The more crooks are caught in their lies and follies the better, but the right wing moves are highly disconcerting and spine-chilling.
"If a state’s legislature can determine who gets to vote, a minority can control that legislature and entrench itself in power, passing laws that keep the majority subservient to those in control. It was this very concept Congress overrode in 1868 with the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, saying that no state could deprive a citizen of the equal protection of the laws."
Heather, you have such a knack for placing everything in perspective. Thank you!
For all that R’s claim to be “originalists” regarding the Constitution, they sure are gung-ho to ignore any part of it they dislike, such as the 14th Amendment. Also the theory of unitary executive regarding the presidency is absolute hogwash. That theory is exactly opposite of what the founders wanted in a president. But anytime states’ rights get trotted out as a defense, the intent is to discriminate.
Speaking of state's rights, that reminds me of an infamous quote by Alabama governor George Wallace in his opposition to the integration of public schools: "Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever." Another saying is also part of the right wingers beliefs: "My way or the highway."
Yes Kelly. The vitriol from DeSantis is astounding in its bold-faced, reckless, spewing delivery on display daily on his campaign trail that replaces his duty as governor to ALL the people of this state. Including children.
Astounding and reckless, describe this irresponsible and dangerous political agenda and those delivering it to the people. These repubs and all who support them, the copycats. They’re watering down the school curriculum - so they won’t get this: “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
The scary part is DeSantis and his ilk hold enormous appeal for the vast majority of white Floridians (and white Hoosiers, white Texans, white you-name-its … in all the red states).
And the Virginia governor is working hard to keep up. This from the Washington Post, reprinted in the local Democratic Committee newsletter:
"It was hard to miss the thread running through the race-related policies Gov. Glenn Youngkin purged from the Virginia education system last week for being 'divisive': Almost all featured some version of the word 'equity.'"
"'Resource equity' — gone. 'Responsibility to advance racial, social and economic equity' — gone. 'Virginia’s Equity Audit Tool' — gone. The effort echoed Youngkin’s push to rename the state’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as the Office of Diversity, Opportunity and Inclusion, which the General Assembly rejected but which the administration has enacted on the state website anyway."
Next question-is there a FL law allowing recall. If there is, I'm sure his legislature will make sure it's repealed. If not, it will never be allowed to go forward as a bill. One has to wonder what he does if he loses the election...
A lot of folks have moved from Indiana to avoid income tax! However, they left behind their dirty business for all of us poor folks and many don't understand or care what has happened!
I am sure there are plenty of people in Indiana who think this is just fine. When I was there with my cousin for a reunion, Fox was on everywhere and one of our relatives had derogatory things to say about the motel where we were and horrors, we ate at the nearby Mexican restaurant. They are fine with their ignorance because they want nothing to undermine their world view.
They are-here in NH, we have an ultra RW Libertarian group whose goal is to destroy all laws that protect people like support networks, food stamps, Social Security, Public Education, gun control laws etc. (but of course they believe domestic violence and sex w/underage children are OK and women shouldn't have bodily autonomy. Grrr! Sad to say, there are 17 members (and others who don't declare it) in the State legislature & caucus w/ the Republicans. They went so far as to put forth a Constitutional Amendment to secede from the U.S. The result was a 323 against -13 for the bill this week.
Bravo on your comment about State's rights: and overriding the 14th Amendment. We must END THE FILIBUSTER to protect everyone's right to vote. USING the filibuster to impede the right to vote is equivalent to Russia's chilling the rights of its citizens by forbidding them from speaking out. If our vote is our voice, everyone should have the same access to that vote for electing federal candidates. Why should my zip code determine how I vote for the President of members of the US House or Senate?
I hope your readers will ask all their friends and themselves ask their US Senators to pass The Freedom to Vote Act/John R Lewis Voting Rights Act (SB5647). We must convince at least 2 US Senators who supported the Filibuster in the Senate to reconsider his/her vote on SB5647 and end the filibuster to pass SB5647. .
I have begun to reach out: I met with Senator Manchin's staff after his vote not to end the filibuster. Senator Manchin is proud of his efforts in WV to pass the early voting, same day registration for coal-miners and other working folks. When I challenged his staff why he wouldn't fight for coal-miners in Pennsylvania, Ohio or Kentucky to have the same privilege through federal early voting laws, etc enjoyed under state law in W VA, his staff said Manchin believes the filibuster is more important to protect. A SUPER MAJORITY to stop citizens from unfettered access to the ballot box isn't much different from silencing protestors in Russian IMHO.
Nevertheless, he is the only straw standing between McConnell and control of the Senate legislative agenda. And WV is more likely to elect someone even worse than Manchin than someone better.
Kill Switch: The Rise of the Modern Senate and the Crippling of Democracy by Adam Jentleson lays out the history of the filibuster throughout the Senate’s history. Fascinating read that includes many historical figures HCR has highlighted.
