Global Love Letter Addressed To All Women

There are a ton of fun (yet trivial) holidays scheduled throughout the calendar year.   I always look forward to October 1st so that I can celebrate National Coffee Day.  On second thought, who am I fooling?  Everyday is coffee day for me.  

Unless you have been living under a rock, I'm sure you realize that today, as I blog, is International Women's Day.  Having been observed for over a century, International Women's Day is anything but trivial.  Among human trafficking, domestic abuse and rape, there needs to be awareness of the issues that affect half of the population.

Regardless of any sort of political affiliation you may identify with, it is important that we recognize, celebrate and cherish the special women in our lives yearlong.  I want to reach out to my female readers regardless of where they are in life or how strong they may (or may not) feel on a day to day basis. This post is dedicated to you:

* The women who have made tremendous strides in business, the humanities and arts

* Stay at home moms

* Working moms

* Women starting over again

* Women who have blazed their own trails

* Women who have doubted themselves today

* Women who have triumphed against all odds

* The women who are too scared to speak up

* Courageous women who have stood up against violence

* The women who inspire and promote other women

* The women who love unconditionally 

* And also the loving men who have respected and supported these women

The Funniest or Most Accurate Presidential Debate Tweets

Photo Source: www.kktv.com

Television networks have anticipated viewership for the first of three 2016 presidential debates to skyrocket to 100 million; which is comparable to Super Bowl audiences.  Although I don't have the Nielsen results from tonight's debate, I can definitely attest that the presidential discourse functioned like a hair-raising football game.  The contentious tension between both opponents proved that neither was afraid to play dirty.  Fans of the political sport took to Twitter to provide a vivid play by play of the (death) match.  I have curated a few of the funniest or most accurate tweets for comic relief. 

See also:  The Best Irreverent Trump Tweets

The Best Irreverent Donald Trump Tweets

Although Donald Trump's official tweets are ignorantly hilarious, it is (almost) as fun watching other Twitter users roast Trump and his infamous comb over.  I have assembled a number of irreverent Trump tweets for your viewing pleasure.  Enjoy.

Photo Credit: Science Blogs

Best Tweets Using The Rachel Dolezal Hashtag

While there is nothing inherently funny about the Rachel Dolezal scandal, Twitter is a social circle where every night is open mic night.  Whether Twitter users are either speaking out with tweets peppered with humor or earnest rage, everyone has something to say.  Listed below are just a few of the best tweets concerning this debacle:

Photo Credit: Mashable

Ethical Debate: Ghettoblasting in Public Confined Spaces

I do not consider myself to be a misanthrope, however, I definitely question that statement any time I try to study/read at most any local Starbucks.  

I realize that I am not choosing to read in a library.  I respect the fact that there are group confabs that meet in these particular settings and that Starbucks plays its handpicked musical selections.  

But what truly concerns me is when customers treat Starbucks as their own living room by ghettoblasting their own music preferences without headphones.  Why should we, mere minions, have to listen to your music?  What sets you apart from the rest of us?  Furthermore, I don't appreciate having to listen to your screamo music as it interferes with the music that is already being played. 

Not all ghettoblasters are intentional.  Sometimes I like to crank up the music in my car not realizing how affective the booming throbs may appear.  Sometimes those who wear headphones are not always conscious of how loud their music is.  However, there is no excuse for those who intentionally mark their public confined territory by pumping up their laptop stereo.  I do not classify you as cool and edgy but more so as a selfish narcissist.

I generally hate to confront strangers, so when these incidents occur, I usually leave my seat for another table on the opposite side of building.  Now is the time where I turn this ethical dilemma to you dear thoughtful readers.  What is the best call for action?  Should I confront said ghettoblasters or speak to the store managers?  Should corporations provide rules and regulations against blaring music being played by customers in their stores?  

