Ladies and gentlemen, from birth, the goal of any free- thinking, capable citizen should be independence. Independence, in the sense that we can help ourselves with or without the government, as we know it. On some level, we should yearn to think, learn, live and experience for ourselves. As we mature, our need for independence and to be independent should only get stronger. Throughout our lives, we should continue to nurture and develop our sense of independence. Not in the sense that we don't need anyone, but in the sense that we don't have to rely on an overbearing central government. We need to be able to rely on one another. Especially family, friends and neighbors.
The concern, at least from where I stand, is that that spirit of independence does not seem to extend itself beyond a superficial level. For a lot of us (correct me if I'm wrong), it seems that independence doesn't extend beyond getting out from under our parent's thumb. We graduate high school, go to college (hopefully) and get married and have a couple of kids. Whether or not we consciously think it, at least subconsciously, we have attained some level of independence. Not that there is anything wrong with that accomplishment. The problem is, we achieve that level of independence and we cease to nurture and further develop a true sense of independence. In the mean time, we fall victim to a serious dependence on the state/federal government.
This once great nation of ours was founded through a spirit of independence. Imagine where we might be if those independent spirits that sought to found this nation had been satisfied with merely leaving England. They could have just as easily left England and been satisfied with that achievement. However, they sought to do more. They wanted to exist beyond and independently of the British Crown. We have become satisfied with the status quo. We sit idly by and take whatever the government gives us. In the meantime, the government continues to take and take and take. They take our money. They take our rights and independence (slowly but surely). Ultimately, they are taking this country away from its rightful owners. Each and every citizen of these United States should want and be able to exist independently of our government.
Hold your elected officials accountable for their every action or lack there of. Regardless of whether or not you voted for them, they work for you. Let your voice be heard and let them know that you are watching them and holding them accountable. Most importantly VOTE. Support candidates that will represent the interests of the people that they represent. The two major parties rely on the fact that no one believes an independent can get elected. In addition to that, the Donkeys and Elephants make it difficult for independents to get on the ballot in many states. This ensures that there is no real threat to the status quo. Neither party is interested in bringing about real change. They are only interested in making sure that they are the party in power.
If nothing else, make certain that you are capable of surviving on a day-to-day basis, in the event that there should ever be a government collapse. I know this might seem a little extreme. However, do you really want to leave your well being in the hands of United States Government?
Flatulent Fuzz
Friday, July 24, 2009
Monday, July 20, 2009
What?
I recently read an article, about a collaboration between Texas Instruments and the University of Texas at Dallas. Some engineering students, at the university, needed to come up with a project. Ultimately, the project was inspired by the number of news stories ,that surface every summer, about infants/toddlers being left in vehicles and dying from the heat.
As a close friend of mine is so fond of saying, you cannot engineer around stupid. I am all for inventions that make our lives safer and easier, for that matter. And, I am certainly not a heartless person. My heart goes out to anyone who has lost a child. However, we need reminders to remind us of trivial things. Like say, that we have left our keys in the ignition. Or, that we have left the car lights on. Obviously, if you frequent this blog,you know that some people could use a reminder to practice good personal hygiene. But, that's another song. Do we seriously have to be reminded that we have a child in the car?
I take nothing away from the students at U.T.D or the management at TI. I believe that their hearts are in the right place.
However, here is what I would suggest. In lieu of a reminder, they could engineer a reliable test that would determine whether or not people are fit to be parents. Doesn't it make more sense to eliminate the problem ahead of time? Why react to a problem, when you can be proactive and avoid the problem all together.
Flatulent Fuzz
As a close friend of mine is so fond of saying, you cannot engineer around stupid. I am all for inventions that make our lives safer and easier, for that matter. And, I am certainly not a heartless person. My heart goes out to anyone who has lost a child. However, we need reminders to remind us of trivial things. Like say, that we have left our keys in the ignition. Or, that we have left the car lights on. Obviously, if you frequent this blog,you know that some people could use a reminder to practice good personal hygiene. But, that's another song. Do we seriously have to be reminded that we have a child in the car?
I take nothing away from the students at U.T.D or the management at TI. I believe that their hearts are in the right place.
However, here is what I would suggest. In lieu of a reminder, they could engineer a reliable test that would determine whether or not people are fit to be parents. Doesn't it make more sense to eliminate the problem ahead of time? Why react to a problem, when you can be proactive and avoid the problem all together.
Flatulent Fuzz
Thursday, July 2, 2009
Angry...
I will do my best to keep this from becoming a profanity laced diatribe. Quite frankly, I am madder than Hell! Fighting mad, one might say. I am not going to get in to specifics. Let's just say, that a real P.O.S has perpetrated a dastardly (and cowardly) act against a family member.
If I am being honest, I would like to stomp a hole in his posterior (keeping it clean just for you Mom and because I don't want to present myself as a complete Neanderthal). For the record, I am not a proponent of physical violence. However, it seems like violence is the only thing that some people understand (Uh Oh.. That Neanderthal is trying to surface again). As bad as I want to put a serious hurting on this degenerate, I will contain myself. And, I think that only adds fuel to the fire. Why should I be civilized? Why shouldn't I go out and beat him over the head? For the record, those are rhetorical questions. I know the answers. However, at this point in time, I do not like those answers. In fact, I would like to give those answers a beating.
It's times like these, that make me long for the days of the Old West. A little frontier justice, perhaps!
Look Mom, I did it. No salty language!
