Donald was elected, America whines and I sigh

We are not an informed, tough society. I wish we could be, though.

We have lived through decades and decades of corruption in America, and especially in our state of West Virginia. Yet most people have no idea how to really change anything.

So many do not realize state and county politics dictate far more in our lives than the national elections. Heck, most have no idea how laws come to be. Most never call their Reps to ask for change. Most have no idea what happens after a law passes or ever work to change anything, yet they will complain.

But I know enough representation personally and have enough knowledge to impart to assure you that a huge amount of men are representing women that are what many would consider misogynists and carry beliefs that are radically conservative Here. Frankly, most women elected are/do, as well. But they care about being re-elected, and so in spite of their beliefs, you can make progress if you really try.

We've not felt REAL, radical changes through the many national candidates taking office in the way we bemoan over the recent years, either. We haven't felt radial change through the state elections, either, though we have tantrums often.

That is the American way, after all.

We seem to enjoy the ability to whine and complain. We don't bother to learn how to fix much. Even the people who think they know the issues well really have no idea how to change anything.

When you've lost your father, sister and two little brothers (both under 20 years old) in 2 years, you would probably never say your life is ruined (or anything that might be twisted to mean anything like this) because an election didn't go the way you hoped.

Perspective.

Checks. Balances.

I've lived through all sorts political messes in a state that has ranked near a 3rd world country level since well before I was born. I've not seen meaningful change so far no matter who was elected.

I'm glad I've seen the cusp of the birth of change.

I have known what misogyny costs as I've paid as high a price as a woman (or female child) could ever pay more than once. More than Once. You can't tell me anything there I've not lived.

I've had the status quo in this county leave my only remaining brother addicted for more than 10 years because the Big Pharma lobbyists have more money than the common man does, and I've lived in a world where my family can get no rest for a moment. . .not even now.

I've done animal rescue for years. I've seen what man and beast face here in America at our VERY worst, lowest and saddest points. I've seen how no matter who we elect, little changes. I have seen a handful of people work to try to change everything, too, regardless of who was elected.

I've seen the public stay quiet. I've begged so many to speak up on various issues for children, adults and animals.

I know how quiet you are when you must do more than type angry words on Facebook.

I know.

What I will do now is tell you THAT YOU can change things. Again. As I have before.

You can change the laws that exists. All of these people in office want to be re-elected, and until you call and call and write day in and out, you've ignored your ability to change. Voting is one small step of many others.

Your duty doesn't stop when the voting ends. Your duty has just begun.

Don't complain. Find out how laws come to be. Find out how you CHANGE things. I know the power of one. Too many ignore it, and they complain.

Be Someone. Now seems a great time. This coming season at the legislature, I intend to change things again. You can, too.

Don't tell me you're busy. Come on, friends. I know better.