I started thinking to myself about the economic times we are in and we find ourselves no looking for a deal where maybe a few years back we didn't. To that ends I have decided to devote a portion of my blogging time to sharing information on money saving coupons or special deals. Legitimate ways to make Money on line (because it all takes work folks, but it shouldn't have to cost you a lot to get started.)
It's interesting to see the shift in the career market as far as what people feel are stable jobs. There is even a division among self-employed people who work on line as far as which is the most stable way to work for ones self and make good money on line? I'm not hear to debate that I just say you have to 1.do what your passionate about 2.Find a way you can take that passion and turn it into a marketable product. 3. Set yourself reasonable time lines and dates while keeping your options open. If you feel, it's isn't working, as you would like given a reasonable amount of time or you feel like you have to have that day job (some of us do) then do that but give what you are trying to start up the rest of your attention or at least 80 to 90 percent of it. Do not do it Half Heartedly Half hearted passion is just Stupid. 4. Market the hell out of yourself as well as your product on social networking sites.
To that means the first" Hot Deal" I want to share with you is a New social Networking site I just discovered "The Private Membership". This works as any other social networking site but when you join the site you can sign up for its affiliate program that pays you a dollar for each person that signs up. Using the affiliate link, you are provided to promote the sight. Right now, they are offering a special sign up price of $1.00 to join The Private Membership. Now I know other sites are free to join but this site will pay you a dollar for everyone who uses the link you are provide to sign themselves up. My understanding is once they populate this site to the level they want it at those that got in during that time will continue to earn the dollar for those who sign up under your promo link but they will have to pay 47 dollars to join and that’s an annual membership this is a lifetime membership. In order to join you have to use an existing member’s promo link, which I have provided you here
THE Promo LINK: http://theprivatemembership.com/vip/?e=russb.atpsc
Just Copy and past in a new window in your web browser
In these hard economic times who couldn’t use the extra cash and this is an easy way to generate it. So take a look, this is a good deal. One of my best friends and business partner who owns Desert Pet Sitting here in the Coachella Valley as well as being the other moderator at pscommunitynetworking.com is already making money . If you don’t Have PayPal, you will have to sign up for it but that is free and extremely secure. Hey, it's another way to promote yourself and your business for a buck that’s cheap advertising if nothing else and you'll earn some dough to boot
http://theprivatemembership.com/vip/?e=russb.atpsc
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Friday, March 13, 2009
Thoughts On March 4th Repeal Prop 8 Ralley at the Court House
Thoughts On March 4th Repeal Prop 8 Ralley at the Court House
I went to the rally at the courthouse March 4th for The repeal of Prop 8, in Palm Springs with my husband Steve. On this eve before the hearing, I was thankful that my husband was not working. (His job keeps him in Florida a lot.) He was able to share this experience with me. We listen to the different speakers speak. From Jenny Foat city council member to couples that have been together over thirty years. I started to reflect back on the relation ship I have with my Husband of almost ten years. (We plan to marry on our tenth anniversary.) I started to think about all those couple that I knew that had been together 10, 20 or more years that never got to marry. I knew a couple in San Jose in the 90’s that had been together 60 years. One past on before the laws had been changed (for that brief period) and we were aloud to marry. Another couple had been together almost 50 years before one passed away. And one of my dearest friend had been with his husband 25 years before his husband passed away back in the late 80’s.
My parents were together 51 years. So it is no surprise to me the value I place on commitment. Because of this Marriage is a Huge deal with me. I have dreamt of the day I walk down the Isle in a white or black tux with family and friends surrounding us. The moment we cut the cake. And all those traditions that go with a wedding day. Today was important. Tomorrow is even more important. Tomorrow history will be made. We will all be a part of this. Whether your marriage minded or a run away bride (or groom) who couldn’t stay far enough away from an alter. This is more then just the right to marry this is about another step towards Total equality. I believe when it comes to equality we should never take a back seat (I ain’t nobody’s Rosa Parks.) and we should never shoot for baby steps. We must walk like Giants and speak with demand and authority in our voice. We must raise our voices all, against inequality. We must bring this battle to victory and then we must take our next Giant step forward. Believe you me this battle is only one giant Step towards Total equality we have many more Giant steps to take before State wide and federally we are equal citizens of this great state and this great nation that seemed to be hijacked for the last 8 years.
I went to the rally at the courthouse March 4th for The repeal of Prop 8, in Palm Springs with my husband Steve. On this eve before the hearing, I was thankful that my husband was not working. (His job keeps him in Florida a lot.) He was able to share this experience with me. We listen to the different speakers speak. From Jenny Foat city council member to couples that have been together over thirty years. I started to reflect back on the relation ship I have with my Husband of almost ten years. (We plan to marry on our tenth anniversary.) I started to think about all those couple that I knew that had been together 10, 20 or more years that never got to marry. I knew a couple in San Jose in the 90’s that had been together 60 years. One past on before the laws had been changed (for that brief period) and we were aloud to marry. Another couple had been together almost 50 years before one passed away. And one of my dearest friend had been with his husband 25 years before his husband passed away back in the late 80’s.
My parents were together 51 years. So it is no surprise to me the value I place on commitment. Because of this Marriage is a Huge deal with me. I have dreamt of the day I walk down the Isle in a white or black tux with family and friends surrounding us. The moment we cut the cake. And all those traditions that go with a wedding day. Today was important. Tomorrow is even more important. Tomorrow history will be made. We will all be a part of this. Whether your marriage minded or a run away bride (or groom) who couldn’t stay far enough away from an alter. This is more then just the right to marry this is about another step towards Total equality. I believe when it comes to equality we should never take a back seat (I ain’t nobody’s Rosa Parks.) and we should never shoot for baby steps. We must walk like Giants and speak with demand and authority in our voice. We must raise our voices all, against inequality. We must bring this battle to victory and then we must take our next Giant step forward. Believe you me this battle is only one giant Step towards Total equality we have many more Giant steps to take before State wide and federally we are equal citizens of this great state and this great nation that seemed to be hijacked for the last 8 years.
Tuesday, January 20, 2009
We must stay Strong!
Civil Liberties are meant to be a guarantee to all Americans. Marriage is a civil liberty so to allow some to have it and not others is Wrong
We have only begun this battle there is a lot more work that needs to be done/ We all need to support Marriage Equality whether it is through donations of time, money or both with the recent positioning of the religious right, threatening to recall judges as well as to try and end safe schools program this is no time to relaxes we must fight harder then ever and make it clear by winning this war that the religious wrong can not hi-jack California’s constitution or any other states constitution for that matter!. We will win! And we will fight this battle until we do!
Get involved because you never know who’s civil liberties may be taken away next by a majority of the voters it could be yours
We have only begun this battle there is a lot more work that needs to be done/ We all need to support Marriage Equality whether it is through donations of time, money or both with the recent positioning of the religious right, threatening to recall judges as well as to try and end safe schools program this is no time to relaxes we must fight harder then ever and make it clear by winning this war that the religious wrong can not hi-jack California’s constitution or any other states constitution for that matter!. We will win! And we will fight this battle until we do!
Get involved because you never know who’s civil liberties may be taken away next by a majority of the voters it could be yours
We have Momentum.
We have momentum this is no time to stop.
We have their attention this is no time to give it back.
We must make them see that this is not up for negotiation.
We must make them see it is not about religion.
We must make them see that this is about civil rights.
We are the new face of the civil rights movement
We are marriage rights for all.
We are the good fight.
We will see victory
We will win this war.
We have momentum this is no time to stop.
We have their attention this is no time to give it back.
We must make them see that this is not up for negotiation.
We must make them see it is not about religion.
We must make them see that this is about civil rights.
We are the new face of the civil rights movement
We are marriage rights for all.
We are the good fight.
We will see victory
We will win this war.
We have momentum this is no time to stop.
The Wedding
This is so exciting I can’t believe it is finally here… Well almost finally here. I can’t believe your getting married. It just seems like yesterday you where 5 playing dress up and having tea parties and now you are about to be married. Oh daddy, I am all grown up, it’s time to let go. I know sweetheart it’s just tough to let you go. Oh, daddy I have to grow up sometime. I know I know but it’s not easy to see my baby getting married. Lynn honey, what time are we supposed to be at the church for the rehearsal ….. 5:30, I swear your father just can’t seem to remember anything lately.
Hurry up Roger, we have to get going…. I’m almost ready… I have never met anyone who takes as long as your father to get ready…. Roger will be in the car waiting…. I’ll be right there Lynn.
Daddy can you go a little faster I want to get to the church we only have an hour and a half for the rehearsal…. Sweetheart we’ll get there in plenty of time…..Roger did you remember to call the caterer and make sure they made the menu changes for the reception? …Yes honey I did….. Oh no!? What are they doing here?..... Daddy, Father, ….make them go away. Why do they have to protest my wedding? I’ve never done anything to them. Don’t worry sweetheart your father will take care of it lets get parked and the two of you can go inside and I’ll handle it.
Granddad!..... Well don’t you look lovely my dear. Lynn, you’re a vision yourself,…Oh Dad… What, what you’re my child can’t I complement my child? Where’s that handsome husband of yours? Oh, there are some protesters outside and he is trying to get them to leave……
Hey everyone… Sarah made it. How was your flight? It was O.K. just long…. Well you’re here and that’s what matters Mat would be disappointed if you didn’t make it to the wedding.
