November 7, 2012

[MississippiBoy]

On the morning of November 7, 2012, an old man sits on a bench on Pennsylvania Avenue, across the street from the White House. After sitting there for half an hour or so, he gets up and shuffles across the street to the young Marine standing guard.
"Young man," he says, "I'd like to talk to President Obama. Could you ask him if he would mind speaking with me?"
The Marine looks at the old man, thinking he may be a little senile. He says respectfully, "I'm sorry, sir. Mr. Obama is no longer president. He lost the election last night."
The old man nods, thanks the Marine, and shuffles on down the street.
The next morning, he's back on the same bench when the Marine comes on duty. After a few minutes, he gets up and makes his way across the street. Again, he looks up at the guard and says, "Young man, would you please tell President Obama that I'd like to speak with him?"
The guard says, "Sir, as I said yesterday, Mr. Obama is no longer the president."
The old man thanks him again, and goes on his way.
The next morning, the Marine sees the old man on his bench again. Sure enough, he makes his way across the street and walks up to the Marine. But before he can speak, the guard cuts him off. "Sir, like I told you yesterday and the day before, Mr. Obama is no longer the President of the United States. I don't know how to make it any more clear to you, and I really don't need you to be distracting me while I'm on duty."
The old man nods and pats him on the arm. "That's ok, young man. I understand perfectly. I just love hearing those words."
The Marine snaps to attention, ramrod straight, and fires off a crisp salute. "Yes, sir! See you tomorrow, sir!"