Morning

Seven in the morning, a warm breeze, a hint of rain and a symphony of sound.Walking the dog through the forest. Twitters and tweets, geese in the distance and the sound of the wind. At times a whoosh through pine trees, at other times a soft rattle through birch not yet in bloom. Take a deep breath and stop, my feet sinking. The rain falls in mists. The scent of earth and grass, pungent. The dog in a state of bliss, rolling in the hay, diving into muddy water, oblivious..So simple, life is so simple at this moment, look around trees sway, yet are flexible, rarely breaking. Colors muted browns, verdent greens all around me an impressionist painting..

La lune

I shout into the distance
as the rain swallows my words.
A downpour of water,
with a pitch black moon.
My vision impaired,
my spirit stands to break,
alone in the forest with a pitch black moon.
The rain falls faster as my shouts grow weaker,

and I alone in the forest with a pitch black moon.

The making

Why do I smile when I see the sun shine through these maple trees..is it not the same sun, as I had known before? Why then-looking up at the tree branches framed against an azure sky, I cannot help but sigh and smile once again..Am I losing my mind..or finding it? Stepping inside the sugar shack bathed in a fog of white, a scent so delicate and yet so sweet embraces me for a few seconds..and then lets out a sigh as it drifts overhead passed the openings into the sky. The scent lingers on till the furnace is opened a gush of heat streams out, with it an orange glow. Mesmerized by the pulsing dance of the embers, it is hard not to believe they are alive. To the imagination the furnace is an ever hungry beast, devouring wood, not satisfied till it leaves sweat dripping from the one who feeds it. Thick leather gloves and apron protect the one who would try and tame it, for at times the wood rushes out, and needs to be driven back inside while still on fire...it is a dance of precision and timing, to make maple syrup..Stepping outside I am lulled by the stars, with them one cannot but help feel at peace, they are so many and you are just one..

Full circle Aurore and Shane

Two wonderful people who I met oh so long ago..smiling. Has it been 4 years already! Wow..
Come the 8th you will have come full circle what started out by surprise..it is a gift! So I wish you both joy in whats to come, many many little buggers :) (shane can translate aurore) and all my love. Have a beautiful wedding day, and Im sure it is not snowing like it is here ...and I hope to spend time with you in France and indulge in your happiness.
Big hug to both of you..

Terre

Taking a deep breath I inhale the scents of the earth as rain spills down my face, enriching me and the soil beneath my feet. Closing my eyes, receiving earths bounty...I feel tied to the land..listening to the rain my mind clear of thought-peace.

I understand

there is no need for me to speak,

where my heart would beat

there is no answer.

what it would say

holds no meaning.

As in this life, words

have no meaning.

Golden waves...

It creeps up on you...as you slowly trudge your way through melting snow. Knee deep struggling to find your next footing. As you slowly regain your breath into the silence..ping..ping..ping. Throughout the forest, it softly vibrates, liquid water caught in pails, a drop at a time. Boiled at the right temperature, it pours out like a golden wave, caught in the sunlight -mesmorized by the spiraling twists and turns, a momentary work of art, only to be captured in memory. Each batch a different nuance of gold. A tasteful bounty which needs to be savoured as each tree takes about 70 years to come to its maturity. They cannot talk, or express wants and needs, therefore it is easy to forget how unique each one is...next time you walk pass one take a closer look, you might have missed something.

spring is in the air

and I feel like dancing...happy, relaxed, smiling..instead I will be going to harvest maple syrup for a week...
No.. I am not kidding. It's an artisanal farm, using "good old pails" and "elbow grease"to quote Mario the owner. Yes I am looking forward to it, no I have not lost my senses..on the contrary I have actually found them, they were hidden away a little too far to find, back behind logic, intelligence and ingrained notions of sensibility. I must confess it feels good to just "be"...ah yes Aylin philosophizing again...I can't explain it, "it" doesn't conform to any logical explanations except perhaps one, feeling whole, as if all the pieces of the puzzle final fall into place, (cliche phrase but adequate). I can hear the yes buts from most of you...Yes of course logic still worms it's way in, and tries to reinstate itself and say how long can this last...who knows we'll have to wait and see! smiling.. as long as I can hold on to it!

Running naked through the forest
I see only the trees in front of me,
alone with my thoughts
there is no path but for the one I make,
running naked through the forest
panting, I am out of breath
My body yearns for rest,
yet the wind urges me forth,
relentless as my shadow,
I keep running.

Warning..music nostalgia time..

"How much do I love you, I'll tell you know lies." (How deep is the ocean? How high is the sky?) Billie Holiday. I'd forgotten how beautiful the lyrics were, and well her voice, gritty and amazing. Youtube definetly has it's benefits. (yes I am just discovering youtube!)Showing old b/w video clips, though it takes getting used to listening in mono again! Sometimes technology is good. It's a perfect song for lovers..so to the young lovers getting married in April, this song is definitely worth listening to again, with some candles!! I'd send a cd but I'm sure Shane has it already in his vast collection!!
Sad how all the good musicians somehow die young and addicted to either painkillers, drugs or alcohol. I can't begin to imagine how hard it must have been. Yet, to truly experience some painful and deep emotions, watch Billie singing Strange fruit. I've never really listened to the lyrics before, perhaps I was just too young, but watching her expression well, it was very eery and her voice booms at the most graphic sections..you can literally see the..never mind.. you'll have to listen to it or not.
Does experiencing suffering, happiness , and deep passions make you a better singer or writer? At this stage in my life, I'd say it adds dimensions, and takes you from being perhaps technically good writer/singer to one that has soul. As Henry Miller told Anais Nin "you have to get out and live life. experience it, not just imagine it." God the songs are all so beautiful, "I'm a fool to want you" a fool to hold you, to seek a kiss the devil has known...maybe I'm biased perhaps modern day music is just as good but at the moment, I'll make a new list of "old" musicians..

musings...

When one day I leave this earth,
I hope to return-
as a tree.
A solid oak with branches spread wide in an oval shape,
or a birch...with a bark of silver, so smooth and yet, so resilient.
Let my seed drop somewhere where the
earth is cold-
with snow for my blanket, and pine trees as my friends.
I shall have stars for distraction,
and a better mural I could not ask-
one that constantly shifts and changes,throughout the night.
Let those who pass enjoy my shade.. take refuge from the wind,
rest against my bark and
savor the sweet scent of silence.

Where will it end?

