Wow. What a night.
I avoid discussing politics because frankly, I dislike confrontation--especially in forums where passion can drive people to say and do mean and hurtful things--but I feel compelled to touch on the election. Like millions of other Americans, I sat in front of the television set last night watching and waiting for results that arrived much faster than I had expected (seriously, projections came before some of us here in HI even had a chance to vote).
I made the mistake of checking my Twitter and Facebook feeds, absentmindedly at first, but then with sadness and intrigue, because anger, hatred and negativity were suddenly blowing up my feeds. This just made my heart sink; yes, we are entitled to our own opinions, but it is wasted energy (not to mention pointless) to continue arguing over a decision that has already been made. TOTALLY my opinion.
I posted a status update on my personal Facebook account about my sadness and belief that this divided nation was in need of prayer; while nearly all of my feedback was positive, I had two friends who felt the need to comment and insult me in the process. I can appreciate and respect that we have a difference of opinion, but the insults? Uncalled for. And I let it get to me. Enough so that I questioned why I was even friends with them on Facebook to begin with; I have not heard from either of them in ages and when I finally do, they're insulting me and egging one another on? Really? I know that I am responsible for my actions, my words and what I choose to put out on the internet, but I'll be honest: it really bugged me (note to self: rethink Facebook). Sometimes I really dislike what politics does to people.
Anyway. That's not the point of this post.
The purpose of this series is about gratitude and what I am thankful for. On this day, I am grateful that people are passionate about their rights, our country and the issues we face. I may not agree with or condone how they choose to express themselves, but I am grateful that people CARE at all.
I will continue to pray that President Obama leads this country towards a better future and that his decisions are made with God's glory and will in mind.
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Couldn't agree with you more! As a Canadian stuck in the US, I was astounded to see the anger, self-righteousness and arrogance displayed on facebook by both my American and Canadian FB friends. The election is super important, but yikes! Sometimes I think people should have to pass some sort of test before being allowed on the internet... but that probably goes against something in the constitution... :)
ReplyDeleteI have avoided Facebook and twitter all day on purpose. I totally agree. The only thing that was super clear last night was that our nation is divided....how do we move from here to united? I hope it will happen somehow. So many prayers going up for our nation and our leaders and our people.
ReplyDeleteThis post was a breath of fresh air in an atmosphere of so much oppressive chatter.... Nicely said Angie... Thank you.
ReplyDeleteI too can't believe the negative feelings and hatred that this election has brought out in people. Sounds like it's the people who need the prayers more than the country.
ReplyDeleteMy opinion on this subject is: Regardless of who is president, I know who is in charge.
It's so sad that this election seemed to have brought out the worst in some people. I have read so many mean-spirited, hateful comments coming from both sides. We went through this same thing with our own elections back in May. My own country is still deeply divided and not much has changed since then. A good friend of mine ended up deactivating her FB account yesterday for this same reason. Whatever the case, I know this is true---God is in control.
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