Views are as diverse as are people. Media is biased by design.With no first hand knowledge of my own, I go to those who are directly affectedlive in the area and do have a direct perspective. I have friends in Kiev. from a popular forum (vk.com ) this is one persons view translated from Russian to English.:I personnelly am to ignorant to have a political view.. However have a moral obligationtoward respect for life and Non-Violence. and free speach from All perspectives.I do stress ALL . when only two (2) perspectives are presented you get an "Engeltarin Dialectic" synopsis leading to a predictable outcome... (another Topic)here is a view quoted from VK,com:Brothers and sisters , following March 18.From the bad:1. This is war. Invasion forces Putin to Ukraine came to a terrible and, alas , the laws of apotheosis : the Russians in the Crimea and their mongrel - policemen of the so-called "Self-defense " kill Ukrainians. Today in Simferopol one Ukrainian military killed and two were wounded .How would the Kremlin is not covered further their crazy adventures today finally became clear : this is a war , and no other definitions can not be happening . We were attacked Russia , and our soldiers to the last remaining true to the oath , Russia kills .I wrote earlier that it - not the war against the Russians in Ukraine , Putin and the war only against Ukraine. I have to sadly admit that I was wrong. Ukraine started the war against the Russians led by Putin , their hands are in our blood - it is an indisputable fact .According to Putin, 95% of Russians support his desire to "protect compatriots" at any cost. That is, 95 % were in fact for Ukraine to drown in the blood of these otherwise I do not understand the sociological data .In front of us - the enemy . Who would not prove to me that - but it is an enemy . Can convince me that Putin has beautiful eyes , and in Russia - birch wonderful , but I see a new Hitler and the new Reich . All discussions on this subject consider inappropriate. We must be protected , and their breasts close spineless Europe until it counts losses from a possible quarrel with Russia. It seems that this is the mission of our tragic .Ukrainian Defense Ministry has officially allowed the military to use weapons in the Crimea . This is a very difficult decision , because the results are unpredictable . But we are talking about the army - the people that the country gave up arms , and to be able to protect themselves and the people . So, it is the right decision . The only question is , what we can and will help our guys standing on their outposts in an ocean of hatred.2 . Ukrainian soldier was killed immediately after the bloody maniac Putin told his dream to conquer the world , starting with Ukraine. " We are clearly in the face external opposition , but we have to decide for yourself whether we are ready to defend their interests or will take them forever , no one knows where to retreat ,"said Putin .This is - a challenge not only to Ukraine . This - a declaration of war to the entire civilized world. As fate would we - the first ones under their zamatyvaem Putin's war machine rollers . The sooner the rest realize that stop these paranoid from the East - a general sacred duty , the better for the planet. And for Ukraine.3 . Deputy Prime Minister Rogozin come up with yet another excuse for war with Ukraine. These scumbags stuffed his commandos and agents of the FSB Transnistria, where they make their forays into Ukraine. Our border guards and security forces put them screener . Now Rogozin hysteria , saying that Ukraine " has arranged blockade of Transnistria ."March 20 - A meeting of the Russian government on this issue. Result is clear in advance : Ukraine More on this issue will be announced criminal. There is no limit to Russian meanness and vileness Of good :On the background of the above, once there is no optimism. But I'll try .1. The EU does not recognize the annexation of the Crimea and Sevastopol Russia - this according to a joint statement by the Presidents of the European Council Herman Van Rompuy and European Commission President Jose Manuel Barroso.Although Europe had been here the position . Though there is not stuck a knife in the back. The term " annexation " of the mouth of the Europeans to Russia - for them , a serious feat . I thank them for it though .2 . If Moscow will support the " nationalization " of the property in the Ukrainian Crimea , Kiev would seek compensation for losses due to its assets - both in Ukraine and in Europe . This was announced by Justice Minister Pavel Petrenko.In this kind, but the crafty man with Ukrainian surname Petrenko casually dropped that Russian "Gazprom" has a lot of facilities in Europe. No comments yet.3 . Budget deficit Crimea considering sotsvyplat enormous. This was told by former acting Finance Minister Ihor Umansky . "The gap between the money that go to the Crimea and from the Crimea, is about 12-13 billion hryvnia (about $ 1.4 billion ) ," - he said.That Crimean separatists were notorious parasites overeat Ukraine , Putin is now trying to pile them on the neck of the Russian taxpayers - weak consolation . That we actually already knew . But the love of the Crimea as part of our Ukraine , did not cease .In general, after today's events , I have only one wish for the coming day . But since it is sincere but not very pious wish concerns the life and health of some scum of the number of " brotherly people " out of respect for Christian morality I have not voiced . Let's just let everything will be fine .another article follows. ....Anyone wishing to live in Russia , read this man's response , which should act as a guarantor of security, prosperity and financial well-being of its citizens so many times that -----goes on to bash Putin with a picture..... etc.

