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The War on Good Cheer
Author: BobR
Date: 2013-12-04 12:05:04
Last week on Thanksgiving day, I wrote about the impending "holiday" season, and how Black Friday shopping had slipped into Thanksgiving day. It's December and we are now officially in it, for better and for worse. The dichotomy between the purported message and the reality of how Christmas is treated never ceases to jar me with cognitive dissonance.
As always, Black Friday set the ugly tone early on. It used to be just rudeness. Now, there are fistfights, stabbings, shootings... How long before someone is killed trying to save a few bucks on a video game machine?
Then of course, there is the annual FOX "News" grim declaration of a war on Christmas (something Bill O'Reilly's been harping on for at least 8 years). They are part of a handful of angry purists who get upset when their Christmas tree (stolen from the pagans) is referred to as a "holiday" tree. There's also the wreaths and yule log (all taken from the pagan yule holiday) that they hold so dear with nary a trace of irony.
Who would Jesus stab at the Wal-Mart to get that deeply discounted TV to celebrate His birthday?
On the other hand, we have the hard-core anti-religion types for whom even a decorated tree on public property is a step too far. I have had an argument with a woman who was upset when someone hung a wreath in her apartment building's public space. Really? Is THIS the battle you want to fight?
Yes, I celebrate a 100% secular Christmas. It holds no religious meaning to me, so I don't see Santa or trees or wreaths or stockings or any of the other decorations as having any religious significance. I just like how they look and the warmth and color they bring to the dreary days of winter. To me, the religious caroles and stories are just that - stories like Santa and Frosty and Rudolph.
There are so many problems in this world that deserve our concern and outrage and advocacy. The vaguely religious roots of a national holiday are not one of them, neither for those opposed to the supposed embrace of religion by government, nor the supposed persecution of it either (neither of which is occurring).
I say "Merry Christmas" because I want people to enjoy the holiday, even if they don't observe it and see it as just another day on the calendar. Can't we do that? Can't we have one day a year where people put away the bullshit and just be nice to each other?
It's 3 weeks away - anything is possible. Maybe we should practice - starting now.
As always, Black Friday set the ugly tone early on. It used to be just rudeness. Now, there are fistfights, stabbings, shootings... How long before someone is killed trying to save a few bucks on a video game machine?
A shooting was also reported Thursday night in Las Vegas...
A police officer in Rialto, Calif., was also injured Thursday night when a fight broke out at a local Walmart.
In Virginia, a man was allegedly slashed with a knife during an altercation with another shopper over a parking space at a Walmart.
A stabbing was reported early Friday morning in Carlsbad, Calif. The victim in that case was stabbed in the stomach at the entrance of a mall, according to NBC San Diego.
Then of course, there is the annual FOX "News" grim declaration of a war on Christmas (something Bill O'Reilly's been harping on for at least 8 years). They are part of a handful of angry purists who get upset when their Christmas tree (stolen from the pagans) is referred to as a "holiday" tree. There's also the wreaths and yule log (all taken from the pagan yule holiday) that they hold so dear with nary a trace of irony.
Who would Jesus stab at the Wal-Mart to get that deeply discounted TV to celebrate His birthday?
On the other hand, we have the hard-core anti-religion types for whom even a decorated tree on public property is a step too far. I have had an argument with a woman who was upset when someone hung a wreath in her apartment building's public space. Really? Is THIS the battle you want to fight?
Yes, I celebrate a 100% secular Christmas. It holds no religious meaning to me, so I don't see Santa or trees or wreaths or stockings or any of the other decorations as having any religious significance. I just like how they look and the warmth and color they bring to the dreary days of winter. To me, the religious caroles and stories are just that - stories like Santa and Frosty and Rudolph.
There are so many problems in this world that deserve our concern and outrage and advocacy. The vaguely religious roots of a national holiday are not one of them, neither for those opposed to the supposed embrace of religion by government, nor the supposed persecution of it either (neither of which is occurring).
I say "Merry Christmas" because I want people to enjoy the holiday, even if they don't observe it and see it as just another day on the calendar. Can't we do that? Can't we have one day a year where people put away the bullshit and just be nice to each other?