Thank you again M Rauth. After reading the WP article about Manchin, posted by Barbara D Reed, thank you Barbara, I ordered "Kill Switch". I am reminded of my years at UK in Lexington and of many state locals getting reamed regularly by their own elected officials and subsequently voting, in the end, for their favorite reamer. From the fables of " Happy" Chandler, a couple decades before me, to now Mitch & company I still wonder how in the hell
they continue to be elected? Not only do we need voting rights protection, could we possibly implement some kind of concurrent voter education? The voters pamphlet alone doesn't seem to be up to the task. Most use the publication for kindling and\or are not able to render a comprehensive decision from it. Now is the time to stress education as well.
“Not only do we need voting rights protection, could we possibly implement some kind of concurrent voter education?” Spot on, Bill! And how about mandatory basic requirements for elected officials, upon filing, such as experience and education? Teachers and many other professionals need years of both plus continuing education. And references with documentation. Money and connections are prized and feed success in our elections. Thinking of TFG.
Whatever magic was in your sweet, sweet early mid-century nookie that night created a heroine for our times... Nay, a g*ddamn MARVEL SuperHero of American Historical analysis, thinking & wisdom. Mr. & Mrs. Cox... in the weirdest but most earnest compliment ever - we salute you. :)
Long ago, in my work as an environmental activist, I took a training session about finding joy when everything seemed to be dark and bleak. Its a simple exercise but profoundly important as it turns out for me, at least.
Every morning I make a list of ten things I’m grateful for in my life. Just ten. If I focus on how blessed I am/we are, I can then find the energy to do something towards protecting our democracy.
I read the UN’s newest climate report a week ago- and wept. Literally sobbed. I’ve spent a lifetime trying to make things better- and they aren’t. They are worse, dangerously so.
Afterwards, I restarted the gratitude list. On it was Letters from an American, along with many other things including the barred owl that keeps me awake some nights- spring is coming and I love the wildlife I see and hear in my back yard!
I know how hard it is to stay positive - I think most of us here share great angst. Find a little joy where you can. I’m making dinner for my daughters today. There are hugs in my near future and That will carry me for now. Sending a hug your way too.
Thank you for writing this, I will try this list and see if I can get through the day. Your love for your daughters gives me great joy. I should go hug my mom asap.
Steve, I echo your sentiments--great report and, as I read it through for a second time, a real sense of panic and doom nearly overwhelmed me. Every subpoena, every indictment, every conviction, every favorable ruling--the very things that should bring me hope--somehow aren't adding up against the walls of defense. Too many fronts have opened up in this war. It feels like the Trump playbook--chaos and confusion. And then, of course, there's Russia. Where on earth have we gotten ourself to? Sorry, my own attempts to stay positive are obviously not succeeding this morning.
Did you see HCR's video on Tuesday? In the last 3.5 minutes, she made an innovative suggestion. She asked us to consciously counter the dominant rightwing presence on fb--which is determined by algorithms--by liking and interacting with each other's posts and comments there. It may sound inconsequential, but if we proactively interact with each other on fb, we can positively affect the algorithms, and strengthen a democracy supporting presence there. I like the way her idea can help us become a force for good on social media. Here's the link: https://fb.watch/bFPBIAj8Xj/
I'm readin "Stolen Focus" by Johan Hari. His discussions with the former Google employee & other Silicon Valley companies is disheartening. However, to fix a problem, first you must know about it.
Do the "Love". Also respond to the posts you like, even if only a few words. Repost Heather (and other positive responses to your own page (might drive your friends nuts, but # of reposts help drive the algorithm too.
I was just wondering if when you replied to a positive post, instead of just liking it, or reposting it to your feed with “a” comment, you, for example, reposted it with a first comment like: Loved this post! (Send), then followed it with another comment like “This post really made me think. (send) then you repost another comment perhaps with points the post brings up for you (send) . My thought wa then instead of algorithmically just being a single “like” against the sea of negative comments, you are three or more “Likes”. I’m not saying this will work, but I wonder if it will.
I thought it was just me that felt this way. I can’t help feeling tRump et al is going skate on this. He appears to have slithered out of the New York mess. All he has to do is hold out until the Midterms…because now it seems the pundits are leaning towards a repugnant republican take back! What has happened in America!!!
Yes, yes, Sharon, both “Animal Farm”and “1984” are books of the century imho. I have been re-reading them since 1/6. But they’re timeless. 0rwell was/is brilliant and (unfortunately) the books are timeless.
A Collection of Essays by Orwell is also an excellent read. Mostly commentary about English society and the evils of empire, but a great essay, "Politics and the English Language", that is the basis of much of "1984" (this one is available online). In my opinion (humble, of course), Orwell was a great writer and moralist; likewise Camus. Some of their writing is dated of course, but that's OK. Our writing today will be dated in a hundred years, if anyone is around to read it.
