I wrote my Senators last week (that word "my" is kind of sticking in my craw at this point; they sure as hell don't represent me) asking them to support the repeal of "Don't Ask Don't Tell". I even started my letter with "I know that next week I will receive a letter from you saying how much my thoughts on this matter mean to you, and then you both will proceed to tell me you support the status quo"!
Which is exactly what showed up a bit ago...
Mr. Brownback wrote to tell me how much my thoughts matter, then how wonderfully the current policy has worked and how "he'll listen to the military" when it comes to making policy...
Had Harry Truman listened to the military 60 years ago it would still be segregated!
The laws of inertia are that a mass in motion will continue in the direction it's going unless it's acted on by some outside force.
That "change from within" is impossible would be evidenced by the fact that during the Revolutionary War the army WAS integrated, as it was during the War of 1812, yet by the time of the Civil War it became segregated...outside forces had their influence and it stood for over 100 years!
I remember the rants in the 70's that there would never be women on carriers or their escorts; that there was just no way that could ever work. There was no way you could put women on ships that were going out for 8 or 9 months and have it not cause a problem.
Yet today women fill every billet in the Navy, just as they should.
'Tis truly sad that good lives are being ruined by those who reap political hay!
Didn't mean to start the week with a rant...
May the week be kind to you each!
alan
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So frustrating when you know damn good and well that "your" elected representatives won't listen to or speak for you! Good that you tried anyway, especially since you are a veteran.
It's a hell of a thing to tell people that they aren't even good enough to stop an enemy bullet. Especially when the policy results in Arabic translators getting fired and actual convicted felons being allowed to handle military weaponry because there's a shortfall of enlistees.
We as a people, have not actually elected our representatives for quite some time. It's all been about corporate games, money, and lobbying.
I feel your pain Alan and share you're frustration. The change we need must start with the people of the united states who stand up and demand that the current broken system needs to be replaced.
Press rules, lobbying controls, a completely new campaign reform that actually works and so much more needs to be done. The color of my skin however is NOT blue. As in I'm not holding my breath.
I read a feature on the RAF's campaign to encourage recruitment from the gay community, recently. Followed by the almost-to-be-expected tired litany of jokes in the comments. But at least the British forces have a more enlightened attitude than 'don't ask..." Well done for keeping up the pressure!
Don't apologise for a rant - does us all good from time to time :)
Sometimes the rant needs ranting, without regard for the day of the week.
I share your concerns, as usual!
The possessive applied to politicians always amuses me, especially after this last year when it has become oh so clear that they represent big money, not "the people" (whatever that really means anymore). Then there is "my tax money", even funnier! Like saying that Al Capone's protection money was "yours". No longer, bub! Doesn't it say "Federal Reserve Note" on there anyway? Render unto the Federal Reserve that which is the Federal Reserve's.....
Haven't you heard rants are good for your health, it gets those bad vibes out of the system. :D
I hope this stupid policy ends soon, and I think it is time to bring back the draft,
It is probably the only way these wars will end.
I liked it Allen, ranting is good sometimes.
It is sadly true. Those who claim to represent the "people" only manage to earn themselves a nice salary and extraordinary benefits for life.
If they can ingratiate themselves with a powerful lobbyist then BONUS. Many I've voted for have let me down time and again all the while claiming to represent "my" best interests and my wishes.
The only time I ever get a letter back after I write one to my representatives, senators, etc. is come voting time.
Happiest holidays....
Alan, I do not believe this post is a rant. Rather, a thought provoking discussion on a subject that keeps falling through the cracks instead of moving forward with the times. Thank you for your kind voice of reason.
How are you? Merry Christmas. Had some time this afternoon. What a read!
Hope you have a great Week Alan.
It looks like we are getting hit with a storm Christmas, so we may just hunker down with a pot of soup!!
Hi Alan
I hope life is being kind to you.
Wishing you and your dear family a very Merry Christmas
Good health and happiness
May all your dreams come true in 2010.
Debbie x
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