The China Post
Updated Sunday, May 13, 2012 0:12 am TWN, By Christy Moore, J.D.
Hard-working mothers are the most influential of CEOs
With Mother’s Day coming up on May 13th, it might be a good time to tell your mom that she happens to be one of the greatest CEOs in the world.
The current trend in the world places more and more value on careers outside the home rather than the “career” inside the home. Both stay-at-home mothers and mothers who work full or part-time may feel that their work inside the home is far less appreciated, far less respected, and of far lesser worth than their work inside the office.
But this could not be further from the truth. A mother’s job has been deemed as one of the most important jobs in the world. Rather than developing “widgets,” mothers develop human beings.
But it is understandable why many mothers feel undervalued. A mother does not receive compensation for her efforts in behalf of her growing organization, defined as the “family.” A mother does not immediately see the fruits of her labors until several decades. A mother does not get paid for working “over-time.” Nor does she get the praise from her co-workers when little Johnny learns to say “sorry,” or when she overcomes the urge to yell at yet another clash between siblings.
And a mother’s job is not an easy one by far. According to Salary.com Inc., the average mother spends about 96.4 hours on jobs to maintain the home operations per week. This means that most mothers work about 13 hours per day—which is surprisingly typical. The average mother’s work day begins at around 6:30am and doesn’t end until around 7pm at night or later.
The typical jobs to maintain the home includes housekeeper, chef, teacher, psychologist, budget and finance manager, laundry machine operator, driver, chief executive officer, etc.
At these hours and according to wage rates for these job functions, Salary.com estimated that the average mother’s work is worth at least approximately USD$120,000 per year. However, this number does not take into consideration the wage value of differing locations. Nor does this data reflect the various hours, jobs, and burdens of mothers who also work part or full-time.
One job that mothers undertake is especially interesting--“chief executive officer,” or CEO.
According to some definitions, a business can be described as an activity that utilizes products or services as a means of livelihood or profit.
In a way, a mother is the CEO of a developing “business.” Mothers are often in charge of running the entire affairs of the family—which requires managing and organizing the individual family members’ events and experiences and helping the family function efficiently and effectively.
But more critical than that is the “product” or “service” that these CEO’s manage. Rather than developing a short-lived product or service, these mothers develop human beings and in essence shape the future of nations-- one child, one citizen, at a time.
Although the “profit” is difficult to tangibly assess, especially over a short period of time, the profit that these CEO’s help develop is likely the most valuable profit of all—that of a healthy and loving child, a contributing citizen, and a stable nation. For example, can the USA truly measure the worth of an Abraham Lincoln? And even he said, “All that I am and hope to be, I owe to my angel mother.”
Truly, as William Ross Wallace eloquently said, the hand that rocks the cradle is the hand that rules the world.
So next time, your mother or your wife feels a little undervalued, just remind her that she is one of the most influential and greatest CEOs in the world.
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The China Post
Updated Monday, April 16, 2012 11:47 am TWN, By Christy Moore
Romney's Achilles' Heel of moderate conservatism could benefit the GOP
Romney's “Achilles' heel” is becoming increasingly apparent as his campaign rides on.
And it is not his religion anymore that people are leery about.
Neither is it his qualifications.
Rather, Romney is one of the most qualified candidates that have run in the past two decades.
Compared to Obama's prior 12 years as a professor, three years as a civil rights attorney, and three years as a U.S. senator, Romney's 29 years of running several successful companies, turning around failing companies and organizations, and governing Massachusetts (while refusing to accept compensation for his past three jobs) makes Romney look to some like the perfect match for the current financial crisis.
So what makes ultraconservatives so wary about Romney?
What provoked Santorum's comment that Romney is “the weakest candidate we could possibly put forward?”
The problem is that Romney is not what most of his critics are — an ultraconservative. He is a moderate conservative.
And not just any moderate conservative, but one who oscillated on issues that happen to be some of the most strongly held core values of a conservative.
In 1994, Romney supported abortion rights, while personally counseling women not to have an abortion except in rare circumstances. However, while serving as governor of Massachusetts in 2005, he changed his position on abortion — which he attributed to an epiphany he experienced while investigating stem cell research matters.
Furthermore, in 1994 during his first political run in Massachusetts, Romney often addressed gay voters and promised more equal opportunities in jobs and housing. Then, as governor, he did everything he could to stop gay marriage. On CNN's Piers Morgan, Romney said, “I oppose same-sex marriage. (But) at the same time, I would advance the efforts not to discriminate against people who are gay.”
Romney's soft-nosed view convinced some conservatives that Romney is too “middle ground” and lenient. They worry that the line of pushing for equal opportunity while opposing gay marriage is too thin.
Another matter that leaves conservatives feeling uneasy is the fact that Romney allowed Massachusetts to implement a state level social health care.
Although Romney says he does not support social health care on the national level, he consistently defends the rights of the states to individually test programs tailored to their particular state.
Opponents liberally use these points to fan distrust of Romney. And for many conservative voters, it has worked.
But let's face it — most of the electorate in the United States is not an ultraconservative.
In order to defeat Obama, the Republican presidential candidate will likely need to win over some of the liberals as well - especially the many liberals who have become dissatisfied with Obama.
An extreme conservative could not do that.
A moderate conservative who has had experience working with and understanding democrats could.
Basically, Romney is the conservative's biggest chance at beating Obama.
Additionally, the republicans need not fear that Romney might reverse his views once elected. The distrust from both liberals and conservatives — of a president that would go back on his word as well as the socio-political unrest it would create would clearly not be in his favor.
Even if he is not the favored ultraconservative many Republicans have hoped for — they would be smart to see that Romney's Achilles' heel may actually be a plus for them in the end.
The United States Must Keep a Perspective during its
Economic Struggles
Written by Christy Moore, J.D.
March 24, 2012
The fire of the rising 99 percent is
catching. According to the Occupy Wall Street website, Occupy Wall Street
movements have spread to over 100 cities in the U.S. and in over 1,500 cities
around the world.
The Occupy protestors are not the only
ones who are upset. Individuals and families across the political spectrum are
growing more and more dissatisfied with the current difficulties the U.S. is
facing.
And they have a reason to be upset.
