Who are these Weird People?

There are many different types:

• The ones who are stuck with an opinion. These are quite common, and they get very upset when you try to explain that they are incorrect. For example, climate change. Our impact on climate is indeed important, but the few highs we have had lately are little compared to the 11 July 1909, 136 °F in Cherokee, OK.
• The ones who NEVER left their suburbs but know everything about world cultures… Once, I was asked to describe the family environment in the Congo. As it wasn’t what they expected, I was called a far-right fascist.
• Those who travel to themselves demonstrate that everything is much better at home. Recently, I met a couple from San Francisco in Brazil who refused to eat meat because they read that Brazilians eat horse meat!!! Which is untrue, but they were set. Even the beer, the cheese, and the bread are cheaper and better at home… Even $0.50 (USD) for a bottle of great beer… in CA, it’s cheaper by a lot… very weird people, and if you try to change their mind, it always ends up with “you’re an idiot.”
• Those who claim that inflation is untrue, everything is cheaper now. Don’t even try to show them; they get angry and yell at you. Why? The facts are there, but they prefer to ignore them.
• I really like the lady who “found” a great way to deal with the trash. In her neighborhood, homeless people go through the trash bin on trash day and scatter trash around. Trash collectors refuse to clean up – which I totally support. The lady in question just takes her daily trash to work, et voilà! Problem solved. Is the problem fixed? No, but for her, there is no problem anymore. Wondering if she still pays her trash bills
• Those who claim that talking about a child sexually abused by a newcomer is plain fear-mongering… Well, it’s a fact, and facts need to be addressed.
• My ex is weird. For example, she had GREAT ideas about saving money, like mixing 50% dish soap and 50% water. Money saved, right? No, as you use 3 to 4 times more to do the dishes. Oh, yes… she never did the dishes… I did
• …

As soon as these weird people feel like losing an argument, they get upset and can be very hurtful. I wasn’t born in the US; I am often told, “You’re not from here.”

I always avoid political or religious conversations for a great reason… For example, very religious people (going to church every week) behave like they have no empathy… I remember a neighbor who passed of septicemia; the weirdos cried: “Bless his heart,” and did strictly nothing to emotionally support or help his widow.

Why are some people weird? I mean, honestly, what a perplexing mystery. It’s almost like everyone was supposed to stand in line for the “Normal Behavior Handbook,” but some folks just said, “Nah, I’ll pass,” and opted for the “How to Confuse Everyone” guide instead.

Perhaps they enjoy making the rest of us feel like we’re conducting some anthropology experiment every time we interact with them. Or maybe they’re simply bored of being plain vanilla and decided to spice things up with a sprinkle of “What the heck?” in our lives. Well, whatever floats their boat, right?

The post Why Do We Have to Deal With Weird People? appeared first on Where I rant safely :).

Yesterday, for Juneteenth, we decided to have an early lunch in one of our favorite places – be VERY jealous (see picture at the bottom).

Our waiter asked if we could help a gringo couple as they didn’t speak a single Portuguese word. We moved next to their table and greeted each other.

We discussed how beautiful the country is, how poor people look (my wife bit her tongue), and how dirty the city is. I changed the discussion to food, and things went better.

UNTIL…

• Them: After lunch, we are going walking toward the sun, south.
• Me: it will be North.
• Them: lol… where are you from? The sun never goes to the North.
• Me: We are in the Southern Hemisphere…
• Them: It doesn’t matter…have you not been to school?
• Me showing my iWatch compass, you see North…
• Them: lol, your watch is reversed because of the magnetic field of the poles…
• Me: the WHAT?
• Them: You certainly didn’t setup your watch correctly; there are many YouTube videos to teach you how to do it.
• Them: You shouldn’t talk about subjects you don’t comprehend and use technology you don’t understand.
• Me: …
• Them: The best not to look stupid is to keep your mouth shut (they use those words)
• They left going North… or their South, lol

The local couple on our left was smiling and started asking questions:

• Couple: Quem são essas pessoas? Let me translate: Who are those people?
• Us: They are typical “Know better gringos” – they know everything, and even if you show them, they always find an excuse to justify their knowledge/understanding.
• Couple: Oh, that’s the poles’ magnetic fields reversing your watch…
• Us: Exactly! These know better people cannot handle the truth, and if you try to show them… lol

Who are Know Better People?

Oh, the enlightening company of “know better people.” You know, the kind—the walking encyclopedias with a knack for unsolicited advice and a talent for sucking the joy out of every conversation or lunch-time.

Because, honestly, what would I do without their ever-so-constructive criticism? Maybe feel a tad bit happier or, heaven forbid, learn from my own mistakes.

But no, let’s all just bask in the glory of their vast wisdom and unparalleled insight.

Fun times.

Oh, Know Better People, where would the world be without your unwavering dedication to unsolicited advice that can be totally wrong? Let’s all take a moment to appreciate how absolutely necessary it is for you to enlighten us with your endless fountain of superior knowledge.

