Friday, October 31, 2008

Great Forward

The most eye-opening civics lesson I ever had was while teaching third grade. The presidential election was heating up and some of the children showed an interest. I decided we would have an election for a class president. We would choose our nominees. They would make a campaign speech and the class would vote.

To simplify the process, candidates were nominated by other class members. We discussed what kinds of characteristics these students should have. We got many nominations and from those, Jamie and Olivia were picked to run for the top spot.

The class had done a great job in their selections. Both candidates were good kids. I thought Jamie might have an advantage because he got lots of parental support. I had never seen Olivia’s mother. The day arrived when they were to make their speeches. Jamie went first. He had specific ideas about how to make our class a better place. He ended by promising to do his very best. Every one applauded. He sat down and Olivia came to the podium. Her speech was concise. She said, “If you will vote for me, I will give you ice cream.” She sat down. The class went wild. “Yes! Yes! We want ice cream.”

She surely would say more. She did not have to. A discussion followed. How did she plan to pay for the ice cream? She wasn’t sure. Would her parents buy it or would the class pay for it. She didn’t know. The class really didn’t care. All they were thinking about was ice cream. Jamie was forgotten. Olivia won by a land slide.

Every time Barack Obama opens his mouth he offers ice cream, and fifty percent of America reacts like nine year olds. They want ice cream. The other fifty percent know they’re going to have to feed the cow

6 comments:

Thayer & Associates said...

And every time John McCain opens his mouth, it is to argue the case of "Joe the Farmer." Only, Joe is a fictional character who isn't really named Joe, doesn't own a farm, and, even if he did, couldn't operate it without obtaining a CAFO (Confined animal feed operation) permit. Moreover, Joe wouldn't actually benefit from McCain's tax plan. He would, however, benefit from Obama's.

Jan said...

I WILL BE SO GLAD WHEN THIS ELECTION IS OVER!!!!!

M and M said...

In the immortal words of the "Great" Winston Churchill. "Anyone who is 20 and not a liberal does not have a heart. Anyone who is 40 and not a conservative does not have a brain".

M and M said...

In the immortal words of the "Great" Winston Churchill. "Anyone who is 20 and not a liberal does not have a heart. Anyone who is 40 and not a conservative does not have a brain".

M and M said...

Lyle said: I feel strongly enough about this that I'm compelled to send this twice........ Not really just hit the buttom too many times. LOL

jlcumber said...

I agree with mom. Can't wait until this is over...but I LOVE the quote!!! Awesome!!!