With unemployment rates stuck at around
9 percent, an increasing number of citizens across the U.S. have to make do
with part time work or jobs that are completely unrelated to their field of
study.
Additionally, with the default rate for federal student loans reaching
up to approximately 30 percent, many graduates are under a constant burden of
debt. Many of those burdened by debt or resorting to part-time work find
themselves joining the 16 percent of the U.S. population that are uninsured.
However, many of these grievances, though
real and difficult, should be expected by U.S. citizens.
First, the United States is still
recovering from (if not still experiencing) a recession. Unstable employment,
lack of job opportunities, decrease in social mobility and wages, and a
shriveling middle class…are to be expected during a struggling economy.
Second, student debt has sharply
increased -- partly due to an increase in tuition, but also partly due to an
increase in people going to college and an increase in people taking out more
student loans.
The National Center for Education Statistics stated that
enrollment in postsecondary institutions increased by 38 percent between 1999
and 2009. With more people going to
postsecondary institutions, naturally, the tuition rises to maintain a manageable
number of students. Mark Kantrowitz, the publisher of FinAid.org, says that a
more accurate measure of student loan debt is the average debt each student
carries upon graduation—which increased by more than 50 percent from 2000 to
2011.
Third, the blame for these hardships
does not land on one entity, such as the wealthy one percent, irresponsible
banks, or a defective capitalist system.
The finger points both ways.
Although many U.S. citizens have been
frugal, lived within their means, worked part-time during school, took the
maximum credits, responsibly asked the banks for mortgages to purchase homes,
and tried their best to minimize debt, many citizens have not been nearly as
responsible.
Last, although the U.S. is facing a
severe economic crisis, it is important to remember that relative to many
countries around the world, the majority of U.S. citizens are still prospering.
Most educated citizens from first world
countries don’t expect to always find work in their field of study or
expertise. They also don’t expect to work less than 10 hours each day six days
per week.
In the book, “The Haves and the Have-Nots” (2011), World Bank economist,
Branko Milanovic, describes how wealth is unevenly distributed throughout the
world. Milanovic illustrates how the average of the “poorest” individuals in
the U.S. enjoys a higher standard of living than the average richest individuals
in other countries.
GRAPH 1
. 
Many citizens in the U.S. are
experiencing extreme difficulties and clearly have many reasons to be upset.
However, rather than focus on the problems or placing blame on various
entities, it would be wise to keep perspective during the recovering recession and
understand that many of the difficulties as well as the responsibility for
solutions lie on the citizens themselves.
----------------------------------------------
The
Danger of the 99 percent v. 1 percent: Pitting
the Majority against the Wealthy
Written by Christy Moore, J.D.
March 24, 2012
Not all of the messages proclaimed by
the Occupy Protests are helpful.
According to many Occupy protestors and the
Occupy Wall Street website, one of the primary messages and purposes of the
Occupy Protest movement is to fight against the richest 1 percent of people
that “are writing the rules of an unfair global economy that is foreclosing on
our future.”[1]
Fighting against income inequality that
governs much of the world is praiseworthy. Unfortunately, income inequality
will always be present where there is economic and political freedom or agency.
The current message that is pitting the
average worker against the wealthy may create the danger of trading freedom for
equality.
This is not a new message. It has been used multiple times in the past
to inspire social change.
In the past, supporters of this message declared that there were no
middle class and pitted all of the peasants and working class against the
wealthy. Then they created a system that created more equality among the
classes. To do this, they government became more powerful and stronger in order
to better control the social system and economy.
One example of this common scenario is the story of Mao Zedong in China.
Mao Zedong was the son of a peasant farmer. He acquired power in 1949
and ruled until
1976. During his rule, he caused the death of 40 to 70 million people
(due to severe starvation, mass suicide, political persecution, etc.). Mao
embraced Marxist ideology, which is the abolition of capitalism, introduction
of socialism as a transitional stage to communism, and theoretical transition
into an equal and “classless” system where the government determines how to
allocate the goods.[2]
One man, “Ming Lee” from Shanghai, China, relayed his personal
experience of Mao’s movement (due to potential consequences from China’s
government, this individual has requested to remain anonymous).
Lee’s father created a small factory. They began very poor, but over
time increased in wealth. Once Mao and his party divided the people into two
social classes and pitted the majority to resent the wealthy, the father’s employees
began to resent Lee’s family. Soon, Mao’s government, the Communist Party of
China, essentially confiscated Lee’s family’s business by forcing them to sell
to the government the entire factory at 1/5 of the value. The poor peasant
workers and farmers supported this movement because they benefited from the
confiscations and were taken care of by the government without having to work
as hard. His father, who was also a learned scholar, was eventually taken away
from the people to join the labor camps in an effort to ensure that the
government maintained complete control and equality.
The introduction of communism in Russia followed a similar pattern.
First, Lenin combined the support of workers and peasants to overthrow the
Tsarist regime and then pitted the average worker against the wealthy. Lenin worked
toward creating an international civil war between the classes.
Stalin succeeded Lenin in power during the 1930s. Because the
revolution placed almost absolute power in the newly formed socialist
government, Stalin easily consolidated that power via the Great Purge. His
efforts to maintain power led to the death of millions of his own citizens.
Now, these are clearly extreme examples. But the message that the
leaders used to create such a political and economic system is very similar to
one of the messages currently proclaimed by many of the Occupy protestors and
leaders – fighting against income inequality by pitting the average worker (99
percent) against the wealthy (1 percent).
Although many of the other messages proclaimed by the Occupy protestors
(see Principles of Solidarity from the Occupy Wall Street website)[3]
are harmless and noble, if we are not careful, we may bring upon the United
States of America a change that we may later regret.
[1] Occupy
Wall Street. “About.” Feb. 4, 2011. Available
at http://occupywallst.org/about/.
[2]
BBC History. Mao Zedong. Feb. 22,
2012. Available at http://www.bbc.co.uk/history/historic_figures/mao_zedong.shtml.
See also Wikipediea. Mao Zedong. Feb.
20, 2012. Available at http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mao_Zedong.
[3]
Occupy Wall Street New York City General Assembly. “Principles of Solidarity.”
