Tales from the Triangle's Tip....

The Assimilation degree...

2011-06-29T17:53:00.000-03:00

"Resistance is futile" ~ The Borg (Star Trek Next Generation)

In my favorite version of the Star Trek Series, The Borg, a cybernetic expanding collective who travel around the Delta Quadrant destroying everything in their path. Assimilation of every known species is their agenda. If you're a fan like I am, you can still wonder if such a force is possible, if there ever was or ever could be a superior race of beings that simply force their way through time and space destroying culture and civilizations in the blink of an eye.

I began reading Marvel comics as a kid. Like millions of other kids, I loved Spiderman, The Avengers... but more than any of them, I loved the X-men. The original X-men: Cyclops, Beast, Marvel Girl, Angel and Iceman. As the group transformed and grew, then split off into other factions, I tried to keep up, but other distractions, girls, bikes and music got in the way. My love for the X-men remains today, and while I don't read comic books any longer, I love the big screen epics that roll out every couple of years. It keeps me young.

I love sci-fi. Not so much the stuff of today, but I definitely loved The Planet of the Apes movies, James Bond is still my favorite human hero, Star Wars, Alien, into today with Lord of the Rings and so on. There is a lot of similarities in these works of art...ok fiction, but to the true believer it's most definitely art. Good versus evil, the struggle for a better humanity, a better universe. The Borg believed that assimilation was the easiest most direct form of destruction. The X-men fought Homo-Superior (mutant) versus Homo-Sapien (human) and other mutants for the right to be accepted as different but equal. Magneto believed that only the mutant should survive that mutant-kind was indeed the ultimate development for all of mankind. Hatred manifests itself in many ways. These ideas albeit fantasy are manifested from our own world, and deal with issues we have been dealing with for hundreds if not thousands of years. Since the beginning of time, man has railed against those who are not similar, those who are different, those who do not look, sound, or pray like us. Ethnic cleansing is the worst case scenario now... genocide, the extreme elimination of one specific culture because of a failure to... assimilate.

Assimilation has happened. Right here in our lovely island, ok the Borg may not have taken over and we may not have been assimilated as such, nor are we in any race war (not yet anyway) but a lot of our cultural and racial identities have caused blacks to assimilate to the only known culture they can accept. A white man's world. The hard part of all of this is that while not wanting to deal with the issues of being black on a personal level, the assimilated black man has forgone his attempts at an identity for a seemingly harmonious place in the white man's power structure. It is indeed a very sad thing. The struggles of the civil right leaders, the blood of millions has faded into a distant memory and for the most part they have been assimilated. The white man's unrepentant path has devoured the souls of those who are too weak to fight.

Thank god, that isn't the case in every situation. Thank god there are quite a few black men and women who are not so ready to concede everything, are not so ready to be assimilated. Thank god we can still dare to dream as MLK did. It is an important thing... identity. Fighting for it. Standing up for equality on every level and moving beyond hate. The hard part is getting those who have assimilated to understand that it is indeed important to be black. It is important for those who are bi-racial to NOT be consumed by their whiteness and allow themselves to be accepted in BOTH areas of society. Last but not least it's important for WHITES to not be so damn uptight about it. Blacks needing to be BLACK is not a threat to our security, far from it, it's a chance for Whites to move beyond assimilation, move beyond the systems that forced blacks to assimilate, and let a proud culture of diverse elements emerge as one nation!

namaste _//||\\_

Who we hate... why we hate...

2011-06-24T11:29:00.000-03:00

Interesting thoughts entering this distorted view. I'm not sure why I spend so much energy in concern for my white brothers. The endless drivel that occurs on one of our local forums berating the current government for anything and everything is mind numbing. More than that it's really getting old. Their ability to incite each other into levels of hatred led one such valued member not so long ago to threaten a violent end to then premier Dr. Brown.

I will applaud those few brave black brothers who continue to offer a bit of resistance on that forum, but I can not, for it is simply not a healthy idea for me. There is debate for debate's sake, and there is a fight. I will gladly debate openly on issues that matter, but at no point will I be dragged into the muck by those who would be already blinded by hatred. I know now that the "buddy system" is used and anyone who offers any sort of resistance is eaten up by the piranha mentality of vicious white people who have clearly moved beyond any form of reconciliation.

What does that say for our society? What does that say for the state of race relations in our small country? The legacy of hatred for anything black is bound to infect generations to come unless we find a common ground from which to stand upon. Unfortunately, no one knows if that common ground even exists. The really sad part about all of this is the negative effects it will have on our children. It is the sort of disease that is taught to generation after generation of white kids. That these white men can consistently beat this drum is not easy to take. I fear none would be strong enough to stand outside their pen names and offer the same fight in a public manner. Their fear drives their hate, their fear of losing the power that still moves them.... money.

I will offer no apologies for them. Their denial in acceptance of responsibility for the sins of the past is clear. They will not do so, for they believe they were not responsible. Then who exactly was responsible? If whites today could go back 20 years, 30 years, 40 years... 100 years and apologize for the racist system that they imposed on our island, would they? No... probably not. So the issue has never been truly resolved, it's been swept under the rug, and hopefully someone else will deal with it.

Likewise I will not accept mismanagement or abuse by the current government. Hate is hate and it is truly colorblind. Zane Desilva can not hide behind them, nor can any member of the PLP be excused for using terms to incite hatred in the house and in public. What may be used as general vernacular in today's world is not acceptable in the social conscience and as such should be done away with. We should hold our politicians ... all of them to a higher standard, and hold them accountable when violations occur. Apology or not, Mr. Desilva should have been reprimanded by the speaker, and further by his party seniors.

Talk the talk... walk the walk. Teach your kids to love and respect all people and you preach hatred, whether online or anywhere else, you are a hypocrite.

On a personal note, I umpired the middle school boys softball tournament this week. Congrats to all those participating teams. Special note of congrats to Warwick Academy for winning the tournament. Saltus finished second, Somersfield third. It is clear that those boys who play baseball have a far superior advantage and these middle should be encouraged to continue their softball development It is a mandate by the Softball Association to encourage this development and hopefully we will do so soon enough.

Random Thoughts...

2011-06-13T11:17:00.001-03:00

Just some quick hits on what's happening in my world...

Not that I'm a believer, but God doesn't like ugly. A huge sigh of relief that the Miami Heat lost, on their home court, the NBA championship last night. The year long coronation of the "three" as the next big thing failed. The pain that has been the over-hyped new dream team has finally subsided with the NBA title going to Mark Cuban's Dallas Mavericks. Now I'm not a Cuban fan, but no one NBA owner lives and dies with his team as he does. Congrats to the Mavericks and in some strange way to the Cleveland Cavaliers who might feel that justice has been served.

Sticking with the sports world, the NHL playoffs... the finals... are still ongoing. The longest season in professional sports continues, and as a hockey fan I don't mind it one little bit. That said, I won't cry when it's over. A Canucks victory would restore the faith in Canada that the game is still something that they do better than most, even though the NHL titles have been few and far between. Apologies to the long suffering Leafs fans, but one must believe that Ottawa stands closer to winning a championship than Canada's version of the Chicago Cubs does (1967 must feel like 1908 in Toronto).

On the local front the CSL (Softball) heads into it's final week (or so). Much maligned, the sport when played at a competitive level is very exciting and as president of BASA, I can only hope for the day we can get our fast-pitch demons behind us. Bermuda deserves to have a competitive fast-pitch league, needs to have the game developed and played at the highest level. If I can do only one thing... let it be having fastpitch played again...

Moving away from sports, I see we had another minor "quake" yesterday morning. I'm no expert here, and I gather that these things happen quite often, but I wonder if I need to add earthquake insurance to my home insurance policy?

Also... RAIN! YES!!!! Let's hope it stays around for a while. My tank definitely needs some help. Apologies to any tourists paying the exorbitant hotel rates, but this has been a LONG time coming.

The BIU has sent a 21 day strike notice to the Transportation minister. How does a Labour government end up having labour problems? Hmmmm....

The Deputy Governor (who?) has gone on record as stating that the Uighurs are not here permanently. Any bet they will be here longer than the Deputy Governor?

Why is it that we can recognize a tourist caught with ammunition is no threat to the island, and let them off without charge, and yet when a woman comes to the island with marijuana for "medical use" (as noted by her physician), we treat her like she's the worst villain in the world?

CURB will be hosting Part 3 of a Discussion with Black Bermudians Wednesday at the Leopard's Club beginning at 7:30 p.m. hosted by Dr. Eva Hodgson and Cordell Riley. I can't support this effort enough. CURB is doing some amazing work in Bermuda and I only wish more Bermudians would take note. In a society that continually draws a line between black and white, the experience and dedication of CURB to the public can not be overstated.

Last but not least, another school year is coming to a close. Our kids have worked hard and hopefully most will continue to make progress. We can not blame them for the failures of an inadequate educational system. We can not blame them for the continued neglect that happens within the school system, nor should we blame them for the budgetary restraints being placed upon teachers, and schools within the system. What it does require is more effort from us.... the parents. We need to be far more active in the education of our children and be more pro-active rather than reactive. If we spend the necessary time and effort with them at home, keep on top of them at school, it will be a much more successful community, and ultimately .... country.

namaste _/||\_

The Independence Myth...

2011-06-11T09:50:00.001-03:00

Independence.... it will eliminate racism in Bermuda. It's just that simple. Ok.... it's not just that simple. Independence has not prevented racism in other countries in the world, and it's highly doubtful that it will stop it from happening here. The world has fought this battle for far too long and the plague of racism still exists. In it's most simple form, racism is hatred, an intolerance for anyone who is different. It is projected as Black/White, and in our specific example, here in Bermuda, it is as simple as black and white.

In order for us to grasp the concept of racism in Bermuda, we need to look at our lives, and more specifically how we got to where we are today. Any understanding of the world as we know it, MUST include a concentrated look at history, and how our society has arrived at this point. It may be easy to say that those problems of the past don't exist today, but if the systemic structure has not changed, then those problems that some may believe have mysteriously vanished (for there was no official decree ending racism... note... an end to segregation is NOT an end to racism) have not just been eliminated from our social conscience.

The ramifications of a system that was built over hundreds of years that indeed was racist, are not simply gone because we wish them away. The structure of our society was developed to give Whites a distinct advantage, and it's not just here in Bermuda but in many countries around the world. Most assuredly, even Barack Obama wouldn't admit that his country's racial struggles are over, and the idea that our world is "post-racial" is naive and simply wrong. The White elite still runs the world, and it would be folly to deny it.

Let's look closely at our own island. A Westminster government, with a Queen's representative as the head of state. Our island has been built on White money and Black blood. Front St. is still controlled by the White oligarchy that has existed for generations. While we may miss Triminghams, Smiths and the known 40 thieves, they have been replaced by others. The names may change, but the faces haven't. The Black money hasn't made it into a significant position (if it exists) and there are too few Black CEO's making an impact on our society. It is important to continue the battle cry of Dr. Eva Hodgson, who notes that even though we have a Black government, nothing has been done to eliminate the economic disparity between the races.

It's a difficult picture to envision. A structure that has been built with a clear racist agenda, all of a sudden is no longer racist because that's the way we want it to be. Hate has simply become a thing of the past and we are a new world where everyone is equal, where women get paid the same as men for doing the same jobs, where blacks are welcome in white neighborhoods without a cautious eye or a question as to why they are there (it does happen). We won't begin to note organizations where Blacks can not exceed middle management, and like women, are not paid the same as whites are. It is easy to deny that it doesn't exist because the government, the PLP, historically Black, is now in power.

Strange as it is, they have done very little to break those shackles. It's a difficult proposition stepping into the unknown. Independence. It is a subject that has a strong emotional element to it. People are strongly divided on the subject and for the majority here (as per a referendum in 1995... 16 years ago under a UBP government) seem to be against it. If those results were in the least bit tarnished (only 58% of the electorate voted) and a call for a boycott by the PLP withheld voters in 1995, one would have to wonder if those results might be a bit different here in 2011. There is no guarantee of course. There may be more of a movement against it now. Fear of the unknown allows the worst kind of propaganda to exist.

The advantages of staying a British Overseas Territory are clear. A cozy relationship with her majesty, an ability to travel to the motherland and into the EU. Protection. Our best interests are always at the forefront of those in WhiteHall. Or so we would believe. Our business relationships are secure because of our relationship with HRH (another myth). An image that we are much more stable with her majesty's assistance than without it. I daresay that even today that image isn't what it used to be.

While I am sure that there are countless other advantages to remaining aligned with England, I have highlighted those that seem to be the most important. We have enjoyed the benefits of this Westminster government for so long now, and as the old saying goes... if it ain't broke... don't mess with it.

If Independence does anything for us, if it creates peace of mind, if it engages our people on a new level of responsibility and self-determination, if it allows things like equity, and allows us to finally break away from a system that created this problem in the first place, then isn't it worth it? Isn't our freedom worth any price? If those who are tired of the race card being played are truly tired of it, why wouldn't they do everything in their power to prevent that from continuing to be an issue?

At this point we aren't even moving in that direction, all we are talking about is having a discussion. An independence discussion. A chance to learn, share and debate a very important subject. A chance to engage those in the highest echelons of our society and discuss options for change. If I was a White person, I might be truly worried.

