For decades upon decades sports has always been viewed as a man's world. Men dominated the sports arenas and it was rare to see a woman as more than just a spectator. It took great strides before women were seen as a solid competitor. And that was just in "westernized" liberal countries. So imagine how hard it must be for a woman in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be viewed as an athlete?
So everyone knows that Saudi Arabia is a male dominated country. Women have far less rights than that of men. Women there are not allowed to drive or be seen in public without covering their hair. In some regions of Saudi Arabia, women are not even allowed out unless they have a male relative such as a brother or father accompanies them.
Well some girls are shaking up the dynamics in Saudi Arabia. A group of girls have formed their own team. A soccer team. Yes that’s right I said it. SOCCER. And I could not be any more proud to say that one of the girls is my COUSIN.
My cousin and I do not get to see each other very often because she lives in Saudi Arabia and I live in America. However, what I do know is that she is in love with soccer. She adores the sport. On our summer vacations to Egypt, I would see her kicking the ball around in the front yard or playing street soccer with the little five year old boys. She would do anything for a chance to play. When she wasn’t outside playing in the streets or soccer fields of Egypt she would be playing soccer on Nintendo, play station and whatever other gaming systems we have in our house. My cousin is an avid soccer fan. She watches all the games and has vivid arguments with my relatives on good playing techniques.
With this step, hopefully more women will be inspired to speak out. More girls should have the courage to step up and fight for their rights. I have been to Saudi Arabia and I must say it is a beautiful country rich in family ties and cultural uniqueness. Saudi Arabia is fighting so hard to keep their strong roots to the Islamic religion and their background as a nation. Nobody is challenging this. I do not think Saudi Arabia should become completely “westernized”. However, I do not see a problem with girls playing soccer or any sport for that matter in an area with no men around.
Her and her team is seen on YouTube and MBC. I could not be happier for her. She deserves this chance to play. I wish her the best of luck in all she does especially in soccer. I hope she goes far with this. God bless her and her team. Inshallah (God willing), they will make it big. Alf mabrook ya gamar!! (a thousand well wishes).
27.5.09
Maslow's theory of hierarchy needs
Abraham Maslow, a psychologist, proposed a theory in 1943 stating that behavior is determined by a variety of needs. These needs are depicted in a pyramid of five levels. the most basic needs are located at the bottom of the pyramid and the most advanced needs are at the top. Maslow believed that a person must satisfy the needs in one level before moving onto a new level. Once the person has moved onto the next level that lower level is no longer considered a priority. At times one level will be more prioritized than other levels. ( I just find this notion very fascinating.)
Maslow defined the first four levels as deficiency levels. He described these levels as necessary to people. However, when the needs are met the person will not experience any significant feelings. On the other hand, if the needs are not met the person will grow anxious. The deficiency needs are known as physiological, safety, love/belonging and esteem needs.
Physiological needs are things like breathing, water, food, excretion and sex. They are basically things that the body needs. (as much as I have a political science/business oriented mind i find psychology and sociology so fascinating) Without these things, a person will grow sick experiencing pain and discomfort. Physiological needs, once they are met, are followed by safety needs. Safety needs include safety from crime, financial security, good health, and safety against accidents and illness as well as the unfavorable impacts from these things. Clearly, people that are not a part of mainstream society experience more difficulty meeting physiological and safety needs.
Safety needs are then followed by social needs. People need a sense of acceptance and belonging. They achieve this through friendship, strong family support system and intimacy. Social needs or the need to be accepted can physiological needs and safety needs depending on how great the pressure is from certain social groups. People need to love and be loved. Lack of any of these elements can lead to anxiety problems, depression and a feeling of being alone.
Followed by social needs is esteem needs. These are similar to social needs. People need to be respected, have self-respect as well as self-esteem and respect others. Any imbalance of these things causes inferiority complexes and esteem issues. People that develop a low self-esteem will then seek approval from others by seeking glory or fame. If this fails, like in social needs, people may develop anxiety or depression. In order to overcome this people must first accept himself or herself, according to Maslow.
Esteem needs, social needs, safety needs and physiological needs all made up the deficiency part of Maslow's hierarchy of needs structure. The next category is growth needs. growth needs, unlike deficiency needs which neutralize themselves, are continuing motivators. There are three components of growht needs, which the fifth level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Growth needs, according to Maslow are the hardest needs to achieve. Growth needs consist of cognition, aesthetics and self-actualization. Self-actualization is the main component of growth needs.
Cognitive needs are the human races' desire for knowledge. It is the need to increase our intelligence by learning and exploring. We chase this knowledge to better enhance and understand the world we live in. Aesthetic needs are humans' desire for visually pleasing environments. People need things that show them all the beauty that life has to offer in order to continue on the level to self-actualization.
Self-actualization, the highest and most difficult level to achieve, is the need to become everything one can become. this part of the hierarchy helps to explain why people become self-made entrepreneurs or make radical career changes. Once the other four levels are met and become dormant, a person focuses on being the best he or she can be. they strive tobe more; a more creative, mature and effective person. According to Maslow, people have reached the self-actualization level are generally happy people. They accept life for what it is and do not live in denial. They have strong morals and are able to look at a situation objectively.
Maslow's theory of hierarchy needs is an easy way to classify peoples' needs. The needs are arranged in order of importance. New needs only emerge when other needs have been satisfied. However, it should not be viewed as a rigid pattern that everyone should follow because everyone has different needs and different levels of prioritization. Safety may be a more important motivator than esteem, for example.
Maslow defined the first four levels as deficiency levels. He described these levels as necessary to people. However, when the needs are met the person will not experience any significant feelings. On the other hand, if the needs are not met the person will grow anxious. The deficiency needs are known as physiological, safety, love/belonging and esteem needs.
Physiological needs are things like breathing, water, food, excretion and sex. They are basically things that the body needs. (as much as I have a political science/business oriented mind i find psychology and sociology so fascinating) Without these things, a person will grow sick experiencing pain and discomfort. Physiological needs, once they are met, are followed by safety needs. Safety needs include safety from crime, financial security, good health, and safety against accidents and illness as well as the unfavorable impacts from these things. Clearly, people that are not a part of mainstream society experience more difficulty meeting physiological and safety needs.