It's 3 weeks away - anything is possible. Maybe we should practice - starting now.
Comments:
Order comments Newest to Oldest Refresh Comments
Comment by 
trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 13:24:27
trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 13:24:27
Good morning.
I finally got my cube back, so I've been rearranging computers and what-not here. That and it being really busy with work piling up due to my recent absences and general "emergencies" means I'm curtailing most internet activity. I know everyone at work says take care of home stuff, but it bothers me that I'm not here when crap is hitting the fan and I could be useful. And it's time for year-end review....
Mrs. Rabbit is slowly getting used to home life again. She gets seen by visiting nurses and therapists. While she knows where everything is, controlling the TiVo/TV and working the laptop (and by extension the Book of Face) is very difficult for her. Sadly, my patience is very thin for that stuff because I really don't want her playing those games and being an easy mark for internet scams. I might have to consider simplifying things with the TV. Same for feeding herself. For the time being, she's been getting subs and putting them in the fridge for lunch while I do breakfast and dinner. We may end up going to something like Meals on Wheels for lunch. My mother made up quite a few "microwavable" meals that she gave to us on Thanksgiving.
I going to have to keep an eye on the cat food levels, she told me she fed them yesterday because they were whining for food. Had to stress that I already fed them and she should NOT feed them again. If she wants to give them something, give them a couple of treats. The cats are fat enough already.
I can't even begin to think about holidays yet, except that it means that I'm using up the rest of my vacation time.
I finally got my cube back, so I've been rearranging computers and what-not here. That and it being really busy with work piling up due to my recent absences and general "emergencies" means I'm curtailing most internet activity. I know everyone at work says take care of home stuff, but it bothers me that I'm not here when crap is hitting the fan and I could be useful. And it's time for year-end review....
Mrs. Rabbit is slowly getting used to home life again. She gets seen by visiting nurses and therapists. While she knows where everything is, controlling the TiVo/TV and working the laptop (and by extension the Book of Face) is very difficult for her. Sadly, my patience is very thin for that stuff because I really don't want her playing those games and being an easy mark for internet scams. I might have to consider simplifying things with the TV. Same for feeding herself. For the time being, she's been getting subs and putting them in the fridge for lunch while I do breakfast and dinner. We may end up going to something like Meals on Wheels for lunch. My mother made up quite a few "microwavable" meals that she gave to us on Thanksgiving.
I going to have to keep an eye on the cat food levels, she told me she fed them yesterday because they were whining for food. Had to stress that I already fed them and she should NOT feed them again. If she wants to give them something, give them a couple of treats. The cats are fat enough already.
I can't even begin to think about holidays yet, except that it means that I'm using up the rest of my vacation time.
Comment by 
wickedpam on 12/04/2013 13:39:04
wickedpam on 12/04/2013 13:39:04
Morning 
Comment by 
Raine on 12/04/2013 13:42:41
Good morning!
Raine on 12/04/2013 13:42:41
Good morning!
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 13:44:21
I think you are doing an amazing job keeping things together, Rabbit.
Raine on 12/04/2013 13:44:21
Quote by trojanrabbit:
Good morning.
I finally got my cube back, so I've been rearranging computers and what-not here. That and it being really busy with work piling up due to my recent absences and general "emergencies" means I'm curtailing most internet activity. I know everyone at work says take care of home stuff, but it bothers me that I'm not here when crap is hitting the fan and I could be useful. And it's time for year-end review....
Mrs. Rabbit is slowly getting used to home life again. She gets seen by visiting nurses and therapists. While she knows where everything is, controlling the TiVo/TV and working the laptop (and by extension the Book of Face) is very difficult for her. Sadly, my patience is very thin for that stuff because I really don't want her playing those games and being an easy mark for internet scams. I might have to consider simplifying things with the TV. Same for feeding herself. For the time being, she's been getting subs and putting them in the fridge for lunch while I do breakfast and dinner. We may end up going to something like Meals on Wheels for lunch. My mother made up quite a few "microwavable" meals that she gave to us on Thanksgiving.
I going to have to keep an eye on the cat food levels, she told me she fed them yesterday because they were whining for food. Had to stress that I already fed them and she should NOT feed them again. If she wants to give them something, give them a couple of treats. The cats are fat enough already.
