Hi, folks. I have been basically a daily "lurker" here, although I have made a few comments over time. Daily Kos has been my main source for truthful, uncensored information for the past year. For that, I am immeasurably grateful.
And, due to the wealth of information I have absorbed here, I have become even more concerned and vocal about the current state of our nation than ever. But, now I am stressed out of my mind. If you're interested, read on.
My wife is tired of hearing my outrage over the endless, countless assaults on our nation's international credibility, our treasury, our personal protections, rights and freedoms; basically the fabric of our society. She is not politically active, yet is on the right (the left) side of the fence politically. But, as is the case with many, if not most people, she has no time left in her day to worry about politics and the direction of our country. She does not deserve blame; she is doing her best to provide for and raise our children.
Our marriage is suffering because of my inability to remove the horrors of this presidency from my mind. I need to express my outrage, yet she does not want to hear another word. As each day passes and new outrageous actions by our government come to light, I find myself less hopeful for the future. I have a lot of trouble sleeping at night, which affects my family responsibilities. I cannot refrain from worrying about my children's future.
The crazy thing is that I have a horrible genetic disease, VHL, that has caused brain tumors, kidney cancer, pancreatic tumors (some cancerous) and other nasty manifestations. Combined with the state of our nation and our so called leadership, I am literally shaking from stress. The most surprising effect of all this is that I am clearly less stressed and concerned about my own health than I should be. I know what's coming there. Each day, however, brings new unexpected outrage over the republican assault of the day. My focus shifts to writing LTE's, calling my congressman and senators etc.. My wife wants it to stop immediately.
Do any other Kossacks have issues with their relationships due to current events and this awful political climate? How does a responsible individual cope with all this? I don't mean my health. With all that is taking place in the Congress and Senate, the Presidency, and the decisions and policies made and proposed by them, I cannot just sit idly and ignore the state of our country. I just can't do it. And I can't keep internalizing everything. Yet, I can't burden my family with issues they have no interest in or time for.
Therein lies the dilemma. I must pay attention to my health in order to remain healthy and alive for my family. They deserve a living husband and father committed to them and their future. I strive to be that person. Yet, I cannot simply ignore all that is taking place with the republicans and their constant assault on - well, on everything that matters to me.
With the breadth of knowledge and wisdom you all have, I have but one question. How do you all do it?