I saw a video of Lynyrd Skynyrd doing one of their classic rock anthems yesterday. It reminded me of my teenage years, and was kind of nice to see them still going even without the original lineup. The song was "Simple Kind Of Man". If your not familiar with it, here are some of the lyrics.

Mama told me, when I was young
Come sit beside me, my only son
And listen closely, to what I say.
And if you do this
It will help you some sunny day.

Ohh take your time... Don't live too fast,
Troubles will come, and they will pass.
Go find a woman and you'll find love,
And don't forget son,
There is someone up above.

(Chorus)
And be a simple kind of man.
And maybe some day you'll love and understand.
Baby be a simple kind of man.
Won't you do this for me son,
If you can?

To me it's just a simple fable about trying to avoid the pitfalls of life. Maybe a little too simple, but the music kicks ass. That's the main reason I remembered this tune.

In addition to nostalgia, though, it also brought some concerns I've had into focus. It's fine if people want to keep their lives simple and understandable, but I fear that's how they vote for president too. It explains two terms of George now doesn't it.

I'm hoping that the current polls just aren't reflecting what most Americana's really want, and that so many people just aren't that stupid. But I am worried. This is the most pivotal election of my lifetime, and if we get it wrong I think we are fairly well screwed.

It's time for this country to grow up a bit. Don't settle for the simple man for president, with the even simpler woman one step away.