The Killers have done their homework, listened to the right records, and stolen from the right people! The songs are full of new wave riffing and their choruses are high on the spine tingle count. Tess and I scored tickets to see them at the Molson Amphitheatre May 31st with bi-coastal Canadian twins Tegan and Sara. Speaking of the Rock, Vancouver stalwarts SNFU fly to Onterrible to rip it up April 28th. This is the best punk rock band you might be lucky enough to see this spring, and you never know when you might get another chance.
I used all my rocket fuel last week to paint the kitchen. I needed to gauge manual stresses and I’m pretty sure I got a good mark, though it was mighty tiring.
I’m one of those nutbars that like going to work.
I led the life of an artist (usually a starving one) until I was thirty-two, at which time I got my first day-gig in an office. I like the comedy, I like the discipline involved, and I like to wake up in the morning. I like the fact that "personal cause" (usually) translates into "personal effect." Being in a band means you have to rely on and work with three or four people to succeed. Creative people are often tortured souls, and work can be uneven. I find day jobbing is more individualistic, there is more personal glory involved, and I like the challenge of the trajectory.
So many people are miserable with work, but if you hate it so much why bother? You could move to Costa Rica and serve drinks for two days a week to put food in your belly - (my dream retirement job.) You could certainly do without the massive SUV lease. Speaking of which, it’s high time that these creatures became unfashionable.
It’s been almost three months since surgery, slacking is about to become a thing of the past and I’m headed back to work Monday. As Phil R. so eloquently said on the phone yesterday, “Oprah and Dr. Phil have really great shows, but it’s time to move forward.”
On the bicycle front, I cherry burst my first ride post-op today. My baby hooked me up with a new helmet, a front light, and small rearview mirror yesterday, and I’m definitely going for a scoot.
15 Degrees today - good times.
Tuesday, March 29, 2005
Monday, March 28, 2005
Saturday, March 26, 2005
Friday, March 25, 2005
Thursday, March 24, 2005
Jeff Buckley helped me paint the kitchen.
My first exposure to Jeff Buckley was on television during Glastonbury '94. I was in southern England making a Bootsauce record at the time, and having a great time with my buddies. It was time for a wee break in the afternoon, and I took off for the serenity of the lounge, ringing ears and hangover in tow, to watch television. Onscreen I saw a guy and his band set up their gear and start to play. They jumped from the screen into the ether of Jacobs Studio with a vengeance and tore into their stuff. Jeff, (son of folk hero hippie Tim Buckley) and his band played an amazing set that afternoon, and he completely blew everyone away with his live version of songs from the brilliant breakthrough album Grace. I couldn’t tear myself away. Their set went down like something important to witness - this meant something; it was clear that something special was in the air. I was so moved I practically destroyed a snare drum that afternoon. Sadly, Buckley was to drown in 1997; a talent taken far too soon, his genius half-tapped.
If you don’t know Grace do yourself a favour and go buy it. Buckley and his band of New Yorkers play “loosely tight” as Jimmy Page once said, the songs are amazing, and it belongs in your stash.
Besides. It’s great music to paint the kitchen to.
If you don’t know Grace do yourself a favour and go buy it. Buckley and his band of New Yorkers play “loosely tight” as Jimmy Page once said, the songs are amazing, and it belongs in your stash.
Besides. It’s great music to paint the kitchen to.
Wednesday, March 23, 2005
Back In the Saddle
Today I led my first Spinning class since January 9th, which was predictably awesome. Standout song: "Regret" by New Order. (Nobody can get away with the retro sound like the Frapper.)
I'd write more, but I'm knee deep in primer and spackling compound. 11 more sleeps before I get back on the hamster wheel~!
I'd write more, but I'm knee deep in primer and spackling compound. 11 more sleeps before I get back on the hamster wheel~!
Tuesday, March 22, 2005
Funky Crate
I told the Taylor Creekers that I’d like to get a snap of them in action before my day of reckoning comes in April. Secret Agent Everett is 'outta here like Vladamir' and moving to the Bruce Peninsula in May. Unfortunately, his wife recently died, and he is bailing out of his long time career at the CBC to retire at 51; it’ll be a shame to see him go, and needless to say, it’s too bad his girl isn’t going with him. The best-laid plans are fragile of course, and require constant revision.
