A Right or an Obligation?

I saw a post on Facebook the other day - and thought it was worth sharing:  It said, "If the right to vote compels every American to vote - by that logic, the right to keep and bear arms would compel every citizen to own a gun."

Yikes! Of course, that is ridiculous! But it begs the question - is voting a right or a duty? 

The reason this analogy is preposterous is because no one would want every one to own a gun.  A person who is mentally unsound, or has a violent history, probably shouldn't own a gun.  We also should not want someone to own a gun without a good understanding of gun laws or the mechanics of a gun. Owning a gun is a right, but there are qualifiers that must be met in order to exercise that right. If you do not properly identify yourself, you cannot legally purchase a gun. Even when you're thinking about making a purchase, a thorough background check is done to ensure you are a mentally healthy, law abiding citizen. And then, if you misuse that gun, not only does your right get taken away, but you go to jail! 

Wow! They really take this right seriously! In fact, it almost feels like a privilege - but it's not! It's a right. One could argue that the responsibility of exercising our gun rights demands more stringent precautions.  However, I would argue that the risk exercising the right to vote has equally critical implications. 

We should not expect, ask, nor ever wish all Americans to exercise their right to vote. Citizens who are uneducated about our political process, ill-informed about the candidates, or completely ignorant of the issues, could arguable be unqualified to participate.  Like the right to own a gun, the right to vote is both a right and a privilege. However.... it is not an obligation.

In recent years, politicians have mastered the ground game of "getting out the vote.” This seemingly patriotic plea is not as much about fair representation in Washington, as it is about depending on the uninformed voter population. They pull people out of their homes, off the streets, and cry disenfranchisement if anyone is questioned. Candidates don't have to worry about campaign promises, because many of these folks will not understand the issues well enough, or care about them long enough, to hold them accountable. This election day hustle works with lofty promises and tantalizing incentives to make the oblivious voter their Election Day BFF. 

How can I say this?  I can say this with near certainty, because many of the issues we are facing are hard for me to understand as a college graduate! These are complex issues of economics and international relations; medicine and morality.  The experts cannot agree, the facts change daily, and the media is biased. Who can we trust to tell us the facts? If we rely solely on headlines and campaign videos for our information – we are missing a lot of perspectives! 

Someone who hasn’t even cared enough to register to vote, cannot be much invested. I remember when I turned 18; that was one of the first things I did!  Joining this democratic process is a rite of passage! Finally! Someone wanted to know what I thought; I had some control my future! And, the only way I could exercise that right was to register to vote! Becoming educated about the world, making informed decisions, and joining the process, is simply a part of becoming a good citizen.

Yes, voting can be considered a duty - but it is a duty unto ourselves.  We owe it to ourselves to be informed and active in the matters of our country.  We also have a duty to our families to protect the future of our children.  And finally, we have a duty to our fellow Americans, to understand what we are voting for. 

Become an informed voter.  Do your duty to read and listen carefully; know who and what is on your ballot. Check out candidate websites, and then read opposing views for a broader perspective. Seek out non-political, subject matter experts in the topics you care about and consider their counsel. Don't be afraid to wrestle out those controversial topics with friends, maybe you will learn something.   Then, when Election Day comes, and you enter the voting booth you will not only know where the candidates stand, but what you think - and why.

Voting is more than a census or a survey of every American's favorite color or animal.  Instead, it is an opportunity to stick a pin on a map of the future, pointing to where you want to go and who you will follow to get there. 

In the end of all this political chaos remains a democracy; it is governed by the people, for the people.  You are responsible for who leads this country. If you are unwilling or uninterested to responsibly participate in such a lofty duty, by all means, stay home. That is also your right.

1 Peter 2:13-16

Why I will vote "No" on Tuesday

There will be a Constitutional Amendment question on the Minnesota ballot. It will state:

Shall the Minnesota Constitution be amended to remove state lawmakers' power to set their own salaries, and instead establish an independent, citizens-only council to prescribe salaries of lawmakers?

On the surface, this sounds like a fantastic idea, but here is why I will be voting “No.”

