PERCHANCE TO SCHEME We are, as the esteemed bard so eloquently put it centuries ago, but actors playing roles upon a haphazardly constructed stage we call life.
We are often cast to act out some strange situations.
Look honestly at the characters we play as citizens, for example. If you can honestly say that you understand exactly what is expected of either one of us as to the proper fulfillment of our governmental duties and obligations, I'm proud to know you. You are exceptional and your name should be entered on the list political thespians as one of those to receive and Oscar award some day.
In all honestly I have never been clear on many points concerning what I am expected to be doing as a citizen of my nation, of my state or of my local community for that matter.
Many years ago,I think I learned, perhaps in grammar school days, that one was expected to live a clean, orderly, decent life in those formative years up to twenty-one. I cannot say that I remember became a voter. I was so designated during a time when my state had a "Poll Tax" law which provided means for making it difficult for black people to qualify as voters. When I inquired about the proper forms designated to be filled out to achieve such a status was told no such forms existed. I think all I did was sign my name and address on a plain sheet of paper an hand it to party person. Come election day, my name was on the proper list when I went to vote.
Two other problems have faced me in this civic duties phase of living. One, I have never been able to decided what I believe concerning the very existence of the Electoral College plan in our national elections. Since youth-hood I have argued on behalf of each, both and every combination for both sides. Should we have it or not? That is the question.
Or, one of them, I'd best say: the other is this thing which is being batted around in Congressional courts right now called - rather loosely, I think - the Filibuster. he Jimmy Stewart did it on the screen it was fine, but when I see one of our esteemed statesmen engaged in the routine I am ashamed for him and worried about some other governmental concepts we hold regionally dear.
A.L.M. May 6, 2005 (c410wds]
