For those of you who remember, 1970's popular culture was profoundly influenced by the the difficulty of the era. The end of the Vietnam war, the energy crisis, Nixon's resignation, even the break up of the Beatles had led to an entrenched sense of cynicism in popular culture. Sardonic wit drawn from a growing mistrust of authority and established institutions became chic. Much of this was reflected in popular films of the era like M*A*S*H, Smokey and The Bandit, Convoy even Star Wars. These were movies that pitted their heroes against the established authority.
Standing apart from this trend was Superman The Movie. The big screen rendition of the idyllic comic book superhero turned the box office on its ear. In a time when heroes were anything but clean cut, morally centred men in tights, the film seemed to strike a chord with audiences. The tenor of the story pitted the acrimony of the day against bright-eyed optimism and a veneration of core values such as courtesy, respect and humility. One of the most telling moments in the film came when Margo Kidder's Lois Lane asked Superman what he believed.
He replied without hesitation, "I stand for truth, justice and the American way."
That line universally drew titters and sometimes outright laughter from the audience. It also caused more than a few viewers to pause and ponder why such a statement had become so laughable.
In the moments after last night's Grey Cup victory, Anthony Calvillo was pulled aside by a television reporter to comment on his team's success. Calvillo began, as he had in similar occasions by saying, "First of all I want to thank my Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ."
That line drew more than a few laughs among the Alouettes faithful with whom I had gathered to watch the game. As a person who has devoted much of my own life to a local church, admittedly the statement drew a mild cringe.
The euphoria of the Alouettes Grey Cup win soon turned to shock and surprise when Calvillo later admitted that he had been keeping a health related issue a secret. In August of this year, when doctors examined him after suffering a bruised sternum, it was discovered that the Als' quarterback had a lesion on the thyroid gland in his neck. A biopsy was inconclusive, so surgery to remove the lesion became necessary. Despite the gravity of the discovery, physicians told Calvillo he would be able to complete the season prior to the operation. Thyroid cancer is among the more treatable forms of the disease, with a 97% success rate, but until any one of us has to face such unimaginable news, percentages don't have much meaning.
Calvillo has known about his condition since August, but virtually no one on the team was aware. This makes the Grey Cup victory all the more incredible and somewhat bittersweet. It is also a testament to his faith.
Cynicism is easy. It's been said that it's better to be an pessimist than an optimist because most of the time you are right, and even when you're wrong, it's a pleasant surprise. Faith is hard. To believe in something so deeply is one thing, but to profess it publicly is another thing entirely. You risk mockery and derision. Your credibility is called into question as is your judgement.
The mixture of faith and sports has never been a comfortable one. There have been players in the past who have accredited their success on the playing field to their relationship with the divine. In Calvillo's case, he has never given credit to God for his success, but he has always taken the opportunity to thank God. There is a difference.
Humility is the cornerstone of many faiths. Secular society has often regarded this quality as weakness, but true humility requires significant courage and strength. Humility comes from accepting that much of what we experience and have received in our lives does not come from us. That our lives, our abilities, our talents, are all gifts, things that we did not acquire on our own, that help define who we are. This is not to say that humility cannot coexist with confidence and determination. In many ways, those qualities are enhanced by humility. What we achieve in life is dependant mostly on what we do with the gifts we have. It is those choices that determine how we are perceived by the world. Do we use them solely for the benefit of ourselves or do we share them for the benefit of others?
Calvillo himself is nonplussed about reactions to his public acknowledgements of grace. It is a reflection of his character that is in part fierce and determined competitor and a humble, thankful human being. Whether we find his statement to be laughable or cringeworthy, to borrow a line from a lesser known movie, "you don't have to believe." Whatever we might think of his chosen faith, or religion in general, Calvillo has consistently demonstrated exceptional qualities both on and off the playing field. Any one who might want to question his priorities ought to recall his decision to walk away from the game in 2007 to support his wife Alexia in her battle with B-cell lymphoma cancer.
I suspect that back in August, when he first learned of his condition, Calvillo's first thought was not why me? Knowing what we know of him, he was probably thinking it was a good thing he got injured, otherwise he might not have known about the lesion sooner. These things we will likely never know, but one thing is certain, he spent the rest of the season, and playoffs, keeping the news from his team-mates so as not to become a distraction. It doesn't get much more selfless than that. Although typical of Calvillo, he was honest enough to admit that playing the game had kept him from thinking of the road ahead. Still, it would have been easy to use his condition as a rallying point for the team, making the season all about him, or perhaps to build-in an excuse if the season didn't end well. Clearly, that was not how he wanted this to play out.
Winning a second straight Grey Cup, under circumstances that we now know were significantly more challenging than any of us saw on the field, Calvillo could have been forgiven for wanting to take at least a modicum of credit. Instead, he did as he has always done, shown grace for his blessings ahead of everything else, including his own remarkable courage.
In a society in which professional athletes brag and trash talk one another, where celebrities are exalted and bask in the limelight for achieving little else than being born into a good gene pool, Calvillo's attitude is refreshing and much needed. I firmly believe his faith will carry him through the challenges ahead, and because of the strength of his character built upon a foundation of humility, each and every one of us touched by his life will carry the weight as well.
Blessings, Anthony.
Monday, November 29, 2010
Friday, November 26, 2010
The Friday Time Waster Supreme: Big Mouth Bishops and Broomstick Underpants Edition
Another busy week has passed and I have left you blogless yet again, well almost. In my defence, I am hip-deep in a project that is sapping all of my creative energy (such as it is), and frankly I'm just too damn lazy. Fortunately for you, not lazy enough to let a Friday pass without another collection of thoughts and commentary to massage the kinks out of your brain in time for the weekend. With prose like that, it could mean only one thing ... I'm a crappy writer ... no, silly-pants, it's the Friday Time Waster Supreme.
Lazy Liars
A study published recently in my favourite academic rag Social Psychological and Personality Science concluded that people are more likely to lie or cheat if it's easy. The study conducted by the University of Toronto gave 84 participants a computer-based math test, but warned them that there was a glitch in the system. Half were told that hitting the space bar would display the answer. The rest were told that by not pressing the enter key quickly enough, the answer would appear on the screen. In other words do nothing - get it right.
Most did not cheat, but of those who did, like the no enter-key cheaters, it happened 1.5 times in 15. The space-bar cheaters did so an average of 0.18 times.
Rimma Teper, a PhD student overseeing the study, claims the distinction is in the action required. The first group have to intentionally cheat, the second group can argue that they didn't do anything and the answer appeared, which can be interpreted as somewhat less of a transgression. In laymen's terms "oopsie, my bad."
So, scientific evidence that people are more likely to lie if it's easy. Can't wait for Teper's next breakthrough study: Are men thinking about their feelings during game seven of the Stanley Cup playoffs?
...and they hand out PhD's for this.
***
The Rock's Rock
Newfoundland and Labrador's ass-kicking premier Danny Williams surprised the province, and the country, by announcing that he was stepping down this week. The Rock's notorious leader stood up to Prime Minister Harper, Quebec Premier Jean Charest and even big oil, to turn the fortunes of his province to profit and success. His reason for leaving politics are personal, noting a desire to return to the business sector. The Premier described his tenure as a roller coaster ride. Many feel it was Williams' tough demeanour and powers of influence that helped generate much needed, and long overdue, prosperity for the province.
It is an abrupt and perplexing decision, and one can't help but speculate if perhaps he is taking a break before setting his sights on a bigger political stage.
