Bullying, Politics, and Crossing The Line

Yes, vandalism IS a crime. The actions described below have been reported to the police

I have withheld writing about this topic, because - of all silly reasons - it's an uncomfortable topic.

But as a writer, as a woman with a strongly opinionated voice, and as a member of humanity, if I shy away from the uncomfortable, I'm no better than those who stick their heads in the sand hoping life won't kick them in the butt.

So this morning, the tipping point propelled me to open this page and begin to break this down.

As you all know, I am involved in the campaign of my local Conservative Party candidate, Valerie Assouline. And I know the politics make people cringe, I know conservatism makes people lash out but I am not one to allow that to shut my voice down.

It's bad enough to be associated with a Party whose reputation has been unfairly and inaccurately smeared as everything from racist to sexist to homophobic to "right-wing nut job". Those qualifiers are only assigned to the Conservatives - both here and south of the border - by people who don't know the truth or care to disseminate it.

But when that kind of derision leads to the vile acts that occurred this week, it is not only infuriating and offensive, it is seriously abusive.

I'm referring to the posters of my candidate being defaced. Oh sure, you'll say every poster gets graffiti sprayed across the faces of candidates. That doesn't make it right.

However, these posters were defaced using sexual innuendo, outright sexual symbols, and some were even "decorated" with condoms - filled condoms (filled with what, I don't know, nor do I need to know). A sex toy was left at the side of her mobile office - a place where her kids can be found when she's at the office with them.

This sparked an outrage from many people, from all sides. And while we hoped it would be contained, it grew legs.

The story hit social media - as every story will, inevitably.

CBC ran the story on its Facebook page, and though I usually know enough not to read comments, I was compelled to do so.

They were interesting. They ranged in nature from those who found the acts funny, to those who found them justified "because she's Conservative." To those types of remarks, others surfaced defending the candidate. One such remark was:

"I don't support the Conservatives but this was offensive."

There were those who stood up against the defacement, stating - oh, so logically! - that if one disagrees with a person's politics, why insult them with sexist, sexual slurs?

It's good to know there are smart people out there.

But it's also disconcerting to know that there were multiple remarks supporting, dismissing, or perpetuating the sentiments scrawled across my candidate's face.

Those who said "suck it up, that's what public life is about."
No, it's not.

Those who dismissed it to the fact that she's pretty.
Victims don't deserve abuse or bullying for any reason.

Those who laughed and addressed the nature of the words on the posters instead of the acts of defacement.
 The bigger picture is what's more important

Those who used the platform of a comment to complain about how many posters are up in the riding.
How does that invite obscenity? How is obscenity EVER okay?

People who don't realize - or care - that the woman on the poster is a real person. A woman with 4 young children. Children who have - till now - squealed in delight when driving in their mom's car and seeing her picture on posters.

Children - from ages 4-11, 3 of them girls - who might have seen those defaced posters, and had more questions than their parents were ready to address at this point in their young lives.

People making comments like those who either didn't think, or didn't care about the feelings of violation not just our candidate, but every woman experiences when confronted by the kind of vulgarities smeared across the face of a female candidate.

People who think it's okay to invoke sexist remarks whenever the opportunity arises. And those who are, sadly, so desensitized to sexual innuendo as a slur that they don't realize the deeper implications.

But we expect that kind of reaction from the public. As tragic as that seems, it has become part of our experience in politics, or public life of any kind, to expect people to veer into the dirt, and to go there.

 Where the tipping point came, for me, was this morning when one of our campaign staffers posted this screenshot on Facebook:

Shaun Lydon is a member of the team for the NDP candidate running in LaSalle, Verdun, Ville Emard.

When he was confronted about this insidious accusation, he deleted his entire Twitter account:

But as we all know, the Internet is forever, and a screenshot of his tweet has been circulating.

Someone confronted the NDP candidate about her team member, and her generic, dodgy reply was inadequate:

Not one to keep silent, I got into the fray:

And there has been no response.

Folks, this isn't something that should go unacknowledged. If someone on any political team - in any democratic country - steps out of their professional zone, they should feel the full repercussion of backlash.

Politics are ugly.

Correction: politics can be ugly. And that's too bad, because if there were fewer politics of personal destruction, perhaps the general public would get more involved, have more of a say, and vote with their heads not with their eyes closed, their noses held, and their "eenie-meeny-miney-moe" low-information-voter tactics in full force.

People get turned off politics because they lump all politicians into one category, and I believe part of that is the ugly nature of campaigning.

And it's the politics of personal destruction - the attack ads, the negativity and especially the personal (politically irrelevant) slings and arrows that turn us off even more than the sniping about policy.

As a woman, I have been deeply offended by what I've seen on the posters this week. As a human being, I am dismayed that vandalism is still the method people use to express their dissension.

But I don't believe this was dissension. I believe it was an attempt to denigrate, devalue, objectify, and bully this candidate in particular.

As I well know, as I've continued to impart to others, bullying is about power differential. Those who bully feel they are more powerful than their target. In these cases, it is both anonymity and - likely - gender that makes the attackers feel more powerful.

But in the end, they have no power. Because their utter lack of decency nullifies any perceived power.

It is up to us to speak out and be an example of the decency they sorely need to acquire. It is up to us to stand up and denounce this kind of defacement and this attitude toward women, toward conservatives, and toward candidates - of all parties.

Please share your thoughts - and this post; let's start a dialogue.

Learning More and More, Every Step Of the Campaign

I like to listen. I have learned a great deal from listening carefully. Most people never listen. - Ernest Hemingway

People who know me know that I enjoy conversation. I have a lot to say, and usually enjoy saying it. I'm teased, lovingly, by those familiar with my penchant for speaking.

But I'm also a person who learns by listening. I consider myself a good listener - it's what has helped me in my interviewing experiences - and last night, that skill was what I used - much to my benefit, and that of an important cause I support: the election of my Conservative Party candidate, Valérie Assouline. 

Last night, I went door-to-door in the neighborhood to make contact with voters on behalf of the campaign. I had done this before, and had the most fantastic time.

Last night, it was an entirely new experience - I was paired with David, the candidate's husband, and took many cues from him.

