Analysis of my recent analyses: Prediction of my prediction
After a reader recently pointed out that I was wrong about my prediction of a Hillary Clinton coronation back in December 13, 2006, I was to look back a little regarding my recent analyses.
Before reading or listening to the pundits, I concluded that John McCain won the first and second debates, while Sarah Palin effectively won her vice presidential debate against U.S. Sen. Joe Biden.
Before each debate, McCain had been slipping or losing in the polls, and after each event he gained a little. Palin's performance gave McCain a fighting chance to take a lead by bringing the ticket closer, by a few points, to the Obama/Biden ticket, as I predicted. Last night after viewing the debate, I immediately predicted that McCain would gain a point or two, and according to a recent Reuters/C-Span/Zogby daily tracking telephone poll from Oct. 5-7, 2008, McCain recovered about a point.
By deciding to think for oneself and to be right more than wrong, is encouraging; it is also a good test regarding one's political instincts. Try it sometime. Watch an event, and before talking to or listening to someone or the media, decide for yourself who won or lost, and why. You'd be encouraged, too!
My prediction back in December 13, 2006 (the same day that I was wrong about Obama not becoming the Democrat nominee), I predicted that if the Democrats win the White House and control the Congress, "With some tactical changes, all in all, little will change in Iraq during the next 12-18 months militarily . . . . With responsibility comes political moderation and electoral consideration."
Wait and see if I'm right that if Obama wins and the Democrats hold on to Congress, I'll bet you my old tennis balls, that my prediction will reflect reality. Let's see.
Showing posts with label Sarah Palin. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Sarah Palin. Show all posts
Oct 8, 2008
Paglia: Pro-Obama, pro-Palin
I was so impressed with segments of pro-feminist academic and cultural icon, Camille Paglia's comments defendng Sarah Palin that I decided to do a first, import a generous portion of her Salon.com article.
Nobody's dummy
Liberals underestimate Sarah Palin's vitality and -- yes -- smarts at their own peril. Plus: Obama's presidential air, Biden's condescending mugging, feminism's lost sisters.
By Camille Paglia
Although nothing will sway my vote for Obama, I continue to enjoy Sarah Palin's performance on the national stage. During her vice-presidential debate last week with Joe Biden (whose conspiratorial smiles with moderator Gwen Ifill were outrageous and condescending toward his opponent), I laughed heartily at Palin's digs and slams and marveled at the way she slowly took over the entire event. I was sorry when it ended! But Biden wasn't -- judging by his Gore-like sighs and his slow sinking like a punctured blimp. Of course Biden won on points, but TV (a visual medium) never cares about that.
The mountain of rubbish poured out about Palin over the past month would rival Everest. What a disgrace for our jabbering army of liberal journalists and commentators, too many of whom behaved like snippy jackasses. The bourgeois conventionalism and rank snobbery of these alleged humanitarians stank up the place. As for Palin's brutally edited interviews with Charlie Gibson and that viper, Katie Couric, don't we all know that the best bits ended up on the cutting-room floor? Something has gone seriously wrong with Democratic ideology, which seems to have become a candied set of holier-than-thou bromides attached like tutti-frutti to a quivering green Jell-O mold of adolescent sentimentality.
And where is all that lurid sexual fantasy coming from? When I watch Sarah Palin, I don't think sex -- I think Amazon warrior! I admire her competitive spirit and her exuberant vitality, which borders on the supernormal. The question that keeps popping up for me is whether Palin, who was born in Idaho, could possibly be part Native American (as we know her husband is), which sometimes seems suggested by her strong facial contours. I have felt that same extraordinary energy and hyper-alertness billowing out from other women with Native American ancestry -- including two overpowering celebrity icons with whom I have worked.
One of the most idiotic allegations batting around out there among urban media insiders is that Palin is "dumb." Are they kidding? What level of stupidity is now par for the course in those musty circles? (The value of Ivy League degrees, like sub-prime mortgages, has certainly been plummeting. As a Yale Ph.D., I have a perfect right to my scorn.) People who can't see how smart Palin is are trapped in their own narrow parochialism -- the tedious, hackneyed forms of their upper-middle-class syntax and vocabulary.
