Violated

I just received a call from Chase, who informed me that some unusual activity had occurred on my card. Turns out someone charged over $1500.00 using my account at three locations in Georgia.

I was connected to the fraud department, who verified that I did not make the charges, closed my account, and answered my tsunami of questions. They are launching an investigation, which will include trying to get security camera images of the person/persons responsible. I won’t know anything for 10-15 days.

I am completely distraught. I have no idea what to do. This is the only credit card account that I have, but I’m worried about the money in my checking account. I’m worried sick about identity theft, but know it’s too early to check my credit report. I feel a strong desire to go through and change all of my online passwords, even though I know that’s probably a silly idea. The thought of ever using a credit or debit card again terrifies me.

I feel incredible anger at the assholes who did this. I can imagine them gathering up clothing and other merchandise, then grinning like Cheshire cats while sliding my card through the reader. I want them to pay in ways that don’t involve money.

Anyone have any experience with this type of thing? I’d appreciate your words of wisdom.

The Purpose Of Art

“The purpose of art is to comfort the afflicted, and to afflict the comfortable.”

That quote was posted in the comments section over at Fighting Windmills several months ago, and it crossed my mind this evening after watching a foreign film that left me feeling quite uncomfortable.

The Bubble tells the rather tortured love story of two men living in Israel - one Palestinian and one Jewish. The conflict between their two regions threatens to tear them apart at every turn, but they struggle through, determined to have a relationship despite the odds. The shocking ending left me feeling terribly disturbed, sheltered, and thankful to be living in a country where my problems are more like minor inconveniences when compared to other parts of the world.

Sarah Palin Supports Federal Ban On Gay Marriage

Looks like my love affair with Mrs. Palin has come to an abrupt end.

Republican vice presidential nominee Sarah Palin says she supports a constitutional amendment banning gay marriage, a break with John McCain who has said he believes states should be left to define what marriage is.

In an interview with Christian Broadcasting Network, the Alaska governor said she had voted in 1998 for a state amendment banning same sex marriage and hoped to see a federal ban on such unions.

“I have voted along with the vast majority of Alaskans who had the opportunity to vote to amend our Constitution defining marriage as between one man and one woman. I wish on a federal level that’s where we would go. I don’t support gay marriage,” Palin said. She said she believed traditional marriage is the foundation for strong families. (Yahoo News)

Pretty is as pretty does, Sarah, and you’re looking rather ugly right now.

I ♥ Sarah Palin

There’s no way I’m voting for her, but she was such a hoot on SNL. Especially during Weekend Update when Amy Poehler did the rap song about her as Sarah bobbed her head and waved her arms in the air. I love her down-to-earthiness and think she is absolutely gorgeous.

Just Sayin’

Some celebrities have joined forces with GSLEN for a public service advertising campaign to raise awareness of anti-gay language among teenagers. We’ve all heard the expression “That’s so gay!” and I’ve been guilty of using it myself.

Here’s comedian Wanda Sykes telling some teenage boys to think before they speak:

Read more at thinkb4youspeak.com.