“We need to learn to be strong in the face of despair, because that is the only way we will appreciate the strength that can be found in our scars. That is the only way we will understand that overcoming our obstacles gives us the willpower to deal with so much more in life. That is the only way we will accept that strength is earned, not given, that strength is in being soft, not stone-hearted.” -Ruby Dahl
These are challenging times. We are a country divided, with both empathy and discord thrown by the wayside. But we cannot move forward with hardened hearts. That way danger lies.
Despite our differences, we have more in common with each other than not. Our ideas on how to provide for ourselves and our families may be different, but we look toward the same goals.
There can be no room for hate and divisive rhetoric if we want to move forward as one nation, where all men and women are created equal, and given the same respect and opportunities. We must listen to our neighbors. Empathize with their struggles. Realize we are all in this together. Stop being fooled into thinking our fellow man is our enemy, and look at what our goals are and how we can collectively get there.
In this season of increasingly aggressive political attacks, take a step back from the emotional tribalism and think rationally about where our country is headed (looking at the scope of human history for context), and how you imagine your children’s future on all levels–their ability to find work and support themselves, their access to health care, their ability to exercise their rights under the constitution, their emotional health, the state of the environment and if it will continue to support future generations…. Talk to people outside of your echo chamber and get their perspective. Think about the progress our country has made in recognizing people’s civil rights while also understanding growth is fluid and can backslide. There are still flaws, but we should always look forward with the goal of a brighter future. Do the work to educate yourself, rather than relying on vitriol and memes. *Then* cast your vote.
Looking for other bloggers, book reviewers (if you can read, you're in!) and photographers who want to join forces to save the world! (Or something like that.)
SeeingSpotsPhoto.com 