Day 45...Bridging The Political Divide

Day 45... Bridging the political divide 6am...My phone starts buzzing and making noises more than usual. I roll over and see that there has been a shooting involving a republican congressman and others at a baseball practice. I wipe my eyes and turn on the TV. I see the early video and pictures and try to figure out what is going on. For the last 16 years, every day, I'm looking at news for work. I sleep with my phone on next to me just because that's what I've been trained to do. I get alarms and alerts at all hours of the night. It's something I'm somewhat used too. This won't be the last time that something wakes me up. Now lets get into the discussion. The political divide. This country is divided and there is no question about it. People on both sides of the spectrum are heated, upset, annoyed, excited, depressed, or any other adjective you want to throw in there. Growing up, I was told by my parents that you believe what you believe because you have a basis for that belief. Political views are shaped by experiences both from real life and local influences. I'm a fairly conservative guy, but mainly financial. Socially, I believe what you do is your business and as long as you aren't forcing something on me, I'm going to support your right to do what you want. Maybe I'm different, but I've always wanted to hear someone else's opinion. Why you ask? Well for me its simple, I want to know why you believe what you do. I want to be able to ask questions and get answers. It's about the exchange of ideas. This goes for everything from learning to politics. I have a firm belief that everyone, on both sides, wants the best for our country and the citizens that call the United States home. We differ on how to accomplish this. Just because someone has different opinions than me, that doesn't make them the enemy or make me not like them. I have several good friends who are on both sides on the isle. Looking at my Facebook and Twitter feeds, you can clearly see this. It's almost comical with how two people can see the same event and come to completely different outcomes. This is why I want to learn why people feel the way they do. We need to stop the partisan bickering, we need to start listening to people. The joint press conference with both the democrat and republican baseball team managers was something special. Both gentlemen talked about respecting each other outside of the house chamber. They spoke of being able to debate with passion and yet not starting fist fights outside the doors. They talked about how one of the sons, who was there at the park today, received gifts from the democratic party when he was born to the Texas republican. It boils down to people and respect. Our representatives uproot their private lives in order to serve the country. They move from every corner to Washington DC to serve their districts and states. While both parties have their beliefs, everyone is going through it all together. If we took more time to listen to people, I firmly believe that we would all be better off. Can we still have political beliefs that are different, yes we can. Different thoughts and ideas is how we debate and discuss and ultimately come to conclusions. Let's all take a moment and listen. Listen to what our families, neighbors, coworkers, and strangers have to say. Will they change our opinions?...Not sure...but at least you'll know where they are coming from. I have a feeling that we all have more in common than what divides us. I pray tonight for the families of those involved in the shooting this morning. I pray for the leadership of both parties. I am thankful and pray for those who risk their lives, keeping us safe. Last but not least, if you want to talk to me, reach out. I'd love to hear what you have to say.