Yesterday I ran into my Trenton High School buddy Klass and his two boys at the Laundromat. (It’s true I admit it. I wash Luna’s nasty crate blankets there.) Of course it’s been way too long since I’ve seen Klass. He and his family live blocks away, and this was the first time I’d met his enthusiastic fellas. His boys with Jackie are predictably beautiful, and by coincidence they know another notable Creeker, Fred the Grand Poobah. We had a coffee and caught up before exchanging numbers and promising to call each other.
So if having a brain tumour wasn’t enough, I’m painting my kitchen. ("It's not the destination it's the process.") Leaving the store this morning paint supplies in hand I heard a great song on CBC by Canadians Tegan and Sara. I don’t know what the song was called but it was really awesome and uplifting. Those two sisters have managed to stumble into something special, that’s for sure.
The results of CBC Radio’s 50 Tracks are in by the way, and it’s good to see ‘New York City’ by the Demics included. Maybe there is justice in Canada after all.
From today’s good news file: Shamsha Amarsi, the girl thrown from the bridge by her suicidal father earlier this month came home from the hospital today. Good luck little Sister.
Yesterday I ran into my Trenton High School buddy Klass and his two boys at the Laundromat. (It’s true I admit it. I wash Luna’s nasty crate blankets there.) Of course it’s been way too long since I’ve seen Klass. He and his family live blocks away, and this was the first time I’d met his enthusiastic fellas. His boys with Jackie are predictably beautiful, and by coincidence they know another notable Creeker, Fred the Grand Poobah. We had a coffee and caught up before exchanging numbers and promising to call each other.
So if having a brain tumour wasn’t enough, I’m painting my kitchen. ("It's not the destination it's the process.") Leaving the store this morning paint supplies in hand I heard a great song on CBC by Canadians Tegan and Sara. I don’t know what the song was called but it was really awesome and uplifting. Those two sisters have managed to stumble into something special, that’s for sure.
The results of CBC Radio’s 50 Tracks are in by the way, and it’s good to see ‘New York City’ by the Demics included. Maybe there is justice in Canada after all.
From today’s good news file: Shamsha Amarsi, the girl thrown from the bridge by her suicidal father earlier this month came home from the hospital today. Good luck little Sister.
Monday, March 21, 2005
Sunday, March 20, 2005
First Day of Spring
NP: "The First Day of Spring"
THE GANDHARVAS
Winter is officially over, and spring has sprung itself forward like a thirsty man at a Winnipeg 'Two-For-One'. I almost bought some perennial bulbs to plant in the back yard today, but my (sensible) wife drew a line in the snow suggesting that perhaps we should wait until the ground thaws and the credit card cycle sees me back to work. I would have to pay the balance to zero anyway, (I hate paying interest), or I'd feel like a schmuck.
Good deal on Chocolate Pecan Pie at Dominion today: $9.97
Yum.
THE GANDHARVAS
Winter is officially over, and spring has sprung itself forward like a thirsty man at a Winnipeg 'Two-For-One'. I almost bought some perennial bulbs to plant in the back yard today, but my (sensible) wife drew a line in the snow suggesting that perhaps we should wait until the ground thaws and the credit card cycle sees me back to work. I would have to pay the balance to zero anyway, (I hate paying interest), or I'd feel like a schmuck.
Good deal on Chocolate Pecan Pie at Dominion today: $9.97
Yum.
Saturday, March 19, 2005
People That You Meet
Today I ran into a guy dog walking I hadn’t seen since a blindingly bright day in January. We walked for miles, and our dogs were really happy running together. (His dog is a Whippet and mine is a Shepherd, and they cut quite a rug and make quite a team, I can tell you.) We spent a lot of time talking about attitude and fortitude that clear and crunchy day. I was fresh out of surgery and the hospital, upbeat about recovery, and grooving on the sunshine.
Struggles.
Today he tells me he was diagnosed with HIV in 1992 and has been off work since 1994. He was in on the early protease inhibitor trials and is now running out of options. He is looking toward the combination of two more experimental drugs but may ‘run out of time’ before they're approved and he can try them.
Trouble.
This guy laughs at traffic problems and thinks nothing of long lines, crowded stores, or any of life’s trivial little headaches. Today he exuded peace and acceptance, and was radiant with wide-open honesty. I’m fortunate that he decided to share his story with me, and hope in some small way I can be there for him in the future.
Struggles.
