posted by Sam Richards
Believe me when I say that I don’t need another reason for wishing that Pat Robertson’s “savior” would just go ahead and call him home. And so why am I talking about this man who is posing as preacher who is posing as an asylum escapee? (Or is it the other way around?)
Here’s what he said about Haiti:
(CNN) — Pat Robertson, the evangelical Christian and host of the “700 Club,” says a “pact to the devil” brought on the devastating earthquake in Haiti.
Robertson blamed the tragedy on something that “happened a long time ago in Haiti, and people might not want to talk about it.” The Haitians “were under the heel of the French. You know, Napoleon III and whatever,” Robertson said on his broadcast Wednesday. “And they got together and swore a pact to the devil. They said, ‘We will serve you if you will get us free from the French.’ True story. And so, the devil said, ‘OK, it’s a deal.’ “
As lame as it may seem, my excuse for bring this up is that I want to make a point about the dangers of living in world of good and evil, black and white while remaining completely surrounded by others who see things just as we do. Seriously. I’ll admit that when I first read Robertson’s words I wanted to go for the jugular. Thumbs to windpipe. But then so many others have done taken up the cause that I decided that I just needed to make a sociological point.
Here’s Olbermann. Ouch. I don’t have to keep up in the ratings and so I don’t need to be so vicious. But truthfully, I can’t say that I’m offended by Olbermann’s attack on a “man of the cloth.” But those are not my thoughts.
Thinking that the “country of Haiti” made a pact with the Devil two centuries ago is probably a pretty good indication that Robertson is mentally ill. Did they actually sign something with ink and a quill? Was there some sort of referendum in which the entire Haitian population participated or was it just a single Haitian leader? I mean really, was the devil hanging out in the Carribean a couple of hundred years ago searching for an unwitting victim in the form of an entire country?
If you encountered someone on the street who told you that the devil is making a pact with, let’s say, Detroit to bring back the auto industry, you wouldn’t give them the time of day. You’d assume that they had gone off their meds and you’d probably be correct. But here’s a guy with a viewing audience in the millions who is saying a similar thing and nobody seems to be changing the channels. Moreover, Robertson himself is not saying that he was wrong in making such statements. This is largely because he doesn’t have people around him to challenge his thinking. The most dangerous position a person can be in, by the way, is that of embracing a black and white ideology of good and bad, right and wrong and not having people around us who think differently than we do and who can reflect alternative ideas back to us.
That the media put a voice to mentally ill people clearly says something about how the rest of us want to see ourselves as superior others or, in this case, be entertained by our own self-righteous indignation. Be clear that few Christians would agree with Robertson and, in fact, I can’t say that I know of any. But when he refuses to take his meds and makes his outlandish comments, then the rest of can feel better about ourselves and so we keep tuning in. “Well, now that guy really is a nut.” Sure, there are a million or so of us who listen to the guy on a regular basis, but even most of these people likely write off these sorts of nutty ideas as a slip of the tongue.
This all goes to say that Olbermann gives Robertson way too much credibility by responding as though the guy is living with a full deck. Let’s just move on.
As a final caveat, the crazy thing is that when I read Robertson’s comments for the first time I actually thought to myself, “Hey, I don’t remember reading this.” Seriously. I got suckered into the man’s insanity for a brief moment. LOL.
In case anyone is interested, here is Jon Stewart discussing these knuckleheads (and Rachel Maddow).
| The Daily Show With Jon Stewart | Mon – Thurs 11p / 10c | |||
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Beyond the outrageous comment, Pat Robertson gives a bad name to Christianity. Having experience in a Christian setting, I have found most Christians to be cordial, kind, and light hearted. I have also noticed that people who follow the religion for a long time have a lot to give. They are wise and they have never steered me down the wrong path. I’m not saying that it is the perfect religion, but it has definitely had a positive influence on my life. What really frustrates me about this ludicrous comment is that Christians as a whole will receive more negative attention than they deserve. Reverend Al Sharpton was shocked by the Robertson comment, “To bring this kind of negative and wicked spirit into a scene where we are watching children's dead bodies stacked up is abominable to me.” I feel the same way as the reverend. As a person that has experienced Christianity, it is not a religion based off hate and no compassion.
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Robertson’s comments are showing people outside Christianity that this is a hateful religion, the same way people perceive Islamic beliefs. As a Christian, I am disgusted and embarrassed by his comments. It is obvious that he is way too extreme. I think that someone who says something like this has serious mental problems.
Pat Robertsons comments are ridiculous in so many ways. As a human being, he should have never made such an uncompassionate comment. I’m sure he is one of the few people that feel the way he does. On a Christianity level, his comments are still idiotic. I’m good friends with many people who follow the Christian faith. I can’t see any of them ever making such a comment. I’ve said just about all I have to say about Pat Robertson. I have lost most if not all of my respect for him. His comments are extremely rude and uncalled for. I’m sure many people would agree.
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To what Don Imus said, I feel like he completely missed the point because he believed that he hadn’t made a mistake and that he didn’t owe an apology. I feel like Robertson has this same regard that he can do no wrong and he doesn’t owe anyone anything. Even if he does apologize It doesn’t make it alright. And as rpd501 said I wouldn’t let Robertson back on radio until he recognized who he hurt and what needs to be changed so it doesn’t happen again. It worked for Don Imus so it could work
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There is absolutely no way (in hell) that the recent earthquake was the result of a pact that the Haitians made with the devil in order to free them from the French. To begin with, why would they make a pact with the devil anyway? Wouldn’t it make more sense for them to make a pact with God if they were truly in need of assistance from an outside source of power? I’m not saying that God is real, or the devil either, as I am not quite sure what to believe. But if they do exist, would it not make more sense to ask our creator for his assistance as opposed to a fallen angel? As for those who are followers of Robertson, I really hope that they are not naïve enough to take everything he says seriously, when it is clearly ridiculous.
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Before I begin on my rant, or should I say words that would seem to flow from the mouths of anyone with a conscious and two cents worth of thought, I do want to say I am all for freedom of speech and the acceptance of other people’s thoughts. But like most things in this world, there is a limit to my tolerance and acceptance of other people’s ideas. Hearing “Reverend” Pat Robertson’s rant that Hitler might even cringe at, I wish I could say I was shocked at hearing such disheartening and evil words spill from a human being’s mouth. The truth, however, is that these extreme views that such horrible actions (ie. Earthquakes, AIDS, resentment from one’s family and friends, and a lifetime of pain and torture in hell) are deserved by people living a life of “sin”, as defined by these people unwilling to accept a life that ever so slightly deviates from their expectations, are seen almost every day. Granted they might not be as extreme as Robertson’s views but they do exist, only revealing an alarmingly high number of people out there that see the world in such a simplistic view.
These people, I feel, come into this world with the idea that some force, whether it be God or their own “superior” conscious, has given them the goal to spend their lives lecturing their self-determined or proclaimed rules on how everyone should live their lives. People who don’t follow, listen, or yield to these ideas are, consequentially, sentenced to a life of sin that only ends in shame, guilt, and a condemned eternity, whether in hell or stuck rotting in their pine box as worm food. How can someone feel that they have been given the right not only to enforce their views upon others, but also the holy and sacred right to say who does and who doesn’t get into Heaven. Doesn’t that belong to someone else? It frightens me that this type of insanity that sees the world as society that should yield to conformism does not exist in a few extreme cases but rather in groups of people found all around the world.
Such groups exist right here on campus. If you’re unfortunate enough to leave the HUB at the right time you might find yourself passing an individual who, quite possibly, might have the video of Robertson’s rant “TiVO”ed to their favorites. I don’t mean to sound as angry and judgmental about Robertson and his followers, but I cannot wrap my brain around how people feel they have a right to sit there and direct blame, violence, natural disasters, and any other kind of horrific event to the people that they see worthy of its effects. They are no better than the Nazis or the KKK or any other group that, in one form or another, set forth a mode of selection for who deserved what.
It’s people like this that people need to begin to stand up against and turn away from, not sit there and laugh at how crazy these people are. As consumers in a world revolving tightly around media, we, the audience, have more power than many of us realize. If certain people like Robertson loose their audience, they have no medium through which to communicate their “ideas”, no ears to hear their words, and no minds through which they can hope to corrupt and brainwash.
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First off, I have never heard of Pat Robertson before reading this blog. After hearing what the man said about Haiti, I also do not ever want to listen to anything he has to say. How can someone like Robertson, who is apparently part of the public eye, say something so stupid? This will only harm his reputation.
How would an America have felt if someone after 911 had stated that we deserved the attack based off our decision to drop the atomic bomb on Japan during World War II? Even if Haiti had been an enemy of ours, helping our neighbors in a time of crisis is important. We would want them to do the same if the same disaster had affected America.
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From a religious point of view, I don’t believe that the devil has control over Mother Nature. God is the ultimate being and I believe that only he can influence elements beyond human control. I am also a huge supporter of leaving religion out of the media. Religious beliefs and statements can often get people in “trouble.” Because I am religious, I almost want to judge Robertson for making such a hateful statement on a country that is obviously facing a disaster at the moment. A Christian would step up in a time of need. They would donate their time, money, or even just prayer in order to bring relief to a country that is so damaged. I honestly hope Robertson can see how his statement was hateful in so many ways, to those who are suffering and to God.
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Aside from insulting the Haitians, Robertson should have recognized that many Americans are also missing in Haiti. Americans also have friends and family who live in Haiti. This disaster is affecting so many people across the globe. As we have learned in Soc119,there is not much that separates us from one another, and one day we WILL all die, and we need to make sure we do all we can on earth to enrich and better our lives. Helping someone in need is one of the best ways to increase our karma but more importantly, give us the sense that we are good people.
