Black days in American history

It has been said the January 31, 1876 was a black day in American history. On that day the US government ordered all Native American Indian Tribal members to move to assigned reservations.

Some people say that on that day, Goanthlay, better known as Geronimo, surrendered to 50,000 United States soldiers.

Now, in modern times, how many soldiers have been used to capture Bin Laden? Many thousands! And, with what results? And, how much money has been spent? And, how much more money has been spent to find those weapons of mass destruction in Iraq?

And, and, and, and, and what has America ended up with in deaths,and mutilations of American personnel, not to speak of the countless numbers of the "enemy", children, women and men? And what can be said about the cost of equipment of the American military and the cost of the destruction of homes, buildings and the basic economy of Iraq? And at what cost to the American economy? And at what total cost to the "Spirit of America?"

Now, how do Americans really feel about this modern history? It is the modern history of the world and America's involvement it.

These are the some of the "Black Days" in America's modern history.

Three little words

To clarify one’s thinking and get into one’s mind, to achieve a new focus on life, simply think of the word “life”. Then, quickly write three little words to describe your personal definition of “life”.

You may be surprised that later, you will give much thought to each of the words that you provided. You will then focus on each word, attempting to answer why you selected each of those words.

If you were to read what another person wrote, you would wonder what the significance would be for the individual. The three words might provide a three dimensional view of the person. A view which would permit the mind to grapple with what that person really is, as a person. A question that could be asked about each word would be, why was the word selected? What meaning does the word hold for the individual?

This is an exercise that may provide a clearer insight into a person’s life situation, leading to a reformulation of what is important to the individual. Such reviews are good for the individual and his relationship with society in general.

Marches on Washington and in NewYork.

Over 40 years ago an estimated 250,000 people marched on Washington to promote Civil Rights for all Americans. They gathered before the beautiful Lincoln Monument to listen to speeches: they prayed and they sang. It was there that Dr. Martin Luther King gave his most famous speech, "I Have a Dream." That was in 1963; five years later he was assassinated. In 1968, he was involved in organizing the "Poor People Campaign" which related to economic justice. Demands were made for financial aid for the many poor communities in the United States.

In New York, on December 2000, some 10,000 people marched to demand clemency and the release of Leonard Peltier, who they believed was innocent of a crime for which he received two life sentences. The crime related to the killing two FBI agents. President Bill Clinton could have given him a pardon but failed to do so.

Recently there was a suggestion that another march on Washington should be held. This was viewed as being a major problem because the Homeland Land security people could turn down any permit that might be granted.

Rather than another march on Washington it had been suggested that a gathering of Indian Peoples be held on June 21, starting with a sun-rise ceremony. That date has been rescheduled for May 27. This gathering is for peace in the world and for a retrial for Leonard Peltier. There is sufficient evidence to suggest a miscarriage of justice did take place and that a pardon or retrial should be given.

Ballistic Missile Defence

Next Monday Canadian Parliamentarians will be sitting down together to focus on the issues that need to be addressed. It would appear from reading newspapers and from TV that a “hot” topic is that of “same-sex” marriage. The legislation will be a matter of fact within a couple of months. I predict the legislation will pass.

In Ottawa, the continuing discussion will be on the Gomery Commission and its inquiry into the sponsorship scandal. There will be much talk but no action as the Commissions report will not be issued until December, prior to Christmas. Parliamentarians along with most Canadians will be more concerned about festivities than looking at the conclusions which will do little good for the Liberal Party.

Of much greater concern to the Canadian public should BMD, the ballistic missile defence of North America. When President George W. Bush visited Canada late in November, the official agenda did not include BMD as a topic but it was still raised by the President not only with the Prime Minister in private but also mentioned in a speech before a Canadian audience that received national TV attention.

Canada is well aware of the development of the BMD system. Consultations have taken place in Ottawa in July 2002 and later in Washington, in January 2003. There is a Canadian liaison officer working with the US Missile Defense Agency who serves as the “eyes and ears” for the Department of National Defence since 2001.

Now, the big questions are, how, when, where and why the big decision to participate or not will be made. Perhaps the decision has been made by way of a firm commitment by the Prime Minister to support the American initiative. The U.S. does not need Canada to move ahead with its program. It is already well advanced in the development of the expensive system. Yet, it needs to have Canada on-side as other nations at Canada’s role as an active participant or as a nation that opposes what the Americans want.

There is little doubt about Canada’s opposition to the system. The Canadian government spends much money on polls. Recent polls reveal that the majority of Canadians are opposed, with a higher percentage from the Province of Quebec. Even the Liberal members from Quebec have expressed their opposition. How will they vote, if the decision takes the form of a “free vote?” Or, will there ever be a vote if the decision is made by the Liberal cabinet under the direction of Paul Martin, who as Prime Minister of Canada has almost absolute power.

The Scandal Revisited

Yesterday I had the impression that the former prime minister, Jean Chretien, through his lawyers, decided to fight a rear guard action as he was retreating, in fear! If the inquiry could go away or could be forced out of existence, he would be very pleased. The Commission, often referred to as the Gomery Commission has had papers filed claiming that Justice Gomery lacked objectivity because of remarks that he made last month. There can be no doubt that Mr. Chretien would love to see Mr. Gomery step down as head of the enquiry.

