OTHER ISSUES I

	GOVERNMENT ISSUES
https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org\| https://commons.wikimedia.org	GOVERNMENT ACCOUNTABILITY - It's all about Transparency, Honesty, & Fairness, plus the Informed Consent of the Governed, and a Dash of Direct Democracy. For much more detail, visit ProtocolsForDemocracy & Government Corruption I put 'Government' first on this page because without good government, we are in deep trouble. And we're there. Government officials nationwide are not accountable for what they do for a variety of reasons, the biggest one being we don't have any effective mechanism to make them accountable. Our elections can be so easily rigged from the inside or hacked from the outside, that many people have no faith in any election results. We need our government to make sense - to respect the informed consent of the governed - which means to be transparent, honest, fair, but most importantly - 1) fully inform the public on the issues, 2) conduct public polls on all legislation, and then 3) reflect their will, not special interests. OUR REAL FREE PRESS > The transcripts of government meetings, especially "public comments", should be your weekly reading (or viewing) because that represents our real Free Press, with citizens being the true journalists - not the privately-owned or government-controlled news media. We need to exercise our right to "meaningful and effective" free speech and a free press per The First Amendment to the U.S. Constitution and The Sunshine Act, which means: 1) The public should be able to speak at public meetings for 3 minutes on any subject that may come under that government's authority. 2) Government legislative bodies, committees, and executive departments should have regularly scheduled (at least monthly) public meetings where the public can publicly comment. 3) All topics, resolutions, and legislation should be on the agenda at least three days before meetings, except in the case of true emergencies. In addition: The transcripts of the these meetings should be in an easy-to-read format and linked on the homepage. Legislative bodies should poll the public on each piece of legislation (which should also include a comment section), BEFORE any vote, which precludes same-day bill or resolution introduction and voting, Voters should be able to over-ride any legislation by a super-majority of 65% of those who vote? Representative Democracy + Direct Democracy: As well as vote for their political leaders, citizens should have to opportunity to vote directly on specific issues and legislation nationally, state-wide, and locally. Most people support a representative democracy, but many of our leaders don't do what they said they were going to do, once they get into office. One way around that problem is to vote on legislation directly, over-riding our legislators, when necessary. It's called Direct Democracy. But, as with everything in life, it has its pros and cons. *'Transparent' Elections & Public Polls on all legislation:* Democracy demands transparency, not trust (per The Sunshine Act). Voting must be transparent so that election observers have something to observe, which means that we need the following: hand counted paper ballots at local polls on Election Day only, under the watchful eyes of election observers; and NO machines, computers, e-mail voting, absentee voting, mail-in voting, drop boxes, ballot harvesting, early voting, late counting, etc.. Private polls are similarly nontransparent and untrustworthy. That's why I suggest that we ditch the "secret ballot" and conduct "open voting" electronically (email?) for government-sponsored public POLLS on all legislation. The anonymous secret ballot has been the single biggest reason that we can't ever truly audit any election. Open voting does have its downside as well, but it's worth a try. I've written about voting in detail at ProtocolsForDemocracy.org Read and pass narrowly defined legislation: The public and our political representatives must have the time to read, understand, and react to the matters on which our representatives will vote. And each bill should stand on its own, rather than omnibus bills that are packed with too many issues, lumping good bills in with bad ones. In addition: All "Executive Orders" and "Emergency Powers" should be minimized, as they put the "mock" in Democracy. Government should NEVER be allowed to 'protect from liability' any entity from civil or criminal lawsuits, as has happened with vaccine makers, as it denies citizens their right to the third branch of government, the Judiciary. End the conflicts of interest for elected representatives and civil servants, who should be required to divest from all Wall Street and financial investments. All wars should require a vote of Congress, per our U.S. Constitution Public Campaign Financing-Only For Public Office: We've got to take the money completely out of the election process, particularly foreign money. However, due to the Citizen's United decision etc., it will take an Act of Congress to do it. Ideally, before any election, the government should require 3 debates for candidates (the last one being a week before the election), provide a free temporary website to fill with their own content, and a mail out a list of questions and the candidates' replies, so that voters may know where the candidates stand on the issues, hopefully. *With our Bill of Rights... come responsibilities... that we have to fight for every day!*

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	OUR HEALTH & THE PLANET: What goes around comes around Learn more at: WildFoodies / HealthAlertPhilly / HealthChecklist / ZeroWasteAmerica Our health is our number one asset. We can't help ourselves or others if we're feeling sickly and our mind is a muddle. We also can't be healthy if the planet is polluted. What goes around, comes around. So, we need to take care of both people and the planet. How? Keep things simple and do without the junk. Learn about our wild world for food, medicine, and more. Also, learn how to grow cultivated crops and make our own stuff. Why? Because we'll never really know what toxins may be lurking inside the products we buy, including medications, vitamins, and supplements. Even organic standards can't protect the public from secret toxic ingredients. And, please don't trust your doctor and public health officials, the government, etc., because their education, too often, is based on private profits, not the public health. *Regardless of whether global warming is happening or is naturally or man-made, fossil fuels and their by-products contaminate the land, sea, air, and all living things, including people.* They cause a wide range of illnesses, including cancer and auto-immune disease. Thus, we definitely need to make a transition to clean energy. But, we need to do it wisely and carefully. That said, the best thing to do is not need the energy to begin with. For example, heavily insulate your house with chemical-free hemp insulation, wools and other fibers, etc. Also, learn how to collect your own rain water and filter, etc.. We also need to set down standards for "planning" in order to avoid suburban sprawl and waste. We need to bring back our villages, towns, and countryside, and make Town Halls, not malls, the focus of our communities. We need to adopt a Zero Waste mandate to safely recycle or store our waste. It doesn't make sense to build landfills or cemeteries because they contaminate the air, soil, and water, and will eventually cover the globe. It's a matter of math and limited land. Learn more at my website - ZeroWasteAmerica.org I strongly believe that we should all completely avoid 'socially acceptable' drugs such as caffeine, alcohol, nicotine, and marijuana, all of which are addictive and makes people more anxious, not less, plus causes their bodies to produce an overload of estrogen, a female hormone that can cause cancer and disrupt sexual development. Also keep in mind, whatever we consume ends up in our drinking water, including drugs. What effect does that have, particularly on the unborn and growing children? Personally, I also avoid dairy, glutens, strong spices, nightshade plants, too much acid, as well as soy and other foods that contain lots of estrogen, which could encourage inflammation and lead to cancer. See HealthChecklist We should also minimize our exposure to radiation from various sources, and reconsider the use of LED lights. Think twice about wearing over-cushioned shoes, low-hanging pants, and tight clothes. Even sitting in bucket car seats can affect your spine and give you leg pain. And many sports need to be redesigned as to not injure participants unnecessarily. Try a daily dose of moderate exercise, mindful walking, and a bit of line dancing. Good health is about our minds as well as our bodies. We need to surround ourselves with uplifting and inspiring people, places, things, and thoughts, so that when bad stuff happens, we're ready to turn that lemon into lemonade. When it comes to good health, everything matters! What can you do? 1) Do without, 2) Forage (WildFoodies) and grow as much of your own chemical-free food as possible, and 3) Make things yourself from non-toxic biodegradable materials (PhillyKnits), 4) Buy local, American, etc.. The easiest and most effective way to save the environment is by "doing without". I don't wear make up or perfume, color my hair, do the nail thing, or buy almost any personal care products, and I don't use soaps or detergents, house or lawn chemicals, etc.. I saved a lot of time, money, and effort when I simplified my life and stopped buying stuff I didn't need. *See HealthChecklist.htm and keep saying, "Healthy Planet, Healthy People!"*

