The Global Attitude

Why support the Syrian revolution?

2013-05-11T10:48:00.001-04:00

Why support the Syrian revolution?
Republished with permission
http://insufficientrespect.blogspot.com/2013/05/why-support-syrian-revolution_1.html

Many reasons are given for supporting either the Syrian revolution or the units of the Free Syrian Army (FSA). But while there is sympathy for the Syrian people, hardly ever do those reasons speak to or from Syrian needs. Instead the appeal is to the quite narrow interests of others, always in negative terms: not supporting the FSA will encourage Islamic extremism, invite a regional conflagration, squander opportunities to 'have a say in Syria's future'(!), counter-productively encourage uncontrolled arms proliferation, leave a legacy of anti-Western sentiment in Syria. Syrians are essentially seen either as a menace, or as weaklings likely incapable of countering some menace in their midst.

Of course the idea here is that solid reasons can only rest on hard-headed realism, not sloppy sentiment. But there may be at least two other reasons rooted in a less myopic assessment of the situation. They invoke principles and large historical opportunities - which does not distinguish them from the sort of 'higher' motives that in fact drive a good deal of political activity. They do have implications for the whole world, but they originate not only in the interests but also in the achievements of the Syrian people and their revolution One reason is 'negative', the other, positive.

The negative reason has to do with what Syrians suffer.

It's taken me a while to realize that most people probably don't really know the full extent of Assad's cruelties, or how they compare to the cruelty we know has been inflicted in so many times and places. It's not the sort of material that makes the front pages. An appendix to this post gives some details. For several reasons, none solely sufficient but in combination decisive, the horrors of Syria have unique significance.

First there is the sheer barbarism. Many régimes which have inflicted tortures perhaps as ghastly as Assad's - Chile's Pinochet and the Iran under the Shah come to mind - do not quite match his barbarism for one simple reason: Assad's tortures are not confined to adults, much less to those who have ever posed any threat, but also to children not into their teens. The torture of injured people in their hospital beds, and of medical staff, is also very unusual. Sometimes victims are tortured in order to reveal information, or at least to admit to something, whether or not they did it. Often they are simply tortured to death, simply to have them die in agony.

Second there is the scale of it. Those tortured run into the tens, perhaps the hundreds of thousands. Multiple deaths under torture are reported almost daily. Perhaps as many suffered in Cambodia, or Rwanda, or the Congo; no figures are available.

In practicing such spare-no-one savagery on so vast a scale, Assad has had very few rivals - perhaps Saddam Hussein. But in Syria there's another dimension to the nightmare - and it's no less significant for being less brutally tangible. Never before have such atrocities been not only so visible, but so close to what might be called the mainstream world.

The torturers 'get' Twitter and Facebook. They often record their torture sessions, down to death and mutilation, on their cell phones. When the perpetrators are captured, these videos get onto Youtube. In a world civilization that practically defines itself through its exposure on digital media, this sort of shamelessly public sadism gains a prominence unique in modern history.

Because Syria's atrocities are so open to the world - so much a part of that world - the failure to support the Syrian resistance is no mere strategic error. Though history almost seems a succession of moral failures, this one is special.

Other evils, the mainstream world could ignore or minimize or pretend to ignore. Not this one. Nor can some ideology or reason of state be invoked as even a partial explanation or excuse. Syria is not important enough to be strategically or economically key. Assad is no longer a useful ally to anyone, and his régime represents neither a cause nor the pursuit of any ideal. Indeed no cause can be invoked to support him. If the type and scale of these cruelties are not worth opposing with determination and ferocity, what is? What sort of justice or benevolence - for anyone - can be worth pursuing if this evil is not worth confronting?

The world's cowardice and passivity in the face of these crimes brings the mainstream political order into irredeemable disrepute. No one can assess the consequences of this failure, but it's hard to imagine anything much less than a definitive loss of stature for every mainstream principle and every institution dedicated to uphold them, from the UN to the International Court of Justice to NATO and the whole panoply of apparently useless human rights organizations. Here is an outcome whose dangers go far beyond such bogeymen as extreme Islamists, sectarian warfare, stray weapons or regional destabilization. The danger, though occasioned by Syria's agonies, is of the mainstream world's own making. It will probably exceed by far whatever Syrians could possibly do to others.

In short, the refusal to support the Syrian revolution exposes the uselessness of every political entity - every nation, every court, every assembly, every movement, every human-rights outfit - supposedly out to civilize the world. If that sounds extreme, ask yourself by what date you'd expect these worthy institutions to protect us from savage repression. You might also ask how long it will take to forget so prolonged and public a failure.

But there is also a 'positive' reason rooted in what the Syrian revolution represents.

If it prevails, the Syrian uprising will be the first truly popular revolt to succeed since 1789 - the first since the dawn of the industrial age. Unlike the Russian or Chinese or Vietnamese or Cuban revolutions, it is not the design or possession of some élite vanguard. Unlike the 19th century revolutions of Italy or Latin America, it did not coalesce around the leadership of, quite literally, a man on horseback. It did not arise under the aegis of a military hero like Turkey's Kemal Ataturk. Unlike the Tunisian revolt, it did not succeed because the régime collapsed. Unlike the Libyan revolution, it did not rely on outside participation. Unlike the Egyptian revolution, it did not leave much of the old order in place, so that nothing happens without at least the passive approval of the armed forces.

When people go on about the disunity of the opposition, they haven't considered this difference. Usually you speak of disunity in reference to something once united - a movement, a party, a state. And normally, that's what you find when there is a revolution. But no one tut-tutted that the French Revolution 'lacked unity'. Like the Syrian revolution, that was a spontaneous uprising whose very disunity testified to the depth and breath of its roots.

This is no mere historical oddity. It is proof of something quite unexpected: that a people, starting with nothing, can prevail against a tyrannous modern state with as large and sophisticated a repressive apparatus and any tyrant could desire. The key component of this proof is the courage of the Syrian people. That too exceeds anything previously encountered: never before have civilians refused to be cowed by such widespread cruelty, such firepower, and such slaughter.

The Syrian revolution brings new hope to the world, and therefore demands wholehearted, unqualified support. Unqualified support does not mean heedless support. It does not preclude resolve to address the very real dangers such a revolution poses. Of course supporters also must be ready to work against sectarian infighting and other forms of extremist violence, both in Syria itself and beyond. But these dangers must be countered in any case. These frightening possibilities should blind no one to the compelling obligation, not to sit on the sidelines, but to help that revolution succeed.

Appendix

What follows makes for very unpleasant reading. Since it omits any results of artillery or aerial bombardment, it's only a very partial indication of what's inflicted on the Syrian people. In part, its compilation is made necessary by the attitudes of the very humanitarian agencies from which some of the material is derived.

These agencies seem to adopted the dogma that we must never weigh one human rights violation against another - there is no better or worse. Every nation gets its report and its scolding; every nation and every political group is culpable. This stance suggests that if, for example, Syrian revolutionaries sometimes violate human rights, which they undoubtedly do, they are as unworthy of support as the régime they oppose. To think otherwise then looks immoral, a sinister case of 'the end justifies the means'. The severity of the violations doesn't seem to count. After all, even 'persecution' on religious or cultural group, if 'consistent', is counted a 'crime against humanity' by the International Court of Justice, and that's without any reference to what form the 'persecution' might take.

This confuses morality with unreflective delicacy. It makes no sense in principle: is there really nothing to choose, for example, between the taking of one innocent life and the slaughter of several billion? It makes no sense in practice either. We sacrifice innocent lives all the time, not just out of necessity but also for convenience. We know, for instance, that innocent lives would be spared if we cut speed limits by, say, 90%, for non-essential vehicles. But we don't even consider sparing them. We're no more fastidious in our political judgements on the past. Since we know that wars inevitably take innocent lives, was it wrong to resist Nazism, or to fight the perpetrators of the Nanking massacre?

Here are the testimonies. I have not included anything alleged against the Syrian rebels, but you can consult Human Rights Watch if you like, and judge for yourself whether there is no better or worse in this conflict.

· "A while ago, one of my students was detained. They hung him from his hands for 7 days and tortured him brutally until he reached the point of insanity. He was being tortured in a room where blood and urine stained the floors; and dead, decayed, worm infested bodies littered the ground. They forced him to sleep atop the bodies. He fear drove him to insanity, but they were not done with him. They slaughtered him with knives in front of the other prisoners." (Translated speech of Shaikh Moaz Khatib, President of The National Coalition Of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces, delivered during the Arab League Summit in Doha Qatar on March 26, 2013-03-24.)

· They had started out as 20 people in that room, but some had died. They had not been fed for the entire duration of their detention. In the room where I was held, an injured man on the bed next to me was beaten at least once a day. His leg wasn’t treated. I could see the worms and small insects crawling in and out of the wound with my own eyes. In the same hospital, they would use a drill to gouge out eyes. They also used an iron welder to burn the flesh off your body as you are awake. In some cases also, they would use brute force to pull your hair out. At the hospital, they also used the method of hanging you upside down. They kept people hanging like that for days. Sometimes they changed the method of torture according to your “crime”. For photographers and videographers, they broke their arms, their wrists, and individual fingers. They also gore their eyes out.” (Avaaz reveals scale and horror of Assad’s torture chambers)

· "His captors drilled into his brain while he was still living, burned his body with a welding torch, poked out his eyes and mutilated his genitals, according to his brother. They tried to strangle him with a rope so hard his fingers that were trying to stop the choking were almost severed." ( Physician tells of brother’s torture in Syria.)

· A compilation of torture techniques.

· One released detainee said that he shared a cell with a young man who had been forced to have a glass bottle with a broken top inserted into his anus. One said that his cellmate had been raped with a metal skewer. Others spoke of a detainee with whom they had shared a cell who, while hanging in the shabeh position, had a cord attached to a large bag of water tied around his penis. ('I wanted to die: Syria's torture survivors speak out.)

· "One of them, Jihad Saleh, had his hands bound to his feet behind his back and was left lying on his stomach without food. He starved to death in the corridor outside my cell." (Military airport transformed into torture cells in Syria: activists.

· One 15-year-old told the charity he had cigarettes put out on him when he was imprisoned in what used to be his school.

Another described being given electric shocks and sharing a cell with decomposing bodies, while a third teenager, Wael, said he had seen a six-year-old die after being tortured and starved.

The 16 year-old told the report's authors: "I watched him die. He only survived for three days and then he simply died."

"He was terrified all the time. They treated his body as though he was a dog." (BBC News - Syria child trauma 'appalling' - Save the Children)

"We were 70 to 75 people in a group cell that was 3 by 3 meters. We slept with our knees to our chests. Some people had broken hands, legs, their heads were swollen. There were 15- and 16-year-old kids in the cell with us, six or seven of them with their fingernails pulled, their faces beaten. They treat the kids even worse than the adults. There is torture, but there is also rape for the boys. We would see them when the guards brought them back to the cell, it's indescribable, you can't talk about it. One boy came into the cell bleeding from behind. He couldn't walk." (Syria: Stop Torture of Children | Human Rights Watch)

· In his first media interview since he fled his position as head of the intensive care unit in an Aleppo military hospital, the doctor gave a chilling eyewitness account of secret wards where he said patients were tortured or sent to their death.

"Important arrested patients, those that had more information to reveal, had to be healed. Those that were useless to them were sent to a secret ward that we nicknamed "the dark room" where they were tortured, eliminated or left to die."

The doctor, who for security reasons can only be identified as Ahmed, worked in military hospitals in Aleppo, Deraa and the suburbs of Damascus each of which had these wards.

