China and India have their eyes on Burma

Experts on Burma came to Johns Hopkins University from all over the world to reflect upon Burma's political developments. Among the panelists, were representatives of both China an India. India and China both have their eyes on Burma.

Mukhtar Mai - Pakistani Woman seeks justice after Gang Rape

I wanted to write about a special woman named Mukhtar Mai. She’s an incredible lady who has gone through so much. In 2002, under a tribal council’s orders, Mukhtar Mai was gang raped in front of 200 witnesses for an alleged sexual crime her brother had committed. Mai was then forced to walk home, through the village with torn clothes (nothing to really cover her body). Women in Pakistan after being raped are expected to commit suicide as an act of honor for the “ indecency”. Mukhtar Mai did something about it, and she says, although she has the attention of the world, she does not have her justice from the Pakistani Judicial system. She says, “ Think about the common woman in Pakistan who have gone through rape, they are shunned.”


Pakistan has a significant problem in persevering women’s rights. The government wants to protect the country’s image and yet does nothing in context to women’s issues . It has been reported that in Pakistan, women are raped by the officials who are supposed to protect them. The Pakistani police are accused of raping women in the villages and in the towns. These women feel helpless, as they cannot go to the police for help.

As the government is not budging to secure the safety of these women, rape victims are seeking the media and international organizations for help. Mukhtar Mai is seen as a hero among many women, and she encourages women to voice their cases and to remain strong.

Click on the link to see how you can help Mukhtar Mai’s MMWWO- Mukhtar Mai’s Women’s Welfare Organization.
Help Mukhtar Mai ( NY Times Columnist, Nicholas Kristof has been following her story and its developments for years.)

Green Revolution and Saffron Revolution have a lot in common

The Green Revolution and Saffron Revolution

The Dalai Lama visits the US; Richard Gere supports His Holiness and Tibet

The Dalai Lama comes to the U.S. for a week long trip. He meets with lawmakers and politicians, but he does not meet with President Obama. Humanitarian and actor, Richard Gere shows his support for Dalai Lama and Tibet.

Marriage is so gay- make gay marriage legal

Gay Rights

I write this with love- and if love conquers all, then we should all open our hearts to be more accepting of one another. I think it’s obscene that people would use religion or the name of “ God” to convey their bigotry. There is nothing worst in the world than intolerance- we’ve learned it time after time. Throughout history we’ve seen just how evil ignorance can be.

In the United States, we fight for “ liberty”, but what is the meaning of freedom if every one is not considered equal? Gays are not allowed to marry in 29 states. Separate but equal? No such thing.


Gay is the New Black

There was a sign at the Equal Rights March that read, “ Gay is the New Black”. I thought that sign to be true in the sense that Blacks were segregated in the U.S. for a long time, and Gays are discriminated in the U.S. today; and the government is not doing too much to help end the discrimination.

In 1869, the lawsuit Plessy vs. Ferguson opened people’s ideas on what the true meaning of the phrase, “ Separate, but Equal” was. Blacks were entitled to the public services that White Americans had- but in different places exclusive to African Americans. Separate but Equal ? No such thing . The facilities given to Blacks were of lower quality than those given to Whites. And this gay rights marriage act is a lower quality than those given to straight citizens.


Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell

As for a veteran from the crowd yesterday, I heard him shout that the "Don’t Ask, Don’t Tell" policy was “Hell”. It’s unbelievable that people can’t talk about their real feelings or disclose their lives while they’re risking their lives for a country they believe to be so “ free”.



Marriage is so gay. Make it legal.

Can a Buddhist way of meditation make you a millionaire?

Summerfest in Long Island

Aung San Su Kyi's Sentence

The Burmese military regime sentenced the Nobeal laureate and Burma’s ( also known as Myanmar) Humanitarian leader, Aung San Su Kyi to 3 years under house arrest, then later shortened the sentence to 18 months.


The international community showed concern and lamented as Su Kyi was unlawfully charged. The Dalai Lama called for Su Kyi’s release and made a statement, “I am deeply saddened by the extended detention of Aung San Suu Kyi to a further period of house arrest. As a fellow Buddhist, I would like to once again appeal to the Burmese authorities to show magnanimity and understanding by releasing her. Doing so will not only contribute towards reconciliation but also will be a goodwill gesture.” President Obama and United Nations Secretary General Ban Ki Moon called for Su Kyi’s release and criticized the Burmese government for putting her under unlawful circumstances.


Aung San Su Kyi is to be imprisoned for breaching her agreement with the Burmese militaristic government. Last year an American man swam to her house uninvited, and he stayed there for days. Under house arrest, Su Kyi was not allowed to have any visitors. The government caught him, and held a trial. The world waited for her verdict- hoping she would be found NOT GUILTY. Next year, in 2010 there is an election that will be held in Burma – Su Kyi would be running as the main candidate. If she is under house arrest, she won’t be able to run- and the hope of the Burmese people will remain lost.


China supports Burma’s verdict and says, “International society should fully respect Myanmar's judicial sovereignty.”

Sing her a freedom song.
The Lady, Aung San Su Kyi :

An interview with RENT's actor, Adam Kantor

Broadway’s hit show RENT is a story about young inspiring artists who struggle to make it in New York. Adam Kantor who plays the lead role of Mark in RENT made it when he got his dream role right out of college.

I interviewed Kantor, who also happened to be an old classmate of mine from H.S. We talked about RENT and his other aspirations. Find out what’s in store for this Broadway star.













Please visit:

Kantor's new play


Broadway in South Africa


New York Times article on Adam Kantor


( For people living in the North Hempstead area, please visit PATV’s Channel 20- Cablevision and Channel 37- Verizon for the full 30 minute interview with Adam Kantor.)

Great Neck Rotary Club Summer Concert

The Rotary Club of Great Neck threw a concert this summer which spotlighted 2 of Long Island's best singers.

What Does it Take to be a Good Housewife?

