“Showing up”, what a concept. Students show up for school, the congregation shows up for church, the soldiers show up for their military duty and employees show up for work. A glaring exception to that observation is the 35 members of the Democrat caucus’ absence from the House, therefore preventing any business. For most employees, skipping out on a job they were hired to do is grounds for being fired. The House Democrats seem unconcerned that they could be fired. They seem content with their decision to abdicate their responsibility. The voters of the Democratic districts elected them to represent their respective districts, and their walkout forces all 6.5 million Hoosiers to go unrepresented. It is truly a disappointment. So, besides Right to Work, what other issues are not being addressed as this very public departure continues? Important issues like a discussion of the $320 million and its possible uses for education funding is just one. Additional compensation for the State Fair disaster victims is another. The statewide smoking ban discussion is another. I think you can see my point here: there are many issues of major importance waiting to be discussed and voted on. Nothing is happening because the Democrats won’t “show up.” Words are very powerful. I listed a few descriptive words about my feelings: disappointment, sadness, chagrin, frustration and disbelief. These words deliver a powerful meaning but an even more powerful word is promise. A promise is more than descriptive; it implies performance. Actually, it ensures performance. A promise is your word, your guarantee, your bond. In the Statehouse, your promise is like the gold standard. It doesn’t get any better than that. That is why our situation is so frustrating. A promise was made to show up and do the people’s business. That promise has been broken and untrue statements circulated. The very fabric of the institution is in jeopardy. “Showing up is 90% of life.” Members need to heed that message and show up. It’s what we were elected to do. More later, Bill Friend -30- |
