I will admit it — I have been a political “junkie” for over 50 years. My first vote for President was in 1964, 56 years before this fall’s election.
History and politics was my course of study for both undergrad and graduate degrees, then I followed with 38 years of teaching such to my students. Now we are coming to the close of the impeachment trial of Donald Trump, which makes my cohorts and myself witnesses to three attempts to throw out an elected President.
First was Richard Nixon. Nixon did not get to the trial stage, as even his backers realized that he would be impeached and probably convicted. On August 9, 1974, he resigned rather than face the ignominy of being removed from office.
Than came Bill Clinton’s impeachment, just over 20 years ago. Because of an odious affair with a White House intern 30 years younger than he, Clinton was impeached because of how he reacted. He was charged with obstruction of justice and lying under oath. On both counts he was acquitted, since neither count could muster the 67 votes to convict. Was he guilty? What most people forget is that his conduct resulted in his agreeing to surrender his license to practice law, an admission in itself. Since his trial, he and his wife Hillary have seen their careers succeed and their financial fortunes rise.
Now is the third time. On a purely partisan vote, House Democrats have impeached Donald Trump. Charges are obstruction of Congress and abuse of power. We have seen both sides now, with the defense resting their case just minutes ago.
Over the last three years now, I have taken to our blog to opine on subjects from history, politics, religion and a mix and posted them. How am I now to respond to this?
I confess: I don’t know. As many of you know, part of my January (the third week) was spent in hospital. For some of that time, the Grim Reaper was hovering over my hospital bed. With prayers and the skill of the hospital personnel, the dark shadows over my immediate future were dispelled.
Waking up meant that I came aware of the continuing national divide over the future of President Trump, and I also became aware that this was not so consuming as it had been for me. Although it does still hold interest for me, and I will continue to write my opinions on national, world and local affaires, somehow I see the world differently. While so sick I had come to the conclusion that if I didn’t make it, I was ready to go.
But now, back home, I realize that the little and big things of life are important and should be enjoyed. Back here I must deal with Niki, our six-month old Goldendoodle, and all the antics of a puppy. Ming, my cat, gets to sit on my lap most of the day. And after being off from preaching now for three weeks, and will probably not go back for a couple more weeks, I realize that the church will survive without me (even after 49 years of thinking it might not if I couldn’t preach). That was a surprise, but one I am overjoyed to realize. Guess I am not indispensible, after all.
And my favorite football team, the Chiefs, made the Super Bowl while I was out of it, for the first time in 50 years. How can my life be defined by impeachment or politics when we can celebrate (win or lose) this Sunday?
Since being home I have had the pleasure of being able to catch up with family. Granddaughter Chelsea is in the midst of student teaching, and enjoying it as she looks forward joining the teaching fraternity. Also of interest is Paige, my great-granddaughter who is in sixth grade in Wisconsin.
We were able to ensure Missy’s March vacation since I cannot travel, as her older sister will take her to Florida for that.
Much more mundane matters have been attended to, which included keeping up with my older sister-in-law (by three days) who had surgery. We also plan, if God allows, to visit my two brothers and families in New Mexico, for my older brother’s 80th birthday.
My personal “thank you” tour continues, as I try to express the gratitude I have for all who helped Jane, Missy, the church and me during my crisis of health. It is hard to do for I am one who hates to be dependent on others. But what I have been enjoying since coming home from hospital would not be possible but for the help of others.
I’m still interested in the impeachment crisis, and will have strong opinions on the follies in D. C., and still will opine on the clown circus running to replace the President. And various other items will arise on the radar which will attract my interest.
But I pledge not to obsess over them (Jane can do that!) There is too much to enjoy and work on without being stressed out over something that may play out again in another couple of administrations.
Be interested, but enjoy life today.