Remember the old adage about the simmering frog? If a frog is placed in water that is set on "simmer" it will be comfortably lulled to its death. Toss a frog in boiling water and it will jump right out. (please don't try this at home) Too many of us have been in this simmering political nightmare, confused as to action steps. Citizens, voters and political reps. But the heat is rising quickly in Washington, with current and potential repercussions for all of us. Let's give it a Mosey review before we settle in and tune out for the holidays.

A Quick Reminder

So, in retrospect (always an easier perspective), it's easier to see what happened, how we got into this mess. Or pan of water. We, through our elected officials, lost touch with salient issues in this Country, didn't do our jobs to help/make them do theirs, and the campaigns and elections were our comeuppance. We were so distracted by our devices and entertainment options that we forgot about education, economic opportunity, healthcare, social justice, our environment, international diplomacy, etc. And since we didn't care to pay attention, OUR government didn't have to. So they spent their time raising campaign funds, catering to interest groups and ignoring the serious work of governance.

A painful face-slap campaign season gave us too few attractive candidates, lots of justifiably angry voters, social-media fueled and dramatized rhetoric and too many distracted journalists. The Trump election was a backlash response to disgust with Congress, and we've had ten months that have defied all expectations or predictions. From anyone. Trump didn't want to be President, but was elected on a conservative wing and a prayer to effect CHANGE. However, this change is spelled C H A O S, and the negative impact is overwhelming. For all of us.

Our Current View From The Saucepan

We knew Trump was inexperienced, but thought/hoped he could be counseled and managed. Nope. We hoped that Cabinet officials might provide some semblance of stability and wisdom. Nope. Most have no governance experience, no expertise in their areas of responsibility. And, in many cases, were brought on board to deconstruct their agencies. NOTE: I never could have imagined saying this, but "thank goodness for the generals," the only adults in the room.

Much of this would be funny, were it not so dangerous. Trump's stability is in serious question, as his public behavior and tweeting obsession get him/us in increasingly hot water. His highest priorities, his "brand" and his family, are savaged while he alienates constituencies here and abroad. His sacrosanct "base" is diminishing, as they realize he can't/won't deliver on his campaign promises. His futile attempts at immigration, healthcare and tax reform are the most dramatic examples of political incompetence, in areas where we really need reform. His only claims to "success" are reversals of many of Obama's basically constructive executive orders which were implemented because the obstructionist Republicans would not collaborate to achieve better.

Some Sobering Artistic Expression

I believe in uncoincidental coincidences. So I had to smile when I walked into the UC-San Diego Student Center and encountered these wonderful floor tiles by artist Barbara Kruger. They need little explanation in the context of our current political environment. Some sobering challenges to heart, mind and conscience.

Time For A Hopeful Leap

My Uncle Thurman opines in times like these, "Things are always the darkest before they turn black." But, I refuse to be defeatist and despondent. Let me relate some cautious optimism as I observe many poised to leap to better.

Robert Mueller is deadly serious in his quest for many truths. We should hear from him by Spring.

An increasing number of moderate Republicans are jumping ship and leaping off of this doomed bandwagon.

The recent Virginia elections were realtime evidence that resistance translated into action can make a difference where it counts.

The energy from the Women's Marches and #Me Too initiatives are dramatic evidence of positive awakenings that can/will lead to transformative programs and policies.

An emerging cadre of young bipartisan/Independent politicos with integrity and enthusiasm are poised to relieve the old guard who are no longer capable of effectively engaging the dynamics of this rapidly evolving Country.

I see a growing number of good people and programs that represent the community diversity and Better Angels in each of us.

A free press is critical to a free society. Journalism is on the rebound. Thank Goodness.

A MOSEY CLOSE

We've been simmering too long, and too many are suffering due to our inattention and incompetent governance. But hope lies eternal, and the heat's risen quickly enough to prompt our leap to better. I truly believe We The People are poised to rise to our many occasions and reclaim our role as constructive stewards of this Great Country.

It always starts with our friend in the mirror. We'll have plenty of time to be our best selves in the New Year. For now, hug yourself, hug your family and friends (appropriately, of course) and enjoy your holidays. We'll have lots of opportunities to "Mosey" in the months to come. May the Gods of our Understanding bless this Country and us on our journey. LET'S MOSEY!