As someone whose first seven years were spent among Italian-American immigrants (I never met an elderly person who spoke English until we moved from Endicott to rural Oxford, New York, when I was in first grade), I am very used to understanding meaning through what might seem to others to be outlandish or fractured variations on standard English. Furthermore, I have spent virtually my entire teaching career (nearly four decades) in arts colleges, where the expressiveness of highly talented students in dance, music and the visual arts takes a hundred different forms. Finally, as a lover of poetry (my last book was about that), I savor every kind of experimentation with standard English -- beginning with Shakespeare, who was the greatest improviser of them all at a time when there were no grammar rules.
Many others listening to Sarah Palin at her debate went into conniptions about what they assailed as her incoherence or incompetence. But I was never in doubt about what she intended at any given moment. On the contrary, I was admiring not only her always shapely and syncopated syllables but the innate structures of her discourse -- which did seem to fly by in fragments at times but are plainly ready to be filled with deeper policy knowledge, as she gains it (hopefully over the next eight years of the Obama presidencies). This is a tremendously talented politician whose moment has not yet come. That she holds views completely opposed to mine is irrelevant.
The hysterical emotionalism and eruptions of amoral malice at the arrival of Sarah Palin exposed the weaknesses and limitations of current feminism. But I am convinced that Palin's bracing mix of male and female voices, as well as her grounding in frontier grit and audacity, will prove to be a galvanizing influence on aspiring Democratic women politicians too, from the municipal level on up. Palin has shown a brand-new way of defining female ambition -- without losing femininity, spontaneity or humor. She's no pre-programmed wonk of the backstage Hillary Clinton school; she's pugnacious and self-created, the product of no educational or political elite -- which is why her outsider style has been so hard for media lemmings to comprehend. And by the way, I think Tina Fey's witty impersonations of Palin have been fabulous. But while Fey has nailed Palin's cadences and charm, she can't capture the energy, which is a force of nature.
Paglia above exposes the vulnerability and consequence of feminism, and the positive effects of an authentic woman in Sarah Palin and a secure husband and loving father in Todd Palin, faithful spouses both. Breath of fresh air, is it not?
Nobody's dummy
Liberals underestimate Sarah Palin's vitality and -- yes -- smarts at their own peril. Plus: Obama's presidential air, Biden's condescending mugging, feminism's lost sisters.
By Camille Paglia
Although nothing will sway my vote for Obama, I continue to enjoy Sarah Palin's performance on the national stage. During her vice-presidential debate last week with Joe Biden (whose conspiratorial smiles with moderator Gwen Ifill were outrageous and condescending toward his opponent), I laughed heartily at Palin's digs and slams and marveled at the way she slowly took over the entire event. I was sorry when it ended! But Biden wasn't -- judging by his Gore-like sighs and his slow sinking like a punctured blimp. Of course Biden won on points, but TV (a visual medium) never cares about that.
The mountain of rubbish poured out about Palin over the past month would rival Everest. What a disgrace for our jabbering army of liberal journalists and commentators, too many of whom behaved like snippy jackasses. The bourgeois conventionalism and rank snobbery of these alleged humanitarians stank up the place. As for Palin's brutally edited interviews with Charlie Gibson and that viper, Katie Couric, don't we all know that the best bits ended up on the cutting-room floor? Something has gone seriously wrong with Democratic ideology, which seems to have become a candied set of holier-than-thou bromides attached like tutti-frutti to a quivering green Jell-O mold of adolescent sentimentality.
And where is all that lurid sexual fantasy coming from? When I watch Sarah Palin, I don't think sex -- I think Amazon warrior! I admire her competitive spirit and her exuberant vitality, which borders on the supernormal. The question that keeps popping up for me is whether Palin, who was born in Idaho, could possibly be part Native American (as we know her husband is), which sometimes seems suggested by her strong facial contours. I have felt that same extraordinary energy and hyper-alertness billowing out from other women with Native American ancestry -- including two overpowering celebrity icons with whom I have worked.
One of the most idiotic allegations batting around out there among urban media insiders is that Palin is "dumb." Are they kidding? What level of stupidity is now par for the course in those musty circles? (The value of Ivy League degrees, like sub-prime mortgages, has certainly been plummeting. As a Yale Ph.D., I have a perfect right to my scorn.) People who can't see how smart Palin is are trapped in their own narrow parochialism -- the tedious, hackneyed forms of their upper-middle-class syntax and vocabulary.
