Swastika: Lost in Translation

The swastika has gotten a bum rap because of Hitler. Most people look at the swastika as a symbol of hate; however, this could not be more from the truth. The swastika symbol has been used by most of the major religions throughout history, even Jewish sects. How did Hitler adopt the swastika as the symbol of the Nazi party you may ask? Let me attempt to explain his oxymoron actions.

The swastika has been around for roughly 3,000 years, centuries before Hitler was even born. Countries, such as China and England, used the swastika to symbolize power, good, and life. It was not until the 1800s that the swastika's meaning change somewhat. Germany itself was not a unified country until 1871. Since many countries that bordered Germany were rapidly growing, the German federation used to the symbol to convey strength and a sense of pride in the country's long history. It was not officially an insignia of the Nazi party until 1920. Like other symbols throughout history, it only takes one bad seed to ruin its meaning. The next time you see a swastika, ignore the hatred that it symbolized in twentieth century Germany.

Where's The Love?

Some things just disgust me with American society. Minus the evils of capitalism, I cannot stand how some Americans chose not to stand behind President Obama. Although I'm biased, canvassing for Obama before his presidency, I just do not understand the widespread panic that has ensued in America since Nov. 4, 2008. Sure, Obama is the first "black president" (actually only half black), but what is the purpose of tearing the man down? He fairly won the election so I wish the animosity would subside.

This rant is the result of stupidity on the behalf of some parents in this country. Obama decided to talk to students about the their lethargic attitudes, yet Americans across the country see this as an attempt to indoctrinate their children with socialistic ideas. Did these parents forget that President Kennedy called on American youth to personally take responsibility for the transitions that the U.S. was experiencing in the 1960s? It is the same thing! Both Democratic presidents pushed for agendas that tried to motivate all Americans to take pride in their country. I just do not understand how this can be construed as socialism?

Jack Johnson: The New Cat Stevens

For those who are not familiar with Cat Stevens, imagine Jack Johnson with long hair and a British accent. Cat Stevens, who was active throughout the 1970s and early 80s was his generation's Jack Johnson. Both artists sung about love and living in a positive way. Their styles are so similar it's kinda uncanny. If you listen to Jack, you should definitely check out Cat Stevens.

Abstinence Appreciation

Girl I'm not a piece of meat, stimulate my brain... touche Jermaine, touche.

The Rape of Kuwait

I was in Goodwill the other day (my new thing) and I picked up The Rape of Kuwait.  Such a blunt title made it a must.  I've read half of it so far and I highly recommend it to everyone.  It is safe to say that a lot of Americans were ill informed about Operation Iraqi Freedom.  Whether you agreed or disagreed with our country's brash decision to invade Iraq (it's fairly clear which side I take), The Rape of Kuwait shows the plight of the jilted souls of Iraq in 1991.  

Sketcherfield's Finest

Dear Facebook Video Vixens (Cierra and Alexa),
Thanks for all of the Facebook videos that yall have so graciously given me. I'm a pretty big fan of them. Let it be known that I am also a huge fan of the nickname Thom Thom. It's much better than Mangy... I'm stoked to know that the FVV will be in action until Jan. 2010 as well! I would return the favor, but I'm not cool enough to since I don't have a Mac ha.



Yours truly,
Thom Thom (Not lame ol Mangy)



P.S. I'm also a fan of Sonic and Latter-day Saints :)

The Real Mysteries of Life

Instead of fighting wars and trying to improve health care, Obama should be trying to solve the following riddles:


Why did the chicken really cross the road?

How many licks does it take to get to the center of a Tootsie Pop?

If MC Hammer was honestly too legit to quit, why did he file for bankruptcy?

What really killed off the dinosaurs?

Is everything actually bigger in Texas?

