Earth Under Water - A Sea Level Rise Documentary

According to this documentary by National Geographic, if sea level where to rise just three feet, 80% of Bangladesh would be underwater, devastating food supply and displacing millions of people.  What would this mean for the Islands within the Pilipinas archipelago?

Earth Under Water - World Wide Flooding and Sea Level Rise

Super-Dams would have to be constructed to protect the Bay from going under...but that wouldn't be the worst of it.  The Sacramento/San Joaquin Delta would be incredibly vulnerable because so much of it is currently at or below sea level -as much as 25 ft below (Spur.org).  The consequences to the food and water supply would stretch great distances from the Bay Area and surrounding regions.
The critical point is that this is a scenario that has enough potential to warrant concern and the stakes are just too high to gamble against.  Isn't it our responsibility to provide for the generations of the future?

According to San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Association (SPUR), even if the measures necessary to halt the conditions contributing to Climate Change were taken, certain impacts such the rapid increase of world wide sea level rise is now irreversible.  They estimate that by 2050 sea level will have increased by 16 inches, best case scenario.
What can we possibly do to change our trajectory?  So many still do not take the situation seriously.  I feel urged to determine a sound approach to a "best case scenario" future; a future which has very different variables than I ever imagined would be at play.
Again, the hypotheticals explored in this film only address the consequences of Sea Level Rise.  It does not focus any of the other number of hazardous possibilities human kind faces.
They are cause for at least attention and deserves consideration.
Still business as usual?
I would not bet my family on it.
Even more reason to reassess how the future is approached and just how the role of sustainable culture will play for our descendants.
Strategy not for Armageddon, but for best case scenario...with capability for contingency.


ART Project- Adapting to Rising Tides -San Francisco Community
Sea Level Rise Bay Area, map -Geology.com
SPUR- San Francisco Planning and Urban Research Association
Philippines Flood Map -GlobalFloodMap.org
National Geographic
Global Warming Conspiracy Theory??? -Jessie 'The Body' Ventura

Earth 2100_Asking the Question : Is This the Final Century of our Civilization?

Similarities are drawn between a theory for Easter Island's collapse and the realities modern civilization currently faces.

Earth 2100 - A History Channel Documentary aired by ABC.

 A two hour long documentary drama that explores what a worse-case scenario future might look like if the problems we face as a global civilization aren't effectively solved and handled. 
The problems addressed include: climate change, Overpopulation, and Misuse of Energy Resources.

It seems that some viewers had dismissed the film as alarmist.  This wasn't my impression.  The message I got was a hypothetical -yet potential- worse case scenario IF crucial actions aren't taken in time.  Are we/have we taken those steps since 2010?  I don't know as I have not looked further into the status in my detail.
The message came across as more of an eye opener of some very real consequences for a still unwritten future.

ABC News
Earth 2100 -Wiki

James Lovelock Condemns Hope for Avoiding the Catastrophies of Climate Change on Earth

Pessimism kills hope. 

 I was reading an interview held by The Guardian, an on-line media site, with James Lovelock, who echoed a message that a brilliant physics student once told me in Flagstaff AZ: "there really isn't much to look forward to for us humans....  Things are looking pretty bad...  We are past hope."

I conveyed to her that I hear her point of view and agreed that things are looking very bad.  I also expressed it is the non-logical nature of Hope that must never be given up, for it serves as the glue for any efforts that are made to achieve intended change.
At times, I too fear that we may be reaching the threshold of no return and that our future on this Earth will be one of simple survival -for that is where the model of our existence is heading if things don't drastically change.
It is the most reasonable conclusion.

Perhaps even more reason to learn all that is possible in what makes up a sustainable culture.
That, is planning for the future, no matter the scenario we manifest.

http://www.theguardian.com/theguardian/2008/mar/01/scienceofclimatechange.climatechange

"Lovelock believes global warming is now irreversible, and that nothing can prevent large parts of the planet becoming too hot to inhabit, or sinking underwater, resulting in mass migration, famine and epidemics. Britain is going to become a lifeboat for refugees from mainland Europe, so instead of wasting our time on wind turbines we need to start planning how to survive. To Lovelock, the logic is clear. The sustainability brigade are insane to think we can save ourselves by going back to nature; our only chance of survival will come not from less technology, but more.
Nuclear power, he argues, can solve our energy problem - the bigger challenge will be food..."  -article excerpt, theguardian 

No matter what the future looks like, we must never abandone hope.  

The day we do is the day we cease to be human.

Who is James Lovelock:

Website_Jameslovelock.org

Wiki

For a more Sustainable Future:

Occidental Arts and Ecology Center

Asian Rural Institute

Education for Sustainablilty

Gaia University

All Expenses Paid..30 years ago

My Indigeniety vs. Non-Indigeniety Tirade

I read a short article that noted the book, Internalized Oppression: the psychology of marginalized groups.

