1.30.2006

We Were Never Being Boring


Chicken Masala
Originally uploaded by YourAuntBee.

The other day, Mr. B came to the bank.

As I was getting the information he needed, he started telling me all that was wrong with our government.

Now, for those of you who know me well, I fancy myself a political guru. And you also know, I'm totally not.

But I do enjoy a bit of political talk, so I was really into the conversation. In fact, it paralleled an article I had recently read in The Nation: A 'Top Ten' List of Bold Ideas by Gar Alperovitz and Thad Williamson.

3. Real Social Security.
This is the wealthiest nation in the world. A serious progressive strategy should go far beyond the current debate by demanding a bountiful future for Americans when they retire. A good place to start is with a proposal put forward by former Bush Treasury Secretary Paul O'Neill that would produce the equivalent of a million-dollar annuity for every citizen--enough to guarantee $50,000 or more a year for everyone in retirement.

So, I had plenty of replies and agreements to give Mr. B as I placed the information he needed in front of him.

Done with my work, I was able to sit and listen attentively without any distractions. I nodded often and was shocked at appropriate times.

Mr. B listened, also, He seemed to be glad to find someone who would complain about the government with him.

Suddenly, Mr. B stopped short. "Are you waiting for that thing, still?"

"I'm sorry?"

"Are you waiting for the computer?"

"No. Your information is right there."

"Oh. That's the only reason I was standing here talking."

Ouch!



ps--I cooked tonight. Aren't you proud, Nighat?

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