I've found the recent protestations over the host country for the Olympic games to be quite intriguing. On one hand I feel, like those opposing or disagreeing with the protesters, that we should not politicize the games, that they should be about competition, togetherness, and brother/sisterhood. One the other hand I appreciate what these protesters are doing because they are drawing attention to an important blemish on China's records; their human rights record. I love seeing this kind of fervor developing for another country because it shows that we can transcend national boundaries and show empathy and heart for our fellow human beings, no matter what their nationality. Citizens of the world are coming together on this and it truly is enjoyable to see.

I envy these protesters in certain ways. I envy their zeal, commitment, and audacity. It takes immense heart and passion to turn against the current of mainstream society, to stand up and "yell out in defiance, your rules not for me" as a favorite Pennywise song of mine goes. To me, bravery or heroism is not hitting two free throws to win a championship or nailing your wide receiver between three defenders to win a Superbowl, real heroism are these people who stand up for what they believe in despite criticism and potential ostracism by those around them. I laud these protesters and scorn the disrespect they are shown by the "authorities". I always find it interesting how untouchable official ceremonial proceedings are. There is this diligence about ensuring that they are seen through to the end; they are viewed as tainted or spoiled if a few people try to highlight their concern over a lack of humanity within the borders of a growing world power. The central issue here is thus; Why did the Olympic committee grant China, a country that does not represent the spirit of the games, the privilege of hosting the games? Yes, the games should not be politicized, but this isn't about politics, this is about humanity, and is that not what the games are about?

A small note on the presidential race...The recent revelations about the lies, and skewing of the facts by Hillary Clinton is emblematic of her character. Many politicians use indirectness and inflationary tactics to boost the perception of their character, but the obviousness of her lies has been scandalous. Come on Hillary, you touched down in a war zone with bullets whistling all around you? Really? I know you're trying to play the tough gal on defense, but conservatives are suppose to be the delusional ones here.

One final note. If you are a gun toting red neck who feels that guns are a central issue in today's political world, you're wrong! The obsession some Americans have with guns truly is troublesome, and indicative of the paranoia and tough guy complex some are sick with, but Uncle Sam doesn't want your guns; And if you're going to invoke the Second Amendment, know it's damn context and what it means. The Second Amendment is outdated, it was initially inserted into the Bill of Rights because Americans needed guns to hunt for food, and protect themselves because they're weren't any real institionalized law enforcement agences or national military. Guns should be a privelege, not a right. We don't need to hunt for food, and we have law enforcement and an military to protect us. Sorry Jonny Reb, but Al Queda doesn't give a shit about you or your Dog so you don't even need a gun to protect you from them. Find something else to compensate for your insufficient manhood.