I have been out of dodge, out of commission, for several days. I have been sitting at the bed side of my dying father. He is not ready to give up yet, so it promises to be a longer road to that ultimate sunset. And I cheer his decision to make it whatever it is. Because it is HIS decision, and we who love him will, with all due respect, follow his lead. Every human being deserves that.
Still, I have learned a couple of things in the days past, humbling things, things I want to share. So follow me below that brilliant orange icon we describe in so many ways. I promise not to bore you, and I will make it short and as sweet as I know how. If it's bittersweet, well, that's life.
I am a democratic political junkie, and I love this site because it puts me in touch with others who are like me. I feel like I'm "home" here, even when we don't all agree, and even when I've had to suffer the slings and arrows of my fellow progressives for my opinions that don't agree with theirs. It hasn't happened all that often, but it has happened. And yet, I can wake up and come back here, and feel safe. Whoa, that's a lot.
So it is that I feel safe to say this tonight. The politics of our country are immensely important, and those here, on this site, fight a battle I'm proud to be a part of. I don't regret for a minute, my involvement and passion for our cause.
But I do want to say, that life is finite, and made of many stripes. I want to say that the pickle it seems we are suffering in now, that it seems has never been experienced by any before us, is a---well it's an illusion pickle.
Truth is, life has always been hard and unfair. And many before us have suffered worse, with less chance to make it better. We have a great chance to make this better, and most on this site are doing everything they know how to make it be so.
But in-between all that, we must find joy in life, before life decides our joy ability is over.
And it can happen in the snap of our fingers.
You know, I actually think our president understands this better than I can say. He somehow retains his sense of cool and calm in the worst of circumstances. Why? Well, I think it's because he has a very good life with his family, with or without the presidency.
This is what I wish all of us. A life outside of politics. And I thank y'all who chose to listen to me tonight for doing so. I know this is not a diary full of facts and block quotes, God, I so admire the people here who do that---I've learned so much from them.
But for me, tonight, I just want to wish all my DKos friends, the ability to still find joy, no matter the challenges. Because my Dad always knew how to do that, and as his life fades away, I am reminded of his great skill in doing so.