Exploring Issues

Black Friday...Worth It?

2011-11-28T10:45:00.000-05:00

Black Friday in the United States...$52.4 billion spent! Really?! 52.4$ spent on stuff...people hurt and killed to get that stuff...I mean, really?! What the hell is wrong with these people? What kind of a nation spends 52.4 billion on stuff, assaults their neighbour to get this "stuff", and still cries about economic hard times?! Shouldn't we be looking out for each other, working together during hard times? ...Perhaps it is time to reassess our priorities. It is just sad, and frankly, an embarrassment to the West. And here in Canada, we are getting caught up in the spirit of Black Friday mainly because the retailers here clued in that if they discount their prices, the multitude of bargain seekers here would not rush the border to head south to buy and the money would stay local...but is it worth it? A good deal is a good thing during financially difficult times, but is what people are buying a necessity or a want? Is that Xbox/Tablet/gadget/whatever needed or wanted? Are rudeness, violence, and greed the character traits we want to promote...because these seem to be ones dominating this "holiday"....I wonder what the rest of the world thinks when they see this behaviour...more importantly, what are we saying about ourselves when we embrace this activity? Is it what we want to be known for?

Quebec: Lower Your Expectations

2011-11-10T11:44:00.001-05:00

Quebec....The province of inconvenience...or bureaucratic chaos...your choice. I am continually left shaking my head at the level of disorganization and waste in this province. I keep expecting efficiency and yet, I am left with frustration. Apparently, my expectations are way too high. Road construction without proper signage, document centers that lose and/or misdirect papers and take weeks/months to process, licencing centers that do not inform you of ALL required documents (leaving you to reschedule another appointment a MONTH later!) *A heads-up for those who don't know: In Qc, females are required to keep their maiden names...and if you are from out of province you can expect to easily confuse and arouse suspicion if you did not maintain your maiden name from your past causing great grief in your attempt to get anything accomplished from a bureaucratic perspective...including going to a hospital for a medical emergency.

I am trying not to get too specific let alone emotionally involved in writing this information, but I have got to say: it is *%$##@!! frustrating trying to get things done in this province! ...And I just wanted to leave a little warning for others entering into the chaos zone of Canada: ATTENTION!

How to Walk in Traffick

2011-09-04T21:01:00.000-04:00

Walk AGAINST the triffick; Ride WITH the traffick...Get it right people!!!

I cannot tell you how many times I encounter people who walk on the wrong side of the road (out of ignorance or otherwise)!

If you are walking against the traffick, at least you will see oncoming cars even if they do not see you....And chances are, you will live to walk another day; however, if you are walking down the road, your back against oncoming traffick, they may not see you and you definitely do not see them, and then"booph"! you are roadkill...or they swerve to avoid you and they or other drivers become the casualties!

I am exaggerating here (a bit), but for the safety of all those on the road...Please walk against traffick so you (the walker) can see oncoming traffick because sometimes drivers do not/cannot see you as well as you might think!

Dominican Women Exploited

2010-09-10T16:17:00.000-04:00

Not too long ago I had the priviledge of going to the Dominican Republic and spend time with the locals. During my time there, I was overwhelmed by the difference in culture. In fact, by day 3, culture shock had completely set in and I spent the morning in tears. I have lived in Japan and my experience with culture shock there was not as intense as it was during my trip here, which surprised me. One of the things that stood out to me was the noticeable lack of female tourists (in this particular town) and the acceptance of prostitution.

In this town, the Italians and the Germans have notorious reputations for seeking out mistresses and young girls...There is also a male prostitution presence of which I was not really cognizant. My heart went out to the female population...for me, it was heartbreaking to see this side of humanity that I have been so sheltered from in the past. Then again, it is exactly what I needed to see. (There goes another bubble... *POP*)

Prostitution is a way of life. And the damnedest thing is that there is little or no desire to change this way of life. It makes money...good money. For me, I am wondering why the men of the country are not defending their women (and children), protecting them from horny foreigners...Why do they allow this?

I didn't get the answer while I was there. But what I did come to understand better was that the men and women in this community DO look out for each other in their own way. It is just not necessarily the way I would go about things, but then again...I have a lot to learn before I could criticize their way of doing things. I may not agree with prostitution, and especially having foreigners exploiting a people such as these, but I also do not know what it is like to have no other means to feed my family but to sell my body.

My visit there was a good one overall, a different one, but a good one. Good in the sense that my eyes were opened to reality...everyday life on the side of poverty - just plain real. Heartbreakingly real.

(BTW, there are 5 American men that can thank my friend from stopping me from taking your picture and exposing you all over the internet..."Oh, so you do have a brain in there." (said one man to one of the Dominican girls) - Bastards!)

Type 2 Diabetes - What You Can Do to Prevent It.

2010-06-01T10:02:00.002-04:00

Diabetes has become an epidemic in the West as our diet, level of activity, and environment have changed. I wanted to provide some general information on Type 2 Diabetes, also known as Adult-Onset Diabetes (- it is no longer called that because children are regularly being diagnosed with this condition which formally developed in adults usually over the age of 45, if at all.)