Today he tells me he was diagnosed with HIV in 1992 and has been off work since 1994. He was in on the early protease inhibitor trials and is now running out of options. He is looking toward the combination of two more experimental drugs but may ‘run out of time’ before they're approved and he can try them.
Trouble.
This guy laughs at traffic problems and thinks nothing of long lines, crowded stores, or any of life’s trivial little headaches. Today he exuded peace and acceptance, and was radiant with wide-open honesty. I’m fortunate that he decided to share his story with me, and hope in some small way I can be there for him in the future.
Friday, March 18, 2005
Song of the Day: “She Bangs the Drums”
THE STONE ROSES
As Iggy Pop once sang, “I’m the Chairman of the Bored.”
I’m not however, that bored. If God one day said to me “Johnny, you never have to work another day in your life”, I’d have no problem filling the days and don’t feel a pressing need to have a million dollars before I’m forty. Life is as precious and as fleeting as the disappearing snow. Just imagine a life of Tessing, fitness, dog walks, music, volunteering, books, movies, cycling, chumming, cooking, cleaning, blogging, and of course ‘skiving.’
skive
Noun. An evasion of one's tasks, a period of shirking.
Verb. To evade doing one's work or duties.
British slang rules.
I stopped in to see some old friends and workmates this morning. Sláinte chugat.
Anyway, I’m off. Time to do the ‘hooverin’. (vacuuming)
THE STONE ROSES
As Iggy Pop once sang, “I’m the Chairman of the Bored.”
I’m not however, that bored. If God one day said to me “Johnny, you never have to work another day in your life”, I’d have no problem filling the days and don’t feel a pressing need to have a million dollars before I’m forty. Life is as precious and as fleeting as the disappearing snow. Just imagine a life of Tessing, fitness, dog walks, music, volunteering, books, movies, cycling, chumming, cooking, cleaning, blogging, and of course ‘skiving.’
skive
Noun. An evasion of one's tasks, a period of shirking.
Verb. To evade doing one's work or duties.
British slang rules.
I stopped in to see some old friends and workmates this morning. Sláinte chugat.
Anyway, I’m off. Time to do the ‘hooverin’. (vacuuming)
Thursday, March 17, 2005
Wednesday, March 16, 2005
Tuesday, March 15, 2005
Stephanie Fox thinks big.
Scroll down and click on "scalable version."
Why is Toronto's subway so pathetically small? Why do so many people have to drive?
"More bicycles, more bicycles!" the semi-literate man cried.
Scroll down and click on "scalable version."
Why is Toronto's subway so pathetically small? Why do so many people have to drive?
"More bicycles, more bicycles!" the semi-literate man cried.
All Mod Cons
Are you sure you need to make that call? There is a possible connection to tumour growth that might make you think twice before you use your cell phone.
I was at the video store yesterday and the clerk thought I was daydreaming. She was on my deaf side and I didn’t hear her. Unfortunately, there will be situations where people will think I’m ignoring them, and aside from the hearing aid that I may end up having to get, there isn't much I can do about it.
I started this blog as therapy, to write about my brain tumour and about my trials with acoustic neuroma. I’m going to come to a point soon where I’ll be bored with tumour talk and this will morph into something else. The thing is, I’m almost at what they call the “new normal” and am going to have to start posting about whatever comes up. Before this past December I never had the discipline to keep a diary, and blogging is a great way to keep the shizzle. The challenge will be to keep it from becoming (insert John Lydon accent here) "boring."
Did you see Gabe on last Sunday night’s episode of Interventions? He was IQ tested as a child and scored a 156, which qualified him as a genius. How about his emotional intelligence? As Dr. Phil might say; "too much coddling could curdle."
I was at the video store yesterday and the clerk thought I was daydreaming. She was on my deaf side and I didn’t hear her. Unfortunately, there will be situations where people will think I’m ignoring them, and aside from the hearing aid that I may end up having to get, there isn't much I can do about it.
I started this blog as therapy, to write about my brain tumour and about my trials with acoustic neuroma. I’m going to come to a point soon where I’ll be bored with tumour talk and this will morph into something else. The thing is, I’m almost at what they call the “new normal” and am going to have to start posting about whatever comes up. Before this past December I never had the discipline to keep a diary, and blogging is a great way to keep the shizzle. The challenge will be to keep it from becoming (insert John Lydon accent here) "boring."
