McCain's Shocker "That One!" Comment At The 2nd Presidential Debate
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His Name Is Senator Obama!
Racism is alive and well in the McCain campaign. They can no longer deny it, how many examples from them do we need before we say "Enough!" The Republican candidates, Palin and McCain, over this past few weeks have left me and thousands of Americans, ill. I'm closed, shut down, sickened.
He has a name, McCain, and it's not "that one!" As soon as those hateful words from McCain's tongue, unbridled slipped, horrible visions entered my mind and the minds across the land. We all felt it, no one wants to even talk about it much, but the meaning was clear. McCain's racist behavior is so ingrained in him, so buried in habit, thought, and speech, he's not even aware of it when it "rears it's head," to use a now famous phrase from Palin's wide range of speech. We'll get to her in a minute, even though McCain wisely didn't mention her during the debate, choosing instead to mention Lieberman more than once.
As the words "that one!" hung in mid-air, McCain's last thread of decency hung with them, and then melted away in a matter of seconds. It's gone. I have no more, not even a hint of, respect for the man. And, I use the term "man" loosely.
Immediately, call me too sensitive if you will, I had the image of hundreds of young black youths, standing on the docks of yesterday, being examined by the eyes of power. Land-owners, who would take them back to their plantations for a life of work and hardship in most cases.
I can hear the plantation managers, the land giants and owners sneers, their disrespect, their de-valuing of another human being because of the color of their skin, their strong remarks landing like hard rocks on the hearts of those scrutinized for choosing..."I'll take 'that one', and 'that one,' and 'that one over there' they would say, the power dripping from their voice. I can see the eyes of the young black men, forever changed by those two powerful words...."that one."
"THAT ONE!" McCain? You had no hesitation, no feeling that those words would carry a burden of history, as they flowed easily from your slick tongue? No wisdom whispered to you, no warning of the indecency of your comment?
No, nothing warned you, even your soul has stopped talking to you long ago. It is evident in your sneering facial expressions, your constant re-invention and re-statement of who you are and what you do or did. It changes momentarily, your self image is being constantly painted before even your own eyes, reflected back as whomever you want to be, in that second. You have no anchor, no set values, no wholeness of truth to live by, no boundaries. You are a hollow core.
In your eyes, you are never wrong. Only "that one" over there, is wrong. That one. By those 2 words, Senator McCain, you regurgitated history, a shameful history that does not deserve repetition.
Senator John McCain, you are despicable. Your partner in the crime of "despicable-ness," Sarah Palin, is now under scrutiny by not only average Americans on the ground, but government officials who might have to instruct her to take comments from her speeches, as they serve to incite hate and anger to such high levels that someone listening, maybe several someones, would shout out "Kill him!" "Treason!" and "Terrorist" as you talk about a Senator of the United States of America. As you mislead and misguide the willing, you have joined the ranks of "despica-bility."
You, Sarah Palin, (no mild-mannered governor, who's "first dude" has "pal'd" around with those who would actively seek to have Alaska secede from the union, which is no less an Act of Domestic Terrorism of it's own) asked a crowd the pre-planned, emotionally charged question "What do you do with a person who associates with terrorists?" You asked that question over and over, which could only have an intent of escalating and inciting others to hate, and might well be restricted by the Secret Service, in order to protect our Senators and officials from that kind of reckless, dangerous call.
Soon, "Kill him" someone cries out. And, what does the God-fearing Sarah Palin do? Continues on, with a snide smile that says "Now, you're talkin'!" as she spews more and more hate and fear of another American, about whom she KNOWS she is misleading the facts.
I'm ashamed of you, Sarah Palin, you give the word "Christian" a bad name; you give the Republican Candidate for Vice President of the United States of America, a bad name; you give patriotism, a bad name; you give "radical" a worse name.
Your actions have given me courage to denounce you, your hate, your bias, your lies, your deceit, your past associations with witch hunters and state seceders, your uncooperative spirit with a legitimate investigation of your use of power as governor.
This is a most embarassing time in American political history, that we would give honor and recognition to a person such as yourself.
There is a distance, down the road of elections, up the road to the White House, that no decent person can travel, Sarah. We know that you are young, new, but you are not acting in "newbie-ism." You are traveling the low road, upon which honorable American politicians fear and tremble, and do not walk.
You and John McCain are, after all, the perfect pair.
From just listening, I shall have to wash thoroughly, to become clean from the dirt you smear.
I am Marisue, an average American, on the ground, and I am sickened by the behavior, of Palin and McCain.
Update: 10-10-08 -- there are those "few" who would dare to say, that racism is not an issue, that character and inciting hate and anger on the Republican side, is not an issue; those few people in protest of this hub would cry "let's talk about the issues." I say "let's." This hub did talk about the issues; if character is an issue for Obama, then do not censor me. I can and will bring up character as an issue for McCain. He has many pieces for us to discuss, this is only a portion.
I will not be censored by those who are one-sided. They can discuss their views, I will discuss mine. Since my views are mirrored all over the news from both sides of the parties, I obviously have quality company.
All views are welcome here, but do not expect me to be a doormat with no voice as those opposing attempt to wipe their feet on this article. Speak your piece, and expect me to speak mine. many have died to give us all that right!
I accept that we may view things differently. Let's just stay respectful about it, which is my exact complaint against Palin-McCain. We all have the dramatic license of a bit of mockery.
I would like to add that none of what I've said here or below in comments, was intended to "hurt" anyone, at the same time, I'd like for people to also know that it's not right to attempt to "hurt" me, though I choose not to let it happen, I'm just asking for us all to be decent. I will take up for myself, as I expect others to do as well. That said, "let 'er rip!" =)
CommentsLoading...
I'm sticking my tongue out at you....LOL =) surely you jest...of that there is no doubt....
Sure I do :)
Cause I honestly think it won't make any difference :)
The election? It may not, but there is some places my vote just can't go. =))
Misha, I think you may be on to something, there.
Mari, I saw and heard the "That one" comment too and was disgusted at the time, and was so glad one of the commentators called him (McCain) "Childish" afterwards. McCain and Palin have not only consistently made poor showings in the debates but have consistently been outdebated, in all forms which matter, by Obama and Biden.
Watch McCain win... 'cause that's how it works here.
Can't force you of course. And don't want to :)
McCain also patronized a black questioner in the audience with words to the effect that "you probably haven't heard of Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac." etc. Also McCain neglected to shake hands with Obama after the debate, ignoring or not noticing Obama's outstretched hand. McCain is losing it. (his composure to put it politely.)
It all STINKS..why is there only 2? G-Ma :o) hugs...p.s. good hub dear
You are so completely correct. He came off as a Hollow feeble babbling 'man'? I love this article --take it to the newspapers, esp those in Ohio, Pa, Florida and else where.
McCain's antics ceased to be amusing a long time ago. He apparently wakes up in a new world every day, and as a coincidence, he is always a perfect hero in every one of them. "I can fix this", he says about every problem, "and I know how." This is not the behavior of a sane person. At one point McCain said something about "as I've exhibited throughout my military career."
I wanted to yell at the TV set "your military career exhibits erratic, aggressive, cavalier disregard for safety, regulations and honor." This man wrecked several jets. Only the singular fact that he spent 5 years in a North Vietnamese prison, and the fact that his father was a 4 star admiral, saved him from being pushed out of the service due to his hot-dogging and erratic antics as a pilot. He's still the same guy he was in high school, "John McNasty."
On any ship in the Navy, there are good men and bad men, and men somewhere in the middle; no matter what your measure of good or bad might be. When the ship comes under fire, they could all be called "heros." The same is true for anyone risking his life by flying missions in wartime as John McCain did, and certainly so when they get captured and serve time in an enemy prison as he did.
But when these guys come home, damaged emotionally as many of them are, the question becomes: "What do you do with a LIVE hero?"
Some of them adapt to the post-war world they come home to. Many do not. Life with some of them can be not only "interesting," it can be dangerous.
John McCain was damaged by his childhood, and further damaged by his experience in enemy prisons. He is now permanently on the verge of an explosive, barely controlled outburst. Can you imagine this person in charge of our nuclear arsenal? I shudder to think of it.
Why does this strange little man have any support at all?
It's because he supports the 1/7th of the population that believes human life begins at conception, and that all abortions from that point on should be criminalized. These people will support anyone who is in their camp on this issue. Plus, there are a few, but only a few, of the Republicans who will support any republican no matter how strange they may act. Add those up and you could get 30-40% of the voters. That's about what McCain has supporting him so far.
Let's hope this erratic, explosive, and angry little man is not given a chance to control our government.
Let's explore the Hero thing. The thing that makes McCain, untouchable. If you ever watch the history Channel they have replays of aerial dog fights and they, explain the rigours, $5,000,000 worth of training that American pilots go through before they get their own $18,000,000, air crafts to roar through the skies with.
According to the training and the type of aircraft McCain flew he had the power, expert training, and maneuverability of a superior aircraft to keep him in the game and the winners circle.
Here's the thing, after watching McCain you can bet McCain tried some unauthordox, maneuver that jumped into his mind and that' why he spent 5 years as a POW.
Last time up to bat McCain lost the taxpayers $23,000,000, and for that he's called a Hero, also by not letting them send him home out of turn He gets called a Hero.
I know what they would have called him had he accepted the early out. Especially the guy who's turn it really was. So there he just did what he was suppose to do.
It's not uncommon to find paper work heros in the files of our military. This guys been riding on Pixie dust a long time.
Ralph, you are so right, I should have mentioned that and the disrespect he showed many in the audience by telling "us" that we probably didn't know where these countries in the world were, and the black man that he most likely didn't know who Fanny and Freddie Mac were, yet the man was obviously intelligent enough to ask a question about the economics....his racism and disgust for Americans was so obvious. He thinks we're all stupid; can't read a map; and don't read the papers enough to know who Fannie and Freddie are....
He's insulting!! Hiding behind a woman!! He left the debate!! Did not shake Obama's hand at the end. what more do we need to think about with this pair??? He even insulted the moderator, Tom Brokaw.
Constant, they won't get a smell. !! Can't EVEN. =))
Henry and Tom, thank you for adding that history about McCain, why do some overlook his history?? It's so important. He's no hero, except in the way that all POW's are.
This whole thing makes me sick. This entire hub and all the comments. I don't know what else to say. I watched the entire debate, and I think you saw and heard what you wanted to, extracted what you wanted out of it, and that's it.
Hi Karenlee, thank you so much for your kind words, we are in a mess with these two...I am sending this letter to the editor here, we'll see if they publish it. =))
Anna Marie, I respect your opinion, it doesn't sicken me.
I do think you might need to watch and listen a bit more closely and with some forward thinking as to what McCain will do, as he hops around as President...I'm not alone in my summary of him as a person and speaker. Neither are you alone in your opinion...but we are definitely on different pages, together. =)) (play on words...) That's what voting is all about. I think the sick part, is McCain and Palin's speech and tactics...even the Secret Service is getting concerned with her comparisons that are so inflamming. She knows no limits....now that's sickening.
MY WORDS sicken you? My calling what he did despicable is sickening, but his words are not?
Hmm. interesting choice, Anne. I respect it, but it's an interesting choice you make.
Anna, I did the same. I watched and saw that Obama dodged a huge question about Isreal which is a very important question. He talked around it. Guess that's less important the McCain saying those 2 horrible words huh? I actually didn't notice what either one of them called the other. I watched to see the IMPORTANT topics discussed. Guess some of us watched for different reasons. Some people have waaaayyy too much time on their hands. This hub is proof. Oh well. Where's the hub about real issues?
I liked the last move at debate's end where the candidates blocked Tom Brokaw's giant teleprompting screen as a joke. I saw all three laughing on the channel I watched -- This is really like the WWE and WWF more all the time, but entertaining.
Playing back the tape, I heard again "This one" which is worse, I think - a frequently-used term I've heard backwater families use to denigrate a family member right in front of the person.
I watched the debates for the issues. Several times I saw Obama dodge questions and just spout garbage. He was asked a simple question as to who he would nominate to a cabinet position, and rather than just answer the question by mentioning a few names, he just spouted the same things over and over. I did watch very closely. Sorry if I came off harsh before. I have the utmost respect for you, marisue. I just think that too many people are reading too deeply into little things, and this goes for both sides, and are ignoring the real points that matter.
I didn't think anything was acomplished by last night's debate. I want to see it on Sat. Night Live.
Marisue, Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!
As a black woman I don't even have the words to express the myriad of emotions that I have been experiencing over these past three weeks.