As someone whose first seven years were spent among Italian-American immigrants (I never met an elderly person who spoke English until we moved from Endicott to rural Oxford, New York, when I was in first grade), I am very used to understanding meaning through what might seem to others to be outlandish or fractured variations on standard English. Furthermore, I have spent virtually my entire teaching career (nearly four decades) in arts colleges, where the expressiveness of highly talented students in dance, music and the visual arts takes a hundred different forms. Finally, as a lover of poetry (my last book was about that), I savor every kind of experimentation with standard English -- beginning with Shakespeare, who was the greatest improviser of them all at a time when there were no grammar rules.
Many others listening to Sarah Palin at her debate went into conniptions about what they assailed as her incoherence or incompetence. But I was never in doubt about what she intended at any given moment. On the contrary, I was admiring not only her always shapely and syncopated syllables but the innate structures of her discourse -- which did seem to fly by in fragments at times but are plainly ready to be filled with deeper policy knowledge, as she gains it (hopefully over the next eight years of the Obama presidencies). This is a tremendously talented politician whose moment has not yet come. That she holds views completely opposed to mine is irrelevant.
The hysterical emotionalism and eruptions of amoral malice at the arrival of Sarah Palin exposed the weaknesses and limitations of current feminism. But I am convinced that Palin's bracing mix of male and female voices, as well as her grounding in frontier grit and audacity, will prove to be a galvanizing influence on aspiring Democratic women politicians too, from the municipal level on up. Palin has shown a brand-new way of defining female ambition -- without losing femininity, spontaneity or humor. She's no pre-programmed wonk of the backstage Hillary Clinton school; she's pugnacious and self-created, the product of no educational or political elite -- which is why her outsider style has been so hard for media lemmings to comprehend. And by the way, I think Tina Fey's witty impersonations of Palin have been fabulous. But while Fey has nailed Palin's cadences and charm, she can't capture the energy, which is a force of nature.
Paglia above exposes the vulnerability and consequence of feminism, and the positive effects of an authentic woman in Sarah Palin and a secure husband and loving father in Todd Palin, faithful spouses both. Breath of fresh air, is it not?
Oct 7, 2008
VP Debate: Palin the overcomer
2008 Vice Presidential Debate: Palin Ties Biden in substance , Palin wins in style, Palin overcomes
Again, before listening to the pundits, my view at 10:30pm EST, October 2, 2008:
As almost 100 hundred viewers looked on, both of the candidates were seen as stronger defenders of the top ticket while holding their own. U.S. Sen. Joe Biden was distinctly disciplined while Gov. Sarah Palin sufficiently competent and looked straight into the camera as well as her opponent
Palin v. Biden
Palin said of the Obama/Biden Iraq plan, “Your plan is a white flag of surrender” and used Biden’s previous words against Obama’s Iraq plan before switching his position supporting the plan when he became the vice presidential nominee. Biden posed with a big smile, then attacked U.S. Sen. McCain without answering the accusation.
Palin attack’s Biden
Palin continued to used Biden’s previous words and record against his ticket’s position without stumbling once. Palin quoted former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, General Petraeus and Al-Quaida in relation to the central role of Iraq in the War on Terror.
Biden/Palin: no major blunders
Biden, though not as folksy, was equally firm and confident in his answers and views. He answered like a senior senator, no major blunders and faithfully protected and advanced Obama’s plans and rhetoric. Midway through the debate, Biden switched gears by attacking McCain by tying him to George Bush, mentioning that the McCain plan looks no different than Bush’s (saying Bush’s name five times in a row).
Biden did make minor mistakes by stumbling on the word characterization and calling Bosnians “Bosniacs.” Besides these minor items. Biden was forceful and articulate.
A mistake was also made by Palin. She referred to Gen. McClellan as the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan; David McKiernan is the top general. This misstep was inconsequential as Palin went on the offensive.
Palin on the offensive
Palin on the attack: Biden “voted for the [Iraq] war, then voted against it, like other Washington politicians “who voted for it before voting against it.” On the other hand, Palin propelled McCain as one who has fought and knows how to secure victory.
Prevention and cooperation not preemption is the changed that is needed in American foreign policy said Biden. Wry smiles and a wink was Palin’s response claiming to bringing Wasilla main street in the streets of Washington. “There you go again Joe, doggonit, it ain’t so,” saying that Biden going back to attacking George Bush.