Feb. 2, 2011. Available at http://www.nycga.net/resources/principles-of-solidarity/
-------------------------------------------------
Muhammad Ali
The following incident took place when Muhammad Ali's daughters arrived at his home wearing clothes that were not modest. Here is the story as told by one of his daughters: Whenwe finally arrived, the chauffeur escorted my younger sister, Laila, and me up to my father's suite. As usual, he was hiding behind the door waiting to scare us. We exchanged many hugs and kisses as we could possibly give in one day.
My father took a good look at us. Then he sat me down on his lap and said something that I will never forget. He looked me straight in the eyes and said, "Hana, everything that God made valuable in the world is covered and hard to get to. Where do you find diamonds? Deep down in the ground, covered and protected. Where do you find pearls? Deep down at the bottom of the ocean, covered up and protected in a beautiful shell. Where do you find gold? Way down in the mine, covered over with layers and layers of rock. You've got to work hard to get to them." He looked at me with serious eyes. "Your body is sacred. You're far more precious than diamonds and pearls, and you should be covered too."
Source: From the book, More Than a Hero: Muhammad Ali's Life Lessons Presented Through His Daughter's Eyes by Hana Ali
----------------------------------------------
Glamour, Dos', and Shoes
Currently, women are being told a lot of things lately.
One especially annoying yet pervasive and persuasive thing is the message that our looks determine whether we have confidence and love.
Movies, stars, TV shows, magazines, etc. teaches that if we want to love and be loved then we must look sexy--or in other words--young, skinny, and sensual.
In Asia, the definition of beauty adds -- white skin. Hence, the "brightening skin serums" that whiten the skin.
In parts of America, the definition adds -- tan skin. Hence, the tanning booths and sprays.
So some women incorrectly feel that our only value and worth is based upon our body and how sexy we are--rather than our heart and goodness.
Thus, some older woman undergo plastic surgery and dye their hair to mask the gray.
While some young women flaunt their bodies for all to see...
As the men turn their heads, the shallow confidence of the woman is validated.
But most women don't purposefully hope for this affect. they just want to find love--real and pure love.
But the message lies. It does not bring real love---but only lust. The opposite of love. The antithesis of love. Even the hinderer of true love.
For sexy and revealing behavior and attire breed unfaithfulness, lust, inapproporiate thoughts, disprespect for oneself, and a love that is only skin deep.
Whereas real love is pure, good, virtuous, and faithful. It is not glamerous or sexy. But just the opposite. It breeds fidelity between the man and woman. It breeds a love of the heart and soul.
It is what every woman truly craves.
And they deserve it--to be treated as queens, not whores.
So we must revolt against this trend, against this pervasive message, and begin looking like queens--pure, virtuous, full of dignity and self-respect, not caring what others think, having confidence that comes from the inside...
---------------------------------------------------
U.S.A. Debt...Pulling another Greece
The following incident took place when Muhammad Ali's daughters arrived at his home wearing clothes that were not modest. Here is the story as told by one of his daughters: Whenwe finally arrived, the chauffeur escorted my younger sister, Laila, and me up to my father's suite. As usual, he was hiding behind the door waiting to scare us. We exchanged many hugs and kisses as we could possibly give in one day.
My father took a good look at us. Then he sat me down on his lap and said something that I will never forget. He looked me straight in the eyes and said, "Hana, everything that God made valuable in the world is covered and hard to get to. Where do you find diamonds? Deep down in the ground, covered and protected. Where do you find pearls? Deep down at the bottom of the ocean, covered up and protected in a beautiful shell. Where do you find gold? Way down in the mine, covered over with layers and layers of rock. You've got to work hard to get to them." He looked at me with serious eyes. "Your body is sacred. You're far more precious than diamonds and pearls, and you should be covered too."
Source: From the book, More Than a Hero: Muhammad Ali's Life Lessons Presented Through His Daughter's Eyes by Hana Ali
Thanks Feds!
*Note: The Bush Administration takes some of the blame of the massive debt increase under the Obama Administration. In less than 3 years, the Obama Administration took our U.S. Debt from $9.6 trillion to $15 trillion. But probably about $1 trillion- $2 trillion of that $6 trillion increase is due to the Security/defense expenditures (wars, Homeland Security Dept, etc.).
*U.S. spending on security/defense from 2001-2011 amounts to $4 trillion.
At this rate, according to analysts, we will be pulling another Greece and Italy in less than 5 years (bankrupt country with a government that hangs by a thread)
Stop the Government Spending!
It is weakening our Country
Let us take care of each other--rather than spending money we don't have on programs we don't need
Heaven sakes--look at California--the biggest welfare state in the U.S.--essentially a bankrupt state with more problems than it can handle and more people that choose not to work so they can live off welfare.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------
I just find it entertaining... how so many people these days mock people who believe in a God.
I hear them constantly saying: "There is no evidence. Why believe in something you can't see?"
First, every day we believe in a lot of things that we cannot see.
For example, you believe that tomorrow the sun will still exist...or that when you get on that plane it will not crash...or that if you eat that cake it won't clog your arteries and send you into a cardiac arrest--even though you have no proof or evidence. You just BELIEVE.
Second, and more importantly, there is a plethora of proof that God does exist.
Some just choose not to BELIEVE.
Take for example, the court system in America. For those of us who haven't had a recent dose in the courtroom...here is a quick overview.
In a court room, evidence is proven via essentially two channels: intrinsic evidence (the person admits/testifies himself) and extrinsic evidence (everything else).
Extrinsic evidence can be proven by other witnesses who testify on the stand about what they saw, heard, or know--or tangible evidence, like DNA results.
Naturally, tangible evidence like DNA doesn't need much convincing and leads to a pretty quick trial.
But sometimes the only evidence the courts have are witnesses.
Then it is up to the Jury to decide whether that particular witness is credible, honest, truthful. If so, they will believe the witness.
The world is full of real witnesses--millions of people who have testified and do testify that God exists...that they have personally seen God, talked to God, heard God's voice, or felt God around them.
I am a witness who has felt God; I personally know several people who have seen Him; and I have heard of dozens who have seen and talked with Him.
The question is are they credible, trustworthy, honest? Can we believe them? Or are they just lying? or stupid? or severely brainwashed?
