Our Unwritten Seoul

Another Korean romance.  If you are in to them they are among the best.  In "Our Unwritten Seoul" as a tool they use identical twins so similar their mother can't tell the difference.  In addition another tool for romances is the misunderstandings that here are compounded by identical twins.  First reaction might be to expect a comedy, but it is more dramatic.

Looking at the photo to the left all the apparent differences are cosmetic--they are the same actress.

The two women, Mi-Ji and Mi-Rae are in different circumstances and have different personalities.  Mi-rae is in a big corporation in Seoul and feels uncomfortable with corruption.  Mi-ji is more at loose ends, but staying with her mother so she could help her grandmother.  Getting together they both cook up a scheme to switch roles.  They do have only a rough outline of the other's situation.  They cover it up, but leave a little wondering doubt.

The romance comes from their new job situations.  Mi-ji working in the corporate environment deals with an old acquaintance, Ho-su, a company lawyer she went to high school with.  Ironically he had a fixation on Mi-ji, but pretending to be the sister she is truly surprised.  They both are upset with a move to push out small businesses for a new shopping mall.  One lady resists and she at first is suspicious of both of them and all feel caught in the middle.  This dilemma has more complications and a few twists.  

Mi-Rae moves back home and her mother thinks she is strange, but still accepts her as Mi-ji.  The grandmother is the one not fooled, but keeps it quiet.  Mi-rae takes a job at a strawberry farm.  Eventually we learn that the owner, Se Jin had once been a financier, but gave it up because he was upset about corruption.  They rub each other the wrong way.  When he reveals his background he is surprised she even recognizes his name and she has to lie to not reveal how she knows it.

Both men are lied to, but gradually the truth comes out.  Most romance followers can anticipate sparks, but there really is more to the story.  The two sisters are quite different, although at times the viewer will be confused.  

The quality of the series is top notch.  Here are some of the contributors.

Park Shin-woo is the director.  He has 10 directing credits including "It's Okay Not To Be Okay" (2020) and "When The Stars Gossip" (2025).  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/03/its-okay-not-to-be-okay.html and  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2025/02/when-stars-gossip.html

Lee Kang was the writer.  She has 5 writing credits.

Nam Hye-Seung was the music director.  She is noted as a multi instrumentalist.  In the early days she was involved with children's programs, but was careful to not to copy Disney that was common at the time.  She has 20 composing credits and 49 for the Music Department including "Crash Landing on You" (2019), "It's Okay Not to be Okay" (2020), "Queen of Tears" (2024) and "When the Stars Gossip" (2025). see http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2024/05/queen-of-tears.html and  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/02/crash-landing-on-you-very-addicting.html

A quote that perhaps other composers would also feel and illustrates her dedication to music in films: "All scenes deserves a touch up or entirely new music because different scene might need more detailed music work. Audiences might not catch it all the time but it is needed to deliver the message to their heart as close as I can do because I know the importance and how much minor things can do to the whole picture." 

Park Bo-young had the difficult role of playing identical twins Mi-ji and Mi-rae.  While in middle school she was in a short film.  At high school she had done a tv. commercial.  She has 25 acting credit including "A Werewolf Boy" (2012) and "Daily Dose of Sunshine" (2023).     See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/11/daily-dose-of-sunshine.html

Park Jin-young played the lawyer Ho-Su.  An early interest was dancing and later was part of a boy group.  Jin-Young came to this role after his army release.  He has 62 acting credits and 2 for soundtrack.  

 Kim Sun-young played Ho-su's step mother who had stepped in despite contrary advice when her husband killed in auto accident that also seriously injured Ho-soo.  She has had an extensive career in theatre.  She has 47 acting credits including "When The Camellia Blooms" (2019),  "Crash Landing on You" (2019), "Broker" (2022) and "Queenmaker" (2023).  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/05/queenmaker.html

Jang Young-nam played the mother of the twins.  She has a strong background in theatre that includes the solo role in "Vagina Monologues" (2006).  She has 85 film acting credits including "A Werewolf Boy" (2012), "It's Okay Not To Be Okay" (2020) and "Love Next Door" (2024).  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2024/10/love-next-door.html

Im Chul-so played a handicapped and corrupt lawyer.  He has 19 acting credits including "Signal" (2016) "Crash Landing on You" (2019), "Vincenzo" (2021), "Queen of Tears" (2024) and "When the Phone Rings" (2024).   See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2025/01/when-phone-rings.html

Ryu Kyung-soo played the former fund manager turned to strawberry farmer.  He has 19 acting credits including "Itaewon Class" (2020) and "Broker" (2022).  See  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/07/broker-japanese-korean-collaboration.html  

Kim Mi-kyung played the elderly restaurant owner.  she has 80 acting credits including "Secret Sunshine" (2007), "Glove" (2011), "It's Okay not to be Okay" (2021), "Trolley" (2022- 2023), "Doctor Cha" (2023) and "Agency" (2023),  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/06/agency.html 

"Our Unwritten Seoul" is available on Netflix subtitled and dubbed.  A brilliant series.

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  Some of them are among my favorite Korean films and a big part of my Korean obsession.  If you follow the links you should be able to determine if any film is worth following up.

Pintu-Pintu Surga stretching my vision of the world

"Pintu-Pintu Surga" (2025) is another example of what you learn when you watch foreign movies--something that is different and something familiar.  The different is that three consenting adults can agree to a marriage with two wives.  The back story is one of frustrated love and concern for children with western society having lots of variations to handle these difficulties.  

We are introduced first to Latifah who loves her husband and is soon left behind when he dies.  He left his son from a previous marriage, money and the top position at an educational institute.  A year or so later she is visited by two men from a co-operating institute and quickly we learn one of the two men had been a boyfriend some ten years before.  Gradually he feels compelled to help with her autistic son Gandhi.  After that we learn that he is married with a daughter he loves.  

Things cool down for awhile, but he realizes he still loves her and has become fond of her son.  He discusses his feelings with his mother who remembers Latifah and does not approve of continuing the relationship.  Partly because of gossip Latifah is resistant and after he finally tells his wife Widya she is furious and even takes off with her daughter for awhile.  Aman does not want a divorce, but he wants to take care of Latifah and Gandhi.  He persuades his wife to talk with Latifah with both women feeling awkward and just as the conversation is winding down Latifah gets a phone call about her son having a fit.  Aman insists he drive her and Widya decides to come along, stays in the vehicle, but is soon aware of yelling and investigates.  Gandhi, upset about his mother and "uncle" Aman is difficult to control.  We then learn Widya had a similar mentally challenged brother and feels guilty she did not help and eventually her father and brother died in an accident she blames herself for.

The key thing is that the three adults all agree to this second marriage and their two children are also part of the decision.  That is more plot than I usually want to reveal, but there is a little detail left out.

The story moves along smoothly and the three adults are all very likeable.  The two children are cute.

One producer was Arya Saloka with his first producing credit.  He plays Aman, one of the leading characters.  He has 11 acting credits including "Cigarette Girl" (2023).  See  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/11/cigarette-girl.html

Adis Kayl Yurahmah was the director  with this being her one directing credit.

Dewi Fita was a writer with 3 writing credits.

Tya Subiakto Satrio was the music director.  She has 11 credits for composing and 11 for the music  department.

Gunung Nusa Pelita was the cinematographer with 30 cinematography 2 credits for directing.

Susan Sameh plays Latifah.  She has 15 acting credits and1 each for the music department and soundtrack.

