My first bill hearings are next week. 

            That means I have to write my testimony. 

            My staff will do the first draft.  I’ll revise the first sentence so that it gets the attention of the committee members – the equivalent of hitting my colleagues in the middle of their foreheads with a 2×4. 

            But I won’t read that opening sentence or any other part of my testimony.  Better to look into the eyes of my colleagues and briefly stumble or search for the right word than to drone on with my head down and eyes on the paper.

            The bottom line: I have to demonstrate why we need this bill. 

            I may also be writing amendments. 

            I’ve had conversations with interested parties, whose position may change from opposed to favorable with amendments.

            If we find the right words.