tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-38819656080853168152024-02-07T02:30:22.497-07:00Jay Walking"A man or a nation is not placed upon this earth to do merely what is pleasant and what is profitable. It is often called upon to carry out what is both unpleasant and unprofitable, but if it is obviously right it is mere shirking not to undertake it."
~Sir Arthur Conan Doyle, <i>The Tragedy of Korosko</i>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.comBlogger93125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-64983561363151671832009-10-04T07:51:00.003-06:002009-10-04T07:59:39.463-06:00A Tale of Two PMsI saw the video of Stephen Harper that's making the rounds. My wife and I just couldn't help but smile because all politics aside, it just looked like a lot of fun.<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/JOt2Qp0H9G8&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/JOt2Qp0H9G8&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />This was a nice surprise given how rarely we see our political leaders in this kind of light. Maybe this is still too fresh in their minds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgccXQCKiH4VbYgGG8QqrNcDsCNE2MIhunyyufbXGerYaCGW23DNfvfpbfQbIlfG4K9L__W4pWrt785sB3DHIHusv6cj8xPQuVJOuSOyGZMiqsUn3eQZ9AKqqnR5_a2qv9kP59f-csAdZP/s1600-h/jan_NEWS.jpeg.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 150px; height: 199px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhgccXQCKiH4VbYgGG8QqrNcDsCNE2MIhunyyufbXGerYaCGW23DNfvfpbfQbIlfG4K9L__W4pWrt785sB3DHIHusv6cj8xPQuVJOuSOyGZMiqsUn3eQZ9AKqqnR5_a2qv9kP59f-csAdZP/s400/jan_NEWS.jpeg.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5388743792857328258" /></a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-54150136837670802962009-10-02T07:22:00.002-06:002009-10-02T07:41:39.798-06:00The height of political sleuthingWell done, Liberals and NDP. I guess I shouldn't be surprised that <a href="http://www.nationalpost.com/sports/story.html?id=2056136">this kind of accusation</a> should come up. Obviously, the Tories worked very closely with the parties involved to ensure that we only see and think 'Conservative' on our athletes at the upcoming Winter Olympics and not our country. The Loyal Opposition have truly outdone yourselves. Sheesh.<br /><br />This does get me thinking, though, that the opposition might want to get in touch with a few more companies with logos that are clearly too 'Conservative' for their own good. This betrayal of Canadian interests must not go unnoticed!<br /><br />Shame on you <a href="http://www.csl.ca/">Canada Steamship Lines</a>, <a href="http://www.canjet.com/en_home.aspx">CanJet</a>, and <a href="http://www.coltcanada.com/">Colt Canada</a>! Your fawning for the governing Conservatives has been exposed for the world to see and there's nothing you can do about it. How can I, about as regular a guy as they come, see a logo for Canada Steamship Lines and not think anything <span style="font-style:italic;">but</span> Conservative?! <br /><br />I will be wary of any stylized 'C' I come across from now on. It just can't be trusted.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-17430978975865558882009-09-22T22:30:00.002-06:002009-09-22T22:42:27.433-06:00Note to Iggy: This is LeadershipI don't much care for Ahmadinejad. This is a man who has clearly shown that he is a danger to civilized society. He is very literally a world-class douche.<br /><br />I just read how the Canadian delegation will be <a href="http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=2021521">walking out</a> on the Iranian President's speech to the UN and it makes me extremely proud to be a Canadian. For all the Liberals' talk about how Canada's role has diminished on the world stage, this hardly seems to fit the description. I might have my own political bias but I have an extremely hard time seeing Chretien, Martin, or Dion having the stones to do something like this, let alone Ignatieff.<br /><br />You do us proud as a country, Mr. Harper. Thank you for showing us again what real leadership looks like.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-29918931801210583472009-09-21T11:41:00.004-06:002009-09-21T16:54:35.830-06:00Ignatieff has all the answersAs a teacher, I try to do everything that I can so that I can encourage my students to come up with the answers themselves. As my mentor from my student-teaching days said: "You want to be a guide on the side, not a sage on the stage."<br /><br />Apparently, <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090921/ignatieff_economy_090921/20090921?hub=TopStories">the intellectual</a> hasn't figured that out yet. Note the Liberal approach of telling us ignorant Canadians what the answer really is.<br /><br /><i>"Ignatieff says after four years of Stephen Harper as prime minister, Canadians should ask themselves the question: "Are we better off than we were four years ago?"<br /><br /><b>He says the answer is no."</b></i> <br /><br />I guess if <i>he</i> says so.