Who said there’s something wrong with watching TV? I’ll admit it, I watch a couple of series- not too much television, but a good amount late at night. What are my favorite channels and shows you may ask? Well, CNN’s on almost all of the time; then there’s Sleuth for my Law and Order SVU cases, but ahhh…..last but not least BRAVO! BRAVO is my guilty pleasure. When the Real Housewives of New Jersey comes on, I’m glued to my TV with a hiss of comments, laughter and claps.


The Real Housewives of New Jersey


These women portray the perfect lives of housewives- big houses, big money, and big bubbies. Do they represent the epitome of a Jersey housewife? These women live such a high life; they’re able to give their kids everything they want yet ironically be such horrible examples for their children. Within that little circle of Jersey housewives- there lies backstabbing, gossip, secret sex/drug lives and plastic surgery. All the recipes needed for a disastrous housewife …but a great show.

Unfaithfully Yours

"To have and to hold from this day forward, for better for worse, for richer for poorer, in sickness and in health, to love and to cherish, till death us do part."

The traditional marriage vows that are said before a pastor at a ceremony to celebrate a couple’s love are no longer embraced nor taken seriously anymore. Why? Because men cheat; or at least that’s what I’m writing about today.

Why do men cheat? It’s the age-old question, and perhaps Sex and the City’s Kim Cantrall can explain it, “ Men cheat for the same reason dogs lick their balls…because they can.”

Gov. Sanford and the rest of the politicians

In the news, South Carolina’s governor, Sanford was (and is still) getting heat for using taxpayer money to fly off to Argentina to spend time with his lover. While his family, the wife and kids were at their home in South Carolina, Sanford disappeared for 5 days to attend to his affair. The affair had been going on for a while, and Sanford’s wife never knew. To Sanford’s defense, he said he fell in love with the Argentinean woman; they had a real connection. Whatever the case may be, he never acknowledged the wife; yet Sanford’s wife stood by him throughout it all. She said she wanted to make it work even after the affair came out.

I can name a few more men in politics who have taken advantage of their marriage- John F. Kennedy, Bill Clinton and even one of my favorites, Franklin D. Roosevelt. Their wives were the backbones of their presidencies- supporting their commitments and showing up to conferences on their behalves, but the wives did not receive the gratitude of love and sincerity from their husbands. ( Let’s just hope Obama doesn’t follow in those footsteps.)

What angers me most is that the women get the blame for their betrothed’s infidelity.





Jon and Kate Plus 8

Take the case, Jon and Kate plus 8. This reality series has gotten much fame and fortune throughout the seasons. The couple has 8 children- twins and sextuplets; every day is a struggle- to get these kids fed, to get them ready for school and to simply discipline them. As a mother of 8, you have to be aware of everything, from what they have for snacks to the clothes they wear. However many viewers and the media have insinuated Kate as a crazy, bossy wife who emasculates her husband, Jon. My response, “ Give her a break!”

Jon is now engaged to a 23 year old and is seen running around with her in various places, while Kate’s been seen running after her kids. Kate is still trying to make the show work since her income comes from the TV series, and Jon is ready to leave.
Kate’s getting all the bad rep, while Jon’s marrying a 23 year old. Now that’s not fair.

His Version

It’s been said that men cheat simply for one reason- lack of attention: women don’t adore their spouses enough. I see that to be true, but we’re not living in a time of barbarians when men come back from a good hunt and women praise them with love and affection. We’re beyond that; In this time and age, we have bills to pay and cars to drive. Women now are working and mothering as well. They don’t have time to adore another person in the home- let alone someone who’s in their 30’s or older.


Once a Cheater, always a Cheater?

Ahh….I guess we’ll never know until you try him out.

TWITTER

I haven’t blogged in so long, and with all this new social media- from twitter to facebook, I’ve been caught up in the mix of which media to utilize. I’ve missed blogging though; I’ve felt very incomplete without it.

Well, I’ll let you in on my new discovery of tweets. I’ve been tweeting, and I never knew why people were so captivated by twitter. I’ve always thought twitter was for those who were fortunate enough to have an entourage following their every move. Celebrities are on twitter- and they have so many followers and fans commenting on their tweets- looking at their pics and such. Well, to my dismay, twitter is causing much more than a huge celebrity fan page.

Powerful Innovation or Silly Conversations?


You may ask, “ How are Ashton Kutcher’s tweets about his wife Demi in a bikini- or one of his parties going to change the world?” Well… his tweets on those matters may not change the world, but let me tell you, THE WHOLE WORLD IS SURELY READING.


People tweet about “ what they’re doing”…and others can comment, read and be inspired by it. Many of the tweets are timely political events. For example, when the Iranian protests were occurring, there was no broadcast of the revolution on Iranian television; however, there were so many tweets about the revolution from protesters inside Iran. The tweets were then disclosed to the international community, and people were able to get information out of these tweets.


So Simple

Tweeting’s so simple, and it makes the world seem so much closer. My favorite celebrities, Anderson Cooper and Oprah are on twitter, and I probably comment to Coops almost every day; I feel satisfied knowing that maybe he’s read my tweet to him (whether he does or not, we’ll never know, but I try to stay connected).


@ kayemlin Tweet me.

SUMMER EVENTS IN A TOWN ON LONG ISLAND

WHAT ARE YOU DOING DURING THE SUMMER?


Great Neck Concert night...listen to the salsa sound and dance to its beat! Also find out how some couples keep their romance






Great Neck Plaza Promenade on June 25, 2009. See how this town in Long Island kicks off the start of summer- with a festive event filled with food, music, shopping and more!

Is Obama reacting well to the protest in Iran?

Do you think Obama is reacting well to the protest in Iran?


a) Yes
b) No
c) So So
d) None of the above


I’m leaning towards a.) and c.)


A.) Yes

Obama raised his voice for Iran and he declared for the Iranian government to, "stop all violent and unjust actions against its own people" and "to understand that the world is watching."

Critics say Obama is just giving moral support and not enough political support. To his defense, I think Obama’s being very cautious and smart on what he should do to help Iranians. If the U.S. were to take more of a drastic action, it would cause more tension- not just the economic tie between Iran and US, but the economic ties around the world. Iran and the US have a 64 million dollar trade relationship, and things exported from Iran has to be sanctioned.

