Arnie

Arnold spoke last night at the RNC. I understand that he is a professionally trained actor but like Reagan, the man can give a speech. Arnold said something last night that made me remember a conversation I had with my Dad about registering as a Republican or a Democrat.

I was 18 and in high school. My history classes were taught by a slew of football and basketball coaches and they were not afraid of playing a movie to teach us. That along with the bringing (excuse me, donating) VCR tapes in and buying cartons of doughnuts for extra credit - I made it thru the class. So needless to say, history and current events to me...snoozer! I did have to pick a party for my voters registration card and I had no clue.

So we, (my father and I) had a lovely conversation and it went EXACTLY like this...

"Hey Dad!"

"Yes, my little princess that I love more than my odd shaped headed son."

"What's the difference between a Republican and a Democrat?"

"Well, my pretty daughter that is the most fairest of them all.... A Republican likes steak and a Democrat likes hotdogs"

"Oh Father, you know that hotdogs give me a bellyache. Remember that time I threw up?"

"Yes, yes I do. I felt so badly for you. I remember picking up the vomit with my bare hands just so that it wouldn't spoil you."

Or something like that.

So - I picked Republican. But - pretty much voted Democrat because they stood for the issues that I felt were important for me at the time.

My dear Father was always pained at election time. We would discuss the issues and a little vein in his forehead would bulge and his smoking would increase. But he understood that I had a vote. Though he didn't always agree - he respected my decision.

"Well, my daughter that is more brilliant than the world (and your odd shaped head brother) I know you will make the right decisions. But, just is case you may have any questions, I have made notes in this voting pamphlet. I have highlighted my, I mean the right, I mean some choices just to make it easier for you and your dainty fingers."

"Aw shucks Daddy. Your the best!" Kisses and hugs would follow and he would slip me a few bills for my troubles.

Or something like that.

So back to Arnold. He was doing the whole..."You know your a redneck..." mantra and I listened.
You know your a Republican when....
You know your a Republican when...

"If you believe we must be fierce and relentless and terminate terrorism, then you are a Republican."

Well Daddy was right and I guess it finally answers my question.