Top 8 Predictions for 2015

The "changing times" are an ongoing theme of the 1910s/1920s period drama series "Downton Abby."  Our current "changing times" are so rapid that making wild predictions for each forthcoming year almost seems plausible.  Who is to say that my farcical 2015 predictions couldn't come true?  Truth is, after all, stranger than fiction.  Here are my 8 predictions for 2015:


1.  Taylor Swift will not only pay for her fan's student loans, but also our government's debt.

2.  The wealthiest 1% will own more than half of the world's wealth.....it will also own the manuscript for the new Harry Potter book that hasn't been released yet.

3.  New York urbanists will continue to pay $9 for a cup of bone broth at Brodo (a take-away window.)  Health conscious consumers will eventually pay $9 for a cup of Campbell's chicken noodle soup at the competing business venture located next door.

4.  In order to save their careers, American comedians will tweak their stand-up set and tweets to appear more politically correct.

5.  Now that Sam Smith is dating someone and is no longer consumed by unrequited love, former fans that once identified with Smith will dismiss him and will eagerly await for Adele's latest album.

6.  As a diary of a current prisoner at the U.S. military prison at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba is published for the first time, Charles Manson will also decide to release a memoir of his own.  It will pinpoint serial killings, his songwriting craft and love at 80 years old.

7.  Hayo Miyazaki, mastermind of Spirited Away and My Neighbor Totoro, will be forced out of retirement as soon as the Sponge Bob Movie is released in theaters.

8.  Taxpayers will not only have to address their health insurance status on their returns, but also their sexual orientation, citizen status and which team they are rooting for at the Superbowl.


What are some of your wildest predictions for 2015?

Why Christians Shouldn't Watch Fox News

I am a follower of Christ, however sometimes, I have a difficult time relating to the American Christian culture.  It is depressing when the teachings and attributes of Jesus are not being modeled in our nation because of our self-righteous obsession with politics.

Although I consider myself to be an Independent, I am not indifferent when it comes to political issues.  There may be a number of issues in which I may occasionally sway to the right on the political spectrum, yet I cannot justify supporting the corrupt "news" television station Fox News.

I realize other slanted news channels (i.e. MSNBC) are just as destructive, but statistically speaking, a higher percentage of older Christians are more-likely to become hypnotized by Fox News' brainwashing programs.  So here lies my analysis on the baby boomer news giant and what needs to be done.  It all begins with a Fox News fast.

What Fox News Does

1. Promotes Fear

 Fox News promotes propaganda in order to generate fear.  Whether commentators are conjuring up the next Anti-Christ speculation or the Ebola outbreak, Fox News wants to provide you with controversial scare tactics.  As a Christian, you are called to be God-fearing; not world-fearing.   Although it is vital that you educate and prepare yourselves for the dangers of the world, you also shouldn't spend a great deal of time worrying.

John 14:27  

Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you.  I do not give to you as the world gives.  Do not let your hearts be troubled and do not be afraid.

2.  Spews Hate

In addition to promoting fear, Fox News wants to generate ratings by spewing hate.  (And this model seems to work, since Fox News ranks as the #1 most watched cable news channel nearly each year.)

"I just wish Katrina had only hit the United Nations building, nothing else, just had flooded them out, and I wouldn't have rescued them." - Bill O'Reilly, 2005

Christians are called to love everyone.  Not just anyone who acts, or looks like you.  (Unfortunately, in order to score ratings, Fox News wants to set you at war against the world.)

3.  Favors Entertainment Value

For many commentators and/or guests, Fox News isn't about informing the public, its about entertaining viewers and drawing a fan base.  

"I could give a flying crap about the political process.  We're an entertainment company."  

- Glenn Beck

Alternatives to Watching Fox News

1.  Pray

Pray for your political leaders whether you choose to support them or not.  

1 Timothy 2:1-3

I urge, then, first of all, that petitions, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for all people - for kings and those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness.  This is good, and pleases God our Savior.

2.  Speak Up

We are blessed to live in a country where we have the freedom of speech.  It is important that every citizen has a voice.  Speak up for whatever it is you may believe, but do so in a graceful and loving manner.  Do not resort to calling others hurtful and offensive names.   