Sometimes diabetes just happens, despite all prevention; however, there is a vast majority of us who can prevent the onset of diabetes through a proper diet and regular exercise. I am sure many of you have heard this before...and...despite having heard this, you continue to engage in habits that contribute to the onset of diabetes (for example, eating candy and processed food everyday and getting less than 30 minutes of heart-raising exercise each day). Many of us believe we are immune to diabetes...that is, until it is too late!
I want to encourage you to take small steps every day to help prevent the onset of Type 2 Diabetes by:

Changing your attitude - This is the most important step. When you decide to make change you are more likely to follow through and stick with the change. It is your choice. Make up your mind to keep healthy...you can do it!
Changing your diet to include more varieties of vegetables and larger portions of vegetables, protein at every meal, fresh fruit, and to cut out processed sugars and junk food. Drink water - not pop and not juice (unless it is pure and fresh...but in moderation)...and yes, you can continue to drink your coffee, just do not load it with sugar and cream...black is preferable. For help with dietary changes, go to the Canadian Diabetes Association website
Aim to exercise 45 minutes every day. Start with what you can...10 - 15 minutes a day and after 3 or 4 days, add an extra 5 minutes...do what you can, but always aim higher and you will get there! (Walk, bike, jump rope, join a fitness class...)
Stay positive. This is not a recipe for instant health. It is a lifestyle change and it will take time to get used to.
Include family and friends in this lifestyle change. Be a source of encouragement to others and work toward common goals. This will help you on days that you don't feel like eating healthier or exercising.

Type 2 Diabetes

What is it?
It is a condition where the pancreas does not make enough insulin or the body does not use it properly.
Insulin is a hormone that breaks down glucose (sugar) allowing the glucose to leave the blood stream and enter into cells.

Main Symptoms:

fatigue
frequent urination
unusual thirst
unexplained weight loss

If left unchecked these symptoms can develop:

blindness
heart disease
reduced blood supply to the limbs, leading to amputation
nerve damage
erectile dysfunction
stroke

Risk Factors:

being age 40 or over
being overweight (especially with abdominal obesity)
having a family member who has diabetes
having had gestational diabetes
having given birth to a baby that weighed more than 4 kg (9 lb) at birth
high blood pressure
high cholesterol or other fats in the blood
member of a high-risk ethnic group.

Aboriginal people have three to five times the risk of developing type 2 diabetes than other Canadians. Even Aboriginal children are now being diagnosed with type 2 diabetes, a condition that usually occurs in older adults. People of Hispanic, Asian, South Asian or African descent are also more at risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

Prevention:

Don't smoke
Achieve a healthy weight and maintain it
Be physically active
Limit your intake of fat and sugar
Eat regular, balanced meals including protein, carbs, and good fats
Keep your cholesterol and other blood fats within the target level
Maintain a normal blood pressure

Managing Type 2 Diabetes:

Take your medication as prescribed
Monitor your blood glucose regularly as recommended by your doctor
Take care of your feet by examining the skin for redness and sores
Visit your doctor and dentist regularly and see an eye specialist as recommended
Consult a dietitian about creating balanced meals
If you drink alcohol, consume it in moderation and avoid drinking on an empty stomach as this can cause hypoglycemia (low blood glucose)
If you are pregnant, ask your doctor about using artificial sweeteners

This is general information. It is not intended to relpace the advice of your physician...When making any significant lifestyle change (including diet and exercise), it is recommended that you consult your physician.
Some information taken directly from the Health Canada website http://www.hc-sc.gc.ca/

Oil Spill (tongue in cheek)

2010-05-05T06:53:00.000-04:00

How come they do not have safeguards in place to prevent such tragedies from happening? Does it have anything to do with arrogance or is it that they are too cheap to invest in such technology? ...Regardless, the spill is happening and these are some of the solutions being conjured. (Right now, my thoughts are hovering around the "Get on it already!" way of thinking. Time is a wasting and our environment is dying!)

Anne Coulter...Denied

2010-03-24T20:09:00.000-04:00

Up until yesterday, I don't think I have ever heard of Anne Coulter, and from what I have learned thus far, I don't think that I am particularly interested in following her. She seems sensationalist through and through (no press is bad press?!), but like I said, I know very little of her and my judgement of her is strictly first impression. Mind you, the first thing that I heard of her was how she suggested Muslims not be allowed on any airplanes and fly "their flying carpets" instead...or as she told one Muslim woman who challenged her by saying that she didn't own a flying carpet, 'ride a camel instead.'

You can perhaps see why I am a little put off by Ms. Coulter and have little respect for her (I'll say) public persona.

Ms. Coulter was suppose to speak at the University of Ottawa recently, but before she arrived, she received a letter from Francois Houle, vice-president academic and University of Ottawa’s provost, warning her to curtail her usual presentation by reminding her of Canada's political correctness protocols. "After mentioning the Charter of Rights and Canada’s free speech laws, Houle invited Coulter to “educate yourself, if need be, as to what is acceptable in Canada” and noted, by example, that “promoting hatred against any identifiable group would not only be considered inappropriate, but could in fact lead to criminal charges.”"

