Hitchens & Sharpton / Unconstitutionality / West Bank "purge"

Below you will find a link to a debate between Christopher Hitchens and Al Sharpton on the existence of God and the authority of religion.   Hitch is brilliant as always in his critique of religion, but I was especially impressed with what he said regarding Israel.  I believe he talks about that in part 4.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pvbeLhExaas&feature=related

It is highly unconstitutional for the States to fund efforts to settle the West Bank in an effort to fulfill prophecy and bring on armageddon. For starters, if you already know what the "prophecy" is, then it isn't all that magical for you to fulfill it. Secondly, America has separation of church and state and therefore can not legally use taxpayers money to fund a foreign crusade like that.

It's one thing to support our ally...it's quite different to support kicking poor, desperate and uneducated people off their land just because old books say we should. They aren't the amalakites.

Also, here is a paraphrased version of something Hitch said during the debate regarding human progress.

‎"Where alchemy ends, chemistry begins. Where astrology ends, astronomy begins."

I would also add the following :  Where superstition ends....our future begins.   Only by letting go of primitive and familiar beliefs can we ever hope to evolve as a species.

C.K.

Hitchens is dead

This past Thursday, December 15th 2011, brought a heart-breaking headline, although it was somewhat expected.   Christopher Hitchens, one of the most intelligent and controversial writers in the world passed away after a lengthy fight against the odds.  After a life of chain smoking, drinking and other vices, he finally succumbed to cancer, yet offered no regrets for his choice of lifestyle which hastened his demise.  I think his only regret was not having more time to spend with his family...and possibly not being able to debate religion again.   He said publicly that he wouldn't change anything if he could do it all over again.

Never before has one person transformed and galvanized my opinions on such a wide variety of issues.  He will be dearly missed.   On the bright side however, I do feel that his death will bring his work to the surface even more, hopefully reaching people who would've never heard of him or challenged their beliefs before.

Hitch was sometimes arrogant and aggressive in his views, but a deep and reaching legacy is now his for all time.  There are a million pieces online eulogizing Mr. Hitchens and I think it's fair to say I can't give a very good or accurate rendition of the man's life.  But he certainly changed mine.  :)   R.I.P.

Below are two quotes of Hitch speaking about Mother Teresa and religion.   Controversial yet true no matter how uncomfortable to challenge convention.

"[Mother Teresa] was not a friend of the poor. She was a friend of poverty. She said that suffering was a gift from God. She spent her life opposing the only known cure for poverty, which is the empowerment of women and the emancipation of them from a livestock version of compulsory reproduction." - 


“Religion is man-made. Even the men who made it cannot agree on what their prophets or redeemers or gurus actually said or did.” -


** photo and quotes taken from : http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/features/2011/12/201112169397371919.html




C.K.

Stem Cell Research / Sam Harris / Gaddafi : Endgame

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4LpIeJSkLEg&feature=related

Above is a link to a lecture given by Sam Harris, entitled The End of Faith.  Which is also the title of one of his many books I believe.   He delves into the "logic" behind arguments against stem cell research, which shows such amazing promise for our species.  This video obviously also deals with religion and it's impact on the human brain and the world, by shining light on important subjects such as the preaching in Africa that condoms are essentially evil.  I would say that helping contribute to the further spread of aids and the deaths of millions, is not only immoral, but also criminal.

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Here is an excellent documentary series done by the Al Jazeera network entitled "Gaddafi : Endgame".

http://www.aljazeera.com/programmes/gaddafitheendgame/2011/12/201112874023937788.html

It follows the Libyan ppl as they were rising against the late Libyan dictator and shows things from the perspective of those fighting for their freedom.

   

C.K.

Largest Black Hole yet / Earth-like planet confirmed / Assange wins right to appeal

http://slatest.slate.com/posts/2011/12/05/new_black_hole_discovery_uc_berkley_scientists_find_largest_black_hole_yet.html

Above is a link to an article about astronomers finding the largest black-hole to date.  A super-massive BH that weighs as much as 21 billion times the weight of our sun.

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Also, an earth-like planet has been confirmed about 600 light-years away with an average temperature of 22 degrees celcius.  It would be a perfect candidate to host liquid water, although it is not yet known if the planet is made of mainly liquid, rock or gas.

Article here:  http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/science-environment-16040655

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http://slatest.slate.com/posts/2011/11/02/wikileaks_founder_loses_extradition_appeal.html

Above is an update on Julian Assange and his attempts to remain in Britain, so he is not extradited to Sweden where he can be questioned for alleged sexual assault (but mainly because the U.S. will likely try to bring him to the States to face charges)

I don't have much sympathy for Mr. Assange, even if he is innocent of the charges in Sweden. Sure, his group helped to promote more transparency in governments...but they also directly contributed to the deaths of soldiers and under-cover operatives by releasing troop positions/strategies and secret information on spies working abroad.

Also.... despite the millions of classified documents released, I can't think of any huge names that have been exposed or any big cases brought against ppl for their crimes. Maybe I just haven't heard about them?   Still I have to ask myself was it worth it?? 

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Finally is an article by Dr Michio Kaku, giving an update on the neutrinos that seemed to out-race a beam of light.  

http://bigthink.com/ideas/41222

‎"A couple of months ago, physicists at CERN, Switzerland, claimed they had found a fatal flaw in Einstein's theory of relativity........... After some criticism, they refined their experiments this week, made more precise measurements, and still confirmed their original findings. "

This is pretty huge, although it all does seem to come down to the GPS (which uses relativity itself, to calculate the differences in time between earth and space).  Apart from possibly punching a hole in much of Einstein's theory, if relativity is wrong, so is string theory and the possibility of other dimensions/universes is diminished.

C.K.

Anti - American sentiment - West is not to blame for Islamic extremists

 

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GBxj-uhKx4I&feature=related

Above is a link to another very good clip by Christopher Hitchens in debate, when he is accused of supporting the United States' "crimes" in Iraq and elsewhere, while his opponent is basically saying the West is to blame for creating terrorists.