The patients were kept in "dire" conditions with their hands and feet handcuffed to the beds and their eyes blindfolded in windowless wards, often in a basement.

Deprived of antibiotics and painkillers, and often left to lie in their own faeces, many of the patients sported gaping infected wounds." (Syrian prisoners left to die in military hospital 'dark rooms')

· "The discovery of the charred and mutilated bodies of three young medical workers a week after their arrest in Aleppo city is yet further evidence of the Syrian government forces' appalling disregard for the sanctity of the role of medical workers, Amnesty International said.

All three men were students at Aleppo University – Basel Aslan and Mus'ab Barad were fourth-year medical students and Hazem Batikh was a second-year English literature student and a first-aid medic.

They were part of a team of doctors, nurses and first-aiders who have been providing life-saving medical treatment in makeshift "field hospitals" set up to treat demonstrators shot by security forces and who could not therefore go to state-run hospitals for fear of being arrested, tortured or even killed.

They had been detained by Air Force Intelligence since their arrest in the city on 17 June.

The three students' burned bodies were found in the early hours of 24 June in a burned-out car in the Neirab area of Aleppo's north-eastern outskirts.

Medical personnel who saw the bodies at the morgue told Amnesty International that Basel Aslan had a gunshot wound to the head and his hands were tied behind his back.

One leg and one arm were broken, several teeth missing and the flesh was missing from his lower legs, leaving the bone exposed. Some of his fingernails had been removed." (AIUK : Syria: Detained medics tortured and killed amid Aleppo crackdown)

· "The woman was arrested at a checkpoint in Homs late last year.

As part of the torture, she alleges, rats and mice were used by interrogators to violate women. She described an assault on another prisoner which she says she witnessed.

"He inserted a rat in her vagina. She was screaming. Afterwards we saw blood on the floor. He told her: 'Is this good enough for you?' They were mocking her. It was obvious she was in agony. We could see her. After that she no longer moved."" (BBC News - Syria ex-detainees allege ordeals of rape and sex abuse.)
Posted 1 week ago by Michael Neumann
Labels: Syria politics

Syria - The Red Line Crossed

2013-04-28T18:33:00.000-04:00

President Obama says that the US will be forced to do more in Syria if Assad crosses the red line – using chemical warfare on his own people. In my opinion, the Human Monster (Bashar al-Assad) crossed the red line a long time ago. If the bar has NOW been raised after the massacre of 80,000+ Syrian people including more than 4,500 children, and millions of displaced people -- what ACTION will we take that will be notable? The US and its allies have to look no further than the Geneva Convention for advice and direction as they are all parties to the convention. Really it is not rocket science at this point, it is just a matter of convention.

Convention (IV) relative to the Protection of Civilian Persons in Time of War. Geneva, 12 August 1949, Art. 14. Part II : General protection of populations
against certain consequences of war defines four types of zones must be considered NOW:

A. Hospital zones and localities, generally of a permanent character, established outside the combat zone in order to shelter military or civilian wounded and sick from long-range weapons, especially aerial bombardment (1).

Original document of the first Geneva Convention, 1864. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

B. Safety zones and localities, generally of a permanent character, established outside the combat zone in order to shelter certain categories of the civilian population, which, owing to their weakness, require special protection (children, old people, expectant mothers, etc.) from long-range weapons, especially aerial bombardment (2).
C. Hospital and safety zones and localities, which are a combination of A and B above;
D. Neutralized zones, generally of a temporary character, established in the actual combat zone to protect both combatant and noncombatant wounded and sick, as well as all members of the civilian population who are in the area and not taking part in the hostilities, From military operations in the neighborhood.

Also, a more recent term used in wars such as Iraq and Libya is No-Fly Zones which are zones where military flight are not allowed. (origin 1991, Dictionary.com)

Enforcing no-fly zones, implementing safety zones, ensuring humanitarian aid reaches the starving and the ill who are trapped in the areas such as Homs would be a GOOD START. A show of international solidarity that is more than empty words would cause more of the Syrian soldiers to defect who are waiting for their opportunity but have feared death if they make their move further weakening the Assad forces. Targeted strikes to runways would paralyze Assad's air strikes against innocent children in the play yard and hungry people standing in bread lines.

Safety Zones are guaranteed by the Geneva Convention ensure the innocent population will have a place to go and be free from the rampant war. This has not been available in Syria. Instead, the Syria in innocent population has been faced with torture, rape and massacre. Safety zones can be set up by providing the FSA with appropriate defensive weapons and communication devices, some of which they now have. You might be thinking that the reason these zones are not in place in Syria is that this country is not signed on to the Geneva Convention, but that is not true. Syria is a party to the Geneva Convention, it is just Assad who is not signed on to the rules.

The longer the US and allies talk with empty words, the less we are trusted by the people who have asked for our help in their struggle for freedom. How much longer will we turn our backs? Syrians have never asked for the US to put “boots on the ground”, but there is so much more that we (the US and International community) could do to help ensue freedom for the All Syrian People from A Human Monster.

Wales - One Feather Peace Institute

2013-03-24T13:39:00.000-04:00

On Saturday 24rd March peace activists from across Wales gathered in Aberystwyth to found the long awaited Peace Institute of Wales.

This was the culmination of 4 years work, inspired by Jill Evans Plaid Cymru MEP. As the first speaker she reported on the role of the peace institutes established in most advanced nations. They balance the influence of the military and arms lobby by providing accurate research into the causes, experience, costs and outcomes of war and on alternative approaches. Their services are employed to inform civic debate and government policy in many European nations. In fact they are so recognized and valued that representatives of the military are commonly members to contribute their expertise and gain peace keeping techniques.

The meeting mandated the newly formed committee to research existing institutes to help decide on the Welsh institute’s structure and scope.

The all day meeting developed the content of a work program, putting forward broad, detailed and creative ideas to impact all ages and to link with a plethora of existing organizations. The emphasis was on collaboration not duplication or competition.

‘The expertise in the room was extraordinary’ commented Vicky Moller, a newcomer to the sector. ‘What really impressed me was that people poured in diverse ideas but were able to incorporate each other’s suggestions. It was a really effective day producing detailed bulky documents with nearly 100% agreement. It struck me that peace is about a lot more than the absence of war, it is a way of working with open minds and hearts’.

The meeting proposed a wide remit for the institute, identifying ways of relating and resolving problems that can include conflict which is part of life, but do not need violence. Starvation in the midst of plenty is violence, and there is interpersonal and family violence. The institute will seek to identify the conditions that create violence and war, and more importantly the conditions that create peace, peace being a state of harmony between people, including ecological harmony with the natural world.

2014 is the centenary of World War 1 and preparations are in hand for its commemoration. The founding of the institute was galvanized by the need to contribute to the commemorations and to ensure that the lessons of history are not forgotten. From an historic perspective this war was an unnecessary bloodbath fuelled by jingoism, incompetence and ignorance.

Many young people today have no relatives with first-hand experience of war. Soldiers returning from the Iraq and Afghanistan engagements are rarely able to talk about their experiences but suffer from mental problems, violence and suicide, dwarfing the mortality and the casualty rate during active engagement. A peace institute could be a vehicle for their experiences to be shared.

Dr. Mererid Hopwood, chairing, highlighted the unique importance of the Wales institute. Dr Robin Gwyndaf spoke with articulate passion about the journey to form the institute, while the professor of peace studies at Bradford University showed how the margins are the richest source of innovation, and peace is still an innovative concept. The time to expand beyond the fertile margins is now.

Jill Evans reminded us that this will not be just another national peace institute, it will be the first in the nations of the UK. It may end up informing not only in Wales but the UK government and indirectly impacting on US foreign policy.

Although the Institute is yet to adopt its structure and charitable status, it now has a mandate, a work program and an elected steering committee. It is not fully fledged but it has its first feathers.

Syria: The Humanitarian Crisis That Keeps On Giving

2013-01-20T23:53:00.001-05:00

English: A volcano called Syria (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Sunday, January 20th, Barack Obama is sworn in to a second term as President of the United States. Hundreds of thousands of Americans poured into the Washington Mall to help celebrate the historical moment. What makes this a historical moment? There have only been six two-term US Presidents in the history of the United States. The BIG QUESTION is will Barack Obama finally engage with a bi-partisan team to quickly make some decisions to set a definitive ACTION policy regarding Syria. As the leader of the FREE WORLD, the United States is the only logical nation that can be the SOLUTION leader in this ongoing nightmare in Syria. We can no longer say "we will not tolerate Assad's malicious criminal behavior, but then do nothing when he continues down his same terrorist path giving the world the finger".

In blunder after blunder, the International Community has demonstrated to Assad that "we are weak and he is strong." Why is that? The Syrian People, often inappropriately referred to as the Syrian Opposition,
have been actively calling for help for over a year. The International Community formed the Friends of Syria specifically to get closer to the needs of the People of Syria, understand the dynamics in and coordinate assistance to the "right" places. However, what seems to have happened as with most government projects is a clear case of ANALYSIS PARALYSIS.

According to The Jewish Press, The United Nations Fund for Children (UNICEF) on Saturday denounced fighters in Syria for endangering children in the bloody civil war which has gripped the country for almost two years. Over 60,000 people have been killed since the battle between President Bashar Assad and opposition to his rule began in March 2011. Included in that number are an estimated 3,500 children This is a humanitarian tragedy of mega proportions." It should be noted that some Syrian Revolution watch groups are reporting children deaths as high as 4,152. Either way, it is unspeakable! Assad says his forces are exclusively targeting terrorist ... CHILDREN ARE NOT TERRORIST!

The Atlantic reports that "Syrians are now dying of starvation and exposure as food and medical supplies run desperately short. The regime continues to escalate its attacks with the use of artillery, combat aircraft, and, most recently, SCUD and reportedly Fatah 110 missiles against the armed and civilian opposition." In the twitter space over the last few months, Activists have reported the use of chemicals and cluster bombs that have been internationally outlawed becaused of their extreme collateral damage.

In the past six months, the Syrian War has escalated out of control. Risk to neighboring countries such as Lebanon, Turkey and Israel have been increased as Assad's forces have encroached the boarders of all three countries either intentionally or "by accident". There have been reports from within Syria that Assad is now using internationally outlawed weapons, such as cluster bombs. Additionally, the People of Syria have reported that certain types of chemicals have been used against them.

MIT campus. Dedicated to the souls of
the Architecture students who died in
Aleppo University.

In the last week, Aleppo University students were the victim of an air strike while the were sitting for their exams. Although it is unclear exactly how many people were killed, at least 87 people were killed and dozens were wounded after twin blasts shook the campus on Tuesday, according to ABC News.

In CNN's interview with Syrian student's following the massacre at Aleppo University, one student named Simon recounted, "Aleppo University is known as the University of the revolution." Simon said. "We staged a peaceful protest last week, and this is why were targeted. Our pro-government professors always threaten us and way 'we swear we will shell this university'".

Simon said that when the bombs started, the university gates were closed and no one could escape. He said, "Students were trying to climb the fences to get out, but security pushed them back." And then, not surprisingly Assads favorite Human Monster team, the Shabiha showed up chanting "Assad , Assad"/ This crew of criminal thugs don't show up any where unpaid and the only purchaser of their services is Bashar al-Assad.