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://www.alarisworld.com	BE PREPARED, LOCAL SELF-RELIANCE, & PROTECTIONISM LINKS: WildFoods / Be Prepared / First Aid / DIY & Buy Local / PhillyKnits It makes sense for nations to pursue a policy of national self-reliance and determination, as well as global communication and cooperation, when needed. There are times when countries need to band together, but that does not justify a One World Government that dictates policies to its member nations, as some international organizations, such as the World Health Organization, are attempting. Every individual, community, and country should be self-reliant in the basic needs of life as possible, and prepared for any emergency natural or man-made, as well as protected from foreign interference and control. For what else is government's role, but to serve as society's 'protector', while our role as individuals and communities, is to be 'prepared' for anything that may come our way? Unfortunately, governments around the world have helped create our current 'disaster of dependency'. Under the false flag of the "free market" and "free trade", they have sold out their citizens for private profit and foreign interests. Today, most Americans are completely dependent on others for their bare essentials. We used to be a land of small farmers, businesses, and manufacturers. Now we're a land of open borders and chronic consumers. That's societal suicide. We're sitting ducks for any disaster, natural or manmade. But don't panic. This is nothing new. Down through history, those who wanted to dominate others, always began by dividing and conquering. And one of the most popular ways to conquer a society is to destroy their local self-reliance. In American Colonial times, the colonies supplied the raw materials to Great Britain's manufacturers, but were banned from manufacturing products themselves. The American Revolution was fought, in large part so that the colonists could make their own products, as well as control their own destiny. Today, we have lost much of what our forefathers fought for, and we desperately need to get it back. WHAT CAN WE DO? We need to learn how to survive and thrive without imports and commercial products, as much as possible. (see links at top) We need to learn how to respectfully and responsibly use our wild world to make our own things, for food, fiber, medicine, and much more. We need restore our manufacturing and cottage industries, as well as grow crops, make clothes, build houses, and tend to all of our needs, with the focus on "Locally Made" or "Made In America" products. Our local governments should provide "open markets" and online catalogues "rent-free" for people to sell their products and services. And our schools, communities, and parents can lead the way by teaching adults and children alike, lots of skills. This will all go a long way toward connecting us to reality, nature, and each other. Persuade your local government draw up and execute plans for "Emergency Preparedness", as well as to be "Locally Self-Reliant". Advertisements, Public Service Announcements (PSA), etc., should be used to educate the public. Government authorities also need to take 'land use' planning seriously and set aside land for farming, foraging, fishing and hunting. The sprawling suburbs can be re-configured into "towns", and property owners can be encouraged to convert their lawns into micro-farms, and everyday common weeds and non-native plants can provide a wealth of resources. We need import bans and steep tariffs on foreign goods, as well as bans foreign ownership of businesses, land, non-profits, etc., are effective ways to protect a nation's businesses. Foreign ownership is a foreign "conquest" of a nation's assets by any other name. Governments should also ban private or foreign ownership of public utilities, which should never be subject to market forces, in any case, as we all depend on them. Public utilities include: ports, water, power, electric, gas, roads, roads, bridges, tolls, communications, elections, money, etc.. Some see 'protectionism' as isolationist and nationalistic, but that's not true. It makes sense for every nation to protect is citizens and resources as much as possible. There's nothing "free" about free markets. It's a race to the bottom, as businesses scour the planet looking for cheap, if not slave, labor. Monopolies, aka "chain" businesses, that suffocate local small businesses and destroy the uniqueness, diversity, and self-sufficiency of local communities, worldwide, should also be banned. This applies to "chain" law firms, "chain" accountants, "chain" real estate businesses, etc.. Another reason to ban chain businesses is the same reason not to connect our power grid too broadly - because if one thing goes wrong, it can take down the whole system, thereby violating the Doctrine of Minimizing Risk. Local communities should come together *now* and agree to stop doing business with chain stores. In fact, there are laws in the U.S. that allow communities to outlaw big chain stores. Protect national borders. A country cannot exist if it has no border security. If anyone can come in, that can quickly build into a 'de facto' invasion. Open borders also means open season for drug and human traffickers. Countries need to manage their own affairs, like we manage our homes and families. We lock our doors when we leave our house, so that we don't get unwanted visitors. And we plan for the amount of food, clothing, and shelter we need, so that we don't run out. Well-managed countries operate the same way. That said, solid border fences can also do serious harm to wild life that need to migrate seasonally, so that's a complication that needs to be addressed. It looks like what we need is a federal ID that people must carry to prove that they are citizens of the country in which they reside, however others may reasonably argue against that.

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	MILITARY ISSUES: The military's mission is to defend the nation, but we all must be prepared to do that. BE PREPARED & RENEW THE UNIVERSAL DRAFT - Every citizen, including students, should be trained and available to defend themselves and their country, as civilians are often drawn into wars and other hazardous situations. The downside of a 'volunteer' military is that it creates a 'warrior class' that can control or take over government. Worse yet, it also allows citizens to disconnect from their nation's defense and foreign policy, under the misguided impression that it has nothing to do with them, when it most certainly does. We don't need armchair patriots. We need all our citizens to have the skills, training, and courage it takes to protect themselves, their community, and their country against harm. BAN FORCED VACCINATIONS AND MEDICATIONS - Everyone should have the right to Medical Freedom. Our military has been literally and systematically poisoned by their own doctors and public health officials. Toxic vaccines and other medications have disabled hundreds of thousands of our soldiers, active duty and retired - which also has resulted in 22 suicides a day. As with any injustice, it takes people stepping up, speaking out, and fighting back for things to change. Our soldiers are dedicated to defending us, now we have to defend them against medical corruption and tyranny. http://www.healthalertphilly.org/Military&Vaccines.htm ABUSING OUR STATE'S "NATIONAL GUARD" - Our state "national guard" is supposed to protect their respective states, not engage in foreign wars. Yet, units have been routinely been sent overseas by the Pentagon, particularly during the various and unethical Mideast wars, starting in the 1990's. The Pentagon has sent these troops on multiple deployments; a practice that was unheard of before. It has taken a tragic toll on our soldiers and their families. This has also left states less able to defend their citizens in times of natural or man-made disasters, which is their first mission. For several states, where massive numbers of illegal immigrants are pouring over their borders, having their troops overseas has hampered their ability to stem the tide or safeguard residents. Our national guard needs to return to its original mandate - to protect U.S. residents and their property. https://responsiblestatecraft.org/2021/03/02/states-are-moving-to-end-national-guard-role-in-unauthorized-wars https://www.straightdope.com/21343969/what-s-the-national-guard-doing-fighting-overseas-anyway