The Psychology of Marginalized Groups and Why We Need to Stop Hating Ourselves.

This was followed with a film cut of Morgan Freeman making a point on Black History Month 

(which I think people took way out of context).

"...Imma stop callin' you, a white man. And, Imma ask you to stop callin' me, a black man. I know you as Mike Wallace and you know me as Morgan Freeman..."

I was really affected by that.  Truly resonated, but wasn't sure how exactly at the time.  I just knew that I didn't want to be attached to labels anymore, no longer want to participate in being categorized and a slave to life long programs of personal oppression.

 I would like to be free from these constructs that chain us all. I don't want to be "half- anything" anymore. I would just like to be-human and learn to honor all my ancestors as the continuation of them.
 That just goes to show that Race -as a construct- transcends ethnicity. I have struggled with identification of my 'race' as long as my memory goes. I am embraced as brown or even black by ethnic communities, taken for exotic or ethnic by 'whites' and taken for anything but Filipino by Filipinos. And the only reason why all of this non-sense has a anchor deep into my psyche is because of a misconstrued belief of what I should look like. I want to be 'brown', to resemble my Mama and Lolo; But all I would see when I look in the mirror is 'white'...but check it out yo! I am brown! Today, sometimes I see Pinoy, sometimes I see Anglo. Also, realized recently, that though I am not ashamed of my white ancestry, I harbor a certain degree of resentment of being raised 'White'. Taken out of context this will probably sound extremely offensive, I'm sure. It all comes down to these obsolete constructs that lend to social control.

I'm ready to move through this now and find peace. The sooner I do with this personal struggle, the sooner I can be useful to the rest of us.

A day later I read an article about a Kalinga tribal victory against a mining firm's incursion into their ancestral land. This article which brought up the question of indigeniety; one that had has brewing within me for some time now.

I reacted with an inspired post:

 More than 500 years ago, a dominating culture from a far far foreign land, made contact, colonized, systematically subjugated, and then nearly annihilated the indigenous cultures that were native to this continent. Not too long after, much of the same happened throughout the Islands known today as the Philippines. 

The indigenous peoples of this continent are still indigenous and they always will be. One can have indigenous ancestry in their bloodline...a "percentage" over shadowed by some other ancestry originating not from this continent, and, they will still be Indigenous.

So, how is it, that throughout the archipelago today known as the Philippines, in the regions where cultures whose people still live in the old ways have maintained their indigenous identity, while the rest of the Filipinos, who's ancestors, for all intensive purposes, are native to those islands also, are other-than indigenous?

As a so-called mestizo "half-blood", I understand about being a multi-ethnic person. But I'm pretty sure back on the islands of my mother's ancestors, the foreign bloodlines in the mix of the population today are in the minority.
It seems to me that all Filipinos are indigenous by default and there should be change in the way we (Filipinos in the homeland and in the diaspora) position ourselves to our own country women and men.

What is this really?
Indigenous = the descendants of the unconquered
vs.
non-indigenous = the descendants of the colonized?

Fact: Pre-colonial Philippines = No Philippines!

Primarily through the effective tactics of divide and conquer and realignment of loyalties through religious conversion, foreign entrepreneurial cultures of Europe slowly but surely seized effective control over the islands.

These were thousands of islands inhabited by innumerable tribal peoples of rich cultures. They were complex societies and governments, possessed native spirituality, complete healing systems, knowledge of how to live in harmony with the earth and the cosmos, written language, music, art, poetry, native instruments, dances, rituals, myths and creation stories, master hunters, warriors, farmers, and sea farers, as well as established and respected trading with their neighbors.
Complete Cultures.

Isn't this the heritage of all Filipinos?

Don’t get me wrong, I do not take issue with the way things have gone for our human existence. Human beings do what human beings do. I am well aware that I am also the descendant of those ‘colonizing dominating cultures’ at some point or another as well as Pinoy. The way I see it, it is my responsibility to take issue with the results of those who have long passed on and whom I am a continuation of.
Those hundreds of years ago are so far removed; yet I will not deny that my immediate ancestors are the products of a catastrophic clashing of cultures. This is about the here and now, dealing with the process of equalization and a much needed timely reassessment of cultural identification.

I have had the privilege of making many friends recently who know quite a bit on the matter and have been fighting this fight for sometime, and I would love any technical or personal insight, please.

However, to my family, friends, comrades, guests and strangers alike; to any this subject strikes a cord somewhere deep within:
Whether this be sorely familiar, fresh or even the first time that you are being confronted with such a harsh concept of the reality which is the severed connection to the heritage of our own ancestors, to 'Filipino Culture' understood and embraced entirely -I invite you to explore this crucial inquiry with me and let yourself get concerned, annoyed...heck! get irate and up in arms!
In this moment I know I am.
I feel pissed, yo!