Flatulent Fuzz
If I am being honest, I would like to stomp a hole in his posterior (keeping it clean just for you Mom and because I don't want to present myself as a complete Neanderthal). For the record, I am not a proponent of physical violence. However, it seems like violence is the only thing that some people understand (Uh Oh.. That Neanderthal is trying to surface again). As bad as I want to put a serious hurting on this degenerate, I will contain myself. And, I think that only adds fuel to the fire. Why should I be civilized? Why shouldn't I go out and beat him over the head? For the record, those are rhetorical questions. I know the answers. However, at this point in time, I do not like those answers. In fact, I would like to give those answers a beating.
It's times like these, that make me long for the days of the Old West. A little frontier justice, perhaps!
Look Mom, I did it. No salty language!
Flatulent Fuzz
Wednesday, July 1, 2009
Cars, Cell Phones and Kids
When did it become automatic that a sixteen year old gets his/her very own car? And, why do many people seem to think that their children (not just teenagers, I've seen 10 and 11 year old kids with them) need cell phones?
Driving is not a right. It is, in fact, a privilege. From my point of view, privileges have to be earned. Before you can jump in to your very own ride, you have to pay your dues. And those dues are paid, by driving Mom and Dad's car for a couple of years and proving that you can be a responsible driver. Right?
Driving is not a joke and it certainly isn't something to be taken for granted or taken lightly. Irresponsible driving can have serious consequences. We are, after all, talking about something that weighs in at a show stopping 2000 pounds. Dare I say, that that has the capability of ruining somebodies day.
Cell phones, on the other hand, is just common sense. Although, they often resemble it. They are not ,in fact, toys. What business does a 10 or 11 year old boy or girl have with a cell phone? I can't really think of a reason that a teenager needs one either. But, at 10 or 11, you have got to be kidding me. Does it become automatic because it is the latest and greatest thing? NO. At least, not to my way of thinking anyway.
Flatulent Fuzz
Driving is not a right. It is, in fact, a privilege. From my point of view, privileges have to be earned. Before you can jump in to your very own ride, you have to pay your dues. And those dues are paid, by driving Mom and Dad's car for a couple of years and proving that you can be a responsible driver. Right?
Driving is not a joke and it certainly isn't something to be taken for granted or taken lightly. Irresponsible driving can have serious consequences. We are, after all, talking about something that weighs in at a show stopping 2000 pounds. Dare I say, that that has the capability of ruining somebodies day.
Cell phones, on the other hand, is just common sense. Although, they often resemble it. They are not ,in fact, toys. What business does a 10 or 11 year old boy or girl have with a cell phone? I can't really think of a reason that a teenager needs one either. But, at 10 or 11, you have got to be kidding me. Does it become automatic because it is the latest and greatest thing? NO. At least, not to my way of thinking anyway.
Flatulent Fuzz
Society or the Culture of Business?
The other day, a co-worker was telling me how my employer used to have someone attend the funerals of employees who had lost a family member (immediate family), without exception. However, they no longer do that.
Basically, it is at a supervisor's discretion, as to whether or not they attend the funeral.
I am pretty confident, that my employer is not the only one that follows that kind of policy.
My question is, is that more a reflection of society or of the culture of business?
Flatulent Fuzz
Basically, it is at a supervisor's discretion, as to whether or not they attend the funeral.
I am pretty confident, that my employer is not the only one that follows that kind of policy.
My question is, is that more a reflection of society or of the culture of business?
Flatulent Fuzz
Thursday, June 11, 2009
Secession
Looking back, over the course of the last 40 years, haven't we as a society grown more apathetic? Perhaps, some of my more seasoned readers can share their thoughts on the last 40 years. I am a paltry 35 years old and perhaps, I am giving too much credit to the men and women of yesteryear.
I for one, am of the opinion that we have become more and more apathetic as a society. Considering my previous statement, would I be too far off base in assuming that the overall levels of apathy will continue to grow? Obviously, there are always hazards associated with assuming. Those hazards not withstanding, what kind of miracle is it going to take to shake us out of our current malaise?
Maybe, we aren't in need of a miracle at all. How bout a catalyst instead. I think, I am safe in saying that most people look outside of themselves for a miracle. A miracle being something that comes from a higher power. A catalyst, on the other hand, can be manufactured right inside one's own home. Better yet, right inside one's own home state.
The catalyst that I refer to is none other than a bonafide secession. Yes, I said a secession. Even the mere impetus of a legitimate secession could be enough to adequately shake the ground beneath our apathetic feet. But, for the purposes of this discussion, I am talking about a genuine secession and all of the back draft that would come from such a bold declaration. As to the ramifications of an actual secession, in terms of what the federal government might or might not do, well, we will have to leave that to another discussion.
The undercurrent of what I am saying is this. I don't believe that it is possible, without some sort of catalyst, for us to collectively come to a point where we can or will overcome our apathy and take back this country, which is rightfully ours. I for one, believe that our political process hit rock bottom several hundred miles back. And, I'm pretty sure that I'm not the only one that feels this way. However, does it matter if our political process has hit rock bottom and we along with it, if we aren't prepared to do something about it? No. Which is exactly why we need this catalyst.
