Columbus Day

To my son Tommy,

In 1492 Columbus sailed the ocean blue, and on October 12th of that year he is credited by some with the discovery of the Americas.  I am not sure how you discover land that was already discovered, but they say he did.  Everyone from the Indians to the Vikings might have a beef with this Columbus claim.  You have to give the man credit, he must have had a great press secretary!  Thus today we observe a holiday called Columbus day.

Whether you believe Columbus discovered or re-discovered the Americas, whether you believe he brought civilization or in truth brought evils such as slavery and disease and other Europeans with a bunch of guns,  the fact remains... NOT EVERYONE GETS OFF FOR COLUMBUS DAY!  Thus it must be one of the most confusing holidays ever.  Some states don't recognize Columbus day, others do.  Some people are off enjoying a holiday, while others are hard at work.  When you have one group working and another goofing off, it never really works out.  You call and try to get something done and that person is off drinking a daiquiri, or at least in my mind they are.  Some schools are out, some not.  Some state government offices close some don't.  Cats and dogs start living together.  Mass hysteria I tell you.

It really showcases how if you make a policy, you have to make sure it applies to everything and everyone.  Decisions left in the ambiguity like this holiday are just never a good idea.  It effects the haves and have-nots (or should I say the holidays and the holiday-nots) both poorly.  It builds resentment and just accomplishes less for all.  Now this might seem like just some sour grapes of a guy who worked 10 hours on a holiday, but if you take the time to think about it,  you will truly see it is about equality and fairness.  The sour grapes are just an unfortunate side effect.

Sincerely with love from your dad,
Leo