Sunday, January 29, 2017

Justin Trudeau you are my hero.........


To those fleeing persecution, terror & war, Canadians will welcome you, regardless of your faith. Diversity is our strength 
Justin Trudeau

I am horrified about the events of this week, each day getting even worse than the previous one.  When looking for something to grab onto I looked to Canada, Justin Trudeau is my new hero.  Speaking out for what is right, what is kind and what is decent.  I applaud all Americans who have protested the horrible executive orders that have been signed this week.  You had better protest now because I read yesterday that some states are trying to make protests illegal.   

I just want to tell the world that we are not this.  It looks like Americans right now are horrible people, but we aren't.  Most of us are kind and embracing those people from different nations and different religious faiths.  We want peace, not alienation.  We want equal rights for all, and we want to welcome all of you, not ban you because you have come from a country that does not have a business interest by the president.  We want to tear down walls, not build them.  I really can't put into words what this week has done, I have tried to post about it several times but find the magnitude of these despicable acts have rendered me speechless.  Do I blame the man in charge, you bet, but I also blame those men and women in the government that are allowing all of this to happen.  Our elected officials are not governing for the people, they are governing for themselves and for big business,  They are governing on a platform of fear, not kindness.

  Here are some interesting links that might help you feel there is hope, well a smidgen of hope out there anyway.  That the press is not lying, that not all the people in America find these new policies to be okay.  

The newest issue of Time Magazine is out and it is amazing.  Wouldn't it be great if we actually went out and bought the hard copy instead of just reading it online?

For those of you who want to continue your quest to do more after the Women's March on Washington, D.C. and all over the globe, you can find out how to do more here.

John Pavlovitz, a minister, is my favorite read of the day.  He seems to be able to articulate so much of what I want to say in a much better way than I could ever imagine.  I have been reading his posts long before the election, and I find that he speaks for many of us.

Votespotter, is an app that keeps you in touch with your representatives and lets you know how they vote on the things that are interesting to you.  It is a non partisan project, just the facts.  Thank you Araignee's Tangled Web for bringing this to my attention.

The last day to sign up for the ACA or Obamacare is January 31.  You can still sign up if you want to and be covered for the next year.  The new administration does not have this information up anymore so now you know.  32 million people are going to lose their healthcare if this is repealed. with no alternative put in place.  The billions of dollars that will be lost repealing and replacing is staggering and so unnecessary.

Climate change is real.  Support those scientists that have been shut up, those at the EPA, NASA and the National Park Service.  Did you know that the new administration has made it much easier to sell off public lands to developers, oil drilling and for commercial purposes?  Our sacred parks and national monuments could be gone.

I just finished Small Great Things by Jodi Picout.  Oh my you have to read it.  I am usually not a huge Jodi Picout fan, I love her style I just don't always love her endings.  This book about race and the prejudice we all have was very enlightening to me.  I had to read it in small spurts as it was uncomfortable and frankly appalling at times, but it is so relevant to where we are in this country and in many others.  And it is relevant to some of the people who are helping to run this country, this mindset is beyond my comprehension but is necessary to face head on.

I have to say I am having a hard time reading blogs right now, my spirits are very low and I can't seem to hide them by posting about a pretty flower.  It isn't that those flowers are important with the beauty they bring to our lives, it is that there is so much going on that is against everything I believe in.  This election has brought a huge fissure to our country.  It has let the ugliness that is in all of us become unchecked in many.  I can't bury my head in the sand and pretend it isn't happening or that it will all go away.  I realize you come here to see Little Buddy and a few of the things I make, but this is my life right now and I am going to be honest.  Speaking freely is our right, protesting is our right, disagreeing is our right.  Speak out before our voices are silenced.

So I don't end this depressing everyone I found this article about people knitting/crocheting sweaters for elephants.  You can find it here.  It is helping restore my faith in humanity.  

43 comments:

Bridget said...

I hear you, Meredith.

Do you remember when Justin Trudeau's parents were the First Family in Canada? And then they got divorced, and his mother was always in the tabloids, people calling her a party girl, immoral, etc. Seems that in spite of all that, he learned kindness and humanity from his parents, and became a wonderful young man. Canada gives me hope, which seems otherwise in short supply these days.

Hang in there. If we don't speak up, who will?

Anonymous said...