On January 20th, Regime forces launced a full-scale attack against Jobar, Sultaneyyeh, and Kufrayah village in the southern part of Homs. This is not a surprise attack by Assad forces. The "writing has been on the wall". The People of Syria have been tweeting warnings for the past week about the forthcoming of such a massacre. As a matter of fact, on January 15th tweets started coming across the Twitter space reported the situation like this:

@samersniper

Hysterical artillery shelling started on #Sultaniyeh & #Jobar areas a while ago&still ongoing. &two airstrikes hit the area until now. #Homs

On January 19th, the tweets continued:

@samersniper

Airstrikes on #Jobar neighborhood in #Homs [HD] the moment of bombing, the explosions, and the billowing smokes!!!

And today, January 20th the following tweets:

@clayclai

BREAKING IN #SYRIA: Massacre about to occur in #Jobar, big new terror rocket being used by #Assad! http://www.dailykos.com/story/2013/01/20/1180555/-BREAKING-IN-SYRIA-Massacre-about-to-occur-in-Jobar-massive-new-terror-rocket-being-used-by-Assad …via @clayclai

@mog7546

#ASSad Full-scale attack against #Jobar #Sultaneyyeh & #Kufrayahhas started: EXPECT MASSACRES + CRIMES AGAINST HUMANITY!#USA #EU @HRW #UN

One activist supplied the following photos of bombing raids over Jobar today. Notice the bomber lower left photo:

mz @Dr_mz13 Massacre #Pray4Homs #PrayForSyria #Jobar #HomsJet bombing in Jobar Homs pic.twitter.com/3Mj0E2zZ

If you have been following my blog, you will know that that the Homs area has not been impervious to Assad's persistent barrage of terror. I doubt there is any other area that has consistently been repeatedly punished for the Revolution of the Syrian People. Eerily, today's bloody attack on Jobar is like a deja vu of a brutal attack by Assad forces that not only resulted in a massacre of residents in Baba Amr, two international journaist were killed.

On the website of Reflextv Blog hosted by a Syrian Activist and Journalist, there is the following...
Personal note: This is a similar attack to what took place last year on besieged Baba Amr where Marie and Remi were also killed. During that time, March and April 2012, our village Jobar was stormed on land and people executed. Today, the same scenario of Baba Amr is repeated on Jobar that is held by the Free Syrian Army. So far confirmed personally, my fathers cousin Sa’da Al-Akraa and her disabled daughter Rajaa’ Al-Akraa have been executed. Sa’das elderly husband Abu Abdulhameed Al-Akraa and a couple of other men and women have been abducted, likely to be used as human shields to enter on land. We have lost touch with all family relations inside the village of Jobar, which lies right next to Baba Amr. Kafr Aya is an area housing thousands of displaced civilians from Baba Amr and Jobar and now has been shelled with a new massacre taking place. This is an urgent call for help, but little is expected to be done to save the remaining people besieged now.

The following video is of victims, mostly women and children, being treated in a field hospital in Jabor today (January 20th, 2013).

THIS VIDEO IS GRAPHIC, BUT DON'T LET THAT

STOP YOU FROM WATCHING IF YOU ARE OVER 18 YEAR OLD.

The UN is reporting that "almost 5 million Syrians need humanitarian assistance because of the conflict between the government and opposition forces, a United Nations official said. Regional Refugee Coordinator Panos Moumtzis said 4 million Syrians are in urgent need of help and the number of refugees from the violence-torn country is expected exceed 1 million by June." In December, 2012, the United Nations appealed to it's members for $1.5 billion to meet humanitarian needs in Syria. According the the Voice of America however, only 5% of that amount has been funded. The money that is funded for UN humanitarian Aid will provide for basic needs including water, food, medical care, shelter and blankets for Syrians in refugee camps outside of Syria as well as those Syrians trapped in Syria.

Today another controversy raises it's ugly but interesting head regarding the humanitarian aid that is to be directed for those Syrian people who are desperately in need. The question is how will the aid be directed to them. Some will get to them delivered in trucks full of goods. However, there is a fear that some of the aid will be given to the Assad government "on behalf of the people". Should this happen, the only way that humanitarian aid will get to the people is through a weapon.

The UN must provide 100% assurances that no humanitarian Aid pledged for The People of Syria is given to the Assad Regime. There is a designated and recognized Syrian National Coalition (SNC) led by President Moaz Alkhatib that represents the people however they are having trouble forming a transitional government. Can the SNC be the guardians of the Humanitarian Aid?

One thing that is certain as Assad is caged, killed or scared away, there will need to be a transitional government ready to take over the government role. It is also clear that there must be transparency in order for TRUST to be built by all people. Whoever lands in the seat of power, they must remember one important remember -- Syria is a multi-cultural interfaith community that must be respected!

In the meantime, there are many needs in Syria that we as citizens of the world can do to help our brothers and sisters in Syria. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Druze, Alawite, Kurd , or some other religion … or non at all – there definitely is a mission for you in Syria. The Global Attitude is supporting the orphans of the Syrian War. These innocent ones have no options and no voice in their future at the moment. They are dependent on the Good Samaritans who are kind enough to reach out to them in LOVE and KINDNESS. Their very existence may depend on your generosity through the winter, ensuring that they have warm clothing, blankets and food. Please donate through our partner the FREE SYRIA FOUNDATION at www.free-Syria-foundation.org.

Human Monsters On The Loose In Syria

2013-01-18T20:23:00.001-05:00

The one thing you hear all the time when you are raising elementary age student is "it takes one to know one". This -- not so cute saying ran across my mind this evening as I was thinking about how history would characterize Bashar al-Assad with respect to the Shabiha he pays to go out on the street to kill and mane. These Shabiha are like Human Monsters - they have no feelings. They will beat you to a pulp or slit your throat, all for $100 per day.

A Syrian friend of mine told me that Shabiha use to be known as home robbers from the mountainous regions or members of mafia type groups from costal areas. These criminal groups are protected from prosecution by Assad. He uses them as a feeder group into the Shabiha used by Assad to attack civilians and not technically have it traced back to him and his government.

Assad, you better start packing as your days are numbered. You should go while you can -- no guarantees at a later date. The UN is helping to dot the i's and cross the t's on the ICC complaint.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPad

Location:Virginia Beach, Virginia, USA

Aleppo Students Massecred

2013-01-17T15:10:00.001-05:00

Students in Syria were locked in a classroom and massacred yesterday. If this had happened in the US, all resources would be at hand to bring the killers to justice.

In Syria we know who the killers are -- Bashar Al Assad (aka Human Monster). The international community keeps saying to Assad and his Thugs "this is horrifying and can't happen again. They say, "Assad must step down", but he keeps doing the same behavior over and over.

61,000+ Syrians have been killed with 3,500 being CHILDREN. Only 6,600 of these are are being tracked as soldiers. 1.5 million people are trapped in Syria unable to get out of the country as refugees. These numbers are staggering, but apparently not impacting enough to mobilize ACTION. There have been so much false hope and empty truths -- all talk and no action coming from the international community.

Humanitarian aid to Syrians trapped inside Syria is severely under funded. Desperate help is needed now by governments, NGO's and other non profits. You can help as an individual also by supporting orphans through the Free-Syria-Foundation.Org where $15 will wrap a child in a warm blanket for the winter.

- Posted using BlogPress from my iPhone

Location:Bray Rd,Virginia Beach,United States

Halfaya: Blood Sacrificed for Bread

2012-12-25T21:42:00.000-05:00

Media Office
National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces

Press Release
24 December 2012

The criminal regime has committed another massacre in the city of Halfaya (Province of Hama), killing more than 200 innocent civilians and wounding hundreds of civilians, adding another crime to its criminal record and another blow to international values in general.

In a stark disdain towards all principles, laws and universally recognized norms that the international community has developed to protect human beings and ensure its basic rights and dignity, Assad’s terrorist regime has committed another crime against humanity when it targeted children, women and men who went out to get their scarce daily bread ration, just to find instead death and bombs waiting for them to turn them into torn pieces on the pavement of their city, Halfaya.

The criminal Assad regime not only failed to secure bread for the Syrian people (in spite of his claims to the contrary), it even resents the fact that the Joint Military Council was able to secure its supplies and prevent starvation of citizens. The regime shelled one of the bakeries in Halfaya in order to simply annihilate its residents. This latest massacre took place under the support and watch of Russian and Iranian regimes.

The National Coalition of Syrian Revolution and Opposition Forces reminds the international community of its moral and humanitarian obligations, as this new massacre came just before the visit of the international envoy, Lakhdar Brahimi to Damascus, and amidst the talk about new initiatives. The massacre also came after the world’s powers knew of the regime’s use of Scud missiles and their failure to react towards such serious violations by taking any serious actions necessitated by international laws and humanitarian obligations.

The Syrian Coalition is taking action on several tracks considering all possible measures to prosecute those criminals who were involved in Halfaya Massacre on December 23, 2012 and bring them to justice.
The Syrian Coalition further announces it will submit an official request to the UN Security Council to open an investigation into the massacre and other similar previous ones that targeted bakeries, in order to submit the file to the International Criminal Court after considerable evidence accumulated proving the targeting of innocent civilians near bakeries was intentional and that the regime’s senior leadership was directly involved in these crimes.

The Syrian Coalition delivered an immediate aid of USD 100,000 to the Local Administrative Council of Hama and is in the process of securing additional funds in the coming days from other donors. The Coalition also sent the same amount two days ago to the Military Council of Hama.

May God grant our fallen heroes with peace and forgiveness, heal the wounds of our injured citizens and set free our detainees and prisoners.

In the meantime, there are many needs in Syria that we as citizens of the world can do to help our brothers and sisters in Syria. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Druze, Alawite, Kurd , or some other religion … or non at all – there definitely is a mission for you in Syria. The Global Attitude is supporting the orphans of the Syrian War. These innocent ones have no options and no voice in their future at the moment. They are dependent on the Good Samaritans who are kind enough to reach out to them in LOVE and KINDNESS. Their very existence may depend on your generosity through the winter, ensuring that they have warm clothing, blankets and food. Please donate through our partner the FREE SYRIA FOUNDATION at www.free-Syria-foundation.org.

Location:Ft. Myers, Florida (Christmas Day)

INNOCENT ONES DIE AT SANDY POINT IN SENSELESS ACT

2012-12-17T22:02:00.001-05:00

My granddaughter has high functioning Asperger's. She is funny, not real comfortable in groups, loves animals, has difficulty understanding social queues, is on the honor roll, she loves to cook and is very good at it. Her current hero is Alton Brown of the Cooking Channel.

People with Autism and Asperger's are not inherently inclined to carry out violent acts. Nor are people with mental illness.

This country has two very separate issues that must be dealt with for totally different reasons. However, regarding the issue of Domestic Terrorism where babies have been Murdered needlessly, the answer is:

Get weapons that are meant only to kill people out of the hands of killers

Stop putting politics in front of the safety of our children - Connecticut, Aurora, Virginia Tech, and Columbine ... in fact Newsmax reports over 30 mass shootings since 1999 in the United States.

We all mourn with the families of the little ones who faced this weeks terrible tragedy.

This morning when my 10 year old granddaughter went to school in Virginia Beach, Virginia, there was a police officer in every elementary school. It was just a safety precaution to help make the kids and parents feel more at ease.

Location:Virginia Beach, Virginia USA

The People of Syria Must Prevail

2012-12-03T08:40:00.000-05:00

By: Kimberly Jones, The Global Attitude

Despite the continued struggle the People of Syria face each day as they are assaulted by the barrage of weaponry that is sent out over the skies and across the land, the people continue their Revolution with more conviction than ever. Each day, as the Human Monsters of the Assad Regime kill more innocent women and children, it becomes clearer that the mission must continue and they must succeed no matter what.