I can't even begin to think about holidays yet, except that it means that I'm using up the rest of my vacation time.
Comment by 
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:00:34
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:00:34
Lowes credit card phone payment system was clearly designed by CGI... 
It is awful!
It is awful!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:11:09
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:11:09
I shall be watching "Elf" and "Bad Santa" to get myself in the spirit of Christmas. Did you know this year marks the 30th anniversary of " A Christmas Story." Ah, Ralphie!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:37:55
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:37:55
Did "A Christmas Story" kill the blog?
Comment by 
Scoopster on 12/04/2013 14:40:23
Scoopster on 12/04/2013 14:40:23
Mornin' all.. 
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 14:40:47
The blog was frageelay. 
Raine on 12/04/2013 14:40:47
Quote by Mondobubba:
Did "A Christmas Story" kill the blog?
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 14:41:30
Huh? What did I miss?
Raine on 12/04/2013 14:41:30
Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all..
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:47:59
I see what you did there.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 14:47:59
Quote by Raine:The blog was frageelay.Quote by Mondobubba:
Did "A Christmas Story" kill the blog?
I see what you did there.
Comment by Scoopster on 12/04/2013 14:49:32
They did an article about Snowden/Greenwald and linked it on FB.. I commented and the shitstorm began. Literally the first reply I got ignored anything I said and called me a cunt.
Scoopster on 12/04/2013 14:49:32
Quote by Raine:Huh? What did I miss?Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all..
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
They did an article about Snowden/Greenwald and linked it on FB.. I commented and the shitstorm began. Literally the first reply I got ignored anything I said and called me a cunt.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 14:51:18
Oh that's precious. What precocious little internet trolls.
Raine on 12/04/2013 14:51:18
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:Huh? What did I miss?Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all..
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
They did an article about Snowden/Greenwald and linked it on FB.. I commented and the shitstorm began. Literally the first reply I got ignored anything I said and called me a cunt.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 14:52:36
Raine on 12/04/2013 14:52:36
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:The blog was frageelay.Quote by Mondobubba:
Did "A Christmas Story" kill the blog?
I see what you did there.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:13:12
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:13:12
That's great the Show is going to Free Speech TV!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 15:13:17
Well, how nice.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 15:13:17
Quote by Scoopster:Quote by Raine:Huh? What did I miss?Quote by Scoopster:
Mornin' all..
Staff meeting today, eventually. That and I'm bickering with idiots on Rolling Stone's FB about the damage Snowden did in his quest to steal the job that the NSA wouldn't give him.
They did an article about Snowden/Greenwald and linked it on FB.. I commented and the shitstorm began. Literally the first reply I got ignored anything I said and called me a cunt.
Well, how nice.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 15:13:59
I likee! We needs to add that un!
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 15:13:59
Quote by Raine:Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:The blog was frageelay.Quote by Mondobubba:
Did "A Christmas Story" kill the blog?
I see what you did there.
I likee! We needs to add that un!
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:14:04
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:14:04
Comment by trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 15:21:14
trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 15:21:14
It was determined that Mrs. Rabbit's current eyeglass prescription is spot on and there doesn't appear to be any stroke related issues other than taking more time than normal to recognize things. But it was also determined that she has cataracts in both eyes that is affecting her vision somewhat.
I notice that roads that she has been on hundreds if not thousands of times she does not recognize any more. But if she goes to a relative's home, she knows where things are. The only roads she knows are those very close to home.
I notice that roads that she has been on hundreds if not thousands of times she does not recognize any more. But if she goes to a relative's home, she knows where things are. The only roads she knows are those very close to home.
Comment by wickedpam on 12/04/2013 15:33:22
wickedpam on 12/04/2013 15:33:22
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:35:03
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:35:03
Now, I'd heard about this but actually hadn't read what he said: Ponder this for a moment:
VARNEY: Right, I thought that the Pope was really very much in favor of the European social model, which is neo-Socialism and which fails its own people. And I was -- I just disagreed with the Pope on that basis. And secondly, to your point, I don't want to mix politics with my spiritual life. When I go to church I don't wish to have my vote touted for by the preacher. I don't want it. I don't want any mention of politics whatsoever, and you know I think you and I agree on this. Astonishing.