What a wonderful blog posting- be assured that you DO speak for many many of us who are daily more appalled and disgusted by the actions of our so-called 'leaders'- they are showing themselves to be the racist bullies we feared-

I discovered John Pavlovitz a year or so ago- such a voice of sanity and a compelling writer too- I wish everyone could/would read his words and give them real thought-

I certainly plan to follow your links so I can do my part to return this country to its rightful place in the world- in the meanwhile ... I join you in saying 'Hurray for Canada' and regarding Mr. Trudeau as a true hero-

best regards-
barb in texas

Anonymous said...

AS they said in the first march -----------Now you've pissed off Grandma!

NOW -------he's pretty much pissed off EVERYONE!

kristieinbc said...

It's been an unbelievable week. Really, it has. But there are glimmers of hope. People continue to protest, and media outlets are challenging him. Not just in the US, but around the world. For the sake of your own health I hope you are able to find a balance between all the ugly craziness that is happening right now, and the beautiful gifts you have in your life...your family, your crafts, and all the acts of kindness that come your way throughout each day. Hugs to you...

The Well Fed Wheel said...

I haven't been able to post on my blog either. I just can't go on with life as usual when so much is wrong around me. I feel as though our voices have already been silenced. It doesn't appear as though anyone is able to stop this nut case and his band of thugs from destroying our country. I have no respect for him or anyone who voted for him. Shame on all of you. You have put us all in danger with your stupidiy.

Claudia said...

Thank you, as always, for speaking out. As you know, I feel much the same way. Yesterday's ban on immigrants and refugees plunged both Don and I into depression. Then we saw the protestors at all of the major airports, the ACLU and immigration lawyers speeding to the airports to help those in need, the mayor of NYC speaking out against this travesty, and the comments on social media of all of us who find this repugnant. I'm headed out today to buy a copy of the Constitution. I want it right by my side.

He must be impeached. And Bannon, the power behind the throne, must be booted from the White House.

I echo your plea: To the world - we are not like this man. We embrace immigrants. We are all, save for Native Americans, the descendants of immigrants. We believe in the Constitution. We believe in the sentiment on the Statue of Liberty. We are deeply ashamed by this Fascist-in-Chief. We will do everything we can to stop this man from destroying our country. We will fight. Please believe in us.

Linda @ A La Carte said...

Meredith, I am without words right now. My sadness and anger is so deep. I too have been reading John Pavlovitz, he is so articulate and says what I can't. I read Jodi Picoult's Small Great Things and it was so eye opening for me also. Makes me look deep into myself and my prejudice...I like to think I don't have any, but I do. I will continue to try to see myself honestly and make changes. Dear friend, I hope we all continue to make a difference in our world to fight against this evil that has become our President.

kathy b said...

Thank you MEre for the John P link. I'll try to read him today.
Stay strong. We have had to fight for so much in this country of ours. You are not alone. Good times are ahead . Seeng all those who care deeply for our Country as a Melting Pot of thoughts, people and inspiration is so empowering. We will continue to fight for what we know is right.
big hugs.

Christina said...

Let me tell you Meredith, the rest of the world does not think all Americans are like that unhinged man. This last week has been horrendous, every day another unbelievable news headline. Please keep on marching and keep on writing, your voice will be heard. Sending you hugs xxx

Chy said...

Hi Meredith. I am a new subscriber to your blog, found by reading the lovely Claudia's blog each day. I am also a proud but humble Canadian. We treasure Justin and are thankful that he is young, energetic, open to new ideas, and he has come through in record time with his campaign plans. I know his openness to welcome others with heart and care is genuine. I, like most Canadians, are following hour by hour the turmoil that is building in the U.S. and keep hoping that something will change, someone will change this dangerous and inhuman path DJT has taken your country on. I can only imagine the fear and upset you are experiencing. Know the world is watching and hoping for change, with peace for all.

I had a momentary laugh yesterday when my dear grandson, at the age of 6, asked me if I knew who the new President of the United States is. I answered yes and then asked him if he knew. He responded "Yes, I do. His name is Donald J.Trump and I am NOT impressed!" This created great laughter in our home, a welcome relief from the gloom everyone feels. I then asked him if he knew who our Prime Minister in Canada is. He thought for a moment, then replied "I don't know who is but he must be doing a great job if I haven't heard his name!!"

The wisdom of a child.

Justin's father was in power when I was a child, as small as my grandson. I somehow feel some comfort in this second generation of a leader who cares so much. I hope something changes soon. Keeping you and your family in our hearts.

