Big day today. For all of us. I hope everyone will take the time to get out and vote. I've been a little concerned about how deeply divided the country seems to be this time around. And, even though tempers may flare and harsh words may be spoken, don't let yourself be drawn into any silly arguments. We'll all be fine if we just keep a couple of things in mind...
1. Stay calm.
2. Be nice.
One other thing that seems to work in most situations is injecting a little humor into the subject.
I'll start with a few of my favorites from this year's campaign.
Oh come on! You must admit these are funny. Humor helps lighten the mood in tense situations.
Does anybody remember Pat Paulsen? He was the deadpan commentator on the old Smothers Brothers Comedy Hour whose campaign for president was a huge hit in 1968. He continued to run every four years up until the mid-90s when failing health caused him to stop what turned out to be the longest running comedy skit in history. Check out this classic clip that puts a unique perspective on the phrase "two-faced" and on how so many politicians are masters at speaking out of both sides of their mouths:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3oiQhhdz8ys
As Larry the Cable Guy would say, "Now that's funny right there." You might even say it was a little ahead of it's time. So lighten up people! And, when this is all over don't act like a spoiled little kid if your side doesn't win. I know it's not easy, but we really do need to find a way to come together and get things back on the right track. For all our sake, and for the sake of those still too young to understand what this thing called "politics" is all about.
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