Don’t we all just adore how you swoop into conversations, brandishing your expert opinions like some sort of intellect superhero?

Spoiler alert: we don’t.

It’s utterly fantastic how you bring out the worst in everyone by pointing out their life choices’ mishaps because, clearly, if we followed your every word, we’d all be living in some sort of utopian dreamland. Thank goodness you’re here to save us from our own pitiful ignorance! Seriously, where would we be without your smothering guidance? Probably a lot happier and a lot more confident.

Thanks, but no thanks.

Ah, convincing those omniscient beings who seem to know the secrets of the universe that they might, just might, be wrong? Mission: Im-freaking-possible! It’s like trying to convince a fish to take up skydiving or getting a cat to write an apology letter.

They are perpetually perched on their pedestals of infinite wisdom, looking down at us mere mortals with a condescending smile. Why bother? If they don’t listen to cold, hard evidence or a barrage of logical arguments, maybe just strap in for the comedy show. Because at the end of the day, sometimes the best way to win is not to play.

There you go. Save your breath and maybe, just maybe, enjoy the show from the sidelines.

The post Interesting Conversation with Know Better Americans appeared first on Where I rant safely :).

I look at the dangers of ego-driven politics and explore why prioritizing one’s interests can have devastating consequences for society. Let’s uncover the true cost of self-centered politicians and learn how we can hold them accountable for their actions.

In this long political rant, I’ll not name infamous politicians who, after 8 years in Congress, amassed so much money they can’t count it anymore.

The current state of politics and the rise of self-centered politicians

In recent years, it seems that politics has become increasingly focused on personal gain rather than the common good. Self-centered politicians have gained power and influence, often at the expense of the well-being of their constituents. The rise of these self-serving individuals has led to a dangerous erosion of trust in government and threatens to undermine democracy itself.

One major factor contributing to the rise of self-centered politicians is our society’s increasing focus on wealth and success. In a culture that values individual achievement above all else, it’s no surprise that ambitious individuals are drawn to politics to further their interests. They see political office as a way to gain power, prestige, and financial rewards for themselves rather than as an opportunity to serve others.

Another contributing factor is the influence of money in politics. As campaign costs continue to rise, politicians must rely more heavily on wealthy donors and special interest groups for funding. This can lead them to prioritize their donors’ interests over those of their constituents, who may not have the same resources or connections.

Furthermore, social media has played a significant role in perpetuating self-centered attitudes among politicians. Platforms like Twitter and Instagram allow politicians to create carefully curated personas that promote themselves rather than their policies or actions. This leads many to prioritize building personal brands over actually governing effectively.

The consequences of this trend towards self-centered politics are far-reaching and detrimental both nationally and globally. When elected officials put their own interests above those they represent, it becomes difficult for them to make decisions in the best interest of society. This results in policies that benefit a few at the top while neglecting or even harming disadvantaged communities.

Moreover, when voters see politicians acting primarily for personal gain instead of public good, trust in government decreases significantly. Cynicism towards politics and apathy towards voting become widespread –both dangerous threats to democracy.

The rise of self-centered politicians poses a significant danger to society. It perpetuates a culture of greed and undermines the fundamental principles of democracy. To combat this trend, voters must be aware and informed about the individuals they elect into office and hold them accountable for their actions. Only by prioritizing the common good over personal gain can we ensure a healthy and thriving political system that serves all members of society equally.

What is self-centeredness in politics?

Self-centeredness in politics is a topic that has gained a lot of attention in recent times. It refers to the tendency of politicians to prioritize their personal gain over the well-being and interests of the public they are elected to serve. This behavior can be seen at various levels, from local politics all the way up to national and international politics.

At its core, self-centeredness in politics stems from an inflated sense of self-importance and entitlement. These politicians believe they are above their constituents and have the right to use their position for personal gain rather than serving the needs of the people who elected them. This type of thinking creates a dangerous power dynamic where those in positions of authority abuse their power rather than using it for good.

One common manifestation of self-centeredness in politics is corruption. Politicians who put themselves first are more likely to engage in corrupt practices such as embezzlement, kickbacks, and bribery. They see these illegal acts as perks or benefits of being in power rather than crimes against their community. This damages public trust and results in significant financial losses for governments and taxpayers.

Furthermore, self-centered politicians often prioritize short-term gains over long-term benefits for society. This can be seen through policies that favor big businesses or corporations at the expense of citizens’ rights or environmental concerns. Such decisions may bring immediate profits for a select few but can have devastating consequences on communities and future generations.

Another aspect of self-centeredness in politics is a lack of accountability. Politicians who are focused on personal gain tend to avoid responsibility for any negative outcomes or failures under their leadership. Instead, they may deflect blame onto others or refuse to acknowledge any wrongdoing altogether.

Moreover, self-centeredness can lead to a lack of commitment to fulfilling campaign promises and addressing pressing issues affecting the general public. Instead, these politicians may focus solely on projects or initiatives that benefit themselves or their inner circle. As a result, vital issues such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure may remain neglected.

