Alternate Vision

With Bush back in office, watching the news on TV is a drab and blatant reminder of what is to come. As much of an optimist as I am, I fail to see much positive light (politically and economically) in the next four years. Yes, there is the school of thought from the left that says "deal with it, move on and hope for the best." In his victory speech, Bush vowed to work hard to earn the trust and respect of the Democrats. Yet, as the economist desribes, having won the popular vote his mandate does promise to bring drastic tax reform and social security changes. With almost an 'omnipotent' control over the congress, there is no stopping him. This victory has if anything, strengthened the resolve of the Republicans to continue pursuing their current global agenda. Also, as Jim Lobe describes , with Colin Powell almost certainly out of office the one "neutralizing" force that was present will soon be gone. Bush's unilateral, socially conservative, pro-gun, aggressive policies will be followed with a much greater zeal. Spengler's take on the election is a must read. With 40% of the american population being evangelists, is it much of a surprise that we are facing what I believe is the 'Rise of the Fourth Reich' ?

Wizbang's is a conservative blog that I like to read. He has shattered my belief that the average american lacks the basic intelligence and global perspective to understand the profound implications of "Bush doctrine". He is a fervent supporter of the right, and a strong critic of the left; yet I must admit he has a unique perspective to offer.

To escape the harsh realities of this dismal administration, I seem to find solace in the most trivial things: taking long naps in mayfield park, gracing drum circles, plenty of southern comfort, south asian cooking, cloves, befriending drag rats, incenses, salsa and merengue dancing and much more. Watched the motorcycle diaries. Shall dedicate a seperate post to talk about the movie and how it has impacted me. Here's a fun recipe I tried this weekend. Best eaten with rice.

Fijian-Indian coconut chicken curry

Ingredients:

500 g chicken thigh meat
1 large boiled potato cut in pieces
2 cup mixed vegetables
1 large onion chopped
2 tbsp ghee or vegetable oil
1 tin coconut cream
1 large ripe banana chopped
2 tbsp lemon juice
1 pinch of sugar
1 tbsp cornflour mixed with water
2 chicken stock cubes
1 tbsp chopped ginger
2 tbsp good quality curry powder
2 tsp cumin seeds
2 tbsp chopped coriander

Instructions:

Cut chicken into bite size pieces and saute with onion and curry
powder in oil until lightly brown. Add coconut cream, lemon juice,
cornflour, stock cubes. Bring to boil and cook gently for 10 mins.
Blanch raw vegetables in boiling water for a few mins: drain and add
to the curry together with potato, cumin, ginger and banana. Season
with salt and pepper and serve garnished with coriander.