Read a quote from the New York Times a few days ago, where Rick Perry—former Texas governor—says he has been called to do “God’s work.”
Now, I don’t know Perry. He’s a politician, which makes his motives sort of suspicious. But let’s assume, on this one, he’s being sincere. Let’s assume he believes, truly, that he has been called by God to work on his behalf.
Rick’s thinking: This is wonderful.
My thinking: Could you be any more arrogant?
Let’s put it different: What kind of normal humanoid believes himself so grand and important that he has been singled out by a holy entity to work on his behalf? I mean, is that a normal thought process? “I, Rick Perry, have been selected by God to carry out His plans …”
Um, no.
Here’s what makes it better: Rick Perry is as godly as my wrist wart. He’s a man who, through policy decisions, has done his all to ruin air quality and environmental protections. He’s a man who, through policy decisions, has hurt the poor and low-wage earners while giving repeated breaks to the wealthiest. He’s a man who has stood in the way of gay rights. He’s just a bad, bad, bad dude; one whose presidential ambitions are (praise Jesus!) about as realistic as Richie Incognito’s.
He also happens to be the perfect poster child for what happens when fame corrupts a person. I’m sure, at some point, Rick Perry was a normal guy, just trying to have fun, drink beers, catch a few movies, get laid. Then, with political power came, well, madness. You’re overtaken by money. By notoriety. You start thinking you’re worthy of being governor. Then you become governor. Then you ponder the presidency. You get slaughtered, but still believe.
And, really, why not? You’re doing God’s work, after all …