Several friends and elders responded with empathy, sentiments, wisdom and encouragement.
The following email with a comrade is where I have left off on the subject.


I've done some digging around after I let me raw thoughts and emotions simmer for bit.
This whole thing regarding indigenous, native, tribal...how have these words evolved in their political context?
Cause really, this is the arena we are playing in, no?
I had to consider a recap of how the trigger was pulled to set me off on that roll...

My '500 years ago' response was off the cuff. Just like raw.  sort of embarrassed actually.. After I cooled a bit, it kinda read like a temper tantrum haha.

It turns out that to be identified and labeled as an Indigenous Group has evolved into a sort of protection measure politically -which I totally advocate.
However, this brings up the greater problem and the root of the matter:  The rotten fruits of Colonialism.

In PI, I can perceive at least three basic sub-groups within Society: Urban, Rural and Tribal.  But ALL Filipino. 
Isn't the Philippines classified as being divided into a vast number of 'ethnic groups'?  If this is the case, then the situation isn't about who is indigenous/non-indigenous, but instead is about dominant ethnic groups and class disparity.  

I feel that this perspective of separation from our "indigenous" roots is fairly new; I suspect like post-WW2 generation new.  And what's further, the demarcation of who is considered indigenous in today's Philippines could be on the verge of total invisibility.  I hope this is making sense...could it be that in an effort to preserve the liberty and sovereignty of minority ethnic groups, those who fight for justice are creating this construct of separation?  Yo!  If so, this is shite!  I'm referring to that rotten ass fruit.  What's more, there is this whole other critical element of authenticity and the question of [mis]appropriation.  I know you feel me on this. 
 I want to jump on board with the 'Getting back to our indigenous roots' as the leaders at the conference [talk about], but I just don't know how we can with all the political loop holes.  

The Baybaylan approach I resonate with very much. What's more, because spirituality stands to transcend politics, there is a high chance of sustainability as a movement.  But again, there is a critical need for authenticity and a great degree of credibility.  If this movement is going to go anywhere, I imagine it must always maintain a balance.  I fear it could easily fall short of its potential if it is ever dismissed as a movement of "New Age Asian Hippies."  Of course I am referring to Baybaylan as the legitimate inheritance of all Filipinos no matter their ethnic dominance or the condition of their societal structure and/or class.   I suspect that a path of consistent academia and professionalism could be enough to assure preservation. To be embraced "mainstream" could effectively bypass any of the side effects that come from defining who is indigenous -and therefore who is not-  in order to protect the rights of those who are in the extreme political minority.


  You know, I remembered today that my Momma, when talking about the "tribal people" when I was growing up...she never referred to them as such, nor as indigenous, natives or 'indians'.  She would just say: mountain people, primitive people.  But they were still Filipinos.  She always had a very strong reaction to the subject and beyond these derogatory dismissals, she refused to talk anymore on the subject of ethnic minority groups . As a child, she received a lot of abuse because of the darkness of her skin.  There are many pieces to our family story between her and my Lolo that have gaps that need filling.  In 2015, I plan to dig up all that I can when I return to the Islands (haha since I was 4y/o)  

The whole thing's incredible, how we are all a part of this piecing back together what was taken apart  hundreds of years ago.  

[My Friend], I have truly appreciated connecting with you.  Maraming salamat!

  

--


That was my tirade. I'm learning and pray I will always remain learning.

What's next?
I've been invited to have tea to discuss the topic and concern with one of the elder kapwatids.

Short Film: This is What Sexism Feels Like...To a Man.

Parts of this post is inspired and an adapted excerpt from a Facebook conversation.

Short Film:  This is What Sexism Feels Like...To a Man.

Slightly confusing in the beginning as I tried to follow -likely because my perspective is accustomed to a male-biased paradigm-...but the message is all too clear.
Please watch...starts to really come together around 4:06

A friend posted a very valuable comment questioning the target audience and the intended message:

That was really intense. I'm a bit confused by the message, though. The underlying message I got was that the world is a scary, violent, and powerless place for women. I think that message is problematic because it perpetuates us as victims to male domination, where the only way to empowerment is with the support (permission) of men. Now, that raises the question: Can women as a group be empowered without the help/support of men? Perhaps men are the target audience for this film. One thing that I think is lost during this, is that there is real sexual violence against men and boys, and I feel that this video portrays that terrible reality as something that could only exist in a parallel universe. I would have liked to see a step towards a solution rather than a french version of law and order svu. I don't think it was your male-bias that got in the way in the beginning. I had to consciously flip the gender script in my mind while watching the first few min. It was confusing at first. 