We could sure do with a few asses being kicked in Ottawa. Stay tuned.
***
How to Scratch Yourself From The Guest List
Who the heck is Pete Broadbent? He probably wishes no one knew. He is the Bishop of Willesden in northwest London, England.
Yes, and...
Well, evidently the saintly Bishop made some rather *ahem* unkind comments on his Facebook page regarding the pending nuptuals of Prince William and Kate (sorry, Katherine) Middleton. Such as:
"I don't care about the Royals ... there are more broken marriages and philanderers among these people than not. They cost us an arm and a leg. As with most shallow celebrities they will be set up to fail by the gutter press ... I give the marriage seven years,"
The gutter press nearly chewed one another's legs off in a feeding frenzy to report the Bishop's comments.
Broadbent has since apologized, acknowledging that his comments were "deeply offensive" and he added "I wish Prince William and Kate Middleton a happy and lifelong marriage, and will hold them in my prayers."
Okay:
A: How did this a-hole become a Bishop? Is there some sort of ordination by mail-order?
and
B: Bishop's on Facebook?! Okay, it's officially not cool anymore.
***
I got your trademark right here...
What is the sure sign of success? Wads of cash? Gold plumbing fixtures? Naw, that's all window dressing. The real sign you've achieved ultimate fame and fortune is when you are surrounded by a gaggle of trademark lawyers. Such is the case for Warner Brothers' Harry Potter franchise. The stupefyingly profitable series has made the film company uber-mega-giga-billions of dollars. And like every other savvy business, Warner is securing future profit by busily slapping trademarks on everything attached to the wizardly tale.
Including, and I'm not making this up, Quidditch lingerie.
So far, no one has decided to produce undergarments named after a fictional sport that involves Chasers, Beaters, a Keeper and a Seeker, but Warner is taking no chances. From a marketing perspective, advertisers could easily pitch Quidditch underpants as the perfect thing to cover your Golden Snitch.
Enjoy the weekend. Go Als, go.
Lazy Liars
A study published recently in my favourite academic rag Social Psychological and Personality Science concluded that people are more likely to lie or cheat if it's easy. The study conducted by the University of Toronto gave 84 participants a computer-based math test, but warned them that there was a glitch in the system. Half were told that hitting the space bar would display the answer. The rest were told that by not pressing the enter key quickly enough, the answer would appear on the screen. In other words do nothing - get it right.
Most did not cheat, but of those who did, like the no enter-key cheaters, it happened 1.5 times in 15. The space-bar cheaters did so an average of 0.18 times.
Rimma Teper, a PhD student overseeing the study, claims the distinction is in the action required. The first group have to intentionally cheat, the second group can argue that they didn't do anything and the answer appeared, which can be interpreted as somewhat less of a transgression. In laymen's terms "oopsie, my bad."
So, scientific evidence that people are more likely to lie if it's easy. Can't wait for Teper's next breakthrough study: Are men thinking about their feelings during game seven of the Stanley Cup playoffs?
...and they hand out PhD's for this.
***
The Rock's Rock
Newfoundland and Labrador's ass-kicking premier Danny Williams surprised the province, and the country, by announcing that he was stepping down this week. The Rock's notorious leader stood up to Prime Minister Harper, Quebec Premier Jean Charest and even big oil, to turn the fortunes of his province to profit and success. His reason for leaving politics are personal, noting a desire to return to the business sector. The Premier described his tenure as a roller coaster ride. Many feel it was Williams' tough demeanour and powers of influence that helped generate much needed, and long overdue, prosperity for the province.
It is an abrupt and perplexing decision, and one can't help but speculate if perhaps he is taking a break before setting his sights on a bigger political stage.
We could sure do with a few asses being kicked in Ottawa. Stay tuned.
***
How to Scratch Yourself From The Guest List
Who the heck is Pete Broadbent? He probably wishes no one knew. He is the Bishop of Willesden in northwest London, England.
Yes, and...
Well, evidently the saintly Bishop made some rather *ahem* unkind comments on his Facebook page regarding the pending nuptuals of Prince William and Kate (sorry, Katherine) Middleton. Such as:
"I don't care about the Royals ... there are more broken marriages and philanderers among these people than not. They cost us an arm and a leg. As with most shallow celebrities they will be set up to fail by the gutter press ... I give the marriage seven years,"
The gutter press nearly chewed one another's legs off in a feeding frenzy to report the Bishop's comments.
Broadbent has since apologized, acknowledging that his comments were "deeply offensive" and he added "I wish Prince William and Kate Middleton a happy and lifelong marriage, and will hold them in my prayers."
Okay:
A: How did this a-hole become a Bishop? Is there some sort of ordination by mail-order?
and
B: Bishop's on Facebook?! Okay, it's officially not cool anymore.
***
I got your trademark right here...
What is the sure sign of success? Wads of cash? Gold plumbing fixtures? Naw, that's all window dressing. The real sign you've achieved ultimate fame and fortune is when you are surrounded by a gaggle of trademark lawyers. Such is the case for Warner Brothers' Harry Potter franchise. The stupefyingly profitable series has made the film company uber-mega-giga-billions of dollars. And like every other savvy business, Warner is securing future profit by busily slapping trademarks on everything attached to the wizardly tale.
Including, and I'm not making this up, Quidditch lingerie.
So far, no one has decided to produce undergarments named after a fictional sport that involves Chasers, Beaters, a Keeper and a Seeker, but Warner is taking no chances. From a marketing perspective, advertisers could easily pitch Quidditch underpants as the perfect thing to cover your Golden Snitch.
Enjoy the weekend. Go Als, go.
Friday, November 19, 2010
The Friday Time Waster Supreme: The Princess and Potter Edition
Not much blogging this week. Too busy holding down a job and managing those other important things in life, like going to the game with my boy, loafing on the sofa and the laborious task of growing facial hair for Movember. My work is never done.
Of course, there is always time to write vacuous things of no real value. With that in mind, here is yet another instalment of the Friday Time Waster Supreme.
Dear America.
Land of the free, home of the brave. Bastion of freedom and democracy. A nation forged out of rebellion, civil war and centuries-old conflicts to achieve civil rights and social justice. A proud history of technological innovation and cultural diversity. The icon of free market economies.
Please explain your obsession with the Palins.
Seriously.
Sincerely,
The Rest of the World.
***
Harry Potter spoiler alert!
In the latest big-screen instalment of the multi-flabillion dollar Harry Potter series, there's this scene that Potter-ites (Potter-maniacs? Potter-heads?) have found rather unsettling. It occurs in a hallucination sequence in which the young wizard exchanges a kiss with long-time friend Hermione Granger. Oh, did I mention they were both topless?
If you didn't already know, because like me you don't really care, Potter and Granger are not supposed to be an item. She's the girlfriend of Ron Weasley, Potter's other friend. Awkwaaard.
Emma Watson, who plays Hermione, found out about the scene when the director told her "...by the way, we hope it's all right, but we want you to be topless, and we're going to cover you in silver paint."
For those of you Potter-pants living in your parent's basement, a kiss happens when a boy meets a girl and...well, just Google it.
Anyhoo, the on-screen lip-lock is not sitting too well with fans. Frankly, I'm not very impressed myself. Not because of the movie, which I will probably never see, but the fact that the director stole my best pick-up line:
"So, how's about we get naked, paint ourselves silver and see what happens."
It's amazing I ever got married.