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	LAW & ORDER ISSUES - Set and enforce effective safety laws, educate police officers, train citizens, and focus on effective rehabilitation in prisons. TRAIN ADULTS AND CHILDREN on how to diffuse a volatile situation, but also how to defend themselves. DEFEND GUN OWNERSHIP - Common sense dictates that we have the right to arm and protect ourselves and others. The Second Amendment is pretty clear on that score, even though several states continue to chip away at it. In 1776, the Patriots were able to fight for our liberty because they were armed; British citizens in Great Britain were not. If more people were armed, there would be a lot less people attacking schools, invading homes, and looting stores. The police can't be everywhere, so people need to be empowered to protect themselves and their neighborhoods. And all schools should be protected by armed guards and staff trained in the use of firearms. DISTRICT ATTORNEYS & POLICE need to be supported, but also need to do their jobs properly. In too many cities there is a "soft on crime" approach to law enforcement. Yes, lots of things need to be done to prevent crime (youth programs, skills training, affordable housing, etc.), but once the crime has been committed, the offender needs to be arrested, prosecuted, and rehabilitated in prison, if necessary. Offenders need to know there will be serious consequences for their actions. District Attorneys, who don't enforce the law, they should be fired, impeached, and/or sued on the grounds of "non-enforcement of the law". For police who do not do their job, they should be retrained or fired. People need to be held accountable for their actions and inaction, both offenders and enforcers. NO BAIL, NO RELEASE, & SPEEDY TRIALS: We should have "no bale nor release", but "quick justice" within 24 hours for most crimes, as they have done in some sports stadiums for unruly fans. But, absolutely no bale or release for violent offenders, repeat offenders, or flight risks. It's understandable that there are complaints about a 2-tiered justice, one for the rich and the other for the poor. It's not fair and should not be allowed. Quick justice is a better solution, with ample opportunity for offenders to appeal while in jail, per usual, or ask for a jury trial. And a jury trial should not cost more than a non-jury trial, plus the jurors should be selected via lottery - no more jury shopping. BAN GAG ORDERS, SEQUESTERING, GRAND JURIES, ETC: Where in the Constitution does it say that people lose their 1st Amendment rights to free speech if they are indicted, convicted, or in jail? No judge should ever be able to gag anyone. Nor should they look for jurors who don't keep up on the latest news, or be able to sequester them. Nor should any information about the victim or alleged perpetrator be withheld from jurors or the public, including previous and current indictments and convictions. Lastly, grand juries should be banned, as they appear to be unconstitutional, and are too easily manipulated by a DA without adequate legal protections for the accused. WHITE COLLAR CRIME: People should go to jail if they violate the law. Period. There should be no exceptions for government employees, business owners, and corporations... but it happens all the time, particularly with Big Pharma and their vaccines, opioids, and other drugs. White Collar justice a racket where corporations pay fines to (aka, payoff) the government, and then write off the expense as the cost of doing business. Millions of people have been injured or died, yet few Big Pharma executives or their government counterparts ever go to jail. The same goes for the financial, chemical, and other industries. These criminals need to go to jail and pay fines that will wipe out any profits they made or will make; plus pay for the pain and suffering that they have caused. See: Federal Gov't Corruption QUALITY-OF-LIFE CRIMES: All societies need effective and respectful "law and order". There are a lot of people who think that these small crimes, like loitering, drunkenness, or panhandling don't matter, but they do. Firstly, small violations can quickly add up to big safety problems. Secondly, the sidewalk is a public easement, not a private meeting space. And just using common sense, "How would you feel if someone was loitering, drunk, or panhandling in front of your home, office, or store? For those offenders who are addicts and the mentally ill, free treatment in a secure facility should be required. In Philadelphia, people should call 911 every time they see these violation, because it goes on the record, plus the police have to respond, which usually takes care of the problem, at least temporarily. See: SafeStreetsPhilly.org PRISONS & SOLITARY CONFINEMENT: Rehabilitation and skills training should be the focus of any prison, not punishment. And certainly NOT solitary confinement, which can easily drive sane people crazy. This is society's best chance to make troubled people better, for everyone's sake. Plus, inmates should be in local prisons where their friends and family can visit them. That said, 'private prisons' are not a good idea, as their business model depends on prisoners, which is a huge conflict of interest, obviously. Prisons should be considered a public necessity, not an investment opportunity. DEATH PENALTY: Don't do it. If the process makes a mistake, there's no rectifying it. It's better to be safe, than sorry. Life in prison, with no possibility of parole, is a better option. As a practical matter, appeals to death penalties can go on for decades, draining the financial assets of local governments.

https://commons.wikimedia.org	PROPERTY RIGHTS & RESPONSIBILITIES: PROPERTY MAINTENANCE: All properties should be properly maintained, attractive, and occupied under the law. No property should remain empty for more than a prescribed period (2 years?), after which the government should be able to step in and either lease out or purchase the property for its market value. END SQUATTERS' RIGHTS & PROTECT LANDLORDS RIGHT TO EVICT FOR NONPAYMENT OF RENT: You either hold title to property or not, *plus prove that you paid taxes on it*. No one should be allowed to squat and not pay rent. If the squatter is not a renter, or a renter that is destroying the property or posses a physical threat, then eviction should be immediate. If renters stop pay rent, then the landlord should have the right to evict them by a date based on their deposit, which is usually 1 month's rent, unless the renter is destroying the property or threatening neighbors, in which case eviction should be immediate.

