My father told me once that there are three things one should never discuss in groups: Politics, Religion, and Politics. Rather than being avoided, these three topics have become the primary focus of group discussions of late. Well, at least the first one and the last one are the primary focus. Being a retired Catholic, I avoid conversations about religion these days. Living in the South, I am, however, routinely asked if I accept Jesus Christ as my personal lord and savior. Now I'm not quite sure, after all these years, what that question is supposed to mean, but when asked, I always give the questioner a confused look and a puppy dog head-tilt and say: No, but I do accept cash. But I digress . . . .
Never have I seen so many never-a-dull-moments in politics: O’bama awakening the black vote; Hillary scrambling to gain delegates; McCain runs late to his endorsement meeting and photo op with Bush; Huckabee thumbing his nose at the Republican establishment; Bush and Cheney saying: "Recession? What recession?" And now, New York Governor Elliot Spitzer gets caught with his rants down. This has been a thrilling year. And it’s only March!
Because politics is so present in our conversations, I engaged in a rather heated one this weekend. I must admit, I lean so far to the left that I don’t make right turns at intersections, but I am often countered by those on the right who believe that the ideal presidential ticket would be The Baby Jesus and the Hussy of Hate (that would be Sean Hannity and Ann Coulter for those of you who are new to my blog). Even though my discussions this weekend nearly came to fisticuffs . . .don’t blame me; I’m a lover not a fighter . . . I am still moved and inspired by the level of debate at nearly every gathering place I frequent.
After my ideological scuffle this weekend, the belligerents all agreed on one thing: political perspective matters not, but political participation is vital. At the end of the day, the winner in this presidential election cycle will not be a Republican or a Democrat. The winner, I believe, will be the people, whose loud voice will be heard. Finally.
Perhaps the republic is safe after all.