December 1st Death Toll:
172 including 9 children, 6 women and 36 rebel fighters (Damascus and Suburbs: 71, Aleppo: 36, Idlib: 21, Deir Azzour: 15, Daraa: 12, Raqa: 8, Homs: 6, Hama: 3)

‏@_Syriana_

This photo made me cry... #Syria pic.twitter.com/uSXrlABz

Recently in Qatar, Syrian activist and FSA leaders gathered with Friends of Syria to discuss their plight. The talked and discussed and listened; and finally as usually the International community sent the Syrian group on their way with nothing more than some “words of advice” that basically went something like “get your act together and then come talk to us”. Maybe to the amazement of some, the Syrian People worked together and selected a leader who would represent them. So as it goes, now there is a Syrian Government and there is a Government of the People of Syria which is now the recognized government of Syria.

‏@halona

@GamerOps this map is more than 90% correct. Green: pro-govt Red: FSA Blue: Fights ongoing Via @ProSyriana #Syria pic.twitter.com/uMYMxsn3

Is it true that with this new Government of the People of Syria, there will be benefits? Will the International Community now step up and provide the support that is needed to help cage the Human Monster? In a recent article by Nehad Ismail published in the Huffington Post, “At long last anti-aircraft weapons are getting through to the rebels. The Free Syrian Army fighters have recently made significant successes on the ground and managed to shoot down five fighter jets including a military helicopter in the space of two days.” Nehad Ismail is a UK based writer/broadcaster and commentator on Middle Eastern Affairs.

The Strategic Communication & Research Centre released a commentary on November 30th stating that the Free Syrian Army had shot down nine war planes within the past 48-hours and also had attempted to save the life of one injured fighter pilot. The downed war planes included five fighter jets and four helicopter gunships, all crashed in Aleppo, Damascus and Idlib. Certainly these events demonstrate that the Free Syrian Armies capability has increased from light arms such as machine guns and grenades, to surface-to-air missiles. This sounds good on paper, but on the other side of the war sheet it doesn’t look so great. The Human Monsters are still significantly in the lead.

The International Community promised HELP to the People of Syria if they pulled it together. They have come together under one coalition, appointed a leader and he has made some very clear statements of what he expects both of the International community and of the Syrian people. At a recent session of Doha Talks, Qatari Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani urged the Syrian “opposition”, more preferably known as the People of Syria, to set its personal disputes aside and unite. In fact, he was heard saying, "Come on, and get a move on in order to win recognition from the international community." The Turkish FM told them bluntly to get their act together.

Mission accomplished … “hand over the help”! What about this for a start:

No Fly Zone

Patriot Missiles on the Turkish Border (Ready, Aim, Fire)

Safety Zone

Emergency Surgical Centers
Mental Health Crisis Centers

Humanitarian Aid to major population centers (i.e. Homs, Aleppo, Damascus, Idlib)

Food & Water
Infant Formula
Medical Treatment

Revolution Statistics (via Syria Daily Round-Up)
Syrians killed: 47,502
Children killed: 3,562
Females killed: 3,595
Soldiers killed: 5,163

Wounded: 137,000
Protesters killed under torture: 1256
Missing: +76,000
Protesters currently incarcerated:+216,000
Syrian refugees since March: +462,904
Refugees in Turkey: +123,747
Refugees in Lebanon: +133,634
Refugees in Jordan: +138,401
Refugees in Iraq: +60,307
Refugees in North Africa: +6,81

Syrian child wounded due to regime indiscriminate shelling in the Damascus suburb of Yalda

There are plenty of expensive military "toys" sitting around in an under-used state within deployable range in the Saudi desert, Gulf States and even Jordan. If asked, the Libyans could probably put together a nice cadre of used weapons ready for deployment to their revolutionary brothers and sisters in short order. In other words, it wouldn't take long at all to have moved into range what the FSA needs, the trick is actually getting it to them. The question might be – is it easier for the FSA at this point to capture their weapons from the Syrian Army rather than have them smuggled in? They are making headway at capturing Syrian Facilities. Maybe with a no-fly in place, they would be able to knock Assad's remaining Security Forces and Shabiha down like dominoes.

One thing that has changed in Syria. When you cross the border at Bab el-Salemah, your Passport gets a stamp of the NEW SYRIA! This is one of the first official signs of a new country emerging. But unfortunately, a stamp does not make a country so we will have to wait until the job of caging the Human Monsters is complete.

‏@jenanmoussa

My passport stamped by #FSA at Bab El Salemeh crossing. Its a brand new stamp that reads 'New #Syria'. @akhbarpic.twitter.com/tuQ4WH7O

In the meantime, there are many needs in Syria that we as citizens of the world can do to help our brothers and sisters in Syria. Whether you are Christian, Muslim, Jewish, Druze, Alawite, Kurd , or some other religion … or non at all – there definitely is a mission for you in Syria. The Global Attitude is supporting the orphans of the Syrian War. These innocent ones have no options and no voice in their future at the moment. They are dependent on the Good Samaritans who are kind enough to reach out to them in LOVE and KINDNESS. Their very existence may depend on your generosity through the winter, ensuring that they have warm clothing, blankets and food. Please donate through our partner the FREE SYRIA FOUNDATION at www.free-Syria-foundation.org.

Morsi - Self-Appointed "King of Egypt"

2012-11-28T14:01:00.000-05:00

2011 Egyptian Revolution Banner in Midan El-Tahrir
(Photo credit: Essam Sharaf)

The whole idea of the Egyptian Revolution was to oust a Dictatorial Government controlled by thugs and bring in a new era. Instead, as an Egyptian friend of mine said they thought they were preventing a "worst option", by electing Morsi and settled for "just bad". But as it goes with politics, it appears Morsi has let the office go to his head quite quickly ... and he may be the "worst yet". As Pope Tawadros of Alexandria recently said, the Egyptian Revolution is not done

Morsi has let all of Egypt down and seemingly even shocked his own supporters, by essentially declaring himself "King of Egypt". He has declared himself above the law in Egypt and without reproach No sooner did he pronounce his super powers "for the best interest of Egypt" (or more likely himself), did the Revolutionaries pour back into Tahrir Square to sound their discontent. Unfortunately, it is unlikely Morsi will listen and reverse his path, as he has assumed a Dictator's mentality. So as Pope Tawadros has predicted, the Egyptian Revolution will likely continue and unfortunately more young Egyptian lives will be lost or abused.

DSC_3302 (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Nehad Ismail, a broadcaster and freelance journalist from Great Britain recently told me, " Egypt is still in turmoil and it would be months before the picture becomes clear and things settle down. Personally I don't trust the Muslim Brotherhood as their undeclared motto is "one-man one-vote one-time". Doesn't that motto just fit! Morsi is now one man with one vote in one time in history!

What is happening in Egypt is a perfect explanation of why throughout the world Church (Religion) and State must remain separate. It is a recipe for disaster!

I think Morsi will be short lived. The Muslim Brotherhood needs to go back to charitable good works -- it is where the people need them the most. Nehad further pointed out that there is "ample evidence available to show that the Islamists don't respect human rights and individual freedoms in Sudan, Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia and even Gaza under Hamas rule. I am a firm believer in the total separation between religion and state. If you mix them, you will have a lethal concoction."

Just look at what happened in the US when the Christian Right tried to take over the Republican party. It just doesn't work.

Israel: Assault on Gaza!

2012-11-23T12:58:00.001-05:00

Map showing the West Bank and Gaza Strip in relation to central Israel (situation of 2007) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

In the beginning, there was Palestine and Israel. So it is said in the Bible. In those days, there was no need for foreign countries to demark their borders or determine right to survive. But, in our modern meddling society the powerful leaders of the world have dictated how the “rest of the world” shall live regardless of outcomes.

In the case of Palestine and Israel, there came a time in history when it was decided by foreign governments that tens of thousands of Palestinians would be removed from their homes, businesses and land to make a new State of Israel. These now homeless refugees, some of whom had been wealthy scholars and physicians were evicted from their homes unable to take their valuable belongings with them. Others were teachers and shopkeepers who were just getting by, but were proud to be a part of their community and homeland. In effect, Jews were given preferential treatment over the Palestinians and the decision to create the new State of Israel as it was done, gave no deference to the future despair the Palestinian people would face in the future.

Some Palestinians relocated to other countries, however the majority of them had nowhere to go but refugee camps. In a matter of a day, these Palestinian people who were farmers, shopkeepers, teachers, and doctors with homes … were now refugees with only what they could carry or push in a cart or take in their car if they owned one. What was the stake in their hearts was that as they were barely out their door, there were Jewish people running into their houses behind them either to move in or to loot – and they could do nothing.

For years, the Israeli’s and Palestinians have been warring factions since this “arrangement” was made. Although, according to the rest of the world (in support of Israel) the Palestinians have been labeled terrorists and the Israelis have simply been protecting their homes and livelihood. Of course, if you can look at this conflict with an open heart and open mind, you can see that the Palestinians, as a People, are VICTIMS in this crisis not terrorists.

Israelis killed by Palestinians in Israel ( blue ) and Palestinians killed by Israelis in Gaza ( red ) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Palestinians are fighting the Israelis with their limited resources and hands tied to regain their freedom. All while Israel continues to occupy their lands, abuse their women and children, and arrest and hold their people (including children) with no explanation or trial for extended periods. Humanitarian aid has been cut off from Gaza for years. In 2008, the Israelis began allowing medicine and food through their blockades however on the ground sources will say what they let through is not enough. Right now the essential medicines and medical supplies crucial to survival in any country are depleted in Gaza, and they are in the midst of a MEDICAL CRISIS created by Israel.

Palestinians had traditionally sent their message to Israel through rockets which generally do not make it through the Israeli defense system and does little if no damage other than send a message. The youth throw rocks in anger at soldiers who are patrolling the border or who are patrolling occupied territory (certainly harmless in the scheme of things). Israel has persistently responded to Gaza’s frustrated demonstrations with a disproportionate demonstration of force and threatening words.

According to The Telegraph, in 2008 the Prime Minister, Matan Vilnai of Israel said, "The more qassam fire intensifies and the rockets reach a longer range, they [the Palestinians] will bring upon themselves a bigger shoah [holocaust] because we will use all our might to defend ourselves," he said. The use of the Hebrew word for holocaust, "shoah", tends to be used exclusively in Israel to describe the Nazi persecution of Jews.

The most recent uprising between Israel and Gaza erupted when Israel assassinated the Hamas leader Ahmed Jabari, ending with a break in cease fire. Israel followed with a vengeful retaliation for “rocket fire into their borders from Gaza”.

English: The cartoonist compares the situation of Palestinians in the Gaza Strip to that of Jews being shot by Einsatzgruppen. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

This week in an opt ed by Gilad Sharon published in the Jerusalem Post, saying some strong words that are not the kind of words spoken by a people looking for peace. He wrote, “A strong opening isn’t enough, you also have to know how to finish [referring to the recent air strikes on Gaza] – and finish decisively. If it isn’t clear whether the ball crossed the goal-line or not, the goal isn’t decisive. The ball needs to hit the net, visible to all. What does a decisive victory sound like? A Tarzan-like cry that lets the entire jungle know in no uncertain terms just who won, and just who was defeated. To accomplish this, you need to achieve what the other side can’t bear, can’t live with, and our initial bombing campaign isn’t it.” According to Gilad Sharon, “There is no middle path here – either the Gazan’s or their infrastructure are made to pay the price, or we reoccupy the entire Gaza Strip.“

Gilad Sharon is Ariel Sharon’s son, the former Prime Minister of Israel. In a more recent comment this week he said, Israel should flatten Gaza like Hiroshima. Clearly, Israel has not learned anything from the crimes of its perpetrators [Nazis] or other crimes that have occurred in history if Sharon represents the Israeli temperature.

