Something occurred to me this week: This is my first pandemic. I'm 45 years old and I've never lived through a pandemic. I've seen five Republican presidents and four Democrats, and this is my very first, bona fide pandemic. And wouldn't you know - it's happening right in the midst of the most intense health care debate in nearly two decades.
I blame Obama. That's just how it is. That's how we Americans keep score. If it happens during your presidency, you own it:
- Vietnam: Johnson (then Nixon)
- Inflation: Ford
- Oil crisis and the Iranian Revolution: Carter
- Iran Contra: Reagan
- Saddam Hussein: Bush the 1st
- World Trade Center bombing #1: Clinton
- 9/11, Iraq War, Afghanistan War, record deficits, housing bubble, torture, The Great Recession, Dick Cheney: Bush the 2nd
- Swine Flu: Obama
"Unfair," you say?
"Too bad," I respond. That's what passes for political discourse in this country these days, so I'm just piling on. And what better way to fan the flames of ignorance than with a few well chosen syllables of Japanese poetry. After all, who has time for thoughtful reflection? Not us!
Flu vaccines arrive.
Everyone wants to get one.
Women and kids first.
Health care reform? Hah!
Lots of talking, not much else.
Finally, a vote.
Polanski: Rapist.
The Swiss are not too impressed.
"No bail for you, jerk."
The Supremes are back.
First Amendment leads the way.
Michael Vick looks on.
Barry wins Peace Prize,
while still fighting Bush's wars.
(He should nuke Iran.)
Yes, the sheer volume and gravity of the news can be overwhelming. But look on the bright side: Only 76 shopping days until Christmas.
