Thursday, November 12, 2015

--The discussions in some OLLI (Oscher Lifelong Learning Institute) class I'm taking at University of California-Davis appears to be developing into a separate topic I'll refer to as OLLI Reports in the Ruminations Blog.  Once it becomes clear to me that I'll be enrolled in at least one course in current events per semester, I'll set it up as such.  Things like setting up a 'permanent' topic take time.
--I haven't demonstrated my interest in the Globalization project but I haven't put it aside in my thinking!  Patience!
--I've undergone the medical testing that occurs when one moves, especially from one state to another.  That testing implied in moving about the country has already taken place; and I am impressed with my doctor here in Sacramento.
--My recent experience with doctors has left me with the impression that the distinction between a primary doctor and a specialist is not at all workable in practice.  And I'm grateful that here in Sacramento I have a sharp and technologically up-to-date professional I can rely on to refer me elsewhere whenever the need should arise.  I vote to get rid of the distinction of primary care provider to specialist--I don't think it is practical.
--The weather is variable here in Sacramento; and there's seasons!  I wasn't aware how much I missed the cooler and cold weather that Reno and Sacramento share.
--I shall doggedly carry on.  Incidentally, I much appreciated the support that my friends have recently sent me.  Thanks for your continued encouragement on my behalf.

Muslim Reformers, COME OUT!

What tolled the death knell to the Crusades in the 16th Century Europe was the rise of the Reformation, It's leaders repudiated several important doctrines enunciated by the Papacy--included among them was the efficacy of indulgences that was used to recruit the Crusader militia, who marched into the Holy Land bearing the cross of Jesus.

Muslim Reformers, on the other hand, must repudiate the concept of Jihad.  New recruits are told in the afterlife they will experience a debauched grand old time and receive accolades galore as well for their service to the warring cause against the infidel.  Reformers must claim that their religion does not countenance nor reward violence and aggression.  Also, it  must carry forth in practice the Muslim ascription of equality between the sexes.

So, where are these Reformers?   COME OUT, I URGE YOU!

P.S. (added. 12/28/15):  I see that Muslims from all over the world, even including in Iraq, are embracing the movement of Islam reformation that should bring this great religion into the 21st Century cultural ambience.

Rumblings continue toward peace in Columbia, SA

     I'm encouraged to see that the talks in Havana between the Columbian government and FARC seem to be heralding the end of the war ravaging that country lo, these many years.  The big question is whether the US and the Columbian stalwarts are willing that the country's hinter
farmland continue to cultivate and distribute via international cartels mind-altering drugs to a disparate and demanding clientele around the world, capable of paying for improvements in the lot of the country's poor.

Loaves and Fishes for the Homeless and the Disregarded

      There's a wonderful place in Sacramento for the homeless and the dis-regarded--such as me! It's the Loaves and Fishes.  They are not a homeless shelter, but they serve wonderful meals for lunch:


Today:  pizza (ham and pepperoni)--a generous slice
              lettuce with dressing
              grapefruit juice
              melon slice
              brownie (I only took a little bit)
              zucchini
              water


There's also a library that opens at 8 AM; and there's an Empowerment Center which helps in giving ideas as to getting into the system.


Then there's a park--Friendship Park--where you can get haircut vouchers and learn about what churches are sponsoring special dinners and overnight stays.  You just can't beat the assistance they provide!  Lunches 7 days a week.  

I hope I'm not too late!

     In any city I take residence in, I endeavor to find ways to corral avenues into current topics the man-on-the-street is interested in.  In some cities, I've alighted upon thoughtful, discussion groups where everyman can voice his/her opinions.  Such groups provide me with fodder for my blogs!
     Here, in Sacto, I've come upon political and social justice groups within the university setting under the umbrella Osher Lifelong Learning Institute, sponsored by University of California-Davis' Extension Division.  At University of Nevada in Reno, OLLI supplied me with a plethora of topics on the manifold occasions of my stay.  Not only in Reno, but in Las Vegas, also!  Elsewhere, I've found the local community colleges invaluable for current topics through such courses as e.g., "Current Events."
     Hopefully, I'm not too late to sign up for one such course this Fall, which will begin very shortly.  Its on topics appearing in The Atlantic Monthly magazine.  Oh well, time will tell.  I'll try on Monday to register!

Coming out party for the Ukraine!

     I understand that over the past year the EU together with the IMF has been advising the Ukraine on how to "come out" from the vestiges of the old Soviet Empire. There is yet much work to be done to make its past history of reliance on corrupt practices no longer part of its politics and business enterprises of the future.


     Congrads, the Ukraine.  You've come a long way in a short period of time from avowing your intention to be on your own, a free-loving people!

Wonderful Agency Support for me over the years!

     I've had support from a federal agency over the many years since my visit to Moscow to work on their constitution some twenty years ago.  That I can remember, I've never acknowledged their continued behind-the-scenes encouragement, even during the periods of some pretty rough encounters with those who would "retire" me forthwith.


     In recent years, this support has come in the form of suggestions--ideas proffered that I could make use of in my activities.  The steady flow, nay, now the increase in flow, I not only appreciate but for the most part, I've tried to adjust each one of these to whatever I'm working on at the moment.


     I can but say, in return, thank you--everyone of you from the top down!  And, I hope, your service to the country and to the world will long be remembered and praised!


JLO  .