Hitch schools this poor bastard as usual, giving a razor sharp rebuttal on how this is absolutely untrue.  He can be somewhat hard to follow at times because he's so hyper-articulate and intelligent, but the last few minutes are such and important and accurate reflection of my own thoughts on us in the West....and the people who seem to jump on the bandwagon against this.

Below is Hitch again in an interview, explaining why it was right to invade Iraq.   There, of course, are many different sides to every story, but Christopher Hitchens seems to cover most of them....at the same time.  :)

Get well.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=E96-2BftzGE&feature=related



C.K.

More Bullshit! - Psychics / Talking to the Dead

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zb39htpY6dU

People who exploit people's grief, hopes, religion and fear are among the ppl I loathe the most.   100% of it can be explained scientifically.....through psychology, cold and hot reading as well as other methods.   And these days with the internet or cheap P.I.'s, it's so much easier for these "mediums" to get extra info to fish with.

Sure it may leave you walking away feeling better, thinking you connected with someone who's passed..... but that doesn't change the fact that it's a scam.  These bastards get rich off of people who are feeling weak and are looking for someone to turn to in their time of need.   Instead of dealing with their issues and grief, they are handed a big steaming pile of bullshit...which might make them feel a bit better at the time, but it's essentially a band-aid solution that only masks the problem.    Those issues with grief and fear are going to recur....and then it's time to go back to the fraud.

Magicians and illusionists like Penn and Teller, Copperfield or any other famous magic act never claim to actually have supernatural powers.  And that's because they feel it's immoral to do so.   A magician or mentalist could do the exact same thing a psychic does, except they won't bullshit you and tell you it's real.   Psychics just further the issues of denial and grief...and then they prey on the knowledge that person or their friends will come back.

Some may say it's harmless or fun.   Personally, I think it's time our society outgrows this primitive nonsense.

image of Sylvia Browne  found at: http://www.corporatenarc.com/sylviabrownescam.php
(she looked two parents in the eyes on Montel once and told them their child was dead and even said where to look...they then found the kid alive and well, being kept by some sick f***)

  

More BULLSHIT - PETA & Ingrid Newkirk

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kXUPy-dCx4&feature=related

I'm all for the ethical treatment of animals.  Who isn't?   But I have always been rather against their methods and extreme exaggerations of the way things are.   There are always people that commit atrocities against animals and people...and those are the videos they like to show to gain support and sympathy.   They show the one guy in a thousand that beats the shit out of his dog....or makes the cow's last few minutes on earth even more miserable before it's turned into a tasty burger. just kidding (well...kinda)

We all are disgusted by these things and would like them to stop.  But violence against people like the humane society manager in this video.....or scientists trying to come up with cures for many of the diseases that afflict us is simply wrong and counter-intuitive bullshit.

There is evidence suggesting that PETA's leader Ingrid Newkirk was directly involved in facilitating the fire-bombing of a university laboratory. It is shown in the second part of the above clip.  WTF?!?!?!?!  They don't want animals hurt, but they have no problem if some janitor working midnights gets hit by a molotov cocktail?????  F*** that!!!

I have to say in conclusion that I do respect some aspects of the animal right and environmentalist movements.   Increased awareness is needed in many areas.   But I also find it revolting how so many people are so extreme in the beliefs of animal rights, but seem completely indifferent on issues like mental health. You just know these are the sort of people that would walk by a homeless person, sneering and judging them... or worse.    I think we all need to do our best to protect nature and all the creatures of this earth.   But in the interest of evolution (and common sense) we should be more focused on human rights and ensuring that no human being on this planet goes through what these animals sometimes do.   It's still happening, more than most people know.... or would like to admit.

Penn & Teller : Bullshit - Global Warming

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9Yb56lLnyyE

"Man made Global Warming is BULLSHIT !!! See how and why you are sold the lie of global warming to enslave you into a system of feudal serfdom."


- OK. First off, the above description of the youtube video is way too much...sounds exactly like one of those conspiracy movies. haha but it's somewhat true.  We could all be wiped out by a comet tonight and the earth would continue heating up and cooling down in accordance with the sun cycle.

Normally i dont trust tv shows or movies for information, but this seems right on...and it's a point I've been trying to make for years (same with the middle east and I've been called a fool for that too lol) i might be a fool in many ways, but I think I'm right about these issues (of course).

Here's a fun little fact for ya : 97% of all Carbon Dioxide emissions are from nature.....volcanoes and the like. Even today with 7 billion ppl, we only account for 3%!!!!

I will try to post some more facts as I come across them, but for now this will have to do.   We all still need to do our part to preserve our environment, obviously.  But the amount of guilt forced on us is ridiculous and it's just another cash grab by many people.  And even worse...as these ppl gain power and money, they then gain more influence in politics.   If you think their only agenda is saving the earth...well, I don't know what to say.  There are many genuine environmentalists out there who do a lot of good work, but these are not the ppl like Gore who are trying to win power and more money through the process.

Threats against Nato from Iran / Syria ignores Arab League requests

Iran is saying they will attack NATO's missile defense bases in Turkey if there were to be an attack from Israel or the States.   Things are heating up, although they have been for a long time.   And there is still the issue of Syria that the international community is likely going to have to take care of first.    It's good to see The Arab League taking more of a role in these sanctions and threats against Syria though.....takes some of the work off of the U.N.'s hands.   But ultimately I think the withdrawal from Iraq and gradual reduction in Afghanistan will just free up more soldiers for these next interventions.   Hopefully with the help of NATO and the U.N. like in Libya.
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Iran:
http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle-east/iran-threatens-to-target-nato-missile-shield-in-turkey-if-attacked-by-us-or-israel/2011/11/26/gIQA1R7jyN_story.html

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Syria :
http://www.nytimes.com/2011/11/26/world/middleeast/syria-lets-arab-league-deadline-on-observers-pass.html

The Oldest, Largest Body Of Water In Existence--In Space / Explosions in Iran

http://www.fastcompany.com/1769468/scientist-discover-the-oldest-largest-body-of-water-in-existence-in-space

http://www.washingtonpost.com/world/middle_east/mysterious-explosions-pose-dilemma-for-iranian-leaders/2011/11/23/gIQA8IsSvN_story.html