Well--there are two ways to know if they are credible witnesses:
1) By their fruits. Are they good, honest, intelligent, and wise men and women?
2) By the Spirit--a feeling that will come to your heart and mind to certify TRUTH.
God is brilliant. God is smart enough NOT to write on the sky with His finger, "I am God." So that we have tangible, physical evidence. That would obviously destroy the purpose of earthlife. Everyone would have to believe in God or else they would be an idiot.
We must be humble, open, and willing to believe and cleave to Truth.
So no, in answer to the many ignorant claims, you are wrong. There is evidence. A whole lot of it.
-------------------------------------------------
I think if we, girls and women, really understood and remembered WHO we are and WHAT we are meant to become, we would not get our identity and self esteem from the world's standards or be such followers...
The Tale
There is a reason that both girls and women gravitate to movies and story books that contain a tale of a Princess.
Take Tangled for example.
The tale?
A girl does not know who she really is, grows and develops herself into a kind and charming young lady, and then ends up finding out that her parents are actually this kind and loving King and Queen of the kingdom...making her a princess and future Queen.
Royal Blood
From the Lord's own words in the scriptures, we learn time and time agai
n that we are daughters of God.
God is our Father.
Who is God?
The King of the Universe, the King of His Kingdoms
What does that make us?
Literal Princesses and future Queens
I know it's hard to truly grasp and believe. But it is a Fact. It is Truth.
We have royal blood rushing through our veins
Queenly Women
What image does a princess or queen portray in your mind?
The usual image is one of: elegance, grace, charm, nurturing all those in her kingdom. Usually wears an elegant long dresss.
Simple style and shoes, yet graceful.
Worldy Women
What image do women in and of the world portray in your mind?
The general image now a days is one of: sexual and sensual appeal, coarse, and career-driven.
Muhammad Ali
The following incident took place when Muhammad Ali's daughters arrived at his home wearing clothes that were not modest. Here is the story as told by one of his daughters: When
we finally arrived, the chauffeur escorted my younger sister, Laila, and me up to my father's suite. As usual, he was hiding behind the door waiting to scare us. We exchanged many hugs and kisses as we could possibly give in one day. My father took a good look at us. Then he sat me down on his lap and said something that I will never forget. He looked me straight in the eyes and said, "Hana, everything that God made valuable in the world is covered and hard to get to. Where do you find diamonds? Deep down in the ground, covered and protected. Where do you find pearls? Deep down at the bottom of the ocean, covered up and protected in a beautiful shell. Where do you find gold? Way down in the mine, covered over with layers and layers of rock. You've got to work hard to get to them." He looked at me with serious eyes. "Your body is sacred. You're far more precious than diamonds and pearls, and you should be covered too." Source: From the book, More Than a Hero: Muhammad Ali's Life Lessons Presented Through His Daughter's Eyes by Hana Ali
We MUST understand that we are literally daughters of a King, and as such must start to ACT and DRESS as one.
In other words, stop trying to be more like men, make them lust after us, or think that life is about a career...but instead...
Understand that we are precious. The World and Men are changed by pure, virtuous, queenly, family-oriented women. The future leaders and societies of the world are molded by nurturing women.
Indian Wife
This man from India retold this conversation he had with his wife:
His wife indicated that she wanted to start wearing more revealing clothes, the husband pleaded, "Please don't, I don't want you to wear such clothes that would only make men lose their respect for you and lust after you. No, it would break my heart if you were the cause of other wives' broken hearts."
-------------------------------------------------------
THE TIGER MOM
Many mothers here mention and admire this book, written by a Chinese mother, Amy Chua, of two children. This book is called,"The Battle Hymn of the Tiger Mother."
This article is not to critique the method of raising a child, but to critique the Why behind the method and to show How a child-rearing method defines a child's perception of a "Successful Life."
This article is not to critique the method of raising a child, but to critique the Why behind the method and to show How a child-rearing method defines a child's perception of a "Successful Life."
Here are some excerpts written regarding this article:
Aspect from the "Tiger Mom" author:
"Why Chinese Mothers Are Superior"
By AMY CHUA
What Chinese parents understand is that nothing is fun until you're good at it. To get good at anything you have to work, and children on their own never want to work, which is why it is crucial to override their preferences. This often requires fortitude on the part of the parents because the child will resist; things are always hardest at the beginning, which is where Western parents tend to give up. But if done properly, the Chinese strategy produces a virtuous circle. Tenacious practice, practice, practice is crucial for excellence; rote repetition is underrated in America.
Aspect from Time Magazine
Tiger Moms: Is Tough Parenting Really the Answer?
It was the "Little White Donkey" incident that pushed many readers over the edge. That's the name of the piano tune that Amy Chua, Yale law professor and self-described "tiger mother," forced her 7-year-old daughter Lulu to practice for hours on end — "right through dinner into the night," with no breaks for water or even the bathroom, until at last Lulu learned to play the piece.
For other readers, it was Chua calling her older daughter Sophia "garbage" after the girl behaved disrespectfully — the same thing Chua had been called as a child by her strict Chinese father.(See a TIME Q&A with Amy Chua.)
And, oh, yes, for some readers it was the card that young Lulu made for her mother's birthday. "I don't want this," Chua announced, adding that she expected to receive a drawing that Lulu had "put some thought and effort into." Throwing the card back at her daughter, she told her, "I deserve better than this. So I reject this."
The idea/method?
The parent or school teacher calls the children demeaning names, "you stupid" and then tells them something that is supposed to be motivating "you can do better than that."
(In schools, the children are all given a number that corresponds to how they fall in the class. E.g. the smartest child in math will get a 50...while the "stupidest child" in math will get a 1.)
The children go to school and then cram schools often until 10 or 11 pm and then spend their weekends going to piano practice, dance practice, art/painting, filling their day to the very brim...and Practice, Practice, Practice.
(NO WONDER having children is EXPENSIVE!!!)
Truth be told, Western parents can learn from this method--by not allowing their children to play too many video games or watching TV, helping them learn the satisfaction and joy from hard work, as well as the success that can come from practice.
But what is the underlying PROBLEM WITH THIS METHOD?
The Why
Why use the Method?