The following is an adaption of my response:

 You bring up some very good points... I feel that the target audience is not necessarily male, but rather for those who currently exist within a very real cultural demographic...one that does not discriminate by sex or even gender identification. As an example, I know quite a few lovely and wonderful people, many of whom are female, while being very aware and against sexual violence, believe to some degree, that the important topic of sexism is hyped-up and drama-ridden. In many ways, their personal experience and perspective of the world has not provided them with (adequate) context. 
For such an audience, I feel that the video is great. 
I agree with you about the somewhat ambiguous message. I’m not so sure if the video’s aim is to directly address the topics of Rape Culture, Misogyny or Misandry. One of the least intense but not less important topics portrayed was the bias of currently dominant patriarchal society. The climax in the middle of the film sort of stole away the spot light...however, in many ways, when it comes down to it, the subject of the scene is arguably the ultimate means of control exercised by the violent dominating antagonist, and with the topic being sexism, primarily men terrorizing women. As I mentioned in the post description, it was at this point that everything clicked into place in my mind’s attempt to “flip the gender script”.
Personally, I feel that the world is as scary as it is beautiful and courageous. Women, girls, boys and men are all targets by precedence; perpetrated by those who are of a predator mind-set, whether it be deeply ingrained or subjectively situational. I also feel that the topic of Sexist Culture is a viable platform to begin from in regards to the fight against sexual violence and sex/gender disparity.

---
As we finished, I found that we both agreed on the profound importance of the subject matter and how a discussion with a larger group was a great formula to gain valuable perspective and further insight. 


Such interaction is so beautiful. 
I admit hestitation.  To put myself in an environment where the dialectic process stands to be overrun by aimless debate, provides no desire in any of its forms.  However, I feel that my personal management of such an event is worth the adventure of failing or succeeding.
To feel satisfied emotionally, socially and intellectually is a joy I seldom participate in these days...and has it all been for the sake of avoiding drama?
Well...




if so, I must have needed the time off.

The Pitfall of Hyper-Positive Thinking and the Myth of The Secret

Over the years my perception and angle on hope and positivity have gone through many shapes of -more or less- the same basis. 
These days I contemplate if I have finally become hardened along with so much of the world population..(within my own bubble of subjectivity and privilege, of course). I have been burned, have failed and hit rock bottom, have traded emotional blows with Loved Ones, and am still trying stay in- touch with the reality that it takes great focus for visions to become real.

Recently, when welcomed to make a connection with the hyperpositive, manifest-your-reality culture that is prevalent in the Bay area...I discovered that I just could not jump on-board. I realized that for what I need in order to succeed is some in-no-uncertain-terms undeniable hard work and dedication, discipline, sound strategy, patience and a little bit of anger-management. 
Okay, so a lot of anger management. 
But even anger can be enough to change an undesirable situation. It just gets complicated to feed the monster later down the road. It is simply unsustainable and harmful for all involved.
And I guess that's a big part of the problem: Sustainability.
If you build a world around you that is enclosed by a glass structure of "Affirmation" alone, what's gonna happen when it shatters?
Catastrophic Failure.

Another crucial element I am discovering for the formula of success is it must be glued together by a powerful Motivation.
Without a drive, no one accomplishes anything.
That drive is either intrinsic or extrinsic.
These days I have been focusing on finding a purpose greater than myself...and i think that is what is different now for me.
The closer i get to that model and purpose, the more easeful it seems the microcosmic world will manifest.
But none of this so-called manifestation will ever happen because we simply "intend it" and make "believe".
It comes with work, determination and a lot of help and compassion from friends and -perhaps as crucial- from total strangers.
And, playing the cards we are dealt very well...including that one good hand.
What Reality looks like and Staying in-touch with it should always be of highest importance.
What's that called? Oh yeah, Sobriety.


The following is an incredible (as far as production and illustration goes at the least) clip by RSA and author/activist Barbara Ehrenreich on the subject:

To finish:

In regards to The Secret and the Laws of Attraction:  

I'm a fan of the concepts and principles described.  However, to put it simple and bluntly, there is a counter culture that remains out of touch with reality and instead is in danger of forever dwelling in a state of delusion -which has nothing to do with the rest of the inhabitants upon this Mother Earth.  It could be oh so much better if we could just get in touch with Reality as a whole.

I have been becoming more and more averse to Hyper-Spirituality and Positivity with each day that passes.

I understand that this is all a part of the evolution process, but ugh.  

It does provide me with a powerful desire to create a life that has depth in meaning and purpose, is filled with magic and belief yet entirely grounded in being in-touch.  

Oh, Ancestors- please guide me along this path.

RSA- Animate

Barbara Ehrenreich-Wiki

The Secret- Everything is Possible.  Nothing is Impossible.

The Secret and The Laws of Attraction