I just created/ordered some yard signs that say, "We'll be your friends no matter who you vote for," (imperfect grammar, yes, but pedantry doesn't win friends quickly) and at the bottom, "Neighbors Before Politics." I'm hoping they catch on in my area--a battleground state.
Like you, Emily, I have strong political opinions--but mostly think that people who disagree with me are misinformed in some way (facts, hierarchy of values, the existence of moral absolutes, etc.). I will not write off a person made in the image of God based on a policy disagreement. I will bring a meal to a sick neighbor of any political stripe. I will not abandon what I think is right, but neither will I assume that disagreement means evil intent.
Thank you for your writing! God bless you and your accident-prone toddler.
Large Methodist church in our area distributes yard signs during major elections that pop up city-wide to counter hostility and anger that festers around politics. This year’s are themed “Do unto others…Matthew 7:12” They really stand out among the election signage in colors not typically used by candidates. You see them throughout neighborhoods and on every street corner by Election Day. And then people leave them in their yards after the election. 😊 Not a bad idea to contemplate when you are sitting at a stoplight. 😉
Emily’s family depends on paying subscribers. She can’t (and shouldn’t) make every amazing article free. Share a snippet of the article and encourage people to sign up for the whole thing.
This is awesome! It’s so well written and thought out AND it needs to shareable in the public domain, especially the Catholic sphere. You’re a gift to the Church…keep shining brightly in the darkness.🔥❤️✝️
Oof, Emily, what a good word. This is something I definitely needed to read, because like so many, I’m deeply invested in this election and certainly need to cool my jets and listen more than I speak.
This is very good, Emily. I agree with you. As middle age has softened me- I have a daughter with SSA, a daughter with a disability, firmly sandwiched between the needs of our adult kids and the needs of our aging parents, the vitriol (I felt) in past election seasons has turned to a deep quiet as I pray for the various needs in my own family, learn about the political platforms of the candidates, maybe share my opinions with others if the opportunity arises, and vote. Ultimately, I recognize that the job God has given me is to be a good wife, mother, daughter, neighbor and citizen. I also am 100% with you on the principle of subsidiary. This actually helps me to focus on my local community and state.
Having challenges in my own family has definitely humbled me as a Catholic. We are all so broken and in need of Jesus.
Emily, I just wanted to let you know how much I needed to hear this. I have been grieved and anxious about all things political lately, and that is probably just my lack of faith and trust in Jesus. I appreciate the reminder that he’s got us covered. It’s been especially hard as this political divide runs straight through my home and family. And it stings. Thank you for the reminder to keep praying and keep loving, especially when it’s hard.
I just created/ordered some yard signs that say, "We'll be your friends no matter who you vote for," (imperfect grammar, yes, but pedantry doesn't win friends quickly) and at the bottom, "Neighbors Before Politics." I'm hoping they catch on in my area--a battleground state.
Like you, Emily, I have strong political opinions--but mostly think that people who disagree with me are misinformed in some way (facts, hierarchy of values, the existence of moral absolutes, etc.). I will not write off a person made in the image of God based on a policy disagreement. I will bring a meal to a sick neighbor of any political stripe. I will not abandon what I think is right, but neither will I assume that disagreement means evil intent.
Thank you for your writing! God bless you and your accident-prone toddler.
Large Methodist church in our area distributes yard signs during major elections that pop up city-wide to counter hostility and anger that festers around politics. This year’s are themed “Do unto others…Matthew 7:12” They really stand out among the election signage in colors not typically used by candidates. You see them throughout neighborhoods and on every street corner by Election Day. And then people leave them in their yards after the election. 😊 Not a bad idea to contemplate when you are sitting at a stoplight. 😉
Thanks for calling us all on, Emily!
Emily’s family depends on paying subscribers. She can’t (and shouldn’t) make every amazing article free. Share a snippet of the article and encourage people to sign up for the whole thing.
This is awesome! It’s so well written and thought out AND it needs to shareable in the public domain, especially the Catholic sphere. You’re a gift to the Church…keep shining brightly in the darkness.🔥❤️✝️
Thank you for the best writing I’ve seen on this topic!
Emily, you are a treasure. Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I always look forward to your perspective
A couple years ago I interviewed a former Catholic lobbyist whose political views have been consistently challenged. We had a great conversation - I called it "Humanity Over Politics" - I'll share here if anyone wanted to tune into Julie's wisdom... https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/s4-24-ep66-humanity-over-politics-interview-with-julie/id1521925425?i=1000590726816
This is a great perspective and important reminder, Emily. thanks for articulating it all so well!
Oof, Emily, what a good word. This is something I definitely needed to read, because like so many, I’m deeply invested in this election and certainly need to cool my jets and listen more than I speak.
Beautifully expressed.
This is very good, Emily. I agree with you. As middle age has softened me- I have a daughter with SSA, a daughter with a disability, firmly sandwiched between the needs of our adult kids and the needs of our aging parents, the vitriol (I felt) in past election seasons has turned to a deep quiet as I pray for the various needs in my own family, learn about the political platforms of the candidates, maybe share my opinions with others if the opportunity arises, and vote. Ultimately, I recognize that the job God has given me is to be a good wife, mother, daughter, neighbor and citizen. I also am 100% with you on the principle of subsidiary. This actually helps me to focus on my local community and state.
Having challenges in my own family has definitely humbled me as a Catholic. We are all so broken and in need of Jesus.
Emily, I just wanted to let you know how much I needed to hear this. I have been grieved and anxious about all things political lately, and that is probably just my lack of faith and trust in Jesus. I appreciate the reminder that he’s got us covered. It’s been especially hard as this political divide runs straight through my home and family. And it stings. Thank you for the reminder to keep praying and keep loving, especially when it’s hard.
This is gold, Emily. Thank you for this. It is thoughtful and on point, like all of your writing.
Thank you again for a thoughtful article on a difficult subject!
Please make this free for all sometime soon so we can share it widely. It would be a real work of mercy.
AMEN.
Say it louder so everyone in the back can hear! Well said!