This phrase must be beginner English, I am asked so often. "Where are you from?"If I am at my corner store I simply point at my flat. In my Village I will say the village name.The answer never satisfies the asker. I feel it is not a satisfactory question. I will rephrase the question,Do you mean, Where was I born? What province have I come from? Or my ancestors genes?The answer to any of these questions may invoke stereotypes that do not apply. Where I am "from" does not determine "WHO" I am. Who I am is determined by my Experiences. Sure,my birth country and its culture formed my early years, however my family migrated to anothercountry when I was a teenager. My experience is no longer mono-cultural. I think differentlythan many who hold a similar passport. I consider myself to be "man of the world". However I do have a language barrier (in China) so I am unable to go into this rant.Yellow hair and blue eyes stand out, so I will continue to receive this questionI have learned to give the easy answer. Meguo-wen (American) passport.I stole this from another blogger... as I relate..KIyer 2014-4-5 19:57i have grown up in over a dozen towns, i cannot say one single place that i feel, i belong to, more than others. i used to feel i belong nowhere, until one day i realised, I belong to every place i have lived in. And yes, it would be wonderful to make China my home for sometime. I feel I would enjoy it and it would be a privilege.

On the bus going to Democracy monument I met a fireman going to work. What can burn? All the buildings are concrete. Many wood factories are in the area. Oh. Do you want to see the fire station? it is close to the monument. Sure. When we got off the bus he asked if I wanted a Beer? OK we went into 7-11, got one a piece. the teller asked if we wanted them open? I looked at him and he said yes.. Teller popped the caps, so we could begin consuming rite away. We walked to the station, open beers in hand. Sat around drinking with the other firemen. Boss came by, Then the top boss showed up... My friend was soon doing push-ups. what's up with that? No beer allowed at the station. oops........ I suggested one hand.. a few more pictures. I can hear loudspeakers in the distance. Hope my new fireman friend is has made amends with his push-ups. I must go on. I am drawn to where the protestors hold positions, regardless of tear gas used only days before. Five deaths are confirmed since these protests began. I have met the limits for drinking beer, punishment administered quickly. How does this Monarchy work? (Sequel “Politics in Thailand”).

"Eat everything on your plate, Ya know there are starving people in China" I heard this as a kid. However in China if you clear your plate and leave nothing, your host will think you are still hungry and cook more. (or "loose face") It is custom to leave some food on your plate. I was surprised how much tasty food gets left behind that I thought composting should be done. I found out it is collected and taken to pig farms. Now the govt is starting a "frugality campaign" and encouraging people to clear your plate and not order more than you can eat! doesn't seen to be catching on though.. As for me, I eat so well, so much and so often. The wide variety of Chinese food choices is astonishing! The sights, smells, and tastes make eating the most enjoyable social activity. umm, umm Good.