9/11 Conspiracy Theories & A beautiful picture of M78 Nebula

Penn & Teller : Bullshit - Debunking 9/11 Conspiracy Theories
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kcrF346sS_I

For 10 years now I have been completely against these theories and recently have felt quite vindicated seeing people like Christopher Hitchens talk about and give evidence that goes against the bullshit found in films like Fahrenheit 9/11 and Zeitgeist ( many of the OWS protesters I've seen are making the same points that are given in these disproven movies).  THis clip is from Penn & Teller's TV series Bullshit and again, amkes me feel happy that I always stuck to my guns about these issues, despite being called a fool and many other things  :)  

This is only one 9:00 portion of a longer episode on Conspiracy Theories and doesn't really go into much of the evidence....it's just a common sense rebuttal.  Which is really all you need to see through most of the theories and accusations.....like the "explosions" or windows blowing out (gas lines and air pressure).  Or the controlled demolition theory (If you take out support for the top 20 floors, that would be thousands of tonnes of pressure which can not be supported by the already damaged structure below....one floor goes, then a pancake effect follows as the weight on top steadily increases....maybe why it doesn't fall exactly at free fall speed, as some say)

This is why I’m so against Alex Jones/Zeitgeist/Michael Morre and the like.   Assholes like this convince 50% of the population to fear the government and cause possible unrest in the future.   This shows that at least part of the above-mentioned movies/ppl are ful  of shit....so I give no attention to the rest of what they say.  They’re just as bad and corrupt as the ppl/governments they try to attack.  F*** em!!!

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M78: About 1,600 light-years away and nestled in the nebula rich constellation Orion

 http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap110127.html

Piff the Magic Dragon vs Penn and Teller

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Rey_FNWQx-8

Piff the Magic Dragon and Mr Piffles the Levitating Chihuahua try to fool Penn and Teller on their U.K. game show.   Soooo funny   hahahah    

:) 8?P (:

Radiohead/Beatles : I Will

An amazing track by Radiohead followed by an equally awesome track from the Beatles, both with the same title.... I Will :)

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=euzLGUmb2MM

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=O8muJIOznsg

Facebook post transfer to the old blogski

For the last 6-8 months I have really been unable to control my excessive and somewhat crazy posting on Facebook.   In an attempt to focus more on writing about my experiences with bipolar, I'm going to start a running list of news stories with comments on those and many other things, that I would normally post on FB.   Hopefully that will help reduce the constant bombardment of posts that take up the news feed, I'm sure.

Also thinking this will be easier to look back on, to trace my moods and thoughts.  I guess I'll start with the posts from the last couple days and post from now on over here.   or try at least :)

:) 8?P (:

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Christopher Hitchens vs Mother Teresa and the Catholic Church

Below is a link to a very provocative documentary made in 1994 before Mother Teresa died.  It's made by Christopher Hitchens and is entitled "Hells Angel".  He attacks her methods and beliefs rather harshly all the time.  And I know this will offend many people...but I post it to point out how amazingly evil it was of them to parade her around, as sickly as she was, to strengthen their base of followers.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9WQ0i3nCx60&feature=BFa&list=PL063547D9B7651426&lf=rellist

metamorphoses / afterlife

I have no need for consciousness,

My only need... is to exist;

As molecules amongst the void,

As wind between the stardust mist.

And we will meet there...out in space,

A majestic and unending place;

Where we can live and be as one,

As weightless rays of a distant sun.

to be continued

© 2011 Clayton Kratz

Carina Nebula - picture found @  http://news.nationalgeographic.com/news/2011/11/pictures/111117-best-space-pictures-moon-comet-science-nebula-170-saturn/





                                                                            :) 8?P (:

Jimmy Carr's joke about JFK / Vietnam opens up long-forgotten truths

"1961 JFK sends 18,000 military advisers to Vietnam. Surprisingly none of them advise him to ‘just leave it’." - Jimmy Carr

Kennedy certainly was a powerful figure who did a lot to change the world and how we see it. But he sent in the advisors after the French had their turn, basically starting America's involvement in Vietnam.   Not to mention authorizing The Bay of Pigs fiasco, where aid was promised to rebels against Castro...who were then abandoned and left to fend for themselves with no weapons. (plz correct me if I'm wrong, been a while since I've looked into that stuff)

My point is that all politicians make huge mistakes....and only the "popular" or martyred ones are forgiven in time.  I really think Bush and Obama will be seen in the history books as very similar ideologically...and in 50 years I think they will be heroes when the world realizes the full extent of the sweeping change in the middle-east, it's roots in the war against terror and dictatorship...and it's effects on the entire globe.  

While not agreeing with many policies of JFK, Obama, or Bush.....I do think despite these mistakes they have made priceless efforts to change mankind.   And for that I think we should all be grateful.   And although I somewhat attack JFK at the beginning of this post...I must say I admire his taste in women ;)

Iran will not cooperate with IAEA

The following is an article and video dealing with the latest developments in the Iranian nuclear dilemma.

http://www.aljazeera.com/news/middleeast/2011/11/201111139221981686.html

Some of the following may throw me in line with the neo-cons in the states, but it's just how I feel on the issue....one that I think we should all be paying close attention to.

The Iranian govt said something like they aren't going to comply with the IAEA because they dont recognize their authority. Bad news Iran : you just gave the rest of the world the excuse they've been looking for. Saddam did the same shit.....and no he ended up not having WMD, but when you act like you have nukes and are historically intolerant of other religions and nations....another Iraq is inevitable. Not to mention it's in the best interests of the world economy for an internationally friendly regime to be controlling all that oil.   It would be good for both Iran, who would eventually be able to sell much more.....and also for the world who would benefit from lower prices as supply increases.  Not to mention less financial hostility between Iran and the free world.  The best interests of their own people, especially women, are most important however...who are killed, tortured and subjugated at every turn.   

