A LAVISH FUNERAL

March 11, 2016

The eulogies for Nancy Davis Reagan drone on. Luminaries all  assembled with a million roses on the polished wooden casket. The power behind the throne. Of course, the death of a loved one is a time for reflection.  If you have lived a long life, a celebration is in order.  That all three networks cover this event is testament to something.  

It's not my job to narrate what I'm seeing on TV now, the anecdotes, the friends and relatives recounting their love of Nancy Reagan. 

Of course, the reminder that Reagan was the President who ignored the AIDS crisis is important.  And, son Ron's reminder that the iron will of his mother was the power behind the throne should not be forgotten.   As we look forward, perhaps with dread, to a new President, I think that perspective ... with respect..  is important.   A 'state' funeral.  A lavish funeral, with the speaker's podium emblazoned with a faux Presidential Seal is making a point.  I'm not so sure what the point is, but at this crucial time in our history, we must go back to the dictionary and discover again the word "oligarchy."  When the rich rule, that's an oligarchy.  When other former first ladies pass away, who's next?... I doubt that there will be national coverage with all the pomp that is carrying on in the Simi Valley as I write this.  Even when our other Presidents pass away, I doubt that such a lavish funeral will take place. 

Why does this make me uneasy? 

March 11, 2016

michaelsheehan