Hold on... I am a White person.... so why am I not worried?

Sins of the sons.... (and grandsons)

2011-06-10T08:10:00.000-03:00

Just have to add my two cents to a debate brought up this week by Senator Laverne Furbert. She questioned the need for the media to expose MP Neletha Butterfield in a criminal case against the MP's grandson. It should be noted that this is NOT a black and white issue, as we have had people's relations brought to light irrespective of colour or party affiliation.

Here's my spiel. This practice MUST stop. If you do it for one you must do it for all. Are we interested in finding out who David Cox, who is being tried in the death of Yankee Rawlins, parents are? Or who is grandparents are? His great grandparents? Cox is a pretty powerful name in Bermuda. Would we be willing to expose a lineage of the Cox name to find a relationship that has absolutely nothing to do with the case?

Shame on the mass media for doing this. Not only here in Bermuda... but around the world. We need less sensationalism and more important coverage paid to the crime itself.

Behind These Castle Walls...

2011-06-10T07:57:00.000-03:00

while it really seem like the kings life seem glamorous
as seen through the eyes of untrained amateurs
because the camera's don't see beyond the walls of the smiles
only counts until it falls in the pile - T.I.

Artist T.I.'s lyrics send home a message that begs to be heard. It's not all pink sand and blue skies here in our beautiful Bermuda. The erosion of our sins from years of abuse are finally catching up with us and the promises of bountiful futures are now as weak as the fortifications that once secured our shores. Limestone dreams turning to sand in our hands. The rot is finally coming to the surface and if we fail to react properly and quickly...our castle walls will crumble.

Prophecy of doom? Maybe. Are we able to see the promising futures we had all hoped for? Is the crystal ball clearly giving us hope for a better tomorrow? Of course not. There are no magical instruments, no tarot cards, and no biblical prophecies that can ensure that our future generations will have the ability to recover from the damage that we are doing. Let's not talk of personal futures, let's begin to think about our children, their children, their children's children. Let's project what our island will be like in the next 25 years.Are we as confident that the way we do things now are going to be able to sustain us? When will the economy rebound? Will Bermudians be able to get jobs? What can we do to curtail the violent streak that has plagued us the past few years? Will we ever be able to come together as a community, irrespective of those things that continue to separate us (religion, race etc.)?

Interesting questions for sure. In my previous posts, I discussed the importance of change and that we should start considering the ways we can create change in our country. There has been a change in recent years, and it really is important to look at those changes and note whether or not we can continue on this path. Ultimately, who is responsible? The PLP, or does it indeed go further back, back to a legacy of racism that has left most of us concerned as to the future. Are we willing to concede that what has seemingly worked in the past, isn't working now and that we need something better? This isn't a condition of the PLP government, this is the effect of a legacy of failure, of selling out our people, selling out our country to those who truly only care about their bottom line. What happened to our bottom line?

Before we wallow in our sorrows, and drown them in Heineken, we must recognize that while the PLP government is not solely to blame for the problems that plague us, they must, as a government accept the responsibility of fixing it. If they don't, things will only continue to spiral downward. You can not expect the UBP.... oops... the OBA to do anything. They can bluff their way into making some believe they have a good hand, but at the end of the day, they offer nothing new. The same old retread, the same old rhetoric... the same old UBP. Thus it is CLEARLY the current government's responsibility to implement the changes we need to make to get out of this mess.

Let's not hold our breath shall we?

It's always been in our ability to determine our future, and it will always be. The Independence debate is rearing it's head once again. Brought up in the House of Assembly, and further discussions in the daily gazette, by Walton Brown, various letters to the editor, debates on whether or not we need to remain tied to the UK, and what those ties do for us. It really isn't that much of a debate though is it? Our self determination, our ability to make the most important decisions will always be made by her majesty, the Queen. It's a comfortable shoe and the "perks" that go with membership to the Queen's club are somewhat satisfying to those who would deem independence as nonsensical. It is strange that those who are against independence are also anti-government (PLP) and yet would not seek a more significant manner of change. The belief that the opposition is capable is far worse than the idea that the government is incapable. I fear the belief that the UBP....oops.... the OBA has a chance in any forthcoming election fuels a fire of delirium in support of that faction.

This leads us ultimately back to my first post about change. How badly do we desire it? How badly are we willing to work to get it? Should we not be discussing alternative methods of government now? Should we not be discussing the very real possibility of the next election and the options that are available to us?

The status quo only gets worse. Viva La Revolucion!

Stepping into the deep end...

2011-06-07T18:42:00.000-03:00

My last post discussed the emergence of the OBA (One Bermuda Alliance) on the political scene and no matter how much things seem to change, they in fact stay pretty much the same. The discussions that seem to be prevalent in and around our society seem to be related to when and if an election will be called, and if we as a nation are prepared for it. Such discussions seem to include talks of independence, and as usual all things underlying (racism...colonialism). Devolution of our sensibilities is well under way, and before we know it, we will be drowning in propaganda and all things that will keep us away from the decisions that must be made, decisions that will ultimately determine our future.

When it comes to making important decisions, we have a hard time with the connection between head and heart. Our head tells us that we must make an intelligent decision based on facts and figures, issues and policies. Our heart tells us that we must make an emotionally intelligent decision, following our heart, and not allowing propaganda such as "the race card" to blindly drive us to make a decision that in retrospect might not have been made in a non-election period.

It is always advisable to know how to swim before we jump into the deep end of the pool. In fact, it might be advisable to make sure there are enough life preservers around, just in case we need one. Recent elections, have shown that without a viable opposition, we will have our current government for a long, long time to come. The status quo. Certainly there are some who believe that the status quo is unacceptable, but the vast majority, who can not conceive voting for the opposition, would seemingly rather drown than seek the only other option available.

Currently the options are the governing PLP, or the UBP.... oops.... I mean the OBA... I forgot that there was a difference. Are these the only options that we have? We could choose to NOT vote, which I do NOT personally approve of. The last by-election, showed only 40% of the constituency's electorate participate, and that can not be acceptable at all. How can a candidate be elected when under half of those who are able to vote, don't? In fact, the majority, by not participating are conceding their futures to choices made by others! Insanity. The birthright of everyone in our country is the right to vote, and if it means that much then get involved in the process and get in a candidate that will best represent your views.

There is a third option (or fourth if you have an independent candidate in your constituency), and while a third option would not be a vote of confidence, it would send a clearly defined message to our supposed leadership. A move of huge proportions, a vote of "un-confidence" in the leadership and the opposition. A vote that speaks volumes, and explains the level of frustration in the community and in our country as a whole. The key is to set in motion a movement of change, a movement that will set in motion the steps of a new democratic environment, one that would allow the people to have the ultimate say as to who they want to lead their country.

The third choice... the "spoiled ballot". To enter the voting booth and make the only choice that we can. To purposefully and dramatically write UNWORTHY on the ballot. To tell those who would seek to lead that we will not vote for people simply because there is no choice, but that we do indeed choose... none of the above. A radical approach. What then? Will the current government remain in power by default? What will happen then? We can't possibly go off half-cocked and simply destroy a system without a backup plan, without a plan for the future... can we?

I actually would like to believe that we can do this and before we go to the polls, we can have a backup plan, we can have a better idea, we can get rid of the partisan politics that continue to inspire hate and divide us, that we can at long last have a government that is representative of our people and will answer completely to us. A fair balance of representation in 9 parishes, 3 corporations, and ministers for each major portfolio. A smaller, harder working government that works for the people.

A chance for change. A chance to have accountability, respect and a vote that matters. Isn't that the way it should be?

Breaking through...

2011-06-05T19:43:00.001-03:00

Change is a difficult thing. Change asks us to step outside of what we see as comfortable and take a chance on something new, something that might not be natural. Change pushes the envelope, demands that we make a sacrifice and that we recognize the faults in what we are currently doing. Change happens when someone is forced to re-evaluate their position for one reason or another. A person may do this for health or financial reasons, businesses do this primarily to stay in business. A change in management, staff or outlook may require harsh changes.

In 2008, the United States voted for change, choosing Barack Obama as the first African American president, a historically significant change, for he changed the way people perceived Blacks, and the world took notice. He not only took on the single hardest job in the world, he did so at a time when the world was/is reeling from one of the largest known financial crisis' ever. It is unknown if we will ever be able to accept the changes that have been affecting us all. If we know anything, change must happen. It is a part of our evolution.

In Bermuda, we have had our own version of change. 1998 saw the election of the PLP in a Westminster system of government. It was a major change at that time because our island had never known a PLP government, and the years of UBP abuses had finally caught up with them. A PLP government brought change, and even today we have more change. Jennifer Smith, Alex Scott, Ewart Brown, and now Paula Cox... four leadership changes in eleven years as the governing party forges it's future. Are we confident in the changes? Does the PLP provide the real change people expected in 1998?

Our opposition has had their own change. The legacy of the UBP would be one that guaranteed their ultimate demise. As Bermuda's first governing political party, they utilized every trick in the book to secure their position until that fateful November day in 1998 when the people demanded change. The last vestiges of the UBP are now committed to history as the once power party has become a chapter in our history. The emergence of the Bermuda Democratic Alliance, and now the One Bermuda Alliance and the mass defections from the UBP to the OBA leave us all wondering.... who's fooling who?

Accusations of a scripted plan and the mass defections are not votes of confidence in the public eye. The UBP -> BDA -> OBA move has not really fooled anyone has it? While it has left two mp's (including the UBP leader) scrambling and scratching their heads in a truly WTF moment, political pundits knew that splitting an already weakened opposition would do nothing but strengthen the government come the next election. Sadly, this farce will probably end up doing the exact same thing.

How can so many UBP mp's have such a HUGE change of philosophy, all at once? Was the BDA really threatening anyone at all? How is the OBA any different than the old UBP? Change the name and maybe people will forget who you were to begin with? What dynamic philosophy change does the OBA bring to the table that the old UBP doesn't?

Note to Mr. Barritt and Mr. Cannonier. You're not fooling anyone.

The more things change, the more they stay the same. The worst part of all of the OBA/UBP shenanigans is that it breeds arrogance and complacency from the government. No one in the government fears anything from the opposition, and as such we should all be afraid. Very afraid. If apathy and disgust rules at the polls when the next election rolls around, which should be in the next 12 months, we may find that there is little to be hopeful for. If people don't feel the need to vote, and stay away from the polls, in the end, we will all be losers.

The question has to be then... what are our choices? Revolution? Our world is filled with revolution as of late. The changes in the middle east are inspiring for all. Truly, the power of the people is an awesome thing when in motion, and it is hard not to be impressed by millions seeking change. But here? In Bermuda? Are we revolutionaries born? I don't see the hardship in our bellies that breeds revolutionaries, not in this generation, and probably not in future generations either. We have not been born to fight, we have not hungered, we have not struggled and even now, when times are harder then they have been for many years, far longer than most of us remember.

Our choices seem difficult to envision, but there are choices, Tough decisions must be made. How do we effect change when we are entrenched in a system that offers so little hope.

To quote Mr. Cannonier and most recently Mr. Barritt.... "Stay Tuned!"

Back to life... back to reality.

2011-03-06T07:56:00.000-04:00

“If those in charge of our society - politicians, corporate executives, and owners of press and television - can dominate our ideas, they will be secure in their power. They will not need soldiers patrolling the streets. We will control ourselves.” - Howard Zinn

Time off does several things to the ego. It challenges you to be productive, and at the same time allows you the time to question your abilities and how you got to where you are today. Unemployment, for a man in his mid- 40's is hard enough, especially with two teenage kids. The questions that enter the mind are whether or not you'll get a job, and what kind of job that will be, and ultimately who will hire you?Who am I competing with? Is discrimination something I need to be worried about? Not racial discrimination, but age discrimination? When your confidence is low, you don't realize how hard it is to get out of bed in the morning. It's getting close to a year without employment. All of a sudden pride is no longer a question. I can understand desperate, I can understand frustration. The jobs in the newspaper all have someone else's name on them.

A few thoughts on the rising unemployment rate in Bermuda. As there is no official method of tracking unemployment, it might behoove someone to actually work on a way to find out. Pension records should show last receipt of payment, or social insurance, or payroll tax. Surely those people who have paid these taxes before who aren't paying them now can't all be dead. That Dept. of Statistics place... can't they produce some stats?

Just a thought. Run a program, produce a report.

A few years ago, there was a document entitled the "Shift Report" that was created to provide information as to how our country has "shifted" it's economic focus from a tourism based industry, to an International business industry. In that report, it explained how most of our people were unprepared for that shift, and that the closures of hotels and losses of jobs in the hospitality industry has affected our way of life. The report went into many details of many different areas of our islands evolution, but failed to recognize the overall impact of that shift. It was very short-sighted and failed to predict what would happen when and if a recession hit.

We failed to recognize what would happen if the international business sector down-sized or ultimately leave our shores. We have failed to formulate a backup-plan when and if the inevitable happens and these companies, who have no contracts to remain here, decide that it is more cost-effective to move their companies to places that can offer tax credits and lower costs of operations. The cost of doing business is much higher when the home country needs to have their people employed, and their leaders decide that these companies should indeed return home, or be taxed appropriately.

