How many ways can one say "I'm sorry?"

Listening to State Rep. Andy Neumann, D-Alpena, this week at the Alpena Rotary Club, I conservatively estimate Neumann tried at least a dozen different ways to convey the same message.

The trouble is, when you're sorry about almost everything, it doesn't leave you with much to celebrate.

"I'm sorry about not having a state budget ...

"I'm sorry about those cuts in education ...

"I'm sorry for that tax on physicians but ...

"No, I don't have any good news about revenue sharing. I'm sorry ...

"I really wish I had more information about that rumor, but I believe that's all it is regarding the Michigan State budget. I'm really sorry ..."

Neumann was the speaker for the Rotary Club and Alpena Area Chamber of Commerce's joint legislative roll call program. While normally the speaker uses the forum as an opportunity to share highlights and update community leaders about their area of government, Neumann must have felt as if he was being roasted Monday with all the apologies he issued from the podium.

I felt sorry for him. It took guts coming home to the district and stand before the audience and basically tell the crowd "You know what, we really didn't accomplish much so far this year, our budget is a shambles as political candidates keep posturing for elections next year and guess what guys, that was the good news. Next year, the problems only get worse."

Talk about wanting to shoot the messenger.

Sadly, I think Neumann probably would have been grateful for the exit from his misery.

Which is too bad when you think about it.

I've known Neumann for a long time now and know he is a good man with a big heart. Like all of us, he's had his highs and lows, been battered and bruised, yet through it all seems to have maintained his sense of humor and most days - optimistic perspective.

Listening to him Monday, however, I couldn't help but wonder why anyone would want to serve in that same capacity. Why would anyone want to subject themselves to such abuse and frustration?

Neumann addressed that later, saying despite it all, he was glad to be in Lansing right now trying to be part of the solution, not more of the problem. I suspect he's right. At least it was the right thing to say at the time.

At least it beat another "I'm sorry."