My plan for today was to take a break, to contemplate the wisdom of participating in all things political. I know many Americans who go about life without even watching the morning news. They appear to enjoy a life that is filled with less drama than my own.
Old habits are difficult to break. I’m sure those who become addicted to caffeine or nicotine understand the subconscious call for a fix. I rationalize, no TV news today, perhaps just a quick look at my email in basket.
Of course, my provider has created a profile of my interests. I need only click on news of the day to find articles of interest. Before sharing the only article that piqued my interest, indulge me by reading just a brief trip down memory lane.
I once considered myself a fiscal conservative. My father often shared his first hand horror stories of the Depression and debt. He was a social liberal, a union leader, a spiritual man, not a religious man. He had no desire for wealth or fame, just “a roof over his head, a workman’s uniform, and a warm meal”. These values, his values, served me well through most of my adult life.
There was a time when I both admired and respected Senator McCain. My father, like Jon Stewart, found his “maverick” style appealing. (Sarah is no maverick; she is a diva with an expiration date)
Where was I, oh, on a “Horse with No Name” (it’s not on my playlist, nonsense lyrics, no message). Pay no attention, word association, maverick, horse, music, my brain circuits often misfire, no drugs required.
Lest you tire with my drivel, to the point, I give you Charles Babington. My read for the day, in the spirit of bipartainship, take heed Senator McCain, I vote in every election. Call your representatives and give them your message.
Mr. Babington lists Tim Pawlenty under activities and interests on his Facebook page.
Activities and Interests
Other Poppi Shop, ONE, The Journalism Shop, Ayden, North Carolina, Third Way, Associated Press Managing Editors, Congress.org, Tim Pawlenty
In addition, Mr. Babington is regarded by some to be a purveyor of conservative, Republican talking points.
http://phoenixwoman.wordpress.com/...
If you have the time, this is a blog worth reading, imho.
http://phoenixwoman.wordpress.com/
Now, the star of this silly piece of snark (I found it very entertaining reading):
http://www.boston.com/...
In debt standoff, voters' role also key
By Charles Babington
Associated Press / July 31, 2011
WASHINGTON—Dear voter: Want to know why Democrats and Republicans in Congress find it so hard to work together to solve tough problems like the debt ceiling, health care and Social Security? Look in the mirror.
Americans gripe about cowardly, self-serving politicians and Congress doubtlessly has its feckless moments and members. But voters are quick to overlook their own role in legislative impasses that keep the nation from resolving big, obvious, festering problems such as immigration, the long-term stability of Medicare, and now, the debt ceiling.
Here's the truth: The overwhelming majority of senators and House members do what their constituents want them to do. Or, more to the point, they respond to people in their districts who bother to vote. Nothing is dearer to politicians than re-election, and most have a keen sense of when they are straying into dangerous waters.