***
Jaroslav Halak: 14 games, 8 wins, 6 losses, .906 save percentage
Carey Price: 18 games, 11 wins, 7 losses, .928 save percentage
Can we shut up about this now?
***
Which way do I run, coach?
Wrigley field, home of the storied Chicago Cubs and one of the most iconic fields in baseball. Which makes it the perfect venue to play ...football?! Yes, Wrigley is playing host to a college football game between the Northwestern Wildcats and Illinois Fighting Illini (okay, who was in charge of picking that name?).
It's not the first time Wrigley has played host to another sport. Last year it was home to the NHL's Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings. It was also the home of the Chicago Bears up until 1971.
It seems a lot has changed since the Bears called Wrigley home. The stands have been reconfigured to fit additional luxury boxes. The new football field barely fits. As a result, officials have decided that the teams would have to run all of their offensive plays in one direction only. Essentially the teams will have to change sides after every possession.
Hello, NCAA? If you're looking for a stadium with extra room, we've got a spare here. Barely used. We'll even throw in a slightly out-of-the way international airport.
***
My moment of irony for the year.
I was lucky enough to get tickets to last Saturday's tilt between the Habs and Carolina Hurricanes. The printed tickets featured an action shot of defenceman Ryan O'byrne, who had just been traded days earlier. It was also the night Andrei Markov sustained a potential season-ending injury.
Talk about a fly in your chardonnay.
***
Hello, it's the pot calling...
Jean Charest is stuck in the province trying to help his party defeat a non-confidence vote. The Provincial Liberals hold a slim majority in the National Assembly, and with three MNA's out of town, the government could be vulnerable. The Premier was supposed to be in France for some useless conference, but instead is forced to hang around dull-old Quebec to keep his party in power. Oh, right, and participate in this important debate that nobody outside of Quebec City cares about.
The PQ want to force the government to hold a public inquiry into all of the corruption scandals swirling around the provincial bowl.
I do enjoy when politicians get on their moral high-horse for the sake of the people. Like none of them have ever received an envelope full of cash.
Not that I agree with corruption, but expecting one group of Quebec politicians to police the other on this issue is laughable.
***
'Honestly, your dress looks fine' ...and other things men should never say.
The Big Issue is a British-based journal published by professional journalists and sold by the homeless to help them generate income and get off the streets. It's co-founder, John Bird recently dubbed Prince William's fiancé Kate Middleton as a potential "princess of usefulness".
Bird was referring to what he believes is the role best suited for the princess-to-be. That is to support and encourage improvements for the poor and disenfranchised in the country.
A nice sentiment, but wee tip for Prince Willy: 'princess of usefullness' - not a good nickname.
Have a great weekend.
Of course, there is always time to write vacuous things of no real value. With that in mind, here is yet another instalment of the Friday Time Waster Supreme.
Dear America.
Land of the free, home of the brave. Bastion of freedom and democracy. A nation forged out of rebellion, civil war and centuries-old conflicts to achieve civil rights and social justice. A proud history of technological innovation and cultural diversity. The icon of free market economies.
Please explain your obsession with the Palins.
Seriously.
Sincerely,
The Rest of the World.
***
Harry Potter spoiler alert!
In the latest big-screen instalment of the multi-flabillion dollar Harry Potter series, there's this scene that Potter-ites (Potter-maniacs? Potter-heads?) have found rather unsettling. It occurs in a hallucination sequence in which the young wizard exchanges a kiss with long-time friend Hermione Granger. Oh, did I mention they were both topless?
If you didn't already know, because like me you don't really care, Potter and Granger are not supposed to be an item. She's the girlfriend of Ron Weasley, Potter's other friend. Awkwaaard.
Emma Watson, who plays Hermione, found out about the scene when the director told her "...by the way, we hope it's all right, but we want you to be topless, and we're going to cover you in silver paint."
For those of you Potter-pants living in your parent's basement, a kiss happens when a boy meets a girl and...well, just Google it.
Anyhoo, the on-screen lip-lock is not sitting too well with fans. Frankly, I'm not very impressed myself. Not because of the movie, which I will probably never see, but the fact that the director stole my best pick-up line:
"So, how's about we get naked, paint ourselves silver and see what happens."
It's amazing I ever got married.
***
Jaroslav Halak: 14 games, 8 wins, 6 losses, .906 save percentage
Carey Price: 18 games, 11 wins, 7 losses, .928 save percentage
Can we shut up about this now?
***
Which way do I run, coach?
Wrigley field, home of the storied Chicago Cubs and one of the most iconic fields in baseball. Which makes it the perfect venue to play ...football?! Yes, Wrigley is playing host to a college football game between the Northwestern Wildcats and Illinois Fighting Illini (okay, who was in charge of picking that name?).
It's not the first time Wrigley has played host to another sport. Last year it was home to the NHL's Winter Classic between the Chicago Blackhawks and Detroit Red Wings. It was also the home of the Chicago Bears up until 1971.
It seems a lot has changed since the Bears called Wrigley home. The stands have been reconfigured to fit additional luxury boxes. The new football field barely fits. As a result, officials have decided that the teams would have to run all of their offensive plays in one direction only. Essentially the teams will have to change sides after every possession.
Hello, NCAA? If you're looking for a stadium with extra room, we've got a spare here. Barely used. We'll even throw in a slightly out-of-the way international airport.
***
My moment of irony for the year.
I was lucky enough to get tickets to last Saturday's tilt between the Habs and Carolina Hurricanes. The printed tickets featured an action shot of defenceman Ryan O'byrne, who had just been traded days earlier. It was also the night Andrei Markov sustained a potential season-ending injury.
Talk about a fly in your chardonnay.
***
Hello, it's the pot calling...
Jean Charest is stuck in the province trying to help his party defeat a non-confidence vote. The Provincial Liberals hold a slim majority in the National Assembly, and with three MNA's out of town, the government could be vulnerable. The Premier was supposed to be in France for some useless conference, but instead is forced to hang around dull-old Quebec to keep his party in power. Oh, right, and participate in this important debate that nobody outside of Quebec City cares about.
The PQ want to force the government to hold a public inquiry into all of the corruption scandals swirling around the provincial bowl.
I do enjoy when politicians get on their moral high-horse for the sake of the people. Like none of them have ever received an envelope full of cash.
Not that I agree with corruption, but expecting one group of Quebec politicians to police the other on this issue is laughable.
***
'Honestly, your dress looks fine' ...and other things men should never say.
The Big Issue is a British-based journal published by professional journalists and sold by the homeless to help them generate income and get off the streets. It's co-founder, John Bird recently dubbed Prince William's fiancé Kate Middleton as a potential "princess of usefulness".
Bird was referring to what he believes is the role best suited for the princess-to-be. That is to support and encourage improvements for the poor and disenfranchised in the country.
A nice sentiment, but wee tip for Prince Willy: 'princess of usefullness' - not a good nickname.
Have a great weekend.
Thursday, November 11, 2010
...To End All Wars
Remembrance day. It is a day of mixed emotions. On the one hand it is a celebration of the bravery and virtue of our armed forces and on the other it is an acknowledgment of those that have fallen in the service of their - of our - country. It is a time when we honour our veterans with our deepest gratitude. It is also a time when we remember the pain and horror that is war.
Pride and sorrow.