Why run an offshore business if it will be taxed anyway? The old "you can run, but you can't hide" adage is applicable here. We are not guaranteed forever, and forever may have an end date. It may happen sooner than we think. So what of the back-up plan? Where do we go when Bermudians are looking for work? Where do we go when none of the jobs advertised fit? What do we do now?

The Tucker's Point SDO is a double edged sword. We want more tourists, to create more jobs, but we don't want to do it at the expense of our last vestiges of an eco-system, and the legacy of a racist system that has denied blacks the rights to own the land that was taken from them 100 years ago. We seem to be at a crossroads in our period of evolution. We desire all the benefits of the present with modern technologies and advancements in our society, but we are handcuffed by our own moral conscience of what's right and what's wrong. We accept that our society has certain acceptable and unacceptable ills, yet we are so afraid of becoming worse than we are.

A company who is in serious debt is being allowed to "expand" it's operations? How does that work? If I was 150 million in the red, I see my way forward by tapping a resource that is unproven? Tread carefully my friends, this can only get worse.

Here's my problem with the SDO.

Are we using TPC as a last roll of the dice for the Tourism industry in Bermuda? Really??? If Tuckers Point fails, tourism is doomed? What tourism? I'll take the obligatory stance and ask the obvious question... what tourism industry? The Minister for Tourism has said that they need to find ways to make our "product" better. What exactly is our "product"? What exactly do we have to sell that people can't get in other places cheaper or more efficiently?

Our position in the marketplace is tenuous. It is one that no longer appeals to a certain market or markets. The once vast middle class of American visitor is almost gone, and thus we have a product that does not appeal to the expanded lower class who can not afford it, and it does not appeal to the upper class who demand more bang for their buck. Low cost airlines appeal to bargain hunters, but when has Bermuda ever been a bargain for anyone? A $98 dollar ticket for a $300 per night room? This type of logic defies belief. Cruise ships bring in the masses, but how are they encouraged to do more than buy a t-shirt or a trinket (more than likely items not made in Bermuda)? Are we telling the ships to close up their bars and restaurants while they are in port? Are the entertainment options on board better than what the tourist will find while in port?

We know the answers. The "product" is broken and the big question is whether or not we have the guts to fix it properly. It's a huge gamble. It will inevitably change the course of our island forever... but as with electricity, cars, television and the internet, we must take that gamble, we must ultimately do what is the right thing for our country, and the people in it. That cold hard slap in the face is one we've failed to grasp. Our choices are limited.

Gaming must be considered as the next step. The crisis of conscience hits again. Our moral standards need to be checked. Yes, casinos are our future. The "fix" for our product, the way to improve it and make it better is to "shift" once again. We must include gaming as part of our product, and with it we must accept those things that come with it. Just as we did when we shifted away from tourism as a primary industry, the only way back will cost us a part of who we are.

Gaming will bring problems. It will force us to "shift" our uber-conservative position into a more liberal and open one. It will do for us, what International business has not done for us. It will re-create a market for which we are aptly suited. Tourism. It will create jobs, it will stimulate the economy and it will force us to "shift" our target market to offer something that other tropical locations have been doing for quite some time... FUN. For far too long have we lost focus on the idea that we are a beautiful island, a haven, a retreat, a vacation spot, a place to get away for a day, a weekend... whatever. Pink sand beaches, pristine blue oceans, golf and tennis, are all small parts of the product, but these things just aren't marketable any more. We need a shift. We need to get back to Bermuda, a country who needs Tourism as the PRIMARY industry.

One last note. I entered a local "chain" eatery in the Washington Mall the other day. Not one Bermudian is employed in this particular "chain link" of the establishment. When are our people going to stop supporting these places? By purchasing their goods, we continue to support a bottom-feeder employment scheme that allows these people to support the system overall. We need to start supporting BERMUDIAN establishments, and if that takes a bit more effort... so be it.

Rain... and other problems.

2010-07-05T20:25:00.000-03:00

Water. It's hard to believe that this, the most basic of resources is still a major issue for so many Bermudians. For all of our technological advances in our small society, we have not managed to supply our households with enough water, and we have not found a permanent solution to the one resource that we should have absolutely no problem with. Late last week we had good rain, but it certainly is not enough. So far I have had to purchase water two times this summer - 3 loads each time. With a house of 6 adults and 1 infant, my shower-time is ever shorter, and flushing is limited.

Speaking of resources, what are we doing to cut down on our carbon footprint? What is happening at BELCO to move our society forward and away from our need for fossil fuels? Why aren't we exploring wind farms and wave power offshore? Is our society too large to facilitate such a move? Why aren't we signed up for any new forms of energy initiatives? Shouldn't our country be on the forefront of explorative energy production?

On the domestic front, we seem to be bogged down by issues that seemingly are not going away. Bermudians Against the Draft (BAD) are fighting a losing battle I fear. Strange thing is, that options were available (reserve Constabulary and Fire Dept.), and certainly we could cut down on the tax-payers burden and have a few roads repaired. Have you seen Serpentine Road lately? I have no problems if you don't want to be in the military, but I do believe that all 18 year olds should serve their country in one form or another. National service establishes pride in your country and gives young people a chance to develop skills that they wouldn't normally.

Last but not least, the employment scene is scary. More and more Bermudians (myself included) are seeking work (I am using multiple part-time jobs to get by). The issues here are many. With more people desperate for employment, crime will most certainly rise. We will have more people staying sick, because more people will be uninsured by not having basic insurance coverage. By the way... when are we going to have a national health plan? Shouldn't that, like access to water be a right of everyone? Times are tough, there is no doubt, and as we head into the doldrums of summer, it will be important for all of us to realize that Bermuda is not the same Bermuda most of us grew up in and we need to stop wanting it to be that way. Progress is painful.

More noise...

2010-01-19T20:13:00.002-04:00

“Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.” - Napoleon Bonaparte

Happy new year...

2010... here we come. here we are not out of January and we are already knee deep into the muck. I guess the challenge for any normal thinking person is to not take life as serious as we could. It's hard to not see the events that affect our world and become depressed. The Haiti situation is devastating, and we seem to be seeing more and more of these natural disasters in recent times. The tsunami that hit the Philippines, Hurricane Katrina, and now the earthquake in Haiti.

My religious friends deem this an act of God's vengeance, and while I have (and will probably continue) to debate the rationale of that argument, It definitely hits home. I don't believe that this horror is somehow vengeance from God for a questionable past. I prefer to believe that science had a lot to do with the earthquake and that idiots like Pat Robertson should not be seen and definitely not be heard.

That said, I read a great article by Sir Hilary Beckles on Haiti and how the French have done more damage to Haiti than this earthquake ever could.

What can not be argued is that millions of people are now in peril and countries who never gave a damn about Haiti before, seem to have changed their minds. It's funny how natural disasters do that, but human made tragedies don't. While I will not debate the need for aid in Haiti now, where has that aid been the past 100+ years? How is it that human rights violators like Mugabe and Bashir still walk free while millions are fighting for their very lives? The logic escapes me.

Here at home, all seems quiet. I knew Perry Puckerin from his participation in Devonshire Rec's youth program. To say that I was shocked to find out about his murder would be putting it mildly. In the recent years I knew him, he was a genuinely warm and funny guy, and he never ever showed any signs of the lifestyle that ultimately took his. RIP Perry... you will be missed.

Lot's of talk about the gang situation and what we can do. Had a chance to hear Dr. Matthews last night at DRC and he connects on a lot of levels. I'm a supporter of Rise Above Bermuda and wish him all the best, It's nice to see good people do good things in our community. Let's hope that it's contagious.

2009-12-25T07:05:00.002-04:00

“It is perhaps a more fortunate destiny to have a taste for collecting shells than to be born a millionaire” - Robert Louis Stevenson

We must find a way. We must have a plan. We must break that which is broken, break it completely so that it can not ever be resurrected, for we know now that what is broken should not continue to be used. We must forge a new path, as those before us who believed in manifest destiny...

We must be thankful for where we are and how we came to be, we must be a government of one people, undaunted, undivided. We must love the aged and the young, their contributions mean so much. We must educate and be educated, to stop learning is to stop living, for we are here on planet earth for a reason, to be great, each and every day.

We must grow more food, we must drive less, we must find ways to save our world, to save our people. We must make less war, and make more love, for there can be nothing better than love. We must cry more, laugh more. We must give more and take less. We must take pride in our accomplishments and strive to be better every day. We must find cures for the plagues that affect us. We must plant more trees and build less skyscrapers, we must use less and recycle more. We must seek less from God, and take responsibility for our people and our world. We must remove barriers and build bridges, we must invite more and not wait to be invited, we must work harder and celebrate less.

We must smile more, for we know that in the smile of a child there is nothing more precious or beautiful. We must accept that we are not perfect and that it is ok. We must develop relationships based on friendships without expectation or demand. We need less in our banks and more in our hearts. We must show our future generations that there is hope and that together we can achieve much, alone we achieve little.

One hope for all at this time of year... that we have learned from our mistakes, that we can move beyond hate and learn to appreciate the gifts we have. Move with love in your heart and we will all move mountains.

2009-12-07T17:42:00.003-04:00

"Today, more than ever before, life must be characterized by a sense of Universal responsibility, not only nation to nation and human to human, but also human to other forms of life." - Dalai Lama

The past month has been really hectic and I haven't had much time to gather my thoughts, but hopefully with the year winding down, I have found some moments for reflection, meditation and growth. Our world is so much smaller now and if we let it spin out of control we can easily lose sight of the important things.

With so much negative press surrounding events both local and foreign, and most of it negative, I'm going to take a few words to give props, where props are due. Funny isn't it we often hear how the media reads off the Police blotter every day, as if they are afraid to report "good" news. Are we so obsessed with negativity (and there is enough to report) that we can not celebrate some successes?

Congrats go out to Somerset School of Dance for their bi-annual performance held at the Ruth Seaton James auditorium at the end of November. I know a lot of parents at the school would love to see their kids dance more, I know how much I love watching my daughter dance, but credit to Sal Hodgson for making her school more than just a place to go for recitals. The RAD (Royal Academy of Dance) curriculum is one of the leading ballet methods in the world, and it's a bonus to know that all of her students pass their examinations with flying colors. It doesn't get reported on the news, but it's the truth.

As most will know, I am far from a supporter of the queen, but I am glad she came. There is some kind of magic with her that draws people from far and wide, and while I didn't take the opportunity to go out and see her, I am not the least bit surprised by the turnout. The premier alluded to the idea that we shouldn't read anything into her popularity as it regards independence and I tend to agree, but I don't think it was really necessary to come out and say that. Enjoy the moment, and know that we can allow for a moment of pomp and circumstance.

This past weekend I was proud to join the CURB table at the "Global Village" in Par-La-Ville Park. I gather the major sponsors are Chewstick, and I was really impressed with the social activism that was displayed by so many of the islands different groups. I will always preach the importance of being active, it is so important for our communities, and ultimately our country, that people care. If we can take the energy of the "Global Village" and unite to tackle some of our social ills, I'm certain we can move mountains.

Christmas is a time of year when we spend time with family and friends, and Bermuda has it's own set of traditions, that makes our country a great place to be. It's a great time of year, and I hope everyone takes a moment to move away from the negativity that is constantly beaten into our social media, and our regular media to embrace the season. Hug your kids, love your families and love one another people, for we are truly worth it.

Introducing.... The Alliance!

2009-11-07T07:41:00.003-04:00

“One man may hit the mark, another blunder; but heed not these distinctions. Only from the alliance of the one, working with and through the other, are great things born.” -

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Alliance: a merging of efforts or interests by persons, families, states, or organizations: an alliance between church and state. (dictionary.com)

I don't profess to be a genius here, but the BDA (Bermuda Democratic Alliance) are who exactly? Disgruntled former members of the UBP? Allied with whom? Are we awaiting defections from across the floor to complete this historic group?

Ok... it's early days yet. The third option has emerged and before HMS United Bermuda Party is well and truly left to the fishes, we must say this. The third option at this point seems to be truly only a rehashed version of the second option, if said second option is the opposition. I'm not sure if said opposition would be the first option, I would hope not, but if you define power in terms of rankings, then the first option would definitely be the government... wouldn't it?

Never mind. This "Alliance"... don't we just love vague labels for political parties? ... what exactly is it? A Democratic Alliance - thank god it's a democratic alliance and not a communist or worse a socialist alliance, for we can't have radicals running around now can we? - made up of former UBP MP's that have left the UBP. Hey... wait a minute here.... if I voted party lines and one of these MP's is my MP and I voted for them under the UBP flag, does that mean I have to change political parties too? My head hurts.

I know...I know... it's early days yet. We may have influential government members jumping on board the Alliance bandwagon. Mr. Perinchief? Mr. Horton? Mr. James? I know... Mr. Butler.... wow... I'm not convinced. Maybe the Alliance can pick up Ashfield Devent... if they put legalization on their platform. Ok... maybe the Alliance will be made up of the former UBP MP's and a few independent thinkers, whoa!!! Not Independence thinkers... INDEPENDENT thinkers! We'll have none of that Independence stuff around here.