I'm forty-nine years old and I remember when I was eight just four months before my ninth birthday, Martin Luther King was murdered spreading a message of peace, love and equality for all men.
I remember my mother and grandmother holding each other and weeping and wailing like someone in our family had died. I had never heard of Dr. King until the day he died. It was after his death I became acquainted with him after he was gone.
What I saw and experienced after that was eye opening. All of a sudden my world became black and white. This new world I didn't like much because there was never a difference to me; we were all the same we only looked different, which made the world wonderful and colorful, but it appeared everyone did not look at the world like I did.
This world became a world of hatred and bigotry...as a little girl I was afraid. I saw my world shattered with cities burning, marchers being attacked by dogs, people being hung in trees and people being put in jail just because the color of their skin.
I have to say that, that little girl has come back in the last few weeks. Again, I'm seeing hatred, I'm hearing about people being shot because they have on an Obama shirt on...
Please, Please American, we can't go backwards, we must move forward.
And, to my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ, we must begin to intercede for our nation. We must do like Daniel and begin to repent for the sins of our nation. We need God right NOW!
allshookup, I appreciate your comment, I find it disappointing that you don't respect the hub nor my opinion, which I have spent a lifetime forming, but perhaps you make my point for me.
I find your remarks disrespectful to me. Which I have never been to you.
Tim McVeigh, the man who bombed the Murrow Federal Building in Oklahoma City, was a decorated combat veteran, winning both the Bronze Star and the Combat Infantryman badge.
Obviously at the time they were awarded, he deserved them. Both are high honors, given to men and women who act over and above what is expected.
However, would anyone today consider Tim McVeigh a hero? Would anyone honor his service?
I have known many heroes in my life, some of them in the military when I served for 5 years. However, I have also known some people in the military who deserved to be in jail for the things they did and said back then.
First and foremost were the White Supremicists who kicked and beat the crap out of me in Torrejon, Spain, when I had the audacity to be dating a young Black Jamaican woman. Later, I married Spanish woman.
They called me a "race traitor" and threatened the people I knew. And yes, they were fellow service people. Not all were men, either.
I am White, or Caucasian as I prefer, because I think the terrn "race" was invented in order to keep some people down and put others in charge.
Just the same, soldiers such as Tim McVeigh dishonor the country and uniform they wore by their actions. If McCain is being racist, then he dishonors the uniform he wore as well as the legacy by which he desired to be remembered. To me he is no better than those people who called me a "race traitor."
Real heroes honor honor, while false heroes tarnish honor. Take your choice concerning McCain.
Well said, Level1. I could not agree more, but one scary question; was it not that 30% to 40% who elected Gee Duh? Twice?
Sorry, but your hub comes across as looking for something wrong with McCain. I watched to find out what they said about things that are important to the American pubilc. Not what they called each other. I want to know about taxes, Isreal, protecting the nation, unemployment, this mess of a bailout, health care, things like that that impact people. What they call each other didn't make it to my list of important issues. I'd also like to know all of their feelings on the death penalty. But, I still don't know that. You spent a lifetime making an opinion on McCain saying 2 words wrong, in your opinion? (And I'm sure if an Obama supporter reads this, they'll feel the same.) It just seems petty to me when there are so much more to talk about with real issues, like I listed.
And several of the things you said to/about my posts on another hub was disrepectful to me. Whether you meant it or not, it was to me. Maybe like you take those 2 words McCain said. You may not have meant them to be disrespectful, but they seemed it to me. McCain may have meant nothing by what he said, but how are you taking them?
I can tell you were moved - I had missed this one. Much history still left - there are many a youth with clear ancestors rooted in slavery - on both sides. We're not out of it yet, but so many of us wanting to heal the hurt will eventually make it happen.
Constant, (on your first comment) you said it and I certainly agree to an extent, but I really don't *want* it to be true. Actually, I have a slight wonder if either one will actually make it through the presidency as many of those who actually stand for real change get killed.
History in the making...
Rainbow - There have indeed been many rumors of assassination attempts to come agasint candidates and/or families. Interestingly, Mr. Browkaw said at olne point, "If either one of you becomes president (kind of long pause),..which you will..
Shook, I listened for exactly the same things, and heard them: Strong, common sense, do-able plans for real solutions, from Obama. His focus is on "How Can We Fix The Mess This Country Is In?"
From McCain I heard tired rhetoric and "I know how to fix that" but no real plan for HOW. He spent his time telling people how wonderful he is and how terrible Obama is. His focus is on getting elected... at any expense, no matter what. His choice of Palin proved that.
Obama didn't need to spend any effort trying to make McCain look bad. McCain did that all on his own.
And no, I'm not a Democrat or a Liberal. I'm an Independent. My interest is finding and electing THE BEST AND SMARTEST CANDIDATE. Period.
Rainbow, in that case McCain would be perfectly safe. His policies are literally "more of the same." Trust me. He's safe.
The issues of racism, insults, disrespect are highly important to the highest office in our land. This hub was not about his stand on the economy, the war, or foreign policy, which I've discussed in many other hubs. I have opposed him on those issues long ago. My hub is about his recent behavior and it has merit. I am not going to be dictated to as to what the issues are or are not. My hub, my subject and my highly merited view and opinion.
If you fail to see the importance of race in this election and from the person who wants to be president, than you are wrong. I've read your opinion on other hubs and you always seem to discount the race factor. Lucky you. Blacks feel it, live it, breathe it and so do mexicans, spanish, muslims, jews, gays, mormons, catholics, and when you disrespect one you disrespect them all -- even Christians will suffer under that as there are thousands of varieties.
I know only a small amount of what other races go through as I raised dozens of children from races other than my own -- under my own roof and never was able to dismiss their feelings as "not the issue."
Allshookup, with due respect, you might benefit for one moment by looking beyond your own nose.
Race is "petty" his "that one" two words are petty? Ask a black man. Ask a jew....ask a mexican, ask a catholic, as a gay person, ask anyone on the street that has been demeaned as a group for most of their life. PETTY?
My lifetime has been spent dealing with minorities, and understanding someone else's views and opinions other than my own. I don't dismiss them and only talk about what I thought was important,
There is more than one issue. Real issues are right up there, along with race and disrespect and lies. They matter. The truth matters
Two words? It's a reflection of the spirit. but again, you make my point perfectly.
Allshookup, let us not make this about you and I, but I think my reputation on Hubs as a gentle peacemaker and respectful of differences is quite well established. I have never and I looked back at my comments - I have never insulted you, but I do believe you are single focused on your views, that is not an insult, but be insulted if you choose. You are very dismissful of others. It's not very mature, frankly.
Well said, M. Personally (and I don't think I'm the only one who thought this) I thought the remark was more "childish" than "petty" ...or even racist. It just made him look childish, OK, petty, and down right silly.
Neither candidte really articulated a new position on the key issues so don't bother looking for contrast there. That leaves us, the viewers to wonder what else was there to pick up on. Well, how about body language? How about an out of turn comment like, "That one"? Those two simple words speak volumes of the man and his deep seated attitude towards another, and we can't help but pick up on them in light of recent history. Remember two other simple words, "You people," uttered by in 1992 by another "maverick" in his own way? They buried his political career. In today's diverse society, one cannot assume he or she can do and say as he or she wishes without scrutiny.
I continue to be amazed at Serah Palin. Now I understand why they called her Baraccuda. Stating a lie is excusable; but repeating it over and over and with such venom is not Christian and, I say so as a Christian myself. If, as they say, politics is a dirty game, then she's indeed a quick study.
Great hub Marisue. You obviously touched a sore spot for all of us I daresay. I don't think things will improve unless we confront our true feelings in light of today's realities. The world is changing and we need to adapt to the changes. The more I watch the Palin/McCain ticket the more I think four more years of Bush might actually be better than what this incongruous duo portends.
Chef Jeff, you lend much personal history and points well taken to the hub, I thank you and am saddened by what you have personally experienced. All of these things are important and in many ways, way more important than the economy. Surely those who suffer and care about any living person on the planet can see the importance of not spreading hate for others, and not talking down to other races. =) I hope one day, we will never say race is not an important issue again.
Level1diet you got it entirely right!
Thanks marisue for another great hub. I put it on stumble upon. People should read this.
We need to call it what it is, racism. McCain-Palin are seeking to divide the country even further with their hate speech. They personally have yet to come out and say to their supporters that their speech is not appropriate in a civilized society. They left that to a staffer to put out a lame comment.
This kind of hate speech can lead to very disatrous consquences. McCain left quickly because he knew he did not play well in the hall.
His contempt for the American public is so clear to see. This is not the man that should have the nuclear codes. At the debate, he couldn't even bring up Bill Ayers, he is leaving that up to his number 2. Sarah gives pitbulls a bad name.
Absolutely! Susan!! Anyone who thinks those two words were petty or merely two words is living in the land of fiction. People's whole lives are shaped by those two words...and all it's implications. McCain knew exactly what he was doing!!! He IS that kind of person. As palin says, the heels are on and the gloves are off, well so are mine. ENOUGH!
I knew you would not acknowledge that you were like that to me. I had no doubt. No shock there. But you're doing the same thing to me you claim McCain did to offend you, yet you write a hub about it. Seems rather immautre. But, hey, that's your choice.
Penmanzee, thank you for your understanding and perspective. I'm trying to remain respectful, but for someone, anyone to act like it's not an issue when you insult thousands or millions of people by making racist remarks and then we're wrong for mentioning it but the person who said is ok; I am struggling for control and for understanding that mind set. Truly, they have not walked down a lane that most of us as adults at least understand even in a small way.
I'm stunned. Again, thank you always for your presence.
It's never immature to write about an opinion, allshookup and here's another shocker for ya, if I ever insulted you, I apologize. Not my style, not my preference, not my desire.
However, your feelings were never the focus of any of my hubs. Only my opinion based on my own research and opinion...with the main desire to be respectful
McCain is a public figure applying for a job that requires my vote.
Therefore, an opinion is also required.
my hub immature?? puh lease. I'm getting closer to possessing the desire I just apologized for. But I'm strong.
I have seen some hubs like "Jews hate obama" where any opinion not on the lines of the moderator is censored and this hub where any positive opinion about McCain is thrashed around.
I have no stake in these elections as I am not allowed to vote but have found some observations which are as follows:
1) Majority of the people already have made up their minds whom they want to vote.
2) People who disagree with their opinions are considered as not having the "correct" facts or perspective.
3) Very few people are having "balanced" opinion just based on the facts.
My take on the candidates is :
Sarah Palin
1) Charming lady with a charisma. She does tend to avoid answering directly (Now my brief experience as Interviewing candidates for job interviews) is that people who are not sure of their subject or fear they maybe deliberately side tracked... go for the middle of the road approach or give vague responses. These people tend to rely on their human touch and likability factor(small talk/smiling unnecesarily) to get selected.
Joe Biden:
2) He seems to talk a lot and reels of facts/statistics a lot. These people tend to act as a know all and can easily bore others with how much they know (They need to be brief and answer direct to the point). Such people also tend to take strong stands on issues(maybe even over confident at times) and if they are correct stands then certainly everybody is benefitted.
John McCain
3) Certainly a person who means "been there and done that" kinda attitude. These people tend to keep their cards close to their heart but still project an attitude of supreme confidence. These people are cool heads and can certainly steer the boat in troubled water. But these people can also be arrogant who may look down upon anybody not possessing similar credentials.
Barak Obama
4) He is a knowledgeble person without having a whole lot of experience. He kinda talks like a professor taking a class and explaining things to students. He is kinda good at understanding the overall scenario theoretically but lacks the experience which is needed in real times of crisis as and when faced with. Such people will need to be able to form good teams to help him in taking key decisions.
All these IMHO are personal opinions. There are certainly bound to be gaps in my understanding and I apologize for the same.
Countrywomen, I am wanting to be clear...I am respectful of those who want mccain for president and want to state something positive about him, just don't discount the importance of his latest comments, which I have written about. They can brag about McCain all they want...just don't tell me his two words "That one" don't matter nor does his disrespect of a black man who asked him a question about the economy and he replies that the man probably didn't know who Freddie and Fannie were and we all probably didn't know where the other countries in discussion were.
That's racist and insulting...be for him if anyone wants...just understand what I'm talking about, and quit stating that they're for him because those issues I've mentioned are not important. What???? not important, I guess no, if you've/(others) never experienced, or breathed outside your own house.
all views are welcome, except calling mine unimportant. then, I'll talk back. =)) LOL
How refreshing to hear an "outsiders" perspective. I agree about Obama. Intelligent but lacking experience. No worry. Every president has a White House FULL of very experienced staff members.
