Those of you who know me well know that I don't follow politics. That is an active choice - I've attempted to follow, and find myself just getting more frustrated and more disappointed in people every time I get into them again. So, I choose to focus my energy, talent, and time on things that I believe are more important, in hopes that helping develop strong, independent, intelligent, caring young people will help the future of our country in a way that politics clearly are not.
I did vote today. I'm also taking a few minutes before bed to watch some of these election results roll in. But before I turn in for the night, I wanted to post about something that popped into my head as I am watching moments of joy and disappointment, hope and fear roll across the screen...
Amidst celebration and concession speeches with backdrops of mostly red balloons, I'm hearing overhead speakers blast the Blacked-Eyed Peas' "Tonight's Gonna Be a Good Night"... (hm, that's interesting.) Good or bad is not for me to judge, but tonight certainly is a big night. In particular, it's a life changing one for many who have been voted into office for the first time or who are starting a new chapter in their political journey. Then too, in just one day, the course of our country has officially shifted, which is pretty powerful to think about. You don't need to know who I voted for or what, if any, party I identify with. This is for everyone and anyone who had the night of their life tonight, as we move past election day and onto every other day.
The Man in the Glass.
When you get what you want in your struggle for self
And the world makes you king for a day,
Just go to a mirror and look at yourself
And see what that man has to say.
For it isn't your father or mother or wife
Whose judgment upon you must pass,
The fellow whose verdict counts most in your life
Is the one staring back from the glass.
Some people might think you're a straight-shooting chum
And call you a wonderful guy.
But the man in the glass says you're only a bum
If you can't look him straight in the eye.
He's the fellow to please, never mind all the rest
For he's with you clear to the end
And you've passed your most dangerous test
If the guy in the glass is your friend.
You may fool the whole world down the pathway of years
And get pats on the back as you pass
But your final reward will be heartache and tears
If you've cheated the man in the glass.
