
You know, I’m just a regular Joe(sephine). I never had political aspirations. I’m not particularly religious. So WHY do I now find myself poring over news stations and articles to find out the latest on what’s going on with our new government? Why am I now taking extra blood pressure medicine almost daily? Why am I learning so much more about politics, religion, and government? Why am I suddenly afraid of our future and where we’re going as a country? Because we are heading to crazy town right now, with our new president driving the bus.
I really resent the fact that most Americans’ opinions are being so blatantly disregarded right now. There’s a right way and a wrong way to make things happen. It appears, judging by the marches and protests over the past week, that most of these recent decisions are not endorsed and /or have not been carried out the right way. What does this mean to me and to you? Well, it means that, instead of watching my favorite tv show or reading a book, I’m busy checking out the news for the latest horrifying update and learning more about politics. I’m feeling bad for the people who are losing benefits, being detained, and being hurt and frightened by prejudice and bias. I’m afraid for myself too. I’m afraid that I’m going to no longer have access to healthcare and what that means to me both physically and financially. I’m afraid for the future and integrity of our country, which I’ve always taken for granted. It means that now I cannot surrender control of all of these things to the elected officials that we put into place. It’s not enough. That means that we, each of us, needs to get off the couch, become aware of the issues, pick one, and decide what you are going to do about it. Our country can no longer run on auto-pilot. We need to open our eyes and see what’s happening. If you disagree with something, write a letter, make a phone call, or send an email. Join a group, a protest, or a cause. You can do as much or as little as you’re able to, but at least become educated and aware and make an informed judgment on the issues.
I can certainly understand if you don’t have the same opinion that I have because we are, after all, entitled to our own opinions, ALL of us, because we live in America. I’m hoping it stays that way. That’s why I, despite the fact that I didn’t want to be involved in politics, am now learning as much as possible and doing what I can to support the causes most important to me and those I care about. I think it’s important and exactly the right time to become involved.