sttropezbutlersays
Friday, May 27, 2005
LE WEEK-END
A holiday weekend. What to do, what to do.
First I think I will avoid politics, but only for the weekend. I think I'll just focus on the good. I will stay away from the mean and hateful.
I think I'll take a super special, super long walk tomorrow. I will try and see parts of my city that I have yet to see on foot. I will even make a new weekend playlist to accompany my walk.
Perhaps my pal Dan will indeed have a few folks over for burgers. That would be fun. I loved a grilled hamburger.
I will watch some Astros baseball. We actually won one on the road! The old boys, those two old pitchers, are both having problems. For all the money we have spent on Andy he sure hasn't delivered. Never liked him, never will.
Going to enjoy tennis from France. The Roland Garros, clay courts. I love it.
I'll finish a book and start a new one. Still loving Robert Wilson. Have two more to go before I will be ready for something new!
Might finally watch Angels in America. I have had it on DVD for months and months. I don't really like watching stuff on DVD but perhaps I'll make some popcorn and watch what I know to be a wonderful work of art. Lucky enough to have seen an amazing production of Angels in Los Angeles. Saw it over a two night period with my friend Chere. We were both blown away.
Need to see the new exhibition at the MFA. Baseball as America. I need to renew my membership as well. I'll wait till next week to go. I have a feeling it will be too crowded this weekend.
Wish I had really learned how to use to and too in a sentence. I even looked it up yesterday and I am still confused.
Know I will try a couple of recipes from Everyday Food. Thanks again Phillip for my subscription. If you haven't seen this magazine, check it out. Good way to support Martha if you are so inclined.
I am going to read my blogs. Check up on my pals around the world. See who has done what to whom. See who has something new to tell me, another story to amuse me. Another moment filled with sadness, or tenderness, or joy. All of that for the price of an internet connection and the time to wonder around this cyber world. Amazing.
I am going to be happy that I am here. Happy that I am queer and delighted to say I am not going anywhere.
Bon week-end tout le monde!
First I think I will avoid politics, but only for the weekend. I think I'll just focus on the good. I will stay away from the mean and hateful.
I think I'll take a super special, super long walk tomorrow. I will try and see parts of my city that I have yet to see on foot. I will even make a new weekend playlist to accompany my walk.
Perhaps my pal Dan will indeed have a few folks over for burgers. That would be fun. I loved a grilled hamburger.
I will watch some Astros baseball. We actually won one on the road! The old boys, those two old pitchers, are both having problems. For all the money we have spent on Andy he sure hasn't delivered. Never liked him, never will.
Going to enjoy tennis from France. The Roland Garros, clay courts. I love it.
I'll finish a book and start a new one. Still loving Robert Wilson. Have two more to go before I will be ready for something new!
Might finally watch Angels in America. I have had it on DVD for months and months. I don't really like watching stuff on DVD but perhaps I'll make some popcorn and watch what I know to be a wonderful work of art. Lucky enough to have seen an amazing production of Angels in Los Angeles. Saw it over a two night period with my friend Chere. We were both blown away.
Need to see the new exhibition at the MFA. Baseball as America. I need to renew my membership as well. I'll wait till next week to go. I have a feeling it will be too crowded this weekend.
Wish I had really learned how to use to and too in a sentence. I even looked it up yesterday and I am still confused.
Know I will try a couple of recipes from Everyday Food. Thanks again Phillip for my subscription. If you haven't seen this magazine, check it out. Good way to support Martha if you are so inclined.
I am going to read my blogs. Check up on my pals around the world. See who has done what to whom. See who has something new to tell me, another story to amuse me. Another moment filled with sadness, or tenderness, or joy. All of that for the price of an internet connection and the time to wonder around this cyber world. Amazing.
I am going to be happy that I am here. Happy that I am queer and delighted to say I am not going anywhere.
Bon week-end tout le monde!
Thursday, May 26, 2005
MERCI
Thank you to everyone who took the time and energy to call Kraft.
The new American Screamer is Carrie. Oy. It has come to this?
Priscilla Owens gets confirmed. As a Texan I am ashamed. She is not a good person and I do not believe she will be an impartial judge.
Kim got good news this week!
I am hoping for some rain.
The new American Screamer is Carrie. Oy. It has come to this?
Priscilla Owens gets confirmed. As a Texan I am ashamed. She is not a good person and I do not believe she will be an impartial judge.
Kim got good news this week!
I am hoping for some rain.
Tuesday, May 24, 2005
GOT A FEW MINUTES?
As many of you know, Kraft Foods is one of the sponsors of the Gay Games this year in Chicago. They are getting lots of flack from the "right" about supporting the games.
PLEASE CALL KRAFT (It is a FREE CALL) and simply tell them you appreciate them supporting the Gay Games!
1-800-323-0768
This may take a few minutes...so use your speaker phone if you have one. You'll talk to a real person! They will ask for your address, but I declined and gave them my city and zip code. They are very nice.
I had to listen to approx. 3 mins of recorded music calling at 5:15 Central Time today...so perhaps it is easier at other times during the day or evening. Please take the time...it's really pain free.
Thanks....WE HAVE TO FIGHT ON EVERY LEVEL!
PLEASE CALL KRAFT (It is a FREE CALL) and simply tell them you appreciate them supporting the Gay Games!
1-800-323-0768
This may take a few minutes...so use your speaker phone if you have one. You'll talk to a real person! They will ask for your address, but I declined and gave them my city and zip code. They are very nice.
I had to listen to approx. 3 mins of recorded music calling at 5:15 Central Time today...so perhaps it is easier at other times during the day or evening. Please take the time...it's really pain free.
Thanks....WE HAVE TO FIGHT ON EVERY LEVEL!
Monday, May 23, 2005
I LOVE A POINT OF VIEW
The best thing about blogging and blogs is that you actually get to read other points of view. You get to discover that there are others who have a point of view. Hey, they aren't always in sync with my point of view, but as long as they are not hating anyone, I'll enjoy reading them. Having said that, I reflect that perhaps my own posts have somehow projected a sense of hatred. Perhaps.