Transparency. Let's be realistic - an “independent” council is never really independent – especially in the state of Minnesota (MET Council, anyone?).  Members of the council would be hand-picked by the governor and the Minnesota Supreme Court chief justice. Even though it is to be made up by members of both parties in equal numbers, it is wrought with opportunity for special interests, political agendas and corruption.  I understand the legislature may want to hand this responsibility over to avoid the appearance of “conflict of interest,” but honestly, I feel as though they are passing the buck.

Accountability.  Under a clause in the state’s constitution, legislators are required to set pay for a wide range of public officials — including themselves. Part of their job is to approve the budget for the entire state and determine our taxes.  If they can make these other financial decisions, I think they should be able to discern an appropriate salary for themselves.  Whether they prove themselves capable or not, they should be held accountable for it.

This amendment has enjoyed some bipartisan support, which is why we haven't heard much about it in the news.  The argument has been made that legislators are in a no-win situation when it comes to this subject.  If they vote for a pay increase, the electorate cries foul (conflict of interest).  In fact, many have lost their seat for voting in favor of a pay increase in the past.  On the other hand, if they do not vote for a pay raise, we risk losing good legislators, due to reasons of insufficient income for their family. That is unfortunate.

But, for me – that is sort of the point.  Personally, I want our legislators to consider very carefully whether it is appropriate and prudent to increase their salary. I want people to serve their state not in financial hardship, but also not a career path.  I don’t want them to be too comfortable that they never leave.  I appreciate that they need to go back to their districts and present their case for a raise and justify their votes up or down. That is what responsibility and accountability look like.  I don’t want them sloughing it off on some independent committee, where they can shrug their shoulders and plead ignorance.

As a matter of a fair living wage... serving in the MN state legislature is meant to be a part-time job. An article at Minnpost.org does a fairly good job outlining the amendment on the ballot, and the salary structure of the MN state legislators. 

In 2016, the MN Legislature was in session from March 8 through May 23. That is 104 days (minus holidays and including weekends).  So, if the average legislator receives a salary of $32,000, plus an $85 per diem while in session… the compensation would be right around $40,000. Legislators who live further away receive more per diem due to their commute/lodging expenses while in session. Those in leadership also receive an extra $12,000 bonus.

No, this really is not enough to support a family, if that is an annual income. And, I will concede that our state leaders probably work pretty hard for that pay. But, they do not work as our legislators all year. So hopefully, like their constituents, they supplement that income the other 261 days of the year with another job or with spousal income. The bottom line is, it was never meant to be a career. Is that to say our legislators shouldn’t receive a comparable income to their peers in different states? No. Are they? I will let you be the judge (ballotpedia.org). We all have different perspectives on earnings and can make that determination independently at the ballot box when our state representatives run for re-election.

This year we must confront the issue of process versus pay. Do we choose to keep our legislative body responsible and accountable for determining their pay, or turn it over to a independent council?  Since  we have a system of government where we place our trust in individuals charged with protecting our interests and promoting our well-being as a state, I believe it should remain in their domain. After all, an independent council does not have that relationship with Minnesota voters; they have no accountability or obligation to the citizens of this state.  Instead, they are serving at the pleasure of whomever appoints them.

Yeah, I don't like the odds...

I am voting "No."

Oh the Hypocrisy!

I understand completely.  I do.  

As a Christian, as a wife and mother, Donald Trump pretty much disgusts me.  He does. 

But, here’s my problem….

The hypocrisy of the Democratic Party disgusts me more.

All across America, throughout liberal college campuses everywhere, our youth are chugging down alcohol, smoking pot, raping women, causing riots and disrespecting all elements of authority.  They do so under the promotion of disenfranchisement and the protection leadership in this country.  For years, this country has passed off this behavior as “rights of passages.”  Whether it has been athletes or spoiled yuppies, we have bailed them out of jails, coddled them as victims, celebrated their prowess, and considered their “potential” so we could look the other way.

We have young women in this country, who celebrate prancing around half-dressed, sleep around, and use filthy language and spewing hate.  Meanwhile, they demand respect and ownership their bodies in such a way that they think they are God. They expect equal pay and opportunity, but aren't willing to work for it and refuse to pay for the education they chose to squander away at bars, coffee shops and marches.  

Meanwhile, we have celebrities who promote violence and sexual assault on screen, while off screen pouring guilt money into anti-bullying and anti-gun programs.  We have a music industry whose lyrics promote racial hatred and demean women, and are surprised when their listeners use their very words in their daily speech.  The stirring of discontent leads to violence, drug abuse and suicide.