Was daddy able to get of them?....Get rid of who?.... Oh, Sara you made it how was your flight. ….. Eh, it was o.k.…… Hey, what’s going on out there?..... Demonstrators! Daddies trying to get rid of them, Oh Sara there protesting my Wedding! They are going to ruin it….. Matty they are not going to ruin your wedding this is only the rehearsal. I’m sure they will be gone shortly your dad will see to it…. Oh granddad….. Sara why don’t you go see if you can help your dad get rid of them…. Good idea, I’ll go with you Sara…. Matty don’t fret between you dad, granddad, and Sara they should be able to get rid of them….. They better, it’s my day and I don’t want it ruined by these insensitive clods….. Matty? That’s not very nice and your wedding day is tomorrow not today sweetheart and by tomorrow those pesky demonstrate will be gone, you worry to much your dad will handle it…But what if they don’t leave?.....Listen to me between your dad your granddad and Sara they’ll have them out of here in no time….. Hey sweet heart they know your on there side. You have marched right with them for what they try and call civil rights…… You say that as if it is not a civil right!.... Well, honestly honey I’m not so sure it is?.....It is!...all I can say is that I don’t necessarily agree with them and there are better ways of getting there point across then protesting your wedding…..
Daddy, were you able to get them to leave?.... Thanks to Lynn’s dad and your sister Sara they have decide to take there demonstration elsewhere….Thank you guys so much….Hey you have got a rehearsal here shortly lets focus on that. Has Danni gotten here yet?..... No!..... Stop being such a Bridezilla Matty! …. Hold on that’s my cell I think it’s Danni? I have to take it. Again, thank you guy's for handling it I’d hate to have Danni have to see that Danni would go ballistic if they were out there….
Well that’s one fire out I hope there aren’t anymore?..... I’m sure everything will be fine Lynn.... I hope so the last thing I want to have happen is to have those demonstrators here when Danni get here. Matty’s right you know Danni would go ballistic and the last think we need is the cops at this rehearsal….. I know I know but it’s handled and they’ll be leaving…….
So where’s Danni?...... He’s on his way now…… Good, we are running late as it is!
O.K. everyone take your places Matty’s family will be on this side and Danni’s on the other….. Lynn you look so sharp in that out fit it is always one of my favorite outfits on you…. Why thank you Jamie! And you never fail to look good in that outfit although it is a bit revealing for a wedding….. Well you know what they say a wedding is the best place to find an eligible single…. That’s right you’re still unmarried. When are you going to settle down and start a family?.... Oh I don’t know I just haven’t met the right person yet?.... Well you certainly have worn that outfit to enough weddings you think you would have met someone by now!.... I’ve met plenty they just weren’t the One…. Well maybe if you didn’t boink em in the bathroom at the reception you might get to know them?... What can I say maybe I am meant to be single? Besides Marriage is overrated anyway. Oh, that’s just the cynic talking you don’t truly believe that?... All I am saying is those protesters don’t know how good they have it. They grow up come out and there families don’t put any pressure on them to get married they are very lucky.…… Well I for one think your wrong Marriage is a wonderful Institution…. You could be right Lynn but I’m not sure I’m the marrying kind….If you say so but personally I think you just haven’t met the right person yet.
What was that all about Lynn?…. Oh just Jamie being a bitch as usual!... Don’t let it get to you Lynn…. I don’t….. Jamie is right though you are smoken in that out fit I can’t wait to get you home and out of it!... Roger! This is Matty’s wedding get your mind out of the gutter…… I’m just saying it’s going to be hard to focus with you wearing that…… Well then I suppose it’s a good thing I’m walking Matty down the isle instead of you…. You got that right…..
Shall we get started folks….. Danni you stand here. Michael you stand to the right of Danni and the rest of you stand to the right of Michael….. Wait we can’t start until grandpa get here….. Don’t worry Matty he just called me and said he was running a little late and he’ll be here shortly….
Wow wedding bring out the animal in you….. How about round three?... How about tomorrow morning before the wedding all I want to do is watch a little news and go to sleep we have one of the most important day of our lives tomorrow, our baby is getting married? Hey did you find out if Jess and Meg were going to be able to make it? I’m surprised that they weren’t at the rehearsal?... They called while we were at the rehearsal and said their flight got in late they were sorry they couldn’t make the rehearsal but they will be there tomorrow. They said they wouldn’t miss the wedding for anything….. Shhh Shhh there’s a story about the protester on the news……Turn it up.
About some twenty protesters where outside the first Methodist church today protesting for the right to marry saying it is a civil right for a man and a woman to be able to marry and that they wouldn’t stop there protesting until heterosexual couples are allowed to marry in all 50 States…….. Ya right like that’s ever going to happen….. Roger! Quite I am trying to here this, these people are directly attacking the sanctity of marriage….If they had there way people would be allowed to marry dogs and that’s just ludicrous!.... Stop being so closed minded Roger…… I’m just saying…. Look if our son and his husband to be can be understanding maybe we should too!.... Lynn these people want to take what is sacred and turn it into a circus and I for one don’t like it! I though we agreed on that?.... I do I do, it’s just that Maybe they have a bit of a point! I mean after all marriage is a civil matter….. correct me if I am wrong but wasn’t it just you who said they, and I quote “ are directly attacking the sanctity of marriage?... yes I did but,…. But nothing Lynn. If we allow a man to marry a woman it will destroy marriage as we know it!.... all I am say Roger is that maybe they have a point?.....They have no point Lynn God intended Marriage to be between a man and a man or a woman and a woman not a man and a woman period….. Arghhhhh. Lets just go to sleep we have a big day a head of us and tomorrow our son is going to marry the man of his dreams and this should be a happy occasion….. Well those damn protesters better not come around tomorrow that’s all I have to say about it Lynn…. Go to sleep Roger….. I just hope when Sara gets married that she doesn’t have to deal with protesters at her wedding….. Sara say she and Bev won’t marry till all people can get married…… What is wrong with these people Lynn? My own daughter?..... Roger just go to sleep I’m sure she and Bev will see the light…. I hope so. You try to raise your children right and then they get these nutty ideas in their head. Where did we go wrong? Roger go to sleep!... You up for round 4?.... In the morning Roger I’m tired and we have a busy day ahead of us. We have the breakfast at 8…. Well that’s doesn’t leave much time for nooky in the morning?..... Don’t worry Roger there will be plenty of time for nooky in the morning before the breakfast now go to sleep!
No part of this post may be copied reproduced or posted on other sites with out the express written permission of the author Russell E. Bertlow
Hurry up Roger, we have to get going…. I’m almost ready… I have never met anyone who takes as long as your father to get ready…. Roger will be in the car waiting…. I’ll be right there Lynn.
Daddy can you go a little faster I want to get to the church we only have an hour and a half for the rehearsal…. Sweetheart we’ll get there in plenty of time…..Roger did you remember to call the caterer and make sure they made the menu changes for the reception? …Yes honey I did….. Oh no!? What are they doing here?..... Daddy, Father, ….make them go away. Why do they have to protest my wedding? I’ve never done anything to them. Don’t worry sweetheart your father will take care of it lets get parked and the two of you can go inside and I’ll handle it.
Granddad!..... Well don’t you look lovely my dear. Lynn, you’re a vision yourself,…Oh Dad… What, what you’re my child can’t I complement my child? Where’s that handsome husband of yours? Oh, there are some protesters outside and he is trying to get them to leave……
Hey everyone… Sarah made it. How was your flight? It was O.K. just long…. Well you’re here and that’s what matters Mat would be disappointed if you didn’t make it to the wedding.
Was daddy able to get of them?....Get rid of who?.... Oh, Sara you made it how was your flight. ….. Eh, it was o.k.…… Hey, what’s going on out there?..... Demonstrators! Daddies trying to get rid of them, Oh Sara there protesting my Wedding! They are going to ruin it….. Matty they are not going to ruin your wedding this is only the rehearsal. I’m sure they will be gone shortly your dad will see to it…. Oh granddad….. Sara why don’t you go see if you can help your dad get rid of them…. Good idea, I’ll go with you Sara…. Matty don’t fret between you dad, granddad, and Sara they should be able to get rid of them….. They better, it’s my day and I don’t want it ruined by these insensitive clods….. Matty? That’s not very nice and your wedding day is tomorrow not today sweetheart and by tomorrow those pesky demonstrate will be gone, you worry to much your dad will handle it…But what if they don’t leave?.....Listen to me between your dad your granddad and Sara they’ll have them out of here in no time….. Hey sweet heart they know your on there side. You have marched right with them for what they try and call civil rights…… You say that as if it is not a civil right!.... Well, honestly honey I’m not so sure it is?.....It is!...all I can say is that I don’t necessarily agree with them and there are better ways of getting there point across then protesting your wedding…..
Daddy, were you able to get them to leave?.... Thanks to Lynn’s dad and your sister Sara they have decide to take there demonstration elsewhere….Thank you guys so much….Hey you have got a rehearsal here shortly lets focus on that. Has Danni gotten here yet?..... No!..... Stop being such a Bridezilla Matty! …. Hold on that’s my cell I think it’s Danni? I have to take it. Again, thank you guy's for handling it I’d hate to have Danni have to see that Danni would go ballistic if they were out there….