Apparently, the letter wasn't necessary. Protesters caused so much rukus that the much anticipated appearance was cancelled for safety reasons.

Now, some might say this is good because Ms. Coulter is a hate-filled sensationalist. Some might say that not allowing her speak is denying the right to freedom of speech. I am all for dialogue; however, to belittle people such as Ms. Coulter has by suggesting flying carpets and camels is unacceptable.

What do you think?

What is Human Trafficking?

2010-02-20T22:29:00.005-05:00

What is Human Trafficking?
"The greatest and most shameful regrets of history is always about the truth we failed to tell."
—Haugen 2005

■TRAFFICKING IS…
to be deceived or taken against your will, bought, sold and transported into slavery for sexual exploitation, sweat shops, child brides, circuses, sacrificial worship, forced begging, sale of human organs, farm labour, domestic servitude.

■TRAFFICKING IS…
where family members and friends deceive parents to release their children or sell them for as little as $20 each, selling them on to local gangmasters or serious organised international trafficking rings.

■TRAFFICKING IS…
growing. 2–4 MILLION men, women and children are trafficked across borders and within their own country every year. More than one person is trafficked across borders EVERY MINUTE, which is equivalent to five jumbo jets every day. a trade that earns twice as much worldwide revenue as Coca Cola.

■TRAFFICKING IS…
where victims usually suffer repeated physical abuse, fear, torture and threats to families to break their spirits and turn them into saleable commodities. a person can be sold and trafficked many times
Taken directly from STOP THE TRAFFIK

Go here: YOU NEED TO FIND OUT MORE!

This is not an issue that is halfway around the world! It is in our own backyard...Get educated and help put an end to this social injustice!

Learn to do right! Seek justice, encourage the oppressed. Defend the cause of the fatherless, plead the case of the widow.~Isaiah 1:17

“Thou shalt not be a victim. Thou shalt not be a perpetrator. And above all, thou shalt NEVER be a bystander"-Yehuda Bauer

Love protects. Love defends. Love restores. Love empowers. ~LOVE 146

My Pep Talk

2010-02-17T22:19:00.000-05:00

You know, sometimes I feel absolutely overwhelmed by the evil, perversity, and injustice in this world. Control, manipulation, abuse, lying, greed...the list goes on...and on. Even if there is one corner of this world that I endeavour to make a difference in, some days, my effort still seems so fruitless. Perhaps part of the problem is my perspective. I tend to think big picture more often than not. My conciousness is a stream of domino senarios that spread like unending branches of a tree. I do not have a partner to balance my big thinking with...whatever it is that balances it. So, for me, this means that I rely on God. Where I can't, He can, and even where I can, He helps me to better...that is, if I let Him.

Human trafficking, environmental issues, politics, corporate greed/dishonesty, injustice of all kinds at all levels in society...These are things that concern me, but are way too vast for me to conquer on my own (so to speak)...but not too big for God. And that my friends is why I have hope. So, I will keep spreading the word of injustices, I will keep finding ways to help - even if I don't see the fruit - I will continue. With God all things are possible!

Local Cat Surprise

2010-02-11T16:30:00.000-05:00

A grocery bag is discarded on the side of the road. It's on Johnston Dr., just south of town. Just another bag of garbage to litter our roads...or is it?

My daughter and I were out for a nice walk. The day was fantastic - not too cold and sunny. As we walked, we had fun discussions, sword fights with long weeds, and lots of laughter. We were only a few hundred yards from our house when we spotted the unobtrusive sack. Thinking I'd do the environment a favour, I went over to kick it free of the ice to take home and discard; however, upon closer observation, I realized that what was contained within the securely tied grocery bag was not garbage.

Here on the side of the road, just a couple minutes from town and a few hundred yards from my house, was a dead black and white cat with her pink collar still on and what appeared to be kittens, frozen stiff, all stuffed in a plastic grocery bag!

How she died, I have no idea - all I knew was that this joyful walk had ended. My daughter was greatly disturbed (She had lost her black and white cat to a hit and run a few months back when we first moved here.) and I was angry that some insensitive cad had exterminated and dumped these poor creatures as such.

To add to the experience of living on Johnston Dr., back in November as I was tying up my dog in the back yard, 5 kittens came racing over to me from seemingly out of nowhere. They had little fear of the dog as they gathered at my feet, perhaps because they were starving and didn't care or perhaps they came from a home with a dog. Regardless, I brought them inside. The next day, I went investigating to see where they might have been dropped off along the property. It was a good thing I did because the runt of the litter was mewing and shivering in the brush along the roadside. That night, I discovered the mother of the kittens had found her way into my garage. So, there I was with a new house and 7 cats!

As Brendan Wedley from the Peterborough Examiner reported about a month ago, Peterborough has a cat problem. To spay a female cat - starts at $230; to neuter a male - starts at $100, and they must have their first set of shots before the spaying or neutering, which is an added expense of $65 or more. The Humane Society is trying to raise $250,000 to start up a non-profit spay and neuter clinic which will offer these services at a lower cost.

