A friend of mine – someone who’s opinion I value – recently asked online why anyone would post about politics? He wondered – would someone expect to change minds? Is it just to publish one’s views publicly? engage in debate?
I think it is a good question, and it made me think about it, as I do find myself going back and forth often – should I post my views (and others that I find relevant) on social media…or on this blog? I sometimes revert to my old “avoid politics on social media” presence, thinking it serves no purpose. I certainly don’t delude myself that my views will change anyone elses. Then I read something that makes me mad…or something amusing in how it makes fun of our current leadership…who desperately lack a sense of humor by the way. (Is this about politics? Or is it something more fundamental? )
After a period of introspection lasting no more than a few days, I realize that I post about “politics” because it is my way of demonstrating. I don’t go out on protest marches (perhaps I should) and I only made my very first political contribution (to Senator Chris Murphy) this year. So I don’t have a venue for expressing my extreme frustrations, other than talking to my friends who are like-minded. Social media is a way to talk to those friends on a broad basis.
Let me be obvious now. I think what the Trump administration are doing is just horrible and doing serious damage to our country and our country’s reputation in the world. I can’t imagine this carrying on for four years, but here we are. I do recognize that I still have some contacts on social media who think that what Trump is doing is right and proper and will bring benefits to the country. While I think they are mistaken, I don’t think anything that I say or post will change their views at all.
Bottom line, I have decided that if declaring my frustrations upsets any of my contacts, I just don’t care. I do it for myself and to share views with my friends of a like mind.
I know that many of my views are considered liberal, especially on social issues. I also have some views that would be considered conservative, especially on fiscal issues. I have respect for my friends who are more conservative than I. However, what Trump is doing is not conservative, it’s revolutionary. (See my earlier post about what conservatism is.) Trump is acting like a mafia boss and we shouldn’t tolerate it. Speaking out is appropriate. Staying quiet doesn’t suit me. Sorry, to my friends who don’t approve. Feel free to either ignore or ‘unfriend’ me. I have not unfriended people who’s views I disagree with…other than one or two who have made angry comments to me that I didn’t care for.
*caveat: If i were still in a role in corporate America I might choose differently, avoiding adding my voice to the din….or I might not
dear Bob, Thanks for asking. 🙂
mikesteinharter.com 