Mood: Depressed

[dwgm]

My dear ones, I know you don't remember the helpless disillusionment of the '60's and early '70's. You will perhaps say that no, we weren't helpless, that the war was protested strongly. Yet it went on and on anyway, as you know, and it was later revealed that our leaders, people who supposedly cared for us and our country, concealed information, distorted information, let themselves turn a blind eye to truth that might have spared the lives of so many.

In many ways the world is a better place than it was a hundred, or even fifty years ago, and I try to keep that in focus to fuel the optimism that seems much more natural to me than despair. But human nature is what it is, and there are too many people who still consider violence, and particularly large scale violence, to be a viable solution to life's problems, and too many people who allow themselves to be sucked in by a shiny package of lies and propaganda and false patriotism. It breaks my heart. This country can be great, in very many ways it is great, but we need to look at ourselves with clear vision and see ourselves as citizens of the World, not just as Americans.

I generally try not to think of this stuff much, as it does provoke such a feeling of helplessness. However, firesignwriter posted this link, and I could not remain silent.

Comments

[geekmama.livejournal.com]

I would certainly not flame anyone for their opinion. My cynicism about and disillusionment with politics began at an early age, and I don't make a point of following it closely enough now to even make a completely informed choice between candidates. I don't think you can believe a lot of what any of them say in the first place. To a great extent, they are actors, and spokesmen for the interests that fund them in their bids for power.

I never supported Bush, but one thing that turned me against him shortly after his election was his address to a university graduating class in which expressed pride in attaining the presidency in spite of a 'C' average in college. Unforgivable.

I agree that there is oppression of human rights in Iraq. There is oppression of human rights in many countries around the world. So what makes the Middle East so special? I'll give you three guesses.

[kellenanne.livejournal.com]

*laughs* Three guesses? I only need one hon... Oil is a hot commodity, I will grant you that.

I have followed politics closely; it is one of my, I don't know, hobbies... passions... Neither of those words are right... but its the best way I can describe my political involvement. And I take my due share of pride in it, being a younger person who is aware and voting. (Ok, some people, based on my political leanings, may dispute the "aware" part... LoL)

cheers,Kellen