My Political View

I have not said one word about politics, up to this point. I have been watching, learning, and observing the dramatic effects the current presidential election has had on the citizens of America. I have tuned-in to the debates, followed closely the news coverage from a variety of news sources, and listened to the very passionate voices of those on social media. With all of this information, I find myself very concerned -- even saddened -- by the current venomous vibe that is felt across the country, and even my own personal social media page.

The most tragic part of the current election, is the candidates seem to be a reflection of the anger that festers in the hearts of the people. People are quickly lit up in the fiery flames of fanaticism, to defend their chosen potential Commander-in-Chief.

But where there is fire, someone will get burned.

I have been astonished at how quickly people will turn on a close personal friend, rather than discount the integrity of their candidate: whom they've never met personally.

I have seen many threaten to "unfriend" those who disagree with their political view. For me, this is the most heart-breaking outcome of the presidential-positioning process. I think it wise to consider carefully the ramifications of the heart, before casting away friends that were once loved and respected. We do not see or understand the hearts of those who are voting differently than ourselves. We do not know all the reasons that brings someone to love political positions, and the people who represent them. We all walk a different path in life, and have seen and experienced different things; Hence, having different views and opinions.

Differences do not have to divide us.

Life is short, as I know too well as a widow. Throwing away friends (and family) over politics might leave your heart aching in the future, when the fury of the fire has turned to ashes. Let's not be too hasty, or too eager, to stop loving someone because they have a difference of opinion. None of us would have any friends, if we had to agree on everything to have friendship.

The beautiful thing about America is we are free to believe as we choose. We are also allowed to express those beliefs openly. The beautiful thing about choosing to be loving and charitable, is you can be open to love those who believe differently than you do. This is something I have learned over time, through my own personal experiences: You do not have to agree, to love someone.

As the election day draws closer, perhaps we can put aside our differences of opinion and choose to love each other a little more. If the intense vitriol regarding voting continues in the hearts of the people, then it is we the people who lose.

Love is the only thing that will save our country -- not our current presidential candidates.

Love is the key that unlocks the gate to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness.