This is a copy of the first "official" WA mail, adjusted for page publication. Lots of good info, even though some is old news by now. I left most of the text intact to serve as a diary/record of my feelings for as much as any other reason.

Latest pages: http://www.therealmartha.com/WAR/index.htm  

http://www.therealmartha.com/WAwelcomeintro/index.htm
Whispering Activist intro
http://www.therealmartha.com/flagmore/index.htm
THE Flag
http://www.therealmartha.com/WA%209-17%20both/index.htm
9-17 copy
http://www.therealmartha.com/WA919DoxBun/index.htm
9-19 copy
http://www.therealmartha.com/WANews/index.htm
News vs. Facts

The Whispering Activist, a.k.a. Martha Jones
9-15-01
I will get around the to usual disclaimer when I have a chance. For now, circulate however you feel best. For those who do not know me, this is not what I ordinarily do - moot point - nothing is ordinary now. The following will help describe why I'm doing this and some feelings about the past, present and future. As thoughts are sorted, I'll add. Outrage/violation x 1,000 + the sheer audacity ... How Dare They (and frustration until they are identified) are as close as I can come right now. Feedback is always welcome, positive and negative - details further below.

Your work is to discover your work and then, with all your heart, give yourself to it. - Buddha

No, I'm not a Buddhist. It doesn't matter what I am. Who I am is a person who takes what makes sense to me from many sources. I have never felt like it was appropriate in any of my publishing functions to pick one spiritual focus. I am certainly not against prayer, each person makes their own higher power choice(s). There is great strength in any form of collective thought.

The same applies to politics. I consider most politicians to be liars. A lie is the one thing I find completely unforgivable. Burn me once, shame on you - burn me twice, shame on me. Whatever the truth may be, it is always easiest to deal with, in any situation. Facts and track records speak for themselves.

Add to the above, zero tolerance of whiners, screamers and crybabies, all of whom accomplish exactly nothing but self-satisfaction.

My "mission statement" for this publication is the presentation of common sense and wisdom, in part or whole, found by sorting through piles of opinions. Garbage and genius are running neck and neck. Soap boxes are everywhere, from professional journalists and broadcasters to the guy next door. Lunatics are on every corner. Passions are at the breaking point. It is imperative for everyone to listen and read carefully, then think for themselves. The majority has no clue what the hell they're talking about right now, running in panic mode, high gear. Gotta put the blame on something/someone. It's basic human nature, criticism reflects what people hate but will not acknowledge in and about themselves.

All media is under tremendous pressure. Do not automatically believe everything you hear, any time, ever, most especially now. The "latest" from Nostradamus is a hoax - do your best to circulate the following link please: http://www.snopes2.com/inboxer/hoaxes/predict.htm

I have no schedule planned, I was done fighting deadlines several years ago. Time sensitive subjects will shared as soon as possible. The rest will appear after I have time to give complete consideration to value. If you send something that doesn't appear in a few days, it is most likely I did not receive it. I will tell you if I plan to use or not if your submission is original.  Many items are already impossible to credit properly. Do include a note if you know the original source and/or when credit is due you personally.  Pen names are acceptable, and no, that is not a "radical" concept. I need to know who you are, that's it. I understand economic priorities - the possibility of losing a job for fear of expressing an opinion can silence voices that need to be heard. I have no advertisers to bow to - if advertising opens up, the same will apply.

Important, I do not/will not necessarily agree with all points presented here, for whatever reason there may be. Judgment of worth is based on clarity, concise text arrangement and documentation.

I don't expect every reader to agree with every notion I pass along. Please let me know to remove you from future mailings if you don't like what you find here. If you care to tell me why, I'd like to know.  I will keep you on the list until I hear otherwise. Tell me what you like and what you're doing with or about it, and your ideas. It amazing what is already happening due to positive grassroots efforts. My usual philosophy for new ideas is simple - do it. Of course you need a basic plan set up, but don't work it into the ground or talk yourself out of it before you act. If you stumble along the way, so what? You'll learn from mistakes. Stick to your guns, this is war.

To those who think they hurt us today ... you didn't 
To those who think you can make us yield ... you can't
To those who think we will run scared ... we won't
To those who think we won't find you ... we will

"You can run, but you can't hide" - Ronald Reagan - no date included at source

Support the ideas you like by passing them around to family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers if you don't consider yourself a leader. Print flyers, get on the phone, knock on doors, stand in a parking lot. This is not a time to be in isolated, get in touch. As you offer support, it will come back to you.