NAPOLITANO: Yes we do agree on this. Look, the Pope is competent to teach the Church and the world on matters of faith and morals, and he can talk about social justice, but when the Pope says it is the obligation of the government to take from the rich and give to the poor because that's the only way to alleviate poverty, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:46:09
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:46:09
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:49:23
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:49:23
Uhm, this could be bad.
A white Volkswagen truck that was stolen Monday at a gas station in Mexico is no ordinary truck — officials say it's carrying "extremely dangerous" radioactive material. Authorities are conducting a wide search for the truck, which had been heading to a disposal facility, and warning the thieves that they could face serious health problems.
Comment by trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 15:51:17
I'm sure there are many former altar boys wondering why Bernard Law still has a cushy job in the Vatican.
trojanrabbit on 12/04/2013 15:51:17
Quote by Raine:
Now, I'd heard about this but actually hadn't read what he said: Ponder this for a moment:VARNEY: Right, I thought that the Pope was really very much in favor of the European social model, which is neo-Socialism and which fails its own people. And I was -- I just disagreed with the Pope on that basis. And secondly, to your point, I don't want to mix politics with my spiritual life. When I go to church I don't wish to have my vote touted for by the preacher. I don't want it. I don't want any mention of politics whatsoever, and you know I think you and I agree on this. Astonishing.
NAPOLITANO: Yes we do agree on this. Look, the Pope is competent to teach the Church and the world on matters of faith and morals, and he can talk about social justice, but when the Pope says it is the obligation of the government to take from the rich and give to the poor because that's the only way to alleviate poverty, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
I'm sure there are many former altar boys wondering why Bernard Law still has a cushy job in the Vatican.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 15:53:52
Raine on 12/04/2013 15:53:52
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:02:36
Hey bone heads what the fuck do you think social justice means.
heads.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:02:36
Quote by Raine:
Now, I'd heard about this but actually hadn't read what he said: Ponder this for a moment:VARNEY: Right, I thought that the Pope was really very much in favor of the European social model, which is neo-Socialism and which fails its own people. And I was -- I just disagreed with the Pope on that basis. And secondly, to your point, I don't want to mix politics with my spiritual life. When I go to church I don't wish to have my vote touted for by the preacher. I don't want it. I don't want any mention of politics whatsoever, and you know I think you and I agree on this. Astonishing.
NAPOLITANO: Yes we do agree on this. Look, the Pope is competent to teach the Church and the world on matters of faith and morals, and he can talk about social justice, but when the Pope says it is the obligation of the government to take from the rich and give to the poor because that's the only way to alleviate poverty, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
Hey bone heads what the fuck do you think social justice means.
heads.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:03:56
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:03:56
Comment by wickedpam on 12/04/2013 16:04:51
yes, yes they are - farm-e-geddon
wickedpam on 12/04/2013 16:04:51
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by wickedpam:Quote by Mondobubba:
Mala!
oh lord
They are all so lame.
yes, yes they are - farm-e-geddon
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 16:15:23
Raine on 12/04/2013 16:15:23
This is Fan dedication:
Earlier today, the turf team at Auburn University tweeted this picture of a pile of human remains in cremation form, which was found on the field of Jordan-Hare Stadium after the instant classic Iron Bowl rivalry game between Auburn and Alabama on Saturday.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 16:33:52
Raine on 12/04/2013 16:33:52
Cremation killed the blog.
(that shouldn't make me laugh -- and yet it does.)
(that shouldn't make me laugh -- and yet it does.)
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 16:38:24
You look like a succulent baby lamb...
(watch for the comment about Eli...
)
Raine on 12/04/2013 16:38:24
You look like a succulent baby lamb...
(watch for the comment about Eli...
)
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:41:09
Raine, I'm sure what I find funnier. Your comment or that it makes you laugh.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:41:09
Quote by Raine:
Cremation killed the blog.
(that shouldn't make me laugh -- and yet it does.)
Raine, I'm sure what I find funnier. Your comment or that it makes you laugh.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:42:28
Just seeing that as Thing is hilarious!