Self-centeredness in politics is a pervasive issue that poses significant dangers to society. It erodes public trust, undermines democracy, and hinders progress toward addressing critical social and economic issues. Voters must recognize this behavior in politicians and demand accountability and transparency from their elected officials. We can only begin to curb the dangerous effects of self-centeredness in politics and promote the common good for all by holding our leaders accountable.

Reasons for self-centeredness in politicians

Self-centeredness in politicians refers to the tendency of those in positions of power to prioritize their own personal gain over the well-being of the people they are meant to serve. This dangerous behavior is unfortunately all too common in political leaders and can have severe consequences for society.

One of the primary reasons for self-centeredness in politicians is their desire for fame and recognition. Politicians often enter the field with a desire to make a positive impact on society, but as they climb the ladder of power, their motivations may shift towards personal gain and glory. This can lead them to make decisions that are not in line with public interest but rather serve their own ego and reputation.

Another factor that contributes to this phenomenon is greed. Politics is a lucrative sector, with many opportunities for financial gain through kickbacks, bribes, and other forms of corruption. The pursuit of wealth can easily sway politicians from serving the public good as they become more concerned with lining their own pockets than enacting policies that benefit society.

Moreover, self-centeredness in politicians may also stem from a deep-seated need for control and authority. As individuals rise through political ranks and gain more influence, they may develop an inflated sense of self-importance and entitlement. This can lead them to believe that they know what’s best for everyone else, ignoring diverse perspectives and disregarding the needs and wants of communities.

Additionally, political systems themselves can contribute to self-centered behavior among politicians. In democratic countries where election campaigns are heavily dependent on financial contributions from corporations or wealthy donors, candidates may feel indebted to these entities rather than accountable to their constituents. This can result in policies being shaped by special interests rather than genuine concern for the common good.

It’s worth noting that while some individuals may enter politics with sincere intentions of serving others, they can quickly become jaded by a system that prioritizes personal gain over public interest. The constant pressure politicians face – from the media, public opinion, and opposing parties – can push them to prioritize their image and personal success above all else.

There are various reasons why politicians may become self-centered in their actions and decision-making. The pursuit of fame, wealth, power, and control can all contribute to this dangerous behavior. It is crucial for society to hold politicians accountable and demand integrity and a genuine desire to serve the people from those in positions of power. Only then can we ensure that our leaders prioritize the well-being of society over their own personal gain.

Political Rant – Power and ego

Power and ego are two words that often go hand in hand when discussing self-centered politicians. These individuals are driven by a desire for power, recognition, and personal gain above all else. They prioritize their own interests over the needs of their constituents and the common good of society.

One of the main dangers of having self-centered politicians in positions of power is the abuse and misuse of that power for personal gain. These individuals may manipulate laws, policies, and regulations to benefit themselves rather than working towards the betterment of society as a whole. This can lead to corruption, favoritism, and unequal distribution of resources.

Additionally, a focus on ego can result in an inflated sense of self-importance and a lack of accountability to others. Self-centered politicians may become so consumed with their own image and reputation that they ignore criticism or advice from others. They may also surround themselves with yes-men who only serve to stroke their ego rather than provide constructive feedback or challenge their decisions.

Moreover, when politicians prioritize their interests over the public good, it can create social division. Instead of uniting people towards a common goal, these leaders may use divisive rhetoric to appeal to certain groups or stoke fear among others in order to maintain their power. This leads to community polarization and hostility rather than promoting unity and progress.

The pursuit of power and ego can also have detrimental effects on decision-making. When faced with tough choices that could potentially harm their reputation or chances at re-election, self-centered politicians may choose what is politically expedient rather than what is best for those they represent. This results in short-sighted policies that do not address long-term issues or benefit future generations.

Furthermore, self-centered politicians often prioritize individual success over collaboration with other political parties or leaders. This creates gridlock and prevents effective governance as elected officials refuse to work together for the greater good.

Putting personal gain over public good outpowers any benefit that self-centered politicians may claim to provide. It results in corruption, division, lack of accountability, and ineffective decision-making. As voters, we are responsible for recognizing the dangers of such individuals and holding them accountable at the polls. Only then can we truly work towards a society where the needs of the people come before personal ego and ambition.

Financial gain

Financial gain is often seen as the primary motivation for politicians, and sadly, it can lead to negative consequences for the public. When a politician prioritizes personal gain over the public good, it not only undermines democracy but also puts people’s well-being at risk.

One of the biggest dangers of self-centered politicians is corruption. The desire for financial gain can drive them to engage in corrupt activities, such as taking bribes or embezzling funds meant for public projects. This results in resource waste and depriving citizens of essential services to which they are entitled. Furthermore, when politicians are focused solely on their own financial gain, they may make decisions that benefit themselves and their close associates rather than the general public.

Moreover, personal financial gain can also cloud a politician’s judgment and influence their decision-making process. Instead of considering what is best for society, they may prioritize policies or actions that will benefit them financially. This can be especially dangerous when it comes to important issues such as economic policies or development projects. A self-centered politician may push for policies that bring immediate benefits to themselves without thinking about the long-term effects on the economy or society.