Safety needs are then followed by social needs. People need a sense of acceptance and belonging. They achieve this through friendship, strong family support system and intimacy. Social needs or the need to be accepted can physiological needs and safety needs depending on how great the pressure is from certain social groups. People need to love and be loved. Lack of any of these elements can lead to anxiety problems, depression and a feeling of being alone.
Followed by social needs is esteem needs. These are similar to social needs. People need to be respected, have self-respect as well as self-esteem and respect others. Any imbalance of these things causes inferiority complexes and esteem issues. People that develop a low self-esteem will then seek approval from others by seeking glory or fame. If this fails, like in social needs, people may develop anxiety or depression. In order to overcome this people must first accept himself or herself, according to Maslow.
Esteem needs, social needs, safety needs and physiological needs all made up the deficiency part of Maslow's hierarchy of needs structure. The next category is growth needs. growth needs, unlike deficiency needs which neutralize themselves, are continuing motivators. There are three components of growht needs, which the fifth level of Maslow's hierarchy of needs. Growth needs, according to Maslow are the hardest needs to achieve. Growth needs consist of cognition, aesthetics and self-actualization. Self-actualization is the main component of growth needs.
Cognitive needs are the human races' desire for knowledge. It is the need to increase our intelligence by learning and exploring. We chase this knowledge to better enhance and understand the world we live in. Aesthetic needs are humans' desire for visually pleasing environments. People need things that show them all the beauty that life has to offer in order to continue on the level to self-actualization.
Self-actualization, the highest and most difficult level to achieve, is the need to become everything one can become. this part of the hierarchy helps to explain why people become self-made entrepreneurs or make radical career changes. Once the other four levels are met and become dormant, a person focuses on being the best he or she can be. they strive tobe more; a more creative, mature and effective person. According to Maslow, people have reached the self-actualization level are generally happy people. They accept life for what it is and do not live in denial. They have strong morals and are able to look at a situation objectively.
Maslow's theory of hierarchy needs is an easy way to classify peoples' needs. The needs are arranged in order of importance. New needs only emerge when other needs have been satisfied. However, it should not be viewed as a rigid pattern that everyone should follow because everyone has different needs and different levels of prioritization. Safety may be a more important motivator than esteem, for example.
Gay Marriage
Although Republicans do not support gay marriage, generally. I however as a moderate republican do support gay rights. I think the democrats are not doing a fantastic job on supporting the gay community so the republican should step up and be a more inclusive party. I support gay rights probably because I was taught to respect everyone even if they are different from you. It is a philosophy I live by. Even though I am not homosexual does not mean I should not support them. I truly believe that we live in one of the greatest countries in the world if not the greatest. We, as Americans, the youth of America- we need to embrace this issue and tackle it head on. Everyone deserves to do what makes them happy; to be with who makes them happy.
To many marriage can be defined as a legally recognized union between a man and a woman. However, in the United States and across the world that traditional definition of marriage is being questioned by many. THe question that is becoming part of debates everywhere around the world is should homosexual couples have the same rights as that of heterosexual couples? As much of a shock as it may be, the United States was not the first country to recognize same-sex unions.
As a matter of fact, it was Denmark that first approved legislation allowing registered same-sex partners the same rights of a heterosexual couple. However, Church ceremonies were prohibted. In 1996, Norway, Iceland and Sweden created similar legislation giving gay couples more rights. Finland followed suit six years later. In 2003, Belgium permitted gay marriages with Spain following in 2005 allowing gay couples adoption rights. Also in 2005, Britain's legislation allowed same-sex couples in registered partnerships similar privileges to that of heterosexual married couples.Canada, New Zealand, Argentina nad South Africa have also instituted similar legislations that allow gay couples certain rights.
Howeve,r the United States has been less open-minded. Many states have strictly defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman in their states constitution. Vermont was the first state to give homosexuals the right to have civil unions, giving them the same benefits as married couples in regards to life insurance, child custody and health care. In 2005, Connecticut became the second state in the U.S. to allow same sex civil unions. They were also the first state to do so without a court order. However, at the time they defined marriage as the union of a man and woman. Massachusetts was the first state to issue gay couples a marriage licenses in May 2004. In a landmark decision in New Jersey's Supreme Court in 2006, the state constitution guranteed same-sex couples the same legal benefits of marriage. But they did not legalalize gay marriage simlply just civil unions. So currently the only states that have legalized gay marriage and not just civil unions are: Massachusetts since 2003, Connecticut since 2008 and Iowa since early 2009. Vermont and Maine will be legalizing gay marriage in September 2009.
In 2004, San Francisco began issuing marriage licenses to couples of the same sex. This was later annulled by California's Supreme Court. However, it was later ruled by a judge from San Francisco that banning same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. In the latter part of 2005, a bill was voted down that would have legalized gay marriage. California is a state that clearly struggles when it comes to giving homosexual couples equal rights. They have debated on this for years. Now in 2009, Proposition 8 exists which gives voice to those who oppose same sex marriage.
clearly this is more than just a political issue. Many democrats openly support gay rights as do some Republicans. Conservative Republicans have a long way to go before they accept gay marriage. However, moderate republicans such as myself accept that gay rights is centered around civil rights/human rights. The very history of America is based on such rights. First we freed white males from the domineering rule of a king and queen. We then freed men of a different race. Later on, we expanded more rights to women. This is just another civil rights issue, in my opinion. This is just something we have to embrace. We need to face reality that the gay community in America is growing exponentially and they deserve rights to marriage, rights to spousal decisions in matters of emergency, rights to adoption, rights to healthcare, etc. It is imperative that we remember "We, the People" means all of us. In my opinion, love is love. You can't really help who you fall in love with.
To many marriage can be defined as a legally recognized union between a man and a woman. However, in the United States and across the world that traditional definition of marriage is being questioned by many. THe question that is becoming part of debates everywhere around the world is should homosexual couples have the same rights as that of heterosexual couples? As much of a shock as it may be, the United States was not the first country to recognize same-sex unions.