Rain: The Great Antagonist

The House That Fascism Built (A Rant)

I usually try to shy away from posts that seem to be nothing more than rants, but I can't help myself. My supervisor proclaimed that talking at work was forbidden until further notice. Really? Are adults, ranging in age from 19 to 70+, suppose to be treated like school children. I haven't been forbidden to talk since 1st grade. I'm curious to see how long this talking ban is going to be in place.

REgina SPEKTor: a review

I have been a huge Regina Spektor fan for the last four years. Everything about her (i.e. her quirky style to her musical versatility) makes her an unique artist by today's music industry standards. She's not afraid to be different and I totally dig that. She recently released her third major studio production, Far. Unlike her previous albums, Far seems to have more mass appeal. Although Spektor's no rookie, her new album is sure to bolster her fan base. I suggest you listen to Eet, Folding Chair, and Dance Anthem of the 80s... they're amazing tracks.

Ironic Iconoclasm

I have always deemed myself to be somewhat of a revolutionary... even though I have very little to rebel against. Since I pride myself on going against the grain, I have always admired the life and exploits of Che Guevara.  Arguably one of the greatest revolutionaries of the 20th century, Guevara's influence is still prevalent with regard to left wingers and free spirited college kids.  I fall among the latter of Che admirers.  A lot of people say that Guevara stood for nothing but evil, but I don't see it like that.  

There has been a recent push to discredit the revolutionary ideals of Guevara.  Some critics dwell on the fact that he was allegedly responsible for having a hand in the deaths of roughly 200 Cubans falling the communist takeover of the Cuba.  Should we really judge such a powerful force of intellect and master of military strategy with the same standards that we use on ordinary people?  If that is the case, then every president before Lincoln should be responsible for all of the slaves that died in the U.S.

 

Burning Man... literally.

This post truly captures the randomness of my mind. I was listening to Third Eye Blind's Burning Man the other day and I started to think about self immolation. For those who are not familiar with the term, self immolation is a ritual that is performed by someone setting themselves on fire in protest. The most famous case of self immolation occurred in Vietnam in 1963. A Buddhist monk set himself on fire in the middle of a busy street. The crowd watched in amazement as the monk allowed himself to be consumed by the fire without moving an inch. What a hell of a way to go! Just think, how devoted do you have to be to submit yourself to such torture to prove a point?

Girl Talk, I listen?

Gregg Michael Gillis should be my new best friend. Gillis, better known as Girl Talk, is an electrifying DJ that's starting to take the music world's breath away. Although he is simply mashing up verses of different songs, it's unique. I got to see him live at a concert this spring and I was both shocked and amazed. Jump on the Girl Talk express, before it becomes old news.

Burt's Bees

I have officially sold out on Lynchburg (the city where Chapstick was created) by switching over to Burt's Bees. I use to think it was ridiculous to pay $3 for a tube until I indulged... the rest is history. The stuff is $3 for a reason... even if the old guy on the box looks like the biggest creeper ever ha.

The Original American Idol

Here's to you Axl... the only true American Idol.

The epitome of tolerance

If the Henderson's could love Big Foot, we can at least get along with each other. Is that too much to ask? ha

Are you not entertained?

Jeremiah Masoli... the hypest player for the Oregon Ducks.

Palmtop

Why get a laptop when you can have a palmtop?

Old Company, New Style

I am an avid hiker and outdoor enthusiast. Second to my love of nature is my love of being a style pioneer. What better way to combine my favorite loves than to sport hiking gear that captures the essence of the outdoorsman? Instead of wearing the trendy choice of The North Face, I wear Patagonia. The new style of Patagonia is even captured in its vivid clothing ads. The company is even making a concentrated effort to be more earth-friendly. If you want to wear comfortable clothing that protects against the wear and tear of outdoor sports, I suggest you start sporting Patagonia... go against the grain.

Magazine of the Enlightened

If you are interested in becoming in a well-rounded individual, I suggest that you start reading GQ. I picked up a copy of the newest GQ, with Christian Bale on the cover, and I became an instant fan. A cheap subscription price makes the magazine a plus as well.