Sorry for the bombardment of writing on one day, it's just been one of those days, I need to write. In one day I've read about the trial of the father raping and enslaving his daughter in Austria for 18 years,(yes I read about it before) and pleading non-guilty to enslavement. Perhaps I misunderstood the the definition of enslavement, but locking someone either physically or mentally in a room with no means of escape is enslavement. Sorry but I do not believe he was mentally not stable. But a man who viewed his daughter as property and enjoyed the power he had over her. Next, is the 17 year old boy in Germany who shoots his friends. Still, those video games and spending all your time in front of the computer doesn't have a bad influence?? I know it's cliche and I'm sure everybody has heard this thousands of times yet how do these kids learn to communicate what they feel? They are never given the opportunity to learn how to express them, or deal with rejection, or hormones. Everything is instant gratification, expressions of love, hate, sex is all violent. There is no softness! before even in pornography there was playboy and "soft porn" where you had the illusion of softness and really "making love" not just thrusting and taking what you wanted. What is love nowadays? I would love to ask some teenagers what their opinion of love is. A few years ago, on the plane I read an article about a woman in Pakistan who was gang raped by men in retaliation for her 12 year old brother raping a girl. This is normal and there were hundreds of such cases but no one mentioned anything. However she doesn't kill herself but fights against these acts, she speaks out, amongst death threats and opens a school for girls. This in itself is a tragedy, however what I find even more pathetic/ironic/sad, is that her brother was actually sodomized, and he was innocent. These were two innocent youngsters, who were forced to endure rape and then be blamed for them. What kind of humanity is this? Then there are the more tragi/comic situations as in more remote parts of Russia, where the unemployment level has reached such heights that people have resorted to selling their blood.
IHT article, "Workers," he says as he fills in forms at the employment center, "are losing a lot." The city's blood bank, meanwhile, is doing brisk business. Donations are up by 15 percent as the unemployed queue to earn as much as $28 (€22) for their blood. "People have no means of support, so naturally they're coming to us," says chief doctor Anatoly Voronin.
Iht again,In New Zealand, it seems that prostitution is both legal and thriving. Women are resorting to the oldest profession because as one women pointed out they have "sex, money and men". It's hard to argue really especially when they make around 200 dollars an hour in a very clean establishment. I would never argue against it to begin with, if it's their choice and they are not being forced, it's perfectly fine, but still, I find the world difficult to understand at times. Sometimes, I feel like sticking my head in the sand like an ostrich. Despite all this I am not pessimistic,(well not always) just baffled, and some situations hit closer to home then others.

Technical error

The reading order is published wrong and I can't fix it, so the Darwin article is first, then my comment and lastly my walking trip. But feel free to read it anyway you wish.
I've worked off my anger so thanks !

An unexpected walk..

I was invited to participate in a friends Tesl class, she introduced me as a friend from Turkey, which made it more interesting, and we spent a very pleasant two hours discussing politics and social conditions. If any of my English classes were as interesting as this, I would also love teaching. Afterwards we parted company and I managed to discover a little bit more of Montreal, the old part..which is now the more "bohemian" sector with plenty of rainbow's floating around...The neighborhood was a bit run down, but with beautiful old buildings, alas I didn't have my camera. Most of the bigger houses were turned into bed and breakfasts. I felt myself quite safe and at home, it was a bit like the backstreets of Taksim. As someone who likes to observe and just soak up the environment it was immensely rewarding. Sitting with my little notebook watching the world go by and the expressions on people's faces. Three old men,one wearing a horrible blonde wig, have trouble comprehending french but assume that it is the girl behind the counters fault for speaking too fast. They are arrogant old men from the south of U.S. She plays well, she slows down her french and lets them suffer, not letting on that she does speak a bit of English. Although the conversation starts to get interesting I decide to leave and keep walking down Berri street towards the bus station. As I get closer to the station it becomes a bit seedier, with more homeless people and young men who seem to be stoned on something. Yet, still I feel safe, why I can't explain. Perhaps because they are so young, perhaps because they seem to eerily belong there. Strangely enough, it's as if some of them choose purposely to be homeless, perhaps like a right of passage, perhaps in protest. I enter into the library which was recently built, a beautiful glass library, it is immense. As I wander inside contemplating whether or not to sit for awhile, a young homeless woman is vocally yelling and being escorted outside by three identical guards. Who are not saying a word but using body language to move her out. She is very vocal and her body language is "in their face". I cannot understand what she says, but I sympathize with her, when I ask someone what happened, they just say she was crazy, perhaps, but I think perhaps she made the other "normal" customers uncomfortable somehow. Yet this is my imagination, perhaps it is my mood I'm feeling sympathetic. I enter the bus station across the street, to ask a question, and there is an old woman at the counter, her back is turned to us. We started as two. She is asking questions (in french) which the attendant patiently answers, yet some of these questions are irrelevant ones, why there aren't more stops on the bus etc. This goes on for about ten minutes, the line behind me gets longer, and still no one makes a fuss, fidgets or bothers to say anything. This courtesy would not be possible in New York!! I understand waiting and being polite, yet if IF it was getting anywhere! Finally I ask if there is another information desk, the man looks at me funny! The old woman turns around and acts hugely surprised that there are people behind her! My french becomes very fluent when I get fed up..Sometimes it pays to be pushy! The weather is too beautiful, warm and sunny to be underground, so I continue my march up Berri till I tire and go into the metro. I pass high rise buildings,small town houses, neighborhoods which are better kept some which are less so. I come across a primary school which is named after Lafontaine. I wonder what the writer would think of his newest proteges. It is interesting watching children at play. Aged around 9-10 some are playing basketball, one little girl is sitting on what is left of the snow, dirtied, fishing inside a little puddle, my curiosity gets the better of me and as I watch, she is pulling out pieces of asphalt and piling them on top of her little mound of snow. A group of girls is punching a punching bag (first time I've seen that) and very well at that, and lastly two boys are just watching the groups with that empty look that can be associated with young kids. I pass a huge church, surprisingly St.Vincent de Paul, brings back memories of Switzerland, it has been turned into a refuge for young people, hopefully it works.
I come upon a quaint corner, on a small street Duluth. It has, for lack of a better term, a hippy atmosphere, it is a small street with a pub, a few quaint restaurants and a store which sells birkenstocks. I have no idea why but I liked it. Asking directions from a young man with a goatee sweeping the front of the store, I find I am near Mont Royal, and decide that this would be a good place to stop and take a metro. I've walked for around 2 hours and as distances are deceiving here, I still have around five more metro stops..having done about three, I reluctantly end my walk having enjoyed it immensely.

Alleged! The article states!