Agla Artalidia plays Widya.  Before getting into films she was a flight attendant for Singapore Airlines.  She has 12 acting credits including "2nd Miracle in Cell No. 7" (2024).  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2025/04/2nd-miracle-in-cell-no-7.html

Unique Priscilla played Aman's mother.  She  had graduated from the University of Kansas with a journalism degree.  She got into modelling and that led to 48 acting credits.

It is already highly rated on Netflix where it can seen subtitled.  An insight to another way of looking at life and love.

I had previously seen two films from Indonesia that got my attention with a man marrying two women, but there was no three way discussion.  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2022/01/surga-yang-tak-dirindukan-heaven-none.htm

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  They are not necessarily a recommendation, but generally I found them worthy of my time.  If you follow the links you might be able to determine if a particular film is worth following up.

The Anxious Generation

Today's youth is undergoing a dramatic change that has future repercussions. for all of us.   Jonathan Haidt, a psychologist pinpoints 2012 as a critical time, but the challenge had been building up from the 1970's.  We have gone from a play-based childhood to a phone-based childhood.  Everyone is affected by rapid technology changes, but Generation Z, born after 1995 is the first generation to go through puberty when the tech companies greatly expanded. 

There is a technical aspect, but a critical role was society's attitude toward children had already been changing.  Parents became more protective for their children, restricting their unsupervised activities.  

 Technology has been moving forward for centuries, but in recent decades innovations have accelerated.  Gradually people had gotten used to computers as they became more user friendly.  Laptops increased accessibility.  Smart phone started about 2007 and soon allowed one to take photos of themselves.  All in a pocket (even more mobile and can be hidden).

Starting in 2012 there was an increase in depression measured for teenagers, well before Covid.  Stats appeared similar in the United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand and the Nordic countries.  Anxiety appeared differently for girls who tend to internalize it while boys tended to externalize it.  Suicide increased for both sexes, but boys at a higher rate.

Pornography is very common and distorts reality.  Some boys have become afraid of asking a girl out on a date that used to be a normal risk of growing up.  Over decades service jobs have taken over from factory jobs and as a result females have done better in the new job market.  They are also getting better educated than males. 

Video games can become very addictive.  One boy commented "I wish I had gotten to know my grandfather better before he died, instead of always playing video games when he visited."

Sleep deprivation was aggravated by smart phones linked to anxiety.  Humans cannot really multi-task, instead shift attention back and forth resulting in fragmented attention.  

Before the age of 2 it is best to minimize screen time as it will over stimulate.

What can be done?  Haidt has many thoughts and suggestions that cannot be done full justice is this blog. First he thinks we need to give our children less restrictions and trust them more.  I remember on family outings the four of us would pack into our car, but it seemed my young son was always the last one.  I was annoyed and had to go back to check if the door was locked.  He complained about that lack of trust and finally I trusted him.  

It is natural to think of ways to minimize the use of smart phones in many situations such as school.  We need to co-operate with teachers and as importantly with other parents.  Children complain all their friends have easy access to social media and not wanting them to be ostracized we give them what they want. 

Nature offers a chance to recharge.  On one successful effort Haidt mentions students being allowed to groom horses.  From that brief mention here is a more expanded version of how horses might help.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2016/05/the-power-of-horses-to-heal-riding-home.html

In this busy world one helpful tradition would be for the whole family to eat a meal together--without a smart phone.

 The whole world is trying to adjust to the takeover by smart phones and we are still learning.  Haidt has much more to say and suggest than I have been able to convey.  "The Anxious Generation" is well worth reading.

 Here are two other posts regarding ideas of Jonathan Haidt that really opened up my mind.

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2013/02/the-righteous-mind.html 

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2017/10/are-you-interested-in-happiness.html

2025 NBA Playoffs

Most years after my home team, the Toronto Raptors ended their season I didn't bother watching the playoffs.  This year there was a special incentive.  Shai Gilgeous-Alexander from my home base of Hamilton, Ontario was already the top scorer and whose team had the best record was a focus of attention.

In general a lot of Canadians were key players.  Foreign players are drawing attention, but Canada supplies the most foreign players.

 The Indiana Pacers were not the favorite in any of their playoff series, but they knocked off more established teams including Boston Celtics and New York Knicks.  A lot of the games were come from behind.  Tyrese Haliburton was outstanding, particularly at the end of games when he shot the winning basket.  One upsetting time for me was when the Oklahoma City team led pretty much for the entire game and even built up substantial margins, but Tyrese kept his cool and shot the winning basket with only 0.3 seconds left.  Unfortunately with the 7th game Tyrese had a severe ankle problem and was lost for the second half.  Another outstanding Pacer was Pascal Siamkim who had been a key player for the Toronto Raptors.  Caitlin Clark was a fan at Indiana home games and they won each one.  Indiana had the top Raptor fan who cheered Pascal.

In the finals it was pointed out a Montreal connection, but split between the two teams.  One story showed the two mothers had become friends watching their sons play in high school.  Lou Dort came from Haiti and took to basketball.  He was a starter for the Oklahoma City Thunder noted for his defense, but also came through with a number of unexpected 3 point plays.  Indiana had Benedict Malthurin who developed his talent in Montreal and in one finals game was the leading scorer.  Another Canadian was Andrew Nembhard from Aurora, Ontario.  He was a starter and often used to keep Shai, a fellow National team member under check.  

Shai Gilgeous-Alexander developed his talent in Hamilton at Sir Allan MacNab High School.  This season he was the highest scorer which lead to the MVP for the season and from there he went on to be the MVP in each of the playoff series including the finals.  Indiana really ganged up on him, but he scored big and just as important worked with team mates to win. 

One change that has been developing has been a greater emphasis on defense.  From my high school days hands on was not allowed, but it is normal in the NBA.  The referees have a lot of discretion in deciding how much contact was allowed and it was frequently stated that if there was no wind-up the defense action was acceptable or at least not considered fragrant.  Bill Russell once described basketball was a "contact sport" and admitting hat football was a "collision sport."

The playoffs were as dramatic as any sports. It probably surprised fans that it was two small market teams made it to the finals, but good for the game.  I am glad I allowed Shai to lure me into watching the playoffs.

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2019/06/my-60-year-love-affair-with-basketball.html

Who is Government?

 Michael Lewis has become a favorite author.  He likes to take a complicated story and start with what his readers might assume is irrelevant.  Then he shifts to another apparently irrelevant story and eventually connects them all.  He also points out unexpected consequences.   Life is complicated, but underneath it all, we are all connected and Lewis is a master of reminding us.

"Who is Government?" (2025) is another example.  He has contacted a number of writers he admires and asked them to tell stories demonstrating contributions made by government employees that are not much noted by the general public.  Voters see government as faceless and more of a problem than having much relevance to them.

Too many of us take the government for granted.  Some assume employees are lazy and not able to get a real job.  Still others feel they are "the problem."  But Michael Lewis points out they are human and do in fact make life better for all of us.  In an earlier book he described how the Trump administration did not understand the important role played by government.  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2019/01/the-fifth-risk-latest-from-michael-lewis.html   A key point is that after his 2016 victory, the Trump administration dismissed and discarded work that had been done to explain how the American government was set up so they could more easily make the countless decisions that had to be made.

The examples given in this book are American, but bear a resemblance to other countries.  The government is responsible for the well being of all citizens.

One chapter was devoted to the National Cemetery Administration that was set up by Abraham Lincoln concerned about all the soldiers that had died in the Civil War and most likely forgotten.  Since then  government employees have set up a system so no one has to be forgotten.  Lots of details overlooked by the public.  There are a few covered in the book.

Another chapter is devoted to measuring national finances, specifically a Consumer Price Index.  The arrival of a number is very complicated and potentially misleading, but necessary to have some measure of what the economy is doing.  Prices vary depending on location.  The items chosen for the calculations are not necessarily used everyday or by everybody.  They are broken down in different categories, but the main one publicized is subject to public criticism and is supposed to indicate the rate of inflation.  Some people are able to downscale their expenditures in response.  