Many Canadians want to see the Commission end its enquiry with a report that is believed will be objective and will arrive at valid and just conclusions. The Commission has in its possession government documents that have been edited. To do its job properly, the Commission needs access at this time to documents that are unedited. To have information withheld leads on to believe that there is something to hide. Justice Gomery should be an independent arbiter; his role is to determine what information he needs, and in fact what might be disclosed to the public. I trust him. He may have to have the Federal Court decide what is to be done.

Perhaps I am biased. I have heard much testimony and though I am surprised that so many witnesses have poor recollections of history; they display characteristics of selective memory. Do they lie? Perhaps the unedited original documents will reveal the truth. Justice Gomery needs access to the truth and not be solely guided by the poor memory of so many witnesses. He and all Canadians deserve nothing less.

Shawinigan, my Shawinigan...

And da little guy from Shawinigan sings: Shawinigan, my Shawinigan....

Rent space and make work, where? Shawinigan! Where else? No where else, just Shawinigan! How much money needs to be pumped in to that city? Well, we'll never know. Has that city not received more than its fair share? Well, yes, stupid!

There is no doubt that Mr. Jean Chretien believes that his city deserves more? And what about Mr. Paul Martin, what does he believe? Is there a secret deal in place? Will we see a continuous feed conduit to Shawinigan? Perhaps the city needs a name change. How does Chretienville sound?

So the Library and Archives of Canada will open a branch office in Shawinigan, perhaps a temporary office for $3.8 million. There will be a staff of three to five employees and to keep them fully employed many more individuals will be employed. And we will hear a raft of jokes along the lines of: how many Shawinigans does it take to………….? Get the drift?

Now when Mr. Chretien occupied the throne in parliament he had power, and he used it. Must I tell the ways? No! You have heard so much in the past. Why open old wounds? But he was a Liberal you say. Well yes, and most liberal with your money!

To Mr. Martin I say: enough is enough! Stop the money hemorrhage, that money flow into Chretienville, oh, I mean Shawinigan!

The Commission must continue...

I have written about the Gomery Commission relating to the sponsorship program before and I knew that I would be writing about the Commission’s activities in the future. Before Christmas, Jean Chretien, the former prime minister had indicated to friends that he was anxious to appear before the Commission as he had some good testimony to provide. Were these statements made to cover his anxiety and to permit friends to “relax” over the holiday period?

Now we learn that his lawyers are demanding that Justice Gomery step down as head of the enquiry. Not surprising to me as I believe the former prime minister is running scared. His brave front has disappeared. Now, he hides behind his advisors who suggest that the enquiring chief needs to recuse himself.

I must believe that I could be somewhat prejudiced after listening to the testimony of a number of the witnesses. Other Canadians could have similar feelings and understandings. Canadians want to see the Commission come to a positive conclusion and await the report of the Justice that is expected in December.

Prime Minister Paul Martin has an obligation to see the Commission complete its mission and not to do anything to prevent that from happening. There is a danger that a Federal Court Judge might issue an order to have Justice Gomery step down. I believe that would be a negative step and the people of Canada would be offended.

The Holocaust

On the 50th anniversary of the liberation of the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp the peoples of the world were reminded of the atrocities committed by Nazi Germany. The persecution of the German Jews began in 1933, when they were terrorized, forced into ghettos, had their properties seized and then sent to concentration camps.

On the 27th of January we will commemorate the 60th anniversary and remember the spirit of all those who suffered so much during a period of over 10 years, which began over 70 years ago.

Many books have been written about those years and there have been a number of films produced. This is a period of history that we no doubt like to forget as the thoughts of those times bear heavily on all just and thinking people. Those who still live and who had the direct experience of those days or who have relatives who have died or who went through those terrible experiences continue, from day to day, living with those memories. The suffering goes on.

Most of us are reminded of those horrible historical events from time to time. Perhaps it is good that we are in a sense forced to re-examine what people can do to one another. Some lessons have been learned yet even today there are wars. There continue to be genocide activities around the world and people continue to suffer.

History and Memories

I spent a few hours today reviewing articles written by Doug Mackey for the North Bay Nugget. http://www.pastforward.ca/perspectives. Since early April, 2000, 207 articles have been published. If you visit the Past Forward site you will realize that history can be an interesting subject when one has the opportunity to read articles as fascinating as those written by Mr. Mackey.

Now I can say that Mr. Mackey himself has had a fascinating life which began in the early 30’s in the Town of Port Colborne. His career as a teacher and educational administrator permitted him to live in many towns and cities of Ontario. I met Mr. Mackey when he was teaching high school in Burlington.

It was through Mr. Mackey that I developed a strong interest in poetry. He loved to talk about the poets that he was studying; then and later I read much American literature. I recall a visit with him to the home of the famous Canadian poet, Wilson MacDonald, where Mr. Mackey interviewed Mr. MacDonald for an academic paper that was being written. At that time I obtained an autographed copy of Mr. MacDonald’s Caw Caw Ballads. Mr. MacDonald is featured in article No. 136 of Past Forward, entitled: Poetry in Perspective.