Well that’s one fire out I hope there aren’t anymore?..... I’m sure everything will be fine Lynn.... I hope so the last thing I want to have happen is to have those demonstrators here when Danni get here. Matty’s right you know Danni would go ballistic and the last think we need is the cops at this rehearsal….. I know I know but it’s handled and they’ll be leaving…….
So where’s Danni?...... He’s on his way now…… Good, we are running late as it is!
O.K. everyone take your places Matty’s family will be on this side and Danni’s on the other….. Lynn you look so sharp in that out fit it is always one of my favorite outfits on you…. Why thank you Jamie! And you never fail to look good in that outfit although it is a bit revealing for a wedding….. Well you know what they say a wedding is the best place to find an eligible single…. That’s right you’re still unmarried. When are you going to settle down and start a family?.... Oh I don’t know I just haven’t met the right person yet?.... Well you certainly have worn that outfit to enough weddings you think you would have met someone by now!.... I’ve met plenty they just weren’t the One…. Well maybe if you didn’t boink em in the bathroom at the reception you might get to know them?... What can I say maybe I am meant to be single? Besides Marriage is overrated anyway. Oh, that’s just the cynic talking you don’t truly believe that?... All I am saying is those protesters don’t know how good they have it. They grow up come out and there families don’t put any pressure on them to get married they are very lucky.…… Well I for one think your wrong Marriage is a wonderful Institution…. You could be right Lynn but I’m not sure I’m the marrying kind….If you say so but personally I think you just haven’t met the right person yet.
What was that all about Lynn?…. Oh just Jamie being a bitch as usual!... Don’t let it get to you Lynn…. I don’t….. Jamie is right though you are smoken in that out fit I can’t wait to get you home and out of it!... Roger! This is Matty’s wedding get your mind out of the gutter…… I’m just saying it’s going to be hard to focus with you wearing that…… Well then I suppose it’s a good thing I’m walking Matty down the isle instead of you…. You got that right…..
Shall we get started folks….. Danni you stand here. Michael you stand to the right of Danni and the rest of you stand to the right of Michael….. Wait we can’t start until grandpa get here….. Don’t worry Matty he just called me and said he was running a little late and he’ll be here shortly….
Wow wedding bring out the animal in you….. How about round three?... How about tomorrow morning before the wedding all I want to do is watch a little news and go to sleep we have one of the most important day of our lives tomorrow, our baby is getting married? Hey did you find out if Jess and Meg were going to be able to make it? I’m surprised that they weren’t at the rehearsal?... They called while we were at the rehearsal and said their flight got in late they were sorry they couldn’t make the rehearsal but they will be there tomorrow. They said they wouldn’t miss the wedding for anything….. Shhh Shhh there’s a story about the protester on the news……Turn it up.
About some twenty protesters where outside the first Methodist church today protesting for the right to marry saying it is a civil right for a man and a woman to be able to marry and that they wouldn’t stop there protesting until heterosexual couples are allowed to marry in all 50 States…….. Ya right like that’s ever going to happen….. Roger! Quite I am trying to here this, these people are directly attacking the sanctity of marriage….If they had there way people would be allowed to marry dogs and that’s just ludicrous!.... Stop being so closed minded Roger…… I’m just saying…. Look if our son and his husband to be can be understanding maybe we should too!.... Lynn these people want to take what is sacred and turn it into a circus and I for one don’t like it! I though we agreed on that?.... I do I do, it’s just that Maybe they have a bit of a point! I mean after all marriage is a civil matter….. correct me if I am wrong but wasn’t it just you who said they, and I quote “ are directly attacking the sanctity of marriage?... yes I did but,…. But nothing Lynn. If we allow a man to marry a woman it will destroy marriage as we know it!.... all I am say Roger is that maybe they have a point?.....They have no point Lynn God intended Marriage to be between a man and a man or a woman and a woman not a man and a woman period….. Arghhhhh. Lets just go to sleep we have a big day a head of us and tomorrow our son is going to marry the man of his dreams and this should be a happy occasion….. Well those damn protesters better not come around tomorrow that’s all I have to say about it Lynn…. Go to sleep Roger….. I just hope when Sara gets married that she doesn’t have to deal with protesters at her wedding….. Sara say she and Bev won’t marry till all people can get married…… What is wrong with these people Lynn? My own daughter?..... Roger just go to sleep I’m sure she and Bev will see the light…. I hope so. You try to raise your children right and then they get these nutty ideas in their head. Where did we go wrong? Roger go to sleep!... You up for round 4?.... In the morning Roger I’m tired and we have a busy day ahead of us. We have the breakfast at 8…. Well that’s doesn’t leave much time for nooky in the morning?..... Don’t worry Roger there will be plenty of time for nooky in the morning before the breakfast now go to sleep!
No part of this post may be copied reproduced or posted on other sites with out the express written permission of the author Russell E. Bertlow
A day without a Gay
She picked up the receiver and it was Bobby on the other end….. Hey, Bobby she said, what time will you be in….. I won’t be in he replied I’m calling in gay… Your calling in Gay? What does that mean? She asked…..It means my dear I am not coming in…. But Bobby your booked solid today….. Sorry Magda but as I said I am not coming in today, I’ll be in tomorrow. Have Shandra handle them…. What do I tell your customers? Magda asked him… Tell them I called in Gay….Bobby I can’t tell them that what will they think?.....Magda we talked about this you told me you understood…..I do Bobby you know I do, it’s just that…..Bobby stopped her right there. Magda, just tell them I called in Gay it’s been all over the news and Shandra is quite capable of handling my clients for the day….. Bobby these little blue haired ladies won’t get it….Well then maybe its time they did…..I know I know Bobby your right. Her words trailed off. She was in complete support of marriage equality. She new it was time to stand up once more for her friends and family and she would find away to deal with it. Bobby, she said I want you to know I am always in your corner and I know what you are doing is a good thing I’ll see you this evening at they rally and I’ll let your customers know you called in gay….Thank you Magda I appreciate it. It’s the only way people are going to see our value. I’ll see you tonight…..I’ll see you tonight Bobby. She replaced the receiver just as Shandra entered the salon…. Who was that Shandra asked…..? Oh, it was Bobby, she said with despair in her voice. He called in gay…. Honey you knew he was going to….I know, I know…..So what’s the big deal then? Shandra said. You should be happy he is standing up for his civil right….I am Shandra I just don’t know how it’s going to effect business…. Business! Honey your worried about how it’s going to effect your business? Magda I always thought you were better then that…..Don’t mind me Shandra I’m just frustrated Bobby is my top stylist and he’s booked solid today….. You seem to forget we planed it this way and you were the one who came up with the idea… I know I did Shandra we’ll just have to deal with it….Yes we will now won’t we, and besides it’s only one day. Honey your business is strong enough and you have a big enough clientele that it ain’t gonna be no big deal…..Your right. I know I’m right. Look Magda will get through this day and Bobby will be back tomorrow…. Shandra can you handle Bobby’s clients? I’ll handle them alright I’ll tell them Bobby called in gay and they will have to reschedule…..That’s not what I mean Magda said with more frustration in her voice….Magda if we want to make this statement this is the way to do it Shandra said with a firm tone. Look Bobby would do the same for you, you know that don’t you? Yes,.....Then what is there to talk about? We just tell his clients they will have to reschedule because Bobby called in Gay and if they don’t like it to bad and if they ask what that means we will tell them exactly what it means Shandra said definitely. Look Magda, these people need a wake up call and this is it.
Stern Foster and Stern how may I direct your call? Hey Betty, I won’t be in today I’m calling in Gay…. I’ll let Mr. Foster know Tom….Thanks Betty… Your welcome Tom, and hey Tom just know I support you….Thanks Betty that means a lot….Have a good day Tom…. You too Betty and I hope Mr. Foster isn’t to mad….Don’t worry about Foster I’ll handle him….Thanks Betty…. Your Welcome Tom. Betty hung up the phone as Todd Foster arrived into the office… Hey Betty tell Tom I need to see him in my office right away we have to get the finals done on the Winston file….. I’m sorry Todd Tom won’t be in today…what do you mean he won’t be in today is he sick?…..No, no Betty assured him. Then why won’t he be in?.... He called in Gay…He What? Todd said his voice raising. Betty remained calm and said again He called in gay….. Agitated Todd said, he called in Gay? Jesus Christ, what the hell!.. Look Betty said, it may not be my place but your just going to have to deal with it….Even more agitated Todd looked at Betty and said, your right it isn’t your place now get Tom on the phone and tell him to get his butt in here pronto there is to much going on and I need him in the office…. Betty looked at Todd a bit amused and said, No can do Mr. F! What do you mean No! Todd was getting heated and angry… Betty’s voice was very firm in it’s reply… I said No can do Mr. F…. Then I’ll call him and tell him myself….Go right ahead betty said to him but he won’t come in……Why Not! Todd said demanding an answer…..Todd you know perfectly well why not, today is a day without a Gay….Are you serious? Todd asked…. Yes I’m serious Betty replied. Oh and you should know about have the office is out and I’m leaving at noon? Christ almighty is everyone in this office gay?.... don’t be ridiculous Todd she said… Maybe we should just close for the day? He replied….Todd you were well aware of this and your right you should have just shut operations down for the day…. Well I didn’t really think they would go through with it….. What would have given you that impression Todd? Betty was already packing up her belongings….Inform everyone that is here that they need to get to the conference room ASAP Todd instructed Betty and then notify me when they are all there…. Will do Mr. Foster.
