A "Broad Brush" of the World as the US Elections is Before Us

Source: http://www.outsiderviews.com/a-very-interesting-few-weeksand-an-anxious-9-days-ahead/

In 9 Days, the US will be going to the polls.     It is going to be pivotal in many respects despite some arguments about the United States losing its' influence.   

As November 6 looms closer and closer, Mother Nature has reminded us how powerful she is and how the best laid plans are laid waste.     The October surprise is "Hurricane Sandy".   The President has cancelled campaign events to be in Washington monitoring the situation.  He has promised a big response to the aftermath of the Hurricane.    New York is shutting down its' public transport system and evacuations have been ordered across the Atlantic Coast in the United States.     I can't help but wonder if such events will serve as a wake-up call to realize how sick Mother Earth is and how we should muster the courage to deal with it. 

This is just a "sampling of the challenges being faced by our World right now:

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We also need to understand that the time to save the World is rapidly closing:

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As I have been assessing the path and the aftermath of the Hurricane, I was particularly amused by an interview on CNN with the editor of the Hill newspaper in the United States.   AB Stoddard, the editor, noted how support for the President is "soft" and how people will blame the President if the recovery from Sandy is not fast enough and how they will continue to stay in the dark.     Barack Obama, though, made the rounds of major Media outlets to show his "face" and make his case.    The rounds included MTV, Nickelodeon, The Daily Show w/Jon Stewart and the tonight show with Jay Leno.    What I found disappointing was that Governor Romney did not find the time to join the kids on Nickelodeon.    Apparently he did not have the time.   Governor Romney did find the time to make another speech about change though.  This is as I had a chance to again review his 5 point plan (available @ http://www.mittromney.com) that pointed out the challenges and the misconceptions by the Obama Administration.  But the first 4 pages of the overview  reflect their view of the so-called "mistakes" of the Obama Administration that is riddled with errors.   I also find the credibility of the lead author, Glen Hubbard, to be suspect at best since he was at the helm of the Council of Economic Advisers during the Bush Administration.   There is also general consensus that their plan's numbers just do not add up.    There is also the full "plan" that says nothing about what he plans to do to replace Obamacare.     The idea that somehow over 30 Million People will lose coverage is something that he has not fully explained and how the so-called polls continue to be so close is something that I find very interesting.      What I would have hoped was to have some of the elements of the plan amended to reflect current developments.    What Mr. Romney also conveniently neglected to mention was the fact that the Congress made it a point to block the President of the United States at every turn.    Legislation was derailed, appointments were delayed and judge ships were increasingly delayed.    This is as fools like Richard Murdouch and Todd Akin continue to push their own sense of morality and view of life as doctrine.

Beyond the political scene itself,  what  I find disturbing is the amount of money spent on the Presidential Campaign.  The figures I have seen show a "2 Billion Dollar" price tag.    I view it as a waste of money.    Beyond the cost itself, there is the punditry class continuously making pronouncements about the state of the race.    There have been so many polls out there--now there is Poll of Polls that Real Clear Politics and CNN have laid out.    This is what Real Clear Politics shows as of today:

***************************** ***************************** *************************
[B][CENTER]Election 2012     Obama     Romney     Spread
RCP National Average     46.8     47.7     Romney  0.9
Favorable Ratings      4.5     6.5     Romney  2.0
Intrade Odds     63.0     37.3    
Electoral College     Obama     Romney     Spread
RCP Electoral Map     201     191     Obama  10
No Toss Up States     290     248     Obama  42
Battlegrounds 1 2     Obama     Romney     Spread
Ohio    48.2    46.3    Obama  1.9
Florida    47.1    48.9    Romney  1.8
Virginia    47.8    47.8    Tie
New Hampshire    48.6    47.2    Obama  1.4
Colorado    47.8    47.8    Tie
Iowa    49.0    46.7    Obama  2.3
[/CENTER][/B]

***************************** ***************************** ************************

What I find interesting about this one is that it "negates" what Nate Silver of the New York Times does almost daily.   What he forecasts is that Barack Obama will win the Presidency with almost 296 Electoral Votes with about a 72% chance vs. 245 Electoral Votes at a 28% chance of winning the election.    I viewed this "Snapshot" to be crucial as election day looms because I would be curious to see how right organizations like Gallup, Rasmuseen, Public Policy, Wall Street Journal and others have been in their forecasting.    

Beyond the US Elections, there are other pivotal events going on around the World.   The Indian Prime Minister has just done a major reshuffle of his Cabinet.   China's National People's Congress is beginning a  very crucial session as the new leadership sets to take over.   I was particularly struck by the latest Economist Magazine as I noted how the man slated to take over China must change China.     China has evolved--but how it deals with the new challenges remains ever more a problem for the new leadership
In Nigeria, a suicide bomber rammed a Catholic Church service and resulted in people being killed.   What I was very gratified to see, though, was the awarding of the Sakharov Prize by the European Union to two imprisoned Iranian dissidents, Nasrin Soutoudeh and Jafar Panahi.     It shows that such brave souls who struggle for the simple dignities of life are not forgotten.    Syria, in the meantime, continues to burn.     Syria was supposed to be observing a cease fire for a major Muslim Holiday.    Government Troops have been bombing suburbs of the Capital.  This is as Assad was shown attending prayers during Eid Celebrations.

