I love my country, as any good American does. But unfortunately, I must make a criticism concerning an issue that is really beginning to bother me. The number one problem in America: Ignorance. 20% of American children cannot locate the Pacific Ocean on a map? This is insane. Americans know so little about the world around them, and so many Americans cannot even locate Iraq on a map-the country we are at war with. Wake up call! I do get tired of Europeans saying the same thing about America, but let’s not worry about that. We-as Americans-need to take a look at our own country and decide what we need to do solve this problem.

I, as a future international relations major-should not be too quick to criticize. I spend some of my spare time researching stats on current international events and learning foreign languages. I will admit, I probably know a great deal more than the average joe sixpack, so perhaps I shouldn’t be too quick to judge considering I am not the norm. But it is not too hard to have sympathy for the idea I am presenting-it doensn’t matter if you are majoring in molecular biology or political science-there is no excuse for not being able to locate Iraq on a map. Perhaps some people just don’t care-and maybe some don’t need to necessarily. But as a whole, we Americans are behind. Our education systems are relatively behind, and geography is rarely taught in school.

We are all part of this world. No matter what are nationalities are. Why is it okay to push math and science, but not geography and comparative government? The answer lies in the fact that building nuclear weapons is more important than diplomacy.

I am not a fan of the current political candidates, but at least they are inspiring an interest in politics in America’s youth.

-Amlaw

 I first read The Kite Runner during the summer of 2007. I have never been so impressed by a piece of literature in my life. It is moving, educational, and beautiful. It is like la jaconde of 21st Century literature. I recently saw the movie as well, and it was amazing. The actors chosen were perfect for the role, and all the elements of the film blended together to create something different and something beautiful.

This book allows unlimited insights into the human spirit, and it shows us how we can easily become cowards, but then soar to new heights by using love to drive courage. I would have to say Baba is my favorite character. He is strong, generous, brave, and loving. He may not have been perfect, but his heart was always in the right place.

The most valuable fact concerning the Kite Runner is how it displays the culture and people of Afghanistan and allows the reader an insight into their culture and values, which is a subject that is not exposed often enough. It gives light into the lives of a people that have remained a mystery to Americans. It is a lesson concerning a culture that is ancient and overlooked.

Thank You Mr. Khaled Hosseini.

Goodbye Mr. Heston

April 8, 2008

America has indeed lost an American icon. From Ben Hur to Planet of the Apes, Mr. Heston is near and dear to the hearts of any true movie junkie like myself. He was a defender of constitutional rights and an amazing artist. “From my cold, dead hands…”

He may be dead now, but because of his support, no one has gained the unlawful right to take that privlege away. Rest in Peace, Judah.

Hello Blogoshere

April 8, 2008

This is Amlaw, which is an extension of my name, so it doesn’t have some strange meaning or anything. I will mostly be writing about politics and such, but this blog is only an introduction. I am a “moderate” conservative and so this will serve as an outlet for opinions. When blogs are posted, please be respectful and don’t use this as an opportunity to vent. Thank You!

Hello world!

April 8, 2008

Welcome to WordPress.com. This is your first post. Edit or delete it and start blogging!