This weekend I had a great time riding around Southern California....home. While I've been riding for a couple years, this weekend was perhaps the most gratifying. The weather was superb and prime for riding...t-shirt riding weather.
I spent many months unable to ride due to a devastating knee injury. It is weekends like this that I live for. I can never imagine not riding. It is my passion, my therapy, my way of living; the best thing I've ever done for myself.
Sunday, March 28, 2010
Sunday, March 14, 2010
Kids...
A few weeks ago I had a conversation with an old friend and the topic of kids came up. She asked if I ever wanted to have any of my own. This question has been asked of me many times by different people on different occasions and in various forms. My simple answer has always been that I don't want kids. Usually my response is met with bewilderment. It is assumed most people want to marry and have children of their own. I don't fall into that category. I've felt this way for most of my life.
I wonder sometimes why it is that I feel this way. I had a wonderful childhood, have loving and supportive parents and sister. Many have told me throughout the years that I am lucky to have such a family. I must agree with them all because I do feel loved by my family and I return it as well.
With this upbringing one would think I would desire a family of my own. I have my reasons for not wanting kids, but the prime reason would have to be that I have no parental instinct or curiosity to procreate. Truth is I've never been good with kids and I have little patience for parental responsibilities.
I had a small taste of parenthood's responsibilities when I lived with my ex-girlfriend and her son. He was a good kid, respectful and kind. Nonetheless, I knew after sometime that the world of parenthood was not for me. Going to little league games/practices, kids parties, watching kids movies, etc. These were just some of the things I didn't like, but the overall responsibility of having a kid just seemed like such a drag! I found myself not being to happy and quite depressed.
Some have suggested that I would feel different about doing those things if it were my own kid. I doubt it. I'm much too concerned with my own well-being and happiness to devote my life to a child. This admission has provided me with much freedom.
To those that do chose to bring life into this world, it is my hope that much thought and love is devoted to such decision. It is a tragedy to have so many unwanted and unplanned souls roaming this earth without love and guidance.
I wonder sometimes why it is that I feel this way. I had a wonderful childhood, have loving and supportive parents and sister. Many have told me throughout the years that I am lucky to have such a family. I must agree with them all because I do feel loved by my family and I return it as well.
With this upbringing one would think I would desire a family of my own. I have my reasons for not wanting kids, but the prime reason would have to be that I have no parental instinct or curiosity to procreate. Truth is I've never been good with kids and I have little patience for parental responsibilities.
I had a small taste of parenthood's responsibilities when I lived with my ex-girlfriend and her son. He was a good kid, respectful and kind. Nonetheless, I knew after sometime that the world of parenthood was not for me. Going to little league games/practices, kids parties, watching kids movies, etc. These were just some of the things I didn't like, but the overall responsibility of having a kid just seemed like such a drag! I found myself not being to happy and quite depressed.
Some have suggested that I would feel different about doing those things if it were my own kid. I doubt it. I'm much too concerned with my own well-being and happiness to devote my life to a child. This admission has provided me with much freedom.
To those that do chose to bring life into this world, it is my hope that much thought and love is devoted to such decision. It is a tragedy to have so many unwanted and unplanned souls roaming this earth without love and guidance.
Wednesday, March 10, 2010
Treason by the Politicians
I read today's Los Angeles Times article about Vice-President Joe Biden's visit to Israel and some remarks he made while speaking at a gathering of sorts. Our VP made remarks such as, "It's good to be home," and "The cornerstone of the relationship is our absolute, total, unvarnished commitment to Israel's security."
Correct me if I'm wrong, but shouldn't our politicians be wholly committed to our country only? It sickens me to know that our politicians lack the ability to stop supporting a country that continues to violate international laws repeatedly. I recognize that there must have been some use to have Israel as an ally during the Cold War, however, that time is long gone and support for Israel causes us much more harm than any good.
Why must the US taxpayer support a country to the tune of $7-$10 million dollars per day if it receives nothing in return? The only reason our politicians support Israel is because of the influence the Israel lobby has on this country's political landscape. Any politician that dares challenge Israel in any form is promptly labeled anti-Semitic and targeted by groups such as AIPAC as "enemies of Israel."
I am enraged that politicians rather assist Israel than help out the citizens of this country. Support America and Americans. Israel can take care of its own.
Correct me if I'm wrong, but shouldn't our politicians be wholly committed to our country only? It sickens me to know that our politicians lack the ability to stop supporting a country that continues to violate international laws repeatedly. I recognize that there must have been some use to have Israel as an ally during the Cold War, however, that time is long gone and support for Israel causes us much more harm than any good.
Why must the US taxpayer support a country to the tune of $7-$10 million dollars per day if it receives nothing in return? The only reason our politicians support Israel is because of the influence the Israel lobby has on this country's political landscape. Any politician that dares challenge Israel in any form is promptly labeled anti-Semitic and targeted by groups such as AIPAC as "enemies of Israel."
I am enraged that politicians rather assist Israel than help out the citizens of this country. Support America and Americans. Israel can take care of its own.
