Everywhere I went today, I was met with the same disappointed, upset, sad, worried and frustrated responses to last nights election results. We talked to the kids last night as news was coming in about the results, and had no idea the outcome would effect them as much as it did. They have been very tuned into any political discussion Matt and I have had. (on a nightly basis pretty much) And I had a hard time last night and this morning reconciling how to explain to them what has happened. I'm afraid the historics of it all is lost on me. I don't see the world in Black and White people....just people. So I can't explain to them why it was more important that a man be elected based on his color than for his character and values.
Then today I was informed that Chandler had overheard some kids talking in the lunch line at school about assassinating the new president. Now, realize I'm only getting bits and pieces from a few 9 year old, but still upsetting. What kind of parent (or older siblings) talk about such matters at all, much less in front of their kids? To say the least, we have been having discussions with the kids about what has happened. Both yesterday, and in our countries history. But then I also opened it up to include the worlds history, and the several groups of people that have been persecuted throughout time, since this isn't taught at school. (don't know why Jews are always left out of this inequality discussion in school, but, sadly they are)
Sufficed to say, we've come to several conclusions in our family lately:
*We have a new President starting in January, and weather we like him or not, its time to give him a chance. Let's see how he does, and then judge him on his merits.
*Do we pray for our enemies, and those who spitefully use us? Yes. Do the democrats, of all people need all the prayers we can give that their hearts will be softened, and they'll try to do some good for our country? yes.
*Is this what men and women have fought and died for? Is this the direction the majority of Americans want our country to go in? Yes. Do we have to like it? No. Do we have to respect it? Yes. Can we change it? yes, if we are active in our community, and follow examples like Sarah Palin, and get involved in our PTA's our school boards, our Party of choice. As for me, I am joining the Mat-Su Republican Women.
*We are teaching our children to respect others. No matter their religion, race, or gender. They are the next generation. What are we all fighting for if not to give our children something better to grow up in that what we have now?
Okay, said my piece. I'll leave it alone now till 2012.
2 comments:
Right on! You said it Jen!!
I too have been actively involved this election and was disappointed in the outcome. But it also made me acutely aware of what I need to be doing. I think that this is a good lesson for us all, that we need to be actively involoved. "Evil can only prevail if good men do nothing." I was happy to see the Marriage props pass in AZ, CA and FL this year. Christians united in these states and let the govt know what we wanted. So it gives me hope in knowing that our voices were heard and it also reminded me that we need to band together as Christians and not divide ourselves because of differences. I too, wait to see what will happen these next four years but I am glad to have learned that I need to be active in voicing my opinions.
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