As a political junkie, the weeks of the national conventions every four years rank right up there in terms of "don't miss" television.
Where else can you see adults wearing elephant trunks and donkey ears? And for everybody who thought straw skimmers were a thing of the past, a night of convention watching will make you think they are the hat of choice in the United States.
Otherwise normal people paint their faces red, white and blue, or wear oversized Barack Obama and Mitt Romney faces.
The conventions are meant to raise the spirits of the party faithful. It gives the attendees a chance to get fired up about the coming election by booing the opposition and cheering lustily for their party's nominees.
It also gives the country a chance to see not just today's political stars but leaders of tomorrow, too. Last week, viewers got to see up-and-comers Marco Rubio and VP nominee Paul Ryan. Among those to be showcased this week will be Hawaii's own Tulsi Gabbard.
Once the conventions are over and the campaign begins in earnest, we start thinking ahead to more "can't miss" TV - the debates. There are clear differences between the candidates this year, and it will be educational - and fun - to watch them enunciate those differences face to face.
Our country has serious choices to make in this election. But the process itself should be relished and enjoyed. We're lucky to live in a nation where we have the freedom to pick and choose our leaders. That alone should put a smile on all our faces.
* Editorials reflect the opinion of the publisher.