In addition, placing personal gain over the public good can also lead to conflicts of interest. For example, if a politician has investments in a specific industry and uses their position to pass laws favoring that industry, it raises ethical concerns, harms competition, and undermines fair market practices.

Furthermore, when politicians prioritize financial gain over public interest, it erodes trust in government institutions. People begin to see politicians as self-serving individuals rather than representatives who are working towards the betterment of society. This lack of trust can result in apathy among citizens towards participating in democratic processes such as voting or engaging with policymakers.

The danger of self-centered politicians extends beyond just monetary gains; it can also lead to unequal distribution of resources within society. When politicians focus on serving their own interests or those of their affluent supporters, it often results in neglecting the needs of marginalized communities. This further perpetuates social and economic inequalities and hinders progress towards a more equitable society.

Prioritizing personal financial gain over the public good is a dangerous mindset for any politician to have. It not only undermines democracy but also has far-reaching consequences for society as a whole. As citizens, it is crucial to hold our leaders accountable and demand transparency and ethical practices from them to ensure that they are serving the best interests of all members of society.

Disconnect from their constituents

One of the most concerning tendencies displayed by self-centered politicians is their ability to disconnect from their constituents. In other words, these politicians are more focused on their personal gain and interests rather than serving and representing the needs of the people who elected them.

This disconnect can manifest in various ways, but one of the most common is through a lack of communication and engagement with constituents. A self-centered politician may be highly active on social media or attend exclusive events and fundraisers with influential individuals, but they may neglect town hall meetings or refuse to hold open forums where regular citizens can voice their concerns.

Furthermore, self-centered politicians often prioritize decisions that will benefit themselves or their inner circle over policies that would positively impact their constituents. This means that issues and problems faced by ordinary citizens are often overlooked, while resources and opportunities are directed towards those in power. As a result, the disconnect between these politicians and everyday citizens widens even further.

Disconnecting from constituents also means that self-centered politicians lose touch with reality. They become out of touch with the struggles, aspirations, and needs of the people they were elected to serve. Instead, they become absorbed in their own circles of privilege and influence, making it difficult for them to make informed decisions that benefit all members of society.

Moreover, this disconnection leads to a lack of accountability for these politicians’ actions. When there is no genuine connection between leaders and those they represent, it becomes easier for them to avoid taking responsibility for negative consequences resulting from their actions. This further erodes trust in government institutions and faith in the political process.

In contrast, effective leaders prioritize building strong relationships with constituents by actively listening to their concerns, engaging in meaningful dialogue, and involving them in decision-making processes. By staying connected with those they represent on a personal level, these leaders can better understand the challenges facing society as a whole and work towards implementing solutions that benefit everyone.

The disconnect between self-centered politicians and their constituents poses a significant threat to the public good. It hinders effective governance, weakens trust in government institutions, and ultimately undermines democracy. As citizens, it is essential that we hold our leaders accountable for their actions and demand that they prioritize serving the needs of their constituents rather than their own personal gain.

Effects of self-centered Politicians on the Public Good

The role of a politician is to serve the public and make decisions that benefit society as a whole. However, when a politician becomes self-centered and prioritizes personal gain over the public good, it can have disastrous effects on society.

One of the main effects of self-centered politicians is their lack of empathy towards the needs and concerns of their constituents. Instead of listening to the voices of the people they represent, these politicians focus on furthering their interests and agendas. This can lead to policies and decisions that only benefit themselves or their close circle while neglecting the welfare of the general public.

Moreover, self-centered politicians often engage in corrupt practices in order to advance their personal gains. This could include accepting bribes from corporations or special interest groups in exchange for passing legislation that benefits them. This not only undermines democracy but also leads to unequal distribution of resources and opportunities within society.

Another consequence is that these self-serving politicians often prioritize short-term solutions rather than considering long-term consequences for the greater good. They may push for policies that yield immediate results or bring personal fame and recognition without considering the long-term impact on society. This can result in problems being swept under the rug or dealt with superficially instead of addressing them at their root causes.

Self-centered politicians also contribute to a toxic political climate by fueling societal division and polarization. They may resort to smear campaigns against opponents or spread misinformation to maintain power or further their interests. This harms healthy political discourse and can lead to social unrest and tensions among different groups within society.

Furthermore, when politicians prioritize personal gain over public good, it erodes trust in government institutions and democracy as a whole. When citizens see elected officials using their positions for personal gain rather than serving their communities, it can diminish faith in the system and discourage voter turnout.

Self-centered politicians pose significant threats to societal well-being by prioritizing personal gain over the public good. Voters must carefully examine the character and actions of those seeking political office and hold them accountable for their actions in office. Only by electing leaders who prioritize society’s needs can we ensure a functioning democracy that serves all members of society and promotes the common good.

Neglecting important issues that do not benefit them personally

One of the most dangerous traits that can be found in self-centered politicians is their tendency to overlook important issues if they do not directly benefit from them. This means that these politicians prioritize their own personal gain over the welfare and needs of their constituents, ultimately putting the public good at risk.