At present, I am writing the biography of Dave McKenzie, from Bear Island, to whom I dedicated the poetry chapbook, Standing Tall, in 2004. Dave is a nephew of Hugh McKenzie, the famous Native artist who resides on Bear Island. He was mentioned in article No. 197 of Past Forward, entitled: A Trip to Temagami’s Bear Island. I have put off my visit to Bear Island where I will be doing some research for the biography until late May or early June.

So many of the articles Past Forward bring back memories, sharp memories of the past, for example, I recall so well the tragedies caused by Hurricane Hazel which is described in article No. 195 of Past Forward: Hurricane Hazel Remembered.

Mr. Mackey has been recognized and will continue to be recognized for his excellent historical writings. He and his son Paul were awarded the Ontario Historical Society’s Fred Landon Award for the best book on regional history in Ontario for the year 2000, for their book: The Fossmill Story: Life in a Lumbering Village on the Edge of Algonquin Park.

Yesterday, an exhibition of Eleanor Mackey’s paintings, Painting Metaphors opened at the White Water Gallery in North Bay. That exhibition will run to February 5. Mrs. Mackey is Mr. Mackey’s wife. I remember her as a teacher of art at the O’Neill Collegiate & Vocational Institute in Oshawa.

The Mackey family is multi-talented, with all members following interesting careers. I believe two of their children are professors at Ontario universities.

I wish the Mackey seniors continuing success in all their retirement activities. We, the public, salute you!

The Human Stain

Anthony Hopkins, the British actor, in the role of a black American, Coleman Silk, passing as a white Jewish professor does not ring true. That British accent does him in; this is most unfortunate for the film viewer who might be sensitive to accents. In addition, the role played by the Wentworth Miller as the young Coleman Silk bears little resemblance to Anthony Hopkins. Nonetheless, Miller's performance was excellent.

It is most unfortunate that American actors could not have been found, with a stronger resemblance to one another, to fill the roles of the youthful Coleman Silk and as he would have appeared as a senior citizen. I was "shocked" to see both men (no resemblance) and "uncomfortable" to listen to the voice of each (accents different). Anthony Hopkins' voice, in particular, disturbed me.

Nicole Kidman performs quite well as a 34 year old woman who comes from a difficult past to have an affair with an aging professor with problems of his own. Seeing Kidman and Hopkins together in the May-December relationship lends an air of the impossible as they both struggle with their unique personal problems. The main characters are simply poorly cast.

Although I liked the story line, the quality cinematography of Jean-Yves Escoffier, the performances of most of the actors, the miscasting of the lead character was such that I would not recommend this film to others. My suggestion would be to read the book.

The inaugural "freedom"...

I wonder if a word count has been done on President Bush’s inaugural address. I am sure that a high number would be there for the word “freedom” which did sound nice as Americans love the word. It was the basis of their revolution from England. It is a word that can stir the imagination. It is a feel good word. But, what does it really mean? What does it mean to the average American? To fight for freedom are words, high sounding words, words that might motivate a soldier. After all, Americans have never had to use a military for self defence, but its military has fought in foreign wars. Now some may argue that America, the United States entered the Second World War because its territory of Pearl Harbor had been attacked. Yes, that is true but it was not continental America. A question could be asked about America’s “ownership” of Pearl Harbor. How did that come about?

To look at “freedom” in America itself, one needs to ask questions about freedom as it relates to freedom from suffering and pain in areas as hunger, homelessness, fear, discrimination and unemployment. And, what about freedom from the want or the need for money for advanced education for all American youth, health care for all, in particular for the elderly. And, what about the idea of equal opportunity which if cast in “freedom” terms might be freedom from the lack of opportunity which would revert to opportunities for employment, education, recreation facilities, for growth, development and the simple enjoyment of living.

Mr. Bush should address the internal “freedom” for all Americans within the 50 states and the territories. Once that is done and success achieved, Mr. Bush may talk about “freedom” around the world, whatever that means to him and to the citizens of those foreign countries.

A quotation comes to mind that runs like: “Fool rush in where angels fear to fly.”

I wonder, why?

The Inquiry

There is a book or perhaps books in the writing about the sponsorship inquiry headed by Justice Gomery. Yesterday was a day of testimony given by Andre Ouellet, a former minister of the crown and subsequently head of Canada Post, a crown corporation. We learned of missing funds that were being transferred from the Government of Canada, double billing, the appointment of friends to senior position, and the hiring of “friendly” firms on contract and the possible rigging competitions so that particular firms would end up on lists for contract awards. His testimony continued today but the Presidential Inauguration in Washington, more pleasant to view by far, would have attracted an audience that might otherwise have been watching the commission’s proceedings.

Perhaps many viewers would have been wondering what the chairman of the commission was thinking while listening to testimony that had limited plausibility. In fact, as a viewer, I wondered how a man who was so close to on-going operations, who was described as a micro-manager, who had the power to do so much would claim that his “subordinates” had decision making powers and the responsibility to do the right thing, and did so. One has to balance earlier testimony of others against what Mr. Ouellet had to say.