I use the word hate often and forcefully...as there are ideas and people in this world that I do hate. Hating them however does not deprive them of their right to say what is on their mind. I always have the choice to read what they have to say or to pass it by.
Truth be told, the spontaneity of blogging is what is cool. You get upset, you say your piece, you put it out there and it is finished. I haven't a clue as to how many people read this and frankly I don't really want to know. (Called fragile ego syndrome by some!) I just love having the space to say what I want to say. I love being able to comment on other people's blogs. And my A/C seems to be working! Yippee!
I use the word hate often and forcefully...as there are ideas and people in this world that I do hate. Hating them however does not deprive them of their right to say what is on their mind. I always have the choice to read what they have to say or to pass it by.
Truth be told, the spontaneity of blogging is what is cool. You get upset, you say your piece, you put it out there and it is finished. I haven't a clue as to how many people read this and frankly I don't really want to know. (Called fragile ego syndrome by some!) I just love having the space to say what I want to say. I love being able to comment on other people's blogs. And my A/C seems to be working! Yippee!
NATURE
Still morning. As I walked today I looked around and it dawned on me just how green things are and how quickly things grow here in Houston. Now if you drive all the time you are unlikely to really notice that within a week or two things can go from tame to wild. I love watching the trees grow and the grass get green and the rabbits foraging for their food. Nature.
Monday and the week begins. What's on for me. Well nature sure is a big part. My airconditioning isn't functioning. Oh My. Anyone who lives in an area where the weather can be unforgiving knows of what I speak. Last night I was feeling a tad warm, it had been 96 degrees after all and I discovered that my A/C was not working! Horrors! PTL, I had wisely purchased a fan recently and was able to keep my self comfortable. A/C should be repaired today and I should be able to keep nature at bay!
Rosie got lots of comments on her blog, but most of them were so egocentric. I guess it is the allure of celebrity. Comment on her blog, which in the interest of full disclosure I do, and you are somehow closer to her? I don't know. I do know that I've discovered some interesting other people via those comments and Rosie's blog and for that I am grateful. Dialogue is great. And it is in my nature to want to connect.
Nature. Human Nature. Mother Nature. Nature-Nurture.
Monday and the week begins. What's on for me. Well nature sure is a big part. My airconditioning isn't functioning. Oh My. Anyone who lives in an area where the weather can be unforgiving knows of what I speak. Last night I was feeling a tad warm, it had been 96 degrees after all and I discovered that my A/C was not working! Horrors! PTL, I had wisely purchased a fan recently and was able to keep my self comfortable. A/C should be repaired today and I should be able to keep nature at bay!
Rosie got lots of comments on her blog, but most of them were so egocentric. I guess it is the allure of celebrity. Comment on her blog, which in the interest of full disclosure I do, and you are somehow closer to her? I don't know. I do know that I've discovered some interesting other people via those comments and Rosie's blog and for that I am grateful. Dialogue is great. And it is in my nature to want to connect.
Nature. Human Nature. Mother Nature. Nature-Nurture.
Saturday, May 21, 2005
SO YEAH, I'M SCARED
We now have to face a major battle here in Texas. A battle against hatred, a battle against the forces who would rather see me somewhere else. I assume they'd rather see me dead.
Guess what. I am going to fight. I am going to take these 55 year old bones and I am going to put them out there. I thought I had fought and won these battles, but no, the force of evil is just way to powerful. The Tom DeLays, the Bill Frists, the Bush's...all of them...hate us. Oh they say they don't, but they speak out of the side of their mouths. They HATE us. No question about it.
But I am going to fight. I am not yet ready for the battle, but I will get ready and I will fight to turn back this tide of hatred and evil that has swept the land. I don't believe in God, but I am beginning to believe in the Devil and the Devil seems to have taken up residence in far to many peoples heart's. The hatred must stop. Freedom must be freely given.
Join in. Talk back. Tell people you don't agree with them when they are racist, homophobic, misogynistic, or ageist. We have to stand up and be counted. Get off the fence. Dig the trenches and get ready. If we lose here, I fear that to much will be lost and we will never return to a place where human beings can live in peace and dignity.
Guess what. I am going to fight. I am going to take these 55 year old bones and I am going to put them out there. I thought I had fought and won these battles, but no, the force of evil is just way to powerful. The Tom DeLays, the Bill Frists, the Bush's...all of them...hate us. Oh they say they don't, but they speak out of the side of their mouths. They HATE us. No question about it.
But I am going to fight. I am not yet ready for the battle, but I will get ready and I will fight to turn back this tide of hatred and evil that has swept the land. I don't believe in God, but I am beginning to believe in the Devil and the Devil seems to have taken up residence in far to many peoples heart's. The hatred must stop. Freedom must be freely given.
Join in. Talk back. Tell people you don't agree with them when they are racist, homophobic, misogynistic, or ageist. We have to stand up and be counted. Get off the fence. Dig the trenches and get ready. If we lose here, I fear that to much will be lost and we will never return to a place where human beings can live in peace and dignity.
AND THIS IS THE US OF A?
DONCHA JUST LOVE THE CHRISTIAN RIGHT. REAL NICE FOLKS. GOD TOLD THEM TO DO IT!
ANTI-GAY TEXAS MARRIAGE AMENDMENT PASSES SENATE
Hurtful Legislation Will Weaken Legal Agreements in Texas
May 21, 2005
LGRL of Texas
AUSTIN, TX - A historically dangerous and discriminatory
constitutional amendment is headed to Texas voters. The Anti-Gay
Texas Marriage Amendment (HJR 6) passed the Texas Senate this
afternoon. The amendment was approved by a vote of 21 to 8,
narrowly meeting the two-thirds majority required. The amendment
has been cleared to appear on a statewide ballot this November.
This would mark the first time in history that a minority
group would be singled out in the constitution in order to be
denied rights.
Constitutions are historically treated as sacred documents, designed
to preserve rights and ensure equality for all.