One of the main reasons for this behavior may stem from a lack of empathy or a complete disregard for others. These politicians may only care about furthering their own careers and accumulating wealth and power without considering the impact of their actions on the community they are supposed to serve. In some cases, this self-serving mentality may also be fueled by greed and a sense of entitlement.

As a result, critical issues that require urgent attention often get neglected or pushed aside in favor of more superficial matters that can bring immediate benefits to these politicians. For instance, instead of tackling pressing concerns such as environmental degradation or healthcare reform, self-centered politicians may choose to focus on projects or policies that will bring them personal popularity or financial gain.

Moreover, neglecting important issues also means turning a blind eye to marginalized communities and vulnerable groups that rely on governmental support. By putting personal gain over public good, these politicians fail to address systemic inequalities and social injustices prevalent in society.

Neglecting important issues harms those directly affected by them and creates long-term consequences for future generations. For example, ignoring climate change policies could lead to irreversible damage to the environment and catastrophic events for years to come. Similarly, neglecting education reform could hinder future leaders’ and innovators’ progress and potential.

Furthermore, when self-centered politicians prioritize their own interests over upholding ethical principles and moral values, it erodes trust in government institutions. It perpetuates a culture where corruption is normalized, making it easier for officials to engage in unethical practices without facing any consequences.

Neglecting important issues for personal gain is one of the greatest dangers posed by self-centered politicians. It undermines the public good and shows a lack of integrity and responsibility on their part. As voters, it is crucial to hold these politicians accountable for their actions and prioritize leaders who have a genuine commitment to addressing the pressing issues that affect society as a whole.

Lack of accountability and transparency

One of the biggest issues that arises when politicians put their personal gain above the public good is a lack of accountability and transparency. This occurs when politicians prioritize their own interests and agendas over those of their constituents, often without regard for transparency or ethical considerations.

When individuals are elected into positions of power, they have a responsibility to represent and serve their constituents. However, self-centered politicians may view their position as an opportunity for personal gain rather than a platform to enact positive change. As a result, they may prioritize legislation or policies that benefit themselves or their allies rather than the greater good.

This lack of accountability can have severe consequences for society. When politicians prioritize creating wealth for themselves and maintaining their own power, they may ignore the needs and concerns of marginalized communities or overlook important issues that require attention. This leads to a breakdown in trust between the government and its citizens, which ultimately results in disillusionment with the political system and disengagement from civic responsibilities.

Moreover, self-centered politicians often operate behind closed doors, making decisions without input from the public or even other government officials. This lack of transparency allows them to make decisions that directly benefit themselves without fear of facing repercussions from those who elected them into office.

The absence of transparency also enables corruption to thrive within governmental institutions. Self-serving politicians can use loopholes or manipulate laws for personal gain without being held accountable because the public would not be able to know about these actions without transparency measures in place.

Additionally, a lack of accountability and transparency can have far-reaching consequences on issues such as national security and healthcare policies. A politician focused on furthering their own goals may prioritize cutting corners or bypassing necessary protocols instead of prioritizing the safety and well-being of citizens.

It is evident that putting personal gain over public good poses significant risks due to its impact on political accountability and transparency. Voters must hold their leaders accountable by educating themselves on candidates’ values and track records and demanding measures to increase transparency within the political system. Only then can we ensure that our leaders put the needs of their constituents above their own interests.

Polarization and division among citizens

Polarization and division among citizens is a growing concern in many countries around the world. In today’s fast-paced and highly politicized society, people seem to be more divided than ever. This division is fueled by self-centered politicians who prioritize their own personal gain over the well-being of their constituents.

One of the main causes of polarization and division among citizens is the increasing lack of trust in politicians and government institutions. Scandals, corruption, and empty promises have eroded public confidence in those who are meant to serve the people. As a result, people are becoming more cynical and less willing to compromise or work together for the greater good. This mistrust creates an environment where individuals feel justified in putting their interests above those of society.

Another factor contributing to polarization is the rise of identity politics. Politicians use divisive tactics such as demonizing certain groups or promoting fear-mongering strategies based on race, religion, or ethnicity to rally support from their base. This only divides rather than unites citizens, leading to fractured communities.

Social media also plays a significant role in exacerbating polarization among citizens. People tend to surround themselves with like-minded individuals on social media platforms, creating echo chambers where differing opinions are not tolerated or even considered. This reinforcement of one’s beliefs can lead to extreme views and intolerance towards those who hold differing views.

The consequences of this level of polarization and division can be detrimental to society as a whole. It hinders progress and prevents meaningful dialogue between opposing sides on important issues. The inability to compromise leads to stagnation in decision-making processes, which ultimately affects everyone.

Moreover, self-centered politicians often use this divide for their own gain by exploiting societal tensions for political gain. They prey on people’s fears and insecurities instead of finding solutions that benefit all members of society.

