Politics

Can politics affect your happiness?  It depends on how much you give a sh..  I'm a social Democrat and a fiscal Republican.  I'm your typical middle of the roader.  I have a big problem with the group that is strongly to the left and have the same problem with the group that is strongly to the right. 


I follow politics and care about their affect and effect on the country I love.  I vote my voice at the risk I will be called for jury duty.  However, I don't let what's happening politically effect my mood, my behavior, my love for life, my love for country and my happiness.


I'm watching the news today and can't believe the jubilation and the deep anger over the Supreme Court Decision on health care.  This ruling has brought out deep positive and negative feelings within some people.  I heard people say they want Chief Justice Roberts (who placed the deciding vote) dead.  I heard people say this decision is the best thing that has ever happened to them.


What if the decision went the other way?  What if the Democrats win the election?  What if the Republicans win the election?  Do you really believe America will go under?  Do you really believe your life will turn to euphoria or crap?  Do you really believe these decisions will make your children's lives a disaster?


America has been through a lot worse than the decisions stated above.  We as a people always find a way to make things right over time.  As bad as the system is, it's the best one available and it works over time.  No political decision will destroy you, your family, your friends, your children or your country.  It's a cycle.  When the country goes in the wrong direction to long, we change it.


If Obama wins and screws things up we will change it.  If Romney wins and screws things up we will change it.  If the health care law makes things worse, we will change it.  Everything in our country will eventually change for the good.  The reason is because, in the final analysis, both parties want the best for the country and the American people.  You may like or not like their politics, but that's the purpose of your vote.


Making yourself depressed, angry, frustrated and unhappy over political decisions is never going to help you find happiness (remember that's your goal).  Believe in the future.  Believe you and others have the power to change things for the better over time.  Accept what is happening for now and add your voice in the future.


There are so many things going on around us that affects our happiness if we let it happen.  Politics is just one of them.  Be involved, but not to the extent that you let it shape your happiness.  Feel good that you voiced your opinion, but don't demand others feel the same as you.  Feel good that you care, but take a step back if it doesn't go your way.  Focus on your happiness not your politics.


I have a friend that has very different political views than I.  We really go at each other when we have a political debate.   However, we hug each other when it's over because we care more for each other than our political differences.  No matter what political decisions politicians make we will still be friends.


Friendship is happiness.  Political decisions are just political decisions that will always change over time.  You have a choice.  

Focusing on your happiness is always the right choice.