Thank you J. I too think both Orwell and Camus have contributed much to society. A favorite Camus quote: “I should like to be able to love my country and still love justice.” I think of this often. ☮️
Bob, I think that is in the thoughts of so, so, so many citizens. Millions? TFG has slithered away from multiple transgressions, lawsuits and bankruptcies. And that was before his election. That’s a serious concern for our country and the power of the vote for unqualified candidates.
When I read that 4 right wing Supreme Court Justices are providing legal backing that would allow states to lay the groundwork for Republicans to return to or to attain power whether or not they win enough votes, I am confounded by the deafening silence. For those who take heart in the deluge of citizen activists who work valiantly getting people registered and turbo-charging turnout, make no mistake: no amount of organizing is going to get us around sanctioned changes to state election rules that would change who could be in charge, how votes are counted, how they’re certified, and the like.
Since the Senate’s failure, this past January, to advance the Freedom to Vote Act, the sole piece of legislation whose provisions would supersede past, present, and future state law in conflict with any of its stipulations, this critically important piece of legislation seems to have gone missing.
I sense what’s left is to hope that the 8-point spike in the President’s approval rating since the State of the Union grants him just enough leverage to call out Manchin’s and Sinema’s mere support for voting rights as hollow and performative, absent their willingness, last January, to support the exceedingly modest Senate filibuster rule change that would have been enacted only this one time to advance the newly combined Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act.
No time like the present to start drafting that letter to the President.
Republicans believe in stacking the deck to make sure that no amount of voting action will overcome their “voter integrity” laws. Another Big Lie, just like Frank Luntz’ decades old advice to name things the opposite of what they are. The result being that the idiots won’t know the difference, and the ones that do know, will just wink and sign on to the evil. Worked like a charm in Tx in 1994, and all through W/Dickie’s nightmare. Still a go to strategy and who calls it out???
Jeri, Though you raise valid points, my objective remains focused on getting impactful federal legislation passed that would supersede state laws slated increasingly to restrict voting and to nullify votes. Were Dems to lose control of either the House or the Senate, that window of opportunity would close.
Unfortunately, this RW SCOTUS majority apparently doesn't believe the Supremacy Clause in the Constitution or the 14th Amendment. (Well bought by the Federalist Society IMHO.)
Since that fateful day, or maybe the day TFG was nominated, the Proud Boys and other Racist groups have been emboldened in every state. And in my Northern California small town. Law enforcement is aware, but the PB are not afraid to make themselves visible. I admit I’m afraid. I’m hoping the 1/6 arrests will wake up some of the white supremacists and copycats in the USA. And the citizens who believe they’re harmless.
It helped a small VT town shut down a "training camp" they'd been fighting for a couple years. Order includes the guy running it having to dismantle all the non-permitted "improvements" he made, and restore the integrety of the pasture alongside his right of way that passed through said pasture belonging to a neighbor. This was covered well locally and even made the national news. I've heard through the grapevine that similar sites have been shut down or curtailed in other states post Jan 6 insurrection. Taking time on some because there were sources of info in place during investigation. Maybe still are.
I naively thought that would be to final curtain for him, one which revealed the rotten core. Sigh. I did not realize that, instead, the cockroaches were emboldened out of the woodwork.
It's inconceivable to me that there are millions of US Americans who continue to support the view that Democrats and the spread of Democracy must be stopped "at all costs" when we are watching Russia's "at all costs" aggressive and violent attempt to halt the spread of Democracy in Ukraine in real time.
I have said these things in this forum before and I stand by them - it goes back to the very simple fact that in our lifetime, US Americans have not had to face a full scale invasion on US soil. We have never had our homes, schools, hospitals and places of worship bombed by an invader. We have never had to pack up and flee our homes for another country because we fear for our lives. (And who would take us in?) We haven't been slaughtered by the enemy whilst trying to move our children from harm's way. We don't know what it's like to be achingly cold/hot, hungry, dirty and exhausted. Simply put, there is not a single US born citizen alive today who has experienced the horror of invasion on US soil. We have no idea, NONE, as a people, the suffering of others struggling to live a life free from violence and persecution. Reality is this: the very wealthy people trying to shut down Democracy in the United States are safe because if and when shit hits the fan they'll be safely tucked away somewhere in comfort. After all, they have their stupid, deluded base to do their dirty work for them.
I’ll say this Daria. There are two moments that seered my brain with image and this was before the days of social media and daily inundation of global images available.
One was Walter Cronkite, choked up and dismayed telling the American audience that our president had been assasinated and was dead. Another was the image of the first, then the second plane taking the Towers down while I was in charge of my elementary school assignment. With President Bush down the road in Sarasota reading to a classroom of 1st graders and looking up as an aide whispered the news in his ear.