There was a time in my youth when I had a fascination for all things military. Tanks and warplanes, firearms and grenades. I was hooked on movies like Kelly's Heroes, A Bridge Too Far, Patton, Tora! Tora! Tora! Sure, the characters spoke of war being hell, but the movies made it look dramatic, glorious, heroic and even cool.
Time has tempered my view of such things. The reality of war is significantly uglier than anything depicted on film. For nations still torn apart by ongoing conflicts, war means fear, distrust, despair and hopelessness. While there may be great heroic acts, there is nothing glorious about armed conflict.
People die horrifying and painful deaths or suffer lifelong debilitating injury. The randomness of the victims and the depravity of humanity are daily occurrences. Perhaps the only glory comes when the guns fall silent and peace is restored. Only then do we ponder never again.
This is why I am frequently inclined to pressure our national leadership to do everything within its power to explore all possible diplomatic angles before finally choosing military action.
History is rife with examples of leaders who chose to reach for a weapon instead of a hand. Often because they believed diplomacy was time-consuming, difficult work and governments can be impatient. There have been times that armed conflict has erupted because leaders of wealthy nations chose to ignore the needs of other nations. Some governments have quietly supported corrupt and oppressive leaders in other countries to protect and promote their domestic economic or political agendas.
So, am I anti-war? Damn right I am.
The reason?
Look into the eyes of the soldiers you will see this remembrance day. Those veterans who have seen combat. Those who have stared down the barrel of all manner of weapons. Those who tamed their fears, tempered their anger and drove their sorrows and nightmares deep within.
Look into the eyes of our young men and women serving in today's armed forces. Those soldiers who not only speak of duty, but live it with courage. Those soldiers, our sons and daughters, proudly carrying the weight of responsibility that is to serve a nation. Those soldiers, many of whom we will never know, that will stand between us and the fires of hell to protect our freedom.
It is for our soldiers and veterans that I am against war. The men and women of our armed forces are this country's most prized assets, and though they would not question the sacrifice, to lose them for want of a foolish political gambit is nothing short of a travesty.
I am not naive. I know that there are those in the world who would stop at nothing to rain anarchy and death on innocent people. Which is why we must rely on the dedication and bravery of our soldiers for protection.
We, as a proud and powerful nation, have the capacity and responsibility to seek peaceful solutions to global conflict. This begins with recognizing and addressing the needs of other nations. To seek avenues to promote economic equity. To be open to, and embrace, different cultures, and break down what were once perceived to be barriers.
Time-consuming, hard work, but far less difficult and painful than fields of poppies between crosses, row on row.
This is why we remember.
We owe this to each and every man and woman who has served, and is serving, in this nation's armed forces. For we know when they are called they will not hesitate to act. May those actions always, always be our last resort.
To all who have served and continue to serve, to those that have fallen in the proud and selfless defense of this nation, we owe you our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude.
Lest any one of us should forget.
Pride and sorrow.
There was a time in my youth when I had a fascination for all things military. Tanks and warplanes, firearms and grenades. I was hooked on movies like Kelly's Heroes, A Bridge Too Far, Patton, Tora! Tora! Tora! Sure, the characters spoke of war being hell, but the movies made it look dramatic, glorious, heroic and even cool.
Time has tempered my view of such things. The reality of war is significantly uglier than anything depicted on film. For nations still torn apart by ongoing conflicts, war means fear, distrust, despair and hopelessness. While there may be great heroic acts, there is nothing glorious about armed conflict.
People die horrifying and painful deaths or suffer lifelong debilitating injury. The randomness of the victims and the depravity of humanity are daily occurrences. Perhaps the only glory comes when the guns fall silent and peace is restored. Only then do we ponder never again.
This is why I am frequently inclined to pressure our national leadership to do everything within its power to explore all possible diplomatic angles before finally choosing military action.
History is rife with examples of leaders who chose to reach for a weapon instead of a hand. Often because they believed diplomacy was time-consuming, difficult work and governments can be impatient. There have been times that armed conflict has erupted because leaders of wealthy nations chose to ignore the needs of other nations. Some governments have quietly supported corrupt and oppressive leaders in other countries to protect and promote their domestic economic or political agendas.
So, am I anti-war? Damn right I am.
The reason?
Look into the eyes of the soldiers you will see this remembrance day. Those veterans who have seen combat. Those who have stared down the barrel of all manner of weapons. Those who tamed their fears, tempered their anger and drove their sorrows and nightmares deep within.
Look into the eyes of our young men and women serving in today's armed forces. Those soldiers who not only speak of duty, but live it with courage. Those soldiers, our sons and daughters, proudly carrying the weight of responsibility that is to serve a nation. Those soldiers, many of whom we will never know, that will stand between us and the fires of hell to protect our freedom.
It is for our soldiers and veterans that I am against war. The men and women of our armed forces are this country's most prized assets, and though they would not question the sacrifice, to lose them for want of a foolish political gambit is nothing short of a travesty.
I am not naive. I know that there are those in the world who would stop at nothing to rain anarchy and death on innocent people. Which is why we must rely on the dedication and bravery of our soldiers for protection.
We, as a proud and powerful nation, have the capacity and responsibility to seek peaceful solutions to global conflict. This begins with recognizing and addressing the needs of other nations. To seek avenues to promote economic equity. To be open to, and embrace, different cultures, and break down what were once perceived to be barriers.
Time-consuming, hard work, but far less difficult and painful than fields of poppies between crosses, row on row.
This is why we remember.
We owe this to each and every man and woman who has served, and is serving, in this nation's armed forces. For we know when they are called they will not hesitate to act. May those actions always, always be our last resort.
To all who have served and continue to serve, to those that have fallen in the proud and selfless defense of this nation, we owe you our deepest and most heartfelt gratitude.
Lest any one of us should forget.
Wednesday, November 10, 2010
OMG, Texting Made Me Do It.
A study conducted by Case Western Reserve School of Medicine in the U.S. is linking unhealthy behaviour among young adults, like smoking, drinking and sexual activity, to hyper-texting and hyper-networking.
Hyper-texting, according to the study, refers to sending more than 120 text messages a day. Hyper-networking is defined as spending more than three hours per school day on social network sites like Facebook.
According to the lead researcher on the study, Scott Frank, "The startling results of this study suggest that when left unchecked texting and other widely popular methods of staying connected can have dangerous health effects on teenagers. This should be a wake-up call for parents to not only help their children stay safe by not texting and driving, but by discouraging excessive use of the cell phone or social websites in general."
This story has all the elements of a hot news item. A study with dramatic results and a disturbing causal relationship. On the surface it is a thought provoking and unsettling discovery.
Except for one thing. The conclusion is backwards.
One of the wisest and most valuable pieces of advice, received back in my high school days, was to always, always look at news and information critically. Where is the information coming from? How was it acquired? If there is a conclusion, how was it reached? Does anyone stand to gain from these results? This is true of many things, be it scientific method or a rumour circulating the office. Check the facts and the source.
This used to be the credo of most news agencies, but is much less so today. The level of competition among the multitude of modern news organizations has reached fever pitch. Agencies rely heavily on audience ratings in order to turn a profit. The currency of this medium is the scoop. This has led to a number of prominent news sources reporting on stories before facts have been established and verified, often reaching conclusions based on innuendo and assumption.
News audiences have also become less disciplined. With the vast selection of news sources, it is much easier for audiences to seek out the agency that tells them what they want to hear, and frame their stories according to a particular agenda. Fox News is the best example of this.