Monday, March 8, 2010
Fundamentalism
I'm currently reading three books. One book titled The Family by Jeff Sharlet is about Christian fundamentalism and the power it wields on American government. The book is educational and eye-opening to anyone interested in how some Christians in positions of political power utilize their influence for the benefit of Jesus.
What I find most interesting about this book is the in depth research the author underwent in order to accomplish the feat of writing this book. This guy truly did his homework. I learned of this book through Bill Maher's TV show on HBO, Real Time with Bill Maher. The author was a guest on his show and spoke about this book.
Because I am an atheist and seek to better understand the various intricacies surrounding religion, this book appealed to me, thus I purchased it and here I am. I can't say I am surprised by what the book contains. It tells of a group of politicians and some clergy that seek to influence government for the benefit of the christian agenda. This group considers itself not so much an organization, but a "Family." The Family's aim is to place people in positions of power or influence those that already are in power for the purpose of advancing christian "values." They operate in relative secrecy and their members consist of members of both Democrat and Republican political parties.
What alarms me the most, however, is the lengths these individuals go to undermine the American government's foundation of separation between church and state. Most Christians argue that this country is founded on christian principles and that our forefathers designed it as such. Nothing could be further from the truth. These Christians erroneously claim that the forefathers were "god-fearing" men of the faith.
I must say that I've read enough to know that Jefferson, Washington, Paine, Franklin and many others were vehemently opposed to an established religion influencing or running government. These men may or may not have been agnostics/atheists, but their writings, correspondence and thoughts surly demonstrate their disdain for Christianity and religion in general.
I find it insulting that people insist this country should be governed by Christian principles. For the most part, I find that these same fundamentalists are the biggest "sinners" around. How many Republican politicians condemn gays because the bible claims it is wrong only later to have those same politicians casting stones smoking a pole!!! Closet homosexuals is what most these Republicans are indeed.
Anyway, back from my rant. I feel that religion causes more harm than good to this country and society as a whole. I pity those that place their energy into faiths that are outdated and rooted in fantasy. I doubt we will ever experience genuine peace and understanding amongst us so long as religion perpetuates intolerance towards others.
Well, that's what's on my mind...much more on this subject, but then I'll end up writing for days!
Paz mi gente!
What I find most interesting about this book is the in depth research the author underwent in order to accomplish the feat of writing this book. This guy truly did his homework. I learned of this book through Bill Maher's TV show on HBO, Real Time with Bill Maher. The author was a guest on his show and spoke about this book.
Because I am an atheist and seek to better understand the various intricacies surrounding religion, this book appealed to me, thus I purchased it and here I am. I can't say I am surprised by what the book contains. It tells of a group of politicians and some clergy that seek to influence government for the benefit of the christian agenda. This group considers itself not so much an organization, but a "Family." The Family's aim is to place people in positions of power or influence those that already are in power for the purpose of advancing christian "values." They operate in relative secrecy and their members consist of members of both Democrat and Republican political parties.
What alarms me the most, however, is the lengths these individuals go to undermine the American government's foundation of separation between church and state. Most Christians argue that this country is founded on christian principles and that our forefathers designed it as such. Nothing could be further from the truth. These Christians erroneously claim that the forefathers were "god-fearing" men of the faith.
I must say that I've read enough to know that Jefferson, Washington, Paine, Franklin and many others were vehemently opposed to an established religion influencing or running government. These men may or may not have been agnostics/atheists, but their writings, correspondence and thoughts surly demonstrate their disdain for Christianity and religion in general.
I find it insulting that people insist this country should be governed by Christian principles. For the most part, I find that these same fundamentalists are the biggest "sinners" around. How many Republican politicians condemn gays because the bible claims it is wrong only later to have those same politicians casting stones smoking a pole!!! Closet homosexuals is what most these Republicans are indeed.
Anyway, back from my rant. I feel that religion causes more harm than good to this country and society as a whole. I pity those that place their energy into faiths that are outdated and rooted in fantasy. I doubt we will ever experience genuine peace and understanding amongst us so long as religion perpetuates intolerance towards others.
Well, that's what's on my mind...much more on this subject, but then I'll end up writing for days!
Paz mi gente!
Sunday, March 7, 2010
In the beginning
OK, here it is. My own blog. Yea! Anyway, I'd like to thank my friend Roz for guiding me to this site. Now that I'm here I suppose I can use this to create journal of sorts to document my thoughts and experiences. I don't have a particular aim or goal in mind, however, I do feel this endeavor may help clear my mind and provide a therapy of sorts.
At the moment I have a lot on my mind. The economy, relationships, friendships, religion, politics, women, education.....etc. Needless to say this is going to be lengthy at times. I acknowledge having strong opinions about many subjects while being aloof to others so I'll probably just gloss over certain topics and dig deep into others.
