My brief encounter with John McCain

I have a confession to make.

I feel sorry for John McCain. Here's a Vietnam Veteran who was a prisoner of the North Vietnamese for almost six years, refused an offer of repatriation, and was left with "lifelong physical limitations" due to his injuries sustained in Vietnam. He then entered politics, and in 2000 had a real shot of being elected President until the Bush camp threw a massive wrench into campaign during the South Carolina primary.

So he waited.

Fast forward to 2008: He goes up against Barack Obama. No chance of getting elected whatsoever. He's done.

Basically he's had a hard time of it for literally decades.

Unfortunately I didn't do anything to help his situation.

During the summer of 2005 I was in Alaska with my family for a fly fishing trip. It was baller. The night before we left for the lodge, we dined at a really fancy restaurant. As we were leaving I was holding the door for my dad when I noticed that three gentlemen in red jackets and earpieces were leaving at the same time. Granted I had several beers in me so I was entranced by anything that would have come my way. I started pondering why they would be in this restaurant, then started thinking what being a secret service agent would be like, and whether or not I would be a good candidate--

"Ted! Let's go!" Shouted my father.

So I snapped out of my trance, only to see John McCain standing in the doorway looking away from me and waving with a big enthusiastic smile on his face. Unfortunately I was no longer holding said door and witnessed in slow motion this heavy glass door come swinging closed and blindsiding John McCain. He staggered back and our eyes met for a split second. I could see in his eyes that we shared some sort of bond. Like we were related in past lives and did something despicable together. Something mysterious that we will pay for in this life. Or maybe I was just loaded.

So what did I do?

Did I apologize?

No. No I didn't.

I ran. I ran so far away. So far away.

Actually it was more of a stagger, but the next thing I remember I was standing about 25 feet away from him and my family was clapping with this enthusiastic crowd that had formed.

So Senator McCain, if you are reading this, I'm sorry I slammed you with that door.

Even though I have this guilt, I am really happy Obama is going to be President.

Also this picture is the only election related one I could find of my BFF Merritt and I in front of the Washington Monument.