Secession might, at first glance, seem to be a bit of an extreme measure. Only a few years ago, I laughed out loud at the very mention of secession. In my mind, at that time, the very idea was ridiculous. But, after careful consideration, I have come to the conclusion that I was quite simply wrong. I would even say, that extreme times call for extreme measures. Except for the fact, that what we are talking about is not what I would label as extreme. Is it too extreme to think that you should alter the course of your travel, if you know that the road that you are traveling leads to imminent disaster? I would think not. I would think and I certainly hope, that to most people's way of thinking, that would be called survival.
I am deeply concerned for us all, if we have become so apathetic, that we cannot or will not, take the necessary steps to ensure our own future. I read somewhere that it is better to live one day as a lion, than ten thousand as a sheep (I can't remember where or I would give credit where credit is due) . I can't say that I disagree with that.
Flatulent Fuzz
I for one, am of the opinion that we have become more and more apathetic as a society. Considering my previous statement, would I be too far off base in assuming that the overall levels of apathy will continue to grow? Obviously, there are always hazards associated with assuming. Those hazards not withstanding, what kind of miracle is it going to take to shake us out of our current malaise?
Maybe, we aren't in need of a miracle at all. How bout a catalyst instead. I think, I am safe in saying that most people look outside of themselves for a miracle. A miracle being something that comes from a higher power. A catalyst, on the other hand, can be manufactured right inside one's own home. Better yet, right inside one's own home state.
The catalyst that I refer to is none other than a bonafide secession. Yes, I said a secession. Even the mere impetus of a legitimate secession could be enough to adequately shake the ground beneath our apathetic feet. But, for the purposes of this discussion, I am talking about a genuine secession and all of the back draft that would come from such a bold declaration. As to the ramifications of an actual secession, in terms of what the federal government might or might not do, well, we will have to leave that to another discussion.
The undercurrent of what I am saying is this. I don't believe that it is possible, without some sort of catalyst, for us to collectively come to a point where we can or will overcome our apathy and take back this country, which is rightfully ours. I for one, believe that our political process hit rock bottom several hundred miles back. And, I'm pretty sure that I'm not the only one that feels this way. However, does it matter if our political process has hit rock bottom and we along with it, if we aren't prepared to do something about it? No. Which is exactly why we need this catalyst.
Secession might, at first glance, seem to be a bit of an extreme measure. Only a few years ago, I laughed out loud at the very mention of secession. In my mind, at that time, the very idea was ridiculous. But, after careful consideration, I have come to the conclusion that I was quite simply wrong. I would even say, that extreme times call for extreme measures. Except for the fact, that what we are talking about is not what I would label as extreme. Is it too extreme to think that you should alter the course of your travel, if you know that the road that you are traveling leads to imminent disaster? I would think not. I would think and I certainly hope, that to most people's way of thinking, that would be called survival.
I am deeply concerned for us all, if we have become so apathetic, that we cannot or will not, take the necessary steps to ensure our own future. I read somewhere that it is better to live one day as a lion, than ten thousand as a sheep (I can't remember where or I would give credit where credit is due) . I can't say that I disagree with that.
Flatulent Fuzz
Wednesday, June 10, 2009
Moron
I challenge anyone to help me make sense of this....
Imagine a gentleman (and I use the term loosely), if you will. You can tell he is old school. He always has his clothing immaculately pressed. I mean, we are talking some serious creases. His hair, could survive a weeks worth of wind on top of Mount Everest. Although, if you threw him in the water, I suspect it would look like a spill from the Exxon Valdez. Seriously, at his age, there's no way that his hair could be jet black. Can you say Grecian formula. And, the icing on the cake is the moustache that matches the hair. Jet black too, and I believe that he is rocking a little wax in addition to the dye. Oh, I forgot to mention his boots. Those things are freshly polished every damn day. I have yet to be able to spot the slightest of scuffs on those bad boys.
Am I poking a little fun at the dude? Absolutely. However, there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking pride in ones appearance. I actually happen to have a lot of respect for that kind of quality in a person. And that is exactly what makes this all the more hard to fathom.
On a number of occasions, I have been in the latrine at the same time as Mr. Crease and I have yet to see him adequately wash his hands. Let me be clear ladies and gents, there is only one way to adequately wash ones hands.
Although, I hope that this goes without saying. I will say it. On the off chance, that some Neanderthals have made their way to this illustrious blog. After all, I am here to educate and I'm not above educating someone on basic hygiene. For Mr. Crease and anyone else that may not know. That container (be it round, square, oval or whatever), on the wall, next to the sink houses a really cool invention called SOAP! And believe it or not, soap boasts an amazing ability to kill germs.
Germs, such as one might find in a public facility. Or, whenever he has been holding his dick and accidentally pisses on his hands. Or perhaps, when he/she is wiping and that cheap toilet paper, that we so often encounter in public facilities, has a blowout and your finger ends up touching something that you didn't intend for it to. Hell, even if the toilet paper doesn't break and you don't have to touch your dick to piss Pee Wee. Wash your FUCKING hands with soap! I don't care how immaculately you are dressed or how well kempt your hair. Wash your hands with soap.
I will finish by saying this. We really need to consider the fact that, at some point in time, someone felt compelled to start putting signs up in the restroom that say "please wash your hands." Does that bode well for society in general? What should we make of ourselves, if we can't even demonstrate the ability to apply the basic tenants of hygiene without being prompted.
