An Open Letter to My Tea Party Cousins
Dear Cousins,
I know we agreed years ago that politics had to be off-limits if we were going to maintain a loving relationship. I think we've managed to do that. You are all very dear to me, being the only family I have left.
But, today, on this day of days, I can no longer keep silent.
I know you are smarting. I know you're deeply disappointed. I know from your Face Book posts how much you adore young Paulie Ryan, the Great White Hope of your party. I would guess that, being as wealthy as you are, you've donated large sums to many of the Republicans whom you claim to admire so well.
And, you know what? I can understand it. I really can. You're wealthy. Really, really wealthy. You own several homes and run a successful business. Your children and grandchildren want for nothing and never will.
You're voting your interest. You're voting the interest of rich white people, and it's your prerogative to do that. It makes sense.
Except it doesn't any more. In these times of hardship and poverty, of the privation of the many for the enrichment of the few, you are being merely selfish and greedy.
Selfishness and greed are not the values this country was built on. They are not the values promoted by Pop and Nana. Your mom was a single mom who put herself through nursing school, and then put you through when it was your turn. You know this. You did well in life and were able to provide every comfort for your mom (my aunt) in her old age. That was a wonderful thing.
Why would you not want other Americans to be able to do the same? Why is it OK for your children to go to the finest private schools when other parents cannot put food on their tables?
It's not OK any more. Actually, it never was. You had opportunities. Why would you deny them to others? Did you forget all that? Or does the having of money entitle you to special, rich-people only privileges?
Knowing you as I do, I suspect that your charitable giving trails far behind your campaign contributions. Because you no longer believe in giving people a hand up, like you had.
We have never discussed social issues, but I suspect you are a racist, a homophobe, and anti-woman. You have been smart enough not to bring this to my attention, but as you always said, I'm the smartest one in the family. I see right through you.
I've made something of my life, but I'll never be you in thought, word, or deed.
Sorry, but we're through. Call me if your heart grows back.
Your cousin, "The Odd One."
= new reply since forum marked as read
I know they are your family, but it sounds like money has become more important than family to them.
I hope their hearts do grow back. It may not be right away, but you may have planted a seed that will eventually germinate into something beautiful.