To combat this dangerous trend, it is crucial for individuals to educate themselves about various issues and be open-minded to different perspectives. Engaging in civil discourse and actively seeking out diverse viewpoints can help break the barriers of polarization. It is also essential for citizens to hold their politicians accountable and demand transparency and ethical behavior from their elected officials.

Polarization and division among citizens result from self-centered politicians who prioritize personal gain over public good. To build a more unified society, individuals must reject divisive tactics and actively work towards finding common ground with those who hold opposing views. Only then can we move towards a more harmonious society that prioritizes the well-being of all its members?

Historical examples of self

Throughout history, there have been numerous examples of self-centered politicians who have placed their personal gain above the welfare of the public. These individuals often use their positions of power for their own benefit without considering the consequences for society as a whole. In this section, we will explore some well-known historical examples of such politicians and the impact they had on their communities.

One prominent example is Emperor Nero in ancient Rome. Known for his extravagant lifestyle, Nero was notorious for prioritizing his own pleasures and desires over the needs of his people. He would often host lavish feasts and events at the expense of taxpayers’ money while neglecting pressing matters such as poverty and infrastructure improvements. This self-indulgent behavior eventually led to widespread discontent among his citizens, ultimately resulting in a rebellion against him.

Moving forward to modern times, another example of a self-centered politician is former President Ferdinand Marcos in the Philippines. During his 20-year dictatorship from 1965 to 1986, Marcos amassed an immense amount of wealth through corruption and embezzlement while millions of Filipinos lived in poverty. He used his power to suppress dissent and maintain control over the country rather than addressing important issues such as economic inequality and human rights abuses.

In recent years, former Prime Minister Silvio Berlusconi in Italy has also served as a prime example of a self-centered politician. Throughout his political career, Berlusconi was involved in various scandals involving bribery, tax fraud, and even prostitution rings. Despite these controversies surfacing publicly, he continued to hold onto power by manipulating media outlets and exploiting loopholes in the legal system for his own benefit.

Another notable example is former South African President Jacob Zuma, who faced multiple allegations of corruption during his time in office. Instead of using resources to improve living conditions for impoverished citizens or invest in vital infrastructure projects that would benefit all South Africans, Zuma allegedly funneled millions into building his personal estate and enriching his associates.

These historical examples serve as cautionary tales highlighting self-centered politicians’ dangers. They demonstrate how an individual’s selfish desires can have severe consequences for society and its progress, emphasizing the importance of holding leaders accountable for their actions. As citizens, staying informed and actively participating in the political process is crucial to prevent individuals from placing their interests above the common good.

The post Putting Personal Gain Over Public Good: The Dangers of Self-Centered Politicians appeared first on Where I rant safely :).

Defining DEI means creating spaces where all individuals feel valued and respected regardless of their background. It’s about acknowledging and celebrating the differences that make each person unique while also working to dismantle systems of oppression and discrimination.

Whether advocating for equal pay for all genders, fighting against racial injustice, or promoting accessibility for individuals with disabilities, DEI is about standing up for what is right and ensuring that everyone has an equal opportunity to succeed. You don’t need a DEI policy to implement it. It can be a natural behavior.

Example of DEI abuses

Race and Gender Abuse

I hired a young African American woman for my department with less experience and less technical background than other candidates, but she was promising.

The first 90 days were fantastic, and she showed great effort. After 90 days, however, things changed considerably. She complained that because of her gender and skin color, she wasn’t allowed to have an office while the white guy who was hired two weeks before she had one.

He is a manager and needs some privacy. After meeting with HR, we decided to bow and give her an office. Then everything went much worse. She never said good morning or good evening to anyone. She walked to her office, closed the door, and never talked to anyone.

She started refusing work assignments, and when asked to, she complained of racism, sexism, and other issues. We hired a young woman from Kenya, and I asked her to chaperone the new hire. She went straight to HR, saying I was making her “train that thing”. (HR still has the recording.)

Okay, step back and think—everything she did was to get fired. We contacted our HR attorney, who immediately said, “I bet she will see you in court as soon as you fire her.”

So, as a smart aleck, I asked recruiters I know to find her a job. They understood the problem and said not to worry; very large companies are used to dealing with DEI people like her.

Finding a well-paid job in our field is easy; 5 weeks later, she quit, claiming she couldn’t work in such an offensive environment. YAY!

When you look closely, this DEI advocate generated a hostile environment to get fired and sue for money. She failed!

Note: As I wrote a raving recommendation letter to the recruiters saying that we didn’t have the space for the promotion she deserved. I got a call from one of a large local enterprise’s HR department verifying if my recommendations were for the person they hired LOL

Trans Abuse

Paul, a customer service employee. He is/was married, and his wife was pregnant with their third child. He is a nice, a bit overweight, bearded guy.

I talked to him several times, and he was very excited about the birth of their next child.

Four or five months later, he got very sick with depression and had to take time off frequently. I asked his manager if he was okay, and that’s when the fun started.

Paul is a transgender man who suffers from severe depression as NO ONE at the company talks about his gender change accomplishment!!!!

