Earlier this year, I started listening to The Who. One of the Blue Dogs in the Legislature introduced me to it, for which I am grateful. One of their greatest songs is "Eminence Front", a song Pete Townshend wrote during the early part of the 80s, and the lyrics seem particularly appropriate during this time of economic uncertainty. Townshend's composition, both lyrically, and musically, depict flashy lifestyles, partying, and stylish clothes, all apparently the product of immense wealth. But Townshend is not deceived:
The drinks flow, People forget.
That big wheel spins, the hair thins, People forget,
Forget they're hiding.
The news slows, People forget.
The shares crash, hopes are dashed, People forget,
Forget they're hiding
Behind an eminence front,
Eminence front - it's a put on.
So as I consider what I would do, were I making this $700 Billion decision that is as philosophically heavy as it is economically, remembering the transitory nature of wealth is an important reminder to put value on those things which truly matter.
I encourage everyone to take some time, and reflect on this, and pray that our Congressional leaders, perhaps as much as ever before, get some kind of divine wisdom on this decision. Because as phony as this eminence front is, wealth can do wonderful things for our lives.
Economic depressions may serve to refocus us, but certainly do not bring great happiness or greater prosperity to Americnas generally. Paraphrasing Neal Maxwell, though we may travel through fiery furnaces in life successfully, wise men do not line up for another turn. Whatever decision they make, it is my hope that Congress is not starting up the queue.
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