As a matter of fact, it was Denmark that first approved legislation allowing registered same-sex partners the same rights of a heterosexual couple. However, Church ceremonies were prohibted. In 1996, Norway, Iceland and Sweden created similar legislation giving gay couples more rights. Finland followed suit six years later. In 2003, Belgium permitted gay marriages with Spain following in 2005 allowing gay couples adoption rights. Also in 2005, Britain's legislation allowed same-sex couples in registered partnerships similar privileges to that of heterosexual married couples.Canada, New Zealand, Argentina nad South Africa have also instituted similar legislations that allow gay couples certain rights.
Howeve,r the United States has been less open-minded. Many states have strictly defined marriage as a union between a man and a woman in their states constitution. Vermont was the first state to give homosexuals the right to have civil unions, giving them the same benefits as married couples in regards to life insurance, child custody and health care. In 2005, Connecticut became the second state in the U.S. to allow same sex civil unions. They were also the first state to do so without a court order. However, at the time they defined marriage as the union of a man and woman. Massachusetts was the first state to issue gay couples a marriage licenses in May 2004. In a landmark decision in New Jersey's Supreme Court in 2006, the state constitution guranteed same-sex couples the same legal benefits of marriage. But they did not legalalize gay marriage simlply just civil unions. So currently the only states that have legalized gay marriage and not just civil unions are: Massachusetts since 2003, Connecticut since 2008 and Iowa since early 2009. Vermont and Maine will be legalizing gay marriage in September 2009.
In 2004, San Francisco began issuing marriage licenses to couples of the same sex. This was later annulled by California's Supreme Court. However, it was later ruled by a judge from San Francisco that banning same-sex marriage was unconstitutional. In the latter part of 2005, a bill was voted down that would have legalized gay marriage. California is a state that clearly struggles when it comes to giving homosexual couples equal rights. They have debated on this for years. Now in 2009, Proposition 8 exists which gives voice to those who oppose same sex marriage.
clearly this is more than just a political issue. Many democrats openly support gay rights as do some Republicans. Conservative Republicans have a long way to go before they accept gay marriage. However, moderate republicans such as myself accept that gay rights is centered around civil rights/human rights. The very history of America is based on such rights. First we freed white males from the domineering rule of a king and queen. We then freed men of a different race. Later on, we expanded more rights to women. This is just another civil rights issue, in my opinion. This is just something we have to embrace. We need to face reality that the gay community in America is growing exponentially and they deserve rights to marriage, rights to spousal decisions in matters of emergency, rights to adoption, rights to healthcare, etc. It is imperative that we remember "We, the People" means all of us. In my opinion, love is love. You can't really help who you fall in love with.
books I plan to read this summer
John McCain's Faith of My Fathers- He is a senator and the 2008 Republican Presidential Candidate who lost to Barack Obama. He is a military man who has served this country and served them proud. I admire McCain for his hard work in the Senate and his dedication to this country.
Barber Walters' Audition- An icon. A legend. What is there not to say about Barbara Walters. She is a brilliant journalist who has seen so much over the past couple of decades.
Larry King's newest memoir- He is the host of Larry King Live on CNN. CNN is only of my all time favorite channels. I just find him to be such a fascinating human being. Like Barbara Walters, LK has just seen so much of history and I would love to know more about a guy who knows so much.
Lauren Conrad's LA Candy- Lauren Conrad is the biggest thing in Hollywood gossip or atleast she used to be. So now that her popularity is declining as the show The Hills is not doing as well as it has in previous seasons, Conrad decided it was time to write a book. I figured why not read it? It will be a nice easy read when I am laying out on the beach getting a tan.
3rd and 4th books in the series The Sister of the Travelling Pants - Ok so this is me being a little teeny-bopper again who cant get enough of these four best friends who sent out on world wide adventures seperately with only one pair of pants holding them together. I absoluteeeeeeeeeely love this series.
Barber Walters' Audition- An icon. A legend. What is there not to say about Barbara Walters. She is a brilliant journalist who has seen so much over the past couple of decades.
Larry King's newest memoir- He is the host of Larry King Live on CNN. CNN is only of my all time favorite channels. I just find him to be such a fascinating human being. Like Barbara Walters, LK has just seen so much of history and I would love to know more about a guy who knows so much.
Lauren Conrad's LA Candy- Lauren Conrad is the biggest thing in Hollywood gossip or atleast she used to be. So now that her popularity is declining as the show The Hills is not doing as well as it has in previous seasons, Conrad decided it was time to write a book. I figured why not read it? It will be a nice easy read when I am laying out on the beach getting a tan.
3rd and 4th books in the series The Sister of the Travelling Pants - Ok so this is me being a little teeny-bopper again who cant get enough of these four best friends who sent out on world wide adventures seperately with only one pair of pants holding them together. I absoluteeeeeeeeeely love this series.
anything by nicholas sparks!
iphone versus nokia 5800
So when I was on the market for a new phone I was debating hard and long between the Apple iphone and Nokia's 5800 xpressmusic phone.
I found this article while i was trying to decide which phone to purchase that broke it down by categories. (http://www.lucifiligheddu.com/)
1. price- Iphone is more expensive than nokia 5800. I am not one for wasting my parents money.
(that is a negative for iphone)
2. display- the phone automatically adjusts according to which way you are holding the phone on a nokia. although the screen is bigger on an iphone, the resolution is not as great as that of Nokia's 5800. I think that is pretty cool that the screen flips when you turn your phone at a different angle.
(another negative for iphone)
3. size- the iphone is a bit bigger. Although this is nice for reading things and dialling numbers, it also makes it harder to hold and makes it more difficult to use the phone with one hand. The nokia is a bit more slimmer and a bit lighter. Since I have tiny hands, the nokia is definitely more ideal.
(another negative for iphone)
4. memory- the iphone is available in 16GB and 8GB. The Nokia 5800 is available in the 8GB via a memory card which is removable. This makes upgrading much easier than the iphone and it also makes it easier to add and remove things from the storage device. I like having a memory card because I can take the pictures off my phone and transfer them to my computer.
(another negative for iphone)
5. usage- for the Nokia you can use your fingers or you can use the instrument known as a stylus provided with the phone. With the iphone you only have your finger. I like how it looks when you are poking at your phone with a little mini pen rather than just your finger.
