Smartypants

  The past few days I've been having the same conversation over and over again. And I've noticed I seem to be in the minority when it comes to this particular topic. The discussions have all been about politicians, their education or area of expertise, and does it matter. 

  There are no educational requirements to be a politician. Personality plays a bigger part for the average voter I would think. Canada has had people in power who were super smart but all people talked about was the fact they had no personality....does the name Michael Ignatieff ring a bell?  He was constantly criticized that he couldn't relate to voters. So he was "too smart". Interesting.

  The current leader of Ontario didn't complete high school. That doesn't seem to be a problem for his supporters but has been an issue for those who don't. Personally, I like the idea that anyone who wants to make this country better can, no matter how "book smart" they are. Truly smart leaders surround themselves with great minds who are willing to compromise, listen and share their expertise anyway.

  Many people in their 70's and 80's didn't have much in the way of formal education. Times were tough and money coming in was more important than going to school. Choosing between eating and going hungry wasn't much of a choice. That was the reality of the times for too many. But this generation also believed in serving their country. Should they have been told no because they made different life choices? I don't think so.

  Sometimes politicians fall into a certain job where they have some knowledge. Occasionally a doctor is the Health Minister and an account is in charge of finance. Let's keep in mind though that a journalist was in charge of Veteran's Affairs and an arts major is leading Economic Development. I'm not saying they couldn't do a good job because it's not their area but they are not conventionally qualified for that position. Yet we seem to be okay with that. 

  Education is important. Common sense, the ability to listen and learn is as well. I think the latter is more important in politics than in many jobs. Life experience is, to me, probably what I'm looking for most in my representatives. It might not be for you but it is for me. I can't believe PM Trudeau has ever worried about the cost of gas or grapes being $4 a pound. But I know he understands the challenges of mental health issues because he has dealt with it within his family. If that was my main voting issue I know who I would favor.

  For better or for worse over the next twenty years, we will see less and less politicians who don't have some form of higher education. Mainly because the population is heading in that direction. Right now though let us concentrate on the actions of our politicians and their policies not on whether they have a piece of paper or not. 

  One final note....if you use a persons lack of education to belittle them stop it. It makes you look petty and mean. Not to mention ignorant. No amount of education makes you a kind person. Remember that.

  Ang

With Friends Like These Two....

  When you are friends with someone you have their back. No matter the situation. You can tell them later how stupid they are or what a huge mistake they made but in the moment you are right behind them. But a best friend? You are standing in front of them taking the punches and hiding the bodies. And you know without a shadow of a doubt, they are doing the same for you. So...what if they don't?

  These past few days Donald Trump has said some pretty nasty things about John McCain. While that's not a new thing for him, what's unique is the U.S. war hero and Senator is dead. Yup, he cannot defend himself or do anything else to anger the leader of his party. Yet three days in a row he has criticized and degraded his memory and legacy. This isn't surprising, even to someone who doesn't live there, but Mr. McCain's closest friends reaction is.

  Not one of his closest friends and allies have spoken up. Not one. A few coworkers have but what they have in common is they are not up for re-election till 2022 so they aren't worried about Trump's ire causing them problems with keeping their jobs. It's decency wrapped up in a security blanket. 

  Where is Lindsey Graham? Joe Lieberman? These men were the self-proclaimed "three amigos". How come they aren't counter punching for John's family? Shutting down Trump as soon as he speaks or tweets. Instead, his family is forced to respond and defend the man they should still be grieving for in private. This is the last thing they could do for their friend and they are staying as silent as church mice. Shame on them.

  So why aren't they moving bodies and taking the blows for their fallen friend? The only explanation that makes sense? Fear. They both seem to be scared of Trump and are willing to let him trash their friend if it means they will keep their power. Graham is 63 and Lieberman is 77. Both must have their retirement funds taken care of by now including a hefty federal pension. Lieberman is already retired. Isn't their own dignity and honor worth more than their jobs or standing? Apparently not.

  If your government representatives moral compass is important to you then you should never have voted for either of these two men. They have proven themselves selfish and petty. How could you expect them to defend your interests if they won't do it for their "best friend"? You can't. Keeping their power and position is more important than anything.

  One note to all this that I find important. One is a Democrat and retired. The other a Republican and still in office. It seems that a lack of moral fiber is on both sides of the aisle. 

  The McCain family deserves better. From Trump. From Lieberman. From Graham. Clear evidence we need to be very careful who we call our best friends.

  Ang

Perspective Yet Again

  One of my favorite words is perspective. I truly believe every so often we all need some. You can get it from many sources....friends, family, total strangers. Some get it from death. Others from birth. However you derive it, it's the lessons you take away from it that matter. 

  Yesterday was a day full of it for me. After a tough year health-wise, I happily celebrated my aunts birthday. She is in her "golden years" and would rather not tell her age though on occasion she shares with strangers who compliment her. We had some laughs, reminisced and spent a few hours just being happy she is around for another birthday cake. 

  A few hours later I'm sitting at home complaining about the cold, the kids, the dishes and Trump. Oblivious to things outside of my own little space. Then just when I least expect it, perspective shows up and tells me I'm not the center of the universe. A death in the family clears it all up for me. 

  Should it take something so sad and so unexpected to give me clarity? Of course it shouldn't but we spend our lives thinking about ourselves first. A jolt is sometimes the only thing that can open our eyes. I just wish it didn't have to be such a final one today.

  Ang