I have noted that in my view, the US elections is Barack Obama's to lose. The first results will begin coming in around 5 PM Pacific Time/8 PM EST as the first polls close on the East Coast of the United States.  This is as California and the Western States will continue voting.    Many states have also been voting early as well.    November 6 will determine the course that the US and the World will follow for the next four years and beyond.

The Whole World will await the verdict of the American People.    I look forward to assessing the aftermath and the road map ahead on November 7.

"Forward" (Official Video)

Finish Strong Movie (Mobile)

Finish Strong Movie (Mobile)  Beginning a very busy week-end of thought and reflection w/this "V-Thought".....A lot to be thankful for ever more!!!

As Election Day Looms.........

Source: http://www.outsiderviews.com/as-election-day-looms-in-the-us/

As Election Day Looms in the US

:Will the real issues be discussed?

The US Elections is less than two weeks away. The punditry has been fast and furious at work trying to slice and dice the election and figure out what the result is going to be. All they seem to agree on is that the elections are close. No one really knows.

What has been unfortunate is how the real issues have been never been discussed. Matters such as Personal Freedom, Climate Change & Food Security have taken a back seat to Donald Trump's 5 Million Dollar Bounty or Richard Murdoch's foolish and insensitive remarks.

This is just one indication of how real some of the true challenges are:

Will November 7 usher in a new era? The verdict is out.

7

Vote

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October 25th 2012 @ 20:37

Posted By: Mike Pouraryan - Category: Inter-Faith Relationships

How Worst Can it get?

The punditry in the United States has been fast and furious in their "spin" of the final debate and where things stand.   Although there has been some "talk" about the declining influence of the United States, the fact remains that the US continues to play a dominant role as the IMF noted in its' latest economic outlook published in October.  It sounded a cautionary tale about the impending fiscal cliff.  The full report is available at : The IMF

As the United States limps along, there has been talk of the UK coming out of the recession.     What is unfortunate is that a one percent growth is something that should not be celebrated as job cuts loom.    Ford has announced that 4,000 jobs will be lost in Belgium and Peugeot has just come out with a major loss as well with a request for the state to bail it out to the tune of 5 Billion Euros.

 There are those, though, who will have the courage--this is one such man for which lessons should be learnt by the rest of those who are trying to figure out a different way to approach the challenges faced right now:

Never Giving Up

Despite all the challenges, must never ever forget:

The Case For Barack Obama

America is entering the last two weeks of the election season.  The final debate between the two major candidates is before us.

President Obama visited the Daily Show..and Jon Stewart was quite dilligent and asked some tough questions...while being respectful:



As the battle for the "endorsements" is in full swing,  The case for Obama has been made in as eloquent a manner as it possibly can...

The New Yorker’s Endorsement of Barack Obama

www.newyorker.com

The choice is clear. President Obama has been progressive, competent, rational, decent, and, at times, visionary.

Two more Weeks Folks...

Living A Strong & Purposeful Life

After taking a bit of time for the day to rest and reflect after a day of service, I shared this thought w/my students earlier about living a purpose driven life. It is a bit tough...but there is no other choice: Lance Armstrong had a lot riding on his reputation. His story was so inspiring. He was so easy to cheer for and admire... But now it appears that's all gone. The courageous hero has been exposed as something much less noble, and possibly even criminal. For me, it always comes back to the powerful influence of a father,and it grieves me to see men using that power irresponsibly. More than anything, I keep thinking about what Lance is surely losing with his children in terms of character and integrity. That's where his reputation matters most, and they have to be questioning their dad's character. If not today, they will some day. This speaks directly to the Championship Fathering fundamental of modeling-setting an example for our children to follow. And it starts with dads, each of us, getting our act together. We are always setting an example; and we have to be intentional about making sure it's a good example. Men, we have to guard our integrity. We can't be too careful when it comes to doing the right thing. We should eliminate or avoid anything we wouldn't want to show up in our children's lives. I never want to be in a situation that would be hard to explain if one of my children showed up. I can't always control their choices, but I can do something about mine! Dad, you too have a lot riding on your reputation! Character is everything. For the full-length version of my thoughts on Lance and a dad's integrity, keep reading at this week's blog. http://support.fathers.com/site/R?i=5D6u3edQG2OE6Vo-uxXjLg Live strong, Dad-for real. Carey Casey

Telling it like it truly is.......

The Presidential Election in the US is as heated as ever. We're the eve of Great Debate II...the debate between Joe Biden & Paul Ryan..As this is going on, Bill Clinton again reflected upon what is right about America. He sure is having fun:

As The Week-End Rolls Around.........

I was making the "virtual AM" rounds in Facebook and saw this that underscores the need for a sense of how the right outlook is so crucial to living:

We believe what we tell ourselves...& Tell yourself:

Everything will work out.

Things will get better.

You are important.

You are worthy of great things.

You are loveable.

The time is now.

This too, shall pass.

You can be who you really are.

The best is yet to come.

You are strong. 

You can do this.

~Doe Zantamata

And noting that........................

The Latest Relesae In "Outsiders" as the 4th Quarter Begins....