Randall Ellis, Executive Director of the Lesbian/Gay Rights Lobby of
Texas, says the amendment is dangerous. "This amendment is
potentially devastating to thousands of Texas families, gay and
straight alike," Ellis said. "Domestic partnership benefits, powers of
attorney, and even common law marriage will be called into question
by this amendment. These are consequences that are supposedly
unintended, according to the amendment's authors. But this is
clearly a discriminatory act, designed to strike at our community at
its fundamental level: our families.
The Legislature is obviously willing to sacrifice all Texas families for this unjust agenda of intolerance and discrimination."
Marriage affords hundreds of legal rights, responsibilities and
obligations, like the ability to visit a spouse in the hospital, social
security benefits, second parent adoptions and many more. These are
denied to thousands of loving, committed gay couples across Texas,
many of them raising families of their own.
This amendment would, in effect, solidify LGBT Texans' status as second-class citizens.
ANTI-GAY TEXAS MARRIAGE AMENDMENT PASSES SENATE
Hurtful Legislation Will Weaken Legal Agreements in Texas
May 21, 2005
LGRL of Texas
AUSTIN, TX - A historically dangerous and discriminatory
constitutional amendment is headed to Texas voters. The Anti-Gay
Texas Marriage Amendment (HJR 6) passed the Texas Senate this
afternoon. The amendment was approved by a vote of 21 to 8,
narrowly meeting the two-thirds majority required. The amendment
has been cleared to appear on a statewide ballot this November.
This would mark the first time in history that a minority
group would be singled out in the constitution in order to be
denied rights.
Constitutions are historically treated as sacred documents, designed
to preserve rights and ensure equality for all.
Randall Ellis, Executive Director of the Lesbian/Gay Rights Lobby of
Texas, says the amendment is dangerous. "This amendment is
potentially devastating to thousands of Texas families, gay and
straight alike," Ellis said. "Domestic partnership benefits, powers of
attorney, and even common law marriage will be called into question
by this amendment. These are consequences that are supposedly
unintended, according to the amendment's authors. But this is
clearly a discriminatory act, designed to strike at our community at
its fundamental level: our families.
The Legislature is obviously willing to sacrifice all Texas families for this unjust agenda of intolerance and discrimination."
Marriage affords hundreds of legal rights, responsibilities and
obligations, like the ability to visit a spouse in the hospital, social
security benefits, second parent adoptions and many more. These are
denied to thousands of loving, committed gay couples across Texas,
many of them raising families of their own.
This amendment would, in effect, solidify LGBT Texans' status as second-class citizens.
Friday, May 20, 2005
WHAT MATTERS?
I've had an interesting week.
Someone who I thought was my friend has essentially said to me, "move along, you aren't worth the effort." Yes, it comes as a shock. Yes, I am angry. I am angry at myself for not having better judgment. But move along I shall.
Texas politics. Went to a gathering last night, a "house party" as they are called. This one was for a candidate running for city council here in Houston. Her name is Sue Lovell who is running for Position 2 as an at large city council member. This was new to me. I'd never been this close to a candidate before. To be honest, I've never paid much attention to what was happening on the local level. I realize now that my attentions have to be focused on the local level. This is where I can impact. This is where change that means something in my life will occur. I liked Sue, but I haven't made up my mind yet. I gave Sue money because she is running and money is what it is all about. I will make my decisions about who I will support in the months ahead. I'll keep you posted.
The other interesting thing presented at this event last evening was The Victory Fund. This is a fund that is designed to support candidates at the local level. Yes, these would be candidates that are supportive of issues of grave importance to the gay community. (My take is that these issues are just as important to the community at large, but that's for another blog.) Check out the Victory Fund web site if you need further information. If I was cooler and a better tech head I'd post the link...but hey, I'm no Kim! She even has music on her blog!
So it was a week. A large door closed, but other doors opened. While I'm sad that a relationship has ended, I feel empowered by the knowledge I gained so that I don't make the same mistake again.
Now for the weekend!
Someone who I thought was my friend has essentially said to me, "move along, you aren't worth the effort." Yes, it comes as a shock. Yes, I am angry. I am angry at myself for not having better judgment. But move along I shall.
Texas politics. Went to a gathering last night, a "house party" as they are called. This one was for a candidate running for city council here in Houston. Her name is Sue Lovell who is running for Position 2 as an at large city council member. This was new to me. I'd never been this close to a candidate before. To be honest, I've never paid much attention to what was happening on the local level. I realize now that my attentions have to be focused on the local level. This is where I can impact. This is where change that means something in my life will occur. I liked Sue, but I haven't made up my mind yet. I gave Sue money because she is running and money is what it is all about. I will make my decisions about who I will support in the months ahead. I'll keep you posted.
The other interesting thing presented at this event last evening was The Victory Fund. This is a fund that is designed to support candidates at the local level. Yes, these would be candidates that are supportive of issues of grave importance to the gay community. (My take is that these issues are just as important to the community at large, but that's for another blog.) Check out the Victory Fund web site if you need further information. If I was cooler and a better tech head I'd post the link...but hey, I'm no Kim! She even has music on her blog!
So it was a week. A large door closed, but other doors opened. While I'm sad that a relationship has ended, I feel empowered by the knowledge I gained so that I don't make the same mistake again.
Now for the weekend!
Saturday, May 14, 2005
ART CARS
Today was the Art Car Parade. Sure has changed. It's better since they separated it from the International Festival. It stands on it's own now. There seemed to be over 200 entries. Everything one might imagine. Cars painted, cars covered, cars with socks, cars, cars, cars.
I took my long Saturday morning walk and on my way home happened on the parade prior to it starting. I got to walk among the cars as did many others. It was kind of like the night before the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Upper West Side. Except it was Houston, it was hot and humid and we were all in shorts.
Had a great 2 1/2 walk today. Think I hit about 10 miles! I wasn't going to walk today. When I woke I was thinking maybe I'd skip today and walk tomorrow. Something happened though and there I was out and about seeing the sights of this city. Headed down Washington to the new ball park and then over to the Toyota Center where the Rockets and Coments Play. Then back to Allen Parkway and the Art Car Parade. Back and forth, just for good measure. Then home.
