Do we dare open this can of worms

Whose side are you on? It's red versus blue, us against them. You would think I was talking about a couple of rival gangs, but no, I'm talking about our two major political parties that run our country. Both have their own agendas. Both lie to get what they want. I hate to sound so cynical but really you are taking a chance on voting for either. Sure, you can vote for the independent or write in a name but really, where does that get you?

But the chance and divide in politics is what it is. What I am truly concerned about is that, sadly, this ridiculous divide has created a significant division among people. Relationships that once thrived on mutual respect and understanding have been soured over this issue. I can’t help but notice the insults and harsh remarks flying back and forth on social media from both sides. It’s hateful and serves absolutely zero constructive purpose. If your intention is to genuinely get the other person to see where you are coming from, trust me, you are doing it all wrong. But people are messy, multifaceted, and complicated creatures. We often let our egos and emotions get the better of us, leading to poor choices and misunderstandings. I see it everywhere—in politics, businesses, family dynamics, and even amongst total strangers. It’s all just pure madness, a chaotic dance of disarray that often yields more frustration than resolution.

I completely understand that we all have our own personal agendas and individual purposes that guide our decisions as we vote one way or another. However, I can’t help but wonder why it has to come at the expense of our relationships. Why should we feel the need to put someone down simply because they voted differently than you did? Is it really fair to disrespectfully label an entire group of people voting a certain way—whether red or blue—when, in reality, we all hold our own unique beliefs, values, and motivations for our choices? Let's strive for understanding rather than division.

For some of us the emotions are driven because we have the government involved in matters that frankly I don’t think should be under their purview at all. If we’re being completely honest, each “side,” as you will, ultimately loses something in this ongoing battle. I get that for some, winning or losing feels like everything, whether you're red or blue. The emotional stress caused by government elections and their actions can be overwhelming, as many of us grapple with uncertainties that ripple through our daily lives. Whether it’s fluctuating policies that affect job security, the anxiety of potential changes in healthcare, or the constant barrage of news that often feels bleak and confusing, the weight of these factors can lead to feelings of helplessness and frustration. We are left worrying about our families, finances, and futures, often feeling marginalized in a system that seems out of touch with our lived realities. This emotional burden can lead to increased anxiety and stress, which can further spiral into mental health challenges for those trying to navigate the complexities of bureaucratic systems.

So, how exactly do we go about fixing this divide in a way that feels both achievable and meaningful? We can start by coming together and focus on our shared values and common goals rather than our differences. Engage in open dialogues, where everyone feels heard and respected, creating a foundation of understanding. By celebrating diversity and finding common ground, we can build relationships that support empathy and compassion. Instead of tearing each other apart, let’s choose kindness, humor, and a willingness to listen, transforming divisions into a tapestry of unity.

Can of Worms