You probably haven't noticed, but I've tried to keep this blog apolitical, recognizing that I would offend SOMEBODY by taking 'sides,' whatever side I took.
However, there have been too many dumb things happen lately to keep my peace. Our beloved nation has alienated our allies, encouraged folks we shouldn't be encouraging, handed many of our strengths to others, and more than anything, shown cruelty not in keeping with who we think we are and who we should be.
It takes a lot for generally peaceful old people to get riled up, but a lot has been happening that Paula and I don't like. Because of this, we've written to our legislative leaders more in the past year than in our whole lives. We've donated to more causes that seem to share our dismay, subscribed to podcasts I'd never heard of and generally tried to push back in peaceful ways.
Those of you of our (ancient) demographic will well remember the protests of the 1960's and 70's. While I believed that many decisions of our leaders at that time were troublesome, I didn't take part, and the protesters were generally considered to be radical hippy-types.
But now, sheesh! We've been so disappointed with our leaders that WE, generally peaceful and well-behaved old people, have made signs, called friends and gone to - GASP! - demonstrations!
That was at the "No Kings" rally yesterday, Raleigh, North Carolina version.
Last week, Paula attended the Annual Convention of 'MWEG,' or Mormon Women for Ethical Government. This is a nationwide, growing group of women, founded in 2017, not affiliated with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints or either political party who believe that political behavior should reflect principles of integrity, focusing on ethical government, rather than partisan stances. And no, there were no break-out sessions on how to make a Molotov cocktail, she says.
We will continue to be radical septuagenarians, believing that 'you gotta do something,' trying to support kindness and intelligent wielding of the powers of our nation.
Like I said, something must be really wrong to get these two to a demonstration.
Dave & Paula