Flatulent Fuzz
Imagine a gentleman (and I use the term loosely), if you will. You can tell he is old school. He always has his clothing immaculately pressed. I mean, we are talking some serious creases. His hair, could survive a weeks worth of wind on top of Mount Everest. Although, if you threw him in the water, I suspect it would look like a spill from the Exxon Valdez. Seriously, at his age, there's no way that his hair could be jet black. Can you say Grecian formula. And, the icing on the cake is the moustache that matches the hair. Jet black too, and I believe that he is rocking a little wax in addition to the dye. Oh, I forgot to mention his boots. Those things are freshly polished every damn day. I have yet to be able to spot the slightest of scuffs on those bad boys.
Am I poking a little fun at the dude? Absolutely. However, there is absolutely nothing wrong with taking pride in ones appearance. I actually happen to have a lot of respect for that kind of quality in a person. And that is exactly what makes this all the more hard to fathom.
On a number of occasions, I have been in the latrine at the same time as Mr. Crease and I have yet to see him adequately wash his hands. Let me be clear ladies and gents, there is only one way to adequately wash ones hands.
Although, I hope that this goes without saying. I will say it. On the off chance, that some Neanderthals have made their way to this illustrious blog. After all, I am here to educate and I'm not above educating someone on basic hygiene. For Mr. Crease and anyone else that may not know. That container (be it round, square, oval or whatever), on the wall, next to the sink houses a really cool invention called SOAP! And believe it or not, soap boasts an amazing ability to kill germs.
Germs, such as one might find in a public facility. Or, whenever he has been holding his dick and accidentally pisses on his hands. Or perhaps, when he/she is wiping and that cheap toilet paper, that we so often encounter in public facilities, has a blowout and your finger ends up touching something that you didn't intend for it to. Hell, even if the toilet paper doesn't break and you don't have to touch your dick to piss Pee Wee. Wash your FUCKING hands with soap! I don't care how immaculately you are dressed or how well kempt your hair. Wash your hands with soap.
I will finish by saying this. We really need to consider the fact that, at some point in time, someone felt compelled to start putting signs up in the restroom that say "please wash your hands." Does that bode well for society in general? What should we make of ourselves, if we can't even demonstrate the ability to apply the basic tenants of hygiene without being prompted.
Flatulent Fuzz
Wednesday, February 18, 2009
File This...
File these, under things that you never want to hear someone say....
Your Mom.... "I got him to trim my bush."
Male Co-worker.. Talking about how much weight he can lift with his ASS!!
And, of course, you never want to hear any kind of conversation emanating from the stall next to you in the bathroom!! :-)
Apparently, cell phones know NO bounds.
Flatulent Fuzz
Your Mom.... "I got him to trim my bush."
Male Co-worker.. Talking about how much weight he can lift with his ASS!!
And, of course, you never want to hear any kind of conversation emanating from the stall next to you in the bathroom!! :-)
Apparently, cell phones know NO bounds.
Flatulent Fuzz
Saturday, November 29, 2008
Family
Under what circumstances, if any, is it acceptable to threaten a member of your own family with physical violence?
Saturday, November 22, 2008
Word to the wise....
As those of you that follow my blog know, I have suffered a great many indignities, at the hands of my co-workers. Well, as Popeye so eloquently put it, "I have had all I can stand and I can't stands no more." That pretty well sums up my attitude, at the hands of these indignities. And, it is with that frame of mind that my story begins.
Let's just say, that I was entering the restroom with a little intestinal yoga in mind. As luck would have it (enter sarcasm), I was joined by a co-worker who appeared to have the same thing in mind. I entered my stall and he entered his own and that's when things got ugly! I am quite confident, in stating that he barely had time to get his pants down before the fireworks started. Although, these fireworks didn't have that dry, crisp sound that we are accustomed to. On the contrary, these fireworks sounded wet and juicy, but I digress. Once again, I have fallen victim to the barbaric behavior, that has become so common, in men's public restrooms. Especially, the restrooms that are located within the walls of my current employ. Let me just say, either the men up here have some of the worst dietary habits on the planet or they have the most sensitive stomachs in America. Anyway, I am incensed by this needless assault and I will stand for it no more. I immediately answer his shot, with a shot of my own. Have I fallen in to the trap of lowering myself to their level? Yes. Am I feeling pretty proud of myself? ABSOLUTELY! But, in less than the time it took me to type absolutely, my pride had disappeared. Replaced by the familiar stench of failure. You see, I thought I was firing with a full clip. As it turns out, I had but one round in the chamber. In essence, the fight was over before it even began. For, as soon as I had fired my solitary round, he came right back over the top of me. He answered and he answered with vigor. And to my great misfortune, he was firing with a full metal jacket.
Is there a lesson to be learned here? Of course.
If you can't squat with the big dogs, don't get on the pot!
Flatulent Fuzz
Let's just say, that I was entering the restroom with a little intestinal yoga in mind. As luck would have it (enter sarcasm), I was joined by a co-worker who appeared to have the same thing in mind. I entered my stall and he entered his own and that's when things got ugly! I am quite confident, in stating that he barely had time to get his pants down before the fireworks started. Although, these fireworks didn't have that dry, crisp sound that we are accustomed to. On the contrary, these fireworks sounded wet and juicy, but I digress. Once again, I have fallen victim to the barbaric behavior, that has become so common, in men's public restrooms. Especially, the restrooms that are located within the walls of my current employ. Let me just say, either the men up here have some of the worst dietary habits on the planet or they have the most sensitive stomachs in America. Anyway, I am incensed by this needless assault and I will stand for it no more. I immediately answer his shot, with a shot of my own. Have I fallen in to the trap of lowering myself to their level? Yes. Am I feeling pretty proud of myself? ABSOLUTELY! But, in less than the time it took me to type absolutely, my pride had disappeared. Replaced by the familiar stench of failure. You see, I thought I was firing with a full clip. As it turns out, I had but one round in the chamber. In essence, the fight was over before it even began. For, as soon as I had fired my solitary round, he came right back over the top of me. He answered and he answered with vigor. And to my great misfortune, he was firing with a full metal jacket.
