TV Unity

Last night at my house...
Me: Everyone [political hopefuls] always says they want to make the world a better place. No one ever says they want to make it worse.
Dad: That's right! I need to find that party and join.

My parents have been lamenting recently. They know what is ahead. For two weeks our television showed nothing but Olympic coverage. Then came Democratic National Convention coverage and commentary. This week is the Republican National Convention. But after a four-week span of athletic and political intensity, what's to come?

I comforted Dad with the knowledge that The Office will be starting up again on September 25 (mark your calendars!), but this doesn't do much for Mom. Our house needs more unifying televised events!

Bill Clinton: Master of Speeches

I've been watching some of the Democratic National Convention coverage on television. Last night was, by far, the best. No matter what your opinion is of Bill Clinton, the president, or Bill Clinton, the person, you have to love him as Bill Clinton, the master of speeches.

He can speak on any topic, truthfully or not, and draw you in. His presentation is so natural, you want to love him, even if you cannot. That bite of the lower lip makes you question him, but that sly smile brings you back.

However, I'm not sure about his tongue action in the latter portion of his Wednesday speech. Leftover supper? A recent trip to the dentist? Or perhaps it's his new way of making himself pause for effect. Who knows.

The following are six parts to his speech from last night. If you just want to get a taste, I recommend the first and last.

Part 1


Part 2


Part 3


Part 4


Part 5


Part 6

Brainer or No-Brainer?

I previously thought that voting in the upcoming presidential election would be a no-brainer for me, but now I'm reconsidering my previous stance. As November approaches, I need to dig a little deeper and consider what the best choice is. We'll see what I end up deciding.

This road of indecision is brought to you by a conversation with my brother. (He's very convincing.)

Neighborhood Drama

Yesterday evening my neighborhood had a meeting concerning a bit of a hot topic. Both my parents went... with differing views. Mom tried to get Dad to promise that he either wouldn't go or open his mouth, but she didn't succeed. When they came home after its finish, I asked, "So you both came back alive?"

Ronald Reagan Poll

Those who voted seemed to think that Ronald Reagan's time in office is common knowledge for someone in their twenties. The reason I wanted to know what you think, is when my dad found out I knew, he was surprised.

He had been recounting to me what he remembered of the 1976 election, explaining that Reagan had run but not won. When he made a point of saying he didn't win in '76 I sarcastically asked, "He didn't?" Except my dad didn't realize I was being sarcastic and kept explaining to me what happened. Then I had to let him know that I thought it was common knowledge, he was amazed that I would know this...

Considering the fact that politics is one of the most talked about subjects in my house (especially during this season of election), you'd think my dad would know better. Or maybe I just need to be obvious when I'm sarcastic, putting on a ridiculous grin and emphasizing what I'm saying.