Campaign ads

We’re getting into the homestretch for political campaigns.  And that means one thing: The tide of political ads will begin to rise.  You’ll see ads in the morning. You’ll see ads at lunch.  Ads will blanket you during to dinner.  You’ll hear all kinds of reasons why the various candidates should be elected to their various offices.

You’ll hear lots of reasons why Mississippi is in trouble.  You’ll hear why the candidates’ opponents are the wrong man or woman for the job. All wrapped up in catchy phrases and perky music.

But I wonder if we’ll hear what we really want to hear?

Yes, I’m annoyed when every third car on I-55 is a state car.  I’m annoyed when I hear about SLRP (Special Legislative Retirement Program.) I get annoyed when I hear about some of the spending in the most recent omnibus bond bill.  And I’m even annoyed when I hear the state plane is getting its wings worn off of it.

But those aren’t the issues that keep me up at night.

I worry about my sons’ educations.  I know it’s the only hope they’ll have to have a better life.  I worry about what jobs they’ll be able to get in Mississippi.  I worry about what job I’ll have in Mississippi.  Will I be able to get medical care for me or my family? Will I be able to afford it.  And will my family be safe when we lie our heads down at night?

My core of philosophy is one of person responsibility.  I believe the answers to many of life’s problems lie inside of me.  So, no, I don’t expect those nice people running for people to bring me “Hope and Change.”  But I want leaders who recognize the problems Mississippi faces. I pray that even if they can’t find an immediate solution to those problems, they at least have the leadership to inspire the people to find them themselves.

I probably expect to much.  That’s way too much to fit into a 30-second  campaign ad.  But a dad can always dream.