Solidarity

As some of you may know, today was a "Day of Rage" for the Iraqi people where they protested against government corruption, lack of services and the failure of government leaders to serve the public's interests.  You can read more about it here and here.  I've been locked down at the embassy the past two days, and may be for tomorrow as well - we'll have to wait and see how the night goes.  But in honor of my Iraqi brothers, I feel that I too should share my rage today.I am furious at the idiot who decided to wash my wallet with my pants this morning!  Is that guy a bird brain or what?  I am dumbfounded at the Wisconsin Governor and Legislature!  I guess that they will work weekends now, or have they forgotten we have weekends (and holidays and vacations and health care and decent pay and a 40 hour "normal" workweek) because of Unions?  I share the outrage against the Iraqi Government - they've forgotten to legislate Spring!  A week ago we had highs in the low-50's and it was chilly; today it's over 90.  Folks - we're supposed to have spring in between winter and summer!  I am also flabbergasted at my own government.  While we have a Pizza Hut and a Subway here at the NEC, we don't have a Kabob King, Hummus House or Falafel Fix!  We're in Iraq, we should be able to eat Iraqi food.  Even Eugene has a falafel cart right in front of the UofO bookstore.  I've got to go back home to eat a falafel?  I am furious that the movie "24" isn't going to be 24 hours long!  Incensed that the next World Cup isn't for another 3-1/2 years! And indignant that the Ugandan President says he'll "eat" his opponent.  Who does he think he is, Idi Amin?

Well, enough of my solidarity with the Iraqi people.  Back to the middle way.  I don't do rage very well.  It's like sexy, Ann says it comes across more like silly; so I'll drop the rage for now.

In all seriousness, the people in Iraq do have much to be outraged about, as do so many in the Arab world.  May their calls for governments run by the rule of law and on behalf of the people be answered.

Tahrir Square