Can anyone justify a firm being given $78,000 in fees for moving $521,000 from Public Works, a government department, to Canada Post, a government corporation? I remember individuals who years ago said that some horses were listed on the government's pay role. I thought that was impossible. I did not want to believe it. Now, I am not sure. How much honesty is there in society? How much corruption exists in governments and in corporations?

I trust that some Canadians have already made up there minds as to what did take place. Justice Gomery has much to review, much think about; Canadians look forward to his final report, due in December.

I realize that many readers might not know too much about the “sponsorship scandal” but to know that the inquiry should run a full 15 months indicates the amount of testimony that will be presented.

An audit report by an outside firm found that Mr. Ouellet had circumvented the corporation’s hiring practices; that he had meddled in contract tendering; that he had run up travel and entertainment expenses of more than $2 million dollars without receipts, over an eight year period. Following the release of that report, Mr. Ouellet resigned. I must believe if he had not resigned, he would have been fired by the prime minister.

Many questions are probably being asked by the Canadian public, such as on what basis and for what reasons was Mr. Ouellet appointed to the original position at Canada Post? Was this a political reward? Later, would other friends also receive “awards” or benefits from him? Who were the beneficiaries of all of the hospitality and what was the nature of the hospitality extended? There are so many questions. The answers to those questions might be difficult to believe.

I am naive...

I am naïve and in my naivete, I live or should I say, I live in a world of questioning. The Canadian prime ministers have always held a tremendous amount of power. What they have wanted, they have been able to get. We in Canada have accepted that situation for so long that it goes almost without saying.

Am I so naïve to accept the news coming out of Iraq, from the news reports provided by embedded journalists, whose reports are perhaps echoes of the “party line" propaganda to say the least and lies to be a little more direct. What comes out of the White House is said to keep the American public “on side.” Americans do not want to hear that they are in a war that they can’t win and if the truth were known, they are losing, this very moment. I doubt very much if any true Iraqi welcomes the American presence in Iraq. Peoples of the world have never really liked to have the Americans in any way controlling their affairs.

Yes, foreign countries love to receive American aid, they love to receive American money which so often never gets totally to the people whose needs should be met; monies that end up in the pockets of the powerful and then, into foreign banks, for later use.

Who were the American President's advisors prior to the invasion of Iraq? Why did the invasion really take place? What interests did the U.S. have in Iraq? Now that the Americans are in Iraq, will they also end up in Iran? And, what might any occupation of those counties have to do with China, if anything? These are questions that may be easily answered, but questions that are floating around the world.

I remember a Bosnian saying that if there was oil in Bosnia, the Americans would have been there and the war would have not lasted as long, fewer lives would have been lost, fewer people would have had to become refugees and there would not have been so much devastation of buildings and much less damage to the spirit of the people. It will take another generation to recover from the damages, if ever.

What roles have the Americans played in Africa? What roles can the Americans play there, in the future? What are the needs of the African states? What were the needs of the Americans there during the cold war and how did those needs change at the end of the cold war?

I am naïve, which I admit, but what about the American public?

The future of Canadian politics

The future of Canadian politics will include the name of John Manley as prime minister in a renewed Liberal party. How will this come about? How will he become the leader of the Liberal party and in a position to become prime minister of the country? I do not have a crystal ball but I predict the failure of Paul Martin partly as a result of the Gomery Commissions report on the Sponsorship Program scandal. I predict that the past prime minister will not come out "smelling of roses" and that will follow by the demise of the Liberal party.

If the Liberal party is to survive the next election, it will have to find a new leader. John Manley is that man. He has had a wide experience in cabinet including such portfolios as minister of finance, minister of infrastructure and crown corporations, minister of industry and minister of several other ministries. He also served as deputy prime minister.

At a recent conference relating to U.S. and Canadian affairs, he appeared along side of the last two U.S. ambassadors to Canada. Those two ambassadors were bright men, who spoke well. John Manley was far and above their league; his presentation was straight forward, thorough, humorous at times, and easily understood. He displayed so much knowledge and understanding of North American and international affairs. His clear vision and astute responses to all questions was remarkable.

For Canadian politics, John Manley is the man of the future.

Ah, this blissful euphoria...

As this moment, I am experiencing delicious pieces of chocolate from Germany and from France, which I received as gifts for Christmas; I am pleased, content and happy. To be absolutely truthful, I love chocolate in most of its many forms.

Chocolate is a part of the pleasures of cultivated societies of the world. We are fortunate to be living in these times!

In 1519 Hernan Cortes landed in the New World. There he tasted xocoatl of the Aztecs. Taken to the Old World, it was accepted by the aristocracy of Spain and became an instant hit among those who could afford it. Later it was introduced to Italy where it was produced for the locals and sold in market places. During the inquisition, it was taken from Spain and introduced to France where it became an exotic drink for those associated with the French court. When chocolate was introduced to England it moved quickly from the aristocracy to the middle class. It was in England that chocolate was mixed with hot milk and honey to produce a drink that was used for medicinal purposes. For the first time, solid chocolate was sold in 1674 and became a desirable and affordable luxury.

