A Tale of Two Boys

Bobby and Jerry were both eleven years old.  They were great students and very popular with the other kids at school.  Both of their parents were very proud of their sons.  Whenever they looked at them, they saw only the best.  When anyone looked at them, they saw two kids that loved life and were infectiously fun to be around.

Then one day, the school decided to hold an election.  By the time the nominations were over, Bobby and Jerry were both up for the job.  No one was surprised.  Everyone was pleased by the choice for the final run off.  After all, no matter which one won, everyone knew their elected leader would do a great job.

Both boys were excited about the election.

A few days before the election, the school newspaper interviewed each boy.  Bobby said he would extend recess if elected.  Jerry promised better food in the cafeteria.  Their positions were published and the students began to discuss the merits of better food vs. longer recesses.

It quickly became apparent that recess was a bigger issue.  While Jerry agreed with Bobby, he couldn't let anyone know because that would be like supporting Bobby.  So Jerry made a poster that said "Bobby wants longer recesses and thinks desert at lunch should be taken away."  Bobby quickly made another poster that said, "Jerry wants more vegetables at lunch and thinks we should have mandatory study hall during breaks instead of recess."

Jerry's next poster said, "Bobby picks his nose."

Bobby responded with, "Jerry kissed a girl last summer."

Jerry -> "Bobby throws a ball like a girl"

Bobby -> "Jerry likes math."

This went on for a while.  In the mean time, a new kid came to school.  His family had just moved in from out of town.  When he saw what was going on, this 10-year-old asked, "Why are they arguing? Why are they putting each other down.  Why don't they tell us why they are a better choice than the other rather than why the other is a worse choice than themselves."

The response was, "Because that is what the adults taught us to do when we want win."

I recommend www.worldgratitudelist.com.  Leave a list.  Read a list.  Be happy.