One of my readers commented the other day on how the only “news” station is Fox down here in Costa Rica. On the rare occasion that I do turn it on, hoping to get some glimpse of my “back home”, I end up being brought straight into that freakish netherworld. Republicans vs. Democrats, Conservatives vs. Liberals, Tea Party’ers and Independents, politicians and elections - a convoluted world so self-important and so far removed from mainstream America you wonder how any of their dealings even end up touching people’s everyday lives. Like marionettes on strings, politicians, no matter what their party, are all too willing to be manipulated by powerful, outrageously backed lobbyists. And when politicians are manipulated, so in turn is the public. Resulting legislation, for good or absurd, is beyond anyone’s control if you're not part of the game.
Ironically, the runaway system seems to have jumped tracks, and I’m not even sure if those in that netherworld even know it, let alone want to fix it. They’re too busy holding the country hostage by refusing to make any decisions that might affect their precious elections. The ones I used to feel proud to be part of before I knew any better. The ones that they seem to think people will switch parties for out of dissatisfaction. I’m convinced now that no party can, or will, make the difference. That would mean giving up the power.
Ironically, the runaway system seems to have jumped tracks, and I’m not even sure if those in that netherworld even know it, let alone want to fix it. They’re too busy holding the country hostage by refusing to make any decisions that might affect their precious elections. The ones I used to feel proud to be part of before I knew any better. The ones that they seem to think people will switch parties for out of dissatisfaction. I’m convinced now that no party can, or will, make the difference. That would mean giving up the power.
Okay, I got deep again - sorry. So please, someone out there, talk me down. Tell me I’m wrong. Tell me I’m just becoming a negative old bitty instead of a wise sparked woman. Tell me what’s right about our political system. Help me believe there’s still hope for that wonderful country born out of values that matter like freedom, equality and respect. The one that built itself up into a thriving, vibrant land. Help me believe it still exists, or at the very least, that it can be made whole again.
photo by Truthout.org
photo by Truthout.org
Sorry, no way I can talk you down. You're absolutely right, it's appalling right now and I see no end in sight. I'm tired of Republicans blaming Obama for issues he inherited, being mean-spirited and not working together. The election will swing the balance and then the Democrats will be saying the same crap about the Republicans!!!Ugh.
ReplyDeleteSo true. What blows me away is that none of the politicians in the kingdom of Washington seem to get that we've finally got their number. But then again, do we on the whole? Or are there still that many people buying into their crap while they sit fat and happy in their greed and destruction?
ReplyDeleteYikes - guess there was no talking me down anyway, ha?