Is there a lesson to be learned here? Of course.
If you can't squat with the big dogs, don't get on the pot!
Flatulent Fuzz
Friday, November 21, 2008
Hard Work & Dedication
Our country was founded through hard work and dedication. What happened to those principles? How do the people that lack those principles manage to flourish, while those that value those principles have so little to show for their effort?
These unprincipled free-loaders are standing on the sidelines watching us work and reaping the rewards just the same. Want proof? Look no further than the corporate world. In the corporate world (at least the corporations that I have first hand knowledge of), people that continually under perform are not handed a pink slip. Instead, they are allowed to continue to under perform. All the while, those that have a work ethic are tasked to do more and more. Not only do we take on those extra tasks, but we do so without a word of protest. Am I missing something? Are these slackers bullet proof? Have they cast some kind of spell over us?
For those that might not know, the corporate world functions on the principle of "the bottom line." CEO's and COO' s, vultures that they are, will do anything necessary to pad the bottom line. Isn't that obvious by the number of jobs going to foreign countries? But, the one thing they will not do is fire those that are not pulling their weight. Why? Who has more impact on the bottom line, than those that are doing the grunt work? I can't think of a better way to improve the bottom line, than trimming the fat.
Why won't they can the dead weight? Because, we are a nation of coddlers. How's that, for the bottom line. That's right, we coddle. How many times do we hear about someone that has been arrested, for driving while intoxicated, four or five times? What about someone that is frequently tardy? If there isn't any serious disciplinary action, isn't that a green light to continue to be late. But wait, the coddling epidemic is not confined to the corporate world. Not by a long shot.
How many campaign promises go unfulfilled? How many corporate bailouts will we have to endure? How long will we continue to allow people to abuse the welfare system? Why is there even a welfare system? We coddle the government and they turn around and coddle us right back. They bailout multi-billion dollar corporations and they offer monthly checks to those that are too lazy or lack the will to work. We, vote them in to office and pay their salaries. Occasionally, we pretend to be tired of being disappointed by our representatives. So, we vote for "change that we can believe in." And, the vicious cycle continues and we continue to give our support voluntarily or involuntarily.
Somewhere along the way, we (those that possess a work ethic) have allowed the free loaders to dictate the rules of the game. We're working hard and I'm not sure that we have anything more to show for it. I'm not suggesting that we join the loafers. I don't follow the "if you can't beat them join them" mantra. Even if we can't beat them, I'm not going to join them. However, I don't think we have attempted to defeat them. Perhaps, the evolution was so slow that we failed to realize it was happening until it was too late. Maybe, we have too many responsibilities to really take the time to try and wrap our heads around the magnitude of the problem. Or, have we subconsciously been towing the company line? Which is, of course, coddling.
I'll wager that we have been subconsciously towing the company line. This phenomena didn't happen over night. We have been conditioned, over the years, to accept business as usual. Just like we have been conditioned to accept politics as usual.
Unfortunately, we cannot rely on upper-management or our elected leaders to resolve this problem. Ultimately, it is going to be up to us to start expecting and demanding more out of our fellow Americans. At the local level, corporate level and the federal and state level. If there is ever going to be any accountability, it will have to begin with us.
These unprincipled free-loaders are standing on the sidelines watching us work and reaping the rewards just the same. Want proof? Look no further than the corporate world. In the corporate world (at least the corporations that I have first hand knowledge of), people that continually under perform are not handed a pink slip. Instead, they are allowed to continue to under perform. All the while, those that have a work ethic are tasked to do more and more. Not only do we take on those extra tasks, but we do so without a word of protest. Am I missing something? Are these slackers bullet proof? Have they cast some kind of spell over us?
For those that might not know, the corporate world functions on the principle of "the bottom line." CEO's and COO' s, vultures that they are, will do anything necessary to pad the bottom line. Isn't that obvious by the number of jobs going to foreign countries? But, the one thing they will not do is fire those that are not pulling their weight. Why? Who has more impact on the bottom line, than those that are doing the grunt work? I can't think of a better way to improve the bottom line, than trimming the fat.
Why won't they can the dead weight? Because, we are a nation of coddlers. How's that, for the bottom line. That's right, we coddle. How many times do we hear about someone that has been arrested, for driving while intoxicated, four or five times? What about someone that is frequently tardy? If there isn't any serious disciplinary action, isn't that a green light to continue to be late. But wait, the coddling epidemic is not confined to the corporate world. Not by a long shot.
How many campaign promises go unfulfilled? How many corporate bailouts will we have to endure? How long will we continue to allow people to abuse the welfare system? Why is there even a welfare system? We coddle the government and they turn around and coddle us right back. They bailout multi-billion dollar corporations and they offer monthly checks to those that are too lazy or lack the will to work. We, vote them in to office and pay their salaries. Occasionally, we pretend to be tired of being disappointed by our representatives. So, we vote for "change that we can believe in." And, the vicious cycle continues and we continue to give our support voluntarily or involuntarily.
