Christine Smith’s Blog

How I Am Voting - Colorado Amendments & Referendums

Colorado has the longest ballot in 96 years, and I’ve read it may be the longest ballot in the country. With numerous amendments and a few referendums, almost all center on whether you want to give government greater power or not.

The Colorado Constitution is the governing document of our state. Amendments are not the answer which should first be sought to remedy social issues/problems, just as tax increases are not the solution either.

I decided how I would be voting on all the amendments (except two) and referendums about two weeks ago. As of this week, after additional research and thought, I have now decided on those two amendments, and thus now post how I am voting on all of them.

(If you’re interested in learning about each amendment and referendum listed below, you may visit the online version of the 2008 State Ballot Information Booklet in English
or in Spanish.

How I Am Voting, Colorado’s Election - November 4, 2008

Amendment 46: YES

Amendment 47: YES

Amendment 48: NO

Amendment 49: YES

Amendment 50: YES

Amendment 51: NO

Amendment 52: NO

Amendment 53: NO

Amendment 54: NO

Amendment 55: NO

Amendment 56: NO

Amendment 57: NO

Amendment 58: NO

Amendment 59: NO

Referendum L: YES

Referendum M: YES

Referendum N: YES

Referendum O: NO

Chertoff’s “Progress” Against Illegal Immigrants (& Recommendation of a Moving Drama Well Illustrating It)

A couple nights ago I watched a most interesting and poignant drama. “The Visitor” is the story of a college professor (played by Richard Jenkins) whose life is changed by his meeting of a young couple (a man from Syria, and lady from Sengal, Africa) and the young Syrian’s mother, all of whom are in this country illegally. The drama unfolds as a friendship develops between the four and strengthens as the professor learns firsthand of US Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) policy.

Without giving too much of the plot away, I’ll say that for me, the most moving scene was when the professor is in the ICE detention facility waiting room, alone, and begins expressing his righteous indignation at the entire cold system. A system where bureaucratic policy (enforcing wrongful law, in my opinion) wreaks havoc on lives through its disrespect and disregard for the human being (who is treated like an object - a number) once arrested and incarcerated as a detainee. As a result, families are torn apart as loved ones face the inhuman system.

This film portrays an excellent depiction of the plight facing our brothers and sisters who are working and who have (sometimes for years) made a life in this nation. View this film for a human perspective on the repercussions of the current immigration law and the way it is enforced (arrests, detention, deportation).

From the ICE website: “U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) was established in March 2003 as the largest investigative arm of the Department of Homeland Security. ICE is comprised of five integrated divisions that form a 21st century law enforcement agency with broad responsibilities for a number of key homeland security priorities,” and “(ICE) partners with individuals, businesses and state, local and federal agencies in order to offer the most powerful protection within our homeland, ” and “(ICE) the largest investigative agency in the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), has achieved extraordinary results in its mission to ensure a safer, more secure America.”

I found it interesting that Homeland Security Secretary (and co-author of the USA Patriot Act) Michael Chertoff during his “State of Immigration Address” (June 9, 2008), used the word “progress” multiple times…

“…first our continued progress at the border…
…In each area you will see clear evidence of our progress…
…we are going to continue to post on our web site on the metrics of our progress…
…actually had them observe with approval a lot of the progress…
…that while showing progress…
…made a dramatic amount of progress….
…they’ve been making progress…”

reminding me of Bush’s frequent use of the word “progress” about his war in Iraq and his “war against terror.” Hearing those such as Bush and Chertoff overuse a word such as “progress” is a clear example of their protesting too much, leading me to believe quite the opposite of what they so fervently wish to convince people of.

ICE is, in my opinion, but another huge bureaucratic, unnecessary, costly and dangerous arm of the federal government, exploiting the fear of the American people to justify its existence, its enormous “budget,” and its power.

Americans have much to be seriously concerned about. Just one example: internal Homeland Security checkpoints set up under the Customs and Border Protection agency with vehicle checkpoints “usually located 25 to 75 miles inland from the border.” Read some CBP propaganda such as its proud boasting about their Falfurrias, Texas checkpoint (one of three checkpoints in the Border Patrol’s Rio Grande sector) as “A ‘Star’ Border Patrol Checkpoint, ” with emphasis on such such things as what a “good neighbor” agents are to the community, and the number of illegal aliens apprehended and value of seized conveyances.

