I contemplated the value of my participation in this topic for a long while, what concerns could I have that really compare to the struggles others face elsewhere? I have a lot to be grateful for, my life is safe and happy. By all accounts some would say I solely have these things because of how this country is ran... I would say it's in spite of it.
No matter what political lines you fall on in the US, chances are you're feeling pretty pissed off and worried right now. Stagnant wages, an exploding housing market, inflation, and laws that strip citizens of basic rights are just a snapshot. The police state is thriving- platforms like facebook somehow tricking people into giving all their info away for free... The collective liberty of our society is threatened by what I consider to be a very dangerous silence. I feel quite concerned about our direction.
I'm still the same punk kid at heart that I was 10 years ago, I think the establishment is a tangible nefarious force- one you can watch drudge on through C-SPAN. An assembly of stuffed suits curated carefully by super PACs and lobbyists; I do not believe this country is run with much good intentions for it's people. I can stand that if I focus really hard, that's something we can collectively fight against... However, the mindset of our fellows is the barrier to joint sucess that vexes me. The media is such a force of nature here that public opinion is easily manipulated, leading to a vast misunderstanding of government affairs. This leaves us with large groups of people who could succeed against their common enemy, if only they could escape the media narratives that pit them against each other. I know I buy into media hype too; we all are influenced to feel that everything is falling apart constantly by our news organizations. This so far has not ever been true.
So, what do I think the future holds here? Well, I think we will run into some serious resource problems, particularly because of our water practices which are absolutely unsustainable. I think a recession is getting increasingly likely, however I believe that ingenuity and community will pull us through that as it has before. Covid lockdowns and the social changes they incurred in many parts of the country have left a permanent mark. I think as a society we are turning a corner, I remain ever optimistic as a mother of two, it's best to believe in human goodness lest my heart ache.
I see more young people in my community who are involved in local volunteer groups than I once did, it's hip these days to be "woke" and some of that means that kids these days are more aware of current events. Empathy is being spotlighted in many new ways, and although I think many of us can agree that's dubious at times, it has many merits. When I watch my children play, I envision a future here that's vibrant and dynamic for them. I believe that people will lift each other up as we always have, after all we are tribal creatures that truly need one another.
my two children, who I will never get a good photo of, but who always inspire me to be optimistic.