My thoughts on the death of Ann Richards

I cried last night when I read the unexpected news that Ann Richards had died. Just a little, but, as an icon in the life I've experienced, she was a politician who generally brought a pleasant tenor to her atmosphere, even when she was running a spike through the other guy.

That sort of politician, somehow, brings vitriol and spite from those who think only of winning.

Somehow, in the last thirty years, American Politics have been converted to a "team sports" mentality of win at all costs. There is no more opposing opinion, there is only the enemy who must die for their convictions and affiliation. No more is it agreeable to have two or more viewpoints at getting to the common goal. There is only the Morally Right way, the Conservative Way, the Christian Way, and the Self-Righteous demagoguery of those who view things from a conservative mind set.

In their minds, Ann Richards was a waste of a human being, and a smear on the political landscape. In their minds, the opposing viewpoint doesn't deserve to draw breath.

The comments posted here that slander Ann Richards personally are unnecessary. One can disagree with her politics, her choices, or her actions without having to demean her as a person. To those who engage in such sanctimony, I ask you - have you engaged the strength of your convictions to go against an entire social and organizational structure to accomplish the things she did personally?

The answer to that question is given by whether or not you've run for, and been elected, Governor.

Yes, my affinity for Ann Richards is rooted in a common general set of viewpoints on how the society would best work. I didn't always agree with her, and, as is consistent with most of history, as we have become removed from those days, I have come to see some of her choices that I find quite disagreeable, especially in political appointments. However, one cannot criticize her for her life.

I celebrate that we have had an Ann Richards, and I doubly celebrate that we have had her in Texas, where she was so sorely needed. She is needed yet.

I feel that the world is somewhat diminished today, until the next person who can step forward and advance the cause of inclusion is recognized.