I am imploring of the public to support this much needed service! I am also asking that if you have extra cats/kittens, DO NOT dump them on some unsuspecting poor soul's property! Nor the side of the road - dead or alive! Please contact the Humane Society (705-745-4722).

If you want to donate or learn more about the non-profit spay and neuter clinic, you can visit online at http://www.peterboroughhumanesociety.ca/ or contact them directly. The sooner this clinic is up and running, the sooner we can curtail this cat problem.

Just Pondering Help for Haiti

2010-01-14T10:09:00.001-05:00

In the silence of this morning, I reflect upon the events of these past few days. Another tragedy has hit the world and through twitter and facebook, I watched as it brought us together in sincere concern to not let the people in Haiti suffer alone and without help. Millions of dollars have poured in to assist in aid and it is a beautiful thing.

Across the globe in another area, Afghanistan, a suicide bomber took the lives of 15 people and seriously injured others nearby with the blast. Many of us look upon this act with disgust, there is no sympathy for the bomber, just as we have no sympthy for the earthquake. If anything remotely Christ-like, we may feel pity that the life of the bomber had lead to this moment. (But I would hazard to guess that many of you are like me and my human response to this condemns this selfish, ~~dumbass~~ foolish, hate-filled action.)

I find it interesting how we respond to people and events, particularly when they are a world away from us. In Haiti, we see the destroyed homes, the people crying, dazed, and injured and we want to help. We hear about the suicide bomber in Afghanistan and because we have heard this type of story so many times, we feel sorry for the victims, yes, but we are simply angered that this nonsense has not yet ceased and we have lost interest in trying to provide help. (I call it nonsense because it does not make sense what-so-ever on any level of reason. Which, I suppose is exactly the point of this unhealthy mind-set.)

I wonder, will this happen with Haiti...not the reoccurance of earthquakes, but the loss of interest in the plight of the victims? I mean, it is wonderful the response that we have given, but a week from now, will we still really care?

2010-01-11T22:27:00.002-05:00

A Note on Human Trafficking

See the Irony?

2009-12-29T06:48:00.000-05:00

Kyoto...Copenhagen...What really needs to happen is not a universal governmental intervention (which is useless because there is no one to objectively police any regulations on a global level anyhow), but what really needs to occur is corporate and media responsibility. The pollution problem is not so much the fault of the government being negligent, but of those who seek prosperity without conscience and a media that perpetuates a lifestyle ideal with disregard to consequence.

Government led environmental summits will never result in true reform. If we want to really curb the global warming/pollution issue, we as individuals, must be willing to deny giving our power over to corporations and the media and take responsibility for a healthier future by living in the moment with the future in mind. Which means, for many Westerners, radically changing how we live...but really, what are the chances of that happening? See the irony?

Nestle or Cadbury Chocolate...You decide

2009-12-05T10:08:00.001-05:00

Did you know that Nestle still does not engage in Fair Trade for their chocolate? Child labour for your sweet tooth?

Read more here: http://tiny.cc/r7brV

Perhaps you should consider Cadbury products instead....and make a difference.

Who Does She Think She Is????

2009-09-30T07:14:00.003-04:00

.
.

Go here to find out!

Swine Flu H1N1 Update

2009-09-19T10:13:00.000-04:00

Well, the flu season is soon upon us and if you have been listening to the news and local reports at all, there are some interesting developments. One of these is that the period that a person remains contagious with the H1N1 virus is longer than expected. Instead of 1-3 days, the expected contagious period is 7 days, and there is also speculation that until the person stops coughing, they should be considered contagious.

The vaccination for the flu is being fast-tracked to accomodate the demand to help curtail the virus. I would encourage you to read more about that here.

Overall, I would again encourage each of you to follow the protocol for avoiding the flu, stay calm, and use common sense.

What to do next

2009-09-06T11:20:00.001-04:00

Sorry for the absence over the past month. I am still around, just contemplating what to do next. I have been reading and watching the media, weighing where my heart lies and which issue to focus my attention upon. There are so many issues that steal a piece of my heart as I recognize the injustice of them; however, I recognize I can only do so much and I want to give my best to what I am doing as opposed to spreading myself too thin and doing a mediocre job.

It is true: As individuals, we cannot solve all the world's problems, but we can take steps toward a solution to at least one problem and make a world of difference.

I will write more in the upcoming week.
Smiles and blessings to each of you.~mp:)

New Promotional Video via MTV

2009-07-20T15:32:00.002-04:00

LONDON, United Kingdom, 13 July 2009 — Starting today, MTV audiences around the world will see a new music video that aims to raise awareness about sex trafficking. Featuring the rock band The Killers, the video is an exclusive collaboration between UNICEF, MTV EXIT (End Exploitation and Trafficking) and the US Agency for International Development.

The track, Goodnight, Travel Well, is from the album Day & Age. The video is the second in a series of music video collaborations that highlight the danger and impact of human trafficking.

The series launched last year with an award-winning film - produced by MTV EXIT that featured the Radiohead single All I Need.

"We are deeply shocked and appalled that women and children are forced into such exploitative situations, said a spokesperson for The Killers. We hope that through MTV's efforts, and this powerful video, millions of people across the world learn about this tragic form of modern-day slavery."

