As I sit here pondering my own political biology, the news of Senator Dianne Feinstein’s unexpected death at 90 filled the airwaves regarding this longest-serving woman senator ever, who built a reputation as an independent voice, working hard to find common sense solutions to problems facing California and the nation. I admittedly did not know a lot about Senator Feinstein’s accomplishments other than her looking pretty darn old…like, why is she still serving, it was easy to question how effective she could still be with her various health challenges. In reality, Senator Feinstein was working on ways to bring our torn country back together the very evening before her passing. What a political warrior! In fact, Senator Feinstein’s life fits in very nicely with my political evolution to date…so here we go..;
Being raised in a conservative, Christian home…our family didn’t speak of politics which I’m quite sure was typical those days…at least among farm folks (unless it was about dumping milk for better prices). Later, once I completed nursing school by working my way through as a VA Hospital nursing assistant, I joined the Army National Guard (to help make my car payment) and then active duty Air Force. I don’t recall politics being spoken of other than taking the oath to defend our country’s democracy and freedom…voting by absentee ballots since we were invariably away from our home of record. Admittedly, it did seem like the conservative politicians had our military backs.
No matter where in this world we were stationed, we made it home at least once per year. As Dad’s health and activity became more challenging he tuned into FOX News…Bill O’Reilly was his favorite. Meanwhile, I learned of the conservative radio host, Rush Limbaugh, who often touted the evils of both Clintons and to this day, I’m not a fan of either. My political biology seemed solid.
Fast forwarding to my moving back to my roots here in Wisconsin, I attended my original church when Mom could still go. On one of those Sundays, the pastor stated “for the next 8 weeks I’m going to be preaching about other religions and what Christians need to look out for”…seriously? Because back when I was going up…the Catholics didn’t do it right…nor did the Baptists…or the Lutherans…you get the picture (we were the only ones that had “the” answer”). Admittedly, that felt hypocritical given Jesus’ “love thy neighbor” teachings. Added note: when I had a discussion with that pastor about his series…asking him, pastor…aren’t we all one (like the Bible says) and he replied…no we are not! Which Bible version was he using?
As my wellness mission of holistic teachings (mind, body & spirit) evolved…for my own wellness and serenity…I continue to choose love over hate as my political biology shifted to be an Independent voter..
As I continued to observe the conservative right on issue after issue, much hypocrisy can be found—tax breaks for the rich, attacks on the LGBTQ+ community, stripping away reproductive freedom (even though conservatives do not want to fund the children born), making it harder to vote—the right seems totally out of step with the majority of voters. The party that once preached the values of freedom and democracy now seemingly seeks to erode them. In the land of the free, why do many conservatives seem to prefer authoritarian rule? And why are mistruths embraced (i.e. denial regarding that crazy insurrection that we all observed)…doesn’t integrity count…even with the evangelical right? More hypocrisy!
I honestly don’t feel like Dad would recognize this current conservative deal. As the Bible states: “You’ll know them by their fruit” Matthew 7:16. And I do not care for conservative fruit…it’s too bitter and hateful for my soul.
Alternatively, what was Senator Feinstein’s fruit?
She never backed away from a fight for what was just and right. At the same time, she was always willing to work with anyone, even those she disagreed with, if it meant bettering the lives of Californians or the betterment of our nation. Many of those issues for which she fought so diligently included safe gun regulations, women’s rights, LGBT rights, immigration, ethics and voting rights just to name a few..
Some beautiful words from her site: “There are few women who can be called senator, chairman, mayor, wife, mom and grandmother. Senator Feinstein was a force of nature who made an incredible impact on our country and her home state. She left a legacy that is undeniable and extraordinary.” We need more politicians like her.
May our political biology be on the side of ethics, decency and democracy! Onward Warriors!
Spiritual Meditation: “It is time humanity realizes we are people of Earth; one race, one heart, one mind, one people.. – Daily Medicine