X Chy

P.S. We've kept the news of what is happening quiet from our little guy, not wanting him to be worried about something he doesn't need to think about at such a young age. But in chatting wit him, we've discovered on the school bus and on the playground, this is a big topic, even up here in frosty Canada! That concerns me that our kids are having to figure out the word "worry" at such a young age.

Fiona said...

Dear Meredith I can promise you that the rest of the world does not think all Americans are thinking and behaving in the same way as that idiot who has somehow become the president. We are all watching with horror and disbelief. Please believe me when I say that you are not alone, the world is aware and watching and it seems that the majority are thinking as you and your sister do. I've been following thevaultblue on instagram and his posts are insightful and informative, he is also of the same mind as you. Thinking of you and your lovely family x

Unknown said...

This week has been so depressing! It is so hard to understand what this man is thinking! Or in his case not thinking. He certainly is not thinking about his fellow man. Only himself. I still want to believe in the goodness of people. More good people then bad. But sometimes it is hard now. I am almost glad that I don't have kids that will have to live in the world that he is creating.

Chris said...

Bravo Mer! This blog post should be an op/ed in major newspapers worldwide. I have been following your links and I thank you for that ! Such interesting reading. We all are following the news hour by hour closely too. We are a global village and we must stand united against this attack on humanity . Bless you!

kristieinbc said...

Me again. I know you aren't reading a lot of blogs right now, but if you have time you might want to look at the one I just posted.
http://journeynorthof49.blogspot.ca/2017/01/a-sunday-post.html

Lisa said...

Do not worry about speaking your mind on your blog. If we stay quiet then nothing changes. It's only been a week and boy do we ever need a change! I'm trying to curb my magazine purchases but I hope to buy a copy of Time this week. This one is too important not to have. I'm so happy you and others are continuing to post way we can all make a difference. i believe we can make a difference! Lisa

AnnieOBTextiles said...

Please be assured Meredith that the world knows the majority of Americans are warm, welcoming, goodhearted people. What is happening is so worrying and my heart goes out to you. It is equally disturbing that politicians in the UK are more concerned with trade deals than human rights. We need more strong leaders like Justin Trudeau. The only way to deal with bullies is stand up to them not appease them to achieve your own ends, that's the route to moral bankruptcy.

Teresa Kasner said...

BRAVO, Mere! I'm proud of you to share your wisdom with us. We need to galvanize ourselves.. we need to change our depression into ACTION.. we need to UNITE and work together to stand up for the good and fight the evil. I'm with you! I will also keep sharing my thoughts. But I am also going to share my flowers and pretty things - I feel I can do both. :-) Love you!! ((hugs)), Teresa :-)

Lorrie said...

Dear Meredith,
As a Canadian, I am very proud of Justin Trudeau's statement yesterday. I did not vote for him, but admire the way he stood up to a bully, a much larger and stronger bully. We know that many, many Americans are kind, decent, caring people and we love you for that. Stay strong. Do not grow weary in well-doing. Lorrie

Wanderingcatstudio said...

Sadly, there are plenty of Canadians who are not happy with Justin's statement.
And there are plenty of Canadians who like Donald Trump.
We are not perfect either... but for those who agree with Justin, we are heartend by all those in the US speaking up against Trump.
There are many, many wonderful people in both countries, and it doesn't take long to find them...
Keep up the good fight!

Rachel said...

Well said, and lots of great info! I've been having trouble keeping up blogging with everything going on, but I have found they give me a chance to breath when everything seems impossible.

gigi knits said...

He needs to be Impeached !!! He is not speeching for most American .

Nance said...

Oh, Meredith! I just mentioned PM Trudeau over at my blog while responding to a commenter. Isn't he The Change We Wish To See?

Thank you for the many resources for all of us who feel as you do, by turns fearful, ashamed, overwhelmed, and angry. No, he is Not Who We Are. He is a Cataclysmic Mistake. Surely the rest of the world must know this.

As I struggle against him and other new realities in my life, I am resolved to still find Moments Of Joy at the end of each day. I cannot allow him to steal away My True Life along with my country.

Resist!

Mylittlepieceofengland said...

I am so sorry to read where you are now, sad to read it, but understand completely. We often talk here about what's happening in your country and feel very nervous, we also know that there are many people like yourself who are so frustrated and upset xx

linda said...

Bless you Meredith I'm with you in all that you say. :) xx

CJ said...