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 16:42:28
Quote by Raine:
You look like a succulent baby lamb...
(watch for the comment about Eli...
Just seeing that as Thing is hilarious!
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:04:15
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:04:15
How do you tell the difference between a plumber and chemist?
Ask them to pronounce unionized.
Ask them to pronounce unionized.
Comment by 
TriSec on 12/04/2013 17:24:17
TriSec on 12/04/2013 17:24:17
And I'm in! (Trisec has A new toy.)
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 17:24:28
Raine on 12/04/2013 17:24:28
More people signed up for Obamacare in the last two days than all of October
two thing here, imo.
One... the website issues are largely fixed, and
Two ... people waited for the post rush new shiny toy phenom.
two thing here, imo.
One... the website issues are largely fixed, and
Two ... people waited for the post rush new shiny toy phenom.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:29:01
The new toy would be??
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:29:01
Quote by TriSec:
And I'm in! (Trisec has A new toy.)
The new toy would be??
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 17:29:55
And what toy is this??
Raine on 12/04/2013 17:29:55
Quote by TriSec:
And I'm in! (Trisec has A new toy.)
And what toy is this??
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 17:38:25
Raine on 12/04/2013 17:38:25
Tri is now playing with his toy.
I hope Mrs. Tri doesn't walk in on him.
I hope Mrs. Tri doesn't walk in on him.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 17:44:21
Raine on 12/04/2013 17:44:21
Our President.
The entire speech is transcribed here.
Now, the premise that we’re all created equal is the opening line in the American story. And while we don’t promise equal outcomes, we’ve strived to deliver equal opportunity -- the idea that success doesn’t depend on being born into wealth or privilege, it depends on effort and merit. And with every chapter we’ve added to that story, we’ve worked hard to put those words into practice.
It was Abraham Lincoln, a self-described poor-man’s son who started a system of land-grant colleges all over this country so that any poor-man’s son could go learn something new. When farms gave way to factories, a rich-man’s son named Teddy Roosevelt fought for an eight-hour work day, protections for workers and busted monopolies that kept prices high and wages low.
When millions lived in poverty, FDR fought for Social Security and insurance for the unemployment and a minimum wage. When millions died without health insurance, LBJ fought for Medicare and Medicaid. Together we forged a new deal, declared a war on poverty and a great society, we built a ladder of opportunity to climb and stretched out a safety net beneath so that if we fell, it wouldn’t be too far and we could bounce back.
And as a result, America built the largest middle class the world has ever known. And for the three decades after World War II, it was the engine of our prosperity. Now, we can’t look at the past through rose-colored glasses. The economy didn’t always work for everyone.
Racial discrimination locked millions out of poverty -- or out of opportunity. Women were too often confined to a handful of often poorly paid professions. And it was only through painstaking struggle that more women and minorities and Americans with disabilities began to win the right to more fairly and fully participate in the economy.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 17:47:42
Yes, he's slamming Reaganism. Slamming it hard.
This one was a powerful speech.
Raine on 12/04/2013 17:47:42
As values of community broke down and competitive pressure increased, businesses lobbied Washington to weaken unions and the value of the minimum wage. As the trickle-down ideology became more prominent, taxes were slashes for the wealthiest while investments in things that make us all richer, like schools and infrastructure, were allowed to wither.
And for a certain period of time we could ignore this weakening economic foundation, in part because more families were relying on two earners, as women entered the workforce. We took on more debt financed by juiced-up housing market. But when the music stopped and the crisis hit, millions of families were stripped of whatever cushion they had left.
And the result is an economy that’s become profoundly unequal and families that are more insecure. Just to give you a few statistics: Since 1979, when I graduated from high school, our productivity is up by more than 90 percent, but the income of the typical family has increased by less than 8 percent. Since 1979 our economy has more than doubled in size, but most of the growth has flowed to a fortunate few. The top 10 percent no longer takes in one-third of our income; it now takes half. Whereas in the past, the average CEO made about 20 to 30 times the income of the average worker, today’s CEO now makes 273 times more.
And meanwhile, a family in the top 1 percent has a net worth 288 times higher than the typical family, which is a record for this country.
