Thursday, January 24, 2008

reflection on the republican debate

It's interesting that the Republican candidates seem to be thinking that, in fact, hoping that Hillary Clinton gets the nomination for the Democrats. They seem to think that the idea of having Bill and Hillary run the country is just not palatable for the majority of the country. I particularly took note of what Mitt Romney said. He essentially said that Hillary and Bill have been in Washington for too long, and sending them back and thinking you will get a different result is foolish. Of course, he is thinking about himself, the "self-made" millionaire and governor. But I also thought that was a good plug for Barack Obama.

I'm trying to multi-task right now: listening to the debate and reading Obama's "Blueprint for America." He's got some great ideas. Check it out.

http://www.barackobama.com/pdf/ObamaBlueprintForChange.pdf

Tuesday, January 22, 2008

politics and religion in a sermon

I enjoyed hearing Barack Obama preach at Ebenezer Baptist Church last Sunday. Great words. And a nice skirting of the fine line between church and state.
I also noted the comment he made about how the media sensationalizes division, including the tit-for-tat between campaigns, which was on full display last night at the Democratic debate, which John Edwards took full advantage of.

http://my.barackobama.com/KingChurch

Thursday, January 17, 2008

I just finished watching Ben Bernake, the Fed. Reserve chair, address a house committee regarding the state of the economy. I am so impressed with his clear thinking. But, I tell you, what a job. Financial crises come and go. I believe that as a country we will make it through this crisis. But, I really worry about the longterm sustainbility of our country. When you combine the aging of the population, our out of control government spending, crushing personal debt, things really do have to change quickly. And I really do believe that the wealthiest must pay more. We must spend more money on public works and infrastructure. We have got to stop spending so much money on defense. And my generation will just have to grind it out and hope that our grandkids have it better.
The other thing that crossed my mind when listening to this hearing is the reassurance that there is a lot more to life than the economy. Times can be really rough. But a meaningful life can be lived regardless of a country's or family's financial position.
Interesting time we live in.

Wednesday, January 16, 2008

first blog post

Here I go. I've been thinking about blogging for quite a while and have been hesitant because I was concerned about the time it would take. But, I've decided to just go for it. I've got something to say. And I want to hear other's thoughts. So, why not give it a try.