by c. alexander parms

Which is Good?

(Photo: c. alexander parms/www.seekinggood.blog)

Such categories are never real.  Nor have they ever been. But we like to feel in control, that we know this and that with an assurance that allows us to move forward into the world with confidence.  Sadly, too often, such clarity is not to be had. Us and Them is always a fiction, a shorthand used to bind us together and to give the appearance that we combat a common, definable foe.  The recent political rally in Newark, New Jersey—touted as “Our First Act of Resistance”—clearly accentuated the greyness of the political arena.

With more than 600 people in attendance, the focus of the rally was to “stop the Republican attempt to dissolve the Affordable Care Act (ACA)”.  Politicians and leaders of various community organizations presented statistics regarding how many New Jersians (this was a regional rally) would lose their healthcare if the act is repealed.  A few citizens (non-elected officials) testified how ACA had changed their lives, pulling them back from the brink of a single illness driving them into financial ruin. As with all rallies, speakers led chants such as “People united will never be defeated!” and “Fired up, ready to go!” The audience was jazzed, ready to dive into whatever action was proposed.  This was a political rally, after all.  It all sounded “good”.  Or did it? (more…)