Personally, I do not care. Paul looks like a bearded guy who is a bit overweight. If he didn’t scream at transphobia, no one would have figured it out!

Paul went on short-term disability… then he quit… oh, WAIT… we learned he applied for long-term disability, but his working time was a bit too short, and he didn’t qualify…

According to SSA, you need 40 credits or 10 years of work to qualify. Depression qualifies, but Paul worked 5 years at best. He told our SSA representative that he didn’t qualify because of Trump.

DEI candidates we didn’t hire

Today, for all interviews, we have 2 interviewers in a room with cameras, and candidates are informed that the interview is recorded for compliance purposes.

A common one is an overexciting resume with all our job requirements crossed and terrific degrees in our field. But, most candidates’ skills and experience do not match their over-exciting resumes.

Failed Interviews

In one of the last interviews, the candidate reminded us that checking her social media or calling her previous employers without written permission was illegal.

It smelled red-flagish upfront, and I was right; she couldn’t answer any technical questions and was completely clueless.

I notified her that we were looking for someone more technical. She cried at sexism and anti-feminism.

The next day, our HR received a call from an attorney regarding the insulting interview her client had with the company. After listening to part of the meeting, he apologized for the inconvenience.

Some candidates ask not to be recorded, and after we explain it is our compliance policy, they leave… wonder why, lol

We had one who started with an understanding that she would not get the job because she was gay and big. She also specified that her therapist says she is a 10. WHO CARES?

A few minutes into the interview, she asked for $90 per hour ( $172,800 annually) and 6 weeks of PTO. For an entry-level position, it’s a bit much, lol

I told her it was way above my budget to be replied I needed to be more friendly to the LGBTQA+++ community.

Another one is Muslim and asked not to work but to be paid on Fridays as it’s his prayer day and to have time paid for his five daily prayers.

I lived many years in the Middle East, and the five prayers are Fajr (break of dawn), Dhuhr (after the sun’s zenith), Asr (the sun is halfway down from noon to sunset), Maghrib (just after sunset), and Isha (when complete darkness has arrived).

My hiring manager said, don’t worry, we will not make you work from sunrise to complete darkness, and you can work on Sundays to be replied… can’t do that, it’s the weekend. Guess why he was no longer interested in the position…

Am I DEI compliant?

We do not have several DEI programs, so let me check who I have working with me:

• We have a very successful manager. He is gay, born in Mexico, and married to a schoolteacher.
• A young woman from Asia who is going to become a manager very soon.
• Four perfectly white individuals report to the manager above.
• Five employees from Central America.
• One that changed his birth name as it was too Jewish for when he was in school and college!
• One is an African American young woman. I just promoted her to Director, not because she deserved it but because she earned it.
• A white guy whose nickname is Speeder Man (Not Spiderman) is in a wheelchair. The family joke is that one day, he will run over someone.
• A white guy who should have retired a long time ago but who is having too much fun with The Gang!
• …

Do I need to continue? My employees range from White Blonde Norwegians to Congolese Blacks, while I am of mixed races.

I call them THE GANG. They all work together awesomely, support each other, and are friends. No one cares about skin color, sexuality, and ethnical or religious background.

We don’t need lectures about DEI initiatives or very expensive multiple DEI trainings.

Diversity, equity, and inclusion, we just do it! Well, with a caveat, My Gang absolutely refuses to hire trans individuals; Our gay manager is the most vehemently against it… Maybe, one day.

The post DEI and its numerous abuses appeared first on Where I rant safely :).

They are a family of 3, and we are a family of 5. The first observation is that their trash can is full every week, while ours is 1/3 empty or 2/3 full. At the time, we lived on the same street and had the same 60-gallon trash can.

A quick calculation brings my family’s trash generation to about 8 gallons per week per person, while theirs is at 20 gallons per week per person, or 250% more than mine!

Why is this important while trying saving Earth?

One of the most important things to note is that organic waste breaks down in landfills, producing methane, carbon dioxide, water vapor, and other gases.

Methane is a strong greenhouse gas that traps heat from the sun, and landfills contribute to global warming. These gases can worsen climate change and air pollution if not properly managed.

A large amount of the garbage found in landfills can require hundreds of years to break down, with plastic bottles taking up to 450 years, batteries taking 100 years, and metal taking between 50 and 500 years.

Landfills in the USA generate between 20 and 22% of the total methane generated.

How to fix that? Think before buying, trashing, and go the 3 Rs route:

• Reduce—reduce trashing by reducing buying, buying smart, and consuming smart. Why buy 10 lbs of potatoes every month when you consume only 4 lbs?
• Reuse—reusing easy things like plastic bags as trash bags, reusing older clothes for things like mowing…, and giving clothing to a church, the homeless, and families in need. We stopped giving to big names like Goodwill because they trash pieces of clothing with a low market value—this has been verified by 3 employees and 2 volunteers from different locations.
• Recycle—Instead of trash, recycle food waste, for example. We use a compost drum for all food waste—this one from Amazon is a 43-gallon system for $79. Free compost all year long. Recycling is not difficult; it just needs a little thinking.