Today, chocolate is used in many forms but the major form is that of chocolate bars and chocolate pieces. Chocolates are said to be beneficial for one's health as it contains many chemicals associate with those that have a positive effect on one's mood. Some substances found in chocolate stimulate the central nervous system and can produce a mild antidepressant effect as well as feelings of well-being and calmness. It is easy to understand why people can fall in love with chocolate as feelings of comfort and happiness can be induced.

Yes, I love chocolates; I love to receive chocolates, as gifts, in many forms. I believe I will live longer and enjoy life more by consuming chocolate on a daily basis; eating appropriate foods, including fruit and vegetables, drinking water, exercising and sleeping well. Everything in balance, consumed in moderation but including chocolate for delightful pleasure.

We should trust...

What can be done when the public loses trust in government or governmental organizations? Frequently there are independent, non-governmental organizations that look out for the public's interest. Sometimes that are internal government organizations that "audit" the financial and other activities of government. Concerned citizens can turn to these organizations to help in the control of activities that could jeopardize the health security and quality of life of the public.

The Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission has already called upon the President of the Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd., to produce a report and explanation of its dumping practices as it has been accused of dumping radioactive and chemical waste materials.
That report could then be presented to the Canadian Parliament.

Two other public organizations are attempting to keep on top of situations and practices that are not in keeping with the public interest. The Concerned Citizens of Renfrew County have been sensitive to problems relating to the environment and have complained of the secrecy surrounding the dumping of waste products at Chalk River in Ontario. Another organization, the Ottawa Riverkeepers (association) is concerned about pollution of the Ottawa River and what it does to plant and animal life, including human beings.

The public needs to be kept aware of problems and issues. Support for the concerned environmental organizations needs to be encouraged and the voice of the public needs to be heard.

Who to believe, what to believe...

I had a long discussion with an officer of Atomic Energy of Canada about waste contamination of the environment resulting from activities at Chalk River, Ontario. That was during the summer of 2003. One can never be certain as to whether what is said is true or the spouting off of the "party line" by an officer who has limited information, who is subject to a secrecy clause or who has simply been "brain washed" by the administration and organization. In any case the who to believe is left so open to grave error that one could be left with nothing but doubt.

Canada's top nuclear regulators at the Canadian Nuclear Safety Commission learned recently that AECL after promising to stop dumping radioactive and chemical waste, continued secretly to do so, since 1995. Needless to say, the Commission was outraged and the Canadian public and government's trust has been shaken.

Now, this is an important incident, one that will be looked into thoroughly and perhaps an appropriate resolution to the situation will be found. I find this incident coupled with others from other agencies and departments of government to leave me not only disgusted but with a sense of betrayal by those who should be acting in the best interest of our society. Perhaps life has ever been so. In the past much has taken place that we are totally unaware of, things have occurred that were not the best for the public and much has been swept under the carpet with the public left holding the bag of residual problems.

Who to believe, what to believe and who to trust, those are only questions for answers may never be found, we must simply go on believing that we are being taken care of in a positive way otherwise we will suffer agonies of spirit that will do nothing but destroy us. The people who render service and who sometimes do what is not in our better interest are our brothers and sisters. Some are there to protect their personal interests, to maintain their positions and livelihood, others are simply unthinking and often follow the "commands" of their superiors, and remain behind a wall of secrecy.

Life goes on and we live with threatening environmental disasters created not by nature but by humans. What can we do about it? What can we say? Government, our government must remain there to protect us. We must have faith, we must live in hope. For what else is there?

Sad to see her go...

Former immigration minister Judo Sgro resigned her position because of what she claims to be "outrageous fabrications"; thus, she will now be able to fight those allegations. I am sad to see her go.

I have admired Judy Sgro for her work in municipal politics in the Metro Toronto area and for her work serving in a number of capacities within the government, to her appointment to cabinet. She has helped me in past research activities and I was pleased with her cooperation. She has always struck me as being most sincere and willing to do so much for Canada.

Yes, I am sad to see her go and have expressed positive sentiments in a letter to her, today. Canadians should be proud of her activities and it will be good to see her "clear her name"; hopefully we shall see her return to a cabinet position in the future.

Prime Minister, Paul Martin did not request her resignation; he accepted it with regret and suggested that he would keep the cabinet door open for her; this is my hope.

Canada's freedom...

Canada has its own constitution yet still has "colonial" appendages, such as the Governor General. We do not need any symbol or any form of attachment to England.

England, as a powerful nation some centuries ago came to North America and took over the land from the native inhabitants. In today's terms, that would constitute an invasion of a foreign land. But Europe of the day wanted to possess and to acquire the wealth of other lands. Portugal did this in South America. Spain did this in South and Central America and much of the land of North America, part of which is the present land of Mexico.

Latin America has "divorced" itself from relationships with Portugal and Spain. The United States "divorced" itself from England. England took over land that had been "acquired" by France. Canada has not completed the "divorce" from England. We are in a state of "separation". Now, that "separation" must take the form of a total and absolute "divorce".

Canada is a multicultural society with linguistic attachments to the English and French languages. The United States has a linguistic attachment to English. So it shall remain, yet the United States are free from England. Canada needs this freedom; it is desired by many.

