Al Smith was once governor of New York. He was doing his first tour of New York’s Sing Sing Prison when the warden asked if he would address the inmates. The governor was taken by surprise, but he agreed. His awkwardness was revealed when he began like this, “My fellow citizens . . .” He stopped himself. He wasn’t sure if inmates actually had the full rights of citizenship. So, he changed courses.

“My fellow convicts,” he began again. Everyone laughed.

He tried once more. “Well anyhow, I’m glad to see so many of you here . . .” as if his audience had any choice.

Well, you had a choice and I’m glad to see so many of you here today. And where else would you be on Easter Sunday? On the golf course? In the comfort of your bed? Well, you could be, but I’m glad you chose to be in this sacred …