And here I was about to write something nice and light, when I came across this article. It also happens to be a day when I discussed my views of Turkey's future with a class of Tefl adults, so I was already primed to the pump so to speak. It's true that even in the U.S. the theory of evolution is being restricted in certain more religious states, but unfortunately this newest tragedy added to all the other little restrictions happening in Turkey, is becoming too much to bear. I would hope that the newspaper uses irony when it states "alleged" creeping of Islam. When we finally become an Islamic state wearing burka's with no freedom of speech or thought, then will they finally admit that perhaps we had a point to be worried! That we are not just making a mountain out of a molehill. We are being infiltrated and turned into sheep with restrictions on education and freedom of speech. If these basic rights are taken away, then how does a nation discuss, argue new points of view and learn to grow! Damn we are going to hell in a hand basket. Yes, I will try to write something light as soon as I've calmed down-sorry friends. P.S. Just in case it passes through anyone's head that I should say all this to Speigel I just did..feel a lot better even if it doesn't get published!

And people think I am pessimistic!

DARWIN IN TURKEY

'Most Express Sympathy for the Censorship'

The firing of a magazine editor in Turkey over her intention to put a story about Darwin's evolution theory on the cover has generated a flood of criticism. SPIEGEL ONLINE spoke with the editor about just how conservative Turkish society has become.

No issue divides Turks more than the country's alleged creeping Islamization. Early last week, the Scientific and Technological Research Council of Turkey (Tubitak) sparked an international controversy after it prevented the publication of a cover story about Charles Darwin's evolution theory in Bilim ve Teknik (Science and Technology), one of the country's leading science journals. The publication's editor-in-chief, 41-year-old Cigdem Atakuman, claims she was fired as a result of the incident.

Secular Turks are outraged and the world is watching. Did Tubitak, which publishes Bilim ve Teknik, censor a feature about the theory of evolution under pressure from the conservative Islamic-oriented AKP-led government because it couldn't be reconciled with Muslim religious beliefs? A senior Tubitak official has blamed the editor for removing the story, according to Turkish daily Hürriyet, saying changes were made at the last minute and rushed. But Atakuman has denied the allegation, saying the deputy head of the council, Ömer Cebeci, told her the cover story was too controversial and that he no longer trusted her to responsibly perform her duties. The paper claims the incident has been reduced to a case of "one person's word against the other's."

In an interview with SPIEGEL ONLINE, Atakuman defends her position and says she is worried about the future of bias-free science in her country.

---

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Ms. Atakuman, is it true that you were fired?

Cigdem Atakuman: Yes, it's true. Up until now, there has been no official statement. But I was made to understand, verbally, that I have no future as the editor-in-chief of Bilim ve Teknik.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Who told you that?

Atakuman: Ömer Cebeci, the vice chairman of the council.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: What reasoning did he provide?

Atakuman: The cover story about Darwin was a big mistake, an unforgivable error. In the current political climate in Turkey, something like that could be perceived as a provocation.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: In what political climate?

Atakuman: I believe Professor Cebeci was referring to the upcoming municipal elections in our country. He may also have meant other political developments that block prejudice-free science. But I think it was about the elections.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: And why? Is it because the governing party's rank and file doesn't like the idea of a major cover story about evolution?

Atakuman: I assume so. But I find it extremely difficult to comprehend. I've been working together with Professor Cebeci since December 2008. Before that I didn't know him -- I was neither familiar with his scientific background nor his views. I don't know what his understanding of science is.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Could it actually be the case that he is correct? Is the theory of evolution, in fact, a provocation in Turkey?

Atakuman: Take a look at the Web site of Nature, the world's most renowned science magazine. They are also reporting about censorship of the Darwin story and there are many reader commentaries from Turks. Most of them express their sympathies for the censorship of the Darwin story and for creationism.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Darwin isn't especially popular in Turkey. Only one in four believes in the theory of evolution. How do you explain that?

Atakuman: I see the causes in our system of education. Evolution isn't the only thing taught badly, if it is taught at all -- most things are badly taught.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Do you think that scientific neutrality is in danger as a result of this incident?

Atakuman: That's not really what I want to believe, but in recent days, I have had concerns about whether we will still be able to work free of ideology in the future. Since Professor Cebeci took office, we have experienced several problems -- the naming of members of the editorial board, for example.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Is the issue of Darwin now being hushed up?

Atakuman: No, I believe there will be other publications. This whole affair has created awareness of Darwin. Many people now want to get informed. There will also be many events in Turkey commemorating Darwin's 200th birthday.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: Do you know Harun Yahya, the famous Turkish creationist?

Atakuman: Not personally, but I know from my European colleagues that they have all received a big, heavy book from him entitled "The Atlas of Creation." I also have a copy.

SPIEGEL ONLINE: It must be frustrating that Harun Yahya has distributed millions of copies of his book, whereas your cover story will not be appearing in Turkey's most famous science magazine.

Atakuman: This creation atlas is an impressive work -- very colourful, full of pictures. But intellectually, it impresses me less -- as little as creationism does.

Interview conducted by Daniel Steinvorth.

Just some moments of joy...

Gives new meaning to "patience"...
Val David a small village two hours from Montreal in the Laurentide, joy to be back in the snow and cold, -12c ..although, it was raining a bit and grey, still I wouldn't trade the peace of the forest for anything..








just a side note, they may look beautiful, but I've been told they are hard as wood!

My japanese phase, based on princess shikishi- early 12th C.

Winter
The moonlight bares trees,
as snow silently creeps into my bones.
The sky alive with nature's fireworks.

Stunned..

http://www.iht.com/articles/2009/03/02/europe/chechen.php

Although I meant to write about other issues, browsing through IHT I came across this article, which takes place in Grozny, Russia. The president or dictator, (not a slander he really is), is instigating Islamic law, forcing all the women to cover themselves with headscarves, albeit silk. Seven women were shot to death in honor killings. This was brought to media attention with the president/dictator's approval. What is going on in the world?Why is it always the women who are subjugated?? Although this might seem like a problem for Russia to deal with it, Chechen's are long and tenacious fighters. If in the end they can instigate something like this, with a dictator backed by the old Russian president, what's to say that slowly Turkey doesn't turn into something similiar...

Hidden truths?

Do we sometimes hide our true selves so well, that it's hidden even from our selves? Is our nature- what the world perceives on the outside or what we feel on the inside? Yet if it is the latter, do we even remember what it was? At times it feels as if the mask we wear for the world , takes over with so much vigilance that we forget that there was ever anything else. The years go by, we fall into a routine, like an old shoe the mask becomes comfortable. And isn't comfort what most people are after? Do we really want "abrupt change" -a break from the old monotony and routine? When faced with self doubt or an awareness of wanting something more, whose to say that our old way of life wasn't satisfactory...
It takes courage to face yourself. The good and the... parts of yourself that you were fooling for such a long long time. It helps if you have a friend or someone to guide you along your new path. One step at a time, and soon perhaps to quote our new president..change is possible.
It seems to be the year for new beginnings. May it bring with it some peace and stability.
smiling, perhaps I have become a bit philosophical tonight..bear with me!