One would think that with a virtually unlimited number of information sources, the public at large would be much more informed, but ironically this is not the case. We consume information in much the same way we buy groceries, and often it is not the healthiest of diets.
The hyper-texting and hyper-networking study is the perfect example of information being presented in a way to maximize emotional impact and generate a buzz. Its fatal flaw is that it draws only one conclusion without attempting to examine the complexity of the issue.
Causal links are not always one way. In the case of hyper-texting, it could be that young adults who engage in unhealthy behaviour are more likely to use social networking simply because social networking better serves that lifestyle. History tells us that young adults have been engaging in "unhealthy behaviours" long before it could be blamed on Twitter and Facebook. To conclude that technology necessarily causes or encourages this behaviour is an oversimplified view of the data.
I will concede that information technology has made it easier for people to communicate with increasingly larger networks, and has become a major distraction in daily life. Large segments of our society have developed an obsession with the notion of being constantly connected. That said, it is almost always human nature that drives the evolution of technology and rarely the reverse. The desktop computer made the transition from tech-geek hobby to mainstream only when the technology became simple, affordable and, most importantly, useful for a larger audience. It would be hard to imagine the world without computers, but at the same time I'm not convinced we are any worse off because of them. After all, technology is only a good a the person who operates it, and it will serve that person's needs without bias.
Blaming technology is a classic example of using fear of something new to distract us from a much more complex issue. Solving society's behavioural problems requires more in-depth study and a significant amount of discipline and hard work on behalf of our government, teachers and parents. It is important for institutions to set appropriate boundaries for the use of technology, for example not in classrooms or behind the wheel of a car. It is also important for parents to establish limits on appropriate usage. But establishing boundaries has been true of many new things over the years. A fact that remains unaltered by time.
Unfortunately, not the kind of fact that sells the news.
Hyper-texting, according to the study, refers to sending more than 120 text messages a day. Hyper-networking is defined as spending more than three hours per school day on social network sites like Facebook.
According to the lead researcher on the study, Scott Frank, "The startling results of this study suggest that when left unchecked texting and other widely popular methods of staying connected can have dangerous health effects on teenagers. This should be a wake-up call for parents to not only help their children stay safe by not texting and driving, but by discouraging excessive use of the cell phone or social websites in general."
This story has all the elements of a hot news item. A study with dramatic results and a disturbing causal relationship. On the surface it is a thought provoking and unsettling discovery.
Except for one thing. The conclusion is backwards.
One of the wisest and most valuable pieces of advice, received back in my high school days, was to always, always look at news and information critically. Where is the information coming from? How was it acquired? If there is a conclusion, how was it reached? Does anyone stand to gain from these results? This is true of many things, be it scientific method or a rumour circulating the office. Check the facts and the source.
This used to be the credo of most news agencies, but is much less so today. The level of competition among the multitude of modern news organizations has reached fever pitch. Agencies rely heavily on audience ratings in order to turn a profit. The currency of this medium is the scoop. This has led to a number of prominent news sources reporting on stories before facts have been established and verified, often reaching conclusions based on innuendo and assumption.
News audiences have also become less disciplined. With the vast selection of news sources, it is much easier for audiences to seek out the agency that tells them what they want to hear, and frame their stories according to a particular agenda. Fox News is the best example of this.
One would think that with a virtually unlimited number of information sources, the public at large would be much more informed, but ironically this is not the case. We consume information in much the same way we buy groceries, and often it is not the healthiest of diets.
The hyper-texting and hyper-networking study is the perfect example of information being presented in a way to maximize emotional impact and generate a buzz. Its fatal flaw is that it draws only one conclusion without attempting to examine the complexity of the issue.
Causal links are not always one way. In the case of hyper-texting, it could be that young adults who engage in unhealthy behaviour are more likely to use social networking simply because social networking better serves that lifestyle. History tells us that young adults have been engaging in "unhealthy behaviours" long before it could be blamed on Twitter and Facebook. To conclude that technology necessarily causes or encourages this behaviour is an oversimplified view of the data.
I will concede that information technology has made it easier for people to communicate with increasingly larger networks, and has become a major distraction in daily life. Large segments of our society have developed an obsession with the notion of being constantly connected. That said, it is almost always human nature that drives the evolution of technology and rarely the reverse. The desktop computer made the transition from tech-geek hobby to mainstream only when the technology became simple, affordable and, most importantly, useful for a larger audience. It would be hard to imagine the world without computers, but at the same time I'm not convinced we are any worse off because of them. After all, technology is only a good a the person who operates it, and it will serve that person's needs without bias.
Blaming technology is a classic example of using fear of something new to distract us from a much more complex issue. Solving society's behavioural problems requires more in-depth study and a significant amount of discipline and hard work on behalf of our government, teachers and parents. It is important for institutions to set appropriate boundaries for the use of technology, for example not in classrooms or behind the wheel of a car. It is also important for parents to establish limits on appropriate usage. But establishing boundaries has been true of many new things over the years. A fact that remains unaltered by time.
Unfortunately, not the kind of fact that sells the news.
Monday, November 8, 2010
Movember Mohair
Okay, so I'm warning you in advance, I'm going to be in the doghouse for the next month or so. My grievous transgression?
Staying out all night with the boys?
Spilling beer on the sofa?
Running the lawnmower over the hydrangeas?
Much worse. Facial hair.
The month of November has been dubbed Movember by a number of organizations aiming to raise awareness for men's health. The 'Mo' stands for moustache, which is what men across Canada will be growing to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer Canada. Movember is actually an international event, with each country representing its own charities in support of men's health.
This isn't quite like other fund raising events with a marathon, walk-a-thon, dance-a-thon, bike-a-thon or any other 'thon' that requires actual physical activity. Which is why it is perfect for most men who would watch four hours of televised lawn bowling because they are too lazy to reach for the remote.
Of course, Movemeber won't be completely without sacrifice. In my case the sacrifice will come in the form of scorn. Not from my peers who will no-doubt relentlessly mock my facial fuzz. I'm used to that kind of derision. Among men it is considered a term of endearment.
For me the bulk of the contempt will come from my dear wife. While she is the most wonderful, caring, funny and supportive person in my life, she also really, really hates facial hair. By hate I mean loathes, despises, abhors ...basically she doesn't like it.
I, on the other hand, a former card-carrying member of the hairy face club, am somewhat less repelled by the idea. In fact I'm feeling rather nostalgic. It's been at least ten years since I last had my goatee. Almost as long as I've known my wife ...hmm.
I should say, for the record, that the last moustache I had was perhaps the all time cheesiest tangle of whiskers ever grown. I may have to temper the 'stache with a matching chin shrub.
Admittedly I'm off to a bit of a late start. I've been weighing the merits of packing the razor away for a month or enduring weeks of rolled eyes, sneering tuts and disappointed sighs. On the bright side, my six year-old thinks it's a great idea. Since we are roughly at the same maturity level, that was enough for me.
Many women I know are not too fond of the whiskers, unless of course they reside on Tom Selleck. Sorry ladies, we can't all be Magnum P.I. In my defence however, it should be noted that lots of men have worn some form of pink in support of breast cancer research and awareness, and none of them complained. At least, that's my argument and I'm sticking to it.
To be serious for a moment, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. At least 1 in 6 Canadian men will be diagnosed with the disease. If detected early, it is also one of the most treatable and most preventable of cancers. Unfortunately there are virtually no symptoms at early onset which is why early testing and detection is so important. As part of my participation in Movember, I intend to take the test myself. I lost my father to cancer many years ago. Although it was not prostate cancer, had their been early detection in his case the chances of survival would have significantly improved.