Right now I am watching George Clooney’s “Hope for Haiti Now Telethon.” Along with hundreds of other celebrities, Clooney is setting a wonderful example, the way anyone in the public eye should. We need to help rebuild one of our closest neighbors. Clooney mention that 1 in 3 children in Haiti die before the age of five. I am truly saddened by the damage this earthquake has done. My heart goes out to the children who have lost parents and are wandering around injured looking for someone to comfort them.
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In response to cityofchamps comment:Rush Limbaugh is a complete ignorant idiot. He clearly doesn't know how to shut his mouth up. He just says the wrong things at the wrong time, that has nothing to do with the situation. A whole nation is going through great turmoil after this horrific disaster and he cant just try to be compassionate. What happen to us on Sept 11th is not half as bad as a whole nation being destroyed. Plenty of celebrities are using this time to put their fame in work to help donate whatever we can to Haiti.New orleans is still in the works of being put together. I went there last in 2006, I also went there in 2005 before the Hurricane had hit and it was sad seeing that beautiful state in shambles. Everything was still a mess and even tho they have tried to fix things my cousin who still lives there said a lot of places have not been even touched yet.
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I can only imagine how bad it is in Haiti and my prayers goes out to the whole country. I just pray that with all the money and aid they are getting it is going to the right hands and the time is taken to put that country together.
Pat Robertson is completley ignorant for his comment. He sounds like an old ignorant person who claims to be a christian and knows so much about the religion but in reality is actually tied up in his own world and belifes. I can't believe that comment came out of a person who is suuppose to be "A man of God". The Bible never mentioned any such thing and im sure he could never proof that the devil and Haiti made a pact. The whole thought of it is actually pretty funny.He is a huge embarrassment.In conclusion I hope people can just put their negative comments aside and try and be positive as possible and work together to see what we can do to help Haiti. The greatest scientist, business men, politicians don't even know what to do about this whole nation that has just been crumbled.
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I along with many people believe that Pat Robertson’s comments were nothing short of complete belligerency. For him to even attempt to justify these statements would be totally and completely ridiculous. I find this embarrassing for Christians. This is also a tough one to mull over for those who follow the “700 Club.” I would certainly feel disappointed if I was a follower of this man’s teachings. For my leader to go out and completely alienate an entire country and the humble people who come from it would upset me. The thing I find the worst is his use of his self-appointed empowerment to make such a statement. We all look for platforms to voice our opinions and I felt it to be the worst place to make a comment of this nature. I do take his ignorance into account, but this was not the time to say something like this. People look to the “700 Club” for uplifting stories of miracles and successful rebounds from addictions and things of that nature. I understand that his opinion matters to some and respect that. I just find it very off that people would be more than willing to agree with what he has to say since he serves as such a powerful figurehead to the viewers of the “700 Club.” Something else that is terrible is Robertson’s lack of sensitivity to the victims and survivors of the disaster. I would find it to be logical to show some sympathy to the thousands of people who face a long road of rebuilding and mourning. I wouldn’t run up to my friend and make up lies about his father who has recently passed. I wouldn’t tell someone that death can solve problems either. I cannot believe that a “Man of God” would go out and bring up the most unbelievable statement I have ever heard. I am pretty sure no one has ever gone on to study the history of Haiti and find that this is true. It is the boldest form of BS that has ever been conjured up. The stretch of this man’s imagination has no bounds. I feel that his viewers have been led along in a web of lies. His entire line of credibility has been brought into question. How fit is he to be a religious leader? How long has he believed this? What other things has he said in the past? Whatever his problem may be, there is no room for this in our society. He should have showed compassion and understanding in such a tense and horrible situation. The people of Haiti need sympathy. This just adds more insult to injury. Where is the mercy that Robertson claims is always existent?
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As for Rush Limbaugh, he is such an ignorant piece of crap. I have no idea how people even listen to what he has to say because he’s said so much bull in his career that people shouldn’t even take him seriously. He not only offended the victims of this natural disaster but also offended our own government and president, and the black community of THIS nation. And although people have the right to say what they want, I know I can’t take anything he says seriously and I’m sure a lot of people have the same opinion about him.
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(part 3/3)
In regards to Mr. Olbermann’s response was to what Pat Robertson and Limbaugh had to say, I think he hit it right on the head. I don’t think he said anything that was out of line and I agree with most of it. On the Daily Show with Jon Stewart, I think that he did a good job at proving both of these men made dumb statements but did it in a much lighter way the Mr. Olbermann. I agreed with everything that he said about the two men and strongly believe that this catastrophe is beyond religion and race and whatever other thing that tears us apart as a nation. It just goes to show that these men, although totally opposite, are just so completely wrong. One considers himself a man of God while the other is a conservative, bigoted radio host and we are supposed to be taking these people seriously? This is about helping the people of that country just get the basic entities they need to survive because they are human beings.
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I generally don’t find myself agreeing with Keith Olbermann too much, after all he’s essentially a liberal version of Rush Limbaugh. And in the rare occasion that I do agree with what he’s saying I’m often put off by the extreme rhetoric he uses, however in the case of Pat Robertson I find that I approve of just about everything he said. There is so much about what Pat Robertson said (and the kind of person he generally is) that frustrates me so much. Obviously, as a human being I am appalled at his ignorance and callousness during a time of such pain and hardship. However, there are also my feelings as a Christian, that are equally repulsed by his statements. Roberts embodies the major problem I see with my faith as it is in the presence. That is the incredible hypocrisy and hate that is so often preached. What frustrates me the most about this is the fact that men like Roberts are the ones viewed as being “leaders” of modern Christianity, it is by that standard that we are judged. That being said I Roberts is just a symptom of the real problem, the growing indifference of Christians in general. A quick search will show that over seventy percent of Americans identify themselves as Christian, in one form or another. That would mean there are over two hundred million in the US alone. The last figure I heard there had been some 120 million dollars raised for Haiti relief. Certainly not a number to scoff at, but if the everyone in the country who calls themselves a Christian donated just ONE dollar each, we’d have near double that (yes, I know that among that 2hundred mill there are going to be individuals who simply don’t have the funds, but I feel that’s offset by the Roberts out there). This absolutely is not a call to arms for Christians, I don’t expect them alone to start bankrolling every reconstruction effort around the world, I simply want people to revaluate what it means to be a good Christian, and do something about the radicals that dragging their faith down.
On a slightly unrelated note, I’m surprised anyone actually takes anything Limbaugh has to say seriously. The man has proven time and time again that he sees things only in terms of Red and Blue. Any time that a member of the opposing ideology does anything he does his best to “show” us how what they’re doing is only to further their agenda. The fact that he would accuse the Obama administration of involving itself solely for the sake of drumming up political support does not surprise me in the least.
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Ok, so, I think most of us are in agreement that Pat Robertson reached senility early in his life, but the fact that we are still acknowledging him in the media as anything more than an evangelical jester is beyond me. It seems like every other week Pat Robertson designates God’s hatred on a different group of destitute people. God hates Haiti. God hates New Orleans. God hates Disneyworld, (Alright, I guess destitution isn’t a necessity.) My complaint isn’t the subject, but the fact that I even heard the pseudo religious political ramblings of a man whose media sway should be equal to that of a schizophrenic homeless man selling tin foil hats. Now, I do concede that it’s important that all facets of the news are important, and nobody’s opinions should be ignored simply because we find them offensive, but at least the great haters of the last century had the decency to cite their sources well. Pat Robertson’s great selling point on this Haitian Devil Pact conspiracy was, “…it’s true.” Touche. You know, I never really thought about it that way. “It’s true”, hmmm.
On the other hand, nothing pisses me off more than a hypocrite, and that’s why I respect John Stewart so much. Now, I’m sure if I wanted to, I could rummage through John Stewart’s audio clips and find some conflicting statements, because nobody is devoid of hypocrisy. However, for me John Stewart has embodied the political watchdog over the last decade. The fact that his segment on Pat Robertson ends with a jab at the other side leaves me with a very balanced feeling, one that’s very difficult to come by when watching any sort of news. In fact, I’d go as far to say it’s impossible.
Mainstream news was never designed to be politically balanced. The founding fathers built this country on the idea that opinions are not a bad thing, as long as someone is permitted to have the opposing one. That theory has held true with every part of our society, including television and print news. I’ve always considered myself a very liberal person, but by no means did I ever watch Msnbc or any of the liberal news outlets. I’ve been a Fox news supporter for as long as I’ve followed politics, because I disagree with a majority of what they say. The only reason someone ever wants to reinforce their own opinions, is because they think they may be wrong. By doing the opposite, I can weed out my political biases from what I truly believe. It was until the Obama election that held to this practice, when Fox news became more of a doomsday circus than a news program. I guess from Pat Robertson to Glenn Beck, history will always repeat itself.
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Ok, so, I think most of us are in agreement that Pat Robertson reached senility early in his life, but the fact that we are still acknowledging him in the media as anything more than an evangelical jester is beyond me. It seems like every other week Pat Robertson designates God’s hatred on a different group of destitute people. God hates Haiti. God hates New Orleans. God hates Disneyworld, (Alright, I guess destitution isn’t a necessity.) My complaint isn’t the subject, but the fact that I even heard the pseudo religious political ramblings of a man whose media sway should be equal to that of a schizophrenic homeless man selling tin foil hats. Now, I do concede that it’s important that all facets of the news are important, and nobody’s opinions should be ignored simply because we find them offensive, but at least the great haters of the last century had the decency to cite their sources well. Pat Robertson’s great selling point on this Haitian Devil Pact conspiracy was, “…it’s true.” Touche. You know, I never really thought about it that way. “It’s true”, hmmm.
