We Can't Obsess Every Waking Moment

It would be easy for me to post yet another example of how decent people are losing the culture war, but I think we could use a break from all that.  Don’t worry, as you are reading this there is something new and heinous occurring somewhere that we can discuss tomorrow. What I want to talk about today is mental health.

Obviously, I’m not a doctor and if you are truly suffering from an illness that requires medical treatment, please get the help you need. What I want to discuss is the stress and obsession caused by following politics too closely - and this includes the culture war. In my case it’s what I choose to do. I feel a calling. Yet, I do not have children and I know some of you follow current events intently because of your kids. I know you feel the stress every day. 

Something that I do to take the edge off is meditate. I’ve talked about it on my show before and a few people have shown genuine interest. If it’s something you want to learn more about email me at tpqs@pm.me. I know from personal experience that prayer is also helpful in relieving stress, but more important is the knowledge there is someone infinitely stronger than us on our side. 

Getting out and taking a walk seems too simple but it works. Sometimes it’s good to be alone in nature and recharge.  If you are proficient at meditation or prayer, it is easy to combine either/both with walking.  But the great thing about a walk is that you can be around other people who, if statistics mean anything, aren’t out there stressing about politics either. You may even make a new friend.

I will finish with a warning; alcohol, pills, weed or any drugs are not the answer. I’m not your mom and I’m not going to tell you what to do, but when it comes to dulling the crushing weight of politics, those vices can help you cope for a time, but you will find yourself becoming more reliant upon them as things get worse. And that’s how addiction starts. I believe things will get better, but they will get worse in the short term. To face the fight ahead, we must stay fit and healthy. Our minds are taking a beating so let’s not put anything in our bodies that will take away our strength and vitalization. Because we’re going to need them for not only the fight, but for the victory celebration that is sure to come.