The video for Goodnight, Travel Well has the potential to reach more than 500 million households in 168 countries.

There is almost no country in the world now that isnt affected by human trafficking in some way, said UNICEF Chief of Child Protection Susan Bissell. The statistics are staggering. More than 1.2 million children are being trafficked each year and nearly 80 per cent of all trafficking is for sexual exploitation, and the most at risk are girls.

We see this music video as a powerful way to reach out and raise awareness among young people, across borders and across language barriers, she added.

The Goodnight, Travel Well video was directed by film and music video veteran David Slade, in collaboration with the renowned production company Anonymous Content. The creative concept was developed by the Australian advertising agency CRC, with support from the UK music consultancy Huge Music.

The video provides insight into the realities of trafficking, with a particular focus on the trafficking of children and adolescents into forced prostitution.

For more information, please vist:
http://www.unicef.org/infobycountry/uk_50248.html

*Video and article provided by Unicef via Youtube*

The Local Strip Club

2009-07-06T06:25:00.003-04:00

"There are 27 million people sold across borders into bondage today. 50% of the victims are minors, roughly 80% are girls and women. That's about twice the combined population of London and New York. Human beings are trafficked from 127 countries to be exploited in 137 countries around the world. We are committed to see this change for the better." ~Justice&Care

I was chatting with someone not too long ago and they were commenting on how they went into a local strip club that lost it's liquor licence. The person made a joke about how the bartender told him that he had to buy an apple juice or a pop before the girls would dance for him, at which point he walked over to the girls (3 of them standing against a wall), looked each one up and down and then proceeded to tell the bartender that these girls were not worth and apple juice or a pop and walked out.

Funny? Not really. Sad it more like it. I had forgotten all about this strip bar and I wondered how many of the girls within were there due to human trafficking. I also wondered if they heard that disparaging comment made about their "worth" and the repercussions of the lack of customers.

I did proceed to reprimand this person for his behaviour and comments made; however, the words and plea I made on behalf of these women fell upon apathetic ears. What does he care about the mental, emotional, physical, let alone spiritual well-being of these women? He doesn't. He doesn't care. These women are for his enjoyment...if he chooses. They are nothing more than objects. Toys to his fantasy. He forgets that they are human. That they think and feel. That they too want to dream, to succeed, to be valued and cherished...to be safe and to be loved. Loved not abused. Loved.

This got me to thinking about what I could do. How can I make a difference in these girls' lives...I am thinking and praying about it...Consider the strip clubs around your area and how many of the girls involved have been sold into that business. What can you do to help them? They need someone to stand up for them, defend them...they need community, they need to be set free. How can you help? How can I help? It is not a matter of just shutting the strip clubs down, it is a matter of relationship. Authentic Life giving, God honouring relationship...what can we do to help? What will we do to help?

A Must See

2009-07-01T08:47:00.002-04:00

Go Here and watch the video in the bottom right hand corner TO THE END!!! PLEASE!

Please.

Look Into Her Eyes and You'll Know Why

2009-06-28T15:20:00.004-04:00

My heart has been greatly burdened for a while now about human trafficking. I have been praying about what to do about this...about getting more involved. I cannot stand apart any longer.

I have seen some very powerful videos presented by various organizations who are attempting to put an end to human trafficking and slavery and over the next little while, I would like to share a few.

This issue is not just going to go away. People need to know this is happening all over the world including Canada and the United States! I challenge you to get informed and do something to help put a stop to this horrid injustice. Help save a child, a woman, a man...Help save society!

http://www.love146.org

Swine Flu Returning?

2009-05-18T13:31:00.003-04:00

Though the Swine Flu or H1N1 Virus has been downplayed in media in the past couple of weeks, it is still a major focus in Japan where is it causing many to mask up to help prevent exposure to this illness. And, even though we are putting this virus to rest here in North America, we should be careful not to become over confident that we have survived the worse of it. Flu season is over here, but the virus is still around and as we approach autumn, we will be reminded to be vigilant with hand hygiene and getting the flu shot. Keep in mind that the Spanish Flu came in waves, the 1st wave mild and the 2nd wave devastatingly strong. I don't mean to be alarmist or pessimistic, rather, I want people to remain alert so as to keep themselves and their loved ones as protected as possible should this virus return.

hothttp://ca.reuters.com/article/topNews/idCATRE54H1XO20090518?pageNumber=3&virtualBrandChannel=0&sp=true

Compassionate Company

2009-05-15T11:46:00.003-04:00

In this time of economic distress, many having lost their jobs, we are looking for ways to save money and compassionate companies are also looking out for your needs...honest...at least one big pharmaceutical company is...
http://www.msnbc.msn.com/id/30743074/

It is all about priority man...priority...

Swine Flu

2009-04-28T14:27:00.006-04:00

Well, is this the virus the world has been waiting for to erupt? Media has given it a fair amount of attention as of late and it is interesting to note that some of the attention, particularly from the States, is to downplay the potential severity of the Swine Flu, stating it is too early to panic.