3.  Read and Educate Yourself

Don't depend on TV commentators that are relying heavily on record-breaking viewership.  No matter what news medium you may prefer, you can always count on some sort of slant or bias.  Read dozens of reliable sources from every which side and then deduce logical conclusions for yourself.  

4.  Volunteer  

Instead of constantly pointing the finger towards others, be the change you want to see in your community.  It doesn't matter where you choose to volunteer as long as you find ways to put others in front of yourself.  

What Apps We Still Need

Last week, The New York Times "Style" section featured an article titled What Isn't There An App For?  The contributor Henry Alford, whom is "afraid of the machine" sampled and reviewed convenient apps ranging from exercise to shopping and household apps.  The article didn't resonate with me so much as the headline.  

We have an app for nearly everything and it is evident that technology has made our lives rather expedient.  Strange that with all of these advances in technology that we don't have apps for the following:

• App to stop violence
• App to mend broken hearts
• App to terminate greed
• App to prevent narcissism  

I realize that as a human race, we can be rather selfish because of our human nature.  We all possess our shortcomings as earthly beings, but that doesn't make it permissible for us to stop trying to connect and love.  We have the capacity for love, though it is something we have to work on continuously.  I am glad we are constantly making progressive strides in technology, however we should also learn how to put the same emphasis and energy on our relationships.  

California Dreamin' As Rent Prices Soar

There has always been something mythical about heading out west to California.  However, with rent rising as quickly as I change my own laundry, it makes me wonder how many impressionable folks will make the trek to California unless they score a coveted tech job in Silicon Valley.  California may be brimming with opportunities, however, those opportunities may not necessarily pay the rent for the (almost extinct) middle class.

For those of us that have grown up in California, it is difficult to imagine a life outside of our fantastical state.  Don't get me wrong, I have lived outside of California, therefore, I am not completely out of touch with reality.  Also, a number of the California towns I have dwelled in are anything but desirable.  Still, there is something magical about living a stone's throw away from the ocean, mountains, desert, and some of the greatest cities known to man.

Yet, with astronomical rent prices, are we to leave home in order to sustain a comfortable life?  I look at myself and many of my California homegrown pals, and realize that we may not be able to purchase a modest house regardless of our professions.

Regardless of whether or not we would like to purchase a house someday, rent alone is troublesome. I am currently a newly wed, however, if I had been single in my mid-thirties or forties, I can't imagine I would want to share a pad with roommates I discovered via Craigslist.  It makes me wonder if my career could support a studio in most any sought-out California city.

Last January, NPR provided a rising rent price analysis, yet they couldn't provide a groundbreaking solution for "there is very little you can do about it."  I would definitely prefer to stay in California, but only time will tell how pragmatic that decision may be.  Making this choice is almost like deciding whether or not to linger at a festive all-night party or to turn in early.

I can't imagine that I am the only Californian feeling torn, for I realize that this is something most of my peers have grappled with one time or another.  If any Californian readers stumble upon this page and are considering an out-of-state move, there are a few things you may need to consider.  Should you choose to leave, prepare to say goodbye to the following:

The treeman at Venice Beach who now has his own documentary:

Free in-store performances (i.e. Aimee Mann) at the largest independent record store (Amoeba):

The greatest (growing) burger chain: Umami burger.  It even has its own stamp of approval!

Sharing an intimate moment with Ryan Gosling: 

....and ending the perfect day with a perfect sunset:

Starbucks, the Endangered Third Place

A third place is defined as a building or space that produces community.  Unlike the first place (home) or second place (workspace), the third place has become harder to define or control in this virtual society.   Traditionally, it was common for the local bar or coffee shop to serve such a purpose.  Throughout the past three decades, Starbucks has held the responsibility of serving as a worldwide “third place.”  Will Starbucks continue to create a mass-produced authentic image or eventually become an extinct corporate third place? 

Although I will always prefer to support local independent coffee shops, sometimes Starbucks can be wildly convenient.  Because Starbucks occupies 11,100 stores nationwide, I know I will always remain walking distance from a local chain.  In addition, I always seem to retain a Starbucks gift card in my wallet from each year’s Christmas gathering.