 I hate the notion of going to war, but this seems inevitable.....as I've been saying for a long time.  I hope I'm wrong.   But Iran is surrounded (and surely feeling threatened)  by the Americans in Afghanistan and Iraq....and now their next-door neighbour Syria is joining in the fun of oppressing their own people and ignoring the international community.   The diplomats were unable to stop Iraq or Libya......can anything stop this now?   Let's hope.... BUT, if it does happen, I think we should all ignore the inevitable cries of profiteering and war mongering, focusing more on the fact that we would be helping to (eventually) free the citizens of Iran from their brutal existence.

A frail Hitchens receiving award at Free Thought Convention - Video

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hcsOCEe8ZpY

Regardless of your beliefs, this man is one of the best thinkers of our time.   I can't believe how thin he looks and sadly it does not look like there will be any miracles for him  :(   It's so sad to see him looking so frail, but also inspiring as well to see him push on through his speech despite the obvious fear and weakness on his face..

Never before has someone both transformed and galvanized my opinions on so many issues.   A more intelligent and free-flowing writer covering the areas of politics, religion and science will be hard to find again.

I rarely profess my love for another dude, but I love Christopher Hitchens :)

And I wish him all the best.

p.s.   here's a link to one part of the amazing "Hitchslap" series.  This segment dealing with the lies and propaganda of Michael Moore.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EFcjqFSU--E&feature=related

How the Universe came from nothing / Krauss / Dawkins

Below is a link to a lecture given by physicist Lawrence Krauss, which is hosted by Richard Dawkins.

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7ImvlS8PLIo

He explains quite well how it is scientifically possible that the universe could just come from nothing, basically removing our traditional views of God from the equation.   At times it may be a bit difficult for a laymen like myself to understand, but it is still an excellent and thought-provoking lecture that even people with no scientific background could appreciate.

Cure for cancer / Kevin Trudeau / Fraud & Corrupt Doctors

*Wikipedia intro for Kevin Trudeau*

"Trudeau's activities have been the subject of both criminal and civil action. He was convicted of larceny and credit card fraud in the early 1990s, and in 1998 paid a $500,000 fine for making false or misleading claims in his infomercials. In 2004, he consented to a lifetime ban on promoting products other than his books via infomercials."

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kevin_Trudeau

I have to say, I think it's ridiculous for anyone to say there's already a cure for cancer, especially based on some conspiracy theory that they hold it back to make more $. The person or pharma company that finds it will be SOOO rich. And as far as the FDA or government hiding it, ok....that might sell a lot more prescriptions or perhaps keep people in the hospital paying ridiculous amounts of money, but what about the health care costs associated with it?  And Mr Trudeau, if you know there's a cure for cancer and what it is....WHY ARE YOU STUCK DOING INFOMERCIALS AT 2AM?????

Also, w/respect to "corrupt" doctors, just like cops, lawyers or politicians....there are bound to be a lot of good ones and a few that ruin it for everyone. In the states where most of these theories start, I can see the concern because I think doctors get paid by prescription.....perhaps not.  But the laws are certainly different up here in Canada. They get paid by the visit and by the government (for the most part) ...and while they may be treated to free samples or vacations or dinners....they are under no obligation to try the products on patients afterwards. Furthermore, who cares if their rich friends treat them to vacations and try to convince them something works?!?!?! They were smart enough to make it through med school, they are smart enough to do the research and figure out what's best on their own. PLUS they work like 80+ hours/week, I say let them be bribed. Keep em happy and doing a good job.

Relativity / Speed of Light Broken?

Just thinking about the experiment that apparently fired a neutrino at faster than the speed of light. If they test this again and it's true, it doesn't mean Einstein was wrong in his equation E=mc2 ( energy = mass x speed of light(squared) )

- Light from the sun still takes an exact amount of time to reach us (8 seconds I believe) and it still takes a billionth of a second for these words to bounce off your eyeballs. -- If true, I think it will just prove that, like time, the speed of light is relative.....maybe Einstein just didnt live long enough to work it out

Giant Galaxy NGC 6872 
Image Credit: Sydney Girls High School Astronomy Club,
Travis Rector (Univ. Alaska), Ángel López-Sánchez (Australian Astronomical Obs./ Macquarie Univ.), Australian Gemini Office

http://apod.nasa.gov/apod/ap110403.html

Mosquito in a nudist colony

Below is a link to The God Debate - Hitchens vs D'Souza at Notre Dame
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9V85OykSDT8

The title is a reference to a (paraphrased) quote from the debate by Dinesh D'Souza. 


"Kinda like a mosquito in a nudist colony.....I'm having trouble figuring out where to begin." - D'Souza


I find D'Souza to be the only person so far to debate Hitchens in a somewhat logical, rational and respectable way on the side of Christianity and Intelligent Design..... despite disagreeing with a lot of what he implies.    Here's another quote before I go on with my rant  ;)   I believe he said Churchill was the first to utter these words....


D'Souza : "It is always exhilarating to be shot at without result"
(referring to hearing Hitchens' attacks and it not changing his mind)


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W/respect to intelligent design, the fine-tuning of the universe can be explained as rolls of the dice. If you roll a die an almost infinite amount of times, on at least one occasion you will get perfection or the fine-tuning we see in the universe. There's a very high probability that there are others and that infinite other rolls of the dice have produced universes that never lived past their first second of existence. Doesn't mean we are any less important or special.....or that we don't have a purpose. It's a "miracle" that we even exist, if you prefer to call it that :) But to think that mere human beings are the focus of an entire universe??? I really don't think we are any different from a blade of grass, a tree or a rat. All living things trying to reproduce and survive the best we can. Why does a tree not get eternal life? or a rat? Because we are the only species to ever exist (on this planet) to have the intelligence to know that we are going to die.

Having said that, our atoms do not die and are recycled.....so we all will live on, regardless of belief.