Biden as an independent VP
Biden would play his VP role as an independent counselor and experienced advisor as Obama wants. For supporting McCain as president, Palin’s experience as an executive as a former mayor and governor, while being connected to the heartland of American as a mom, wife and middle class consumer would carry the people’s needs to Washington. She agrees with McCain that in terms of worldview, American is an exceptional country and a beacon on a hill as Ronald Reagan has often said.
Last word for Palin
Palin concluded, despite media attacks against her, “We’re going to fight for America. I thank God that I know the pains and joys of the American families. There is really only one person who have fought for you, John McCain.”
Biden’s blessing
Biden concluded with “guaranteed health” for the troops and that “dignity, respect and love for country equal success.” It’s time for American to get up again. May God bless all of you and may God protect our troops.
Palin overcomes
Palin was “forceful and confident” according to centrist Roll Call editor, Morton Kondrache. Although Biden did very well, the pounding against Palin in the media called for a low threshold of victory for her. So I agree with an undecided female from the Midwest Anheuser Busch plant interviewed by pollster Frank Luntz immediately after the Fox News broadcast of the debate, “It was hers to win or lose, and she won.” Palin overcame.
Again, before listening to the pundits, my view at 10:30pm EST, October 2, 2008:
As almost 100 hundred viewers looked on, both of the candidates were seen as stronger defenders of the top ticket while holding their own. U.S. Sen. Joe Biden was distinctly disciplined while Gov. Sarah Palin sufficiently competent and looked straight into the camera as well as her opponent
Palin v. Biden
Palin said of the Obama/Biden Iraq plan, “Your plan is a white flag of surrender” and used Biden’s previous words against Obama’s Iraq plan before switching his position supporting the plan when he became the vice presidential nominee. Biden posed with a big smile, then attacked U.S. Sen. McCain without answering the accusation.
Palin attack’s Biden
Palin continued to used Biden’s previous words and record against his ticket’s position without stumbling once. Palin quoted former Secretary of State Henry Kissinger, General Petraeus and Al-Quaida in relation to the central role of Iraq in the War on Terror.
Biden/Palin: no major blunders
Biden, though not as folksy, was equally firm and confident in his answers and views. He answered like a senior senator, no major blunders and faithfully protected and advanced Obama’s plans and rhetoric. Midway through the debate, Biden switched gears by attacking McCain by tying him to George Bush, mentioning that the McCain plan looks no different than Bush’s (saying Bush’s name five times in a row).
Biden did make minor mistakes by stumbling on the word characterization and calling Bosnians “Bosniacs.” Besides these minor items. Biden was forceful and articulate.
A mistake was also made by Palin. She referred to Gen. McClellan as the top U.S. commander in Afghanistan; David McKiernan is the top general. This misstep was inconsequential as Palin went on the offensive.
Palin on the offensive
Palin on the attack: Biden “voted for the [Iraq] war, then voted against it, like other Washington politicians “who voted for it before voting against it.” On the other hand, Palin propelled McCain as one who has fought and knows how to secure victory.
Prevention and cooperation not preemption is the changed that is needed in American foreign policy said Biden. Wry smiles and a wink was Palin’s response claiming to bringing Wasilla main street in the streets of Washington. “There you go again Joe, doggonit, it ain’t so,” saying that Biden going back to attacking George Bush.
Biden as an independent VP
Biden would play his VP role as an independent counselor and experienced advisor as Obama wants. For supporting McCain as president, Palin’s experience as an executive as a former mayor and governor, while being connected to the heartland of American as a mom, wife and middle class consumer would carry the people’s needs to Washington. She agrees with McCain that in terms of worldview, American is an exceptional country and a beacon on a hill as Ronald Reagan has often said.
Last word for Palin
Palin concluded, despite media attacks against her, “We’re going to fight for America. I thank God that I know the pains and joys of the American families. There is really only one person who have fought for you, John McCain.”
Biden’s blessing
Biden concluded with “guaranteed health” for the troops and that “dignity, respect and love for country equal success.” It’s time for American to get up again. May God bless all of you and may God protect our troops.
Palin overcomes
Palin was “forceful and confident” according to centrist Roll Call editor, Morton Kondrache. Although Biden did very well, the pounding against Palin in the media called for a low threshold of victory for her. So I agree with an undecided female from the Midwest Anheuser Busch plant interviewed by pollster Frank Luntz immediately after the Fox News broadcast of the debate, “It was hers to win or lose, and she won.” Palin overcame.
