REJOICE! The Federal Government Re-opens

Weekend Dance Party

By Belle Byrd
QuailBellMagazine.com

Have federal government workers (or any workers, for that matter) ever been happy to wake up in the morning and smile at the sunrise? Until recently, probably not, or at least not very often. Our species is probably more nocturnal than many of us like to admit, especially with that whole Ben Franklin saying about rising early gnawing at us each time our alarm clock rings. Americans are supposed to be go-getters. We're supposed to want to conquer the day,  the world. Sure, we sleep in on weekends, but during the week, we're regular beaver-bees. 

Our country being effectively shutdown for two weeks isn't exactly a symbol of the American Dream of grit, hard work and productivity leading to success. But now feds across the land are jumping for joy because they get to return to the office and, um, get paid. 

This isn't the first time that the history of American government has shutdown and it probably won't be the last, either. Let's hope, at least, that such a thing won't happen again for a long, long while (even if a shutdown does mean more at-home time to scribble out your novel.) Whether you're fed or not, take this weekend to relax, celebrate, and reflect upon our nation's past and future. In other words, have a historically inspired dance party. You know you want to borrow a cat's pajamas or your great-grandmother's cloche hat. Go on.