Conundrum

Two people I grew up with are running for office. I'm not sure why, but this fact has me just a tad bit freaked out.

A few weeks ago My Man came in the door holding a bright pink piece of paper. He said, "Hey, Zerb is running for the Senate." I said, "Noooooo. Not, J____ Z______?" He said, "Yes, J____ Z______. I'd know him anywhere." It was him--this boy I grew up with, playing cowboys and Indians down in the wash behind Jennifer's house. This boy, who played football with My Man in high school and partied a little more than he should have. Running for the Senate? I guess I just don't see it.

Then, on Friday, Miss Pickle and I were taking Lucy Lou to see Dr. Rick in Chickenburg. Just a quick appointment at the vet, then lunch with Nonna, Auntie Cole, Punky & Buckaroo. We'd planned a nice, leisurely day. As we pulled into town, I see a sign that reads K_____ B______ for Mayor. Seriously??? Again, this is a boy I grew up with in my very small town, playing in the dirt at softball games, meeting up on hunting trips, and going through high school together. How could it be possible that he's running for Mayor?

Why does this bother me so?

Is it because we played together growing up?

Is it because I know what they 'did' in high school?

Is it because I just happened to punch one of them when he called me 'cupcake' in the fourth grade?

Or, maybe, is it because I don't think I'm old enough, mature enough, or educated enough to be running for an office, so I don't think they should either?