I have contacted U.S. Rep. John Barrow's office many times, and his staff has always been great in listening to me -- but now I realize they were right.

I need to understand that the government knows best for me! I can't believe that I didn't know any better!

Yes, the Democrats and John should be able to tell us whether or not we need a knee replacement or a test -- not our doctors!

Yes, John and his people should be able to tell us how much we make and set salaries for people.

OK, John and the Dems should be able to tell us what and how much to eat so we won't get fat!

Yes, the Democrats and John should pass the cap-and-trade bill and run our electric bills up many hundreds of dollars a year.

You know, John and his friends should be able to put my children in thousands of dollars of debt in taxes for the rest of their lives.

I don't know what I have been thinking. Hey, these guys -- Nancy Pelosi, President Obama, Barrow and the other Democrats -- know what is best for me and my family.

I'm sorry. I'll shut up! Who am I to worry about these things?

I understand why someone from Washington can tell me how to live my life, especially when my congressman lives in Savannah.

What's wrong with that?

Marion Shaw

Swainsboro