Paul Krugman: Forgive and forget?

Another writer whom I admire, and although I hadn't thought it possible, he has a point. Isn't it interesting how after Nixon, everyone seems to get away with their crimes?

Published Jan.16,2009 Editorial of IHT.

Last Sunday President-elect Barack Obama was asked whether he would seek an investigation of possible crimes by the Bush administration."I don't believe that anybody is above the law," he responded, but "we need to look forward as opposed to looking backwards."

I'm sorry, but if we don't have an inquest into what happened during the Bush years - and nearly everyone has taken Obama's remarks to mean that we won't - this means that those who hold power are indeed above the law because they don't face any consequences if they abuse their power.

Let's be clear what we're talking about here. It's not just torture and illegal wiretapping, whose perpetrators claim, however implausibly, that they were patriots acting to defend the nation's security. The fact is that the Bush administration's abuses extended from environmental policy to voting rights. And most of the abuses involved using the power of government to reward political friends and punish political enemies.

At the Justice Department, for example, political appointees illegally reserved nonpolitical positions for "right-thinking Americans" - their term, not mine - and there's strong evidence that officials used their positions both to undermine the protection of minority voting rights and to persecute Democratic politicians.

The hiring process at Justice echoed the hiring process during the occupation of Iraq - an occupation whose success was supposedly essential to national security - in which applicants were judged by their politics, their personal loyalty to President Bush and, according to some reports, by their views on Roe v. Wade, rather than by their ability to do the job.

Speaking of Iraq, let's also not forget that country's failed reconstruction: the Bush administration handed billions of dollars in no-bid contracts to politically connected companies, companies that then failed to deliver. And why should they have bothered to do their jobs? Any government official who tried to enforce accountability on, say, Halliburton quickly found his or her career derailed.

There's much, much more. By my count, at least six important government agencies experienced major scandals over the past eight years - in most cases, scandals that were never properly investigated.

And then there was the biggest scandal of all: Does anyone seriously doubt that the Bush administration deliberately misled the nation into invading Iraq?

Why, then, shouldn't we have an official inquiry into abuses during the Bush years?

One answer you hear is that pursuing the truth would be divisive, that it would exacerbate partisanship. But if partisanship is so terrible, shouldn't there be some penalty for the Bush administration's politicization of every aspect of government?

Alternatively, we're told that we don't have to dwell on past abuses, because we won't repeat them. But no important figure in the Bush administration, or among that administration's political allies, has expressed remorse for breaking the law. What makes anyone think that they or their political heirs won't do it all over again, given the chance?

In fact, we've already seen this movie. During the Reagan years, the Iran-contra conspirators violated the Constitution in the name of national security. But the first President Bush pardoned the major malefactors, and when the White House finally changed hands the political and media establishment gave Bill Clinton the same advice it's giving Obama: let sleeping scandals lie. Sure enough, the second Bush administration picked up right where the Iran-contra conspirators left off - which isn't too surprising when you bear in mind that Bush actually hired some of those conspirators.

Now, it's true that a serious investigation of Bush-era abuses would make Washington an uncomfortable place, both for those who abused power and those who acted as their enablers or apologists. And these people have a lot of friends. But the price of protecting their comfort would be high: If we whitewash the abuses of the past eight years, we'll guarantee that they will happen again.

Meanwhile, about Obama: While it's probably in his short-term political interests to forgive and forget, next week he's going to swear to "preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States." That's not a conditional oath to be honored only when it's convenient.

And to protect and defend the Constitution, a president must do more than obey the Constitution himself; he must hold those who violate the Constitution accountable. So Obama should reconsider his apparent decision to let the previous administration get away with crime. Consequences aside, that's not a decision he has the right to make.

Thomas L. Friedman: Tax cuts for teachers

By Thomas L. Friedman

Published: January 12, 2009

E-Mail Article

Taken from the International Herald Tribune, I always found Friedman to be an interesting writer, if only they'd listen to him. This strategy could be applied to more countries then just the U.S.

Over the next couple of years, two very big countries, America and China, will give birth to something very important. They're each going to give birth to close to $1 trillion worth of economic stimulus - in the form of tax cuts, infrastructure, highways, mass transit and new energy systems. But a lot is riding on these two babies. If China and America each give birth to a pig - a big, energy-devouring, climate-spoiling stimulus hog - our kids are done for. It will be the burden of their lifetimes. If they each give birth to a gazelle - a lean, energy-efficient and innovation-friendly stimulus - it will be the opportunity of their lifetimes.

So here's hoping that America's new administration and Congress will be guided in shaping the stimulus by reading John Maynard Keynes in one hand - to get as much money injected as quickly as possible - and by reading "Rising Above the Gathering Storm: Energizing and Employing America for a Brighter Economic Future" with the other.

"Gathering Storm" was the outstanding 2005 report produced by the U.S. National Academies on how to keep America competitive by vastly improving math and science education, investing in long-term research, recruiting top students from abroad and making U.S. laws the most conducive in the world for innovation.

You see, even before the current financial crisis, we Americans were already in a deep competitive hole - a long period in which too many people were making money from money, or money from flipping houses or hamburgers, and too few people were making money by making new stuff, with hard-earned science, math, biology and engineering skills.

The financial crisis just made the hole deeper, which is why our stimulus needs to be both big and smart, both financially and educationally stimulating. It needs to be able to produce not only more shovel-ready jobs and shovel-ready workers, but more Google-ready jobs and Windows-ready and knowledge-ready workers.

If we spend $1 trillion on a stimulus and just get better highways and bridges - and not a new Google, Apple, Intel or Microsoft - your kids will thank you for making it so much easier for them to commute to the unemployment office or mediocre jobs.

Barack Obama gets it, but I'm not sure Congress does. "Yes," Obama said Thursday, "we'll put people to work repairing crumbling roads, bridges and schools by eliminating the backlog of well-planned, worthy and needed infrastructure projects. But we'll also do more to retrofit America for a global economy." Sure that means more smart grids and broadband highways, he added, but it also "means investing in the science, research and technology that will lead to new medical breakthroughs, new discoveries and entire new industries."

But clean-tech projects like intelligent grids and broadband take a long time to implement. Can we stimulate both our economy and our people in time? Maybe rather than just giving everyone a quick $1,500 to hit the mall to buy flat-screen TVs imported from China, or creating those all-important green-collar jobs for low-skilled workers - to put people to work installing solar panels and insulating homes - we should also give everyone who is academically eligible and willing a quick $5,000 to go back to school. Universities today are the biggest employers in many congressional districts, and they're all having to downsize.

