It’s a peculiar thing, how politics—something so far removed from most of our daily lives—can cause such bitter fights among family and friends. We argue, shout, and draw lines in the sand over ideals and parties, as though these politicians we champion were paragons of virtue, working tirelessly for the common good. But if we peel back the curtain, the truth isn’t so noble. Most politicians, regardless of party, are motivated not by principle or the public’s welfare, but by power, self-interest, and survival in a system that rewards ambition above all else.
So what sense does it make to let these disputes over abstract ideologies divide us from the people who actually matter in our lives? Politicians come and go, their promises often forgotten as soon as the votes are tallied. Meanwhile, we’re left with the people around our dinner tables, the ones who will be there in our moments of need. Squabbling over politics only serves to fracture those bonds, while the very individuals we argue over are more concerned with what they can gain for themselves than with any loyalty to us. When you think about it, fighting over them seems not just pointless, but a little absurd.
Still don’t believe me, let me tell you something about politics, and life too, while we’re at it. Folks like to dress it up real nice, call it public service, the good of the people, all that fine and noble talk. But the truth—plain, simple, and unvarnished—is something else entirely. Most folks in politics are there for one of three reasons: what they can do, what someone can do for them, or what someone can do to them. That’s the game, whether you like it or not.
Now, some might call that a cynical way of lookin’ at things, but I’d call it honest. Sure, now and again you’ll find a soul who’s in it just for the sake of betterin’ the world, but they’re about as rare as hens’ teeth. The rest are watching their own back, keeping their own ledger, weighing every man by what he’s worth to them. It’s not mean-spirited, mind you—just human nature. If a fellow can help you or harm you, you’ll deal with him a sight differently than some poor devil who can’t do either.
Oh, there are exceptions, of course. A handful of friendships, real and true, that stand the test of time and trouble. But let me tell you, they’re mighty few. Most of the time, when you’re on top, the crowd’s thick as fleas on a dog. But when you’re down? Well, they scatter faster than chickens at a fox’s shadow. Only a rare few stick around, and you’d be lucky to count ’em on both hands.
It ain’t pretty, but it’s life. And as sure as the the world turns. You might wish for a better sort of world, but this one’s the only one we’ve got—and it runs on what folks can do for each other, or to each other, and not much more.
So instead of engaging in heated arguments, focus on what unites you. If politics come up, listen respectfully, share your perspective without hostility, and recognize when it’s time to shift the conversation to lighter, more joyful topics. After all, the goal of the holidays isn’t to win debates—it’s to enjoy the people you care about and to create memories that will last far longer than any political administration. And if they don’t listen, give them this link. ;_ https://insearchofyourpassions.com/2024/12/23/something-wonderful/
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