February 19, 2013 near Kuala Lumpur, MalaysiaSaori Saori" in Philipines means to wander aimlessly, I do this often, now without the aid of my compass (stolen from my home in the states) I walk through Hindu, Moslem, Buddhist, Lutheran neighborhoods without fear. A simple smile is always returned. I sample street food from all cultures and make serendipitous discoveries and acquaintances. When I get tired . I turn 720 degrees looking lost. within minutes I am approached and asked "can I help you?" In Malaysia 3 languages are taught in school! I am soon directed to the nearest Bus or train and am on my way back to my familiar location. Today I returned with an SD card to take more pictures, new pair of shorts, 2 books from Buddhist temple, and flower necklace. spent <$US15. --Warning-.. Do Not do this in any Major USA city...--Notes: Malaysia : Quadruple standards - ethnic Malay 60% get priority for schools & govt. jobs, ethnic Chinese 20% own 50% of biz., ethnic Indian working class _SOL Foriegners pay 2-3 times the price for purchases- even 10 times for the naive.. however my 4-5 days cost me aprox $US150 total - mostly travel xpense

POLITICS IN THAILANDScuse me while I go through a NORMALCY BIAS MIND Confusion Adjustment. Background (my experience from 2007 onward) and I am not really yet clear exactly how things happen,I Don't even speak the language! But basically their are 2 powerful parties , They DO have elections for the prime minister. However when I ask When?? is the election? The answer Just explodes my mind......................"When She Steps Down.." Period.. Power of some kind forces the change. Looking back through several changes in party I have seen.. The red were elected, the yellow staged a bloodless coup wile the PM was in NY. the King backed it up and it stuck. the yellow began to Protest until new elections were held, and they won the popular vote. So now the Red shirts are having protests. It is not guaranteed, that they would win if an election were held. They each have a strong base leaving the swing vote as the deciding factor. Simplified, the people will vote from their embedded Buddha Nature Of Non-Violence. For the protesters goal is to get as many people together, disrupt government business, and be as big a pain in the ass, as they can, Non-violently . How the current Government reacts, then has direct implications on the next election, (whenever that may be) . When windows break, buses burn, people are bloodied, detained, or killed,I t doesn't look good for somebody and gathers support for the side less blamed. Update... Elections were held , but boycotted by the Yellow shirts and deemed not valid. Things have calmeddown a bit. The government is not fully functional, Life goes on. Thailand has such a long history and it willcontinue, even if the process is confusing to me. Good Luck Thailand.....

Laundry dayAugust 25, 2011 at 6:46amPublicFriendsFriends except AcquaintancesOnly MeCustomClose FriendsFamilySee all lists...Triad AudioShenzhen, Guangdong AreaCanyonville, Oregon AreaChang Rai, Chiang Rai, Thailand AreaSingapore, Singapore AreaAcquaintancesGo BackDropped off laundry yesterday, picked up today, washed dried, folded, 7 lbs for $28 HKD. $1US = $HK7.8. Hungry now, want authentic HK food, found a small place full of people, No picture menu, No english writing Perfect. Prices from $32-$52, closed my eyes and dropped a finger, waitress said chic-ken, Yes.. bowl of soup came, Tea next, & empty bowl, Then rice bowl and last, a big plate of lean chicken pieces on a bed of crispy fried greens , transferred some rice, meat, & greens to empty bowl, cause it is OK to pick up bowl and makes chop sticks easier to use\ if its closer to mouth. Chinese guy came in and asked "this seat taken", in perfect american english, Sure sit, put down his books, and I said "student?" "for my job." Played with his I-phone (everybody has one, but me) then began a conversation lasting 20 minutes After our meals were consumed. Oh, the meal was absolutely delicious .. He suggested, "try the pigeon sometime," " they may not understand" "indicate small bird" Oh, OK