The first night I went, it was with her campaign manager. It was my first time, and I learned a lot about how to make that initial contact. This man taught me how to do something many people cannot do: knock on a door and talk to people about the one thing so many avoid, shun, or even recoil from: politics. It was invaluable as an introduction to the practice of door-to-door.

Last night was yet another experience - and I'm grateful to everyone who is giving me the opportunities I'm getting to be a productive member of this team.

Last night, as with the first time, I did some of the doors personally, but mostly, I watched David in action. And wow, I learned so much!

The point of doing door-to-door is to just get out the name, not the vote - yet. The most visible candidate is the one people remember - obviously - and this early in the campaign (3 months till the election on October 19th), not many other candidates are ringing doorbells.

In fact, Valérie is the most consistent door-to-door candidate - for many reasons but for an important one I will discuss in a moment.

It's about recognition; see, the hope - and if history is any proof, the fact - is that when posters go up, names begin to be said in advertisements and issues addressed, the candidate who knocked on thousands of doors is the one who has made the biggest impression.

After all, it takes quite a commitment of time, energy - and walking power! (wear supportive walking shoes!) - to walk the neighborhoods, knocking on doors, trying to talk to those who may be turned off by everything from the Party you represent to the fact that someone interrupted their Judge Judy by daring to ring the doorbell at the 15-minute mark of the show.

It takes a certain amount of strength to knock on someone's door, not knowing whether that person will deride your Party due to its leader or reputation, whether the person will be hostile or cold, or welcome you with a smile and express solidarity.

It isn't easy. It's a true lesson in learning how to deal with even momentary rejection. It's personally fulfilling, personally empowering, and personally fortifying.

I would recount every door - each was different, each had lessons for me that I will, I promise, parlay.

But one major point David made - which is now my new talking point (or one of them, anyway) - is that Valérie is the only candidate from this riding (district, for my American readers) who LIVES in the area.

The other 2 candidates - Liberal and NDP - live in other parts of the city. The Liberal candidate lives in another area at least 20 minutes from the neighborhood he represents. The NDP candidate lives in Trois-Rivières, which is a 90-minute drive from here.

In fact, she had not attended any election events on the night of her election, she received a phone call to tell her she'd won the riding of Dollard-Pierrefonds.

Now that's commitment, isn't it?

Valérie, David, and their 4 gorgeous children - courtesy of Valérie's Facebook

I had the discussion with David as we walked from one street to another, as to my preconceived notion that candidates had to live within their riding. It isn't so, not in our system.

But it makes a huge difference insofar as the candidate's commitment to represent and speak up for her neighbors - because they truly are, in the literal sense, her neighbors.

We encountered one gentleman who told us in no uncertain terms, "I support [the Liberal candidate]." He had hosted the candidate in his home (which is a palatial mansion I'd always wanted to see). He was convinced this was the person who will get elected.

But he couldn't really name the reasons why he supported him. And when we got back into the car, David and I talked about it - this guy was clearly supporting a person, not a principle, not an ideology or even a future.

In our conversation, David said to the man, "If your candidate doesn't win, do you think he will come back to this neighborhood and smile at the people in this area? He doesn't live here, and has no reason to come back.

"The current MP did win 4 years ago - and she is notoriously absent, she never comes to this neighborhood unless there is a campaign event and photo opportunity; because she lives in Trois Rivières!

"But Valérie lives here. Win or lose, you will see her in the neighborhood because she IS a neighbor."

At that point, I brought up the fact that Valérie often takes her kids to the park which is within walking distance from this man's house. I said, "You could go on any given day and meet her taking walks near the lake, or on walking paths in the park."

Valérie and the children - Centennial Park, DDO, Fall 2014 - from Valérie Assouline Pour Pierrefonds-Dollard, Facebook

While it didn't seem to sway the man, David was able to zero in on what he calls "the sweet spot" of the voter: what is important to that individual.

This man is from India. He and his family are citizens, but immigration and visa issues are important to him. And the more David talked about it, the more the man agreed that it's important.

Quebec - and Montreal - have very few Conservative MPs or even candidates. The last election, our province went "orange" with the NDP.

There's a reason for that: Jack Layton, the late NDP leader. He had a charisma that people were drawn to, and sadly, the popularity contest is much of why people vote.

Jack Layton passed away 3 months after his election to the Opposition, and the "leader" who has taken over is Thomas Mulcair. He does not have the charisma of Mr. Layton.

But David explained to this voter - and to others as well - that because of the dearth of CPC candidates/MPs in our city, it's likely that Valérie will get a position in the Prime Minister's cabinet. The weight of MPs in an area which is not saturated with MPs from the ruling Party is tremendous.

See, if the Liberal candidate wins in our riding, he will have very little power with the Prime Minister (whom, we are anticipating, will once again be Stephen Harper).

This is solely based on the fact that the way Canadian politics are set up, the Party in power has the ability to get things done for the country.

Local MPs (Members of Parliament) may be able to swing local issues. But when it comes to the big issues, they are powerless if they do not represent the ruling Party.

David brought up immigration. He explained to the man that Valérie is, herself, an immigrant who came to this country and made herself into a businesswoman, a lawyer, and has built a life here. Immigration issues are not only important to her, she is very familiar with how the laws work and the various snags people can encounter.

He said, "If you needed a visa to go to India, because Montreal winters aren't your thing-" (to which the man smiled knowingly) "-how would you go about doing that, to ensure you don't have problems?"

The man said he would go to the candidate he supports, and if he couldn't get it done, then he would go to Valérie.

Here's where I have to get descriptive - because David drove home the point visually and it was the best example I've ever seen.

He took his right hand, raised it and stretched it to his left earlobe, over his head.

"Why would you try to do this,"  he asked, then taking his hand down and touching his right ear with it, "when you could do this?"

The example was pitch-perfect illustration of convoluted thinking. I don't know if the man realized it, he seemed quite set on his candidate, but I got it and it clearly resonated with me.

He left the gentleman with one thought - and again, it resonated:

"When you are in the booth, and you make your X in that box - it isn't for your candidate. It is for you. And you can vote for the person you feel will get your issues addressed with the leader of the country."

I don't know if this man's mind was changed - in fact, I doubt it. But I do know he was left with a lot to think about; and perhaps, as David stated, his moment in that voting booth will reflect his doubt as to his candidate's ability to address his personal concerns and actually get things done.

