It seems recently, that maybe a little too often we have to clang the bells to alert the villagers that a predatory element is at work in our midst. Every single day, there is a new story, article, or promoted government plan of dealing with a social ill, that involves us whether we like it or not, because those of us who are perceived to be the “haves” are pursued as targeted benefactors of the perceived “have nots.” Not always is it the recipient of some glorious government fix who wishes up our generosity, but a “village idiot” of catastrophic proportions, who cannot afford to provide for themselves in the private sector, and assume it to be a tough road for all (who are “have nots”)
In the Michigan legislature and administration, on both sides of the aisle we have varying levels of village idiots. Not all mind you, (lest I hurt the feelings of some of my friends there) but enough of them to make a lot of sleepless nights for this sheep watcher. With unnecessary (IMO) legislative and executive actions regarding the environment, more insurance reform, and ultimately destructive new tax policy, our constant calls for help to defend AGAINST these are beginning to lose effectiveness. It seems the continued siege has started to weaken the walls, and the fetid breath of the beast will be at our backside soon.
It drives those of us who pay attention, just a little crazy.
My father, a truly good human being and outstanding citizen believes I have assumed the role of the false crier, and I suspect he thinks I “Doth Protest Too Much” in my political (or non political) exclamations. I often wonder too, if outside of the occasional hyperbole, I have crossed over into “ranting so much that no one is listening any longer” mode.
He has a valid point. He comes from a time where politics were typically more civil, and he participated in the Michigan constitutional process, and was active in community and state politics. He knows how people react, knows the process well. However.. Times have changed. His perspective makes him correct, yet the incredible speed which prohibitive, regulatory “new law” is created, cannot allow him to catch up to reality. The new technology in play for both good and evil is unknown to him. (he is admittedly technology deficient) The mechanisms which provide information (TV, Newspapers, News magazines) don’t always have the FULL story, the FULL information, the complete package from which to make a sound assessment whether something is worthy of crisis status.
There are 38 million folks in his particular age group of 65 plus. These people vote, and are actively courted by both sides of the aisle but perhaps not all of them are getting the total picture? This is NOT a disrespectful look at the over 65 age group but a reality check on whether they are AWARE of the technological progress that has nearly eclipsed our ability to track it. Information sources that many in younger generations have taken for granted, grown up with, developed, are ever increasing our awareness of discoveries, methodology, and intellectual development.
When I showed my father the you tube video of the thugs of Redford, he was a little shocked, and surprised this was going on with little or no real news coverage. This is not something he would have found on his own. “Ipse Loquitor,” a term he favors “It speaks for itself.” A small, albeit humor laden cry for help from the folks in Redford was heard. Other issues however need to be addressed as well, and the ever growing number of issues begets further cries, and then more of the “you guys are always whining about something” begins.
I just hope the walls hold.