Did you see Gabe on last Sunday night’s episode of Interventions? He was IQ tested as a child and scored a 156, which qualified him as a genius. How about his emotional intelligence? As Dr. Phil might say; "too much coddling could curdle."
Monday, March 14, 2005
Cheech and Chong 2004
Harold and Kumar Go To White Castle
Nice stoner-comedy / road movie here about race, relationships, sexuality, weed, junk food, and post-secondary angst. Neither of the main characters is white, which is refreshing to see for a mainstream movie. This fable is an instant classic for teenagers of all ages and I must admit I laughed out loud more than twice watching this. If I were 22, I’d go on the record and say I loved it.
Wait. I’m 37 and I loved it.
Doogie Howser plays himself - I mean come on.
I’m unafraid of ridicule. I had brain surgery after all, bring tha noize.
Nice stoner-comedy / road movie here about race, relationships, sexuality, weed, junk food, and post-secondary angst. Neither of the main characters is white, which is refreshing to see for a mainstream movie. This fable is an instant classic for teenagers of all ages and I must admit I laughed out loud more than twice watching this. If I were 22, I’d go on the record and say I loved it.
Wait. I’m 37 and I loved it.
Doogie Howser plays himself - I mean come on.
I’m unafraid of ridicule. I had brain surgery after all, bring tha noize.
Saturday, March 12, 2005
GretzkyTown
Terry and I went to Gretzky Town to see Kevin yesterday, where we admired his new kitchen, walked Duke the dog, and had some lunch before returning home. They live in a grand old neighbourhood, full of heritage homes. Real brick and real stone everywhere, they don't build houses the way they used to, I'll tell you that for free. Somewhere along the line I developed a sore throat, and spent a quiet night in with my better half last night.
Mike and his daughter Hannah (see photo album) came over for an hour this morning before they they left to go up the CN Tower, skate at Nathan Phillips Square, and see the sights of Toronto. Great to see the new tattoo and man, kids grow up fast.
Note to self:
Patience
Acceptance
Stillness
Peace
Mike and his daughter Hannah (see photo album) came over for an hour this morning before they they left to go up the CN Tower, skate at Nathan Phillips Square, and see the sights of Toronto. Great to see the new tattoo and man, kids grow up fast.
Note to self:
Patience
Acceptance
Stillness
Peace
Thursday, March 10, 2005
Phil the Alien
Rob's film Phil the Alien is doing well and getting great press, and hopefully we'll play a show with our band Mousekiss next month. Come home Pinchet Cabron, we miss you.
I went to work today for thirty minutes and stayed for three hours saying hello, and of course (unfortunately) repeating the same information. I expected this, and believe that most have good intentions when they ask how the past two months have been.
"I'm well, thanks."
“I have tinnitus that sometimes gets so loud I can barely hear the voices in my head.”
"I have balance issues, but who doesn't with eyes closed and one foot on the floor?”
"My right ear is strictly decorative, please speak here.”
"It's way past my bedtime."
“I think the scar makes me look tough.”
“I’m a lucky Fenian.”
After muttering what sounded like some platitude or another about always trying to look on the bright side, I'd move on to the next person.
Maybe I should have flyers made up.
It was tiring, but really great to see everyone, and of course RM has promised me season one of The Office to help me while away the remainder of short term disability.
I went to work today for thirty minutes and stayed for three hours saying hello, and of course (unfortunately) repeating the same information. I expected this, and believe that most have good intentions when they ask how the past two months have been.
"I'm well, thanks."
“I have tinnitus that sometimes gets so loud I can barely hear the voices in my head.”
"I have balance issues, but who doesn't with eyes closed and one foot on the floor?”
"My right ear is strictly decorative, please speak here.”
"It's way past my bedtime."
“I think the scar makes me look tough.”
“I’m a lucky Fenian.”
After muttering what sounded like some platitude or another about always trying to look on the bright side, I'd move on to the next person.
Maybe I should have flyers made up.
It was tiring, but really great to see everyone, and of course RM has promised me season one of The Office to help me while away the remainder of short term disability.
Wednesday, March 09, 2005
In Toronto on Monday a man threw his daughter over a bridge to the ground below before jumping off himself. He died, but the child is in critical condition. It’s a terrible shame this guy felt it necessary to harm his baby prior to committing suicide. Why have babies if you don’t really want them? Why use children as bit players? I hope she recovers.