My first thought is better safe than sorry...remember SARS?

The other thing to consider is the economic impact this could have on the world's already flailing economy. The idea of a deadly virus entering our present with massive force and the potential to basically slow to a near stop all tourist travel is hardly a welcome thought. Something like this could transform countries that depend on tourism into proverbial ghost towns, not to mention the huge detrimental effects on the food and trade industries. The stock markets have already a hit, though it would seem that the message the "powers that be" are trying to project is, once again, that it is too early to panic.

The flu timeline thus far carries enough concern with it for the World Health Organization to issue a level 4 in measuring the severity of this virus. The world is to prepare for the worse. Stockpiling of zanamivir and oseltamivir has begun in serious and a strategy to use the zanamivir as the front line treatment has been implemented for now.

So, what can you do to help prevent the spread of this flu or any other flu?

WASH YOUR HANDS

Avoid crowded environments.

Sneeze into your elbow or a tissue (and then wash your hands).

Stay away from others if you are not well.

Avoid travelling to infected areas.

Otherwise, keep up adequate sleep, exercise, and eat healthy.

And if you do suspect that you may have contacted the flu. Be smart. Call your local health care provider, before you rush to the hospital, to seek direction. Also, avoid public transportation if you can; otherwise use a mask or a scarf to cover your nose and mouth and minimize all unnecessary contact with others.

Happy Earth Day

2009-04-22T12:35:00.004-04:00

Happy Earth Day...though every day should be celebrated as we do on this day...

In schools around the city, kids will be outside picking up trash and sorting and recycling what they find. Five years ago, when we arrived at the school where my kids attend, the garbage in the playground and fields was a disgrace to the point where a person could not take 15 steps without stepping on garbage, thus we would take some bags and pick up the garbage on the weekends. I was always taught not to litter and to take care of your property. I had also learned that leaving the work for someone else to do, usually results in the work never getting done. So, when I see garbage that could be picked up, I usually pick it up. (This is my Earth too.) These lessons I have tried to pass on to my kids (and whoever else hangs with us;) ) and for the most part, they get it. In fact, with the heightened awareness in our community around being responsible and being "green", the amount of garbage in and around even just our school has dropped dramatically - to the point that I wondered what exactly the kids will be doing after they pick up the (less than20?) pieces of garbage...5 years ago there would have been easily over a hundred pieces of garbage to pick up! There has been vast improvements and the children are transferring their learning to their home environments also.

Ever heard of "litterless lunches"? The school here encourages all students to bring these litterless lunches to school and you take home whatever garbage (packaging) you brought your food in. This lightens the amount of garbage the school collects and it also challenges families to really think about what they are eating. My kids this morning, asked me if we could start making our own yogurt so we wouldn't have to buy the packages of yogurt and reduce our recycling and waste that way...I am still considering that one...

In earnest, I find it very challenging to eat healthy, organically, and minimize waste simply because of the convenience factor that I have become so accustomed to. Though in my youth, I ate far healthier/organic, non-commercial-packaged foods. The role of my grandmother was such that, she spent most of her day preparing the meals. There is no way she would have been able to work outside of the home with a full time job and provide the meals that she provided - or at least, I would find it hard to believe that she would not exhaust herself to an early death if she had of had a full time job and the gardening/canning/cooking - plus all the other necessary activities that were accomplished through out the day! (Side note: cooked for at least 6 everyday.)

Off on a bit of a tangent there...

That being said, what I am suggesting is that these days, it is necessary to rethink how we live and eat. Times have changed, our lifestyles and environment have changed, and it is necessary for our own well-being and for the well-being of the Earth to seriously look at how we exist - I am not preaching anything you don't already know... And thankfully, the developed world is starting to wake up to this reality - corporately and individually. It is a challenge, but with resolve, it is possible. I have no doubt.

So, on this Earth day, as I consider making homemade yogurt, I challenge you to consider what you can do to make a positive, healthy change in your lifestyle and environment. Every little action does make a difference.

Smiles and Blessings!
~mp:)

The American Form of Government

2009-04-13T20:55:00.002-04:00

So, I came across this video via "The Old Adam Lives" by Steve Martin. I found it very interesting as I have never really considered this breakdown of government before. In the West, we boast of being a democratic society; however, after viewing this video, I am not sure that I would be quick in the future to brag about being a democracy. It has also challenged me to research further, democracy versus republic governments and the implications of each.

So, what do you think? Do you consider a democratic government superior to a republic? Is there another type of government you believe is superior?

Primal Fusion

2009-04-01T08:19:00.002-04:00

A new extensive internet search tool....Check it...
https://www.primalfusion.com/

Dr. Fish

2009-02-23T22:06:00.001-05:00

WHAT THE.....??~!?

Hugo Bonjean

2009-02-12T17:54:00.011-05:00

A fiction book that you need to read...

