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.

Wow

Ann Richards died today. That made me cry a little bit.

Day two of "it's all about me getting work done today." Lots more progress. I yanked out files; church files, reading files; other files - shredded six bags of paper. Made up files. Organized things. Got things ready for tomorrow night's class, for Chuck's appointments tomorrow, and so on. Tomorrow is going to be another day fully away from the house, though. Until about midnight.

Will they lower the flags here in Texas for Ann? Somehow, I doubt it.

Monday, Monday ver. 832.01

Okay, so I've been distracted lately. Haven't felt much like blogging.

I'm going to start by cross posting links to some very interesting blog articles that I've found (and have had open on my desktop for days...)

The first one is about air traffic controllers, and how their treatment today is far worse than anything back in 1981 - and creates safety concerns that are being ignored by Congress and the media.. here.

Then, if you're offended by Disney's production of the Path to 9/11, you can read an article about how to cause Disney to pay attention here.

This next one is an interesting evaluation of the Iraq policy and how we as a nation are far less secure than before.

The third one's going to spin your wig if you're a conservative, but it goes through the Declaration of Independence and compares the current administration's actions to those of George III. Tea party, anyone?

This final one is a chilling description of third-world life inside of the United States.

Okay, so - back to the regularly scheduled blog.

Its Monday morning, and mostly, I've accomplished getting the trash out just as the little guy rode his trash hamper up the driveway, fed the dogs, fed the birds, watered the plants, put the hummingbird feeder to soak in bleach water, cleaned the kitchen, emptied the dishwasher, read all the morning blogs and news (such that the news gives us,) and talked to Chuck.

Today, it's tax returns and editing web content. All day. Wall to wall. Boxes and shopping bags of loose paper to be turned into reasonable records. It's my life these days.

Yesterday, I was at church until nearly 6:00, then visited my Dutch Auntie in the rehab hospital (which was great fun!) and then came home. I know Chuck really wanted me to come over, but I needed some down time.