It's easy to debate issues of national interest from the comfort of your home. What's more difficult is to get out there and work on local issues. And in many ways, that's probably more important.
So, as we consider national politics and policies we agree and disagree with, we have to make the time to find out how those issues are playing out in your local community--what's happening close to home?
First, consider the issues that matter to you? For me that includes the opportunity for positive, happy living for all.
Next, consider where that's happening and not happening in your local community.
Then, get involved in aspects of these issues that you can impact.
For example, I was dismayed and disgusted with the violence at The Capitol. So, I'm thinking about the perpetrators--what motivated them, and how did they carry out the deadly violence? Then, consider who in your community may be spending their time in such endeavor--why, and how can you work against this at the local level.
One way we can work against this is to consider where White supremacy exists in local communities, and work against that. Another way is to look at gun use and rules in your area--do the laws support sensible gun use or do they support dangerous gun use? And propaganda campaigns--how does your community counter the spread of propaganda and lies while also teaching civic values and processes.
It is what we do at the community level that makes a big difference at the national level. Every community has work to do to create the kinds of community action and mindsets that lead to a strong nation.
As you assess your community, where are the opportunities to get involved, and what will you do?