A story to demonstrate how measuring the wrong thing can have a negative effect.  Going back to wartime it was noted how many bullet holes were in planes returning from battle.  Initially it was thought necessary to reinforce the wings and fuselage as that is where most of the bullet holes were found.  Someone realized it was more important to realize that although there were apparently no bullet holes found by the engine, that indicated the bullet holes that made it to that part of the plane were the fatal ones and the engine area had a greater need for reinforcement.

The Internal Revenue Services is often criticized for harassing hard working people.  One might recall that police forces were not able to imprison the gangster, Al Capone, but he was taken out by income tax evasion.  Of course modern day crooks are aware of that and try to stymie any efforts to prove their guilt.  A modern day concern is crypto currency which for some people is one way of avoiding the law.   In 2014 it was ruled that profits from crypto transactions would be considered as capital gains and taxed as such.  Undercover work investigating gangsters revealed that terrorists, drug dealers and sex traffickers were hiding behind crypto, but were dealt with the legal and prison systems.

The National Archives are accessible to the public (except confidential ones), but has to have been updated and made more accessible.  A lot of documents are very old and modern users would find cursive writing almost impossible to read.  They have used volunteers to digitize while still making the original documents available  The 2022 election was the first where Maine and Vermont were splitting their electoral votes.  To make the records more accessible  they work with Wikipedia, Family Search and Ancestry among other outside sources.

You might remember Trump literally took a lot of records including some that were classified as confidential that have been mostly retrieved, but the case was never settled.  Records are important and must be cared for.

W. Kamau Bell wrote the chapter on anti trust legislation.  Resented by some, but in fact their decisions affect everyone.  Corporations that get too large reduce competition and innovation as well increasing prices.   An illuminating example occurs after the assassination of President James Garfield in 1881 by a man upset unable to get a job with the government.  The realization led to a revamping of hiring practices from essentially the spoils system to one more based on merit.  see a blog inspired by W. Kamau Bell.   http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/05/should-we-defund-police-what-does-that.html

An excellent quote comes from one of W. Kamau Bells' sources,  Oliva Rynberg-Going;  "I think the American dream shouldn't impede on other people's dream."

Michael Lewis handles the last chapter that deals  with the Food and Drug Administration department, but it does so in a round about way.   The connecting focus was on a very rare disease.  A disease that would not be of interest to large pharmaceutical corporate laboratories.  But the disease reached the attention of a government employee who was interested and was able to use her resources to fix the fatal disease that also helped save a marriage.  The study of such rare diseases seems wasteful to some, however it was pointed out that American soldiers are sometimes stationed in tropical areas where such rare diseases are more apt to occur.  Besides the information gained from rare diseases research can lead to good well from countries who cannot afford such research.   

Generally government jobs, especially entry level jobs pay less than for profit business and naturally a lot of graduates go for the big money.  That is not 100% true as there are graduates who have other motives, such as wanting to be of service.  An increasing concern is student loans which can be a burden that forces many to change their course.  The government needs talented people and perhaps this debt load might present an opportunity.  The military will give free education in return for a commitment.  Another angle might deal with loan forgiveness or tax rebates.  The Biden government ran into resistance for their plans for debt forgiveness, but at some point the general public (that is voters) need to realize they are losing when the government cannot attract motivated top graduates.      

 Unfortunately politics (really, big business) forces society in certain directions.  Part of the population realizes big business is only interested in money and not humanity.  Hopefully "Who Is Government?" will make more people realize the importance of government and the need to attract competent people.  First we have to rid of Trump and his supporters.

This was read as an ebook from my local library.

Two other blogs covering books of Michael Lewis that you might find relevant

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2021/11/the-premonition-is-more-relevant-than.html

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2011/12/boomerang-by-michael-lewis.html

A Two Spirit Journey

The Canada Reads contest has interested me for several years.  There are great books, but even more the discussions that are part of the contest are very engaging. This past year the five contestants were known ahead of time and I was able to reserve all five of them at my local library.  I read four of them, but "A Two Spirit Journey" (2016), subtitled "The Autobiography Of A Lesbian Ojibwa-Cree Elder" the actual winner, was not available in time and in fact I only got a copy recently, well after the contest had been decided.

Ma-nee Chacaby is a very interesting person and this story is one of the most honest told by an indigenous woman.  Born of ambiguous parentage in remote northern Ontario she was abused and sexually abused.  She was surrounded by alcoholism and started drinking at an early age.  She and her near age friends indulged in sniffing exhaust fumes.  She was forced to move several times and until she was about 20 did not speak much English, relying on Ojibwa and Cree.

Her story includes being raped, beaten and getting drunk.  On the positive side she learned survival skills such as hunting, trapping and tanning animal hides.   Her step father wanted her to realize that hunting is not bad and is needed for survival.  At a very young age she was able to sell fur to the Hudson's Bay Company who set up an account for her that she let build up until at an older age she used it for a building project.

As she aged she tried to stop drinking, but usually failed until she got involved with Alcoholics Anonymous in Thunder Bay and even then struggled for awhile.  Towards the end of the book she boasts that she had not drunk any alcohol for over 30 years.

She goes through some relationships giving birth to 3 children and fostering children.   She helps counsel others not to drink and delivered several babies, including for strangers.  She got involved with translating information from English to Ojibwa and Cree, but as her vision deteriorated she had to give that up.

Through Alcoholics Anonymous she attended a segment for lesbians that awakened her interest.  She did not understand her attraction to women and kept it secret.  Eventually she broke through her hesitation lived with at least three women and got involved with Pride promotions.  At one time she dressed up as Elvis Presley for an event. 

She wanted to tell her story not only for herself, but for her children, grandchildren and other relatives.  She had met Mary Louise Plummer, a social scientist and writer.  As it happened circumstances conspired  to free Mary Louise and she agreed.  At the time she was in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.  They connected through the internet and conducted over a hundred hours of interviews sorting many details.  Other writers of indigenous stories failed to credit the actual person, but Mary Louise felt that Ma-nee was unusually open about her history and as a natural story teller was given primary credit.

Shayla Stonechild was the champion for "A Two-Spirit Journey" was very well prepared and articulate.  She is an indigenous model, actress and health advocate.  If not for her ability I might have been tempted to not bother as I had already read the other four books and had already written a blog on them.  I am glad I listened to her and got to read a very interesting book.

There are many decisions to make when selecting a book you hope to immerse yourself with and one tool for me has been the Canada Reads contest.  Not only are good books involved, but with a champion for each book over four episodes you get insight.  If you are interested the CBC holds this contest once a year around March and can be seen on television or the internet.  This particular book is well worth an effort, but the contest will suggest others.

This first link is to the 2025 Canada Reads with the four other contenders.

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2025/03/canada-reads.html

There were a lot of books from this contest over the years that I enjoyed reading and watching the contest.   For me it has been mind opening.

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2017/09/indian-horse-by-richard-wagamese.html 

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2018/10/canada-reads.html

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/09/the-book-of-negroes.html 

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/09/ducks-my-first-graphic-novel.html 

http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2024/09/hotline-canada-reads-nomination.html 

A propos d'Antoine (About Antoine) returns

A most unusual series apparently based on reality has returned.  Although I had done a blog on the first season there is a confusion with English information. 

