"Our Future" Part I

"The children are our future." 

How many times have we heard that one? It must be in the training manual for politicians, right next to "always smile and always laugh when there's no reason to do so", because every single one, man or woman, Democrat or Republican, spouts that line every election. 


There's no denying the fact that the children are the future. The problem is, the powers that be don't give a damn. Kids can't vote. Which means politicians don't care that much about them. Not really. If they did, our budget spending would be much different than it currently is. 


I truly don't understand the reasoning behind some of these "leaders". I would love to be a "fly on the wall" in some of those Capitol Hill discussions. 


"Okay, we're cutting another $120 million from education. Now, let's make sure we start holding those teachers accountable for their students' learning."


Hold me accountable. Go ahead. But, perhaps you could stop taking away all our instructional aides, librarians, music and p.e. teachers, etc. It would also be appreciated if you stopped cutting our salaries. Just maybe you could stop redirecting voter approved pay increases, and changing our contracts. 


Imagine doing the same thing to a brain surgeon.


"Okay, Doctor. We're going to have you follow this new evaluation form. Basically, we just want to make sure your patients are receiving the proper care, and that they're progressing at an acceptable rate."


"Okay. No problem."


"Well, hold that thought. Unfortunately, we need to make a few other changes. Your budget is being slashed, so there won't be any nurses assisting you. Also, that new equipment that was approved by the shareholders, well, that had to go too, so you'll need to continue with your current outdated and nearly useless equipment. And, uh, we had to cut the maintenance hours too, so good luck with that, as well."


"Is that all?"


"Oh! Sorry, no. We're also cutting your salary. Now, about this new evaluation form..."


I wonder how many mothers and fathers would be encouraging their children to go to medical school then. If you're looking for a tough task, try finding a current teacher, at any level, who would encourage a college student to go into education. Make sure you pace yourself and moisturize before you peel. Bring a snack too. It could be a L   O    N    G search. 


Everyone knows education is important. Everyone knows the children are our future. Everyone also knows talking on your cell phone and driving is dangerous. Everyone knows smoking is bad for you. And so are Milky Way bars and ice cream. Gambling is addictive. So is Meth. People still do all those things anyway. 


So, what does this all mean? I have no idea. Except, our "future" is in deep shit.