Wear a ribbon or a flag, put them in your windows, on the office bulletin board, and on your car. Ribbon is cheap, buy it by the yard and make extras to pass around. Tie on trees and mailboxes, and don't forget the dog's leash or collar - excellent attention getter and conversation opener.  Colored construction paper works for  clothing or windows/walls. Ask companies you work with or religious and social service organizations you belong to adapt the Ribbon of Unity and place it on their home pages and in e-mail correspondence.

Flag to print link, found in MommieMail - http://www.illusivewebdesign.com/myrally/flag/ or click or antenna flag to print. I backtracked URL to main page to find and address for thank you, info@illusivewebdesign.com. Next send (mine) will include a printable window size flag.

Better Homes and Gardens has selected blue as an international symbol of tranquility, faith, contemplation and truth. The gold star at the center of the Ribbon symbolizes the joint strength of the 50 United States of America. The symbol is available on www.bhg.com and on Ladies' Home Journal Online, www.lhj.com.

"Coming Together"
Around the globe, those who value the comforts of home, family, peace and freedom stand united.

Ribbon of Unity

1--- Cut a strip of colored construction paper or cloth ribbon 1/2 inch wide by about 8 inches long.
  2--- Twist into the shape shown, resembling half of a figure-8 with tails hanging downward.
3--- Seal where the sides of the ribbon meet in a loop, using a drop of glue.
4--- Glue a paper or foil gold star in the middle or sew on a star, available at crafts stores.
5--- Affix to lapel, tie, pocket, hat or other personal garment with a safety pin or suitable tie tack.

I am quite sure more ribbon ideas will be circulating soon. In the meantime, don't forget the black ribbon tied to auto antenna and lights on. Maybe you would prefer red, white and blue.

"Better Homes and Gardens has selected blue as an international symbol of tranquility, faith, contemplation and truth. The gold star at the center of the Ribbon symbolizes the joint strength of the 50 United States of America."

The symbol is available on www.bhg.com  and on Ladies' Home Journal Online, www.lhj.com. You will also find a considerably longer, repetitive set of instructions. As an editor, I like words, what I like best is less words.

Bravo! You go girl.

 Wednesday my daughter wore a shirt to school that says, "I'm proud to be an American girl." One of her Canadian classmates asked, "Are you really proud to be from a country with buildings falling down?" Today (declared official day of mourning here), I went to her teacher with a tribute to Americans e-mail a friend sent, telling him I thought he should read it to the class. He said he had to clear it with the principal, went to her, got a song and dance about the school board needing to approve it. At 9 a.m. I was on the phone and e-mail to school board, and by noon had the item cleared to be read in her school, plus the principal had a chat with the kids about being more sensitive.

Further below are excellent professional recommendations for helping children cope. Since my dog is my only child, and critters in general are always a main focus, their welfare gets first attention here.

Buster knew something was going on right away, picking up our vibes. We are both making a point of talking to him and walking him a little more frequently. He has calmed down considerably now that we are over the initial shock. The extra treat or two for no reason other than "He's a good boy" hasn't hurt either. Please consider your pets feelings, any odd behavior is directly related to family stress. Now, think about this ... if you have a sociable dog or cat, ask a school about a visit. For one, it will provide the animal a distraction. Two, there are millions of kids who don't have pets to tell their troubles to or hug on. Let a class "adopt" yours. Plan regular visits. Dreaming about having their very own pet someday, just like yours, will get many a kid through the scary nights. Take along a camera if you can, and at least a box of small treats so each kid can give one to their new best friend. Fido or Angel Kitty will likely have a too-full belly to sleep off. Calculate the treats and adjust regular feeding.

Check with veterans and nursing homes too. From first hand experience, I can assure you, the time will be well invested.

Several recent animal references have the hair up on my neck.

Search and Rescue dogs are not "ruined" after huge disasters. Responsible handlers do not expose their dogs to overt danger, nor do they push them to exhaustion. Unfortunately, irresponsible, improperly trained handlers have worked dogs to death. Fortunately that is not the norm. In response to a post on several animal lists, "I  was HORRIFIED to learn what these SEARCH and RESCUE DOGS must ENDURE," I asked a friend who is a leading handler to reply:

Yes, handlers MUST pay attention to their dog. If the dog is stressed, or suffers from breathing difficulties, any type of distress or injury, pull the K9 out. It's not worth the life of any SAR dog. What if that next life he or she may save, is that of your child? Remember, there are many well trained SAR dogs in our country, there are others, do not risk any life. Also remember for me, this phrase, 'Me and my dog go home.' Under no circumstance have we, or will we ever, put the lives of our handlers or their K9s in jeopardy on a search.

