The Tattoo By Chris Mckinney

The Tattoo reads like an almost Dickensian tale of how the dysfunction of a working class “ohana” suffers the fate of corrupting future generations and condemning the main characters to a life unrealized potential. The book takes place deep in the heart Oahu’s Windward side where cultural pride stands tall alongside the lush scenery.  The story unfolds in flashback as the main character, Kenji Hideyoshi, recounts the events that shaped the unfortunate path his life takes. He describes his past in an unfiltered, genuine, and at times shocking manner but it serves a very important purpose in relating his story. Through his depiction of life, readers have the opportunity to glimpse into the issues plaguing his family and community. 

             The story establishes a tight knit community in which old time values and traditions flourish.  People customarily camp out on at the beach and take pleasure living off the land. Within the community there is a generous affection for alcohol and group centered activities.  It is under these circumstances that Kenji embarks on his ill-fated journey riddled with obstructions to his growth.  The journey causes him to challenge who he is and what his place should be in society. His father (who reluctantly must take on the role of guide after the premature demise of his wife) truculently educates him on how to survive in the environment by way of cultural transmission.  Ever present in the story is the rich history of the Samurai from his own Japanese heritage coupled with his father’s heavy-handed nature passed down from the previous generation. In a pivotal scene Kenji recalls the night his father beat him to a proverbial pulp for disrespecting the family heirloom samurai sword. The aftermath leaves Kenji needing cosmetic surgery to repair damage done to his mouth. By 17, Kenji is no longer a timid skinny kid. He is a fighter with fists have been road tested triumphantly against the flesh of others.

What makes this community so close besides shared values and socioeconomic status is that overwhelming resentment directed toward “haoles”.   There is a historical context for which to interpret the general disdain and frustration of locals considering the wealth on the island is disproportionately in favor those descendants who invaded the once sovereign land. Several incidents occur that illustrate that fact. It is if these little episodes will somehow settle the score of what has been taken from the native Hawaiian.  But it never does.

Though Chris McKinney serves up this tale in a culture specific fashion, the story has universal appeal. As a reader, I feel as though I learned something more about myself and my own historical make up. I suppose that is power great literature with create archetypical characters. It has the ability to make readers shed the individual cloaks of culture we all wear to reveal our true humanity.

Breast Feeding Vent

Recently, I learned that the largest purchaser of baby formula is our government through the WIC program to the tune of 850 million in 2010 alone.  A fact that I find surprising especially since breast milk offers the best nutrition for growing babies. And yet, the government chooses to subsidize the purchase of formula for low income mothers in lieu of promoting natural way . While Republicans salivate at the opportunity to cut funding for Medicare and Social Security, I am starting to wonder if politicians really function in the best interest of constituents.

Currently, I myself am 3 weeks into breastfeeding my newborn. While I can not deny that it that requires serious effort, the benefits outweigh the challenges.

There is scientific proof that breastfeeding provides protection against allergies, SIDS, obesity, and also guards the mom against cancer. However, the voice to promote this option to new mothers is strangely silent. Could it be that the lobbyists who campaign on behalf of the infant formula industry have more impact on the decisions that representatives make than actual citizens?

First lady Michelle Obama received negative criticism while attempting to promote healthy eating habits for kids. Political opponents point out that the first lady's recommendation was the equivalent to the government dictating how parents should raise their kids. My question is doesn't the government already do that with laws to protect the safety of children? With childhood diabetes and obesity at an all time high. You would think it would be a no brainer to take steps to slow down the trend. 

I dont know maybe it is just me...But it seems like more often than people like to accept the easy way of doing things. Since when did we become the nation of slackers? Could it be that our government has served to enable behavior rather than making people more self sufficient?

   

Tropical Latin Flava on Oahu

With their intoxicating combination of rhythms and vocals, Son Caribe provides a weekly dose of "Sabor Tropical" (better known as Latin flavor) to the dedicated patrons of 4Play nightclub every Wednesday.

The evening begans around 9 p.m. at 99-016 Kamehameha Hwy just above Dixie's Grill in Aiea. The admission fee of $10 guarantees a complimentary dance lesson in addition to the live band. Dancers, at varying levels of expertise, file in eager to learn some new steps courtesy of dance coach Philip Duong.