This one was a powerful speech.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:49:34
Socialist!
Class Warfare!
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 17:49:34
Quote by Raine:Yes, he's slamming Reaganism. Slamming it hard.As values of community broke down and competitive pressure increased, businesses lobbied Washington to weaken unions and the value of the minimum wage.became more prominent, taxes were slashes for the wealthiest while investments in things that make us all richer, like schools and infrastructure, were allowed to wither.As the trickle-down ideology
And for a certain period of time we could ignore this weakening economic foundation, in part because more families were relying on two earners, as women entered the workforce. We took on more debt financed by juiced-up housing market. But when the music stopped and the crisis hit, millions of families were stripped of whatever cushion they had left.
And the result is an economy that’s become profoundly unequal and families that are more insecure. Just to give you a few statistics: Since 1979, when I graduated from high school, our productivity is up by more than 90 percent, but the income of the typical family has increased by less than 8 percent. Since 1979 our economy has more than doubled in size, but most of the growth has flowed to a fortunate few. The top 10 percent no longer takes in one-third of our income; it now takes half. Whereas in the past, the average CEO made about 20 to 30 times the income of the average worker, today’s CEO now makes 273 times more.
And meanwhile, a family in the top 1 percent has a net worth 288 times higher than the typical family, which is a record for this country.
This one was a powerful speech.
Socialist!
Class Warfare!
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 18:01:26
Guaranteed.
You know, in reading this speech -- I really think he believes we can get a house majority in 2014 to get this done.
Raine on 12/04/2013 18:01:26
Quote by Mondobubba:
Socialist!
You know, in reading this speech -- I really think he believes we can get a house majority in 2014 to get this done.
We’ve also got to strengthen our safety net for a new age so it doesn’t just protect people who hit a run of bad luck from falling into poverty, but also propels them back out of poverty.
Today nearly half of full-time workers and 80 percent of part- time workers don’t have a pension or a retirement account at their job. About half of all households don’t have any retirement savings. So we’re going to have to do more to encourage private savings and shore up the promise of Social Security for future generations. And remember, these are promises we make to one another. We -- we don’t do it to replace the free market, but we do it reduce risk in our society by giving people the ability to take a chance and catch them if they fall.
Comment by 
livingonli on 12/04/2013 18:13:52
livingonli on 12/04/2013 18:13:52
Good day, folks. I have to get my eyes dilated in 90 minutes so that should be fun.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 18:20:58
Who does POTUS think he is? The Pope?
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 18:20:58
Quote by Raine:Guaranteed.Quote by Mondobubba:
Socialist!
You know, in reading this speech -- I really think he believes we can get a house majority in 2014 to get this done.We’ve also got to strengthen our safety net for a new age so it doesn’t just protect people who hit a run of bad luck from falling into poverty, but also propels them back out of poverty.
Today nearly half of full-time workers and 80 percent of part- time workers don’t have a pension or a retirement account at their job. About half of all households don’t have any retirement savings. So we’re going to have to do more to encourage private savings and shore up the promise of Social Security for future generations. And remember, these are promises we make to one another. We -- we don’t do it to replace the free market, but we do it reduce risk in our society by giving people the ability to take a chance and catch them if they fall.
Who does POTUS think he is? The Pope?
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 18:25:08
Why goes through Mondo's mind many times a day.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 18:25:08
Why goes through Mondo's mind many times a day.
Comment by livingonli on 12/04/2013 18:26:00
livingonli on 12/04/2013 18:26:00
Al-Jazeera America is reporting on the stolen radioactive truck. I think something like this could have been a bad movie plot.
Comment by 
clintster on 12/04/2013 19:06:55
[Jim Ward as Varney] And as an American Christian I am appalled at the sheer audacity of the Pope and his views on economic justice.
clintster on 12/04/2013 19:06:55
Quote by Raine:
Now, I'd heard about this but actually hadn't read what he said: Ponder this for a moment:VARNEY: Right, I thought that the Pope was really very much in favor of the European social model, which is neo-Socialism and which fails its own people. And I was -- I just disagreed with the Pope on that basis. And secondly, to your point, I don't want to mix politics with my spiritual life. When I go to church I don't wish to have my vote touted for by the preacher. I don't want it. I don't want any mention of politics whatsoever, and you know I think you and I agree on this. Astonishing.