Been reading and listening to music most of the afternoon. I had really forgotten how much I love to have music playing, especially my choice of music. For the last 10 years I've listened to opera all summer long. It was a good education but frankly I got a tad tired of listening to those dames (and a few gents) whine about lost love, lost life, lost everything. Don't get me wrong. I love a good opera. Just that I like all forms of music. It's fun to get the juices flowing whether it is Mary J Blige, Bette or Elvis Costello or Joan Sutherland. I'm somewhat out of the loop with what is hip musically now. I try to stay aware but it isn't a vocation as it once was. C'est la vie.
Next week is going to be ugly. I just know it. Lots of stuff happening in Washington DC and lots of stuff happening in Austin. Meanwhile the war rages, more people die and we still don't have universal health care. Gays continue to be marginalized. Seems all of this is being done in the name of God which I find way too amusing. Something is wrong here. Something is very wrong. But we are going to win anyway. We are. Hatred shrouded in the name of God can't succeed. Besides, I don't believe in her anyway!
I took my long Saturday morning walk and on my way home happened on the parade prior to it starting. I got to walk among the cars as did many others. It was kind of like the night before the Macy's Thanksgiving Day Parade on the Upper West Side. Except it was Houston, it was hot and humid and we were all in shorts.
Had a great 2 1/2 walk today. Think I hit about 10 miles! I wasn't going to walk today. When I woke I was thinking maybe I'd skip today and walk tomorrow. Something happened though and there I was out and about seeing the sights of this city. Headed down Washington to the new ball park and then over to the Toyota Center where the Rockets and Coments Play. Then back to Allen Parkway and the Art Car Parade. Back and forth, just for good measure. Then home.
Been reading and listening to music most of the afternoon. I had really forgotten how much I love to have music playing, especially my choice of music. For the last 10 years I've listened to opera all summer long. It was a good education but frankly I got a tad tired of listening to those dames (and a few gents) whine about lost love, lost life, lost everything. Don't get me wrong. I love a good opera. Just that I like all forms of music. It's fun to get the juices flowing whether it is Mary J Blige, Bette or Elvis Costello or Joan Sutherland. I'm somewhat out of the loop with what is hip musically now. I try to stay aware but it isn't a vocation as it once was. C'est la vie.
Next week is going to be ugly. I just know it. Lots of stuff happening in Washington DC and lots of stuff happening in Austin. Meanwhile the war rages, more people die and we still don't have universal health care. Gays continue to be marginalized. Seems all of this is being done in the name of God which I find way too amusing. Something is wrong here. Something is very wrong. But we are going to win anyway. We are. Hatred shrouded in the name of God can't succeed. Besides, I don't believe in her anyway!
THE BOYS OF SUMMER
I finally made it to Minute Maid Park. Yes that is the formerly Enron Field, home of the Houston Astros. My older sister and her wife asked me to a game last night. We had great seats on the club level. Nice view of the field from the first base side. It was a lovely evening and the top of the stadium was open. I remember going to see a Colt 45's game here in Houston before the Astrodome was built. It was a nightmare. Hot, humid and bug filled. You had to coat yourself in Off if you wanted to be able to sit through the game.
Then came the Astrodome. The eighth wonder of the world. We were lucky enough to go to the opening of the Dome. The entire family. Thanks to Gulf Oil we had seats in a "Sky Box." You couldn't see a damn thing on the field, but you did have a "butler" in each box to serve one and all and a TV set to actually see the game! What great fun it was. In later years we had wonderful field box seats above the Astro dugout. I loved those seats, although as my younger sister has pointed out that I used to have problems with the fellow who smoked cigars who sat behind us!
Well there is no smoke at Minute Maid. No astroturf! Real grass! The infield and outfield are in great shape. The park is smaller than the Dome. It reminded me of Wrigley Field in Chicago. We were treated to lovely seat side service from Hubert our server. Nice to not have to get up and find the hotdog stand (like there is a hotdog stand in this stadium.) It was odd to have a glass of merlot and not a beer, but hey it is the 21st Century!
The bad news. We lost again. Where is the hitting? The pitching wasn't so hot either. That said, it is a great thing to be able to go to the ballpark. The sights, the sounds. Nothing like it. Baseball fans aren't like Nascar fans, they aren't like football fans, nor soccer fans. It's a league of it's own. I love baseball. I just have to remember to not think about politics while I'm there!
Then came the Astrodome. The eighth wonder of the world. We were lucky enough to go to the opening of the Dome. The entire family. Thanks to Gulf Oil we had seats in a "Sky Box." You couldn't see a damn thing on the field, but you did have a "butler" in each box to serve one and all and a TV set to actually see the game! What great fun it was. In later years we had wonderful field box seats above the Astro dugout. I loved those seats, although as my younger sister has pointed out that I used to have problems with the fellow who smoked cigars who sat behind us!
Well there is no smoke at Minute Maid. No astroturf! Real grass! The infield and outfield are in great shape. The park is smaller than the Dome. It reminded me of Wrigley Field in Chicago. We were treated to lovely seat side service from Hubert our server. Nice to not have to get up and find the hotdog stand (like there is a hotdog stand in this stadium.) It was odd to have a glass of merlot and not a beer, but hey it is the 21st Century!
The bad news. We lost again. Where is the hitting? The pitching wasn't so hot either. That said, it is a great thing to be able to go to the ballpark. The sights, the sounds. Nothing like it. Baseball fans aren't like Nascar fans, they aren't like football fans, nor soccer fans. It's a league of it's own. I love baseball. I just have to remember to not think about politics while I'm there!
