So I watched the Republican National Convention tonight. Well, some of it anyways. I caught the end of Giuliani's speech, and watched a good bit of Palin's until I fell asleep (tired teacher + speeches = nap time).
And while the election seems to be all anyone talks about anymore, my mind turned to different matters than the sign-waving, mud-slinging, promise-making, fame-game we call politics.
Before we gripe and complain about what our government is (or isn't) doing for us now, before we start criticizing candidates for past mistakes or questionable choices, let's step back and take a look at our own lives - and ask ourselves similar questions we're asking our candidates. Some of the biggest issues in this presidential election include social justice, economic spending, and the value of human life.
Social Justice: Social justice is a key issue within the democrat party. The big question is, "What is the government doing to care for the poor?" But I think the bigger question should be, "What am I doing to care for the poor?" What are we doing right now to seek justice for all people? Am I willing to speak out on behalf of or befriend those who are treated unjustly? Am I actively seeking an end to poverty? To racism? To oppression? Isn't a large part of real religion, real worship feeding the hungry, clothing the naked, providing shelter for the homeless?
Economic Spending: I know we all want our government to spend our tax money wisely...but am I spending my own money with care? Or am I thoughtlessly tossing money away to fast food restaurants, cheap entertainment, and frivolous possessions that clutter my shelves? Where should I be putting my money? Why set aside thousands of dollars in savings for sometime in my future when people are dying of hunger today? Am I using the blessing (or curse, depending on how you look at it) of my wealth to bless those in need? Or am I foolishly wasting it away on myself?
Human Life: I'd say the majority of Republicans place a big emphasis on the sanctity of human life - especially in laws regarding abortion and marriage. And for the most part, all people would say that human life is sacred. But is that how we act? Do I treat my annoying co-worker as someone who was carefully designed and deeply loved by God? Do I treat the hostess who brings me the wrong order with patience and forgiveness? Do I take extra time out of my day to listen and care for someone I know is hurting deeply? Do I show kindness, compassion, and love to my own family members?
Don't get me wrong - I believe that it is important to be informed about decisions our government is making, and I also believe we should make the most of our freedom to elect our political leaders. But before we get all caught up in the conventions, debates, and campaigns, let's evaluate our own lives. Who knows? Maybe we can change the world after all...regardless of who our next president may be.