Marisue, wasn't McCain's comment about Fannie May "You probably hadn't about them before recent events."? Because that would be very probable. Not everyone follows NYSE. I'm not defending McCain, just trying to get the facts straight.
Alicia, your personal journey is to be admired and appreciated. As a white woman, I have experience discrimination only occasionally, and never to the depth of those who live in a world that discounts color as not an important issue, petty, or to be pushed aside for more important things like the economy, or "Christianity," for instance, which should be color blind but often isn't. It was in the house I grew up in...and others pain and experiences were highly valued. Rights of the individual explained and demonstrated, and love for fellow humans practiced. Wrongs identified, not glossed over with lipstick or high shine.
I hope you will be able to witness fairness and achievement equally experienced by those who take advantage of opportunity, who actually HAVE opportunity, in this lifetime.
In spirit, I walk with you. I also apologize for what those in my race do to others in any race, and for anything I have ever done in my life that does not further the race of everyone. I have always wanted to be part of a solution, not the problem. On all my hubs I have welcomed views, but I do not welcome disrespect that says "where are the hubs on the real issues" that does NOT deserve respect as it is in blatant ways RACIST.
If race is not believed to be a real issue then the one who thinks it is not, is, unfortunately, behaving as would a racist. End of story.
Alicia, you are welcome here as are others, and I feel honored that you have chosen my hub to express your pain and fear. I hope one day we won't even have to talk about this kind of experience!!
And Alicia, I wish just believing in God was enough, but it's not. many people believe in God, and continue to discriminate.
Hi Constant,
McCain said that in his second comment, if my memory is correct, but his first implication, or maybe it was reverse order, was that we all just didn't know that much about it. If not said in my opinion, inferred, which is his overall attitude of us common citizens, only he knows and has special understanding, which he can never explain.
the implication I believe was strong...he even included all of those in the room...it was not a golden moment for him.
Marisue-I feel anybody for anything important in life should be open to taking n number of opinions from others but the ultimate onus of decision always lies with us.
ConstantWalker- I am so "SAD" my friend you made me an "outsider"... LOL
Countrywomen, you are very right about taking in others opinions, I was responding loudly to the one who said the hub had no value nor was talking about real issues since it was just about two words "that one." and called my hub petty...I take strong issue with that, that is not merely expressing an opinion that is different, it was meant to be insulting because my opinion differed from hers.
I am normally "inclusive" -- doesn't mean I'm a doormat.
and thank you for giving your perspective to the
candidates. I do think there is more to them than what you described, but certainly you hit some important character issues.
McCain and Palin have turned the campaign to a lower level of lies, hate and insults. Hate bothers me. I can't be silent about it, nor tolerant of it, nor accepting of it, nor ignorant of it, nor overlook the impact of it. It is so interesting that those who accept it, do so under the pretence that it 's really not that important, it's just hate, what's the big deal, lets talk about the real issues.
That bothers me, those people vote. sigh.
Great job, Marisue! I really enjoyed most of the comments also. Pity some people have resorted to such childish tactics in an effort to belittle you, but I think you've handled that rather gracefully, which is more than I can say for them.
For what it's worth, I don't think McCain and his sidekick have a snowball's chance in hell of winning the election (even in our notably flawed electorial system), but nevertheless, they seem intent on fanning the flames of divisive hatred as much as possible between now and the election. Their tactics are old, clumsy, and disgusting, and I'm glad you've called them out on it.
Hi Melissa!! Thank you and I'm sure I'm not in as much control as a machine would be, but it irks my soul that it's ok for someone else to say "that hurts my feelings" and yet they're totally oblivious to the part where they've hurled rocks at you, in this case me. I won't take it. I'm going to preach against hate, but I may have to raise my voice to get the attention of some who profess there is no hate, all the while they're being hateful...
It's ok to be a Republican and a racist or claim it doesn't exist and its not important, but let them get their feelings hurt about something tiny and all of a sudden the splinter of pain they have is a 20 foot long- 2 foot deep log.
Other's experiences of racism or taking offense at words, well that's just petty.
There are clearly many urgent issues of importance in this campaign, insulting those who are of different colors running a tie of "first" with all others.
I'd love to have a woman in the White House, a woman of great worth and intelligence, one who is respectful of differences, one that has truth as a core of her being.
and McCain's wife is mad because Obama didn't vote for that particular bill of funding for the troops??? Did it bother her that her husband didn't vote for it either? (one similar and for the same reason "timetable") and that he doesn't vote for veteran issues either?? almost none in years and years?? The big country first guy? Is THAT an issue....no I guess not, anything that makes McCain look like a liar, well that 's not an issue, I haven't brought up anything yet against McCain that those for him thought was "an issue."
I don't like everything about Obama, but He's far ahead of what's on the Republican side.
sorry, ranting a bit here...thanks again Melissa, nerves on all sides are frayed I think. =))
Anna Marie, I just realized I didn't respond to your comment, I do think we need not to be too sensitive to things said in a campaign, but sometimes candidates will use the campaign, to slip in words that are just too powerful for acceptance in casual ways, It's been days and days and I just had to respond. Issues like the economy, war, funds, energy, etc, will not be brought to solutions, if all Americans are not included for benefit in the solution. When a candidate has clear prejudice against a group of people or an individual even, we are all in danger of being ignored or mistreated. We are more together then, than ever, because we are all at risk.
McCain's performance at the debate was a clear indication he does not respect Obama, people of color, poverty, low income, low education, or truth. my opinion, of course, but my opinion matters as does others, and should not be discounted as petty or not important or not about the real issues. What we are passionate about IS the real issues. I am passionate about fairness to minorities, of which I am one (woman, hear me roar) passionate about the truth, the respect all humans deserve from government, -- if he wants to be the President, he can be more respectful as he discusses issues...he was more than not respectful, he was racist, in my view. which deserves respect, at least on my own hub, in my own living room so to speak.
=)) I invite all to speak, here. I will not take disrespect however. I'm not a doormat, just cuz most of the time I'm gentle. I don't like "hate."
No worries. :) I've done my fair share of ranting about the election, and I agree that neither candidate is perfect, but McCain and Palin send shivers up my spine, and it's sad to see people defending them with such venomous disdain for those who don't share their views.
At least we're nearing the finish line, although it seems like it can't get here quickly enough.
Hi Rainbow and Patty, I was upset at McCain's thoughtless words and actions, the way he spoke to those in the town hall, he thought his style was flawless and his ego was quite strong about it, he performed poorly and insultingly.
Somethings are just too low to allow to be said; McCain didn't even hang around he was so "Petty" and mad. Patty, you're right, Saturday night live will make us all laugh. I need it, I'm ready! LOL thanks to all of you for commenting. We all got a lot off our chest; I am not upset at any individual but did feel called upon to speak out, for what I believe is right as well as in my own defense.
=)) Peace, peace...
I heard him say it and I was like wtf?
Thank you Melissa, I like to be liked, as well as anyone, and I do believe I'm known for being respectful on the hub. Politics anger people, we're all susceptible. It is a long journey, to the White House....
and probably I've lost a reader or two...
Well, you can't be all things to all people. Sometimes, a person has to stand up, speak out, and not take insults.
One of the commentors reminded me of a foster child I had who was quick to slap at others, belittle them, etc. She would fall apart and scream and cry if someone said "stop that, you're rude." I would often let the kids set those boundaries and she would be upset for me not stopping them for setting limits, and hurting "her" feelings, when she had diced them for hours.
I told her something like "You have to learn someday that there are more feelings that matter-- besides yours. Other's have boundaries too. Other's have opinions, possessions, histories. When you realize that, you'll have a solid foundation to stand on and won't be tossed around so often, bumping into other's "place" in the world. "
I took a stand. I'm not alone, but if I were, I'd still take the stand. I believe McCain was hateful and disrespectful of Obama in deep ways that Obama never crossed with him. Not just this time, but McCain has done it for months, speech after speech as has Palin. for anyone to say that's not a real issue, just doesn't know what they're talking about. And that's ok, but not insulting me in the process. so there, LOL LOL I'm not bitter,.... =P
Hi DJ, yep, and when you add that to the first debate where he wouldn't give Obama the respect of a direct look, and pointed to him from the side, and all the weird campaign remarks he and Palin make, and the inciting hate remarks recently, it's just too much. It's time for decent Americans to speak out against the racist comments and the hate mongering. He is eroding the campaign process....anything to win. Country first my rear.
Anyone who is acquainted with professional speaking picks up on his insults. Disrespect is not making eye contact, not using their title and name together, ("Joe") pointing, blatant lies, using belittling terms, it's all calculated. McCain knows how to treat an opponent. He did not give Obama any respect that is common to debates, or opponents who are after all, fellow americans.
Countrywomen, I always appreciate you reading and commenting, I do want to stress that. As you read my other hubs, you'll see that I am very welcoming of differences.
I reserve the right to talk back to those who belittle my hub and opinion. She landed here for one reason and one reason only, to attack me - it's not the first time. I could have deleted the comment, but because I AM inclusive, I chose to let her have her say, but I did not want to be silent. I'm not running for office, and don't choose to constantly over look ridicule.
I don't consider your remarks to be the same, all comments are welcome, but I will respond to those who become personally negative.
Once again I think McCain is too old and not in a position to be President of the United States. He may be practicing his speeches more often now, but he should have been more careful than to make such a comment towards Obama. It may have been a mistake on his part as he may be nervous when making speeches, but overall he is just not the knowledgeable candidate with the ambition to make better changes for America. McCain's attitude is we should continue fighting and he will use his military record again and again to connect with veterans. That is nice he has commraderie with the vets, but this does not mean he should be elected to the highest office in the nation. Great hub as always Marisue. Obama used to teach at a law school, thus his presence with an audience and his great speech making ability. I just wanted to answer countrywoman's observations about how he speaks as a professor because he has taught graduate courses on law.
Marisue,
I was enquiring about an earlier comment and searched on the web to realize what it meant. Hence asked you to delete my comment.
I always believe and you can disagree with me on this: that we don't have to act the way the others treat us. Then there is no difference between those who attack and those who don't.
If someone calls me "immature" do I become one or if someone calls me a "genius" do I become einstein? I am what I am and that's it. Other's opinion of us constantly changes and there is no end to it. I agree everyone has a right to disagree agreebly. That's the beauty of United States. Imagine being in tightly controlled dictatorships or communist countries it's not possible.
Ultimately us saying something doesn't change anybody's opinion(just us they saying something also doesn't change ours) but our accommodation of the other person's views may helps us to make in roads into the other person re evaluating their own views. If not let us live that.
(In Mahatma Gandhi's Book "My Experiments with truth": He makes a very good statement which goes like this "If others hurt us then at the back of their mind they expect us to hit back. But when we don't then they will introspect and realize their actions")
All the above is again IMHO and I am sorry if I anything I said is not appropriate in this hub.
Marisuwrites, your policy of not deleting comments from your hubs is commendable. I don't even read hubs of several people who keep deleting my comments-e.g., Malachi and allshook up. I welcome all comers on my hubs. I don't believe I've ever deleted a comment, certainly not one because it disagreed with me.
Country, I knew that was the wrong word. "Non-citizen"?
Personally, I think an "outsider" perspective is better. One can always see something better when on the outside looking in. You know?
Ralph, I'm having a problem with a hubber named Dineshmalshe (I think). Twice now, he's left what was easily a 700-800 word comment, or longer!, on one of my hubs which were preachy and had nothing to do with the hub subject. The first time I deleted the comment and told him exactly why. The second time, yesterday, I also deleted it and again told him why, but this time not so nicely.
I should have clicked on his picture and sent him a direct message telling him to knock it off or he would be reported, but I didn't think of that until after I'd deleted his book, I mean comment.
Anybody know who this person is. A search for his name brought up nadda, but he had a picture, so he's got to be a hubber, right?
Hi Countrywomen,
I have lived by much of what you say. I believe blessed are the peacemakers.
That does not mean that right should not take a stand. Right took one here tonight. I am not going to stand by and be insulted over writing an opinion. Someone can disagree with my view....but to belittle me or the writing is something I will not take, not now and not from them. I have taken that insult on other hubs from this person, ...it was just over. Walk in my house, be respectful...
You don't sit down to eat the roast, and then say it was not really a roast of importance, it's not respectful to belittle the meal. Especially when the roast was not for me so much as to feed the hungry.
