"Oh, what sad times are these when passing ruffians can say Ni at will to old ladies. There is a pestilence upon this land, nothing is sacred." Roger the Shrubber.

DATELINE UNKOWN -- I'm now in my third state in a couple days of travel and my third state of COVID reaction.

It's been much like the story of Goldilocks and the Three Bears.

One's too hot, one's too cold and one's just right.

In Indiana, the state opened up everything it could, as much as it could, as quickly as it could. That hasn't turned out too well as COVID rates shot through the roof. Remember, though, Indiana once had a code for child care that said running water for children could be allowed even if it's a water hose from another nearby building.

I know one Hoosier who said he made out with Larry King while the latter was in ICU with COVID -- just because he could. I questioned him. He said he didn't think it was Larry King but thought he was eating a raisin. (Nothing of the sort ever happened. I just thought it was a funny joke.)

One of the states through which I drove, I couldn't find a place to pee. The state was tighter than my prostate. Which doesn't make any sense because I wouldn't need to pee in such an instance.

The third state, where I stay tonight -- is kind of just right. Dealing with the deadly virus requires common-sense vigilance but not monastic lockdowns. Understand, we as a country are dealing with the first pandemic of this order in more than 100 years ago so we have to make up policy as we go. Policy changes must morph into something supportive of both life as we know it and safety.

 I imagine this is controversial to those on the extremes. But I've always supported the goal of efficacy -- that which works. I like to say it's my second-favorite F word.

Peace and health and livelihood unto all of you my brothers and sisters.