Betty contacted those who were in and told them to meet in the conference room then went back to her desk and made sure that the phones went directly to the answering service informing them that the office would be closed today for a day without a gay. The woman on the other end of the line knew exactly what that meant and said you too huh? Half our staff is out as well and a few of our other customers have informed us of the same. Don’t worry she said will handle it….Thank you Sarah I appreciate it… Betty hung up the phone then made one last call to Mr. Foster and told him everyone was in the conference room after which she headed there herself….
As you may or may not know Todd said addressing the sparse remaining staff. Today is a day without a gay and as managing partner of the firm I have decided that we will be shutting down the office for the day in support. Most of you are salaried so it won’t affect you but those that are not will still be paid for 8 hours work. You can choose to stay and work or go home but I have had Betty forward all call to the answering service. Are there any questions? Dan Michaels spoke up and as he was about to speak Betty leaned over to sandy and said under her breath it figures I think he’s the only one in the office who voted yes on 8 idiot…..Todd, Dan said I for one think it’s a bad idea, your only encouraging their behavior….. Dan Todd said Sternly you can choose to stay and work if you wish but as Managing Partner of this firm I have decide that we are closing the office for the day and you are welcome to your opinion but it is not going to change things…. Fuck’n fags, Dan said under his breath an audible gasp came from those directly around him…..The comment Dan made under his breath infuriated Todd. Dan if you have something to say then say if otherwise keep quite Todd said firmly and as for the rest of you, though some of you may not agree with this need I remind you that Foster Sterns and Foster has always been a company that prides its self on diversity and respect of all our employees. That is all this meeting is adjourned. As everyone started to leave, the conference room Todd ask Dan if he could stay for a moment as he had matters he needed to discus with him…. Dan I know that you don’t agree with this he started out trying to keep calm, but! He said let me be very clear here if you ever make another comment like you did today you will be fired Do I make myself clear!!! I have and will never tolerate Bigotry in this office and comments like the one you made will not be tolerated EVER!! We have talked about this before Dan and I am through talking! You will be formally written up and I will be giving you a ninety day probationary period….Dan stutter for words this is bullshit…..Would you like to try for 120 days Dan Keep talking because in a minute your going to talk yourself right out of a job and need I remind you in this economic climate finding a job won’t be easy. Now get out and go home. Dan headed toward the conference room door and as he started to leave Todd said to him, maybe you should take today and think about what it is you want? And if working here isn’t cutting it for you then maybe it’s time to find something else. You’re a good Worker Dan but as I said, I will not tolerate this sort of behavior Period! Have I made myself clear! Yes, Todd Dan answered begrudgingly . Good now go home.
Betty was just about to leave when Dan was passing her desk to get back to his office. Betty had never liked Dan she had always felt him a bit of a prig and a chauvinist and delighted in any opportunity to she got to aggravate him. She was very good at not getting caught doing it. If there was one thing she couldn’t stand, it was a bigot and Dan was the biggest of them all and she took delight in pointing it out to him. As Dan passed her desk she looked up at him and said, how’s that new asshole you just got ripped to which he just replied Shut up and leave me alone. Have a good day she said as she collected her purse and walked from behind her desk. Dan just kept walking to his office. Betty stopped in front of Mr. Foster office and asked if there was anything, he need from her before she left hoping he would say no and he did. As she turned to leave he called out to her…Betty? Yes Mr. Foster? Remind me in the morning that we need to file a formal written notice of disciplinary action for Dan…. A smile came across Betty’s face as she said With Pleasure Mr. Foster. Oh and one last thing Betty, Yes Mr. Foster she said. Try not to take so much pleasure in this Dan’s a hard worker, I know he can be an asshole but….. His word trailed off. You have a good after noon sir Betty said as she turned to leave. You too Betty and give Sterns my best and tell him that we support him and the rest of our LGBT staff just as we would any other staff. Will do Mr. foster and with that, she was gone and Todd went back to what he working on.
News reports were flooding the airwaves of business’s that were shutting down for the day due to lack of staffing. Despite the fact that some news stations were trying not to cover it, it was becoming big news. Momentum had had been gained and a day with out a gay was starting to effect the national economy, other countries were now participating. It was becoming one of the biggest grass roots movements to be seen in quite some time Bigger then anyone thought possible and even those new stations that refused to report it initially were now reporting it. All be it with a slant but they where reporting it. From Rural America to Suburban America they were feeling the effect. Those who had never stood up before were no standing up to be counted. This was becoming a very effective campaign. Programs were being interrupted for news updates. They were touting it to be bigger then a day without a Mexican. People’s eyes were finally starting to open up. Sure there were plenty of conservatives who would have like nothing better then to put an end to this but it was all to big to stop now and to try and do so would only set off a fire storm. People who thought it would not amount to much were either conversely elated or disturbed that it had become such a big deal.
Dr Williams office, No the Dr is not in today he has called in sick he should be back tomorrow, I’m sorry mam but he can’t be reached today. If it is a medical emergency then you should go to the emergency room as I said the Dr won’t be in until tomorrow. Mam, mam, I understand mam but you have to also understand that we are just the answering service. Yes, mam I’ll be happy to get the doctor your message, I can’t guarantee that he will get back to you today just so long as you know that, yes I understand your predicament but again I would suggest to you if it is an emergency that you go to the nearest emergency room.
Is this day going to be over soon?..... Not soon, enough Jan……This is just crazy Cindy. I hope this works I don’t want to have to face another day like this again….I just don’t know what they hope to achieve by this Jan, don’t you think that they are just making people angrier? What if we decide to have a day with out White people? I hear what you are saying Cindy but you know that really isn’t the point? Then what is the point Jan? The point is we have a group of people who are discriminated against just because of who they are! How!...... Yes but aren’t there other ways of handling it?…. I guess so Cindy but I have to say this seems to be working….But at what cost Jan? I just think it’s kind of ridiculous… Well I have to say Cindy I’d do the same thing if I found my self in their place, You use what ever means you have to short of Violence of course to et the results you need to get…..Well I don’t necessarily agree with that theory. I’ll just be glad when this day is over. Amen to that. And thankfully, our shift is almost over……Dr Williams Office how can I help you. No, no the doctor is out sick today, Yes, I understand I can get him a message for you if you’d like……..
I can’t believe we got though this day Shandra tells Magda as they sink back into a couple of the salon chairs glasses of wine in hand…….. Well Magda says we did I just hope Bobby appreciates it? Oh, you know he does Magda, and you know he would do the same for us…. I know he would Shandra. The two ladies clink there glasses together simultaneously saying Cheers. They continue to talk as they enjoy there glasses of wine. So tell me Magda how does a good Canadian girl get a name like Magda?…I mean I’m just saying I know how I got the name Shandra it’s African but Magda is Russian and you’re Canadian. Why didn’tcha mamma name you k.d. or Sarah….. Please not the name Sarah that name has now been sullied forever……You got that right. The ladies enjoy a laugh and take another sip of wine…….
Betty has come over to Tom’s house, with Tom and his husband Tyler They are eating take out in front of the T.V. watching the 6 O’clock news. I just can’t believe it Betty, It’s amazing….. I know I know Tyler says…… Well, all I can say is if this Prop 8 gets repealed I better be going to a wedding soon! You two have been together 19 years now I’m surprised you didn’t do it already? .. Well Tyler said, we wanted to make sure it would stick…..Ya that way we wouldn’t have to do it again if they made our marriage null and void Tom added… I guess so Betty said but, what if it had been defeated? Then Tom said we would still be planning our wedding for our Twentieth anniversary…. Are you guys serious… As a heart attack, Tyler says…. We didn’t want to tell you until we knew the out come of this election Tom added….But now we’re just hoping we the courts will over turn this stupid proposition 8……They will, they will Betty chimed in. Ya I actually think they will Tom says. Today was the start of great things to come Tyler says, I think a real Impact has been made. The phone rings it’s Tyler’s mom. He takes it in another room as Tom and Betty continue to watch the T.V. news reports. The two of them lift there Glasses of soda saying Cheers..... Now tell me about this wedding you two are planning we need to get started….. Hold up there Betty Tom Says…. Well we haven’t got all year here my friend what’s your theme?.... Tyler returns…..What did I miss?..... I was just telling your Fiancée that you two need to get cracking on those wedding plans so you have it all in place…….I tried talking to him Betty I told him the same thing but he wants to wait and see what happens in the courts….. Oh no now I have two conspirators ……That’s right Tommy between Tyler and I your going to end up Married…..I’m going into the kitchen for some more soda you to can plan the wedding just tell me when and where I need to show up so I can marry this wonderful man… Don’t forget what to wear because you my friend have no style I love you to death you know I do but we all know who got the style in this House Betty says…..They all laugh and continue to watch the News and Chit Chat…….