NAPOLITANO: Yes we do agree on this. Look, the Pope is competent to teach the Church and the world on matters of faith and morals, and he can talk about social justice, but when the Pope says it is the obligation of the government to take from the rich and give to the poor because that's the only way to alleviate poverty, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
[Jim Ward as Varney] And as an American Christian I am appalled at the sheer audacity of the Pope and his views on economic justice.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 19:58:57
Napalitono totally glossing over the fact that the Pope is a freaking Jesuit, who are unique among the holy orders of the Catholic church in the amount of education that is required to ordained as a Jesuit priest. It is like a master's degree minimum.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 19:58:57
Quote by clintster:Quote by Raine:
Now, I'd heard about this but actually hadn't read what he said: Ponder this for a moment:VARNEY: Right, I thought that the Pope was really very much in favor of the European social model, which is neo-Socialism and which fails its own people. And I was -- I just disagreed with the Pope on that basis. And secondly, to your point, I don't want to mix politics with my spiritual life. When I go to church I don't wish to have my vote touted for by the preacher. I don't want it. I don't want any mention of politics whatsoever, and you know I think you and I agree on this. Astonishing.
NAPOLITANO: Yes we do agree on this. Look, the Pope is competent to teach the Church and the world on matters of faith and morals, and he can talk about social justice, but when the Pope says it is the obligation of the government to take from the rich and give to the poor because that's the only way to alleviate poverty, he doesn't know what he's talking about.
[Jim Ward as Varney] And as an American Christian I am appalled at the sheer audacity of the Pope and his views on economic justice.
Napalitono totally glossing over the fact that the Pope is a freaking Jesuit, who are unique among the holy orders of the Catholic church in the amount of education that is required to ordained as a Jesuit priest. It is like a master's degree minimum.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 20:57:12
Raine on 12/04/2013 20:57:12
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 21:01:08
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Raine on 12/04/2013 21:01:08
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 21:02:41
he was on his way to help with final preps for the Rock center Xmas tree lighting ceremony.
Raine on 12/04/2013 21:02:41
Quote by Raine:
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Comment by wickedpam on 12/04/2013 21:05:49
I'm sorry
wickedpam on 12/04/2013 21:05:49
Quote by Raine:he was on his way to help with final preps for the Rock center Xmas tree lighting ceremony.Quote by Raine:
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
I'm sorry
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:08:32
Aw, poop.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:08:32
Quote by Raine:he was on his way to help with final preps for the Rock center Xmas tree lighting ceremony.Quote by Raine:
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Aw, poop.
Comment by 
BobR on 12/04/2013 21:10:31
MSNBC is wimpy. FOX "News" talking heads get away with a lot more incendiary stuff, and nary a resignation is requested nor tendered.
BobR on 12/04/2013 21:10:31
Quote by Raine:Quote by clintster:
Martin Bashir quits MSNBC.
Well that sucks.
MSNBC is wimpy. FOX "News" talking heads get away with a lot more incendiary stuff, and nary a resignation is requested nor tendered.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:14:45
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:14:45
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 21:43:12
the world is small, and yes, poop. I'd like to share her status update, if you don;t mind.
Raine on 12/04/2013 21:43:12
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:he was on his way to help with final preps for the Rock center Xmas tree lighting ceremony.Quote by Raine:
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Aw, poop.
poop. I'd like to share her status update, if you don;t mind. "Charlie Montgomery" as a person who lost his Brother-in -law in this terrible tragedy I try to come to terms with what happened. I try to give the engineer the benefit of the doubt. As a Cab driver in Dutchess County for the past 20 years, I could very well be in the same shoes as the engineer I take peoples lives in my hands everyday.. I feel as long as the engineer didnt have anything in his system, & wasnt on his cell, or doing anything else .. I will foregive him, accidents happen, everyday.. who among us is perfect? who among us hasnt made a mistake?.. I am gonna wait till the official investigation is over .. before I cast judgement... I would like to take a moment, to ask everyone.. when they light the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center tonight.. wether you go there, or watch it on TV ... Would you All take a moment, & Rember my brother in law.. JIM LOVELL & his family.. as he was on his way to Rock center Sunday morning .. to set up the tree for all to enjoy.. God bless .. & everyone have a Happy & safe Holiday Season ..
