If you work on Capitol Hill you see, hear, and overhear many things that the rest of the mortal world isn’t privy to. These privileged professionals that serve our US government acquire a wealth of knowledge that sometimes is just too good not to share. We’ve provided a platform on which they can unload.
‘Twas the week before Christmas and all through the Hill
Not a creature was stirring, the Capitol was still.
Echoing footsteps bounced off the walls,
Dated, discarded furniture littered the halls.
Offices empty, phones that quit ringing,
MIA postal workers who were no longer bringing
Constituent mail full of complaint or praise,
No mean-spirited jabs or bland turns of phrase.
Fights of the 114th that were bitter and rotten
Left abandoned, unresolved, and largely forgotten.
Replaced by thoughts of food and fun,
With no room to fret over things left undone,
Like healthcare, immigration, and foreign affairs,
Russia, taxes, spending… who cares?
IRS scandals and DOJ probes,
Controversial rulings from people in robes,
Clandestine meetings and secret servers,
Congressional testimonies given with fervor,
Bills introduced, passed and signed,
Members elected; Members resigned.
Criminal justice reform and the VRA,
Lobbyists pushing for a little more sway.
Fighting bad press and things overheard,
Waging the relentless war of the word,
Money, politics, and draining the swamp,
Preparing for another legislative romp,
All left behind as we flee DCA,
Waiting to be dealt with another day.
Stockings, presents, parties, and treats,
Family gatherings and white snowy streets,
These take priority this time of year,
Quaint celebrations and holiday cheer.
So drink and be merry, eat without care,
Because the problems of Congress will still be there
When you step off the plane in about a week
To start the 115th, it’s calendar bleak.
The meetings, the battles, the exhausting grind,
The recess you’ll search for but rarely find.
Savor these moments of relaxation and rest,
Because your stamina will be put to the test
For now, leave your worries on the Capitol steps
And emit from your mind your Senators and Reps.
Enjoy your time with family and friends,
Because it’s back to work the moment it ends.
