politics & religion

I'm really not super involved in Politics, but I am so thankful to live in the United States, and I am so grateful that we are able to vote! I know it feels a lot like our vote doesn't count- especially for us in those one-sided states, but I think that it still does. I think it is so important to go vote. We get to decide who are leaders are, and that is amazing.

I'm a Romney fan myself. A Republican. And to be honest, I'm a little bummed out he didn't get elected. But, Obama is still the President of the United States. It's not a job that I would like anytime soon, and he has a huge amount of responsibility on his shoulders. I am thankful for him, and keep him in my prayers! 

I saw someone I know say on Facebook that they were sick of hearing about politics, religion, etc... and that some things are meant to be kept personal and sacred. And I thought that was the silliest thing I had ever heard! We need to be actively involved in politics, and what a beautiful thing that we can talk about religion freely in our country! The thing I love most about living in North Dakota is that I feel like religion is talked about freely. People are concerned with morals, values, etc... It is a largely Christian community, and people give thanks to God openly and talk about their beliefs. I feel like talking about Religion is frowned upon in Utah, and I think it's ridiculous. I love hearing about other people's beliefs. I am a Mormon, and I love it. But I also love and respect other religions, and I think we all should be proud of what we believe and talk about it often, because it is what is truly most important. We all have different view points, and beliefs, and that is ok. Love is the center of all of our beliefs, and I believe deep down we are all striving for the same thing- Happiness and Love. We need to help each other out on our way to get there. Let's all show a little love and respect for the beliefs of those around us, and share with others what we believe in a kind and respectful way. I love to learn to new things, and I love hearing about things I didn't know about before. I hope that others feel comfortable around me sharing their beliefs, especially those who are not of my faith. My belief and testimony in God is very personal and sacred, but it should not be kept to myself. It should be shared with others in the hope that they can find the peace, love, and happiness that I have in their own way, and I hope others will share their beliefs and testimonies with me throughout my life so that I can continue to grow and to learn, and to gain a greater respect and love for all the people and creatures that surround me. If I can help someone to get a little closer to their idea of love, peace, and happiness, then I have done my part. The greatest thing about living in the United States is that there is Freedom of Speech and of Religion, and I will continue to use those rights freely, and I encourage everyone else to do so as well. For it is such a beautiful thing!

I am not the most eloquent writer by any means, but that comment really got me thinking today. I am so so thankful to live in America! I am grateful for the Freedom of Speech, for the Freedom of Religion, and for the right to Vote. I am also so thankful for my friends, family, and acquaintances for the abundance of sharing their political and religious beliefs with me! That is what social media is for! Yes it does get a little ridiculous at times, but when things are done in respect and love for all around us, I appreciate hearing all sides of the story. We all should. We need to continue to learn and educate ourselves on everything around us, and I certainly don't do enough of that! 

So with that being said, I love you all! I am happy, and I am so thankful for all that I have.