Be Aware

By now most of you have probably figured out that I think it is important to be aware of what is going on around the world. Awareness is the first step in reducing the problems our world faces today. I may not have a time slot to speak to the Senate about things we can do to reach the MDGs, but one day I may be able to share concrete information with someone who gets that opportunity in the future. The more aware we all are, the louder the voice that cries out against inequity becomes.

I have recently found two websites that give information about the state of the world in very concrete and statistical ways. I prefer to learn about things this way because I've come to resent each picture of a starving child that tries to compel me to action. For one thing, motivation must be intrinsic for one. And two, the bloat of so many humanitarian efforts has made me very cynical to private causes (see the post below).

If you have the time, check out these two very informative websites:

CIA World Factbook

and

Human Development Report

This video has been around for a while, but I just ran across it again and wanted to share it.

the fence

"Secure Border Fence Act"
Are you KIDDING me?? A fence. A fence? He really thinks that some half-ass fence that he doesn't even have the money to pay for is going to solve the immigration problems? That's like putting a bandaid on an eviscerated (look it up) wound. Jesus H. Jimminy Cricket.
I ju.. I can't even speak. This is the stupidest idea I have ever heard of. And in light of our current leadership, That says something!
Oh, and I want you to pay attention to the facial expressions of the two twits in the picture. They are very telling.
::deep breath:: Ok. So here's my beef with the fence.
Instead of spending money on Corrupt Border Patrol , and a fence over 1/3 of the border, why doesn't our Boy Wonder President spend some money on foreign aid to help make Mexico a little bit less miserable. Make it so they don't want to leave.
Help these people. These are our neighbors; hard working, family oriented people who would do anything for a better life.
I'm not just saying this because my heart is bleeding. I spent a summer with a community of Mexican immigrants. I have heard first hand what they go through to get here. It's horrible. Help this country help themselves. Start a coup there! Oh... riiiiight. No oil. How could I forget.
We spend so much money on our military and focus so much on non-government related issues such as abortion, gay marriage, and Charlton Heston statues in front of state buildings (ok, maybe not that last one) but we don't consider what we can do for others and how That can solve our own problems.
Bush comes close to understanding this, but he stops short and just ends up buying the countries that are important to his military strategy. I tell you what, if Chavez ever declares war on the US, Mexico will benefit greatly. Bush will sidle up next to her and whisper "Hey baby, how about I give you're chillun and ejukashun and you keep that mean ol' bully south of the border?" Can't you just see him tipping that cowboy hat?