The  protective bootie issue as individual choice:

Booties are bad. Too dangerous, rather fix a cut foot, even a broken leg, than take the chance of K9 slipping because he cannot feel what's under him (can't get his footing) and breaking his neck. I know some disagree, but think about it.

K9 teams are in need of assistance such as food, extra clean bedding, vet care and supplies. Details are posted at various media locations.
~~~~~~~
Also, the possibility of any K9 soldier being left behind as "equipment," as in Vietnam, must be acted on now.

I have not yet seen the issue addressed - awareness will prevent a reoccurrence of that disgrace.
~~~~~
On the subject of leaving pets to fend for themselves at home as "natural predators" if evacuation becomes reality: pure crap. That was put forth as "feeding the baby or ... ." If you do not consider your pets family, take them to a shelter immediately, as in now. You do not deserve them. Yes, they very well may not find a new home. Humane euthanization (putting down) if far preferable to packs of frightened, hungry scavengers roaming the streets. (Note, that is strictly my opinion. I know full well that pets are the lowest on any disaster priority list. I also know my opinion will "stir the pot" - that is exactly how it was intended, as an animal education/respect advocate.) No one has any idea what is waiting to befall us. Now is the time to prepare. Put regular hurricane/tornado evacuation precautions into effect - don't wait until it may be too late.



From the SCC newsletter: We've received reports of spammers sending out calls for assistance for "emergency relief funds," and directing the recipients to contribute money to the Red Cross - through the spammers' web sites.

Many of these spammers are trying to steal money and credit card numbers. Do NOT respond to these emails!

If you wish to contribute money to an organization, we recommend that you do so directly through the organization's site, or to a local chapter. The address for the Red Cross is http://www.redcross.org

You can also donate by phone at 1-800-435-7669 (English speaking) or 1-800-257-7575 (Spanish speaking).

Amazon.com has set up a channel through which you can donate to the Red Cross, which may be a better choice for online donations. The Red Cross donations page has been swamped, Amazon makes it very easy to donate from $1 to $50. Go to http://www.amazon.com/

More than $767,000 has been donated to the Red Cross so far at the Amazon site.

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Other Important Information
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

If you wish to give blood, check with your local office to see if they have space. Many Red Cross offices throughout the country are swamped with donors. It might be better to wait a day or two.

Phone numbers for those who want to find out about friends and relatives who they are concerned may have been hurt in yesterday's attacks can be found at: http://www.cnn.com/SPECIALS/2001/trade.center/contacts.html

The site lists contact information for those who believe they may have information relating to the attack that may help law enforcement to find and capture the perpetrators. It also lists other agencies that are helping the survivors and relatives of the victims. If you have any information that can help, visit http://www.ifccfbi.gov

The Justice Department's Office of Victims of Crime has set up a phone line to provide information to families about victims and about services for survivors and their rights: 1-800-331-0075

Kids

From the "I'm not Martha" newsletter (she's Lizzy): Do things with them that make them feel secure. Me, I am a baker. I bake. My family knows that all is right in the world when I am in the kitchen baking. Get the children to help. Keep their hands busy. Involve them in the things that emphasize the normal, daily safety, security, and comfort of your home.

Eat dinner together as a family. Invite anyone who is alone or away from their families.

If your church is a part of your family life, go to church. Take your children with you.

Calm your children before bedtime. Read to them. Tuck them in ... no matter how old they are.

Take your children by your local firehouse. These valiant men who go in first know that everyone is frightened. They know how to reassure you and your kids. Greet your local police. Encourage your children say hello and become comfortable that there are people keeping them secure. Give them confidence in the structure of your hometown.
~~~~~~~~~

Bullies have attacked America's children. America, the great mother, will not tolerate anyone or any faction that strikes out against her babies. Just as I would tear anyone apart who tried to harm one of my daughters, so America will act with sure cause and swift action. Rexanne, Rexanne's Web Review
~~~~
How to Handle a Crisis Together
author unknown

Have a plan for such times ... eating whatever is left in the freezer instead of planning a meal, letting the answering machine take your calls, asking for help from family and friends.

