Chuck Steak

I would say we should never conflate incompetence with indifference. The current administration could have easily managed the current state of affairs better if they possessed the desire. but they don't

If "5 or 10 over" is not an infraction, then the speed limit is not the speed limit If enforcement is arbitrary, then the law is arbitrary. ...but then again, every one already knows that The real problem is that this is just more proof that "we the people" are no longer serious about being Americans.

Submitted for review and consideration is my deconstruction of a key supporting character, Inigo Montoya. His character has a redeeming quality that reinforces themes of loyalty and determination - an ability to carry out a task to its completion, and a love of friends and family. In one of his early roles, Mandy Patinkin played the character of Inigo Montoya as a swashbuckling revenge seeker - but the subtext is much deeper than just "swashbuckling revenge seeker". Two of the most well known movie quotes of all time belong to this character: "You Keep Using That Word, I Do Not Think It Means What You Think It Means" He shows that in spite of his rugged exterior and seemingly hardened heart that he also posses an intellectual knowledge much greater than many of his peers might give him credit for - and that he is not afraid to challenge those around him on an intellectual level even when it might be easier to just look the other way and feign ignorance. In the context of Sun Tzu, it shows that Inigo is well aware of the need to "know your enemy" and the importance of being acutely aware of your surroundings when you are on the battlefield. “Hello. My name is Inigo Montoya. You killed my father. Prepare to die” This iconic phrase has a much deeper meaning than just communicating a simple threat to a lifelong foe. It serves as an example for ALL to follow when dealing with others. It gives us a template on how to successfully handle any relationship - be it a friend or foe. - Hello. - Always offer a polite greeting to everyone you meet. There is no need to be rude since you never know where the interaction might lead. A polite greeting also leaves you with options. You can break off an engagement without further conflict or expectations or you can escalate the exchange to more deliberate conversation and even violence if pushed into a more serious confrontation. - My name is Inigo Montoya. Introduce yourself. People want to know who they are dealing with. Who are you anyway? Are you the mail man? Are you here to deliver a pizza? Making your presence known is a strong way of showing that you are here in the present and ready to interact in a lasting and meaningful way - good or bad. - You killed my father. Establish a common ground. Find a way to relate to the people you are interacting with on a personal level. Humanize yourself. It allows you to work from a stronger position when you are able to set the condition. - Prepare to die. Set realistic and achievable expectations early in your relationships. Yes indeed. The Princess Bride isn't just a slapstick comedy with unrealistic character arcs and a disjointed story line. It is a cautionary tale of love and loss and redemption that can help us all live a better life. ...or so I've been told.

Assuming the worst from a corrupt administration and their supporters in no way subtracts from the individual sacrifices of our nations honorable men and women. I spent 30 years in the Army, I have a son in the Infantry, and I worked as a DOD civilian when I retired from uniformed service, so I feel somewhat qualified to opine on the possibility that the current administration might in fact, check a box for votes even though it may endanger lives. If the question is asked if there is an assumption that a corrupt administration would would pander to the optics over the security of the nation; my answer would be yes. Yes they would. I have watched senior miitary leaders preach and brag about their desire to be the first across the social epiriment finish line.