This is not a Football Game

E.J. Dionne's great article about Blaming Obama for everything is worth reading. I recommend it highly. Dionne He says that it looks like the newly elected Republican power base will try to block everything that Obama brings up. This way he will look like a failure and they will "take their country back" (whatever that means) in the next Presidential election.

It is high time for politicians to remember they represent their constituency and the best interests (not of getting elected)  but of helping this country with its enormous problems. Some of the Republican leadership says that if "he will work with us" we can get things done. Interpretation: If he gives in to our demands--this will be bipartianship. Hmm. Case in point: Turn down Unemployment benefits for millions who cannot find work--five people for every job. Then keep talking about giving a tax cut to everybody (meaning keep the Bush tax cuts for the wealthy.) How can we do this in good conscience?

Years ago a wise counselor told me in marriage you can win the argument and lose the war. He said that any husband or wife may be able to beat the other down with arguments but this solves nothing. It only brings resentment and frustration. You may win the battle--but nothing has been accomplished. Marriage is give and take from both sides--it is consensus. It is respecting opposite opinions even when you think they are wrong. In the country Democrats and Republicans need to remember there is something bigger at stake for our nation than winning some election or getting your way. This is a whole lot  bigger than a football game.