Fiscal Cliff

I was pleased to hear that many of our elected officials returned to Washington, unselfishly interrupting their holiday vacations to join in friendly negotiations regarding the tax increases and budget cuts commonly referred to as the "fiscal cliff." Thus is renewed my confidence in our beloved political process.

I have poo pooed the nay sayers who so recently touted so many negative comments about how the politicians will allow the economy to dip back into a debilitating recession. I mean we, the voters elected those folks with confidence. History has proven itself that they know how to deal with this sort of thing hasn't it? Yeah, I rest easy with the knowledge that the process will fulfill the destiny of the ideals the founding fathers put down in the constitution. The spirit of the season will also play a hand I think.

Some ask why I have such a positive attitude. Some wonder why I fail to buy into all that fear. Some say I have a Pollyanna like juvenile lack of reality. Ha! I'm a real live adult type person who refuses to put on rose colored glasses at a time like this. Yeah, I know what's going on. I've seen it before about three years ago. This is the truth of the matter. You know how the one side says that the other side simply won't compromise? That's the majority right now. I personally think it's just a way of politics we, as outsiders just haven't grasped yet. But the proof of the pudding that all this will work out is seen in how smoothly the entire government came together in peace when the issues of health care came upon their desks when the speaker of the house made it look like it would get pushed through anyway despite the opposition fighting it so fiercely. That bill went through so fast it made our heads spin. In spite of the fact that no one knew how that bill would affect us and our economy because it was impossible to read such a huge piece of legislation. Talk about compromise eh?

That's what I mean. We, not being in the loop don't fully understand what goes on behind closed doors do we? This cliff thing will get handled just as smoothly because, other than  just a few new faces, its the same group of folks that got together and took care off us so well at that time.

I'm excited. Yeah, I really am. Nothing to worry about there. Enjoy the day and relax, plan something, dare to dream, everything will work out fine. Uh, hu, yeah it will.

Merry Christmas

Here it is, Christmas morning and, at least right here in river city, there is no snow. Global warming? A brighter sun? Simply the natural swing of climate due to the tides and volcano's and, of course the ever increasing gasses emitted from the rear ends of cattle. I wonder sometimes if it was the farts of dinosaurs that led to their eventual demise. But, perhaps I am drifting a bit off from the subject of the day: Christmas!

How are we celebrating this special Holy Day this year? Snow isn't really necessary is it? I mean, all those folks on the other side of the earth have sunny, hot and dry weather every year and they still have a good time. Not having to worry about driving through snow drifts or black ice or freezing water pipes or frost bit hands when shoveling, or worrying about the thickness of the ice under their fishing shanty. I think sometimes I must be some kind of a weirdo because I miss those sorts of things. I'm used to the challenges and adversity brought on by freezing temperatures and blowing snow. But, as I did last year, somehow I suffer through the mild weather. Yeah, I guess I'll make it alright.

Driving through the quiet early morning streets this morning was a shear delight, seeing so many homes lit by strings of colorful lights, nativity scenes and air filled figures and bags with candles running up the driveways lighting the way to welcoming hearts, a remarkable treat. Santa has long gone on to the next time zone, slipping down chimneys large and small to collect the edible treats of bribery and gratitude left for him by children and leave toys and other special things in exchange. All the while this chubby elf is spreading a message of charity, peace, happiness and comfort. Not overshadowing the true message but rather, in my opinion putting an exclamation point on it. Nothing wrong with the spirit of giving.

It's Christmas! Secret Santa's, wrapped surprises, twinkling lights, talking animals, family get togethers, egg nog, good food, Christmas carols, flying reindeer, a spirit of togetherness, Church services filled with joyful messages, children's eyes filled with wonder and amazement. What's not to like about that?

Not all of us have the same perspective about Christmas. But, I would like to join everyone in the celebration of goodness, peace, joy and hope that is connected with it. So, no matter who you are or what you believe, I wish you:

Merry Christmas!