If you’re that tortured by life, please get some help.
It surprised me to hear that the Bloor Viaduct was once such a favored spot to ‘end it all’ considering all the bridges that cross the Don Valley. Isn't suicide supposed to be a little more private?
Monday: Ball Class
Tuesday: Low Impact
Wednesday: Cycle
Thursday: Cycle
Friday: Day Off!
I’d rather stick a fork in my eye.
If you’re that tortured by life, please get some help.
It surprised me to hear that the Bloor Viaduct was once such a favored spot to ‘end it all’ considering all the bridges that cross the Don Valley. Isn't suicide supposed to be a little more private?
Monday: Ball Class
Tuesday: Low Impact
Wednesday: Cycle
Thursday: Cycle
Friday: Day Off!
I’d rather stick a fork in my eye.
Tuesday, March 08, 2005
Blue skies and cold walking today: Minus 8 Celsius, about minus 19 with the wind chill.
After the gym, I headed south to the Annex and had some poached Eggs Florentine at Kilgore’s with the masterful Johnny B. We talked about creative juices, drive and desire, neighbourhoods, people we know, music, gigs, and optimism in the face of adversity among other tidings. By sheer coincidence it’s his birthday, many happy returns and a happy March 8th to him.
I just got home from a brisk and beautiful walk through a barren Taylor Creek with Luna. Today the Yaktrax came in awfully useful with the ice, and I proclaim to the rooftops that they're worth every penny.
After the gym, I headed south to the Annex and had some poached Eggs Florentine at Kilgore’s with the masterful Johnny B. We talked about creative juices, drive and desire, neighbourhoods, people we know, music, gigs, and optimism in the face of adversity among other tidings. By sheer coincidence it’s his birthday, many happy returns and a happy March 8th to him.
I just got home from a brisk and beautiful walk through a barren Taylor Creek with Luna. Today the Yaktrax came in awfully useful with the ice, and I proclaim to the rooftops that they're worth every penny.
Monday, March 07, 2005
Lamb and Rice
I lost my $10.00 pedometer.
I took Stability Ball class with Rory today following a brisk twenty five minute run. Afterward, Tess and I picked up some Nutram Lamb and Rice with Chicken (for the dog), and because we bought our 10th bag at $42.99, got one free.
Luna is very pleased we're back, and would like everyone to know that later today she is legally changing her name to Deborah Cox for reasons befitting her diva like stature.
Mistress made herself a new sweater last night while we sat through a painfully long "Ray".
NP: "Autumn Sweater"
Yo La Tengo
I took Stability Ball class with Rory today following a brisk twenty five minute run. Afterward, Tess and I picked up some Nutram Lamb and Rice with Chicken (for the dog), and because we bought our 10th bag at $42.99, got one free.
Luna is very pleased we're back, and would like everyone to know that later today she is legally changing her name to Deborah Cox for reasons befitting her diva like stature.
Mistress made herself a new sweater last night while we sat through a painfully long "Ray".
NP: "Autumn Sweater"
Yo La Tengo
Saturday, March 05, 2005
Focus!
In Arrested Development, Liza Minnelli’s character suffers from Meniere’s Disease or is she just being a drama queen? One of these days (we're still soaking in season one), she and the amorous Buster will up their shares of Seagram’s Extra Dry gin, get it together, and move to the Garden State to live happily ever after.
I decided this week that I’m going back to work Monday, April 4th, and called to let my boss know. I’m starting to get a bit bored watching Oprah and with Luna’s conversation: ("Food? Sleep? Walkies?") and besides; as much as I dig her, she’s never offered assistance with the math homework. I’ve been working through a great book called What Next by Barbara Moses, which dictates that you appraise your skill sets and evaluate your strengths and desires so that you can target your perfect job.
I have to wait and see long term how much strength I have for school, at least seven hours a night of sleep will forever be a priority. Balance will be key, and if I slide into work-obsessed and compulsive behaviour, I know of a certain hundred pound firecracker that’ll keep me in line.
I start leading Spinning class again at Eclipse on Easter Sunday March 26. Easter will be good; I suspect class will be light on Christians but heavy on the sons and daughters of Abraham, and full of the good love. The Christians are welcome to burn off the chocolate the following Sunday. (Of course, all denominations are welcome, naturally.)