It is unusual in a number of ways.  The focus is on Antoine, a young boy who cannot walk, cannot talk, is autistic and has periodic epilepsy incidents.  The father, Marc and mother, Justine each blamed the other without verbalizing it and divorced after which Marc met another woman, Julie married her and surprisingly the current and previous wives liked each other and took part in taking care of Antoine.  Despite such a serious matter the story will often make you laugh in fact essentially this is a feel-good film.  For me at least it is pleasant to see a film in a favorite city, Quebec City.

The second season starts out with a serious doctor talking to the three adults trying to explain what had happened to Antoine.  It turns out that Antoine was the victim of some random cellular action and that nobody should be blamed.  A new set of dynamics with Julie feeling she should give Justine and   a chance to reconcile. 

Georges, the brother is not ignored and is concerned about Antoine.  He has been give some good lines.

Another character, Kaya seems thrown in for effect, but she, a trans female does not only add color, but does in fact contribute to the action. 

Julie's ex boyfriend, Leandre plays a role in both seasons.

The Cast and crew are critical to its success.  Here are some key personnel.

Claude Desrosiers was the director.  He has one listing as a comedian which many of cast and crew share, Claude has 23 directing credits and 3 for acting.

Cathleen Rouleau was a writer and the leading actor, Julie.  She has done many tv. commercials for the Quebec market.   Cathleen graduated from the Ecole National de l'Humour.  She has performed comedy at festivals n Quebec, Switzerland and Belgium.  Cathleen has 4 credits as an actor and 3 as a writer.

Sylvain Parent-Bedard is the producer and matches many of the details of the leading male, Marc.  He created the Festival Grand Rire de Quebec.  He has produced shows for Madonna and Celine Dion.  He has 28 credits as a producer.  Also noteworthy, he is a big supporter of charities for epilepsy and autism.  

Shawn Pavlin was one of he cinematographers.  He has 33 credits for cinematography, 21 for the Camera and Electrical Department and 5 for the Editorial Department including "Mommy" (2014).  The other cinematographer was Vincent Biron who has 63 cinematographer credits, 9 as director and 7 as writer.

Claude Legault played Marc, the festival owner.  He has 65 acting credits and 10 as a writer.

 Antoine Parent-Bedard plays the focal character.  Despite his multiple handicaps he always has a smile.

 Fanny Mallette plays Justine, Marc's ex wife who is still considered and acts like a member of the family.  She won a gold medal in 1989 at Canadian junior judo championships.  She has 56 acting credits, 1 for directing and 1 for producing including "The Barbarian Invasion"(2003).

Micheline Bernard played Margot, Marc's mother who lives next door.  She has 50 acting credit including "It's Not Me, I Swear!" (2008) and "Matthias and Maxime" (2018).

Sylvain Marcel plays Patrick, a brother and business partner with Marc.  He has been successful in television commercials. He has 53 acting credits including "Good Cop, Bon Cop" (2006).

Edward B. Laroque plays Georges, younger brother to Antoine.  He got his first acting role at 6 years old.  He has 9 acting credits. 

Iannick n'Doua-Legare played Leandre, the ex boyfriend (they remain friends).  He has 48 acting credits including "Starbucks" (2011) and "Three Pines" (2022).

Christen Marlot plays Kaya a trans female who helps Julie.  Does fashion modeling.  She has 2 acting credits.

I do want to repeat, this is basically a feel good series, although the condition of Antoine is serious.  It is available subtitled and dubbed on Netflix, under "About Antoine", but if you care to check on IMDB or Wikipeida you will need to specify "a propos d'Antoine."

for the first season check http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2024/07/a-propos-dantoine-or-in-english-about.html

D.E.I. Diversity Equity & Inclusion

Trump is upset about D.E.I. (Diversity, Equity & Inclusion), maintaining that it is unfair.  Some of us feel the MAGA followers really want to take advantage of privilege.  The goal is supposed to be the best person for each position gets hired.

The original signers of the U.S. Constitution were landowning white males of a certain age.  Their rights to own slaves was respected.  Voting rights were determined by the states.

Over the years voting rights were extended to blacks (mostly former slaves), women, younger people, indigenous and even poor people.  Prejudice and legal tools were used to limit actual voting by minorities. 

It takes many years including generations for prejudices to lessen in society.  It involves heroes and martyrs like Martin Luther King Jr. or Harvey Milk.  Forced to work with minorities some whites came to appreciate the "other" was not evil or incompetent.  Adjusting to having women as bosses was hard for men, but some got used to it.  Making judgments when confronted by hijabs, turbans, skullcaps or even baseball caps is still normal for most of us.  Handicapped people are often ignored, although they are generally reliable employees.  Society too often takes it time to mature, but more of us are making the effort.

All of humanity is not equal, but generally complement one another.  Opportunity is also not equal and in effect means we do not always get the best mix.  The offspring of wealthy successful parents are not necessarily as talented or even as ambitious.  

In the meantime society controlled by those with power is able to protect their position against outsiders.  Here are a few areas that make a difference to who gets opportunities or real choices.

Home ownership is actually the basis for many family fortunes, but denied to many blacks as they could not get affordable credit.  Minorities are discouraged from the better neighborhoods.

Education is supposedly the tool for poor people to arise and it can work.  However the quality is not the same in all neighborhoods.  Not every student comes to class equally rested and nourished.  

Jobs are not only a measure of talent, but also a mark of status.  Discrimination based on race, gender  religion or class ensure there is not true competition.  Income affects the whole family.

Health is vital.  Statistics have pointed out that blacks die more frequently than whites at childbirth and have a shorter life span.  They receive poorer quality care from doctors.  

These factors are going in the right direction, but still have a way to go.   Despite the listed obstacles many black and other minorities have succeeded, but that seems to alarm many whites.  Population trends point that racial minorities will be the majority within only a few decades. 

Undoubtedly some deserving whites lose out and in a sense we all lose when that happens.  Competition often is used a a decider.  Being privileged means a lot is taken for granted.  Over time the ideal should be to find the best fit for every human.  Fairness is another ideal which means that society should not judge merely by outside features, but examine more closely the talents and merits of individuals. 

A legitimate concern is that we hire the most suitable.  At the same time those in power make the rules that suit them.  Donald Trump has appealed not only to bigots, but to other aggrieved groups such as Evangelicals, gun owners, fossil fuel investors, etc.

D.E.I .has served America well, in fact better than privileged decision makers of the past.  In the future it will be less and less necessary, that is if allowed to further prove its worth. 

A bit on how Trump got to be Trump

 Trump is a very powerful man.  What he has done with his power is noted everyday.  How he got to be powerful was not in a vacuum.  "The Apprentice" (2024) attempts to cover a key part of his life.

The details are disputed by Trump and his legal team, but seem roughly aligned with the current perspective.

The film is introduced by a speech from Richard Nixon, proclaiming he is not a crook.

Trump meets Roy Cohn who disposes of a legal problem by blackmailing.  He imparts 3 rules:  1.Attack ,  2.never admit wrong doing, and 3 claim victory.  He brags about his connection to Richard Nixon

Trump uses Cohn as a mentor and with moral support builds Trump Tower behind his father's back.

He meets Ivana and after an arduous courtship marries her.  She is well liked and there seems a dose of jealousy from her husband.  We do not get to his divorce, but a rape is reenacted (dependent on court records, but her version is modified afterwards).  We are also made aware that he is unfaithful.

Against Cohn's advice Trump gets involved with Atlantic City gambling casinos.  It seems to go well, but we hear of bankruptcy charges.  I think it likely that Russians were enablers for his recovery, but this is not hinted at.

We are aware of personal dynamics.  His brother Fred is insulted by his father and sinks to alcoholism.  We watch Trump try to take advantage of his father's dementia to increase his share of inheritance. 

He has medical work done on his scalp and he has surgery to lessen his abdomen.