Sep 6, 2008
Faith of Her Mother: Profile of the Faith of Sarah Palin
Faith of Her Mother: Profile of the Faith of Sarah Palin
According to some news reports, Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin recently blamed supporters of the Democratic presidential ticket for spreading "misinformation and flat-out lies" about her and her family (www.newsmax.com). What is the truth about Palin?
Just the facts: Sarah's source
Who is Sarah Palin, and what is the source of her strength, what developed her view of family, and what informs her politics and worldview?
The church
A few weeks before the national spotlight focused on her, an 11 year member of Wasilla Bible Church, Jeff Disney said, "We sat in front of Sarah and Todd Palin at church two weeks ago. That day we dedicated their new baby, just the way you would have liked it. They are solid, sold out for the Lord," and strong believers of the Bible. The Disneys have known the Palins for three years.
Sarah, plain and tall
Before attending Wasilla Bible Church, Sarah Palin was born a Roman Catholic, then grew up as a member of an Assemblies of God church, a conservative and pentecostal Christian denomination. As reported by the Associated Press, currently, according to the McCain-Palin campaign, she frequents different churches and does not consider herself a pentecostal (a Christian body that believes in the apostolic gifts of the Holy Spirit as active today).
While in high school, she led the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes group. Known as a tough player, "Sarah Barracuda," led her girls' basketball in prayer and in play to a state championship.
Church and more churches
According to the National Catholic Reporter, Palin often attends an independent Christian church called Church on the Rock in Wasilla, Alaska (go to www.churchontherockak.org for church statement of faith). An AP religion writer also noted that Palin infrequently attends Juneau Christian Center. Finally, a Time magazine article concluded that the Palin's church of worship is Wasilla Bible Church (www.wasillabible.org for church statement of faith), as confirmed by the testimony of the church member who witnessed the baby dedication.
Faith and practice
Facts concur that Palin is a faithful churchgoer, but does her faith translate to actions in life and in politics?
Early testing revealed that Palin's fifth child would be born with Down syndrome. While 90% of mothers of Down syndrome babies choose abortion, Palin's longterm pro-life position and faith pointed to one decision--birth and "blessing." The Anchorage Daily News reported, "she was sad at first but they now feel blessed that God chose them."
Culture of life
Palin's press statement this past spring explained their sentiments:
"Trig is beautiful and already adored by us. We knew through early testing he would face special challenges, and we feel privileged that God would entrust us with the gift and allow us unspeakable joy as he entered our lives.
The statemented concluded:
"We have faith that every baby is created for good purpose and has potential to make this world a better place. We are truly blessed."
A quiet but firm faith from her mother
Boston Globe religion writer Michael Paulson summed up Palin's faith and practice:
"Her Christian faith, they say, came from her mother, who took her children to area Bible churches as they were growing up . . . . her faith has been steady since high school . . . and grew stronger as she sought out believers in her college years. Palin doesn't brandish her religion on the campaign."
"Wearing her faith quietly fits more with Palin's personality," said longtime Alaska resident Chas St. George.
Three years ago, at the Interact Ministry (www.interactministries.org) conference, "nobody introduced her," said Disney. She and Todd were just sitting quietly at his table when he (Disney) realized that this is the mayor of Wasilla. They were there to give money to a ministry that cared for the spiritual and physical needs of northern communities around Alaska, Canada and Russia.
It was here that Disney and his wife became acquainted with the Palins. "We were ask to host a table and we got to know them a bit there." When ask if she's really who she portrays herself, Disney said, "When you listen to her, you can tell!"
The children are active in church events. Todd and Sarah "are both great parents. I can hardly picture Todd without him having one of his kids hanging on him or in his arms - he is a very involved and loving father." Todd is also a four-time champion of the Iron Dog, roughly a 2000 mile snow-machine race over land, rivers and some open ocean from Wasilla to Nome, Alaska. He is a "man's man" but also "Mr. Mom and kids love him." He is both strong and soft but always, according to Sarah's Republican Convention acceptance speech, "my man."
Integrity
Wasilla Bible Church associate pastor Ashley Brown believes in her integrity: "What she says is what she thinks. Her actions back it up and her words match her beliefs."