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://en.wikipedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	MONEY ISSUES - Can't live with it, and can't live without it. What can we do? Use cash Avoid debt Use credit unions Support local banks Oppose national banks Enforce the Anti-Trust Act Minimize the need for money Use debit cards, not credit cards Oppose a government digital currency Oppose the private banks' Federal Reserve Support government control over the money supply Prohibit Wall Street's endless funny-money schemes Too often, we make money, not sense. Money is probably the trickiest issue we face... with no easy answers. It seems that you can't live with it and you can't live without it. That said, money must be managed extremely carefully, like a stick of dynamite. Money offers such an overwhelming incentive for people to do the wrong thing, that it has become a real threat to the success of any society. Too many people will do anything for money, or conversely...do nothing at all and not speak up about important issues of the day for fear that they could lose their job. Frankly, our economic system can be considered a financial form of servitude, forcing people to play along even if they are completely self-sufficient. So, it makes sense to minimize our need for money through local and personal "self-reliance", as much as possible. There is a way to live in a society where money is not involved, for instance, barter societies, but in general they haven't worked for larger populations. Maybe those kind of societies can be our goals, but in the meantime, it's going to take money to get people to go to work and do jobs that are vital to a modern society. THE ECONOMY: A MIX OF CAPITALISM, SOCIALISM, AND PROTECTIONISM - The economy should serve the public good, not private interests alone. It makes sense not to charge people for certain things that benefit both society and business, such as education, training, and health care. But, it also makes sense to give people the freedom and financial incentive they need to create new ideas and products, within a regulatory framework of fairness and safety. As noted above, we should promote local self-reliance, set high tariffs, ban as many imports as we can, plus ban foreign ownership of land, businesses, and assets of any kind. INTELLECTUAL PROPERTY & PATENTS: It seems that this field has gone nuts, so much so that the "public good" is completely losing out to "private profit". Rumor has it that many patents are being hidden from the public so that select industries are protected from competition. Some even say that we could have had free, clean, and safe energy by now, if it weren't for virtually permanent 'patent protections'. It's time to end the practice of privatizing and monopolizing ideas, and unlock these hidden resources for everyone's benefit. LIMITS ON WEALTH: People should not be allowed to accumulate or hoard so much wealth that they can buy up entire countries. People should be powerful if they have powerful ideas and accomplishments, not because they made the most money. Of course, limitless wealth wouldn't be such a huge problem if our government actually enforced the Anti-Trust Act and had a truly progressive tax code. However, as things now stand, with billionaires running amuck, there needs to be a cap on wealth, but where to put it? It's a good question. WORKFARE, NOT WELFARE: Government should be the employer of last resort. It might not be the job of your dreams or where you want to live, but to give capable people money for doing nothing undermines a person's worth and integrity, as well as society's stability as a place of fairness. NEITHER A BORROWER NOR A LENDER BE? If borrowing weren't allowed, the cost of everything would go down. Things quickly get out of control when you allow lending or borrowing. It's really gambling. Both the borrower and lender are betting that the loan will be paid back, but can't guarantee it. So why not require people to pay the full cost up front? The excuse used is that it is easier for people to buy things on a "payment schedule" spread out over many years. But, the real result is that people too often take on more debt than they can handle, driving up costs, and sinking themselves under a mountain of debt and creating an economic bubble for the nation's economy... that eventually bursts. TAKEOVER NATIONS BY DROWNING THEM IN DEBT: This was initially an U.S. strategy, but other countries like China have followed suit. And now it appears that we are the victims of our own mercenary strategy. Confessions Of An Economic Hitman CREDIT CARDS & LOAN SHARKS: Why don't we call the credit card companies what they really are? Loan sharks! With some charging borrowers 29.99%, not counting the cost to retailers. The government should put a strict limit on borrowing based on income. And restrict interest rates to something reasonable like 5%. Loan Sharks: The Birth of Predatory Lending COLLEGE & TRAINING LOANS: Again, government run schooling and training should be free, with a private option. As it stands, colleges and trade school costs are ridiculously expensive because of easily available loans that take years, sometimes decades, to pay off. And in the case of bank defaults, the taxpayers are left holding the bag. Also, many colleges appear to be fronts for financial institutions that hide behind the colleges non-profit status to accumulate wealth. It looks like a racket. BAN BIG BUSINESS / ENFORCE THE ANTI-TRUST ACT: Our "too big to fail" big banks and businesses should be broken up. RISK-FREE BANKING: Banks should provide a service where people can store their money, for a small fee, at no risk of bankruptcy or asset forfeiture because it would not be loaned out. In other words, if the lending part of the bank failed, depositors "risk-free" money would be physically in the bank vault available to be restored to the owner. THE FEDERAL RESERVE should be banned, as it is the privatization of a government function - controlling the money supply. It's unconstitutional and a scam. We're being charged interest to access our own money! That should end now. We need to take back control of our own currency from national and international bankers. BALANCED BUDGET: This should be mandatory for any country. America is now drowning in massive debt unlike anytime is history. And it's no accident. It's called "predatory lending". One way to destroy a country is to plunge it into massive debt. TAX ISSUES: There should only be taxes on income, but from all sources: employment, investments, assets, inheritance, gifts, etc.; and those taxes should be progressive. The more you make, the more you pay. They should be based on income, not on assets until sold. In Philadelphia, we have to pay taxes on the appraised market value of our homes. That's crazy. It is forcing people out of their neighborhoods and incentivizing people not to take care of their homes. Meanwhile, Philly hands out hefty tax abatements for people who fix up the properties they buy. It makes no sense! NO FEDERAL INCOME TAX? It is unconstitutional for the federal government to require income tax payments, but we do it anyway. And then what happens? The federal government continues to grow exponentially, and actually withholds money from the states, essentially blackmailing states if they don't do what the federal government dictates. As our federal government grows more corrupt by the day, it's time to at least minimize the Federal Income Tax. END MOST TAX EXEMPTIONS, INCLUDING NON-PROFITS: It's become a racket for the rich and others. Some so-called non-profits, like PEW and Harvard University, are worth billions of dollars! WALL STREET - BAN HEDGE FUNDS, JUNK BONDS, DERIVATIVES, PUTS, CALLS, ETC.: It's all 'funny money'. Basically, it is gambling on businesses and industries that the 'little guy' worked hard to build up. We need to knock off the Ponzi schemes, pump & dumps, and booby traps. That's what really lead to the Great Depression, not protectionism, as some historians claim. And did you know that if your bank goes bankrupt, that derivative accounts have first claim on the assets, before bank customers?! And the non-transparency of hedge funds is insane. Since when is it a good idea to put blinders on when it comes to investing? UNIVERSAL HEALTH CARE WITH A PRIVATE OPTION: It is uncivilized, hugely counterproductive, and a colossal waste to stress-out people and businesses over medical bills. AUTO AND OTHER INSURANCE COVERAGE: There should be no "red-lining" in insurance rates, charging those who live in the city to a higher rate than those who live in the suburbs. That's unfair discrimination. Insurance rates should be based on personal performance, not geography. GAMBLING: Think about it...for you to win, others must lose. How can that make you feel good about yourself? A gambling addict can destroy their family's assets. And the fact that people can gamble on credit is criminal. The fact that governments encourage people to gamble is insane. You should be doing better things with your time, like learn a hobby, walk in the woods, or re-arrange your sock drawer!

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/	UNIONS are great for any non-public group of employees, but voting for a union and its officers should be transparent, which most aren't. Unions are great for any non-public group of employees, but not for public employees. They can have an association, but not go on strike. That's the downside of having relatively secure government employment and not have to worry about working in a competitive market. Union votes should not be secret, either, but instead "transparent"... like any other election. All that said, it was extremely disappointing to see so many unions, particularly the teachers unions, NOT protect their members against mandatory vaccines during the COVID debacle.

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	RACISM & THE REVERSE: "I have a dream that my four little children will one day live in a nation where they will not be judged by the color of their skin but by the content of their character." Martin Luther King FAIRNESS? Meritocracy & Equal Opportunity versus Quotas & Equity of Outcomes: We should promote people based on merit, not race, sex, ethnicity, religion, nor personal connections. If it's good enough for the NBA, NFL, and various other sports and occupations where African American do very well, if not dominate, then it's good enough for every other profession. Otherwise, preferential treatment sows discontent and frustration within every part of society; it poisons the well. People will always doubt someone's ability to do a job properly, if they got preferential treatment. Besides, not everyone needs to play for the NBA, however they can play for other organizations and on city teams. Not everyone needs to go to Harvard Medical School; there are other medical schools that are less competitive, less expensive, and perhaps even more competent. And most of all, people can set up their own private organizations and businesses that can cater to their specific needs. SOLUTIONS? Good Intentions & Bad Consequences: Sometimes with the best of intentions, we can really screw things up. For instance, school bussing was meant to integrate the school system, but instead, whites left the cities in droves and fled to the suburbs, making segregation worse. Effective educational reforms and enforcing laws against discriminatory housing practices would have been a better way to go. In a similar manner, social welfare programs were meant to support poor mothers and their children; instead these programs encouraged many fathers to abandon their families, leaving mothers and children more destitute than ever. Incentives for intact families, as well as workfare, are better solutions. Another example, many individuals and churches are creating problems for their local neighbors by feeding the homeless and drug addicts, instead of taking them to government social services and getting them effective care and treatment. So, the next time you try to help someone, think it through and try to be sure that you are making things better for everyone, not worse. Good intentions can have some pretty bad, though unintentional, consequences SETTLING THE SCORE? Past Injustices & Reparations: This is a tough one. Certainly, neither people, businesses, nor institutions should get away with doing bad things to others, and then benefitting from it. After the Civil War, African Americans were supposed to be compensated, but most never were. And now all those former slaves and slave masters are long gone, although some of the descendents of slave owners, are still living on their plantations, which seems weird. But, what about Indigenous Americans, other ethnic groups, and women who have been denied just compensation for past injustices for centuries? How to make up for the sins of the past? I don't think whole-sale reparations is the answer. Banks, art museums, and others unjustly held onto stolen Jewish property after World War II for decades, until a few brave souls stepped forward to right that wrong. And they succeeded to a limited degree. See: https://jcpa.org Frankly, I don't have a good answer to this issue.

