Today a friend very kindly complimented me on my Facebook posts, commenting on their balance. I thanked him but felt that it was too kind as I am very aware of my tendency to "shit post" when especially annoyed by something.
We were at a forum where the speaker, a decorated military veteran and current Senate candidate, spoke candidly about the difficult situation we in as a Nation and the work that will be necessary to repair the damage that has been done. Her words were sage and serious. It will take time for us to heal. As much as I have postured about being on the right side of history, I realize that even when our long national nightmare is over there ought not be a victory lap taken.
A lot of my recent discussions have been about how I have lost respect and regard for friends and acquaintances who have backed such heinous positions as a war of convenience on a hostile (but no immediate threat) Iran, the killing of innocent Americans whose only "crime" was protesting the Neo-brownshirt ICE, the destruction of Venezuelan boats suspected of trafficking, and the rounding up of immigrants and terrorizing families. I am especially disdainful of the "they didn't come in the right way" when immigration reform has been blocked time and again. As you can see I am mightily frustrated.
So, how might I alleviate my psychological pain? I'll forgo the aforementioned victory lap. I will give grace to those who can come back and say, "I was wrong". It is starting to happen now, but sadly that admission is fueled more by rising fuel costs than a recognition of more decision making, misplaced trust, and likely giving in to their baser instincts. I want to say "I don't hate you for what happened, I just want to be sure we don't travel this path again". It will take time, but we can fix this.
Mental lint from a thought provoking forum.
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