Though there are more women strapped in professional dance shoes than heels, the vibe is laid back. Partners rotate after practicing the steps to ensure that everyone has a chance to grasp the routine. After an hour the lights are dimmed, and the real fun begins.

As Son Caribe takes the stage, strobes lights begin to circle the room beckoning people to the dance floor. The selections of the band mix bachata, merengue, salsa and cha-cha-cha. The music balances the classics and original pieces accompanied by Spanish and English vocals. Patrons dance on their clothing clings to their bodies and pellets of sweat fell to the floor.

 "It's like they know exactly what to play. When they played Pedro Navaja, I almost lost it. The song brought back so many memories of growing up Nueva York." Alma said.

It is no secret that Son Caribe is well versed in what keeps the crowd moving. They have been performing for quite some time. Their history is full of performances with the likes Poncho Sanchez, Tito Puente, and the queen of salsa Celia Cruz. It is no wonder that audiences from the Philippines to Korea request for them to perform there.

Dying for a Shot

Justin Amorratanasuchad, a Seattle resident, recently lost his life on April 18th, from injuries sustained while filming a school project at Emerson college in Boston, Massachusetts. Authorities believe that Justin fell from the roof of a six story building after he lost his balance while backing up to get a shot. Amorratanasuchad was a junior studying film at Emerson. In an interview his brother lamented his passing and reflected on his passion to make films.


This is the second time in a matter of months that a film student lost his life in an effort to get a shot. While I am looking forward to doing great things with film. These incidents remind me to be cautious in my decisions as they could have serious repercussions. Whether you are setting up lighting, making sure cords are taped down, or simply shooting there is an element of danger. Though the university does its best to educate us students about safety we as students have to be more vigilant to avoid tragedies like this in the future.


R.I.P young film maker....You did not quite reach your full potential...but you will not be forgotten. Oprah say that tragedies like this one provide the world with valuable lessons. Maybe she is right as I am definitely more alert whenever I shoot. 

Politics Aside: We Need Our Money

I did not have to go far to find the topic for this blog. As a military spouse and mother, the government shut down weighs heavily on my mind. WTF!!! Troops don't question when asked to put their lives on the line to fight for this country. The least our government can do is ensure that they are paid for that service.

The politicians in Washington, D.C. share the blame for this situation. The Democrats failed to pass a budget when they had the power last year. And now, the Republicans are so drunk with power that they are leaning closely toward to shutting the government down. Rather than come to some sort of mature compromise. This is not just about my family. Their actions have wide ranging impacts that stretch much farther than the military.

Something Different in the World of Homogenized Music

Putumayo Music 

 With the world in such turmoil, one might expect the artists of the world would tap into the pain and anguish of others to create great works especially with music. Some of America's greatest works found ways to capture the sentiment of the people to motivate and express emotion. These days radio stations have become increasingly homogenized opting to play the same 20 songs all day long. So, I went on a search to find music that captivated me and stumbled upon Putamayo. 

"Guaranteed to make you feel good" is what Putumayo World Music proclaims as its slogan. Since its inception, the company has been true to its word.

At Putumayo, the people truly care for the countries of the artists they spotlight. As a result, a portion of the proceeds go to support various aid programs. Listeners can enjoy the music and help. By bridging the gap between old world traditions and contemporary rhythms, the melodies, and sound allow the listener to embark on a cultural odyssey. 

"One World, Many Cultures"

For those uncertain where to begin in Putumayo's catalog, "One World, Many Cultures" provides a sampling of the label's most popular artist collaborations. Ziggy Marley, Idan Raichel, Willie Nelson and Cheb Mami are just a few of the artists who lend their voices to the project. The music communicates a message of optimism and unity. The playlist is as upbeat as a child on a sugar high, yet it never comes down. It leaves the listener craving more.

"The Idan Raichel Project"

Originating in Israel, where many believe that God's chosen people reside, the Idan Raichel Project emerged three years ago. At 27, Idan Raichel lead an ensemble cast of musicians by creating and producing music. Like calming waters lapping against the beach of intolerance, the group's message resonates in the minds of people all over the world. In Israel alone, the album has been certified platinum three times. The troupe intermingles Ethiopian and Hebrew folk music, illustrating how collaboration between different ethnic tribes can yield remarkable results. The CD plays like a symbolic narrative that speaks to a higher power, tradition, history and the overwhelming power of love. People come away from CD clinging to the idea of prolonged peace in the Middle East.