Also I feel the urge to point out that while I am not religious in any normal sense and consider myself to be agnostic....I don't think it's ridiculous to think there could be some higher power or prime-mover or creator.   But to think there is a supernatural entity inside your head that will intervene in your life and that of others is pushing it a little bit if you ask me.   Especially when people take it so literally that they seriously want the world to end so Jesus can return and they can go be in heaven.  And no, I'm not talking about Camping and his doomsday scenarios recently.   Many "normal" Christians can't wait for this shit to happen.    And as Hitchens says in the debate about Israel.......they now have their place on the coast of the Med, as prophesied in the bible.... but part of the reason they are excited is because it is the promised land (where Jesus can return and bring the end of days)   (I apologize if I have my facts mixed up here, it is quite possible)

I find myself enthralled with this topic more than I ever thought possible.   And although I'm sure not many are reading this, I can't stop thinking and writing about it, even though my mind is pretty much made up on the issue.   I just really wish everyone could stop taking everything so f'n literally and sit back and reflect intelligently on these issues of live, love, morality and God.   It's more eye-opening that you might think, if you base your views on ancient texts.   Oh yeah...to think that one ancient religion is right and all others are wrong(and thus going to hell) is ridiculous.    They are either all right or all wrong.    Why can't we just remove the "district managers" and think about the head honcho.   If everyone that was religious just believed in a higher power without a specific prophet, there would be no reason for the crusades, the inquisition or the global jihad in motion right now against all us "infidels".

Finally I have to say that most religious people consider themselves to be rather humble.  Well...thinking you(we) are the centre of the universe is very far from that quality and is quite arrogant IMO.  

p.s. One word to explain morality.......EMPATHY

Finally something about bipolar

I started this blog a few months back to give myself a creative outlet to help my stress, anxiety and depression.  It certainly has helped me and it certainly has been an outlet, but I've said very little on the main topic of Bipolar Disorder.   It has turned mainly into a mental workshop for my ideas concerning politics, world events, religion and life in general.   But nothing very personal.

I don't want to get into the whole story, it's far too long for this post, but anyone else with this disorder knows how horrible things can be at times.   The extreme shifts in mood and thinking, suicidal thoughts mixed with grandiose fantasies.   Constant meds and weight gain.   Constant ignorance from outside and dealing with a stigma about mental illness, that while shrinking...is still very present in the minds of most people who have not experienced it.

I also sawed into my arm with a dull butcher knife and 2days later(in my infinite wisdom) decided to take a red hot pair of scissors to my arm.... twice.   I think in an attempt to express the INSANE mental pain I was going through.   All I can say is it seemed like a good idea at the time.   lol   Now I don't only have a scar, I have a f'n brand   haha

This summer was the first time in 6 or 7 years that I've been able to get out of my apartment almost every day.    So while I've been doing better in that regard, things are still very rocky and uncertain.  I still have been alone for all these years with the exception of 3 weeks.  I feel like I can't escape this seemingly meaningless routine and am resigned to some unknown fate...even though I don't really believe in that  ;)

I'm on Lithium now, but it's hard to take all my meds on time because of my crazy sleeping schedule.   I think I've only had one night since August where I slept for more than 3 hours at a time.  And constant nightmares...jesus.   But oddly I seem to feel better when I'm like this.   Perhaps a sign of hypo-mania?  Or just a lot on my mind.   I never know, but am sick of self-analyzing and diagnosing, regardless.     I am taking an SSRI which is a big no-no, but I think it gives me the boost I need to get over my agraphobia.

I'm very close to finishing the application process for school and think I'll probably be starting online courses in January...so not all is bad.    I just have to keep at it.

I will try to follow up with some more bipolar topics for any of you who have come to read about that.....

And anyone with depression/BP/anxiety or anything similar.....please don't be a stranger.   I dont really know anyone with these sorts of issues outside of a few at a centre where I sometimes volunteer.   It would be nice to read and follow someone else's blog and talk about similar experiences.   best wishes to any of you reading now.   You are stronger than you think.....

CK

The Worms of Libya are about to feast on their King - Ghadafi's Death

                                                                 


Here's some short footage of Ghadafi's body after his last stand in the city of Sirte.   It's somewhat graphic as you might expect.


http://english.aljazeera.net/video/middleeast/2011/10/2011102014201566639.html


                                 


The above subject line is quite crude, I know.   But he really was no more than a worm.   Who tortured, killed and kept his people in a box of fear, isolation and dangerous misinformation.



He had such an opportunity to repair relations with the world after giving up his WMD in 2003 when he saw Saddam fall(yes that action prompted Gaddafi to hand it all over). Then ppl start protesting, he started shooting and bombing them and the rest is history.  Far from removing the "threat" to his regime...he actually strengthened the will of, not only the Libyan ppl, but the entire world by reminding us all of the grave injustices committed by brutal tyrants.


I wish there was a hell for him to go to.

Interesting Facts - Hitchens/Dembski Debate

There are some fascinating facts in this series, regardless of your beliefs.   I will try to post a few as I watch the ending.   So far it is amazing and I can see why the Christian Academy would try to prevent this video from getting out uncensored.   Hitchens proves yet again that he is a force to be reckoned with in any intellectual pursuit.

I will be genuinely saddened when he dies, because sadly it looks like there will be no miracles for him.   Maybe he just isn't praying enough....

Skip to 9:00 in Part 1 to skip the b.s.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r7wU9QJ5mOQ&feature=share

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- Every second since the formation of the first galaxies, a sun has exploded somewhere out there.

- We are half a chromosome away from our closest primate relative, the chimpanzee.

- It is estimated that the entire human population almost went extinct, with only 2-3000 people thought to have survived severe climate crises in Africa 100-250,000 years ago...

- 99.8% of all species to ever appear on the earth are now extinct

----------------------------------------------------------

We're just infinitely small bubbles living in another bubble, that floats in an infinite ocean.    Enjoy the ride folks, before it bursts.

When it does, I would think we just become even smaller parts of that ocean.     Our atoms don't die and are recycled, so whatever your beliefs, that much is true and there is some sort of afterlife.   Though consciousness may not follow....that is the ultimate question.

