Innovation Marries Stupidity

I heard this as a joke on the Tonight Show so I did a web search and it was confirmed. Here's what Car Tech's website had about the news item.

Drunk driving is one of those rare, universally inexcusable offenses. Getting blasted and getting behind the wheel endangers not only the driver, but innocent bystanders. Now, apparently, getting soused and lounging in La-Z-Boy can be just as dangerous.

At least that's the case for 62 year old Dennis LeRoy from Minnesota, who recently pleaded guilty to driving drunk while cruising in his homemade motorized easy chair. LeRoy allegedly downed no less than 8 beers at a bar one fateful night last August before mounting the chairmobile, which includes a lawnmower engine, headlights and a full stereo system (but of course). He and his 0.29 blood content alcohol then proceeded to wheel into a parked car.

Luckily, no one got hurt, which is great news considering the kind of carnage that lawnmower engines can inflict. But let's be honest, this chair looks incredible. Though his judgment skills leave much to be desired, you can't say Anderson isn't creative.

Now this is where I think creativity is put to stupid use.

Peace

Top 10 Reasons Obama Deserves the Nobel Peace Prize

For all you cynics out there, I believe that the committee who awarded Obama the Nobel peace prize was justified in doing so. After all who says that accomplishment is a criteria for selection. If that were the case, Ghandi would have definately gotten it. Here are my top 10 reasons that justify Obama getting the prize.

10. He has good speech writers
9. He delivers great speeches.
8. He can actually speak English, unlike his predesessor.
7. He can eat pretzels without choking on them.
6. He is not afraid of talking to Iranians.
5. He is willing to talk to Arabs and Muslims.
4. He is not afraid of admiting to making mistakes.
3. He talks of hope and does not aim to scare people.
2. He is trying to do his best to deal with a mess he did not create.
1. He thinks before he speaks.

You know what, it seems that there is not a top 10 list, it really is only one reason. It seems that Obama won because he is the anti-Bush.

Peace

Three Events That Shaped the 21st Century

During the economic boom of the early years of this century many in my work circles used to say that the United States of America is “the new Rome”. They used to go on by stating that unlike the Rome of old, the United States will continue to dominate in its hegemony for ever.

How foolish these sentiments must seem in today’s economic times. There are certainly three events that shape this new millennium and will for eternity alter our view of the United States and will no doubt change the American Psyche.
Obviously the first is 9/11/2001. The terrorist attack on the World Trade Center taught us that with all its might, the United States is not immune from violence and evil at the international level. It demonstrated that the foreign policy of the administration failed. Unfortunately good people of all nationalities paid with their lives for it. These were innocent people that had nothing to do with foreign policies and wars.

The second is hurricane Katrina. Katrina taught us that the American government is just as incompetent as any other around the world. In fact, in the face of adversity the administration demonstrated a lack of willingness to lead. The lack of integration of government caused yet more innocent loss of life.

Third is the economic meltdown that started out first as what appeared to be a sneeze and turned out to be a swine flu on the world economies of monstrous proportions. We are beginning to see a light at the end of the tunnel, but we are deep down and climbing up will require a miracle. Sadly innocent people’s wallets got hurt here.

I wonder if we are at a new age where America’s dominance of the world is over. Personally, I hope that is not the case. People are quick to blame the USA for all the ills in the world, but frankly I shudder to think of a world where a dictatorship like China is dominant.

On the eve of the memory of an awful episode in American history, I hope that the new administration remembers the lives lost in 9/11 and the fact that the whole world wept with America. God have mercy all their souls.

I am sure to some this post may seem like too American Centric. Perhaps it is but the reality is that we live in a world that when America sneezes, the whole world catches the flu.

Peace

To the Editor of Jo Magazine

I just sent this letter to the editor of Jo Magazine about their article.


----

Dear Editor:

I am writing in regard to your article "You’re trying to seduce me, aren’t you?” which was published in the June 2009 issue.

The article is simply irresponsible and absurd. Your decision to include such a poorly researched and one-sidedly written article in the June issue is not only misguided but aims to inflame. Frankly the publisher of your magazine should be held accountable for all the unwanted advances that western women will get because of this article.

The stereotyping of western women tourists is ludicrous. It is akin to a view that some Jordanian men hold that every western woman is a whore. This view no doubt stems from a lack of interaction with women in general and from watching too many Hollywood movies. I find it ironic that I have to explain to a western man like you that Hollywood offers a fictional account of life and relationships in America.

Further the article seems to confuse issues. There is a huge difference between consensual adult relationships and prostitution. While certain behavior may be different from expected norms in Jordan, it is a far cry to characterize it as prostitution. After living extensively in America and moving back to Jordan, I sense there is an attitude among a certain segment within Jordan that holds the belief that western culture lacks any semblance of moral order. I can assure you that, at least in the USA, this is not the case. Why don’t you spend some time investigating male-female relationships in Jordan to determine how they might differ or mirror western culture?