	EDUCATION - The fight for a great public education is everyone's fight for our future. We need to build our own curriculum at home that will ensure that our children are being properly educated at school. However, we also need to fight for public education... because these children are our future. When our best and brightest opt out of local public schools for private options, everyone loses. Everyone disconnects from each other's reality. And those parents and students who would be the most pro-active and successful advocates for a good education, leave behind students and their parents who really need their leadership. It creates a learning ghetto for the poor and unlucky, who will naturally be resentful as they get older. Parents can run, but the public can't hide from the results of a poor public education. Keep in mind, private school/charter parents do *not* have the same right to complain about their children's education as do local public school parents. If private/charter school parents do complain, they risk their children's removal from school, with no legal recourse. And, home schooling is just too isolating for young children, although it can be appropriate in some circumstances. How to make Public Education great? We need to check out the curriculum, plus review their text books and work papers. Clearly, something has gone terribly wrong in that so many students are failing to learn. 1) Set specific goals for the students to meet, 2) Have a teacher and an aid in every classroom, and invite the parents and volunteers into the classroom to observe and assist the teachers. 3) Balance students' education evenly between *knowledge and skills, from primitive to high tech. 4) Provide course materials "free" online and for download for the benefit of both students, parents, and the public; and for every grade level (K to PHD) and on every subject and skill. (It would be great if the federal and/or state governments would provide this information without slipping in any crazy agendas.)* 5) Have lots of volunteer hallway monitors trained to keep the peace, 6) Transfer disruptive students to special schools where their needs can be properly addressed, 7) Make sure the classrooms have big windows that let the light in, 8) Let students outside for at least 30 minutes every day, 9) Give all kids free meals that are nutritious, and 10) Fill the school with uplifting and inspiring art, music, literature, etc.. The "knowledge half" of the curriculum" should include critical thinking (i.e., making sense), manners and morals, philosophy, religion, politics, science, math, grammar, history, etc.. The "skills half" should span the range of primitive skills to high technology. In particular, students should know all about our wild world and its uses, as well as how to make their own food, clothing, shelter, furniture, etc.. And last but not least, skills should include sports and dance (particularly line dances)! People need to work with their "hands and minds together" in order to really learn about life. They need to experience things first hand, not just read about them in books. However, most schools don't do that. And, too much of what they teach has no practical application. Students need to get outside of the schools to visit town hall meetings, factories, farms, laboratories, and offices, not just go to museums and play parks. And there needs to be robust "work study" programs for students. In addition, every school should have a school store with items for sale that the students made themselves. We can change Public Education for the better. Go to school board meetings and lobby for a balance between knowledge and skills; and that means skills training for all students, not just the vocational kids. Grandparents and non-parents should also attend school board meetings because many parents are afraid to do it because of the real threat of backlash on their children...which does happen. But that's life. We all have a civic duty to do what's right for our children and their future. It really does take a village to raise a child.

https://commons.wikimedia.org My street! SmallStreetsPhilly.org	WE NEED BEAUTIFUL CITIES, HIGHWAYS, & BYWAYS: BEAUTIFUL CITIES: Whatever we build should be beautiful... something that lifts our spirits and fills our souls. STREET & SIDEWALK CONSTRUCTION - PAVERS, NOT PAVEMENT! For most streets and sidewalks, it's a better idea to use pavers that can be installed and removed as needed, rather than use asphalt which is not porous, ends up looking like a patchwork quilt, punctuated with potholes, and it's toxic, to boot! What's not to like? See my website: SmallStreetsPhilly.org HIGHWAY TOLLS: Tolls are a bad idea, an unfair tax that disproportionately affects the poor more than the rich, and also cause traffic jams which adds to air pollution. Everyone profits from state and federal highways, so everyone should pay for them through their income taxes, federal and state. HIGHWAY WALLS: Tear down those sound walls along our highways. They are ugly and unsafe. In case of a fiery pileup on the highway, those walls will prevent people from escaping. Also, stop building houses and businesses right next to highways; that air and noise can't be healthy. To stop the road traffic sound, plant lots of trees and bushes - https://greenupside.com/what-plants-make-a-good-sound-barrier-noise-cancelling-plants BRIDGES WITH A VIEW: We should be able to see the creeks and rivers that we're traveling over! It's a beautiful sight we need to enjoy. HIGHWAY LANDSCAPING & LITTER: There's no excuse for litter along the highways. Our highways should be clean and beautiful!
	MORE PERSONAL STUFF
https://commons.wikimedia.org	LOVE & SEX Treat both love and sex very thoughtfully and respectfully. And try not to confuse having a crush on someone with true love. And, just because you love someone, does not mean that you should have sex with them, particularly if you are both young and under 20. Sex is serious business and should be saved for serious monogamous relationships. There's nothing free about "free sex", contrary to what others and much of the entertainment industry may have to say on the subject. As a practical matter, sex can result in pregnancy, which is great if you're trying to have children and ready to raise them properly. What is less well know, however, is that sex can also result in sterility, as the result of a sexually transmitted diseases (STD), such as Chlamydia. Which is why it is not a good idea to lead a 'fast and loose' lifestyle, a la "Sex In The City". And very importantly, if you don't drink or do drugs, you'll be much less likely to lose control of your emotions and your self-respect. As with everything in life, what you do has consequences for everyone. Use your head and let respectful love lead the way.

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	FAMILY PLANNING AND ABORTION The life of a baby begins at conception. That's just a scientific fact. And most people believe that we all have a soul which is eternal, including the unborn. So, to end a child's life without just cause (i.e., to save the life of the mother, etc.) is wrong. That said, many women want the legal right to make that choice, anyway. In some states, women can choose up to and beyond the hour of birth, without having to show cause. In my book, that's murder. On the other hand, many states and countries allow abortions in the first trimester. It's still wrong, but at this moment in history, it might be the best option. I realize that appalls many pro-life activists, but think of it this way. Our Founders wrote the Declaration of Independence knowing full well that African Americans, women, and many others were not treated "equally" at the time, nor in the near future. But they stated their "intention" and eventually it became a "reality". In a similar manner, I believe that abortion will be a thing of the past, eventually, because people will be more aware of healthy methods to plan their families. But, that is not the case today. "The pill" and other contraceptive devices can be very damaging to women's health and their babies. And that fact should be the pro-life movements' focus - natural and safe solutions to family planning. Herbal remedies offer a lot of possibilities, but I'm not an expert on this subject. Here's a couple of websites I found, but I can't say what works well and what doesn't. My main point is that we all should be working toward healthy solutions to family planning. https://www.healthline.com/health/birth-control/history-of-birth-control#early-history https://www.olwomen.com/files/herbs-that-act-as-natural-birth-control https://www.homeremediescare.com/25-herbal-home-remedies-for-birth-control-avoid-pregnancy-naturally