Netherlands bans Islamic Veil in public

http://www.onislam.net/english/news/europe/453945-holland-bans-niqab-in-public.html




I can see both points of the argument here, but without sounding too disrespectful, they should be willing to make cultural compromises if moving to another country (even if involving religious dress). And the points about equality and security(quote below) resound more with me than the "stealing our culture" argument.

Having said that, I can understand and see Muslims everywhere becoming outraged by this.  People started riots over a cartoon of Mohammed drawn in Denmark a few years ago....and more recently over a Florida pastor burning the Koran.  I can't help but wonder if this will evoke a similar response somewhere.  I certainly hope not...


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‎"The government believes the wearing of clothing that completely or almost entirely covers the face is fundamentally at odds with public life, where people are recognized by their faces," the government’s statement added."

"Face-covering clothing prevents this and goes against the principles of equality between men and women, especially women."
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9/11 Ten year anniversary - Falling Man

Documentary - Falling Man : http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BXnA9FjvLSU








The image of ppl jumping after the twin towers were hit, 10 years ago today....is something that will forever be burned into my head. To me, it's the most vivid and brutal reminder of the sadness and destruction of that day.  I remember watching it live at a friend's house, with tears in our eyes and numb with obvious disbelief, as we watched the tragedy unfold.  I'm watching this morning with the same tears and disbelief and find myself thinking of an entire planet thinking of the same thing today.  In a way there's some real beauty in that....among the putrid stench of death and terrorism that we all are forced to smell again today.


There was something almost graceful in some of those people jumping.... so horribly forced and resigned to their fate.  Like they were already gone and were just falling into an abyss.....that eventually awaits us all.  How horrible that must've been, especially for the people who were trapped for a long time and knew what was coming.  None of us truly knows what fear and despair are, compared to the poor souls who were forced to jump that day  :(


My parents were asked the question "Where were you when Kennedy was shot?".   Today we all ask ourselves where we were on 9/11/2001.

R.I.P.

* image used above was found here: 
 http://www.mirror.co.uk/news/top-stories/2011/09/11/9-11-the-image-of-the-falling-man-that-still-haunts-10-years-on-115875-23410610/

Collective Consciousness & interview re: psychics, cold reading & astrology

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Xswt8B8-UTM&feature=relmfu 
- 6 part series from BBC's Enemies of Reason w/Richard Dawkins and illusionist Derren Brown

There is actually now research suggesting consciousness could exist collectively....linked throughout the world and universe, almost as a physical entity.....travelling among space and time(or something like that).  I will try to find a link once I'm finished here.  But like so many things of this crazy nature, it is unlikely to ever be conclusively proven.   But it is sure to further fuel both sides of The Great Debate.   Religious people will see this(if proven more) to be evidence of God in our heads.   Secular but spiritual people will probably just see it as an extension of what they already thought as well.   And atheists would say it's another natural explanation for a so-called supernatural phenomenon.

W/respect to the link above, I think 99% of people like this who claim super-natural abilities are fraudulent and preying on people's fears and wishes, for themselves and their dead loved ones.   Like religion, you could certainly argue it gives people hope and peace in some respect...but false supernatural claims and subsequent belief (sucker born every minute) also encourages a completely unreasonable and illogical view of natural forces and the universe as a whole.  And I think that can corrupt many other normal facets of everyday life. Until someone can come along with more than cold reading and ridiculous claims, I think all of this stuff is detrimental to the evolution of our increasingly intelligent and sophisticated species.

Here is the link that deals with what I referred to earlier....consciousness being linked and possibly existing outside of our minds.    It takes some faith in quantum physics and other weird concepts....but regardless of whether it is true, it is absolutely amazing and very thought-provoking.

Amazing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OgWV6M0UJw&feature=related


A man and woman in a Sudbury, Ontario university (Laurentian I believe) are seated in 2 separate rooms, sound proof and made of concrete, so as to block out any of the earth's electro-magnetic effects.  There is no contact possible between the 2 subjects and they are not aware of what will happen to the other person.   The man and woman are both fitted with a magnetic helmet of sorts which is linked to the other person somehow.  They are placed in the dark for a certain length of time, the woman in total darkness with no external stimulus....but the man occasionally sees a blue light flashing in succession....a few random times during the experiment.   The crazy thing is that when the man was seeing the flashing blue lights, the woman's brain waves lit up...and after the experiment when asked what she experienced at those times...she said she couldn't quite explain it but did obviously see a flashing blue light in her left eye I think(the area of her brain that lit up controls that I believe as well).    Please watch as I am only going off memory and probably f'd it up to a large degree :)

Amazing.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9OgWV6M0UJw&feature=related


p.s.   what DOESN"T Morgan Freeman do??

cheers

Alex Jones - Genesis of 9/11 paranoia

http://www.slate.com/id/2302830/

The above article talks about how he has done this for years.   It is a rather fair piece I suppose that does mention some good points on hi side, but also outlines some of the things that are dangerously indicative of his films, messages and others like him.   For example he constantly talked about the Oklahoma City bombing being a secret government operation to help Bill Clinton's poll numbers and to help him suppress civil liberties.   Always playing the freedom card, when in fact, the people he conspires against are doing what they can to ensure it.   Some obvious exceptions apply.

I have been complaining to an exorbitant level recently and for years, about the progaganda that Jones and others spread.   A certain amount of the information is absolutely true, but it is smeared with outright lies and hatred of sorts that helps to fuel anti-American and anti-Western ideology.   I wouldn't be surprised if the asshole is counter-intelligence :)

9/11 Conspiracy Theories in Pakistan - Dangerous Ideas?

http://www.pbs.org/newshour/rundown/2011/09/view-from-pakistan-on-911.html

I consider it to be somewhat dangerous when so many people in a country with nukes (like Pakistan) are so conspiracy-minded towards the U.S.  And those of us in Canada as well, just by association and supporting their efforts abroad.   Not every conspiracy theory is just a theory, but I consider the "Truthers" to be just as bad as the people they accuse. And I think they also hurt the families of those killed everytime they're seen or heard.  The 9/11 conspiracy films and information I've seen and read are half truth and half fiction.  Thermite is a good example...their "smoking gun" as I've heard it referred to. :)  


For the sake of the argument, let's presume thermite was found there... and was used to cut down/weaken the enormous beams of steal supporting the towers.   There is no date given for the samples found, so this is not proof that it was used before 9am on 9/11/2001.   And I have to point out, that engrained in my memory is the image of steel beams, stretching up hundreds of feet to where the towers USED to be.   When the gruesome business of rescue and reconstruction began, they would eventually need to cut down those beams.....and thermite might have been what they used.   

