If I had my way, all federal budget conversations would start like this: #

We’d seat the most philosophically and politically contentious and opposed folks together. Roundtables. Crayons and paper in the center. Perhaps some yarn, googly eyes, and glue.¹ #

The first five minutes would be spent writing and drawing together. No specific prompt. Just time to make things. Then ten minutes to share with someone at the table. #

We’d collect the pictures and add them to our gallery of past creations. Might even put them up on the Congressional Fridge. #

Try to rip a hole in someone when you know that when they were four, they had a blanket named Blinky. It was red with gold stars. #

Take a cheap shot at the colleague who just showed you a picture of her favorite pet ever. With yarn hair attached. #

You couldn’t. #

Division wouldn’t go away. But perhaps the discourse would be kinder. More civil. Worthy of our great nation. #

And better than I’m seeing lately. #

Let’s get on that, America. I suspect there are plenty of NWP teachers who could help pass out those crayons. #

1. No scissors. Safety first. [↩]