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-29916687722302350762009-09-07T12:29:00.006-06:002009-09-07T12:44:33.867-06:00What does mom say?My mom is not an overly political person and generally avoids the topic unless nerdy sons like me bring it up. So when I called her up yesterday for our weekly-ish chat, I was somewhat surprised with her reaction to what appears to be an approaching election.<br /><br />In her own words: <span style="font-style:italic;">"It's stupid. What a waste."</span><br /><br />Speaking up for regular Canadians, huh Iggy?<br /><br />Just be lucky she didn't give you some of these. Trust me...<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2n1YtuEh4VlOv_d8fI65nr6hccHkk3BskiaiAWrVHvrUmwXeX9QVFJl-_bOsY9PEwyQKuIgg_uOtURDbFbYVW2l5VH-W0NXorLmWGjm7UMIOLSQpP-tJuzTB4_gi84T89ey2Fw_6SQ5qS/s1600-h/gromit_angry_eyes.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj2n1YtuEh4VlOv_d8fI65nr6hccHkk3BskiaiAWrVHvrUmwXeX9QVFJl-_bOsY9PEwyQKuIgg_uOtURDbFbYVW2l5VH-W0NXorLmWGjm7UMIOLSQpP-tJuzTB4_gi84T89ey2Fw_6SQ5qS/s400/gromit_angry_eyes.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5378797633193007810" /></a><br /><a href="http://asg.animatedheroes.com/albums/02/gromit_angry_eyes.jpg">*</a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-3727131735848363542009-09-02T10:25:00.003-06:002009-09-02T10:29:49.746-06:00Victory for free speech?I almost missed this in all the hullabaloo over Iggy's latest round of crying wolf. It would be rewarding to see the efforts of free-speech crusaders like Ezra Levant, Mark Steyn and others start to pay off.<br /><br />From the National Post: "<a href="http://www.nationalpost.com/news/story.html?id=1954734">Hate speech law unconstitutional: rights tribunal</a>"Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-87180275698940339352009-09-01T17:08:00.003-06:002009-09-01T17:23:52.367-06:00Is Ignatieff on to something?I still have a hard time seeing <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090831/tories_election_090901/20090901?hub=TopStories">another election</a> happening this fall. There are just too many factors suggesting a negative outcome for the Liberals. That being said, I wonder if this is a move on the part of Mr. Ignatieff to avoid being painted into a corner like previous election bluffs.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090127/budget_reaction_090127?s_name=&no_ads=">Back in January</a>, the NDP and the Bloc quickly let everyone know that they wouldn't support the budget. This left the Liberals with no legitimate option but to allow the budget to pass, and discrediting Ignatieff as an effective leader in the process.<br /><br />I wonder if this doesn't have something to do with avoiding that this time around. Instead of being painted into a corner by the NDP and the Bloc, the other opposition are now in a position where their decision, and not the Liberals, determines whether or not Canadians go to the polls once again. Iggy doesn't have to take credit for dissolving parliament and therefore saves face. At least somewhat.<br /><br />While it's nice to see the Liberals actually taking a stand (er... maybe), I can't help but note that it still has little to do with anything but trying to make themselves look good.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-24152044092654539272009-08-31T15:22:00.004-06:002009-08-31T15:47:16.635-06:00Isn't this what conservatism is all about?More <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090831/tories_election_090831/20090831?hub=TopStories">election speculation</a> via CTV:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Ignatieff attacked the government on its economic track record and said that the Tories have done little to rebuild the economy.<br /><br />"If things are getting better, it's not because of this government, it's because the people of Canada have put their shoulder to the wheel," Ignatieff said.</span><br /><br />That right there is the essence of conservatism: the people make the difference and not the government. I don't think that the government should be doing too much to get the ball rolling and to have Iggy say that that's what happening is fine by me.<br /><br />While I'm not the first to say so, I am really getting tired of the constant threat of yet another election. I don't know who does strategy for the Liberal Party but the tactic really does get old after a while. Offer some options instead and show that you're about principle like you say you are.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-29572977833225857022009-08-26T06:45:00.004-06:002009-08-26T07:09:32.328-06:00Thanks, Captain ObviousI really don't understand how <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090825/layton_pm_090825/20090825?hub=Politics">Jack Layton</a> announcing how he will not support the Prime Minister is news. Layton has made a big deal about always doing that, even if that has meant <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090127/budget_reaction_090127?s_name=&no_ads=">he doesn't always read the legislation</a> first.