A parent or teacher would use such a strict method because they badly want their child to become a talented pianist...or go to a top school...or become wealthy.
The How
How the Method defines "Success"
This method teaches the child a false concept of a "SUCCESSFUL LIFE"
With the parents "sacrificing" by going to work all day long in order to earn all the money for lessons and cram schools..so that their child will "have a better life than they do.." in other words, "so their child will have a successful life by going to a top school and becoming very, very wealthy"...what do the children learn?
Why use the Method?
A parent or teacher would use such a strict method because they badly want their child to become a talented pianist...or go to a top school...or become wealthy.
The How
How the Method defines "Success"
This method teaches the child a false concept of a "SUCCESSFUL LIFE"
With the parents "sacrificing" by going to work all day long in order to earn all the money for lessons and cram schools..so that their child will "have a better life than they do.." in other words, "so their child will have a successful life by going to a top school and becoming very, very wealthy"...what do the children learn?
What is the definition of a "successful life" according to this method?
Wealth, Fame, High Education, Power, Prestige, and being Talented/Perfect
As Opposed To...
"A Successful Life is NOT one full of wealth, fame, and power. Rather, it is one where a person feels loved no mater what he/she achieves, one full of a healthy and happy and faithful marriage...a close and joyful family who spends UNHURRIED time together laughing and talking and watching the stars...a life full of loving and serving ones' neighbors -- not accumulating wealth to spend it on designer clothes."
The child does not crave to become some rich violinist...but more to be loved by his parents and learn to love others.
This latter definition garnishes a child who is confident, feels loved, knows that no matter what happens to him--he is a "successful person" just because he is. Just because he is the child of two loving parents. And just because he SHARES that love with others around him.
Personal Experience:
No, I may not be the greatest pianist in the world. But I am a very happy and satisfied person. I feel like I learned qualities that are priceless and give me much more than fame or money could ever bring.
I want to ask this "tiger mom" some questions:
1. Is your daughter happy?
2. Does she have high confidence and self esteem?
3. Does she spend her time and money giving to the poor, helping her neighbors, and bringing happiness and service to those around her?
4. Does she even like playing the piano?
5. Have you ever asked her if she plays the piano only because she wants to win your love?
6. Have you ever asked her if she feels like your love is conditional upon her being successful a a pianist?
7. Have you ever asked her if her greatest fear is getting into some kind of accident that will leave her paralized and unable to play piano--because she fears that she will lose your love?
8. Does she enjoy life?
9. Does she have a happy family and personal life?
10. What is her definition of a successful life?
But I don't have to ask her. I think I already know the answer to many of the questions.
Because they have to be "PERFECT" in order to be "SUCCESSFUL", and they have to be "SUCCESSFUL" in order to be LOVED.
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Our Economy: Pulling another "Europe"
Unfortunately, few candidates have an exceptionally brilliant idea for an economic pull out.
Republican Candidates have similar plans to fix the Economic Problem through job creation, cut spending, not bailing out corporations and banks in debt (letting them face their own consequences), and not allowing banks to be "too big to fail."
(However, I wish they would focus more on "incentivizing"/teaching people to not get into debt in the first place.)
But they all are 100 times better than Obama's plans...
Obama Administration is trying to fix the Economic Problem through job creation, more spending ($194 billion), tax cuts ($253 billion), helping homeowners with little or no equity in their homes to refinance and avert foreclosure --at least for a time, and easing college graduates' repayment of federal loans, bailing out companies, and investing in small businesses.
*Obama has bailed out the banks, the mortgage companies...and now homeowners are requesting that he bail them out too.
Great idea! Let's become like Italy and Greece! And have our governments collapse due to our crushing national debt...
In addition Obama's plans would...
1. Create another spending hike in the Obama Administration's already unacceptable spending compulsion habits.
2. Allow students and homeowners to ease off on paying off their loans (I belong to this crowd) or refinance to avert foreclosure, will only prolong the pain of the recession.
(Naturally, it could possibly create short term relief--just in time for re-election.)
3. Bailing companies, banks, and citizens out will create incentives for citizens to continue their habit of spending more than they have--rather than allowing citizens and banks and businesses to learn from their consequences.
3. As we have seen with Solyndra Solar panel plant, the car companies, and a host of others in Europe--bailing out doesn't work!!!!
Increase in almost $6 trillion!!
(most rapid increase in debt under a U.S. Pres.)
*Part of the fault lies with the Bush Admin. too. Less than 1/4 of that debt is likely due to the wars, Homeland Security, etc.--thanks to the Bush Administration.
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Root of US Economic Problems
ROOT OF USA (EUROPE) ECONOMIC SPIRAL
Republican Candidates plan to fix the Economic Problem through job creation, cut spending, and not bailing out corporations and banks in debt (letting them face their own consequences.)
Obama Administration is trying to fix the Economic Problem through job creation, more spending ($194 billion), tax cuts ($253 billion), helping homeowners with little or no equity in their homes to refinance and avert foreclosure --at least for a time, and easing college graduates' repayment of federal loans. See Source for details.
Some economists say neither will work until the problem that caused the economic crisis to begin with is addressed: housing
Those economists are on to something. Rather than trying to fix the branches, the Republican and Democratic party needs to get at the main cause of the economic crash.
But they are wrong in one aspect.
The root of the economic problem is not housing, it is
Collectively, the U.S. government, the state governments, corporate America and American consumers have accumulated the biggest mountain of debt in the history of the world
Let's repeat that.
Who caused the Debt?
The people in the White House, the people in the Capital, the people in corporations and banks, and the people in households
Government Spending/Debt
Household Debt Banks/Houses
Why do we make it sound like some abstract entity who has a compulsion spending problem, when it is all of US, AMERICANS , who have the compulsion spending problem.
-over $10 trillion in mortgage debt-$1 trillion in student loan debt-over $750 billion in credit card debt
See Source
For it is us, Americans, who make up congress...make up businesses...and make up families and consumers.
I am sorry, Obama and Republicans and Occupy Wall Street Protestors.
The finger points at all of us.
What should be the Economic Plan?
Create monetary or educational incentives & Seminars to help ALL AMERICANS learn how to spend less, how to be less materialistic, and how to give to the poor more.
