There’s an unmistakable pervasive, dark cloud lingering over our country. Whether you prefer to call it evil, dysfunction, insanity -or perhaps a combination of these- there’s no denying we’re in a bad place.
Little makes sense anymore, and I know I’m not alone in feeling this.
So let’s discuss.
Problems? We’ve Got Plenty of Those
We live in a topsy-turvy world, where good is seen as bad and bad as good. Some of the same people who tell us we need to shower violent criminal perpetrators with love and understanding, seem ecstatic when ideological opponents are indicted for minor infractions. Let them rot in jail forever, they say. Really? I want due process for all Americans, even my enemies. It’s a pillar of our country, and how we avoid becoming a totalitarian nation.
Zealous social justice activists masquerading as prosecutors and officers of the court work overtime to indict police officers for upholding the law, while simultaneously giving carte blanche to criminal offenders.
The rule of law and due process have been displaced, and the legal system weaponized against the law-abiding. Not good.
Powerful entities have succeeded in dividing us (even family ties and close friendships) in every conceivable way. We’re constantly at each other’s throats, treating each other as mortal enemies. Instead of exercising our right as free Americans, we walk around on eggshells for fear of inadvertently saying something that will be perceived as offensive. How do we solve problems like this?
The United States is being displaced as a Superpower. The takeover isn’t something that will occur sometime in the future and it won’t unfold like the movie Red Dawn, either. It’s happening right now, before our eyes. As we’re distracted by in-fighting and the outrage of the day, China is busy buying up farmland near U.S. military bases; influencing U.S. policy via our lawmakers, business leaders, and academia; and manufacturing the fentanyl that’s destroying American lives.
At precisely the same time as the threats to our nation escalate, the forces designed to protect us -namely police and military- have been weakened.
I could go on but I suspect you already know a lot of this.
No American, except those who stand to profit or acquire power and control from this level of dysfunction, is benefiting from any of this. And the most vulnerable, as always, are the ones who are most deeply effected.
Joan Beglinger, former candidate (I) for Wisconsin governor aptly said:
“Many of us grew up in a society vastly different from today.”
It’s unfolding at this point in time because over the past several decades, we’ve allowed the values that have traditionally made us strong as both individuals and as a nation, to lapse. There’s a glaring correlation between a decline in traditional values and the rise of mental illness, dysfunction, and yes, evil. Joan touches upon this in her recent blast, and I’ve penned about this, as well.
So Where Do We Go From Here?
Let me preface this by stating that I don’t have all the answers. No one person does. The following, however, are some strategies that I believe can be beneficial for both self and country.
Find Your Tribe
I’m not talking about tribalism, which in its current form only divides and destroys. Rather, finding a group of people who share your values and interests can help you feel less alone. They are out there. Find them.
Raise Great Kids
The problems we’re experiencing right now won’t evaporate overnight; too much damage has been done. It’s why we’re depending on future generations to help set us on the right track.
The stakes are indeed high, but if more parents mindfully raise their kids as patriotic Americans who can think clearly and treat each other fairly and with compassion, we may just have a chance.
Spend due diligence raising your kids or someone else will.
Take Time to Get Out Of Your Head
As a true INTJ, I have a tendency to live in my head. A lot. Though it’s served me well in life, overthinking can also lead to despair if you don’t balance it out.
There’s really more to life than politics and ideology. Though our nation’s challenges are indeed numerous, beauty and goodness still exist.
Along with my police advocacy and other responsibilities, I take time to find joy. For example, I’m planning a whale watching tour in the Atlantic. The mere act of looking at pictures of these magnificent creatures and knowing that I have an opportunity to see them up close fills me with joy and gratitude. And it helps me gain perspective.
Consider Running for Public Office
Politics isn’t for everyone. You need a thick skin, courage to do the right thing under incredible pressure, and a moral center that allows you to avoid the temptations of corruption.
We’re way past the point of Republican or Democrat. It’s about electing fair-minded people who genuinely care about the American people and want the best for them. I don’t expect my elected officials to agree with me on everything, but I do expect them to do their work in good faith.
We need good people in all levels of office, including school boards, city councils, state and U.S. senates.
Stop Taking the Bait
Passionate discourse is fundamental to being an American. Right fighting however, solves nothing and is a time suck. It’s also a huge yawn.
I’ve seen social media threads that go on and on, with both parties offering nothing intelligible. Who benefits from this, really, and what has been learned or solved? State your point and if the conversation is going nowhere, move on.
Pray for Your Enemies (If You Pray)
This is a hard one, I know. The nuns had a point, though.
Praying for people we can’t stand is a way to release ourselves from the toxic thoughts that can damage our mental and emotional health. It’s not healthy to be in a constant state of hate or anger.
Speaking of Prayer . . . Embrace Your Faith
One of the most comforting things my dad ever said to me was this:
When you’re in doubt about something, turn to God. Jesus Christ, our Lord, Will Never Steer You the Wrong Way.
Whether you practice Christianity, Judaism, or another faith, turning your worries to your higher power -especially in these times- can be pretty powerful.
Lest you think this is simplistic, there are brilliant scientists (albeit not in the majority) who believe this.
Think Big, But Focus on One Thing
Think about the bigger picture, then find a place where you can contribute your gifts. It’s more effective to focus on one or two issues instead of trying to tackle everything that comes across your desk. You’ll drive yourself nuts trying to do it all. Been there.
“If you chase two rabbits, you will not catch either one.” —Russian proverb
My personal contribution is advocating for rank-and-file police officers and public safety. Narrowing it down even more, I’m working with an influential women’s group to help bring awareness to this issue. Breaking it down even further, I take on just a few key projects that I believe will have the most positive impact. This week, for example, I’m finishing up a presentation that thousands of women will have access to.
Being focused is better for whatever cause you’re pursuing, as well as for your mental and emotional health.
My hope is that this brought you some joy and perspective. Your turn: How are you coping these days? What fills you with joy? Do you think we can change our current trajectory?
For the Blue is a solutions-based initiative. I’m just an American patriot asking questions. I don’t work with any political party and I answer to nobody. For me, the health of the nation, due process (including for police officers), the rule of law, and respect for individual liberties, will always transcend party affiliation. I welcome your thoughts, even if you disagree; though personal attacks will be ignored. You can reach me at fortheblue@substack.com.
Great article! Thank you
Well done! As we have talked other articles back-and-forth before, I am passionate about the same issues! You’re right, reliance on the foundation of our faith is the impetus to allowing us to raise morally centered children, put in place Courageous Nobility to run for public office and standby our convictions is when real change happens!
I am more hopeful and joyful now that I’ve been over the past 24 years in public safety! Thank you for your ongoing work!