<br /><br />Emphasis from the example... <br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Prior to Tuesday's announcement, both Duceppe and Layton indicated that they would oppose the budget, no matter what it contained." ~January 27, 2009 </span><br /><br />Still, I can't fault the guy and the (New) New Democrats for at least being somewhat consistent unlike <a href="http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0ZICYDs9q5c">some others</a> I know of...Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-18284594975941795412009-08-19T23:13:00.002-06:002009-08-19T23:19:26.936-06:00It's Wednesday night and I'm bored...Ah, to be at that point of time where you know you should go to sleep but you just can't bring yourself to do it. It's during times like these that I tend to come across some of the more interesting things I read online.<br /><br />I'll go ahead and do a preemptive note that this article doesn't come from the most definitive of sources. That doesn't mean it isn't interesting, though.<br /><br /><a href="http://www.spike.com/blog/five-ways/85281">The Five Ways Environmental Friendliness is Screwing Up the Planet.</a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-81440486989853549412009-08-18T13:42:00.002-06:002009-08-18T13:48:29.851-06:00Denmark and burkasI don't think I'm alone when I say that I don't see this being too well received by some. Nonetheless, it brings up a good question: at what point, if any, does Western society, in all of its welcoming embrace, draw the line and say enough is enough? <br /><br /><a href="http://network.nationalpost.com/np/blogs/fullcomment/archive/2009/08/18/denmark-mulls-a-ban-on-burkas.aspx">Read the article</a>.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-8869281072296776422009-08-18T11:05:00.002-06:002009-08-18T11:16:19.746-06:00Lazy days of summerPosting has been sparse lately, as I've been caught in enjoying what's left of my summer break. I've also been heavily engaged in reading 'Shakedown.' I'm finding it fascinating but at the same time, it makes me angry. Really angry in fact.<br /><br />I haven't had to deal with these problems anywhere near the extent that people like Ezra Levant, Mark Steyn, and others have. I have, however, started to feel the pressure a bit more in my life and more especially in my profession. The recent passing of Bill 44 can, admittedly, be viewed as a tool to empower parents in shielding their children from harmful subject matter. However, at the same time it feels like yet another restriction on speech all in the name of human rights. It makes me feel a bit uncomfortable and there are many times that I wonder what kinds of battles I might face in the future as the shroud of political correctness and 'the right to not be offended' expands.<br /><br />I certainly don't mean to fear-monger but I'm finding that the more I learn about the issue, the more concerned about it that I am growing. We live in a free society and that certainly doesn't mean that we can do whatever we want. But it does not mean that we need to renege on some of our most cherished rights just because of heightened, overly-developed senstivitiesJasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-56609213666865066172009-08-07T21:36:00.004-06:002009-08-07T22:01:36.661-06:00Where are the new ideas?One of the biggest problems I see with the current version of the LPC is its continuing failure to highlight what it would do differently than the Conservatives. I've often heard it said that those in opposition have a duty to oppose the government's agenda. That isn't enough, though; they should be articulating their vision to the public and providing suggestions to make improvements. It makes me wonder what they're waiting for, which is very likely just the opportunity to implement their own agenda on their own terms.<br /><br />Take <a href="http://www.liberal.ca/en/newsroom/media-releases/16140_failed-conservative-infrastructure-plan-to-blame-for-job-losses-liberals">this recent press release</a> from their website in regards to unemployment. <br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;"><span style="font-weight:bold;">Failed Conservative infrastructure plan to blame for job losses: Liberals</span><br /><br />OTTAWA - The bad fruits of an overly partisan and ineffective approach to infrastructure stimulus spending by the Harper Conservatives are clear in the latest unemployment numbers from Statistics Canada, Liberal Infrastructure Critic Gerard Kennedy said today.<br /><br />Job losses in construction would be much less severe if Conservatives were handling infrastructure spending properly, Kennedy charged. Construction sector employment decreased by 18,000 in July, bringing total construction job losses since October to 120,000. Over 80,000 construction jobs have been lost since the budget promised help.<br /><br />“Sadly, the Conservatives are making the recession much worse than it needs to be,” said Mr. Kennedy. "Mr. Harper has the gall to tell unemployed workers and their families that new jobs are ’underway’, knowing full well they aren't."