We often read about the Royal Family. Most of what is written concerns family problems and issues relating to family members who at times bring a measure of embarrassment to the family. Most Canadians do not have any attachment to that family. If the English want to maintain their royalty, that may be wonderful for them but for Canadians the less we have to do with that "royalty", the better and the sooner the Governor General's position is dispensed with, the better, as well!

Sponsorship scandal

Justice John Gomery heads up the Commission that is looking into the “sponsorship scandal”. He has been attacked by two key lawyers who are working on behalf of the past prime minister and for a former chief of staff. I must believe that this is an attempt is to delay the hearing or to have the Justice removed from his position.

My belief is that all will not go well for the past prime minister, who should have been the prime actor in the disbursement of funds that were under his control, his direct control, left the responsibility to his subordinate ministers and senior public servants to do the necessary administration of those funds. We now have an investigation into the “national scandal”, where large fees were being paid to firms and at times, perhaps, for work that had not been done. I guess, individuals are innocent until proven guilty in a court of law, after having been charged with a criminal offense. Now, I say, I have no difficulty with that prime minister being charged with a criminal offense, if the investigation comes to the conclusion that a charge would be justified. Then, we would see justice being served.

No prime minister is above the law. Cabinet secrecy prevents some facts from being revealed. The prime minister has exceptional powers in Canada. I believe that these need to be reviewed; wings should be clipped

How will our donations be managed?

Canada can be described as a generous nation, yet we have not lived up to the amount of money that should have been dedicated to other nations. We may now be in a position to make up for the short-fall of the past and set new targets for the future.

Our Prime Minister was slow “out of the blocks” and I believe that his advisors were just not “with it”, or the Prime Minister was just too interested in vacationing. I do not care what some say that others were doing what was necessary. I do not believe this. I would like to see a prime minister who is not only sensitive to the world around him but also appears to be sensitive to what is happening. I did not see this.

Now, the Prime Minister is making up for lost time, making up for his personal inadequacies, after having received some criticism from the public. I say, better late than never. We all make mistakes in life. He has no doubt made one. I believe he has learned from this and is acting like a good prime minister for Canada. I trust that Canadians are a forgiving lot and will support the Prime Minister in what he is now doing in South Asia.

My present concern is how the monies being provided through the federal government will be used. There is a scandal that is presently under investigation relating to the disbursement of federal funds. Canadians do not want to see another misadventure.

Readers may go to: http://ottawacanadaworldnews.croweagle.com to find other comments on Canada's role of support to other nations.

So much suffering…

There are so many individuals around the world who have opened their hearts to the victims of the South Asia tsunami. There is a humanistic feeling that “we are all related”, in spite of differences of nationality, language, religion or politics.

As others suffer, we suffer too. We can think of the many children who have lost parents, parents who have lost children, so many individuals who have lost relatives and friends. There are so many stories to be told of kindnesses, courage, and caring.

There are so many stories of individuals who have lost property but who want to continue from where they were before the tsunami. They may be displaced now and on emergency relief, they may be injured and in need of food and water but there is a spirit to move on with their lives. All these individuals need support and assistance and that is what is being provided by the compassionate peoples of the world.

If it were possible to move the clock back, we would do it. As that can’t be done, all that we can do is to continue in giving moral and financial support to all the victims of this immense tragedy. We have learned much from this traumatic experience and for many, it is the reminder that “we are all related”, we are all members of the same human family, as others suffer, we suffer too. There has been so much suffering.

The tsunami event and the aftermath...

Perhaps the most difficult day of my life was September 11, 2001. So many died instantaneously, at the precise moment when I was viewing a “crash”. That event was so overpowering, it stayed with me for a long time and as I witnessed the many replays on the TV, there was induced an overload, a form of burn-out.

For some, today, there is a burn-out from the tsunami event of December 26, 2004. Although we realize that so many died that day and more the days following and more will die as a result of injuries, and many will go on suffering mental anguish, upset, confusion and grief. Such a traumatic experience for so many! It will be a day that those who lived through the experience bodily, on location or from viewing TV replays, will never forget.

Now, for many, it was a time of sharp focusing on death, the death experience, perhaps for the first time. For others, it was a time for a refection of what death really means to them. It was a time to think of one’s mortality. To some death in an incomprehensible event that occurs to all. It is that time when life stops. It is a time when the “spirit” takes over and “life” continues in another “state”, in another condition. For some, there is a belief of going on to a “better life”, sometimes described as heaven where suffering does not exist. For some it is a haven and a reward for living a good life on earth. For a small number, death is a simple passing, from birth, through life and its cessation, death. For some, death is a welcomed event; for others a frightening prospect.

Now for the living, death means a separation from the departed; it is a loss. At the same time, depending on the belief system held by the individual, death can be a simple acceptance of a fact, to an intensive and frequently an experience of traumatic proportions with sustaining and deeply felt grief. For many, religious aspects play a large role in acceptance of the event. Nevertheless, in general, death is an event that is “hard to take”, an event that brings forth tears and heart wrenching emotional reactions. At times there is a consolation that death may have come quickly with little pain involved. At other times there is an acceptance because in has meant the cessation of pain that was being experienced by the person who died.