Obama also has to be cautious in his words to the Iranian government because if the US is too forceful, the Iranian government would concoct a story saying that it was the US that instigated the protest in Tehran. The government would then criticize the protesters for following Western culture. ( CNN had a debate on the protest in Tehran, and one contributor brought this issue to the table which I thought was fairly interesting.)



C.) So So

As much as I support Obama’s actions thus far, I also think we can do so much more. I believe in freedom, and I stand by anyone who would fight for their beliefs.

I’m so proud of Iranians for their stance against the rigid government and for their solidarity- in uniting as one nation.

People are coming forward and are no longer silenced. With these massive numbers on the streets, fear is no longer instilled in the civilians. They’ve become a part of a bigger movement; all around the world, we sure are watching and listening.

Iran's Election or Selection?

There is outrage across the world about Iran’s election. Mahmoud Ahmadinejad allegedly won 60% of Iran’s votes, but his alleged win has the whole world in disbelief and anger. Iranians want a recount. It is reported that 40 million people voted in Iran’s election (My Persian friend who currently resides in the U.S. even voted at a New York mosque.) ; and ballots were hand counted. So it is no surprise that there was much controversy and suspicion as a winner was declared in a matter of two hours.

Vice President, Joe Biden is doubtful about Adhmadinejad’s win, but he said that he would withhold comment until there was more information about the election being “ rigged”. He tells NBC’s Meet The Press, "There's an awful lot of question about how this election was run. I mean, we're just waiting to see."

Mousavi, Admadinejad’s opponent, said he was robbed of the vote and demands a recount. As protesters and Tehran University students merged the streets of Tehran, blood and gun shots resulted.

There has not been a demonstration like this in Iran since the Iranian Revolution in 1979.

GM's bailout? Who wants a new car?

GM thinks that their bankruptcy will make them more powerful and stronger, but is the Obama administration going to bail them out? GM thinks so.

House Minority leader John Boehner (R-Ohio) said ,“Every time the president makes a so-called tough decision, it’s the American middle class that gets hit the hardest.”

People have said that the Obama administration has done too much recently- from passing the stimulus plan to taking on health care, education, and the environment. Recently the administration bailed out AIG, which ultimately backfired on the tax payer. AIG’s top executives ran away with the bailout money and quit the firm. Could GM be following in AIG’s footsteps?

Unionizing America

What does it mean to be an America? Maybe money has something to do with the definition of “ American”, but I’ve always thought that America was about a meritocracy. To unionize America would contradict America’s beliefs. A meritocracy gives you the opportunity to establish yourself as a person, a group, a company. Your hard work and ethics ultimately give you your character and essentially what it means to be human.

If we all had a bail out for every obstacle that comes into our life, would we grow as people?


My friend once said that it’s not money that we are chasing after. ( Wait a minute, it’s not? I think all of my friends in their 20’s and maybe some in their 30’s have been living on clouds- we’ve all been duped.) She says that really it’s about the blue ribbon, and feeling that we’ve made it- working our way up to our own success. That’s the true feeling of self-establishment and to be an American.


All I know is that if GM gets a bailout, then I deserve a free new car.

REINCARNATION

Life is short. When it’s over, what happens? Buddhists and Hindus believe that one’s soul lives on through reincarnation- where one is reborn again in another body. ABC News reported that Buddhists and Hindus are no longer the only people who believe in reincarnation; today one out of four Christians and Jews say they believe in rebirth.


Science and Reincarnation:



The Dalai Lama once said; "If science can disprove reincarnation, Tibetan Buddhism would abandon reincarnation... but it's going to be mighty hard to disprove reincarnation."

One of Buddhism’s central belief is Karma- you get what you deserve- which in essence is scientific-cause and effect. I think of Buddhism to be very scientific like, and so could I compare the theory of reincarnation to Science?




Well, Einstein said that “ Energy cannot be created or destroyed and for every action there is an equal or opposite reaction.” If our souls are energy, then according to this law, we can never be destroyed. The law of Conservation of Energy believes that energy can only change form. Meaning in reincarnation talk, our souls can change into body forms.

I was telling my friend Cali about Physics and Reincarnation; and she thought that the theory of reincarnation and physics made sense. Then she gets really enthusiastic and tells me about the spoon in her hand. If it were melted, she said, it would still be the spoon…but in a different form. If it were frozen, or heated up- it would be different forms of the same spoon. ( You gotta love High School Physics.) Our energy- our souls will live on, in different types or forms. We’ll be different people or such- maybe grasp new different personalities, but we’d still carry on bits and pieces of the persons we are today to our next lives and so on.

Some of you are shaking your head, saying, “ Who is this girl, and what in the world, ( or perhaps) WHAT IN THE UNIVERSE IS SHE TALKING ABOUT?!?!” Well, the universe is funny, and life’s even crazier to imagine. The afterlife…must then be even crazier to imagine. We’ve been trained to think of one thing- life in this world ( meaning…making money and having fun) and we’re not too keen on spirituality really. (Maybe that’s what the Eastern world has beaten us on- spirituality, while the Western world conquers in technology and capitalism. ) So widen your perspectives and don’t be too provincial, go read up on reincarnation and maybe it’ll change your old way of thinking.


Here’s how I think of it: I’ve grown up believing in the idea of reincarnation my whole life. Spiritual by nature, my goal is not to try to find out the truth of my past lives but to live this present one in good faith and with good karma.


So the good news: I guess time isn’t so limited after all, our souls are immortal… believe it or not.

Overstaying one's welcome - John Yettaw and Aung San Su Kyi

The story may seem straight out of a story book, but Burma's humanitarian icon and pro-democracy activist, Aung San Su Kyi, who has been living under house arrest, has gone to trial because an American man swam to her house and hid inside her home. Su Kyi, 63 is trialed for the violation of her parole and faces 5 years in prison for letting the man stay in her house for two nights. John Yettaw, the man from Missouri, is claimed to have put on home made flippers and swam illegally to Su Kyi's home- it wasn't his first time swimming there either. Last year, Yettaw allegedly swam to Su Kyi's home; Yettaw is looking at 6 years behind prison in one of the most corrupted countries in the world. Su Kyi's stay in prison would be very detrimental for the nation - not only is her health shaky, but if she were to go to prison, she would miss the reelections in Burma.