<br /><br />Parliament authorized $11 billion in new infrastructure spending to create 100,000 jobs but the Conservatives have failed to produce anything but negative numbers. The Conservatives rejected the direction of Parliament and the consensus of municipalities and the construction industry alike and instead chose a delay ridden, partisan approach.<br /><br />As a result, only 55 percent of the Infrastructure Stimulus Fund has been pledged to date, and a very small amount has created jobs. The construction season has been lost in many parts of the country with no funds flowing in Quebec, 63 percent of Nova Scotia’s funding has yet to be announced and 75 percent of the funding isn’t even promised yet in BC.<br /><br />In the Township of North Glengarry, Ontario the Alexandria Water System Upgrade won’t be able to go to tender until January with construction starting next spring. A similar situation exists for the Archives expansion in the County of Simcoe, Ontario where no tenders have been released and construction isn’t expected to start until spring 2010. For the Fire Hall Construction project in Gander, Newfoundland, the municipality has released a tender which has not yet closed and construction isn’t expected to begin until September.<br /></span><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">"Families are feeling pain and hardship simply because Mr. Harper and his government are in a bubble and just don't get it,” Mr. Kennedy added. "People need jobs and a government that cares, not photo ops."</span><br /><br />Naturally, there is to be expected a certain degree of partisan rhetoric this being politics and all. The trouble for the LPC, especially coming from someone that I would think they are trying to convince to vote for them, is that <span style="font-weight:bold;">they propose no solutions</span>. When I look at these kinds of press releases I don't see anything but whining and complaining. You know what, Liberals? I get that you don't like these policies, I really do. So why the hell aren't you telling me what you'd do differently? Why do your keen minds at party HQ think that you need to wait for an election writ to start letting Canadians know how you would run the country? Isn't this about how best to serve Canadians in general?<br /><br />To be fair, all politicians do this far too much and therein lies the problem with so much of our current political discourse. We don't talk about ideas, we only tear the other side down. And as in the case with most arguments, each side generally become further entrenched in their own perspective. Is it any wonder why increasing numbers of Canadians are simply tuning out of the political process? <br /><br />I won't pretend to have all the answers because I know that I don't. What I can do is try to make a meaningful contribution to the health of the democracy that I believe in. I, for example, try to teach my students how to look at multiple sides of an issue so that they can make an informed decision about what <span style="font-style:italic;">they</span> believe. I try to foster discussion and debate that doesn't simply result in name-calling and slander, which admittedly is tough to do. I try to highlight how the rising generation can actually contribute to the form of government and make it work for them. All lofty goals but very worthwhile.<br /><br />I think that all of our politicians would do well to tone down the rhetoric just a tad. I'll be the first to admit that I don't like enough of the policies of the LPC, let alone the NDP or Greens, to justify my voting for them. However, if they want to earn my vote, they need to start talking about real ideas and how they would take advantage of them instead of just pointing fingers and saying how wrong the other side is.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-79014343295947926862009-07-24T14:09:00.004-06:002009-07-24T16:52:06.681-06:00An argument with the Left: Extreme Close-upYesterday, perhaps mainly out of boredom, I decided to post what some might call a rather controversial status update on facebook. In all likelihood, my comments were inspired largely by <a href="http://www.montrealgazette.com/travel/Divers+Cit%C3%A9+decision+panders+rednecks/1818300/story.html">recent events in Montreal</a>, as well as other previous conversations I've recently had. Any bolded emphasis that follows is mine.<br /><br />Here's what I posted:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Jason Thompson wonders why we don't see any straight-pride parades and/or festivals? How is that fair?<br /></span><br />In response, one of my 'friends' kick-started the debate with this:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Because straights have not been persecuted the way gays have. There no white history month either. Or Hitler rememberance like the holocaust...