One hundred and fifty Palestinians have been killed by Israel's aerial bombardment of Gaza during this most recent incursion, most of them civilians, many of them WOMEN AND CHILDREN, according to Ministry of Health. In addition, almost 1000 Palestinians have been injured, some seriously. As this conflict is discussed in a few weeks, how will it be reviewed by the Western Media and the Political Talking Heads? Will they remember who committed the first hit … the assassination of the Palestinian Hamas leader by an Israel air strike?

On November 19th, two US Allies -- Turkey and Egypt -- had harsh words for Israel. Turkish Prime Minister Erdogan, who has frequently served as a moderate voice in the region, described Israel as a “terrorist state” and condemned the air strikes in the Gaza Strip, which is run by the Islamist group Hamas. Egyptian President Mohamed Morsi has warned Israel against a ground invasion and thrown his support behind Hamas’s leadership, sending his prime minister to Gaza.

When this recent events are said and done, will the International community remember that Israel exterminated entire families in their bombing attacks of Gaza neighborhoods killing mostly women and children? How will they explain this as “primarily a “targeted military maneuver” to hit Hamas military strong holds?”

It is time for the International community to demand that Israel fairly negotiate peace and settle fairly with the Palestinians, including land settlements. Israel has become a bully in the region and language like what is being espoused by Gilad Sharon is unforgivable. Any settlement should also include the release to Palestinian citizens (especially children) currently placed on administrative hold.

Could it be that all of the death and destruction in Gaza has been a political re-election poly for Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu. Reuter's November 23rd headlines read, "Truce hits Netanyahu support but still set for poll win" and it is followed by "Discontent over the ceasefire Benjamin Netanyahu struck with Hamas in Gaza has cost the Israeli prime minister support but he should still win a January 22 election, an opinion poll showed on Friday."

Pope Tawadros on Muslim Brotherhood Morsi

2012-11-11T22:14:00.000-05:00

Coptic and Arabic inscriptions in an Old Cairo church. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

by Kimberly Jones
Editor / Writer
The Global Attitude
http://www.theglobalattitude.com
email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

______________________________________________________

St. Mark's Cathedral in Alexandria (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Many outside of the Middle East and Africa don’t realize or remember that alongside the birth place of the Muslim faith, also was born the Christian faith and the Jewish faith. In fact, as it goes, the Jewish faith is seen as the oldest of the faiths and the Muslim faith is thought of by the Muslims as the last of the faiths of God. All of these faiths have the same God, but each with a somewhat different story.

On November 8^th, in Alexandria Egypt, Bishop Twadros became Pope Tawadros II, “patriarch of the great city of Alexandria and of all Egypt, the Pentapolis and Pelousia, Nubia, the Sudan, Jerusalem, Libya, Ethiopia and all Africa, and all countries of the preaching of Saint Mark, archbishop of Cairo and Fustat. Born Wagih Sobi Baqi Suleiman, he is a former pharmacist who took up orders in the 1970s and most recently served as a bishop for Beheira, a northern Egyptian province”. [International Herald Tribune Global Opinion]

Approximately 10 percent of Egypt's 83 million people are Christian belonging to the Coptic Church. Christians have felt marginalized for years, and with the installation of the Muslim Brotherhood their fears are only running deeper. Conflicts between the Copts (members of the Coptic Church) and Muslims have broken out through the years over church construction, land disputes and interfaith relationships.

The new Pope’s followers have hopes that he will take on a role as their Spiritual leader and social guide but stay out of politics. This may be hard to do in the current Egyptian political environment. And certainly, if the most recent US election cycle is any model, where the Christian right inserted themselves and failed miserably. However, if the Egyptian Christians look to the US for lessons learned, maybe they are giving their Pope some valuable advice.

Even before his formal ordination on November 18^th, Pope Tawadros II has begun taking a stand for the Coptic Church and the Christians in Egypt and the Middle East. In his first week of interviews and activities, the new Pope has demonstrated discipline, wisdom, and leadership. Certainly he is avoiding the Tea Party or Fundamental Christian Right “look and feel”. Here is some of the wisdom he imparted this week which seems like very good advice to me: [AhramOnline.com]

1. The church has “no political role” … the church should only play a “spiritual and social role”, noting that over laps between the two could potentially lead to disturbances within society.

2. There will continue to be a ban on Egypt’s Copts from visiting Jerusalem until the issue of Palestine has been justly resolved. Pope Tawadros said “We won’t encourage Copts to visit Jerusalem, as we can’t accept the idea of Copts selling out the Arab cause”.

3. Pope Tawadros has rejected a parliamentary quota for Coptic MP’s, but stating there should be a representative percentage of Coptic MP’s. Also, he said the constitution that has been so controversial, should be written to represent ALL Egyptians despite their religious affiliations and that “The church will oppose any constitutional article that only takes into account the interests of the Muslim majority.”

Where I think Pope Tawadros begins to either go a bit off kilter or is looking through his world with rose colored glasses is his statement regarding the relationship between the church and the administration of President Mohamed Morsi. Pope Tawadros II said, "The president was democratically elected by the Egyptian people, and is therefore the president of all Egyptians and a symbol of post-revolution Egypt. The church will deal with him with love as it always has." [Egypt.com]

As a good friend of mine, who is an Egyptian father of two said, he voted for Morsi because he had no choice. Why is that I asked? Because he said, “My choice was Bad or Worst, and Worst represented the previous government.” So he felt all he could do was live with Bad. I hope Bad will get Better. The new Pope says two years is not long enough for a revolution to finish. I wonder how long he thinks it will take and how many Egyptian will have to suffer humiliation or death to find out.

Morsi has nowhere to go but up. He started as the favored son of the Muslim Brotherhood, but has attempted to appear more centered on some issues although the adjustment seems quite “self-serving.” It seems to me, an outsider looking in, that the Muslim Brotherhood has played a significant and much needed social service role in Egypt’s communities. The Brotherhood has feed the poor, provided medical care to those who haven’t had any, and much more. As good Samaritans their role in society was clear and could not lead to disturbances within the society as said so well by Pope Tawadros.

With the Muslim Brotherhood's entrance into politics, they have crossed the line and mixed politics with their “social responsibility” mission – one that is frankly unlikely to succeed long run in this writer's opinion. As a Good Samaritan, would the Muslin Brotherhood have turned their back on a Christian? Will the Muslim Brotherhood politicians now turn their back on the Copts who live in their community?

I hope they will do a better job of it than the US has done … where some Fundamental Christian politicians have made terribly ugly accusations about the Muslim religion and our Muslim citizens. It has created unforgivable misunderstandings and feelings of hatred that may have even led to criminal acts in some cases. What we all seem to have forgotten, that Pope Tawadros apparently still has his set hope on is that we are all of Abraham and JUSTICE must prevail.

Could this Pope help build a bridge, when others have failed?

Syria - Come On International Community Get A Move On!

2012-11-10T10:43:00.000-05:00

syria (Photo credit: themua)

by Kimberly Jones
Editor / Writer
The Global Attitude
http://www.theglobalattitude.com
email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

______________________________________________________

According to DOHA Reuters, President Bashar al-Assad said he would "live and die" in Syria. He warned of catastrophic consequences for the Middle East and beyond if anyone interferes with his destiny.

The Prime Minister of Great Britain, David Cameron, appeared to offer Assad safe passage to someplace unknown earlier in the week, but Assad resoundingly rejected the offer. “I am not a puppet. I was not made by the West to go to the West or to any other country,” Assad said in English in an interview with Russian state-backed Russia Today (RT) television.

Assad went on to say, "I am Syrian; I was made in Syria. I have to live in Syria and die in Syria." I am sure the more than 200,000 Syrians that Assad has imprisoned for protesting his cruel dictatorship and the 40,000+ who have been killed on his order do not feel he was made for Syria or that he has to live in Syria! He is like a terrible cancer that started to grow with the father and has spread with the son!

He is the Human Monster of Syria that must be caged. The international community has been dismayed and indecisive on how to handle this monster. Particularly, when the people of Syria have are broken into many factions with competing agendas. With often incongruent messages, it is difficult for outsiders to get a handle on who clear leaders are and just who the possible “bad guys” really are. This is especially true when there are interlopers inserting themselves into the revolution that should not be trusted.

At a recent session of Doha Talks, Qatari Prime Minister Hamad bin Jassim Al Thani urged the Syrian “opposition”, more preferably known as the People of Syria, to set its personal disputes aside and unite. In fact, he was heard saying, "Come on, and get a move on in order to win recognition from the international community." Turkish Foreign Minister Ahmed Davutoglu delivered a similar message, saying, according to the source: "We want one spokesman not many. We need efficient counterparts, it is time to unite."

In most organized governments of the world, there is more than one spokesman. It would seem unrealistic that the People of Syria who have been beaten, broken and torn apart could suddenly come together under one spokesman. However, it is necessary for Syrians to look past their differences, for the greater good of Syria. An agreed upon coalition, speaking with one voice will go a long way to bringing the strength to the people of Syria that is needed to put the Monster (Assad) in a cage or a coffin. Once this has been accomplished, Syrians will have a chance to begin the process of multi-cultural interfaith dialogue to rebuild.

The People of Syria are Muslims, Christians, Kurds, Druze, and Alawites who have lived together for thousands of years through invaders and foreign occupations. As history goes, this will be one more in a long line of terrible events the Syrians will have faced.

Only this time it will read, "Syrian Alawite Dynasty attempts to crush the People of Syria for control of a the land, but the People of Syria who are the heart of the Country prevailed."

Related articles

DON'T LET THEM SUPPRESS YOUR VOTE!

2012-11-05T23:05:00.000-05:00

It seems almost unreal that in 2012 we are fighting for the RIGHT to VOTE. Today, while listening to the news my ten year old heard the words "voter suppression" and wanted to know what it meant. I explained that in our country, we would like to think that all Americans over the age of 18 are able to vote but that isn't always true. It is true that they are all ELIGIBLE to VOTE. However, many local and State governments have set rules up that make it difficult for certain people to be ABLE to VOTE.

You may live in one of those places where some brilliant individual has worked to SUPPRESS YOUR VOTE. If you do, I encourage you to do everything you can in your power to push back and make sure your VOICE IS HEARD. This is your right and no one has the right to take it away from you!

People of Syria: Victims of Assad and UN Security Council VETO

2012-11-04T22:24:00.000-05:00

Today I participated in a conversation on the LinkedIn Group “Human Rights Watch” where the question was posed: “Should the UN Security Council still be allowed the doctrine of "VETO" in the light of human lives lost each day in Syria?”

0SIR_1387 -1 SIRIA TARTUS (Photo credit: druidabruxux)

The Syria war is a perfect demonstration of how the Veto can be misused to further a countries "personal" interest. Both Russia and China, who have been repeat veto(ers) in the Syria situation have huge conflict of interests.

Russia is tied to Syria through its’ long-term lease at the Tartus Naval Base which is Russia's only access to the west through the Mediterranean Sea to Europe. This is a CRITICAL access point for Russia. Additionally, it gives the Russians direct access to Iraq and Iran who are key allies. The third “MUST” for Russia is that Syria is a $billion purchaser of military wares from Russia. Since the Libya connection died with Gaddafi, Russia can hardly afford to allow Assad to similarly be deposed. Losing the Syria military customer would be crippling.

