R.I.P. 

We are deeply saddened to announce the passing of our friend, Common Sense, after a long period of failing health. Common was the son of Logic and Reason, both of whom predeceased him. His brother, Horse, was well known in rural communities. Common passed away from general malaise. He has and had several aunts, uncles, and cousins. Responsibility, Respect, Compromise, Ambition, and Pride are among the relatives who will be unable to attend the services because of illness, frailty, and death.

His cousins—Honor, Duty, and Discipline—reside respectively in West Point, N.Y.; Annapolis, MD; and Colorado Springs, CO.

Common was a regular participant in many and varied political debates. He had the ability to both give and take with such style and grace that he was able to win most debates, oftentimes while giving his opponent the feel that they had both won and that neither really lost. He is often given credit for the success of the town meeting tradition in its ability to govern rural communities; Common and his brother, Horse, were regular attendees at town meetings. They were often accompanied by their uncles, Respect and Compromise.

He learned very early in his life that, although misdirection, fabrication, and prevarication have a much better sound than honesty, the truth has more staying power and is easier to defend.

Common had many friends, and, sad to say, not a few enemies. He was a unique and talented individual. We may never see his like again.

-- Richard Barry - Santa Maria