In thinking about death, it is hoped that those who in living their everyday lives will take the opportunity to relate to their families and friends with a different view. A view that death will happen to them and others and that in their day to day relationships, a solid base of warmth, understanding and support should be given; a time to cherish the truly wonderful relationships that are there, a time for thanksgiving, a time of pleasure and enjoyment of life, for if not now, an opportunity will be lost in death. Show your love and caring, your forgiveness for whatever negative historical experiences might have been experienced, a time for reconciliation so that future unhappiness will not be experienced because of some omission in the here and now.

The tsunami experience is one that could bring forth some good to the living, an improvement in relationships. We have witnessed the outpouring of deeply felt emotions of many, of the help that has been offered and put forward by many, of the financial and other donation that have been made. It has been the coming together of human beings with open hearts for others of differing cultures, languages, religions, and politics; it is and has been a time of love, to say the least, and a sharing of the meaning of being human. Would it not be wonderful if this could lead to world peace?

Individuals are changed by catastrophic events...

So much has been said about the December 26 tsunami that few people can say that they have not been touched by this terrible event. New figures are being provided by countries that were hit by the tsunami on the dead and missing. It is estimated that the death toll now stands at some 150,000. Some officials are saying that the final number could between 300,000 and 500,000 when considering that many individuals are still missing; some will die because of injuries, others because hunger and future diseases.

The topic of the tsunami has produced more lines of writing than any other event over the last two weeks. Apart from the war in Iraq, news coverage will continue at a high rate. Individuals who are exposed to the media will change in the way they view the world, in their sharing of their good lives through donations and in the thoughts and discussions to which they will be exposed.

We share in what our governments do or do not do to relieve the suffering of individuals who have been caught up in catastrophic events. Most of us are changed as a result of our exposure to the news concerning natural disasters. We can become better individuals as we learn to feel for others, and as our sensitivities for doing what is right and good increases.

The HIV/AIDS world-wide epidemic...

On Wednesday of this week I suggested that I would write about the AIDS epidemic. I didn’t realize at that time that I would start today.

Nelson Mandela, the South African statesman, recently told the world that his 54 year old son had died of Aids. Even before this death, Mr. Mandela had spoken out about the crisis situation in Africa. AIDS is a world-wide killer.

I would like to present a few statistics to set the stage for future writings on the topic. As of 2003, well over 40 million individuals were infected, world-wide. This is absolutely shocking, remembering that so many had already died from the virus HIV which caused the AIDS. In the young adult population, 11.8 million are living with HIV/AIDS; 7.3 million of these are women and 4.5 million are men.

As for children, 2.5 million are living with HIV/AIDS; 13.4 million children under 15 have been orphaned and these numbers are projected to be 25 million by the year 2010.
It is known that more than 1,700 infants a day contract HIV through their mothers. If left untreated, most of these children will die before their tenth birthdays.

Yes, shocking and these statistics can be examined in light of all the donations that have gone to the South Asian countries that were hit by the recent tsunami.

Would it not be wonderful to see a united common front attack on this world-wide epidemic?

How will the donations be administered?

In yesterday’s blog I wrote briefly about the tsunami disaster in South Asian countries. It was not my intention to write about that problem at this time, but somewhat later. As I received an email from Europe relating to that blog, I could not help but write a few more words today.

My correspondent wrote: “Too much money was given, and now the different humanitarian organizations do not know how to deal with this big amount of money…last week, they announced we had to give food, and clothes…then some days later, they said ‘stop! Only send money now’…as if the Human kind got bogged down in a mess of generosity not knowing what to do, overtaken by this catastrophe…finally totally useless and powerless by dint of feeling itself essential….Maybe we should try to accept this opportunity given by the earth to meditate on our fragility and humbleness. Let’s dream now that the different countries will learn the lesson and focus more on their own territory, helping the poor and disabled and sick, to live in dignity and comfort.”

We do have individuals around the world who read and think and write because they have concerns. They realize that attention needs to be centered on critical issues, that questions need to be asked; that answers need to be provided.

My concern is not about the amount of money donated to date so much as how the monies will be used and how the benefits of these monies will be disbursed to the victims of this disaster. We as individuals who donate only hope that our donations will be used to the maximum benefit of the suffering masses.

Experiences have shown that monies provided to many countries often find their way into the pockets of government officials and those in positions who administer programs within those countries and even in the countries that make the donations. After national disasters and wars, there is a need for reconstruction in those countries. There we find that the wealthy become wealthier through contracts of all sorts. We as individuals who donate monies or pay taxes and have our national governments provide aid monies to foreign governments can only hope that the monies are used or disbursed in appropriate ways.

Even in our ‘civilized” Canada we recently learned that “middle men” and firms “extracted” high commission rates to simply pass on monies from the government to firms that sometimes did not even provide the full service that had been under contract. Currently this scandal is being investigated to determine the truth of the matter.