I encourage you to support the cause on my behalf, or anyone's behalf. You can make a donation and see my progress online by clicking here.
So game on, the whiskers are coming out. Hopefully they will provide a little extra warmth, I suspect that doghouse is going to be pretty chilly this time of year.
Arf.
Staying out all night with the boys?
Spilling beer on the sofa?
Running the lawnmower over the hydrangeas?
Much worse. Facial hair.
The month of November has been dubbed Movember by a number of organizations aiming to raise awareness for men's health. The 'Mo' stands for moustache, which is what men across Canada will be growing to raise awareness and funds for Prostate Cancer Canada. Movember is actually an international event, with each country representing its own charities in support of men's health.
This isn't quite like other fund raising events with a marathon, walk-a-thon, dance-a-thon, bike-a-thon or any other 'thon' that requires actual physical activity. Which is why it is perfect for most men who would watch four hours of televised lawn bowling because they are too lazy to reach for the remote.
Of course, Movemeber won't be completely without sacrifice. In my case the sacrifice will come in the form of scorn. Not from my peers who will no-doubt relentlessly mock my facial fuzz. I'm used to that kind of derision. Among men it is considered a term of endearment.
For me the bulk of the contempt will come from my dear wife. While she is the most wonderful, caring, funny and supportive person in my life, she also really, really hates facial hair. By hate I mean loathes, despises, abhors ...basically she doesn't like it.
I, on the other hand, a former card-carrying member of the hairy face club, am somewhat less repelled by the idea. In fact I'm feeling rather nostalgic. It's been at least ten years since I last had my goatee. Almost as long as I've known my wife ...hmm.
I should say, for the record, that the last moustache I had was perhaps the all time cheesiest tangle of whiskers ever grown. I may have to temper the 'stache with a matching chin shrub.
Admittedly I'm off to a bit of a late start. I've been weighing the merits of packing the razor away for a month or enduring weeks of rolled eyes, sneering tuts and disappointed sighs. On the bright side, my six year-old thinks it's a great idea. Since we are roughly at the same maturity level, that was enough for me.
Many women I know are not too fond of the whiskers, unless of course they reside on Tom Selleck. Sorry ladies, we can't all be Magnum P.I. In my defence however, it should be noted that lots of men have worn some form of pink in support of breast cancer research and awareness, and none of them complained. At least, that's my argument and I'm sticking to it.
To be serious for a moment, prostate cancer is the most common cancer among men. At least 1 in 6 Canadian men will be diagnosed with the disease. If detected early, it is also one of the most treatable and most preventable of cancers. Unfortunately there are virtually no symptoms at early onset which is why early testing and detection is so important. As part of my participation in Movember, I intend to take the test myself. I lost my father to cancer many years ago. Although it was not prostate cancer, had their been early detection in his case the chances of survival would have significantly improved.
I encourage you to support the cause on my behalf, or anyone's behalf. You can make a donation and see my progress online by clicking here.
So game on, the whiskers are coming out. Hopefully they will provide a little extra warmth, I suspect that doghouse is going to be pretty chilly this time of year.
Arf.
Friday, November 5, 2010
The Friday Time Waster Supreme: The Customs, Canine, Caloric and Congressional Chaos Edition
Hey, look at that it's Friday! I don't know about you, but this week felt like a month. Maybe it's the weather. Maybe it's post-Halloween let-down, or even scarier, those eerie election results down south. Whatever it is, the week is mercifully coming to an end. Let's celebrate by taking a chunk of valuable time and casting it off into the ether.
Yay, we made the news. American news icon CNN recently revealed details contained in a confidential intelligence report from Canada Border Services Agency of an “unbelievable case of concealment”. The story goes that an elderly Caucasian man boarded an Air Canada flight in Hong Kong. Once in the air, the man slipped into a bathroom and emerged as a young Asian man. The flight crew immediately spotted the ruse and alerted authorities. Once on terra firma in Canada the man was apprehended, at which time he declared refugee status. The staff admitted that it seemed odd that an elderly man should have such young hands.
Among the more disturbing facts in this story was that the man used his Aeroplan card as a form of identification when boarding the plane. Evidently no one bothered to check for a passport. The media is spinning the story as something out of a Mission: Impossible story-line.
Really? Shouldn't we be a little more concerned that international airport security is being handled by Mr. Magoo and Madge the Palmolive soap lady?
***
Ignorant is as ignorant does. Now that the American electorate have swept Republicans back into a majority in the House of Representatives, in what some experts referred to as a protest vote, maybe disgruntled citizens will finally see some action in Washington. Not according to Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the Senate. He's declared that Obama would be a one-term president and promised that he would lead an all-out Republican assault on the president's agenda.
Because political infighting has always been the solution to rampant unemployment and an economy in the gutter. So, exactly what message did the voters send?
***
While on the topic of the ceaselessly bizarre, circus-like world of U.S. politics, former President George W. Bush released snippets of his presidential memoirs this week entitled Decision Points. In it he reveals the darkest moment of his presidency.
9/11?
The complete lack of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq?
Choking on a pretzel?
None of the above. It was during a live TV broadcast to raise relief money for victims of hurricane Katrina in which Kanye West declared “George Bush doesn’t care about black people.”
Gee, that's ...really ...um ...what the f**k?! THAT was your lowest point?
Well, obviously it didn't have the same effect on Bush's career as Kanye crapping all over Taylor Swift's VMA acceptance speech. Mind you, I'm not sure sleeping with a bunch of people then writing songs about them would have improved his image either.
***
Canine intolerance! Cesar Milan, best known as the Dog Whisperer, is a victim of doggy discrimination. The Government of Ontario has banned the world-famous dog trainer's pet pit-bull Junior from entering the province. Ontario's attorney general, Chris Bentley, is upholding a 2005 ban on what some consider a dangerous breed. This despite the fact that Milan has made a career out of successfully rehabilitating dogs, or more specifically their owners.
So why are Don Cherry and Tie Domi still in the province?
***
Feeling peckish? A group of four Montreal food-lovers have come up with a sandwich that is sure to shock and awe your appetite. They call it the Angry French Canadian. The mammoth slabwich combines bacon, poutine, hot dogs and maple syrup, all on a french-toasted Parisian baguette. If you're watching your girlish figure, take note that this deli item is a mere 5,343 calories.
I think I just gained five pounds writing about this.
Sounds like the perfect accessory for watching the last episode of The Biggest Loser.
Stay warm, enjoy your weekend.
Yay, we made the news. American news icon CNN recently revealed details contained in a confidential intelligence report from Canada Border Services Agency of an “unbelievable case of concealment”. The story goes that an elderly Caucasian man boarded an Air Canada flight in Hong Kong. Once in the air, the man slipped into a bathroom and emerged as a young Asian man. The flight crew immediately spotted the ruse and alerted authorities. Once on terra firma in Canada the man was apprehended, at which time he declared refugee status. The staff admitted that it seemed odd that an elderly man should have such young hands.
Among the more disturbing facts in this story was that the man used his Aeroplan card as a form of identification when boarding the plane. Evidently no one bothered to check for a passport. The media is spinning the story as something out of a Mission: Impossible story-line.
Really? Shouldn't we be a little more concerned that international airport security is being handled by Mr. Magoo and Madge the Palmolive soap lady?
