For Those in Mourning

In 1994 Ann Richards lost the Texas gubernatorial race.  I took it hard.  It was personal.  I felt as though the world were coming to an end, and I would be folding the tent, packing my gear and leaving the governor's mansion myself.  But Texas survived.  I did, too.  So did Ann, at least until 2006.  She made a lot of money, was on TV a lot -- even "King of the Hill."

A lot of people don't think the same way I do.  For example, my mother.  She thinks oral sex is a sin.  She told me that soon after I was married (the first time) back in 1974.   It was not a long discussion.  I figured there was little point because I knew the Bible well enough to be pretty certain there was no authoritative text on the subject.  I also knew there was no point arguing with her on  the subject.  So my reasoning goes like this.  God is good.  God made sex.  Oral sex is pretty darn good.  (if you don't know -- ask around).   I don't see the sin here.  End of discussion.

Some people don't think their hair should be cut.  It is a religious belief, sincerely held.  For others, it is their beard that should not be cut.  I do not have any such belief.  I like my hair short.  But I do not have a problem with anyone wanting to grow his or her hair as long as it will go, be it on the top of the head or on the chin.

Prayer is a vital part of many people's lives.  Some do it on their knees, some while standing, and others just sitting.  Some people use written prayers, others chant, and some people make it up as they go along (that is not meant to sound disrespectful -- just by way of contrast).  Some people have special places they go to pray.  Some people have special things that accompany their prayers, such as a shawl or beads.  Some people pray in a certain direction or at certain times of the day, such as morning and evening.  Some pray five times a day, at specified times.  Abraham Lincoln pointed out in his second inaugural address that both sides were praying to the same God and reading from the same Bible.  And yet, they were at war and asking God for victory.

Our country has survived massive upheavals.  We are great because of our strengths and the willingness of everyone to play his or her part.  Anger and fear are natural reactions to great disappointment.  Been there and done that -- more than once actually.  (Try being a divorced, single mom with a crazy ex nearby .... )  However, the Psalmist says weeping endures for the night, and joy cometh in the morning.  

So the real question is whether We the People are ready to get to work and do what is required to solve our problems?  Are we ready to make the tough choices about the very real and very difficult issues we face and not just spout platitudes?  Sacrifices will be necessary, not by some, but by all.

When it is my ox being gored, how good is that?  I say it is fine.  Put the yoke on me. I'm ready to go to work.  I may not be as strong as I once was, but I'm still good for a round or two. And I won't quit until the next man or woman is ready to step in for me.  No grandstanding.  Send in pizza and keep talking until we get a deal.  Lock the doors and nobody leaves.  Who is with me?