Roy Cohn is a constant advisor, but deteriorates and acquires Aids.  Trump avoids him as much as possible, but holds a dinner in his honor.

 A lot of the dialogue and actions have to be improvised, but looking at the consequences and Trump's own words it is very believable. 

Much was filmed in Canada including Toronto and Hamilton.  As a Hamiltonian I have long watched in awe the Scottish Rite building where some scenes were filmed.

Scottish Rite Building in Hamilton, Ontario.

 Distribution was hindered by Trump's legal team; the film has a limited release in the U.S. on October 11, 2024   Trump wins in November.  Despite adoration of the public Trump is heavily dependent on lawyers

It takes a ton of talent to make such a film.  Here are a few of the people.

Ali Abbasi was the director and a producer.  He was born in Tehran and has made one film highlighting female discrimination in Iran.  As a young man he went to Sweden to study architecture.  He next went  to study at the National Film School of Denmark.  He lives in Copenhagen.  He has 8 directing credits, 5 for writing and 2 for producing.

Gabriel Sherman was one of the writers.  He wrote the biography of Roger Ailes, "The Loudest Voice" which was the basis for the movie in 2019.  He has 3 credits as producer and 2 for writing.  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2020/11/the-loudest-voice.html

David Holmes wrote music.  He was a DJ in Belfast, Northern Ireland and was involved in the music scene.  He has 62 composing credits, 16 for the Music Department and 5 for producing including "Ocean's Eleven" (2001), "Ocean's Thirteen" (2007) and "The Fall" (2013).

Kasper Tuxen was the cinematographer.   Lives in Copenhagen.  He has 63 cinematography credits, 26 for the camera and electrical department and 2 for additional crew including "Beginners" (2010), "Hateship. Loveship" (2013) and "The Worst Person in The World" (2021).

Olivier Bugge Coutte was the editor.  He has 57 credits for editing, 1 for producing and 1 for directing including "Reprise" (2006), "Oslo, August 31st" (2011) and "The Worst Person in the World" (2021).

Sebastian Stan played Donald Trump.  He was born in Romania and once spoke that language in a film.  He has 57 acting credits, 2 for producing and 1 for soundtrack including "I, Tonya" (2017) and "Sharper" (2023).

Jeremy Strong played Roy Cohn.  He attended Yale where he acted in their theatre.  He has won a Tony Award and one Prime Time Emmy.  He lives in Copenhagen.  Jeremy has 30 acting credits and 7 for additional crew including "Robot & Frank" (2012), "Zero Dark Thirty" (2012), "Parkland" (2013), "The Judge" (2014), "Detroit" (2017). "Molly's Game" (2017), "Serenity" (2019), "Succession" (2018-2019) and "The Trial of the Chicago 7" (2020).

Martin Donovan played Trump's father, Fred.  He has 123 acting credits, 1 for directing and 1 for writing including "Insomnia" (2002) "Indian Horse" (2017) and"Tenet" (2020).  See about the book "Indian Horse" which was the basis for the film...http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2017/09/indian-horse-by-richard-wagamese.html

Maria Bakalova played Ivana Trump.  Born in Bulgaria she has performed in that language.  She had an interest in music, being part of a touring choir as a youngster and also playing the flute at the university level.  Maria has 26 acting credits and 3 producing including "Borat Subsequent MovieFilm" (2020).

Mark Rendall played Roger Stone.  A Canadian, at age 10 with no acting experience he auditioned and won a role with a touring "Oliver" company.  He has 65 acting credits including "The Exploding Girl" (2009), "Victoria Day" (2009), "Transplant" (2019-2022) and "Departure" (2019-1022).   

Available on Crave.

Do I recommend this film?  Yes, but only so you might better understand how such a powerful person developed.  

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  They are not necessarily a recommendation, but generally I found them worthy of my time.  If you follow the links you might be able to determine if a particular film is worth following up.

Mad Unicorn, Exciting Series fromThailand

Thailand is upping its international presence, partly due to Netflix.  

"Mad Unicorn" is based on a true story, a rags to riches tale based on a local hero.  Jira Maligool, the executive producer interviewed Kamsan Saleen who started poorly and built a delivery express business that became very huge.  From there the story was developed by a team.

In the series Santi starts off as a worker in a sand pit, but is able to negotiate money for a bigger opportunity in Bangkok.  Working for a touring company he helps a wealthy Chinese man have sex with a Thai woman by translating each to the other.  He gets invited to Shanghai where he gets embroiled in a drinking challenge.  There he meets up with an older mentor, Kanin and is given an opportunity.  He also meets up with a Chinese Thai woman, Xiao who seems very sophisticated.  You sense a romance, but it doesn't end the way you would hope.

Between Kanin and Xiao he does get started on an Express company, but soon finds himself betrayed and up against formidable obstacles.  The focus on the series is how he innovates and steels himself.  Constantly looking for investors with the major ones being Chinese.  Tension mounts, but he is a tough cookie.

Basically it is a business story with lots of crookery and determination to overcome it.  A little more physical action than might be typical.  Santi is a very likeable as is Xiao, but Kanin is evil.  It is engaging--one of the most intense bingeing adventures for me.

The cast and crew are key to its success.  Here are a few contributors.

Jira Maligool, was the executive producer who started the ball rolling.  He has 40 producer credits, 4 for directing and 8 for script and continuity including "How to Make Millions Before Grandma Dies" (2024).  See  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2025/04/how-to-make-millions-before-grandma-dies.html

Nottapon Boonprakob was the director and one of the writers.  He studied Social Documentary Film in New York.  He has 4 directing credits, 5 for writing and 3 for the camera and electrical department.

Tanida Hantaweewatana was a key writer.  She has 7 writing credits including "Bad Genius" (2017).  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2018/06/bad-genius-out-of-thailand.html  

 Vichaya Vatanasapt was the music composer.  He got a degree in architecture, but had joined a band and  soon helped form a music producing company.  He has 30 composing credits and 3 for the music department including "Bad Genius" (2017).

Phalao Jiraungkookun was the cinematographer.  He has 7 cinematography credits including one of my favorites, "Bad Genius" (2017).

Natara Nopparatayapon played Santi.  He studied Mandarin for two months and was able to master a two page monologue in that language.  He has 8 acting credits including "Delete" (2023).

Jane Methika Jiranorraphat played Xiao.  She was once a runner up for Miss Teen Thailand.  She joined a girl band and has been involved with singing.  Methika  was part Taiwanese and didn't have to learn Mandarin.  She has 23 acting credits.

Thaneth Warakulnukroh played Kanin, a ruthless business man.  He was a singer and also record producer.  Thaneth has 10 acting credits including "Pop Aye" (2017), "Bad Genius" (2017) and "Thai Cave Rescue" (2022).

Thailand has produced a number of memorable movies and is developing the necessary multitude of skills. "Mad Unicorn" is available on Netflix, subtitled or dubbed.

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  They are not necessarily a recommendation, but generally I found them worthy of my time and if you follow the links you should be able to determine if any film is worth following up.

Forget You Not--something from Taiwan not to be forgotten

Standup comedians are not people that attract my attention.  I saw the trailer for "Forget You Not" several times before making the decision to actually watch.  It wasn't what was expected, but left a strong impression.

It is not until the second episode that we learn how she got into being a standup comedian.  Prior to that we watched her wedding that took place after her comedy career had started. 

There is laughter, but a lot of sadness.  We learned about her mother abandoning her when Le-Le was only 8.  She learned English to look for her (she thought in the U.S.) and ended up a tour guide, but that career did not work out.  Her father seems forgetful, but gradually descended into dementia.