This story may not be reprinted or used in part or in whole without the express written permission of the Author Russell E. Bertlow
Stern Foster and Stern how may I direct your call? Hey Betty, I won’t be in today I’m calling in Gay…. I’ll let Mr. Foster know Tom….Thanks Betty… Your welcome Tom, and hey Tom just know I support you….Thanks Betty that means a lot….Have a good day Tom…. You too Betty and I hope Mr. Foster isn’t to mad….Don’t worry about Foster I’ll handle him….Thanks Betty…. Your Welcome Tom. Betty hung up the phone as Todd Foster arrived into the office… Hey Betty tell Tom I need to see him in my office right away we have to get the finals done on the Winston file….. I’m sorry Todd Tom won’t be in today…what do you mean he won’t be in today is he sick?…..No, no Betty assured him. Then why won’t he be in?.... He called in Gay…He What? Todd said his voice raising. Betty remained calm and said again He called in gay….. Agitated Todd said, he called in Gay? Jesus Christ, what the hell!.. Look Betty said, it may not be my place but your just going to have to deal with it….Even more agitated Todd looked at Betty and said, your right it isn’t your place now get Tom on the phone and tell him to get his butt in here pronto there is to much going on and I need him in the office…. Betty looked at Todd a bit amused and said, No can do Mr. F! What do you mean No! Todd was getting heated and angry… Betty’s voice was very firm in it’s reply… I said No can do Mr. F…. Then I’ll call him and tell him myself….Go right ahead betty said to him but he won’t come in……Why Not! Todd said demanding an answer…..Todd you know perfectly well why not, today is a day without a Gay….Are you serious? Todd asked…. Yes I’m serious Betty replied. Oh and you should know about have the office is out and I’m leaving at noon? Christ almighty is everyone in this office gay?.... don’t be ridiculous Todd she said… Maybe we should just close for the day? He replied….Todd you were well aware of this and your right you should have just shut operations down for the day…. Well I didn’t really think they would go through with it….. What would have given you that impression Todd? Betty was already packing up her belongings….Inform everyone that is here that they need to get to the conference room ASAP Todd instructed Betty and then notify me when they are all there…. Will do Mr. Foster.
Betty contacted those who were in and told them to meet in the conference room then went back to her desk and made sure that the phones went directly to the answering service informing them that the office would be closed today for a day without a gay. The woman on the other end of the line knew exactly what that meant and said you too huh? Half our staff is out as well and a few of our other customers have informed us of the same. Don’t worry she said will handle it….Thank you Sarah I appreciate it… Betty hung up the phone then made one last call to Mr. Foster and told him everyone was in the conference room after which she headed there herself….
As you may or may not know Todd said addressing the sparse remaining staff. Today is a day without a gay and as managing partner of the firm I have decided that we will be shutting down the office for the day in support. Most of you are salaried so it won’t affect you but those that are not will still be paid for 8 hours work. You can choose to stay and work or go home but I have had Betty forward all call to the answering service. Are there any questions? Dan Michaels spoke up and as he was about to speak Betty leaned over to sandy and said under her breath it figures I think he’s the only one in the office who voted yes on 8 idiot…..Todd, Dan said I for one think it’s a bad idea, your only encouraging their behavior….. Dan Todd said Sternly you can choose to stay and work if you wish but as Managing Partner of this firm I have decide that we are closing the office for the day and you are welcome to your opinion but it is not going to change things…. Fuck’n fags, Dan said under his breath an audible gasp came from those directly around him…..The comment Dan made under his breath infuriated Todd. Dan if you have something to say then say if otherwise keep quite Todd said firmly and as for the rest of you, though some of you may not agree with this need I remind you that Foster Sterns and Foster has always been a company that prides its self on diversity and respect of all our employees. That is all this meeting is adjourned. As everyone started to leave, the conference room Todd ask Dan if he could stay for a moment as he had matters he needed to discus with him…. Dan I know that you don’t agree with this he started out trying to keep calm, but! He said let me be very clear here if you ever make another comment like you did today you will be fired Do I make myself clear!!! I have and will never tolerate Bigotry in this office and comments like the one you made will not be tolerated EVER!! We have talked about this before Dan and I am through talking! You will be formally written up and I will be giving you a ninety day probationary period….Dan stutter for words this is bullshit…..Would you like to try for 120 days Dan Keep talking because in a minute your going to talk yourself right out of a job and need I remind you in this economic climate finding a job won’t be easy. Now get out and go home. Dan headed toward the conference room door and as he started to leave Todd said to him, maybe you should take today and think about what it is you want? And if working here isn’t cutting it for you then maybe it’s time to find something else. You’re a good Worker Dan but as I said, I will not tolerate this sort of behavior Period! Have I made myself clear! Yes, Todd Dan answered begrudgingly . Good now go home.
Betty was just about to leave when Dan was passing her desk to get back to his office. Betty had never liked Dan she had always felt him a bit of a prig and a chauvinist and delighted in any opportunity to she got to aggravate him. She was very good at not getting caught doing it. If there was one thing she couldn’t stand, it was a bigot and Dan was the biggest of them all and she took delight in pointing it out to him. As Dan passed her desk she looked up at him and said, how’s that new asshole you just got ripped to which he just replied Shut up and leave me alone. Have a good day she said as she collected her purse and walked from behind her desk. Dan just kept walking to his office. Betty stopped in front of Mr. Foster office and asked if there was anything, he need from her before she left hoping he would say no and he did. As she turned to leave he called out to her…Betty? Yes Mr. Foster? Remind me in the morning that we need to file a formal written notice of disciplinary action for Dan…. A smile came across Betty’s face as she said With Pleasure Mr. Foster. Oh and one last thing Betty, Yes Mr. Foster she said. Try not to take so much pleasure in this Dan’s a hard worker, I know he can be an asshole but….. His word trailed off. You have a good after noon sir Betty said as she turned to leave. You too Betty and give Sterns my best and tell him that we support him and the rest of our LGBT staff just as we would any other staff. Will do Mr. foster and with that, she was gone and Todd went back to what he working on.
News reports were flooding the airwaves of business’s that were shutting down for the day due to lack of staffing. Despite the fact that some news stations were trying not to cover it, it was becoming big news. Momentum had had been gained and a day with out a gay was starting to effect the national economy, other countries were now participating. It was becoming one of the biggest grass roots movements to be seen in quite some time Bigger then anyone thought possible and even those new stations that refused to report it initially were now reporting it. All be it with a slant but they where reporting it. From Rural America to Suburban America they were feeling the effect. Those who had never stood up before were no standing up to be counted. This was becoming a very effective campaign. Programs were being interrupted for news updates. They were touting it to be bigger then a day without a Mexican. People’s eyes were finally starting to open up. Sure there were plenty of conservatives who would have like nothing better then to put an end to this but it was all to big to stop now and to try and do so would only set off a fire storm. People who thought it would not amount to much were either conversely elated or disturbed that it had become such a big deal.
Dr Williams office, No the Dr is not in today he has called in sick he should be back tomorrow, I’m sorry mam but he can’t be reached today. If it is a medical emergency then you should go to the emergency room as I said the Dr won’t be in until tomorrow. Mam, mam, I understand mam but you have to also understand that we are just the answering service. Yes, mam I’ll be happy to get the doctor your message, I can’t guarantee that he will get back to you today just so long as you know that, yes I understand your predicament but again I would suggest to you if it is an emergency that you go to the nearest emergency room.
Is this day going to be over soon?..... Not soon, enough Jan……This is just crazy Cindy. I hope this works I don’t want to have to face another day like this again….I just don’t know what they hope to achieve by this Jan, don’t you think that they are just making people angrier? What if we decide to have a day with out White people? I hear what you are saying Cindy but you know that really isn’t the point? Then what is the point Jan? The point is we have a group of people who are discriminated against just because of who they are! How!...... Yes but aren’t there other ways of handling it?…. I guess so Cindy but I have to say this seems to be working….But at what cost Jan? I just think it’s kind of ridiculous… Well I have to say Cindy I’d do the same thing if I found my self in their place, You use what ever means you have to short of Violence of course to et the results you need to get…..Well I don’t necessarily agree with that theory. I’ll just be glad when this day is over. Amen to that. And thankfully, our shift is almost over……Dr Williams Office how can I help you. No, no the doctor is out sick today, Yes, I understand I can get him a message for you if you’d like……..
I can’t believe we got though this day Shandra tells Magda as they sink back into a couple of the salon chairs glasses of wine in hand…….. Well Magda says we did I just hope Bobby appreciates it? Oh, you know he does Magda, and you know he would do the same for us…. I know he would Shandra. The two ladies clink there glasses together simultaneously saying Cheers. They continue to talk as they enjoy there glasses of wine. So tell me Magda how does a good Canadian girl get a name like Magda?…I mean I’m just saying I know how I got the name Shandra it’s African but Magda is Russian and you’re Canadian. Why didn’tcha mamma name you k.d. or Sarah….. Please not the name Sarah that name has now been sullied forever……You got that right. The ladies enjoy a laugh and take another sip of wine…….