China has over the years made a significant amount of financial investments in Syria and prior to the war had a large workforce in Syria. When the war hit “crisis stage", China evacuated most of its’ workforce and left only enough security to try to protect its’ investments. When you check on the status on some larger Syrian businesses now, their web pages are transferred to China. Previously, no one would have known there was a China connection.

It has been apparent for some time that UN Security Council cannot pull together and do their job to protect the People of Syria. Additionally, no one has yet taken up the option of presenting the 'Uniting for Peace' initiative that gives the UN General Assembly an option to vote by two-thirds an override to the veto of the Security Council. This option is openly available to the UN General Assembly and has been used many times since its first use in 1950 Korea.

The US and UK have jointly invoked the “Uniting for Peace” initiative many times in recent years including to resolve the Suez issue and most recently the conflict between South Africa and Rwanda; in which Rwanda claimed South Africa had no claim to their land and the UN agreed. It certainly seems reasonable that the UN General Assembly could find the Syria issue a plausible situation to invoke the “Uniting for Peace” initiative. But for reasons they are all afraid to say … this will not happen so …

It seems to be back in the hands of the Arab League to get anything meaningful done, in concert with the Free Syrian Army who has fighters on the ground. With over 40,000 people of Syria killed by the Human Monster, Bashar al-Assad, his Security thugs and Shabiha, it is time the Arab League get some serious back bone and get something done NOW!

In fact, it befuddles me why the Arab League has not taken care of their own before now. The League has taken certain measures such as isolating Assad from the league, placing sanctions on him, restricting travel for him and his thugs, and crippling the Syrian Central Bank within the Arab States. They sent in observers which didn't turn out to be such a stellar operation, and they have funneled some weapons and aide to the people of Syria. Obviously this has not been nearly enough.

Thousands of Syrian refugees have poured over  the border into Turkey and
Lebanon to escape the terror. A young refugee settles into a new life   at a
camp in Boynuyogun, Turkey.   (Photo credit: FreedomHouse2)

The situation on the ground in Syria is bloody. It has been one bloody massacre after another, instigated by The Regime. The people who can have fled for the boarders to nearby countries, leaving the elderly, sick, poor, those wanting to protect their property, and others who cannot leave for other reasons behind. If nearly a one million people have fled Syria, there has to be at least 25 million still in Syria suffering and needing protection.

Syrian rebels from the “Al-Qasas Brigade” or “Justice Brigade” run through
an olive grove to avoid Syrian Army snipers as they travel between
villages on foot in the northwestern Jabal al-Zawiya
area. (Photo credit: FreedomHouse)

In addition to the Syrian people fighting in the FSA, there are some Libyan volunteers fighting in Syria (numbers fluctuates depending on who you speak with, anywhere from 300 – 3,000) and certainly not all extremist as the media makes out based on my sources. This isn't going to solve Syria's issue. Then there is definitely a spattering of varying hard line fighters from extremist groups who have come to help their “brothers” win the war (or Jihad in their view). However, for the most part when you talk to the Syrian activist they say that most of the fighters are yesterday’s teachers, students, or engineers; or they are defectors from Assad’s forces. This is not representative of a hard line extremist fighting force.

I am not an expert on International warfare and don’t want to be, but I do have common sense. It makes sense that one of the Arab countries, probably Qatar needs to take the lead and put together a multinational force to put a no-fly and safety zone in place. They are consistently vocal on this issue. By forming a multinational force made up of the Arab League, it would go a long way in helping the FSA in completing their mission. Of course a supply of viable weapons would also help; however, as the FSA has demonstrated -- they are quite resourceful with what they have available to them. After all, they are fighting for their very existence.

What is important in my view is that there are millions of innocent Syrians trapped on the ground in the cities and villages that need aide RIGHT NOW! They have needed aide for a long time and have been neglected. Getting aide to these desperate elderly, women, and CHILDREN will effectively happen without NO FLY or SAFETY ZONES.

Syria children of freedom (Photo credit: FreedomHouse)

Syrians need no perishable food, baby formula, diapers and clothing. Winter is coming and there is a desperate need for blankets, jackets, gloves, socks and shoes. Infrastructure has been destroyed and will need to be restored quickly once an interim government is installed. They need education for the children restored. Medical care is a critical need.

Don't Dis My Religion!

2012-11-01T09:43:00.000-04:00

Throughout time, men have coveted their religious beliefs above all others. This has led to the Crusades, the Inquisitions, and the Holocaust. Thousands upon thousands have died in the defense of their religion, or because they didn't have the "proper" religion according to an opponent.

By deciding that one religion is more worthy than another, over the year’s men have set out on foot, horseback, trains or planes across the world to spread "the good news" from one to another. Those whom are doing "the spreading" care little whether the people on the receiving end want to receive what is being spread.

Someone's faith is a very personal and sensitive part of their being. You would think with all of the horrible atrocities that have been carried out in the name of religion, we would be more evolved human beings today. But it isn't true! Human beings still covet what they believe in as the "right thing," and want to ridicule, humiliate, or beat down any other religion that doesn't fit their ideology.

Competing doctrines proselytize new believers to expand their base, often in a tone that takes on the sound of a campaign. It can get so bad that it propagates "hate". The most recent example of an intentional campaign of hate against a religion was the unreleased movie by the US Federal parolee Nakoula Basseley Nakoula or "Sam Bacile" who produced "Innocence of Muslims." Leaks about this movie to conservative Egyptian radio hosts started a domino effect of Muslim anger and terror attacks by al-Qaeda linked groups that ended up with the killing of US Ambassador Stevens & staff. Americans might relate these radio hosts to US media personalities like Rush Limbaugh and Bill O'Rilley.

Saudi Arabia's King Abdullah, who is known to be a reformer among a country of fundamental clerics, needed a way to put an end to the anger raging against non-Muslims in his country where many live and work. So in an act of what would seem to be good faith, the Saudi King Abdullah on Saturday demanded a UN resolution condemning insults on monotheistic religions after a low-budget film produced in the US sparked deadly protests last month.

Kenneth Roth, of Human Rights Watch, made a point to note that Saudi Arabia's record on dealing fairly with minority Muslims is not stellar. Recently, there have been protests, and the arrest including a leading cleric of the minority Muslim group.

A Saudi friend of mine made the point that King Abdullah did a brave thing, reaching outside of the closed community of Saudi Arabia for help rather than face the problem with his own cleric community. Additionally, the King intentionally made the issue a global issue rather than an Islamic issue while clearly stating that it is every Muslims duty to protect their faith.

It should be noted that King Abdullah also said something that makes perfect sense and certainly is demonstrating leadership in calming the fire on the brewing crisis over the offending short film. He said, "Dialogue strengthens moderation and ends reasons of conflict and extremism.” I am sure he wishes some irreverent US leaders would stop fanning the fire and start some reasonable dialogue.

Imagine having to try and explain this whole mess to a quite bright ten year old. Insight - This whole thing makes no sense at all. They need social skills. Call Mrs. Honeycutt. (She is the adored elementary school guidance counselor by the way!)

Wouldn't it be nice to have a multicultural interfaith community throughout the world that promoted understanding instead of distrust and hate? Like it or not, we are a world that's communities are fundamentally based on religion.

What would this UN resolution achieve? A global anti-defamation or anti-hate crime policy related to religion. Would that be so bad?

Rand Paul: Another GOP Foreign Policy Failure!

2012-10-28T21:01:00.000-04:00

Official portrait of United States Senator (R-KY). (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

According to Rand Paul’s, Senate amendment that was introduced last month, aid to countries like Egypt and Libya would be cut off, while Pakistan would receive restricted aid until it released an imprisoned doctor who helped U.S. forces find Osama bin Laden. I wonder where Rand Paul got his foreign policy experience. It would be nice if these damn super conservative tea party loving GOP people would at least have a pinch of common sense.

Simply speaking, the situation in Pakistan is super sensitive. Destabilizing the situation any more than we [the USA] have already done would be a huge mistake. The Taliban have taken hold in Pakistan and the anti-American sentiments are at an all-time high. The question Rand Paul must be asked is if we pull out our funding and the government in Pakistan fails what will Paul and his GOP do when the Taliban get control of Pakistan’s nuclear war heads. I believe we are better off providing aide to the government and working to improve our relationship. We have some work to do in that area.

The funding of Egypt comes as part of the treaty with Israel. I suggest that we cannot afford to stop funding Egypt while we continue to renew programs to lend $ billions to Israel when in fact you have to ask how much of the dollars lent to Israel ever gets paid back. Human Rights Agencies have been calling for funding to Israel to be cut off for years as they continue to boldly violate the Norwegian Accord. They violate land agreements with the Palestinians and they detain Palestinians including CHILDREN without charges administratively for extended periods which is inhumane.

Just one year ago, the People of Libya with the help of NATO defeated the Dictator Gaddafi. Over the past year, Libya has focused on becoming a free democracy. This is a Muslim nation that desires to become a proud democratic nation. They recently held successful democratic elections with record turnout. The People of Libya are motivated to build a country that politically represents all the people of Libya which in general would be a “moderate” Muslim nation. They do not want Al-Qaeda influences within their country any more than the US does. If the US was to abandon Libya at this stage, it would be sending a terrible message. Libya is the gateway to the north from Central Africa and has been for 100’s of years for drug and human trafficking. Now that Al-Qaeda has a stronghold in Northern Mali, if the US abandon’s Libya it would be like an open invitation for Al-Qaeda to walk into Libya. After Libya, then they can just turn right to Tunisia or left to Algeria – wow that reminds me of the game Risk.

The recent attack on the US embassy was clearly perpetrated by Al-Qaeda from outside of Libya. According to The Hill, “Sens. John McCain (R-Ariz.), Joe Lieberman (I-Conn.) and Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.) condemned the killing of four U.S. citizens who worked at the U.S. embassy in Libya. They said extremists who don’t represent the rest of the country perpetrated the act.” This is consistent with the information that I received from Libya new sources and other private sources.

Could we really afford once again to play a game of risk with Al-Qaeda? The good news is that Rand Paul's Amendment was rejected by the Senate. The bad news is if the Senate had been full of zealots like Rand Paul, the United States would be in a mess. This is a perfect example of why we need Senators hat can think past their nose (to be polite).

Romney - No Grasp On Foreign Affairs!

2012-10-23T08:01:00.000-04:00

A map showing the location of the Arabian Sea in the Indian Ocean. Created by NormanEinstein, Jully 19, 2005. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

by Kimberly Jones

Principal Consultant

The Global Attitude

Website: http://www.theglobalattitude.co

Email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

Blog: http://www.theglobalattitude.com

Facebook: see our new launch page

____________________________________________________

Romney (Photo credit: Talk Radio News Service)

In the United States, most Americans are going to be glued to the tube watching the Presidential debates. Many around the world haven't really cared much about the debates before tonights, but this one might be different as it is dedicated on foreign policy. The press is asking the question:

"What is the one thing we will walk away feeling we can count on from each of these guys"

I have been tweeting with a Saudi man (probably in his late 20's to early 30's), who lives in the US while his wife is completing her PhD. He was watching the last debate and was tweeting privately with me. During the debate he became very frustrated with Romney's comments and at one point said, "If you [American's] don't like us fine, then why do you invest in our oil and gas? Why don't you just leave us alone? The problem we suffer from is pumping this amount of oil and then this sucker [Romney] come and say bad stuff about us?

