning. 

7.    Bad merging practices

At some point in time you will have to join faster moving traffic. When entering this traffic, there is lane that eventually ends at which point you are to merge. This lane is an acceleration lane. It means you are suppose to speed up to the speed of the highway. This avoids fender benders and car pile ups. 

Also those on the highway, it is your responsibility to allow merging cars into the highway traffic. It means changing out of the right lane.  

6.    Not checking blind spot. 

I am aware that some fancy cars have a blindspot warning. But some day that will break and most cars on the road do not have this feature. Your blindspot, when driving, is a part of the surrounding area of your vehicle that cannot been seen by your mirrors. By giving a quick glance over your shoulder to make sure the way is free, allows you to move left or right without side swiping a fellow driver. Taking this precaution will make you, your fellow drivers, and your insurance company very happy. 

5.    Intersection blockers

We live in North America. It is a culture that revolves around the automobile. The amount of money that is spent on advertising by the car companies is teatimony to this. 

As a result there is gridlock. It is frustrating but a necessary evil. But pulling into an intersection, when you cannot clear the intersection, you are adding to the problem. We are all in a rush to get to where we are going. Don't prevent someone else from getting to their destination. 

4.    Pesdestrians not on sidewalks. 

At some point in time the city planners figured out that pedestrian deaths are reduced when they are given a designated area on the streets. So why are some of you not using them?  And dressed all in black at night increases your chances of being run down. If this is your goal, your success is imminent. 

Also those who chose to step into the street while waiting for the traffic light to change, are also looking to be run down. Someone attempting to make a right hand turn (on a red light. permitted in Ontario) may run you down. Is the designated sidewalk too small?  Is it so important to be the first one across the street?  Please allow drivers their space. 

3.    Cyclist that don't know they are 

        a vehicle. 

I have respect for cyclists, especially those who are couriers. But according to the Ontario Traffic Act, you are a vehicle. This means that you must obey the same signals, laws and signage that a motor vehicle must obey. This for your protection. Protect yourself. Someone wants you to come home at the end of the day. 

2.    Highway 401. 

Need I say more.?

1.    Indicator non users. 

Many drivers may not have read their car manual. I am pretty sure that among many features that are described in this novel are the indicators and the tool used to control them. In case this page is missing from your manual, their purpose is to inform other drivers of your intention to turn or change lanes. This may seem a tedious thing but it will make you loved by other drivers. 

I am sure their are many things on the roads that burn your buns. Please feel to share. 

So Much to Say.

Wow. There has been so much happening these past few months both personally and out there in the world: kid issues; a new relationship; a very long political campaign; ensueing election and a new government. It has actually made it hard for me to chose a topic. Really, this will be about all of these. 

What I have learnt through this time is that I just have to keep moving forward. And yes there were times when it seemed that a tortoise with a hernia was passing me. But whether they were grand strides, or wee baby steps I just kept taking them. 

I was battling a system that is archaic and does not understand the significance or how to deal with mental illness. I felt like I was not just battling a disease but the health care system to get the help needed. 

I challenge Prime Minister elect Justin Trudeau to take a hard look at how those with mental illness are treated.  I know there is a history in your family. I hope you and your loved ones were treated better than my family. 

Relationships are not for the faint hearted. There are always challenges: geographic; personal life choices; and of course the baggage accumulated over any lifetime. But just like with any relationship, honesty, patience, and the confidence to be yourself is the only way to go. 

Canada has just been through one of the longest election campaigns ever and all the parties went through ups and downs in the polls. Thank God the ordeal is over; no more mud slinging; no more creations of issues that really weren't issues; and the spin doctors putting in extra hours. Canadians have chosen a change. Let's hope we get it. 

All these events taught me that Life ain't for wimps. Courage is needed everyday. Sometimes that means heading into aa battle  head on and others it means to retreat and regroup. True wisdom is knowing when to do what. 

Family and Its Many Wonders.

Christina and Daniel, July 17, 2015

Today was an extraordinary day. My nephew Daniel married a beautiful young lady, Christina. It was the chance for the extended families of both bride and groom to come together and celebrate. As I have not been part of Christina's family until today, the following observations are of The Maidens Clan. 

I am sure we are not unlike other families in that large get togethers get limited to weddings and sadly funerals. We are have lives of our own, children responsibilities and jobs that overwhelm the idea of planning just a big party for the Hell of it. I fault no one for this. 

