Why Our Society is Screwed Up, Rihanna Edition

Sure, I keep up the Kardashians and watch the Jersey Shore from time to time but for the most part I do not keep up with pop culture and tabloids like the vast majority of Americans. But, when I viewed headlines about a potential reunion between Rihanna and Chris Brown I couldn’t help but to scratch my head a little.

Contrary to what some individuals might imagine, I do not consider myself any sort of radical feminist.  However, I am loudly in support of basic women’s rights (shouldn’t we all be?!)  Similar to many young pop stars, Rihanna undergoes constant scrutiny for her behaviors and perceived priority to be a role model for adolescents and young girls.  While certain actions by the pop star may be more appreciated by parents, I disagree that female pop stars have to behave in a particular manner due to their fan base.  Therefore, Rihanna has every right to sing about the whips and chains that excite her if she so pleases.  Moms, you have the option to turn her off.

Here is why. When was the last time that you saw parents or society scrutinizing a male singer or rapper regarding suggestive or inappropriate lyrics? No?  Instead, we shower them with Grammy’s a mere three years after publicly beating up their girlfriend. Tsk Tsk Chris Brown. Women are simply treated differently than men and they are expected to act a certain way.

When I heard about a possible reunion between the two, I couldn’t bring myself to understand.  Reuniting (musically or romantically) with a man who literally beat the shit out of you a few years back absolutely sends an immoral message not just to adolescent girls but to women and men everywhere.  While I believe firmly in the power of forgiveness, this is not a situation to simply forgive and forget.  We have not forgotten and physical assault will never be tolerable. Sexual lyrical liberation is one thing.  But, sending a message to society that being assaulted is acceptable is unconditionally unacceptable.

It both saddens and angers me that one of the most famous (and perceived strongest) females in pop culture would stand for something like this. Time to move on, girl.  Get away from those Rude Boys…

“The greatest pleasure of a dog is that you may make a fool of yourself with him and not only will he not scold you, but he will make a fool of himself too.”

My Love for Bulldogs

 

When I started writing this blog, I wanted it to to be about various topics.  Thus far, I have focused primarily on international politics and the 2012 election.  While politics remain one of my main interests, I also maintain lighter interests as well.  If you meet me in person, my love for bulldogs would be one of the first things you find out about me.

I love bulldogs even though I do not have one… yet. It all started about three years ago when I was met my friend’s new bulldog puppy, Louis.  I was instantly in love.  I love their fat, chubby little bodies and short stubby legs.  I love the way they waddle when they walk (which usually is not too far).  Mostly, I love their faces.  Some people think bulldogs are ugly.  In truth, those people are crazy.

In my expert opinion, dogs that are funny looking (the bulldog) should be females with pretty names.  For example, my bulldog’s name will be Ruby.  Other acceptable names include: Daisy, Amethyst, Fiona, Pearl (basically, any gem will do).

Alright, folks.  I know all about the health problems and that bulldogs do not live very long lives.  I know that they don’t walk very far, can be gassy, snort like a pig, and sometimes have tempers.  Obviously, I do not care about these little things.  Put simply, bulldogs make my heart happy.

I am lucky enough to have found someone who accepts my odd and sometimes unhealthy obsession with bulldogs.  I cannot wait until we have Ruby as part of our little family.

Don’t worry, this will probably be my only post about bulldogs.  Just thought I would share something light when all this craziness is happening in our world!