Tess and I are having lunch today with Sean and Nicole at some Mongolian place in their neighbourhood, but we will of course be stopping at a well researched wool store for the necessaries beforehand. Good times.
I decided this week that I’m going back to work Monday, April 4th, and called to let my boss know. I’m starting to get a bit bored watching Oprah and with Luna’s conversation: ("Food? Sleep? Walkies?") and besides; as much as I dig her, she’s never offered assistance with the math homework. I’ve been working through a great book called What Next by Barbara Moses, which dictates that you appraise your skill sets and evaluate your strengths and desires so that you can target your perfect job.
I have to wait and see long term how much strength I have for school, at least seven hours a night of sleep will forever be a priority. Balance will be key, and if I slide into work-obsessed and compulsive behaviour, I know of a certain hundred pound firecracker that’ll keep me in line.
I start leading Spinning class again at Eclipse on Easter Sunday March 26. Easter will be good; I suspect class will be light on Christians but heavy on the sons and daughters of Abraham, and full of the good love. The Christians are welcome to burn off the chocolate the following Sunday. (Of course, all denominations are welcome, naturally.)
Tess and I are having lunch today with Sean and Nicole at some Mongolian place in their neighbourhood, but we will of course be stopping at a well researched wool store for the necessaries beforehand. Good times.
Friday, March 04, 2005
Amr M. was good enough to send this along. It's an open letter from Lloyd Axworthy to Condoleeza Rice, published recently in the Winnipeg Free Press:
By LLOYD AXWORTHY
Dear Condi, I'm glad you've decided to get over your fit of pique and venture north to visit your closest neighbour. It's a chance to learn a thing or two. Maybe more.
I know it seems improbable to your divinely guided master in the White House that mere mortals might disagree with participating in a missile-defence system that has failed in its last three tests, even though the tests themselves were carefully rigged to show results.
But, gosh, we folks above the 49th parallel are somewhat cautious types who can't quite see laying down billions of dollars in a three-dud poker game.
As our erstwhile Prairie-born and bred (and therefore prudent) finance minister pointed out in presenting his recent budget, we've had eight years of balanced or surplus financial accounts. If we're going to spend money, Mr. Goodale added, it will be on day-care and health programs, and even on more foreign aid and improved defence.
Sure, that doesn't match the gargantuan, multi-billion-dollar deficits that your government blithely runs up fighting a "liberation war" in Iraq, laying out more than half of all weapons expenditures in the world, and giving massive tax breaks to the top one per cent of your population while cutting food programs for poor children.
Just chalk that up to a different sense of priorities about what a national government's role should be when there isn't a prevailing mood of manifest destiny.
Coming to Ottawa might also expose you to a parliamentary system that has a thing called question period every day, where those in the executive are held accountable by an opposition for their actions, and where demands for public debate on important topics such a missile defence can be made openly.
You might also notice that it's a system in which the governing party's caucus members are not afraid to tell their leader that their constituents don't want to follow the ideological, perhaps teleological, fantasies of Canada's continental co-inhabitant. And that this leader actually listens to such representations.
Your boss did not avail himself of a similar opportunity to visit our House of Commons during his visit, fearing, it seems, that there might be some signs of dissent. He preferred to issue his diktat on missile defence in front of a highly controlled, pre-selected audience.
Such control-freak antics may work in the virtual one-party state that now prevails in Washington. But in Canada we have a residual belief that politicians should be subject to a few checks and balances, an idea that your country once espoused before the days of empire.
If you want to have us consider your proposals and positions, present them in a proper way, through serious discussion across the table in our cabinet room, as your previous president did when he visited Ottawa. And don't embarrass our prime minister by lobbing a verbal missile at him while he sits on a public stage, with no chance to respond.
Now, I understand that there may have been some miscalculations in Washington based on faulty advice from your resident governor of the "northern territories," Ambassador Cellucci. But you should know by now that he hasn't really won the hearts and minds of most Canadians through his attempts to browbeat and command our allegiance to U.S. policies.
Sadly, Mr. Cellucci has been far too closeted with exclusive groups of 'experts' from Calgary think-tanks and neo-con lobbyists at cross-border conferences to remotely grasp a cross-section of Canadian attitudes (nor American ones, for that matter).