Betty has come over to Tom’s house, with Tom and his husband Tyler They are eating take out in front of the T.V. watching the 6 O’clock news. I just can’t believe it Betty, It’s amazing….. I know I know Tyler says…… Well, all I can say is if this Prop 8 gets repealed I better be going to a wedding soon! You two have been together 19 years now I’m surprised you didn’t do it already? .. Well Tyler said, we wanted to make sure it would stick…..Ya that way we wouldn’t have to do it again if they made our marriage null and void Tom added… I guess so Betty said but, what if it had been defeated? Then Tom said we would still be planning our wedding for our Twentieth anniversary…. Are you guys serious… As a heart attack, Tyler says…. We didn’t want to tell you until we knew the out come of this election Tom added….But now we’re just hoping we the courts will over turn this stupid proposition 8……They will, they will Betty chimed in. Ya I actually think they will Tom says. Today was the start of great things to come Tyler says, I think a real Impact has been made. The phone rings it’s Tyler’s mom. He takes it in another room as Tom and Betty continue to watch the T.V. news reports. The two of them lift there Glasses of soda saying Cheers..... Now tell me about this wedding you two are planning we need to get started….. Hold up there Betty Tom Says…. Well we haven’t got all year here my friend what’s your theme?.... Tyler returns…..What did I miss?..... I was just telling your Fiancée that you two need to get cracking on those wedding plans so you have it all in place…….I tried talking to him Betty I told him the same thing but he wants to wait and see what happens in the courts….. Oh no now I have two conspirators ……That’s right Tommy between Tyler and I your going to end up Married…..I’m going into the kitchen for some more soda you to can plan the wedding just tell me when and where I need to show up so I can marry this wonderful man… Don’t forget what to wear because you my friend have no style I love you to death you know I do but we all know who got the style in this House Betty says…..They all laugh and continue to watch the News and Chit Chat…….
This story may not be reprinted or used in part or in whole without the express written permission of the Author Russell E. Bertlow
Anger from nowhere
Anger from nowhere always throws me for a loop
I thought it was the past?
It sometimes becomes the present.
Anger from nowhere has no place
It’s misplaced, misaligned, get misinterpreted, misread.
It is like cutting back to the past where the knifes where sharp.
The jagged cuts that took so long to heal have healed
Anger from nowhere makes them seep makes them weep.
It’s shards of glass to small to see but not to feel.
It feels like a cactus thorns prick it hurts.
Momentary laps momentary fall back
Momentary fears, Old habits die hard
Or maybe they just become comatose, complacent, contrite.
Should I be on guard for anger from nowhere.
Should I see it for what it is?, misplaced, misaligned mistaken.
I thought it was the past?
It sometimes becomes the present.
Anger from nowhere has no place
It’s misplaced, misaligned, get misinterpreted, misread.
It is like cutting back to the past where the knifes where sharp.
The jagged cuts that took so long to heal have healed
Anger from nowhere makes them seep makes them weep.
It’s shards of glass to small to see but not to feel.
It feels like a cactus thorns prick it hurts.
Momentary laps momentary fall back
Momentary fears, Old habits die hard
Or maybe they just become comatose, complacent, contrite.
Should I be on guard for anger from nowhere.
Should I see it for what it is?, misplaced, misaligned mistaken.
Hold on to your hope
When the tide rushes in and the water’s all around,
You feel as though you just might drown.
when the winds blow so hard
and try to knock you to the ground.
Hold tight to your hope
Look beyond just those days
When you feel all your facing
Is the darkest of nights.
When it feels like you’ll
Never find the light.
Hold on to your hope,
Look beyond those days.
Look beyond those days,
And keep moving on
Look beyond those days,
You will soon find your dawn.
The sun will shine,
You must stay strong.
Hold on to your hope,
Look beyond those days.
Hold on to your hope,
It will show you the way.
You feel as though you just might drown.
when the winds blow so hard
and try to knock you to the ground.
Hold tight to your hope
Look beyond just those days
When you feel all your facing
Is the darkest of nights.
When it feels like you’ll
Never find the light.
Hold on to your hope,
Look beyond those days.
Look beyond those days,
And keep moving on
Look beyond those days,
You will soon find your dawn.
The sun will shine,
You must stay strong.
Hold on to your hope,
Look beyond those days.
Hold on to your hope,
It will show you the way.
The New Civil War.
It isn’t over till we have won the Civil War for complete equality across our nation, across our globe. We have much work to be done. We must take our hard won battles and use that energy to win this Civil War. We must stay strong we must keep up the good fight.
We have momentum let’s use it to take us to the next level, the repeal of DOMA. We will have to fight state to state I know but we also have to fight nationally. This Civil War will not be won state to state but it will gain energy state to state. We cannot get lost in or mired in a sea of words and we cannot settle for less then total equality on a national level. We may feel like we have enough on our plates to deal with marriage equality but, that is not good enough. What about Adoption equality? Immigrant equality. These are our battles as well. We must form strong alliances across the board and we must never lose site of our goal, “Total Equality” across our nation. Whether we have no interest in getting married or adopting children, whether we are immigrants or natural born citizens it matter not. These battles belong to each and every one of us. We cannot expect others to stand up for us if we do not stand up for them. Though our focus right now is on the repeal of Prop 8 and DOMA, we cannot lose site of the bigger picture, which is total equality for all U.S. citizens and legal residents. Our country talks about freedom. Our troops fight for it abroad but what good is freedom if only some have it? What good are civil rights if only some have them? We must all have them. If we are not free, we are slaves. Slaves to what ever the majority believes we should be allowed to have. This is not acceptable and can never be acceptable.
We all have different strengths we need to pool those together and create our own Super Power to end discrimination in the United States of American once and for all. We all have different levels of tolerance we must step outside of those tolerances and let it be known that there is no tolerance at all for discrimination of any kind. Hate crimes are on the rise once again. Not just towards the LGBT community but towards the immigrant communities as well. It all needs to stop and we have the power to stop it by speaking out against it. We must join together within our communities and with other communities to end systematic discrimination and hatred. It is up to all of us gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and, immigrant Civil rights should always be afforded to each and every citizen and legal resident of the United States of America. Fairness should be afforded to all who live in this nation. God don’t like ugly and discrimination is ugly and based in hate and, hate is the ugliest thing of all.
We have momentum let’s use it to take us to the next level, the repeal of DOMA. We will have to fight state to state I know but we also have to fight nationally. This Civil War will not be won state to state but it will gain energy state to state. We cannot get lost in or mired in a sea of words and we cannot settle for less then total equality on a national level. We may feel like we have enough on our plates to deal with marriage equality but, that is not good enough. What about Adoption equality? Immigrant equality. These are our battles as well. We must form strong alliances across the board and we must never lose site of our goal, “Total Equality” across our nation. Whether we have no interest in getting married or adopting children, whether we are immigrants or natural born citizens it matter not. These battles belong to each and every one of us. We cannot expect others to stand up for us if we do not stand up for them. Though our focus right now is on the repeal of Prop 8 and DOMA, we cannot lose site of the bigger picture, which is total equality for all U.S. citizens and legal residents. Our country talks about freedom. Our troops fight for it abroad but what good is freedom if only some have it? What good are civil rights if only some have them? We must all have them. If we are not free, we are slaves. Slaves to what ever the majority believes we should be allowed to have. This is not acceptable and can never be acceptable.
We all have different strengths we need to pool those together and create our own Super Power to end discrimination in the United States of American once and for all. We all have different levels of tolerance we must step outside of those tolerances and let it be known that there is no tolerance at all for discrimination of any kind. Hate crimes are on the rise once again. Not just towards the LGBT community but towards the immigrant communities as well. It all needs to stop and we have the power to stop it by speaking out against it. We must join together within our communities and with other communities to end systematic discrimination and hatred. It is up to all of us gay, straight, bisexual, transgender and, immigrant Civil rights should always be afforded to each and every citizen and legal resident of the United States of America. Fairness should be afforded to all who live in this nation. God don’t like ugly and discrimination is ugly and based in hate and, hate is the ugliest thing of all.
The Cry of Social Injustice
The cry for social injustice has been heard before.
Many have yet to heed it’s lessons
Discrimination!
What part of that word is O.K. with some folks?
Who is it that has felt it now feels it is O.K. to have dealt it?
The cry for social injustice must be cried once more.
It must be heard, it must be heard
Bigotry?
What part of tat word is appealing to those who have faced it?
Why can’t we simple erase it?
Take it off the map wipe it out.
Why do the Bigots and the haters get to decide what a family is what a marriage should be? Who it should be between.
When did the Bigots get the trade mark on the name?
We are the new black. We are the new Latin we are the new Asian.
We are a minority too.
We are the ten percent of this fabric called America.
Why then is it that we have fewer rights then those who cross our boarders illegally
Why is it o.k. for our families and our relationships our relationships that have lasted 10,
25, even 60 years have no standing, no worthiness in the land we live this place called
America. This place that calls it self Freedom.
Why is there no Freedom for us?
The cry is loud it will be heard.
The cry will become deafening.
It must become deafening so that it can’t go unanswered.
This is our call to arms.
We may have lost a battle but we will win the war.
Many have yet to heed it’s lessons
Discrimination!
What part of that word is O.K. with some folks?
Who is it that has felt it now feels it is O.K. to have dealt it?
The cry for social injustice must be cried once more.
It must be heard, it must be heard
Bigotry?
What part of tat word is appealing to those who have faced it?
Why can’t we simple erase it?
Take it off the map wipe it out.
Why do the Bigots and the haters get to decide what a family is what a marriage should be? Who it should be between.
When did the Bigots get the trade mark on the name?
We are the new black. We are the new Latin we are the new Asian.
We are a minority too.
We are the ten percent of this fabric called America.
Why then is it that we have fewer rights then those who cross our boarders illegally
Why is it o.k. for our families and our relationships our relationships that have lasted 10,
25, even 60 years have no standing, no worthiness in the land we live this place called
America. This place that calls it self Freedom.
