Things that make you know you're doing something right.

[BigV]

This was just before the election five years ago when the candidates for president debated each other.

Originally Posted by BigV

Yesterday SonofV brightened my day with this unsolicited announcement, delivered with a touch of surprise (or perhaps that was me projecting...):

"Nobody in my class watched the debate last night!"

I must say I was proud of his pique. The night before we'd all watched the debate together, and he was hanging in there with us (Tink and me), listening to what they said, and generally copying our reactions. We all went for a walk after the program and I used the quiet time to ask him some questions about the debate. I can't remember the exact dialog, but he answered them all handily.

I asked him what the debate was all about, and he said they were trying to persuade people. What do you mean, persuade? You know, like if I asked you to loan me $50, and I said because I needed it that would be persuading. What people? The people in the audience and everybody in the country. I was astounded at this perceptive answer. How are they trying to persuade the people? (paraphrasing here, sorry) I'm going to be a good president, and the other guy is a poopyhead. Basically he understood that persuading can be effective as a pull and as a push.

I did have to check his enthusiasm when he answered one of my first questions "What did you think of McCain?" "He's a dick." : Ahh... no. He's not a dick, he wants the best for the country, but I don't agree with his choices or with his methods. SonofV shocked me with his, ahem, candor. I tried to get him back up out of the mud. I think there is no permanent damage.

Fast forward almost five years ---->

Mom(ofV) and SonofV filling out their ballots for the primary election, SonofV's first!


SonofV diligently reading the voter's pamphlet, learning about the candidates for mayor. Though he liked the name of one candidate, "Goodspaceguy" (Yes, really.), he didn't like much else about him and voted for someone else.


The three of us in a wobbly, poorly aimed selfie, but I'm as proud as I can be!