Episode 111: Animal Instinct
Though the season does not officially end until later this month, summer unofficially ends today. The season has been winding down with mixed-feelings.
Hurricane Katrina devastated the gulf states, leaving the area in ruins. Disease and famine continue to linger. Many things that have happened with the recovery efforts should just not have happened. Many people would probably agree with me. It seems like something was just not handled in the best manner. One of the images that strikes me most about watching the aftermath is the ugly side of human nature. With food, water, and shelter running scarce, animal instincts overpower human instincts. Looting, theft, suicide, and violence has made recovery efforts worse. I could only imagine the chaos that would occur if something like this were to happen here. It's a reminder for us to appreciate all that we have.
Chief Justice of the Supreme Court, William H. Rehnquist, passed away on Saturday. This opens the door for Bush to possibly nomiante someone with radical right-wing beliefs to replace the vacant spot. If this type of elected official were to be the new chief justice of the supreme court, it is very possible that women's rights, gay & lesbian's rights, and minority's rights may be set back several steps. It will be a close observation to see how the Supreme Court faces out in the coming months with two vacant spots to fill (Sandra Day O'Connor retired two months ago).
On a more personal note, I just had my one year anniversary at Planned Parenthood. My review is coming up, and if all goes well, it could mean a possible raise. I celebrated by taking two days off, making my three day weekend into a five day weekend. I took care of some routine medical appointments, went to Disneyland with Rhianne & Maria, saw Broken Flowers with Patty, Khang, and his friend Timothy, met up with Rosa and Michelle for dinner (we we trying to set up Michelle with our co-worker Lacey), and went to Dawn & Columba's for a potluck. At the potluck, it was unexpected, but I actually spent maybe 20 minutes alone talking to Jon (the first time in probably over 9 months) - a possible sign that the friendship is not totally dead. I also met the famous Felicia that some of my lesbian friends have been talking about.
I miss the energy of having my compadres in my home for some good food and socializing. I plan on having a nice soirée at my house sometime in October in celebration of autumn and friends! This new season definitely feels like the start of something good, and hopefully something better for those who have lost so much in such a short time.
Peace & Hope be with you.