"Outsiders" World Watch: What a Way to Start the 4th Quarter

Source: http://www.outsiderviews.com/outsiders-world-watch-what-a-way-to-start-the-4th-quarter/

The last quarter of 2012 has been before us for a number of days now.  As I have reflected upon the past number of months, I remembered this admonition from Dr. King:

“Never, never,
be afraid to do what’s right,
especially if the well-being of a person or animal is at stake.
Society’s punishments are small
compared to the wounds we inflict on our soul
when we look the other way.”

The key event that has continued to dominate the headlines in the United States and beyond has been the first US Presidential Debate of 2012.   The "Great Debate of 2012" First Edition was quite a spectacle.     Just like millions in the United States and around the World, I also watched it.

After the debate, I started my virtual "walk-about" in Facebook to assess what the "buzz" was.   Many were disappointed in how the President performed.  He seemed detached, tired and disengaged.    Cable News Punditry was also on overdrive.     One of the cable channels even had the guy behind the Actors Studio out criticizing the performance.   There were body language experts too.   There was also the polls...oh those daily polls that seemed to say that the election was over today.   

As I assessed this, the one I found closest to be credible was Lawrence O Donnell on MSNBC.   I have to note that he's also an entertainer.  However, he has a very distinguished background as a long-time US Senate Staffer who truly understands the political process and has been especially involved in Tax Policy for many years.   He also was one of the key architects behind the West Wing TV Series that truly depicted the very ideological battles that is dominating the US Political Scene today.    I was with him when he totally dismissed the handicapping done by the pundits about who won and who lost.     John Kerry won all three debates.   But, he ended up staying in the US Senate.   Walter Mondale won his debate, but lost 49 states.    

On a much more crucial point, Mitt Romney opened himself up to more scrutiny.    He ditched his own Tax plan, agreed with the essentials of Obamacare and embraced regulation.    Of all the latest switches in his views, what I found especially surprising was his embrace of regulation.  He noted that markets needed regulation.  It was quite a performance.   Chris Christie, during an appearance on Meet the Press, noted that Mitt Romney's appearance and performance will be a "game changer".    He was right.  Romney surrogates were making the rounds though to push the "hype".   I admit I was shocked when John Sununu called the President lazy and detached.    He went even further and essentially called the President stupid on Fox News.   No matter what may think of the President, the man is a graduate of Columbia and Harvard.   He started his academic career at Occidental College.   These three institutions are three of the premier academic institutions in the United States.    Whatever he is--he's not stupid.  What I await is the Vice Presidential debate.    Hopefully Mr. Ryan will tell the Country and the World how they propose to make it all work.

Interestingly enough, the essential dynamics of the race did not change.    As a matter of fact, the New York Times' Nate Silver increased the probability of the President winning the election at almost 86 percent with over 318 electoral votes.  The National polls have the race as close as ever.    I  noted in my last "watch" column that I viewed the election as the President's to lose--I still view it as such despite all the current "hype" over the President's debate performance.     I have also noted that it is going to be close.  I continue to be convinced of it.

Beyond the Presidential election, there are the "down ticket" elections.  One of the races I have been following has been the race in Virginia between Eric Cantor and Wayne Powell.   I caught glimpses of the debate and was amazed by how Wayne Powell went toe to toe with Eric Cantor.     There are a number of other races that seem to also be going down to the wire.    Although Nancy Pelosi, The US House Democratic Leader, believes that the Democrats can take back the House, it is going to be a tall order.   There are some great candidates--including Wayne Powell who has taken on Eric Cantor.   

Beyond the US, though, the World continues to be as chaotic as ever.    Europe continues to be in the midst of an Economic Meltdown.    Spain is on the brink of collapse.  Greece has entered its' 6th year of recession.     Over 18 Million People are unemployed throughout the Eurozone with no apparent end in sight. 

Moving onward ot the Middle East,  Iran is also in a state of near Economic Collapse.    The Rial has lost 80% of its' value.    Sanctions are starting to bite and hurt the average Iranian on the street hard.    The people have been protesting--as the Government has been very busy playing the blame game.    They  have been arresting supposed speculators and have said that they will impose discipline.   I have reviewed reports of demonstrations throughout the Country.      The newest reporting reflects a new plan presented by Iran to deal with the nuclear crisis as noted by the New York Times.    One will have to see where that goes.   What is clear is that when under pressure, the crowd in charge in Tehran has adapted.    Such adaption apparently is already happening.  Two of the stalwarts of the Regime, Larijani (The Speaker of the Majlis-Parliament)  and the Ex-President  Rafsanjani (about whom I have commented on repeatedly here in "outsiders") have spoken of the need to moderate and transform.    Two of Rafsanjani's childrens were under indictment for various crimes and were sentenced to prison.  What was interesting was that Rafsanjani's outspoken daughter, Faeeze, had already received his sentence--yet was allowed to leave the Country to visit his brother Mehdi who was in self-imposed exile in the United Kingdom ostensibly to study.   Mehdi was one of the key backers of the Islamic Azad University--the largest University system in the Country (similar to the University of Phoenix) in the United States and oversaw the development of the Tehran Metro.   Yet, he was remanded to Custody.   Kaleme, the voice of the Green Movement, speculated about what that all entailed.   There was also speculation by others that Rafsanjani may seek the Presidency again to unite the various factions within the ruling crowd.    What is clear is that the politics in Iran is bound to get very very interesting indeed.  