Also, in Canada, we have organizations and agencies that can respond to emergency situations of national disaster; these perhaps will be viewed as being somewhat ineffective in ability and in response time. A lesson here can be learned. Furthermore, it should be recognized that the historic reduction of budgets for the military have led to our loss of a capacity for the government to respond to tragedies of the type that occurred in South Asia. If we had a tragedy, even minor in scope to that experienced on December 26, a response would certainly not have been good enough. The Canadian Government needs to “pull up its socks” and to develop appropriate and fully functioning emergency measures organizations and military personnel capable of being used in the field in an appropriate and timely fashion.

National and international crises...

Although I intend to write more about the South Asian countries that were devastated by the tsunami of December 26, I do want to say a few words now as they relate to other important modern disasters.

The Canadian Prime Minister, Paul Martin, said that “This tragedy, this humanitarian crisis, is nearly beyond measure or human comprehension”; and further, “Let there be no question that, through this difficult time and far beyond, we will be there to comfort, to assist, to help in any way we can.” To these words, I can agree and most Canadians would support the Prime Minister, as well.

We have had another crisis in Canada; other countries have had, as well. That ongoing crisis situation relates to our poor and our homeless. I will this address crisis situation in the future.

Going beyond national and international disaster situations we have another that we have faced but perhaps not well. I speak of the international and crisis situation of the AIDS disaster. I want to examine that situation in light of the outpouring of assistance that is going to the tsunami crisis. I am pleased that so much aid is going to the South Asian countries and realizing that this aid will continue gives me cause to be pleased. But, what have we been doing, as members of the international community, to alleviate the pain and suffering of all those who have had some direct connection to the AIDS disaster? Perhaps there is no better time to explore this issue. This, I shall do.

The games are over…for another year…

It is with a sense of sadness that I witnessed the American team loss to the Czech Republic, 2 – 3, in the World Junior Hockey Championship. Admittedly, the Czech goaltender was the best of the goaltenders in the championship series and made life difficult for the Americans. The game went into over-time, either team could have won.

Now, as to the game between Russia and Canada, it was believed by most that Canada would win as the Canadian team was the strongest iced over a long period of time. Over the past seven years Canada had won one gold, four silver and two bronze medals. Those four silvers were a disappointment to the Canadian teams as the games might have gone either way. This year, the Canadians either tied some records or made some new ones; this reflects positively on all team members. The players supported one another throughout the games. Today, the 6 – 1 result was from goals scored by seven different players; these players were assisted and supported by all their team members. It was good hockey, all around, with many memories to be retained by players and spectators.

Future writings on the tsunami

I have been asked if I was going to do more writing on the tsunami. The answer is yes. My perspective will be somewhat Canadian and more so political initially but in the final analysis comments on Canadian society in general and in particular as it relates to the topic. Perhaps all thinking people around the world have given some thought to this terrible natural tragedy. Yet, the views of Canadians though somewhat different from the "average" of other nations, at the same time, many beliefs and attitudes are much the same.

A thought relates to how individuals some times hide from that which is difficult to accept and turn to diversions of many types. Could this be why so many individuals have been tuning into many sports events since the festive season began?

Exciting hockey...

Semifinals of the World Junior Hockey Championship are now over. Canada, as expected, has won against Czech Republic with a 3 – 1. The other semifinal was between The United States and Russia with Russia winning 7 - 2

The final game for gold will be played on Tuesday between Canada and Russia. For the bronze, the United States will play the Czech Republic. I will be rooting for Canada and the United States. We should witness some excellent hockey on Tuesday.

While I seldom watch any hockey games, I have watched parts of the Canadian games. I am looking forward to the games on Tuesday. I believe that my readers understand that not all Canadians are hockey enthusiasts. I simply prefer to do other things than to spend so much time watching TV. I trust that many Americans are not caught up in following different sports teams on a week-to-week basis. They, as well, have other things to do.

New Years Resolutions

I wonder how many individuals make new year’s resolutions and find that they were actually able to live up to their resolutions. I wonder how many individuals make resolutions to bring about personal change and though they may forget about their resolutions some time into the New Year, they nevertheless having set an objective, and have changed in some respects.

Some changes in behavior are very difficult to make. As an example, to stop smoking, though a most worthwhile objective, the subsequent resolution is most difficult to achieve. Nevertheless, the attempt to stop, results in the increased knowledge and awareness of how difficult that task is.

If one makes simple resolutions that are within the capacity of the individual to achieve, those resolutions in all likelihood will be achieved. This is not wisdom but simple common sense.

Now, I will not hesitate to make my resolutions. It has been said that if one wants to achieve an objective, if that objective is told to others, the individual would stand an excellent chance to meet the objective. Likewise, the case holds for resolutions. So, here are my resolutions: 1. to publish two books; 2. to publish four chap books; 3. to have published in anthologies, magazines, news papers a minimum of twenty articles and poems; 4. to continue, throughout the year, the publications of the Ottawa Canada World News and this blog. 5. To attend poetry groups and to read poems a minimum of fifty times.

One can understand those resolutions in the context of a passion for writing. The desire to write is strong, as is the need to read newspapers, magazines and books. It becomes obvious that words, thoughts and beliefs are central to my way of life. Yet above all those resolutions is the understanding, not a resolution but a simple understanding that in all that I do, I shall avoid doing anything that might harm another in any way, and above all, I shall stand behind my family and friends.

Happy New Year to all!