There have been others, of course, but these two visual memories affected the homeostasis of my feeling of being a free citizen in a sovereign country. I recall the dread and sweat on my brow. I recall the realization, even as a very young girl, that we are not as “safe” as I thought one moment before. It is but a small shock to one’s being compared to what millions of world citizens have experienced fleeing from greed dressed up as a monstrous leader.
But that is what I have asked people lately that shrug and dismiss Ukraine and complain about gas prices.
Have you ever felt completely afraid for your safety or completely afraid of losing your freedom to live and eat and talk and play and pray as you want? Consider it and quit being entitled and a scared snot nose. Either one is a citizen of this world of humans or we are nothing.
Daria, everything you have said here (and before) is right on. I easily admit I cannot begin to understand what it must feel/be like to have to leave my home in search of a "safer" place. No place is safe anymore, and Americans are deluding themselves to think they are safe here. (And you are right..."who would take us in?") Why would another country take in a selfish group who whine about the price of gas if it means there might be an outcome that helps so many.
Yet what do the news channels, local and national, focus on? Gas prices. They don't need to tell us what we see daily on huge signs. News reports should focus on the daily profits the gas companies are reaping, and how much they do NOT pay in tax on their profit.
Agree wholeheartedly. The many US Americans who fail to recognize the influence of US American oligarchs and kleptocrats in the US are in for a huge awakening.
In the past decade, I have seen from my white perspective, that other white people I know seem much more accepting of persons of color if they hold higher paying/more prestigious occupations AND also don't speak out about anything. (aka know their place) My husband and I would talk about this and agreed we thought it would be more likely that the US would see a "class war" rather than a "race war". It seems that the GQP has managed to brainwash the poorer segments of the population, but I ponder now if the sea changes that came from the pandemic might change that--perhaps those millennials might just get fed up with the status quo that existed before? Weighed down by student loans, low wages, inflation and a sense that they have no control?
I know I am rambling a bit here, but I wonder what the ultra rich would do if the working class just refused to work for them? By that, I mean the personal assistants, housekeeping, dog walkers, makeup and hair stylists that are kept on retainer by these billionaires? Would they walk their own dogs and pick up the shit? Clean their own toilets? Prepare their own food? Do without their personal trainers? Do without their bodyguards?!
The wealth gap is getting so wide, one just wonders when the have nots will have had it and come out with the pitchforks?
Pam, this is why the anti-maskers drive me crazy. Like it's such a sacrifice and impingement on their freedom to follow a state mandate to wear a mask. These selfish people have NO idea what "tyranny" really looks like.
Christine, the two events you cite shook me to the core as well. They are still vivid in my minds eye. The latter brought home the realization that we walk the thin line between freedom and chaos every single day. Your last sentence says it all.
As deep as it goes ... take it one breath at a time - with clear intentions and true heart ... I hear this phase is to last 500 years ... so, we do what we can, and carry on ....
The more crooks are caught in their lies and follies the better, but the right wing moves are highly disconcerting and spine-chilling.
"If a state’s legislature can determine who gets to vote, a minority can control that legislature and entrench itself in power, passing laws that keep the majority subservient to those in control. It was this very concept Congress overrode in 1868 with the Fourteenth Amendment to the Constitution, saying that no state could deprive a citizen of the equal protection of the laws."
Heather, you have such a knack for placing everything in perspective. Thank you!
For all that R’s claim to be “originalists” regarding the Constitution, they sure are gung-ho to ignore any part of it they dislike, such as the 14th Amendment. Also the theory of unitary executive regarding the presidency is absolute hogwash. That theory is exactly opposite of what the founders wanted in a president. But anytime states’ rights get trotted out as a defense, the intent is to discriminate.
Speaking of state's rights, that reminds me of an infamous quote by Alabama governor George Wallace in his opposition to the integration of public schools: "Segregation now, segregation tomorrow, segregation forever." Another saying is also part of the right wingers beliefs: "My way or the highway."
They treat the Constitution like a buffet, choosing only the dishes they like.
This was my quote when shared this morning. Again Heather nailed it with her clear, concise writing.
Exactly what has happened in Florida. And the Right Wing Agenda is on full display.
Yes Kelly. The vitriol from DeSantis is astounding in its bold-faced, reckless, spewing delivery on display daily on his campaign trail that replaces his duty as governor to ALL the people of this state. Including children.
Astounding and reckless, describe this irresponsible and dangerous political agenda and those delivering it to the people. These repubs and all who support them, the copycats. They’re watering down the school curriculum - so they won’t get this: “Power corrupts and absolute power corrupts absolutely.”
Always
What is very scary would be DeSantis as president and Abbot as vice-president. Imagine the sleepless nights we would have.
The scary part is DeSantis and his ilk hold enormous appeal for the vast majority of white Floridians (and white Hoosiers, white Texans, white you-name-its … in all the red states).