Has science buried God?

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=J0UIbd0eLxw&feature=related


Good points on both sides of the argument. However, I wish everyone on the planet could adopt a looser and bipartisan view of our creation. 


For the sake of our survival as a species.


And the answer to the question, "Has Science buried God?", is science never can....as long as people believe.
But I must contend, that even the most religious person could incorporate evolution and other scientific ideas into their beliefs, without changing the importance of the messages within.





And here's a few time lapse video captures of a new star being born.  So amazing.
The third one looks like God jumping forward while holding a teddy bear (at least to me)

http://www.npr.org/blogs/pictureshow/2011/08/31/140087297/hubble-captures-time-lapse-videos-of-stars-being-born?sc=fb&cc=fp

8?D

reality?

The earth is just a city, in a world that's yet unkown.....
Reality is just a dream .... taking place where we aren't shown.


© 2011 Clayton Kratz

Libyan "freedom"

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4AWt315CO6g

The other night I watched with unrivaled optimism upon seeing countless thousands of newly "freed" Libyan citizens, cheering and crying with joy after rebels had stormed Tripoli and taken over 80% of the capital.

Today, however, I can't help but see the similarities between Libya and Iraq.  It is still a very uncertain and dangerous situation that could easily spread into looting and chaos....or even worse, a civil war comparable to Iraq.  It wouldn't take much.

On the other hand, this IS a different conflict.   We in the West are now seen as liberators, not occupiers....and I strongly believe that this action by NATO, the U.N. and the rest of the international community will serve to bring the world together a bit.   Also this is a civilian uprising, supported by international forces.....quite different from the situation in Iraq.

I suppose it's too early to tell what will happen, we can just hope for the best.   I am very excited at recent developments, but am cautiously optimistic.   One must remember that hundreds of thousands of Iraqi civilians took to the streets after the fall of Saddam, all cheering at their new-found "freedom" as well.

Luckily, the same power vacuum does not exist in Libya, with the rebel NTC group planning for a post-Ghadafi Libya.  I sincerely hope that the people show restraint and do not seek revenge against pro-government forces/ppl.   That would make the international community less supportive as a whole and would possibly sew the seeds of further discontent and violence.
----------------------------------------------------------------

p.s.   below is a link I found just after writing this, seems quite relevant and talks about how, unlike Iraq, Libya's fight for freedom will be helped by the already formed NTC.   A group like this did not exist is Iraq in 2003.

http://english.aljazeera.net/indepth/opinion/2011/08/20118221490136212.html

White House finally says al-Assad must go

http://www.npr.org/blogs/thetwo-way/2011/08/18/139742246/white-house-calls-on-syrian-president-to-step-down?sc=fb&cc=fp



After 5 months of suffering a brutal crackdown at the hands of their own government, the Syrian people are now facing an uncertain future, with many ups and downs to consider.

With the U.S. now officially saying Syrian leader al-Assad must step down(and many more countries soon to follow I suspect), the Syrian people can hope that international intervention in some way can help bring about the reforms they so desperately want...and deserve.   On the other hand, this involves the U.S. (and other nations to follow) imposing strict sanctions on the country, including not importing their oil.   THis is done to put pressure on the government, but the people will suffer the most if these actions do not effect immediate change.   Which they won't.....

The Next Ghandi

http://in.reuters.com/article/2011/08/17/idINIndia-58824520110817




This man, I think, is about to completely change not only India, but surrounding countries like Pakistan as well.   The Arab Spring revolutions that have swept across N. Africa and the Middle East are continually inspiring people elsewhere to challenge their corrupt governments (Canada and the U.S. are certainly corrupt at various levels...but are NOTHING in comparison).

I only hope that this inspires people to adopt the Ghandi mentality of peaceful disobedience, rather than another Arab Spring all-out revolt.

http://in.reuters.com/article/2011/08/17/idINIndia-58824520110817

Dear Iran / PLO / Syria

Shelling of Syrian coastal city still under way, PLO condemns attack against refugee camp  :(
http://english.aljazeera.net/news/middleeast/2011/08/20118167523985930.html

‎"The shelling is taking place using gunships and tanks on houses built from tin, on people who have no place to run to or even a shelter to hide in," Yasser Abed Rabbo, the PLO secretary general, told Reuters. "This is a crime against humanity."


I've been saying since the start of these uprisings, beginning in Tunisia and Egypt 6-7 months ago, that it would eventually spread to Iran.   Now here we are on Iran's doorstep, with Syria's massacre of it's own people to prevent them from further revolt ( besides being inhumane, it is also an incredibly stupid position to take...to think that sort of violence will make ppl want you to stay in power).

Yes, it's tragic how many people have lost their lives in these revolts.... but I think this is one of the most amazing moments in our history.   Certainly since the fall of The Berlin Wall or the end of WW2.  And I do think the installed "democracies" in Iraq/Afghanistan have been a motivating factor as well.  But with Iran's neighbour and ally approaching collapse...and an increasing number of (even Arab) nations condemning Syria's actions, it really seems like we are on the edge of either lasting peace or an enormous war. (A bit black & white, I suppose)

I really hope we can avoid further conflict in the middle-east, but at this point, I think that hope is almost childish and ignorant of the facts.   The people of Iran and Syria are deserving of freedom, just as much as anyone else.   But if NATO and the U.N. go into Syria like they did in Libya....Iran will likely be drawn into the conflict even more(I'm sure they already have agents in there trying to help "quell" the protests).   And if Iran's own citizens start protesting again, they will be put down just as badly (if Iran's history of dealing with protests is any indication).   In either case, we cannot afford another war, even if only part of a coalition....financially, or on a purely human basis.   War with Iran would put the world at risk of a catastrophic (and possibly nuclear) conflict.  