Because the beauty of the privacy we enjoy in our voting process is usually borne out in how polls and results can be worlds apart.

After our door-to-door, we met with Valérie and 3 others at the newly acquired riding office. It was really cool to drive up and see her poster in the window. There is a meeting for volunteers on Wednesday night (the 22nd of July) - and any of my local friends reading this, please let me know if you can attend; it will be only an hour of your time, and the energy you'll find within will stay with you for a long time.

We discussed our experiences, and talked about the plan as it unfolds from here on in. The whiteboard on the wall says it all:

Driving home afterwards, I reflected on the evening. It was as invigorating as every other time I have spent with this campaign and its incredible people, from the candidate all the way through the ranks of management and volunteers.

I watched David in action and realized I have much to learn. But if last night was any indication, I am getting a crash course and absorbing every fact, every explanation, every issue's reason and every historical overview I need in order to accomplish what we - Valérie's Army - are trying to do: send the most qualified MP to Ottawa to support the best leader Canada can elect, and to be a strong voice for this riding as well as for the country.

Door-to-Door: A First-Timer's Account

Prime Minister Harper and Valérie Assouline, May 2015

As many of you know, I am a volunteer on the campaign of Valérie Assouline, the candidate for the Conservative Party of Canada here in my area.

A rundown of how elections work in Canada. I would say this is for my non-Canadian friends, but I've learned that so many Canadians don't know how elections work!

In a federal election, one doesn't get to vote for the Prime Minister. One votes for the candidate in their riding - and when the votes are counted, winning candidates become Members of Parliament (MPs).

The party with the most elected MPs becomes the ruling party of Canada, the second-most elected becomes the official opposition and there is a third party as well.

So as much as I'd love to vote for Prime Minister Harper, I can only vote for a Conservative Party candidate in my riding (district).

Here's the thing: it's been way too long (almost 22 years) since my riding had a candidate from the CPC, and this election, we do: Valérie.

My first encounter with this dynamic candidate was an impromptu meet-and-greet at a coffee shop. My second was a meeting in which I volunteered to help with social media, and I wrote about it here.

I also wrote about an event - prior to said event - here, and the recap of the amazing evening here.

At the end of February, I had the privilege of covering an evening with Minister Ed Fast - a cabinet member and the Minister of International Trade. It was fascinating to be a part of this evening, and I knew I was hooked on being part of a campaign.

I will write up another amazing evening - last week, where another Conservative Party candidate launched his campaign - in another post.

But today I had my first experience in canvassing, and I'd like to tell you about it.

We met at a coffee shop, and synchronized with an app on all our phones. This app is fantastic; you are able to click on a "poll", which takes you to a list of addresses in one area. That's your area.

Each address, when clicked, gives you the names of all eligible voters in the household. After making initial contact, you click one of 3 emoticons: a happy face, a sad face, and a neutral face, depending on the reception you get.

There is also space to add notes - which I only used three times - and you click "not home" if - obviously - there is no answer.

Armed with information cards, decked out in CPC/Valerie Assouline 2015 tee shirts, I set off on my route with the campaign manager, pleased to be with someone experienced.

The plan was simple: make contact, and don't make it a visit. State the Party, ask for support, and record the reaction. With about 30 houses per route, and all the walking, it's prudent to keep it short.

The first house, he demonstrated.

"Hi, we're with the Conservative Party of Canada, and we hope we can count on your support in October."

The first guy turned it on us: "Here's a question for you: why should I support the Conservative Party of Canada in October?"

I answered, "Because Valérie Assouline - our riding's candidate - in keeping with the values of Stephen Harper and the Conservatives - has the best interests of all Canadian families at heart.

"Because the Conservative Party of Canada wants to continue to cut taxes, and offer tax breaks for families of all income levels, and because she is a leader, as is Prime Minister Harper."

The guy seemed interested, took the information card and said, "Good answer. I will."

Our first Yes!

It wasn't all that easy. The next house, the woman said she never votes. Our job was not to convince her. But we left the card with her, and asked her to consider it.

House by house we went, some people said okay, some said yes, some probably just wanted to get rid of us.

There were a few that stood out. One was a house where the teenaged daughter answered the door. I did my little bit, she said "sure," took the card and closed the door.

As we were walking down the driveway, her father was coming up toward us. My co-canvasser approached him and explained our purpose.

This man's face lit up. He said, "Oh, you BET I'm voting Conservative in the next election!"

We shook his hand, thanked him for giving us the best answer yet, and continued down the street.

There was one on the other end of the spectrum. A gentleman who didn't even let me finish, practically slammed the door in my face.

The key is not to let it bother you; and it didn't. I know Valérie is an amazing candidate. I know she has what it takes to lead and to help our riding. I know Stephen Harper is a true leader.

So what I know, I can never convince anyone who is so dead set against whatever it was that turned him off, and I move on.

That's the key. It isn't rejection. It's "chalk it up to someone who just won't vote CPC, for whatever reason."

We heard a lot of "wow, you guys are early!" Yes, we are, but that's the key: getting the name and face of the candidate out in the community first, and often, she will have name recognition and people will remember that her campaign took the time and effort to walk the streets on her behalf to help her in the election.

That means a lot. Voters remember.

We had a few who mentioned that they've never seen our current Member of Parliament anywhere but on fliers. That's important to know as well. Take the time, take the effort, meet the people and they will reward you with votes - if all goes as planned, of course!

So this was the first time I went door-to-door, but by no means the last.

I knew I'd be involved in the campaign but I didn't realize the adventures I would have.

My next Excellent Adventure comes on Wednesday: I will be heading to Quebec City with Valérie and her trusty team, where Quebec's "Fête Nationale" is celebrated. More than that - Prime Minister Harper (Himself!) will be there.

I told Valérie I covet a photo of, possibly even with the PM, and she said she'll arrange one.

Stay tuned - me and the PM on Wednesday!

If you've ever thought about volunteering for a political campaign, I urge you to try it. With a dynamic candidate like Valérie, and there are many out there, you will find a side of yourself you never knew existed, and you will feel the reward of having done something good.

Watch this spot - lots more to come!