Somewhere along the way, we (those that possess a work ethic) have allowed the free loaders to dictate the rules of the game. We're working hard and I'm not sure that we have anything more to show for it. I'm not suggesting that we join the loafers. I don't follow the "if you can't beat them join them" mantra. Even if we can't beat them, I'm not going to join them. However, I don't think we have attempted to defeat them. Perhaps, the evolution was so slow that we failed to realize it was happening until it was too late. Maybe, we have too many responsibilities to really take the time to try and wrap our heads around the magnitude of the problem. Or, have we subconsciously been towing the company line? Which is, of course, coddling.
I'll wager that we have been subconsciously towing the company line. This phenomena didn't happen over night. We have been conditioned, over the years, to accept business as usual. Just like we have been conditioned to accept politics as usual.
Unfortunately, we cannot rely on upper-management or our elected leaders to resolve this problem. Ultimately, it is going to be up to us to start expecting and demanding more out of our fellow Americans. At the local level, corporate level and the federal and state level. If there is ever going to be any accountability, it will have to begin with us.
Friday, November 7, 2008
I'm Back.
I'm back! At least, I think I am. I think that I have been MIA, for almost two months. I really haven't felt inspired to post. But, I think I feel the fires rekindling.
For starters, I'm not sure whether I am amused or in disbelief over people's reaction to President Elect Obama? For the record, I did not support Obama or McCain. In fact, I voted almost 100% Libertarian. But, that's neither here nor there.
What perplexes me, is the naivety of a good portion of the American people. I'm seeing t-shirts that have a picture of Obama, with the words progress below him. On TV, they are saying that we are going to see change. Now, by-and-large, these are celebrities of some form or fashion. I have considered the source. However, I don't believe for one second that they are the only ones that believe that Obama represents change and/or progress. Are people really that naive? Or, do they hold some obscure definition of change and progress? Ladies and gentlemen, I am hear to tell you that the kind of change and progress this country needs is not going to come from a Republican or a Democrat. The sooner we all come to that conclusion, the sooner we can wrestle the country back from elephants and asses.
Obama does seem to have inspired a great number of people. I think that that is fantastic. This is indeed an historical election. However, that is exactly the kind of narrow minded thinking that has led us to the edge. People should look no further than the nearest mirror, if they want to see where the source of real progress and change spawns from. Obama is not the saviour. If we truly want progress and change, we have to be personally responsible for the fate of our nation.
I think it is funny that people laugh, when you tell them that you voted for a third party candidate. They say things like, "why did you even vote" or "they have no chance of winning." On the latter, I say they are absolutely right. As long as the people that are laughing continue to mindlessly support republicans and democrats, a third party candidate isn't going to have a real chance. They should be laughing at themselves, however. How can anyone continue to put their support behind either of the two major parties? I challenge those people to take a look at where our country is at right now. Now, think back to all of the major party senators, representatives and presidents of the past 100 years. They have repeatedly shown that they are not fit to govern. And those that laugh have continued laughing and blindly giving them their support. What if they called a plumber out to do a job for them and the plumber did a crappy job (pardon the pun). Would they turn around and call him back out, whenever they had another plumbing problem? I for one, would not.
Why did I even vote? Because, I firmly believe in showing support to parties that want to govern this country as it was intended to be governed. Let's send the elephants back to the circus and the asses back to the pasture.
Flatulent Fuzz
For starters, I'm not sure whether I am amused or in disbelief over people's reaction to President Elect Obama? For the record, I did not support Obama or McCain. In fact, I voted almost 100% Libertarian. But, that's neither here nor there.
What perplexes me, is the naivety of a good portion of the American people. I'm seeing t-shirts that have a picture of Obama, with the words progress below him. On TV, they are saying that we are going to see change. Now, by-and-large, these are celebrities of some form or fashion. I have considered the source. However, I don't believe for one second that they are the only ones that believe that Obama represents change and/or progress. Are people really that naive? Or, do they hold some obscure definition of change and progress? Ladies and gentlemen, I am hear to tell you that the kind of change and progress this country needs is not going to come from a Republican or a Democrat. The sooner we all come to that conclusion, the sooner we can wrestle the country back from elephants and asses.
Obama does seem to have inspired a great number of people. I think that that is fantastic. This is indeed an historical election. However, that is exactly the kind of narrow minded thinking that has led us to the edge. People should look no further than the nearest mirror, if they want to see where the source of real progress and change spawns from. Obama is not the saviour. If we truly want progress and change, we have to be personally responsible for the fate of our nation.
I think it is funny that people laugh, when you tell them that you voted for a third party candidate. They say things like, "why did you even vote" or "they have no chance of winning." On the latter, I say they are absolutely right. As long as the people that are laughing continue to mindlessly support republicans and democrats, a third party candidate isn't going to have a real chance. They should be laughing at themselves, however. How can anyone continue to put their support behind either of the two major parties? I challenge those people to take a look at where our country is at right now. Now, think back to all of the major party senators, representatives and presidents of the past 100 years. They have repeatedly shown that they are not fit to govern. And those that laugh have continued laughing and blindly giving them their support. What if they called a plumber out to do a job for them and the plumber did a crappy job (pardon the pun). Would they turn around and call him back out, whenever they had another plumbing problem? I for one, would not.
Why did I even vote? Because, I firmly believe in showing support to parties that want to govern this country as it was intended to be governed. Let's send the elephants back to the circus and the asses back to the pasture.
