I may be late to the party...

...but I still feel like these words need to be blogged.

Hey, politicians? Can I have your attention for just a moment? I know you're all out there busy-busy-busy trying to make our country a better place (however that may look through your eyes, that is), and I realize that your schedules are jam-packed with conference calls, votes, hearings, constituent meetings, baby kissing and the like, but I'd really appreciate it if you all could stop for one little moment to hear me out. I have one simple piece of advice I'd like to share with you.

PAY YOUR FLIPPING TAXES!!!

I may not be the most politically informed person, but not because I don't try to be. Honestly, I have a truckload of good intentions to read and listen to various news sources, but I'm somewhat limited in time and understanding. I consider myself a mildly intelligent person, but too often, the whole procedural and structural aspects of politics simply baffle me. But this I know-- it's not too damn difficult to pay your legally required taxes. And if it's one thing that politicians should be aware of (especially the ones in the Legislative branch!!), it's the freaking law. C'mon people. Seriously.

*stepping down from soapbox*

Thanks, politicians. You are now free to roam about your political world once again. You may want to take a moment to give H & R Block a call sometime soon.

postscript: Lest anyone be misled, this is not intended to be a partisan exclamation at all. I am informed enough to know that any type of misbehavior goes both ways-- R's and D's can fill their share of headlines each, so no party-specific declarations were intended with this post!! Philosophy-- which is why I choose my own party affiliation-- doesn't always line up with individuals' actions, but I still proudly claim my personal affiliation. Man, the air up here on this soapbox is really quite thin...