Who is Aung San Su Kyi ?

Aung San Su Kyi's name is synonymous with the word: hero. She has been compared to other great leaders like Nelson Mandela and Gandhi. A proponent of peace and of civil disobedience, TIME magazine named Su Kyi as one of the most influential people in the world. She was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1991, and today she is the only Nobel Peace Prize recipient in the world to be living under arrest. Under the rule of the militaristic regime in Myanmar, Su Kyi has been under house arrest for 13 years. Su Kyi struggled with the Burmese military's dictatorial ways through peaceful protests and demonstrations. She is the leader of Burma’s National League of Democracy ( NLD) and in 1989, Su Kyi won the elections in Burma. Although she won by a landslide, about 80% of the votes, the government said Su Kyi was disqualified from running since she was under house arrest.


Su Kyi is also the daughter of Burma’s General Aung San who was assassinated in 1947. Her father, Aung San had gotten Burma out of British rule in the 40’s. Both Su Kyi and her father Aung San are revered by the people of Burma, even today.





Who is John Yettaw?

There isn't much that people know about this man, except for the fact that he is from a fairly middle class family in Missouri. Yettaw swam to Su Kyi’s home, and it’s been reported that she begged him to leave. Complaining of cramps and sickness, Su Kyi let him stay and gave him food for 2 nights.

Yettaw’s neighbors and family described him as a nice, easy going guy, but many of Su Kyi’s supporters are angry, saying that Yettaw has no idea how much trouble he caused. Yettaw was hoping to write a book on “ heroism” and faith; his wife says Yettaw suffers from Post- traumatic disorder.

Many believe that Aung San Su Kyi’s trial is meant to confine her longer- it is just what the military junta wanted. The general election is next year, and Su Kyi would be imprisoned, if her verdict is guilty- meaning she would be disqualified to run for elections.

My friend asked me what I thought of John Yettaw and if I were angry that he trespassed Su Kyi’s house. My answer is: I don’t think he’s too smart. He didn’t think of the repercussions that would follow- not only for him, but to Aung San Su Kyi and the people of Burma. Su Kyi is more than just an icon to the Burmese people- they believe she is the one that would lead them to freedom.

Economy Mess

We’ve heard it many times- we’re in a recession. We have to be thrifty, and we cannot afford to spend so much time spending! But is that the solution that will get us out of this crisis? In fact, many economists think otherwise- they say that we should be spending; it’s the way to get the economy thriving and working again.

EVERYONE IS FEELING THE PINCH:

Retail stores have not seen such a big loss since decades ago. Restaurants are also feeling the pinch of the recession- not only are there less restaurant goers now, but people are ordering less- customers do not indulge as much as they used to; for many appetizers have become their entrees.


ROBBERIES



There have been more robberies since the recession. Jobs are scarce, and people are finding it difficult to survive. My cousin went to California recently, and his father is house sitting while my cousin is away. Although robberies are terrible, gun sales have been at a record high. Home owners and business/store owners are purchasing guns to feel more secure and protected. Gun store owners were expecting a decline in sales since a Democrat was elected to Office. To their surprise, they have been making revenue more so than before.


EDUCATION

Students who have worked hard for 18 years are at a crossroad when it comes to their academic future. Many can’t afford to go to college. They now have to take a different route than what they had expected a few years ago. Are dreams and opportunities at stake?

Education is on the back burner, and it is something that should not be taken lightly. Schools are getting more off days and after school programs are being taken away because of school budgets.

Positive news:



I guess you can say that this recession can be taken as a learning experience. There is one positive aspect that comes out of this horrible recession that has left many homeless and others jobless; Americans are learning to be more conscious of their savings. Americans work hard, but they also party hard. We spend a lot on just about anything- from entertainment to fashion, and saving is something that we do not really consider.


Families are also spending more quality time and they’re cooking at home! People may be out of jobs, but many are finding more time to do the things that they’ve always wanted to do instead of following a rigid structure of their usual corporate business world. Although some have lost their gym membership, many more are exercising more than before- at their own pace- in the comfort of their home( according to a statistic done by Glamour magazine).


Although we hear horrible news time after time, there is always that hope that gets us through. Just remember, life goes on…

Ko Pyisone

I blog about things that I’m most bothered by or things that I find most controversial in the news, and I’ve been contemplating whether I should blog about something as personal as this…

My Cousin, Danny P. Myint, at 28, recently passed away due to cancer- Adedonocarcinoma of an unknown primary.

Ko PyiSone- as I call him, ( PyiSone in Burmese means complete or just perfect, and Ko means older brother) had a blog, www.dannymyint.com which he kept his friends and family up to date with his treatments, his daily struggles and his feelings. He wrote with so much passion to fight the disease, and he also wrote with compassion- letting others like him know that they weren’t alone. His blog transcended boundaries – not only were his close friends able to check in on his days or on his trips to the hospitals, but cancer patients, like my father viewed the blog with admiration.

Ko Pyi Sone’s Legacy:

He fought a difficult battle, but he was so hopeful that he’ll beat it despite the negativity that came his way. Doctors reluctantly gave him bad news after bad news, as his cancer was rare, but Ko Pyi Sone/Ko Danny held a great fight. He’s accomplished so many things in life; beating cancer was just another achievement he would write on his resume.

Ko Lwin, his brother, gave a speech about Ko Danny’s accomplishments within his 28 years. He told us how his brother had worked for many great companies- Reuters and ESPN -just to name a few. Ko Danny traveled the world and made great friends along the way.

Ko Danny’s bestfriend Nick spoke about the laughs they shared and the bond they had- most of all he talked about Ko Danny’s big heart, his generosity and…again his humor. ( My aunt and I wonder just how funny he was because many have said that- we always pictured him as this tall, kind, shy guy.)

