March 13, 2010

DC

While I was in Washington, DC this week, I went running. It was borderline spectacular to watch the sun peek up over the horizon as I circled the White House.

"Good morning Mr. President and Michelle!"

The Washington monument reminded me of.....well it reminded me of what I discussed about two blogs ago!

I got chills as I ran through the War Memorials, and I could swear that as I passed the Lincoln Memorial, Abe Lincoln said, "Good morning Cameron." (Use your best Abe Lincoln voice)

I've blogged in the past about my love for the TV show the West Wing. I could really imagine something like this happening around the healthcare debate. (Click the link)

I strutted around the Congressional Buildings and hallways like I was Josh Lyman. As I met with my Representatives, Senators and their aides, I couldn't help but empathize with their job. Do they do what is right, what their constituents want or do they do what will get them re-elected?

One long time legislator shared with me that back in the old days, you not only knew your opponent across the aisle, but you knew his wife and his kids. He noted that today, there are no personal relationships outside those hallowed hallways. When I heard that I reflected on the story of how Ronald Reagan and Gorbacev negotiated. Things only got done after they sat alone and discussed their personal lives. They talked about grandchildren, hobbies and how their lives paralleled. Only when they connected on a personal level could they work together and compromise. No aides, no agendas, it was just two old friends being friends.

We've lost a certain amount of dignity in our government. It seems to me that it has become about money, and your party and what you can do for me. We have lost that call for duty and honor in serving our country as a legislator.

God bless America

March 5, 2010

Me and Melissa

I got to spend 72 minutes with one of my all time favorite people. It was awesome to catch up with more than just a Christmas Card, email or Facebook message.

I am a little distraught in that I look like her father. I don't know why that surprises me, she looked much better than me 25 years ago too!

Can we pull off a Holly Tree neighborhood reunion?

"Growing up happens in a heartbeat. One day you're in diapers, the next day you're gone. But the memories of childhood stay with you for the long haul. I remember a place, a town, a house, like a lot of houses. A yard like a lot of other yards. On a street like a lot of other streets. And the thing is, after all these years, I still look back...with wonder." - From the TV Show Wonder Years (Click on the link)