***
Ignorant is as ignorant does. Now that the American electorate have swept Republicans back into a majority in the House of Representatives, in what some experts referred to as a protest vote, maybe disgruntled citizens will finally see some action in Washington. Not according to Mitch McConnell, the Republican leader in the Senate. He's declared that Obama would be a one-term president and promised that he would lead an all-out Republican assault on the president's agenda.
Because political infighting has always been the solution to rampant unemployment and an economy in the gutter. So, exactly what message did the voters send?
***
While on the topic of the ceaselessly bizarre, circus-like world of U.S. politics, former President George W. Bush released snippets of his presidential memoirs this week entitled Decision Points. In it he reveals the darkest moment of his presidency.
9/11?
The complete lack of weapons of mass destruction in Iraq?
Choking on a pretzel?
None of the above. It was during a live TV broadcast to raise relief money for victims of hurricane Katrina in which Kanye West declared “George Bush doesn’t care about black people.”
Gee, that's ...really ...um ...what the f**k?! THAT was your lowest point?
Well, obviously it didn't have the same effect on Bush's career as Kanye crapping all over Taylor Swift's VMA acceptance speech. Mind you, I'm not sure sleeping with a bunch of people then writing songs about them would have improved his image either.
***
Canine intolerance! Cesar Milan, best known as the Dog Whisperer, is a victim of doggy discrimination. The Government of Ontario has banned the world-famous dog trainer's pet pit-bull Junior from entering the province. Ontario's attorney general, Chris Bentley, is upholding a 2005 ban on what some consider a dangerous breed. This despite the fact that Milan has made a career out of successfully rehabilitating dogs, or more specifically their owners.
So why are Don Cherry and Tie Domi still in the province?
***
Feeling peckish? A group of four Montreal food-lovers have come up with a sandwich that is sure to shock and awe your appetite. They call it the Angry French Canadian. The mammoth slabwich combines bacon, poutine, hot dogs and maple syrup, all on a french-toasted Parisian baguette. If you're watching your girlish figure, take note that this deli item is a mere 5,343 calories.
I think I just gained five pounds writing about this.
Sounds like the perfect accessory for watching the last episode of The Biggest Loser.
Stay warm, enjoy your weekend.
Thursday, November 4, 2010
Infernal Towering
As if neverending road construction weren't enough, now our sleepy little burb is being threatened with an invasion by the big bad communications industry.
The Rogers empire wants to install a 75 foot cell tower on the West Island in order to provide what it describes as improved service to the area.
Anyone in the greater Waste Island area getting dropped calls on their iPhones? Didn't think so.
Anywho, the communications behemoth conducted what we presume was an exhaustive and detailed survey of the area and has now chosen a location for it's giant antenna.
On top of one of the many office buildings in the area?
In an industrial park?
How about an abandoned brown field?
Nope.
The Rogers rocket scientists decided they want to plop their ugly steel contraption smack in the middle of a suburban residential greenspace, in a small forested area located directly behind a local park with a well-used soccer field and about 100 feet from several community homes.
Surprise, surprise, the neighbours (of which we are one) are none too impressed. I believe the proper term would be 'pissed.'
To select a location in the centre of a residential community ranks pretty high on the list of all-time mind-numbingly moronic corporate decisions. Particularly considering that only a few blocks north of the location is one of the area's largest industrial parks,
In a recent letter, the public relations trolls have given residents 30 days to submit their 'feedback' on the project. The company gets 60 days to address resident's concerns before the issue is punted to Industry Canada. Who, incidentally, have the final say. Not the community, not even the municipality of Pointe-Claire, who was informed, in no uncertain terms, that they have no say in the matter. Communications infrastructure is strictly the purview of the federal government and it is entitled by law to expropriate any land it wants for such projects.
If any of this sounds familiar it's because the town of Chateauguay is going through precisely the same thing. Residents have taken Rogers to court to block them from erecting a tower on the fringe of a residential community. The community actually won the first round in court, although an appeal is pending.
It was comforting to know that Industry Canada got involved by siding with the residents. They called into question the company's preferred location near a residential neighbourhood rather than an industrial park a mere 200 metres away. The dispute is unique in that the land Industry Canada recommended as an alternative is owned by a Kanawake woman, who is refusing to sell. Neither Rogers or the woman are willing to budge. Stay tuned on that one.
I've never thought of myself as a NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) kind of person. I don't have time for knuckleheads who buy a house at the end of a runway, or beside a rail line, and then complain to the government about the noise and pollution. We bought our house because it was a quiet neighbourhood with lots of green-space. Now we face the possibility of a massive, microwave-belching, towering steel eyesore almost literally in our back yard.
The location makes little if any sense to residents of the neighbourhood. Many are rightfully mindful of the company's claim to be open to their concerns. The fact that the company is considering the site is reason enough to make one wonder what goes on in the planning department at Rogers. Fuelling this absurdity is the number of reasonable and logical alternatives such as an abundance of available and accessible industrial land. One would presume it would be a lot easier to install a tower next to a major highway rather than squeezing massive steel gridwork through narrow suburban streets. Not to mention the public relations nightmare involved in razing a forest, sending frogs and bunnies hopping away in terror, to spew microwave radiation upon young children in the playground below.
But, hey, what do I know?
Rogers has already stated that it would base its final decision on the degree of opposition to the project, but it also hinted it might defer to Industry Canada if it can't get what it wants.
I'm sure I'm not the first, but allow me to put it as clearly and succinctly as possible: WE DON'T WANT YOUR TOWER HERE.
Can you hear me now?
The Rogers empire wants to install a 75 foot cell tower on the West Island in order to provide what it describes as improved service to the area.
Anyone in the greater Waste Island area getting dropped calls on their iPhones? Didn't think so.
Anywho, the communications behemoth conducted what we presume was an exhaustive and detailed survey of the area and has now chosen a location for it's giant antenna.
On top of one of the many office buildings in the area?
In an industrial park?
How about an abandoned brown field?
Nope.
The Rogers rocket scientists decided they want to plop their ugly steel contraption smack in the middle of a suburban residential greenspace, in a small forested area located directly behind a local park with a well-used soccer field and about 100 feet from several community homes.
Surprise, surprise, the neighbours (of which we are one) are none too impressed. I believe the proper term would be 'pissed.'
To select a location in the centre of a residential community ranks pretty high on the list of all-time mind-numbingly moronic corporate decisions. Particularly considering that only a few blocks north of the location is one of the area's largest industrial parks,
In a recent letter, the public relations trolls have given residents 30 days to submit their 'feedback' on the project. The company gets 60 days to address resident's concerns before the issue is punted to Industry Canada. Who, incidentally, have the final say. Not the community, not even the municipality of Pointe-Claire, who was informed, in no uncertain terms, that they have no say in the matter. Communications infrastructure is strictly the purview of the federal government and it is entitled by law to expropriate any land it wants for such projects.
If any of this sounds familiar it's because the town of Chateauguay is going through precisely the same thing. Residents have taken Rogers to court to block them from erecting a tower on the fringe of a residential community. The community actually won the first round in court, although an appeal is pending.
It was comforting to know that Industry Canada got involved by siding with the residents. They called into question the company's preferred location near a residential neighbourhood rather than an industrial park a mere 200 metres away. The dispute is unique in that the land Industry Canada recommended as an alternative is owned by a Kanawake woman, who is refusing to sell. Neither Rogers or the woman are willing to budge. Stay tuned on that one.
