In India the caste system is still entrenched into the mindset.  That being said, one member of the “untouchable” caste has risen pretty far in Indian politics and now serves as an inspiration for all that would want to follow her.

 Mayawati, a Dalit daughter of the soil and, as chief minister of Uttar Pradesh, one of the most influential politicians in the world’s largest democracy……….(more)

John Stewarts take on the New Yorker.

Ventura says we already live in a fascist state.  All he wants is ballet access and inclusion in the debates.  I wonder why the two mainstream parties wouldn’t allow that to happen???  Probably because we would have President Ventura.

Barcelona playmaker Ronaldinho is on the verge of signing for AC Milan, according to the Italian giants….(more)…..

American leaders could learn quite a bit from the current Pope.  When then Joseph Ratzinger was elected Pope many in the United States groaned with disapproval at the idea of the ultra-conservative Ratzinger guiding the Church.  Well since then I think that we owe the now Pope Benedict a very sincere sorry for doubting you.  Sure, he has upset Muslims and Protestants with his frank talk about other religions, but that frankness comes from a sincere wish to talk honestly about what makes us different so then we can take a good hard look at what we can agree on.  

Well the Pope is once again taking on a tough subject with pastoral humility.  On his current trip to Australia for World Youth day the pontiff will meet with and ask forgiveness from members of the Church who were sexual abused.  I have never made any excuses for the Churches mishandling of the sexual abuse crisis but I have to give the Pope a hand, he’s not sticking his head in the sand about it.  Whether you like him or not, compared to leadership in the United States this man believes in the Church and it’s mission so he addresses the very real shortcomings of Catholicism in an effort to reach and help others.  

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In News that is near and dear to my heart, the Vatican reported losses last year connected to another issue dear to my heart the American Dollar.  Nearly a quarter of the Vatican’s budget comes from the US and as the dollar loses value the Vatican loses financial clout.  This may not seem that important to a lot of secular people out their but when you consider how much money the Vatican sends out to third world countries it could have a serious global impact…..(more)….

81 year old nationalist L.K. Advani has copied Barack Obama’s internet revolution in politics and looks to increase the clout Bharatiya Janata Party in Indias congress.  This is an interesting move because Mr. Advani is seen as a hard line nationalist as oppossed to a new generation liberal, but unlike in the United States where conservatives are either reluctant or unable to use the internet and other grassroots tools to mount an effective political campaign, the BJP is making inroads.  Not bad for a man some though washed up as few as three years ago. ……(more)……

News Pod from current but I’m in it, sort of they chopped up my comment but hey I made TV!!!