Oh and that platform thing. Yeah, it's early days yet, but these former UBP mp's need to get a platform thing. Separate themselves from the UBP, you know be different, be a true third option... or second option... or first option... or no option if you don't think that they are an alliance at all... like me... just a few disgruntled former UBP MP's trying to be an option. Dad always said... if it walks like a duck, and talks like a duck, then it's more than likely... A DUCK!!!

Good luck... I'll take Captain America as my MP.

Why I blog...

2009-11-01T14:37:00.003-04:00

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community... Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own." - Cesar Chavez

I decided several months ago to "out" myself. Ok... I'm not "out" in that way. I'm out by exposing myself on my blog. It is a decision I'm proud of. Putting my picture on my blog was a personal choice. Live by the sword (or pen...computer) die by it. In local circles, it's not a popular thing to do. Most forums/blogs are represented by nicknames (mine is "sparxx" for which I have had for many years) and users apply avatars that somehow represent the user in one way or another. I understand why people do this, it detaches accountability to a face and makes freedom of speech more "free". You can say what you like and no one has to know who it is behind the scenes.

My decision came for a few reasons. I have always accepted responsibility for who I am, what I say and what I do. Yet in the online world there seems to be less accountability and people can seemingly do what they want, and say what they want and get away with it. Again, I understand a users right to personal privacy, but if you are gutsy enough to criticize someone or something, have the guts to show your face. There are strong and radical voices in cyberspace, and it is important to accept a responsible approach in all aspects of life... even our online ones. I preach to my kids about standing up for what they believe in and fighting the good fight, for their honour and for those who can't fight for themselves.

Dictionary.com defines commitment as "a pledge or a promise, an obligation". It also defines the word citizen as "a native or naturalized member of a state or nation who owes allegiance to its government and is entitled to its protection." It is my honest belief that as citizens we must always work to ensure that we do our parts in our communities to make all of our lives a little bit better. It's a commitment, and one I take seriously. I take it seriously for me, and my family. I choose to do so because I accept that there is work to be done. As with many others, I do so freely and with the hope that our future generations will do the same. There is no glory in it, there is no requirement for acknowledgement, and while some may see this as "tooting" my own horn, that's their opinion and they are entitled to it!

I choose to blog for several reasons, foremost it's a place where I can log my thoughts and keep my writing going. I have tried writing stories, and poetry and games, but for whatever reason never found a niche with any of them. This blog allows me a little more literary freedom and it provides the outlet I need, whenever I need it. Other reasons are for discipline and for exploration into my world as I see it. I titled this blog "distorted visions" simply because I know that for the most part my visions are mine alone. That's fine, and I don't purposely seek to irritate or aggravate. If that happens... so be it.

I have to accept that there are things, people who will not change. I have to accept that in our island paradise there will always be people who are just not happy. People who probably do a hell of a lot more in their communities than me and like me expect nothing in return. Bermudians are great people when they work together, and they are great more often than not, but they can be royal pains in the butt when they have reasons to be. I guess that's the way it is in most places, but in such a small society such as our own, and in ways where we can continue to be great, we continue to find reasons to fail.

2009-10-27T21:25:00.002-03:00

Random Thoughts...

“We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world." - Buddha

The Lane School zoning tribunal convenes this Friday. There is no doubt that this should be a black history museum. The location is the Salvation Army Citadel on North St. at 1:45 p.m. Come out and help support the cause.

Halloween is Saturday. Keep it real people and keep it safe. This is a kids day, and we should all remember that. There is always reason to be cautious, let's hope the knuckleheads don't lose their minds. The dangers are many, so please take all the proper precautions.

Hurricane season is almost over. It's been unusually quiet the past couple of years, wonder if it's got anything to do with the global planet changes. It's time to pay attention people. Our world is going to hell in a hand-basket temperature wise. Recycle, re-use and remember to re-fill those ink and toner cartridges (shameless plug).

Lot's of talk on several boards about homosexuality. I'm not going to go overboard on this, so I'll just say that HUMAN RIGHTS should always be our number one fight. I'm not going to debate people on the issues of morality, but please remember, without human rights we have no debate. Freedom is a gift best used wisely. Live, love and learn!

A follow up on my post regarding Softball. Our ladies have travelled to the Bahamas, and it was a pleasure to see them off. I wish them all the luck. I told them Sunday morning that to have come this far is a victory in itself and that they should all be proud of their accomplishment. Win or lose they will do us proud I'm sure. As for the suspended pair, they have travelled with the team, but probably will be relegated to spectator level. The Bermuda Amateur Softball Association will always strive to do the right thing, and as such we will hold a SGM (special general meeting) on Nov. 17th. All those interested should please come out and get involved. We have exciting plans for the upcoming year (2010) and we need all the help we can get!

CURB held their AGM recently. Kudos to all those elected, including our amazing president Lynne Winfield who is now in Tanzania doing the Diaspora thing. Next year it's back in Bermuda and we should get it back on the front burner. Special mention goes to Dr. Eva Hodgson who has been given an honorary lifetime membership to our Central Council. Her wisdom and expertise in fighting racism in Bermuda is legendary, and while many people may not be able to find her candor appetizing, it has long been a staple for us and we are so proud to share in her brilliance!

Finally, my daughter turned 15 this weekend. I can't begin to tell you how amazing she is, or for that matter how old I feel. She is turning into quite a lady and as she presses on with her GCSE examinations this year, I know that she will do her best! I was also really happy to have her help me out with the Youth Softball Development League on Saturday. It's nice that a dad can share a sport with his kids (boys and girls) and as my kids have spent so much time with me at the Mike Preece Stadium (Bernard's Park) I look forward to spending a lot more time with them there! Happy Birthday Rachel... I love you!!!

The power of people....

2009-10-26T08:18:00.001-03:00

If you fail to understand what people can do, even one person can inspire masses...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MxkMwFFsCko

Bermuda Softball - Our National Spirit.

2009-10-17T07:39:00.003-03:00

“Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.”

Softball in Bermuda has always been in our fabric. There has always been a connection with our culture and this very passionate game. It is as Bermudian a tradition as any of the other "big" sports, namely soccer and cricket, and it should still be spoken in that same reverence. It's not.

I have been involved in softball for easily the better part of 20 years, and I have stuck with it through the highs and lows, for which the local game is still trying to emerge from a murky decade of indifference. As Vice President of the Bermuda Amateur Softball Association, it has been a task trying to emerge from this period with a plan, and the support from the public hasn't always been there.

Slow pitch softball is the only competitive aspect of our game at the moment. Slow pitch leagues dominate and credit to their dedicated core, they have kept softball being played, even if it's not the "real" game we want. Slow pitch is a nice fun game, but there is no development, there are no progression charts. The top teams are who they always have been and there is very little to be gained from this game. Its fun and gives players a chance to play... but it's not our game.

Our game is fastpitch. It always has been, and always will be. We have a need for it and it is Bermuda Softball. For the past few months a ladies team has been very dedicated in trying to come together to compete in a tournament in the Bahamas, for which they leave in a weeks time. Under the coaching excellence of Braxton Stowe, the team is really taking shape and as we head into the final weekend of fundraising efforts we also look forward to the launch of our youth program this weekend. I can not begin to tell you how exciting this is. Focus on fastpitch, developing a plan, a strategy to carry us forward, and ultimately a long term goal of club softball being played around the island every night of the week! It is a solid plan and if we can make it happen, softball will return to it's rightful place on Bermuda's sporting mantle piece.

This weekend, B.A.S.A. will hold car washes at BAA and at Somersfield this morning and a bake sale at the stadium this afternoon. A reminder that all youth ages 15+ that are interested in playing are asked to please come out to the Mike Preece Stadium (Bernard's park) beginning at 4:30 p.m. for registration and introductions.

One last note. Some people may have paid attention to media reports this week about a player that was dropped and "re-instated" from the ladies team. She has, provided her "side" of the story, and early next week the Association will reply through those same media channels. I will not go into great detail, but I will say this. In meetings last night, for which she and another player opted out, a TEAM decision was made, and the decision was unanimous. Stay tuned for further updates!!!

You gotta have faith....

2009-10-10T09:12:00.004-03:00

“Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark.” - Rabindranath Tagore

At some point I know that certain things are proven to be true. People are born, and people will die. Life here on our spinning blue ball continues to evolve and as we progress, it is in faith that we believe things will happen. Still our faith is challenged when things don't happen the way they are supposed to. How many of us become irritated when a light doesn't go on when we flick a switch? How many of us expect our cars to start every day? How many would be surprised if we walked into a grocery store to find that they didn't have any food? Our world is built on faith that things happen when we expect them to. Most of these things are easily explained.

We know that (or we hope that) if we pay our electricity bill, the electric company will continue to supply us with service, and when we come home at night and turn on a light, it should come on. Certainly bulbs will blow, fuses or breakers will blow or trip, but for the most part we have faith in the system. Just as we expect the grocery store to provide the food we want when we are hungry. In this instance we do not say that we have blind faith, we have proven faith.

We can have faith in our governments to do the best thing for us, but that faith is continually challenged when they do boneheaded things. To err is human... Still, most of us believe in the power of love, and to that end we have hope for the future. A lot of things reinforce that faith, that love, that hope for the future. Friendship, family, security and the basic idea that man is inherently good and that we truly care for everyone and everything around us. Faith is the key to human existence. Unfortunately this is where things become... muddled.

We have faith, faith in people, places and things, all things that we can prove exist, but when we all of a sudden have faith in things that can't be proven to exist, I begin to worry a bit about our future. I guess the point here is what I'll call the "GOD PROBLEM". For as long as can be known, people have had this ... problem. The problem is, that unlike the "electricity" problem, that can be resolved by paying the bill, changing the bulb or fuse, flipping the breaker, the God thing isn't so easily fixed. It isn't easily proven. The bible tells us that there are certain things we can do to ensure a place in heaven, but that heaven place, did someone get an address or phone number? I know DisneyWorld exists, and it may be the coolest place on earth, because I've been there ... a few times. I know outer space exists, because I can see the stars in the sky and I can see the facts laid before me by people who have been there. It's like Antarctica... I've never been there, but I have reasonable faith that it exists, because if I look hard enough I'll find someone who has been there.

The God/Heaven thing hasn't been proven yet people are willing to die for their faith. I'm just not getting it. I've been an altar boy, joined Young Life, studied with Christians, Mormons, Jehovas... and their story is all the same. An undisputed belief in a god or heaven that can not be verified. It's a feel good thing. People need to feel good and they need to believe that there is something good after you die. We know that every year after Christmas, there are post-christmas sales, but I have never met anyone that's had a post-life experience. We have to be careful. I understand the NEED to have FAITH, I'd just like it to be verifiable. I'm just not sworn to it. Give me something... anything. Give me a plug, a bulb, a power cord, an electric company, something tangible, something verifiable.

In the end, I guess it's a double edged sword. I believe in Christmas, Easter, if not for the social aspects of these holidays, so is it wrong for me to deny the existence of the one who makes those days important? Believe me, I want those holidays, so I know that it should be something important to me. Unfortunately it's not. If I lived in a society that told me I had to work those days, I'm sure it would mean even less to me. The one thing I will continue to have faith in, is man. One way or another I have faith that I will be surprised, shocked, amazed and horrified by what he can do. I only hope that faith is not the only thing carrying me through it all.

Becoming a lean green machine....

2009-10-07T14:25:00.003-03:00

Did you know, the Hershey Company in the US produces about 20,000,000 kisses each day using 133 square miles of aluminum to wrap them in; this material is recyclable and most of it ends up in the trash rather than the recycle bin. - http://www.environment-green.com/More_Recycling_Facts_and_Statistics.html

It's a serious thing this recycling business. Certainly it is a business, the pros of running a "green" business definitely outweigh the cons. The statistics are staggering. Even here in our small island home, people think "green" as a way of life. Most of our fine citizens find ways to recycle, save energy and plant trees. We are known for our cleanliness. Tourists love that our streets are not consumed by litter and our oceans are not suffering the effects of pollution as most other countries in the west.

It's a part of our social conscience isn't it? In all that we do, we are challenged to live a better life, create a better world, saving the planet ultimately saves lives and who wouldn't want that? So keep separating your plastics, glass and metals!!! Hey if you didn't notice, our Government is offering the good people up to $5000 if you install solar panels in your home! Will that inspire people? Eh.....

So many things to consider in recognizing our "footprint", things we take for granted like that little Hershey's Kiss deal up there. Are you going to stop using your gas guzzling automobiles? Does car-pooling even happen in Bermuda? I don't think so. It's a nice thought, but it's an effort that takes mass coordination. We don't have the time to be worried about how others are doing, so we just keep stuffing those blue bags, keep taking our green bags to the grocers, and turn off the lights every once in a while. Oh and Belco will still give out prizes for those who do a decent job with their Christmas lights.

I wonder. Would you drive an electric bike? Would you recycle that paper in the office? Would you buy a bottle of wine that has a screw cap instead of a cork? Would you car-pool, or better yet walk to work? No... it's still too hot outside. Are we conscientiously making an effort to save our world, or are we just keeping the kids happy so when they go to school they can say "We recycle at home!!!" So keep stuffing those blue bags... we'll be green some day.