Lysane Blanchette-Lamothe and the NDP or: How I Learned to Start Worrying and Love the Conservative Party Initiatives.*

(*with thanks to Itsik Romano and apologies to Dr. Strangelove)

In my previous piece, I outlined how a recent propagandist pamphlet made its insidious way into the mailboxes of Pierrefonds-Dollard residents, and all the things that were wrong with it.

Now I would like to point out everything that was right with the pamphlet: Stephen Harper.

How can that be? An NDP Member of Parliament promoting the Conservative Party? She sure did!

See, Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe's deceptions didn't end with her outright falsehoods attempting to discredit the government. They continued with the long list of tax credits and deductions Canadians are lucky enough to count among our entitlements.

Here's the punchline: most of those tax credits and deductions are Harper initiatives! Yes, the NDP seems to be embracing Prime Minister Harper's love for families and taxpayers with the love shown in this pamphlet for his initiatives.

For example: the "Children's Fitness Tax Credit was recently increased from $500 to $1000 effective for 2014 and subsequent tax years." I put that in quotation marks because it is a direct citation from the pamphlet circulated by the NDP rep in my riding. She seems to like this, wouldn't you agree? She should - it is a bold initiative, amounting to $3,000,000,000 (that's 3 BILLION dollars) set aside by the Harper government for this purpose. I'd say that's a very positive and beneficial initiative our Prime Minister's administration has instituted. I'd also say Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe is a fan.

Let's take Child care expenses - also in this pamphlet. The deductions allowable by the Canadian government have now been increased from $7,000 to $8,000 for each child under the age of 7, from $4,000 to $5,000 for each child aged 7 to 16 (or for infirm dependent children over the age of 16), and from $10,000 to $11,000 for children eligible for the Disability Tax Credit. For families who have dependents, this is a huge benefit, and again, the Harper government put this in place.

How about valuing the arts? If you've paid for a child to participate in an arts program, there is a $500 tax credit coming your way. How can this be bad? Well, for the NDP it is; they didn't come up with it.

Harper's income-splitting program is a controversial one, as it benefits two-parent families. Much has been written in favor and against it. Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe's pamphlet skewers the government for the program, but in the very next paragraph, she discusses helping families - by raising the minimum wage. As I discussed in Part 1 of this piece, that makes no sense. Most two-parent families do not subsist on minimum-wage jobs and would likely end up being single-income families if that were the case and the NDP got its way.

Instead, helping families is what the income-splitting program does, and while it doesn't benefit every Canadian, what program does?

In short, do the research. Prime Minister Harper has already done an extremely good job of helping the Canadian economy to flourish, and he is dedicated to continuing that job. Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe's propaganda pamphlet attempts to take credit (no pun intended) for the programs that are already helping Canadians whether they have kids or not.

If we allow this kind of spin to dictate our votes in the fall, we are giving into deception and outright lies. Do you want a government that lies to you and smiles from the pages of a booklet? Or do you want a government that will keep helping this economy to thrive and citizens to grow in all walks of life?

I think you know the answer to that. Remember: knowledge is power. Arm yourself with information.

As you all know, Valérie Assouline is our Conservative Party candidate for this riding, and I urge you all to get to know her. Talk to me - we can hold meaningful dialogue if you're willing to think for yourselves, and if you're willing to listen to the issues, not the reputation, deceit or misleading words that form an inaccurate opinion.

We thank Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe for her loving treatment of Mr. Harper's initiatives for Canadians. We just wish she'd given credit where credit is due.

Misleading MP: Pierrefonds-Dollard's NDP Rep Playing Head Games

Knowledge Is Power - Sir Francis Bacon

This week, in everyone's mailbox, in the riding of Pierrefonds-Dollard, Lysane Blanchette-Lamothe, the NDP MP supposedly representing us, distributed the above pamphlet entitled "2014 Tax Guide". I'd like to point out - not just to my fellow residents in the riding, but to everyone - just how misleading this pamphlet is, and how she has tried to misrepresent her party while attempting to discredit the Conservative Party of Canada.


Let me go through the pamphlet's more insidious points, as I'm sure many people either tossed it without reading, or read through it without questioning some of the language.

The personal message right at the beginning contains some of the more underhanded methods one can see if one knows how to look deeper.

For example - the first paragraph draws attention to the closing of Target stores in Canada, and the shifting of Avon Canada jobs to the USA. The very next line suggests the government (meaning Prime Minister Harper's Conservatives) is "turning a blind eye" toward the loss of jobs and mentions a phantom - and unsubstantiated - "record high" household debt.

Regarding household debt - 80% of Canadians are not worried about higher debt and 85% are taking actions to reduce it.

As for jobs lost by Target's exodus and government, let me delve into that. I recently had the honor of attending an evening with Minister of International Trade, Ed Fast, who talked about the misconception that government creates jobs. It does not. The government's job is to help create a strong economy conducive to thriving businesses. When businesses thrive, they can hire more employees, and that helps the business to thrive. Stephen Harper is not in the business of hiring you. Nor was he in the business of managing Target stores or its Canadian HQ.

Target failed for many reasons; besides not being as competitive, price-wise, as stores like Wal-Mart, one major complaint of shoppers was the empty shelves. There were even photos posted online which substantiated the complaints; and without fully stocked shelves, how is a business supposed to thrive? Target was its own worst enemy here in Canada; empty shelves and not living up to its previously known brand were reasons for its failure, and it was not - contrary to what this pamphlet would have you believe - because Stephen Harper didn't run it properly, nor is our Prime Minister uncaring toward those 17,000 people whose jobs were lost due to the exit of Target.

Moreover, Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe states: "I am proud to work with the NDP to offer concrete solutions for a more affordable living."

You know, I shook this pamphlet out several times and there were no concrete solutions anywhere within its 8-page span. These are feel-good words that are designed to endear the Party to readers of this brochure. Back it up with actions, and then you'll have some credibility. But without actions, pretty words are meaningless.
 
I should correct that: there was one initiative mentioned as an NDP idea, and that is to raise the minimum wage. This is a long-standing issue that remains tragically simplified by those who simply do not understand it and it is that unawareness that allows politicians to prey upon the uninformed.