Why is there no Freedom for us?
The cry is loud it will be heard.
The cry will become deafening.
It must become deafening so that it can’t go unanswered.
This is our call to arms.
We may have lost a battle but we will win the war.
GET INVOLVED!
To those of you who were able to marry. To those of you who wished you had while you had the chance. And to those of you who were planning and are still planning your wedding in hopes of prop eights over turn I have just two words for you “GET INVOLVED!” If you don’t get involved and protect your rights to marry and as married couples you stand the chance of never being able to have a marriage with all it’s State protection and benefits and you stand the chance of never receiving the Federal benefits of marriage. You cannot and should not sit back and rely on others to obtain this right for you. You must get involved. Attend the walks and demonstrations to insure you can stay married. To insure can plan your wedding and get married knowing you will receive all the benefits a marriage provides.
To those who have children have adopted children or are thinking about adopting children. I have two words for you “GET INVOLVED!” Just as the recent election has shown us our right to adopt and provide a loving home for a child whether we adopt from an agency or we adopt our spouses child can be taken away as it was in Arkansas.
To those of you who feel that you are safe from job discrimination I have two words for you “GET INVOLVED!” There are those in our LGBT community that don’t have those rights and need them.
When we sit silent, complacent, hidden we work for those who would prefer to keep us at the back of the bus unseen.
We have seen our rights taken away. We have seen how some ride rough shod over them.
We made great gains in the 70’s 80’s and 90’s why do we want to go backwards? Why do you choose to fall silent? Aren’t you tired of being a second-class citizen? Don’t you want to be equal? Maybe you believe you don’t deserve to be equal.
For those of you who feel the status quo are fine I have seven words for you “SNAP OUT OF IT AND GET INVOLVED!” We must always remember Silence = Death. The death of marriage equality, adoption equality, non-discrimination policies in the work place. The end of our civil rights as lgbt citizens of America.
We are not just making an impact on America when we get involved. We make an impact for equality worldwide. We are not just saying we will no longer sit in the back of the bus in America when we get involved we are say we will not sit in the back of the bus anywhere in the world. We are not just saying our rights here in America are important we are saying our rights are important globally. We as American citizens must realize that when we get involved and make our voices heard that they are being heard globally and that this gives encouragement for those in other countries who are repressed to fight for their rights. The world does look at America and worldviews can shift and change for the better.
For those of you who feel that religion are telling you that you are immoral. I have two words for you. “GET INVOLVED!” Your creator made you in his/her image. Your creator did not make a mistake in creating you. He/She made you with love care and concern for your total health, mentally, spiritual, and, physical. Who you are is not a sin.
To those of you who still don’t get it I have two words for you. “ GET INVOLVED!” then you will see the importance of getting involved and impact that it makes.
Love is Love. It cannot be erased by people who would want us to hide and cower in corners. It can only grow into the strong voice it needs to if we all sing it’s song and join the choir of voices. We can make the world hear it. We can make a difference and make a change only when we “GET INVOLVED!: What are you waiting for? GET INVOLVED!
To those who have children have adopted children or are thinking about adopting children. I have two words for you “GET INVOLVED!” Just as the recent election has shown us our right to adopt and provide a loving home for a child whether we adopt from an agency or we adopt our spouses child can be taken away as it was in Arkansas.
To those of you who feel that you are safe from job discrimination I have two words for you “GET INVOLVED!” There are those in our LGBT community that don’t have those rights and need them.
When we sit silent, complacent, hidden we work for those who would prefer to keep us at the back of the bus unseen.
We have seen our rights taken away. We have seen how some ride rough shod over them.
We made great gains in the 70’s 80’s and 90’s why do we want to go backwards? Why do you choose to fall silent? Aren’t you tired of being a second-class citizen? Don’t you want to be equal? Maybe you believe you don’t deserve to be equal.
For those of you who feel the status quo are fine I have seven words for you “SNAP OUT OF IT AND GET INVOLVED!” We must always remember Silence = Death. The death of marriage equality, adoption equality, non-discrimination policies in the work place. The end of our civil rights as lgbt citizens of America.
We are not just making an impact on America when we get involved. We make an impact for equality worldwide. We are not just saying we will no longer sit in the back of the bus in America when we get involved we are say we will not sit in the back of the bus anywhere in the world. We are not just saying our rights here in America are important we are saying our rights are important globally. We as American citizens must realize that when we get involved and make our voices heard that they are being heard globally and that this gives encouragement for those in other countries who are repressed to fight for their rights. The world does look at America and worldviews can shift and change for the better.
For those of you who feel that religion are telling you that you are immoral. I have two words for you. “GET INVOLVED!” Your creator made you in his/her image. Your creator did not make a mistake in creating you. He/She made you with love care and concern for your total health, mentally, spiritual, and, physical. Who you are is not a sin.
To those of you who still don’t get it I have two words for you. “ GET INVOLVED!” then you will see the importance of getting involved and impact that it makes.
Love is Love. It cannot be erased by people who would want us to hide and cower in corners. It can only grow into the strong voice it needs to if we all sing it’s song and join the choir of voices. We can make the world hear it. We can make a difference and make a change only when we “GET INVOLVED!: What are you waiting for? GET INVOLVED!
Visibility
As we continue to fight for our civil rights. The right to marry the right to adopt, equal employment protection for all and, census inclusion. Visibility is key. People need to know who we are. I understand what a struggle it can be to come out to those around you. Some of those people will stand right with you others will walk away. Here is the thing if you do not make yourself visible, then who you are not visible. If we want our civil rights, we have to be visible. We cannot hide in our closets and expect change to happen.
We all need to get involved and fight for our rights and we cannot do this anonymously. If we stand up together, show who we are and get those around us to see who we are then we can make that human connection. When we make that human connection, it is difficult for those we make that connection with to see us as invisible.
We need to get those who believe we do not deserve these rights because of religion to see that this is not a religious issue but a civil issue.
Those who feel we should not adopt need to see that a loving home is a loving home whether there are two moms’ two dads or a mom and dad.
Those who feel we should not marry because marriage is a religious right need to see that it is first and foremost a civil right and that love is love.
We need to be counted we need to be part of the American census report. We need our employers to see us whether we are gay, lesbian or, transgender. We all need to be counted.
Equal protections under the laws that govern America are being denied us and what are we doing about it? Are we letting those who are already visible get the message out or are we making ourselves visible, making ourselves heard, being counted?
We cannot rely on others to get our message out we must put it out there ourselves. When we do not participate in those things that impact our lives, we cannot expect our lives to be impacted the way we want them to impact our lives.
If we remain invisible, we stay invisible until we decide to make ourselves visible. There is no flying under the radar with civil rights. Flying under the radar keeps us invisible.
Get out there make yourself visible. Participate and fight for the civil rights you deserve.
Stop feeling that you do not deserve these civil rights because that is self-hatred. Stop saying I will never have children so adoption rights do not matter. Stop saying I have no desire to get married so marriage equality does not matter to me.
We should never say to ourselves it is not our concern. It is always our concern. If we stop making our civil rights our concern then we say to everyone we do not matter, you can walk over all over me.
We need to make our voice heard our strength felt, our faces visible and, our civil rights guaranteed.
We all need to get involved and fight for our rights and we cannot do this anonymously. If we stand up together, show who we are and get those around us to see who we are then we can make that human connection. When we make that human connection, it is difficult for those we make that connection with to see us as invisible.
We need to get those who believe we do not deserve these rights because of religion to see that this is not a religious issue but a civil issue.
Those who feel we should not adopt need to see that a loving home is a loving home whether there are two moms’ two dads or a mom and dad.
Those who feel we should not marry because marriage is a religious right need to see that it is first and foremost a civil right and that love is love.
We need to be counted we need to be part of the American census report. We need our employers to see us whether we are gay, lesbian or, transgender. We all need to be counted.
Equal protections under the laws that govern America are being denied us and what are we doing about it? Are we letting those who are already visible get the message out or are we making ourselves visible, making ourselves heard, being counted?
We cannot rely on others to get our message out we must put it out there ourselves. When we do not participate in those things that impact our lives, we cannot expect our lives to be impacted the way we want them to impact our lives.
If we remain invisible, we stay invisible until we decide to make ourselves visible. There is no flying under the radar with civil rights. Flying under the radar keeps us invisible.
Get out there make yourself visible. Participate and fight for the civil rights you deserve.
Stop feeling that you do not deserve these civil rights because that is self-hatred. Stop saying I will never have children so adoption rights do not matter. Stop saying I have no desire to get married so marriage equality does not matter to me.
We should never say to ourselves it is not our concern. It is always our concern. If we stop making our civil rights our concern then we say to everyone we do not matter, you can walk over all over me.
We need to make our voice heard our strength felt, our faces visible and, our civil rights guaranteed.
This revolution will be digitized
Do not adjust your sets.
Do not adjust your glasses.
Do not adjust your computer.
Do not adjust you radios.
It will do you no good.
This revolution will be digitized.
It will enter your home from all windows doors and vents.
You will hear it from every wall.
You will hear it from every side of your existence.
This revolution will be digitized.
You cannot turn it off with a switch.
You cannot turn it off with a knob.
You can lock yourself in and it will still reverberate through your walls.
You cannot ignore it.