If we look at our lives, we must consider that even in doing what we do, it may not be enough. GreenRock reports that with each kilowatt hour of electricity we use, 751 grams of CO2 are pumped into the atmosphere. (here). There is hope fans... several businesses have begun to do their part. I'm not really into self promotion, but hey it's my dime, so you get what you pay for... Skinks Ink (located in Sound Stage in the Washington Mall) is refilling ink-jet cartridges, and Lanier Business products, who I am working with, are remanufacturing laser toner cartridges. Bermudian businesses doing the right thing. An off-shoot of the Lanier Business is the lithium battery electric bike EVT that uses no gas. It's conscious efforts like these that will continue to make a difference. So the next time you snap off a blue bag, have a look at the blue sky outside and wonder if it really is too hot to walk to work, or even better call someone and offer to pick them up!!!

Who Are We???

2009-09-24T20:20:00.003-03:00

“Culture of the mind must be subservient to the heart" - Ghandi

I see her royal majesty is planning a special trip here to help celebrate our 400th birthday. A real nice treat to end what has been a pretty fantastic year. Originally she wasn't coming, now she is. I wonder what changed her mind? Maybe a plea from our premier? Maybe a chance to come and put her royal stamp on us, to show that she really cares. Yup, should be fun. Let's practice those bows and curtsies boys and girls... lest we forget who we truly are. Our safety and security in the hands of ye olde british empire, making sure that the bad guys of the world don't invade us for our wonderfully pink sand. It's a lingering question. Just exactly who are we? What makes us special in the world, how are we different from those who would seem most similar?

Take a minute and look around. Aside from the slew of "Bermujan Verds", what is our culture? What distinct qualities make us different? Bermuda Shorts? Codfish and potatoes? Are these things truly unique to us? We have a history developed over 400 years of good, bad and indifferent. If we compare ourselves with those countries we most closely associate with are we more American than British? If so what about those who connect with the Caribbean? Why do we connect with some places, but not all? With a heavy latin presence there, why do we seem to connect with those former British colonies, and not with the Spanish places?? We had a Spanish presence once... what happened to us?

So, after 400 years, we are still defined by a queen, a crown... and it's only taken her 40 years to come back (ok... close to 40 years). What is the problem with that? If we are one of the last remaining Overseas Territories (1 of 14), you might think we're a bit more deserving. We're special... aren't we? Now we could look at the importance of us in a bigger picture, we don't hold world war or cold war summits anymore, and in reality we're not the most popular beach in the world, and for the past 30 years we've been open to international businesses hiding their books on our lovely shores. Talk of independence has come and gone, referendums, threats of anarchy and political change has seen our evolution change quite a bit since her majesty last graced our shores.

So we struggle. I note that some are wondering whether our Premier will have the decency to hang around for her visit. I guess the bigger question is.... why should he? Has she been involved in our lives the past 40 years (ok... close to 40 years)? Has she even sent us a birthday card? If anything can be taken from this impromptu visit, it's that we should be ready to kiss the royal backside once again, because all attitudes being equal, we really do need her in our world.

Let's hope the monarchy won't be burdened as such for birthday 401. We'd hate to keep her from whatever it is she does anyway.

2009-09-21T10:10:00.002-03:00

“When you have completed 95 percent of your journey, you are only halfway there.” Japanese Proverb

There comes a point in one's development where he simply must recognize that going in the same direction leads him nowhere and that he must seek a new path. The road walked last week was a long and tedious one. One I have seen more than enough of, and one that will, for the moment, remain closed. That road is endless and goes nowhere. There are certain issues that make little sense to me and this is one. How do we get to a happy middle ground? How do we achieve peace of mind? Must we fight endless battles that accomplish nothing? How many times must we re-hash the same ideas, the same thought patterns only to end up in a name-calling, degradation of humanity?

We must always seek the strong, the positive, the path less walked. It is in the darkest of hours that we must pick ourselves up, dust ourselves off and move on. So I am... moving on.

I note this week that several pertinent subjects have appeared on the blogsphere. The cannabis question is an important one. There comes a larger question, one that exceeds our shores. When do we say when? If we allow cannabis, what happens when someone wants to legalize all kinds of hallucinogens? Are we not struggling with being under the influence a little too much? A society that accepts being dazed and confused as natural accepts that once that bridge has been crossed, there will be many others to deal with. In a non-smoking world, why would we want to say it's ok to smoke... anything?

A question... on the bad level, which is worse, drugs or gambling? Just wondering. The few places in our world where drugs are legal, stand out, but not necessarily for all the right reasons. An open drug policy will allow more people to be arrested leaving Bermuda, as it seems highly unlikely that other countries are going to bend their laws any time soon. Be careful. If the end goal is to prevent people from going to jail, then we need to look at the problem from the wider perspective. If we are to frown upon drug use at this level, then we should probably frown on alcohol abuse as well.

Last but not least is the apparent implosion of the United Bermuda Party. Who can honestly feel bad for them? Seriously, they have been pathetic, and now is the right time for them to bid the political world adieu. Don't wait for a new opposition to come up. Leave now, let the people have a better choice, even if there is none. Sometimes not choosing is a more definitive statement than making the wrong choice.

Stay tuned.

If this is it then, let's have at it!

2009-09-17T06:06:00.004-03:00

“If you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the

results of a hundred battles.” - Sun Tzu

It would seem that there are those who frequent the

Bermuda is another world site that have inspired Uncle Elvis

into engaging me here, so I will accommodate him (them). My

challenge here is a simple one, exploration, education and some how along the way an attempt to continue the discussion on racism.

Let me say this. Regardless of my feelings, I never resorted to

name-calling, and never resorted to the sort of character assasination tactics that happen at BIAW. I will not hide, I will not run, and I will only continue the dialogue here. The battle is on, Uncle Elvis asked for it, so let him bring it. In as much, I ask only one thing, that we do it one thing at a time, and if he could check his profanity hat at the door it would be greatly appreciated.

One other thing. It was/is not my intention to speak for others. I speak of things as I see them, which may or may not agree with the status quo. In my "distorted" (like the title of my blog) view, it is only one view, mine, I never asked people to like it, I never asked for alarms to be sounded, but we are here now, so let the process be complete.

You got your wish UE, I will back up whatever you want...

Wisdom - Why we must endure...

2009-09-16T22:01:00.002-03:00

“The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.” - Benjamin Franklin

The fight is over. At least it is for me. I stepped out on a ledge and was rejected out of hand. Fool me once, shame on me. I hope to all I hold dear that I am not so foolish again. The smart person picks his fights carefully. I didn't. Ouch...

Ok enough dwelling on the past. Bermuda truly is another world and I am one of the lucky few who can truly call it home. I don't know if there are better places in the world, but it would be extremely difficult to find one. One thing I think we as Bermudians truly fail to grasp is that this paradise os ours, and we should do whatever we can to make it the best we possibly can.

My beliefs on religion, faith, racism, politics, sports and ice cream (for there can be no better flavor than rum raisin) have all been challenges for me personally, most recently. It may be that I'm reaching the age where things truly matter, but it may also be that I care just a bit more.

I have never seen the world through my father's eyes. In my own liberal sensibilities, I still see the glass as half full. Dad's is always half empty. I have never believed in party politics, and in recent times have even begun to question the existence of God. Book plug - if you get a chance please read "The Evolution of God" by Robert Wright, a great investigatory piece.

The quest for wisdom is ongoing for me. Education never stops, Seeking the truths, understanding the untruths, knowing that when I walk out onto the ledge, it matters not how strong I am, it matters how strong that ledge is, and that there will always be hills to climb, oceans to swim, and fights to fight.

Just make sure that the fight is one worth fighting.

Racism - the work still to be done.

2009-09-13T07:19:00.009-03:00

"Before enlightenment chop wood and carry water, after enlightenment, chop wood and carry water." Zen Proverb

It's a tough thing. In expressing a point of view, one must be willing to accept that the point of view is one that might not be accepted on all levels. It's quite possible that the point of view is shared only by a certain few, and will be defended against by those unwilling to accept it.

When a white person talks about racism, more than likely you will get someone who will admit that it exists, someone who will admit that they aren't racist and don't support any system or agenda that does. A pretty comfortable perch from which to view the world. If we seek further enlightenment, things can get pretty uncomfortable quite quickly.

Such is life in Bermuda. A core society where whites are the minority and are supported by a British oligarchy, a social structure created and built by whites and that still exists, blacks are the majority and have the political power, and have finally emerged from years of being held down. The transition from then to now has been a difficult one. Whites are now seen as irrelevant, and are asked to accept that the only way forward is in acceptance of the past. That will not be easy.

Our way forward is clouded in denial from whites and an in your face attitude by those in power. If whites (most whites, not all) had it their way, the past would be written in the history books and left there. It is difficult to say what blacks want. There are some who are content with life and like whites want to leave the past in the past, while there are some who are not so sure. A vote for the UBP (the white party) is a vote for the past. Seeds of insecurity and mistrust still exist. Discomfort over the past and an unwillingness to simply leave it for the history books means that there is still work to be done, on both sides.

I spent a good part of my Saturday on another local blog Bermuda is another world attempting to share my point of view about racism, and how that some attitudes prevail from the past. It's undeniable. For the most part I was accused of being a condescending, contradictory irritant who's point of view was neither appreciated or wanted. The thing is, I knew the minute I posted on the blog that I didn't share the same vision as most of the posters there, and even though most of us are white, I knew that I was in a cage of like-minded people, and the chances of me actually walking away from that site with a "feel good" were virtually nill. A bee in a hornets nest... so to speak.

What is truly scary is that most of these people argued my main points, most went after certain phraseology that was only used for "window dressing". What makes this even more disturbing is that while I found myself being dragged down into this muck, I lost sight of what was truly important, a continuation of the conversation. I left there pissed off, not at the posters who had baited me, but at myself for allowing to be baited. The other important lesson I learned yesterday was that for the most part you can't add "phraseology" to anything and expect it to be bypassed. Note to self - People will always look to degrade your vision. Do not add feed to their fodder.

I guess one of the reasons I joined CURB was that there are like-minded people like me, my own bee-hive if you will. Black and white, working together to continue the fight against racism in Bermuda, to educate and enlighten, and yes to even argue the importance of it all. To those people at BIAW, you goaded me into an area I didn't need to go. For that I apologize. You showed the kind of mentality I knew walking in, and for that I will do my best not to bother you in the future.

Ze Selassie Guilty...

2009-08-20T19:43:00.002-03:00

Interesting to see that they have found Ze Selassie guilty and have given him life in prison. The justice system has been under such scrutiny in recent years, and with the failure to get a conviction in the Kellon Hill case, there has been a serious outcry to have the system revamped completely.

I hate to say it, but Ze Selassie may have suffered the indignity of being found guilty even before his trial had begun. While we hope that justice has taken it's proper course in this trial, and for all intents and purposes it seems as though it has, I shudder to think what would have happened should there have been another botched trial and he walked free.

Ultimately we should still look at fixing whatever is broken in this system. That we have no answers in the Kellon Hill murder trial has left a sickening taste in our mouths. We need resolution.

Random Thoughts...

2009-08-20T10:00:00.002-03:00

“When I examine myself and my methods of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant more to me than any talent for abstract, positive thinking.” - Albert Einstein

When do we begin to take stock of our lives? Our accomplishments, failures, celebrations, regrets. If you look back upon the days of our lives, there are significant moments, moments that have made a profound difference in our lives. The birth of a child, the death of a loved one, the day we get married, the day we get divorced. It's the impact moments of our lives that we recall most vividly, points we recall and use as life lessons, ones that will either inspire us, or be burdens we carry the rest of our days.

As a parent, we should make decisions for our kids that will give them the best chances for success. Rest assured that our hope for the future rests in their hands. How we help them along the way ensures that they grow up with the same ideas, same thought processes as we do, and hopefully they will make strong solid decisions with their lives.

Somehow along the way some of our youth are not getting the message. Somehow there are a bunch of great kids falling through the cracks. Kids making bad decisions. The recent murder trials that have dominated our front pages the past few months have put a major question mark on our young people. At what point are we going to step up as a community and recognize that we are at serious risk of damaging our future.

A few years ago I took the Youth Leadership Development course at the Bermuda College. Part of the program was centered around what makes a good leader and how we have to get our kids to recognize that they can be positive leaders in our society, and that the decisions they make can affect their lives in positive or negative ways depending on which path they choose. It's tough. people migrate to leadership naturally whether it's good or bad. It has become imperative that we seek to implement programs that will produce great, positive, productive leaders. The time is now.

I joined CURB a few months ago and recently went to my first meeting where we discussed advocacy. As a grassroots organization with a solid representation from people around Bermuda, it looks like the kind of organization that can help address the ills of racism in Bermuda. It should be an interesting journey. I look forward to working with them and doing our part to make our island a better place.

Last but not least, this week Bermuda is gripped in the paranoia that is Hurricane Bill. Now I hate to appear sexist here, but there are things that shouldn't have been messed with. I'm all for equal rights between men and women, between the races, between people of different sexual orientations, but did we have to change the rules about naming hurricanes? I was quite happy with the Emily's Anna's and Beth's of the world. Bill, who looks quite an imposing fellow, looks to give us the brush by in the next day or two. I hope we all get through it safely.