This President and the Democratic Party has had years to stand up for women and morality.  They have chosen to burden women with abortion as a means of birth control instead of demanding that men take personal and financial responsibility. They could have focused this energy into supporting and protecting vulnerable women and providing for the unborn. They have had countless opportunities to clean up our colleges, regulate drugs, and punish those who abuse the laws of the land.  Where has Mrs. Obama been?  She could have been sharing her "faith" with impressionable, innocent youth – pleading with girls to respect themselves enough to protect their bodies and pursue their dreams?  Instead she was planting gardens and lecturing us on our sugar intake.  Why hasn’t Mr. Obama used his testimony to illustrate the progress of civil rights in this country, the problems within the inner city and promote what IS possible? To what benefit has it served to merely complain, when they have had the position and power to mobilize this country to greatness?  

I don’t think there is a conservative in the land who celebrates Trump’s perspectives on women.  Almost all of his supporters are disappointed and have refused to defend him.  He knows it and has apologized.  Yet, the very population that was offended by Clinton's impeachment, cries out in shock and horror at Trump's language. Well, I don’t buy it; not from the Democratic party.  It further solidifies the dis-ingenuousness of the party.  And one thing that I won’t be party to is compromising my own integrity by pretending that I am perfect.   

Here's the deal...

I honestly do not the condition of Donald’s soul and it is really not for me to say (John 8:7).  It is true, a Christian is known by his fruit (Matt 7:16), but I also know that even Christians have sin in our lives, and our Christian walk is a journey, growing in grace and gradually changing to be more like Jesus (2 Cor 3:18, Phil 3:12). Whereas the Clintons have claimed to be Christians their entire life, their public life has been rampant with dishonesty and immorality.  Donald has not made such a claim.  He has admitted that he has lived the majority of his life without Christ.  And his life reflects that.  He has claimed to be evolving and has shown a gradual change in his views and his positions.  I do not know if he understands what being a Christian means. His speech certainly doesn't resemble a typical born-again Christian.  However, when I was first saved, I didn't either.  I still held many un-Biblical opinions and was very confused what a relationship with Christ meant to my life. In spite that, God saved me. I knew I was a sinner, I asked for forgiveness, and welcomed him to take control of my life.  It took time to learn and grow and change my habits and views. It was not instant or easy - and I wasn't running for President, having every word scrutinized.

If he is a Christian, he is a baby one.  Instead of condemning the man, we should be supporting him, encouraging him and praying that God continues to work in his life.  How dare any Christian judge him based on his life without Christ – what would we expect? I would be doomed if I have to be held to account for my life prior to Christ. Praise God, I am made new in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Folks, Christianity is progress over perfection. However, when I look at the Clinton's and their continued lack of integrity over the course of their lives, it is evident to me they have perverted their faith to fit their politics.  Rotten fruit.

So, for now, I will judge Trump on policy. I will vote for the issues I can influence.

I want safety and opportunity of my family. I want borders to protect us from enemies who wish us harm. I want a gun rights to protect us from those who violate those bounds. I want school choice to protect our impressionable youth from liberal poisoning.  I want healthcare rights to protect us from malpractice. I want freedom to protect our rights to worship and speak according to our conscious. I don't need a preacher or a nanny in the White House; I want a leader, a defender, a scholar, and a servant. 

I will never have the political power to change the way someone acts or speaks.  But, I will exercise my rights to vote for the candidate who believe in consequences for breaking the law, respecting life and protecting our rights. Someone said recently that it is not a matter of choosing between two evils, but voting for the most good. I am not voting for Donald Trump, I am voting for a platform. 

I am voting for the Republican Party Platform.  This is the only platform that stands upon a commitment to my core values. This party believes in American exceptionalism and the integrity of our Constitution.  Will I be disappointed in the person for which I cast my vote?  No doubt I will. However, when I stand before God, I will know I voted for a set of ideas and ideals that was most consistent with God's Word. 

This presidency is a caricature of our country.  If you are disgusted and ashamed, then look around.  This is our America.  These are the types of people we elevate… selfish, pandering, egocentric elites. The Republican Party had 16 candidates - SIXTEEN.  Many were ethical, brilliant, lifelong servants of this country.  But, instead the American majority wanted a sideshow.