And the Virginia governor is working hard to keep up. This from the Washington Post, reprinted in the local Democratic Committee newsletter:
"It was hard to miss the thread running through the race-related policies Gov. Glenn Youngkin purged from the Virginia education system last week for being 'divisive': Almost all featured some version of the word 'equity.'"
"'Resource equity' — gone. 'Responsibility to advance racial, social and economic equity' — gone. 'Virginia’s Equity Audit Tool' — gone. The effort echoed Youngkin’s push to rename the state’s Office of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion as the Office of Diversity, Opportunity and Inclusion, which the General Assembly rejected but which the administration has enacted on the state website anyway."
I read that, too, Nancy. How can these people be stopped!
I just hope voters are seeing the error of their ways. His poll numbers are low.
Playing with rhetoric, playing with our kids’ lives.
I wish he would be recalled.
Next question-is there a FL law allowing recall. If there is, I'm sure his legislature will make sure it's repealed. If not, it will never be allowed to go forward as a bill. One has to wonder what he does if he loses the election...
DeSantis thinks he's a king. Wants his own army that answer to him.
Take that to its logical extreme and you arrive at Vladimir Putin.
Takes after his party’s king. Hoping they all pay for their hubris.
A lot of folks have moved from Indiana to avoid income tax! However, they left behind their dirty business for all of us poor folks and many don't understand or care what has happened!
That is what is happening in Indiana while the ignorant sleep!
I am sure there are plenty of people in Indiana who think this is just fine. When I was there with my cousin for a reunion, Fox was on everywhere and one of our relatives had derogatory things to say about the motel where we were and horrors, we ate at the nearby Mexican restaurant. They are fine with their ignorance because they want nothing to undermine their world view.
This is what caught my eye too. R state legislatures are doing lots of undermining and ugly work.
They are-here in NH, we have an ultra RW Libertarian group whose goal is to destroy all laws that protect people like support networks, food stamps, Social Security, Public Education, gun control laws etc. (but of course they believe domestic violence and sex w/underage children are OK and women shouldn't have bodily autonomy. Grrr! Sad to say, there are 17 members (and others who don't declare it) in the State legislature & caucus w/ the Republicans. They went so far as to put forth a Constitutional Amendment to secede from the U.S. The result was a 323 against -13 for the bill this week.
Bravo on your comment about State's rights: and overriding the 14th Amendment. We must END THE FILIBUSTER to protect everyone's right to vote. USING the filibuster to impede the right to vote is equivalent to Russia's chilling the rights of its citizens by forbidding them from speaking out. If our vote is our voice, everyone should have the same access to that vote for electing federal candidates. Why should my zip code determine how I vote for the President of members of the US House or Senate?
I hope your readers will ask all their friends and themselves ask their US Senators to pass The Freedom to Vote Act/John R Lewis Voting Rights Act (SB5647). We must convince at least 2 US Senators who supported the Filibuster in the Senate to reconsider his/her vote on SB5647 and end the filibuster to pass SB5647. .
I have begun to reach out: I met with Senator Manchin's staff after his vote not to end the filibuster. Senator Manchin is proud of his efforts in WV to pass the early voting, same day registration for coal-miners and other working folks. When I challenged his staff why he wouldn't fight for coal-miners in Pennsylvania, Ohio or Kentucky to have the same privilege through federal early voting laws, etc enjoyed under state law in W VA, his staff said Manchin believes the filibuster is more important to protect. A SUPER MAJORITY to stop citizens from unfettered access to the ballot box isn't much different from silencing protestors in Russian IMHO.
Manchin is a Trojan horse all dressed up in patriotic garb. He is not a democrat
He's a snake.
That comparison is unfair to snakes.
Nevertheless, he is the only straw standing between McConnell and control of the Senate legislative agenda. And WV is more likely to elect someone even worse than Manchin than someone better.
Actually he was part of the fossil fuel folks, having OWNED a coal company then gave it to his son and still gets dividends. Here's a WaPO article about this: https://www.washingtonpost.com/politics/2021/12/13/manchin-blind-trust-enersystems-stock-climate-change/
So, to accomplish this you must elect the people that will vote against the filibuster! The Republicans are very clever!
Kill Switch: The Rise of the Modern Senate and the Crippling of Democracy by Adam Jentleson lays out the history of the filibuster throughout the Senate’s history. Fascinating read that includes many historical figures HCR has highlighted.
Thank you again M Rauth. After reading the WP article about Manchin, posted by Barbara D Reed, thank you Barbara, I ordered "Kill Switch". I am reminded of my years at UK in Lexington and of many state locals getting reamed regularly by their own elected officials and subsequently voting, in the end, for their favorite reamer. From the fables of " Happy" Chandler, a couple decades before me, to now Mitch & company I still wonder how in the hell
they continue to be elected? Not only do we need voting rights protection, could we possibly implement some kind of concurrent voter education? The voters pamphlet alone doesn't seem to be up to the task. Most use the publication for kindling and\or are not able to render a comprehensive decision from it. Now is the time to stress education as well.