Namaste...

Commitment to Excellence

2009-08-09T19:53:00.003-03:00

“Excellence can be obtained if you:
...care more than others think is wise;
...risk more than others think is safe;
...dream more than others think is practical;
...expect more than others think is possible.” - Unknown

It is possible that the basis of human nature is to find a level of happiness or satisfaction in life, and settle for that level, without ever seeking more, without realizing that life can offer us so much more if only we choose to look for it. Life chooses challenges for each of us, and it is up to us to accept these challenges or not to. Inspiration finds itself in the form of our dreams. We dream the dream impossible, of bright lights, fancy cars and big homes. Each one of us dreaming of a life beyond what we have accepted as the norm.

Thus it is equally inspiring to find those who dare to live the dream, those who challenge themselves, those who are continually raising the bar to higher levels, and wanting to live the impossible dream. It is in those dreams, in the efforts of those who live their dreams every day that can light a fire in even the most desperate of souls.

For the past five years my daughter has found herself associated with a commitment to excellence that is unsurpassed in dance anywhere in Bermuda. The National Dance Foundation has hosted in conjunction with American Ballet Theater a 3 week summer intensive, known as DanceBermuda. Local dancers being trained by world class professionals, dancing alongside world class dancers and living the dream. The experience has been so enriching that my wife and I have volunteered for the past 3 years as host chaperones for the foreign dancers who come to Bermuda to participate in this amazing experience.

Enough of the feel good story. Let's talk about the Bermudian dancers who are not getting this experience. Let's talk about the greedy local dance school owners who chose to not help their dancers live their dream. No other organization or school offers what DanceBermuda does and yet hundreds of our young dancers are not getting the experience because these schools are more interested in $$$$ than they are in getting their dancers world class training. I've walked this road before. Letters to the editor, public please for cooperation have not moved these people. Each year has seen the few local dancers who do participate form friendships, and more importantly develop their skills. Ask anyone who participates, it's the real deal.

So the Bermudian stubbornness prevails. Should we be surprised? Bermudians have a reluctance to accept new ideas, and even in youth development we seem so far behind. With escalated violence on our streets and more and more kids falling seemingly by the wayside, we need more programs such as DanceBermuda, to help our kids live their dreams.

Hope for the future.....

2009-07-26T08:59:00.004-03:00

The men whom I have seen succeed best in life

always have been cheerful and hopeful men;

who went about their business with a smile on their faces;and took the changes and chances of this mortal life like men; facing rough and smooth alike as it came. - Charles Kingsley

With all credit to my religious friends, this window of opportunity called life really has to be utilized to the best of our ability. I'm not so sure about an after-life, and to that end it is probably a pretty safe bet that we have this one chance, this one opportunity to make a difference, and we shouldn't abuse it. Our hope for the future lies in our ability to make the world a little bit better than the one we were born into. So many things to do... so little time to do it. We gotta get the lead out.

In a post cold-war world, fear finds itself with many different faces. As our world grows increasingly smaller, more and more people become agitated over the lack of hope for the future. Visions come and go, people are forced to change, adapt or suffer the consequences. My dad, a product of what may be called "the old school" has taken to this change like a pig with wings. Uncomfortable to say the least. In his professional life he was a photographer, and has done some amazing work. Two years ago he went on a trans-atlantic cruise, and as usual, took his professional camera equipment with him. His many rolls of film included. You can see where this is going. By port number 2 he had used all of his film and was left pondering what he would be able to do for the rest of his trip.

I gave my dad my old computer and printer so that he could do simple things. It sat in his office with a towel over it until I finally gave up, took it from him and left him typing happily on his electric typewriter. "Less confusing..." he says. I should also qualify this by saying that he has never owned a pair of jeans, and until the past 10 years never had a pair of sneakers either. Old school. But there is hope for the future! About a month ago he came to me and asked about buying a digital camera that he'll take on his Alaska cruise next month. We did some research (ONLINE) and I brought one in for him... in under a week. I'm not sure if he's tried it out yet, he keeps saying that he's reading the instruction manual... (help!).

Now I'm sure that somehow my kids look at me a lot like I look at my dad, and when you see how our world has changed it is truly scary the things we have to be concerned about. As I noted, we are a much smaller world, traveling at speeds that are truly terrifying. We can truly ... hold on and enjoy the ride. In all of our amazing advancements, it will be so important for us to keep important things in focus, family, friends and our own well being.

It is equally frustrating that with so much hope for our future, we still struggle with the basic humanitarian struggles that have plagued us for generations. Issues of race, education, disease and poverty still are on the front burner. Why have we not come to terms with any of it? Why have we let these issues foster in our societies for so long? What are we teaching our kids? What is important? A cell-phone, or a starving child dying of AIDS in Africa? A video game system, or a book? Have we as parents failed in our mission to create a better world for our kids?

The answers are complex and a lot more challenging than figuring out the video game HALO 3. The social issues, like racism, will not go away unless we are willing to step forward as a community and embrace them as tightly we have done with our personal technology. Wouldn't it be nice if we could solve the racism issue as easy as it is purchasing an updated blackberry? What is truly important in our society? How do we "focus" in an ADD/ADHD world?

Where is our hope for the future?

2009-07-01T07:45:00.002-03:00

I read the Royal Gazette. I don't read the Mid Ocean. There is only so much a man can take. I do read the more middle of the road Bermuda Sun, but I often wonder if they actually have any point of view at all. It's easy to see the enemy, all you really have to do is look. In the online community there are a lot of people who are making their points felt. Christian Dunleavy had Politics.bm, there was limeyinbermuda, both are defunct, and now the somewhat active Bermudasucks.com promote one way of thinking (regardless of what the sensible claim). These anti-government (or pro white-man) media formats in Bermuda serve the purpose for which they were created.

On the other side we have site such as Progressive Minds, Bermy Onion Patch and others that promote the flip side. This freedom of speech thing is a real pain in the butt. Listen to the beat of a drum for too long and you automatically move to that beat. I realize that it's a weird analogy, but it's the truth. We aren't alone in the world either. Media organizations are reknowned for making their point, whether that's the point you agree with or not, it doesn't matter. Someone out there reads, listens or watches this hype, and for the most part the followers believe it. Even respected news organizations such as the New York Times are seen as having a distinct point of view. The question is... who do you believe?

One benefit of living in a free world is that anyone and everyone has a right to express himself or herself without reprisal. The key to all of this freedom is not so much in what these people have to say, it's more the people who would blindly believe anything that is placed in front of them. Much like the bible-beating recruiters for god (or God) there are many different versions of the truth, pick one and believe. You can rest assured that if you look hard enough you'll find a view that you like and become a convert.

Be careful my friends. Freedom of speech is a path paved with perilous peaks. As fast as you find someone who agrees with you, you will find others that don't. In Bermuda we are either black or white as it simply doesn't pay to be "grey". Funny enough, in our society we have more than enough reasons to be "grey" but we simply fail to recognize it. What is increasingly difficult is the idea that our world, and more importantly, our island has allowed the propagandists to promote "hate" as a way of getting their message across. Dangerous times indeed.

Bermuda dreams...

2009-06-19T20:09:00.000-03:00

Welcome to paradise. Pink sand beaches and a tropical climate, spectacular sunsets, crystal clear blue waters. life at 20 miles per hour. Dark "n" Stormy anyone? No? How about a Swizzle? The warm summer breezes leading to days languishing in the sun, evenings around the bar-b-que with a case of Heinekens on ice.

A picture postcard. A golfers dream, a fisherman's fantasy. It is all you can ask for. A perfect holiday for a perfect price. Less than 2 hours from most east coast airports. A honeymoon made in heaven. An anniversary to relight any fire. How sweet it is!

So why is this perfect little paradise such a hard sell? Why is our Tourism minister fighting to defend his decision to allow 4 Guantanamo "refugees" into the island as permanent Bermuda citizens? Surely that is the role for which the Tourism minister is getting paid.

Permit me a moment of utter frustration and aggravation. Ir is highly irritating to me to try and defend incompetence, so I won't bother. While I will admit to anyone who cares to ask that Bermuda is indeed another world, it still has a long way to go when it comes to matters of priorities and what's important. Why the hell are we fighting this fight right now? Where did this come from? Why is our leader kissing Chinese backside last year, only to accept fugitives from Chinese justice this year? Don't we have anything better to do? Isn't there some hard working over-paid penny pincher out there that we can't sell a vacation to? I'm sure we have enough swizzle mix.

When our leaders do something irresponsible and stupid, regardless of intent, it leaves us wanting, wondering and worrying. Dr. Brown, if you get a chance, check out the tourism numbers and figure out a way to get the afore-mentioned penny pincher to take a load off and pay us a visit. Do the job you're getting paid to do and leave the international screw-ups for those people who have a little more experience. In your moment of glory you have upset quite a few people, and your "this too shall pass" idea is pretty disheartening. Should we expect more brilliance from you in the future?

Let's hope not.

Viva la Revolution!!!

2009-06-18T11:35:00.000-03:00

“To accomplish much you must first lose everything.” - Che Guavara

Where are all of the revolutionaries? Where are the people of passion, spirit, challengers to the throne? Why are we so lacking in those who would lead us, would inspire us to battle, where are the Ghandi's, King's, Guavara's and X's of today's world? Why are we so lacking the will to stand up and be counted?

Certainly there are battles to be fought. Most assuredly there are organizations dedicated to fighting the injustices all around the world, and for the most part these "fighters" are truly committed to their cause. Social activism is there for all who will heed the call, but are we so limited in our view of the world that we are unable to carry that same activism to actually make a difference.

It has become increasingly evident that in the comfort of our own little island the attitude of complacency is quickly changing. As our fearless leader continues to bungle his way along, there is a section of the public who are now willing to stand up and be counted. Unfortunately for them they are seen by those in power as disgruntled and sadly enough.... white. While Dr. Brown may not see this fight as an important one and in many areas of our society it is being ridiculed as racist vitriol, the fact remains, that there are a lot of pissed off people out there. If they happen to be white or black is of little consequence, what is missing is the link that would bring them together, and inspire others to speak out as well. Where is our Che Guavara?

For far too long our island has been divided by black and white. The feelings of the many now outweigh the few and what is left is a serious case of indigestion. Blacks who need to exorcise their ghosts and whites who refuse to accept any responsibility for the past. While this fight seemingly has no end, what is truly needed is the REVOLUTIONARY who will bind enough people together to truly find a happy middle ground. Until then we are subjected to an endless embarrassment of idealistic idiots who can not stop themselves. Our small community is burdened with sins from the past and the present and no one seems to be able to get their head out of their backside long enough to do anything about it.

Where is the reset button? Where is the revolution?

Let it happen now before we end up killing each other....

Thoughts....

2009-06-16T11:13:00.000-03:00

Just thinking...

I'm back after yet my second amazing experience in a Tall Ships event here in Bermuda. In 2000 as a Senior Liaison Officer at the Hamilton Office, it truly was a once in a lifetime experience. This year, in the 400th birthday of our country, I was again involved in the Trans-Atlantic Challenge this time with the Tall Ship - Pride of Baltimore II... yet another amazing experience. It is truly an honor to be able to work alongside such a dedicated group of people. I have made some great friendships and hopefully will see them again real soon!

Our headlines are dedicated with our Premier's latest debacle. I wonder if he truly is the person he seems to be? I wonder if he needs to be as important as he thinks he should be? There never seems to be a period of time where he doesn't push the envelope just a little bit further. It's a risky proposition. Sooner or later the challenge will be bigger than just keeping his supporters happy. It truly becomes more and more difficult to understand his mission. His acts are senseless and have no direction. He breaks the law to suit his own agenda and now he endangers his own countrymen should they ever have to go to China. Don't think that Bermudians would "slip through" unnoticed should they land in Hong Kong for a business meeting. By holding Chinese fugitives, without support from Britain, we open up a diplomatic nightmare should one of our locals be spotted on the Chinese mainland. Never say never. If the Chinese government are that upset, our people could be held for an indeterminate amount of time, and I doubt highly HMS would do anything about it. I wonder what he will do next?

In an effort to shorten my musings, I ponder this last point. The latest Tall Ships event again shows the power of people. Bermudians far and wide came together and performed an admirable service when called upon. Our nature is a giving one. We seldom disappoint in times of need. It is truly a credit to all of us that we can cross the barriers that society constantly places in front of us. There is no doubt that we must continue to fight the injustices that plague our society, but there is no doubt that when we put our minds to it we can truly be great!

Role Models

2009-06-02T13:38:00.000-03:00

Leaders are a dime a dozen. At some point we have given too much "power" to those who truly aren't worthy of it. One of my major problems in our society today is that we have too many damn leaders. We are a world of leaders and followers. Politicians, preachers, athletes, spokespersons of every sort, giving examples to our kids of how to live our lives. In an ADHD world we can pick choose and refuse the leaders and role models we want in our lives. Turn the channel... there's another one!!!