I don't expect anyone to pay any mind to my rants, but comments are welcome. Perhaps I'll learn a bit about myself...or just offend many in the process. Either way I don't seek to offend anyone, but I'm sure that will occur. My friends will note that I am direct and don't sugar coat my thoughts. I believe in being tactful but sometimes tact needs to be kicked through the uprights.
With that said, I'll start off with what's currently on my mind...facebook, friends and exes (former significant others). Last night a friend of mine (who shall remain nameless) wanted to know how it came to be that I was "friends" with a particular female on FB. Now, I don't think I've ever had anyone question me as to why I had a particular person listed as a "friend," but this question did have merit. As it turns out, my real friend was formerly involved in a relationship with this particular female. This was news to me since I didn't know this female on an individual basis nor was I aware that my friend and she dated in the past. This female requested to be my "friend" some months back and I accepted assuming she was associated with my social circle in some form. That was not the case. Well, needless to say my friend was not pleased about my association with his ex and asked I remove her from my "friends" list.
Exes are a touchy matter many. I am of the thought that on ex is an "ex" for a reason. Either you got dumped or you dumped him/her. The point being that an intimate relationship is no longer healthy from at least one person's point of view. Logic dictates when a relationship comes to an end your exes actions should not be of any concern. We are not logical creatures, however, when matters of the heart are involved.
Now getting back the situation at hand. Since I don't know this female and I value my friendship and bond with my friend, this was a non-issue for me. The female was unceremoniously removed from my friend's list and the matter resolved. This could have been avoided by not adding this person in the first place, since I make it a point to not add people I don't know as "friends" on FB. Assumptions make asses out of oneself (as we have all heard).
I just wonder, however, what were this person's motives in requesting me as a friend? We communicated a total of one time since I accepted her request, so I'm puzzled needless to say. For another, my friend was truly disturbed and angry because of this issue. I don't know the nature of his relationship with the female in question, nor is it any of my business, but I ask myself, 'If she's an ex, what does it matter who she associates with?' Some of us are possesive and jealous when it comes to significant others...an unfortunate reality especially if a relationship no longer exists.
As I stated earlier, because I value my friendship this was not an issue with me in any form. I must also add that I am strongly opposed into getting involved with any of my friend's exes. I've seen it happen around me on various occasions and it is always ugly for those involved. Too many women out there to focus on your buddy's girl/ex.
That's it for now...unless I have something else to rant about later.
Hasta Luego!
At the moment I have a lot on my mind. The economy, relationships, friendships, religion, politics, women, education.....etc. Needless to say this is going to be lengthy at times. I acknowledge having strong opinions about many subjects while being aloof to others so I'll probably just gloss over certain topics and dig deep into others.
I don't expect anyone to pay any mind to my rants, but comments are welcome. Perhaps I'll learn a bit about myself...or just offend many in the process. Either way I don't seek to offend anyone, but I'm sure that will occur. My friends will note that I am direct and don't sugar coat my thoughts. I believe in being tactful but sometimes tact needs to be kicked through the uprights.
With that said, I'll start off with what's currently on my mind...facebook, friends and exes (former significant others). Last night a friend of mine (who shall remain nameless) wanted to know how it came to be that I was "friends" with a particular female on FB. Now, I don't think I've ever had anyone question me as to why I had a particular person listed as a "friend," but this question did have merit. As it turns out, my real friend was formerly involved in a relationship with this particular female. This was news to me since I didn't know this female on an individual basis nor was I aware that my friend and she dated in the past. This female requested to be my "friend" some months back and I accepted assuming she was associated with my social circle in some form. That was not the case. Well, needless to say my friend was not pleased about my association with his ex and asked I remove her from my "friends" list.
Exes are a touchy matter many. I am of the thought that on ex is an "ex" for a reason. Either you got dumped or you dumped him/her. The point being that an intimate relationship is no longer healthy from at least one person's point of view. Logic dictates when a relationship comes to an end your exes actions should not be of any concern. We are not logical creatures, however, when matters of the heart are involved.
Now getting back the situation at hand. Since I don't know this female and I value my friendship and bond with my friend, this was a non-issue for me. The female was unceremoniously removed from my friend's list and the matter resolved. This could have been avoided by not adding this person in the first place, since I make it a point to not add people I don't know as "friends" on FB. Assumptions make asses out of oneself (as we have all heard).
I just wonder, however, what were this person's motives in requesting me as a friend? We communicated a total of one time since I accepted her request, so I'm puzzled needless to say. For another, my friend was truly disturbed and angry because of this issue. I don't know the nature of his relationship with the female in question, nor is it any of my business, but I ask myself, 'If she's an ex, what does it matter who she associates with?' Some of us are possesive and jealous when it comes to significant others...an unfortunate reality especially if a relationship no longer exists.
As I stated earlier, because I value my friendship this was not an issue with me in any form. I must also add that I am strongly opposed into getting involved with any of my friend's exes. I've seen it happen around me on various occasions and it is always ugly for those involved. Too many women out there to focus on your buddy's girl/ex.
That's it for now...unless I have something else to rant about later.
Hasta Luego!
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