I’m one who doesn’t want to see “progress” in what has become a war against immigrants. I disagree with the increase of arrests and deportations of people who harmed none, but are simply looking to create a more prosperous and fulfilling life. Frankly, I believe the only thing wrong with “illegal immigration” is the imposition of “illegality” on a natural human desire to move to the place you desire and create the best life you can for yourself and family. It is the inherent dream we all share and which we all have a right to try and realize.

Regardless of your current position on the immigration issue, I highly recommend “The Visitor” to you. You may view the film’s trailer, read reviews, and obtain the dvd at its Amazon page.

The Blessing of True Friendship

“A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles.”

“To be capable of steady friendship or lasting love, are the two greatest proofs, not only of goodness of heart, but of strength of mind” - both quotes from William Hazlitt

“The language of friendship is not words but meanings.”
- Henry David Thoreau

Friendship is a wonderful blessing. To have even one other with whom you can share ideas, thoughts, and concerns. To have someone willing to listen, and to advise if sought. To have someone with whom you can just be yourself. To have someone who cares about your well being and happiness. To be that someone for another.

Yesterday and today I find myself particularly contemplating the wondrous miracles in my life this past year. What some would call synchronicity, I give all recognition to God for. I believe the meaningful experiences and meeting of people whom have meant much to me are no accidental coincidences. I believe it is evidence of the Holy Spirit at work. I am abundantly blessed; I am filled with gratitude…and joy!

It is just amazing to look back, in retrospect, to see how all things have worked together for my good. In ways I could never have anticipated or planned, beautiful happenings have occurred. Meeting those of like mind and heart who have become friends, who by their very nature and work inspire me has been such a deep blessing in my life - resulting in my growth intellectually, emotionally and most important of all - spiritually. And, I, with a willingness and deep desire to be a blessing to others - being given opportunity to share what I have learned through such friendships.

My faith in God - and serving Him - is the most important thing in my life. Surrender was the key to everything I have been blessed with. And it is through others, God often works - a revelation which makes my heart sing! It’s you and me who make the difference.  Often, it is through friendship we serve God, learning what we teach, and being strengthened by the sheer knowledge, example, and sharing of another.

I have been blessed with a wonderful father. I have been blessed with a few good friends. I am in awe at the beauty and significance of them. How good individual(s) can be such a blessing (often I think far more than they may ever know) to others. For it is through time, one develops trust, and it is a good thing to know that there are a few whom one knows in which trust is well placed. Those of integrity, faithfulness, character and true good-will toward others - are rare. I treasure them.

Consider how few are those you have learned significant lessons from, and how few are those you could pick up the phone right now to share a joy with, and how few you could ask for advice from, and how few have inspired you to become more of who you are meant to be…those few whom you can trust. 

The two quotes from William Hazlitt I with which began this entry: “A gentle word, a kind look, a good-natured smile can work wonders and accomplish miracles…To be capable of steady friendship or lasting love, are the two greatest proofs, not only of goodness of heart, but of strength of mind,” describe those who, perhaps even unbeknown to themselves, bless others daily just because of who they are - the right choices they have made. They are a blessing just by being themselves because they long ago made the choice to endeavor to express love toward all.

As I ponder the wondrous workings of God in my life, and the knowledge and understanding I have gained on this path we call life, due to those who have been a catalyst for growth in me, I am filled with such gratitude! Every day, during prayer, I express my willingness that I, too, will express God’s love in all I do - my words and deeds - to all I encounter. As I seek to learn and grow, I seek to share. I think then of certain individuals, such as my father and of the very few friends whom I most treasure, and pray not only for their abundant blessings and protection but also recognize the incredible blessing they have been in my life and express that gratitude to God for bringing them into my life.

True friends (true relationships based on truth - be it between friends or family) are a most wonderful blessing. In every relationship, we are both teachers and learners, if we have just a little willingness. It is the same with God, one must have the willingness to put all ego aside, and listen to the guidance and knowledge available to you. Through that willingness from the heart, we choose to always be receptive to the wisdom we may learn from another….likewise, we are willing to share with another.

True friendship is of the heart…of the spirit.

It gives us the opportunity to practice and develop the habits of the virtues of mercy, forgiveness, compassion, patience. In relationships where both are dedicated to truth, there will be peace.  All relationships present opportunity to serve God by strengthening another’s faith, by service and teaching (even by the way we live our life) , and by being willing to accept the blessing of learning from them.

