Division

Sorry guys--I'm about to be serious again. This whole post comes from a FB discussion that came from a forum discussion. If you've seen my status on FB today, then you know what's coming. But I'm posting a different take on it, so it's not a repeat.

Just to catch anyone up who doesn't already know, I posed a question on FB on whether or not you think immigrants to this country should speak English. Just to get it out there, my opinion is that yes, an effort should be made. However, it's an extremely difficult language, so we should show patience and compassion to those who are trying. That's the bare bones of my opinion, but that's not what I wanted to talk about here.

In this discussion, one of my family members and I had to agree to disagree. I don't have a problem with that. The ability we have to civilly debate in this country is one I hold particularly dear. What occurred to me is the parallels to our country now and during the Civil War. I'm not saying we are on the brink of war or anything, but the divide in our country is so great that even family members can find themselves bitterly opposed to each other.

My own personal discussion was not bitter, but I did find it very sad that I couldn't sway her to my side. And then I was sad that I even felt that way. Why shouldn't she have her own opinions? And then I was sad because I realized many, many times people who disagree do so in much more divisive manner that does indeed lead to bitterness. And I'm just feeling very, well, sad about the whole thing.

Next time, I'll post happy thoughts. I promise! It's just that when Nathan's not around (he's at school) I don't have anyone to bounce ideas off and I just sit and stew. I need some kind of outlet, and the blog often serves that purpose for me. Plus, I have to write about something. I don't have any kids to brag about or post cute pictures of. Ooh, that sounded bitter. To clarify, I love reading those stories and seeing the pictures. It's just that when you don't have that focus in your life and your day consists of taking care of the house and playing on the internet, it can take a little creativity to come up with ideas for posts!