Beyond Iran, there is Turkey.    Turkey got hit by Syrian Mortars and responded in kind.   Syria has expressed regret but not an apology.   Turkey's Parliament has given the green light to the Prime Minister to do whatever it takes to defend the Country.  But Turkey has its' share of challenges.  The Kurds continue to be restive.   The Turkish Economy is slowing down.     As I conclude this, Jordan has entered a period of uncertainty too.   King Abdullah has dismissed his latest Government as protests continue to gather steam in the Country.

The winds of change seems to blow ever more strongly.........what a way to start the final quarter of 2012.........

Thought 4 the Week

Enough Said...

The Dalai Lama's 18 eighteen rules for living:

1. Take into account that great love and great achievements involve great risk.
2. When you lose, don't lose the lesson.
3. Follow the three Rs: 1. Respect for self 2. Respect for others 3. Responsibility for all your actions.

4. Remember that not getting what you want is sometimes a wonderful stroke of luck.
5. Learn the rules so you know how to break them properly.
6. Don't let a little dispute injure a great friendship.
7. When you realize you've made a mistake, take immediate steps to correct it.
8. Spend some time alone every day.
9. Open your arms to change, but don't let go of your values.
10. Remember that silence is sometimes the best answer.
11. Live a good, honourable life. Then when you get older and think back, you'll be able to enjoy it a second time.
12. A loving atmosphere in your home is the foundation for your life.
13. In disagreements with loved ones, deal only with the current situation. Don't bring up the past.
14. Share your knowledge. It's a way to achieve immortality.
15. Be gentle with the earth.
16. Once a year, go someplace you've never been before.
17. Remember that the best relationship is one in which your love for each other exceeds your need for each other.
18. Judge your success by what you had to give up in order to get it.

Reflecting Upon Our World...As the New Week Dawns....

What "IF": A Broad Brush of The World....

Is "What if" the right question to ask, though?

Source: http://www.outsiderviews.com/what-if-a-broad-brush-of-the-world/

Our World continues to be dangerous and challenging. As children have gone back to school and as wars continue to rage, I can't help but wonder about the future.

South Africa is in a state of Flux. China is slowing down. Russia continues to figure out what it wants to be when it grows up. India's UPA II Government is in a perilous position after a key regional ally pulled out and the Prime Minister has yet again embarked on another ambitious round of reforms to further open up the Indian Market. Brazil, though, continues its' transformation process as it tries to save the Amazon. Beyond the so-called B(razil) R(ussia) I(ndia) C (hina) & S (outh Africa), there is of course the continued economic and political calamity in the United States as it approaches the pivotal date of the election--November 6. As the US election season has ensued, The UN General Assembly has begun too, along with the Clinton Global Initiative. Everyone is in New York right now.

One of the most under-reported stories has been the transformation in the Canadian Province of Quebec. The student movement against tuition increases caused the liberal government to lose and lose badly. It has put the question of the Unity of Canada in play yet again. This is as Stephen Harper continues its' US-Style neo-Con remake of Canada. Beyond Canada, there is the influence of Israel and the push by the Israeli Prime Minister to force a war on Iran. If the attack happens, the whole region will explode and it will be very hard to contain it. Bibi needs to answer what happens the day after the attack that he proposes to do.

The "fog of war" is yet to be lifted, though. Iran has begun and is in the midst of finalizing its' plans for a so-called "National Internet" that has been pursued by the likes of North Korea. The reports I have just reviewed note that Google is slated to be blocked. What is also unreported is the fact that a defacto cyber war has indeed taken place for a number of years in addition to the assasinations of Iranian Nuclear Scientists. The annual military parade in Tehran reflects current Iranian thinking.

The US Election is upon us. I have written about it extensively. The media frenzy in the United States continues to be in over drive. The Public Affair Shows in the United States on Sunday had both campaigns, their surrogates and the usual cast of commentators lay out what they believe is going to happen. This is as October will see three debates at the Presidential Level and one Vice Presidential Debate lay out the visions. I found it funny when Robert Gibbs of the Obama Campaign tried to dampen expectation as the Romney Campaign also tried to note how the President is a great debater. What I also found quite striking was how the  Romney Campaign tried to change the narrative by releasing the 2011 Tax Return. People again jumped on it by noting that some of the tax moves can be basically reversed by amending the returns. The tax moves by Romney reminded me of the story when he was spotted at a Wal Mart picking up gifts for his grand children. Although the New York Times narrative a number of months ago noted how Romney was not "sure", my view is that he was committed to go after the Presidency. Despite the disagreements I have had with Governor Romney, I am with Ann Romney when she noted in an interview recently that "...it is hard". It takes nerves of raw steel to be in the public limelight.