But the worst thing we can do is to continue to give more incentives to business, banks, students and homeowners to spend more than they have--by allowing them to not face their consequences.
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Presidential Candidates
According to most polls, tha presidential race will likely be Obama versus Romney. But Cain is a close tie.
I.e. In Florida, Romney beats Obama 45%-42%; In Ohio, 45% chose Obama while 42% picked Romney; in Penn, Obama is at 44% and Romney is at 43%.
In So. Carolina, Cain and Romney are neck and neck.
Before the harrassment scandals, Cain beat Romney by 5 points in Florida and Ohio...
Some say that Gingrich will start to rise. See Poll source.
Some say that Gingrich will start to rise. See Poll source.
Republican Candidates
1. Mitt Romney (28%)
Biggest Hangups:
1. Romney
a. "RomneyCare" in Massachessetts
-Is RomneyCare too similar to ObamaCare?
-Is RomneyCare too similar to ObamaCare?
How the Health Care in Massachessetts differs from ObamaCare: (1) Health Care in Mass. was a State mandate--not National mandate--and the residents in Mass. liked it by a 3 to 1 margin (as opposed to ObamaCare's lack of public support) ; (2) the bill helped the 8% who didn't have insurance--and didn't effect the 92%--as opposed to ObamaCare affecting 100% of the US; (3) it was run by private insurance companies--rather than the Government; (4) did not cut Medicare--as opposed to ObamaCare which cut Medicare by $500 billion; (5) it did not raise taxes -- as opposed to raising taxes by $500 billion with ObamaCare.
How is Health Care in Mass. similar to ObamaCare: (1) it used some federal funding for its state to partly fund the endeavor, (2) it funded abortions (Romney says he did not agree with portions of the health care Bill but was vetoed on his changes); (3) it included tax penalties for failing to obtain an insurance plan--Medicaid Massachusetts tax filers who failed to enroll in a health insurance plan which was deemed affordable for them lost the $219 personal exemption on their income tax.
-Will Romney repeal ObamaCare?
Romney says he will as soon as he takes office because he believes it won't work across the nation--economically it would run America into the ground in debt; and health care is a state responsibility--not the Federal Governments. Fed. Govt should not usurp that power; it is the "wrong course for America."
b. Mormon Religion
-Is he a Christian?
Yes, According to main stream definition that a Christian is one who "Believes that Jesus is the Messiah and Redeemer of the World."
See below definitions
**Note, there are many Christian churches that differ in theology-such as the manner of baptism; the essentiality of baptism for salvation; whether Jesus, the Father, and the Holy Ghost are separate individuals...etc.
For more inquiries about the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saint Theology, see: Mormon Religion.
"a person who has received Christian baptism or is a believer in Christianity."
Wiki Definition
"Christians believe that Jesus is the Messiah prophesided in the Hebrew Bible." Christians believe that " (1) Jesus is the Son of God, (2) God having become human and [is] the (3)saviour of humanity."
The Free Dictionary
"Professing belief in Jesus as Christ or following the religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus." "Manifesting the qualities or spirit of Jesus; Christlike/Lives according to the teachings of Jesus."
2. Cain (27% and dropping)
Biggest Hangups:
a. Honesty/Sexual Harrasment Issues
Politico leaked the names of 4 unacquainted women who filed sexual harrassment claims against Cain years ago. Two of the women have come public so far. One provided affidavits from witnesses of her testimony. Cain denied it all. After his denial, the second woman came public to clear her name and will likely provide evidence of the settlement and claim. Support has also dropped because of Cain's changing story (first he denied any kind of agreement was made with the lady and then admitted that there was a settlement...as well as pointing blame on Perry and then the media).
Cain says he did not even recognize the first woman who went public. He also explained that he is a victim of a racial smear against him.
b. Changed views on Abortion
Herman Cain said that he opposes abortion even after rape or incest or when a woman's life is at risk, contradicting previous statements in which he favored exceptions
Herman Cain said that he opposes abortion even after rape or incest or when a woman's life is at risk, contradicting previous statements in which he favored exceptions
c. Border Control
Cain favors putting up a type of electric fence.
4. Gingrich (13%)
Biggest Hangups
a. Personal life Infidility/Trustworthiness
In the spring of 1980, Gingrich left his first wife, Battley, after having an affair with Marianne Ginther, whom he latter married.
In the mid-1990s, Gingrich began an affair with House of Representatives staffer Callista Bisek, who is 23 years his junior.
In 2000, Gingrich married Bisek shortly after his divorce from second wife.
b. Lack of Experience
Little business/economic experience outside of the White House.
He served as the 58th Speaker of tehe U.S. House of Rep. from 1995 to 1999.
He was a congressman from 1979 to 1999.
5. Perry (10%)
Biggest Hangups
a. Awful Debate performance and Speaking ability
b. The Public sees him as a "bully"
Due to his offensive nature during debates and comments he has made about other candidates, the general public does not like him. He is seen rather harsh. According to a Washington Post activity in Ohio, most see Perry as a tougher/bully.
c. Perceived as a Magnet-creator for illegal immigrants
He created in-state tuition breaks for all residents (but there is no proof of that this actually was the cause for the 60% increase in illegal immigrants in Texas since 2000.)
6. Paul (10%)
Biggest Hangups
a. Extreme Ideas that differ from many Republicans
Ie. Ron Paul wants to withdraw all military forces from foreign soil.
He wants to leave marijuana legalization issues up to the states...
b. Lack of business/economic experience
American physician + political career (on and off since 1976)
7. Bachman (4%)
Biggest Hangups
a. Her husband's counselling organization
Draws a lot of critizism. He is a Christian counsellor who does clinical therapy.
And he is not in favor of homosexuality or abortions.
The media highlighted some comments he made about his homosexual views during a radio interview-- despite his statement to a newspaper that if a gay person comes to his clinic ‘and they want to stay homosexual, I don’t have a problem with that’.
Regarding the issue, she often claims "I am not running for a position in the Supreme Court, I am running for President of the United States." "These are separate issues here.