Bottom line: minimum wage raised to $15/hour is not designed to help "those families who need our help the most". Let me help explain this:

Companies paying higher wages have to get the money from somewhere. Generating revenue in order to pay higher wages is not as easy as it sounds. Either they will have to raise their prices, or they will be forced to lay off enough employees to make the payroll work against profits. Is the NDP promoting unemployment? If they are touting a higher minimum wage, they seem to be going that way, to be sure.

Minimum wage is designed for low-skilled or inexperienced workers, not for those whose education or skill levels earn them higher wages. Most families do not rely upon minimum-wage earners to support them.

I like to look to well-respected American economist, Thomas Sowell, for his wisdom on issues such as these. He states it as eloquently as anyone can:

Unfortunately, the real minimum wage is always zero, regardless of the laws, and that is the wage that many workers receive in the wake of the creation or escalation of a government-mandated minimum wage, because they lose their jobs or fail to find jobs when they enter the labor force. Making it illegal to pay less than a given amount does not make a worker’s productivity worth that amount—and, if it is not, that worker is unlikely to be employed.

Think about it - he makes sense, and the NDP representative for my riding doesn't seem to have a grasp on that concept. Or perhaps she does. She's just keeping that common-sense fact from her blissfully ignorant constituents who don't seek facts and figures for themselves.

Born in 1930, Thomas Sowell has the years as well as the wisdom to comment on economic matters. He made this statement in a recent column:

Life was tough when all I could get were low-paying jobs. But it would have been a lot tougher if I couldn’t get any job at all. And a tough life made me go get some skills and knowledge.

Ms. Blanchette-Lamothe's pamphlet is a dangerous and irresponsible piece of propaganda.

In politics, it is almost the accepted norm to be misleading in order to benefit one's own Party/career. However, it should never be acceptable to those of us who are critical thinkers, those of us who want to be a part of the process instead of the beneficiaries or victims of government leaders.

Was there anything good in the pamphlet? You bet there was. Read on...

On The Campaign Trail: An Evening With Minister Ed Fast

Senator Leo Housakos, Minister Ed Fast, Valérie Assouline

As many of you no doubt already know, I have signed on to help our riding's Conservative Party candidate, Valérie Assouline, in any way I can on the campaign trail. Even though the campaign hasn't even gotten into full-swing mode, I have already attended a couple of events and Thursday night was another one for the books.

This past Thursday evening, I was asked if I could make myself available for an event at a local restaurant and that Minister Ed Fast would be in attendance. Minister Fast is with Prime Minister Stephen Harper's cabinet in the role of International Trade Minister. I am still rather new to politics, just finding my way around the landscape both on the local and federal levels. But it was going to be an exciting evening, I knew this already.

I asked if Valérie needed any help polishing her speech. Last time we'd met, I had mentioned my writing abilities were my forte, and she actually said she might need my help on speeches. So, I took the bull by the horns and asked if that was the case. I ended up on the phone with her several times that day, listening to what she had (which was already magnificent) and helping her with new passages, and polishing up the ideas she had.

Personal Interjection:
 Here's something you might know about me, but if you don't, here it is: I am a huge fan of The West Wing. I had not watched when it aired, but caught it one summer when I had no courses to take, and was instantly hooked. Besides owning the DVD box set, I have watched the series in its entirety (all 7 seasons) at least 5 times; it is that rewatchable.

Why do I love the show? It's about a Democratic President, whose values I now do not hold as my own, and whose party I would not support were I American.

I watch it because it is sharp. The dialogue is witty and compelling, the characters fully dimensionalized, and I happen to adore behind-the-scenes glimpses at lifestyles which intrigue me. I got into the show way before I was politically intrigued, but now that I'm involved, it is even more fascinating to me.

One character who held my interest from the start was Sam Seaborn. Rob Lowe's character was the Deputy Communications Director, and the skilled speechwriter for the administration. I loved the way Sam Seaborn would spend hours on draft after draft just to get the cadence right, or that one elusive passage just so, or even one word that didn't make itself known until the 30th draft. Sam embodied my sense of perfectionism, especially as a writer.

Well, I got to let out my inner Sam Seaborn, and it was even more rewarding when Valérie liked my ideas or my phrasing. But nothing came close to the excitement I felt when I listened to her speak, and heard those words we'd brainstormed not only resonating through the room but clearly moving the attendees. She energizes people with her passionate delivery.

Personal gratification aside, this evening was another exceptional event. Minister Fast is a humble, soft-spoken man whose speech was riveting. He spoke about our country in such patriotic terms I felt my own love for Canada renewing upon itself as he spoke. He talked about the achievements our government has accomplished, goals met and surpassed, success after success, and in every possible area of Canadian life (from the economy, to business, to security, to international affairs and foreign relations). It made me prouder than ever to be a supporter of Prime Minister Harper, and it reaffirmed to me that being involved in this campaign is one of the most important things I have ever done.

The evening was a huge success. Valérie spoke beautifully, passionately, and her convictions were inherent in her tone and her words. Minister Fast held us all rapt. Senator Leo Housakos spoke just as beautifully, supporting Valérie and her abilities to represent this riding as we've needed for too long.

Afterwards, many people with whom I spoke mentioned how impressed they were with the speeches. One note in particular: Minister Fast talked about government and the notion that jobs are created by government. We've heard this for years, from Canadian AND American politicians. You won't hear it from Stephen Harper or those with whom he surrounds himself. Know why?

Because government does not - and can not - create jobs.

See, a true leader creates an environment of trade and economy in which businesses thrive. That is how jobs are created; businesses grow, employers hire, and the cycle repeats. Anyone who listens to a politician say s/he will create jobs is buying into the myth.

I will touch upon this in a subsequent entry.

But the evening was another exciting time for me as a part of what will only increase in the thrills of witnessing what I'm sure will be the election of a truly devoted MP for our riding. I encourage you to "like" Valérie's Facebook page to keep up with events, photos, and information.

After all - information is power and I'm sure once you learn more about what she - and the Tories - stand for, you'll see why it's so important to vote Conservative in October.

Beating The Orange - An All-Round Success

Last night I attended an exciting event. I previewed it here.