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:51:13
I don't think it is MSNBC being wimpy. I think it is case of them have standard of behavior and conduct which they actually enforce. Fox, no so much.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:51:13
Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:Quote by clintster:
Martin Bashir quits MSNBC.
Well that sucks.
MSNBC is wimpy. FOX "News" talking heads get away with a lot more incendiary stuff, and nary a resignation is requested nor tendered.
I don't think it is MSNBC being wimpy. I think it is case of them have standard of behavior and conduct which they actually enforce. Fox, no so much.
Comment by Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:52:32
:sniffle: That is very lovely.
Mondobubba on 12/04/2013 21:52:32
Quote by Raine:the world is small, and yes,Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by Raine:he was on his way to help with final preps for the Rock center Xmas tree lighting ceremony.Quote by Raine:
Shit.... I just found out that my friend lost her brother in Law in the metro North Train accident.
Aw, poop."Charlie Montgomery" as a person who lost his Brother-in -law in this terrible tragedy I try to come to terms with what happened. I try to give the engineer the benefit of the doubt. As a Cab driver in Dutchess County for the past 20 years, I could very well be in the same shoes as the engineer I take peoples lives in my hands everyday.. I feel as long as the engineer didnt have anything in his system, & wasnt on his cell, or doing anything else .. I will foregive him, accidents happen, everyday.. who among us is perfect? who among us hasnt made a mistake?.. I am gonna wait till the official investigation is over .. before I cast judgement... I would like to take a moment, to ask everyone.. when they light the Christmas Tree in Rockefeller Center tonight.. wether you go there, or watch it on TV ... Would you All take a moment, & Rember my brother in law.. JIM LOVELL & his family.. as he was on his way to Rock center Sunday morning .. to set up the tree for all to enjoy.. God bless .. & everyone have a Happy & safe Holiday Season ..
:sniffle: That is very lovely.
Comment by Raine on 12/04/2013 22:39:05
Everything I am reading is that Bashir quit because he didn;t want to give that mean girl more attention.
I think it's a combination of a lot of things. It's too bad. I had hoped that he'd eventually get a prime time slot.
Raine on 12/04/2013 22:39:05
Quote by Mondobubba:Quote by BobR:Quote by Raine:Quote by clintster:
Martin Bashir quits MSNBC.
Well that sucks.
MSNBC is wimpy. FOX "News" talking heads get away with a lot more incendiary stuff, and nary a resignation is requested nor tendered.
I don't think it is MSNBC being wimpy. I think it is case of them have standard of behavior and conduct which they actually enforce. Fox, no so much.
I think it's a combination of a lot of things. It's too bad. I had hoped that he'd eventually get a prime time slot.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/04/2013 22:47:21
Will in Chicago on 12/04/2013 22:47:21
Raine, my condolences on the passing of your friend's brother in law.
Trojanrabbit, I am glad to hear that Mrs. Rabbit is making some progress.
I am going to spend some time looking at the President's speech. I think that we may be seeing a broad rejection of Reaganism and Thatcherism as failed ideologies.
Trojanrabbit, I am glad to hear that Mrs. Rabbit is making some progress.
I am going to spend some time looking at the President's speech. I think that we may be seeing a broad rejection of Reaganism and Thatcherism as failed ideologies.
Comment by Raine on 12/05/2013 00:07:26
Raine on 12/05/2013 00:07:26
Because of today's blog...
And it's true, I cannot listen to this song without my eyes becoming tear filled.
And it's true, I cannot listen to this song without my eyes becoming tear filled.
Comment by Will in Chicago on 12/05/2013 03:44:33
This Jew enjoyed the song, as it is about people finding their common humanity -- something we could use more of in this world.
Will in Chicago on 12/05/2013 03:44:33
Quote by Raine:
Because of today's blog...
And it's true, I cannot listen to this song without my eyes becoming tear filled.
This Jew enjoyed the song, as it is about people finding their common humanity -- something we could use more of in this world.