Ignorance

Today, for the first time during this campaign, I have serious fears that the general American populous is intelligent enough to elect Barack Obama. I am not, however, saying that a vote for Clinton or any of the Republicans; but I fear that Obama may not get enough votes because of ignorance and ridiculous, unfounded fears.

Talking to a few people today, I realized that some people cannot let go of their racial/religious fears. The two I was speaking with both convinced that Obama is a closeted radical Muslim who will destroy the American way of life from the inside. One went as far as to say, "I don't like to seem prejudice, but I just don't like Muslims." I am still a little angry and befuddled by that comment. There's just no getting through to some people.

Now, I don't mind if you don't want to vote for or support Obama based on his policies, voting history, level of experience, or the simple fact that you like someone else better; but if you're not giving him a chance because his name is funny and he may be "one of them terrorists," then I'm bound to be a little upset and, frankly, think a little less of you.

While most claim a fear of his religious background, I can't help but believe it's based on his race. If Yusuf Islam had the political background, rhetorical skills, and charisma of Obama, I doubt there would be as much ado about his religion. Of course, this probably isn't true because, at one time, the-artist-formerly-known-as-Cat Stevens wasn't allowed back into the U.S., despite his fame.

All this having been said, I wish people would broaden their minds and allow themselves to think, learn, and love. That last sentence is certainly trite and rife with over-sentimentality; but I don't care. Love Love Love.

Crank dat Soulja Boy

Instead of spending time reading The Oresteia by Aeschylus (as translated by Ted Hughes, one of my favorite poets) for my mythology class on Monday, I just spent the last ten minutes learning the "Soulja Boy" dance as taught by Soulja Boy on youtube. My life choices are sometimes disturbing. You should probably learn it and we'll have a party. Then, instead of reading, I chose to write about my poor choices here. Let's see if we can do better in the next choice.

dumb kids

So there are some silly people in the world. Some high school students in Colorado have decided that they can no longer say the pledge of allegiance because it violates the constitutionally mandated separation of church and state. I think this is funny because so often we take up causes with little knowledge of the real issue. There's no constitutionally mandated separation of church and state. Mrs. Klein taught me that the Bill of Rights only prohibits the state from establishing religions. I agree that the church and the state need to be separate because if not, you get leaders who are only elected because they appeal to a certain religious right with no real qualifications or ability *cough cough*. Anyway--some people can be dumb. Hooray America.


Amendment I
Congress shall make no law respecting an establishment of religion, or prohibiting the free exercise thereof; or abridging the freedom of speech, or of the press; or the right of the people peaceably to assemble, and to petition the government for a redress of grievances.