“Not only do we need voting rights protection, could we possibly implement some kind of concurrent voter education?” Spot on, Bill! And how about mandatory basic requirements for elected officials, upon filing, such as experience and education? Teachers and many other professionals need years of both plus continuing education. And references with documentation. Money and connections are prized and feed success in our elections. Thinking of TFG.
I also wish a lot more effort were going into voter education. Too many people are not plugged in, unlike this wonderful community.
Giving a briefing on Voting Rights Act Thursday night for local AcLU. Want zoom link?
Thank you. I wasn't aware of this book and I will look for it at my library.
Dear Mr. and Mrs. Cox, thank you for bringing Heather into this world.
Whatever magic was in your sweet, sweet early mid-century nookie that night created a heroine for our times... Nay, a g*ddamn MARVEL SuperHero of American Historical analysis, thinking & wisdom. Mr. & Mrs. Cox... in the weirdest but most earnest compliment ever - we salute you. :)
Smile♥️
Great report tonight.
I wish I didn't feel like we are doomed.
Trying to stay positive.
Long ago, in my work as an environmental activist, I took a training session about finding joy when everything seemed to be dark and bleak. Its a simple exercise but profoundly important as it turns out for me, at least.
Every morning I make a list of ten things I’m grateful for in my life. Just ten. If I focus on how blessed I am/we are, I can then find the energy to do something towards protecting our democracy.
I read the UN’s newest climate report a week ago- and wept. Literally sobbed. I’ve spent a lifetime trying to make things better- and they aren’t. They are worse, dangerously so.
Afterwards, I restarted the gratitude list. On it was Letters from an American, along with many other things including the barred owl that keeps me awake some nights- spring is coming and I love the wildlife I see and hear in my back yard!
I know how hard it is to stay positive - I think most of us here share great angst. Find a little joy where you can. I’m making dinner for my daughters today. There are hugs in my near future and That will carry me for now. Sending a hug your way too.
Thank you for writing this, I will try this list and see if I can get through the day. Your love for your daughters gives me great joy. I should go hug my mom asap.
Thank you, Sheila. Just … thank you.
Hugs back at you! You are not alone!
Thank you for suggesting a list of gratitude. Starting mine immediately, as I need something upbeat. Hugs are great for refueling our hearts.
Steve, I echo your sentiments--great report and, as I read it through for a second time, a real sense of panic and doom nearly overwhelmed me. Every subpoena, every indictment, every conviction, every favorable ruling--the very things that should bring me hope--somehow aren't adding up against the walls of defense. Too many fronts have opened up in this war. It feels like the Trump playbook--chaos and confusion. And then, of course, there's Russia. Where on earth have we gotten ourself to? Sorry, my own attempts to stay positive are obviously not succeeding this morning.
Overwhelmed….
You are not alone.
Important. Fake it ‘til you make it. Stay positive in the face of it all.
Salud, Steve. United.
Did you see HCR's video on Tuesday? In the last 3.5 minutes, she made an innovative suggestion. She asked us to consciously counter the dominant rightwing presence on fb--which is determined by algorithms--by liking and interacting with each other's posts and comments there. It may sound inconsequential, but if we proactively interact with each other on fb, we can positively affect the algorithms, and strengthen a democracy supporting presence there. I like the way her idea can help us become a force for good on social media. Here's the link: https://fb.watch/bFPBIAj8Xj/
Heather's Herd: Feel free to friend me on fb so we can try to move the needle a bit.
I heard what she said, too, but thought she was talking about other "friends'" comments on FB not related to her videos or posts. No?
Yes. I understood her to say that we (her followers) should like each other and comment on each other's political posts.
Ironically, Facebook algorithms give most power to the “angry” emoji over the “like.”
I'm readin "Stolen Focus" by Johan Hari. His discussions with the former Google employee & other Silicon Valley companies is disheartening. However, to fix a problem, first you must know about it.
Do the "Love". Also respond to the posts you like, even if only a few words. Repost Heather (and other positive responses to your own page (might drive your friends nuts, but # of reposts help drive the algorithm too.
Can you respond to a post you like over a series of posts? That would jack the numbers up each time you do it.
I don't understand what you mean by "over a series of posts." If you'd give me an example, that be helpful. Thanks!
I was just wondering if when you replied to a positive post, instead of just liking it, or reposting it to your feed with “a” comment, you, for example, reposted it with a first comment like: Loved this post! (Send), then followed it with another comment like “This post really made me think. (send) then you repost another comment perhaps with points the post brings up for you (send) . My thought wa then instead of algorithmically just being a single “like” against the sea of negative comments, you are three or more “Likes”. I’m not saying this will work, but I wonder if it will.