"Acoustic Africa"

From the sun-kissed beaches along the Ivory Coast to the birthplace of Nelson Mandela, "Acoustic Africa" gives a glimpse into the true African spirit. The CD beckons listeners to abandon preconceived notions about the continent and experience the cultural safari that makes Africa so unique. These are different native tongues, countries and customs, but the message conveyed is one voice. With the sincerity of a malnourished babies' cry, the choirs touch the listener even if they don't necessarily understand the words.

"Radio Latino"

"Radio Latino" spotlights an eclectic mix of the most popular alternative and rock artists. Among the artists featured is Las Orishas, who was dubbed by Time magazine as "one of the 10 most important groups outside the U.S.". Hailing from the culturally rich island of Cuba, the group effortlessly blends Cuban son with hip-hop rhythms. Not to be outdone is Latin Grammy winner Jorge Moreno. Young and hip, giving a voice to American-born Cubans, Jorge tackles love triangles with a twist. With the intensity of spicy mojo chicken, the music draws in the listener, enveloping the senses. Other artists spanning from as far as Spain and Venezuela chime in, bringing the warmth and creativity of the Latin world to the masses.

Inspired by Kumu interview

In Defense of Libya's Gadhafi

Minister Louis Farrakhan, one of America’s most polarizing figures, offered a stern warning to the President during a recent radio address. The warning comes on the heels of NATO’s decision to intervene in Libya.

“Be careful how you manipulate the dissatisfaction in Libya and other parts of the Muslim world” stressed Farrakhan.

The warning addresses military operations that commenced on March 20,2011 led by President Obama with the assistance of NATO. The stated plan is to create a no fly zone in Libya. Military leadership refer to the exercise as Operation Odyssey Dawn which includes air strikes on strategic strongholds of the Libyan dictator Muammar Gadhafi.

Never one to shy away from his truth regardless if people label it as incendiary, Minister Farrakhan further explained that the US has ulterior motives for entering Libya.   

“Don't tell me and wise Black people or White people that you're interested in Black suffering. Where were you in Rwanda? Where are you in the Congo? Why did you go to Darfur? Because oil is there! No, you don't want to save the Libyan people, that's your noble motive to hide your wicked agenda."

For those too young to remember, Farrakhan leads the Nation of Islam. It is an American group of Black Muslims that focus on Black Nationalism and commitment to what the Koran teaches. Elijah Muhammad founded the group in 1930. It spiked in popularity as blacks in the Civil Rights era searched for alternatives in leadership and spirituality. Most notable past members include Malcolm X and Muhammad Ali.

Renee Muhammad, a long time follower of the Nation offered additional insight into latest bone of contention for the Minister.

She declares that “[Minister Farrakhan] calls it like he sees it… He opens up every speech in the name of God”.

When questioned about the minister’s association with Muammar Gadhafi, she admits that Gadhafi is not without faults.

“He will have to answer to God for those faults. But what I am saying is that it is not America’s position to go and decide that he has to go…. That is like me telling you what you can do in your own house.”

With such damming evidence piling up on Gadhafi it is difficult to believe that he has any friends left. However, Minister Farrakhan has held steadfast in resolve to be loyal. When asked how can he continue justify that connection?

Renee Muhammad declares that people in general should not  “make the evidence fit [the] premise.” Meaning rather than surmise that the explanation offered up as the truth, people must go out and seek the truth for oneself.

Renee Muhammad also points out that in the build up to Iraq, the government offered up evidence that did not come to fruition. She says, “the term red herring comes to mind…The government has done many things to get the people all flurried up about going to war. Bush lied about weapons of mass destruction.”

Whether or not the public agrees with the rhetoric espoused by Farrakhan, one has to admit that it seems a bit odd that calls for increased dialogue are coming not Nobel Peace prize winner President Obama but from Minister Farrakhan as evident by the impassioned plea to the US president.

 “Why don’t you organize a group of respected Americans, and ask for a meeting with Gadhafi? You can’t order him to step down, and get out-who the hell do you think you are, that you can talk to a man that built a country over 42 years, and ask him step down and get out? Can anybody ask you? Well, well there’s a lot, now, [that are] going to ask you to step out of the White House, because they don’t want a Black face in the White House,” said Minister Farrakhan.”