(another negative for iphone)
6. battery life- the nokia 5800 tends to have 15- 30% longer battery life overall. Battery life is the utmost importance to me. I am always texting or calling someone so if the battery life sucks i am going to be very upset if the phone dies in the middle of a phone conversation.
(another negative for iphone)
7. camera/video- the camera on the Nokia 5800 is better than that of iphone seeing as iphone only has a basic camera with no flash. Iphone also lacks video recording options. While you can install video recording on iphone it already comes as part of the nokia's features. The nokia also has the options of video calling.
(yet another negative for iphone)
So, I am happy with the selection I made over purchasing the Nokia 5800. Not to say that I still do not love the iphone. Honestly it was my first choice. I think the phone is designed very well and it has awesome features. I think I will still purchase an iphone in the future when they make it more easily available to customers outside of the AT&T network. For now I will just deal with my nokia 5800.
I found this article while i was trying to decide which phone to purchase that broke it down by categories. (http://www.lucifiligheddu.com/)
1. price- Iphone is more expensive than nokia 5800. I am not one for wasting my parents money.
(that is a negative for iphone)
2. display- the phone automatically adjusts according to which way you are holding the phone on a nokia. although the screen is bigger on an iphone, the resolution is not as great as that of Nokia's 5800. I think that is pretty cool that the screen flips when you turn your phone at a different angle.
(another negative for iphone)
3. size- the iphone is a bit bigger. Although this is nice for reading things and dialling numbers, it also makes it harder to hold and makes it more difficult to use the phone with one hand. The nokia is a bit more slimmer and a bit lighter. Since I have tiny hands, the nokia is definitely more ideal.
(another negative for iphone)
4. memory- the iphone is available in 16GB and 8GB. The Nokia 5800 is available in the 8GB via a memory card which is removable. This makes upgrading much easier than the iphone and it also makes it easier to add and remove things from the storage device. I like having a memory card because I can take the pictures off my phone and transfer them to my computer.
(another negative for iphone)
5. usage- for the Nokia you can use your fingers or you can use the instrument known as a stylus provided with the phone. With the iphone you only have your finger. I like how it looks when you are poking at your phone with a little mini pen rather than just your finger.
(another negative for iphone)
6. battery life- the nokia 5800 tends to have 15- 30% longer battery life overall. Battery life is the utmost importance to me. I am always texting or calling someone so if the battery life sucks i am going to be very upset if the phone dies in the middle of a phone conversation.
(another negative for iphone)
7. camera/video- the camera on the Nokia 5800 is better than that of iphone seeing as iphone only has a basic camera with no flash. Iphone also lacks video recording options. While you can install video recording on iphone it already comes as part of the nokia's features. The nokia also has the options of video calling.
(yet another negative for iphone)
So, I am happy with the selection I made over purchasing the Nokia 5800. Not to say that I still do not love the iphone. Honestly it was my first choice. I think the phone is designed very well and it has awesome features. I think I will still purchase an iphone in the future when they make it more easily available to customers outside of the AT&T network. For now I will just deal with my nokia 5800.
21.5.09
New York Terror Plot unfolded
Today May 21, breaking news:
four men wanted to bomb a temple in the Bronx section of New York City. They also had plans to attack the New York National Guard base at Stewart Airport. Luckily the FBI discovered this ahead of time and was able to stop it from happening. The four men are Muslim converts. It is said that this terror attack was planned due to the anger the men felt over what is occuring in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
According to Fox News, Mayor Michael Bloomberg stated that "homeland security threats against New York City are sadly all too real." It was discovered that these men are not connected to any group outside which is a good thing. However, I think it shows that its not just the major well-known terrorist groups that are planning attacks. There are homemade attacks occuring meaning its a new sector of security we need to focus on.
I love what Senator John McCain said to fox news: " maybe the bush administration might deserve a little credit for the fact that theres not been another attack on the United States of America since 9/11." This is so true. America has been safe since 9/11. If anything he deserves a great amount of credit because I kinda blame Clinton for not making America safer when the WTC was attacked in 1993. Bush did an excellent job making America more safe.
P.S. World, America is huge...its not easy to protect. Everyday new terrorists are being trained by the Islamic fundamentalists who are trying to devalue America's power. I think it is disgusting that these "Jihadists" are the face of Islam. They should not be. These terrorists take the religion to the extreme and twist it to their liking. Mayor Bloomberg said in response to this terror plot that we should avoid sterotypes against Jews....well hellooooo!! the same thing goes for Muslims. DO NOT stereotype world. Not every Muslim hates Jews. Not every Muslim believes Israel should be destroyed. Not every Muslim believes in Jihad.
Basically, we need to stop stereotyping. Life is too short and too precious to be attacking each other. Especially, over religion. We are all God's children.
four men wanted to bomb a temple in the Bronx section of New York City. They also had plans to attack the New York National Guard base at Stewart Airport. Luckily the FBI discovered this ahead of time and was able to stop it from happening. The four men are Muslim converts. It is said that this terror attack was planned due to the anger the men felt over what is occuring in Afghanistan and Pakistan.
According to Fox News, Mayor Michael Bloomberg stated that "homeland security threats against New York City are sadly all too real." It was discovered that these men are not connected to any group outside which is a good thing. However, I think it shows that its not just the major well-known terrorist groups that are planning attacks. There are homemade attacks occuring meaning its a new sector of security we need to focus on.
I love what Senator John McCain said to fox news: " maybe the bush administration might deserve a little credit for the fact that theres not been another attack on the United States of America since 9/11." This is so true. America has been safe since 9/11. If anything he deserves a great amount of credit because I kinda blame Clinton for not making America safer when the WTC was attacked in 1993. Bush did an excellent job making America more safe.
P.S. World, America is huge...its not easy to protect. Everyday new terrorists are being trained by the Islamic fundamentalists who are trying to devalue America's power. I think it is disgusting that these "Jihadists" are the face of Islam. They should not be. These terrorists take the religion to the extreme and twist it to their liking. Mayor Bloomberg said in response to this terror plot that we should avoid sterotypes against Jews....well hellooooo!! the same thing goes for Muslims. DO NOT stereotype world. Not every Muslim hates Jews. Not every Muslim believes Israel should be destroyed. Not every Muslim believes in Jihad.
