My father-in-law was adept at saying what he meant and meaning what he said with a new twist of an old word. Sometimes he would say stuff completely “off the wall” but there was no doubt as to what he meant. For instance: when Dad was particularly unhappy with someone or something he would emphatically announce that he was “regusted” with the whole situation. And, if he were really “torqued” he would emphasize his utter contempt for what was going on by saying “how regusting” those circumstances where.
Now, Webster would not appreciate dear old Dad for taking such liberties with his definition of the English language. And I’m sure “spell check” is having a “conniption fit” about now. But Dad’s point was clearly made. He was more than unhappy with things as they were.
As I think about it, I know a lot of Americans who are much more than “regusted” with those elected to represent us in government. In fact, a lot of Americans see congressional maneuvering and deal making as clearly “regusting”.
If I’m not mistaken, most, if not all, “true blue” Americans long for what Abraham Lincoln termed “… a new birth of freedom…” in the midst of delivering his Gettysburg address November 19, 1863. Today we need freedom from partisan politics and bickering, self-serving politicians; freedom from greedy CEOs and failed financial systems, freedom from government policies and programs that strangle American ingenuity and enterprise. Freedom from character bashing, political debates that waste our time and confuse us even more. And how about just a little freedom from all those self-acclaimed, political pundits and any lists who rarely get anything right.
I don’t know about you, but I want the freedom to be friendly and neighborly and helpful again without the fear of getting sued. Sorta’ like those dear folks who rose to the occasion in the aftermath of the infamous Bastrop fires of September 2011. Suffice it to say, there are many more freedoms I’d once again enjoy but time and space prohibit me from listing them.
Every once in a while I still see a Texas highway sign encouraging everyone to “drive friendly”. Personally, I’d prefer us living friendly and our driving will take care of itself. Let’s rid ourselves of the “me first” selfish attitudes that control us. Let’s again think about our elected officials. After all, we chose them to represent us and maybe they really are!
Once again borrowing from the assuring words of Abraham Lincoln, may America indeed experience…a new birth of freedom…, so that this government of the people, by the people, and for the people shall not perish from the earth.” If we don’t, it most certainly will!
L. D. Lindgens
Kyle