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://www.gannett-cdn.com	FAMILY BUILDING & ADOPTION Society should encourage family building through adoption, no matter what the age. Families provide stability and security. And the government should take an active role in helping those who want a family to have one. I'm not just referring to the adoption of little children, which my husband and I did, but also making room for teenagers and grown adults. There are seniors who may not have any children or grandchildren, but want them, and vice versa. For those who adopt teenagers and adults, you will also need to adopt a forgiving attitude that will make the situation workable and enjoyable. Nothing is perfect in life, but loneliness can be devastating. Building a family is a much better bet. The government should provide a registry and host events to bring people together who are looking to begin or expand their family. If government won't do it, then neighborhood civic organizations should. We are so happy that we adopted our three children, who are now adults with children of their own. Raising children and being part of a family is not always easy, but it's always worth it, as the universe does not want us to go through life alone and lonely. https://adopting.org/adult-adoption

https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://upload.wikimedia.orgg	MARRIAGE & DIVORCE Marry someone you like, as well as love, someone you feel comfortable with, someone who will be wise and work hard; someone you can discuss all sorts of subjects with and have a laugh, and someone you can count on...most of the time. It's important to understand that people are not perfect and most marriages will face many difficult crises. Be forgiving of your partner and yourself. If you have children, you want to set an example for them of how parents work together cooperatively and how to disagree without being disagreeable. And even when some shouting may be going on, show how you both get over your disagreements and don't harbor grudges. Disagreements happen for a reason. Take those disagreements and turn them into opportunities to make things better between the two of you. However, if things get really miserable, and you think you want to get a divorce, think long and hard about it. Make sure that it isn't the 4-year rut or 7-year itch. Marriages can get boring and stagnant, where both partners may be tempted to cheat (or in fact do cheat), but that doesn't mean that the marriage is doomed. It happens in many marriages. Don't panic. It might mean that you need couples therapy, or need to make a significant change in your life, such as moving to a new location, getting a different job, making new friends, staying home with the kids, or having kids! Just know that divorce, especially when kids are involved, can be very traumatic for all involved, and that trauma can last a lifetime. If it's joint custody, understand that you just cut in half the time you may have with your children, doubled your expenses, plus will need to have two sets of everything for the children for each parent's house. Things may get much more chaotic on every front. So, don't go into divorce thinking that "everyone does it" and that it's part of being a "modern family". It can be pure hell for everyone involved. And don't kid yourself that kids are resilient. Some are and some aren't. Make sure that divorce is unavoidable and that there's no alternative, before you decide to go through with it. And lastly, don't be too proud to admit if you made a mistake. Divorced couples do sometimes reconcile (10-15%). If you do get divorced, then make it the most positive experience possible for all concerned. If kids are involved, try to live close to your former spouse, and not to separate the kids from either parent for more than 3 nights at a time, at least when they are young - recognizing that every divorce has its own complexities and solutions. Also, don't criticize your former spouse unnecessarily in front of the kids. There may be times that it is necessary, but otherwise, the kids don't need that negative energy. Be honest with your kids that both you and your ex have your strengths and weaknesses. Hopefully, over time, you will both find more compatible partners and everyone will benefit.

https://commons.wikimedia.org\| https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	PARENTING Raising a child is the hardest thing you'll ever do, and the most rewarding. Just be sure that you really want children before you become a parent. Because once you have a child, they will take over your life and you may not get a good night's sleep until they're are out of the house, and lots of times, not even then. In other words, children are a lifetime commitment. Parents lead by the example, for good or ill. Behave in a respectful way in every facet of your life, and you'll reap the rewards of setting a good example for your children. On the other hand, if you dress like a slob and act like an idiot, then your children will learn from that as well. Of course, most parents love their children, but they must also make demands of them. Children should be contributing members of the family, which means that they keep their rooms clean and tidy, comb their hair, brush their teeth, help with the housework, do their schoolwork, and give back to the community. Plus, children should learn all kinds of skills from their parents, particularly if their schools fall short on that score. You want to prepare your kids for the real world. Do your best as a parent, but know that you can't control the outcome as children become adults. You can take a horse to water, but you can't make it drink. As a parent, you should listen patiently, advise wisely, and assist your children when appropriate. And, just as you must take care of them when they are young (and sometimes help take care of their children as a grandparent), so you may need them to take care of you when you get old! Just sayin. Single Parents - Children really need both a male and female role models. But, if a traditional family is not possible, then ask a family member or friend to serve as an "aunt" or "uncle", to be a fixture and role model in your children's lives. Stay-at-home moms or dads - It's a great privilege to stay at home and raise your own children, but it's also an opportunity to engage in a wide variety of interests and concerns. Since "working moms" became common in the 1970's, many moms are completely frazzled; children spend too much time with babysitters, in daycare, or alone; while schools, community groups, and advocacy organizations have lost millions of dedicated volunteers and activists. I'm so grateful that I chose to stay at home and be there for my children and grandchildren, as well as become a community activist, freelance journalist, and many other things. I understand that many moms and dads don't have that choice, yet many do, but are under pressure to "make money". Staying home was for me "breaking free" to do what I wanted to do, as a mother and a member of society. It's a decision that deserves a lot more consideration than it often gets.