Basically, we need to stop stereotyping. Life is too short and too precious to be attacking each other. Especially, over religion. We are all God's children.
Guantanamo bay
Guantanamo Bay is the topic of much controversy. It was created in 2002 by the Bush Administration to hold detainees from Iraq and Afghanistan. Under the Bush Administration, the detainees at Gitmo grew tremendously to include more detainees from other countries. When current president Barack Obama was campaigning, one of his promises was to close GITMO.
In the Wikileaks, the Emir of Kuwait said "You know better than I that we cannot deal with these people (the Guantanamo detainees). I can't detain them. If I take their passports, they will sue to get them back. I can talk to you into next week about building a rehabilitation center, but it won't happen. We are not Saudi Arabia; we cannot isolate these people in desert camps or somewhere on an island. We cannot compel them to stay. If they are rotten, they are rotten and the best thing to do is get rid of them. You picked them up in Afghanistan; you should drop them off in Afghanistan, in the middle of the war zone."
The King of Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah proposed using electronic chips and turning GITMO into an enclosed secure island where the detainees wear these devices. It would be like they are on house arrest but can move freely through the island with the use of the electronic monitoring devices. This idea actually isn't that bad in my opinion. The detainees would be allowed to live more like normal human beings rather than being confined in cells. They'd be monitored which allows the U.S. to keep an eye on them until a more permanent solution is worked out regarding their trial and prosecution. It also takes the responsibility away from extraditing them back to their home countries where they are not wanted.
Aside from the controversy of what to do with the detainees, there is controversy of how GITMO is run. Human Rights Groups such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are concerned with the detainees' safety and rights not being violated. Despite the fact that many of these detainees are allegedly criminals guilty of committing acts of terrorism, war crimes, treason among a range of other crimes, they are still human beings and they still have the right to be treated as such. Many of the detainees are actually innocent and have not officially been charged with any crimes. They are tortured and dehumanized. They are not treated as people with rights but merely a means to end. All the military personnel guarding GITMO detainees want is information. They are not ensured fair treatment or the rights to a fair trial. They were denied visitation rights at times.
GITMO has been described as a great failure in America's justice system. I do however have to agree with King Abdullah's idea. They should be placed on a type of house arrest where they can't leave the confines of the island but they would have to wear electronic monitoring bracelets. I do not think they should go back to their countries of origin because many of the detainees are from countries that have known ties to terrorist organizations and probably will not be properly rehabilitated back into society. Their governments will probably just harbor them until they fall back off radar and if they are in fact criminals they will just return to that life of crime.
In my opinion, GITMO is a lost cause.
In the Wikileaks, the Emir of Kuwait said "You know better than I that we cannot deal with these people (the Guantanamo detainees). I can't detain them. If I take their passports, they will sue to get them back. I can talk to you into next week about building a rehabilitation center, but it won't happen. We are not Saudi Arabia; we cannot isolate these people in desert camps or somewhere on an island. We cannot compel them to stay. If they are rotten, they are rotten and the best thing to do is get rid of them. You picked them up in Afghanistan; you should drop them off in Afghanistan, in the middle of the war zone."
The King of Saudi Arabia, King Abdullah proposed using electronic chips and turning GITMO into an enclosed secure island where the detainees wear these devices. It would be like they are on house arrest but can move freely through the island with the use of the electronic monitoring devices. This idea actually isn't that bad in my opinion. The detainees would be allowed to live more like normal human beings rather than being confined in cells. They'd be monitored which allows the U.S. to keep an eye on them until a more permanent solution is worked out regarding their trial and prosecution. It also takes the responsibility away from extraditing them back to their home countries where they are not wanted.
Aside from the controversy of what to do with the detainees, there is controversy of how GITMO is run. Human Rights Groups such as Amnesty International and Human Rights Watch are concerned with the detainees' safety and rights not being violated. Despite the fact that many of these detainees are allegedly criminals guilty of committing acts of terrorism, war crimes, treason among a range of other crimes, they are still human beings and they still have the right to be treated as such. Many of the detainees are actually innocent and have not officially been charged with any crimes. They are tortured and dehumanized. They are not treated as people with rights but merely a means to end. All the military personnel guarding GITMO detainees want is information. They are not ensured fair treatment or the rights to a fair trial. They were denied visitation rights at times.
GITMO has been described as a great failure in America's justice system. I do however have to agree with King Abdullah's idea. They should be placed on a type of house arrest where they can't leave the confines of the island but they would have to wear electronic monitoring bracelets. I do not think they should go back to their countries of origin because many of the detainees are from countries that have known ties to terrorist organizations and probably will not be properly rehabilitated back into society. Their governments will probably just harbor them until they fall back off radar and if they are in fact criminals they will just return to that life of crime.
In my opinion, GITMO is a lost cause.
International Humanitarian Law
So International Humanitarian Law is a topic that i find quite fascinating so I thought I would blog about it.
(I am getting all my facts from ICRC.org)
International humanitarian law aka the law of war or law of armed conflict, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross, is set up to limit the effects of armed conflict. However, it doesnt regulate if a state may use force or not. That is established by a distinct part of international law displayed in the United Nations Charter. IHL applies to armed conflict in which two or more states are involved.
IHL is set out to control the means and methods of warfare. IHL is meant to protect those no longer participating in conflict/hostilities.
A major part of IHL is that parties of conflict must distinguish between civilians and combatants. IHL states that the civilian population can not be attacked. Attacks can only be made against the military. Its against IHL to kill an opponent who surrenders or who is no longer able to take part in war. Any weapons or methods that cause excessive suffering or unnecessary loss is not allowed as well as anything that causes long-term harm to the environment is not allowed.
International Humanitarian law is established in the Fourth Geneva Conventions (1949). However, there have been myriads of international humanitarian law violations.
More on this a bit later.