On the other hand, nothing pisses me off more than a hypocrite, and that’s why I respect John Stewart so much. Now, I’m sure if I wanted to, I could rummage through John Stewart’s audio clips and find some conflicting statements, because nobody is devoid of hypocrisy. However, for me John Stewart has embodied the political watchdog over the last decade. The fact that his segment on Pat Robertson ends with a jab at the other side leaves me with a very balanced feeling, one that’s very difficult to come by when watching any sort of news. In fact, I’d go as far to say it’s impossible.
Mainstream news was never designed to be politically balanced. The founding fathers built this country on the idea that opinions are not a bad thing, as long as someone is permitted to have the opposing one. That theory has held true with every part of our society, including television and print news. I’ve always considered myself a very liberal person, but by no means did I ever watch Msnbc or any of the liberal news outlets. I’ve been a Fox news supporter for as long as I’ve followed politics, because I disagree with a majority of what they say. The only reason someone ever wants to reinforce their own opinions, is because they think they may be wrong. By doing the opposite, I can weed out my political biases from what I truly believe. It was until the Obama election that held to this practice, when Fox news became more of a doomsday circus than a news program. I guess from Pat Robertson to Glenn Beck, history will always repeat itself.
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I am currently watching the benefit concert for the Haitian disaster. The amount of emotion and grief involved with the evening is incredible and the testimonies from the people who have family in Haiti or have been to the devastated country are so desperate. It is incredible to me that anyone could have any feelings towards the situation and people of Haiti besides the great need to help. I am offended by people who are indifferent towards the earthquake, uneducated about it, or unwilling to give up any time or supplies to help the fraught people of Haiti. The fact that a man of God, a man that many people follow and learn from, has the nerve to blame the people of this country for the tragedy that has left such an incredible amount of human life dead or in despair is unthinkable. The claim that Pat Robertson made is ludicrous. Does he believe that every natural disaster that has occurred, each one of the hundreds and hundreds even in the recent past, have occurred because the people affected deserved it? They all made deals with the devil or did some sort of evil in order to merit the death and destruction associated with such a vicious force. Even if Robertson was truly to believe such absurd ideas, is it not a huge ideal of the Christian people to show utmost compassion to all, even those that have sinned. If in fact the Haitian people made a deal with the devil, would it not be Robertson and his followers’ duty to help the people who are hurting in every way possible. I do not remember Jesus turning his back on anyone. I do not understand how such a man could have a following if he does not even understand the ideas of the Christian religion. This makes me question religion, Christianity, and the people who blindly follow even greater then I already do.
I completely agree with the fact that black and white thinking with no one challenging such thoughts is extraordinarily dangerous and detrimental to the person who has his mind closed to any ideas other then his own. I grew up Christian, my mom and dad were Christian, all my friends believed in the Christian ideology. Naturally I grew up, went to church, went to bible camp in the summer, and never thought a minute about my beliefs. I was correct. A couple of years before I left for college, my dad stopped going to church and started reading about Buddhism and Taoism. I was angry at him and tuned him out whenever he talked about such “foolish” things. Almost immediately when I got to college, because of Chris Uhl and other professors, I began to challenge my Christian ideas. I felt foolish for believing things that now seem so illogical.
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Too often certain political commentators use what they believe in their own minds that whatever they really think is essentially fact. They are separate from the common closed-minded individuals in that they have an audience of several listening as they spew distorted facts to the masses. The words spoken by Pat Robertson is a perfect example of someone who hides behind the title of being in the religious community as he speaks the words of hate and ignorance against something he has no idea about. He speaks of the “deal” that was made between Haiti (an entire nation that cannot possibly be lumped into one such deal) and the devil and that is the reason for all of the disaster and death that has happened because of these tragic events. He places the sole reason on a “true story” that happened in the 19th century. How does this man become qualified to know that such an event occurred and give his “its true” stamp of a approval if such a story is in fact fake?
I touch on the point that Sam makes about whether we could believe that a person of Detroit made a deal with the devil to revitalize the auto industry because I feel that that is a very valid comparison. How can someone be in Robertson’s corner and actually believe that what he was saying is correct when there is no way that anyone could believe the statement about Detroit? It is simply because too many people in the world are close minded and follow the masses in what they think they should believe in. The listeners of Robertson of the ever famous Rush Limbaugh are led to believe the “facts” presented by these personalities are the truth and could not possibly be challenged by opposing views. The fact that Limbaugh still spews his hate for Obama and claims that he was born in Kenya when it has been present countless times that he is in fact a United States born citizen. How can anyone in their right mind listen to these liars and, for lack of a better word, haters gather such an audience to speak of these extravagant stories that they pass as fact? It is a shame that people can put their morals and thoughts aside and follow these words as if they speak the truth.
I try not to listen to these people but that simply isn’t enough. It is the job of the public to challenge these words being spoken and to really address the issue at hand. There are countless numbers of lives broken and destroyed by recent events and someone has the audacity to blame it on a deal with the devil that simply did not happen. I hope that these recent events make people realize that these comments cannot continue to be spoken and they must be vocally opposed in the future.
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As I’m watching “Hope for Haiti” I’m thinking to myself how much I take my life for granted. We live in this perfect little college town with anything we need available to us within the matter of a ten minute walk. Our families and friends are only a phone call or drive away. Meanwhile about 700 miles off the coast of Florida there is complete chaos, unimaginable scenes that appear as if they came from the film “The Day After Tomorrow.” Unidentifiable bodies, lost children, and no resources the country of Haiti is in tremendous need for anything they can get. For a man who considers himself holy and a Christian evangelist, he has some nerve to preach that Haiti “got together and swore a pact to the devil.” How could Robertson be so ignorant and birdbrained about these appalling events? Clearly he is mentally ill and should be immediately taken to psych ward! I completely agree with the fact that Pat Robertson has nobody to argue him. It angers me to think that there are people in this world who actually agree with Robertson. No matter what religion you believe in or what ethnicity, or
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race you are, we are all still human beings! To be surrounded by people who think you are almost godly they will never stand up for what they believe in and argue. Argue for what is right and humane! I cannot believe how large of a following Robertson has obtained over the years. I don’t know about anyone else but whenever Full House is finished and The 700 Club comes on late night TV I immediately reach for the remote. It’s disgusting to see how many people believe in his preaching’s, for me it is almost cult like! It isn’t right to say he forgot to take his meds, but clearly Pat Robertson grew up in a closed minded and sheltered world. It is ridiculous to believe that this huge earthquake occurred because of a pact by a devil. He must be a very uneducated man because first of all earthquakes are caused by the significant movement of where the plates beneath earths’ surface meet. It is amusing to think that some random man who claimed to be the devil convinced those Haitians that they will forever be free from the French if they swore to him.
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He claims to have such strong beliefs and faith you would think he may want to help those who are suffering in Haiti. With millions of viewers and followers he has the power to change lots of things. Let’s say instead of proclaiming that Haiti made a pact with the devil, he preached how horrendous and horrifying this natural disaster is. If he considers himself so godly, then god wouldn’t want these people he “created” to be suffering, instead he would want to contribute to save these people and “heal” them.
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There is no place for blame when it comes to such a tragedy. For Robertson to accuse the Haitian people of bringing this upon themselves is one of the crudest acts in human history. It's right up there with Rush Limbaugh claiming that these unfortunate circumstances will somehow benefit the black community. This guy must really love being hated. Anyway, back to Robertson. When I saw his video, I was so shocked that I nearly wet my pants. I spit out my coffee and I wasn't even drinking any. This guy is an idiot. Even his partner on the show, Christie, shows signs of skepticism. He shuts her up quickly with, "It's a true story." He says it with such confidence, like he was there as an eyewitness. Who knows? Perhaps HE is the devil that struck a deal with the Haitians some two centuries ago. It makes perfect sense. He's the right age and he can guarantee that the deal actually happened. Now he's going on the air to set the record straight and to give credit where it's due. I understand that such a scenario is highly unlikely. What I don’t understand is why religion has to play a part in everything. I feel like there is no such thing as a natural disaster anymore. Anytime something unfortunate happens (tsunami, hurricane, earthquake, landslide), it’s either “God’s will” or the Haitian/Devil stock exchange. Soon all those events will be dubbed “Supernatural disasters.” Why can’t people like Robertson just accept that things happen? It’s nobody’s fault. It is just bad luck. Well, really bad luck. Is that really what Robertson thinks? What’s the evidence? Is there a contract lying around somewhere that I don’t know about? I’ve been in some tough spots before (not quite a war with France, but that’s not important) and nobody came to me looking to trade for my soul. I’m not trying to grill people of faith here. All I’m saying is that I would like to see the 1988 version of Iron Mike Tyson in the ring with both Robertson and Rush Limbaugh. Surely, he of all people could knock some sense into these knuckleheads.
Is there a more senile, outspoken pig on this planet than Rush Limbaugh? His comments related President Obama's agenda to an unprecedented disaster. That’s enough to make Don Imus blush. This pill-gargling moron has such a bleak outlook on human emotion that I'm frankly surprised he can still communicate at all. Why does he still have radio shows? I want to meet the guy responsible for that. I want to meet the guy who is going to sleep easy tonight knowing that he let Rush Limbaugh near a microphone.
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(Part 1)
Now that is ridiculous. What justification could you possibly have in making such an insane claim. No matter what your religious following I'm sure that you feel strongly against these words. People like this are the reason that "end of the world" theories become so prominent. My question is, why do we continue to allow this man to speak such hurtful and insane words? Why does he get far enough for media to hear? This man needs to be locked away somewhere and beaten until the sense is knocked INTO him.
