Odd and oddity

Well, it has been awhile, hasn't it?

All is quiet on the western front, and the eastern on too.  

We are a solid month into our operational new government form.  The largest issue you hear chatter about at this point, is when the transition period is over.

Nothing but positive comments so far about the new TA. The least flattering comment from anyone so far is they are "cautiously optimistic". 

Some are still a bit confused about the lingering presence. It seems to me however, based on the collective chatter, the new chain of command is firmly established.  

I have been asked several times how am I enjoying my public service retirement.  Truthfully, I am not missing the involvement to an heart breaking extent. Not even close. 

Sure there is the occasional moment or two where there is a pang or two about not being involved. But it is a heck of a lot more relaxing to be able to sit back and rant and rave withe the rest of the people on the outside. It is a relief to not be involved in the school yard bickering. 

I have to admit that there is a thought or two about what it would be like to actually experience the budget process under the new system.  But it was clear last May, that to do so would involve at least one more term, and to enjoy the full experience, probably at least part of another term.

At the time a decision had to be made, I truthfully did not feel I had it in me.  Although, even for this one that has essentially been partially formed under the old regiment style, the new TA "owns" the proposed budget.

Whatever it ends up and in whatever form it ends up, there still should be a certain amount of slack given. I am guessing we are all going to end up seeing things done a bit differently after this May. Might even see that happening for this May. 

I am not anticipating radical changes, at least not in overall long term policy, at least in the short term.  

The fact written policies were worked on an implemented in the past few years, was/is a very good thing. The fact those written thingies seems to have been unilaterally tweaked a bit ... well ...

Not the mention the fact that it took so long to put in writing a game plan.  Anyway, before i digress and regress ... it is back to the future.

As it should be with any new undertaking, the future looks bright.  Our fair haven has a golden opportunity to move forward. There may still be a few odd spots here and there that need to be polished up a bit, but the prospects are indeed good.

Not for all mind you.  Nothing new is all encompassing positive for all involved. The separate but "equal" powers thingy has to be dealt with. Conflicts will develop because, if for no other reason, old habits die hard, especially bad and old habits.

Despite the best laid plans of mice and men, structure isn't quite as pyramidal as it should be. A point I understand that was brought up to a few who thought otherwise during a recent process.

The most important thing though, the most extremely important thing, is the excuse game no longer can legitimately be played.  Well, there might still be a few more games, especially since the FY 2017 budget will not be the full child of our new TA.

The most important aspect of this new future is going to be the public acceptance of the concept of the TA.  We went the route to go to a chief administrative officer.  Nearly as important, is the acceptance of the elected officials to let the TA administer. Set your policy. Stay informed and involved, but absent what should be very limited instances based on truly significant extraneous circumstances, get out of the day to day stuff. 

I suppose there are a few topics which are ripe, or getting there, that I could pick or pick on. Just don't have that strong desire today though. So, not much of anything today.

Yet, I will note that each day brings us a bit closer to the April election.  You ponder a bit about the outcome. At least I do.  

One thing I do seem to be noticing is the generational concept being applied. There also seems to be a splintering of a group that had been kind of splinter after getting whomped in the past.  We have the obvious you didn't support me so I am not supporting you, and the ABC camp (Anyone But that Candidate).  

Politics and the voter's decision process is indeed strange. Oh, I get the fact people say the same about this voter's process.  The worst trend over the past five decades is the trend to decide on a specific issue. Not what may be overall best. 

Very much more often that not, ask someone why they are supporting a candidate, the reply is based on one issue. Discuss other matters, it doesn't matter.

Just a thought.

Okay, well another thought ... running late .. until next time.