Columnist Bob Bridge
One of my memories flashed before me this morning. It was 15 years ago and I was sitting on a balcony at Panama City Beach overlooking a picturesque sunset melting methodically into the Gulf of Mexico.
The essence of a peaceful, easy feeling.
Later that evening, I would pack my flip-flops and swim trunks into a gym bag and return to Indiana to rendezvous with my friends and begin another season covering yet another hectic but entertaining basketball season.
Oh, how our realm has evolved during the last decade and a half. I’m not unhappy or downcast but my health isn’t as secure as it once was and society is both unsettled and divided over which path to traverse into the future.
Frankly, regardless of what happens Tuesday I do NOT expect these empty and hollow promises of “unification” to materialize. Already I can hear prickly, pompous proclamations such as “He’s not my president!” or “She’s not my president!”
What are we, a banana republic?
We’ve witnessed two assassination attempts in the past few few months, a President suddenly downgraded from sharp and energetic to cerebrally incapable of seeking reelection, and a new and an unexpected candidate pledging to return much-needed “joy” to this troubled nation.
Just imagine if the millions of dollars spent on this revolting race were used to pay down our national debt … Wouldn’t our failing economy be immediately and effectively elevated?
What’s the secret source of this soul-shaking, dreadful decay of our democratic republic? My unsolicited and amateurish appraisal would certainly include selfishness and self-righteousness.
Regardless if Trump or Harris emerges as our leader sometime next week, please tone down the ridiculous rhetoric in the future.
None of this trash talk about garbage or deplorables. No references to Hitler or a wannabe fascist or a closet Marxist. The individual claiming the most electoral votes WILL be the next president.
If you determine it distasteful … fine. But, show a modicum of respect for the office. Don’t embarrass you - and us - with your personal disgust.
You want to change the system that has provided the privileges of this remarkable republic?
Again, fine. But, please, do so with a tad more decorum.
Bob Bridge welcomes comments at 812-276-9646 or bbbbbridge@gmail.com.
The focus on etiquette and decorum in modern gatherings really resonates with me. It’s so important to create meaningful experiences where every detail, from behavior to setting, reflects thoughtfulness. This is one of the reasons St. Augustine wedding venues stand out to me—they blend elegance with history, creating the perfect backdrop for a celebration. Choosing a venue with charm and character adds so much to the atmosphere, making guests feel truly special. Your reflections remind me how much these elements contribute to creating moments that are not just beautiful but also respectful and memorable for everyone involved.