To think for one second that the actions of a people hundreds of years ago can dictate the natural happenings of that in the future is absurd. How would the Haitian people of the past even contact the devil? And what devil are we speaking of? The real monster here is Pat Robertson. How can you even call yourself a pastor after saying such things? Following God is supposed to be treating others as you would want yourself treated, so in that case i say we need to return the favor. No place in the world would ever wish this much pain and destruction to their own people.
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(Part 2)
Jon Stewart's quote was right on "I think I know the cause of your heart trouble. You don't have one." This is a fantastic country we live in, however i think that this man has taken "freedom of speech" in a disgustingly different direction. However, I only have one fear, that this man has actually influenced others. What about the kids who just heard his rant on TV and then go on thinking this way? They tell it to other kids and it spreads. As much as it sickens me to say, i know there are more people like this man in the world that just don't have their thoughts broadcasted on national television.
The news needs more coverage of this, we need images that make us have to look away, and images that make us cry. Through suffering of others is when we as people actually think. Almost like a slap in the face,
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(Part 3)
while I'm sitting here complaining that my computer is broken and I have to work in the computer lab, there's someone in Haiti who can't find their kids. While I'm sitting here complaining about the food in the commons, there is someone in Haiti who is texting for help from the rubble of an earthquake. It allows us to see how insignificant our problems really are and band together to help each other.
We can't let the words of a fool anger us, but we also must look at the overall problem. These people in Haiti need all of our support. God forbid we were struck with a tragedy as monumental as this one, we would all beg for help. Haiti needs help and that's what we must give. This man is a lost soul, but the people in Haiti are not.
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I find it interesting that a man of God will proclaim such blasphemy to others. What happened in Haiti was a "natural disaster" and it should stay that way. Nobody knows why and how the earthquake erupted so Robertson and who so ever believes him need to take a seat if they have nothing better to do than to criticize people that are suffering. "A pact with the devil" though? Is he serious? Was he there when the Haitians gathered and had the last supper with the devil and signed that pact? I think sometimes people say things to be heard and don't thing about the lack of knowledge and amount of ignorance that they have for the world. After Reading his statement I was appalled, bewildered, and mostly embarrassed. It made me think of another reason why most frown at Christians because someone always finds a way to speak on behalf of his/her Christianize beliefs and make people feel less as important or worthy as we are and that's not our purpose in life. I feel apologetic to the Haitians people because they did not deserve such rubbish thrown at them. It was utterly disrespectful and uncalled for. Robertson should try to conjure up a way to get his viewers and followers to support the country.
I mean what happened to the usual "My prayers go to the people of Haiti" or "we as a people need to come together and help this country" But No "we" are blaming the Haitians because they had the audacity to make "pact with the devil" and now that they "got what they had coming to them" they expect us to be sympathetic and help? This man make it impossible for me to believe that sanity can be achieved by all humans. What's even worst is that this man have people who hang on his every world. They only see the world as he paints it so now they're all probably walking around ignoring the crisis that is going on in Haiti. That is a simple Shame. I wish there was a way we could signal to those people that the Haitians are not the blame for this tragic event that has occurred. It was something that happened unexpectedly and now is not the time to say who did it and why they did it but it is a time to HELP these people survive this horrifying time.
You see the true color (personality) of an individual based on their reaction to your trials and suffering times. If he knew about this so called "pact to the devil" why didn't he warn Haiti of what was to come? I'm really curious now. How did he fail to tell the Haitians , Oh, by the way you will have a earthquake because back in the day, your peoples made a pact with the devil to ave you guys from the French." That would have been a nice gesture!
I think what Mr. Robertson said was a mistake and he should, if he have any humane bone in his body, apologize for his hasty and irrational comment. I pray that the people of Haiti keep hope alive and that they survive. I will continue to offer any support that I can to move this country past this devastation. God Bless Haiti…
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Like a couple of other comments that I have read on this blog entry, I had not heard of the remarks that Pat Robertson made. Nonetheless his comments on this national disaster made me laugh. I did not take him seriously; I thought how was it possible for someone to actually think that? When I watched the clip of him making that statement, I could tell that his thoughts were ones of seriousness; he truly believed every word that he said. I was not longer humored by his comment, I then felt sad. I felt sad for his viewers and most importantly Mr. Robertson. I had never even heard of Mr. Robertson before so I do not know if he makes ludicrous statements all of the time, but I do know that I will not have to worry about this because I am in no way seeking out anymore of his comments.
I had not heard the comments that Rush Limbaugh made either (Maybe this is a sign that I should watch the news more). I looked a little deeper into what Mr. Limbaugh actually said and acquainted myself a little better with the situation. Mr. Limbaugh insisted that Obama would use the catastrophe in Haiti to "burnish" the president's standing and credibility "with the black community, in the both light-skinned and dark-skinned black community, in this country." I was not as surprised by this comment because I see it as a normal cross party attack. I do not at all agree with the comments made, but I believe that similar comments are often thrown back and forth between Republicans and Democrats. In response to what Mr. Limbaugh said all I have to say is that I am sure that any President, black or white, would make the same remarks, not to increase the President’s standing in the black community but to show support for a struggling country in a horrible situation.
I do not enjoy watching Keith Olbermann, and I find that every segment that he is in he gets too emotionally evolved. I find it hard to believe that he cares about so many topics. Pathos is a major part of his segments. Although Mr. Robertson and Mr. Limbaugh made ill comments regarding the earth quake in Haiti, and the President’s response to the event, Mr. Olbermann lowers his own standards by bashing them so. Obviously the earlier comments were uncalled for but Mr. Olbermann is totally out of line for his comments. Saying that someone’s life is not worth living or wishing someone to hell is above and beyond anything that was said by both Mr. Robertson and Mr. Limbaugh. All I can say is that I hope Haiti can get through this disastrous time.
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Pat Robertson’s comments completely disgust, appall, and disappoint me. The fact that someone with that much power and influence over millions of Americans can blatantly lie and blame the people of Haiti for this tragedy is horrendous. Robertson’s statements embarrass all Americans and perpetuate the stereotypes that all Americans are ignorant, selfish, assholes. Robertson’s listeners, god fearing Christians should hold their leader accountable for his actions. To sit by and let this man spew hatred and lies in the wake of such a tragedy is ridiculous. At a time when Christians should be uniting in compassion and action towards their Haitian brothers and sisters, Robertson single handedly crushed this feeling of goodwill towards others and simply drew attention to his own radical views. Moreover in this time of tragedy and suffering many find themselves questioning the existence of God, including myself. Still struggling with my own religious views I question my faith and ask how could any God let something so horrible happen to so many innocent people? Robertson should have been a voice of comfort and reassurance to Christians around the world, giving them strength and reaffirming their faith. Instead, he found it necessary to blame Haitian ancestors for this horrific incident. I find it funny that these Haitian ancestors in question were fighting amidst racism and inequality to form the first black independent state. I believe that Robertson’s comments do not reveal thoughts about his faith but rather they reveal the ignorant thoughts of a close minded racist. As for Keith Olbermann’s response, although biased, was completely justified. Some may say that Olbermann responded in a rash liberal tone, however he was simply stating what many educated Americans, including myself have already said. The worst part of this entire situation is that even though most do not follow Robertson’s radical views, millions of Americans actually do. For some Robertson’s views are their views and that is the scary part. These people will not question his logic but will take them as truth and will continue to perpetuate hate and ignorance in this country. Many will say that both Robertson and Olberman have the right to say whatever they want, no matter how racist, ludicrous, or even liberal. I agree with every American’s freedom of speech however I believe everyone should be accountable for their words and it is our duty as educated citizens to reveal people like Robertson as the hypocrites they truly are. I am lucky that I am able to identify and ignore radical statements like Robertson’s; however millions of Americans can not. I also wonder what producers allowed this segment to be taped, let alone aired to millions. One positive that may possibly emerge from this situation however will be those Americans who stand up to Robertson and finally realize the ignorance and hate he actually uses to promote his own personal views and agenda.
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It is completely unfathomable that any person, whether it is Pat Robertson, a student, a parent, a child, or anyone, would ever have the audacity to criticize the people of Haiti and truly believe the earthquake is essentially of their own doing. I mean, it seriously seems as though this man is looking for attention, and that is the bottom line. To blame the earthquake—a natural disaster caused by many different forces including those involving plate tectonics that can be studied and proven—on something as ridiculous as the previous devil-worship of the Haitian people is absurd and really is disheartening that someone in our country believes this. And sadly, I’m sure there are many people who believe Pat Robertson, and who believe that his words are the ultimate truth. Just the other day, I read a status of a “friend” of mine on Facebook, who said something along the lines of “I think I like animals more than people. I just don’t really give a shit about the people in Haiti and I didn’t care about Katrina, but when I see a dead animal on the side of the road or hear about cruelty to dogs etc, it really breaks my heart.” I honestly wanted to vomit when I read this comment. It is disgusting and really represents the ignorance that many people have succumbed to in our country, and even in our world. About 30 people have commented on his status thus far, and it is at least nice to know that some people still hold the qualities of compassion for the people of our world, and these comments are for the most part condemning what this “friend” of mine said. I decided not to even comment, because I don’t want him to have the satisfaction of knowing that I care, because honestly, I think he just did it for the attention—just like Pat Robertson is doing, in my belief. I am taking a class on Natural Disasters this semester, and in the recent event with Haiti, we have been looking at both the causes, and the effects of the disaster. It is abundantly clear that this tragedy was not caused by long ago devil worship but caused by scientific and testable facts, in no way the fault of the people of Haiti. They need our support, not our criticism, more than ever, and it is just plainly sad and even borderline depressing that this man had the nerve to speak such ridiculous and untrue words about a place that has never wronged us and a place that simply needs our help and our united support.