When asked if she would not choose a judge who was homosexual, she replied: "My criteria is 1) competency, 2) whether they uphold the Constitution, and 3) whether their political ideals are similar to mine.
b. Factual Misstatements
Several times, she has stated incorrect facts and details and has a difficulty when asked to declare the source of her facts.
c. Lack of business/economic experience
She previously served as a Minnesota Senator (since 2000).
She previously served as a Minnesota Senator (since 2000).
However--she is to be applauded...
She is the first Republican woman to represent the state in Congress. Bachmann is a supporter of the Tea Party Movement and a founder of the House Tea Party Caucus.
and they have raised five children and 23 foster children together
Democratic Candidate
President Obama
Biggest Hangups
a. National debt
National debt has increase $4 trillion under Obama (fast than many president combined)
This is a great concern--especially in light of how the EU is collapsing due to its own debt issues. The governments of Italy and Greece are hanging by a thread (well, Greece's government has already collapsed .. and Italy's will over the weekend most likey.)http://www.cbsnews.com/8301-503544_162-20095704-503544.html
And Obama continues to try and solve our job situation in America by creating even more debt (which would increase jobs and the economy for a short term--just until election time--before it plummets just as fast as the EU has)
b. Sagging Economy
As of October 2011, unemployment is at 9%.
Obama's plans to pick up the economy only involve more debt and higher taxes....which would lead to a long-term downward spiral.
c. National Security Problems
d. Troop Withdrawals
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Our Own Little Kingdoms
Each of us has our own little kingdom.
If you think about it, God, King of the Universe, is really just a Parent over many, many children.
If Godhood is essentially Parenthood; Then Parenthood is akin to Godhood.
Thus a family is akin to a kingdom.
How noble, majestic, and honorable then is the title, Mother or Father.
And what great responsibility comes with that Title.
It is a grand gift of God, our Father, to allow every one of his children on earth to experience a family or even have the privilege of starting their own family, their own little, but growing, kingdom.
No wonder, Satan, (who will never get a family of his own) makes the world think that true success and happiness is found in one's career, or money, or looks, or power, or fame--rather than the family.
If Godhood is essentially Parenthood; Then Parenthood is akin to Godhood.
Thus a family is akin to a kingdom.
How noble, majestic, and honorable then is the title, Mother or Father.
And what great responsibility comes with that Title.
It is a grand gift of God, our Father, to allow every one of his children on earth to experience a family or even have the privilege of starting their own family, their own little, but growing, kingdom.
No wonder, Satan, (who will never get a family of his own) makes the world think that true success and happiness is found in one's career, or money, or looks, or power, or fame--rather than the family.
But the Family is Incredibly Important--it is a small, little, growing Kingdom.
This is a big jump.
It took twenty years for the U.S. debt to go from $2.6 trillion in 1988 to $9.6 trillion in 2008.
That’s a 7 trillion dollar increase in twenty years.
Whereas, it took only three years for the U.S. debt to go from $9.6 trillion to $15 trillion in 2011—almost a $6 trillion increase.
Date
|
U.S. National Debt
|
9/30/1988
|
$2.6 trillion
|
9/30/1994
|
$4.6 trillion
|
9/25/1995
|
$4.9 trillion
|
9/30/1996
|
$5.2 trillion
|
9/30/1997
|
$5.4 trillion
|
9/30/1998
|
$5.5 trillion
|
9/30/1999
|
$5.6 trillion
|
9/29/2000
|
$5.6 trillion
|
9/28/2001
|
$5.8 trillion
|
9/30/2002
|
$6.2 trillion
|
9/30/2003
|
$6.7 trillion
|
9/30/2004
|
$7.4 trillion
|
9/30/2005
|
$7.9 trillion
|
9/30/2006
|
$8.5 trillion
|
9/28/2007
|
$9 trillion
|
8/29/2008
|
$9.6 trillion
|
11/14/2011
|
$15 trillion
|
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The True Mark of a Man
The True Mark of a Man (Woman) is not what he has Obtained, but what he has Given Up.
It is funny how most of us respect and are awe-inspired by that girl who has written 5 books and is now famous, or that man who has started up 10 companies and is now a millionaire, or that woman who is a well-known painter or counsellor. And they do deserve respect for their diligence and hard work.
But how often do we honor and respect and even notice those who have given up all that fanfare, position, or wealth for a much less noticable, yet deeper life--and one more fulfilling in the end.
Story of Elder Bednar
I will never forget this Stake Conference for BYU single youth. Elder Bednar spoke. He began with a very short story--almost as if it was a last-minute addition. But I never forgot it.
I will never forget this Stake Conference for BYU single youth. Elder Bednar spoke. He began with a very short story--almost as if it was a last-minute addition. But I never forgot it.
He told how when he was a professor/dean at a university in Chicago, he got called into the President of the University's office. The President asked him if he would accept a very high promotion--one that would quickly enhance Elder Bednar's position and salary from then out.
However, after contemplating the possibly faster way to prominance and wealth, Elder Bednar turned it down. The President was stunned and asked why. Elder Bednar explained, "If I took the position, I would be unable to be my sons' T-Ball Team Coach this year, and I would never want to miss that part of their life."
Wow.
(Similar to George Washington's story...and the sons of King Mosiah as well as the sons of the Brother of Jared who all refused to become King...)
"It is more noble to give yourself completely to one individual than to labor diligently for the salvation of the masses."--Dag Hammarskjold.
Does this mean we shouldn't try and make a difference in the world? No--just keep Priorities straight.
"It is more noble to give yourself completely to one individual than to labor diligently for the salvation of the masses."--Dag Hammarskjold.
Does this mean we shouldn't try and make a difference in the world? No--just keep Priorities straight.
warm and free. Then He pointed me out a tiny spot And said, "Tend that for me."
I quickly relied, "Oh no, not that. "Why no one would ever see. "No matter how
well my work was done; "Not that little place for me." The word He spoke, It was
not stern, He answered me tenderly; "Ah, little one, search that heart of thine.
"Are you working for them or me? "Nazareth was a little place, and so was
Galilee."
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The ROOT of London's Riots
Wow. The World is Learning some Important Lessons.
You have to read this: China Post--London Riots
&
Cameron's Struggle to Restore UK Morality
You have to read this: China Post--London Riots
&
Cameron's Struggle to Restore UK Morality
Essentially, with their youth coming unhinged, London is unfortunately realizing--a little too late--that it was neglecting the very foundation of a society: strong families and moral citizens.