https://commons.wikimedia.org/ https://commons.wikimedia.org	SEXUAL ORIENTATION & SEXUAL CONFUSION: LGBTQ+? Most people take a "live and let live" approach to members of the LGBTQ+ community. And that's how it should be. LGBTQ+? folks should have the same rights as everyone else, but not more rights. It's a very tricky and personal subject. So much so, that schools should have no role in counseling students about sexual orientation, without the express permission of the individual parents involved. Many parents do not want LGBTQ+ held up as a lifestyle for their children to aspire to, unless their child's natural instincts are already headed in that direction. Regarding transgender people and related controversies regarding government IDs, bathrooms, showers, prisons, one-sex colleges, and particularly sports, a person's biology at birth should be the determining factor... although some children are born with both body sex parts - hermaphrodites, which can create a serious dilemma. That said, the transgender issue has done untold damage to the transgender and broader community, as it is convincing children and some parents that surgery and lifetime medications are the answers to gender confusion, when the medical side effects can be devastating. Plus, girls & women's sports under Title 9 are being systematically destroyed as transgender athletes (males) are increasingly winning national girls & women's competitions, because of their larger and stronger physical size. It's so blatantly untrue, unfair, and insane that it defies all common sense. As far as pronouns are concerned, it is confusing, frustrating, and dividing the public unnecessarily. Who is going to remember everyone's "personal pronoun" anyway? I can't remember my own middle name. Wear a name tag if this issue is that important to you. Or dress in a manner that suggests how you want to be addressed. After all, that's why people wear wedding rings. But, there is a bigger issue involved that rarely gets much publicity. Why are so many children today being born sexually confused, both physically and mentally? Many scientists point to excess exposure to estrogen, a female hormone, found in foods like soy & dairy, contraception pills, fertilizers, pesticides, fossil, fuels, etc., all of which contribute to the disruption of human sexual development and mutation of DNA. This has been observed in wild animals for decades, and most of it is attributed to pollution. So, it stands to reason that human sexual development is being adversely affected, as well. It's an issue that needs to be addressed for the future of humanity could be at stake. Here's an old article of mine on this subject - http://www.thelandesreport.com/EstrogenOverload.htm
	A SHORT LIST OF THINGS THAT DON'T MAKE SENSE! *(Just needed to get these off my chest!)*
https://commons.wikimedia.org	MISSING WATER FOUNTAINS - Where did all the water fountains go? Let me guess. The bottled water companies got rid of the water fountains so that the public would have to pay more for something they pay for already with their tax dollars.
https://commons.wikimedia.org/	NUISANCE PHONE CALLS: They should be outlawed! Period. Why haven't they been already!?
https://commons.wikimedia.org	OUTSIDE WIND CHIMES: It is unfair to impose one's idea of what sounds good onto others. Plus, chimes can disturb the sleep of nearby neighbors. At our old house, we had all three of our neighbors, who bordered our property, hang chimes which disturbed my husband's sleep. He often worked at night and needed to sleep during the day. People can listen to chimes within their own dwelling and stick a fan on them!
https://commons.wikimedia.org/	PERFUMES AND FRAGRANCES: It is unfair to impose one's idea of what smells good onto others. Besides, some people are allergic to perfumes and they can give many others headaches. Smell the roses, don't process them!
https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/I	MAKE-UP & HAIR DYES send the wrong message to young girls, that they are not 'good enough' as nature made them. Also, make-up makes most people look harsher. And lastly, make-up and hair dyes can be full of toxic chemicals. Not good for your body nor your brain... nor the planet. Just take it off! Take it all off!
https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	BLACK CLOTHES: Where's the funeral?! Why are so many people are wearing black clothes. It's sooo depressing! "... many use the color black to symbolize all things negative. Throughout history, this somber color has been tied to death and all things evil and bad. It evokes strong feelings of anger, aggression, fear, and sadness." www.VeryWellMind.com So, ditch the black and break out the COLORS!
https://commons.wikimedia.org/	*HOLES IN PANTS ON PURPOSE!* This fashion is just so ridiculous that it defies explanation, except that too many people *are actually* 'slaves to fashion'! https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-4726702/Why-wearing-ripped-jeans.html
https://commons.wikimedia.org	AirBnB's are not conducive to a strong and healthy neighborhood. They should be permitted in commercial zones only. If you can allow one in your neighborhood, you can have 100. It can quickly turn a quaint street into a commercial resort. If someone needs extra income, they can rent out a room or two on a yearly lease. That way you don't always have strangers coming and going.
https://commons.wikimedia.org	BAN PIT BULLS WORLDWIDE! Our dog Scooter was killed by a pit bull. No other breed of dog attacks innocent victims as viciously nor as frequently as pit bulls do. Of course, this is not their fault, it's our fault for allowing people to breed such a dangerous dog. Every week across the country, pit bulls attack children, adults, pets, and even livestock. They terrorize neighborhoods. That is why the police and military do not use pit bulls. They are simply too dangerous and can’t be trusted. Once they lock onto a target, they have no off-switch and won’t let go. Pit bulls are already banned in 53 countries. And in the U.S., pit bulls are banned in over 1400 cities, 297 military bases, and 23 Indian Reservations. Many housing authorities ban pit bulls, including New York City. At the very least, all pit bulls should be muzzled, and dog shelters should not adopt out pit bulls. It’s time to end this deadly practice and phase out this deadly breed. If pit bulls are too dangerous for the police and military, then they’re too dangerous for our neighborhoods. www.BanPitbulls.com

https://image.tmdb.org https://otherindiabookstore.com http://s3.thcdn.com	A FEW OF MY FAVORITE THINGS I need to work on this list, but here's a few recommendations. That said, I strongly believe that art should inspire and encourage us, not repel and depress us. Some people say that bad art is deliberately used by others to depress the public, as a weapon against us, and to get us to do bad things. I believe that is the case in many instances. So, our best response is to create and support uplifting and inspiring arts. BOOKS: Proof of Heaven, Map of Heaven, Mindful Universe by Dr. Eben Alexander The Secret Life of Plants The Tipping Point Born To Run MOVIES/PLAYS/SERIES: The Pirates of Penzance(film) - great musical, very under-rated 42nd Street - Musical Theater The Bank for Dave Happiness For Beginners The Boys In The Boat Anne of Green Gables DOCUMENTARIES Anything about the American Revolution The Biggest Little Farm - wonderful film Fantastic Fungi Unacknowledged https://www.imdb.com/title/tt6400614/ The Secrets of Quantum Physics SONGS, MUSIC: Rod Stewart's American Songbook, French cafe, Oscar Peterson, Big Band, Swing, Celtic, Bluegrass, Chamber music, DANCES: (that I like but don't necessarily do): line, 2-step, country, swing, Jitterbug, square dance, English country, and tap. ARTISTS: Dutch Masters, Impressionists, anything colorful, beautiful, and inspiring