Every good friendship in my life, be it going back for years or relatively recent but for which I am very grateful, has certain qualities distinguishing it from others. Qualities coming to mind of the most beautiful relationships in my life include: Joyfully sharing; being who you really are always; complete honesty - basing the relationship on truth; a wanting to give and help; willingness to be who you are, share you are - both strengths and weaknesses; being introspective and admitting of mistakes; listening; having no expectations of the relationship; living in the present moment (not focusing on the non-existent past or future); happiness in knowing your friend is happy; and as I said - a willingness to learn. It is about giving.  To learn another’s heart, and for them to permit you to do so, is a great gift. For another to trust you, as it is for you to come to trust another, a great gift.

With those, you can laugh, share humor, share activities, or simply say ‘hello’ and catch up with one another…but all of it is far more meaningful because there’s a depth of appreciation there for who each other.

The best friendships occur between two whole, complete persons. 

They look not to “complete” themselves with another, though emotionally they may complement and spiritually supplement one another. Being strong individuals, they possess mutual respect, and seek only to share with one another.

Few can I relax and simply be who I am with, but those I treasure. And it is that type of friend I seek to be for those whom I care about. It’s not about words that are spoken, but meanings as Thoreau so perfectly expressed, “The language of friendship is not words but meanings.”

I call such relationships holy, for in them we become channels teaching love (God’s love manifest through us) thereby becoming a blessing to another. Such a holy relationship may occur between both family and friends. It requires a humble spirit. To wholly appreciate, is to love. And in it, joy is experienced.

My faith is strong. I’ve learned to trust God; that there is a divine order to it all (even if I may not always be aware of it at the time). I need not ever again wonder or be in despair, for though great is the mystery, the blessings are bountiful and wonderful. And true friendships have been a part of God’s miraculous workings in my life - this I see - and they’ve never been something I could make happen, but occurred on their own entering my life for the joy to be shared. They provide opportunity for each friend to remind the other of truths they know, to help one another be strong in adversity, to give comfort from physical and emotional hardship, and a chance to exchange happy and amusing observations of life, and most of all to encourage and be encouraged…to inspire and be inspired. How wonderful is that! True friendship strengthens one’s spirit and faith.

These are my thoughts today, a beautiful autumn day (after a windy storm last night), as I consider those I know in my life. I am simply filled with appreciation, and a happiness I wanted to share by writing this blog today.

Mini-golf photos :)

A beautiful sunny day with cool breezes…I can tell the seasons are changing!

I love outdoor activities - and though most often it’s solitary activities such as hiking & backpacking, sometimes I enjoy activities with friends. Mini-golf is one of those…here’s a few photos from a recent sunny afternoon of lemon meringue pie, guacamole & nachos, and mini-golf.

(Note: If photo slideshow does not automatically start, simply refresh this page by clicking this blog entry’s title and it will begin.)

Compelled To Vote? Why?

Questioning the current get people out to vote campaigns & a Review/Recommendation of Leonard E. Read’s “Anything That’s Peaceful - The Case for the Free Market”

by Christine Smith

I believe in personal responsibility. It’s the reason I am very careful and generally reluctant to join organizations and groups. Joining with others, in my view, makes one personally responsible (to a large degree) for the positions (which oneself may not agree with), actions, and results that group does. I cannot draw some imaginary line, distancing myself from what any given group does, if I have joined my name, will, and support to it. Same goes for who I vote for. I view the voter as culpable for whatever an elected politician does, that is if there was ample evidence of who that person was and what they stood for, before the vote was cast.

There is often what I consider a false emphasis on the importance of voting in this country. I say this from the perspective of someone who has voted in every election since I was of age.

I believe participation in the electoral process is essential to achieving liberty in this nation, and voting, obviously, extremely important. How else will we get those such as Ron Paul in office? But if an office has no candidate who values liberty running, I see no value (only harm) in casting a vote for someone who is anti-liberty. Harm, wrong actions and the consequences reaped, and the corrupt status quo of the current political scene remains the same as long as the same keep being elected.

My state of Colorado has the longest ballot in the United States this November, with numerous ballot initiatives I consider important to vote upon. We’re considered a “battleground state” for the presidential election. Simultaneously, there are a number of local offices one may vote upon.

For all offices, in which I see no candidate whom I can, in good conscience, vote for, I will cast no vote.

What amuses me is this popular correlation between voting and patriotism, as if it’s your “duty” as a citizen. Better vote and when you do better not leave any empty spaces on that ballot or else you’ve failed to do your duty is a message I’ve heard. That assumes your voice is reflected in your vote. If only it were (how can it be when the “choices” actually provide no choice?). When presented with completely unacceptable candidates, I think the best (or most truly patriotic) choice is to select none of the above, so to speak. That, in itself, can require more thought and integrity, than blindly (or contemptuously and reluctantly) casting a vote for any candidate who to a significant degree does not reflect your principles and values.