Don't blame one another for the situation. Watch a funny movie together. Laugh a little. Hug one another, hold one another, snuggle or have sex. Don't worry about keeping the house clean. Lower your expectations of one another a bit. Remember your commitment to one another. Compliment one another. Find something positive in each day. Remind yourselves that this crisis isn't going to last forever.

If you are dealing with grief, accept that you each must grieve on your own schedule. Don't keep your feelings bottled in. Take it one day at a time. Lower your stress level by exercising, eating healthy foods, drinking water, and getting enough sleep. Be patient. It takes time to overcome the trauma of a crisis.
~~~~

10 Tips for Helping Kids (and others) Deal with the  Current National Crisis (World Trade Center)
edited for this publication
 
 1.) TURN OFF THE TV!!!! Listen to the radio. You can't control what children may see during a live news broadcast, the images are very disturbing.
 
 2.) Be honest; tell the kids what is happening. But, be sure to keep it brief and age appropriate. (There was an airplane crash and many people are hurt.)
 
 3.) Deal with your feelings away from the kids, so you can be a resource for them. Call a friend, start a journal, or take a walk.
 
 4.) DO SOMETHING! Be proactive. Give blood, say a prayer, prepare a care package to take to the Red Cross.
 
 5.) Avoid stereotyping. Not all people of Middle  Eastern descent had anything to do with this tragedy or even agree with it.
 
 6.) Be consistent. We realize the ramifications this can have, but the best thing we can do is try to keep schedules the same.
 
 7.) While still maintaining their schedule, try to  slow down. We all need time to process this loss. When you slow down, it is easier to pay attention to the kids and their needs.
 
 8.) Validate their emotions (and yours). There are a range of feelings that can surface, none of them right or wrong.
 
 9.) Be aware of the ripple effect. It may take weeks  or even months for feelings/fears to surface.
 
 10.) Above all, kids need a sense of hope and security for the future. Tell them that things are going to be okay, even if you are having a hard time believing it yourself.
 
 Compiled by: Kathie Spaun, California School Counselor & Children's Therapist
~~~~

     When events create fear ...
author unknown - edited for this publication

     Try not to be surprised about our dark side.  It has always been there.

     Then, as best you can, collect yourself into your center and whatever you believe in that is good, true and beautiful.  You may find a moment of strength.

     Do not let others translate your fears into hate.

     Each personal action we choose can create a world of love, courage and blessing.

     Our earth has seen many calamities and continues to renew itself.

     Do your part, be the peace that you want to see happen in the world.

~~~~~~~
Right now what I support and want to see is USA forces kicking the butt - hard, fast and finally. Then, and only then, there may be peace. I requested a copy of the dove a week or so ago, not really knowing what I might do with it. Please use as you wish. I purposely did not attach (to mailer) due to general download caution. I suggest you question anyone who sends anything, even if that person happens to be your best friend.



Peer-letter Writing Campaign
edited for this publication

People are being asked to show their humanity to the people of New York and Washington by writing letters of support, condolence, prayer and simple kindness. A peer-letter writing campaign - similar to the one that was taken on after the Oklahoma City bombing - is coming together with the support of towns, cities, churches, and schools. Simply put, peer-letters are written by a person of one occupation/hobby/lifestyle to a similar person in NYC or Washington. For example, firefighters writing to firefighters, 6th grade students writing to 6th grade students, etc. The method allows people of a certain occupation or walk of life to connect with others of the same. The recipient feels there is someone out there who understands their stresses. Writers has the opportunity to know that they have helped in some way, as well as providing an outlet for their own emotions. Send letters to:

Town of Irondequoit Supervisor
1280 Titus Ave
Rochester, New York 14617

Be sure to write the type of letter (for example, "6th grade student") on the outside of the envelope. The organization is also actively seeking volunteers who are interested in coordinating this effort in their own town, state or country. All interested volunteers should please call voicemail 1-716-234-9414 and leave a detailed message or email khatn@aol.com with "Letter Writing" as the subject line. Kathryn Howard, khatn@aol.com

Below are the addresses for Mayor Giuliani and Governor Pataki. Let them know we are thinking of them during this difficult time.

Mayor Rudy Giuliani
330 W 42nd St. Fl. 26
New York, NY 10036

Governor George E. Pataki
State Capitol
Albany, NY 12224

Send your email to the link below to let the President know that he has your support!
president@whitehouse.gov

Adopt a Soldier

This program will work to match people up to a soldier who needs support. The person who has "adopted" a soldier will send cards, letters, care packages, whatever to help their soldier(s) get through their tough times and to let them know they are loved. To receive complete info and addresses to begin right now, send e-mail to AdoptSoldier 

Updated for this page: http://members.tripod.com/adoptsoldier. Adoption info also available at http://www.milpagan.org/. Before anybody tells me they have a problem with pagans - that would be your problem, not mine (note Twain wisdom below). I'll be happy to list any special interest group preference. Mine happens to be a K9 unit. Care package suggestions and recipes for goodies will be included on upcoming pages. Send your ideas too.

"It is better to keep your mouth closed and let people think you are a fool than to open it and remove all doubt." -Mark Twain

Nicely done (my opinion) tribute to firefighters: http://fdnyheros.homestead.com/Card.html  
~~~~
From: Hunnyb5522   (Found in MommieMail)