In other words, any one who says to me that race is not an important issue, that I wrote something that was not about a real issue, is just picking a fight and there was nothing wrong with me telling them they were wrong. I appreciate your view. but to always be passive is not healthy. I am way too passive way too much of the time and enough was enough. Setting healthy boundaries is not so much as to convert the other person, as it is to SET THE BOUNDARY.
I'll fence out rudeness and a tendency for someone to accept racism as normal and "not an issue" for discussion everytime.
I do respect the atttitude of make a friend of the foe, but sometimes it's necessary to cut your losses and take an important stand on principle. I'm not concerned about converting them, in this case -- more important to set the standard.
There comes a time, when one must respond. I do not believe the mere act of responding puts the responder on the level of the attacker, nor does it make one immature. I don't believe my response was immature, but rather an appropriate self defense to someone I believes bullies other people on their hubs and when they find disagreement, they then claim their feelings are hurt.
An Adult must take a stand at times. I choose my battles carefully, I just had enough with that particular type of response. That type of person frequently calls other's views not important, not "real" and it frequently relates to "race."
It is just a very distasteful behavior and if we as responsible citizens in a country that strives for equality don't take the time and courage to stand up to those who say the inequality is a petty issue, then they will always be the one with the voice and those suffering from racist attacks will continue to suffer.
I am courageous enough to take a stand. I did try to be nice. I think I was nice...just direct when nice by itself didn't open the door of their mind, so they could learn to be nice.
=)) I always like nice, have built many relationships on nice. I just add dash of pepper to the sugar once in a while. =) thanks again!
One thing that makes me mad is Sarah Palin wanted to imply Barack Obama is unAmerican. She is still up to that business, and McCain is so wishy washy he lets her get away with it. He made a mistake in chosing her as VP running mate.
Country. I, personally, thought your last comment was intelligent and wise. I definitely need to read some of your stuff!
Hi Ralph, I exercised such restraint. LOL Frankly, I think freedom of speech is important. It irks me when they want it, but they don't want you to have it back to them. LOL They call names, and then cry when you say "stop that."
Well, gee, I happen to think racism is wrong, and I have a right to speak about it where I see it. To agree or not, fine, to be disrespectful - well nuff said. =))
Constant, I agree with the wisdom, but there is a time to take a stand, We each have to decide for ourselves when that time is. For me, it was tonight.
I have years and years of walking away in my memory. Therefore, when I take a stand, it's because it's time. I make that judgement.
Hi Sweetie Pie, now you know it's ok for her to say things like that, it's not the real issue. That's why Sarah spends so much time doing it, and we should just ignore it and let her do it because if we write a hub condemning her remarks or McCain's then we are just taking up space talking about things that don't matter. Let's see, what does matter? Maybe we should have to ask permission about what we write about?? That's the next freedom we'll lose? Freedom of speech will only belong to those who "rule?" There goes the average American on the ground.
LOL Ralph, I am definitely with you on Malachi guy. What a tool! :)
Thank you, Sweetie Pie, I appreciate your comments...=)) as always!
Keep up the great journalism Marisue. Hopefully some of your writings will get through to search engine traffic that is still deciding on who to vote for.
In my experience, marisue has always been welcoming of diffferent opinions. That kind of discussion is what makes America great.
I will speak for me but I didn't watch the debate to watch John McCain screw up. I watched the debate to see what both candidates think on the issues. Though my mind is made up already (having watched every bit of this since the very beginning), I have a good idea on where both stand.
Alicia, I understand your feelings. I remember when Dr.King was asssassinated and then Bobby. Men of peace gone too soon. I am frightened for Barack Obama with the tone that the campaign speeches have taken, mostly by Sarah Palin. But I am going to keep the faith.
CountrywomanYour assessment of the candidates is very superficial and you speak in generalities. In my opinion, what is going on is beyond Sarah Palin being charming. There is nothing charming about having someone yell "kill him" as she ignites the crowd with her negative rhetoric. Even some of the most conservative columnists and Republicans feel that she is not fit to serve and her negatives are rising.
The conservative journalist Kathleen Parker wrote in the Washington Post, "Democrats and other critics distracted by her winks may have missed the message, but Palin's target audience heard it loud and clear. She is like the high-pitched whistle only dogs can hear. While Democrats heard non-answers, superfluous segues and cartoon words -- shout-out, I'll betcha, doggone, extra credit -- Republicans heard God, patriotism, courage, victory."
What kind of charisma is it to spew such hatred as to incite the crowds to say things like "Kill him" and not to say anything to the crowd. At a recent rally, an African American cameraman was told to "sit down boy" while he was trying to do his job. Is this charming?
It is important to speak out when things are getting out of control. I am reminded of the poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller (date approx. 1955. It has gone through several changes since then but here is the orginal that is inscribed at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. reads:
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Socialist. Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Trade Unionist. Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out - because I was not a Jew. Then they came for me - and there was no one left to speak for me
The version inscribed at the New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston, Massachusetts reads: They came first for the Communists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist. Then they came for the Jews, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew. Then they came for the trade unionists, and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist. Then they came for the Catholics, and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant. Then they came for me, and by that time no one was left to speak up. I am afraid that McCain is grasping at straws and now feels that the only way to win is to ride the waves of character assassination. In fact, recently a McCain staffer told the NY Daily News that they can't win on the issues especially the economy and so they will try to deflect the discussion to one of innuendo.
I for one long for the day when we can get back to decency in politics and debate the issues.
Hi Sweetie Pie...It's a journey not free from criticism, but I am expecting that. thank you as always for your great encouragement to me...it means a lot.
I am not here to offend anyone. ....but I will not forsake standing on the side of equality and "right" for the fear of criticism or offense.
One thing is greatly more important than a bit of criticism.
For anyone to blindly go thru life and think racism is not an issue of important discussion, has obviously not lived close to reality. I have seen the suffering, and not nearly as much as those who've lived thru it...but I've seen enough to know it matters. and it matters today. ==))
In my experience, marisue has always been welcoming of diffferent opinions. That kind of discussion is what makes America great.
I will speak for me but I didn't watch the debate to watch John McCain screw up. I watched the debate to see what both candidates think on the issues. Though my mind is made up already (having watched every bit of this since the very beginning), I have a good idea on where both stand.
Alicia, I understand your feelings. I remember when Dr.King was asssassinated and then Bobby. Men of peace gone too soon. I am frightened for Barack Obama with the tone that the campaign speeches have taken, mostly by Sarah Palin. But I am going to keep the faith.
CountrywomanYour assessment of the candidates is very superficial and you speak in generalities. In my opinion, what is going on is beyond Sarah Palin being charming. There is nothing charming about having someone yell "kill him" as she ignites the crowd with her negative rhetoric. Even some of the most conservative columnists and Republicans feel that she is not fit to serve and her negatives are rising.
The conservative journalist Kathleen Parker wrote in the Washington Post, "Democrats and other critics distracted by her winks may have missed the message, but Palin's target audience heard it loud and clear. She is like the high-pitched whistle only dogs can hear. While Democrats heard non-answers, superfluous segues and cartoon words -- shout-out, I'll betcha, doggone, extra credit -- Republicans heard God, patriotism, courage, victory."
What kind of charisma is it to spew such hatred as to incite the crowds to say things like "Kill him" and not to say anything to the crowd. At a recent rally, an African American cameraman was told to "sit down boy" while he was trying to do his job. Is this charming?
It is important to speak out when things are getting out of control. I am reminded of the poem by Pastor Martin Niemöller (date approx. 1955. It has gone through several changes since then but here is the orginal that is inscribed at the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. reads:
First they came for the Socialists, and I did not speak out -
because I was not a Socialist.
Then they came for the Trade Unionists, and I did not speak out -
because I was not a Trade Unionist.
Then they came for the Jews, and I did not speak out -
because I was not a Jew.
Then they came for me -
and there was no one left to speak for me
The version inscribed at the New England Holocaust Memorial in Boston, Massachusetts reads:They came first for the Communists,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Communist.
Then they came for the Jews,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a Jew.
Then they came for the trade unionists,
and I didn't speak up because I wasn't a trade unionist.
Then they came for the Catholics,
and I didn't speak up because I was a Protestant.
Then they came for me,
and by that time no one was left to speak up.
I am afraid that McCain is grasping at straws and now feels that the only way to win is to ride the waves of character assassination. In fact, recently a McCain staffer told the NY Daily News that they can't win on the issues especially the economy and so they will try to deflect the discussion to one of innuendo.
I for one long for the day when we can get back to decency in politics and debate the issues.
LOL Marisue, now you have to choose which of Susan's comments to decline :D
Wow, Susan, what a powerful reminder and motivator for having courage to speak of the unspeakable. To point it out when inexcusable behavior is flaunted. Oh my!! You brought tears to my eyes, with such deep values of historical proportions - I am humbled. thank you again for your support and opinions!!
It is my desire to value differences and speak out against equality, and the right to talk about it as an issue of importance.
Thank God for Tina Fey boy. believe it or not, she is having an impact on this race.
------- Forwarded message follows -------A British Perspective:Flirting her way to victorySarah Palin's farcical debate performance lowered the standards for bothfemale candidates andUSpolitical discourseMichelle Goldberg FridayOctober 3 2008guardian.co.ukAt least three times last night, Sarah Palin, the adorable, preposterousvice-presidential candidate, winked at the audience. Had a male candidatewith a similar reputation for attractive vapidity made such a brazen attemptto flirt his way into the good graces of the voting public, it would haveuniversally noted, discussed and mocked. Palin, however, has single- handedlyso lowered the standards both for female candidates and American politicaldiscourse that, with her newfound ability to speak in more-or-less fullsentences, she is now deemed to have performed acceptably last night.By any normal standard, including the ones applied to male presidentialcandidates of either party, she did not. Early on, she made the astonishingannouncement that she had no intentions of actually answering the queriesput to her. "I may not answer the questions that either the moderator or youwant to hear, but I'm going to talk straight to the American people and letthem know my track record also," she said.And so she preceded, with an almost surreal disregard for the subjects shewas supposed to be discussing, to unleash fusillades of scripted attacklines, platitudes, lies, gibberish and grating references to her ownpseudo-folksy authenticity.It was an appalling display. The only reason it was not widely described assuch is that too many American pundits don't even try to judge the truth,wisdom or reasonableness of the political rhetoric they are paid topronounce upon. Instead, they imagine themselves as interpreters of amythical mass of "average Americans" who they both venerate and despise.In pronouncing upon a debate, they don't try and determine whether acandidate's responses correspond to existing reality, or whether he or sheis capable of talking about subjects such as the deregulation of thefinancial markets or the devolution of the war inAfghanistan. The criteriaare far more vaporous. In this case, it was whether Palin could avoidutterly humiliating herself for 90 minutes, and whether urbane commentatorswould believe that she had connected to a public that they see as ignorantand sentimental. For theAlaskagovernor, mission accomplished.There is indeed something mesmerising about Palin, with her manic beamingand fulsome confidence in her own charm. The force of her personalitymanaged to slightly obscure the insulting emptiness of her answers lastnight. It's worth reading the transcript of the encounter, where it becomesclearer how bizarre much of what she said was. Here, for example, is how sheresponded to Biden's comments about how the middle class has beenshort-changed during the Bush administration, and how McCain will continueBush's policies:Say it ain't so, Joe, there you go again pointing backwards again. Youpreferenced [sic] your whole comment with the Bush administration. Nowdoggone it, let's look ahead and tell Americans what we have to plan to dofor them in the future. You mentioned education, and I'm glad you did. Iknow education you are passionate about with your wife being a teacher for30 years, and god bless her. Her reward is in heaven, right? ... My brother,who I think is the best schoolteacher in the year, and here's a shout-out toall those third graders atGladysWoodElementary School, you get extracredit for watching the debate.Evidently, Palin's pre-debate handlers judged her incapable of speaking on afairly wide range of subjects, and so instructed to her to simply disregardquestions that did not invite memorised talking points or cutesyfilibustering. They probably told her to play up her spunky average-ness,which she did to the point of shtick - and dishonesty. Asked what herachilles heel is - a question she either didn't understand or chose toignore - she started in on how McCain chose her because of her "connectionto the heartland ofAmerica. Being a mom, one very concerned about a son inthe war, about a special needs child, about kids heading off to college, howare we going to pay those tuition bills?"None of Palin's children, it should be noted, are heading off to college.Her son is on the way toIraq, and her pregnant 17-year-old daughter isengaged to be married to a high-school dropout and self-described "fuckin'redneck". Palin is a woman who can't even tell the truth about the mostquotidian and public details of her own life, never mind about matters ofmajor public import. In her only vice-presidential debate, she was shallow,mendacious and phoney. What kind of maverick, after all, keeps harping onwhat a maverick she is? That her performance was considered anything but afarce doesn't show how high Palin has risen, but how low we all have sunk.Copyright Guardian Newspapers Limited 2008------- End of forwarded message -------
You are welcome marisue....I am glad to have gotten to meet you.
