A Vote For Civility

Before the moderator was introduced,

Before the debate could begin

A cautionary note was inserted by the host:

Tell us why we should vote for you.

Do note spend this limited time

Assailing the opposition.

You are tasked with relating a story

That will persuade us you are a viable candidate for the job.

To my surprise the two candidates followed the admonition.

Questions proffered by the moderator 

Received relevant responses.

The audience of 50 heard rational and reasoned answers.

Each candidate presented a closing argument.

A vote for an endorsement of either candidate fell short.

All told a good, if microscopic, day for democracy.