The Minister’s warnings take on an almost ominous tone as he warns of the unrest in our back yard.

He cautioned. “Be careful, brother, how you handle this situation because it is coming to America! It has already started. Look in Wisconsin! Look in Ohio! Look at what’s going on in your country! And remember your words because the American people are rising against their own government: It’s not Muslims; it’s not Black people! It’s White militias that are angry with their government, and they are well armed. Are you going to tell them-’Put your arms down, and let’s talk it over peacefully?’ I hope so. But if not, America will be bathed in blood, not because Farrakhan said so, but because the dissatisfaction in America has reached the boiling point.”

Critics of the president’s actions come from both sides of the political aisle as many lament the possibility of the United States engaging in another war. The reasons not to engage are blaring. The economy is still in a precarious position. Unemployment is still high. We are already fighting two wars. In addition, the country is facing budget cuts that will severely impact communities across America. One can only hope cooler heads will prevail even if the message comes in an unanticipated manner.

Japan tragedy means spells big business for the makers of Iodide tablets

Let me start off by saying the tragedy in Japan is horrific. I pray for a speedy recovery for the country and it people. But, this blog is not about the crisis in Japan. It is about the hypochondria that seems to grip this country ever time there is a world issue.

Remember those African killer bees, SARS, or more recently  Swine flu. It is one thing to be cautious. But it is another to incite pandemonium. For that, I blame the media as a whole for their news coverage of the tragedy. They have gone far beyond making people aware of the crisis and nuclear threat.  They are all recycling information and news footage. I realize that in news, reporters are supposed to localize the story to make people more empathetic. But, this leans toward the irresponsible. 

Here is Washington, iodide tablets are flying off the shelves as people brace themselves for radiation coming from Japan. Experts readily admit that we are exposed to radiation everyday from the ground, cell phones, and other things in the atmosphere. And yet, people seem not to care.

How about for once all the Americans looking to protect their backsides think of someone other than themselves? Why not send the tablets to people who really need them? There are people in Japan with very little food, water, and clothing. In addition, they are grappling with the serious threat of radiation exposure. I swear it seems like we are unfazed by world tragedies unless it affects us. Are we that narcissistic? 

Maybe it is just me. But when your friend is down, you try to do everything in your power to pick them back up. Your issues become secondary when you genuinely care. As an American, I don't think we really care. What do you think?

Globetrotters in Seattle

I have to admit. As a kid, I always thought that the Harlem Globetrotters were just as good as the players in the NBA. Maybe it was the tricks and high flying antics that always seemed to end miraculously in favor of them.

Recently, my daughter wanted to see them in person. So, we traveled to Seattle to catch a glimpse of the team in action. To say that it was a well choreographed display would be an understatement. I wondered if it was just me who noticed it. The rest of the crowd seemed not to mind. It was a spectacle of sorts complete with dance performances and audience participation. My daughter kept asking why they were really playing. It surprised me too.

All and all, it was a day of fun with the family. However, I no longer feel that they could handle even the worst that the NBA has to offer.

Charlie Sheen and Libya's Gadhafi go together like PB&J

For some reason, the world is obsessed with bat sh*t crazy people. Like the current PB&J sandwich of news stories focused on Charlie Sheen and Libya's Muammar Gadhafi.

At least our concern about Libya is warranted given their oil reserves and our incessant addiction to oil. (Oh yeah, there are human lives at stake. For a moment, I got all wrapped up in America's narcissism.) I am hesitant to say that America should get involved given our  government's current predicament. With two wars, a very fragile economy, and our mounting debt, we are in no position to take the lead on this one. Not to mention helping rebels has back fired in the past.

My hope is that this unrest changes the American outlook on what energy sources we rely on and continue to depend on in the furture.  Maybe, it will spur a push for real innovation and access to alternative sources of energy. Here in Seattle, there are plug in stations for cars and more to come. At least that is one step toward breaking our dependency on oil.

It is no secret that our addiction to oil continues to make us vulnerable. My fear is that the American public will began to tune out this crisis and focus more on Charlie Sheen's unraveling. Or even worse try to apply pressure on our government to "drill, baby drill".

How is it that Charlie Sheen gets the same media focus as evil dictator who is murdering his own people? Let's see the vulnerability of an entire country vs. crazy antics of a hollywood playboy. Hmmm, I imagine for some it is a difficult choice. I guess people don't care about the connection between what we consume and how it gets to us. Living vicariously through the rich and famous matters more.