Hey DJ, you are right. Thank God for Tina Fey. There is a rumor and I have no idea if it is true, that Sarah Palin may make a guest appearance on SNL and play Tina Fey. Did anyone else hear that? Now that would be funny.
But you know comedy has always been important in politics. The ability to take a situation and do political satire gives us the ability to look at emotionally charged issues in a different way.
Dj, Is she not the funniest thing alive !!! amen!!!
Just want to clear up a poiint that may have gotten lost in our ranting here....
when i said "that one, McCain, you had no hesitation, no feeling, that thowe words would carry a burden of history, as they flowed easily from your slick tongue? No wisdom whispsered to you, no warning of the indecency of your comment? "
we must realize, that saying "that one" while pointing to me, a white person, has an entirely different conotation than saying "that one, while pointing to a black person. Due to the history of each, the meaning is significantly different, tho' both would be offended, in this instance.
To further illustrate the point, tho' those who need this example, will probly not read it; however, I will give it anyway. As a foster parent and lover of all kids especially toddlers, I had a little black toddler for a few months who became very special to us. As was our habit, we called all little toddlers "monkey" affectionately. One day, our little boy, say Jerry, for the record, had a visit scheduled with his mother. She came to get him and as he left, we called out...."bye monkey."
She was stunned and offended, and we learned to be very careful when using some words that carried a whole separate meaning than what we intended.
She had lived with the worst of that meaning. To be insensitive to her feelings about it would be naive on my part. Just because I did not have her experience in my history, did not make hers any less valid.
Should I have said she was being Petty? Not a real issue? How cruel that would have been. Her offense at the monkey word was from generations of cruel speech and use of it. I learned and I understood. IT IS A REAL ISSUE.
McCain knew the significance of his words. He is not inexperienced, he just didn't care, as many other examples in his speeches allow us to conclude.
I read somewhere that he called his wife a "cunt" in front of several other people.
Hi Ralph, thanks for including the article....yes I've read the same thing and it's from valued news sources. He's a real sweetie, we want him in the White House, Palin by his side.!!!
Thank you Susan!! You know I'd love to see that... These two are nearly twins...no offense to Tina. LOL
------------
Susan, one reason I wrote this, is because I do believe strongly it is so important to all people for all of us regardless of race or color to reach out across the "aisles" for understanding and compassion and respect.
marisue, you are right. Words Matter! We need to be sensitive to what is offensive to other cultures and races.
This election season has been amazing in some respects and sad in others.it is 2008 and we have the first African American candidate, who beat out the first woman in a primary.
This is something I never thought I would see in my lifetime. And yet is 2008 and we are talking about race in such a horrible way.
John McCain knew what he was saying. What saddens me is that this John McCain will say anything to get elected. This is not the McCain of 2000 who was himself the recipient of ugly whisper campaign in the South Carolina primary.
The rumor went around that he had fathered a black baby out of wedlock (by the way those campaigns were the same people that McCain has hired to do his dirty work in this campaign). They were referring to their daughter who they adopted from a Bengladesh orphanage.
The McCains went on to say, "I believe that there is a special place in hell for people like those."
This isn't the first time John McCain has gotten into trouble for making racist remarks. Back in 2000, Sen. John McCain told reporters, "I hated the gooks. I will hate them as long as I live." And while he said he was referring to his prison guards, he offended the Asian community by his initial refusal to apologize.
It took him 3 days to issue an apology after the backlash from his comment. He said, "I was referring to my prison guards," McCain said, "and I will continue to refer to them in language that might offend some people because of the beating and torture of my friends."
(http://www.sfgate.com/cgi-bin/article.cgi?file=/chronicle/archive/2000/02/18/MN32194.DTL)
(http://asianweek.com/2000_02_24/feature_mccainapol
You should watch this You Tube clip where John McCain uses the phrase Tar Baby in a very unusual way and draw your own conclusion.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FNGXB_qx0xk
Lastly, this is the You Tube video of McCain answering a question during the primary season calling the HS student who asked him a question about his age, "you little jerk."
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F2zx3-0zOPs
when you start to get such a string of comments, you begin to wonder about his temperment to be President.
Marisue- I agree you felt and did take a stand on a issue which is very close to your heart. I only felt maybe sometimes we may end up winning an argument but lose a friend(In this case other person(s) may stop visiting or we will be bereft of understanding alternate perspectives).
Susan-Iam glad you took some time to go through my perspective. I highly value your evaluation and as I mentioned it was totally my personal opinion. Although beauty isn't just skin deep but still physical looks/ mannerisms tend to affect us. Atleast at first glance she appears charming until one really drills her to get to the substance within her.
ConstantWalker-Thanks for such a "flattering" observation about me. But seriously I am very normal so is my writing style and not "intelligent"/ "wise" as your high opinion suggests. No worries about the "outsider" thingy I was just pulling your leg... hehe
Thank you countrywoman. I appreciate being able to share opinions. You are right, on first glance she is very charming as long as you don't really pay attention to what she is saying.
I am glad to be a part of this community of writers and thinkers.
Marisue - you are absolutely correct. It was a crass moment from McCain when he let that 'that one' slip out. I was left wondering if it was intentional or accidental, but it hardly matters as each alternative is as bad as the other. What he betrayed was no 'mere' political incorrectness, but a deep-rooted contempt for a whole people. You did well to turn your spotlight on his shame.
mariesue, I couldn't watch the whole debate--it really made me sick. McCain reminds me of my father in the last year of his life. He had lung cancer that spread to his brain and throughout his body, and for the last year he was alive he had that same contemptuous, stuffed rage about him that McCain has now. It makes me wonder if the man is well, and I'm not saying that just because I'm voting for Obama--I really have serious doubts and his physical and mental health.
Palin has no such excuse. The fact that she didn't stop and immediately rebuke whoever shouted out "Kill him!" when she was trashing Obama as a potential terrorist chills me to the bone. What is happening to this country?
The irony is that in a few months we will have such severe problems just surviving that all this ugly politicking will be the farthest thing from our minds. I think we'll me more in the mode of, "How do I eat today?"
Thanks for having the courage to address this. It is all really wearing me down at this point. I feel like McCain & Palin shame us in the eyes of the world.
Countrywomen, I stand on principle as regards to the hub and also the other commentor to which I replied so bluntly. The issue I was responding to from the commentor is what aggravated me. I decided to be more blunt than is my usual response. It is very wrong of a person to say about this article that the racism to which I refer is not a real issue, and is petty, etc.
No longer can we "say it isn't so" and let people attack the person who points out racism where it exists as wrong. These people go from article to article, belittling those of us who are pointing out a wrong and then they claim our reply hurts their feelings.
Number one, they are the ones attacking the content. Number two, yes I could ignore it and let them continue to bark. However, there comes a time when if what is right is not defended, then right takes a back seat, and that is wrong.
To me, when racism is allowed to creep into the accepted behavior category, it soon becomes the rule. We cannot as a nation allow that to happen ever again. McCain has crossed the lines numerous times, but this particular commentor attacks those who bring that up and tries to minimize our remarks in what I call a disrespectful manner. Then, when that type of personality is called down for their attacks on the writers for bringing up clear valid points, they claim offense and the writer should back off?
I'm not writing to gain friendships. I'm writing to increase awareness and express opinions as a commentator in my own right, speaking with the voice of my background and in this particular case, using my verbal skills - small as they may be - to further a cause of respect and fairness. When anyone denounces that content as petty and immaterial, or not a real issue, I will defend it because the "cause is greater than myself." All of us have the right of expression. My article was respectful but direct.
So was my comment in defense of my article. The person who does not think race is an issue and puts down the article as petty is not going to get diplomacy from me, and if they then run to their corner sniveling and whining, that too, is their problem, not the problem of the writer. We're all adult readers. Again, I believe in diplomacy, but I deserve it as well. If a person can't give me the respect I deserve, they better understand I will take up for myself and my rights, because my rights are the rights of others as well.
It's a shallow person that can't see McCain's "that one!" remarks as very harmful to democracy. We should all be speaking out against not only his remarks, but the narrow minded thinking that says we shouldn't talk it about his remarks as a real issue.
You want me to be nice, and I agree. And so should the people who speak up for McCain. The problem is, they can't be nice because how can anyone accept his racist attitude? So they attack the person writing about it. I'm not accepting it anymore. That person can either give me, a writer, the respect they want for themselves, or don't speak.
At the risk of extending this subject too much, I want to end with this reminder. As a foster parent, I often gave talks on child abuse and family violence. At one talk to a local service organization, in this case it was the Lion's Club, a few prominent businessmen came up to me afterwards and were offended that I had said child abuse was prevalent right there in our small town, that children were going hungry and had needs not being met.
HE was offended. Child abuse didn't exist and was not an issue in our little town. I had invaded his plastic existence, forcing him to see what he preferred to ignore. HE was offended that I would bring the subject up. I guess it upset his lunch. Child abuse did not exist to the level I said, it was not the real issue he wanted to talk about, his time could be better spent dealing with "real subjects" more prevalent.
He never stopped to think that his lecture, since he was wearing a big ol fancy suit and everything, might have been intimidating to me, or that he could be wrong.
I had made him take off his rose colored glasses, and see the families that he normally ignored.
I had these kids in my home, I knew their situation, but the white collared businessmen wanted to live in their happy little world and not look at the grief next door.
I was wrong, how dare I?
Diplomacy ruled, and I smiled and said "One day, the world will be a better place when we quit fooling ourselves about the existence of problems. I hope your contribution will be part of the solution. However, it will never happen if you don't climb down from your ivory tower long enough to see the dirt on the ground that is blowing in other's faces."
These issues are not petty, and you don't get the attention from the person denying the existence of the issue by whispering to them.
Denial is a comfortable blanket, but it never covers the one who is cold.
I respect you and others, Countrywomen, and I ask for that back from all who read my words.
Hi pgrundy, we have much work to do as a nation, I suppose we always will, our journey is almost one without a destination, a work in progress throughout the eternities of time, as we will always be striving for higher ground. I think it helps us to see what we do today as just a portion of what will be tomorrow. The house of life is always under construction.
I am living my latter years focusing on using words, the power of the pen, to try and make things better. That might include calling someone down for trying to shut me up. LOL That's what they did, and I will not be quiet because they prefer to think racism is not an issue. McCain, as Susan so profoundly pointed out, is not a stranger to the language he threw out during the 2nd debate. He continues to spew out hate and as he does I will throw it up for review.
Thank you always for your prespective and help. =))!!!
(my time is limited at this moment, I will respond to other comments later in the day.) thanks to all who comment, and I hope to remain "friendly" as we discuss the challenges of our nation.
We're all Americans...and I harbor no ill will.
of course I meant to speak out about "inequality" not "equality" above...scuse the typo. =)
I'm afraid that this campaign is a done deal; the economy's problems have put the last nail in McCain's coffin. Before that, the two were close in the poles, now they are not. I'm not sure anymore about politics. I have concerns about both candidates in fact I have concerns about all politicians.
Madison
Countrywomen,
I certainly agree with Susan's comments (above) about your assessment of the candidates.
Speaking as an "outsider" I'd also like to point out one thing. John F. Kennedy, undoubtedly one of America's greatest presidents, came into office relatively young and inexperienced. In a time of crisis, he had the courage and judgment to make a call that averted a build up of nuclear weapons at the U.S. door step. In effect he averted what likely would have led to a nuclear confrontation.
George Bush came into office (twice!!) brimming with Commander-In-Chief confidence and a belly full of experience. He has since bogged the country in two wars, bungled through Katrina, and under his administration and policies he espouses, the U.S. and the world is in a financial tail spin.
Experience counts for naught without good judgment.
Hi PenmanZee, we surely need some common sense and thought processes that are all "connected.." I think the legacy of the Bush years will be one of great expense both in lives and money; no matter who we elect, we will need to be a watchful nation. =)
Hi Madison, it's very hard to trust anyone at this point; I hope whoever wins will earn our trust with sound judgement for all. I am going to speak out now and throughout their service regarding fairness, racism if the occasion demands it, and policies that would weaken our country. I am only one voice, but one voice makes a difference. We all need to express our views.