Throughout my adolescence into adulthood, I have overheard life-changing conversations at Starbucks from strangers sitting adjacent to me.  I have witnessed first dates, bible studies, job interviews and work-related meetings.  (Apparently, Starbucks functions as a second place as well.)  I’m sure you can recall a milestone you have celebrated at Starbucks yourself. 

Even when I choose not to support Starbucks, I cannot deny the corporation’s influence.  In the last decade or so, several restaurants have undergone renovations to encourage intimacy and warmth a la Starbucks.  Even the fast food giant McDonalds have revamped their entire in-store look and feel to attract Starbucks customers or inspiring urban dwellers.  Not only has Starbucks changed the game amongst other eateries, mega churches have redesigned their structures by providing coffee shops of their own. 

Although I cannot ignore Starbucks' impact on society, I feel as though the cozy consumer experience has lessened throughout the years.  Anytime I visit a Starbucks nowadays, there are significantly less seats and tables available to accommodate the herd of consumers.  (I have a hunch that this may be intentional.)  It makes me feel as though I am not valued as a coffee enthusiast but simply as a customer that needs to be ushered out the door to make room for the next sizable herd.  The Starbucks delivery service set for next year may surely amplify the (already) congenial but distant customer service.  

The Starbucks’ delivery service won’t launch until 2015, therefore, it is difficult to predict how this business plan may affect the corporation’s third place appeal.  I also cannot yet vet the quality of the product after its timely trek to your office.  

The public has spoken and they want instant gratification…and convenience.  A personal relationship and rapport with your favorite barista is not the priority it once was.  Instead, we want a personal relationship with our Starbucks apps.

Starbucks had already stirred a third place controversy when the business opened its first drive thru.  Since then, Starbucks has lost its value in the eyes of thousands of faithful customers.  (Not that this has ever hurt Starbucks’ business.)  Let’s be honest with ourselves and realize that Starbucks has always been a fast food corporation essentially.  

I don't know what the future holds for Starbucks but I am certain they will survive by expanding its brand, expansive menu and its savvy (but often times impersonal) business tactics.  However, for those of us that desire a genuine sense of community, it is up to city planners, aspiring business owners and artists to develop a local third place in which their city can boastfully call their own.

How to Win This Woman’s Vote and Heart

Regardless of where one stands on the topic of American corporation’s role in distributing health care birth control, we can agree that it is a crucial issue….however as a woman, I don’t want to be defined by it either.   Though I can’t speak on behalf of every woman, many of us care about more than contraception accessibility.   Among all of the varied issues in which we share with men’s passions, we also care quite a bit about the economy ourselves.

Before we decide to debate as a nation in regard to birth control distribution, perhaps we should make sure there are actually more jobs that offer health care in the first place.  For many millennials, scoring a job with health benefits has become the ultimate American Dream. 

Before we complain about the (lack of) accessibility of birth control, shouldn’t we tirelessly fight for equal pay?  It is ridiculous that this is still an issue in 2014.   I feel wary when I hear politicians make promises to assure equal pay.  At the end of the day, it is evident that this is surely a scheme to win women’s votes. 

I pray that politicians don’t view us as second-class voters. We prove to vote more often than our male counterparts.  In the 2012 presidential election, female citizens contributed to 63.7% of the voter turnout. 

We are your daughters, sisters, mothers, wives, co-workers, and in many cases even your bosses.   Even though there is a small percentage of women employed in upper management, women make up the majority in middle management.  In addition, more women now have advanced degrees than men.  Clearly “women’s issues” are also men’s issues too. 

Dear politicians, in order to win this wary voter’s heart, you are going to have to do more than presenting your strategic speeches directed towards women.  We prove to stand tall as a complex, passionate, diverse and ambitious crowd.  Don’t define us (solely) by fertility or fertility prevention, but consider us in nearly any and every political issue and you might just win our vote.