I invite you to expand the narrow perspective that seems to inform your opinions of Canada by ranging far wider in your reach of contacts and discussions. You would find that what is rising in Canada is not so much anti-Americanism, as claimed by your and our right-wing commentators, but fundamental disagreements with certain policies of your government. You would see that rather than just reacting to events by drawing on old conventional wisdoms, many Canadians are trying to think our way through to some ideas that can be helpful in building a more secure world.
These Canadians believe that security can be achieved through well-modulated efforts to protect the rights of people, not just nation-states.
To encourage and advance international co-operation on managing the risk of climate change, they believe that we need agreements like Kyoto.
To protect people against international crimes like genocide and ethnic cleansing, they support new institutions like the International Criminal Court -- which, by the way, you might strongly consider using to hold accountable those committing atrocities today in Darfur, Sudan.
And these Canadians believe that the United Nations should indeed be reformed -- beginning with an agreement to get rid of the veto held by the major powers over humanitarian interventions to stop violence and predatory practices.
On this score, you might want to explore the concept of the 'Responsibility to Protect' while you're in Ottawa. It's a Canadian idea born out of the recent experience of Kosovo and informed by the many horrific examples of inhumanity over the last half-century. Many Canadians feel it has a lot more relevance to providing real human security in the world than missile defence ever will.
This is not just some quirky notion concocted in our long winter nights, by the way. It seems to have appeal for many in your own country, if not the editorialists at the Wall Street Journal or Rush Limbaugh. As I discovered recently while giving a series of lectures in southern California, there is keen interest in how the U.S. can offer real leadership in managing global challenges of disease, natural calamities and conflict, other than by military means.
There is also a very strong awareness on both sides of the border of how vital Canada is to the U.S. as a partner in North America. We supply copious amounts of oil and natural gas to your country, our respective trade is the world's largest in volume, and we are increasingly bound together by common concerns over depletion of resources, especially very scarce fresh water.
Why not discuss these issues with Canadians who understand them, and seek out ways to better cooperate in areas where we agree -- and agree to respect each other's views when we disagree.
Above all, ignore the Cassandras who deride the state of our relations because of one missile-defence decision. Accept that, as a friend on your border, we will offer a different, independent point of view. And that there are times when truth must speak to power.
In friendship,
Lloyd Axworthy
Lloyd Axworthy is president of the
University of Winnipeg and a former Canadian foreign minister.
By LLOYD AXWORTHY
Dear Condi, I'm glad you've decided to get over your fit of pique and venture north to visit your closest neighbour. It's a chance to learn a thing or two. Maybe more.
I know it seems improbable to your divinely guided master in the White House that mere mortals might disagree with participating in a missile-defence system that has failed in its last three tests, even though the tests themselves were carefully rigged to show results.
But, gosh, we folks above the 49th parallel are somewhat cautious types who can't quite see laying down billions of dollars in a three-dud poker game.
As our erstwhile Prairie-born and bred (and therefore prudent) finance minister pointed out in presenting his recent budget, we've had eight years of balanced or surplus financial accounts. If we're going to spend money, Mr. Goodale added, it will be on day-care and health programs, and even on more foreign aid and improved defence.
Sure, that doesn't match the gargantuan, multi-billion-dollar deficits that your government blithely runs up fighting a "liberation war" in Iraq, laying out more than half of all weapons expenditures in the world, and giving massive tax breaks to the top one per cent of your population while cutting food programs for poor children.
Just chalk that up to a different sense of priorities about what a national government's role should be when there isn't a prevailing mood of manifest destiny.
Coming to Ottawa might also expose you to a parliamentary system that has a thing called question period every day, where those in the executive are held accountable by an opposition for their actions, and where demands for public debate on important topics such a missile defence can be made openly.
You might also notice that it's a system in which the governing party's caucus members are not afraid to tell their leader that their constituents don't want to follow the ideological, perhaps teleological, fantasies of Canada's continental co-inhabitant. And that this leader actually listens to such representations.
Your boss did not avail himself of a similar opportunity to visit our House of Commons during his visit, fearing, it seems, that there might be some signs of dissent. He preferred to issue his diktat on missile defence in front of a highly controlled, pre-selected audience.
Such control-freak antics may work in the virtual one-party state that now prevails in Washington. But in Canada we have a residual belief that politicians should be subject to a few checks and balances, an idea that your country once espoused before the days of empire.
If you want to have us consider your proposals and positions, present them in a proper way, through serious discussion across the table in our cabinet room, as your previous president did when he visited Ottawa. And don't embarrass our prime minister by lobbing a verbal missile at him while he sits on a public stage, with no chance to respond.
