Where Are The Grown Ups...

 

I’m weary. Just exhausted.

Over the past several years, I’ve taken my share of kicks to the teeth but I’m resilient. With each blow, I got back up, held my head high, and forged ahead. I still do but even Charlie Brown got tired of the football being pulled away and questioned whether he should try again.

It seems that the last 10 or 12 years I’ve been in some sort of Peanuts episode gone bad. Yes, Snoopy as Joe Cool was here. Linus, with his deep philosophies and security blanket was here. Schroeder continued to deliver music to my heart. Franklin and Sally brought hope and optimism and Charlie Brown kept trying while Lucy pulled the ball away before he could kick it. I’ve always wondered, we know the grownups are there but at what point do they step in?

When does Lucy have her allowance taken away or get grounded? When does a dad step in and help Charlie kick the ball? When is Pig-pen told to clean up his act? When does Marcy finally stand up to Peppermint Patty? WHERE ARE THE GROWN UPS?!?!

I’m, looking for them myself. There are always negative stories all over the news. Whether it’s the blatant assholery of the political world, random violence, or the insane increase in mass shootings, it’s a struggle to not become numb to it all. I won’t. But I’m still waiting for the grown ups.

I’ve given up expecting talking heads on TV to use proper grammar. That  ship has sailed. But civility would be nice. When commercials feature men in expensive suits taunting other lawyers like schoolyard bullies, why should we respect you? Here’s a tip: I don’t.

Wouldn’t civility and basic manners go a long way towards the return of peace and goodwill ? I think so. I vote. I speak up every time I can. That’s politically all the power I have. But MORE importantly, I can – and will – continue to spread kindness with every step I take. Won't you join me? Until the grown ups return (for pete’s sake, please come back, grown ups!!!) to send bullies to go sit in the corner, smile at strangers and mean it. Hold doors for people behind you.

Wherever the grown ups have gone, I don’t really think we need to wait for them. WE can BECOME the grownups and tell the bratty toddlers that it’s time to leave. It’s probably time for their nap. I could use a break, too.