Rachel Maddow reported tonight, that up until two weeks ago Romney was provided foreign policy briefings by his GW neo-con aides and they were convinced that "he never looked at them." Pretty scarey! Apparently 17 out of 20 of Romney aides are GW throwbacks. Does this mean Romney subscribes to the Cheney-Bush policies? How could it not?

Chris Matthews tonight said about Romney, "Any Jack Ass can talk about the bombing of Iran". No new ideas there. Romney flopped on many prior messages. Many of his constituents should be confused now!

Finally -- just to give you a chuckle if you know geography Romney said Syria is the gateway to the sea for Iran, but Iran and Syria don't even have a border. Iran is bordered by Iraq to the North and is already on a waterway to a major sea by the way -- it is called the Persian Gulf to the Arabian Sea.

Malik_L Releases A Single Hit That Starts "Isn't that where the American embassy was just destroyed"

2012-10-21T11:16:00.000-04:00

by Malik_L
Hip Hop Artist
Libyan dissident returned home

The Global Attitude
http://www.theglobalattitude.com
email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

______________________________________________________

After the American Embassy incident, the city of Benghazi felt like it had been hit by a case of severe depression. People felt that the world and even the remainder of Libya were looking at Benghazi as a "criminal state." Benghazi felt misrepresented, and felt that they had nothing to do with this outrageous attack.

Even months before the incident, the city of Benghazi was falling into this depression and feeling that they had been forgotten. I personally felt this also... but rather than complaining and pointing to the rest of the world saying "you forgot us" !!! ...

I decided to write a quick song with the hopes of raising the morale of Benghazi citizens. I did not want to make too much of a serious song... but I wanted the people of Benghazi to remember what we had accomplished only a year back. I decided to make an introduction to the song, assuming the setting in a Music festival in South America where the interviewer asks me a few questions about myself and finally asking "Benghazi? Isn’t that where an American embassy was just destroyed?” And I respond to her saying, “is that what you will remember us for now? Have you forgotten what this city has done in 2011? Hold on Madame, let me have the mic and climb on stage."

The song is a mix of Arabic and English... with clever Arabic punch lines giving salute and praise to different areas of Benghazi. The chorus says (translated)" you want it or not, this is the spark of revolution, Benghazi, these are the boys who raise the temperature levels." To finish of the song I had to add the most important but mostly forgotten element of hip hop: DJ cuts and scratches....

______________________________________________________

Post-Script by Kimberly Jones

Editor/ Writer

The Global Attitude

Ambassador Stevens and three other Americans lost their life in Benghazi on that tragic day. What isn't reported in the Western news is that ten Libyan security guards that worked at the US embassy also lost their life trying desperately to save the life of the Ambassador and the other staff. Libyan's mourned the loss of their own as well as Ambassador Stevens who they respected.

Get to know more about Malik_L, Libyan, dissident his entire life, who fulfilled a life-long dream before of returning to Libya just in time for the revolution. Now he lives there full-time, giving up his life in Washington DC to help rebuild his mother country.

Steve Job's Crossed My Mind

2012-10-20T21:31:00.000-04:00

by Kimberly Jones

Principal Consultant

The Global Attitude

Website: http://www.theglobalattitude.co

Email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

Blog: http://www.theglobalattitude.com

Facebook: see our new launch page

____________________________________________________

I was reading through Linkedin posts today as I often do, and came across a post from a professor from India who commented on an article about Steve Job's management style. His remark was on target when he said there a lot of people out there trying to tell India what style to mirror after, when what he thought they need to do was figure out what really works for INDIA. It is hard to argue with that!

However, you can't help but think that some of the ideas that worked for Steve Jobs would work anywhere if taken for what they are. Concepts!

Steve Jobs was the most incredible visionary of the 21sy century. People will be writing about his genius for some time into the future. He was an innovator and a strong leader, but most of all he was a creator. Steve changed the way the world listens to music, talks on the phone, and through his Apple technology coined the phrase "there's an app for that". In fact, this phrase is now often used in other contexts, for instance, "app" might be used to mean "solution". Someone might say "I have an app for that", meaning "I have an application or solution for that" in an IT meeting.

You may have read a book Steve Jobs wrote entitled, "Steve Job's and his 12 Rules of Success". If not here are his 12 rules in a nutshell. Any time I read a book, I never walk away thinking I am going to immediately run out and revise my style to fit what I just read. I try to think about what I am already doing that might fit the concept, what I might be doing great or needs a little revision. It is nice to find other colleagues who have also read the same book, then you have a sounding board for ideas. It is especially useful, if you feel safe with each other and can mentor each other by talking freely during discussions about each others strengths and weaknesses.

When I look at Steve Job's list, everything makes sense but what makes me want get right to work are words like:

.12 Rules of Success by Steve Jobs

Do what you love to do. Find your true passion. Make a difference. The only way to do great work is to love what you do.

Be different. Think different. Better to be a pirate than to join the navy.

Do your best at every job. Don’t sleep! Success generates more success so be hungry for it. Hire good people with a passion for excellence.

Perform SWOT analysis. As soon as you join/start a company, make a list of strengths and weaknesses of yourself and your company on a piece of paper. Don’t hesitate to throw bad apples out of the company.

Be entrepreneurial. Look for the next big thing. Find a set of ideas that need to be acted upon quickly and decisively and jump through that window. Sometimes the first step is the hardest one. Just take it. Have the courage to follow your heart and intuition.
Start small, think big. Don’t worry ab out too many things at once. Take a handful of simple things to begin with, and then progress to more complex ones.Think about not just tomorrow, but the future. Put a ding in the universe.

Strive to become a market leader. Own and control the primary technology in everything you do. If there’s a better technology available, use it regardless of whether or not anyone else is using it. Be the first, and make it an industry standard.

People judge you by your performance, so focus on the outcome. Be a yardstick of quality. Some people aren’t used to an environment where excellence is expected. Advertise. If they don’t know about it, they won’t buy your product. Pay attention to design. We made the buttons on the screen look so good you’ll want to lick them. Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.

Ask for feedback from people with diverse backgrounds. Each one will tell you one useful thing. If you’re at the top of the chain, sometimes people won’t give you honest feedback because they’re afraid. In this case, disguise yourself, or get feedback from other sources. Focus on those who will use your product – listen to your customers first.

Innovate. Innovation distinguishes a leader from a follower. Delegate. Let other top executives do 50% of your routine work to be able to spend 50% your time on the new stuff. Say no to 1,000 things to make sure you don’t get on the wrong track or try to do too much. Concentrate on really important creations and radical innovation. Hire people who want to make the best things in the world. You need a very product-oriented culture, even in a technology company. Lots of companies have tons of great engineers and smart people. But ultimately, there needs to be some gravitational force that pulls it all together.

Learn from failures. Sometimes when you innovate, you make mistakes. It is best to admit them quickly, and get on with improving your other innovations.

Learn continually. There’s always “one more thing” to learn. Cross-pollinate ideas with others both within and outside your company. Learn from customers, competitors and partners. If you partner with someone whom you don’t like, learn to like them – praise them and benefit from them. Learn to criticize your enemies openly, but honestly.

Do any of Steve's success factor's motivate you to make a change? What impact can you expect to realize from the change? How will you implement the change?

HELP GET SYRIANS OUT OF THE COLD!

2012-10-12T19:14:00.000-04:00

Syria (Photo credit: ewixx)

by Kimberly Jones
Editor / Writer
The Global Attitude
http://www.theglobalattitude.com
email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

______________________________________________________

War rages on in Syria as Assad's security forces and shabiha continue their missions of mass destruction. They kill entire families in acts of genocide, and murder women and children with no remorse.

DEATH TOLL OF INNOCENCE ON 10/10/2012: 191 people of Syria were killed yesterday including 15 women and 14 children (Damascus and Suburbs: 57, Idlib: 42, Aleppo: 32, Homs: 18, Raqa: 14, Daraa: 11, Deir Azzour: 7, Hama: 7, Latakia suburbs: 3)

While within the town of Latakia, the family home of the Assad's, they are trying to show a different Syria -- one with beautiful beaches, jet skis, fine dining, and great shopping -- all untouched by the war. Latakia is definitely an Alawite haven, but also a Syrian resort gem worth protecting. Above all, the resting place of Hafez Assad (the father of Bashar Assad). Believe it or not! I was sitting in an office waiting on my doctor and this beautiful beach scene popped on CNN news. Before I noticed the running headlines at the bottom of the screen, I thought it was a travel story on Italy or Greece. Instead it was a story on "the little town in Syria where war isn't happening".

As the reporter interviewed young people from this" fairy tale" town of Latakia, they seemed innocuous to the atrocities in the rest of Syria. It was quite unreal, and a humiliation to the rest of Syria as the whole picture (environment and the young people's perspective) clearly showed how Assad sees his tribe vs the rest of Syria. In effect, he does not see himself (or His people) as Syrian but as Alawites. In fact, there is evidence that Assad does not believe he is just a leader but he believes he is a god. This explains a lot. The Assad's are not only cruel dictators, they are invaders (and mentally ill ones at that). I have been saying for some time that Assad has lost his marbles. Problem is, he never had the right marbles in the first place.

You can bet, the people of Latakia will have a wam home and nice blankets to sleep under this winter when the weather in Syria become brutal. But the millions of others trapped in Syria face winter with no heat and desperate living conditions, many may not even have a blanket -- definitely not traditional home heating. That is why THE GLOBAL ATTITUDE has joined the FREE-SYRIA FOUNDATION to raise money to send blankets to Syria. Your $15 USD donation per blanket will keep women and children from freezing to death this winter. Here is how you can help!

Support the Orphans

The Assad regime has been targeting families since the beginning of the Syrian Revolution. Today, literally thousands of children are homeless, malnourished, or orphaned. FREE-Syria is committed to providing all assistance possible to Syria’s future – those children who have already given so much. Your donation can help ensure a future of possibility for Syria’s children.

In addition to supporting orphans, FREE-Syria works with the Local Coordination Committees in Syria (LCC) (www.lccsy.org) to provide much-needed relief to civilians across Syria. Relief means food, medicine, and clothing for the 2 million displaced people. Please join us in alleviating their suffering. Let’s make a difference now.

FREE-Syria is partnering with the Local Coordination Committees in Syria (LCC) (http://www.lccsyria.org/en/) and (https://www.facebook.com/LCCSy) to host this winter blanket drive– #KeepUsWarm

Keep Us Warm — please share with your communities and invite your friends. We CAN keep families warm this winter! But we need your help. At least two million Syrians are living in makeshift camps, trying to survive the harsh elements in their homeland, which has lost the warmth and security of a home.

Cold temperatures will penetrate the displaced bones of women, children, and the elderly every night as they gaze into the dark night skies.Help us to secure their warmth despite the crisis they are suffering.

For US $15, you can offer a warm blanket to a displaced Syrian. Let them know they are protected against the cold and that someone is thinking about them, despite the cruelty of our world. Come together and warm thousands of Syrians

For more information on these and other fundraising efforts, please contact us at info@free-syria-foundation.org.

The People of Syria need help from the international community (all caring citizens) to provide charitable giving in all areas including help with medicines, surgical supplies, sterile dressings, syringes, emergency medical kits, mobile surgical units, emergency transport carriers, food, baby formula, diapers, temporary shelter / tents, clothing. The list is too long to continue. Please go to the Charity Page on this blog to locate a reputable (fully vetted) charity that you can support. All are doing amazing work in Syria.