</span><br /><br />A reasonable point and yet I wanted to see what else he could offer. The discussion continued:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">Are you suggesting [name removed] that just because something bad happened in the past that we, as a society, have to shun it entirely? Do I have be some sort of victim before I can comfortably express myself, or do I have to live my life feeling sorry for the way that my ancestors may or may not have victimized others? Am I naturally excluded from liking who I am just because I happen to be a white, straight, male?<br /><br />I've never been a fan of political correctness in any way, shape or form. All it really seems to accomplish is to enable the continuation of the divisions that it alleges to combat. Despite what some in society might like to believe, not all of the actions of the past were done with sinister intent. We do not have to demonize the totality of our history just because people were hurt along the way.</span><br /><br />I thought that it was pretty clear at this point that the main point of this conversation would revolve around the futility of political correctness and whether or not it actually achieves what it sets out to do. However, I very quickly found that the conversation took a rather different turn for the worse.<br /><br />In response to my question whether or not I should be rightfully excluded because of my demographic (white, straight, male), I was told that I needed to be sensitive because it is likely that "<span style="font-weight:bold;">[I] have never ... experienced persecution or segregation</span>."<br /><br />Here's where things start to get really interesting. He continues:<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">I'm not a fan of political correctness either. Let's face it though. ... There are just things that should not be brought up because of sensitivity. <span style="font-weight:bold;">Should I bring up to you how I feel Mormonism is the retarded cousin of Christianity? No. I should ACCEPT certain things about people, and be sensitive about it. Just because I feel that way, doesn't mean I have the RIGHT to voice said opinion.</span></span><br /><br />That this individual preaches the value of keeping his mouth shut while at the same time putting in that not-so-subtle jab at my personal faith was surprising but, unfortunately, not all that unexpected. So I did what I do with my students in the classroom and called him on it.<br /><br /><span style="font-style:italic;">But you just did voice your opinion (retarded cousin? come on...) and THAT kind of commentary demonstrates the new kind of so-called tolerance that degrades more than it would like to let on. Yours, unfortunately, are the only overtly negative comments in this whole thread. And mandating that I HAVE to be sensitive because of the assumption that I have never suffered to the same degree as other marginalized groups is the whole problem with political correctness in the first place. <br /><br />. . .<br /><br />Is that what you think tolerance is all about and that you can pick and choose who to extend your favour to? I think that its you who has the uphill battle through life.<br /><br />I stand by my comments that our modern sense of equality and tolerance is more of a sham designed to make people feel better about themselves rather than enact any real change. When I can have a reasoned discussion with someone who can convince me otherwise, without resorting to a more critical track, I might be persuaded.</span><br /><br />What followed, which I will gladly spare those who have taken the time to read this so far, was a lengthy tirade mainly questioning the sincerity of my faith and those who choose to follow it. How it even became the issue in the first place still evades me. Here, though, are a two remaining highlights that stood out to me.<br /><br />1. <span style="font-style:italic;">My original post belittled the "hardships and efforts" of homosexuals</span>. I fail to see how at any time during the entire exchange I belittled anyone. The mere claim that I have done so is not enough to establish said belittling. That western society is full of so many thin-skinned ninnies and tattle-tales who can't settle their own differences is a rather unfortunate byproduct of this day and age.<br /><br />2. <span style="font-style:italic;">Ethnic and lifestyle celebrations are there because they have been earned through tribulation. Recognition is deserved because something has been overcome</span>. How exactly does one quantify hardship? And at what point does it earn widespread acceptance within a society? What about all the other groups who have not yet garnered the attention and justice that they are looking for? Why does even have to be earned in the first place?<br /><br />And in a final, grandiose gesture, he promptly 'un-friended' me. I guess he showed me.