And now on a lighter note ...

In this age of subsidies and bailouts; of redistribution from those who have too much to those who have less; I propose that we focus our compassion on poor February.

This sadly unfortunate month has only 28 days in it, while its date-rich neighbors of January and March have 31 days apiece. Is this fair? Have January and March stepped up to do the right thing? Of course not, they’re obviously too greedy! What did those two months do to earn their 31 days? Nothing, they inherited them. After all, isn’t it the direct fault of our western society that February has been short-changed? Sure, February gets an extra day every four years, but that’s akin to getting an occasional food scrap from the lavish banquet table. Where’s the dignity in that?

The month of February was named after the Latin Februalia; a time during which sacrifices were made to atone for sins. Isn’t it time we address this inequity, no matter what inconveniences may befall us? We should stop looking the other way regarding February’s plight and take from January and March one day each, and award them to their unfortunate brother. Government should stand for those months which don’t want a hand out, but need a hand up. Yes, my comrade citizens, equality of wealth can start with our calendars!

(Oh, and we’ve got our eyes on you, too May, July, August, October and December.)

JOHN LARRABEE

Sandpoint