Foreign Minister of Turkey says Syria's Vice President Should Lead???

2012-10-08T09:07:00.000-04:00

English: Prof. Dr. Ahmet Davutoglu, Minister of Foreign Affairs from Republic of Turkey. (Photo credit: Wikipedia)

Turkey's Foreign Minister Ahmet Davutoglu suggested today that Syria's Vice President Farouk al-Sharaa could take over as a Transitional President -- of course assuming the Human Monster steps aside or is caged. The latter would be the most preferable resolution ... but of course I digress.

Farouk al-Sharaa is a Sunni Muslim and career Syrian politician of 40 years. Davutoglu recommends him as someone who knows the ropes saying "no one knows the system better than he does".

Knowing the system better than anyone may not be a positive in every instance. It seems highy unlikely that Sharaa is pure as the white snow when it comes to crimes against the people of Syria. How could he continue to do his job for almost 2 years and be totally disassociated from the criminal actions.

I wondered what the People of Syria thought of the idea so I weent to my Syrian twitter friends to see what they had to say I wasn't surprised at the responses, but they certainly all are saying the same end message. I think Maisa Akbik's comment summed it up best when she tweeted "We accept even a monkey who wud stop killing, but Iran refuses!." Other comments included:

ilhan tanir ‏@WashingtonPoint
#Turkey: VP #Sharaa can lead #Syria in shift after #Assad ouster -- supported by Bassem Dade, political adviser of #FSA

@LeaveSyriaNow
@WashingtonPoint @mtaia @abuhatem @anonymoussyria @kimberlyjoneswa @freesyrianarmy @hamdirifai every ASSad proxy have blood on their hands

Al Sarraj ‏@AlaaSarraj
@M_akbik @Kimberlyjoneswa @WashingtonPoint @mtaia @FreeSyrianArmy @hallak @HAMDIRIFAI Asking as if he will be for life?! It's a transition!

Pseudonymous Rami ‏@AnonymousSyria
@washingtonpoint @Kimberlyjoneswa @LeaveSyriaNow @abuhatem him remaining royal to the regime is very bad, what Turkey wants, won't happen

Pseudonymous Rami ‏@AnonymousSyria
@washingtonpoint @Kimberlyjoneswa @LeaveSyriaNow @abuhatem him remaining royal to the regime is very bad, what Turkey wants, won't happen

Murhaf Taia ‏@mtaia
@Kimberlyjoneswa @WashingtonPoint @M_akbik @FreeSyrianArmy @hallak @HAMDIRIFAI even if opposition will accept him, assad won't

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@WashingtonPoint @Kimberlyjoneswa @AnonymousSyria @LeaveSyriaNow I just want the killing to stop I don't care who rules MB or Sharaa.

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@WashingtonPoint @Kimberlyjoneswa @AnonymousSyria @LeaveSyriaNow but would be a waste for a revolution for 2 years almost to end up w/ him.

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@WashingtonPoint @Kimberlyjoneswa @AnonymousSyria @LeaveSyriaNow he is a war criminal and bastard and in a perfect world is executed.abuhatem ‏@abuhatem

@LeaveSyriaNow @WashingtonPoint @mtaia @AnonymousSyria @Kimberlyjoneswa @FreeSyrianArmy @HAMDIRIFAI and ASSAD goes and killing STOPS id take

ilhan tanir ‏@WashingtonPoint
.@mtaia @abuhatem Davutoglu says Shaara's hands are not dirty@anonymoussyria @leavesyrianow @kimberlyjoneswa @freesyrianarmy @hamdirifai

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@LeaveSyriaNow @WashingtonPoint @mtaia @AnonymousSyria @Kimberlyjoneswa @FreeSyrianArmy @HAMDIRIFAI he is part of regime he is as dirty as

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@LeaveSyriaNow @WashingtonPoint @mtaia @AnonymousSyria @Kimberlyjoneswa @FreeSyrianArmy @HAMDIRIFAI they get. But if its a transition.

abuhatem ‏@abuhatem
@LeaveSyriaNow @WashingtonPoint @mtaia @AnonymousSyria @Kimberlyjoneswa @FreeSyrianArmy @HAMDIRIFAI and ASSAD goes and killing STOPS id take

Related articles

Libyans Exercise Right To Say NO To New Government

2012-10-05T23:06:00.000-04:00

by Kimberly Jones

Principal Consultant

The Global Attitude

Website: http://www.theglobalattitude.co

Email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

Blog: http://www.theglobalattitude.com

____________________________________________________

The National Assembly in Libya has voted to reject the government that was finally appointed by the new Prime Minister Abushagur. Protesters were so unhappy with his choice that they stormed into the assembly chambers to make their complaints known.

According to the Libyan Business News, “We voted to reject the government proposed by Abushagur and to grant him until Sunday to present a new line-up,” said Abdelali al-Dersi, who represents the eastern town of Al-Bayda in the assembly. “The government didn’t represent all the sectors or regions of Libyan society. It was thrown together arbitrarily and on the basis of friendships,” he added.

While it is important for the Cabinet to be represented by highly qualified individuals, in Libya's sensitive state equal representation is just as important a criteria Over the past few days, I have heard from several Libyans their dissatisfaction with the continuing process in Libya. The "old boys network" goes on at all levels while the average Libyan's life gets no better. In general, I have been told that many Libyans in the East feel that Tripoli (Western Libya) is favored to the detriment of the rest of Libya. Whether this is true or not, this perception must be changed in order to bring ALL the people together as one AMAZING Libya.

Syria: The Human Monster Ups The Stakes

2012-10-04T00:39:00.000-04:00

Syria (Photo credit: ewixx)

by Kimberly Jones
Editor / Writer
The Global Attitude
http://www.theglobalattitude.com
email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

______________________________________________________

Over the past month, there have been reports that the Free Syrian Army has made progress in their efforts to gain territory in Syria. In fact, I heard anecdotally on twitter, that the FSA now has a majority to the populated area of Syria (not validated). On the other hand, Syrians continue to run for their lives to the borders of Jordan and Turkey which is putting a huge strain on the refugee camps and the funding that supports them.

It would be great if the photo below, depicted the end of a war some well deserved rest. But, for these soldiers, this is but a momentary chance to catch their breath before they will surely head back to the battle.

Credit: Hussein Malla / AP

Free Syrian Army fighters from the Al-Faruk brigade rest Saturday at

the Syrian crossing border point of Tal Abyad, a Turkish-Syrian border
crossing captured by the rebels earlier in the week, in eastern Syria.

In fact, as recently as September 22nd, according to the NBC article the FSA command was pulling out of Turkey where they were previously headquartered and moving into Syria. This move will enable them to gain stronger leadership and command over their troops, rather than trying to direct them from another country which must have held some animosity for some. Their leadership was safe in another country and the troops were shedding blood in Syria. With this issue resolved, hopefully they will have better command and control which is required to win the war, rather than taking Syria a battle at a time.

The biggest frustration to the FSA I am sure, has to be their lack of firepower. They are armed with small weapons that they buy with the funding they receive from of their supporters such as Syrian Expats. They also capture weapons. Additionally, it is becoming more clear that there are foreign entities that are aiding the Free Syrian Army (FSA). According to Fox News, "addressing the U.N. General Assembly's annual ministerial meeting, Syrian Foreign Minister Walid al-Moallem said peace requires Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Libya and others to stop arming, financing and supporting the opposition -- as well as by Syria. He also alluded to the anti-Islam video that provoked violent demonstrations around the Muslim world."

I my opinion , as usual al-Moallem said a bunch of hogwash when he spoke at the U.N. General Assembly. Even before Turkey, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Libya and others to stop arming, financing and supporting the opposition, Syria was killing their people, committing genocide and crimes against humanity. Then they were making up other excuses. Assad is a poor excuse for a human -- in fact he is a human monster.

Assad Democracy! (Photo credit: FreedomHouse2)

If that isn't evident enough by the massacre he has carried out in his own country, think about this. Assad has had no problem shooting across the border into Lebanon multiple times. He shot down a Turkish fighter jet (with intent). He has previously taken pot shots over the Turkish border. And, today Assad and his rogue government essentially waged war on Turkey by firing across the border with intent.

According to CNN, the town of Akcakale "was hit by artillery fire belonging to the Syrian regime forces," a statement from Erdogan's office said, in the first clear assertion of blame for the shelling. "Our armed forces on the border responded immediately to this atrocious attack within the rules of engagement, and points in Syria determined by radar were hit with artillery fire," it said. "Turkey, within the confines of the rules of engagement and international law, will never leave these types of provocations aimed at our national security unanswered."

Of course as you can imagine the Syrian government apologized for the atrocities and " is looking into the matter to determine how this happened". They will certainly blame it on "terrorists".

Turkey is a NATO nation. Syria wages war on Turkey they wage war on NATO. The US is a NATO member.

LET'S PUT A STOP TO THIS MONSTER NOW!

Libya Open For Businss - Not A Foreign Business Take Over!

2012-09-29T22:59:00.000-04:00

by Kimberly Jones

Principle Consultant

The Global Attitude

Website: http://www.theglobalattitude.co

Email: theglobalattitude@gmail.com

Blog: http://www.theglobalattitude.com

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Libya is a country of six million people. Without the protection of part-ownership, there is a fear (and likely valid one) that Libya would quickly be run by foreigners. The people of Libya just spent over 40 years being run by a ruthless dictator. They are not ready to be run by a bunch of foreign enterprises.

In the spirit of cooperation, foreign enterprises must be willing to come to Libya and partner in good faith with Libyans. The intent must be to take advantage of the opportunity and TEACH the Libyan partner to be a good business partner. Some may have been educated outside of Libya and be well versed in business practices. But most might need coaching in the ways of the business world outside of Libya. In the end this mutually beneficial relationship will reap benefits beyond what you might have imagined.

Toyota has established a fantastic example of how a foreign entity can come to Libya and partner in good faith. Make no mistake, Toyota came to Libya to make money -- to sell cars. But they harnessed an idea that they could also make a contribution to the community while they were at it. With the support of the Japanese Embassy in Tripoli, Toyota has launched a programme to train car mechanics in Tripoli, Benghazi and Misrata, according to a report from the Libya Herald. The idea is to give young Libyans who have graduated from local technical institutes the technical skills they need for full-time employment with the Toyota dealer network.

Another unique partnership I read about recently is a large Koren multi-year construction project that will qualified physicians to Libya for one or more Health Events where these specialists including family medicines, pediatric, cardiologist, and more will see Libyan patients at no costs. These physicians will all be be from a Korean Volunteer Physician Group. Once again, this is an amazing opportunity for cooperation, not just through governments but through companies who are also working together.

Do all efforts have to be this elaborate to be of value? Of course not. There are many opportunities in Libya - it is just a matter of finding the right opportunity and match with a partner. Here are a couple of things to remember when thinking about looking for a Libyan partner.

While there are certainly Libyans to be found with wealth, there are many Libyan families who had their wealth stripped by Gaddafi. These families are looking at this "New Libya" as an opportunity to regain some of their wealth through honest business opportunity. Be willilng to "think outside the box" when structuring deals so everyone can be a winner.
Make sure you have fully vetted the Libyan partner to make sure they will work according to your agreement when you are off doing other projects somewhere else. After all your intent in parterning is to make money.
Remember you are doing business in Libya. Respect the customs and sensitivities above all. If you do not , all will be lost at from the start.

The rest is just good business sense.