Good to know. Thanks!
ugh!
I thought it was just me that felt this way. I can’t help feeling tRump et al is going skate on this. He appears to have slithered out of the New York mess. All he has to do is hold out until the Midterms…because now it seems the pundits are leaning towards a repugnant republican take back! What has happened in America!!!
I am reading Orwell's "Animal Farm". Very interesting. If you haven't read it, give in a read!
Yes, yes, Sharon, both “Animal Farm”and “1984” are books of the century imho. I have been re-reading them since 1/6. But they’re timeless. 0rwell was/is brilliant and (unfortunately) the books are timeless.
A Collection of Essays by Orwell is also an excellent read. Mostly commentary about English society and the evils of empire, but a great essay, "Politics and the English Language", that is the basis of much of "1984" (this one is available online). In my opinion (humble, of course), Orwell was a great writer and moralist; likewise Camus. Some of their writing is dated of course, but that's OK. Our writing today will be dated in a hundred years, if anyone is around to read it.
Thank you J. I too think both Orwell and Camus have contributed much to society. A favorite Camus quote: “I should like to be able to love my country and still love justice.” I think of this often. ☮️
"1984" is also a timely Orwell read.
Bob, I think that is in the thoughts of so, so, so many citizens. Millions? TFG has slithered away from multiple transgressions, lawsuits and bankruptcies. And that was before his election. That’s a serious concern for our country and the power of the vote for unqualified candidates.
When I read that 4 right wing Supreme Court Justices are providing legal backing that would allow states to lay the groundwork for Republicans to return to or to attain power whether or not they win enough votes, I am confounded by the deafening silence. For those who take heart in the deluge of citizen activists who work valiantly getting people registered and turbo-charging turnout, make no mistake: no amount of organizing is going to get us around sanctioned changes to state election rules that would change who could be in charge, how votes are counted, how they’re certified, and the like.
Since the Senate’s failure, this past January, to advance the Freedom to Vote Act, the sole piece of legislation whose provisions would supersede past, present, and future state law in conflict with any of its stipulations, this critically important piece of legislation seems to have gone missing.
I sense what’s left is to hope that the 8-point spike in the President’s approval rating since the State of the Union grants him just enough leverage to call out Manchin’s and Sinema’s mere support for voting rights as hollow and performative, absent their willingness, last January, to support the exceedingly modest Senate filibuster rule change that would have been enacted only this one time to advance the newly combined Freedom to Vote: John R. Lewis Act.
No time like the present to start drafting that letter to the President.
Republicans believe in stacking the deck to make sure that no amount of voting action will overcome their “voter integrity” laws. Another Big Lie, just like Frank Luntz’ decades old advice to name things the opposite of what they are. The result being that the idiots won’t know the difference, and the ones that do know, will just wink and sign on to the evil. Worked like a charm in Tx in 1994, and all through W/Dickie’s nightmare. Still a go to strategy and who calls it out???
Jeri, Though you raise valid points, my objective remains focused on getting impactful federal legislation passed that would supersede state laws slated increasingly to restrict voting and to nullify votes. Were Dems to lose control of either the House or the Senate, that window of opportunity would close.
That'll be a tough row to hoe, but getting federal voting rights bills passed MUST be done, or so will we be.
❤💖
Unfortunately, this RW SCOTUS majority apparently doesn't believe the Supremacy Clause in the Constitution or the 14th Amendment. (Well bought by the Federalist Society IMHO.)
It sure seems like Dem focus on federal has obscured state moves that
❤️
Leverage key point in your comment. Thank you.
I still remember gasping at the “stand back and stand by” declaration by the Grand Wizard himself.
https://youtu.be/JZk6VzSLe4Y
As did I, In fact, my gast was flabbered about every day of chump’s recruitment of the slime from under the rocks.
Since that fateful day, or maybe the day TFG was nominated, the Proud Boys and other Racist groups have been emboldened in every state. And in my Northern California small town. Law enforcement is aware, but the PB are not afraid to make themselves visible. I admit I’m afraid. I’m hoping the 1/6 arrests will wake up some of the white supremacists and copycats in the USA. And the citizens who believe they’re harmless.
It helped a small VT town shut down a "training camp" they'd been fighting for a couple years. Order includes the guy running it having to dismantle all the non-permitted "improvements" he made, and restore the integrety of the pasture alongside his right of way that passed through said pasture belonging to a neighbor. This was covered well locally and even made the national news. I've heard through the grapevine that similar sites have been shut down or curtailed in other states post Jan 6 insurrection. Taking time on some because there were sources of info in place during investigation. Maybe still are.
I naively thought that would be to final curtain for him, one which revealed the rotten core. Sigh. I did not realize that, instead, the cockroaches were emboldened out of the woodwork.