Flatulent Fuzz
Friday, September 19, 2008
Open Letter
What I am about to say is directed to all of my fellow Americans. But, particularly to those that hold this country in contempt. The groups and factions that hold a deep seeded belief that they are owed something by this country. Those that seek to change the constitution to suit their own personal interest or lifestyle. And those that exercise their right not to stand or put their hand over their heart during the national anthem. Yet, have absolutely no respect for the very institution that allows them that right.
This country was founded on blood, sweat and tears. The blood, sweat and tears of people of a variety of races and nationalities. Let me say that again. This country was founded on blood, sweat and tears. That is a statement of fact. Stop for a moment and really think about the words blood, sweat and tears. Those terms do not paint a pretty picture. At the same token, some parts of our history do not paint a pretty picture. That is also a statement of fact. Slavery, war, at home and abroad, organized crime, a great depression etc... Those and more, are parts of our collective history that do not paint a flattering picture. However, by way of the blood, sweat and tears and the history contained within it, we were gifted a very solid foundation for governing. But, a solid foundation alone will not sustain us as a nation.
We, as Americans, must come together as "One nation under God.. indivisible with liberty and justice for all." This is also a statement of fact. Our collective history, to this point, has not been perfect. Future generations will be able to look back and make that same claim. Nothing is perfect. And guess what? Nothing is ever going to be. We can no longer afford to be paralyzed by history. We owe it to ourselves and future generations, as well as previous generations, to let go of the baggage of our past. Any number of grievances occurred in the founding of this great nation. We can't afford to sit around waiting for restitution for crimes of the past, whether real or perceived.
Our country, as we know it, is on the verge of extinction. The "American Dream" is almost, if not already, extinct. We are ravaged by division and apathy. We are also ravaged by two dominant political parties who, in the process of tearing each other down, are tearing our nation down. We can no longer afford to be divided. We are never going to agree on absolutely everything. It is imperative, for our survival and the survival of "The American Way," that we put our differences aside and come together and do what is in the best interests of our country collectively.
Flatulent Fuzz
This country was founded on blood, sweat and tears. The blood, sweat and tears of people of a variety of races and nationalities. Let me say that again. This country was founded on blood, sweat and tears. That is a statement of fact. Stop for a moment and really think about the words blood, sweat and tears. Those terms do not paint a pretty picture. At the same token, some parts of our history do not paint a pretty picture. That is also a statement of fact. Slavery, war, at home and abroad, organized crime, a great depression etc... Those and more, are parts of our collective history that do not paint a flattering picture. However, by way of the blood, sweat and tears and the history contained within it, we were gifted a very solid foundation for governing. But, a solid foundation alone will not sustain us as a nation.
We, as Americans, must come together as "One nation under God.. indivisible with liberty and justice for all." This is also a statement of fact. Our collective history, to this point, has not been perfect. Future generations will be able to look back and make that same claim. Nothing is perfect. And guess what? Nothing is ever going to be. We can no longer afford to be paralyzed by history. We owe it to ourselves and future generations, as well as previous generations, to let go of the baggage of our past. Any number of grievances occurred in the founding of this great nation. We can't afford to sit around waiting for restitution for crimes of the past, whether real or perceived.
Our country, as we know it, is on the verge of extinction. The "American Dream" is almost, if not already, extinct. We are ravaged by division and apathy. We are also ravaged by two dominant political parties who, in the process of tearing each other down, are tearing our nation down. We can no longer afford to be divided. We are never going to agree on absolutely everything. It is imperative, for our survival and the survival of "The American Way," that we put our differences aside and come together and do what is in the best interests of our country collectively.
Flatulent Fuzz
Wednesday, September 10, 2008
A New Day!
Every presidential election cycle, we get the same ole talk about a new day. Or "building a bridge to a new millennium" or" the end of politics as usual." I understand that this is the tried and true way of politics. However, this particular presidential election seems to be the same old sh*t times 100. Perhaps, the insane media coverage makes it seem that way?? The media not withstanding, these two candidates seem to be exactly the opposite of everything that they claim. How can we believe that Obama is the "change" that we can believe in, when he is running his campaign in that tried and true method that I spoke of earlier. I don't think it is a stretch to say that he and McCain are both far exceeding the absurd levels of he said/she said, that we have seen in campaigns of the past. I'm not surprised by the politics as usual. I am surprised, at the whole new level of hypocrisy that these two campaigns are reaching on a daily basis. If one is "change" and the other is a "maverick...." Then I say.... You can keep the change... and the only Mavericks I root for reside in the NBA!!
Flatulent Fuzz
Flatulent Fuzz
Friday, September 5, 2008
Beautiful Dane
On a much more somber note, I found out over the weekend that my big, beautiful Great Dane has cancer. Those that know me well, know that I love animals. Particularly, my animals. My dog (Molly) and my cat (Nixon) hold a very special place that is near and dear to my heart and I treat them just like family. She has been given roughly three to eight months to live and she is only five years old (about 50, in dog years). While I will enjoy the time that we have left together, I know that there is going to be a tremendous void when she is gone. Since she was a puppy, whenever I come home, she has met me at the door with nothing but shear delight. I look forward to those greetings everyday and even more so now. She has provided me with and endless amount of joy and I will miss her deeply, when she is gone.
Flatulent Fuzz
Flatulent Fuzz
The End is Nigh...
