Life in the War Zone

The President has declared my home a "War Zone." He is prone to exaggerate and use hyperbole, but this is so off the hook it can be nothing but funny. Only, with Trump, there is very little humor. His war zone is confined to 1 square block in a city that covers 149 square miles.

And still he rants on.

People here are posting pictures of people sitting outside watching the sunset from a restaurant patio, or swimming in a river, lake, or swimming pool, or enjoying on of the many city parks, under the title of "Life in the War Zone. It's all a big joke that isn't very funny. Aside from a small flare-up now and then at an ICE headquarters the war is not here. It's an insult to people who really do live in a war zone.

True, the National Guard troops the President has activated help with the optics, but then people are posting pictures of them, in uniform, standing outside of VooDoo Donuts, clutching pink boxes instead of automatic weapons. Life in the war zone.

As Fall descends upon Portland, and Summer recedes, Portlanders are breaking out the sweatshirts and fleece. But there will be some wonderful Fall weather with colorful leaves falling and brilliant sunsets. The troops will hang out enjoying the many food trucks in the many food courts. They will watch the people of this war zone scurry to soccer games, NBA games, football games and, on occasion, to demonstrations where folks feel compelled to express their outrage at the loss of democratic rights and unfair treatment to fellow human beings.

The President lies. It's easier for him to lie than to tell the truth. He will continue to lie. The people of Portland understand that their city is not perfect. The elected officials are working on all the big city problems like housing, mental health, and crime. They are beginning to make a difference and some things are turning around. Portland is as safe or unsafe as your home town. It is a beautiful city trying very hard to cope with many challenges. But, it is not, I assure you, a war zone.

Comments

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