So I am not shy to express my joy when it comes to the health care bill passing. I think it is about time we have something like this. The plan may not be perfect, but it is a start.
The thing that I find so difficult about discussing this topic is how many people are so hateful over it. I know a few people whom I disagree with, but I very much respect their opinions. However, I am finding that most people I know who are against reform do nothing but regurgitate what they hear on Fox "news" opinion shows. I rarely hear people speak directly about health care. I am saddened when I hear so many reasons have to be about taxes, or waiting a little longer at the hospital. Most reasons are so selfish, and I highly doubt many people who are (loudly) complaining would be willing to turn to a person who IS in need of this change, and tell them to their face that they do not deserve care because of how it inconveniences the rest of us who are already privileged enough to have it. I laugh when i realize how many people who have NEVER cared to read my blog, or say hello, will certainly chime in because they just have to tell me how wrong I am... then not say one thing new or interesting... and will likely detour to simply say how much they hate Obama. This predictability used to frustrate me (ok, it often still does), but at least now it also provides me with a good laugh.
The thing that STILL frustrates me, however, is how much of this disdain comes from the church. We speak so much about helping those less fortunate, we give "support" to missionaries, we donate to "worthy" causes, yet somehow we feel we are justified in turning our backs on those who live among us that are greatly in need. It is so easy to mail a check to an organization, raise funds for a trip to a far off country (which is also exciting for us), to spend a few hours at a soup kitchen when it fits into our schedule, to donate money to our friends when they feel they need to be out there serving others. I do not have a problem with any of these actions... it simply does not make sense to me how we pick and choose who is needy. Those efforts I mentioned before are good, but they are easy, and they make us feel good. We can choose how much we feel like helping at any given time, and if it is not "good for us" at that time, then we will just help out next time. I understand that this bill hits closer to home, and it is something that will effect our lives in a more tangible way. To me, this should be more exciting for those who claim to follow the teachings of Christ. I understand people don't want the government in control of this but, frankly, without them this could not happen. This is not something the church could provide, but it is something we can support.
What aggravates me even more is the protesting from those who are currently missionaries living off of support. I have many friends who are missionaries, I respect what they do, and I send funds to some of them. I grew up spending much spare time involved in this life, and I wish I had more time to dedicate to service to others. In no way am I against that life. However, I am disgusted by those who complain about how they will have to pay into taxes so others will "get a hand out" when it comes to health care. To those whose life is in "missions": everything you have while you live this life is the result a hand out. A hand out that is happily given to you by the members of the church. A hand out that is given to you so you can be free to serve those who are in need. There will always be people who take advantage of hand outs (both from the government, and those who are living as missionaries so they don't have to work), but that does not mean we should keep them from those people that are genuine and need the support. Also, to the many who claim that these changes for our country are going against our christian values.... 1) please pick up your bible again, and read it this time (the government will soon be able to help you get reading glasses if that was the problem last time you read it), and 2) even if we are moving towards socialism (the new bad "S" words amongst the church), that should not affect your faith. Grow a pair, grow a heart, and get over yourself.
Today was a big day for our country. I am hopeful for the future, and thankful for those who were willing to take a stand and try to make things better for everyone.
My rambling is done for now. I'm sure I'll be back to continue this later.
