Intolerance?

I'm seriously getting pissed off about all my service calls being answered in Johannesburg and Jaipur. I've been on the phone for 10 minutes trying to get something done, and when the person on the other side puts me on hold, I swear he's checking an Afrikaans-English dictionary. And truly, I respect anyone who is fluent in multiple languages, because let's face it, I'm not. BUT I'm also not trying to work in customer support in a language I CAN'T SPEAK either!

And yes, I get the unloading of jobs to other countries and all that. This isn't about the politics behind it. It's about me and this guy on the phone who are having a serious breakdown in communication here.

So, for one of my classes, I'm writing a paper on the banning of the veil/headscarf in France and beyond. What are your thoughts on that? Is it more important to protect religion from government, or people from religion?

Christmas Cards, Etc.

Hahahaaa! (in case you couldn't tell, that's my maniacal laugh)
I actually have my Christmas cards done already! Right after the tree was put up, I took some pics of the kids, went straight to the computer, created and ordered my cards. Now, when I'll have time to address them is something else all together.

Saw a news story about an atheist billboard in NJ. Nice to see another point of view out there.

Hey! I've got a great idea for celebrating Christmas! You should totally adopt a dog! Please visit the Almost Home Foundation to find furry faces that need homes. Like Plum, an adorable little chihuahua who's being fostered here in Chicago.

Hey, I've got another idea! You should volunteer at local soup kitchen, Boys and Girls Club or maybe someplace close to my heart like the Maryville Crisis Nursery! I can't think of a better way to celebrate your own good fortune than to share it and help others :)