Today I visited my parents and family. My mother is a democrat, as are a few from her side of the family. Then there is the rest. My brother and father are among the 33% (or whatever the number is now) that are
still standing by Bush & Co. I must say the day was quite depressing for me. I've given up on them, so as of late I have tried to not mention much of anything relating to politics. Today, there wasn't much of a choice...
On Friday I posted my first diary here. It was on the recommend list! Woo hoo! I was amazed at the response, actually, and thankful for all of the help offered. I shared it with my mother (a new DKos friend) and of course I have shared it with her sister and my cousin's family (since I was writing about them!) I didn't send it to my brother, of course...and my dad barely knows what the internet is. :-)
Still, this became a topic of discussion at the dinner table. Really, my diary wasn't bashing Bush & Co. If anything it was just a rant, a frustration that I was trying to get out there and off my chest (at least that's how it all started). So, I'm not sure how it turned ugly. My brother (an ex-Navy man) was not at all sympathetic for OUR cousin's plight. My father...well, my father is in his 70's and won't ever change. Anyway, I'm not going to go into the details...let's just say I didn't leave there happy.
But...this is about hope....just when I'd given up hope...hope and faith in people....
Tonight I attended a concert at a small, local establishment. The artist is Janis Ian. My sister (also a republican...only for religious reasons...and she is bipolar/schizophrenic) loves Janis Ian. I could not get her to go with me (she doesn't like to travel in cars and 30 minutes was just to far for her). The concert was wonderful. Janis told many stories about her family, her partner of 18 years, and scholarships that she has funded in her mother's name. The Pearl Foundation If you don't know about this wonderful woman, you need to learn more about her!
After the concert I stood in line to get a CD signed for my sister. The woman in front of me said to Janis, "You have really made a difference in my life." So, Janis Ian took the bracelet off her wrist and handed it to the woman. Pretty cool. When it was my turn I asked Janis to sign the CD for my sister. She did. Then grabbed a book a book of poems (who really cares by Janis Ian) and asked my name. She signed the book and gave it to me.
I encourage you to read about Janis Ian's life. She is a wonderful person that helped me remember that I can't let the 33% bog me down!