There is a lot to be pessimistic about. I took comfort in this Kipling Poem that a friend of mine recently shared with me which underscores why one should never, ever lose hope or focus:

If you can keep your head when all about you
Are losing theirs and blaming it on you,
If you can trust yourself when all men doubt you,
But make allowance for their doubting too;
If you can wait and not be tired by waiting,
Or being lied about, don't deal in lies,
Or being hated, don't give way to hating,
And yet don't look too good, nor talk too wise:
If you can dream - and not make dreams your master,
If you can think - and not make thoughts your aim;
If you can meet with Triumph and Disaster
And treat those two impostors just the same;
If you can bear to hear the truth you've spoken
Twisted by knaves to make a trap for fools,
Or watch the things you gave your life to, broken,
And stoop and build 'em up with worn-out tools:
If you can make one heap of all your winnings
And risk it all on one turn of pitch-and-toss,
And lose, and start again at your beginnings
And never breathe a word about your loss;
If you can force your heart and nerve and sinew
To serve your turn long after they are gone,
And so hold on when there is nothing in you
Except the Will which says to them: "Hold on!"
If you can talk with crowds and keep your virtue,
Or walk with kings - nor lose the common touch,
If neither foes nor loving friends can hurt you,
If all men count with you, but none too much;
If you can fill the unforgiving minute
With sixty seconds' worth of distance run,
Yours is the Earth and everything that's in it,
And - which is more - you'll be a Man, my son!

The journey continues........

A Simple Wish For Myself.....

It has been an interesting week again.     I took comfort in this admonition from Tony Robbins...May I be given the strength and the wisdom to be so...to be human:

Starting this New Week w/this "Thought 4 the Week"

Enough said...onward to the new Week!! :-)

VALUE OF FRIENDS

Give me kind friends, true friends in need,
Who don no idle, winning wiles,
And who will be true friends, indeed.
If storms abound or fortune smiles.

I care not for lavish praises
That oft come from the vacant mind.
Nor the empty, studied phrases
Which leave the heart and soul behind.

True friends will more than press my hand,
And more than cheer in time of bliss,
And more than empty words extend
When multitudes grow cold and hiss.

Trustworthy friends will help and cheer,
Will make the timid spirit brave.
Will light the path, though dark and drear,
Which leads from sorrows to the grave.

Give me true friends and let me be
Throughout this life, from day to day,
As true to them, as they to me—
What pangs of anguish ‘twould allay!

Our joys increase as friends increase—
They cause us more to love mankind,
And joy and gladness ne’er will cease,
If we ourselves in friendship bind.

~ Bernhart Paul Holst
(1861-1940)

Remembering & Reflecting

Remembering & Reflecting

: How can one ever repay those who have paid such a heavy price?

As I write this, protests are continuing around the Muslim and Arab World on the anti-muslim film that I have not seen and will not see. There is rage out there--but people are starting to speak out to calm things down. The Muslim Brotherhood has cancelled nationwide protests in Egypt. Libya has already arrested four suspects. The scenes of grief at the killings have been beautiful to see to underscore how the people truly feel.

President Morsi of Egypt was a bit slow to react. What may have pushed him was the telemundo interview that the President gave a few days ago. Some pundits noted that it was a "gaffe". Professor Juan Cole thought otherwise and it prompted immediate action. I also was quite amused at the Twitter Exchanges between Embassy Cairo. Each one of those guys must be given a Medal for how they've handled themselves. Other Governments have also committed to stop the violence.

As the Obama Administration continues to deal with this crisis throughout the Middle East and North Africa, The Republicans in the United states have continued to use this to go after the President as exemplified by Paul Ryan's speech before the Values Voter Summit This morning. I am also seeing reports that he's due to give a "harsh" Foreign Policy speech. I am sure that it will entail again talking about old talking points like apologies. Romney surrogates have also been on the prowl noting that if Romney was President no protests would occur. Does that mean that a President Romney would send in the Marines? President Obama has already done that--so I wonder beyond mere words what would a President Romney would do differently.

Today, though, is also a day to remember all those who paid the ultimate price. They include Ambassador Stevens, Sean Smith and the two Ex-Navy Seals who served as Protection Officers for Ambassador Stevens. The Ambassador is coming back to America for his final journey today. President Obama, Vice President Biden and Secretary Clinton will be there to welcome him back to America for the last time:

May their souls rest in peace and may their almighty grant their families the patience to heal.

 

Also released to http://www.outsiderviews.com, retrieved 9/14/2012

The Latest as the Middle East Crisis Continues to Unfold....

I released an "Americas Watch" write-up to "Outsider Views" earlier tonight:

Source:
 http://www.outsiderviews.com/outsiders-americas-watch-9122012-now-what/, retrieved 9/12/2012

"Outsiders" Americas Watch (9/12/2012): Now What

 

In my view, the US Presidential Election has already been decided because of the events of the past 24 hours.

Earlier, I wrote on the events of the tragic day that saw four of America's finest give their lives in the line of duty.    I was gratified when I saw the US Senate Republican Leader rise to remind the World about how United Americans were.  The Republican Speaker of the House led members in a moment of silence and remembrance.   Many mainstream Republican Commentators have condemned Governor Romney's move.   Joe Scarbarough's statement was telling--as reported on Politico  Who told Mitt Romney to issue a political broadside against the Commander in Chief when our Ambassador was murdered?    Yet, Governor Romney continued to double down to simply placate to the various factions within the Republican Party.    On Fox News, Peggy Noonan came out to scold Governor Romney by noting that during such times of calamity, little or no word would have been the right course of action.   President Obama was so right when he noted that Governor Romney seems to shoot first and aim later.      Despite all the information that is out there, the true facts are yet to be known.