Disney agrees that as a professing Christian, Sarah Palin is full of "integrity." She does "the right thing when no one is looking," including taking pay cuts instead of the offered raises, said Wasilla church member and longtime Wasilla and Alaskan voter. As one of her first acts as governor, she listed the govenor's jet on Ebay. Palin "believes in Jesus Christ and is a born-again believer."
Senior Pastor Larry Kroon has taught the Palins, Disneys and many other families using an "inductive style" of teaching, meticulously teaching the Bible one of at a time. The church recently finished going through the Gospel of Mark, using Scripture to prove Scripture while scrutinizing various interpretations for biblical accuracy. Her quiet faith and integrity have come through resulting into political reformation.
She "has cleaned house in the state," Disney said. Her belief in Christ as savior, Lord and creator orients her politics, including the belief for equal time to creationism in public schools, serving the people and public integrity.
Politics, promises and marathons
Sarah Palin's authenticity has turned presidential politics up-side-down. The McCain-Palin ticket promises real reform to the well known politics of personal destruction and corruption. This is just the beginning, so will this marathon running mayor and governor go the political distance?
If this GOP ticket can root out DC corruption half as successfully as Palin did in Juneau against her own party, then the Straight Talk Express would really have something to say. Campaign finance reform and other anti-corruption reforms would truly pale in (or Palin) comparison!
According to some news reports, Republican vice presidential candidate Sarah Palin recently blamed supporters of the Democratic presidential ticket for spreading "misinformation and flat-out lies" about her and her family (www.newsmax.com). What is the truth about Palin?
Just the facts: Sarah's source
Who is Sarah Palin, and what is the source of her strength, what developed her view of family, and what informs her politics and worldview?
The church
A few weeks before the national spotlight focused on her, an 11 year member of Wasilla Bible Church, Jeff Disney said, "We sat in front of Sarah and Todd Palin at church two weeks ago. That day we dedicated their new baby, just the way you would have liked it. They are solid, sold out for the Lord," and strong believers of the Bible. The Disneys have known the Palins for three years.
Sarah, plain and tall
Before attending Wasilla Bible Church, Sarah Palin was born a Roman Catholic, then grew up as a member of an Assemblies of God church, a conservative and pentecostal Christian denomination. As reported by the Associated Press, currently, according to the McCain-Palin campaign, she frequents different churches and does not consider herself a pentecostal (a Christian body that believes in the apostolic gifts of the Holy Spirit as active today).
While in high school, she led the local Fellowship of Christian Athletes group. Known as a tough player, "Sarah Barracuda," led her girls' basketball in prayer and in play to a state championship.
Church and more churches
According to the National Catholic Reporter, Palin often attends an independent Christian church called Church on the Rock in Wasilla, Alaska (go to www.churchontherockak.org for church statement of faith). An AP religion writer also noted that Palin infrequently attends Juneau Christian Center. Finally, a Time magazine article concluded that the Palin's church of worship is Wasilla Bible Church (www.wasillabible.org for church statement of faith), as confirmed by the testimony of the church member who witnessed the baby dedication.
Faith and practice
Facts concur that Palin is a faithful churchgoer, but does her faith translate to actions in life and in politics?
Early testing revealed that Palin's fifth child would be born with Down syndrome. While 90% of mothers of Down syndrome babies choose abortion, Palin's longterm pro-life position and faith pointed to one decision--birth and "blessing." The Anchorage Daily News reported, "she was sad at first but they now feel blessed that God chose them."
Culture of life
Palin's press statement this past spring explained their sentiments:
"Trig is beautiful and already adored by us. We knew through early testing he would face special challenges, and we feel privileged that God would entrust us with the gift and allow us unspeakable joy as he entered our lives.
The statemented concluded:
"We have faith that every baby is created for good purpose and has potential to make this world a better place. We are truly blessed."
A quiet but firm faith from her mother
Boston Globe religion writer Michael Paulson summed up Palin's faith and practice:
"Her Christian faith, they say, came from her mother, who took her children to area Bible churches as they were growing up . . . . her faith has been steady since high school . . . and grew stronger as she sought out believers in her college years. Palin doesn't brandish her religion on the campaign."
"Wearing her faith quietly fits more with Palin's personality," said longtime Alaska resident Chas St. George.