SEEDS...OF GERMINATION...OR TERMINATION by Hugo Bonjean

This book is somewhat prophetic as even today, seed companies are denying impoverished nations the ability to sustain their people without annually buying more seeds. You see, seeds sold to many countries, impoverished and otherwise, are modified to not reproduce if you were to try to germinate the second crop. Perhaps you have heard of Monsanto they are a major power in genetically modified organisms - Some would conclude that GMO's are a good thing enhancing many qualities of food products in particular, but much research needs to be done as the consequences of tampering with nature could (and usually does) have catastrophic consequences that would threaten not only our environment, but our health as well.

In Bonjean's story, "Nayla, a top scientist and respected board member of the mighty Carsanto Corporation becomes the country's most wanted fugitive when she impulsively steals the company's only germinator seeds to protect the planet and her daughter's future."

Seeds is a great story, a relevant read. I encourage you to check it out for yourself.

Is Bio Fuel Really the Answer?

2009-01-27T11:16:00.002-05:00

Soybean Skies 3
Originally uploaded by eScapes Photo

When we think of Bio Fuels, we think of a new future that secures an environmentally friendly option that still appeases the senses of the capitalist investor. However, is Bio Fuel all that we make it out to be or is it just another threat to society and the environment with a different face?

Check out this link to a video report from AFP on the reality of Bio Fuels and the effect they have on our friends in the southern hemisphere...

http://cosmos.bcst.yahoo.com/up/player/popup/index.php?cl=11731616

Green energy

2009-01-09T22:48:00.001-05:00

This was taken from Brian Mclaren's site and I am just passing it on....:)

Israel Hits Gaza and Shministim?

2008-12-28T13:54:00.009-05:00

I have got to say, writing on issues is more difficult than I thought it would be. All of a sudden, I am wondering how accurate my facts are, whether I have all the info, should I really write certain info - I get into an internal moral debate as I contemplate topics/issues to write...this is not fun.

I do not envy journalists. And unlike a journalist, I am not paid to write about specific goings-on and I have no deadline (which can be a good or bad thing). I do; however, have an acquaintance who is a journalist who writes for a major Canadian paper. He has been living in the Middle East for a couple of years, reporting on the people and the fighting in Israel in particular. Not an easy job to say the least. He has learned many things about both sides (the Israelis and the Palestinians) and has been shown the goodness of the human spirit from both sides (- that should keep a good journalist objective in their reporting...). In days of late, the ceasefire between the Israelis and the Palestinians has ended (over a week ago) and the Palestinians have been conducting random hits upon Israel; meanwhile, Israel has decided they have had enough and threw some bombs at Gaza killing over 200. Fight war with war, right?

In another area of action, there has been a movement happening amongst Israeli students. You see, when you finish high school at 17, you automatically enter into military training and service for a 2 year period before you continue on with your life (should you live through that 2 years, and to be fair, most do). At any time after this 2 year training period, you can be called into military service. If you refuse to participate in the military training, you can be placed in jail for 7-28 days and if you refuse to wear the military uniform during that jail time, you spend the your time in jail in solitary confinement. If at the end of this time you continue to refuse to enter into service, you can end up in jail again...and again...

As I am writing this, I have just received a letter from Jewish Voice for Peace - ironic...

Anyhow, this refusal of service is also known in Hebrew as "Shministim".

Now, one might wonder, when you get to thinking about things, that perhaps, this mandatory enlisting into military service does less to bring peace to this war torn area so much as it offers fuel to the Minds of war. Think about it. Is a constant stream of guaranteed recruits the answer or is there a better way? That is what this movement is about. Change for Peace. And certainly you cannot blame these high school students from wanting to create a better way. What kind of life is it that you are surrounded by war day in and day out? Never knowing if someone is going to blow themselves up or an air strike is going to hit you as you are walking down the street...

About 6 years ago, I had the privilege of meeting a Jewish family from Haifa who was in town (in Canada) visiting family and teaching some dance classes. They had a daughter that was 13 at the time and she was very quiet. Outside, she would look no one in the eye as she walked quickly to wherever she was going. Inside at the dance studio, we had balloons for the kids. One of the balloons popped and this girl jumped and immediately looked for her mom. Even before the scraps of the first balloon could be picked up another balloon popped. That was it. The girl broke into tears and clung to her mother begging her to leave...right then, to go someplace safe. This was a 13 year old girl! She was traumatized! Apparently a few weeks before they arrived in Canada, her father and her sister were late getting to the bus they would normally take home from the school that he worked at and she attended. That bus that they take everyday to and from their home was blown up by a suicide bomber that day. They were blessed to have been late that day. The family can hear the gunshots and bombings fairly regularly, and it is enough to leave such an impact on a 13 year old that she cannot even find any sense of peace in knowing it was only a balloon that popped. Can you imagine living like this day in and day out?! War. Fear.

So, when I hear of these students who want to change how they address the unrest in Israel, I can only offer my support and my prayers.

What do you think? Is this movement a realistic solution towards bringing peace to Israel?

i am back...

2008-12-21T15:18:00.000-05:00

I took a break and now I am intending to write regularly....watch for postings:)
Look below for the latest YouTube video...

The Big Ask: Climate change,

2008-12-21T14:29:00.001-05:00

Find Out What Your Ecological Footprint Is...

2008-11-24T10:46:00.000-05:00

What is your Ecological Footprint?

