As a Child of a Politician

I remember a time of civility

political cartoon artwork / photo by Margie Peterson of artwork presented to my dad

I was born a political brat...

Party organizing was infused
through my umbilical cord — or
possibly my DNA.

Charisma, energy, persuasion
were staples of the candidate’s wardrobe
As listening took the stage.

Now, it seems that rage
has silenced sincere debate.

Truth is a limitless commodity.

No need to trade it on the stock exchange.
Its shares will never go down
and is a wise investment
for troubled minds.

Whatever happened to pep rallies?
Where team spirit bubbled up into cheers.

The state of debate
has dissolved into jeers.

I learned early to back down from a fight
I knew I couldn’t win.

I wasn’t afraid.
I was letting the other speaker in —
To have their say.
It instills respect for those differences.