My wife teaches public school in Montgomery County, Maryland, where more and more teachers can't afford to buy homes near the schools where they teach, and now have long, dirty commutes from distant suburbs. One of the smartest stimulus moves we could make would be to eliminate federal income taxes on all public schoolteachers so more talented people would choose these careers. I'd also double the salaries of all highly qualified math and science teachers, staple green cards to the diplomas of foreign students who graduate from any U.S. university in math or science - instead of subsidizing their educations and then sending them home - and offer full scholarships to needy students who want to go to a public university or community college for the next four years.

JFK took us to the moon. Let BHO take America back to school.

But that will take time. There's simply no shortcut for a stimulus that stimulates minds not just salaries. "You can bail out a bank; you can't bail out a generation," says the great American inventor, Dean Kamen, who has designed everything from the Segway to artificial limbs. "You can print money, but you can't print knowledge. It takes 12 years."

Sure, we'll waste some money doing that. That will happen with bridges, too. But a bridge is just a bridge. Once it's up, it stops stimulating. A student who normally would not be interested in science but gets stimulated by a better teacher or more exposure to a lab, or a scientist who gets the funding for new research, is potentially the next Steve Jobs or Bill Gates. They create good jobs for years.

Perhaps more bridges can bail us out of a depression, but only more Bills and Steves can bail us into prosperity.

Words of Bush's America

I found this link on the BBC and since it deals with "words" I thought it worth placing. I'm not a psychologist but there must be a subliminal link with the words stressed and the reaction of the people! The charts interested me the most-especially the changes during election year.

(click on the title to follow the link to the bbc news article.)

This will be....

a very good year..I can sense it in the air.

Freud recommended that we work and love-
yet to love, we must be open in spirit and receptive to let others in,
letting go of past hurts,
we move forward into the unknown.
The sun guides our movements opening a path through the snow-
closing my eyes..I listen to the sound of the wind,
and feel those who surround me when I am most vulnerable.

Following a dream

How far do we go to follow a dream? Do we have the strength to give it all up? Rise up in the face of all we know and just let go? How simple it seems..two words..let go! Yet how many of us can truly let go and be free? Free from lifes entanglements and snares? It's not easy, yet most things of value never are. For most of us, being free came and went with childhood. Lost memories of times long ago, when all was take care of by an unknown hand. A mother, father, grandparent...someone else to bear the burden of life's responsibilities. Yet all too soon, we have grown up..it is not what we imagined, we (at least those of us who have grown up in big cities) soon forget the spontaneity of laughter, the easy sigh of sleep, entrapped in what we believe we must be. What we have been taught that we should want. Material gain will make us happy..staring at a tv screen will obliviate our mind to the days stress and monotony. I for one was the same, struggling in my own right, trying hard not to conform, knowing that each day it was becoming more difficult to resist what has been ingrained. I like most found it was easier to give up, and accept. Letting go! should not be so difficult..yet it is like jumping into deep water for the first time, scared that you will get lost. Yet water is buoyant and rarely do we drown, we are made to survive. It is only our own socially constructed fears that stop us from letting go and being free...
Yes the definition of free is different for all, for me it is being unburdened by the past, by the future, and trying to live in the moment. Something I too have yet to accomplish.

This weekend I learned a lot in Montreal, thanks to Genevieve and Thierry, and their friends. They were kind enough to welcome me, and in a cabin near a frozen lake. I found peace. It would have been difficult not to, surrounded by snow and pine forests..minus 25 C yet it was marvelous. Fresh, invigorating and most of all alive.
I discovered a world which I thought only existed in the memories of the old, I caught a tantalizing glimpse in Brittany. Yet here I was in the middle of a traditional square dance, wood burning stove and all. Guess what, they were all young, and talented. Filled to the brim with life, it flowed out of their instruments, violins, flutes- guitars. It also flowed in their story telling..tales long past. Which came alive under the one instrument that we are born with, our ability for speech. It was the same with the cailleux, or the caller directing the square dance. Probably not more then 30, he traveled to France and Scotland, and acquired them first hand, remembering the patterns and the lyrics..For some this may be nothing, yet for me it opened my eyes..perhaps not all but some live a life much simpler then most.
It would be a mistake to regard my words as those being too naive. I for one know that every life has its own share of difficulties, heartbreaks and times of frustration, yet to overcome all this and still be able to live a life free from the constraints and dictates of society. Given the ability to survive on your own capabilities, without being told what to do, working outside not enclosed in four walls. Your walls are forests filled with trees, your boss the climate, perhaps a more difficult task master -its fury is immense. Yet your ceiling is an immense canvas, of changing colors, grey, pink, dark blue..only to surprise you in the end with the most magnificent show, of glittering stars, shapes and sliding comets. An ever changing pattern, interspersed with the moon..I saw the southern cross pulsing with life, and orions belt pointing the way, only to stay mesmorized till my feet were numb and now I have a cold, but to be there again, it would be worth it. Looking up at the sky, you realize how totally insignificant you are and all the worries and stress are for nothing. People pass from one world to the next yet these patterns have stayed the same for thousands of years...Im glad Ive come to realize this while I still have the energy to evolve..and follow a dream as well. If I only let go.

Twas the night before Christmas

and all through the house,
a creature was stirring and it wasn't A MOUSE!
A WOMAN was up and decided late in planning a dinner for eight!
The weather was frightful, all wet and sodden!
Yet what could she do,
Her nieces were coming and it wouldn't do-
they needed presents.
Off with her father, they trudge to the store,
and try to find gifts that weren't a bore!
Back to the market the food must be bought,
a 13lb turkey,
potatoes and more!
Alas baked bread, and dishes were done,
but what does she hear!
Oh daughter dear! said her father, decidedly late.
No tree! but that won't do! Where will we put the presents??
so off dashed the woman at half past eight to search for a tree
and LO AND BEHOLD, a small one was waiting,
roots and all, oh what joy!
It's fresh, it's alive-no plastic for me!
Santa is waiting under the tree, he plays a good tune,
for any to hear.
So Merry Christmas to all,
our dinner's tomorrow
welcome to any who wander uninvited.

Early christmas party..

Was an interesting night, all snowy and cold,
yet thanks to champagne, felt nothing at all!
Lights floating down, soft sprinkles on my head..
me.. illuminated red,

Happy Holidays!

Ono no Komachi

I came across this poet in Penguin's Book of Women Poets. "Renowned for her beauty and talent she served at Court in the middle of the ninth century. Stories of her life are part of the folklore of Japan."