Saving Earth requires us to shop wisely

The neighbors love avocados and eat some at least 5 times a week; they love pineapples and bananas… one small problem with those, none are or can be produced locally. Thus, over 2,000 miles of transportation by truck and/or boat.

They checked, and the raspberries they consume are from California—2,000 miles away when these are grown in our state!

The last time I ate at their place, they served pears in plastic cups. Pears from Peru, cooked and packaged in Indonesia… They were delicious but imagine the transport impact on the environment…

Same with bread, why buy bagged bread from 2,000 miles away?

Our Comfort and Saving Earth

This is another huge problem. These woke neighbors like comfort. Thus, their thermostat is always set at 72 degrees 24/7. In Winter, ours is set at 68 degrees during the day and 60 after 10pm. There is no AC in summer. We only use ceiling fans in the rooms we are present in; the whole-house AC systems cool down every room.

A 1.5-ton AC consumes around 1.2–1.5 KW of electricity per hour, while ceiling fans consume the least electricity at 0.0311 kWh per hour at maximum speed – that’s just about 40 times more!

As we moved to the countryside on a 5-acre, very wooded lot, we harvest fallen trees, cut and split them, we burn them the following winter. Our wood stove is 80,000 BTU with an 85% rating.

A fun fact: Joe, the woke dude, felt very sad about us freezing at night. Well, as my grandparents did, everyone sleeps under a goose-down duvet. It is very high-insulation and extremely breezable, thus, no cold, no sweat, and awesome sleep.

NO, Joe. Geese are not massacred to make these; their feathers are a by-product of geese farming. I KNOW, Joe. Goose meat is not common in the US, but goose dishes are found in Asian, European, and Middle Eastern cuisines. True, the down is imported, yet it’s better to use it (recycle) for saving earth than the ones made with polyester, which is a chemical-based product also imported.

Wood is 100% renewable energy. Our winter heating gas consumption is minimal and costs less than $20 per month, while my old woke neighbor has a $340 monthly gas bill.

As you can imagine… the woke family stopped talking to us lol they can’t accept being shown that saying “we are saving Earth” is very different than doing it.

The post Some Fun with Saving Earth appeared first on Where I rant safely :).

Let me explain—I HAVE A JOB. I need to be able to express myself without being judged, threatened, or canceled.

Statements Answered on my Ranting Blog

So, you’re an angry white male:
Well, I’m not white; I’m mixed race, and after returning from active duty, wounded. I quickly realized that anger was a letter short of DANGER. When we started to get shot by snipers, I got so angry I shot back without thinking. Anger took over, and I killed several enemy fighters instead of logically taking cover.
My ex was excellent at pushing all my red buttons to get me mad, but she always failed.
As soon as my frustration increases, I walk away and walk around; thus, I do not let anger take over.

I lived on several continents, too:
That’s why I don’t talk about it anymore—a 1991 seven-day vacation in Kenya is very, very different from living 10 years in two African countries. Is it not? That individual claimed it wasn’t different… ok 🙂

You like to offend others:
Exactly, I really enjoy that. My favorite is when you look at the snow falling in early November and claim, “It’s your fault for not having an electric car.” My fault??? Let me check. Oh, according to Google, on June 4, 1935, your state got 1.5″ of snow… so it’s your dad’s fault at the time he didn’t buy an electric car.

You don’t help others:
No, I don’t unless you ask for my help and work with me to help you. Early in life, I learned that you can’t help someone who doesn’t want to be helped. Also, giving cash away is not helping.

You never feel bad for others:
I do, but I don’t If you decide to go against the current even when suggested not to and get hurt… I will not feel bad for you, the best? I’m not even sorry for it.
Now if you get hurt and it’s not because of your doing, I’ll be there if you ask for my help.

You and your company are killing people:
That statement is a 2024 one from a 40ish lady who drives masked and removes it before entering our offices, then claims we are killing everyone not wearing masks… Ok… driving alone needs a mask but not entering a building… weird.

Your freedom of speech ends when you disagree with me:
That’s the reason for the ranting blogI feel that the famous freedom exists if you speak the same things as others do. I did some experiments to see how far it goes, and for some individuals like my ex, it stops very quickly. They accept no disagreement but expect you to listen to their words…

Remember you are on a stolen land:
One of my favorites. You are right. Let’s leave this country and give it back. No? So, what do we do? Oh, honor and respect the natives. I do that, so… what is the problem? Why are you talking about it? Don’t you have a life? Oh, I see… no, you don’t.

You can’t understand my struggle as a native:
No, I can’t. You look like someone of Irish descent with zero Native American traits. You’re not cooperative at all, letting others work without support but with tons of negative complaints. You have zero modesty and humility, don’t listen, are arrogant, and are very negative. You have zero respect for personal freedom and personal space, ZERO. So, you may have a little Native DNA, but that doesn’t make you a Native.

More coming on my Ranting Blog.

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