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As said in the post, some individuals do live in a world of black and white, or a world of the devil. I have lived in India all my life, due that this post was not really surprising to me, as in India I was brought up with a lot of superstition and blind faith surrounding me. There is a great belief in god there. There are very similar superstitions and belief there is a supreme power that has destiny set for each of us. After staying in India for a long time the state made in the post does not seem really absurd to me, even though it makes no sense. I think that everyone’s background has a big deal to play in their thinking. I don’t think that Pat Robinson’s statement is right, but there are many people in the world that think like this. If I went to any temple in India and spoke to the religious people there, they would say that it god’s will that the earthquake had to strike Haiti, they don’t really see the scientific point of view of the earthquake.
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After hearing, the words said by Pat Robertson I could not believe a true Christian of his stature would say such words; saying that Haitians made a pact with the devil is a senseless comment, as if every natural diaster that happens is because that nation made a “pact with the devil.” He needs to acknowlede the term “natural disaster”. If Pat Robertson knew much about the country of Haiti, he would have known that most of the citizens are highly religious. In fact as a Christian himself, he should have referenced I John 2:15-17; which in shorts states that by loving and being concerned with the world you are not putting the trust and love in God. As a Haiti native, I feel highly disrespected, and annoyed. I feel like a true christan like him sould have never said that as a whole the entire Haiti deserved the earthquake. No one, counrty, city, or state deserves to be put in the position where everything is stripped from him or her. He is saying that the next natural disaster if there is one will be because god is punnishing us for having sex immorally, for substance and achol abuse, for the lying and theifery, and so on. In the bibile, it states, “When the hour is coming the true worshipers will stand before god and carry out his will” however before then, god will let the unsavory remain on the earth and continue to do as they please. To me Pat Robertson is not a true Christian if he belifes that god would cause so much harm and despare to an entier country because they decided to make a pact with the devil. Pyschics, wikens, warlocks, etc all make pacts with the devil, and nothing has yet to happen to them. They still walk and breathe the earth amongst all others. If god was that fed up and decided to punish haiti for the pact they made with the devil, why isnt he just as fed up with the devil himself and put an end to the devil, instead of the country.
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My girlfriend is Haitian and honestly my initial impression about Haitians, and I’m going to be completely honest, is that they practiced voodoo or black magic. I may have believed Pat if I never met someone who could dispel that ignorant ideology. I am very interested to know if Pat has spoken with victims living here or in Haiti that have been affected by the earthquakes. Pat is using his religious pull to spread absurdities. I would not even want him to pray for me.
He is creating misconstruction about the people of Haiti, by calling them devil worshipers, and saying that they deserved what they got so why should our tax dollars go to them? When I think back to Hurricane Katrina a lot of the same ignorance was thrust out into the American public. I recall hearing a lot of “religious” people proclaiming that New Orleans got what it deserved, because it was a sinful place; promiscuous Mardi Gras parties, the fascination with the spirit world, and voodoo. Haiti is an extremely impoverished nation, it would be nearly impossible for them to rebuild their country without the aid of other nations. I think it is admirable that Obama stepped up the day after the tragedy, and was apt about getting the aid to the people.
I honestly do not think that Obama is trying to redeem his credibility with Blacks or African Americans. I for one think he should be applauded for doing the right thing. To make this a political argument that compares him to former president Bush is ridiculous. I believe that Bush used the war in Iraq as a form to colonize the Iraqi people so that the oil prices will be stable here in the United States. If we can assimilate the Iraqi and Afghani people into an organized Democracy it would be more beneficial to us, because they have what we need; oil!
What motive does Obama have to help the people of Haiti? Is the United States probably is not going to get something beneficial from them, probably not. If this had happened in China or any other nation that we rely on, no one would question Obama’s quick response. What I do not understand is that as soon as he reaches out to help a poor black nation he is suddenly a disgrace. When I think back to the 90s during President Clinton administration, Rwanda contained no real goods that America capitalize or benefit from. President Clinton did nothing to stop the genocide from happening and the devastation that happened to that country was heart breaking.
I agree with John Steward it is completely the wrong time for people like Nancy Grace to talk shit about a subject they have nothing about to boost their rating, American as a country needs to start thinking for itself.
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I am not surprised that there are still people in this world who don't know when they need to stop and think about what they say. Pat Robinson is a very old man. He probably grew up in a racist community with racist parents. This is what he knows and it is prejudice towards black people or people of color.
What's sad is that his mind is so warped that he believes people almost 200 years ago made a pact with the devil and that it was a true story. Was he there? No. He doesn't have the right to say that these people "made a pact with the devil" when he doesn't have any proof. There are others like him who believe that natural disasters happen because G-d is angry or someone made a pact with the devil. (I don't spell the whole name out because in Judaism it would be using the name in vain.) It's sad that these people still exist; they are too set in their ways to see the whole picture and to realize that natural disasters are NATURAL. They have been happening for millions of years.
What he needs to be focusing on is sending relief and help to these poor people. Their lives weren't the best before, but now, they must be unbearable. If he can somehow get over his prejudice and realize that innocent lives are being taken away and ruined everyday, he might become compassionate. However, I think he is too set in his ways to even think about helping them. That is what saddens me the most out of all of this: that people are so racist and set in their ways that they won't help their fellow man. It's just disgusting. We are all the same. Why do we have to treat each other like crap? The answer is that hate has been passed down for thousands of years and people don't know how to stop.
Also, when we hear someone we know from t.v., their words get spread so much faster. What he said has been said by Americans for hundreds of years. Our own country is full of racist robots. Whatever they learned from their parents, they spew out and spread through further generations. This is never going to stop. However, we can help the situation and spread
The Haitians need help. That is the simplest concept of today. Their pain shouldn't be blamed on a story that was from almost 200 years ago. The people just want to survive to see another day and to find their families. People are losing parents, siblings, and other family members everyday, sometimes their whole entire families. Everyone needs to put aside their differences and help the Haitians get through this. We need to band together and help these people build again. No one should be putting them down with racist and religious comments. The people of the United States should try to help more and be angels to these people. We all need to pray or keep the Haitians in our hearts and souls and think positively for them. Help them succeed.
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The news clips are selective. Through careful editing we see Pat Robertson coldly asserting that Haiti had it coming to them. Longer portions of the same interview show a fundamental Christian attempting to explain the disaster through the lens of his religion. Through this lens, all natural disasters are viewed as acts of God. If the wrath of God occurs, it makes most sense to a Christian if the recipients deserved it in some way. Although the selected portion of the interview makes him appear awful, he has other, more positive things to say about the situation. He states that he sees this could be an opportunity for rebuilding in the future, and that he will be praying for Haiti. In a statement released by CBN regarding Pat Robertson’s statements, CBN states that Pat Robertson personally had a hand in the collection and sending of millions to Haiti. It is a narrow view that the Haitians sided with the devil to achieve freedom. It is a folktale without documentation. However, all Christian viewpoints are narrow. Narrow is not necessarily negative, but it is absolute. Black and white. Right and wrong.
Watching the whole interview puts Pat Robertson in a better light. Although it can’t be ignored that he clearly believes Haiti “earned” this earthquake, he has contributed to relief efforts. He is optimistic about their future. By classifying what he has said as “wrong”, the classifier joins him. The classifier uses their own moral code to judge another, damning the judged. Jiddu Krishnamurti said one of the roots of fear is comparison. The aspiration to become wealthier is paired with the fear that we will not be successful in becoming wealthier. However, the aspiration is only possible through the comparison of our wealth to someone whose wealth is greater. The act of comparison always breeds fear. Feeling offended is an act of comparison. The action of the offender is compared against the preconceived notions of the offended. Offense occurs when the action violates a preconceived notion, even though no one has the right to claim that their personal preconceived notions are supreme.
Narrow thinking is the root of all social problems and the backbone of Christianity. The Christian religion has a set criteria for what is right and what is wrong. The problem lies not with having a moral code but having no pliability. No room for correction. No right to challenge. When the code is established by an infallible authority, humanity is threatened and often sacrificed to protect it. Genuine consideration and consciousness are necessarily shelved, discipline and ignorance are elevated. Love is preached, defiance damned. The hypocrisy is stifling. Unfortunately, post-mortem insurance doesn’t come without strict regulations.
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The news clips are selective. Through careful editing we see Pat Robertson coldly asserting that Haiti had it coming to them. Longer portions of the same interview show a fundamental Christian attempting to explain the disaster through the lens of his religion. Through this lens, all natural disasters are viewed as acts of God. If the wrath of God occurs, it makes most sense to a Christian if the recipients deserved it in some way. Although the selected portion of the interview makes him appear awful, he has other, more positive things to say about the situation. He states that he sees this could be an opportunity for rebuilding in the future, and that he will be praying for Haiti. In a statement released by CBN regarding Pat Robertsons statements, CBN states that Pat Robertson personally had a hand in the collection and sending of millions to Haiti. It is a narrow view that the Haitians sided with the devil to achieve freedom. It is a folktale without documentation. However, all Christian viewpoints are narrow. Narrow is not necessarily negative, but it is absolute. Black and white. Right and wrong.