Ko Pyisone was also a philanthropist. He was generous and he loved to give; he had been advocating for the research of cancer and for its care. Here is one he truly supported:

Dan, You Can!

It’s set up by his girlfriend and sister in law! Let his legacy live on.



“Pyisone”

My mom said, “ Everything in Ko Danny’s life was “ pyisone”/complete. Now he’s at peace and perfectly complete.

I’ve heard that death is bittersweet. Bitter as we’re not able to physically feel the presence of our loved ones anymore, but ironically sweet because they’re free from suffering in this world and off to a better world. We all go the same path eventually; I guess some just lead the way for others to follow.

www.dannymyint.com
Please support cancer care.

Click me.
Be a part of Dan You Can!

To Wear a Scarf or To Not Wear One...

Which relates more to feminism ? To cover your body from head to toe or to flaunt your body freely?

The answer really is up to one’s culture. In Western society, we say that it is freeing for women to “ burn their bras” and wear clothing that exposes more for the eyes. We see billboards of women in underwear, and we all tune in to watch a fashion show of women parading in lingerie. Victoria’s Secret shows beautiful women advertising “ how skin is in ”; to be sexy, one must be in lacey underwear. Check. Got it.

But does exposure of the body really mean exposure to free society? Are women again left with nothing but their bodies to define themselves?

Many from the East, ( from Asia to the Middle East) think otherwise. My mother, for example, vehemently disagrees that a woman should show skin. She says the more a woman covers herself, the more self-respect she has for herself. I had a class mate at school who wore saris, and she used to say how empowered she felt wearing it. Not only because it made her unique from her peers, but saris represented her culture and it was something that she wouldn’t want to eliminate. She also did not see why women were so eager to show off their bodies just to be glared, snarled, and stared at- while all along feeling uncomfortable. She did not think prancing around in short shorts was a great way to define a woman… I saw her point, and it was one that I truly respected, but not one that I could whole heartedly believe. I think there are limits to everything, and women today are more modern than ever – getting the respect they deserve while staying on top of their fashion game. ( Read my previous blog on Michelle Obama and fashion )

You can wear anything and still respect a culture, a religion, a gender..etc. Although there are some glitches in the media, many ladies play it off very well. Beyonce, for example, is the Queen Bee because she is dominant and knows what she wants. She can wear racy clothing that shows off her best assets, yet also glow in a long beautiful gown which portrays her as a pretty princess. Either in a long gown or in a bikini, Beyonce makes sure she is still herself. She is the pop diva with a lot of fans and a lot of morals.

Do the sayings “ Show off your curves!” and “ If you got it, flaunt it!” still remain today?
I suppose it does. Just check out this "diva". ( Beyonce Knowles should pay me for advertising her new song on this blog.)

Columbine High School Massacre- 10th year Anniversary

We all remember what happened on the tragic day of the Columbine High School Massacre- where two students in “ trench coats” embarked on one of the deadliest killings in an American Highschool . The two highschool students, Eric Harris and Dylan Klebold were always described to be in ” trenchcoats”; many said they were “different”. The media depicted Harris and Klebold as goths and social outcasts.

The aftermath of Columbine raised awareness on the issues of bullying and cliques in high school. There were other societal debates as well- about gun culture, violent video games and the usage of anti depressants among teenagers- but I think it reaches more than just that; the Columbine shootings represented the emptiness and the exclusion these 2 students felt from highschool and its social institution.

8 years later, a college student from Virginia Tech led a shooting very much like Columbine. He was also described to be different and was outcasted by his college peers. Seung-Hui Cho, the shooter of the Virgina Tech Massacre, in his note wrote that Harris and Klebold were martyrs.


The aftermath of Columbine High School emphasized on the culture of cliques and bullying.


What Schools Are Doing Now...

In order for the entire student body to interact, many schools are now participating in what is known as Challenge Day. Lots of students actually like the idea of Challenge Day and school administrators have actually seen changes made. What a great way to make an impact on people’s lives.


See for Yourself what Challenge Day has done:

Is Obama doing too much?

The List

1.) Economy
2.) Climate Change
3.) Education
4.) Health Care
5.) Peace in the Middle East
a.) Ending war in Iraq
6.) Immigration

Critics are saying that Obama is tackling too many things at once, but the one thing that people cannot say is that Obama is dragging his feet. He has been doing everything under the sun to get America moving in the right direction, but will he be successful? Do you think he can accomplish most of the things on the list? Which is the most important to you?

Is there such a thing as disinvested genorosity?

I was talking to my friend about “ generosity”. He asks, “ Is there such a thing as disinvested generosity?” My answer initially was, “ Yes. ” As I thought harder about it, I got more confused.


In Buddhism, the most cherished generosity is to give freely without wishing for anything in return. However, Buddhists believe in Karma, and the definition of karma means that every action has consequences. We do good things hoping that it has a good effect on our future. So do Buddhists believe in a truly disinvested generosity?


Christmas is all about giving, but it can later translate to desire and what you hope to receive in exchange for the gift you had given. Then there are people who say they do not want any gift or present for their act of giving; thus these people build a good reputation. That reputation in itself is the substitute of the gift they may have received- the person becomes respected and venerated in his/her community. Then no longer is he/ she contributing in disinvested generosity.


Suze Orman, a financial advisor, motivational speaker and author, says the true meaning of generosity is to not expect anything in return. It doesn’t matter how much you donate or give as long as your generosity is pure and real. Then the karma will just work itself out.






So…I do not know whether there is such a thing as disinvested generosity, but just know that what you give is equivalent to what you get. The universe is relentless; it hears and sees your harmful or dutiful acts. Your actions alone do not dictate the cause and effect of your destiny or luck; your thoughts ( good and bad) play a major role too. Your generosity is not just about the money you give, but the ( good and pure) thoughts that come along with it.


What do you think? Is there such a thing as disinvested generosity? What’s the logic of a gift?

A short clip on Burmese music, art and culture.

Hope you like what you see...and hear!

College Graduates in the Economy

How are college graduates coping with the economy? Well, find out what these 2 college graduates have been up to since graduation.