I will say this. Some potential role models have made it easy for us. Charles Barkley (former NBA suerstar) always said that he didn't want to be a role model for kids. Thanks Charles, you're not. Added to that list is reigning superstar Lebron James. His sulk act on the weekend, upon losing to the Orlando Magic, has ensured that even greatness has its limits. In a reprisal of Isaiah Thomas Pistons ducking out early when the Bulls had dethroned them back in 1990, the man-child Lebron took his toys and went home. No congrats, no good luck, just a sulk. You have made a serious error LBJ. Ask Michael.

So as with most athletes, celebrities and the like, it is best to admire them for their prowess and talent, but leave the hero worship alone. Our kids who idolize these arrogant and highly overpaid "stars" are learning nothing here. Failure to act properly will not grant you favour in the eyes of scrutinizing parents! We seek people with a bit more... substance (and not substance abuse AROD). In times where our kids are more involved and have more distractions, it is almost impossible to find someone who fits the ideal leader, someone we can comfortably call a role model.

Bermuda is awash in violence, gangs seeking vengeance against each other and now people are afraid, scared of what is happening behind our backs. What does our child think? Who do they admire? What should we do? Who is leading my child? We struggle to find answers. Teachers, politicians, church and social leaders are certainly attempting to do their part. With parents working longer hours to make ends meet, and the end of the school year approaching we will have more kids looking for leaders in all the wrong places.

Let's back track two weeks. Let's look at the "gang-land" murders. The victim slain was 27 years old. This was no child. This was a man of age, who was seemingly involved in a gang. How many people that age are actually involved in gangs? Aren't these "men" supposed to be the ones our adolescent youth look up to? Who are the leaders? Who are the role models. Our society has a serious disconnect. Years of "peter pan" syndrome has run rampant in Bermuda. Boys afraid to grow up. Boys not becoming men. It is a serious disease... and the beat goes on.

For far too long we have sought to make leaders, role models out of people who have not asked for such a burden and as such we should not be giving it to them. Too many young men find themselves victims of drugs, alcohol, and violence. Too many boys are having children. Unmarried and unemployed, they seek refuge on the streets and when the going gets tough... people die.

So where are the leaders? Where are the role models? Who should our kids seek when the going gets tough? When do we accept that our system is broken, and God does not save lives at 2:45 on a Friday afternoon. It's time for a gut-check. It's time for a plan. We need to empower our youth to lead productive lives and show them that there are viable alternatives to the ways of the streets. It requires work, cooperation and patience.

Last but not least, this isn't a black problem or a white problem... its a Bermudian problem.

The state of our education.

2009-05-29T10:23:00.000-03:00

The Cambridge International Curriculum. In a positive move, our Government has decided that this will be the future of our education system. Ten years into their reign the PLP government are finally doing away with the badly broken and archaic system implemented by the UBP some fifteen years or more before they took power. It wasn't going to be easy. Let's be thankful that education is finally on the front burner.

Truth be told, the "middle school" idea for Bermuda was a broken system from day one. Speaking with a "consultant" on board an Air Canada flight from Toronto who was being brought in to help develop the idea, he told me that Canada was moving away from the idea. That was 25 years ago... at least. While there are still calls for "Junior High Schools" "Intermediate Schools" or "Middle Schools", and many countries around the world still use these systems, the idea works best in places of higher populations. It is unrealistic to have an overly complex system in an area where it is not needed. Our legacy of the "Middle School" "Super High School" is a failed one. It has not provided the structure or support needed for our youth and is currently producing people that are not prepared for further education. So many of our kids are fighting to get out of school at 16, simply because they are not getting the education they need. Too many kids are being pushed through the "meat grinder".

As I stated. It's not an easy thing. The struggle to increase graduation rates, attendance rates and reduce issues of illiteracy will be the primary battles to be won. I am heartened by the idea that the Bermuda College is now offering free courses, and the discussions as to their mission (a 2 year school or a 4 year institution) should continue to be explored. I only hope that once all the puzzle pieces come together, Primary, Secondary and College levels of education are productive.

When I defend the need for my children to attend private schools, my greatest argument is that they can be held accountable for the sale of their product. The Government's system offers no such accountability. If my child struggles and fails in a Private School, as a paying customer, it is my right to demand satisfaction. In the current public system, there is no such accountability. Kids can come and go as they please, and teachers aren't given any incentive to produce a quality education. Let's hope with the move to the new system that it not only inspires the government, but the kids as well.

Education first... our future depends on it.

Divine Intervention...

2009-05-28T14:11:00.000-03:00

It is interesting that in times of personal challenge we seek guidance and support from the Lord. In the wake of the shootings over the weekend, local churches here in Bermuda held a prayer vigil in order to show support as a community. It's a nice idea, and the idea behind community activism is the correct one, but it will honestly take a lot more than a prayer service a t a few churches to get beyond the violence.

In my own personal spiritual quest, I have found that there are too many roads to the top of the mountain and too many "guarantees" that this road is the right one. Sorry, but if you step outside the box for a second, God isn't doing such a great job... is he? Let's look at facts. What has he accomplished in the last 2010 years? Promises of what is to come? Really? Keep praying. People are still being killed in all corners of our world and in our community.... and that's just the beginning.

Ok... go get your St. James Bible or your NIV, or whatever it is you choose to thump and start looking up the doctrines. Yes, I know... burn in hell, everlasting life, Jesus died for us and all that good stuff. It's no wonder the bible is always on the best-seller list. No, I won't get into the science versus creation debate, I'm getting into the here and now debate. God isn't saving lives, not on our streets, not on many other streets around the world. Has anyone seen the crisis in Eastern Africa recently? The oppresion of the monks in Burma, the slaughter of the Tamils in Sri Lanka? It's a sin what's happening over there, innocents dying, slaughtered.

I regress. This is Bermuda, paradise found... yup, and a few prayer groups will lift the spirits of a nation hungry for resolution, desperate for answers, praying for God to fill the hearts of the wicked and save some souls!!!! YES!!!! Can you feel it???

Eh.... I have an itch.

Let's be serious. God is not moving the hearts of those that did this. Let's hope he inspires a few witnesses. Maybe a parent, a church going believer of god will hand over their child if they know that they are involved. Maybe they will be so overcome in inspiration in the love of God that they will want justice to be served. Keep praying my people. God is not parting the clouds and showing the way to salvation. He (or she for the feminists) really hasn't done a lot to bring these sinners to justice. Judgement day awaits... until then they live the life of Reilly.

I'm just not feeling it... are you?

The answers lie in each of us coming together as a community and working together. If that happens in a church, so be it, but let's not think for a second that God will have anything to do with it.

The war at home...

2009-05-25T06:43:00.000-03:00

It's quiet now. As we look forward to the celebration of our country, Bermuda Day, a huge cloud hangs over head. In two days over the weekend 5 people were shot in separate incidents in what has been termed a "feud" between local gangs. One person has died at this point, we have no reports of any other fatalities as of this time. Is it over? Let's hope so.

I waited a couple of days to write this, simply because I needed to get my thoughts in order. Let's run through the emotional checklist. Shocked: No, Worried: Yes, Angry: Yes, Hopeful: Yes. I could go on and on. These acts of violence in our community are seemingly commonplace now, and we should all understand that it just won't go away. We can't pray for guidance and we can't wish it away. It is here and now, and we must deal with it here and now.

It is strange that not so long ago, the local daily newspaper ran a series of articles on Gang Life. We had experts here talking to students, people who had lived the life, and more importantly had lived to tell about it. I'm not sure how many students needed the message. The victim who's life was taken was 27. I'm sure he didn't, and those who shot him didn't get that message. He probably skipped school that day. I apologize, that's a bad joke at a time we need to find answers, find hope and that we should all be terrified that this war isn't over.

Still, we have to believe that at some point in the future, people will recognize that gang-life is a way of life and that we can't just sweep it under a rock. The police for all of their efforts can not predict when these things will happen and we are all handcuffed to a time and place that if we are in the vicinity of a gang member, if we know it or not, we could find ourselves as innocent by-standers, and maybe even victims. It truly is a scary thought. When will we be safe?

What makes Bermuda special is that in fact we are one community. Our size and population, smaller than Camden, New Jersey, demands that we are in deed a community, and that we have every right to treat it as such! Crime is inevitable. The challenges for young males to find their place in life, to accept positive leadership roles is huge, but we must prevail. It is our burden, our responsibility, our challenge. We must restore confidence and fight the status quo. We must work together, east end, west end, Middletown and 42nd Street, it doesn't matter where you are. Ord Road or Fairylands, Jonestown or Wellington. The voices of the many MUST outweigh the stupidity of a few.

Our community is such that we know who is responsible, we know someone who knows someone, who knows why this has happened. We must not leave it to the police to solve the problem. It's our problem and it's time we dealt with it. It will hurt. It won't be easy. Someone's child will be held accountable, gangs must realize that they can not keep our community hostage any longer. We can not allow the gang-life to continue to threaten the fabric of our society. How do we do this? We organize. Parish councils, committees, working together in every corner of society. This isn't about US and THEM, its not about BLACK or WHITE. It's about Bermuda, One community, One heart.

Happy Bermuda Day everyone. Let's hope for our future.

The passion inside me.

2009-05-24T14:18:00.000-03:00

Aside from my wife and family, there has only ever been one real passion in my life. There has been, only one, that I have carried with me since before my cousin passed away many years ago. This affair has given me many wonderful moments, and along with many others this affair was one that we were never more faithful toward.

Newcastle United. Now finished with the English Premier League, relegated after 16 years to the Championship. My love, my pain, and now my sorrow. A year of ultimate frustration has lead us to the end of our life in the Premiership. In truth it has been a club in decline for the past few seasons. Still there was a grit, a fight in them that always kept us in the mid-table, and we had hoped for so much more. The Newcastle fans, known throughout the world as the "Toon Army" are some of the most passionate in the world. I often told my son that it takes real "cajones" to support a team like Newcastle. It's easy to support the Manchester Uniteds, Liverpools, Arsenals and Chelseas, because they don't understand struggle. They don't understand support. They don't understand pain. 40 years without silverware. Try and do that.

So, as we found yet another loss today, my son said to me. "Who will you support next year dad?"

"Newcastle United" I replied. "until I die."

Who do you Trust?

2009-05-22T09:30:00.000-03:00

In Disney's "The Jungle Book" the slithering snake Kaa makes a near successful attempt to get the man-cub Mowgli to "Trust in me" as he mesmerizes the young boy and lulls him to sleep with his perilous song. Only an intervention by the "bad-guy" Shere Khan prevents Kaa from making Mowgli a sumptuous snake snack!

"You can believe in me." Kaa says. Really. We've heard the words of a few snakes in our day, and unfortunately for us it becomes harder and harder to distinguish the snakes in today's world. It was easy in the children's movie. While the snake was bad, he really wasn't the one to fear. The polished and more slick Shere Khan provided the ultimate menace and even as the story has been re-written a few times since, it is this simple tale that provides the important morals for our island life.

So where did we go wrong? Where did we lose our focus? Who is in fact the "one to trust'? In Bermuda it is now a war between the daily printed media who continues to sing it's song "Trust in me" and the polished slick premier Ewart Brown who really holds all the power. We have seen this before haven't we? The daily gazette has been a constant source of irritation for the premier, so much so that they have been banished for their inability to report the truth, or at least their version of it. The fun has begun!

In the last few years the media has pulled out the PATI idea (Public Access To Information) seeking what they call transparency. Since then it's been (continuing our hollywood script idea) a Tom Cruise/Jack Nicholson standoff from "A Few Good Men"...

Jessup: "You want answers?"

Kaffee: "I think I'm entitled..."

Jessup: "You want answers?"

Kaffee: "I WANT THE TRUTH!"

Jessup: "YOU CAN'T HANDLE THE TRUTH!"

It's almost too funny isn't it? A lack of trust between the ruling government lead by the slick (depending on your point of view) Ewart Brown, and the antagonist Gazette editor Bill Zuill has lead to the point where no official government statements will be given to the Gazette. With a swipe of his paw, Shere Khan has dismissed the nuisance Kaa out of hand, and has kept his mission in line. Destruction of the man-cub. Now we're not sure if Khan or should we say Brown's mission is that clear. With rumours of dissention and possible leadership challenges within his pride, Khan... I mean Brown will have to keep his eyes open and his claws sharpened. He is very busy trying to keep the forest in order, his ducks aligned, and ensuring that he gets the pizza that he paid for!

Stuck in the middle of all of this is Mowgli, the hunted man-cub, protected by a few dedicated friends who try and steer him to safety. They may not have all the answers, but they must keep him going. There is little transparency in the dense jungle. All kinds of traps are set, and if he's not careful Kaa (the media) or worse Khan (Brown) may actually influence him into becoming dinner. His friends push him and pull him and try and make sense of all the craziness of the day.

At the end, they can save him from Khan, but not from himself. For it is in his own need for comfort and acceptance that Mowgli falls for the blushing beauty of a young girl. Let's hope that we are that lucky.

Happy 400th Birthday Bermuda!