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Natural disaster. Two words that stand for exactly what they mean- A disaster that has occurred from a natural force- and a natural force alone. Religion and religious figures may be of help after the disaster occurs, but it seems outrageous to make a claim that anything but mother nature can create an earthquake, a tornado, or any other disaster that fits in this category. Religion is a large part to the majority of our world today and is a component to life that creates diversity. In effect, I don’t think that it should be butchered to anything else. There is so much wondering and so much “what if” scenarios that people sometimes don’t realize what their priorities are, specifically in the case of the horrific disaster in Haiti. What does it matter? Haiti needs our help, our support- not our theories. People in the media like Pat Robertson don’t seem to grasp that quite well. He has a mind of his own and speaks as though he lives and breathes within his own little word. Unfortunately, he is the only person residing in that world. The words devil, Haiti, and earthquake don’t really fit well for me logically or personally. How could a person even let those words slip out of their mouth and think it’s normal to portray to a public audience? Such a horrible disaster doesn’t deserve that kind of disrespect and the people of Haiti most certainly just need as much as our support and help that we can give. Thousands of lives were lost and more lives are missing. Families, homes, and an entire country have been destroyed. In a way, you have to think- why does the opinion of a person like Robinson have to matter? What kind of credibility does he go by that so many people need to get angry or disappointed? We all know what we believe is right and the correct way to go about protecting Haiti. Robinson clearly does not and has his own way. It really and truly is more important to think about the atrocity that has occurred within our world, help as much as we can, and continue to spread the word. Maybe Robinson will realize after the public’s reaction and hopefully some deserved guilt that what he said was terrible and inhumane. He too needs to look at the priorities within the situation and really focus on them. Obviously, not every person will agree on everything. There will always be two sides to a story and two ways to look at it with different points of views. But is it possible to say there’s a right and a wrong way? Right now, I would tend to think so.
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I could not agree more with this post. It’s disgraceful not only to our society but to our image as a global economic and political powerhouse to allow this idiocy to be broadcast live on TV. I do understand that, yes, as citizens of this country, we are all given freedom of speech guaranteed to us by the Framers of the Constitution.
But, when humans are facing tragedy, emotional and physical devastation, one must be careful to use that right in a manner that reflects gratitude towards those that granted us this key cornerstone of democracy. To utilize an “urban legend” as Jon Stewart put it, to describe one of the greatest losses of human life this century is not only a shame on Pat Robertson, but a reflection on the mind-boggling views of some of America’s most influential people. That is, I agree that one of the most dangerous behaviors that we can engage in, in our society, is to allow people with many followers and much support, to be allowed to depict such polarizing views of race and not be reprimanded for their actions.
Specifically, Rush Limbaugh, one of the most conservative right-wing radical talk-show hosts is a danger to our social advancement because he is simply tearing down the foundations of our society, all of the blood of slaves that was sacrificed, and the rights fought for so long by African Americans. To describe the response by the Obama administration to the devastating earthquake in Haiti as a method by which the President can “gain credibility among the light and dark African American” people in this country is a step backwards in the progress of our society. To describe the response to human tragedy and the loss of brothers, sisters, mothers, fathers, uncles, and aunts as a “made-to-order form” is a tragedy in and of itself.
It can be described as nothing greater than the simply self-satisfying, heartless, and inhumane rants of a stubborn fool with much power. Sadly, there is no method by which people who utter such nonsense can be held accountable for their actions. Simply put, it is the way it is, and there is not much the public can do about it other than to turn away from listening to such preposterous talk.
I think most people feel that both Rush Limbaugh and Pat Robertson should use more careful wording the next time they are on air, but Keith Olbermann says it better than any of us, so I’ll agree that he has framed the situation as best as it can be framed. Although some people believe that Olbermann is just as radical in his speech as Rush Limbaugh is, and that stooping to that level equates his behavior with that of Limbaugh’s, I would have to completely disagree. My reasoning here is that we should not use “kid-gloves” when dealing with these menaces to society. The message needs to be aggressive, loud, and clear that their actions are not only considered socially unacceptable but disgrace themselves, those they represent, and American society as a whole.
I can’t imagine what the already overwhelmed people of Haiti must feel when they hear that a man of faith blames their ancestors for this terrible tragedy and proposes a theory so ridiculous, that it would be humorous if it were not for the true nature of the situation it was illustrating. I just hope that justice can be served to those who do wrong by others, in some form or another.
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First, let me just say, it is just shocking that in the current economic status of the United States that Pat Robertson and Rush Limbaugh have shows which are still being funded. One would think networks could delegate money in a more effective way.
However, in reference to these comments, Keith Olberman does a great job of summing the outrage one feels when listening to ignorant comments that both Pat Robertson and Rush Limbaugh have made about the devastating earthquake in Haiti. Olberman really speaks to the utter disgust one feels when listening to these lunatics whom have been given a television contract. Jon Stewart does a great job of poking fun at the laughably ignorant comments of Robertson and Limbaugh. The sheer hypocrisy of these two ignorant commentators is illuminated by Stewart, as well as the need for people to come together in a time of tragedy.
Unfortunately, I can’t help but cringe at the fact that this has become a hot topic in the media. Although the comment of Robertson and Limbaugh are offensive, ridiculous and down right ignorant, it must be realized that both commentators thrive on controversy. The point of the comments is to stir up outrage in the masses to give Robertson and Limbaugh a forum to speak on how they view the world and further their agenda. It is a way for Robertson and Limbaugh to stay relevant in the media.
It is disturbing to think people view the world this way, but in my opinion it is more disturbing to think they could gain a following. I am offended at the media networks that allow such things to be aired on television. To look at a camera and make these outlandish comments while an entire country is suffering from a natural disaster is infuriating. Frankly, the words they uttered are more offensive than any profanity or lewd content (such as nudity or graphic violence) that another network could air. I am much less offended by the infamous wardrobe malfunction of Janet Jackson at the XXXVIII Superbowl than the comments Robertson and Limbaugh offered about Haiti. The standards delegated to the networks as to what is and is not acceptable to be broadcasted should be evaluated. I am not saying that Jackson was not offensive; I am saying as network a certain responsibility should be given to set an example to society as to what is actually appropriate. I understand and appreciate freedom of speech, however do it on a soapbox in Time Square in New York City. Networks should not encourage these mentally unfit commentators through lucrative contracts. Why not apply a universal standard on what is deems offensive on television that resonates with the masses? Why not donate Robertson and Limbaugh’s money from their contracts to Haiti instead of allowing them on television? Perhaps these questions do not matter, but the bottom line is Haiti is experiencing an unfathomable tragedy and to minimize the issue and push a personal agenda via television is disgusting. The media should invest more time and resources in ways to aid Haiti rather than idiots making ignorant comments.
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You have got to be shitting me. Along with what is arguably the worst natural catastrophe of this century, we have to listen to some old preacher man, Pat Robertson, condemn those harmed by the earthquake. His audacious attempt for a justification has left him with his foot in his mouth and a lack of support. The entire world watches on as an ostentatious individual misrepresents what the American population is actually feeling. The animosities that are express by other nations upon our own are due to media’s decision to actually allow these people to speak their mind and pollute the airwaves with nonsense.
Rush Limbaugh, I’m not even going to entertain the idea of how egotistic and irrelevant his comments are to those Americans who have at least an 8th grade education. It must be noted that the crisis at hand is one with worldwide implications. For certain individuals to speak so prematurely about issues that do not pertain to the devastating truths and horrors of Haiti, is heartless and apathetic.
That being said, the media as a whole is just as ignorant and arrogant as the broadcasts that they produce. The entire purpose of “news breaking updates” is to create a well informed populous and give the civilians of our nation, and then the globe, and up to date, intelligent, view point of current events. It is not logical to give the spot light to dumb ass men like Rush or Pat Robertson. Doing so will only corrupt the sounds of the radio, television and the texts on all forms of written media. It is hard to imagine what kind of callous and pompous ass holes would actually step in front of the million, if not billion, of potential television viewers, and make such ridiculous claims. I begin to have flashbacks to Hurricane Katrina and some of the preposterous claims made. Most specifically, the popular video feature the respectful Mike Myers, and the mere representative fabrication of the media’s “black” male, Kanye West. His words, “George Bush does not like black people.” Along with his embarrassing monologue at the Music Awards this past year, have created a terrible image of him and his label. I am personally waiting for another moment with him in the spot light, and the rest of the us with our faces in our palms just thinking, “is he out of his fucking mind.”
The entire situation is fucked up and no one, deserves to get hit by and earthquake and then get slapped with demonic/paganistic allegations. I hope Pat Robertson has a heart attack while his lonely ass is masturbating and dies an embarrassing death. Then when it is all said and done, Kanye West stand up and say, “I’m sorry Pat, I’m going to let you get back to being in hell and all, But Michael Jackson had one of the best deaths of ALL TIME.”
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After reading Sam’s initial blog post, I really did not know what to think about Pat Robertson and Rush Limbaugh’s comments. Growing up in a fairly religious Irish Catholic family, I tried to keep an open mind to Pat Robertson’s reasoning for the earthquake in Haiti. I have seen the extremely dull “700 Club” while flipping through channels before and honestly I really don’t know much about Pat Robertson or if he has any previous beliefs and comments that rival his belief of the cause of the earthquake in Haiti.
Reading Sam’s post and Pat Robertson’s quotes was one thing, but after watching the video I thought to myself, “Is this guy kidding me?” He is going to blame one of the most devastating natural disasters in my living years on a deal that Haiti made with the devil himself back in who knows when. So basically Robertson is saying that the entire nation and the current generation is at fault for this solely because of an agreement that supposedly happened. This really blows my mind.
I really feel like there are only two possible reasons for why Pat Robertson commented on the earthquake in the manner he did. My first thought was that it clearly is only to spark controversy and boost television ratings. But then again, there’s no way a Christian TV program could be worried about their ratings, could it? The other reason for Robertson to say these things is probably based on the fact that he is getting older and possibly going insane.
I obviously do not know Robertson personally but I feel like someone that bases their entire life on their Christian values could have said something a little more lighthearted. If there happened to be a natural disaster in the United States to this magnitude, would Robertson find something in the United States history that would be the sole reason the occurrence of this disaster? There is literally a million different things that Robertson could have said in this situation. But this man is convinced that the reason for all of deaths of innocent people is a result of something they had zero part of. Robertson is completely entitled to his own opinion. However, something’s are better left unsaid and this situation is a prime example. The sad part about his comments is that I believe that Robertson actually believes that a natural disaster is Haiti’s fault.
