Common Sense

Today we mourn the passing of a beloved old friend “Common Sense”, who has been with us for many years. No one knows for sure how old he was, since his birth records were long ago lost in bureaucracy.

He is remembered as having cultivated valuable lessons, such as knowing when to come in out of the rain, why the early bird gets the worm, life isn't always fair, stay out of traffic danger, and maybe it was my fault.  “Common Sense” lived by simple financial policies (don't spend more than you earn) and reliable parenting (adults, not children, are in charge). His health began to deteriorate rapidly when well-intentioned, but overbearing regulations were put in place.

Reports of a six-year-old boy charged with sexual harassment and banned for stealing a kiss on the cheek in grade one, teenagers suspended from school for using mouthwash after lunch, and a teacher fired for reprimanding an unruly student, only worsened “Common Sense’s” condition.  He then lost ground when parents attacked teachers for doing the job they had themselves failed to do in teaching their incorrigible children. It declined even further, when schools were required to get parental consent to administer aspirin, sun lotion, or an ankle wrap to a pupil, but could not inform the parents when a student became pregnant and wanted to have an abortion.

“Common Sense” lost the will to live, as the Ten Commandments became contraband, churches became politically correct businesses, and criminals received better treatment than their victims. “Common Sense” took a beating when you couldn't defend your home from a burglar, but the burglar could sue for assault because you protected yourself and your own.

“Common Sense” finally gave up, after a woman failed to realise that a steaming cup of coffee was hot. She spilled a little in her lap and then sued for a big settlement.

“Common Sense” was preceded in death by his parents -Truth and Trust,  his wife -Discretion,  his daughter -Responsibility,  and his son -Reason.  He is survived by three stepbrothers, “I Know My Rights”, “Someone Else is to Blame”, and “I'm A Victim”.  Not many attended his funeral, because so few realised that he was gone.

If you still remember him, pass this on.  If not, join the majority and do nothing.