emporer of the universe

PoA (Prince of Ardentia): We have suffered since you blasted our kingdom. I can offer you [tribute] nothing this year except my loyalty.

Ming: We prize nothing more highly.

Clitus: And how great is this loyalty to your emperor?

PoA: Without measure.

Ming: We are delighted to hear it… Fall on your sword.

PoA: DEATH TO MING!!

ZZZZAAAP…

I’ve been observing the gathering storm… (election 08) with a mixture of hope and despair… Hope, that any change will be for the better, but despair in the realization that anyone running for any national office is so indebted to the established powers (or they’d never have gotten in any position to run) that real societal improvement (equal access to work, good health, and the pursuit of happiness) will only be viable for the wealthiest among us. It has always been so, and (apparently) always will be…

While it is true that in a democracy, society can dictate terms to the wealthiest among us, but those in power (who are not already among the wealthiest) are beholden to them for financing their political ambitions… and nothing really changes…

The lavish financing and spin marketing of candidates convinces even educated voters to vote against their own best interests and in favor of the status quo…

All conservatism is based in fear (all kinds of fears, but mainly fear of change), and as Muad Dib said, “Fear is the mind killer.”

I'm always reminded of Mencken when elections (or anything political) is taking place:

"I believe that all government is evil, and that trying to improve it is largely a waste of time."