The ‘long count’ of Election 2020 is not the first ‘long count.’ The first, the origin of the expression ‘long count,’ aka ‘the long count battle,’ was the 1927 boxing match between Tunney and Dempsey, the latter failing, either because he was unaware or in defiance of the neutral corner rule before a referee would begin counting over a knocked-down opponent, allowed Tunney to take an estimated 13 seconds (the ‘long count’) to get back on his feet and ultimately retain his championship with a 10 round decision.
Another ‘long count,’ this one, ‘long count #3’, the Covid-19 Count election of 2020, that stretched the results of the Presidential race over several days. The extra time for tabulating, challenging, arguing, cursing, etc., extended beyond the closing of the polls, and was reminiscent of ‘long count #2’, the ‘hanging chad’ election of 2000.’
So why in the world bring up a fight from the ‘20s when the present ‘long count’ (make that l-o-n-g c-o-u-n-t) is with us? Here’s why: Like the opinions of so many with whom I have talked over the past weeks and months, the political internecine wars have grown overbearing and embarrassing. While I take no responsibility for the increasing rancor, it is interesting, coincidental to say the least, that conditions have worsened since I sold my car and removed the license plate that read B CIVIL.
The change of discussion to boxing in the twenties is simply a change of pace, a respite from all the BS.
As we return to normal, or something akin to it, we can lessen the worry furrows on our brow with light reading. May I suggest, “A Man Called Ove’, as a book of warmth and humor, with a touch of pathos. Outstanding writing that may generate a tear or two, but absolutely will generate a lot of chuckles and nods of agreement and character recognition.
Should Covid-19 continue following the trajectory of the Pandemic of 1918 a second wave is very possible, one in which the demographic most attacked could be young people and children. Until the vaccine and therapeutics are perfected the country’s health and economics will remain in a slow, but steady, improvement. We are prepared for a drawn-out period until we reach more normal conditions. The investments we hold are designed to weather the stress, with many of them having increased their dividends.
Retirement does not mean one’s mind stops working, at least not yet. That’s’ why my love of investing (and yes, bad golf) goes on and why I will continue writing about creating and retaining wealth. I will also be increasing my availability to speak to groups, organizations, families, et.al. on investing and retirement subjects (the most requested in the past has been “How to Get Rich and Stay Rich.”) Let me know if I can be of service.
Our national day of Thanksgiving approaches. Gather with those you love and share their presence, your many blessings, and pray for bright tomorrows.
