Another election time is over and through our democratic process, we have elected a new president. No matter how you cast your vote, it is a privilege to participate in this process even when it’s difficult.
And, of course, we continue our prayers for all those newly elected to represent us. May they truly listen and act on behalf of all the country and not just a few. And we continue to pray that our politicians work together rather than against one another for the common good.
One thing I would like people to reflect upon before another election period comes along is how we project our support and views to the public. We all know our example speaks volumes to our young people. So this might be a good time to ask ourselves is our example the best it could be?
The first thing that comes to mind is the tone of the yard signs. This year seemed to produce a bumper crop of election yard signs and banners. Here in Illinois, during the COVID-19 crisis in 2020, signs started popping up with very troubling messages and language directed at our Governor. Now whether we agree or disagree with our Governor’s handling of the pandemic, signs with four-letter curse words, in my opinion are unnecessary, not to mention offensive.
During this last presidential election, I passed by more than a few lawns and farm land in my travels to and from the office which were literally covered in political signs. Again, the signs were printed with disparaging phrases for the opposite candidate and spelled out vulgar words and graphics.
My concern is for all those young impressionable eyes that see these signs several times as they are transported past them each day on buses to and from school. My grandson is learning “sight words.” Happily, I can report that he just loves learning new words. He loves to ride in the car and announce aloud, the words he recognizes and asks questions about the words he doesn’t. It’s pretty uncomfortable telling him the words people choose to post in their yards shouldn’t be repeated in polite company. And it’s not just the words on the signs … I can only guess at the chatter as the kids see all the signs depicting a dog defecating on the opposite candidate’s name.
So my post election advice to potential candidates (regardless of the office sought) — keep busy telling the public what’s right with you instead of what’s wrong with your opponent. And there are so many wonderful words in the English language, try to remember the kids and choose those the least offensive for your next yard sign please.
Just in time for the holidays
Christmas time has again pushed Thanksgiving out of view and is already bearing down on us with holiday music everywhere and promises of big holiday sales on everything from toys to toasters. But again, let’s remember what we convey to others. Are we rushing around with lists and piling up Amazon deliveries and making “stuff” the center of attention instead of the anticipation of the birth of Christ? Does our holiday planning take precedence over our prayers? Believe me, I ask myself this every year. And sometimes, I am ashamed at my answer. But that’s what requesting forgiveness is for.
It’s time to start fresh this holiday season.
Don’t forget Thanksgiving. And I don’t mean turkey and potatoes. Remember to give thanks. Thank God for your life, your family and even for your trials and tribulations. Take time to pray. Pray for people you love and especially for those you don’t. Share God’s grace and His gifts. If you like buying gifts, give to charity. Catholic Charities can use a long list of items from food, to toys to wrapping paper and cash. Give of your time and take time out. Volunteer to take a shift at the adoration chapel. Visit a sick friend or pray for a prisoner. Give yourself time to pray, reflect and to celebrate your memories and all those who made them possible. Remember the kids and teach them well with love and example.