Thoughts? Are you a recent graduate? What have you been doing?

EUGENICS AND PLASTIC SURGERY

EUGENICS



The United Nations has a wonderful exhibit on Eugenics this month. Eugenics, the study and belief of improving qualities of the human population, was widely influenced during the 1920’s throughout WWII, and Hitler and his Nazi regime supported “desirable traits” of blond hair and blue eyes. The Nazis led a horrible movement by tormenting people who were unfit – in the name of Eugenics. Eugenics also led to the ideal of racial supremacy where many were segregated and murdered- from the poor and the disabled to homosexuals and women reputed to be “ promiscuous”.

Euthanasia was encouraged during the Eugenics movement; children were killed, and women were sterilized if they were named “ defective”. Many women died during this surgery of “ sterilization”. (Women were encouraged to reproduce and have “ fit, healthy, desirable” children. Hitler believed that was a woman’s duty for her country, Germany. )



IMPROVING QUALITIES OF HUMAN TRAITS –TODAY?


During the beginning of the 20th century, scientists, governments and institutions supported the idea of promoting perfect human qualities. Have these ideals of perfection, beauty and desirable physical qualities changed now- in our 21st century?


Plastic surgery is not as brutal or traumatic as the experimentation of Eugenics, however, the same aspirations of obtaining perfect physical traits remain today. Women today are enhancing their face and bodies WILLINGLY through surgical techniques- cosmetic/ plastic surgery crosses racial boundaries- Asians, Blacks and Hispanics are increasingly using cosmetic surgery as well.


Within Asians, eyelid surgery is the most popular plastic surgery-where eyelids are reshaped and a permanent crease is created. Rhinoplasty is also common in Asians and African Americans, where noses are reconstructed and reshaped. Among Caucasians, breast augmentation is most popular- and it is noted and known that while Caucasians are changing their body appearance, African and Asian Americans are reconstructing their faces.


Will the desire for perfect physical traits remain throughout history? More importantly... what are the traits that are defined as“ beautiful”?

Green is the New Black

I thought that I should take advantage and write about the environment since we’re all feeling a little “ green” on St. Patty’s day.

Green has become the new Black! Not only is it righteous to go green, but going green is in style- we see it in fashion today. More importantly, millions of Americans are going green because they realize how our world is changing for the worse; instead of just living on this planet and see the world deteriorate, we need to take action.

I admit I was one of those people who never gave global warming a second thought. I thought to myself (and I may have one time preached to a couple of friends) how there were so many other causes and problems to fix in this world- things that concerned with humanity, poverty, genocide, women, children- abuse. Then I woke up from my illogical view.


GLOBAL WARMING, POVERTY AND HEALTH ARE INTERTWINED

I learned that Global warming, poverty and health are all connected. Without good health- we’re all living in poverty. Without a harmonious environment- there is no food or agriculture to sustain our health or our wealth.

For example- poverty- nearly half of the globe is living in poverty. 3 billion people survive on less than $2.50 a day- and when there is poverty, there continues to be more problems- such as health and violence.

Darfur, the land of genocide is dry and has no agriculture. People die because of hunger, disease or from vicious killings. United Nations secretary general, Ban Ki Moon wrote about Darfur in a Times article and he wrote,“ farmers and herders came into conflict over land and water.”

The 2 basic necessities of every person, Ban Ki Moon says, is economic and social security. So, if people were not meeting their basic needs, then their Darwinism kicked in…survival of the fittest. If things don’t alleviate for the environment, situations can get much worse. We’ve been delaying our stance on the environment, and many are hesitant to do anything with our economy in crisis. However, if we don’t take action on global warming, things will just get worse.

And until we see that all our causes are interlocked in one way or another, we would be walking blindly. But if we joined causes, we can move mountains.


VIDEO: 8 year old girl talks about the environment

Stem Cell Research- Pro and Cons

The controversy of Stem Cell Research lies in the ethics of the method- do scientists have the right to experiment with life? Does victory in science justify the cost of human life?




Well, this is one debate which I do not have a decisive opinion on. I believe that every life is sacred, and to experiment with human embryos does not truly sit still with me. ( In the research, human embryos are taken right after conception – typically within two weeks from a woman’s uterus. ) However, I’d be lying if I were to say that I am not thankful for the victory in stem cell research- since it has affected me personally.


As a daughter of a cancer patient- I see the pain, the fear, the day to day struggles and aches my father has to endure. It’s because of the care of good doctors, his faith in religion and ironically his belief in science and medicine that my father has been ( knock on wood) doing well. When my father learned of his cancer, he was anxious and scared ( to say the least). 2008 was the second time his cancer came back; and he didn’t understand it- he was so cautious with his sickness the first time. He ate well; he was on his macrobiotic diet, and he always meditated- he tried to be stress free ( as much as he can).


After doctors saw the rapid dispersion of cancer in his body, they had to take action fast. He was in a serious and dangerous state, they said- since he also has Hepatitis -which was counteracting his cancer. Doctors proposed that he get a bone marrow transplant- I don’t think I’ve ever seen my dad so fragile. The breakthrough of bone marrow transplantation is due to stem cell research. Bone marrow transplants treat a lot of blood inherited diseases- such as leukemia, lymphoma. My father has lymphoma cancer.


Stem Cell Research to me was more than just science- it was beyond politics or religion- it was about family. As appreciative I am for the research, I can’t help but think if scientists are playing the role of God by taking human embryos and slicing, splitting, growing and replacing chemicals or viruses within these embryos.




Pros and Cons – breakthrough for science vs. another nuclear explosion ( CLONING)?

I’ve blatantly stated the pros of Stem Cell Research- we COULD possibly find the roots and the causes of other diseases like, Parkinson, heart disease, etc. However, how are scientists going to use this knowledge? Should we question the methods on the way human embryos are used in the research? Even though this research is ultimately to benefit mankind, many have argued that stem cell research can lead to the cloning of human beings which can be devastating and dangerous.


So...what are your thoughts? Which side do you value?