In the summer of 2006, I watched all 7 seasons of The West Wing, never having watched it when it originally aired. It grabbed me for the behind-the-scenes look at the White House, but also at political life and all it entails. Since then, I have rewatched the series at least 4 times. The writing is excellent, the storylines gripping and the acting bolsters the compelling characters created for the show.

I wasn't even interested in politics when I first watched that show, but when I revisited it, I had already begun my journey into understanding that world, and was further educated as to the inner workings of political life.

It isn't that I hadn't believed I could be personally involved in a political world; it's that I didn't know I would.

I have already discussed my heretofore limited experience with political events. Before last night, I'd had the pleasure of attended Valérie's launch party in November, and an energizing meeting just a few weeks ago. Both events inspired me beyond anything I'd imagined when thinking about politics.

But Tuesday, February 10, was an event of a different sort. And I must say it was a smashing success.

I arrived early, and, already tasked with live-tweeting the event, I set to getting a feel for the area. It took place at a brasserie in the neighborhood, and a section at the back had been dedicated space for our evening.

As attendees began to arrive, I felt very much like a hostess, and had been embraced by the campaign as part of the team. I've learned that when you are devoted to something, that energy becomes contagious. In this case, it has been mutual; I have been energized by the campaign, and have given that back. In turn, I have been welcomed as a team member and continue to cycle that enthusiasm back.

Last night, I met with others who have been inspired to support Valérie's campaign. I also met with people who had heard about her, or had been recruited to come, and who all began to exhibit the same facial expression I know I've worn: deep interest, a growing excitement and that sense of empowerment you feel when you know that something you're doing can - and will - make a difference.

I was able to speak with many different people, and what was even more heartening was that there were guests who didn't even live in the district Valérie represents, but who were there because they believe in the values she stands for, the voice she has, and the quickly snowballing effects she is having on the electorate.

It's at this time I should tell you all a little about Valérie and why I admire her; I'd outlined, in my last entry, the roles she plays in her life and how strong she is. But one thing I failed to mention, something that shows how one voice can make a difference, is how she became the candidate for our riding (for my non-Canadian friends, a "riding" is a district).

The last time there was a Conservative MP in our riding was the popular Gerry Weiner, who left office in 1993. That's 21 years ago. Along came Valérie, who saw a hole in the district and made the decision to become the candidate and run for office. She's taken the district by storm. And to me, someone who sees a need and takes it upon herself to fulfill that need is definitely someone I want speaking for my district in Ottawa.

That's the kind of go-getter Valérie is. When she spoke yesterday evening, it was a quick speech - it wasn't an official campaign event, so she spoke to her game plan instead of to the issues. That's okay, though, because I was looking around the room. I saw people who were with her, on every level. I saw people who were listening and nodding and erupting in applause when she promised to be a strong voice (her campaign slogan) and to listen to us.

Even more heartening was the response to the deserving praise she heaped upon our Prime Minister; Stephen Harper is doing a fantastic job for Canada, and the rousing cheers when she talked about him renewed my pride in my country and our leader.

Tuesday evening was my first foray into political events as an active, committed member of the team. And like I told a couple of conversants tonight: I truly did hit the jackpot for my first time out. The team "behind the scenes" is so dynamic, so goal-oriented and so focused, it's hard not to pick up on that electricity. But from the candidate herself, to her family, and her team, everyone is so likeable and so easy to work with, it inspires me to do more.

Which - as they know - I will. They can count on me to do what I can in order to continue to appeal to supporters and get the message out. I truly understand what it's like to be a member of a campaign now, and I have to say - The West Wing made it look fun. Valérie 2015 is the real thing and it is fun.

What I'd like from my readers is this: consider your life, and consider your view on politics. I welcome a dialogue with any of you who feel it isn't your "thing", or has let you down in the past. This time, it's different. We live in a world filled with complexities. We aren't going to solve every problem all at once, but from what I have seen, and what I know now, Valérie is committed to helping DDO-Pierrefonds on this level, and in the future, contributing to our government's effective running of our country. I believe she's headed for big things in the very near future, and I don't say that lightly. For those of you who know me, I don't trust easily, and I don't support every person who knocks on my door. I do trust Valérie and I trust in her.

I'd love to talk with my friends in the area, because you're the ones who can cast your vote in October and you're the ones who can say you got on board from the beginning. Give me the chance to introduce you to a woman who will stand up and fight for the things we all value. And in the end, isn't that what we're all looking to achieve?

Postscript: Following the event, the Habs beat the Flyers; being the superstitious soul I am, I would say that's a very good sign for the campaign.

An Evening Of Energy

I just returned from an evening out, something that doesn't happen often. The meeting I was attending was to have lasted roughly an hour; it stretched to over 2-1/2, and left me more energized than before.

Those of you who have followed me, here or on social media, know that I've had a political awakening, something that came later to me but that has motivated me in many different ways. Till recently, I have expressed my views in these pages, on Facebook, Twitter, and in conversations with those who care to engage.

But this past autumn, I was introduced, on Facebook, to a woman who was about to launch her political career here in my suburb, as the first Conservative Party member in a long time to run in this area. I was invited to an informal meeting at a café, and was instantly focused on helping her campaign. I pledged my help, and the next thing I knew, I was at her campaign launch evening, where I was surrounded by those just as energized as I.

Tonight, I was back at that same café with her campaign manager, and two other members of what is to be the core social media team for the campaign. Valérie - our candidate - joined us and we began to brainstorm all the ways in which we can help get people engaged. The other two members of the team will be our youth leaders; young, dynamic, interested and connected, they were inspirational in our conversation.

I would have volunteered to do anything that was needed: stuff envelopes, fax, file, call, knock on doors. I'll still, more than likely, do those things. But to be included on the social media team, to be valued for not only my technological savvy but for the skill that makes me the proudest - my writing - makes me feel truly productive as a citizen for the first time in a long time.

I've been a productive member of society. I have worked, raised two sons (and continue to be an active part of their lives as they continue to grow and learn), volunteered at their schools and hockey teams, and other ways in which I have contributed. Especially in casting my vote in every election, whether it is local, provincial or federal.

But now, I have the honor of contributing to an important, dynamic campaign which - if all goes the way it is planned, and the way it is heading - will give my area of the world an elected official who truly knows the meaning of working with, and for her constituents.