(I am getting all my facts from ICRC.org)
International humanitarian law aka the law of war or law of armed conflict, according to the International Committee of the Red Cross, is set up to limit the effects of armed conflict. However, it doesnt regulate if a state may use force or not. That is established by a distinct part of international law displayed in the United Nations Charter. IHL applies to armed conflict in which two or more states are involved.
IHL is set out to control the means and methods of warfare. IHL is meant to protect those no longer participating in conflict/hostilities.
A major part of IHL is that parties of conflict must distinguish between civilians and combatants. IHL states that the civilian population can not be attacked. Attacks can only be made against the military. Its against IHL to kill an opponent who surrenders or who is no longer able to take part in war. Any weapons or methods that cause excessive suffering or unnecessary loss is not allowed as well as anything that causes long-term harm to the environment is not allowed.
International Humanitarian law is established in the Fourth Geneva Conventions (1949). However, there have been myriads of international humanitarian law violations.
More on this a bit later.
20.5.09
something to ponder
In the Koran it is "written that a son of Arabia would awaken a fearsome Eagle. The wrath of the Eagle would be felt throughout the lands of Allah and lo, while some the people trembled in despair still more rejoiced; for the wrath of the Eagle cleansed the lands of Allah and there was peace."
The United States is represented by an Eagle. A son of Arabia, could arguably be Osama Bin Laden since he was born in Saudi Arabia. So I just find it very interesting that the son of Arabia awakened this eagle. Basically Bin Laden shook America up when the September 11th attacks happened and now America its casting its wrath upon the Islamic world starting with Iraq and Afghanistan with the war on terror. Should we wonder if this will spread to other countries in the Middle East? Look at the current situation in Pakistan....is that country next? What about Iran? Obama is opening peace talks with Iranian president Ahmadinejad.
I am just saying this is something to consider.
The United States is represented by an Eagle. A son of Arabia, could arguably be Osama Bin Laden since he was born in Saudi Arabia. So I just find it very interesting that the son of Arabia awakened this eagle. Basically Bin Laden shook America up when the September 11th attacks happened and now America its casting its wrath upon the Islamic world starting with Iraq and Afghanistan with the war on terror. Should we wonder if this will spread to other countries in the Middle East? Look at the current situation in Pakistan....is that country next? What about Iran? Obama is opening peace talks with Iranian president Ahmadinejad.
I am just saying this is something to consider.
Very interesting info on Iraq
So I am not sure where I found this but its really interesting...I think someone emailed it to me. Its just some quick tidbits of info.
Mesopotamia, the cradle of civlization is present day Iraq.
The garden of Eden was in Iraq.
The Tower of Babel was in Iraq.
Noah built the ark in Iraq.
Isaac's wife is from Nahor,Iraq
Jacob met Rachel in Iraq.
Assyria, which is in Iraq, conquered the ten tribes of Israel.
Babylon which is in Iraq destroyed Jerusalem.
Daniel was inthe lion's den in Iraq.
The wise men were from Iraq.
Peter preached in Iraq.
Nebuchadnezzar carried the Jews captive into Iraq.
The second most mention nation in the Bible, after Israel, is Iraq. However it was not called that. It was called Babylon, Land of Shinar, Mesopotamia. The word mesopotamia means between two rivers. (tigris and euphrates) The name Iraq means country with deep roots.
I just find it fascinating that Iraq has so much history behind it. It is so interesting that a country that is in shambles today was one the homeland to so much history.
Mesopotamia, the cradle of civlization is present day Iraq.
The garden of Eden was in Iraq.
The Tower of Babel was in Iraq.
Noah built the ark in Iraq.
Isaac's wife is from Nahor,Iraq
Jacob met Rachel in Iraq.
Assyria, which is in Iraq, conquered the ten tribes of Israel.
Babylon which is in Iraq destroyed Jerusalem.
Daniel was inthe lion's den in Iraq.
The wise men were from Iraq.
Peter preached in Iraq.
Nebuchadnezzar carried the Jews captive into Iraq.
The second most mention nation in the Bible, after Israel, is Iraq. However it was not called that. It was called Babylon, Land of Shinar, Mesopotamia. The word mesopotamia means between two rivers. (tigris and euphrates) The name Iraq means country with deep roots.
I just find it fascinating that Iraq has so much history behind it. It is so interesting that a country that is in shambles today was one the homeland to so much history.
Favorite Websites/most visited websites
Youtube.com- I listen to a ton of great music on this site as well as watch clips of shows I may have missed. I listen to everything from arabic music to french to turkish to english music on here.
Twitter.com- I keep myself in the know with updates from all different media outlets while also letting everyone know whats going on in my life. Twitter is such a great source for keeping yourself updated on the go because the messages can be sent right to your phone.
Cnn.com- great news source
bbc.com- another excellent news source. I find it to be reliable and not too biased like most other sources.
aljazeera.net- excellent source for news all over the world but in particular the middle east. Best resource for Middle Eastern news because it tends to be the most factually correct.
verabradley.com- shoppinggggg duh. Adorable items. Anything from stationery to backpacks to purses to laptop cases.
coach.com- who doesn't love coach purses,accessories, shoes etc?
macys.com- great sales, great shoes!
sephora.com- oh my gosh some of the best make-up everrrrrrrr!!!!! gotta love it. :)
UN.org- keeps me in the know about what is going on at the United Nations and the world.
google.com- because I am always needing to google something.
abc.com- news source
nbc.com- news source
facebook.com- keeps me in touch with my friends and family
fmylife.com- I loveeee reading about other peoples lives because it makes mine seem a bit more normal. some the stories are really effed up but for the most part pretty funny :)
blogger.com- keep my blog updated and vent about the garbage that goes on in the world.
washingtonpost.com- great news source
juicycampus.com
formspring.me - ask me all the juicy questions that you can't ask me to my face.
bing.com - the best search engine know to man.
THE LIST GOES ON AND ON AND ON!!!!!
Twitter.com- I keep myself in the know with updates from all different media outlets while also letting everyone know whats going on in my life. Twitter is such a great source for keeping yourself updated on the go because the messages can be sent right to your phone.