Now, I understand that there may have been some miscalculations in Washington based on faulty advice from your resident governor of the "northern territories," Ambassador Cellucci. But you should know by now that he hasn't really won the hearts and minds of most Canadians through his attempts to browbeat and command our allegiance to U.S. policies.
Sadly, Mr. Cellucci has been far too closeted with exclusive groups of 'experts' from Calgary think-tanks and neo-con lobbyists at cross-border conferences to remotely grasp a cross-section of Canadian attitudes (nor American ones, for that matter).
I invite you to expand the narrow perspective that seems to inform your opinions of Canada by ranging far wider in your reach of contacts and discussions. You would find that what is rising in Canada is not so much anti-Americanism, as claimed by your and our right-wing commentators, but fundamental disagreements with certain policies of your government. You would see that rather than just reacting to events by drawing on old conventional wisdoms, many Canadians are trying to think our way through to some ideas that can be helpful in building a more secure world.
These Canadians believe that security can be achieved through well-modulated efforts to protect the rights of people, not just nation-states.
To encourage and advance international co-operation on managing the risk of climate change, they believe that we need agreements like Kyoto.
To protect people against international crimes like genocide and ethnic cleansing, they support new institutions like the International Criminal Court -- which, by the way, you might strongly consider using to hold accountable those committing atrocities today in Darfur, Sudan.
And these Canadians believe that the United Nations should indeed be reformed -- beginning with an agreement to get rid of the veto held by the major powers over humanitarian interventions to stop violence and predatory practices.
On this score, you might want to explore the concept of the 'Responsibility to Protect' while you're in Ottawa. It's a Canadian idea born out of the recent experience of Kosovo and informed by the many horrific examples of inhumanity over the last half-century. Many Canadians feel it has a lot more relevance to providing real human security in the world than missile defence ever will.
This is not just some quirky notion concocted in our long winter nights, by the way. It seems to have appeal for many in your own country, if not the editorialists at the Wall Street Journal or Rush Limbaugh. As I discovered recently while giving a series of lectures in southern California, there is keen interest in how the U.S. can offer real leadership in managing global challenges of disease, natural calamities and conflict, other than by military means.
There is also a very strong awareness on both sides of the border of how vital Canada is to the U.S. as a partner in North America. We supply copious amounts of oil and natural gas to your country, our respective trade is the world's largest in volume, and we are increasingly bound together by common concerns over depletion of resources, especially very scarce fresh water.
Why not discuss these issues with Canadians who understand them, and seek out ways to better cooperate in areas where we agree -- and agree to respect each other's views when we disagree.
Above all, ignore the Cassandras who deride the state of our relations because of one missile-defence decision. Accept that, as a friend on your border, we will offer a different, independent point of view. And that there are times when truth must speak to power.
In friendship,
Lloyd Axworthy
Lloyd Axworthy is president of the
University of Winnipeg and a former Canadian foreign minister.
Thursday, March 03, 2005
It’s only fitting that my first post-op show-in-mono was the Beatles.
James took me to see a really good tribute band called Rain last night at Toronto’s venerable Massey Hall. They played four nights here at capacity - that’s almost nine thousand people at fifty bucks a pop, 'ka - ching, ka - ching.' James told me last night that our good friend and Brother from Another Mother RG suffers from Meniere's Disease and is deaf on one side. I had no idea.
I had a great night, happy 40th to my brother James - my only blood relative in North America. Slainte!
How does a hearing aid sound for a mid-life vanity present? Harley? Electronic drums? Why not make it a BICROS hearing aid? They cost from about fourteen to twenty-two hundred dollars not including tax, how does that dent your shimmy?
James took me to see a really good tribute band called Rain last night at Toronto’s venerable Massey Hall. They played four nights here at capacity - that’s almost nine thousand people at fifty bucks a pop, 'ka - ching, ka - ching.' James told me last night that our good friend and Brother from Another Mother RG suffers from Meniere's Disease and is deaf on one side. I had no idea.
I had a great night, happy 40th to my brother James - my only blood relative in North America. Slainte!
How does a hearing aid sound for a mid-life vanity present? Harley? Electronic drums? Why not make it a BICROS hearing aid? They cost from about fourteen to twenty-two hundred dollars not including tax, how does that dent your shimmy?
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)