Thursday, May 12, 2005
MUST READ
THIS IS A MUST READ:
A Statement from Matt Foreman, Executive Director:
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
I'm hearing both gay and straight people say that the long string of losses we've faced at the polls around marriage equality are really our own fault; our community pushed too hard and too fast, they argue. The prominent theme being generated is that we have failed to "educate" the public about who we really are and get beyond the stereotypes of leather people, butch dykes, circuit boys and drag queens – and that it is now our obligation to reintroduce ourselves to the American people. I also repeatedly hear that it's up to us to reframe the terms of the debate away from "moral values" to simpler concepts, such as fairness, which polls indicate resonate most with the public.
I disagree. This is nothing more than the blame-the-victim mentality afflicting our nation generally and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) movement specifically.
Rather than reframing the debate away from moral values, we must embrace them. Or more precisely, the utter immorality of the escalating attacks against LGBT people. And, equally, the utter immorality in the failure of so many people of good will to stand with us. It is time for us to seize the moral high ground and state unambiguously that anti-gay discrimination in any form is immoral.
Webster's defines discrimination as "unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice." By any measure, LGBT people are targets of discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. FBI statistics show that more people are being murdered because of their sexual orientation than for any other bias reason. Our young people are still routinely bullied in schools. The examples of injustices in the area of partner and family recognition are too many to list.
No thinking or feeling person can deny these realities, which, as always, fall hardest on LGBT people of color and those who are poor.
But, alarmingly, rather than seeing a groundswell of support for measures to combat these injustices, the opposite is occurring. In Congress and in statehouses nationwide, it's rhetorical and legislative open season on LGBT people. For example, over the last nine months, anti-marriage state constitutional amendments were put on the ballot in 14 states, 10 of which also prohibit the recognition of any form of relationship between people of the same gender. It's likely another 12 states will have similar measures on the ballot within 3 years.
Nothing like this has happened since the Constitution was ratified in 1791 – essentially a national referendum inviting the public to vote to deprive a small minority of Americans of rights the majority takes for granted and sees as fundamental.
And who's been there to fight these amendments? Basically us, the very minority under attack. Mainstream media and churches are largely silent to our opponents' lies. Most progressive organizations and political campaigns, meanwhile, steer clear. There have been sterling exceptions, but they have been few and far between.
Many people who see themselves as supporters of equal rights for all tolerate this because they believe prejudice on the basis of sexual orientation is profoundly different than that based on race or religion – that it comes from an understandable disapproval of our behavior – not on some "immutable characteristic." Homosexual behavior, they feel, is "unnatural" (doesn't the Bible say so?). Pundits say there is an "ick" factor – that the thought of gay sex revolts non-gay people, and that this seemingly innate reaction is proof there is something wrong with homosexuality.
This rationale is hardly unique to gay people. Scholars point to comparable "ick" sentiments about Irish immigrants in the 1880s, and describe how in preceding generations sexual ideology was used to strengthen control over slaves and to justify the taking of Native American lands, and that for centuries Jews were associated with disease and urban degeneration.
Fact is, there is no justification for anti-gay prejudice; the "justifications" for it are as unfounded as those used to support the second-class treatment of other minorities in past generations.
So, what needs to be done?
First, everyone must realize that when straight people say gay people should not have the freedom to marry, they are saying we are not as good or deserving as they are. It's that simple, no matter how one attempts to sugarcoat it.
This is unacceptable – and it is immoral.
Second, while we should talk to straight people honestly about our lives, we must flatly reject the notion that we are somehow to blame for all of this because we have not effectively communicated our "stories" to others. Fundamentally, it is not our job to prove to others that we can be good neighbors, good parents, and that gee whiz, we're actually people too.
Third, equality will remain elusive if we keep relying on intellectualized arguments or by dryly cataloguing, for example, each of the 1,138 federal rights and responsibilities we are forced to forgo due to marriage inequality.
The other side goes for the gut; it's now our turn.
In this vein, we must put others on the spot to stand up and fight for us. As the cascade of lies pours forth from the Anti-Gay Industry, morality demands that non-gay people speak out with the same vehemence as they would if it was another minority under attack. Ministers and rabbis must be challenged with the question, "Where is your voice?" Elected officials who meet with and attend events of the Anti-Gay Industry, must be met with the challenge, "How can you do that!? How is that public service?"
The orchestrated campaign to deny us jobs, family recognition, children, and housing is immoral. Silently bearing witness to this discrimination is immoral.
America is in the midst of another ugly chapter in its struggle with the forces of bigotry. People of good will can either rise up to speak for lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender Americans, or look back upon themselves 20 years from now with deserved shame.
A Statement from Matt Foreman, Executive Director:
National Gay and Lesbian Task Force
I'm hearing both gay and straight people say that the long string of losses we've faced at the polls around marriage equality are really our own fault; our community pushed too hard and too fast, they argue. The prominent theme being generated is that we have failed to "educate" the public about who we really are and get beyond the stereotypes of leather people, butch dykes, circuit boys and drag queens – and that it is now our obligation to reintroduce ourselves to the American people. I also repeatedly hear that it's up to us to reframe the terms of the debate away from "moral values" to simpler concepts, such as fairness, which polls indicate resonate most with the public.
I disagree. This is nothing more than the blame-the-victim mentality afflicting our nation generally and the lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) movement specifically.
Rather than reframing the debate away from moral values, we must embrace them. Or more precisely, the utter immorality of the escalating attacks against LGBT people. And, equally, the utter immorality in the failure of so many people of good will to stand with us. It is time for us to seize the moral high ground and state unambiguously that anti-gay discrimination in any form is immoral.
Webster's defines discrimination as "unfair treatment of a person or group on the basis of prejudice." By any measure, LGBT people are targets of discrimination in employment, housing, and public accommodations. FBI statistics show that more people are being murdered because of their sexual orientation than for any other bias reason. Our young people are still routinely bullied in schools. The examples of injustices in the area of partner and family recognition are too many to list.
No thinking or feeling person can deny these realities, which, as always, fall hardest on LGBT people of color and those who are poor.
But, alarmingly, rather than seeing a groundswell of support for measures to combat these injustices, the opposite is occurring. In Congress and in statehouses nationwide, it's rhetorical and legislative open season on LGBT people. For example, over the last nine months, anti-marriage state constitutional amendments were put on the ballot in 14 states, 10 of which also prohibit the recognition of any form of relationship between people of the same gender. It's likely another 12 states will have similar measures on the ballot within 3 years.