Cnn.com- great news source
bbc.com- another excellent news source. I find it to be reliable and not too biased like most other sources.
aljazeera.net- excellent source for news all over the world but in particular the middle east. Best resource for Middle Eastern news because it tends to be the most factually correct.
verabradley.com- shoppinggggg duh. Adorable items. Anything from stationery to backpacks to purses to laptop cases.
coach.com- who doesn't love coach purses,accessories, shoes etc?
macys.com- great sales, great shoes!
sephora.com- oh my gosh some of the best make-up everrrrrrrr!!!!! gotta love it. :)
UN.org- keeps me in the know about what is going on at the United Nations and the world.
google.com- because I am always needing to google something.
abc.com- news source
nbc.com- news source
facebook.com- keeps me in touch with my friends and family
fmylife.com- I loveeee reading about other peoples lives because it makes mine seem a bit more normal. some the stories are really effed up but for the most part pretty funny :)
blogger.com- keep my blog updated and vent about the garbage that goes on in the world.
washingtonpost.com- great news source
juicycampus.com
formspring.me - ask me all the juicy questions that you can't ask me to my face.
bing.com - the best search engine know to man.
THE LIST GOES ON AND ON AND ON!!!!!
Netanyahu's talk with Obama...hope for the Palestinians?
During his campaign, Barack Obama promised to shed a new light on the dark path of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. Will he keep this promise or will the turmoil that has existed for the past 60 years continue to worsen?
Just recently the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, one of the most right wing and controversial leaders (according to bbc), met with President Barack Obama to discuss the situation. Their talks seemed to go much smoother than during Clinton's Presidency when Netanyahu was Prime Minister of Israel.
So of course, the Israeli Palestinian conflict was discussed. Obama called on Netanyahu to push forward for a two-state solution. I think Netanyahu's request is fair that Palestinians must recognize Israel as a Jewish state but on the same note I think Israel needs to make more of an effort to stop the humanitarian crisis that exists in Gaza and give Palestinians their freedom and basic rights. While I think Israelis need to have a homeland, I believe Palestinians do too. Palestinians have always been displaced. A large majority of Palestinians are not living in Palestine but in other countries as displaced people/refugees.
In my opinion, its a bit ironic because Obama and Netanyahu both agreed that a nuclear Iran was a threat to the international community yet prior to the 1970's Iran was very close allies with Israel and the United States. However, Obama emphasized the need to open talks with Iran. This could be a positive thing as long as there are results in these talks that lead towards better Middle East diplomacy.
Netanyahu also agreed to reopen talks with Syria...this is a step in the right direction. hopefully. The disputes that are ongoing between Syria and Israel and Israel and Lebanon need to be addressed immediately because they are situations that can easily escalate. That would not be good for the international community at all. The turmoil that exists in the Middle East causes an extremely delicate situation to exist. this hotspot is literally in the middle of the map. any upset in the region shakes the balance of the entire world. Plus with all the oil reserves that exist in countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, the two leading nations in oil exports, we need to make sure the region is stable.
Lets just hope Barack Obama does a good job with direct diplomacy and takes a more aggressive but positive stance in Middle East policy.
Just recently the Prime Minister of Israel Benjamin Netanyahu, one of the most right wing and controversial leaders (according to bbc), met with President Barack Obama to discuss the situation. Their talks seemed to go much smoother than during Clinton's Presidency when Netanyahu was Prime Minister of Israel.
So of course, the Israeli Palestinian conflict was discussed. Obama called on Netanyahu to push forward for a two-state solution. I think Netanyahu's request is fair that Palestinians must recognize Israel as a Jewish state but on the same note I think Israel needs to make more of an effort to stop the humanitarian crisis that exists in Gaza and give Palestinians their freedom and basic rights. While I think Israelis need to have a homeland, I believe Palestinians do too. Palestinians have always been displaced. A large majority of Palestinians are not living in Palestine but in other countries as displaced people/refugees.
In my opinion, its a bit ironic because Obama and Netanyahu both agreed that a nuclear Iran was a threat to the international community yet prior to the 1970's Iran was very close allies with Israel and the United States. However, Obama emphasized the need to open talks with Iran. This could be a positive thing as long as there are results in these talks that lead towards better Middle East diplomacy.
Netanyahu also agreed to reopen talks with Syria...this is a step in the right direction. hopefully. The disputes that are ongoing between Syria and Israel and Israel and Lebanon need to be addressed immediately because they are situations that can easily escalate. That would not be good for the international community at all. The turmoil that exists in the Middle East causes an extremely delicate situation to exist. this hotspot is literally in the middle of the map. any upset in the region shakes the balance of the entire world. Plus with all the oil reserves that exist in countries like Iraq and Saudi Arabia, the two leading nations in oil exports, we need to make sure the region is stable.
Lets just hope Barack Obama does a good job with direct diplomacy and takes a more aggressive but positive stance in Middle East policy.
18.5.09
Dancing with the Stars
Dancing with the stars is a show were they pick these b-list celebrities and partner them up with professional ballroom dancers. I love this show because its a competition and its nice to see how the competitors progress each week and what the judges have to say about them. Every season they have some great celebrities on there. I love Len Goodman and Bruno Tonioli...Carrie Ann Inaba annoys me a little but she has some beautiful dresses. Len and Bruno are just absolutely hilarious judges. Bruno is so passionate about giving feedback and I love how he holds his paddle and throws his arm in the air if the score is high. I would love to be on dancing with the stars...too bad I cant dance though. :(
This season particularly was very good. So the finalists were Shawn Johnson, Gilles Marini and Melissa Rycroft. I thought Shawn Johnson, the olympic gymnast was fantastic. She perservered throughout the competition even when it was difficult. She was adorable...she is only seventeen too. That is impressive that a seventeen year old has that much determination and will power. Go you shawn johnson!!!!
I am shocked Melissa lasted as long as she did in the competition because I did not think she was that good even though she does have a background in ballet so she definitely has a bit of dancing experience. Her partner is hot!!! I feel like she only lasted so long because the fans felt bad for her after she was dumped on national t.v. She should be happy that guy dumped because now her career has skyrocketed...no one really knew who she was before that anyway...atleast I didnt.