On a different point, did you ask your article’s writer about the research that he conducted when he was putting this smut together? Did he check with the Ministry of Tourism to learn more about statistics related to women visiting the Kingdom? Did he meet with or interview any women tourists about their experience in Jordan? What corroborating evidence can this writer produce beyond what appears to be overhearing a few guys bragging?

Upon reflecion I have to admit that you were successful in one area. You have managed to alienate perhaps an important segment of readership, expatriate women. I wonder how much of a segment that makes up of the people who buy your magazines. One final thought. Who are you trying to compete with, the "National Inquirer"?

Next time my wife is harassed on the street by a misguided man, I hope it had nothing to do with him reading your stupid article.

Peace

Mabrook Obama

I dashed away from work yesterday with a great amount of anticipation for the inauguration of the 44th president of the USA. The event definitely met my expectations. There was an air of majesty that surrounded the whole thing, coupled with a huge sense of hope. It certainly did not disappoint. The speech was also well written and delivered, even though Obama did not solve the Palestinian problem within 15 seconds of taking the oath of office as some might have hoped :).

While I was hoping against all realistic knowledge that Obama would mention something about the suffering in Gaza, I knew better. He did not, he could not, he dare not. However, I am still hopeful he will follow up on his promises and do what is right.

This is the first time to my recollection in a presidential speech however I heard the word "Justice" uttered by a person of such importance. That in itself make me want to believe. Perhaps it is the African American heritage that provides a sense of grounding in the need for justice. I do hope that this word remains a constant theme in the administration.

There seems to be some cynicism associated with the whole thing but I don't think hope is misplaced. In spite of what I right on my blog sometimes, I am not a cynic. I am a believer and an eternal optimist.

One thing for sure though for those who are cynical, it is quite likely that the world was extremely excited not because of a messiah complex so much as the fact that there was a collective sigh of relief that the torch was passed out of the hands of an idiot. Can I say that? Yes, I did say that.

I learned long ago that a fool with a tool is just a fool. Indeed this was proven from 2000 till 2008 clearer than ever. Someone who possessed the greatest tool in the history of man, namely the American Military Might, Power, and yes dare I say Economy, turned it all into a fool's tool. How shameful and wasteful.

To those who are sighing with me the sigh of relief, I say mabrook. Yesterday and Bush are gone, today is a new day, tomorrow comes with a promise and hope. Make us proud again Obama!

Peace

Why Do They Hate Us?

Shortly after September 11, 2001 there came new rhetoric in the United States that generally started with the simple question "why do they hate us?" Genuine, well meaning Americans tried to come to grips with the fact that the USA was attacked for what appeared to be no good reason.

It was as if the average American came out of a cocoon and began to discover the cruel world that existed around them. For the first time since its inception the US had to begin to deal with foreign policy at home. Let me say emphatically that the attacks of September 11, 2001 were not only wrong, but also unjustified. Indeed, that is not the point of this post.

The point of this post is to unfortunately acknowledge that it seemed that the negative feelings toward the terrorists have spilled over to include other Arabs. The same question of "why do they hate us" was asked of Iraqis as the American military industrial complex was on its way to wage a war against a nation that did the USA no harm.

The same question has been asked over and over about Palestinians. In my 16 years in the USA I had to time and again justify the Palestinian struggle with statements like "they really don't hate you."

Since the beginning of the latest war against humanity by the cruel Israeli Offensive Force I have attempted to bury myself into a cocoon. I have attempted to ignore all news reports because I knew that the situation was too bleak. I had no interest in watching the horror of the people in Gaza. Not because I could not sympathize but rather the opposite. I know that watching helplessly while children were getting killed by American made bombs only made my frustration rise. As an American and one who has a huge amount of patriotism toward this great nation, I am utterly devastated by the actions (or lack of action) of the American administration.

I have come to one conclusion though. I would like for the Bush administration to give us one good reason why Palestinians in Gaza should not "hate us." Bush has claimed that they are jealous of our freedom and our way of life and that is why they "hate us." You know what, in a way he is right. The Palestinian people yearn for freedom. Their struggle is righteous and they deserve liberty and justice. Regardless of what Israel, the media, or the Zionist machine says, the Palestinian struggle will live on and the Palestinian people will overcome.

All of us who sit outside the racist separation wall should feel lucky for not being bombarded by Israeli bombs. We simply could not blame those under siege if they hate us. We have food, water, shelter, work, money, freedom, and security. They do not. We are all guilty, not just Israelis but also Arabs, Americans, and others who do nothing to help the helpless Palestinians. The world is standing idly by while men, women, and children are being killed. This is not just about the guilt of few but the guilt of all. I feel ashamed.

As we were watching some news coverage the other day of dead children in Gaza I asked my wife "do you think that finally the average American might begin to change his/her mind about their feelings toward the Israeli/Palestinian conflict?" Unfortunately the answer is probably no. They simply don't know. The media has blocked their access to real information.