<br /><br />I thought a lot about the exchange while at work today and I'm still a little upset about it. I can honestly say, though, that his comments about my religion don't bother me. Frankly, I've heard worse and I'm not naive enough to expect everyone to like anything about my faith if they don't want to. <br /><br />What bothered me most was how quickly the discussion degenerated into an infantile screaming match. What started off as a discussion about political correctness and our modern concept of fairness, became an attack on one aspect of my identity. Not anywhere did I make unreasonable attacks or ever seriously advocate for a 'straight-parade.' This individual resorted to the tactics of too-many in all parts of the political spectrum, but more especially on the left. Instead of staying on task, another issue was used as a scapegoat of sorts, and any reasonable discourse came to an end.<br /><br />I consider myself a pretty open-minded individual. Frankly, I don't care what people decide to do with their lives. As long as people leave one another alone and use a little common courtesy life is pretty good for most of us. However, I do not like being largely demonized because I choose to be more conservative or traditionalist. That's my decision to make and no one has any right to question that. If you on the left are as tolerant and accepting as you like to say you are, then you might not revert so often to using the 'bigot' and 'knuckle-dragger' labels. And in all fairness, it works both ways.<br /><br />One of the greatest things about this country is that people can agree to disagree. I think we've been pretty fortunate in Canada to not see so many of the horrors that have plagued other parts of the world. When was the last time we saw a civil war here, or a military coup to overthrow a government among other things? Tempers can flare up from time to time but most of continue going about our daily lives because that matters more. I think everyone could benefit from being able to communicate and be really honest with one another, sometimes brutally at times. The frustration and lingering resentment are not worth the price of taking it so personally so frequently.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-75433240593853325012009-07-11T20:11:00.004-06:002009-07-11T20:24:56.984-06:00Actions speak louder than wordsIt's been my experience in life and as a teacher that when people go out of their way to explain that their actions <span style="font-style:italic;">aren't</span> something, I usually end up finding out that they are.<br /><br />It only takes two paragraphs in this <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090711/Airline_Doctor_090711/20090711?hub=TopStories">article</a> to make the point that the actions in question aren't about money. In my mind, though, if the good doctor was really worried about losing sleep, he would have kept his mouth shut and not volunteered to help in the first place.<br /><br />This could set a rather interesting, though very unlikely, precedent where I, the humble teacher, can linger around people in order to take advantage of what we call 'teachable moments.' Whenever I sense that I can bestow my knowledge upon those who might benefit from it, I can (humbly, once again) do my duty to society and promptly send them a bill for my troubles.<br /><br />Thank you, doctor, for sticking to principle and showing us the way.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-55485429954689690182009-07-11T09:48:00.005-06:002009-07-11T10:06:44.444-06:00Political correctness at its finestI'll let the video speak for itself. Absolutely brilliant!<br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/QDe3nUdTRcM&hl=en&fs=1&"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/QDe3nUdTRcM&hl=en&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />h/t <a href="http://blazingcatfur.blogspot.com/2009/07/must-watch-video-michael-coren-check.html">Blazing Cat Fur</a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-64230421857700977572009-07-09T12:01:00.003-06:002009-07-09T12:08:23.428-06:00Does this still count and hope and change?All is not well in Obama land it seems. Even I was surprised by this... I had expected the honeymoon to last a little bit longer. I just can't help thinking, though, that more and more people are (finally) figuring out that the guy just isn't what he was cracked up to be.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVW8HWXV4jhJ84yVPbAYrj3eKYLD327d-6997SsdQGcDPLPXQe0hrnjJ_taZyvP7wMsCDDmlg0Gl_cMnXCyqJGFlLyt_iTbvRoijTXQ-4IMNmBnV9TWWg0fA2RUGrRE4-KWw6vCWYzCAI_/s1600-h/obama_index_july_9_2009.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhVW8HWXV4jhJ84yVPbAYrj3eKYLD327d-6997SsdQGcDPLPXQe0hrnjJ_taZyvP7wMsCDDmlg0Gl_cMnXCyqJGFlLyt_iTbvRoijTXQ-4IMNmBnV9TWWg0fA2RUGrRE4-KWw6vCWYzCAI_/s400/obama_index_july_9_2009.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5356523285029587666" /></a><br /><br />I don't think anyone expected him to have solutions for every problem right off the bat. However, it would be really nice to see someone actually do something to fix the problems instead of just talking about how he would like to fix said problems. I, for one, hope that he figures it out soon.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-30338497784466056472009-06-19T13:59:00.005-06:002009-06-19T14:22:09.037-06:00Because I care...A selection of images just for PETA in their time of need. May you find peace.