Here in the United States today, the U.S. House of Representatives passed a major tax and spending bill that is now on its way to the President’s desk. From what I understand so far, this bill includes deep cuts to social safety net programs like Medicaid and food assistance, while also approving tax breaks that seem to benefit higher-income households.
I’ll admit that I don’t have all the facts. I’m not an economist or a political analyst. But even with my limited understanding, I can’t help but feel uneasy. My heart is heavy thinking about the millions of Americans, especially children, who might feel the impact of these changes. It’s hard not to feel a sense of helplessness or confusion when decisions of this magnitude are made without our input or consent. yes, we elect our Representatives, and my voice should be represented, but for the most part, I do not get a say in the decision.
What I find most difficult to understand is the sharp divide between our political parties. How can something that seems so critical (so personal, even) be approached with such drastically different values and priorities? I imagine many others are feeling just as conflicted or uncertain.
And yet… I’m doing my best to keep an open mind.
Maybe, somehow, there are unseen benefits. Maybe adjustments will be made. Maybe the loudest voices calling out will be the ones that ultimately lead to change.
I believe we all face moments when we are not in control. Decisions are made, systems move forward, and we’re left to process and respond. What we can control, however, is how we react and respond. And while it’s tempting to lean into fear or frustration, I’m doing my best to choose something else: hope. Positivity. Curiosity. Even grace.
It’s not easy. It’s actually really hard for me.
But if I’ve learned anything, it’s that resilience often starts with mindset. And in this moment, I’m choosing to be open, to stay informed, and to respond with heart and not just reaction.
No matter where you stand on this issue, I hope we can all continue seeking understanding and compassion for ourselves and for each other.
We’re in this together.
While I do not want to make this a politcal post, it is based on politics. I would love to hear your thoughts. Let’s have a civil conversation about this.
Your thoughts on this are shared by many, especially here in Australia. While this doesn’t directly impact us, we feel your concern. We’ve recently had a Federal election which (I feel) was won by the right party, and not the party that wanted to emulate what’s going in your country now. Our Labor Party won the election with a landslide of votes, so I think your leader inadvertently ensured their win.
I hope everything goes well; the rest of the world is watching with interest.
Thanks, Maureen. It feels so difficult to be in a situation like this, since we have not experienced anything like this before. There are many countries that live this everyday.
I am totally with you on this, Paul! It’s very upsetting, but like you, I am determined to stay hopeful.
I have been so hopeful before the elections – LOL. Everyday is something new and I stay hopeful that the next vote, court case, actions, etc. will be the turning point. I am just Keeping the Faith!
Hi Paul, The BS Bill passed, all because the Republicans needed to stroke Donald’s ego over providing a safety bet for their constituents. Meanwhile, immigrants are put in camps surrounded by Alligators. I do attend the demonstrations. The people are rising up in the largest uprisings in US history. We shall overcome.
And this is where I need to be patient! In time, we shall overcome. Right now… I am doing my best.
Thank you for sharing this. I’m also disheartened by this bill. I like to think that I keep an open mind and listen to all sides, but it’s not easy. The amount of cruelty coming from this administration on so many issues baffles me. I hope it isn’t as bad as it seems. I hope people will donate to causes that help those facing food insecurity and homelessness. If their government won’t help them, we all need to step up in its place.
100%, Elisa! A concern I have is that while we will stick together, and donate, the projected #s are not looking good. Costs on everything will be going up, so the amount people can donate to support these causes may be going down as well (since we/they are paying for the other increases).