A thing which fades
With no outward sign-
Is the flower
Of the heart of man
In this world!
(translated by Arthur Waley)

So lonely am I
My body is a floating weed
Severed at the roots.
Were there water to entice me,
I would follow it, I think.
(translated by Donald Keane)

I enjoy the simplicity and the imagery that they bring to mind. As well as the age old sentiment..of love and loss..

Thanksgiving

Well, here in the States it's Thanksgiving, a holiday tradition to cook a turkey..in my family this was no less then 25 lbs usually, 13kilos! We always had guests and always had lots an lots of leftover turkey coming out of our ears! We try to keep up the tradition, the past few years it's been my father who learned to cook past the age of 60 I believe.. Poor man, not his fault too many dominating women, especially in the kitchen, from grandmother..down to me! Well as I am here this year, I volunteered to do it, both to continue the tradition with my nieces and my friend who loves turkey and happens to be here. Yet, unlike years pass, this turkey only weighs 13lbs (7kilos) and god it's been awhile, with the stuffing! It's funny how some things are so ingrained that although it frustrates me I still do it that way, tradition! We close the bird up using toothpicks to hold the stuffing in place! Now, that is about the most annoying and time consuming process, they break, the skins seem to get tougher as years pass, or the toothpicks get thinner and blunter! So my friends, this year I do not go all out, just soup, (lentil), turkey with rice stuffing, some small "meze" appetizers, cheese etc.., roasted vegetables including fennel which I found.., brother who also learned to cook after having children made haricots vert, green beans, and is supplying the alcohol he makes a great martini, while Su my friend is supplying the bread, and fresh mozzerella with tomatoes and basil!
Thankfully Pandora will supply the music, blues jazz and salsa...while I will supply a great new 8 dvd pack of Charlie and Lola,to distract the kids! a must to anyone who has children, I haven't seen the dvds but the books are great, entertaining and educational of course!

Bon Appetit!

Nature or learned response?

For all those times I drove everyone crazy..Shane,Aurore, and Anne..perhaps others who are long in my past.. I post this in my defense! It is in my nature..smiling..I found it to be too true not to post! So rolling of eyes is permitted at this stage!

The Moon represents the emotional responses, unconscious pre-destination, and the self-image.

Moon in Sagittarius
More than anything, Lunar Sagittarians have a need for personal freedom and space. They are extraordinarily happy and easygoing folk, as long as they don't feel caged in or cooped up. Lunar Sagittarians have a simultaneous need for activity. Meeting new people, going out in the world, and travel are all important to their sense of well-being. They love open spaces, and, in their homes, a roomy and bright environment. There's a bit of a teacher in Moon in Sagittarius, and definitely a helpful spirit. They easily forget appointments and the like, and some are even considered irresponsible. (hmm) However, it is hard to stay angry at a Lunar Sagittarian! They are so cheerful and upbeat, and their optimism is catchy.

Many people with this position are outdoorsy types. At the very least, they have a great love for friendly competition. When the going gets tough, these people run away. (oops!)They don't like to be caught up in routine for too long, and they simply need to escape. There's a blind faith in Lunar Sagittarians that is admirable. They simply believe that everything will work out. Not much for making detailed plans, people with Moon in Sagittarius prefer to wing it. They're very adaptable and generally on the go.

Short description:

Likes to throw herself into the unknown and into adventure: she is agile, tough and enthusiastic. Attracted to long voyages, to discover the unknown.

Weaknesses: takes great risks in throwing herself into the unknown and into adventure. Audacious, bold and rebellious. Unable to stay in one place, is always ready to risk everything to achieve her goal.

My first election day party! Wow! the energy and the tension...the loud cheering everytime Obama was predicted to have won a new state..was amazing.(sorry for the photo quality, no flash).The store was packed! I bought my Obama pin and was wearing it for the past week as well! It is amazing that we are making history, an african american president, who would have thought. The last time I felt like this was when the Berlin wall fell down in 89. Hopefully we will have a better future!
Although, to be honest, after 8 years of BUSH..anything he does will be better!!! First off he's intelligent and can read! And surprise! He can talk about subjects without a script!! Good luck everyone!

A day in the rain..

Volunteered in the rain to help out at Housing Works, an organization which donates all of its proceeds to help the homeless and those in need of aid. I found them by accident a few years ago and fell in love with the bookstore, the atmosphere and energy is very soothing. Today they had a book fair outside, under tents, which dripped. The worse was not really the rain, but the dripping from the tents,which at one point would pour cold water down your back, and get under your shirt...ughh.. Not getting soaked was not an option, which made getting a free cup of hot coffee even more enviable! I had the fun job of going around and punching at the water logged tents so cascades of water would tumble down, sometimes we had a few casualties! Yet all in all most of the people had a sense of humour!
Although, I myself, am a book lover/fiend..I have NEVER witnessed such a thing, in the beginning all was well and organized, then as the tables got fuller,and those who hanged in their for the long haul...these were 1$ a book, all kinds...we started having crowds gathering around us repacking books to take to the specific tables, which in the beginning we had, they were like cats at a butcher shop, or vultures over a dead carcass, looming over your shoulder, grabbing a book here grabbing a book there! Tailing me as I carried the box to its designated spot..Returning after such a trip I find my co-volunteer using his voice as a whip, (back back I say! ) teasing, yet kindly but firmly requesting them to go to the tables..However, it was understandable, the temptation to find "the"book, the first glimpse before anyone else spies it..people were buying by the box loads..I myself had to ferret and hide a few books, with the cashier, and to my astonishment, found myself with 11 books! Some nice art books I must admit and one big sociology book..Oriental Despotism...hmm sounds serious doesn't it!
But all joking aside, it was a well run, disciplined organization. Which when my shift ended, 10-2 a new group came, lucky them the rain had stopped! I along with the rest of volunteers were truly tired and ready to rest...the real staff..still unpaid..stayed for the whole thing. I must admit, I am happy to be a part of this, everyone, seemed to know each other from past years, there was a camaraderie amongst people from all walks of life, young and old!

A quiet trip up north..

Genevieve's Birthday in the park with a smiling Thierry behind...happy 30th!

mmm Genevieve is tasty! A picnic for all ages!

Quebecois Flag..

Heralding Autumn's arrival!
Sigh..love the staircases..seems typical Montreal..

Other than flying my favorite way to travel is by train..
Meditative,
through open windows the landscape flies by..
sunlight filters through trees creating startling landscapes of light and shadow.
autumn is near, the trees have started to change color
yellow, amber, orange.. just on the edges.
Would that I lived in a place like this..
would I get tired of its natural beauty?