Oh Meredith, I can well understand how desperate you feel right now. As you say, every day a new horror. I had been thinking of you and wondering how you were. I don't really have any words to help, but I'm sending you a hug. If you were here I would make you a cup of tea and we would sit on the sofa and put the world to rights. CJ xx

Toni said...

Every day brings new horrors with this man, and unfortunately, Congressional Republicans know that many, many, MANY of those protesting will not turn to out to vote, and they're getting what they want in the meantime and letting Trump take the heat--repeal Obamacare, killing Planned Parenthood, selling off or transferring federal lands to states, increasing the military. And unfortunately, at least one of my elected representatives who came in with the Tea Party wave doesn't understand how trade actually works, nor does he understand what would happen in a trade war with our 2nd largest export market. It's horrifying on so many levels.

To add to your list:

1. If you haven't already done so, REGISTER TO VOTE. Every vote matters.

2. Washington Post has a special on their digital subsription--$39 versus $99. They have been doing an exceptional job fact-checking the man and even have a Google Chrome extension to check Trump's tweets. https://subscribe.washingtonpost.com/acqbeta/?promo=fbalwayson39&view=1&ttexclude=1&hl=hl1N39#/offers/promo/fbalwayson39/view/1?ttexclude=1&hl=hl1N39

3. Recognize allies when you see them. Evan McMullin, who joined the presidential race as a conservative after Trump's issues with women and racism finally pushed many Mormons to break with Trump, has started a bi-partisan coalition to stand up to Trump. There are a few issues I disagree with him on, but we share so much common ground that it's time to recognize that there are more moderates in the country than extremists, and we could change the country by working together. https://standuprepublic.com/



Joyful said...

What is happening south of the border is very much on the minds and lips of people here. Thank God there are still some kind and decent people in the world and leaders. Though at times the threads that hold everything together may seem fragile. I pray for peace and an upturn in political thinking and a show of humanity and kindness. Many of us voted for Justin Trudeau because we had a leader who didn't seem to stand for such things. Now we are clawing our way back to the values we used to emulate so well. Hugs. xx

Araignee said...

Being here in the DC area I can see I am going to be very busy. It's a protest a day around here. I missed the big one at the White House today because the skating team had a show or I'd be there right now. Every day a new cause to march. It's CRAZY but we WILL prevail.

Jodiebodie said...

I'm glad to see your post this morning and to know that you haven't been totally overwhelmed. I was concerned that the delay in your regular post might be due to the turmoil of your country's politics and was hoping that you were okay.

At first I wondered whether DJT's intention was to create chaos on purpose so that while everyone is fussing over those issues, attention is diverted from other activities that he wants to get up to quietly.

Now I find it hard to believe because it is obvious that DJT has not thought through his decisions properly. If he had put any thought into his actions at all, he would see that the only people paying for his decisions will be the American people:

E.g., tax Mexican goods - It will be reflected in the prices on the US merket paid for by the American people. If the price goes up on a Mexican sourced product, will that give US businesses licence to raise their own domestic prices on similar goods? From a tourism perspective alone, a lot of people will be turned off from travelling to the USA. That would be a significant effect on an entire industry sector. How can visitors trust the US government if it cannot even trust its own 'green card' holders or those granted US citizenship? If those people have their citizenship annulled, what is the danger of anyone having their citizenship (or tourist visa) annulled at a whim?

Not to mention the lack of productivity and expense caused by people trying to deal with and adjust to DJT's actions - energy and money that could have otherwise been spent employing people, creating jobs, investing in US interests, boosting the economy etc.; moving forward instead of tumbling into a quagmire of fear, distrust and hatred.

What I can ascertain for sure is that DJT is obsessed with his own sense of power and control. That kind of behaviour is consistent with people who abuse others and that is most disturbing of all. Look at the human rights abuses happening right now on the basis of race, religion and nationality. He is even targetting dual passport holders - those people who the US deemed suitable to hold US citizenship are now accused of being dangerous criminals?

I do have another question about US democratic processes. Surely the laws that DJT is making need to be passed through the houses of government? Where is the debate before laws are passed? Are DJT's actions even legal?

Thank you Meredith for the links you have provided. I will certainly follow up on them and perhaps I will find some more insights and answers to my questions.

In the meantime, I am so proud of you, your family and everyone else who speaks up and protests. If Americans everywhere join together and support each other in speaking out, speaking candidly, without fear, surely the government cannot detain everyone! I wish that the immigration workers at the airports were brave enough to boycott the decision and let everyone on a greencard or dual citizenship through at their own discretion and ignore the country of origin. If they cannot do that, what would happen if they all walked off the job on moral grounds? I don't know if I could live with myself knowing that a person who has no terrorist links and who has been a stable, contributing citizen has been denied their rights at my hand.