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IPXYFcE1d6DKD0mB3twEsv5tn5ghM6vknKo1OBdHmcf7C3GhP5pcih6Q3wv8z_QQW9SGXUgLYkiZbnrh6o1eCTKaOzJ6sV0K9MGYntR1bbG_-YuyYSpyf9ro1soiEv3x9uzAkGcps30r/s1600-h/2576180917_2543d979e9.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 266px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5IPXYFcE1d6DKD0mB3twEsv5tn5ghM6vknKo1OBdHmcf7C3GhP5pcih6Q3wv8z_QQW9SGXUgLYkiZbnrh6o1eCTKaOzJ6sV0K9MGYntR1bbG_-YuyYSpyf9ro1soiEv3x9uzAkGcps30r/s400/2576180917_2543d979e9.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349134364893563762" /></a><a href="http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3099/2576180917_2543d979e9.jpg">*</a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickQzCi85ZABEO4WOo5ZuERDxDoBbeVlzXz5tCwfB-EEdTtKzUVZ3LpUTlw7iclzH-S16Ik4YPKGdodekkuNRMm7g8KIoFgizLoO_5mwlxrmk1RkbCyWJnxfGApXQ2nIaRwG9pQrDAP4mu/s1600-h/fly-paper.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 388px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEickQzCi85ZABEO4WOo5ZuERDxDoBbeVlzXz5tCwfB-EEdTtKzUVZ3LpUTlw7iclzH-S16Ik4YPKGdodekkuNRMm7g8KIoFgizLoO_5mwlxrmk1RkbCyWJnxfGApXQ2nIaRwG9pQrDAP4mu/s400/fly-paper.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349132903655165298" /></a><a href="http://z.about.com/d/insects/1/0/N/4/-/-/fly-paper.jpg">*</a><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBnoR8MJFIepb2nX4rWdc1gf5QPonz9yWsMCy4OxNAzq4lrWqnZTCnvC2El_xiieoMh9bwHQO5NCWz9b4SpP-QVjteXYzLHB_nT1xaF_MQca9UKpG_nUqF0zbRRdFx3JNZx9a_tEuql8Y/s1600-h/435frogtongue.jpg"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 175px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEirBnoR8MJFIepb2nX4rWdc1gf5QPonz9yWsMCy4OxNAzq4lrWqnZTCnvC2El_xiieoMh9bwHQO5NCWz9b4SpP-QVjteXYzLHB_nT1xaF_MQca9UKpG_nUqF0zbRRdFx3JNZx9a_tEuql8Y/s400/435frogtongue.jpg" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5349135574418944626" /></a><a href="http://mentalfloss.cachefly.net/wp-content/uploads/2007/10/435frogtongue.jpg">*</a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-5096976797002562692009-06-16T10:51:00.003-06:002009-06-16T11:24:16.378-06:00Belated and conflicted (beflicted?) position on Bill 44I originally started writing this post a few weeks ago as it became apparent that the Alberta Tories would succeed in passing Bill 44. For those who don't already know, Bill 44 gives parents the right to withdraw their children from classes where potentially sensitive material is going to be discussed. This particularly pertains to issues involving sexuality, and some religious matters.<br /><br />On the one hand, it is rewarding to see more recognition for my role as a parent in deciding what my kids are exposed to. The world can be a pretty crazy place and naturally, I wish to avoid exposing my kids to things that aren't going to help them. However, I find that this usually relates to more tangible risks such as substance abuse and other social matters.<br /><br />On the other hand, I'm somewhat wary of the government limiting my role as a teacher. The passage of Bill 44 leaves me feeling like I almost need to be watching over my shoulder to make sure I'm not doing anything wrong. This is not the kind of feeling that one should have in a school. I shouldn't have to feel like I have to adhere to certain talking points so that I can avoid offending anyone, or even losing my job.<br /><br />Education plays a fundamental role in the development of our society. It is not only in our schools but as we interact with those around us that we can better appreciate the world around us. The closed-mindedness that continues to infect healthy dialogue does not in any way help people to resolve differences, or at least accept that people are different. <br /><br />I'm not about to argue that people hold hands and delude themselves into accepting some false sense of society-imposed harmony. There is generally no harm, however, in being able to learn about what we don't already know. As we are challenged we are made to think for ourselves and form our own opinions. I fear that Bill 44 will lead some individuals to neglect these opportunities for growth and development. That is the real controversy, not necessarily the topics in question.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-29887788586572859032009-05-22T13:33:00.002-06:002009-05-22T13:47:33.564-06:00Am I a racist?I have been working on a move from a 2-bedroom apartment into a much bigger townhouse. As fun as that is, I've also spent a fair amount of time on the phone with various companies updating contact information, etc.<br /><br />Is it really wrong of me, though, to wish that I could speak to people who actually speak English? I'm all for inclusion and acceptance... I teach it on a daily basis. However, I am tired of asking people to repeat their questions. I am tired of having to repeat my questions at least three or four times. Is it really such a crime to want to be able to speak to someone that I can actually communicate with?