2009-05-21T11:22:00.000-03:00

"Bermuda is another world - 700 miles at sea.
And the way the people greet you - is like a friendly melody.
To touch a flower in the morning - to listen to a honey bee.
To hear a bird who sings a song - just to say that he is free." - Hubert Smith

Happy Birthday Bermuda!! 400 years old! As May 24th approaches, BERMUDA DAY, it is a special time for all who have lived and prospered in our pink sand paradise! I have often said, if you can't make it here, you can't make it anywhere. Like modern day pirates we have plundered our way to a way of life not many in the world would dream of! Yes, Bermuda truly is... another world!

Our "neverland" existence has afforded us many luxuries. Untilmost recently, jobs were plentiful and most Bermudians have lived the life of Reilly (who is he anyway?). 90 minutes to New York City, if you catch that early morning American Airlines flight, you can be in mid-town Manhattan well before noon! How many people on the east cost would complain over that commute? Bermudians have access to most airports on the eastern U.S. seaboard and with regular flights to the U.K. and Canada, it is pretty tough to not find someplace to go! Which leads us to a thought. If it's so easy to leave, and most Bermudians can't wait to leave... are we truly that blessed to live here?

Ahhh Bermuda, for all of its rich beauty and heritage, most Bermudians still need to "get off the rock." The funny thing about that is, we make it easy for Bermudians to leave, but are we doing everything in our power to attract people... tourists, to come to our little haven? What do we offer in competition with much cheaper locales in the Caribbean and Mexico? A cruise to Bermuda offers one port. A Caribbean cruise offers many ports, and if you choose the right cruise you can include Mexico on your vacation as well! Bermuda beaches are beautiful, pink sand and loads of sun. It would be hard to find anything as beautiful. That said, should pink sand be the main reason for people to come here? What about the golf? Loads of choices for the avid golfer, some of the best in the world. More golf courses per square mile than anywhere else (fact). Still if golf is your game, isn't Myrtle Beach the place to go? Where do Bermudian golfers go on vacation? Yup... Myrtle Beach. Not many Bermudians hang around the rock for a Golf vacation. True, they play here all year long so why hang around? We've hosted the Grand Slam of Golf here for two years, and have failed miserably in attracting the tiger to even give us a sniff.

There are changes in the wind. Fairmont Hotels, which own 2 properties here, run one as a resort, the other as a business mans hotel, a City Center, so to speak. We have failed to fill other resorts beds in recent years - Sonesta Beach (failed), Club Med (Failed) and numerous other resort properties have or are failing as I write this. Yet we push on. Club Med is gone, to be replaced by another resort sometime soon. Sonesta is in it's third or fourth re-design (who keeps count) cutting room numbers down dramatically to appear as a profitable business. It's a head scratching, confusing and frustrating deal for a tourism department.

So where does this leave our venerable industry? Tourism at one time was built from the ground up. College weeks brought in wild and crazy kids from the east coast for a week of partying and getting to know Bermuda. College Weeks is gone. With it is the hope that these kids, and when they get married would come here on a honeymoon, and for future anniversaries filled with memories and families and legacies. All...gone. We have directed our market to a specific clientele. Have we? What clientele? Our marketing strategies have been repeated failures and if it wasn't for the conventioneer or the businessman 3 day stay, we'd probably have no industry at all. We do NOT compete with the Caribbean or Mexico on any level, simply because we can not offer what they offer.

Thus comes the plea for that NEW idea of bringing casinos to our shores. Surely such evils will be resisted. What next? Burlesque? Strip Bars and nude beaches? The conservative, religious right are cringing at the thought. Not on our island. Not today, not ever! We will not become another Negril or Cancun, no way... no how. Yet we are willing to let the tax cheating pirates from the U.S. insurance market flood our shores with their treasure laden coffers filled... hidden away from U.S. authorities, and employing many young Bermudians with no security for the future! That's right people. As fast as they came, they can leave and we can't stop them. If they need to move their treasure to another island to keep it safe... they will do so! What happens then? Our ever efficient government (Premier included) are testing the powers that be in Washington D.C. this week. Nothing like kissing a little backside! Pucker up guys!

This brings us back to tourism, our backup plan. What backup plan? Our #2 industry... Can someone please explain it to me? We're on course for some dramatic times my fellow bermudians. You have no idea.

Re-inventing Michael Vick

2009-05-20T07:41:00.000-03:00

Michael Vick gets to go home today. In his worst nightmare, he wouldn't have imagined that his life would have turned out this way. With two months of house arrest to go, he is ready to get on with his life... and why shouldn't he?

Apologies to all the animal lovers who are still upset with the man for making a mistake. Apologies to the animal rights activists who still see him as enemy number 1. He's not. Aside from NFL defenses, he never hurt a single human being. Not that he was charged a crime for anyway. He was convicted for running a dog-fighting operation. A horrible thing for sure, and to that end he has paid for his crime in both prison and in his wallet.

There is a lot of talk about how he will be able to continue his livelihood once his "time" is officially over. There is a lot of talk as to what teams would "risk" an unpopular move by taking a chance on Michael Vick. Are you kidding me? Michael Vick is an impact maker. A player who makes a difference on the field. Certainly there were questions about his ability as a "Pocket QB" but there can be no questions about the man's athletic ability.

Back to the main issue. Many people have done things a lot worse than Michael Vick has done. Many have come out of prison and led highly productive lives. There is absolutely no reason to believe that Michael Vick won't. For a man to be denied an opportunity to resume a career that was at a level higher than most in the prime of his life is frankly... unacceptable. For the better part of 2 seasons football fans have been denied seeing him on the football field. It would be a bigger crime if he wasn't able to do that again. If he's physically and emotionally ready to return to the NFL, and if the Atlanta Falcons seriously consider it, he should be given every opportunity to earn a spot on the team he still is under contract with.

The crime is done, the sentence (according to the law) has fit the crime and it is long time that we begin the healing process and allow a very talented football player a second chance. Animal lovers and activists must continue to fight, but must continue to direct their anger at those who are still abusing, not those who aren't. Continued anger at Vick and the NFL is wrong. It is time to let those wounds heal.

To NFL Commissioner Tagliabue and Falcons owner Arthur Blank. Remember the player he was, the person he was. The man we know as Michael Vick has paid enough. Give him his second chance.

Talent...

2009-05-19T09:22:00.000-03:00

I have moments etched in my mind that explode like fireworks on the 4th of July. I am mesmerized by a group of kids with the power to transform lives with lyrics that pull at the very heartstrings of those who choose to walk along with them. At a time where the boundaries of art are limitless, we are inspired by those who can break through the vices that are sworn to hold them down.

It is in these Brave New Voices, that we celebrate their victories, and cry with them as they share their pains. Their prayers for the future, their recognition of history and their place in the world today. These poets, kids, dazzle us with lyrics that are truly beyond anything we have seen before, they amaze us with their dramatic and exquisite emotional representations of the world they live in.

It is a wonderful thing. To find artists dedicated to greatness, offering a heartfelt expose of the times of their lives. Their thoughts on the most debated topics of the day. Like a painter, they give us colour and texture, like a dancer they give us movement and grace, like a musician, they work to a resounding crescendo and bring us safely home again. We are truly blessed to share in their journeys, and left drained by the sheer magnitude of their works. It is not often that we can give credence to such lyrical genius. One would be prodigious, many are simply mind-blowing.

There comes a time when we must sit back and simply be left in awe. Anyone who watched this series on HBO will completely understand how much this means.

The Money Crunch

2009-05-18T12:51:00.000-03:00

I guess it is a sign of the times. Money is tight. If the big bucks corporations are getting billions in bailout bucks, it was only a matter of time before that ripple effect hit the far corners of the world. Even here in Bermuda, a haven for the uber-rich, we are seeing the effects of a lack of funds. Having never had to worry about work in my life, I now find myself for the best part of four months... unemployed. Twenty five years in the work force has led me to the point where I'm seriously questioning decisions I have made the past few years.

As with most, sacrifice are made. I don't expect it should carry on much longer, but until then it's going to be an irritant for me, and those who have lived with the benefits of my labour. Yes, it's a time to learn for my kids, who thought that daddy's wallet had an endless supply of cash and if not the ATM machine would easily fill it up. Oops... that isn't the case. With less and less opportunities in the employment sections of the newspapers, this is easily the most frustrating period of my life.

I'm not alone in this. More and more local companies are laying off people. Competition for jobs, once a problem other countries faced, is becoming more of an issue every day. Am I scared? Sure. I'm not 21, and have more responsibilities than I did back then. Gone are the days where I could do shifts, working 12 hour weekends and public holidays. It hasn't gotten to the point where I'm considering that, but who knows? I might just have to.

As I said, I'm not alone. It is the hardest time our generation has ever faced. We have always endured strains before. Hurricane season is coming as well. It is a perilous ledge we are perched upon. it would not be unrealistic to find that our financial crisis would be drastically deepened should we get a visit from something such as that. Our ability to recover, which has always been one of our strongest points, could be well and truly tested.

Gloom and Doom? Not yet.... not yet.

Defending your political stance

2009-05-17T12:41:00.000-03:00

It took some time. I had always walked a liberal line and even though I never felt the need to defend such a stance, it has become more prevalent now than ever before. The days of voting the family way are long gone, and in Bermuda where voting has always been done along the family line and more recently... a racial line it is even more important to find a set of values among the hyperbolic rhetoric that one can be consumed by. FInding a reputable media source, a way of thinking that supports your personal values, your personal visions, and the way you see the world is as important now than ever before.

It is not so black and white. The choices are many and the repercussions are laden with problems, everything from ridicule to accepting responsibility for your actions. In the U.S. the right would believe in the right to life and the right to take it. Guns and babies. A strange combination to be sure. While that stance is accepted in many parts, it is seen now as an extreme, one that should scare most open minded citizens. It is difficult to understand how having a gun on one hand while asking people to keep an unwanted fetus makes any sense at all.

The left is equally beset with it's own issues. Mainly their lack of incisive decision making. There is hope in the path of Obama, but we should realize that his presidency will be ultimately defined by how well he rebuilds his own country. It's strange to live outside the U.S. but be so intrigued by their political process and their ideas on democracy. Truly there is no middle ground for the liberal at heart. Ideally it is unknown whether we should look at the American model as the ideal one. A country that still struggles to find answers to basic health care and with an education system so backwards it is hard to imagine how anyone can ever become president.

The other influence, Britain, which may have more of an influence on us, as we are set up with the British "Parliament" also is bereft with problems. Labour or Conservative - much like Bermuda. Unfortunately, there is also a lack of a third choice here as well. The "either/or" idea is one whose time has truly passed. If we do not find representation here we are left to making the best of poor choices.

The search for a true middle ground goes on. One without religious connections, or family ones. One that is not based on race, creed or culture, one that is truly dedicated to human rights and will be held accountable to the people.

Good luck to us all.

Tales from the Triangle's Tip....

The Assimilation degree...

Who we hate... why we hate...

Random Thoughts...

The Independence Myth...

Sins of the sons.... (and grandsons)

Behind These Castle Walls...

Stepping into the deep end...

Breaking through...

Back to life... back to reality.

Rain... and other problems.

More noise...

“Ten people who speak make more noise than ten thousand who are silent.” - Napoleon Bonaparte

“It is perhaps a more fortunate destiny to have a taste for collecting shells than to be born a millionaire” - Robert Louis Stevenson

Introducing.... The Alliance!

“One man may hit the mark, another blunder; but heed not these distinctions. Only from the alliance of the one, working with and through the other, are great things born.” -

Antoine de Saint-Exupery

Why I blog...

“We cannot seek achievement for ourselves and forget about progress and prosperity for our community... Our ambitions must be broad enough to include the aspirations and needs of others, for their sakes and for our own." - Cesar Chavez

“We are what we think. All that we are arises with our thoughts. With our thoughts, we make the world." - Buddha

The power of people....

Bermuda Softball - Our National Spirit.

“Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.”

You gotta have faith....

“Faith is the bird that feels the light and sings when the dawn is still dark.” - Rabindranath Tagore

Becoming a lean green machine....

Who Are We???

“Culture of the mind must be subservient to the heart" - Ghandi

“When you have completed 95 percent of your journey, you are only halfway there.” Japanese Proverb

If this is it then, let's have at it!

“If you know the enemy and know yourself you need not fear the

results of a hundred battles.” - Sun Tzu

Wisdom - Why we must endure...

“The doorstep to the temple of wisdom is a knowledge of our own ignorance.” - Benjamin Franklin

Racism - the work still to be done.

Ze Selassie Guilty...

Random Thoughts...

“When I examine myself and my methods of thought, I come to the conclusion that the gift of fantasy has meant more to me than any talent for abstract, positive thinking.” - Albert Einstein

Commitment to Excellence

“Excellence can be obtained if you:...care more than others think is wise;...risk more than others think is safe;...dream more than others think is practical;...expect more than others think is possible.” - Unknown

Hope for the future.....

Bermuda dreams...

Viva la Revolution!!!

“To accomplish much you must first lose everything.” - Che Guavara

Thoughts....

Role Models

The state of our education.

Divine Intervention...

The war at home...

The passion inside me.

Who do you Trust?

Happy 400th Birthday Bermuda!

Re-inventing Michael Vick

Talent...

The Money Crunch

Defending your political stance

“Excellence can be obtained if you:
...care more than others think is wise;
...risk more than others think is safe;
...dream more than others think is practical;
...expect more than others think is possible.” - Unknown