I must have been living under a rock because until recently because I did not know that this "2 and Half Men" was still on. I mean who watches that show anyway? It is not as if Charlie is a comedian. His antics simply spotlight his addition to drugs. Yet the viewing audience can't seem to turn away. Secretly, I think people  enjoy watching to the rich and famous crash and burn. It helps people feel better about their miserable lives.  

Well, not me. My life is far from perfect but I have better things to do with my time than be engaged by his foolishness. In protest, I have begun turning the channel. I am over it. Who cares about his girlfriends, the loss of custody for his kids, or even the network firing him.

The media is supposed to provide the public access to current news issues. However, it seems more often than not they grab a hold of topic and knaw on it til it has lost all the flavor. In my opinion, that is a diservice to the public and the issue of focus. Even my daughter has her limits when it comes to PB&J. By the 5th day in a row, she throws it in the trash.

But that is just my opinion...

Transitions

If there was a book that chronicled my life, it would be titled "Transitions". Only a couple of months into this stint in Washington. I am almost overwhelmed with changes. No sun to brighten my days only gloom. No breathtaking views of the ocean only gray. To be honest, It  discourages me from leaving my house.

The news is not helping. Just today, several soldiers were killed by a gunman in Frankfurt, Germany as they made their journey to a war zone. Here, I am about to watch my fella board a plane and I am uneasy. To make matters worse a soldier from here is coming home in a body bag. Is there anything positive on the news these days. It makes me think twice about bringing another life into this world.

NPR mentioned today that those protestors who picket military funerals won a supreme court victory. The ruling essentially protects their freedom of speech even in its vulgarity. As a spouse, I am appalled by the behavior and I am not sure how I would react in the same position of the grieving family, but on some level i understand. Freedom of speech is important to our (fragile at times) democracy. Maybe it is time to ignore them in the media. Without a mechanism to spread their hateful speech, maybe they will go away.

I would like to able to blog about things that bring me joy but today I am not in the mood. I think that is why so many people escape into movies. At least, for those couple of hours there are no worries. People can lose themselves in character and things become possible. The guy rescues the girl and they live happily ever after.

CRAZY SNOW

I figured I would take a moment away living vicariously through my favorite characters on television and venture out into the real world. Apparently in Washington, it is snowing like crazy. But unlike in the South, life goes on as usual.

People still went to work and kids were expected to attend school. This is the most snow that I have ever seen. My daughter made snow angels for the first time and almost froze her tuckus off. Not to mention, I actually had a chance to drive in the snow it felt like blizzard conditions to me. However, people were barreling down the highway as if it did not matter to them.

I must say I put my little Volvo to the test. I felt like I was an extra on the set of "White Christmas" enjoying the scenery except with black people. The news said "tomorrow to expect freezing temperatures". I am so thankful that I everything I need is close by. Today was a good day. For a moment, I felt like a kid again almost wanting to taste the snow. I couldn't get past pollution and other contaminants in the air.

I have to admit that I miss Hawaii a little less on this day. But don't hold your breath for tomorrow. I am sure my general distaste for the area will return.

Aloha from Washington

Unstoppable on Blue Ray

So my husband came home all excited to watch another nail bitter film on the flat screen. This week's selection is Denzel's latest flick "Unstoppable". From the start the concept in film reminded that of "Training Day" with everything occurring in one day and Denzel accompanied by a younger attractive counterpart.

But that is where the similarities stop. In this film, the antagonist appears to be the train but it certainly aided by a corporation that cares more about the bottom line than human life. Both Denzel and his counterpart are thrust into this position of having to work with each other.

"Frank", as Denzel is known in the film, is charged with training a new conductor played by Chris Pine. Their training session sets them on a collision course with a runaway train. Rather than stand by and risk the lives of thousands of residents in their community, Frank decides to try and stop the train. While I won't give away the ending, I enjoyed watching the story unfold.

The director did a great job keep me engaged with limited camera angles in the small train compartment.  There was ample aerial shots that really offered a glimpse of how dangerous a runaway train could be.

All and all definitely a must see.........

For Colored Girls.....