I have no blinders on about the negatives of a Trump presidency.  He is a loose cannon. But as President, he is constrained by checks and balances. His speech will be no more offensive than the policies that have been promoted this last eight years.  His relationships around the world can damage us no more than Obama’s. 

Trump is right…what do we have to lose?  It is pathetic.  But, alas, here we are.

I agree that we are better than this.  I have a hope for revival, and a change of hearts and minds in this country.  But, it won’t happen in this election; it won’t happen with any election. It will happen when knees begin to bow… when we collectively humble themselves and realize we are sinful and in need a Savior.  Until then, I will honor God with my vote and thank him for the privilege of being in a country where I am free to do so.

A Nation that Feeds upon Itself

I truly feel that most people in this country are proud of their nation, and want to see us united and value the freedoms and traditions we all enjoy as Americans.  I believe the American public would prefer an honest and ethical president. I think all parties would celebrate a diverse government with broad representation – across race, religion, economic status and gender.  I know any loving parent also wants the best future for their child, and that every child wants their parents cared for in their golden years. 

In that same spirit, I would also wager that the majority of Americans understand the positive intent of our Constitution, as it was written.  However, what I am beginning to understand - what I now believe - is that Americans truly not comprehend the risks and ramifications of its slow erosion.  Either willfully or unwittingly, we have become uninformed and apathetic regarding hour nation's history and the principles it was founded on.  The truth is, the constitution was written to protect us from both the tyranny of our rulers and from our own selfish natures.

Instead, we have become a nation that feeds on itself like an ouroboros. Many have succumbed to the myth that our Constitution is immortal. Like the mythical snake that devours its own tail, many believe if we just change our form, we can evolve alongside culture. However, the reality is, once we bite off the tail, the organism slowly decays and will be unable to sustain itself.  Although our Constitution was fully designed to be amended, its vital appendages were never intended to be amputated.

A broader examination of history can provide more context.
Unlike the Constitution, which has been scrutinized in the courts to re-interpret over generations, the Declaration of Independence, as a historical record, remains unchanged. The Declaration serves as the testimony from our founding fathers, stating why this country fought for independence, what principles this country would be built upon, and who gave them their rights.

We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness. —That to secure these Rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just Powers from the Consent of the Governed, that whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive to these Ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it, and to institute new Government, laying its Foundation on such Principles and organizing its Powers in such Form, as to them shall seem most likely to effect their Safety and Happiness.

Our rights were not given to us by the government. Our government was created to protect our God-given rights.  When the monarchy in England became a tyranny, the people revolted and fought.  Many are blindly surrendering their rights back to an authority, other than their Creator, ignorant of what it will cost to get them back.

Because our rights are endowed by our Creator, they are inherent and unalienable. People unfamiliar with their Creator, are deceived into relativism.  When we remove our Creator from society, individuals make “self” their God. That leads to a nation of egocentric citizens, motivated by their own interests, instead of the benefit of the majority.  That isn’t democracy; that is anarchy.

Sadly, Americans have become uninformed and uninterested in truth.  By truth, I mean objective facts. In an age where information is endless and instantaneous, people have permitted the media to propagandize their perceptions of history, rather than discern truth themselves, based on facts. In addition, institutes of education have blurred the lines of fact and fiction, altering recorded history to conform to present culture.  In a nation of narcissists, we subscribe only to the perspectives we agree with – further deafening us our own demise.  That isn’t  the pursuit of truth; than is indoctrination.

If we continue to elect representatives who serve themselves, versus listening to the govern; if we elect a president who chooses which laws to enforce, based on his own beliefs; if we continue to allow the courts to deconstruct the foundation that our Constitution was built upon, we will, in essence, have eaten our own tail.  And, these words of the Declaration may haunt us once again: 

The history of the present [Government] King of Great Britain is a history of repeated injuries and usurpations, all having in direct object the establishment of an absolute tyranny over these states.

To Speak or not to Speak

Strong women and stronger opinions run in my family.  Apparently, I inherited the "gift" to speak my mind.  In many ways, I am thankful for that trait.  Many comment that they envy my confidence, but I am not really sure that they should.  because, the constant challenge is discerning when to share this particular gift with others. 

