Saturday, May 31, 2008
Karma and China
In trying to answer the age-old question of why bad things happen to people, Sharon Stone stepped on her tongue. She mentioned that perhaps the reason for the earth quake in China was the mistreatment of the Tibetans and monks by the Chinese government.
The problem with this view is that the children who died were not the ones who were mistreating the Tibetans. This is the disconnect for many people. Numerous children being killed to punish leaders who are still living well. Does this make sense?
In response the Chinese are considering not showing any of her films. This involves a very large audience and Sharon will probably rethink her comment.
Celebrities are known for their problematic comments but I don't think anyone puts much confidence in their insight and wisdom. In most cases, including this one, it is best to leave much unsaid when it involves trying to surmise why bad things happen to innocent people.
If you are looking for a thought provoking book on this topic I would suggest the one by Harold Kushner entitled "When Bad Things Happen to Good People". Notice the "When" in the title and not the "Why".
Peace
The problem with this view is that the children who died were not the ones who were mistreating the Tibetans. This is the disconnect for many people. Numerous children being killed to punish leaders who are still living well. Does this make sense?
In response the Chinese are considering not showing any of her films. This involves a very large audience and Sharon will probably rethink her comment.
Celebrities are known for their problematic comments but I don't think anyone puts much confidence in their insight and wisdom. In most cases, including this one, it is best to leave much unsaid when it involves trying to surmise why bad things happen to innocent people.
If you are looking for a thought provoking book on this topic I would suggest the one by Harold Kushner entitled "When Bad Things Happen to Good People". Notice the "When" in the title and not the "Why".
Peace
Saturday, May 10, 2008
Another Milestone?
I believe there are numerous milestones in one's life that come before the last mile marker. Some start early in life, like not having to wear diapers any more. Then there are some that come late in life, like having to wear diapers again (it is a vicious circle). That was supposed to make you smile.
I have achieved (ok, reached) two milestones this year. I retired and I bought a riding lawn mower. Both are signs you are either getting old or you have done well financially, or both. Or, perhaps you are tired of walking or you have a big lawn.
Many of the people in my block have riding lawn mowers. I bought one yesterday. It was a used one. I never like to buy new.
After this long winter I'm just glad to see green grass--I wasn't sure spring was going to come! I look forward to next week mowing my lawn with this mower. One should always have something to look forward to. Peace.
I have achieved (ok, reached) two milestones this year. I retired and I bought a riding lawn mower. Both are signs you are either getting old or you have done well financially, or both. Or, perhaps you are tired of walking or you have a big lawn.
Many of the people in my block have riding lawn mowers. I bought one yesterday. It was a used one. I never like to buy new.
After this long winter I'm just glad to see green grass--I wasn't sure spring was going to come! I look forward to next week mowing my lawn with this mower. One should always have something to look forward to. Peace.
