I see good people . . .

This might sound crazy, but i'm actually feeling quite optimistic at the moment.

Sure Israel is on an insane killing spree, but i've been really encouraged by the ubiquitous outrage that the slaughter and destruction has elicited. The best part is: people are being moved beyond disgust - to resistance. Naturally, everyone i've talked to is especially furious about Harper's pathetic response: essentially applauding Israel's "twenty heads for an eye" approach to "defense".

The most crucial thing that needs to be understood, as i see it, is that the Israeli assault on Lebanon is terrorism pure and simple: terrorizing and holding an entire nation hostage (including - "the real story" according to the Canadian media - anyone who presently happens to be within the Lebanese borders), in response to a particular group's actions.

If you wanna add your voice to the chorus, one of the most under-appreciated activists in Vancouver has posted some helpful info on her blog. And the indomitable Libby Davies has of course posted an examplary statement on her site.

Besides that, there seem to be a lot of cool things coming up in the next little while, like "Selling Security" tomorrow, or the booklaunch for "Sociology for Changing the World" next week... or the Bedouin Soundclash show at the Malkin Bowl (ie: where we can sit outside and listen for free in the park).

I guess i'm probably also in a good mood because i'm one of the winners of the Tyee's "Canadian Novels" contest - they're going to publish my short statement on Obasan by Joy Kogawa.

In other good news, Guujaaw (aka: my buddy Gwaai's dad), is being honoured with the Buffett award for Indigenous Leadership today.

So maybe i'm just nuts, but somehow i can't shake the feeling that things are gonna be ok... eventually.