Hang in there and keep using the voices that you have. The rest of the world is also grappling with the situation. There is only so much patience to go around before things will come to a head.

On a positive note, it was heartening to see people rallying at airports to say 'welcome' to visitors. Keep the pressure on. xx

Anonymous said...

It feels good to read blogposts like this. I didn't think of America as 'bad', I understand that it is really one person who is behind all this. But still it's nice to get some confirmation, as I have read on other blogs too.
I'm from Belgium (Europe) and our government is thinking in almost the same way as Trump, and I deeply regret that!
I can't understand where this world is going to...
But as long as there are people like you, there is hope!
Wishing you all the best,
Sigrid

mamasmercantile said...

I too have been overwhelmed by the events of this week. I can offer no words of wisdom but I can send you a hug and no that I pray for all the hatred and discrimination in this world to end. Take care.

Preeti said...

I earlier used to think that the statements he used to make were just to get popularity and win elections. But when the world is seeing that he is doing illogical things in the era of globalisation, that reflects how little knowledge he has about the world.
I also feel bad for the people of certain religion who get labelled badly, hardly less than 1% around the world might be the trouble makers but entire community gets the bad name and banned for travelling.

Threads of Inspiration said...

Meredith, you said so many things that I have been feeling and thinking. It is hard to find inspiration to write a post when it feels like one horror follows another. I have been feeling hopeless and overwhelmed. I'm trying to find small bits of hope in the demonstrations that continue, the Indivisible Guide groups that are forming with large numbers of participants and I'll be going to a local organizing meeting in two weeks. Take good care of little Buddy (which I know you do) and create when you can. There are so many of us that stand with you. Sending you a big hug. Susan

kathy b said...

Love this post Mere. Off to buy that TIME in print form.
Love people crocheting for elephants!!!!!!

Pradeepa said...

It's scary to think about the sort of world we are creating for our children and their children. I felt very sad when I read in our newspapers yesterday that some Muslims visiting their family in India are now canceling their tickets for fear of being denied entry to the US upon their return. I hope Trump will not become another Hitler and lead us to a world war III.

Chris K in Wisconsin said...

Meredith, thanks for the links. My entire family downloaded the Votespotter app, and I subscribed to the John Pavlovitz blog. I feel myself falling down the rabbit hole with this entire mess. It is beyond my comprehension what is happening to our country. My health is being affected. I can't sleep, and when I read or hear any of the horrific things he is doing, I just cry. Thanks for the great post today!

Jodiebodie said...

Well I feel like a hypocrite now because the Australian Prime Minister won't soeak out about what is happening with DJT's orders and no one in the PM's party of government will either. It is obvious that DJT's actions are immoral and I'm very angry that the Australian Government is just as immoral for standing by and saying nothing! Maybe it is not me who is the hypocrite. Sad and frustrated that there are people who put their personal political ambitions ahead of what is right.

Gracie Saylor said...

Thanks for the links, Meredith. They help me understand your viewpoint better. I plan to take a blog break for the month of February. My older sister's husband died Monday morning and I plan to fly down to Burbank on Friday. Wishing you and yours peace. xx

Tammy@T's Daily Treasures said...

I'm right there with you Meredith, feeling the same. And since I'm living in a Muslim country and am married to a Muslim, I have firsthand knowledge of the stories of so many who are being unjustly labeled and discriminated against by that maniacal moron.

Lulu said...

i am losing hope ,which scares me so much..My anxiety is high every day now..Scared of everything, constant worrying for my father..I just dont know anymore..

Mrs. Micawber said...

*sigh*

Hard to find anything to say except thank you, Mere, for reminding the world that we are not all crazy here.

It's been really hard to see the political gulf become so wide and so full of acrimony. It's dividing friends and families. That shouldn't be.

God help us all.

Anonymous said...
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Jo said...

Just trying to put a smile on your face really but Heidi said this week, "Do you know why we don't want Trump to visit the UK?" "Because he is too much of a bad smell!"

She either made that joke up (possible) or mashed it up out of overheard news or older childrens chat (likely) and it made me laugh. In a child's language Trump is a word for a fart in the UK hence her bad smell pun.

Sending you love. It must be so hard to simply deal with stuff. Jo x