	BASIC BELIEFS
commons.wikimedia.org	'MAKING SENSE' IS HOW OUR UNIVERSE WORKS: Because it has to. Making sense is a necessity of life. It's how our universe works. Why do we say, "Things happen for a reason"? Because they have to. The things that make up our universe don't operate independently of one another. Everything and everyone is connected, continually producing a cause and effect...all the while wearing away our rough edges, like sea glass. Making sense is the fundamental meaning and balance of life that keeps the stars in the sky and our universe evolving and moving forward. That's not to say that things can't get confoundedly confusing and chaotic, making our heads spin at times, but there's a purpose to it all and lessons to be learned. Just as hurricanes clean out the mangroves, and floods feed the soil, disasters should be embraced as opportunities for improvement. Many people say that 'unconditional love' is at the core of everything, yet what else is unconditional love, but a caring concern for all things in a manner that makes sense? Some people could confuse crazy 'blind love' with unconditional, yet sensible love. So, for the purposes of My "Make Sense" Journal, I focus on 'making sense', with unconditional 'sensible' love for the universe as a given.
Thinking Man by Rodin commons.wikimedia.org	HOW YOU CAN 'MAKE SENSE': Open your mind and consider all the possibilities! Consider all points of view, connect-the-dots, and make informed decisions. Because we learn from everything - the good and the bad, the large and the small, the day and the night. Everything has something to offer, something to teach us. Don't focus on failure, worrying, or complaining, but instead, acknowledge the problem, identify potential solutions, and take action. You can hope for the best, but plan on the worst. And don't think that good things will happen without an honest effort and hard work on your part. Most of all, don't trust those in 'authority'. Do your own due diligence and always be vigilant. Here are some practical steps to making sense on any subject: Observe Analyze Use logic Experiment Do research Work with others Question everything Honor your instincts Make up your own mind But always keep an open mind
https://commons.wikimedia.org	DOCTRINE OF RISK MANAGEMENT: Spread Risk, Don't Concentrate It! As the saying goes, "Don't put all of your eggs in one basket". And don't count on your Plan A working out. Always have a Plan B and C. It's a basic principle of risk management and of life - spread risk out, don't concentrate it. This is why we have a government with checks and balances (sort of); why the U.S. Congress passed anti-trust legislation (though not well enforced); why an unelected One World Government is a really bad idea. It's why the power grid and other utilities should be govenment-owned and operated (which many are not anymore), so that if there is a disaster, natural or manmade, large swaths of the country will not be without power, water, etc.. That's why local self-reliance - knowing how to live in our wild world and do lots of things yourself - is *essential* to any real security. And that's also why you shouldn't obsess over things like relentlessly taking photos of the family or endlessly redecorating your house. What if it all goes up in flames? Then what? Instead, use your time wisely on truly deserving projects. Just sayin!
https://commons.wikimedia.org	PHILOSOPHY: Everything's Connected So Everything Gets Respected! We're all in this 'boat of life' together and need to work together for the benefit of all. That's because, at life's most basic elements, everything is connected. Trite, but true. Everyone and everything are made up of energy and vibration. There is no real separation. What affects one, affects us all. That said, we are not all born with identical capabilities. Yet it's that diversity of talents that helps humanity survive and thrive. It's why we should try to understand and respect all people and things, no matter what their circumstance. It's also why we should live our lives for the ‘common good’, not the ‘favored few’. That is not an endorsement of communism, but instead a recognition that although some competition is a necessary and good thing for our evolution into a better world, we also don't want to leave others behind unnecessarily. That said, we should avoid mindless compassion, as well. There will be times when we must make demands of each other, give way to righteous anger, defend ourselves against attack, and imprison those who have gone seriously astray. But our demands must be just, our anger should be followed by sensible solutions, our defense should be in proportion to the attack, and prisons should focus on rehabilitation, not punishment. Humanity needs a meaningful philosophy to serve as our foundation in life. So what makes better sense than, "Everything's Connected So Everything Gets Respected"!
https://commons.wikimedia.org	CHARACTER: Set high goals, good intentions, realistic expectations, a can-do attitude, great work ethic, & sense of humor! We should strive to live in an 'environment of excellence and integrity', not a 'culture of complacency and cowardice'. Set high goals and good intentions, like 'World Peace' and building a 'Paradise on Earth'. Although others may mock, these are great goals and definitely attainable. We can have beautiful cities and a lovely countryside filled with happy and industrious people. We simply need to set our sights on those goals, but also keep our day-to-day expectations realistic. Life is not linear, it's not a straight line. Instead, expect incremental improvements - two steps forward, one step back. *We are living through the “School Of Life” which has endless lessons to teach us all.* So, the next time something supposedly 'goes wrong', don't think if it as a 'bad thing', but instead, think of it as another lesson, another character-building opportunity that you will learn from so that you can continue to improve both yourself and your community. To meet life's challenges, we should aim to be 'universal beings, embodying a diversity of knowledge and experiences, skilled to perform as many tasks as possible, prepared to face both victories and defeats, but not forgetting to have fun in the process. All work and no play is a recipe for a dull life, and that's not what we're aiming at. Our goal is for an exciting and exhilarating life, full of charms and challenges, victories and defeats, all of which will improve everything for everyone in time.
https://commons.wikimedia.org	BELIEF SYSTEM: Believe in higher powers and happy endings...eventually! It makes sense to believe in a loving and benevolent higher power and supernatural forces who we can talk to and ask for help, who are watching over us, and guiding us to do the right thing. It consoling to believe that everything happens for a reason, that there are no coincidences in life, and that ‘all will be well’. It's comforting to believe in these things, even if we can’t prove it, and even if it isn’t true. Why? Consider the alternative. That there's no divine power to help us through life, that we're all alone in this world without anyone to turn to, and that we're doomed to eternal misery! Now that’s depressing and disabling, physically and emotionally. It paralyzes people into believing that they are helpless and hopeless. That's why we need to believe in higher powers. In fact, doctors have known for centuries of the power of belief to heal the sick through the use of placebos or sugar pills. All that said, there is overwhelming evidence that there are other dimensions to life and a higher divine power that offers limitless help, love, and joy. So, it makes sense to empower yourself, set good intentions, and hold strong beliefs in a benevolent higher power and happy endings, perhaps not in this life, but eventually. (Read Dr. Eben Alexander's books on this subject)
https://commons.wikimedia.org	ORGANIZED RELIGIONS: Pros and Cons Organized religions can feed your soul, create a strong social network, and help a community in many significant ways. However, religions can also divide us into 'teams' and pit us against each another unnecessarily. Organized religions can seriously distract people from their civic duty and encourage people to be more concerned with their own needs, rather than the public good. Going to church can make many people feel good about themselves, without doing much good for society. In fact, a religious institution's nonprofit tax status often discourages, if not prevents, them from taking a stand on political issues that can affect peoples' daily lives in profound ways. If you are a member of an organized religion, it is important that you not be a mindless follower. Keep your eyes open and your mind curious. As to those who do not belong to a religious institution, yet think of themselves as spiritual and believe in a divine power (which is what my husband and I decided to do), that comes with its own downside, including a loss of community. I'm not sure it was the right decision. It was more of a gut instinct. I would say that if you want to be a member of a religious group, but can't find the right one, then start one of your own. Just don't register as a nonprofit, so that you can say what's really on your mind and in your heart.
https://commons.wikimedia.org	LOYALTY, PATRIOTISM, & PRIDE: Keep it all in perspective! We can be proud of our country, our family and friends, and even ourselves, but let's not let pride, loyalty, or patriotism blind us to reality or convince us to do the wrong thing. That attitude can corrupt our character, distort our thinking, and lead us into making poor decisions. Celebrate accomplishments and acknowledge faults. Stand firmly for what you believe in, do the right thing, try to coax others to your point of view, but always keep an open mind. And please don't make enemies or hate. Your foe in one battle could be your ally in another. Remember, we're all part of the Family of Man, so let's keep our pride in perspective!
https://commons.wikimedia.org	MANNERS MATTER: Because they do! You should "mind your manners" and act respectfully in a sensical society, unless there's a really good reason not to. Remember, your foe on one issue, may be your friend on another. In many regards, diplomacy between nations is all about manners and treating each other with respect and fairness. Here are some simple tips: lead by example help others in need clean up after yourself apologize when it's your fault be a good sport, not a sore loser say please, thank you, & you're welcome congratulate others on their accomplishments be a good conversationalist & a better listener
https://commons.wikimedia.org https://commons.wikimedia.org	SIMPLE SAYINGS & SAGE ADVICE: To help us all through life! No man is an island Keep calm and carry on Think twice and be nice Garbage in, garbage out If you're in a hole, stop digging What goes around, comes around It's always darkest before the dawn Hope for the best, but plan on the worst We get out of people what they have to offer Look at what people do, not at what they say Know when to hold them and when to fold them Bumps in the road of life are there to make you fly The school of life has endless lessons to teach us all Life has its charms & challenges, embrace them both It's not just the destination, but also the journey that matters It's not where you've been, but where you're going that counts Learn from the past, plan for the future, but live in the present Show respect. Your foe in one battle, may be your ally in another My version of The Serenity Prayer, but what I call, The Wisdom Prayer, because it makes more sense to me this way: God, grant me the courage to change the things I can, the serenity to accept the things I cannot, and the wisdom to know the difference. Or - Do your best, then let God do the rest. LINKS TO SOME INSPIRING AND HILARIOUS SAYINGS: https://www.goodreads.com/author/quotes/57639.Thomas_Paine https://www.brainyquote.com https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/yogi-berra-quotes https://www.fi.edu/benjamin-franklin/famous-quotes https://www.quoteambition.com/encouraging-quotes https://www.goodreads.com/quotes/tag/inspirational-life https://www.brainyquote.com/authors/mark-twain-quotes https://www.fabbyquotes.com/14-george-washington-quotes-on-political-parties https://theworldpursuit.com/rainbow-quotes https://www.azquotes.com/quotes/topics/twists-and-turns.html https://www.quoteambition.com/river-quotes