Cyndi's Two Cents

Read and understand

Commentary.

I love to read. I always have.  When Mrs. Ash introduced me to Dick, Jane, Sally, Puff and Spot in first grade my world expanded and my passion for the written word was borne.  I read biographies, novels, poetry, fiction, non-fiction, mystery, folk tales, history and picture books. I love books. I devour some quickly and take my time to savor others. Some books and stories and poetry I will read over and over again and usually, to my delight, I discover something I missed the first or second time through.  I’m currently re-reading a book I purchased in 2003 that I have read every year since.

As a consumer of newspapers, magazines and other print materials, I find myself going back to re-read those articles of particular interest or concern to me.

Before I sign a contract, I read the fine print and ask questions to be certain I have a clear understanding of the meaning of those words and phrases.

Words are powerful. It is my opinion that some people will use as many of them as possible to say something that could be said in fewer words. “I’m sorry” and “I do” are examples of this minimalist theory. I have nothing against long letters from a soldier stationed overseas or thick books that take us on adventures or teach us about history or interesting cultures. I do, however, get a little suspicious in some cases when there is an immense overuse of words. Especially when I’m told those words are being overused to make things better for me, my family, my community, my state and my country.

Most bills that are introduced to the House and Senate are not presented in what you and I would consider a “reader-friendly” text. To fully understand many bills even those with an eye trained for reading legislation need to read it over and over again.

I can’t imagine how lawmakers find time to read through the hundreds of pieces of legislation presented each year, let alone be proficient enough on the ins and outs of each to argue for or against. I know they have aides who read, re-read and advise, but if a proposed law is going to greatly impact the citizenry, I would hope my congressmen has read it through himself.

I am only one person with an opinion – but my opinion, when it comes to writing legislation that becomes law, is that “less is more.” I know there are a lot of things wrong in this country today. I know that many Americans expect lawmakers to go to Washington D.C. or the statehouse and write and pass laws that will “fix” all that is wrong.

I think we have too many laws. At some point, the citizens of this great nation are going to have to be accountable for their own actions or lack thereof. You can’t legislate the laziness, irresponsibility, carelessness, meanness, selfishness and stupidity out of people.