Ultimately the story is about the relationship of a father and daughter.  We follow right through his decline into dementia.  She has other relationships notably with two female friends and a husband.  Her husband was a successful lawyer from a wealthy family and although he tried to be understanding their marriage didn't last.

To create such an interesting film takes a number of talented people.  Here are some of the key ones.

Rene Liu was the director and one of the writers.  She graduated from California State University with a degree in music and went on to sing  on 20 music albums.  She has 35 acting credits, 2 for directing and 4 for writing. including "Us and Them" (2018).  

Shing-Ming Ho was another writer.  He graduated from Boston University.  Recently he was involved writing a mini series in main land China.  Shing-Ming has 8 writing credits, 1 for directing and 3 for the Sound Department including "Us and Them" (2018).

Ju-Feng Yeh was one of the producers.  She has 46 producing credits, 3 for additional crew and 2 for Production Manager including "A Sun" (2019).

George Chen is credited with music.  Not able to learn much about him except he has been a prolific music album producer and that much of the music in this film is enjoyable.  I am trying to track the song played during the closing titles.

Ying-Hsun Hsieh plays Cheng Le-Le,  the main character.  She has 35 acting credits including "Dear Ex" (2018), "Little Big Women" (2020) and "Wave Makers" (2023).  A favorite actress.

Chin Han plays the father, Cheng Kuang-chi.  He has 115 acting credits, 1 as a director and 1 as a writer.  

Esther Liu plays a close friend Huang Su Fei.  She also has been a prominent singer.  She has 34 acting credits including "Light the Night" (2021-2022).  

Wallace Huo plays her husband, Chang Kai.  He has 35 acting credits, 1 for producing and 4 for soundtrack including a cameo in "Light the Night" (2021-2022).   

Bo-Chieh Wang played the younger Cheng Kuang-Chi.  He has 43 acting credits including "Life of Pi" (2012) and "Light the Night" (2021-2022).

Chen Yiven plays Mark, the manager who hired  Le-Le for a stand up comedy platform and encouraged her telling personal stories, but not to the point of deflating the audience.  He has 42 acting credits, 5 directing and 3 for writing including "A Sun" (2019) and "The Falls" (2021)

Some of the listed Taiwanese films are covered in a previous blog:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/08/taiwan.html

You can watch "Forget You Not" subtitled or dubbed on Netflix.  I highly recommend it, but you might need a strong stomach.  At the same time you will find many moments very touching

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  They are not necessarily a recommendation, but generally I found them worthy of my time.  If you follow the link you might be able to determine if a particular film is worth following up.

As usual I have bolded the first mention of films I have seen.  They are not necessarily a recommendation, but generally I found them worthy of my time.  If you follow the link you might be able to determine if a particular film is worth following up. 

Abundance

Ezra Klein and Derek Thompson describes themselves as liberals, but in examining the future realize that liberals have gotten mired in regulations trying to make everything fair and environmentally friendly.  They don't spare conservatives very much either. 

The future has its share of problems caused in part by how we have muddled this far.  The title "Abundance" is meant to contrast with Scarcity.  Problems might be solved by restricting or expanding.  This post deals with a few issues, but there are many others discussed and more in depth how to approach them.

Home ownership as an investment depends on scarcity.  Zoning laws have been designed to exclude.   Home owners are careful about who and what they allow in their neighborhood.   These factors have contributed to an increase in homelessness in developed countries.    see http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2024/02/excluded.html

Although manufacturing productivity has dramatically increased construction has not.  Many construction projects not only end up costing more, but many of them are not completed.  The reason is for the increase is regulations and procedures.  Important adjustments will have to be made, but many of them will be very difficult if we aren't able to cut through a lot of red tape.  "There will be billions of equipment and appliances that will have to be replaced with renewables."

Science research is mired in bureaucracy, yet it has been fundamental to the economy.  Immigrant scientists have been an important part of American progress.  The book was published after the 2024 election and since then Donald Trump has made a big point of cutting a wide range of programs including for science research and attacked universities including foreign students.  Scientists and science students are starting to look elsewhere.

Operation Warp Speed illustrates contrasting perspectives.  It was one of the most successful national projects that saved countless lives, but Republicans who could take much of the credit for implementing it do not want to credit government with managing anything that important and it also ran into a segment of their supporters who were against vaccines.  Democrats do not like to credit Trump with anything good. 

The over riding reason that it worked was that key decision makers realized the Covid Pandemic was a real emergency and were able to cut through a lot of procedures.  

Republicans have been criticizing government- as "the problem"  and not a desirable place to work.  This contrasts with a very progressive Singapore where there is heavy competition for government jobs

Some new pathways to solve our current issues are discussed and I hope that more people become aware of the choices to be made.  We will need more than a few intelligent decision makers.

Both authors have attracted my attention and brought up worthy ideas for blogging.

Another post on Ezra Klein:  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2023/05/why-were-polarized.html

Another post of Derek Thompson:   http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2018/02/hit-makers.html

Immigration Has Become a Politcal Football

Politicians have too often felt anti-immigration to have been an important lever to win elections.  Easy for us to blame vote seekers, but much blame should be laid at voters. 

Yet we in Canada and the United States are nations of immigrants.  Even the indigenous are immigrants from Asia.  The development of needles was essential for Asian migrants to sew together furs to survive the bitter bold of the Arctic.  Immigrants are always looking for something better and most of them deliver benefits for most of us.

Migration is a very complicated.  We have a good idea how many people legally cross a border and a crude idea how many sneak across.  Stats aren't kept for how many people return to their home base or pass onto another destination.  There has always been internal migration, usually from rural areas to the bigger cities or between cities.  Life can be pretty rough for many and a few are determined enough to migrate.

Migration started before the very beginning of history.  Our earliest ancestors soon found a need to move either to find a more reliable source for food or to escape danger. 

America is a classic example of migrations.  When the Europeans first encountered the indigenous they were at first co-operative and later different European leaders aligned with different indigenous tribes.  Over time they overwhelmed the indigenous partly by force of arms, but just as important by disease.   America had been a dumping ground for undesirable Brits (also done to Australia).  Others saw America as an opportunity to get rich or at least get a new start.

Migration is essential for western societies that all have declining birth rates and aging populations.  Immigrants tend to be hard working, innovative and entreprenurial.  Their crime rates are lower than established citizens.  They end up paying taxes at least when they purchase items, but get very few benefits.

As happens the establishment resents intruders, especially if they are "different".  Slavery wasn't invented by Americans, but some ambitious people saw it as a vehicle for riches.  It was morally justified by the notion black Africans were inferior beings.  A driver of migration is the desire for cheap labor by wealthy individuals.  Chinese workers were brought to North America to help build national railways, but forbidden to bring women.  Although Mexicans bravely sneak across the southern American border there is a demand for their willingness to do menial jobs cheaply.  Britain brought large numbers of people from India and the West Indies to provide medical services.    

Another motive for empire nations is to control outlying areas.  Watched a film "Everything will be Alright" (2023) about a third generation family living in Latvia.  This was from a Russian attempt to control other nations within the Russian empire.  This has also been the case in Ukraine and the Russians have found sympathetic reception from some parts of Ukraine.

Donald Trump who had hired illegal migrants identified immigration as a big issue and has succeeded in stirring up hatred which helped win two elections.  Fertility rates and migration had indicated that whites would be in a minority position within a few decades.  He has gone so far as shipping some "illegal" immigrants without due process, but recently allowed a group of white South Africans refugee status.