Beyond today, the larger issue is how incompetent The Romney Organization is.  This is from someone who touts himself to be a CEO and a Job Creator.    Furthermore, the story by Matt Taibbi in Rolling Stone is quite an indictment of his vision for America.  As Governor Romney doubled down, some of the more conservative pundits were on the prowl supporting him--including Bill Kristol and Rush Limbaugh.    The National Review was on the prowl noting how Romney was right.   They failed to understand that Libya is still going through a profound transformation process.   There has been elections and a new Congress and a new Government is in place.   But there are a multitude of factions.   Some 10 Libyans were killed trying to defend US diplomats.  They are also heroes here.  

Barack Obama, though, went about being President.   He began the day with a somber statement at the White House.   He then went off to the State Department to have an all hands meeting.    He directed all assets to be deployed to insure the safety of US personnel.   He sat down in a calm and deliberative matter for an interview with Telemundo where he addressed some of the key questions.   Earlier, he granted an interview to Scott Pelley of CBS News to address some of the questions.   What he noted on the actions of the Cairo Embassy staff was telling and showed real leadership.  He noted that he was inclined to cut staffers a little slack because they were "closer to the ground" during the events in Egypt.   He backed his team--which is the hallmark of a leader.   When I released my latest Middle East  Watch bulletin earlier, I noted this and was very pleased to see it.   That's exactly what I would have done.     The United States has profound challenges though as I noted earlier because of the continued deep resentment against US Policy as countries throughout the Middle East continue to assert themselves.  It was telling that Mosri, the Egyptian President, went to China and Iran on his first foreign visit.

As I assessed the day, I remember a comment by President Obama at one time noting how a President can do more than two things at the same time.    The business of Government is continuing.    I also believe that Senator McCain spoke for all Americans on the floor of the US Senate when he noted and as reported on his Senate Office Website @ http://www.mccain.senate.gov/public/index.cfm?FuseAction=PressOffice.FloorStatements&ContentRecord_id=bbec5934-ed6b-d64d-7238-c9e72d66778d:

[B]“It is with a heavy heart that I rise today to speak about the horrific attack yesterday on the U.S. Consulate in Benghazi that killed four Americans. The two confirmed thus far to be among the dead are Sean Smith, an Air Force veteran turned State Department Information Management Officer – and Ambassador Chris Stevens, one of America’s finest and bravest Foreign Service Officers.

“I did not know Sean Smith, but I had gotten to know Chris Stevens quite well. And in Chris’s death, the Libyan people have lost a great champion and believer in the peaceful aspirations of their democratic revolution. The American people have lost a selfless and dedicated servant of our interests and values. And I have lost a friend. My thoughts and prayers today are with Chris’s family and the loved ones of his fallen colleagues. May God grant them comfort in their time of grief.

“Our most urgent order of business now is to make sure that our citizens still living and serving in Libya, and Egypt, and elsewhere across the region and the world are safe. Americans look to the governments in Libya and Egypt and elsewhere to meet their responsibilities in this regard. We also look to the Libyan government to ensure that those responsible for yesterday’s attack in Benghazi are swiftly brought to justice. In all of these critical tasks, we are confident that our government will provide all necessary assistance and support. Yesterday’s attacks are an important reminder that so many of America’s civilians, and diplomats, and development professionals are risking everything to advance our nation’s interests and values abroad.  We must do everything in our power to ensure their security.

“At the same time, our thoughts turn to broader concerns – the mourning of our fallen friends, and how we as a nation should respond to these tragic events.

“One of my most memorable meetings with Chris Stevens was last April in Benghazi. As the U.S. envoy to the Libyan opposition, Chris had traveled to Benghazi at great personal risk to represent the country he loved so much while Libya was still gripped in a brutal fight for freedom. It was clear there was nowhere that Chris would rather have been than Libya. We spent the day together, meeting Libyan opposition leaders and many ordinary citizens, who spoke movingly about how much the opportunity to finally live in freedom meant to them, and how grateful they were for America’s support. Chris embodied that support, and his passion for his mission was infectious.

“I kept in touch with Chris after my visit, and I was very happy when President Obama nominated him to be America’s Ambassador to the new Libya. The last time I saw Chris was shortly after he had taken up his post, during my most recent visit to Tripoli. I especially remember the lighter moments we spent together, including when Chris insisted on personally making me a cappuccino, a task that he carried out with as much pride and proficiency as his diplomatic mission.

“That was on the morning of July 7 – the day Libyans voted in their first election in half a century. Chris and I spent the day together again, traveling around Tripoli, visiting polling places, and speaking with Libyan voters. We met a man whose father had been murdered by Qaddafi’s henchmen. We met a woman whose brothers had recently given their lives fighting for their country’s liberation. We met countless others, including many older Libyans, who were voting for the first time in their lives. And everywhere we went, we were greeted by crowds of cheering Libyans, bursting with pride and eager to shake our hands and express their gratitude for America's support. It was one of the most moving experiences of my life, and it was only made better by the fact that I got to share it with Chris.