It magnitude will become deafening and defining.
This revolution will be digitized.
This revolution is Stone Wall 2.0
This revolution is for first class citizenry.
This revolution is for civil rights.
And this revolution will be digitized, moralized, emphasized, patronized.
This revolution won’t be capsized, put a side, taken in stride.
This revolution will bring change and, set things right.
This revolution will be digitized.
Your orientation matters not.
Your skin color is of little consequence.
Your religion has no barring but, your faith must be strong.
The revolution has begun
It will not end until all humans have equal rights, civil rights, equal treatment
This revolution will be digitized.
Do not adjust your sets.
Do not adjust your glasses.
Do not adjust your computers.
Do not adjust your radios.
It will do you no good.
The revolution has begun
It will not end until all humans have equal rights, civil rights, equal treatment.
Do not adjust your glasses.
Do not adjust your computer.
Do not adjust you radios.
It will do you no good.
This revolution will be digitized.
It will enter your home from all windows doors and vents.
You will hear it from every wall.
You will hear it from every side of your existence.
This revolution will be digitized.
You cannot turn it off with a switch.
You cannot turn it off with a knob.
You can lock yourself in and it will still reverberate through your walls.
You cannot ignore it.
It magnitude will become deafening and defining.
This revolution will be digitized.
This revolution is Stone Wall 2.0
This revolution is for first class citizenry.
This revolution is for civil rights.
And this revolution will be digitized, moralized, emphasized, patronized.
This revolution won’t be capsized, put a side, taken in stride.
This revolution will bring change and, set things right.
This revolution will be digitized.
Your orientation matters not.
Your skin color is of little consequence.
Your religion has no barring but, your faith must be strong.
The revolution has begun
It will not end until all humans have equal rights, civil rights, equal treatment
This revolution will be digitized.
Do not adjust your sets.
Do not adjust your glasses.
Do not adjust your computers.
Do not adjust your radios.
It will do you no good.
The revolution has begun
It will not end until all humans have equal rights, civil rights, equal treatment.
Change Will Happen
Change needs to Happen
Did we hope for to much?
Did we want for to much?
Was our vision all wrong?
Were our voices to strong?
Change can happen
Our hope must be stronger.
We must want for more.
Our vision must be clearer.
Our voices must be stronger.
Change will Happen.
Liberty needs to be set upright
Voices will be heard
Liberty will sing again.
Equality for all will be the song.
We must all be able to sing the song of Liberty
And Equality.
We must Raise our voices against in-equality,
Second class citizenry.
We will not be your Rosa Parks!
We will not sit in the back seat of the bus!
We will not Settle!
Did we hope for to much?
Did we want for to much?
Was our vision all wrong?
Were our voices to strong?
Change can happen
Our hope must be stronger.
We must want for more.
Our vision must be clearer.
Our voices must be stronger.
Change will Happen.
Liberty needs to be set upright
Voices will be heard
Liberty will sing again.
Equality for all will be the song.
We must all be able to sing the song of Liberty
And Equality.
We must Raise our voices against in-equality,
Second class citizenry.
We will not be your Rosa Parks!
We will not sit in the back seat of the bus!
We will not Settle!
We Ask President Obama to remember
As we look forward to the inauguration of our new President, Our first African American President. We ask as our new President takes the oath of office that he remember. Remember those of us who are still second-class citizens because we are not allowed to marry
We ask him to remember the thousands of reasons why marriage is so important to us.
We ask him to remember when he last felt discriminated against, and to let that feeling sink in so that he remembers it when he is making decisions that affect our community
We ask him to remember, remember those of us who do not have job protection and can be fired because of our differences.
We ask him to remember, remember those of us who cannot adopt our partners child or cannot adopt a child with our partner. We too have love and guidance to provide a child we to can be excellent parents with a lot to offer too many children that end up receiving often too little.
We ask him to Remember that we too are Americans, We are citizens of the United States of American. We are born American, Immigrated Americans, We are Americans.
We do not deserve to be treated as second-class citizens of our own country.
Let him remember, remember that we are people, We are Doctors, Lawyers, Artist, Waiters, Social Workers, Services personnel, Labors, Business owners, Parents, Couples, Children, that we died for the rights we aren’t getting in our country’s military, that we teach in American schools, yet we are still Second Class Citizens!
We ask that he remember that we are all different. We are all individuals and the fact that we are is what makes us the same. We are all human and deserve to be treated equally.
We will not sit at the children’s table, we will not sit at the back of the bus. We will not be your Rosa Parks, we must be treated equally.
We ask him to listen to the voice that calls for equality for all, The voice that call for an end to discrimination, The voice that says no to second class citizenry.
We wish for him wisdom, safety and, Godspeed and as he takes the oath of office we ask him to remember.
Remember we are the LGBT Citizens of The United States of American and we are still being discriminated against
We ask him to remember the thousands of reasons why marriage is so important to us.
We ask him to remember when he last felt discriminated against, and to let that feeling sink in so that he remembers it when he is making decisions that affect our community
We ask him to remember, remember those of us who do not have job protection and can be fired because of our differences.
We ask him to remember, remember those of us who cannot adopt our partners child or cannot adopt a child with our partner. We too have love and guidance to provide a child we to can be excellent parents with a lot to offer too many children that end up receiving often too little.
We ask him to Remember that we too are Americans, We are citizens of the United States of American. We are born American, Immigrated Americans, We are Americans.
We do not deserve to be treated as second-class citizens of our own country.
Let him remember, remember that we are people, We are Doctors, Lawyers, Artist, Waiters, Social Workers, Services personnel, Labors, Business owners, Parents, Couples, Children, that we died for the rights we aren’t getting in our country’s military, that we teach in American schools, yet we are still Second Class Citizens!
We ask that he remember that we are all different. We are all individuals and the fact that we are is what makes us the same. We are all human and deserve to be treated equally.
We will not sit at the children’s table, we will not sit at the back of the bus. We will not be your Rosa Parks, we must be treated equally.
We ask him to listen to the voice that calls for equality for all, The voice that call for an end to discrimination, The voice that says no to second class citizenry.
We wish for him wisdom, safety and, Godspeed and as he takes the oath of office we ask him to remember.
Remember we are the LGBT Citizens of The United States of American and we are still being discriminated against
The Journey I must travel
The journey to love is what led me to you
Though the road wasn’t always easy it was what I had to do.
The journey to liberty may take awhile
But I am willing to travel this long mile
The journey to balance the scales may sometimes unravel.
But it is a road I must travel.
The Journey to marriage cannot be complete
Until scales are balanced and liberty I meet
Though the road wasn’t always easy it was what I had to do.
The journey to liberty may take awhile
But I am willing to travel this long mile
The journey to balance the scales may sometimes unravel.
But it is a road I must travel.
The Journey to marriage cannot be complete
Until scales are balanced and liberty I meet
Dr. Rev. Joseph E Lowery to give benediction here is a bit of Background on him
While Obama's choice of Rick Warren may have sparked controversy, his pick for the benediction could not have been more fitting of the occasion.
Joseph E. Lowery founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957 with Martin Luther King, Jr., and crusaded for civil rights and voting rights in the '50s and '60s. The longtime United Methodist minister is also an outspoken advocate of gay rights. Lowery admits to "a little culture shock" when it comes same-sex marriage, but is clear about his support:
"When you talk about the law discriminating, the law granting a privilege here, and a right here and denying it there, that's a civil rights issue," he explained in 2004, when stating his opposition to state-based initiatives to ban gay marriage and civil unions. "And I can't take that away from anybody."
Lowery was an early Obama supporter, at a time when other high-profile civil-rights players such as Andrew Young and Rep. John Lewis were backing Hillary Clinton. The Lowery and Obama met in 2007 at the the 42nd anniversary of the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma. Lowery recounted their meeting to columnist Cynthia Tucker:
"He (Obama) showed genuine reverence for the past and a vision for the future....I decided, this guy is for real. I decided he was anointed."
Lowery defended Obama's decision to choose Warren for the invocation, saying, "Oh, I don't think it hurts. I think it'll pass....I think it'll pass even before the ceremony is over."
- Lili Ladaga
Joseph E. Lowery founded the Southern Christian Leadership Conference in 1957 with Martin Luther King, Jr., and crusaded for civil rights and voting rights in the '50s and '60s. The longtime United Methodist minister is also an outspoken advocate of gay rights. Lowery admits to "a little culture shock" when it comes same-sex marriage, but is clear about his support:
"When you talk about the law discriminating, the law granting a privilege here, and a right here and denying it there, that's a civil rights issue," he explained in 2004, when stating his opposition to state-based initiatives to ban gay marriage and civil unions. "And I can't take that away from anybody."
Lowery was an early Obama supporter, at a time when other high-profile civil-rights players such as Andrew Young and Rep. John Lewis were backing Hillary Clinton. The Lowery and Obama met in 2007 at the the 42nd anniversary of the "Bloody Sunday" march in Selma. Lowery recounted their meeting to columnist Cynthia Tucker:
"He (Obama) showed genuine reverence for the past and a vision for the future....I decided, this guy is for real. I decided he was anointed."
Lowery defended Obama's decision to choose Warren for the invocation, saying, "Oh, I don't think it hurts. I think it'll pass....I think it'll pass even before the ceremony is over."
- Lili Ladaga
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