This just in from the trenches! Little did I know, when I began blogging, about a lack of restroom etiquette, the very depths that this story would plunge. What started, in my view, as merely a lack of respect for the other occupants of the latrine. Has spiraled in to a complete and utter disregard for the common decency and self-respect that God gave a moose.
In my latest restroom chronicles, I have uncovered what can only be described as a shredding of the last bit of moral fiber that was holding us together as a civilized society. At this point, I can't see how things could get any worse. However, I have to admit that, after what I have seen, anything is possible. I'm not really sure how to go about saying this. So, I'll just come right out and say it.
Whilst paying a visit to the thinking man's throne, I observed that fecal matter had been smeared on the side of the stall. Or, at least, what I believe to be fecal matter. I don't believe that it was a Mr. Goodbar, but I'll leave that up to CSI to determine.
Aside from being horrified at the vulgarity of this discovery, I really don't know what to say. While I'll admit to a certain amount of curiosity, as to who the booger culprit is. I don't even want to be in the same building as the person that would smear fecal matter anywhere outside the toilet. In the words of R.E.M... "It's the end of the world as we know it."
Flatulent Fuzz
In my latest restroom chronicles, I have uncovered what can only be described as a shredding of the last bit of moral fiber that was holding us together as a civilized society. At this point, I can't see how things could get any worse. However, I have to admit that, after what I have seen, anything is possible. I'm not really sure how to go about saying this. So, I'll just come right out and say it.
Whilst paying a visit to the thinking man's throne, I observed that fecal matter had been smeared on the side of the stall. Or, at least, what I believe to be fecal matter. I don't believe that it was a Mr. Goodbar, but I'll leave that up to CSI to determine.
Aside from being horrified at the vulgarity of this discovery, I really don't know what to say. While I'll admit to a certain amount of curiosity, as to who the booger culprit is. I don't even want to be in the same building as the person that would smear fecal matter anywhere outside the toilet. In the words of R.E.M... "It's the end of the world as we know it."
Flatulent Fuzz
Saturday, August 23, 2008
$Dollar Menu$
I know some of you are going to view this as heresy, but here goes. Have you ever stopped to consider how a burger can cost a dollar? Or a chicken sandwich or chicken nuggets, for that matter. I realize, of course, that McDonald's, Burger King, Wendy's etc.. buy in bulk. But, we are talking about a meat patty, slice of cheese, lettuce, tomato, onion, pickles and don't forget the bun. "My friends," as John McCain likes to say, you can't hardly get a slice of cheese for a dollar. With that in mind, just what kind of burger or chicken are they serving? So, next time you are at the drive-thru, stop and ask yourself, if you really want a bock for a buck.
Flatulent Fuzz
Flatulent Fuzz
Assassination?
The United States has a policy (officially anyway) of not assassinating the leaders of foreign nations. Why? I realize, that where government is concerned, there is a lot of politicking and diplomacy. But, how does the willingness to send troops in to combat make more sense than just assassinating the leader of a troublesome nation? Doesn't killing one person make more sense (if killing can make sense) than sacrificing the lives of many?
Flatulent Fuzz
Flatulent Fuzz
Wednesday, August 13, 2008
Restroom Etiquette cont'd...
Restroom etiquette, a topic that knows no bounds. This just in, from the front lines.... better yet, from the Heartland of America. My very own nephew has become an unwitting victim, in what is turning out to be an epidemic in American society. Yes, that band of unkempt Neanderthals has struck again. Not only was said nephew a victim, but he was shat upon by his very own neighbor. Let's call him neighbor X. Neighbor X stopped by, under the auspices of borrowing some movies. Neighbor X has a history of borrowing movies, so there wasn't any real cause for alarm. However, when Neighbor X asked to use the restroom, a cloud of suspicion fell over him. Although leery, my dear nephew decided to grant him access to the coveted throne. Needless to say, when Neighbor X exited the sanctuary, he no longer had a cloud of suspicion cast over him. Neighbor X left the cloud and a whole lot more behind. In essence, he sank my dear nephew's battleship!
To be sure, there is some humour in this. However, I am beginning to believe, that what I once thought was my own paranoia about the social decay of society, is not paranoia at all.
Flatulent Fuzz
To be sure, there is some humour in this. However, I am beginning to believe, that what I once thought was my own paranoia about the social decay of society, is not paranoia at all.
Flatulent Fuzz
Sensationalism
Over the past week or so, I have been thinking about a number of different topics. All of which, I hope to make some reasoned comments on over the coming days and weeks. However, one topic above all has catapulted right to the top of my list. Sensationalism in the media. If the media was out of control before and they were. Then, I don't know what they are now. When the likes of The National Enquirer are making the news channel circuit, we are in serious trouble. John Edwards extramarital affair is not and should not be headline news. I'm not a John Edwards defender and I certainly don't defend adultery. But, what John Edwards or anyone other quazi-celebrity does in there private life is not a concern of mine. Now, I expect this kind of coverage from The National Enquirer and Star and magazines of that ilk. However, I think that MSNBC, Fox News, CNN and the other "legitimate" news networks have more pertinent issues to cover, than the extramarital affairs of a former senator, vice-presidential candidate and presidential hopeful.
If they need a news story.. why don't they get behind the Flatulent Fuzz for President hype!
Flatulent Fuzz
If they need a news story.. why don't they get behind the Flatulent Fuzz for President hype!
Flatulent Fuzz
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