I continue to learn about my own political ideologies as I go along. I absorb it - "like a sponge", I've been told. And I am reminded of a wise saying, found in Richard Bach's Illusions: "We teach best that which we most need to learn."

In being hands-on, in learning about Valérie, the Conservative Party to which I am firmly committed, and the ways in which both will work for my community, I am also learning about myself, honing the things I already know, and learning new aspects of political life every day.

Politics - it's a word that gets many people cringing. I believe that's because so many do not recognize that the word only symbolizes the umbrella under which is found every single thing that affects us and our daily lives. Our politicians affect our finances, our way of life, our educational system, our security, and even - in municipal politics - the flow of traffic on that busy street that doesn't have the stop sign it should.

Getting involved in politics doesn't mean one has to run for office. There are so many ways in which an ordinary citizen can pitch in.

Tonight's meeting rendered some exciting new ideas for getting Valérie more recognition, and for getting those who don't understand - or eschew the idea of politics - to realize that they are affected and that they, too, can influence those factors to make their own lives that much better.

You'll be hearing a lot more from me, about our candidate. Her name is Valérie Assouline, she is a mom (four young kids!), a lawyer, and now the Conservative Party candidate for the riding of Dollard-des-Ormeaux/Pierrefonds.

I hope my friends here in my community will hear her message, spend some time getting to know her. She will impress you, as she has impressed me.

And I look forward to the next 266 days of helping her with this campaign, as well as beyond, where - G-d willing - she will be our MP in Ottawa, speaking up for our community and following up on the things for which she stands.

I've felt energized about many things in my life. Tonight, I am re-energized by something I truly believe in, and someone who can make the difference.

The Emotional Tidal Wave

I created this last night when I needed to express my love for Canada

*Note: I won't get political here; that is for another time. But I will also not stand idly by and allow Prime Minister Harper to be denigrated by those who hate him merely for their own reasons and refuse to see all the good he stands for, and has brought about in Canada.

On September 14, 2001, I stood in my kitchen on crutches, having fractured my fibula 2 weeks earlier, watching the television on the counter, in tears of the deepest emotions, and watched a worldwide prayer service unfold on the screen. It was 3 days after the worst terrorist attack on United States soil, and I remember when the services in Canada were shown.

There was a beautiful blue sky, and the majestic clock tower of our Parliament building stretching up into the sunlight. Still picturing those planes flying into the World Trade Centers, I remember thinking, "We're not immune. We are so vulnerable."

I never lost that - I never fooled myself into thinking Canada would never be attacked. In fact, I think I was just waiting for that shoe to drop.

Yesterday, it did. In events that shocked the world, and shattered mine, we were attacked.

It wasn't a massive attack in terms of lives lost. It wasn't loud or smoke-filled or broadly chaotic or (for want of a better word) grandiose.

But it was a very profound statement to our country, by someone who stood for much more than the lone-wolf stereotype being put forth in analyses.

It came 2 days after another attack - one that took place just 45 minutes away from my sleepy suburb. One that killed a soldier, and one that was classified "terror" just hours after it happened. That was shocking enough.

But there was something so surreal about seeing the capital of Canada, an iconic building in that capital, and the symbol of our very democracy, under attack; chaotic in its own right as a citywide lockdown remained in place into the nighttime hours.

There was something so bizarrely shocking about seeing our country's capital city portrayed on U.S. news networks in a terrorist attack framework, broadcasts that lasted through the entire day, many without even taking a commercial break.

And there was something so profoundly moving about the tweets and Facebook messages I got from American, British, and Aussie friends offering love and support to my country. By the early evening, there was a flood of red and white across social media as scores of people - of all nationalities - changed their display photos to our flag.

I cried too easily yesterday. I didn't even try to stop or explain it.

I broke down inconsolably when the Pittsburgh Penguins organization announced, prior to a game against Philadelphia, that in solidarity with Canada, they would sing the National Anthem, and the voices from the stands rang out in the familiar strains of "O Canada". I watched the video twice. And broke down both times.

And I just saw that Boston did the same. And I reacted the same way. Again.

I am sad that our military personnel across this gorgeous land are being told not to wear their uniforms in public. The pride they feel in their stature, their place in the fabric of our guard, the joy they get from donning those garments must now be closeted because they may be in mortal danger for merely showing their roles in our lives. When I read the announcement that this should become the current norm, I broke down yet again.

I've tried to analyze my feelings. I've heard many people diminish the incident as "one mentally ill man". Well, yes. Anyone who does something this heinous is mentally ill.

I've heard it relegated to a "just one guy died, and while that's tragic, it wasn't like 9/11."

One is too many, first of all. And two soldiers died, when Patrice Vincent was mowed down by another Jihadist terrorist two days earlier. And I know those who say that kind of thing don't mean to downplay Corporal Cirillo's death. But they are looking at what did not happen.

I don't see it that way.

In two short days, we have had two men take the lives of military heroes, in the name of Jihad.

We can't diminish this to numbers of dead vs. other terrorist attacks. Anytime we see terrorists take lives, threaten lives, harm others, it is bigger than the act itself; it is what that act symbolizes. And it stands for hatred. Hatred born of an ideological way of thinking. Extremism that goes beyond simple disagreement.

I want to ask those people who downplay the death toll, where does the line start, for this kind of emotion? Must it be 10 people who die? 20? 50? 100?

The families of Nathan Cirillo and Patrice Vincent don't think 1 is manageable.

And nor do I.

This was an attack on me, personally. I love my country. I have come to feel more patriotic, more proud and more protective of her than ever before, as I've grown more politically and ideologically aware.

And this was an attack on my home. Ottawa was the place it happened, but Canada was the target.

If you want to talk numbers, think of what was averted. Were it not for the overwhelmingly heroic actions of Sargent-at-Arms Kevin Vickers, wholesale slaughter would have been the headlines, including perhaps our incredible Prime Minister and the leaders of the opposition, along with all the other elected officials who were in active meetings on either side of the hall the terrorist took on his last run.

I don't believe there is - or should be - a mandatory minimum dead before we react emotionally.

I make no apologies for my tears, my hair-trigger emotions, or my deep sadness at what has transpired, and what it means for my country.