Unlike the recent Trump regime some Canadian politicians see immigration as a tool for development.   I recall reading about Clifford Sifton encouraging Ukrainians  (and others) to settle western Canada before Americans moved in.  From my youth I remember my country welcoming Hungarians and later Vietnamese and Syrians and more recently Ukrainians.  Personally I benefited from them all.  But too much rapid immigration has caused problems for providing housing and education. 

The future is unpredictable with climate change and tumultuous global politics.  Many people will try to move to safer places.  We all need to understand migrants also have things to offer us.  It is unfortunately a global need, but there is competition between countries and different strategies and ignorance.  

"The Shortest History of Migration" (2024) carries lots of details.  It is not a particularly "short" account, but explains an important part of world history.  The author's family had traveled from Lithuania to England to South Africa and back to England.  He has a very good understanding of migration which will be an ever increasing world phenomenon.

"You're Not Listening"; Me Either

"You're Not Listening" was brought up at a birthday party where one husband carried the book seemingly acknowledging that he needed to be reminded to pay more attention to his wife.  Actually he always seemed more attentive than most.  Sneakily copied the title and author and a few days later picked up from the library.

Listening is a neglected skill.  Your life will improve when you improve your listening. 

 One is never too old to learn new things.  Bad habits hinder one's enjoyment of life.  I have plenty of them and suspect that most of you do as well.  It is not all your fault as you have learned them from your family and friends, plus society makes it difficult to always pay attention.

Stephen R Covey's 5th rule is "Seek first to understand then to be understood".   Why?  Because understanding enriches our lives.  It is natural to judge people on superficial awareness, but better to listen to what they are willing to tell you.  If you are really listening to them they will be more inclined to listen to you.

Are you guilty of interrupting, responding vaguely or illogically, looking at your phone or away from the speaker or fidgeting?  Most of us have done these and other poor habits.   What holds back really listening?  Our mind provides distractions.  Planning your response, thinking of another problem or something you would rather do are some of the things we do instead of listening.  

Talking with someone close to you creates a communication bias.  Familiarity too easily causes complacency.

Were you clearly able to hear what was being said?  Society subjects us to loud noises that damage our ears and interfere with conversations.  It is natural to guess or assume what was said, but you are not always correct.  Don't be shy, ask for a repetition which could be like asking for a clarification.   

There is more to listening than hearing.  Facial expressions and body language can reinforce what you are hearing or contradict the words.  When you are talking keep your eyes on your audience to see how they are reacting.

We fool ourselves into thinking we can do different tasks at an acceptable level of competence at the same time.  A favorite example of why this is wrong is a very common practice that I indulge in myself; listening to music while eating.  It certainly is more pleasant than gobbling food between tasks. If you are really honest you will admit that you are not quite catching all the music which might be better enjoyed laying down in the dark with earphones.  On the other hand the music can distract you so that you eat more than you might otherwise or you don't chew as thoroughly as you might otherwise or you might not savor the flavors quite as much.  That doesn't mean you shouldn't do it, but don't kid yourself, you are not getting the most out of the two activities.  Listening and daydreaming don't mix well.  See  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2022/05/stolen-focus-you-need-to-focus-before.html

Distractions are everywhere.  At a party, at home and at work.  When you really want to understand someone it is ideal to get away from the crowd.  At an open office you may need to get out or find an empty office.  

An effective response could be to support what was just said.  For example after the other person makes a statement you could support them by asking how they feel about it or how they reached that stage.

Sometimes an effective response is silence.  You are trying to digest what has been said, but another benefit is the other person feels compelled to say something.  This has worked for salesmen.

Learning what you are up against will help to mitigate negative results.  Ideally know about your audience and before expressing strong opinions try to assess their opinions.

Instead of "Acknowledgements" the author used "Gratitude" and refers to people who have helped her understanding of listening.  She obviously listened well to thousands of people and admits she has made a few mistakes herself.

"You're not listening" contains many ideas with some research to back them up.  The ideas I have squeezed out for my post are really just a few examples.  To understand her philosophy and get the most of the book you need to read it.  You will find it worth while.  I have found it with much needed advice which I may struggle to execute.

Every Body

"Every Body" (2023) opens up a mostly hidden part of humanity.  Sex is perhaps the most critical part of our identity.  A big part is physical, but along with that our cultural identity.  In our open society we realize the cultural part doesn't always line up.  We (some of us) have come to realize homosexuality is a preference of a significant part of society.  More recently we have learned that a smaller number of people have decided they are so unhappy with their identified sex that with modern technologies could change their physical genitalia to the "other" sex and are called transsexual.  Along the way were some people who were not satisfied with their sex, but were somewhat satisfied dressed as the "other" sex are known as transvestites.  There is an overlap between trans sexual people and intersex people but really they are separate.

About 1 1/2% of population is some variation of inter sex meaning some combination of male and female organs and hormones.  Secrecy surrounds as parents are ashamed making it difficult to know how many are involved.  Secrecy to the extent that even a twin sibling is not informed and in fact too often not the child.  Parents and medical authorities were looking for a quick fix with little regard to the psychological aspects.  An early example of inter sex phobia was that  parents were told not to have more children

A dramatic example was of a boy, David Reimer, born as a twin in Winnipeg, Canada.  A circumcision was recommended that went wrong and a penis was severely damaged.  The decision made was to reconstruct his genitalia to be a female and to be socialized as a girl.  He was given no choice, but at a later age rebelled and sought through surgery to be a male.  He did marry, adopted children and even was filmed in interviews shown in this film.  He later killed himself.

The three advocates, River Gallo, Sean Saifa Wall and Alicia Roth Weigel told their stories of being diagnosed with early fixes made without their consent.  As adults they have adjusted and become advocates for understanding, acceptance and legal changes.  Alicia was shown in Austin, Texas speaking up some legal aspects (bathroom accessibility) and leading protest march to end intersex surgery.

Donald Trump is doing a disservice to Americans by being self righteous about Transgenders.  Greg Abbott and other politicians feel they can invoke disgust for sexual variances for their political benefit.  Fear of the unknown is often used as a weapon.  Joe Biden was shown signing legislation to acknowledge and protect intersex people.  

I was born in 1948 and have gone through periods of queasiness regarding sexual identity.  Until a teenager not conscious there was anything different than two sexes and nervously wondered how they should interact.  Homosexuality was known as weird and possibly frightful.  See http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2015/05/sex-in-classroom.html to know my education to that point.  Since then my awareness of transsexuals became noticeable mainly through political attacks.  Now with this film I realize sexual identity is more complicated and hopefully I can boost my understanding and acceptance.

Some talented people helped to boost attention for intersex people.  Below are some of them.  Most of those listed participated in a dancing skit with pronouns for the end credits.

Julie Cohen was the director.  She has 12 credits as a director 11 as a producer and 3 as writer including the Oscar nominated "RBG" (2018).

Molly O'Brien was a producer.  She has 23 producer credits plus 6 for director and 2 for the camera and electrical department including the Oscar winner, "The Only Girl in the Orchestra" (2023).

Noah Oppenheim was an executive producer.  He is the president of NBC News.  He has 17 credits as a producer and 4 as a writer including "Jackie" 2016) and "Zero Day" (2025).

Amanda Yamate composed the music.  She has 22 composing credits, 6 for the music department and 1 for Soundtrack.

Leah Anova was a cinematographer.  She has 42 cinematography credits, 25 for the camera and electrical department and 1 as producer.

Kelly Kendrick was the editor .  He has 16 editor credits, 10 for the editorial department and 3 for composing.

River Gallo was one of the intersex advocates.  She has been involved in California to ban some intersex surgeries.  She has 16 acting credits, 5 for writing and 4 for directing.  

Alicia Roth Weigel, another of the intersex advocates has been with the Human Rights Commission in Austin, Texas.

