My parents were both fairly astute when it came to politics, although I am certain their votes canceled each other out. As a result, I have always felt it was part of my duty, as an American, to know the issues and cast an intelligent ballot. My father was a more vocal opponent so I became largely Republican.
The first presidential election I ever voted in, I voted for Ronald Reagan for his first term. This was back in November of 1984. I was a freshman at Northern Michigan University.
Voting was an important milestone for me.
My first husband worked in Republican politics, notably for Spence Abraham and Governor John Engler and Secretary of State Candice Miller. He turned me into a die hard narrow minded Republican. After several years of deprogramming and intelligent reflection, and a label I can place on myself due to a wise man at the adoption.com forums (Thanks, Opus, Salute!) I have finally defined myself politically: I am a financial Republican and a social issues Democrat.
Ronald Reagan will always have a special place in my dark political heart since he was the first President I ever voted for and he won. My vote does matter! Regardless of his disappointments, he was a very brave man. The assassination attempt he survived, Reaganomics, the hostages in the Middle East.
Reaganonmics meant we all went to "B School", or business school, to the uninitiated. Colleges turned us out by the thousands, unleashed us all on a world unsuspecting of the impact of double breasted suits, red or yellow power ties and women in long double breasted blazers paired with very short skirts, very high heeled pumps and lots of "tasteful" jewelry; I know, I was one of them. How many people do you know who have a B degree that is worth the paper it is printed on?
I've read the letters Ronnie wrote. It is touching to see how much people meant to him, how fond he was of so many dear friends and family members.
Nancy seems really anal, like a real high strung difficult piece of work, but I don't doubt she was totally committed to Ronnie and loved him deeply.
My thoughts and prayers are with them. He touched many lives.
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