I'd like the ones who think race is not an issue to speak that loud and clear, and see the response they get. They may think racism is not an issue if no one treats them in a racially discriminating manner, but what hurts one, hurts us all.
Certainly we have many issues of importance. None of them should be ignored. =)) always thank you all for commenting....
Hi Paraglider, Diplomacy has it's place in our society and is normally my first choice. However, some will run over you with their lack of it, while expecting high quality amounts of it given to them. Nope, nada. I can only be stepped on so many times before I not only move my foot, I gripe back. =)) My hub, my gripe, yes?? LOL
Susan, I meant to tell you those are wonderful links, and thanks for providing them!! =)
Marisue- Everything you said does make sense. I am glad I really met someone who practices charity (time, money, effort and emotions) on so many children, and such life changing experiences certainly help us to see from different perspectives. Since in my brief stay on this planet I haven't done anything close to the kind of charity that you have done or continuing to do, and I just pray to God that even I evolve as the kind hearted soul that marisue is.
Penmanzee- As I mentioned I am not a political pundit but just an observer. My observations are based on TV channels, talking to my fellow office colleagues and believe it or not on hub pages (although I do browse some other news sites online also).
As I said I have a very brief experience interviewing candidates (in IT field). So from that perspective 8/10 times when we select a candidate for a position we look at relevant experience. But that doesn't discount 2/10 times when we do look at outstanding candidates who have immense potential without experience. These people can pick up very quickly and leverage the strengths of others to solve the issues. From another perspective usually for an entrepreneur the first couple of times their judgement isn't entirely correct but if they persist then they may hit the jackpot. Very rarely except for a genius or incredibly lucky people the first judgement is bang on target. Hence the right kind of experiences in a majority of the cases leads to better judgement.
Having said that Barak falls into that exceptional candidate material and his selection of Biden shows he has the ability to leverage on certain areas to complement his shortcomings. And that shows very good judgement (To be aware of one's weakness is a strength in itself). As they say understanding the problem is half the solution.
P.S: All these were made not to hurt anyone's opinion. I regret if I unknowingly ruffled any feathers.
OK, I have to speak up here. Michelle Obama has down played the "that one" comment and stands as a great women, the wife of Barack Obama and hopefully the future First Lady of this growing and changing nation.
Therefore, even though i found the "that one" comment personally offensive, I really would like for the campaign to get back to talking about issues.
Apparently McCain's staff does not believe McCain can win by talking about the economy, so I wonder if we will hear anything substantial from McCain about the mess we are in.
As for the mess we are in, both major parties can accept and share blame, although much of the problem does stem from deregulation. Now, too much regulation is stifling, while not enough leads to chaos and, quite honestly, directly to the mess we are now in.
Obama seems to recognize that regulation alone will not solve the current mess or prevent a future occurrance of this mess, and he seems to recognize that it will take more than just a few expensive bandaides to cure the current mess.
McCain has offered some, in my humble opinion, vague ideas about this crisis, mainly saying that he knows what is needed to fix it, but even his website does not give much detail as to what that secret might be. I wonder if he really has an idea or not.
Obama seems to have an idea, and I, like many other voters, do not know if it will work or not, but as it becomes more widely circulated, and as experts in the field of economics weigh in, Obama's plan seems to carry more water than the vague statements of McCain.
I have also determined that people have decided, for various reasons, to vote for whomsoever they wish to, and that no amount of debate, either by candidates or by us, will change the mind of a dedicated voter for any candidate.
That said, I do feel bad that the campaign has come down to dirty tricks and lies about any of the candidates. i also feel very angry that certain comments by Sarah Palin have caused members of her audience to shout "Kill him!" when she mentions the tenuous links between Obama and Wm. Ayers.
I also find it disturbing that Palin has not told such people that killing the opponent is not the game plan. If she is the one inciting such hatred, it is her responsibility to quell such notionk,s and to do it quickly, not the next day, but right when it occurs.
I also find it fascinatibng that one of McCain's biggest supporters and contributors, the Annenberg family, were the ones who hired both Obama and Ayers to work on the charity committee the Annenbergs formed. To me, the link between Obama and Ayers is less direct than the link between the Annenbergs and McCain.
But in truth, there is no evil, secret link, and so the entire story just becomes one of desperation and falsehood. I call upon Sarah Palin to cease making this dangerous speech in which her supporters have now taken to call for Obama's death. It is dangerous for the nation,a and could get her in big legal trouble.
Furthermore I was surprised at Cindy McCain's statement that Obama voted against the bill to fund troops, when JOhn McCain voted against a similar bill. The only difference between the bills was that in the one Obama voted against, there was no timeline for winding down the war, bringing our troops home.
In the one McCain voted against, which was to my understanding the very same bill with the exception that a timeline for troop withdrawal had been added, he said it was a vote of conscience because (a) of the addition of the timetable and (b) because it would be vetoed by President Bush anyway.
Semantics.
Half truths and outright lies.
Shame on them all!
And, better said, shame on us for believing the lies!
Just cut the B.S., everybody and let's get down to the nitty-gritty. Who will make a better president? We really don't know. None of us do, no matter which candidates we back. It's not really a matter of experience, or, for that matter, even campaigh promises.
It seems to me it is a matter of conscience, of voting for our beliefs, and for the person who will do the best for this nation.
We have been charged by the founders of this nation to support the candidate we most believe will do the best for the nation. Look to the issues, not the crap and propaganda. Propaganda is for NAZIs and fanatics, for rebels without a clue.
As American citizens we are charged with making the most important decision in our times. We can't afford to go into this thing depending upon gut feelings, believing in falsehoods created or twisted to fit an agenda, thus ignoring facts.
It is our duty to rise above party politics, seek out the truth about each candidate and then make our decisions. To do otherwise is not what the creators of this nation demanded of us.
Marisuewrites, I applaud you efforts and courage, and to everyone who has commented, you obviously have passion for your point of view. Just make sure, I implore you all, to make sure you are voting for your candidate based upon the truth of his or her positions, ideas and plans, not those based upon the false characterization portrayed by the opponent.
The truth is out there, if you but open your eyes to see it.
Countrywomen, you have not hurt me nor anyone else either I don't believe. It is sometimes difficult to put in print all that we mean. I wanted to explain myself thoroughly and my position, because I am not out to hurt anyone at all, either. I am out to explain in some small way, the huge pain of others. I want to add my voice to theirs...I am not a hero, and don't think of myself in that way.
When I add my experience up over the years, it does give me a view I want to share, maybe it will help other's see something they've not seen before. That's the end result I hope for, not to alienate. However, some people will be alienated, that is unavoidable; maybe even necessary if it helps the majority to see. I am willing to have that happen if it must...but it is not done with pleasure on my part.
=)) you are a welcome addition to Hub Pages, in my view and the view of many others I can imagine. Come back soon!!
Thank you for this Hub, Marisue!
When a person of influence makes a racist reference -- or allows one to go unchallenged -- it encourages racists, some of whom may go on to do a lot more than talk about their bigotry. That's the real danger.
If the person of influence apologizes very publicly for their gaffe, the situation is largely defused. Otherwise, they've only confirmed their active bigotry.
I'm not seeing anything approaching an apology.
Many thanks again, Marisue.
Hi Chef Jeff! I believe you give a great encouragement to us all! Michelle Obama definitely showed class. She made a gracious comment about an ungracious one, showing us she is above the fray. That is a strong characteristic, as the one who received the comment.
It's good that the average Americans on the ground can carry on the plea for fairness and decency for her, as she is supposed to stay above the rough waters...I'm glad she did it.
However, I will gladly move on, I'm sure they will provide another example of disrespect to comment on as time to vote draws near. LOL
As far as the economy, no one has the "one" answer; I believe all have affliliated with past questionable characters, clean hands are hard to find. I ask myself, are Obama's hands less dirty because he's not been around as long? I don't know. They both are, what they are.
I will have to choose the one that has the cleanest record and the best judgement, not an easy decision, but for me, McCain has made the choice much more clear. All give campaign "talk" but there are some lines that if crossed, send loud warning signals to the voters, or should. That is of which I speak. We all are required to sift the dirt daily, looking for truth, even finding the truth doesn't mean it's recognizable. When that happens, facts are important, so is our prespective. If we close our eyes ( as you suggested to "open" them...) we will only have ourselves to blame when we don't "see" what's right in front of us.
I don't have all the answers, but I believe Obama will study the issues, and surround himself with the best minds, and then have the wisdom to follow their advice...he will not have to trip over his own ego as Bush.
Thanks for trying to keep us (me) on track, though I do think racism is an issue, it's certainly not the only one. I'm quite concerned about the cost of food, rent, cars, energy, and basic living in the coming months.
always love your participation Chef Jeff!! =)
Great points Chef Jeff. Realize too that we are all probably giving vent to our frustarations with the system and the politicians. A little disconcerting those "Kill him" calls at the Palin rallies I must say. No one did anything?
Marian, Hi!! Well, my rear's a little sore from the bite a few took out of it, but in the long run, not only could I stand to lose an inch or two of the rear, (lol) but by far the majority understand McCain's remarks were wrong and he/anyone will only continue if there is not outcry.
I am not afraid to speak out against these wrongs, course I don't enjoy making people angry, but they don't hesitate to make me angry, so I guess my anger is not strong enough to scare a mouse, yet. LOL
I hope we can have civil discussion about the economy and war and energy, without adding racist or other low than a snake's belly remarks. =)) thanks for visiting, this is a tough year for all, no matter their views.
Hi PenmanZee,
Palin was sure quick to say to one protesting HER, "Bless your heart, my son is fighting in Iraq for your right to proest." to great cheers (like she invented that comment...lol)
But where were her remarks when the cry was "kill him!" from her repetitive insiting comments....why wasn't she as quick to say "My son is fighting in Iraq AGAINST that kind of outcry..." But no, she was almost nodding her head, and she almost smiled..she certainly DID NOT say "We are talking about votes, not violence." As a candidate, she should have addressed it, it was her moment, her speech, her supporter.
sigh. so much to discuss, this lady is way off base.
I thought the 2nd debate was pablum in substance from both sides. McCain knows what he would really do and lies about it. Obama doesn't know what he would do but his heart is closer to people I care about. And that little bit of racism, I caught it and I bet every black person watching did too.
countrywoman, I really appreciate your comments and I think you undersell yourself. You do and will do the kind of charity that speaks to you. The fact that you want to aspire to that speaks volumes about who you are.
I was interested in your comments about hiring staff for an IT position. You said you look for relevant experience. I agree with you. I was a Director of a Mental Health Program and when I looked for staff, the experience piece did not matter to me as much. My feeling was I could always teach someone the mechanics of the job. I looked to hire a heart, someone who had the desire and heart to work with the chronically mentally ill.
Now what does all this have to do with Obama. He started his career as a community organizer and spent time bringing people together and taught them how to empower themselves. He helped them get jobs. He could have had any cushy Wall St or high priced law firm job coming from being the editor of the Law Review at Harvard. But he chose to help others.
He also was a civil rights lawyer and taught constitutional law in law school at the University of Chicago. He will have respect for the laws of our land and has the ability to bring people together. These are transferrable skills. The next President will have to bring both sides of the aisle together to get work done for our country and will have to work with all world leaders for our good and for the good of the world.The one thing that makes Obama stand out is that he is smart and that he will surround himself with smart people. He doesn't have to know everything. He will have people there to help him. John McCain won't know everything either should he be elected.
Countrywoman You are very gentle and humble in expressing your opinion. I appreciate your comments.
Nicely said, Susan!! =)
Hi Hot dorkage, yes and if it hurts them it hurts us all....but there are a few who can't see that. It didn't touch them, so why not just move on and overlook it. Well, we cannot overlook racism any more. The world is too small, the cost is too great.
Thanks for stopping by, always!!!
Susan,
Thanks for such a nice opinion about me. But seriously I don't deserve all this praise. I am just an ordinary person trying to understand and make sense of the political situation as everyone (who resides in US and also maybe the world) is affected by who the next President of US is going to be.
Yes I totally agree with the personality (heart as you said) aspect also does play critical while making selections. Knowledge/skills can be imparted but not the attitude. Obama certainly has the attitude. I liked his comment where he said "Instead of bringing(by words) each other down we should think about bringing the country up". Even his good wife (michelle) seemed to not pick up a fight(yesterday's jon stewart show) but calm the charged up environment.