Sean Saifa Wall, another of the intersex advocates was also a black compounding his identify.  He has traveled to Europe to advocate on part of intersex and was pleased to discover his face was part of a museum art wall.  

If you read my blogs you are always looking to expand your universe and for some this is another opportunity.  Available on Netflix.

Living Danish

The Danes seem to have a good life style.  They have consistently been among the top for the United Nations World Survey of Happiness Report.  This book concentrates on the workplace, but much can be useful elsewhere.

For my fellow retirees Miek finishes with "you may be retiring from something--but it is important to have something to retire to".

While you are working it amounts to about 1/3 of your life and effects everything else.  The number one factor to be happy is to have a purpose.  Feeling one is making the world a better place is important.  Also finding a purpose could involve feeling you have a meaningful role in the company.

If work doesn't give you a purpose, but you feel you can't quit, many people seek a purpose by volunteering.  Mihaly Csiksentmihalyi is known for the concept of flow. The ideal is to find activities when one is engaged in an activity where they are so engaged they lose concept of time.  If work doesn't seem to lead to flow, again volunteer work may offer more.

A controlling boss has a dilemma.  She (or he) may force a lazy worker to put in more effort, but others employees may resent the control and put in less effort.  Developing trust encourages employees to work harder.  Good bosses credit their team and recognize good efforts.  To build trust it is necessary to be honest, to think long term and to be empathetic.   

One of the stresses of work is commuting.  Seek employment near where you live (or move).  In Denmark cycling or walking to work is fairly common.  Meik points out "Cars run on money and make you fat--bikes run on fat and save you money".  

Money is sometimes required to put yourself in a happier work environment.  Meik suggests you should set up a fund for future opportunities.  It has been thought to be happy requires a lot of money, but wealth comes from having a lot of time to live and enjoy your time on this earth. 

The government can be very helpful in giving its citizens opportunities for happiness.  One area is to make it easier to bring new life into existence.  Some jurisdictions have a maternity leave and more recently that concept has expanded to paternity leave and even letting couples divide the time to their optimal benefit.  Meik suggests this allows couples to maximize their parental leave by adopting gender equality in household chores.

I have long listed Denmark as an example of proportional representation and their high ranking with the Happiness survey as a benefit.  Now I wonder are they happy because they picked an electoral conducive to happiness or is their happiness making them open to a better electoral system.  Years before my wife and I had enjoyed watching "Borgen" which illustrated the Danish electoral system and its logic.  See...  http://www.therealjohndavidson.com/2022/07/borgen.html

This a book well worth reading.  This post is only a taste of the good advice available in its pages.  Should be available at your local library or your favorite book seller. 

To keep up with the Happiness Research Institute see https://www.happinessresearchinstitute.com/

Canadian Election 2025

 The 2025 Canadian election is over resulting in a Liberal minority Parliament under the leadership of Mark Carney.  The focus of many voters was how to best defend ourselves against Donald Trump, the American president.  So much so, that strategic voting reared its ugly head.  

Of course there are many issues that ordinarily decide which direction Canadians want to steer the nation.  The economy, particularly at the household consumer level is critical.  Other issues include the environment, immigration, Quebec sovereignty, energy and foreign affairs.  But this time the American president insulted Canada saying we should become the 51st state and that we (and virtually all other nations) had ripped off America.  On the eve of the election he made further comments inappropriate at the time perhaps amounting to election interference.  His statements and attitudes became a decisive factor for many voters.

For me I had respect for three prime minister candidates.  I had met Jagmeet Singh at a Fair Vote Canada booth here in Hamilton during Labour Day.  Although not given enough credit for getting a dental plan running I appreciated it with a recent root canal.  Elizabeth May represents my highest priority, fighting climate change.  Mark Carney with his international banking experience strikes me as truly our best prospect to deal with Trump.  The Bloc Quebecois candidate, Yves-Francois Blanchet did impress with his manner at the debate, but his focus is on protecting Quebec's francophone interest which I can respect, but not my priority.  Pierre Polievre was not respected with a least two marks against him:  "Axe the tax" was offensive as was his support for the Freedom Convoy. 

I also respected our incumbent Matthew Green and assumed he would win my riding.  I had met him as a poll clerk in a previous election.  My assumption turned out to be wrong.

Strategic voting was more prominent than ever.   Enough voters agreed with my assessment about Mark Carney and the importance of the Trump confrontation.  The Bloc, the NDP and Green all lost seats to the Liberals.  At the same time the issue encouraged the biggest turnout of voters since 2015.  Two leaders lost their seats with probably the Trump dilemma being a primary factor.

Those who follow me on Facebook or my blogs know I detest Donald Trump and love proportional representation.  My highest voting priority is actually climate change which apparently was not a critical factor for the outcome.  The Conservatives were most against any action and most boosting the oil industry.

To me it is obvious climate change requires immediate attention and in fact the parties with at least some concern received the majority votes.  Despite that, it was not a factor.  The Liberals were concerned their carbon tax was a negative factor and dropped it for consumers.  The Conservatives funded by fossil fuel interests felt climate change was not worth discussing.  The Green party was cut out of the national debates due to the rules.  It is past time when those who want environmental policies get more power.   

Minority government will force some co-operation among the parties.  I think the threat of Trump will bring the NDP, Green and even the Bloc and Conservatives together on some votes.  But proportional representation could have been as effective while respecting the true priorities of Canadians.

During the election the one issue brought us closest to the U. S. system of two parties competing for power that comes with insults and bickering that has gotten worse.  The U.S. has as many issues as any country, but voters have less real choice. 

Trump is a bully claiming the world has taken unfair advantage of Americans and he is going to reverse the injustice.  In reality the U.S. has done more than its share of exploiting other nations.  American jobs were taken away by wealthy manufacturers to shift expenses to cheap labor countries and automation.  On the other hand poor immigrants have been exploited despite contributing a lot to the American economy and culture.

The use of Fentanyl is a poor excuse to hold against Canada and Mexico.  Americans have developed a desire for all sorts of illegal drugs to be smuggled in.  Mexico and Canada both are concerned about the smuggling of American guns to our countries that have been scooped up by criminal elements.

Another concern that is increasingly of concern is Western alienation, principally Alberta.  The tar sands are a major economic driver that politicians ignore at their peril.  Proportional representation offers everyone a more realistic choice who and how they want to be governed.  There are westerners concerned about the environment and other national issues. 

Matching popular voting with actual seats won, it worked reasonably for the Liberal (with 49.27% of the seats on 43.7% of votes),  Conservatives (with 41.9% of seats and 41.3% of votes) the Bloc Quebecois (with 6.4%@ of seats and 6.3% of votes).  Not so great for the NDP (2.04% of the seats and 6.3% of votes) or the Green (with .0029% of the seats and 1.3% of votes).  Both the NDP and Green parties lack official status.  

For me, a new observation regards the two unsuccessful leaders, Jagmeet Singh and Pierre Polievre.  Under a proportional representation system they could easily have been given a seat to better represent their views.

The Trump confrontation certainly helped bring out more voters, but there are other pressing issues.  A lot of voters concluded their vote would be wasted, but in what is perceived as with an existential crisis they will adjust with strategic voting.  Canadians deserve real choices.  Ultimately proportional representation offers a much better choice than First Past the Post.  Other nations, somehow overcome the opposition of politicians who don't want to tinker with the system that got them into power.

Yes, I am preaching a bit.  Proportional representation not only offers real choices, but politicians have to learn to co-operate.  You may think it a coincidence but when the United Nations brings out its World Happiness Report it is nations with proportional representation that  hog the top spots. 

Don't be shy.  If you agree, or don't or have questions feel free to let me know.