See now as far as Gilles goes, I would have loved to see him win because he had so much passion and character when he was dancing but I do not like his partner Cheryl. Gilles Marini acted in the blockbuster hit "Sex and the City the movie". He has a gorgeous body and beautiful eyes. He makes any lady want to be his dancing partner. I think after this show every woman is jealous of Cheryl because she got to dance with him for eleven weeks. But anyway, like i was saying Gilles would have been an excellent choice for the trophy but I am kinda happy he didn't win because Cheryl is just too cocky. I find her a bit annoying. However, I must admit she is an excellent dancer with grace. She moves so flawlessly on the dance floor. I loved when Bruno said "french class meets american flair" after a dance Gilles and Cheryl did.
It was an excellent season of DWTS and I am glad Shawn won. She wanted it so badly!!!
This season particularly was very good. So the finalists were Shawn Johnson, Gilles Marini and Melissa Rycroft. I thought Shawn Johnson, the olympic gymnast was fantastic. She perservered throughout the competition even when it was difficult. She was adorable...she is only seventeen too. That is impressive that a seventeen year old has that much determination and will power. Go you shawn johnson!!!!
I am shocked Melissa lasted as long as she did in the competition because I did not think she was that good even though she does have a background in ballet so she definitely has a bit of dancing experience. Her partner is hot!!! I feel like she only lasted so long because the fans felt bad for her after she was dumped on national t.v. She should be happy that guy dumped because now her career has skyrocketed...no one really knew who she was before that anyway...atleast I didnt.
See now as far as Gilles goes, I would have loved to see him win because he had so much passion and character when he was dancing but I do not like his partner Cheryl. Gilles Marini acted in the blockbuster hit "Sex and the City the movie". He has a gorgeous body and beautiful eyes. He makes any lady want to be his dancing partner. I think after this show every woman is jealous of Cheryl because she got to dance with him for eleven weeks. But anyway, like i was saying Gilles would have been an excellent choice for the trophy but I am kinda happy he didn't win because Cheryl is just too cocky. I find her a bit annoying. However, I must admit she is an excellent dancer with grace. She moves so flawlessly on the dance floor. I loved when Bruno said "french class meets american flair" after a dance Gilles and Cheryl did.
It was an excellent season of DWTS and I am glad Shawn won. She wanted it so badly!!!
17.5.09
Kuwait's step towards womens rights
Yay! the oil-rich state of Kuwait has made a great step toward democracy when they elected their first female members of Parliament. Rola Dashti and Aseel Al-Awadhi (a U.S. educated woman) were recently elected in Kuwait in the third district, according to BBC News.
This is a huge step for Kuwaiti democracy...its just exciting because the Middle East is always under fire for its so called "backwards" human (woman's) rights policies. However, now that woman have been elected to Parliament, its a leap in the right direction. Womens right to vote started back in 2005, however not much advancement was made but now that Dashti and Al-Awadhi along with two other woman have been elected to parliament it shows Kuwaiti women's desire for change and advancement. According to ABC, its a major milestone as these women secured their place for the first time in parliament.
I can't wait to see what happens next for women in Middle Eastern countries such as Kuwait.
This is a huge step for Kuwaiti democracy...its just exciting because the Middle East is always under fire for its so called "backwards" human (woman's) rights policies. However, now that woman have been elected to Parliament, its a leap in the right direction. Womens right to vote started back in 2005, however not much advancement was made but now that Dashti and Al-Awadhi along with two other woman have been elected to parliament it shows Kuwaiti women's desire for change and advancement. According to ABC, its a major milestone as these women secured their place for the first time in parliament.
I can't wait to see what happens next for women in Middle Eastern countries such as Kuwait.
World Economic Forum
At the World Economic Forum in the Dead Sea, Jordan (may 15-17th 2009), the main issue that concerned most of the arab leaders seemed to be the Arab-Israeli Conflict. Many argued that it was causing instability in the region.
This is an agreeable statement. How can we achieve a more stable economy without stable peace???? we need peace in the region before any other issue can be logistically addressed.
Jordan's King Abdullah opened the World Economic Forum by urging Israel to join Arab states in finding a solution to the conflict. He said he felt a sense of encouragement when Obama expressed commitment to a solution in which both Palestine and Israel had a state.
A Dubai-based group for private equity donated millions of dollars at the World Economic Forum to Gazans who became orphans during the recent Israeli offensive in Gaza during December 08- January 09.
Egypt's minister of Trade summed up things the best, in my opinion. He noted that reform was much needed in the middle east in order to deal with the effects of the economic crisis.
Queen Rania did her first twitter interview during the world economic forum.
This is an agreeable statement. How can we achieve a more stable economy without stable peace???? we need peace in the region before any other issue can be logistically addressed.
Jordan's King Abdullah opened the World Economic Forum by urging Israel to join Arab states in finding a solution to the conflict. He said he felt a sense of encouragement when Obama expressed commitment to a solution in which both Palestine and Israel had a state.
A Dubai-based group for private equity donated millions of dollars at the World Economic Forum to Gazans who became orphans during the recent Israeli offensive in Gaza during December 08- January 09.
Egypt's minister of Trade summed up things the best, in my opinion. He noted that reform was much needed in the middle east in order to deal with the effects of the economic crisis.
Queen Rania did her first twitter interview during the world economic forum.
15.5.09
Donald Trump's decision
So after hours of hair and makeup and bathingsuits and questions, Miss California won the pageant. Then not too long after, it was revealed that she took some pictures that were considered controversial.
I think Donald Trump granting the winner the right to keep her crown was fine, after all he is the owner of the pageant. She took some photos that might have been risque but who the hell cares. Who hasn't taken "risque" photos? so who cares? plus if people are worried about little girls looking up to the contestants in pageants, they should realize that they are only human. besides there are alot worse things being done by people who are looked up to by young girls than someone taking some risque photos. just get over it. :)
k byeee
I think Donald Trump granting the winner the right to keep her crown was fine, after all he is the owner of the pageant. She took some photos that might have been risque but who the hell cares. Who hasn't taken "risque" photos? so who cares? plus if people are worried about little girls looking up to the contestants in pageants, they should realize that they are only human. besides there are alot worse things being done by people who are looked up to by young girls than someone taking some risque photos. just get over it. :)
k byeee
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