“What we saw together on that day was the real Libya – the peaceful desire of millions of people to live in freedom and democracy, the immense gratitude they felt for America’s support for them, and their strong desire to build a new partnership between our nations. That is why I am not surprised that senior Libyan leaders were among the first to condemn the horrific attack that killed Chris and his colleagues. And that is why I was not surprised to learn from our Secretary of State that many Libyans fought to defend our people and our consulate in Benghazi when they came under attack, that some were wounded while doing so, and that it was Libyans who sought to get Chris and his colleagues to the hospital. This is the spirit of the Libyan people that I have come to know and admire. And that is why we cannot afford to view the despicable acts of violence perpetrated yesterday by a small group of fanatics as in any way representative of the country and the people of Libya. They are not the real Libya – the Libya that Chris Stevens knew so well.

“After such a heartbreaking loss for our nation, I know many Americans are asking whether the United States was naïve or mistaken to support the vast movement for change known as the Arab Spring. I know many Americans may feel a temptation, especially with so many domestic and economic challenges facing us here at home, to distance ourselves from people and events in Libya, and Egypt, and elsewhere in the Middle East. We cannot afford to go down that path.

“Yesterday’s attack in Benghazi was the work of a small group of violent extremists, whose goals and actions could not be more at odds with those of the people and government of Libya. The Libyan revolution began peacefully and was dedicated throughout to the ideals of freedom, and justice, and democratic change. And when Libyans turned out by the millions to elect a new government in July, they gave the plurality of their vote not to religious fanatics, but to a political party led by a moderate technocrat and committed friend of the United States.

“Libyans rose up last year to free themselves from exactly the kinds of murderers and terrorists who killed our people yesterday in Benghazi. Their enemies are our enemies, and they remain as committed as ever to imposing their evil ideology through violence on people in Libya and the Middle East, and ultimately on us. They want to hijack the Arab Spring for their own insidious purposes. And if we turn our backs now on the millions of people in Libya, and Egypt, and Syria, and other countries across the Middle East – people who share so many of our values and interests, people who are true authors of the Arab Spring – we will hand our common enemies, the terrorists and extremists, the very victory they seek.

“We were right to take the side of the Libyan people, and others in the region who share their peaceful aspirations. And we would be gravely mistaken to walk away from them now. To do so would only be a betrayal of everything that Chris Stevens and his colleagues believed in and ultimately gave their lives for, but it would also be a betrayal of America’s highest values and our own enduring national interest in supporting people in the Middle East who want to live in peace and freedom.”

Governor Romney should have at least taken the time to consult with Senator McCain instead of depending on the band of neo-cons
Starting next month,  the Presidential debates are scheduled to begin October 3.    I had noted for quite sometime that the elections will be close.  However what has transpired over the last number of weeks, in my view, has been a game changer. 

The election is President Obama's to lose .  

Reflections Upon Our World: Daily "Thoughts" 4 the Day

As I write this, the situation in the Middle East continues to be volatile but somewhat calm.   I finished this on the death of US Ambassador to Libya and the implications for the Campaign in the United States in "outsiders" a few minutes ago:

Source:
http://www.outsiderviews.com/outsiders-middle-east-watch-9122012-a-tragic-day/, retrieved 9/12/2012

"Outsiders" Middle East Watch (9/12/2012): A Tragic Day

 Link: www.humanrights.gov/2012/09/12/remarks-from-s...

America remembered the fallen yesterday during 9/11. What a horrible day it was!!!

The past 24 hours,though, have continued to remind us all about what a dangerous and volatile World we live in. The US Ambassador to Libya and three other officers were killed when the US Consulate in Benghazi was attacked. CNN is reporting that apparently the attack in Benghazi was planned by thugs that used the protests as a pretext. The US Embassy In Cairo was also breached during this disturbances over the past 24 hours.

This was triggered by a movie posted on YouTube depiciting the Prophet Mohammad in a extremely disgraceful way. I have not seen the clip and will never see the clip. It was quite disturbing to see how America's Right to Free Speech was violated in such an unfortunate way. I was especially concerned when I listened to Governor Romney noting how the Obama Administration's position was one of weakness and that they apologized for American Values. The statement by US Embassy Cairo said in part:

"...“condemns the continuing efforts by misguided individuals to hurt the religious feelings of Muslims — as we condemn efforts to offend believers of all religions. Today, the 11th anniversary of the September 11, 2001 terrorist attacks on the United States, Americans are honoring our patriots and those who serve our nation as the fitting response to the enemies of democracy. Respect for religious beliefs is a cornerstone of American democracy. We firmly reject the actions by those who abuse the universal right of free speech to hurt the religious beliefs of others...:

Although the Administration took issue and noted that it "was not cleared" with Washington, Embassy Cairo did what it felt was right under the circumstances. Governor Romney's campaign has tried to politicize the issue by characterizing it all as an apology. The White House made a decision to back away from it--which I view it as a mistake. The World must understand that such recklessness is not what America is about. What Embassy Cairo did underscored the finest the America has stood for. It would have been in the best tradition of American Foreign Policy for the Romney Campaign not to have spoken out to--as Chuck Dodd of NBC News put it--chase news cycles.

As I listened to Governor Romney, I could not help but wonder what Governor Romney's reaction would be if the founder of the Mormon Faith , Joseph Smith, was depicted in as disgraceful a way as the Prophet Mohammad was. I would be the first one who would tell the World that it was wrong to do so. America is about respecting all faiths and beliefs. It is that strength that would help to sustain it.