Over the years, I have collected many regrets speaking when I shouldn’t, and saying things best left unsaid.  I have had to ask for forgiveness more times than I have liked; worst when I was unaware of the damage done.  Obviously this gift was left unfettered during my formidable and independent years, and self-control has been a relatively recent addition to my temperament.  In truth, the Lord has spent the last 20 years lovingly admonishing me – reminding me that he not only governs my tongue, but also that everything which passes over it, reflects on Him. 

They say that with age and experience, comes wisdom.  The most impactful experience for me has been parenting. It is a humbling experience to give counsel to my children, when I still struggle with heeding my own advice.  I can only pray through the process, my children will resist those fleshly responses at an earlier age, with greater ease.  Even now, I wrestle with the question of when to speak up, and when to let things go - especially when it is on behalf of my children.  As my children grow, I also consider when they should handle their own concerns, and when adults should be involved.  Most parents can appreciate that even with the best of intentions, usually parental intervention does more harm than good.

There have been a few situations lately that have been weighing on my kids’ hearts and minds.  Many are related to growing up, figuring out who they are, where they fit in, what others think of them, and what God expects of them. These relational challenges are exacerbated by new routines, busy schedules, the day to day politics of Jr High and High School.  As these topics are raised, I have tried to listen, give Godly counsel and pray.  It remains such a powerful, parental temptation to jump in and fix our children’s hurts.  But, as I have told them, the world doesn’t work that way – and part of my job is to prepare them for the world they will live in. They must learn to navigate situations that are unclear, unfair, and unrighteous. 

On the other hand, I also feel it is my responsibility to advocate for circumstances that give my kids a reasonable opportunity to achieve success.  This is a great challenge.  The relationship between parent and educator is a delicate one, based on respect and trust.  We put our trust in teachers and coaches and we respect the decisions that that make.  Further, although we can have a voice in their education, we cannot possibly control their environment.  Even Christian schools are made up of many different families, backgrounds and beliefs. Humans and institutions are fallible, and life is rarely fair.

Outsiders may believe that Christian Schools over-protect kids or provide an unrealistic, utopian experience.  I would argue that although the expectations may be greater, so greater is the frustration when there is a disparity in adherence.  It is hard to teach God’s Word in black and white, within such a grey world.

So, this year, I created a little list for myself, to keep running through my  mind, each time my kids come with tears in their eyes, or a complaint on their lips….  I did this as much for me as them, as I still find myself resisting the temptation to speak.  Perhaps you will benefit from my experience and consider these proverbial truths as well.

* There are two sides to every story, and the missing one tells the tale

* Giving people the benefit of the doubt usually saves an apology

* Being quick to forgive averts an unnecessary confrontation

* My viewpoint is probably valid, but life is a prism of perspectives

* Observations are better received than accusations

* Identifying right problems is more profitable than providing wrong solutions

* Raw emotions fade quickly, but wrong responses linger

* Relationships always, always, always trump being right

* When all else seems impossible, consider you might be wrong

* I am still learning. . . .

Truth Beyond the Quotes

Every day I see clever quotes on social media followed by a comment, “Truth!” It is amazing how these simple sayings speak personally to so many. When I read these posts on Facebook, I scroll past those that I don't relate to, and like other that resonate with me.

Lately, though, I have started to question what exactly I am liking. What do these quotes even mean? Does the person sharing it even know what it means? Do they think it means the same thing as I do? Does liking the quote mean I subscribe to their meaning? Can any quote be a source of universal truth? A thumbs up became a weighty decision!

I concluded that the source of wisdom in any quote is found solely in its context. Context, when shared on social media, is often lost entirely. Quotes consumed without context become agnostic. They are only universal truths because they are applied in a million different ways instantaneously. The audience must read context into the quote to give it meaning, rather than the speaker using the words to convey its meaning.

Well, so what? Isn't that okay? Doesn't language intentionally leave space for interpretation? At the risk of both proving and contradicting my point, I'll provide a perfectly placed quote.

Without context, words and actions have no meaning at all.

