Feminism in "I Dream of Jeannie"!

As an opinionated, critical feminist, things in the media tend to make me want to puke. I Dream of Jeannie is no exception- how can any good come out of a TV show which features a half-dressed woman with magical powers who's existence is centered upon her "master." Regardless, the episode "My Turned-On Master" caught my attention the other day. I was pleasantly surprised with the messages of feminism which slipped their way into the show. The episode was about Jeannie giving her powers to Captain Nelson for 24 hours in order to attend a formal dinner with him. The trick is that he doesn't know he holds the power of magic for half the episode. While still unaware of his power, he talks about Jeannie being a silly girl who doesn't know enough to do anything meaningful or good with her power. He goes on to say that he would be able to make the entire world better with magic; he could end war, drought, ect. Then, when Jeannie breaks the news that he has her powers, he turns into a jerk. He tells her he will finally be able to save the world, and shoos her away. The best line occurs when Captain Nelson tells Jeannie to leave him to do "men's work" to which she replies, " "It was women's work when I was doing it." In the end, she laughs at his self-righteous and simple understanding of the problems of the world, and he ends up losing his magical abilities.
I really enjoyed the perspective of this episode. While men are viewed as more capable as political leaders than men by our culture, I Dream of Jeannie shows how a more feminine approach is a sign of intelligence and experience. Captain Nelson embodies the masculine attitude of "knowing it all" and "knowing what to do." Unfortunately, much of what is done with this attitude is harmful, and Jeannie explaines this to him. Jeannie, on the other hand, represents the feminine traits of thoughtfulness and patience. It is unfortunate that she cannot be more involved or interested in the "world problems" which Captain Nelson is concerned about, since her strong character could come up with realistic and sound solutions which he is far far away from.

How to Fight Foreclosure

Hello!

I just watched a report on a woman in California who's home was foreclosed recently, and she responded in the most badass way possible- by chaining herself to her house. While she knows that eventually she will be removed, this is one easy way to stand up and say that you will not leave without a fight. I urge every person facing a foreclosure to continue to live in your home or chain yourself to your home... anything to exercise the power you have and deny the power that the banks have. I urge people to make these actions in order to support each other. No one is alone in having their homes foreclosed.

What is sad and scary is the more extreme actions which have been employed by victims of foreclosure. People have been committing suicide as an extreme way of protesting the banks. The idea is "I will not leave my home alive." I am definitely not advocating this. But if people are killing themselves out of desperation, what other things can each of us do to support each other? We cannot allow a few wealthy individuals to break us down in order to make even more money. This does not need to happen, and these people do not deserve what is happening to them. So think about it... I'll think about it. I cannot stand aside while this happens just because I'm lucky enough to have a secure place to live right now.

Watch the report here: http://www.cbs8.com/ (look for "Woman Chains Herself to Foreclosed Home)
Read here: http://www.wowowow.com/post/california-woman-chains-herself-home-prevent-bank-taking-it-video-130833

rant, skip if you please

this is the 5th or so night that my house's fire alarm has gone off. everyone is getting frustrated, understandably. it's this huge, abrasive system of formalities & communication is insignificant. what i really want to point out is that it is illegal to tamper or cover your fire alarms... in your own house. maybe i want to burn to the ground or maybe i don't want the city or state's help. it seems absurd that the legal system is forcing "safety." there is nothing personal or caring about it and i hardly feel like my well being & "the better good" is the interest of anyone, much less some huge system. just really, who's well being & interests are tied up in this way of doing things?

i appreciate my housemates dealing with the situation and looking out for each other. that much i am glad for.