I will end this post with a quote from one of my personal heroes, Edward Said:

"Remember the solidarity shown to Palestine here and everywhere... and remember also that there is a cause to which many people have committed themselves, difficulties and terrible obstacles notwithstanding. Why? Because it is a just cause, a noble ideal, a moral quest for equality and human rights"

I ask for your prayers for the people of Gaza tonight. Not just the women, not just the children, not just the elderly, but also the men, the fathers who are often forgotten and dehumanized as terrorists.

Peace

Random Thoughts, Busy Schedule, Ignorant Citizen...

Is it possible that the busy schedule that I've been dealing with has caused me to willfully become an ignorant citizen of the world? I found myself on several ocassions commenting about the fact that I try to stop watching the news because of how depressing it seems to be.

Everyone around is talking about Gaza and yet it seems that we are isolating our small children from the news. I wonder what kind of message, if any, we should be sharing with our children under the age of 10 or 5?

The arrival of the new year has been a muted celebration in Amman only marking yet another tough year on the neighborhood. Around the world the slipping economy seems to be held in the balance by a hope (some say unrealistic) in a new US administration.

What does 2009 hold for the Middle East and specifically Jordan? What predictions will likely come true will depend greatly on what happens in the next 3 months.

Peace

Freedom of Information or Breach of Confidentiality?

Wow, it seems these days tat my diet is doing better than my blogging discipline. I have been trvelling for a while now, which is no excuse. For some reason every time I try and restart, something gets in the way, perceived or otherwise.

Since I last blogged, I travelled to the UAE, Italy, and I am now in Tunisia. I've tried to keep up with the blogging scene but it is hard when you are far away.

One thing that is on my mind today is the topic of confidentiality. Are people and institutions in our country able to keep confidentiality? Is there a freedom of information thinking other than the rumor mill that makes professionals feel free to disclose what I would consider confidential information? Perhaps I have a different and un-Arab notion of confidentiality.

Let me try to explain. If my Doctor happens to be at a dinner and mentions that I came to see him today (even if he did not share the reason for the visit) would that be a breach of confidentiality? If my lawyer mentions to a mutual friend that I decided to pursue legal action is that a breach? If my priest tells a friend how much money I donated to the church, is that wrong? If my banker tells a co-worker my account balance, should that be stopped?

To me, I am always concerned about confidentiality for two reasons. Respect for other's right to privacy. The second is I really don't want people in my business.

Where does the line between confidentiality and freedom of information get drawn?

Peace

Volunteerism

I was watching a movie called Pearl Harbor yesterday. One of the very last scenes in the movie, one of the lead actor says the following line:

"There is Nothing Stronger than the Heart of a Volunteer."

Wow, I love this line. I know that he was specifically talking about those men and women who volunteer for military service but I think it applies for anything.

I grew up in a household where volunteerism was like breathing air. My parents worked with all kinds of non-profit institutions and the blood line of the very existence of these organizations depended on a healthy pipeline of volunteers.

Something must have rubbed off as I spent the last 10 years heavily involved in a professional society. This was a volunteer leadership role that has taken me literally to 6 continents and over 30 countries. I have been to every corner of the globe without being paid a dime other than reimbursed expenses.

As I look at the first 10 months of the year and the 2 remaining ones, I can not but feel a sense of pride. In service for this particular organization, I was away from home, work, and family, a sum total of 120 days. This is almost 1 third of the year. Mind you this does not include time spent volunteering via email, conference calls, etc...

If I had to do it again, I would do it exactly the same. The rewards that I have personally received have been great. Better than financial. I owe a lot of who I am today for this volunteer activity. I have met several hundred people and spoke in front of crowds of 5,000 people.

As recently as last month, we had an annual conference that brought together people from all walks of life. Every one of them were as passionate about this professional society and all share a common value - volunteerism.

The fundamental driver of change in society is not a top down approach. It is grass roots volunteerism. One has to only look at the extent of volunteerism in our society to understand how they can affect positive change.

Even workers who get paid are in a sense volunteers. They can leave and find another job. But the power of the unpaid volunteer leader shows his/her true passion and dedication for the cause. It is to step forward and raise your hand and say, I am willing to lead and I take responsibility.

I just have to always remind myself that with great power comes great responsibility.

Peace

Poor Statistical Analysis

Having been taught elements of the science of market research and surveys I am often amazed at the comfort displayed in many organizations with erroneous reporting. It seems that many feel totally at ease with massaging the numbers to reflect their side of the story. Two semi funny stories have to do with the campaign.

I was listening to the radio the other day and an announcer said that he hoped the Philadelphia Philies won the world series. He said that every time Philadelphia won the world series, a republican was elected president. Now that seemed like an amazing claim, until someone asked how many times did the Philies win. The answer only once.

Another story I heard was about an American 90 year old nun living in Italy. Apparently she decided to register as an absentee voter because she stated that every time she voted the person she voted for won. So the press went out to ask her who she was planning to vote for and she said Obama. The press was having a field day with this until somebody asked her how many times she voted. The answer, once. She voted for Eisenhower!

Peace