Nothing like this has happened since the Constitution was ratified in 1791 – essentially a national referendum inviting the public to vote to deprive a small minority of Americans of rights the majority takes for granted and sees as fundamental.
And who's been there to fight these amendments? Basically us, the very minority under attack. Mainstream media and churches are largely silent to our opponents' lies. Most progressive organizations and political campaigns, meanwhile, steer clear. There have been sterling exceptions, but they have been few and far between.
Many people who see themselves as supporters of equal rights for all tolerate this because they believe prejudice on the basis of sexual orientation is profoundly different than that based on race or religion – that it comes from an understandable disapproval of our behavior – not on some "immutable characteristic." Homosexual behavior, they feel, is "unnatural" (doesn't the Bible say so?). Pundits say there is an "ick" factor – that the thought of gay sex revolts non-gay people, and that this seemingly innate reaction is proof there is something wrong with homosexuality.
This rationale is hardly unique to gay people. Scholars point to comparable "ick" sentiments about Irish immigrants in the 1880s, and describe how in preceding generations sexual ideology was used to strengthen control over slaves and to justify the taking of Native American lands, and that for centuries Jews were associated with disease and urban degeneration.
Fact is, there is no justification for anti-gay prejudice; the "justifications" for it are as unfounded as those used to support the second-class treatment of other minorities in past generations.
So, what needs to be done?
First, everyone must realize that when straight people say gay people should not have the freedom to marry, they are saying we are not as good or deserving as they are. It's that simple, no matter how one attempts to sugarcoat it.
This is unacceptable – and it is immoral.
Second, while we should talk to straight people honestly about our lives, we must flatly reject the notion that we are somehow to blame for all of this because we have not effectively communicated our "stories" to others. Fundamentally, it is not our job to prove to others that we can be good neighbors, good parents, and that gee whiz, we're actually people too.
Third, equality will remain elusive if we keep relying on intellectualized arguments or by dryly cataloguing, for example, each of the 1,138 federal rights and responsibilities we are forced to forgo due to marriage inequality.
The other side goes for the gut; it's now our turn.
In this vein, we must put others on the spot to stand up and fight for us. As the cascade of lies pours forth from the Anti-Gay Industry, morality demands that non-gay people speak out with the same vehemence as they would if it was another minority under attack. Ministers and rabbis must be challenged with the question, "Where is your voice?" Elected officials who meet with and attend events of the Anti-Gay Industry, must be met with the challenge, "How can you do that!? How is that public service?"
The orchestrated campaign to deny us jobs, family recognition, children, and housing is immoral. Silently bearing witness to this discrimination is immoral.
America is in the midst of another ugly chapter in its struggle with the forces of bigotry. People of good will can either rise up to speak for lesbian, gay bisexual and transgender Americans, or look back upon themselves 20 years from now with deserved shame.
Monday, May 09, 2005
NEW WEEK
Monday morning and I'm up early yet again. I wake up now and I get up. This must be the aging process. Feeling much better thank you very much. I hate it when I don't feel good. Makes everything that much more difficult.
Rosie turned off her comments again. Wonder what that's about. I wonder why people feel compelled to say nasty things about other people. Oh please, I don't really wonder, I know why. Just a chance to get off at someone else's expense. Words. They can hurt.
Been having some friendship issues myself these past couple of weeks. Seems there are some people out there who don't like me. This is hardly news. What is interesting is that people I thought did like me are standing back and letting others say things about me that aren't true. I don't have any issue with anyone not liking what I have to say. I don't have any issue with anyone not liking me. There are plenty of people I don't like. I do have issues with someone who has claimed me as a friend, turning a deaf ear when my name is being impugned.
Tomorrow it will be 12 weeks exactly since I started my revised walking and eating program. When I started walking in September of last year I thought I was going to just get healthy by walking. I did get stronger but I didn't get any healthier. Then in December I twisted my heel and had to stop walking. I didn't walk for about six weeks. The result of that wasn't a good result, so when I started to walk again in February I decided to also address what it was I was using to fuel my body. I opted to stay away from wine and to eat more fruit. I cut out most of the white stuff, flour, sugar, and junk. The result is that I am fit for the first time in a long time. In 12 short weeks I have lost over 20 lbs. and am feeling like I have control over my body again. And it is nice to be able to put on a pair of pants and not have to kid myself that they look okay. So tomorrow I will weigh myself and see how many lbs. I have lost. And I will renew my commitment to myself and continue on this new found path to healthy living. Losing lbs. is a wonderful side effect from walking but the best thing is feeling good, feeling healthy, and being back in touch.
Looks to be an interesting week in Washington. Looks like the Repukes are going to go nuts in the Senate. More car bombs will likely go off in Iraq. More people will be victimized by hit and run drivers here in Houston. But from the bad the good does spring. It isn't all bad all the time. I guess what I'd really love to see is for everyone to just mind their own business. When they are driving, to really drive and not chat on the phone, or drink coffee, or apply their makeup. I'd love for all the wonderful christians out their to be really christian and turn the other cheek and let all of us get along in our own way. I'd love for the republicans to actually care about more than themselves and for no one anywhere to go hungry. In a country as rich as this I wish we had health care for one and all regardless of ones ability to pay. I wish supersize wasn't a part of anyone's vocabulary. And to be fully honest, I wish I could eat carrot cake daily and not gain a pound. Let's see what this NEW WEEK brings. Hopefully some laughter and lots of good things to lots of good people.
Rosie turned off her comments again. Wonder what that's about. I wonder why people feel compelled to say nasty things about other people. Oh please, I don't really wonder, I know why. Just a chance to get off at someone else's expense. Words. They can hurt.