Here are snippets of the best parts from Prime Minister Cameron: (Quoting from the News Article cited above):
Here are snippets of the best parts from Prime Minister Cameron: (Quoting from the News Article cited above):
This, however, begs the question of how a nation's leader can restore a secular society after a moral collapse. It is an issue many countries in the free world must face, whether they are willing to admit it or not.
Now, Cameron appears to be waging a war on morality, or the lack thereof. Citing “laziness, irresponsibility and selfishness” as the cause of Britain's “moral collapse,” Cameron is calling for Britons to confront their fears of discussing the breakdown of the family unit, poor parenting and most importantly, to talk about “what is right and what is wrong.”
Quoting Cameron, “Children without fathers. Schools without discipline. Reward without effort. Crime without punishment. Rights without responsibilities. Communities without control. Some of the worst aspects of human nature tolerated, indulged — sometimes even incentivized — by a state and its agencies that in parts have become literally demoralized.”
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India's Decay
The other day, I met an intelligent businessman from India at the hotel.
I noted to him how impressed and fascinated I was with the Indian culture.
He said, "India's culture is quickly changing--and sadly for the worse.
Before, India had one of the lowest divorce rates in the world. Couples learned to love each other and work things out. Family came first. Families were happy and united for the most part. Women were chaste, and men were faithful.
Much of this has changed--partly because of the West's depiction to our Indian youth of what is "Happiness".
He continued, "Although in some ways, women have been "liberated"--it has swung too far to the other side.
Now, divorce rates are rising. Career is now the purpose of many youth's life, rather than a family. And with the women placing their own career first and other endeavors, clearly, the family gets weaker and more dysfunctional.
Now if you were to walk around India, you see young women in very revealing attire. I told my wife that she cannot wear that. She asked Why not? They get so much attention. I told her that I don't want other husbands and men looking after her and lusting after her--while their own wives' hearts break..."
He ended by saying, "Don't worry. Just like the rest of the West is learning, India will also learn that this manner of life will not bring happiness. But perhaps that will take 50 sad years."
Interesting...
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The World's Trends...
*Studies have shown that those who get married later in life go through a much harder transition when they get married because there is already an independant habit of living.
Graphs Produced by University of Maryland. See http://www.bsos.umd.edu/socy/vanneman/socy441/trends/fert.html
Unhappiness Level Graph (measured by num. of suicides)
Librarything.com/suicide: (closest way to measure a society's happiness level.)
WHO reported: In the last 45 years suicide rates have increased by 60% worldwide
It's OK to Be a Leader
Be Different
Be Different
Be Peculiar
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Track Record of Socialist Programs
Health care needs to be made more available.
Mitt Romney's state health care system--run by private insurance companies--rather than government-run--was not a bad plan. It helped most of the state obtain health insurance while still maintaning a very minimal governmental influence. It was not a socialist program.
With California running itself into the ground in debt-thanks to their massive and more and more ineffective Welfare programs...
Europe breaking down under their debt due to their socialist programs
And even Greece on the verge of bankruptcy and with it's government hanging by a "thread"
The track record of most--but not all (surprisingly the Scandanavian countries are still hanging in there OK)-- Socialist Programs eventually turns into big bankrupt programs!
(and this is not even mentioning the moral effect on the citizens of a socialist country-as Prime Minister Cameron has admitted about London's youth--how their socialist programs have shaped citizens to feel entitled to health and houses for free, bred idleness...)
America must be wise about implementing more socialist programs.
There are other and better ways
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The 4 P's
Power Pleasure Prominance Property
Isnt it interesting how we allow ourselves and our children to worship and idiolize prominant people (Hollywood stars...CEOs...) because they have one of the 4 Ps, but never teach them what kind of life that entails or generally leads to?
Have you ever asked that wealthy CEO how is family life is doing? How healthy his marriage is? Or if he is even happy and fulfilled?
Have you ever researched about the personal lives of some famous Hollywood star?
(it really is fascinating. I just looked up Angelina Jolie on Wiki and was so saddened by her personal life)
Truly, those P's do not come free.
One must PAY THE PRICE. Always.
Generally,--We cannot "have our cake and eat it too."
Are there some who have one of the Ps and still have a wonderful family/personal life? ABSOLUTELY!
Ofcourse, there are some in these positions that still have maintained correct priorities, BUT it is their priorities--not the fame or money attained--that makes them great.
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Occupy Oakland Riots
The Occupy Movement has turned violent, especially in Oakland, CA--with some protestors breaking store windows and 80 being arrested for not complying with Police requests. It is looking more and more similar to London's Riots.
In answer to why there is an Occupy Movement and what they are even trying to get (their goal in these protests), Michael Moore said on CNN that the Movement is because:
"Many homeowners are now struggling with their mortgage...students areSo essentially, a handful of protestors (not all of them. Some protestors have legitimate reasons for the protests and I respect them for even trying to make a difference! Hats off to you guys!!!) are mad because:
drowning in their educational loans..."
(1) when they requested for a loan to let them buy a house they couldn't afford, or to get massive student loans (loans which have proven only encouraged students to not work during school, only take 12 credits/semester, and use the loan money on other things unrelated to the necessities of going to school), the banks gave it to them.
+
(2) The awful Economic Crisis they are affected by. (It's not only their own fault)
What essentially caused the USA (and world's) Economic Crisis?
http://thinkbynumbers.org/blog/debt/cause-financial-crisis/
DEBT!!!
With much of the debt coming from Personal Household Debt (not just Corporate Debt and Greed)
And now many want the government or banks or someone to get them out of the mess that they themsleves got into.
Again, I think Michael Moore made an unfair generalization. I believe there are many students in the protestor movement that did not use their loan money to buy a laptop...worked at 2 part-time jobs while at school...took the full load of credits...and lived off of hamburgers to minimize their debt. And despite their tireless efforts and Masters degree, they couldn't even get a job at McDonalds. And to them, my hat is off and I respect them for voicing their concern.
But sadly, it sounds like the Banks and Corporations are not the only "Greedy" ones...The fingers point both ways.