When I look at the field of candidates for an office, I I view it as a litmus test; to a large degree, on the issues I consider to be most important a candidate must share my positions. Sure, it would be rare (but not impossible) for a candidate for any office to be someone I agree with wholeheartedly (I say it’s possible, because I can imagine such candidates based upon the fact there are libertarian writers, whose work has been consistent for many years; if such trustworthy individuals exists, it is feasible that such a trustworthy candidate could present themselves- though that would be rare). But, usually, there will be disagreement between any given voter and any given candidate - that doesn’t rule out my casting a vote for them. But on key issues - it does.

I don’t care whether it’s a choice between voting between the lesser of two evils or the lesser of five, I will not knowingly cast a vote for someone who I believe will harm others internationally, this nation, my state, or my county or city. To know that a candidate’s fundamental positions will harm others means to partake in that harm if one votes for them. The majority of those holding elected office in this country do not care what is in the best interest of this nation and its people. They are, in my opinion, focused on their agendas (consider how many vote on bills without reading them - that’s because they already know how they are going to vote - exactly in the way expected of them not by their constituents but by those who got them that office and those who will reward them).

Regardless of the political party of a candidate, I vote (or withhold my vote) based upon who they are and what I believe they will do.

Voting is important, just as is encouraging good liberty candidates to run. But I have no illusions, under this current system, all odds are stacked against any candidate who isn’t beholden to someone. True liberty candidates (those with the integrity to never compromise their positions) find every step of the process against them. I shall not look to the likelihood of such candidates being elected, but to casting a vote for someone who truly expresses - by thought and deed - liberty. And, likewise, such candidacies provide opportunity to discuss the issues they stand for with the populous - be it in your city, county, or state. Use such campaigns to share with others the “why” behind your vote.

I just finished reading another book by Leonard E. Read, “Anything That’s Peaceful.” I highly recommend it (as I highly recommend any of Read’s books and essays). In it, I was pleased to find a chapter devoted to this prevalent notion that one must vote. Never before have I read such an articulate accurate analysis of voting. Read articulates the tragedy all of us now see - when not a single candidate is any good…when the candidates seek only to advance themselves by promising all to everyone, changing their positions dependent upon whom they are speaking to, and all the rest of the deceitfulness witnessed in every election.

Read refers to such candidates who place political expediency above integrity as ‘trimmers,” which he defines this way: “A trimmer, according to the dictionary, is one who changes his opinions and policies to suit the occasion. In contemporary political life, he is any candidate whose position on issues depends solely on what he thinks will have most voter appeal. He ignores the dictates of his higher conscience, trims his personal idea of what is morally right, tailors his stand to the popular fancy.”

Such candidates with blatant agendas could never gain such power in this nation if it were not for Americans with their own personal agendas. It is the weakness of wanting something from government, which makes the situation where those wants are exploited by the candidates. In any situation where two forces have agendas, the stronger (more manipulative and powerful of the two) usually wins - and at the expense of the other who also thought they would achieve their agenda.

Until we demand candidates of integrity, this situation will remain. Style and handouts seems to be what elections seem to be about - where is the demand for authenticity and character? As long people keep casting votes for those lacking these qualities, those of integrity (who will face a tremendous battle when they seek office) will be discouraged from running. As Read says, “For a while we would continue to get what we now have: a high percentage of trimmers and plunderers in public office, men who promise privileges in exchange for ballots – and freedom. In time, however, this silent but eloquent refusal to participate might conceivably improve the situation. Men of integrity and high moral quality – statesmen–might show forth and, if so, we could add their numbers to the few now in evidence.”

To cast a vote because you feel compelled to do so by social dictates is disingenuous, as you deceive yourself into thinking you are doing something of value. No action should be taken due to other’s expectations or a sense of obligation - all such decisions are based on fear. Rather, let your conscience, your heart and the values and beliefs you have placed there, guide you. Voting is still one of the means we can and must use to advance liberty. That may mean casting votes for only some of the offices on a ballot, writing in a vote, or at times not voting.

As for me, I’ll be voting this November, but not for every office, since I see few “of integrity and high moral quality” seeking office.

I highly recommend Leonard E. Read’s “Anything That’s Peaceful” to you. It is powerful and enlightening. It’s one of several books I recommend to those who are sincerely interested in better understanding libertarianism. The entire treatise is excellent, with a most truly beautiful ending chapter which all libertarians would be better to ponder.

The Bailout of Abominations by Robert Higgs

I recommend Robert Higgs’ article: The Bailout of Abominations.