George Bateson

This quote illustrates the distinction. Quotes without context do not become universally true, but altogether meaningless. Words are never shared without attempting to convey a specific message. It is the message that holds meaning, not the words. Adolph Hitler and Jesus Christ both spoke truth about the nature of man. People quote these men to illustrate different characteristics, for different motives. But, men such as these are often misquoted, or rather, quoted out of context.  Words can be crafted and quoted to serve good or evil and sometimes we cannot find the distinction between the quotes. These men illustrate not only the power and longevity of words, but the power of those who wield them for their purpose.

As a Christian, I intimately know the power of God's Word. God gave us Scripture not just to share, but to change lives! The original text is divinely breathed into existence – each story, person and word is intentionally included or excluded. Think about that! Everything we know or don’t know about God is on purpose! Therefore, we would be wise to represent him cautiously. We cannot pick and choose Scripture to fit our purpose, but His. He did not speak to be quoted, but to be known. We must resist limiting God's message by abridging His truth.

Unfortunately, we are sharing out faith to a generation who cannot focus beyond a headline. Most rely on the media to crop what’s important into 30 second segments. We are told what is “news” through texts and ticker boards. People do not wait for the "rest of the story," but make instant judgments based on little information. Time is precious and attention spans are short.

But we must tell the whole story! Remember that when Christians quote Scripture, the unsaved do not yet have the privilege of knowing God. They read it from their own viewpoint and create their own meaning. It is often from that perspective alone, people will accept it as truth. They might like it or even share it, but it doesn't mean they understand or believe it.

Does that mean we shouldn't quote Scripture? No, of course not. But, we should take the time to give God's Word his voice. When I share a verse, my goal is for others to know the speaker and his message. I don't just want them to relate to the words, but respond to the text. By sharing the whole counsel of God - the truth beyond the quotes - people will truly find meaning.

The Thing about Motherhood...

Mother’s Day is a humbling occasion.  On a holiday we moms are supposed to hang up our capes and bask in adoration of our superpowers, I just can’t help feel like a fraud. 

Motherhood, by definition, is a crooked path of guessing, failing, persevering and praying.  It is not a journey we take alone, even though at times, it is quite lonely.  Early days are spent in constant exhaustion and second guessing.  Every day is an education – from the baby food we choose to emergency room trips; from daycares to development milestones – we are constantly asking ourselves whether we are doing the right thing.  In discipline, we try to train our children so they are not a menace to society when they eventually move out and are forced to socialize beyond cyberspace….all while praying we are not breeding contempt for us later in life.  Don’t be fooled.  Even though we Moms look like we have it all together, we face every decision like the proverbial fork in the road. 

That internal struggle gets worse when those angelic faces turn scornful and little tears transform to angry words in the teenage years.  As our children experiment with who they are, physically, emotionally and intellectually, their laboratory is at home and parents are the test group.  Even when it is frustrating and hurtful, we still love them and forgive them – because deep down, we remember that confusing journey ourselves.

Honestly, I still have plenty of ugly moments.  Children bring out the best and the worst in a mother.  I think that is why God made children so resilient; we need our share of forgiveness, too.  My children overlook my flashes of anger, my periods of despair, and my too often awkward and embarrassing moments – and love me anyway.  Just when I think I have completely lost them, they hug me, or thank me, or do something completely amazing for me. 

There is little place for vanity in motherhood.

You see, Mother’s Day is only possible because of these beautiful creatures God has given me.  It isn’t about my extraordinary abilities or endless supply of energy, patience and wisdom.  It is about the Grace of God.  Somehow in his infinite mercy and grace, God decided to gift me with the most amazing human beings to raise.  And, as if their life on Earth wasn’t enough of a miracle, he has also given them a heart for His Spirit and has reserved an eternal place in heaven for them.

I am so thankful that God allowed me to be a mother.  Through the lens of motherhood I have gained perspective of God’s love for me.  I understand now how he hurts when I hurt; how he carries my burdens as his own; how he wants the very best for me; and how there is nothing I can do to make him love me more.  I know this because I have His heart as my own – and His love for my children.

In the end, though, I am just a sinner, raising other sinners in a sin-filled world.  So each day, I humble myself and look to Christ for his power - for his love, his patience and his wisdom.  And although I may never don a cape of my own, I am thankful one day, I will wear a crown.

2 Tim 4:8