Just watched this movie on DVD. Where do I begin? Had I known that this was based on a play entitled "For Colored Girls who have Considered Suicide", I could have mentally prepared for what ensued on screen. Abusive relationships, issues of rape, abortion, suicide,  and HIV fight for equal screen time with no beak in between. It at times seemed overwhelming to digest as one incident after another left the characters broken and yet miraculously coherent enough  to spout sonnets of pain and frustration.

The cast was impressive to say the least with the like Whoopi, Phylicia Rashad, Thandie Newton and Anika Noni Rose. Each of which offered captivating performances of struggle. If I am not mistaken almost every main character cried. It started remind of "Precious" where the director served up a feast of misfortune to a captive audience only expecting snack.

In some ways Tyler attempts to be so introspective, deep, and preachy at times that I lost my connection to the characters. Not to mention the poetry disrupts the flow of the film to me. It was too much to digest at once.

Hopefully, Tyler can stop reaching for extremes in society and began to reflect it as it is. But that is just my novice opinion.

Alfred Hitchcock presents

Couldn't sleep last night as I wrestled with a looming dead line and lack of inspiration, so I flipped through the channels. I stumbled upon this channel called RTV. Apparently, they play a lot classic t.v. shows. Intrigued, I settled in to watch an episode of Alfred Hitchkock presents (1962). The story started out somewhat sad with a young girl losing both parents. (The young girl had the biggest puppy dog eyes you ever did see.) Within minutes, the story line had me emotionally attached.

A relative took the young girl in and quickly found that the child had an unusual past time which was talking with imaginary friends. Initially, the young girl alarms her care giver with this behavior and is urged to stop. However, to no avail. (At this point, I trying to figure out what type of mechanics will Mr. Hitchcock employ to deliver something truly unexpected. I mean, what harm could this be for a six year old to have fake playmates? )

As the irritation grows, the care givers delegates the duties of watching the young girl to her African American servant maid and driver. They listen and engage the young child so much so that she reveals intimate details of what she does with her friends. (Much to the chagrin of her care giver if I might add.)

After a summer of shenanigans, the little girl's grandfather comes to town and carries with him a present for the girl. It was a black doll almost as big as the girl. (Now, it was a blast from the past to see black servants.  But to give the girl a servant doll really had my attention)....Just as the little girl confided in the servants before she wasted no time regaling them with adventurous tales and what she would do should her care giver come between her and her friends.

The struggle between herself and caregiver became so strained that it pushed the young girl to a place of no return.

I won't divulge how it ended but it was an hour well spent. The foreshadowing was spot on and I can't wait to catch another episode. Classic :O)

Julie and Julia

Just watched Julie and Julia, I have to say that it would appear to be just another romantic comedy that women have become accustomed to watching. However, to my surprise food takes center stage and viewers have an opportunity to fall in love much like the characters. The story line was rich. There were times were I laughed and cried.  I felt like a fly on the walls at times. In fact, I applaud the writers for not giving viewers everything the expected. All and all, it is a must see.

Act of War: Reaction

This is my first post of the semester, so I thought it might be good to introduce myself. My name is PatriceW. I am a miltiary spouse who was recently plucked from the island of Hawaii and dumped into gloomy Washington. At the moment, I am freezing. However, at some point I hope to get accustomed to the weather.

This place is truly different than any other place that I have known. Coming from the south, this is some extreme culture shock. I have to admit, I have no desire to my house. It is one of the reasons we have cable.   I am fine living in solitude as long as I have my remote to escape with characters in story.

I look forward to this semester and hope to learn some tricks to add to my arsenal.

____________________________________________________________________________________
Coming from the mainland, my understanding of the annexation of Hawaii was limited at best. I knew there a story. But, I did not give it much thought. After living on the island, it becomes  obvious the disparity between the haves and the have nots.

After watching Act of War, I have better sense of why things are the way they are.  The documentary serves up harsh facts through the perspective of the Hawaiian people. At times, people are hostile. Issues like homelessness, poverty, and lack of education continue to plague many native islanders.

Though strategic for the U.S., the annexation proved costly to the Hawaiians. The documentary sheds a much needed spotlight on how the people of Hawaii were stripped from culture and land. It further illustrates how systematically it was done. Ironically, the documentary did lay blame solely on the U.S government. There were agitators on island who urged the government to act.

All and all, Act of War provided the alternative perspective I was looking for to  explain the situation now.