<br /><br />Let me be clear that I am not trying to characterize the entire industry of telephone customer-service representatives. I'm sure that most of them, if not all, are wonderful people doing wonderful things with their lives and families. I just want to know that after waiting on hold for 10 or 15 minutes will eventually lead to a real person that I can actually talk to.<br /><br />Is this really so wrong?Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-29004982746282168772009-05-19T20:36:00.003-06:002009-05-19T20:41:33.094-06:00Up yours, Mr. Gore!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoC4rdK2cBktvu12dSe9z1wE6PA9iKpNMt7c4r64cdAcQT6eoDCmEPQPP6c4_5bqnimaE4V9yi-gmSZ05apvmPn6-jzqDNlsuXGvPktAofV79HWWXGAndRMgKAnMZoPkoR00B8A6vUIF0/s1600-h/IMG_2061.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiyoC4rdK2cBktvu12dSe9z1wE6PA9iKpNMt7c4r64cdAcQT6eoDCmEPQPP6c4_5bqnimaE4V9yi-gmSZ05apvmPn6-jzqDNlsuXGvPktAofV79HWWXGAndRMgKAnMZoPkoR00B8A6vUIF0/s400/IMG_2061.JPG" border="0" alt=""id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5337729819966565730" /></a><br /><br />The view from our window earlier this afternoon. 'Nuff said.<br /><br />As an aside, and not simply for the purposes of this post, I honestly cannot remember ever having seen snow in May during my many years in Canada. It's been a long and dreary winter up in Slave Lake and still it refuses to give it up for the year.<br /><br />Update: Still snowing at 8:41 pm.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-46824866266990832252009-05-05T00:52:00.000-06:002009-05-05T00:53:56.529-06:00If at first you don't succeed...Just <a href="http://www.nytimes.com/2009/05/02/us/politics/02enviro.html?_r=2">call</a> it something else.<br /><br />h/t Glenn BeckJasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-37850509376616473642009-05-04T12:31:00.002-06:002009-05-04T12:37:35.277-06:00George Carlin on EnvironmentThis video definitely made my lunch hour and will drift in the vastness of my mind for some time to come.<br /><br />Enjoy! Be warned that the language might affect some overly sensitive ears. <br /><br /><object width="425" height="344"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/LbFD4NC60EA&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/LbFD4NC60EA&color1=0xb1b1b1&color2=0xcfcfcf&hl=en&feature=player_embedded&fs=1" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowfullscreen="true" width="425" height="344"></embed></object><br /><br />h/t <a href="http://climbingoutofthedark.blogspot.com/">Climbing out of the Dark</a>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-48385883603867653642009-04-21T20:38:00.003-06:002009-04-21T20:50:03.380-06:00"Look at me! I'm Iggy!"In what isn't a terribly surprising move, a Liberal insider is giddily trumpeting an upcoming gathering of so-called 'smart people' including none other than our own beloved Michael Ignatieff. Reading about <a href="http://www.ctv.ca/servlet/ArticleNews/story/CTVNews/20090421/libs_meeting_090421/20090421?hub=TopStories">the event</a> would be more comical if it wasn't so sad.<br /><br />I have no problem with people meeting together to discuss whatever issue they want to talk about. What's embarrassing about this whole article is that this is coming from a party that has spent the better part of the last 8 years talking about how we shouldn't be getting too cozy with the American President or the United States in general. Now it seems that all opposition has been dropped solely due to a changing of the guard. Pathetic only begins to describe the approach. Iggy is behaving exactly like a toddler desperately trying to get attention and show that he can play, too.<br /><br />While I'm not sure just how much I can trust the word of the Liberal insider apparently on the verge of wetting himself with anticipation for a chance meeting of Iggy and Obama, I would sincerely hope that the Americans know better than to cozy up to the Leader of the Opposition. If he actually becomes Prime Minister (knock on wood) sure, go nuts. But until then, you work with what you have. This elitism isn't serving anybody but yourselves. I used to think that politics was about serving the people and not your own ambition. It happens on all sides of the spectrum, but I see far too much personal ambition from liberals than I would like and that really p#sses me off.Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3881965608085316815.post-79798705186889484002009-04-20T19:12:00.002-06:002009-04-20T19:15:21.578-06:00The President of Iran is a Douche; Durban II is a failureFor those who said that Durban II wouldn't follow the abysmal record of its predecessor, how would you like your crow?<br /><br /><script src="http://i.cdn.turner.com/cnn/.element/js/2.0/video/evp/module.js?loc=dom&vid=/video/world/2009/04/20/vo.un.iran.pres.walk.out.presstv" type="text/javascript"></script><noscript>Embedded video from <a href="http://www.cnn.com/video">CNN Video</a></noscript>Jasonhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/11990193941794743150noreply@blogger.com4