There are many reasons to judge Christmas: the commercialism, the cultural dominance of one religion over most of the world, and the appropriation of ancient winter solstice traditions without attribution to name a few. Yet, as we celebrate … [Read more...] about Don’t Throw the Consciousness Out with the Christ Child
The Shiksa Hanukkah
Tonight will mark the third night of "Shiksa Hanukkah," made ever the more shiksa by its coinciding this year with Christmas Eve. Since I've always had a thing for Jewish men (witness #Bernie2020 lol), I was destined to be a shiksa. … [Read more...] about The Shiksa Hanukkah
My Christmas Decor Barometer: how happy and healthy am I this year?
Like many moms, when our kids were little, I turned myself inside out to create the right holiday environment, whether convenient or not. Sleep, serenity and joy were sacrificed to the Gods of Christmas Perfection. A few years ago, … [Read more...] about My Christmas Decor Barometer: how happy and healthy am I this year?
California Presidential Election Starts Feb. 3rd–How to Vote in Dem Primary if Not Registered Democrat
Do you have a favorite in the presidential primary? Are you thinking of traveling to Iowa or New Hampshire because their primaries are so influential? If you are registered no party preference in California, do you know how to vote in the … [Read more...] about California Presidential Election Starts Feb. 3rd–How to Vote in Dem Primary if Not Registered Democrat
What “Normal” do we want to return to?
Over the weekend there was a spate of mainstream punditry touching on the idea that a significant portion of the swing or Democratic party electorate wants more than anything "a return to normalcy" as the goal of the 2020 presidential election … [Read more...] about What “Normal” do we want to return to?
My Darlings, Let Us Eliminate the Conditions that Elected this Demagogue
Dearest Dearest Dearest Friend and Countryman,I want to speak to you about a matter of greatest urgency. It is possible that you have misread the current situation and so I address these words to you in the hopes that they will help sooth your … [Read more...] about My Darlings, Let Us Eliminate the Conditions that Elected this Demagogue
How Bernie Sanders is not just another Angry White Man
True confession: despite my longtime anger and suspicion towards Hillary Clinton, I remember feeling very moved as the first woman in US History accepted the Democratic nomination in her white pantsuit (and no, you shouldn't even consider running … [Read more...] about How Bernie Sanders is not just another Angry White Man
Can we stop using “reality” as a way to stay stuck?
Realism is much touted in American life, personal and political. Parents are socially validated for mocking their young adult children's "unrealistic" college majors and life choices. Candidates for office are rewarded with big donor … [Read more...] about Can we stop using “reality” as a way to stay stuck?
Why has Gavin Newsom Done Nothing on Single Payer Medicare for All?
Gavin Newsom Embraced by the CNA for his Single Payer supportThis will be a short post and a slightly crabby one. Gavin Newsom, with the enthusiastic support of the California Nurses Association, campaigned for governor and won on single payer … [Read more...] about Why has Gavin Newsom Done Nothing on Single Payer Medicare for All?
Finally, a World Leader to Admire
These days, I find it particularly important to hold in mind a model for world leaders who are ethical, loving and competent. Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed Ali of Ethiopia is one of those rare leaders. Last week, The Nobel Peace Prize 2019 … [Read more...] about Finally, a World Leader to Admire
Why am I still for Sanders despite Warren’s Outstanding Performance in Last Night’s debate?
Elizabeth Warren, vibrant and feisty at 70, shined in last night's debate. She deftly deflected her many detractors. She held her own. And her touted policies and beliefs mirrored Bernie Sanders. So why am I still for … [Read more...] about Why am I still for Sanders despite Warren’s Outstanding Performance in Last Night’s debate?
What if Medicare for All were the Public/Private Compromise Position?
"National Health Service" -- British SystemAs the American health insurance industry straps "public option" to Democratic candidates to torpedo Bernie Sanders and his growing movement for Medicare for All (The Nation: The ‘Public … [Read more...] about What if Medicare for All were the Public/Private Compromise Position?