Been having some friendship issues myself these past couple of weeks. Seems there are some people out there who don't like me. This is hardly news. What is interesting is that people I thought did like me are standing back and letting others say things about me that aren't true. I don't have any issue with anyone not liking what I have to say. I don't have any issue with anyone not liking me. There are plenty of people I don't like. I do have issues with someone who has claimed me as a friend, turning a deaf ear when my name is being impugned.
Tomorrow it will be 12 weeks exactly since I started my revised walking and eating program. When I started walking in September of last year I thought I was going to just get healthy by walking. I did get stronger but I didn't get any healthier. Then in December I twisted my heel and had to stop walking. I didn't walk for about six weeks. The result of that wasn't a good result, so when I started to walk again in February I decided to also address what it was I was using to fuel my body. I opted to stay away from wine and to eat more fruit. I cut out most of the white stuff, flour, sugar, and junk. The result is that I am fit for the first time in a long time. In 12 short weeks I have lost over 20 lbs. and am feeling like I have control over my body again. And it is nice to be able to put on a pair of pants and not have to kid myself that they look okay. So tomorrow I will weigh myself and see how many lbs. I have lost. And I will renew my commitment to myself and continue on this new found path to healthy living. Losing lbs. is a wonderful side effect from walking but the best thing is feeling good, feeling healthy, and being back in touch.
Looks to be an interesting week in Washington. Looks like the Repukes are going to go nuts in the Senate. More car bombs will likely go off in Iraq. More people will be victimized by hit and run drivers here in Houston. But from the bad the good does spring. It isn't all bad all the time. I guess what I'd really love to see is for everyone to just mind their own business. When they are driving, to really drive and not chat on the phone, or drink coffee, or apply their makeup. I'd love for all the wonderful christians out their to be really christian and turn the other cheek and let all of us get along in our own way. I'd love for the republicans to actually care about more than themselves and for no one anywhere to go hungry. In a country as rich as this I wish we had health care for one and all regardless of ones ability to pay. I wish supersize wasn't a part of anyone's vocabulary. And to be fully honest, I wish I could eat carrot cake daily and not gain a pound. Let's see what this NEW WEEK brings. Hopefully some laughter and lots of good things to lots of good people.
Sunday, May 08, 2005
Frank Rich
Oh to be Frank Rich. I know someone who knew someone who has stalked Frank Rich. I am not a fan of stalking, but Frank Rich is a treasure and if you don't read him, go to the New York Times and register and read him weekly. Even if you don't agree with him, his mastery of language is brill and he's just one hellava guy!
SUNDAY
I am wondering about Blogs. This craze, this thing, what is it really? I read lots of different blogs. Some of them are written here where I live, Houston, Texas. Some are written in Washington DC and some are (horrors) written in Europe! I love to read them because I love to hear what other people are thinking. Sometimes you read a blog and you say, "Hummm, won't be reading this again." Then you find another to replace it and say, " How am I ever going to find time to read this?" All to say that it is a hoot and I love it when others don't get the point of blogging.
People comment that about odd stuff. On some blogs, the comments aren't about the content but about the punctuation. On others it is all about the content. To me, the point is that it is out there. All of it. You can CHOOSE to read a blog or not. Someone has a point of view you don't like, move along. Someone uses language you don't like, move along. Someone writes something that moves you, leave a comment and tell them. It's great.
It's neat when you think about someone you don't know reading what you have to say and finding something in it that they can relate to. I love the randomness of it all. So I'll continue to post stuff. The stuff that I find that makes me crazy, the stuff I find that makes me laugh and the stuff that makes me angry. It's better than a journal, cause this way you don't have to hide it somewhere. You just type it, edit it (well for me that is spell check) and you post it. Voila. Who knows, maybe even something gets said that makes a difference.
People comment that about odd stuff. On some blogs, the comments aren't about the content but about the punctuation. On others it is all about the content. To me, the point is that it is out there. All of it. You can CHOOSE to read a blog or not. Someone has a point of view you don't like, move along. Someone uses language you don't like, move along. Someone writes something that moves you, leave a comment and tell them. It's great.
It's neat when you think about someone you don't know reading what you have to say and finding something in it that they can relate to. I love the randomness of it all. So I'll continue to post stuff. The stuff that I find that makes me crazy, the stuff I find that makes me laugh and the stuff that makes me angry. It's better than a journal, cause this way you don't have to hide it somewhere. You just type it, edit it (well for me that is spell check) and you post it. Voila. Who knows, maybe even something gets said that makes a difference.
Saturday, May 07, 2005
FEELING PUNY
Been quite a week. I haven't felt really good for a week or so. What started as some sinus issues has now turned into some intestinal issues. Nuff said. Needless to say I hate operating at less then 100%.
Couldn't read Rosie's post today cause she talked about a movie I want to see. My great and good friend, Laura and I have had a long standing tradition of never telling each other about any movie we've seen unless both of us have seen it. This includes everything from, "You've got to see this movie," to "I hated it." We just don't discuss. We both like the wonderfulness of finding something on our own. Not easy to do in this over hyped world we live in.
Happy to read that Microsoft has returned to reality and realized that support for the rights of all in the work place is a necessary and positive stance to take. To bad for the folks in Washington State, but hey there is always the next legislative season!
Things here in Texas aren't so bright. Sure we've had bits of discussion that maybe Tom DeLay is losing support but I won't believe that until he is voted out of office. We still have some really bad legislation happening in Austin. The good news is that people are working hard to get this hatefilled legislation off the table before it can be voted on.
So it's the weekend. Humidity seems to be back, heat is rising. Ah yes, Houston as we march into summer.
Couldn't read Rosie's post today cause she talked about a movie I want to see. My great and good friend, Laura and I have had a long standing tradition of never telling each other about any movie we've seen unless both of us have seen it. This includes everything from, "You've got to see this movie," to "I hated it." We just don't discuss. We both like the wonderfulness of finding something on our own. Not easy to do in this over hyped world we live in.
Happy to read that Microsoft has returned to reality and realized that support for the rights of all in the work place is a necessary and positive stance to take. To bad for the folks in Washington State, but hey there is always the next legislative season!