In conclusion, I'd like to say the following:

Dear Iran : When Syria crumbles and the people of the world put the pressure on you next....to reform and allow ppl their freedom......please just make that concession before you bring us to the brink of WW3.   Actually, do it now.... before you start to lose power yourself, become desperate like al-Assad and Gadhafi.   If you don't reform and continue to support these sorts of brutal crackdowns and governments....the west WILL kick your ass.

Libyan Rebels

If they succeed in besieging and cutting off Tripoli from supplies, I hope the civilians there don't suffer too much and are forced to fight on the side of the rebels when he doesn't give up.  Gadhafi isn't the sort of guy to give up power just because thousands and thousands of his ppl are starving :(  which they will be....  he will take all the remaining food and oil for his armies I'd be willing to bet.

Video Coverage:
 http://english.aljazeera.n​et/indepth/spotlight/libya​/

field of view/field of landmines

I have been very up and down with my moods and equally extreme in some of my views...recently and in the past.  But especially for the last 6 months or so while on an SSRI and other meds to try and give me a boost.   Now that I'm a bit more level and feeling better with the help of Lithium and exercise....I felt the need to go in a slightly different direction than normal.

http://www.un.org/cyberschoolbus/banmines/facts.asp

Above is a U.N. fact sheet on landmines.   A friend sent it to me and helped me to realize that I wasn't seeing the whole picture.  I still think some interventions and acts of war are justified, but I too often forget the people who are most affected...civilians.   We have the most advanced and accurate weapons in history, landmines should be prohibited from any army's arsenal.   They are strewn around like confetti and women & children are killed more often than intended targets.
 
Also here is an amazingly powerful commercial, perhaps THE most powerful I have ever seen.   It speaks for itself, but really reminds me of how far removed we are from the realities of war and the experiences of people around the world.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pXVCYQ1qix8&feature=player_embedded

I do read a lot of different reports and hear different points of view on the issues I discuss....however I almost always come down on the side of government, always defending actions that shouldn't really be justified.   I think I do this partially just to have something to talk about....and to go against the norm.   Not very admirable, I admit, however I think that's a bi-product of 6-7 years of near-isolation and not being understood because of my issues.   Now it's up to me to change and get back on board with the program.

 

Syria/Iran

Will the U.S. finally tell al-Assad to step down? And what happens when he doesn't? And what happens when Iran's neighbour and ally tumbles into further anarchy and a power vacuum follows?   International forces and markets are stretched thin as it is...another intervention like in Libya will be extremely costly.   But isn't it our duty in the west(and anywhere in the world) to defend the helpless and aid those in need?  Especially when Iran is already in there causing s*** and will obviously be looking to exert control should that power vacuum come to being.  Should we save our own money by not getting involved in another fight outside our borders....or should we willingly spend it to prevent thousands more from being massacred?   I'm for the former, although maybe that's easier for me to say since I'm not working or paying much in the way of taxes :)


http://www.cnn.com/2011/WORLD/meast/08/10/syria.unrest/index.html

London riots

http://www.npr.org/2011/08/09/​139233715/britain-burns-riots-​spread-through-uk-cities?sc=fb​&cc=fp

video:  http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=k7H02HSip_c&feature=player_embedded#at=42




It is truly disgusting how ppl are looting and creating anarchy in London...using a police shooting as an excuse. The original protests over that were peaceful and then turned violent. I can understand that one day...kinda. But for three days straight???!!! Opportunism at it's worst...just like we saw in Vancouver.  And some say they are doing this because of govt cuts. Well, guess what morons.....the govt will just have to hike taxes and make more cuts to cover the cost of the damage. F*** You :)

Also feel the need to say(w/respect to my previous zeitgeist rants), that while a lot of that kind of anti-govt information is true, it is also sometimes twisted and full of outright lies that basically incite hate and disrespect.   In the hands of decent citizens, that information is harmless really, since we can all make up our own minds, do research and take an APPROPRIATE course of action.    But in our youth, that sort of popular "movement" is also the sort of thing that fuels the f*** authority mentality of these idiots....

Iraqi/Afghani Remembrance Day

We have remembrance day for our fallen soldiers and heroes that have died for our freedom throughout the years. Was just thinking that the many many people who have died in the last 10 years in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan....are not simply fodder for anti-govt/anti-war b.s. - and they did not die in vain(I hope). In 50 years they will be the ones remembered and seen as heroes...same goes with the other countries in the region fighting against oppressive regimes.

It's horrible to see happening right now without much dampening in violence, but they will be seen as heroic when their kids and grandkids have the ability to speak their minds and believe whatever they want....without worrying about being killed for offending the govt or certain religious circles.


As I said b4 though...it's too bad that wasn't the only reason for our interventions

Two Rabbis and two Atheists walk into a bar....

http://www.jewishtvnetwork.com/?bcpid=533363107&bctid=802338105001


"In this recent Whizin Center for Continuine Education program, leading advocates for atheism, Christopher Hitchens and Sam Harris square off against Newsweek top rabbis, David Wolpe and Bradley Artson Shavit to determine what may or may not happen in the hereafter. "

It's especially interesting to hear a "religious" point of view concerning near-death experiences and other things. Certain parts of this vid show what I've been trying to say on my blog in the past. There IS common ground, since we are all just humans....and this is something that could happen in our lifetimes if the majority of ppl stopped taking everything so literally. Religion is not a bad thing...it helps many ppl deal with their lives...and much of the widespread criticism is based on ideas that are thousands of years old....but false scientific statements made 2000 years ago are NOT constantly brought up in debate vs atheism. Unfair IMO. SO w/ respect to the whole Science vs Religion thing.... they are both constantly evolving. One explains what can be proven, the other tries to explain what cannot. Who cares who's right....as long as it helps you. But literal translation(while harmless in most cases) is quickly dividing and bringing this world to a point of no return.