This trip to visit Genevieve and Thierry, has left me rested if a bit philosophical.
No technology, for me a retreat from the world at large, their home a wealth of warmth and laughter.
Although a home is only a shell with four walls, it is those inside which give it life!
I have left Montreal if not wiser a little less stressed having extended my trip by one day. Montreal reminds me of France with its cafes and its subtle french atmosphere. Quite homey, with its melange of immigrants it is different to Quebec. Although the accent is a little difficult to comprehend, the people were very polite and smiled. At a little "salon de the" named "fous des dessert", I had a very nice lesson in green tea by its Japanese owner, in french! Where I drank an oolong tea with orchid flower, quite subtle. Of course with a pain chocolat, made with real chocolate..mmm.Lucky for me, I also enjoyed a traditional fondue, made with broth. Being invited to a home cooked dinner is a wonderful way to meet people, and just observe, thankfully Genevieve quickly showed me the trick of tying the meat, so it doesn't fall off. Although there is a tradition of kissing the person on your right if you do lose your food in the broth! Hmm would that lead to a lot of hungry people...
thank you..
In the end everything begins and ends with us...no I have not just come to that conclusion, but it is a lesson which sometimes needs remembering..My body tends to tell me when something is wrong, sleepless nights, fatigue, irritability..but I often ignore her, till its too late. She is someone I have to heal first from the inside out..I have been reminded of this by a cold sore, for some it is a normal occurence, for me it has happened during major life changes, every few years.It is my bodies way of dealing with stress and shaking me awake when I am too 'tetue' to listen! So I have promised less coffee, more green tea, and wholesome foods, a start for now. Although I am positive, the stress and anxiety over my decision to move and no work etc...will be harder to leave aside, although I will try.
I love you all dearly my friends, a double edged sword to have you all scattered about! at least one is only a train ride away...

to sleep or not to sleep

that really is the question..whether or not to dream or perhaps to fall into the arms of morpheus..an age old question since Shakespeares time..what I wouldn't give for a peaceful nights sleep..not to wake up, and think of all manner of strange and exasperating scenario's. The mind works in mysterious ways, but why mostly at night??
so this resident night owl, will write by moonlight, while all the worlds asleep..If anyone finds Mr.Sandman, send him to me, although..living in the modern city "which never sleeps" there are a million and one sounds at night, from people going and coming from work, the wood floors and furniture creaking and settling (disturbing really till you get accustomed to it) the ambulances and trucks down whizzing down the streets..the deli (bakkal like) starting to open at 3 am preparing for the day ahead, to the least a wind chime, tinkling with the wind..all these noises one hears so much better at night, and jumps at the least possible sound...
It's four thirty, and I've been up since three..if ever I had a child, I would be prepared..I'm off to bed, again..I understand why people take sleeping pills..ahh the sound of the industrial sized air conditioner..forgotten that one!
good night to all..j'espere...

Life is not so grey...

After making a few decisions, hopefully in the right direction, I feel a little less like a fish out of water.  Today, its a bit strange I've forgotten how diverse New York is. I've laughed quite a bit, I also realize that I have more of a sense of humour then your average New Yorker! But luckily this being New York no one looked at me too strangely. Looking around you see people dressed so that all you see are a long pair of legs, a costume from the 1930's middle america, a man walking and cursing down the street only to stop...and kiss his girlfriend. Bodies that look like models, sitting in cafes full to overflowing...Well basically it has been an interesting day observing tout le monde..so where do I fit in...at the moment just as an observer. I miss France, Europe in General, but no matter how much I would like to think differently...I don't belong there..sigh! laughing  I must have the strangest accent now, I've been asked three times where it's from! Always the same shocked expression when I say Turkish..I've become mysterious....me! Must admit it was hell overseas, being Turkish and American, neither one of which is too well accepted. Had to improvise and say bit of both, which was getting annoying since I'm really neither. 

Tout commence par des reves..true still stand by it..look at Shane and Aurore, who would have thought, good luck to both of you!

..running out of battery must leave now from this used bookstore dedicated to the homeless..

A path once chosen...

It feels like a lifetime since I last wrote..and well it could be. No longer in Istanbul, how strange. I've traversed the world it seems to end up where I least expected to be.
A bit melancholy, perhaps it's Bach, the cello suites were never lighthearted. Yet it suits my mood, introspective, contemplative. Therefore reader be forewarned!
Would that I could stifle these urges that goad and push for more. MORE what is more! There is no definition really, it is wanting what you do not have yet when you have..are we satisfied..for the moment, a day, a week and then it's back! Do all human beings have this craving, this impulsiveness to uproot their whole world on a whim, or so it seems sometimes. For what? sigh...A longing..
I've traveled the world, or a part of it, and for that I am grateful. I have been allowed to see, smell and live with others while they went about their lives. I've made friends which I can love and miss their companionship dearly.. I've matured perhaps too much..for this place seems to have stood still.
One day I will write about all the joy there was in traversing my little world, but not today, not with Bach's cellos playing in the background...
Alone once more, who would have thought it would be this difficult...surrounded by people one longs for piece yet once granted...can it be taken back.
once more a floating weed,
off the coast of the atlantic,
too far
both sides of the shore...so far...
destined to float on the sea,
or get dragged under by the current...

Hustle and Bustle

Life goes on amongst the hustle and bustle of the living in Istanbul. Overcrowded cafe's, streets and cars! Spent the early morning wandering with Anne amongst the Princess Islands, relaxing boat trip up and it really feels like another world, no one awake in the early hours but cats and horses. No cars allowed, heavenly...wandering the tree lined streets- peace at last. Two friends relaxing in the sun, while a kitten decides to take refuge on my backpack! Now sitting here relaxed in my element it feels strange that I will be leaving in three weeks. Do we close one chapter of one's life only to open another one? I do not want to stress the last few days, but finish what I have to do and prepare for my trip to France. Looking forward to traveling, sigh, where will this love affair with new sights and old friends end? Will I ever truly be an academic, sitting in a musty library, wandering among shelves of books rather than streets!

For those of us who've lived abroad...

Ok, maybe it's just my own feeling, but I would like to thank those people, who make it possible for those of us who live abroad to find a used english bookstore. It's a rare gift and it's impossible not to feel grateful and hug the owner for having an array of titles! Just the possibility of skimming through books which are not a century old, or harlequin novels!Thank you thank you...so saying, I found an interesting D.H.Lawrence book called The Fox. One I hadn't heard of before.

A minute detail..

Something to chew on...Huge billboards of a silk scarf ad...
These scarves were usually shown tied gracefully around the neck
however now...they are tied around the head in a peasant fashion,
not like a headscarf where no hair is visible, but a knot under the chin...
Maybe I'm paranoid but these are minute ways of getting us accustomed to the idea.
Besides which, scarves worn around the neck, like neck ties, are a western invention, and have no place in an Islamic society, as this goverment would like us to be.
Just in case this is a hint of paranoia, when our prime minister meets with more conservative members of his parliament, we lose the necktie...minute perhaps...but all the same, it starts like this. And soon you become so used to it, that, it no longer bothers you..It is normal...that's when for those who think like I do the s... has hit the fan.