I've never thought of myself as a NIMBY (Not In My Back Yard) kind of person. I don't have time for knuckleheads who buy a house at the end of a runway, or beside a rail line, and then complain to the government about the noise and pollution. We bought our house because it was a quiet neighbourhood with lots of green-space. Now we face the possibility of a massive, microwave-belching, towering steel eyesore almost literally in our back yard.
The location makes little if any sense to residents of the neighbourhood. Many are rightfully mindful of the company's claim to be open to their concerns. The fact that the company is considering the site is reason enough to make one wonder what goes on in the planning department at Rogers. Fuelling this absurdity is the number of reasonable and logical alternatives such as an abundance of available and accessible industrial land. One would presume it would be a lot easier to install a tower next to a major highway rather than squeezing massive steel gridwork through narrow suburban streets. Not to mention the public relations nightmare involved in razing a forest, sending frogs and bunnies hopping away in terror, to spew microwave radiation upon young children in the playground below.
But, hey, what do I know?
Rogers has already stated that it would base its final decision on the degree of opposition to the project, but it also hinted it might defer to Industry Canada if it can't get what it wants.
I'm sure I'm not the first, but allow me to put it as clearly and succinctly as possible: WE DON'T WANT YOUR TOWER HERE.
Can you hear me now?
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Don't You Forget About...
What is the fundamental difference between adults and children? I'm not referring to the obvious things like size, age, experience and income. Adults have more of all of those things, and all the responsibilities that come with them. I'm talking about attitudes and perspective on life.
John Hughes 80's masterpiece film The Breakfast Club is among the most profound allegories on the transition from childhood to adulthood. The characters in the film represent each of the various social divisions that emerge over the course of time in high school. The popular girl, the geek, the jock, the nerd, the rebel. All different and yet all very much the same. Searching for identity, acceptance, belonging while facing an uncertain future. The movie effectively captures an ongoing dialogue of the fears and frustrations shared by generations of young adults.
When the character's conversation turns to their impeding transition to adulthood, Allison, whose quirky and irreverent personality makes her the most marginalized of the group, declares: "When you grow up, your heart dies."
Those words still linger in the recesses of my mind. At times I wonder if teens look at me and think it is true.
Much of adult life is about meeting deadlines, making and keeping schedules, paying bills and somehow finding time for leisure, or a good night's sleep. As a parent, the responsibilities are even greater as we want our children to get the best education, nutrition, be active and expose them to opportunities we may not have had in our own youth. We push, prod and yes, we nag. We want the best for our kids in much the same way as our parents did.
Only as an adult do we realize the work and sacrifice our own parents gave for us. Which helps explain that cavernous disconnect between adults and teens. Our kids only see the pushing and prodding and the parents only see laziness and contempt. Perhaps this is a chasm that, by design, simply cannot be bridged. The stubbornness and audacity of youth is necessary to establish one's independence. To break free from the nest and discover one's identity. Unfortunately for parents it often means sitting on the sidelines and watching our children struggle and sometimes fail.
Our kids often don't get that the most basic motivation driving every parent is quite simply love. What most parents don't get is that a child's pursuit of individuality is a necessary part of growing up and not meant to be personal.
On Saturday evening, my wife and I were at a Halloween costume party with our young son and many other parents and children, when something rather profound happened: it snowed.
It may not sound like anything particularly dramatic except for one very obvious thing. As the fat wet flakes swirled out of the sky, the children celebrated and the adults moaned. Then and there, on display for all to see, was the fundamental difference between adults and children.
The more I thought about it, the more I wondered at what point the first snowfall went from being something exciting to something dreary? At what point did I stop looking for opportunities to have fun rather than complain? Seeing the children's excitement brought back a certain joy that seemed to trump all of my adult cynicism which made me think that maybe that generational chasm was not as wide as I thought.
All these years after first seeing the film, I can finally take issue with The Breakfast Club's Allison. When we grow up, our hearts don't die. They are often drowned out by the noise of routine and responsibility. They are quieted by the need to be stoic and vigilant. They are kept in check so that we can be supportive and encouraging.
If anything, as an adult, I find my heart to have grown deeper and more easily touched. Battle-worn yet overly responsive to all of life's joy and pain. Though it may not be obvious to kids and teens, the love that adults have is far richer and more profound than they can possibly understand.
Which is okay. They will. One day.
In truth, for all of the complaining and moaning in the adult protest of an early snowfall, somewhere, deep within each of us, was a little child saying: 'yay!'
It was good to know our hearts are alive and well.
John Hughes 80's masterpiece film The Breakfast Club is among the most profound allegories on the transition from childhood to adulthood. The characters in the film represent each of the various social divisions that emerge over the course of time in high school. The popular girl, the geek, the jock, the nerd, the rebel. All different and yet all very much the same. Searching for identity, acceptance, belonging while facing an uncertain future. The movie effectively captures an ongoing dialogue of the fears and frustrations shared by generations of young adults.
When the character's conversation turns to their impeding transition to adulthood, Allison, whose quirky and irreverent personality makes her the most marginalized of the group, declares: "When you grow up, your heart dies."
Those words still linger in the recesses of my mind. At times I wonder if teens look at me and think it is true.
Much of adult life is about meeting deadlines, making and keeping schedules, paying bills and somehow finding time for leisure, or a good night's sleep. As a parent, the responsibilities are even greater as we want our children to get the best education, nutrition, be active and expose them to opportunities we may not have had in our own youth. We push, prod and yes, we nag. We want the best for our kids in much the same way as our parents did.
Only as an adult do we realize the work and sacrifice our own parents gave for us. Which helps explain that cavernous disconnect between adults and teens. Our kids only see the pushing and prodding and the parents only see laziness and contempt. Perhaps this is a chasm that, by design, simply cannot be bridged. The stubbornness and audacity of youth is necessary to establish one's independence. To break free from the nest and discover one's identity. Unfortunately for parents it often means sitting on the sidelines and watching our children struggle and sometimes fail.
Our kids often don't get that the most basic motivation driving every parent is quite simply love. What most parents don't get is that a child's pursuit of individuality is a necessary part of growing up and not meant to be personal.
On Saturday evening, my wife and I were at a Halloween costume party with our young son and many other parents and children, when something rather profound happened: it snowed.
It may not sound like anything particularly dramatic except for one very obvious thing. As the fat wet flakes swirled out of the sky, the children celebrated and the adults moaned. Then and there, on display for all to see, was the fundamental difference between adults and children.
The more I thought about it, the more I wondered at what point the first snowfall went from being something exciting to something dreary? At what point did I stop looking for opportunities to have fun rather than complain? Seeing the children's excitement brought back a certain joy that seemed to trump all of my adult cynicism which made me think that maybe that generational chasm was not as wide as I thought.
All these years after first seeing the film, I can finally take issue with The Breakfast Club's Allison. When we grow up, our hearts don't die. They are often drowned out by the noise of routine and responsibility. They are quieted by the need to be stoic and vigilant. They are kept in check so that we can be supportive and encouraging.
If anything, as an adult, I find my heart to have grown deeper and more easily touched. Battle-worn yet overly responsive to all of life's joy and pain. Though it may not be obvious to kids and teens, the love that adults have is far richer and more profound than they can possibly understand.
Which is okay. They will. One day.
In truth, for all of the complaining and moaning in the adult protest of an early snowfall, somewhere, deep within each of us, was a little child saying: 'yay!'
It was good to know our hearts are alive and well.
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