Things here in Texas aren't so bright. Sure we've had bits of discussion that maybe Tom DeLay is losing support but I won't believe that until he is voted out of office. We still have some really bad legislation happening in Austin. The good news is that people are working hard to get this hatefilled legislation off the table before it can be voted on.
So it's the weekend. Humidity seems to be back, heat is rising. Ah yes, Houston as we march into summer.
Wednesday, May 04, 2005
SWEEPS
No doubt about it. I watch too much TV. Ask anyone one who really knows me and they'll tell you that I watch HSN and QVC. But that's really just background. I watch lots of junk. I watch my Astros lose all the time. (Come on Boys...let's get it together and start hitting.) I watch news stuff (Anderson, my Anderson.) Yes I even watch C-Span. Now it must also be said that I never watch anything for very long. I flit from station to station which maybe why I am not one to watch movies on DVD. Who knows. But I digress.
Who knew that O and S had a daughter. Course it turns out the daughter is a dog. Who knew (and why does anyone care) about MKL and her victim's marriage. Oh yes, it is SWEEPS week. Did Paula sleep with an idol wannabee? Or is that idle? On and on it goes. Hype and more hype.
I laugh. I remember when we first got a TV. Dayton, Ohio. Living in the aftermath of the second world war. The burbs so to speak. Every house looked alike. Ours was different only cause we lived on the corner. We had a bigger lot. My mother was depressed. No wonder. Every house was either brown or gray. Easy to get lost. So the TV arrives. It was a Zenith. Black and White job. Portable with rabbit ears. Boy oh boy. Even watching the test pattern was fun. Do they still have test patterns? I used to get angry that we were watching ballgames.
Flash forward to 2005. I still only have one TV and now I like to watch the ballgames. I don't have TiVo nor a VCR. I still believe that TV is something you watch and if you miss well too bad. I miss the central point however in that TV's have become so much more than just TV's. They are means to other ends. I don't think though, even knowing that, that I will change my habits. If I can see it great. If I miss it, maybe I can catch it on the reruns. (And if I am desperate enough I can always buy the DVD cause I do have a DVD player even if I have only used it three times in one year!)
Change. Keeps us young. Sweeps. Bores the pants off me. Hype. Killer of imagination. Why is O ringing in my head.....All new......what Brooke didn't want her fans to know......
Who knew that O and S had a daughter. Course it turns out the daughter is a dog. Who knew (and why does anyone care) about MKL and her victim's marriage. Oh yes, it is SWEEPS week. Did Paula sleep with an idol wannabee? Or is that idle? On and on it goes. Hype and more hype.
I laugh. I remember when we first got a TV. Dayton, Ohio. Living in the aftermath of the second world war. The burbs so to speak. Every house looked alike. Ours was different only cause we lived on the corner. We had a bigger lot. My mother was depressed. No wonder. Every house was either brown or gray. Easy to get lost. So the TV arrives. It was a Zenith. Black and White job. Portable with rabbit ears. Boy oh boy. Even watching the test pattern was fun. Do they still have test patterns? I used to get angry that we were watching ballgames.
Flash forward to 2005. I still only have one TV and now I like to watch the ballgames. I don't have TiVo nor a VCR. I still believe that TV is something you watch and if you miss well too bad. I miss the central point however in that TV's have become so much more than just TV's. They are means to other ends. I don't think though, even knowing that, that I will change my habits. If I can see it great. If I miss it, maybe I can catch it on the reruns. (And if I am desperate enough I can always buy the DVD cause I do have a DVD player even if I have only used it three times in one year!)
Change. Keeps us young. Sweeps. Bores the pants off me. Hype. Killer of imagination. Why is O ringing in my head.....All new......what Brooke didn't want her fans to know......
Tuesday, May 03, 2005
WORDS
Jeez, I am forever amazed at the power words have. Words strung together in a way to make you feel, make you believe, to take you back and to move you forward. To hurt you, to make you laugh from deep inside. Sometimes all it takes is one, sometimes more. Just remember to sprinkle them. Words, with love, with hope, with meaning. Words can hurt so lets learn to heal with words instead.
FAT
Damn it to hell. Americans will do anything so they don't have to give up all the crap they eat. Just read in the NYT a piece following up on the recently announced study saying that a little body fat was maybe better for you than being thin. Apparently America accepted this study as the gospel truth and is munching (or should I say stuffing) away. The key word here is little. What does that word mean and how should it be defined.
We don't' live in a country that likes little. People buy houses with "great rooms," even though they haven't a clue as to what a "great room" is and end up filling it with junk and more junk. We have single people buying three bedroom houses because they need the storage space. People say, "sure I'll have a little more," and accept a plate full of food as large and as full as the first plate full they just consumed.
And really what it comes down to is exercise. Underlying all of this is the simple fact that Americans won't get off their asses and move. Now to be truthful, most Americans can't get off their asses because they are a little over weight. That's like saying we are fighting a little war in Iraq. It's like saying the Republicans are just a little over the top.
It makes me sick, but frankly I don't care anymore. So be unhealthy. Go on and hit the chow lines, supersize it. Sit and complain that the world as you know it has gone to hell in a handbasket. Just don't even do any little thing to change any of. And while you're at it, better supersize your coffin.
We don't' live in a country that likes little. People buy houses with "great rooms," even though they haven't a clue as to what a "great room" is and end up filling it with junk and more junk. We have single people buying three bedroom houses because they need the storage space. People say, "sure I'll have a little more," and accept a plate full of food as large and as full as the first plate full they just consumed.
And really what it comes down to is exercise. Underlying all of this is the simple fact that Americans won't get off their asses and move. Now to be truthful, most Americans can't get off their asses because they are a little over weight. That's like saying we are fighting a little war in Iraq. It's like saying the Republicans are just a little over the top.
It makes me sick, but frankly I don't care anymore. So be unhealthy. Go on and hit the chow lines, supersize it. Sit and complain that the world as you know it has gone to hell in a handbasket. Just don't even do any little thing to change any of. And while you're at it, better supersize your coffin.
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