Thursday, January 16, 2014

Chris Christie, Anthony Weiner, et al.

Apologies. We are taught from toddlerhood that the proper response when we offend someone is to apologize. Saying "I'm sorry"was the answer to almost any infraction: pushing, shoving, hair-pulling, biting, or just plain meanness. A few minutes in time-out, followed by an apology, and all was forgiven. Until the next time.

That works with toddlers. It might even work through the primary grades. But sooner or later, the world asks a little more: a little sincerity, a little remorse, a little responsibility--and maybe, more serious consequences than a minute or two in a corner; maybe, even an attempt at restitution, or at making things right. A little serious penance.

Somebody should tell this to politicians.

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