If there’s one positive aspect of natural disasters, I think it does bring people together as mentioned by Jon Stewart. Even the meanest and self-centered people attempt to help the less fortunate in some way whether it’s sending money, food, or clothing. But for some reason, Robertson and Limbaugh can not get over themselves and decided to put down an entire nation when Haiti couldn’t get any lower.
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This blog entry is very interesting and prevalent in a time of such tragedy. Although one should expect that the many peoples' justification for the earthquake in Haiti to range from scientifically credible to absolutely ludicrous, and they are entitled to their opinions, Pat Robertson's comments seem ridiculous, especially considering the type of influence he holds. While I am in complete support of the first amendment for one's right to free speech, Mr. Robertson must understand that just as he is allowed to make such bold claims, others have the right to rip him apart for what he says. Furthermore, Pat Robertson's comments seem to hold less weight due to the fact that, though he is reverend, that other religions are relevant in society. If one does believe in Christianity, then Pat Robertson's statement could hold some sort of weight, no matter how improbable it may seem. However, if one does not believe in Christianity, then Mr. Robertson's comment holds absolutely no weight and has no credibility. Though it may have been a bit harsh, I believe that Keith Olbermann was not only completely in his rights to make his remarks, but also very sincere and correct in his remarks. I personally believe that Pat Robertson's remarks were utterly insane and unfounded. To think that the people of Haiti made a deal with the devil, who many may not believe in, to be saved from the French, and have since been paying for it, just seems impossible. After watching Jon Stewart's segment, I found that he raised some points supporting my belief. One main point being, assuming that we are following Christianity, that God would permit such evil to occur, especially in sight of the quotes that Stewart cites from the Bible. However, I do admit that I can see where Robertson is coming from. If I were as religious as Robertson, then his explanation would seem much more plausible. If I were a staunch believer of God, then the ability to make a pact with the devil would be not only possible, but also very necessary in such a situation as that the people of Haiti were in. But to think that the past disasters in Haiti would not have repaid the debt that the people that Haiti have with the devil so far is ridiculous. The whole topic of Haiti is very interesting and debatable. The fact that it can bring up the topics of religion and beliefs to something so real that is affecting people in real life. A tragedy such as that which has occurred in Haiti is a horrible thing that has ruined many people's lives. Though as they say, "every cloud has a silver lining". Hopefully this tragedy can make people more aware of how people are living in other parts of the world and how fragile life can be. Nature is an all-powerful entity.
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As we found out from the embedded video clip featuring Mr. Olbermann, there are quite a few things that could be said about Pat Robertson's appalling statements regarding Haiti. Many of the responses of my classmates concur with Olbermann's scathing review, although perhaps in less provocative language–and I can certainly empathize. Taken at face value, Robertson's words are shocking in light of the severity of human suffering that has visited the nation of Haiti.
But however natural and rational this reaction is, I believe that is the wrong one. Professor Richards suggests that Robertson's words are the utterings of a mentally ill person, and that media corporations are responsible for giving him a pulpit (so to speak) from which his rantings can be heard by millions. While reasonable, this outlook is borne of the optimistic sociologist's view that individuals are essentially good, while people, that is, groups of people, are capable of significant evil. People individually, on average, are good and reasonable. However, there are always people on the far edges of the bell curve which most others would classify individually as "evil", and I believe that there are positions in society which attract these individuals, simply for their ability to act without a thought of traditional morality.
I believe that Mr. Robertson meant to say exactly the words that he said–not because of mental illness, but rather because of sociopathy. The man did not care for the content of his message (it's possible that he doesn't even believe it himself), nor for the impact on those who heard it. Rather, his aim was to get people talking about him, to get people listening, no matter the cost. And as far as I can tell, he has obtained this goal quite well with his outrageous comment, with coverage on many major news outlets.
At the very least, this class of 720 students, plus TAs, plus professor, is talking about him. And in so doing we are playing straight into his hands.
The proper response, I agree with professor Richards, is to ignore whatever Mr. Robertson has to say, knowing that it is based out of a desire for visibility, power and wealth. However, there is an additional point to consider, mainly, that most people will react in the predictable and reasonable manner (that is, in outrage), and so give this man the ratings he desires. How can we avoid this as a society, both in the specific case of the "Reverend" Marion Gordon Robertson, and in general for ratings-hungry media characters? To this I do not have a a satisfactory answer, except that everyone should do what they can by reaching out to those within their own sphere of influence to spread awareness of this subtle peril.
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All right. What I want to know is, “Why are people still listening to people like Rush Limbaugh?” Seriously, people? Rush Limbaugh? One of the MOST racist voices on air and one of the most hypocritical as well (Read: “I hate black people but I want to buy an NFL Franchise in which many of the players are of color”)? Come on. Hasn’t this guy done enough to show that he has no credibility as a speaker and bases almost all of his arguments on racist observation? WHY are people still listening to him? Especially when it comes to talking about a tragic event! Were they expecting him to say something nice for a change?
Pat Robertson, on the other hand, I have never heard of before… And I certain wish I never had. What kind of insane babble is he talking about, “Haitians made a deal with the devil so they are suffering now because of it”? …Really? A deal with the devil? I know that some people are more religious than others, but someone has to draw the line where logic comes in to say, “Hey. This doesn’t make sense.” For one, if the deal existed, it was made over two centuries ago and I’m sure the devil (if he exists) has already collected on all accounts payable. These people are innocent. For two, does it really matter? I thought that Christianity was all about repentance? I’m not very religious myself but I did go to Catholic school for eight years and I know for a fact that if one seeks to reconcile with the lord, then they shall be forgiven. Who is Pat Robertson to judge that these people are cursed and deserve this fate as “God’s divine wrath”? As a “reverend” he should know that his place is not to judge and say, “Hey. This is what you get for making deals with the devil.” It is his duty to save as many of these people as possible…
And for three: “A deal with the devil”? Seriously? Do you really believe that or are you going senile?
It never ceases to amaze me how people of today’s world can go around and turn people’s misfortune into some sort of spin for their own purposes. Rush Limbaugh uses the tragedy in Haiti to denounce Obama. Rachel Maddow uses the tragedy in Haiti to promote Obama. And Pat Robertson uses the tragedy in Haiti to instill the fear of God into all those gullible (Sorry, faithful) enough to believe him.
People. This isn’t about your agendas or goals. The tragedy didn’t even happen to you. This is a time when you go and send help to people in need. You might not even get to meet the person you’re helping; you might not even get thanked for it. But hey; if something terrible happened to you, wouldn’t you want someone to help you? Hell. Even if you don’t want to help, don’t turn someone else’s misfortunes into ammo to throw at your political opponents. That’s just wrong.
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So I definitely had a similar first impression when I had seen this (on the Daily Show because it's one of the few places I actually trust my news from now), I mean honestly, I wanted to just punch him. But, of course, you gotta take that step back and make a real argument because fists don't do the trick anymore. So of course I disagree 100% with this man and I actually had the exact same thoughts with regards to making a pact with the Devil, seriously was he just hanging out and getting people to sign contracts?! NO!
Okay so that being said, and myself being a Christian, I don't understand how individuals like this could honestly say the shit that they say, and yet still consider themselves Christians. I mean first of all, if we are thinking logically, HOW DOES HE KNOW? Was he there? Was he standing in the room when apparently ALL of Haiti signed a contract that said "Hey Devil, Let's Partner Up". If we somehow get over that, how can he say that "they had it coming to them?" In my personal opinion, Christ never preached this "eye for an eye" and he "forgave all".
One of may favorite quotes from a very interesting movie called K-PAX was "You humans, most of you, subscribe to this policy of an eye for an eye: a life for a life, which is known throughout the universe for its stupidity. Even your Buddha and your Christ had quite a different vision but nobody's paid much attention to them, not even the Buddhists or the Christians…" and this to me is a prime example of exactly what this quote illustrates. I think there is always a certain level of ignorance (or faith) that is taken into account when you talk about any religion but it simply amazes me the RIDICULOUS level of ignorance that human beings will accept, especially in the United States. I was recently told that the world now views us as the "uninformed" Americans and I wasn't shocked at all.
It would be great to never have to hear this guy talk again, or at least understand that half of the crap he "preaches" is entirely hypocritical. I guess this is what we will try to battle in Soc 119 so I look forward to it.
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Pat Robertson has outdone himself on his comments about Haiti. When I say “outdone” I am referring to his unfailing ability to come off as the most patronizing, misinformed, disturbed and un-Christian-like person living today. I fall asleep with the television on all the time, and I’ve woken up frequently to his show the “700 Club.” He talks as though he knows he has hours on end of his scheduled programming. I cannot believe that anyone in his right mind would actually sit there and watch Robertson’s show, let alone believe a single word he says. He’s giving Christians everywhere a bad name.
Robertson and Rush Limbaugh are part of the privileged white males of America (and unfortunately one of their privileges is a microphone and a camera on them to speak idiocy to the world, most people only have their mirror’s attention), and have no idea what it would be like to live in a country where 80% are under the poverty line. Who are they, exactly, to speak of such things as if they have some sort of higher knowledge on the situation? Let’s respond to it in an appropriate manner, not Dr. Phil the situation to death, because no one cares which of the seven deadly sins you believe to have brought this earthquake on.