The Maidens Clan is large and far reaching for many reasons. My brothers and sisters have been born in four different countries (Canada, USA, Jamaica, Colombia). And now we live in five different countries (Canada, USA, Columbia, Domincan Republic & Haiti). So geographically, we are challenged to impromtu casual gatherings. But thankfully for for this special day, all my siblings were in the same place at the same time. 

Each of us have had our own personal challenges in our lives that may have kept us apart. These may include financial or emotional or others. Again I fault no one for this. We all have our own pathes to walk and it would be unrealistic that such an eclectic group of people would have pathes that meet perfectly. 

I am the youngest at 45 years old. Four and a half decades is a long time to wait. I was overwhelmed both by the fact we were here but also by the fact that it took so long for it to happen. 

My father is now almost 80 years old. He has become frail over last few years, and feels that his time is coming soon. I don't think I am the only one who believes he is just to too onery too die. There is that old saying: Only the Good Die Young. Lol. 

I could see the emotion in my father as he watched his children talking with each other, exchanging hugs, and sharing stories of his grandchildren. I don't think I would be lying or exagerating that he too was  overcome with joy and perhaps a little pride. We said often over the day that among his children, there is not a "dud" to be found. Regardless of their differring life experiences, they have all turned out to be good people. A great big thanks goes to their mothers, Vicky and Anita. 

I think what my point is that we really never know what God and the Universe has in store. Things that we think are impossible, may just be around the corner. God has often put my best made plans to shame and I am grateful. But on this day I am grateful to my God and the Universe that you saw fit to have a family, that at sometimes has been divided, together in happiness and love. 

Canada Day 2015

Happy Canada!!!!

I have said before and I will say it again, and until I die, I AM A PROUD CANADIAN. 

Today is not a day for politics or to share about my disatisfaction with our present government. Today is a day to let the world know we live in the best country in the world. We have more reasons to be proud than most Canadians know.

•We are the 2nd largest country in the world. 

•We have the only military force that completed their D. Day Mission on schedule. 

•We have 2 official languages. 

•Toronto has been listed as the most multicultural city in the world. 

•We are the most educated country in the world, with over half of our residences having a college degree. 

•Montreal is the 2nd largest French speaking city in the world, after Paris. 

•We are the home of the tallest totem pole in thw world, in Victoria. 

•Canada has a literacy rate of 99%. 

•We have braille on our currency (also Mexico, Israel, India). 

•The Mall of the Americas is owned by Canadians. 

•We have no Weapons of Mass Destruction as 1984, and have signed treaties repudiating their possesion. 

•After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Canada declared war against the Japanese before the U.S. 

•Canadian Police Services give out Positive Tickets when they see someone doing something positive. 

•Americans have invaded Canada twice, in 1775 and 1812. They lost both times. 

•We were the 3rd country in space. And considered to have the most advanced space program in 1962.

•The Avro. 

•Our inventions, advancements and discoveries include: the telephone, baskeball, the electric range, IMAX, insulin, and stem cells. 

I hope this has let people know that we are so much more than the "little brother" of the U.S.  

Be Proud. 

What is Race.

Many of you may have heard of the Rachel Dolezal, of Spokane, president of their NAACP chapter, who has identified herself as "African American."  It has since been made public, by her family that she is not. She did grow up with foster Black brothers and sisters, but her biological parents are indeed white. The NAACP has decided to support her and regardless of her race, she is not exempt from her position.

All that being said, it begs the question, how does one identify one's race?  

I am raising bi racial children and their Father and I have done our best to be "colour blind" and teach our children to be the same. It was not until my son started pre school that he questioned his "colour."  He ran up to me asked what colour he was. I admit that in my naivety, I was unprepared. I assumed that we had gotten past the idea of colour by their generation. Regretfully I was wrong.  My instintive answer was he was Café au Lait. His Father being the "café" and myself being the "au lait."  This answered satified him for quite a long time. 

I noticed, however, as he grew older, that he began to say he was black. I asked why, and his response was that this was the way other people saw him. Which brings me back to my original question. How do we identify our race? 

I cannot speak of the criteria of anyone else but me. I have done my best to maintain my blindness to colour. I see myself as a woman of the human race. My skin tone is irrelevant and whatever colours others see when they look at me are of no consequence. My heritage is of Ireland and Sweden, but I am a very proud Canadian. I appreciate that there are a plethora of cultures and subcultures on this planet, and am curious about all of them. Knowledge is the surest way to eliminate fear and prejudice. 

I do not know why Ms. Dolezal would identify her race as black when biologically she is not. But it does open up a large can of worms. What is the definition of race?