Again I am glad I'm not a politician. I really don't think it would be possible to be true to yourself and still stay in the game. Honesty and politics are mutually exclusive.
I know that sounds cynical, but after seeing what Garth Turner and David Emerson went through this past week, I fully understand why women are so lacking in political representation. You need the thickest of skin and the ability to be able to live with yourself; all the while being aware that one slip of the tongue could land you in hot water.
This of course, totally contradicts my world view, which is to live by my own personal code of conduct, and be comfortable in my own skin without worrying unduly about what others are thinking. When you let others define you, you give them power. Then if you don't live up to their standards or beliefs you are scorned and ostracized.
But if you allow yourself the freedom to give up that need to have approval from everyone around you, then you get back the power. That is a wonderful, peaceful feeling. You are accountable to yourself and your Maker only. Everything follows from that. If you can feel comfortable in your own skin, then your relationships with those you care about will be meaningful and authentic. On the other hand, if you constantly need other people to say you're o.k., you will be forever seeking that approval and you will be miserable. Guaranteed. I've had experience in both worlds.
This is a much better place.
3 comments:
You continue to amaze me Jo. You have made it through to the other side. Comfort between yourself and your maker is the answer. I think that President Bush is an example. No one takes more personal abuse than he does. Liberals and the American liberal press continue to flog him daily and still he keeps turning the other cheek. I think it is his internal compass that keeps him on track when the waters of conflict are rising high around him.
That's a very insightful comment about President Bush. I think Stephen Harper may be operating in much the same manner; doing what he feels is right, instead of sending out a flag to test which way the wind of public opinion is blowing every time he wants to do something.
In the end we all make choices, and we must deal with the consequences.
Life and Love are about making good choices!
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