On a larger issue, what Governor Romney and his neo-con advisers have failed to grasp is to the continued extent of the anger against the United States on the Arab Street. I will not expect much from the likes of John Bolton and Dan Senor who were at the forefront of the debacle that characterized US Foreign Policy during the Bush Administration. Beyond this matter itself, Governor Romney's reckless attempt to call for a defacto outsourcing of US Foreign Policy to the Israeli Prime Minister is part of this effort which will undermine US efforts to play a constructive role.

The statements by President Obama and Secretary Clinton speak for themselves. I was as baffled as Secretary Clinton was when the US was attacked in a City that the US helped save. All around the World should mourn the loss of these four brave souls who represented the best that America had to offer. May their souls rest in peace and may the almighty grant their families the patience to endure.

Never Losing Hope...and Keeping Faith....

We're at the eve of 9/11.    It is not easy to remain hopeful, but there is no other choice..is there:



We must never ever lose faith.  The faces of the young children must be the driving force for us all!!

Reflections Upon A Summer That Was....

I released this to the Troop 772 Website (Virtual HQ) earlier tonight to reflect upon the Summer that was (Summer 2012):

We have bid farewell to Summer and are gearing up for what is expected to be a very busy Fall and Winter.   Whether it is the Court of Honor, the fund raising goals, Camporee--there is a lot coming up.   As I am quite excited about looking forward, it is also worth looking back to a great Summer that was.
We were blessed to be engaged with our Community throughout the Summer.    I enjoy reading how our Scouts told us about the community engagements they were in.   I was appreciative of the scribes who wrote about Summer Camp as they did.   For those of us who were not able to make such events, we were able to share in the adventures as reported by our Scouts.   We were to be there through the images that we shared.    What such write-ups and events also was a reminder that the success that we enjoyed was becuase of all of you.    It was also because of the committment that we continued to enjoy from all community partners such as the Ocean Institute who were able to work with our Snorkeling Event Leader, Mr. Kuntz as he worked as hard as he did to put this outing together that resulted in some 40+ Scouts and Scouters enjoying quite an adventure that would be unforgetable.  As I read through the "Voice of the Scout" columns that Ali Zand and Ryan Harding reported, I knew that I missed quite an adventure.    In discussions with Mr. Kuntz, he reminded me about how it is the committment of all that make such events possible.    He especially remembered members of the Ocean Institute team who were so instrumental in putting together such a wonderful adventure for us all.  They were:

 Boat Captain Peter Hiestand

Leslie Kretsthmar Tour Director

 Brittany Loust crew

 Shira Greenbaum crew

 Mike Bursk skipper

 Barry Rosenberg crew volunteer

 Lee Gerig crew volunteer

 Jack Small crew volunteer

 Bill Steel Board of Directors ( who referred fo Mr. Kutz as Leslie)

 

We also were able to have Troop 774 out of Encinitas join this as well.   The continent of Evan Wright, Casey Wright, Vince Tori, Lucas Torti, Bengt Osten & Darren Osten had a great time and their note of thanks underscored how much they appreciated the opportunity to join us.        It underscored the spirit of brotherhood that is at the essence of Scouting which we all have a stake in to uphold through a continued reaffirmation of it consistently.     For me, though, there was one event that was ever more memorable:  The Fish For Life Cruise.

 

The Fish for LIfe Cruise grew out of an idea that an old and dear friend of mine had when he took the child of a friend of his who happened to be a Special Needs Child.   He wanted to brighten this special child and it just grew.   Such cruises have started in other cities.     When I had the pleasure to assist in representing us on July 18, I had no idea what to expect.   It was great to meet Jim Everett, the Former Quarterback of The RAMS.  It was just a wonderful scene to observe our Scouts who showed so much care, dilligence and understanding as they prepared to serve the special needs Children and their families.     As they came down the red carpet, they were the stars of the show.   The joy in their faces as their names were called and were greeted by us was beyond words.     As we set sail on what was just a beautiful day, I saw the love and care of the families.    Some children may not have even understood where they were.   But giving the families even a day of respite is something that is truly memorable.    It is such that makes our work as Scouts and Scouters ever more crucial.   I look forward to September 29 when we have been asked to again help as the next Fish For LIfe honors another special group of people:  those of the Greatest Generation who served in World War II and Korea for whom we all as Americans owe a debt of Gratitude.

 

Onward to Fall, Winter and Beyond with all its' possibilities....

 

Summer Camp Historians Report on Summer Camp 2012: http://www.troop772.com/node/3559
Ryan Harding Reports on the San Clemente Trip: http://www.troop772.com/node/3587
Ali Zand Reports on the San Clemente Trip: http://www.troop772.com/node/3594
John Turner Reports on Philmont: http://www.troop772.com/node/3569
Noah Hill Reports on "Fish For LIfe": http://www.troop772.com/node/3555
Hayden Wandrock Reports on Fish For LIfe: http://www.troop772.com/node/3599
Michael Oulmet Reports on the Lake Mead Trip:  http://www.troop772.com/node/3589
Written by M Pouraryan 09-06-2012