Charles (Chuck) Kensinger

The response to this statement on a recent TV show was, “Best for who?” If anyone has ever used the above phrase, did you think or respond with the idea of “best for whom?” That was what the other character said in this case.

As a writer, I often examine words to determine what I want them to mean to my reader. I also attempt to ensure that you know what I mean. Have you ever read the poem “Jabberwocky?” If not, go to this link and read it now. Go ahead; I will wait.

As you see, this poem makes no sense. The author has made up words and is not trying to make you understand anything. He wants you to realize that it is nonsensical. Many people, especially politicians and salesmen, do this as well. I want you to ask the next person what a word means if you do not understand what they are trying to say.

Communication fails when the listener is unsure of what has been said. Often, when someone says, “I did what was best,” they leave out the last part, which is “for me.”

I also have a difficult time when someone says, “Don’t you believe me?” My response is often, “Which part?” They may have given me a few reasons or excuses for their behavior, and I cannot determine if any are believable. This also applies to political ads. Often, crucial parts of opponents’ statements are not shared with viewers.

Returning to what is best, let’s look at the three words, good, better, and best. We think these make perfect sense until we ask the question, “for whom.” This trio may be dependent upon personal opinion. You know what they say about opinions. Everyone has one.

We are currently amid political campaigning for a lot of things and people. In Missouri where I live, we will be deciding whether we want sports gambling to be legal. Those who have put it on the ballot are telling us that it will be great for the economy. They mean it will be great for the people who run the wagering. Everyone knows that there will be more losers than winners.

I am not a gambler. I buy the occasional lottery ticket to see when God is ready to give me millions of dollars. He has not, yet. I know people whose lives have been destroyed by a gambling addiction they could not control. This happened with most gambling being illegal in our state.

Abortion rights are also on our ballot in November. I have not read the wording of this question. My right-to-life friends say I should not approve it. Those I know that believe in a woman’s right to choose, hope I say yes. My problem is I am both pro-choice and pro-life.

I believe a baby has a right to be born if it is viable. That means that the life of the mother and the child must be considered. If the baby being born endangers the mother’s life, that decision must be made by her, her husband, and their doctor. When the father is not in the picture he has no say. All these topics must be dealt with in the bill, or I will vote against it.

I want to do what is best, not just for me, but for as many people as I can. That is where good, better, and best come in. One way is good for some. Another opinion is better for others. Which is the best for most of us. I hope we all choose the correct answer. It is more important than any test from school.

©Copyright 2024 by Charles Kensinger