Marisue- Thanks for publishing good hubs and allowing everyone the opportunity to expand their understanding on so many issues about various personalities. As elections are about both personalities and issues. Debates and discussions are an integral exercize in this process. At the end of the day the goal to see the country recover and prosper is there in everyone's heart. Let's us all hope/pray "God Bless America"
You are right Countrywoman
God bless America!
And the world! May we see peace in our lifetime.
Countrywomen and Susan! I share your hopes and desires for a peaceful more caring world. It will be that way when each of us examines our own lifestyle and the way we treat others. We must take tough stands on issues, and speak up and out about inequality, as that is where decent changes for the whole world begin.
In all of our hearts, I hope we are united by the desire for a good life for all, no matter their political affiliation, as long as it does not infringe on the rights of others to be peacefully different, I support all who believe differently from me or any of us.
It is my right, your right to be uncommon, or common. We all need safety, freedom, voice, protection, progress, opportunity. I wish that for the world.
I hold no ill will for anyone, except those who would destroy the rights of all, according to their selfish desire for gain. If and when I detect that personality or design in behavior, I am grateful to live in a country where I can call attention to it, and speak up for good. That is freedom, yes? May we always keep it.
It brings tears to my eyes and hope to my heart.
I don't think McCain meant anything racist by "that one". Nor do I think the reason he assumed the questioner wouldn't know about Fannie & Freddy was because he was black (though I did think it insulting that he would assume a person who has the intelligence to ask important political questions wouldn't have read about them).
Don't get me wrong. I am NOT a McCain supporter. I absolutely hated how he said he could fix everything and how he knew everything. If he could do everything he claimed to do, he should have done them before. I also kept thinking "what perfect world does he live in" everytime he talked about how he wanted to lower taxes, yet wanted to give everyone a tax break for health insurance (with what money...?).
I thought Obama was more specific in his plans and I prefer a candidate that has a rough plan, than a candidate who lives in lollipopland.
rob reinhart2004 - your comments were entirely inappropriate and inflammatory and I'm sure you know that. I will not post something hurtful to any race, color, or group of people.
Therefore, your comments were deleted. Re-submit something respectful and I'll publish it.
Hi Squimpleton, he may or may not have meant it. He just doesn't think right and he's old enough to know better. =) Either way, he's a problem. Now they're trying to scare us with Obama, and some people are so easily swayed. Shame, they all have bad associations, so what do we do...start over? McCain and Palin both have terrible associations in their past, Palin in March or April gave praise "good job" to a group of people her husband worked closely with that want Alaska to secede from the union. That is treason, domestic terrorism and divisive. But, staunch Repubs look right past that like it's nothing. Why? Cuz she does it in the name of God.
God forbid. =)) Some stand for nothing, and fall for anything. We're going to need strength for what's ahead. I feel it coming...the tsunami of confusion.
Whether McCain intended to use the phrase "that one" to address the senator or the words slipped out by accident, and whether McCain intended the address as a racial slur or was not conscious of its racist implications, the fact remains that those two words and McCain's posture while delivering them were absolutely shocking, and yes, denigrating. You'd have to have lived in a cave all of your life, perhaps raised by wolves as well, to be unaware, intellectually or emotionally, of what these two words delivered this way signify.
I don't think McCain planned the utterance or the stance. He didn't have to. The words just fell out, and the pose was struck by reflex, because underneath his statesman's cloak lies the unspoken, knee-jerk, visceral knowledge of the pain and humiliation these words and actions will deliver.
So, who was pained and humiliated? Obama? His family? All people of color? Most certainly. But even more broadly, all of us as a nation were pained by the stunning, gut-felt realization that racism not only is alive and well in America, but resides explicitly in a candidate for the office of President of the United States.
I think it is a national tragedy that the *issue* of racism was not brought to the forefront and placed on campaign agenda by both major political parties in this presidential election. Racism is a festering wound that needs airing and antidote. And this festering is being fed within one of the deepest, dankest of human behaviors...denial.
I don't need to say that this is an outstanding Hub, do I?
wow Sally's Trove!! I thank you for your precise and to the heart of the issue points. No one in my opinion can deny the implication of the words...the whole nation is now talking about it; even if the Obama's graciously deferred and deflected...why? They've heard it all their live, they are not as shocked as we are...
Makes it no less wrong. McCain shows his inner self with these horrible words and behavior, body language...it's all obvious and it IS the issue.
The way the Republicans are smearing Obama with inuendos, it's a national disgrace.
I appreciate your wisdom and opinion on this sensitive but important issue. We are all watchdogs, making an effort to keep our steps forward and the sun at our backs as a country.
As I've said, denial is a comfortable blanket but it never comforts those really cold.
Yes, Marisue, the Obamas, their campaign advisors, and their party compatriots in the Senate and House were all shocked. Make no mistake. However, all of them have agreed to keep racism out of the campaign, and the best way to do that is to deflect the attack by deeming it insignificant, or worse, saying that there was no attack. Theirs is a political tactic deriving from a national agreement (stated or unstated) that racist issues will play no part in this campaign. Not even the Democrats are going to open up this wound for healing.
That's true, and I'm hopeful that as Obama serves as President, he will be able to show his dignity, as he has throughout all this campaign, and even before I was "for" him, I respected his restraint, and his voice will be heard in dealing with racial issue opportunities.
We have so much to heal and repair in race, economics, foreign policy, energy, the list is endless....I'm surprised he wants the job, and hope we get a chance to work with him on this very hard journey ahead.
Plant that food, and get out the bikes, even I have been converted to the bicycle. sniffle. LOL (My Poor Rear!!)
Marisue,
I keep a saying hung on my wall at work, stand up for your principles, even if you have to stand alone. It speaks volumes to me.
In my opinion, out of all your outstanding hubs, this is by far the most 'outstandingest'
:)
You think McCain was racist for saying "that one". When I see Obama I think of him going to church for 20 years setting in the pew with Michelle while Rev Right teaches hatred and racism "godxxx America goddxx America.
Hi Trish, thanks so much for the kind words. There comes a time, when one does just have to stand up. I hope this shows I tried to do just that! thank you!!!
=))
Hi longdrv4u. I also found those words distasteful and wrong. Yet if one looks beyond the sermon, we might find a man who not only lived thru some rough times of racism personally, but saw it for his people. I don't know what that is like. I will try not to judge. I don't understand the church membership, but that is Obama's journey, with many of his people he may have hated to part from...he has addressed it to my satisfaction.
I don't think any one not of that race, can fully understand the generations of pain, nor where that might lead them in words at times. Two wrongs don't make a right. I agree that there is racism on both sides....it's not just a "white" issue or characteristic.
I hear you, and I appreciate your comments.
wow what a fantastic hub marisue - you are to be commended for the stand you are taking in exposing/or should I say expounding on these racial issues that cause so much pain to so many people. P. Grundy has also written a very good hub on this same issue but from a slightly different viewpoint
I also really appreciated Susan Bonfiglio's comments and her poem from the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, D.C. the sentiments expressed are as real today as they were when first written - maybe more so. Coming from another nation what also really scares me are the comments made by concerned readers and writers that it is quite possible that whoever wins the race to the White House may well be murdered for whatever reason (and it seems particularly the concerns are for Obama). It makes me wonder why anyone would willingly want to take this ultimate risk knowingly unless of couse their desire to help out their fellow countryman was totally overiding. "possible death by politics"
I still remember (I was a child) where I was and what I was doing when JFK was assassinated and the blow to the whole world his untimely death dealt. A brilliant (if inexperienced man) who will always be remembered for his "bay of pigs" intervention, his support of space flight, his charisma and his diplomacy - in many ways he reminds me of Obama. Caring Men of Substance.
Hi ajcor! I think some people feel called to make a difference. I hope security will be increased and Obama won't take unnecessary chances. When McCain and Palin take such strides in escalating hate, intentional or not, it takes us down a road of horror. They certainly can see the results.
McCain has recently made feeble attempts to calm the crowds - how naive of him to think that anger planted could be uprooted.
Instead, anger grows with energy, very difficult to change that concept and plant peace in it's place. Much better to never plant the anger in the first place.
McCain and Palin had to know what this would do, and egotistically thought they could control it. Now, it's too late to tell people, "Obama is ok" their audience is not hearing it.
In my opinion, I think the Secret Service said behind the scenes, "Stop fanning these flames with inflammatory speech." What a shame they had to be told to do that.
Now, this scandal about Palin and she egotistically refuses to take responsibility, when the panel was 10 Repubs to 4 Dems...and she calls it politically motivated. Very sad condition of a candidate.
I tried to maintain my respect for them, but it has disappeared!!
=)) thanks for reading and commenting.
Your hub is reasoned, concise, and states your feelings honestly. Palin has been found guilty of mis-using her office as governor in Alaska. I join you in my distaste for the senator from Arizona and for his runningmate who seems to easily blow off anyone who displays intelligence or disagrees with her.
The election is not won for Obana yet. We must get everyone we know who supports him out to vote. Yesterday the company that made the voting machines for Florida admitted the machines could be set to give a 51-49% win.
Would they dare do it again? Of Course~! They do whatever they can get away with. Mayb the people learned how easy we can lose our freedoms, but-- Keep up the good work.
This was a well-wriiten and well presented hub. The debate seemed to me to be little more than an hour and a half of talking points, with very little meat attached. Reading the commentary that your hub inspired was a better use of my time. Beyond all the passion and heartfelt opinions, I must admit that my favorite comment was from Patty Inglish "-- This is really like the WWE and WWF more all the time, but entertaining."
hI bIZZY, yes we might as well get some entertainment out of it. I don't like the verbal back and forth the candidates do...and when it gets down and dirty, it's really a distraction - with the mess we're in, we certainly don't need racism or name calling, or anything but solutions. sigh, I try to remain hopeful.
thank you bizzymuse for your nice words about a sensitive subject!
Hi solarcaptain... I'm very worried about the stealing of an election. I know it can happen as "they" play with our prrecious votes. It's very upsetting. Gore sacrificed for the country, when he let it go to Bush, and now we've all paid....I know he did it to let it go for a bigger cause, but what a mess resulted.
Thank you solar, for the kind words!!! ever onward....come back soon, both of you!!
Longdrive4yu - you are the victim of the pundits' delusion, my friend -Reverand Wright was not preaching hatred for 20 years. If you wish to believe that statement created by certain agenda-driven pundits ask them to prove the statement. I beleive you will find they can't back up their words with action.
Reverand Wright has preached many sermons, mostly about God, and when I watched the entire sermon in which he unfortunately said GD America, he was quoting an Old Testament scripture that spoke about how a nation far from God will be condemned. That is a basic Christian belief. The word condemned is the basis for the word damned.
He was saying that America is not under some special protection clause in the Bibke, and that if we don't mend our ways we too will be damned, that is, condemned. Is he wrong? Well, many TV evangelists say the very same thing. Recently Pat Robertson claimed we will be bombed by nuclear weapons if we don't repent. If that's not damning America, I don't know what is.
In short, Reverand Wright was doing what he has often done - making us aware that we had best own up to our behavior or else. That is what the O. T. prophets did, and they gave their lives to proclaim it. It's right there in the Bible, for those who follow it. I'm sure the ancient Israelites were also screaming against their prophets for saying G.D. Israel!
Chef Jeff, you bring out valid points. Many preachers are preaching to the tune of America will be "damned" and paying for "her sins" - the delivery of different religions and cultures may make one comment sound more dramatic than another, but it certainly is not a new concept!! thanks for bringing that point out. !!
I gott a side with Misha on this one. Vote McCain, the quicker we can get it over with the better. lol. Why prolong our agony with Obama besides with all the evident racism that still exist in this day and age, he is probabaly gonna get himself assisinated. :(
Longdrive, you've been taken for a ride. I understand being biased towards one position over another - we all are, whether we admit it or not. What I don't understand is taking a position and parroting it without educating oneself and doing some basic research. I'll not repeat what Chef Jeff said about the purpose of the prophetic voice. He covered that angle well. But I'll say this, sitting under the voice of a prophet (and in today's lexicon, Jeremiah Wright, John Hagee, Rod Parsley, and every preacher is a prophet) is not necessarily to be influenced or inflamed into radical thinking and behavior. It is to be challenged about the ills of the nation and take remedial action through repentance and rededication. What is wrong with that? More so, what's wrong with sitting in the pew to hear such a message? Let's all try and get that into our noggins so we can all move on. And you who keep bringing up the Obama/Wright connection why don't you also raise John Hagee and Rod Parsley whose endorsement McCain actively sought before he was against it? Their messages were equally inflammatory! It's fine to try and defend one's stand with specific examples, but what does it say about your stand if there are instances that contradict the position you take?