The unfortunate earthquake in Haiti probably has several possible explanations as to why it happened, all of which are along scientific lines. I just don’t understand how Robertson can actually say that an entire country made a pact with the devil and that this is why millions of people no longer have homes and why many of them have lost their lives or family members. I don’t understand how he can actually believe any word that comes out of his own mouth. Earthquakes are not caused by deals with the devil. Earthquakes are caused by the movements of the Earth’s tectonic plates. Although, according to Rush Limbaugh, Obama now has god-like powers that enable him to create natural disasters to better his political position and credibility with the light-skinned and dark-skinned black community.
Jon Stewart says it all about Robertson when he stated, “Out of all the things that you could draw on from your religion to bring comfort to a devastated people and region, you decided to go with ‘tough titties devil folk.’” Christianity is about more than the devil being behind every action. Christians spread the word about God and help others. Many Christians and Christian groups are going to Haiti with relief groups to help the millions of people who are in need. If he truly believes he’s a Christian, then he really is mentally ill.
Olbermann has every right to say the things he said about Robertson and Limbaugh. They should both feel equally embarrassed and ashamed by the things they said. This isn’t some kind of joke or political act. It’s an unstoppable natural disaster, not God smiting a country or the devil collecting his dues. Robertson says the devil but in the words of the comedian John Pinette, “I say nay-nay.”
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I’m a person who does not tune in much into television and much less to the news media. After hearing Pat Robertson’s comment on the reason of the occurrence in Haiti, I was astonished. I questioned myself with an open mind on reasons why he might have said this comment. It was an interesting ideology or myth, I would say, in explaining such a horrible natural disaster that has occurred in the western hemisphere over the past two centuries. A rumor or saying I have heard about Haiti, is that there are voodoo ritual practices, which have some sort of association with the devil, do not quote me on this, but I thought about it as an explanation to the reason why Robertson would say such comment. I personally do not believe on this belief and question if he is sane for even mentioning such ridiculous comment of a person of his status. It is shameful for those who are ignorant about the situation happening in Haiti and getting their information from him. All this does is create a negative image or stereotype about these people who are in such need and any little support they can receive would be highly appreciated.
What else can have sparked such reaction from a highly viewed person? Was it for ratings, entertainment, or an honest belief? Such comment should be prosecuted, but of course the freedom of speech, to speak to the entire world through a media that reaches everyone. Television as we know is very much supported by ratings, without it, it does not produce profits and you would be discontinued if you cannot achieve it. He knew that there was going to be a backslash and cause controversy, as it caught the attention of my professor and know of many others. This in turn, may affect the ratings of Robertson in a negative and positive way, but overall it is what the media wants, entertainment. It is sad to know that people after hearing Robertson have become supporters and have changed their mindset. There are people dying and suffering from this tragedy, as Olbermann put it best, how can one say such story, urban legend in a time of grief and feel sympathy for those whose lives will be affected forever and generations to come. Regardless to say, these people should not be seen as idols or have the respect of day from anyone, they are no more important than anyone else in this world. Overall, we should not pay attention to such comments because at the end it’s God who makes the final choice upon everyone. Just keep the country of Haiti in our prayers and thoughts, they can prevail and overcome from this disaster.
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Wow. How does one respond to such outlandish comments made about such a heartbreaking tragedy? To be honest, I am not one to watch much news so I had no idea who Pat Robertson was until a few days ago, but his remarks regarding the cause of destruction in Haiti truly shocked me, not only because of its stupidity but because of its insensitivity. The first thing that came to mind after reading this article was a simple question regarding position. How would Pat Robertson have responded to the events in Haiti had he suffered a loss? Would he still blame this so called “pact with the devil” or would he have actually learned something and feel sympathetic for his fellow human beings?
Another issue that captured my attention was the idea of people being surrounded by others who think just like them. Too often we are subject to this idea of right and wrong and we believe what we are told and grow up with a narrow viewpoint of the world. We make friends with those who think just like us and we essentially surround ourselves with the same idea, not allowing ourselves to get a broader prospective on different issues. Like Dr. Richards pointed out, Robertson is simply a victim of these practices. Although his opinions seem irrational and farfetched, in his head he believes he is right and there is no one around him to tell him otherwise.
Regarding Olbermann’s video in the blog, I couldn’t help but completely agree and even admire his response to Robertson’s comments. Although it was harsh and demeaning, I thought of it as a response from the general public to Robertson, rather than just the opinion of one person. Most of us had the same reaction towards Robertson and because we aren’t all celebrities or hold some sort of power to have our voices heard, I thought Olbermann’s response was a way for Robertson to know how we all feel. As for Jon Stewart, I thought his argument (even if it was with a hint of humor) was a valid one. For a man who follows the teachings of Christ, Robertson completely disheartened and most certainly angered the people suffering in Haiti. Instead of lifting their spirits with prayers and reminding them God is with them, he simply blamed them for their own misfortune. In the end though, it is all a matter of opinion and everyone is entitled to them. Not everyone is going to agree with each other but it is how the world runs and will never change.
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Being raised a Christian, it frustrates me to see Pat Robertson setting Christians further back than when Kanye West set black people back when he shit on Taylor Swift’s video of the year award.
While I do agree that you shouldn’t always view the world in moral black and whites, I feel that occasionally it can be acceptable.
Pat Roberson is a douche. However, Keith Olbermann is also a douche. Pat Robertson is a douche because he scares people into listening to him and giving him money. Keith Olbermann is a douche because he thinks anyone who is religious or conservative is stupid and close-minded.
The honest truth about this religion is that we have no fucking clue. And when someone makes a really good guess, millions and millions of people follow them. It becomes dangerous when people start hating and killing each other over these “guesses”.
God should have sent her son (if she had one) today, not 2000 years ago. That way we could watch his sermons and miracles on youtube instead of killing each other differing interpretations of a 2000 year old book with no proper citations.
Both Robertson and Olbermann are prime examples of people who use media to impose their (often insane) views on the masses. People need to realize that you listen to other people to shape you views. You need to research the issues for yourself and learn from your experiences in order to gain true knowledge and wisdom.
We spend so much time working on our careers we never stop to really question and think critically about why we believe what we believe.
That’s why people who are brought up racist often stay racist. That’s why people who were brought up to worship the flying spaghetti monster stay Italian.
While we’re on the topic…how the hell did Italians come up with such good food? I wish I was Italian sometimes. My Irish ancestors spent so much time drinking beer that they couldn’t come up with any good cuisine except potatoes. Actually that’s historically false. I think.
I need to write a hundred more words? Shit! Well it’s a race class so I’ll talk about black people. I love black people. Although I was often frustrated by their domination of my high school in most of the sports I played. Except hockey. I only saw one black ice hockey player in my whole high school hockey career. He was the best player on their team. It’s just a matter of time until black people take over hockey too. But that’s ok with me. I love black people. Lil Jon is my hero.
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I think that Robertson is full of crap. I think it is absolutely ridiculous that someone can make ridiculous comments about such a tragic event. People who only believe in him are apart of this 700 club, which is clearly for old time people who have a type of thinking that is not with today’s sate of mind. He is probably saying these obnoxious comments just to create attention about the topic and just for people to argue about. I am a spiritual person myself but I do not believe that the devil has anything to do with this tragedy. At first when reading this article it seemed somewhat realistic since people were once spiritual beings believing in god and making pacts with spirits to bring them a normal life. But this is just another lame excuse for being religion into such precious topic. Spiritually this could be possibly be a reason if people believe in karma and what not but more than likely this is just a myth that we will never know is true or not. In terms of not having people who think differently I personally believe that people should have their own say on any topic. I just think that when people out religion into things especially if they do not believe in a certain religion that that does not place an argument on the situation. Of course his supporters are going to believe in him and no one will argue with him. But honestly as I have heard from other comments from this man he seems to bring religion into every topic, which is knotty, a great basis for an argument. Learning that he is a mentally ill person, unfortunately society has made them almost 2ndclass citizens who people do pay attention to. By him making theses comments in his current mental state I believe that this is not a valid statement for him to make.
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Pat Robertson, well what is there to say? Obviously this man truly believes that he is a being who can speak on part of the “bigger plan” without consequence. Taking the actual horrific event that happened in Haiti and having the audacity to speak so cold heartedly about the hardship the Haitians and foreign nationals will now have to endure. Stating that he is optimistic, and now they will have the ability to rebuild. I found it kind of ironic in one of the key elements through his wording about the Dominican Republic saying that it was “prosperous with resorts”. I asked myself the question (thinking from the perspective of a believer in the bible might) what is spiritually prosperous about resorts, high-end fashion retailers and main line food chains?
Now, Pat and I may differ on our spiritual perspective but it is obvious that he is surrounded by the American influence ten-fold. He is just another self absorbed American trying so desperately to gain wealth and power. His followers should feel ashamed for not having their own capacity to lead themselves. Little robot followers (like the majority of the people who claim to be religious) without the ability to make their own conscious decisions and follow without question.
Instead of ridiculing Pat for his obvious lack of apathy, I feel absolute sorrow for this man. It would seem he is so used to being able to bullshit his way out of a corner having to deal with questions about the religious aspect of his savior that he failed to realize that thousands of men, women and children lost their lives in this catastrophe. He answers these questions throughout the interview without thought or feeling for those that are experiencing the loss of loved ones.
It is pointless to argue how worthless and soul-less this one man is. He is ONE-MAN, instead we should all be focusing our energy doing what we can to help, instead of wasting time talking about how this one man has a really shallow disposition on what happened. Just to reiterate, there is no need to traverse to his level of infinitesimal life.
He is exactly like most of the people you meet on the streets today. The only difference is he is in a position where he could influence man kind for the better but instead it seems he chooses not to. That is his choice. One could argue the fact however, that he is old and for those of you who hold anger in your hearts for how ridiculously pathetic he is, he WILL die sometime soon, so you will get the last laugh and Haiti, will still be in turmoil until everyone can stop wasting time on pointless shit, and offer a helping hand.
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