Find out what you can to do to become more environmentally friendly.

Alberta Tar Sands

2008-11-18T16:28:00.000-05:00

The Alberta Tar Sands. Have you heard of it? A massive area about the size of Florida, containing more oil than Saudi Arabia, and the largest environmental disaster in progress...In the production of oil, water is used to separate the bitumen from the Tar Sand and for every barrel of oil produced, five barrels of water are used. That water comes from the Athabasca River. The waste water left over from the separation process is too contaminated to return to the Athabasca, in fact, giant tailing "ponds" (which should more appropriately be called "lakes") are created to hold this contaminated water. These tailing "lakes" are filled with toxins such as benzene, naphthenic acid, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons, paraffin, naphtha, bitumen, other heavy metals and chemicals. In April of 2008, 500 migrating ducks were found dead in a tailing pond. These tailing lakes are lethal! And in some spots there is only a few meters separating the edge of the tailing lakes from the Athabasca river.

As this environmental time-bomb silently explodes, I would like to point out that there is a group of people who are in the center of these mining operations that are suffering great consequences. These people are the Mikisew Cree First Nation in Fort Chipewyan.

In this community, the rates of cancer have risen to numbers that have given rise to great alarm. The suspected source: the Tar Sands, or rather, the irresponsible mining process of the Tar Sands. The connection between water contamination and the health of these people is no mistake.

Mutant fish - fiction:

Above picture by Matt Groening from the Simpsons

or fact:

The Alberta Tar Sands are a great concern to not only the people of Alberta, but the world. The impact of this mining project has great stakes: financially, environmentally, and health-wise. The money to be made by mining and processing the Tar Sands is phenomenal for many interest groups and there are many power houses that want a piece of the pie, including China. But at what cost? Where is the responsibility to the public? to the Mikisew? to the environment? When all is said and done, the promise to restore the land is broken...they have no viable solution to reclaim the land at this point (only bandage answers); the cancers and illness that take the quality of life from the Mikisew and any others in this path of destruction cannot be reversed, and the environmental impact? Where do you start? CO2 emissions, acid rain, deforestation, contaminated water, mutated animals, not to mention the effects that have yet to be manifested in the world because of the lack of responsible planning and greed.

What I have presented is just the tip of the iceberg. This call to awareness and action is not just the latest trendy environmental issue, the development of the Tar Sands is a burden for the entire world. Please go to the different links for more information and PLEASE MAKE YOUR VOICE HEARD - SIGN THE PETITIONS BELOW TO SHOW SOLIDARITY AGAINST THE CONTINUED DEVASTATION OF THE TAR SANDS!

PETITIONS
1. http://www.thepetitionsite.com/1/no-new-approvals-on-tar-sands-developments?page=108

2. http://www.canadians.org/action/2008/27-Aug-08.html

3. http://www.tarsandstimeout.ca/index.php?option=com_petition&task=view&topic=37&Itemid=62

Add your thoughts by clicking on "comments" below.

Check out the "Links of Interest" on the sidebar for more information.

2008-11-16T08:47:00.000-05:00

New Post in the works...hang on...will arrive soon...

The Upcoming US Election

2008-10-26T18:21:00.000-04:00

Well, welcome. I am feeling a need to express and wander in the world of issues....

I am pondering how to organize this post, bear with me...I am thinking interactive; however, I may be best to head into the city core to sip coffee and converse with the locals for that....

I guess, to start, I will comment on this upcoming (which has been upcoming for what seems like years!) election in the US. Why they can't convince a nation in a few months versus spending all that they have over the few years, I don't understand...can you imagine what they could have done with all that excess money!! Anyhow, the choices are Obama and McCain. New versus old, untried versus riding on a track already groomed....I heard Joe Biden say that (and I am paraphrasing) If you vote for McCain, you are voting in another Bush government. And I have got to say, that is something to consider, on the other hand, it is reported that Focus on the Family is not endorsing Obama whatsoever, Obama being too liberal minded....

The question for me, if I were American, would be who has the best plan to straighten my country and our people for a healthy future. I use the word "healthy" strategically, meaning whole health - economics, environment, policy, physical/mental health, etc. Without this in mind, there is no future for the US, rather the future will be bleak. I know, I know, bold words from a non-American...it is what I see looking on from the outside though.

As a Christian, I would be in fervent prayer if I wasn't convicted one way or the other as of yet. This is a very important time in history, this next president has a lot of damage control and house cleaning to do to re-establish a secure nation. Not fun, and personally I think these two men are gluttons for ...well, let's just say, their source of motivation for becoming the next president is intriguing.

I do not have television (quick get the smelling salts!), so the only time I actually get to watch these men in action is when I am treading at the gym, I don't bother much with video on the Internet either. So, their charismatic presence and stage performance is lost on me. I am looking to their words written to educate me on their platforms. However, that being said, there is much a person can glean from unedited camera presence...

I am very interested to see how this plays out...the next government could really do some great good....it could also do some great bad. I pray each American will exercise their right to vote, that's what democracy is for; don't let others determine your future - be a part of the decision making, and do vote with God's guidance and with conviction!