Sandra - you voice a legitimate concern many feel with respect to Obama's well-being. But then there always has to be a man like who, literally and (God forbid again) figuratively, would take the bullet for us. Those who show us an alternative - JFK, Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi, Steve Biko and (this may come as a surprise to those who believe only the right is right,) Jesus Christ.
Hi Sandra....no no no McCain!! =)) I do fear for Obama tho. Isn't that a sad thing to even have to mention??
Hi PenmanZee, thank you!! =))
The Repubs are not even stopping to think about how they are mentioning things with exaggeration, that even apply to their own candidates. They just want to confuse the issue so everything the Dems say back, sounds like sour grapes. I wonder if some voters on the Repub side even care. Some say that Palin's recent report is "nothing" cuz "they all do that."
The woman lied and lied and lied about so manay things and continues to do so, and talks about Obama's affiliations when she has huge questions in her own background. That doesn't matter???
Smoke and mirrors.
Marisue,
I was just strolling by, hands in pockets, kicking cans to the kerb when peeked in your hub window and noticed this debate still raging. I still have two cents to spare.
Longdrive, you've been taken for a ride. I understand being biased towards one position over another - we all are, whether we admit it or not. What I don't understand is taking a position and parroting it without educating oneself and doing some basic research. I'll not repeat what Chef Jeff said about the purpose of the prophetic voice. He covered that angle well. But I'll say this, sitting under the voice of a prophet (and in today's lexicon, Jeremiah Wright, John Hagee, Rod Parsley, and every preacher is a prophet) is not necessarily to be influenced or inflamed into radical thinking and behavior. It is to be challenged about the ills of the nation and take remedial action through repentance and rededication. What is wrong with that? More so, what's wrong with sitting in the pew to hear such a message? Let's all try and get that into our noggins so we can all move on. And you who keep bringing up the Obama/Wright connection why don't you also raise John Hagee and Rod Parsley whose endorsement McCain actively sought before he was against it? Their messages were equally inflammatory! It's fine to try and defend one's stand with specific examples, but what does it say about your stand if there are instances that contradict the position you take?
Sandra - You raise a legitimate concern many harbor with respect to Obama's well-being especially in light of recent comments at Palin/McCain rallies. But then again, there are brave men and women who will literally and figuratively, take the bullet for those who take an alternate position e.g. JFK, Martin Luther King, Mahatma Gandhi, Steve Biko, Joan of Arc, and (this may come as a surprise to those who believe only the right can be right,) Jesus Christ. If we stifle dissent or cannot stand to be opposed we are steering towards dictatorship and cease to be the flagship of democracy.
true dat sista! Let's expect the worst and hope for the best. lol. No, I wouldn't vote McCain. Thought about it until what's her two face got on the ticket. I don't know if I had said this on any of your hubs yet, but I am forgoing the voting this year.
Seems like disaster will ensue either way. Though I would vote for Obama but he's black. Oooohhh before you readers get any ideas I am not racist, but there are plenty who still are, let's keep a good guy alive. :)
Not sure if this a good idea to post, but hey...
Chef Jeff & PenmanZee --
What you said!
I would also like to see a closer examination of the Alaskan Independence Party (not America lovers At All), and its connections with Sarah Palin and the "First Dude."
Sandra --
You're no racist, and it's time to express our fears. I share that one. But if we're so afraid that we vote good people out, or fail to vote at all, we'll only end up with bad choices that keep getting worse. Frankly there may be NO good answers -- it may be too late. But if we give up now, then it's too late for sure.
PenmanZee
You think I have been taken for a ride by suppoeting McCain well lets look at the facts Mr. Obama has
1.graduated Harvard
2. Community organizer
3. 2005 to present in the US Senate, three years in the senate wait a minute he has been campaining for president the last year so two years in the senate. Lets take a look at Mr Obama's record in the senate and see how he used his knowledge and power to bring people together.
Sponsored Bill Statistics Number of sponsored bills: 70 Number of sponsored bills passed: 2 Number of co-sponsored bills: 404 Number of co-sponsored bills passed: 8
PenmanZee you say I have been taken for a ride.
We live in the greatest country in the world and if Mr. Obama is elected president It will still be the greatest country in the world but in my opinion he is not the best choice.
Good discussion!! thanks to all of you and keep talking; and voting!!
I too share the fear of something happening to our President; but surely we would not slide back down that terrible slope.
Marisuewrites, in your response to PenManZee you are correct in pointing out that many Republicans are doing as you said. But so are many Democrats, and I have seen people for Obama and McCain spout out the most incredulous things about both sides.
I have done that myself, all in the belief that I am right and someone else is wrong. I have come to see that being right or wrong is not the issue. It is the excuse I give for wanting to be right. It is the game I play where I win and someone else loses.
I am moving to a place in my life where I am begining to embrace the entire election, the good, the bad and the ugly, and to go with it, not to resist it. The election will occur on November 4th and someone will win. No matter who I choose, someone will win. Period.
No matter the lies, I know what I believe and I believe it simply because I believe it. Lies are unimportant because they will not change what I believe. Lies will go away.
Suffice to say I also agree with your sentiment that I am voting for the candidate I choose, and someone else may be doing the same thing for the other candidate. I respect that entirely. We both have a right to our choices even if one or the other turn out to be for the candidate that loses.
Great hub with lots of opinions!
Cheers!
Chef Jeff
Hi Chef, perhaps you are campaign weary, as am I. Lies don't seem to matter and the truth blurs. Liars are crafty that way, and they have roots on both sides. Somehow, the voter has to sift thru the debris to find something to believe in. That's what I do...sift. Once in a while, a rock slides thru the small holes and threatens to crush me, just one vote, just one voice. But soon, I rise from the pit and find my voice again.
I don't know all the answers, but through the discussion, I find myself either firmly planted, or on rocky ground and blooming anyway.
Whoever wins, we will need to unite and live with the decision, plow straight ahead and solve our nation's problems. I am thankful for the voice of America. Even though at times we think no one is listening, I'm a member of the die hard club and think my voice matters. I think we're all wrong in part, and right in part, I'm not sure of the portions, I want to keep going on...
I respect the opinions of opposite views. That's how we solve problems, as long as people don't forget the art of compromising - picking those battles that matter, everything can't be number one at the same time.
This election is giving us great challenges and problems to solve, no matter who "started" it, we've got to find solutions.
I think we all want the best for America. I've heard some people say it doesn't matter if America falls, well, it matters to me. The world economy rocks when we do. We matter. We've got to get something "right." Soon.
=))
I am not a political person but was very offended and stunned at McCain's lack of courtesy. I think that was a horrible reference and most of America understood it for being a racist remark. I admire your courage in bringing it out. Don't worry about criticism, they are self-focused and maybe just not thinking how others react and feel.
Good article, Marisuewrites! I'm reading more and more of you and others on hub, this seems to be a good community.
Marisue
Great comments posted I hope we see this kind of passion from our canidates in the final debate
Thanks longdrv4u -- I hope we all get out and vote. We are going to have to watch our elected officials as if we are the boss. Which we are!
Hi crazylife! thank you for your kind encouragement. Just vote!! That's how we all talk so they can hear us! =))
Hi crazylife! thank you for your kind encouragement. Just vote!! That's how we all talk so they can hear us! =))
Dear Ms Marisuewrites: I'm arriving late to this discussion, and I hope it keeps going because the points you raise here are very significant to me. It has been apparent for many years how divided this country is between two very different factions. Many books have been written on this theme. Many have attempted to characterize the difference. And the differences of the two factions are revealed in your hub. By the way, your hub ought to be broadcasted around the world for everyone to take notice of how we in this country have begun a bifurcation of the species. My hit on this point is this: I truly believe we are species in the process of bifurcation. Some individuals are growing toward becoming enlightened humans, while some are declining into some other form. I have reasons for stating this, but your hub is not the proper place. I intend to make my own hub on the theme I've raised. And invite you all to join in when it is published.
Vitaeb - I'll wait for your hub with interest :)
vitaeb !! thank you for reading and contributing to this discussion, I too, await your article with interest!! come back soon!!=))
thanks to you too, paraglider, always glad when you come to read and comment!! vitaeb, the stage is yours!!
marisue - I guess you have seen this! Found it on twitter.
Palin stepping down - is it for real?
http://touchcandy.com/searchtag/163/
cheers
Hi ajcor, I doubt the authenticity of that video...looks dubbed in to me. LOL I can wish tho. LOL =))
I am so glad McCain and Palin did not win. Our poor world would be in more of a mess. The Republicans are desperate for attention, aren't they? Palin is a poor candidate choice, and most women are so insulted by her statements. The harder she tries to look smart, the more stupid she sounds.
I admire smart women and we have many in office, today. Not her. Not in anyone's wildest dreams could she have done the President's or VP's job.
Way to go, Marisuewrites, keep taking up for the right things. I read you.
Hi Lee, this one came from my heart and when I think about it I still get mad as an ol wet hen. McCain spoke those words as casually as he would have said "I'll take fries with that." He is biased to the bone.
I'm so glad McCain, that inept and unqualified man, did not win. We've got the best person for the job, and he's even struggling. One thing no one can say, tho' Maher just said it and I don't understand that, -- Obama works long and hard hours. He's not vacationing and off to Camp David or reading 1 book a week for leisure. He's reading and researching and negotiating every minute of everyday...while the Repubs bitch and complain every minute...the Party of No Solutions and No Patriotism and No Compromise.
ewwww here I go again...
I just had to read your hub again. Now there are a few people mad about Obama's election running around calling him a socialist, a marxist, and proclaiming that anyone less conservative than they listens exclusively to MTV. I was about to make an interesting comeback, but what is the point. Obama got compared to a turtle today in the forum, which I just thought was ridiculous!
I've never seen such visciousness from a party who is supposed to care more about the country than "winning at any cost." I'm appalled and concerned about our future when lies and prejudice take precedent over truth and unity.
Rush Limbaugh, McCain, Newt, Palin, are all cut from the same disgraceful rug. Shame on them and their lying intent.
I hang my head in embarassment for my country as there are so many still suffering from racism and ego. The death of the doctor recently shows just how far we still have to go for understanding and accepting differences.
We can afford war, but not health care for our own citizens. Our elected officials point the fingers at others for indescretions and then make their own shameful announcements. Palin exploits her daughters and then points the finger when someone else tells a bad joke. She sets them up for "talk" by parading them in front of the camera and then gets mad when they talk.
Now, I'm NOT saying the Democrats aren't guilty of the same at times, but not to the level we see from the Party of No.
I, for one, am supporting Obama and the changes he's trying to make, I don't pounce on every small error, and I don't expect perfection. My god, with all we went thru with Bush, you'd think this would be a welcome relief. =))
I agree both parties have made mistakes, but what troubles me is that even here on Hubpages people are writing hubs declaring Obama to be a socialist. I pointed out to one person Obama has actually toned down his policies quite a bit. Obama probably did not want to conceded to the extent that he has, but he still has to deal with his ironcald opposition to some extent on issues such as healthcare. If Obama was completely partisan he could have pushed for more legislation that really would have go Republicans upset, but he is actually try to be bi-partisan and work together.
The liberal commentator Bill Maher has pointed out he thinks Obama is too moderate on some issues. Maher does not consider Obama a socialist, which might be some interesting information for the right, right wing Republicans throwing a tissy fit. I really do respect Obama and yes he may not be perfect, but some are just so bent out of shape about anyone liking him. I know it is not popular to say this, but could some people still be bothered by the fact he is an African-American man? Makes me wonder.
The Repulicans and many of their followers will at this time, say things they know not to be true, so they can "attack, attack" for their party's gain.
They KNOW that Obama's administration is doing many things behind the scenes in Iran and North Korea and Pakistan and Afghanistan that he cannot verbally show as much force to the world regarding. They know it. Still, they say false things to make him look weak
They are full of hate, and that is very concerning. They spread hate, preach it and hide behind a false morality. Wise people will see thru it and judge them by their actions accordingly.
They fear truth, peace, and unity. We must have health care for our people's sake and for the sake of our economy, but they are responding and bending to the power of lobbyists.
oeeeeewwww I'm seething about their nasty tactics. =))) Racism abounds in the hearts of the self-righteous. =)) its sad but obvious.
Misha 3 years ago
Marisue, you should vote for McCain, this will be a right move in the current situation :P