And they sure heard him, didn’t they?
It's inconceivable to me that there are millions of US Americans who continue to support the view that Democrats and the spread of Democracy must be stopped "at all costs" when we are watching Russia's "at all costs" aggressive and violent attempt to halt the spread of Democracy in Ukraine in real time.
I have said these things in this forum before and I stand by them - it goes back to the very simple fact that in our lifetime, US Americans have not had to face a full scale invasion on US soil. We have never had our homes, schools, hospitals and places of worship bombed by an invader. We have never had to pack up and flee our homes for another country because we fear for our lives. (And who would take us in?) We haven't been slaughtered by the enemy whilst trying to move our children from harm's way. We don't know what it's like to be achingly cold/hot, hungry, dirty and exhausted. Simply put, there is not a single US born citizen alive today who has experienced the horror of invasion on US soil. We have no idea, NONE, as a people, the suffering of others struggling to live a life free from violence and persecution. Reality is this: the very wealthy people trying to shut down Democracy in the United States are safe because if and when shit hits the fan they'll be safely tucked away somewhere in comfort. After all, they have their stupid, deluded base to do their dirty work for them.
I’ll say this Daria. There are two moments that seered my brain with image and this was before the days of social media and daily inundation of global images available.
One was Walter Cronkite, choked up and dismayed telling the American audience that our president had been assasinated and was dead. Another was the image of the first, then the second plane taking the Towers down while I was in charge of my elementary school assignment. With President Bush down the road in Sarasota reading to a classroom of 1st graders and looking up as an aide whispered the news in his ear.
There have been others, of course, but these two visual memories affected the homeostasis of my feeling of being a free citizen in a sovereign country. I recall the dread and sweat on my brow. I recall the realization, even as a very young girl, that we are not as “safe” as I thought one moment before. It is but a small shock to one’s being compared to what millions of world citizens have experienced fleeing from greed dressed up as a monstrous leader.
But that is what I have asked people lately that shrug and dismiss Ukraine and complain about gas prices.
Have you ever felt completely afraid for your safety or completely afraid of losing your freedom to live and eat and talk and play and pray as you want? Consider it and quit being entitled and a scared snot nose. Either one is a citizen of this world of humans or we are nothing.
Love, Daria, love. 💜☮️🌍🌎🌏
Daria, everything you have said here (and before) is right on. I easily admit I cannot begin to understand what it must feel/be like to have to leave my home in search of a "safer" place. No place is safe anymore, and Americans are deluding themselves to think they are safe here. (And you are right..."who would take us in?") Why would another country take in a selfish group who whine about the price of gas if it means there might be an outcome that helps so many.
Pam, spot on! To condense one's well being to the price of gas is mind boggling, not to mention selfish.
Yet what do the news channels, local and national, focus on? Gas prices. They don't need to tell us what we see daily on huge signs. News reports should focus on the daily profits the gas companies are reaping, and how much they do NOT pay in tax on their profit.
Agree wholeheartedly. The many US Americans who fail to recognize the influence of US American oligarchs and kleptocrats in the US are in for a huge awakening.
I can't click the heart, but I agree, Daria.
In the past decade, I have seen from my white perspective, that other white people I know seem much more accepting of persons of color if they hold higher paying/more prestigious occupations AND also don't speak out about anything. (aka know their place) My husband and I would talk about this and agreed we thought it would be more likely that the US would see a "class war" rather than a "race war". It seems that the GQP has managed to brainwash the poorer segments of the population, but I ponder now if the sea changes that came from the pandemic might change that--perhaps those millennials might just get fed up with the status quo that existed before? Weighed down by student loans, low wages, inflation and a sense that they have no control?
I know I am rambling a bit here, but I wonder what the ultra rich would do if the working class just refused to work for them? By that, I mean the personal assistants, housekeeping, dog walkers, makeup and hair stylists that are kept on retainer by these billionaires? Would they walk their own dogs and pick up the shit? Clean their own toilets? Prepare their own food? Do without their personal trainers? Do without their bodyguards?!
The wealth gap is getting so wide, one just wonders when the have nots will have had it and come out with the pitchforks?
Totally agree!
Pam, this is why the anti-maskers drive me crazy. Like it's such a sacrifice and impingement on their freedom to follow a state mandate to wear a mask. These selfish people have NO idea what "tyranny" really looks like.
Christine, the two events you cite shook me to the core as well. They are still vivid in my minds eye. The latter brought home the realization that we walk the thin line between freedom and chaos every single day. Your last sentence says it all.
With love and kind thoughts, Christine.🌷💙🌅🌏🌎🌍
... and so, we are tested ...
I'm afraid we have yet to be truly tested.
As deep as it goes ... take it one breath at a time - with clear intentions and true heart ... I hear this phase is to last 500 years ... so, we do what we can, and carry on ....
Yes.