Don't Cry For Me

I am the Firefighter
Don't cry for me
I gave my life so that others may live
If I was given another chance
Knowing what would happen
I would gladly enter the building again
Without hesitation or fear
I serve without regret

I am the Policeman
Don't cry for me
I too gave my life so that others may live
"To serve and protect"
Without regard to race or religion
If given another chance
I would give my life to save my fellow man
I serve without regret

I am the EMT
Don't cry for me
I gave my life so that others may live
I am eager to help my fellow man
Life is precious
I fight to preserve life
Always ready to respond
I serve without regret

We are innocent victims
Don't cry for us
We are in a better place now
A place without war, hunger, and hatred
A place where race doesn't matter
We are all here
The firemen, policemen, and EMTs
We smile down on you
In the face of danger, you have pulled together to help your fellow man
You make us proud
America will prevail
God Bless America

Nothing can fill the void this attack has left.  This is dedicated to the men and women who gave their lives so that others may live.  My prayers and thoughts are with all who have lost loved ones and with those who continue to search through the debris for life. Written 09-13-01, Michael W. Allen, EMT-I

OK, that'll have to do it for now. Watch for an editorial from a private source. It's uncirculated, controversial, and an excellent thinker. I wanted to use this time but documentation did not arrive in time. Mailbox is screaming overload - might be another send by late tonight, more likely tomorrow.

Quickie: You may have noticed a couple of "edited for this publication" notes. I will delete superfluous info and correct spelling and grammar as appropriate. I will also run as is for a variety of reasons. I pull no punches, I feel very strongly that attention to detail makes or breaks credibility. You'll see what I mean by example, no doubt soon. Several days ago I sent a note about an inappropriate word use on an otherwise nicely done memorial site. I have had no reply. When and if I see it has been corrected, I will send along the link. Any time I see any heartfelt effort spoiled by an innocent, simple, easily corrected mistake, I say so. Some people appreciate me sticking my nose in, most don't. That would be their problem not mine. Snotty little bitch ain't I? Yep, that's the way it is. I suffered and learned from one of the stuffiest editors on the planet. Hell no I'm not perfect - when I goof I do it up it big time. Didja notice the typo in the last line of the last send about typos? Perfectly typical, pun intended. That was nothin' - you shoulda seen my finest: Pubic safety officer, in a real print, can't takey backy, headline. The nice officer was enjoying his new notoriety and was kind enough to let the boss man know. I promise, there will be more. I hope you enjoy them as much as I do. I also hope to have the next send in snappier shape graphic-wise. Not prepared, and then I put the ones I was lucky enough to come across where I knew I wouldn't forget ...

Speaking of which, from an IM last night:

My MIND is gone~I'm kinda likin' that. 

Piece of mind is priceless? Bad Martha, I slapped me.

In closing, this little bit speaks volumes:

We know there has been a lot of debate over whether or not it is ethical to be publishing at this time. The staff at List-Universe agrees it's best to let each publisher decide what is right for him or her. For some, work equals sanity and stability. For others, it is a sign of disrespect. Whatever you decide, there isn't a right or wrong answer. We wish you the best.

Do what you can to relax this weekend while you reflect, and to gain the focus America needs for her collective resolve as we move forward.

Now, finally, really done ... please excuse weird type changes. What I thought would fix, didn't. Didn't feel like messing with it any more right now was worth the time. Thanks for your patience, interest and comments - the sun will come up in the morning,

PS: Don't forget to enjoy the little things ... they are there, look around.

From a friend: (talking to her son at 4 this morning), I said, "I still haven't picked an emotion." He said, "You don't need to right now, reserve the right to pick an emotion at a later date."