Three years ago, at the Interact Ministry (www.interactministries.org) conference, "nobody introduced her," said Disney. She and Todd were just sitting quietly at his table when he (Disney) realized that this is the mayor of Wasilla. They were there to give money to a ministry that cared for the spiritual and physical needs of northern communities around Alaska, Canada and Russia.
It was here that Disney and his wife became acquainted with the Palins. "We were ask to host a table and we got to know them a bit there." When ask if she's really who she portrays herself, Disney said, "When you listen to her, you can tell!"
The children are active in church events. Todd and Sarah "are both great parents. I can hardly picture Todd without him having one of his kids hanging on him or in his arms - he is a very involved and loving father." Todd is also a four-time champion of the Iron Dog, roughly a 2000 mile snow-machine race over land, rivers and some open ocean from Wasilla to Nome, Alaska. He is a "man's man" but also "Mr. Mom and kids love him." He is both strong and soft but always, according to Sarah's Republican Convention acceptance speech, "my man."
Integrity
Wasilla Bible Church associate pastor Ashley Brown believes in her integrity: "What she says is what she thinks. Her actions back it up and her words match her beliefs."
Disney agrees that as a professing Christian, Sarah Palin is full of "integrity." She does "the right thing when no one is looking," including taking pay cuts instead of the offered raises, said Wasilla church member and longtime Wasilla and Alaskan voter. As one of her first acts as governor, she listed the govenor's jet on Ebay. Palin "believes in Jesus Christ and is a born-again believer."
Senior Pastor Larry Kroon has taught the Palins, Disneys and many other families using an "inductive style" of teaching, meticulously teaching the Bible one of at a time. The church recently finished going through the Gospel of Mark, using Scripture to prove Scripture while scrutinizing various interpretations for biblical accuracy. Her quiet faith and integrity have come through resulting into political reformation.
She "has cleaned house in the state," Disney said. Her belief in Christ as savior, Lord and creator orients her politics, including the belief for equal time to creationism in public schools, serving the people and public integrity.
Politics, promises and marathons
Sarah Palin's authenticity has turned presidential politics up-side-down. The McCain-Palin ticket promises real reform to the well known politics of personal destruction and corruption. This is just the beginning, so will this marathon running mayor and governor go the political distance?
If this GOP ticket can root out DC corruption half as successfully as Palin did in Juneau against her own party, then the Straight Talk Express would really have something to say. Campaign finance reform and other anti-corruption reforms would truly pale in (or Palin) comparison!
Aug 29, 2008
A conservative, female GOP VP nominee?
If the operative (leading) reason for U.S. Sen. John McCain's vice presidential pick of Alaska Gov. Sarah Palin was due to gender and such egalitarian reasons, then his pick is problematic. Remember, Martin Luther King, Jr., said, we "should not be judged by the color of our skin, but the content of our character."
Whether its skin or gender, either characteristics are outside of our control. What we can control, that is, the "content of our character," should be the operative factor for selection. Content of our character reflects our integrity, discipline, hard work, faithfulness leading to achievements, successful relationships and contentment. Apparently, Gov. Palin has the necessary content of character.
The question remains, did Sen. McCain pick her finally because she was the most qualified under the circumstances or because she was a woman? If she was picked for being a woman (to obtain Hillary Clinton female voters and the historic suffrage moment), then political appeasement to left-liberal egalitarian in gender affairs won out.
McCain and his close confidants only knows. Certainly, many now know that the Palin pick does change the poltical dynamics. Obama and his particular ethnicity is not the only historic moment in this race; Palin does not pale in comparison.
Whether its skin or gender, either characteristics are outside of our control. What we can control, that is, the "content of our character," should be the operative factor for selection. Content of our character reflects our integrity, discipline, hard work, faithfulness leading to achievements, successful relationships and contentment. Apparently, Gov. Palin has the necessary content of character.
The question remains, did Sen. McCain pick her finally because she was the most qualified under the circumstances or because she was a woman? If she was picked for being a woman (to obtain Hillary Clinton female voters and the historic suffrage moment), then political appeasement to left-liberal egalitarian in gender affairs won out.
McCain and his close confidants only knows. Certainly, many now know that the Palin pick does change the poltical dynamics. Obama and his particular ethnicity is not the only historic moment in this race; Palin does not pale in comparison.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)