Rush Limbaugh- playing the role as a watchdog

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Rush Limbaugh is a radio host and a political commentator. He’s known as the “ keeper of conservative views” since the Clinton administration, and Limbaugh has recently gotten attention for his statement on Obama- saying that he does not want Obama to succeed.

As part of the media, Limbaugh is playing the role as a “ watch dog”- criticizing the government and weighing uncertainties and projecting his opinions as the first amendment allows to practice those rights.


Limbaugh’s views are strictly about the economy and Obama’s stimulus plan, but I’ve heard fellow left winged people say that Limbaugh must be racist-, since he’s disagreeing with Obama. That is ridiculous. Although, I am not a fan of Limbaugh, Limbaugh has not stated any racial slurs or has any tones of race within the speech. Limbaugh is serving as a watchdog of the U.S., and I wanted to help clarify Limbaugh’s statement.





What do you think? Is Limbaugh right about disagreeing with Obama? Is Limbaugh racist to disagree with Obama? Does Limbaugh want the country to succeed…or is he covering it up?



( Even if Limbaugh and other conservatives want to disagree with the stimulus, it’s too late…the stimulus has already been signed… so we’re all in it together as a country. )

Republican Ad vs. Democrat Ad

Although I'm an advocate of Obama's stimulus package, I cannot help but be captivated by this Republican ad.





" If you were to spend a million dollars every day.... "
This ad is pretty powerful and this statistic definitely sticks with you...






Despite the controversy, I think it is right of Obama to propose a plan and do something to instill some sort of hope and bring back jobs in the U.S. People are expecting Obama to be some sort of miracle worker and to fix things in such little time- it's going to take a while because getting here- to this plunged economy- took a while!

Racist pictures - unintentionally/ subconsciously?

Los Angeles Mayor, Dean Gross said he will resign, after he was caught for the forwarding of an email with a picture ( below) that states: No Easter Egg Hunt This Year.





In a response, Gross said, “ We laugh at things like this.” As “ gross” and racist as his message may portray, Dean Gross is not the only one in these acts of indirect, targeted racism at Obama.






The New York Post published this picture last month. The police officer says, “ They’ll have to find someone to write the next stimulus bill.”- comparing Obama to a chimp.





Both images, no matter what the defense may be, have significant racial undertones. The first image of the watermelons- brings to light the stereotype of Blacks or does it go deeper than that? Does the first image that Gross emailed, just bring to issue that Blacks like “ watermelon and fried chicken” or does the field of watermelons in front of the White House signify the cotton fields? The New York Post’s picture is a blatant attack on African Americans- comparing the president to a dangerous animal- a raging ape. Not only does this have significant racist tones, this picture also advocates violence.

Act Like a Lady; Think Like a Man- NYT's Best Seller

The best advice to get about men is from a 50 year old( once known as a “player”) actor, comedian, radio show host, Steve Harvey. Steve Harvey’s new book, “ Act Like a Lady, Think Like a Man” is New York Time’s Best Seller.


Harvey reminds us that women are in charge of the relationship, and we always have the ball in our court. But somehow, women keep managing to give the man the control because women want to be accepted.

Harvey states that every man has a plan, and he started to write this book because of a relationship problem his daughter had. Harvey replies to his daughter,


“A woman has a right to know what a man’s plan is for her,” Harvey said. “If the plan he has with you doesn’t match up with the plan you have for yourself, you need to make some changes. Trust me, every man who meets you has a plan. Even that brother in church who comes up to you saying, ‘Praise the Lord!’ has a plan for you. You need to ask him what that plan is.”



He compares catching the best mate to fishing. He says ladies do not want to be thrown back again in the sea after being caught; they want to be taken home and cooked. Great analogy. So ladies raise your standards.

LADIES FIRST: THE MULTI-DIMENSIONAL WOMAN

Every one is fascinated with the First Lady, Michelle Obama’s style and fashion. She is the ultimate fashionista and she carries herself so well. She makes bold decisions- about clothes, the kids or the White House, and she just wreaks of confidence!

She embodies what a multidimensional woman should be or could be. She is strong, beautiful, intelligent and whole. She has opinions on issues that matter to her, and she can voice them eloquently. She is also the backbone of the Obama clan, and she supports her husband, President Obama.


EVERY ONE IS A FEMINIST- YOU DO NOT HAVE TO BE BUTCH

There are so many misconceptions when it comes to the word, “ feminist”. To many, when they envision the word, “ feminist”, a butch woman protester comes in mind. I’ve heard others say that to be a feminist, means you have to be a lesbian. UNTRUE.

Jane Fonda, the lauded actress and a well known feminist, (to the younger generations, she played Jennifer Lopez’s step mom in MONSTER- IN LAW) said that every woman has a dual journey: an inner journey and an outer journey. You have to feel good about yourself inside- spiritually, and feel good about yourself outside- physically. The first time I read about Jane Fonda, I thought she was writing bogus, but as I read further on, Fonda seemed to have it. Fonda said you have to appreciate your self wholly- body image included, to feel like a woman.

(Going to the gym and exercising do seem to rejuvenate a person and make them feel good about themselves- it’s the endorphins I’m told…and Madonna, a great feminist has the most amazing body, and she’s over 50 years old!)

Jane Fonda revolutionized fitness home videos. Her videos are the top grossing home videos of all time. To Jane Fonda, to be a feminist means to stay fit and feel good about yourself.


Elegant, intelligent, strong, beautiful and stylistic- are these the new definitions of the multidimensional woman? So next time, when some one asks me why I care about fashion , I will simply reply, “ It’s because I’m a feminist.”

Women as Breadwinners

As unemployment rises, women as breadwinners in the homes are increasing. Men are also losing jobs at a higher rate than women, since the industries that suffered most in this economy are the construction and manufacturing- men made industries.

Men and women are now switching roles, and most men are finding it difficult with the transition. “House dads” now run the homes, take care of the children and all the household chores while the mom works longer hours and more days throughout the week.

Men are finding it harder to be at home, and many say they did not know just the amount of work their wives had put into the home. Men admit they were taking things for granted.