MangKok to Sai KungAugust 12, 2011 at 6:15amPublicFriendsFriends except AcquaintancesOnly MeCustomClose FriendsFamilySee all lists...Triad AudioShenzhen, Guangdong AreaCanyonville, Oregon AreaChang Rai, Chiang Rai, Thailand AreaSingapore, Singapore AreaAcquaintancesGo BackMangKok is a very busy business district where I have been the first 3 days, at nite some of the streets are blocked for foot traffic only. Every square meter is bustling with activity. USA could learn alot about business here. I have learned to use the subway system, for travel to other areas. I have an "optipus" card for easy payment. Now I am residing in Sai Kung I take the mini bus, 16 seat, to & fro.Its a half hour ride with speed limits up to 70 KPH. The speed is shown on a electronic screen, When the bus hits 81 a bell goes off till speed decreases.With all the traffic I am surprised that I have not yet seen a fender bender or even a single dent in any vehicle! I was surprised to have a dejavue . I have been to Sai Kung before! 4 years ago. It is the town on the coast where the fishing boats unload there catch. Everything is alive and deposited into aquariums the restaurants have. customers can pick out their meal from the tanks . Can not get any fresher than this! I am glad to be here, Unlike MongKok, I can reach out and not touch 6 people within my arm span. I picked up 5 tiger prawns tonite and brought them home One prawn saw the boiling water coming and jumped to the floor. but only temporarily avoided his fate. From my time in Oz I remembered how to rip off the legs and clean them. Umm Good.

After living in China for 2 years I thought I knew the culture fairly well and have done my best not to offend my hosts. I love the foods, (a few exceptions) I’d rode three on an E-bike going against traffic. Litter constantly Smoke in restaurants , I can even accept squat toilets! However when I moved into an apartment with several native Chinese, I found many culture differences I did not expect. 1. In winter time with temp below 10 C my room-mates would open doors and windows. I could see my breath and went around closing these windows and doors. This irritated my flatmates as they said they needed "Fresh Air!" When I pointed out you could not see 1 kilometer away due to the smog, and this "fresh air" left a lawyer of dust inside.. It did not register. 2. Some of the odors they wanted to disperse with the "fresh Air" were due to food being left out. I suggested that I would bring in a refrigerator, and the foods could be covered and put inside, even drinks? They said "NO, a refrigerator would waste electricity" . It is cold enough . 3. I removed newspaper or green plastic covering the windows in the main big room, (and my bedroom) to allow sunlight to enter. They objected, saying people could now see inside and they valued privacy more than sunshine. never mind this is the top floor with unobstructed south exposure. ( Maybe a cultural habit inspired by generations ,,make sure all doors lock, privacy/security.., That may be another post) Currently (1) the weather has warmed so not an issue so much. (2) No fridge. (3) Compromised, a simple curtain allows both privacy and sunshine. 4. Gam Bay! (bottoms Up) Meals are the #1 social event and I am very often treated by my new and old friends. Toasting is almost continuous with the Chinese beer. I cannot match them cup for cup. Not that I am afraid to get drunk. The fact is the beer is bloody piss-water, about 3.2 % Alcohol content, and I am more likely to get bloated and sick from it before I ever catch a "buzz". So, I am not a "good drinker" , and may offend my hosts by not matching their habits. Sorry bout that.. I lose Face…… (To be continued…. Face Restored)

Gold, Silver, and Expert Liars Summer 2011 - I had cashed in all my silver and one once of palladium the month previous to finance this trip. From a prone position on my friends couch in Sai Kung, Hong Kong I watched the English version of CCTV. Gold was a hot topic; the price had been going up and as more people jumped on the bandwagon, the curve grew steeper. The pictures showed hordes of Chinese people exchanging money for gold. No secret Chinese love gold. The experts were all proclaiming gold as a fantastic investment opportunity. The price hovered in the $US1,800 range. The experts said the price will top $2,000 by years end and will likely reach $2,500 !! by mid 2012. Many people were investing. Had I sold to early? The next day the headlines read “Gold Price Crashes” – “ Biggest Decline in History” The experts were not around to explain what happened. They had cashed out. After a coordinated effort to drive the price up, they sold, reaping huge profits. I had witnessed a similar scenario in the US real estate market a few years earlier.. The experts encouraged everybody to jump into the can’t lose, invest your retirement stake, real estate market. The encouragements were ramped up. Then the market crashes… The biggest transfer of wealth in American history has happened. Transferred from normal people to the wealthiest people in the world. The "Experts" are high level Con Men who are in on the game....