Conversations Going 'Round in My Head

The Realist (TR) v. The Idealist (TI):

TR: VP Choice is Biden - time to get down to business.

TI: But he's not a woman. It would have been nice to have a woman as VP - breaking down that ceiling...I'm kind of surprised Hillary wasn't the choice. And Biden isn't exactly a change agent is he?

TR: But you didn't even like Hillary! Weren't you the one questioning her integrity with the primary campaign?

TI: Well, yessssss. But -

TR: Biden can implement the change. He understands the systems. Knows the resources. And do you really think the ticket could have won w/a man of color and a woman running? There are a lot of people who still don't want one or the other let alone both in the White House!

TI: But that is sooooo wrong. So prejudicial. We should be farther along by now; our paradigm should be shifting more quickly. Wouldn't a joint team prove to the world just how evolved we are?

TR: Blah, blah, blah, blah, blah, TI. How's the weather in your rosy world? Where is your pragmatism?

TI: Does it always have to be about pragmatism with you? What about truth? Honesty? Ideals? Those matter, too. Must we always sacrifice them for the "reality of the political climate"?

TR: Look, softie, the reality is this: if Obama doesn't win, all of your velvet-edged truths and pristine ideals will be buried. For a really long time. Women's right to choose - gone. Healthcare for everyone - gone. Energy policies that will ensure our country is still standing when your daughter grows up - gone. Conversations about gender, race and class privilege - gone. An administration concerned about social justice - gone. An economy that will allow your parents to retire without having to move in with you - gone. Do you get it now, TI?

TI: Are you sure, TR? I mean it physically hurts, finding this balance. My head hurts. My heart hurts. Is it supposed to be this hard?

TR: Life. Is. Hard. I'm glad you are all jazzed with the songs and energized by Obama's mantra, but seriously - you need to jack yourself up; it's going to be a long few months.

TI: Ok, I'll try. But is Biden kind?

TR: Seriously, TI. Seriously...