The Republican Response to Obama's Speech 2-24-09

As I said in my previous post- the discussion of government's role in the economy and the work place is never ending and continues. While Obama and the Democrats are taking a Keynesian approach, Republicans are taking more of a Marxist approach.



Hurricane Katrina



I respected Bobby Jindal's response to Obama's speech, however I thought he was very off touch with government's role in the economy and especially in the case of Hurricane Katrina. There were statements that he made that I found baffling. ( I needn't tell you about how non-credible he seemed. I tried to be objective, but it is my blog so I find it necessary to continue on with my opinions...) Jindal didn't sound credible to me- and a lot had to do with his soft voice- I wish he sounded more frank. What threw me off...was when he spoke of Hurricane Katrina, and said that the lesson to be learned from Katrina was:

" The strength of America is not found in our government. It is found in the compassionate hearts and the enterprising spirit of our citizens. We're grateful for the support we've received from across the nation for our ongoing recovery efforts."

The aftermath of Katrina showed just how vital government representation is! U.S. government was criticized, disdained, belittled ( and every other adjective you can find) because it didn't take a stronger stance in representing the New Orleans community and the victims of Hurricane Katrina. People were angry and are still angry because government did not do enough!

So as much as I appreciate Jindal, a fellow immigrant for taking a role in American politics, I do not see his point. I am after all a Keynesian.

What do you think of Bobby Jindal's speech? Jindal is the governor of Louisiana, and I've heard of rumors that he may be running for presidency in 2012. Thoughts?

Obama's First Speech to Joint Congress

Obama emphasizes three important issues to rejuvenate the economy: education, health care and energy. He says the U.S. is lagging behind other countries like Japan and China. We should be leading- we invented Solar Energy yet the U.S. isn’t investing in the production of renewable energy like the other countries. Obama spoke about higher education and better health care. He’s hopeful and he will begin the commitment to confronting the three issues next week.



Keynes and Marx- Obama’s a Keynesian

There’s always been a question whether government should play a role in the economy. Keynes and Marx were the 2 leading economists of our time; Keynes supported government action and said it was essential, whereas Marx criticized the capitalist system and believed in laissez faire- to allow events to take its course.

Keynes said there will always be unemployment in a laissez faire market place. Government is essential to produce employment, to balance an unstable economy and end economic recessions or depressions. Obama is a Keynesian.

Obama said in his speech to Congress today, “ I reject the view that says our problems will simply take care of themselves; that government has no role in laying the foundation for our common prosperity.”

Slum Dog Millionaire stole the show at at the Oscars

Slum Dog Millionaire received many accolades for its portrayal of one’s search for love and dreams. I am so glad that the U.S. has been so accepting of this film. It just proves that chasing dreams and following one’s heart- is universally heard. We all share the same values; we’re all more common that we are different.





Portrayal of the Slums

India is one of the most economically polarized countries in the world. Many live in abject poverty yet India’s slums or the poor are never portrayed in Bollywood ( Bollywood is India's version of America’s Hollywood). Bollywood movies do not ordinarily depict the poor and they’re more about extravagant and rich lifestyles.

It’s been said that movie producers in Bollywood are known to be “ dream merchants”- where they create a dream for the ordinary Indian audience. Bollywood movies also tend to be much longer than American movies (more than 3 hours long) and they are filled with lots of dancing and music in a way to captivate the viewers and take them away from reality.






Well, in America, Slum Dog Millionaire was awarded many oscars for great job portrayal of Indian life for many in the slums.

A woman's best friend is a... chimpanzee.

We've all heard that a dog is a man's bestfriend, but for Sandra Herold, a 200 pound chimpanzee is her bestfriend (and maybe even more). Travis, the 14 year old chimpanzee has been in the news for " ripping the face off" of his owner, Herold's friend. Travis and Herold had a relationship unlike any other pet owner to pet; Travis was overprotective of Herold. They slept together, bathed together, and Herold explains that Travis had filled the void that the deaths of her husband and daughter left.


The victim, Nash suffers injuries to her face and body. Herold tried to save Nash by stabbing Travis and hitting him with a shovel. Herold said, " I stabbed something I raised as a son."


The real question though is... was it right of Herold to raise Travis as a human being? People say that he belongs in the wild like the rest of the chimpanzees. To keep him from the wild is not only abnormal, but it is also selfish. Travis would eat at the table with Herold, dress up as a little boy and sleep in the same bed. She was treating him like her own son, or perhaps even a husband.

5 million Unemployed- economic pinch

The new record for Americans living without a paycheck has risen to nearly 5 million. The government said that 4,987,000 ( 4 million 987 thousand) are unemployed. Unemployment could raise to 9 percent. The news keeps getting worse. Officials predict that the economy would keep falling until the end of this year, and jobless claims would increase.


Everyone’s cutting back on their spending which is not good for the economy. Restaurants, theaters, retail stores…are empty! Stores are reporting bankruptcy and closing…workers are getting laid off.


Everyone is feeling this economic pinch.

STIMULUS PLAN

Less than one month in office, President Obama signs the stimulus plan. The 787 billion dollars stimulus plan was created to revive the economy and is EXPECTED TO turnaround the recession. Hopefully this plan will stimulate the economy, save jobs and create more jobs!

I cannot help but question if this plan could be more detrimental than beneficial. We’re already billions of dollars in debt and we’re digging deeper into our pockets (to possibly put ourselves more into debt…). I know the saying… to make more you must invest more. Could this be right?


INVESTING IN....AN ESCALADE?

I was watching a comedy talk show the other day…and it’s so ironic how these comedy shows actually pin point exactly what people are thinking- something that the news won’t do most of the times!

So the comedian is talking about the stimulus plan, and he compares the U.S. to a person he knows. He said something along the lines of…. “ So this guy’s always broke…we go out to dinner, and he can never pay. He never has money on him. So… one day, he rolls up in an ESCALADE! AN ESCALADE! He’s still in debt but he’s investing in his commuting. ”

I guess what I'm trying to say is...Are we Escalade buyers? Are we investing in big things….that are well worth 735 billion dollars? Just how many zeros are in 735 billion dollars ?