Where does one end and one begin?

The savagery of man...long story of how it began, but we had a discussion at work, about how men could become animalistic and not only 'rape' but brutalize a woman. Rape is a power struggle, most people would agree on that, however, even rape needs to have some boundaries some humanity, yet, there are men, or groups of men, who take advantage of being stronger, and use her like a vessel an orifice, till she is limp and bleeding or dead. How is this possible? Although canon law stated around 11th c. a woman was always ready for sex as she has no visible means of sexuality... Do we still in the 21st c. hold this biased view? How does a human being lose control to this degree? What is completely incomprehensible is the blase retort "she was asking for it". Fine, even if it's assumed that she "wanted" to have sex, this is NOT sex. No one would ask for this kind of degradation. What happened to society? Maybe it's naive but the difference between animals and humans is will power. Therefore men should take their cocks in hand and think before they act. Although women need to be responsible for their well being when the words no, or stop are uttered- why does selective hearing take place? Would men be this "cocky" (sorry for the pun), if women were able to rape men! Yet would women have it in them to be that violent? I do believe in DNA coding and women were always the protectors of the family and homemakers, therefore if a sound mind is applied I do believe its not the case.
Are there no men to stop and think of the consequences of their actions? Are there no regrets? Most likely not, with men still thinking they own women as property, and the simple retort that she was not a socially acceptable person therefore, up for anything. Such simplistic thinking but true.
And now they want to launch a 4th Car Theft Auto, or whatever it's called, as if there isn't enough violence! I see it all day in my four year old class..kids immediately go for the throat, they start young.

Labor Day 2008 Istanbul

Sigh...last year was the first time I came face to face with Istanbul's version of labor day. Unknowingly, naive, I walked into Taksim Square, looking for a man (who later became a friend) to take to my new job, working on the Asian side. As I went up the hill, lo and behold hundreds of police barricades, news reporters , no buses, no metro's. Hmm imagine my surprise, as I chat to a reporter, asking what is going on, he gave me a look of disbelief! It's May day! Be careful, there can be riots, protests, molotov cocktails etc..OK..so, I find Michael very easily as we are the only two idiots to be wandering around the streets with our mouths open, (so to speak) as we continue walking trying to meet up with the chauffeur, we come across tanks! and people walking trying to get to work.
Well, that was one year ago, and yes there were protests and riots. This year the government who is trying to portray itself as very pro-European Union, democratic, pro-human rights,etc.. Labels the working class (in a sense no direct translation)as nothing but "lower classes, who are they to dictate what we will do". They wanted to meet in Taksim Square, however instead of finding a way to come to terms with the unions, his government, the mayor etc, restricted any protests, changed the name of the day and said if any one decides to demonstrate they will use force. And that is exactly what they have done! IF this was any country during the communist era I could understand this type of action however this is not! They have barrackaded the building where one group of workers were supposed to start their walk,(about 600 people) and if any happen to leave the building they are pelted with tear gas, water and paint..there are hundreds of police walking around in groups a show of force!. Taksim Square is completely cut off from any kind of transport and people- literally a bird cannot fly through there. It is surrounded by police which have been brought from around Turkey, of course with sharpshooters standing by on rooftops! This is a main touristic area, with hotels and restaurants, poor tourists! Don't misunderstand me, this is NOT a terrorist organization just workers old and young who wanted to celebrate this holiday, ok, sometimes there are small groups of other organizations who protest as well, but usually they are small enough to contain. However this is a show of power and brute force! the police are pelting people whether or not, they are protestors, they have even entered some of the hospitals, which of course baffled some of the doctors inside.
It's sad and unbelievable, I couldn't go to work today, because of the closure of the roads and transport, as well as the fact that my parents would have worried about me, but I must say we got off easy last year with Micheal, this year I wouldn't be so sure.
These actions will have repercussions, no one has the right to be treated this way, these are your workers, your people, not terrorists! Bully tactics never work. However, this is another fine example of this goverments tactics, they only do what is best for them...sigh..."What is to be done"? as the title of Chernyshevsky's 19th Century novel asks...

hello world, remember me,

So, it's been two almost two years since I've been in Istanbul AND I must admit it went by quite fast, and although I sometimes feel like I've not accomplished much, I think I have...broadened my horizons quite a bit...
I've become much more cynical with goverments and life in general however and globalization has a lot to answer for. Idealistic people try to protest against goverments working with big corporations or even bigger goverments however to what avail? Istanbul's new goverment has sold off nearly everything they could think of to foreign investors, or family members. Electricity, bus companies, soon Natural gas, with this of course comes increased prices and we are becoming more and more isolated! May 1st is labor day and has been for nearly 200 years all around Europe, yet our goverment has decided to rename that day, and therefore, control all the protests and demonstrations that are sure to be. No, this is not a joke. Although I must admit if it wasn't the country, where I am living now, I would think it was so. Not that the US is much better with Bush heading it, and soon in my opinion will be McCain unfortunately, since the population of the US has a tendency to elect conservative. I will have gained the ability to study, read at my leisure and walk down the street and see some nature, AND despite everything it is stable. I don't feel economically secure in this country, or that the future is heading in the right direction. The new regime has gotten into the foundations of this country and like termites they are very hard to get rid of. I wish I was being pessimistic but I'm afraid we are heading in the same direction as Iran, watch Persepolis the animation! and you will see what I mean. So I'm off on this beautiful day, to teach the little buggers :)

Brecht...

I agree that some author's have to be read at a certain age..and Brecht is one of them for me. I've had the Threepenny Opera, sitting on my shelf for years, but now I've just decided to read it and it's an amazing parody on capitalism and war. Which seems perfectly suitable to this day and age. I came across this poem, which I will insert -

And now they're off to the war

And they all need cartridges badly

and of course there are plenty of nice kind people

Who'll find them the cartridges gladly

'No ammunition,no war!

'Leave that to us, my sons!

You go to the front and fight,

We'll make you munitions and guns.'

And they made munitions in piles,

And there wasn't a war to be found

And of course there were plenty of nice kind people

Who conjured one out of the ground,

'Off you go, dear boy, to the front!

For they threaten your native sod

March, for your mothers and sisters,

For your King and for your God!'(Brecht, Penguin Books, 1967)

Does any of this sound familiar??? I find it very very ironic!

nothing to say..

just a month ago...brrrrrrrrrrrrr!!!!