I embrace those things; because their presence in my life this week reminds me of how much I love Canada, and how desperately I want to see her - and us - thrive in the freedom our soldiers have died to protect. That now includes Corporal Cirillo and Warrant Officer Vincent.

Honoring those men means we do not allow their deaths to become murder statistics or stars on a wall. It means we stick to our resolve not to allow the terrorists to win. It means we support the strength our government is showing and the mission Canada has undertaken to play a major part in helping to rid the world of these monsters.

Downplaying the meaning of this week's attacks dishonors their memory.

And I won't do that - nor will I stand idly by while others attempt to boil it down to "mental health issues" or "lone wolf acting alone in an isolated incident" theories.

Not facing the reality just leaves us open to more attacks. We may yet see more, in short order, or in the long run. But playing ostrich is foolish and ignorant.

And while I continue to struggle in trying to find the balance between vigilance and paranoia, I stand more proudly alongside our military, our citizens, and our government, as a Canadian through and through, who loves and honors her country and all it has to offer.

I'll get a handle on my emotions. But like Canada, I have changed forever. I plan to take that change and make it work in my favor.

For now - I just need to allow the easy tears to flow. 

G-d keep our land glorious and free.

Awakening - Part III: Enlightenment And Exhilaration

(Note: I realize that Blogger posts in reverse order chronologically, therefore if you are just stumbling upon this blog, this is Part III of a series. Please start with Part I and continue through; I rarely do serial postings, but this one had to be done in parts. Thank you!)

(Continued from Part II)

In the early days of discussing my political views on social media, I would turn to what I already knew and felt, I would turn to sometimes-frantic web searches ("Does the NRA support gun sales without background checks?") and would more frequently turn to frantic texts to J ("quick question - debating a leftist - need a source or an answer to why the Second Amendment exists today and is important - thanks!").

See, as much as I knew, I was a toddler in my newfound education. I knew what I believed. But I needed to be able to combat what I now know is rhetoric-without-foundation and was not yet comfortable on my own.

I got the help I needed. But something happened - I was internalizing the values, learning the background, reading in my spare time and familiarizing myself with the common arguments that would get thrown my way. It always helps to be able to counter ideological contrarians when you know the ways in which you will be confronted.

And it was quite amazing. I found that the same (to use a common phrase now) talking points were held up almost as shields against the Truths I put forth. It became easier.

But it also became easier as I became more confident in my own ability to discuss, debate, discredit the rhetoric.


The first time I held my own in a Facebook "debate" (using the term lightly - they tend to get heated, ugly, and downright mean), I felt yet another weight lifting from my shoulders. I had realized that the whole time, not once did I seek a website for answers, text my Spiritual Guru for help, or access past arguments I might have archived for the sake of reference.

I had held my own. In the true sense of that phrase.

I had a Helen Keller "Water" Moment.

Let me explain: Helen Keller has always been a hero of mine. Since I was old enough to understand, since hearing of her death when I was a child, and from having read every book by, and about her that I could.

My favorite moment - from the books, from the film - is the W-A-T-E-R moment. Annie Sullivan, her tireless teacher, was spelling words in Helen's palm. It was gibberish to the blind, deaf, mute girl. But something clicked at the moment when Annie signed "water" in Helen's palm, coupled with the coolness of water from the pump she had just shown Helen how to use.

That was the Moment. Helen began to understand the connection. The letters, the word, the water. And she went into a frenzy of hunger for more. She touched everything she could - the grass, the tree, the flower, her dog - and went back to get Annie to spell the word in her palm.

That was the Moment when Helen Keller transcended her blindness, the world of darkness that she'd inhabited, and emerged into light of a different kind.

That's how it felt for me, learning about this new world of politics from a different perspective. Craving more. Seeking everything I could in order to learn my way around this new landscape. Taking that new information and using it to speak with authority from an entirely personal, but fact-based position, feeling confident and aware, knowledgeable and smarter than I had given myself credit for, in this new arena.

It was exhilarating.

Election 2012 saw me working hard (blogging, tweeting, Facebook discussions and debates) for The Other Side. The side I had not wanted to win last time. The side I now not only believed in, but embraced as "my people". And I had confidence that, with the tragedy in Benghazi, the world - or at least the voters - would see how important it was to have someone in the White House who would address the issues, not hide from them.

The results of the election shocked and depressed me. I felt a heavy-hearted sadness I could not describe. I felt a deep sympathy - even empathy - with those in the USA who had fought for REAL change.

Fear set in. What would happen now that this administration got a second term?

Fear rose as, from acceptance speech to second inaugural, there was an overt nose-thumbing at all political opponents. "We won, we don't ever have to win again, you're going to regret ever having gone up against us and we have the Power."

As I have continued learning, the administration has continued its downward spiral.  As the months have ticked on, the administration is plagued with scandals. That word is now a source of ridicule on the left - usually prefaced by "GOP-manufactured" and/or "phony".

And with each one, I have hoped that THIS will be the one that brings the administration to account.

So far - it hasn't.

With the recent developments between the Taliban and the United States government, more questions have been asked, more issues brought to light, and the same old issues (the lawlessness of this president) reignited.

When it happened, I - as usual - began to pay keen attention to the stories. I followed them on both left- and right-leaning news outlets (it is in my nature to be aware of what is being said on both sides and always form my own conclusions).

This story has invoked emotions from anger to disgust on both sides of the aisle. It contains elements of terrorism, lawlessness, lack of transparency (from the administration that not only campaigned on transparency but recently referred to itself as "the most transparent administration in history" - a line that has even leftists shaking their heads), and military-oriented issues.

And as infuriating, frustrating and frightening as the story is, with all the implications for what may well happen next and how it will affect the ones I love, as well as my own country, being able to properly understand and speak from an informed point of view has strengthened me exponentially.

I have to interject personally again - because, though I have done this before, I have to do it here.

I have apologized, profusely, sheepishly, shamefaced, to J for the insufferable Obamaniac that I used to be. I look back at that person I was (from Part I of this narrative) and I am deeply sorry for having been that person so loudly. He'd never held it against me - those we care about cannot sway our feelings no matter our ideological differences - but I've still felt the discomfort of having imposed that person on our friendship. He's already absolved me. He'll probably shake his head when he reads this.

But it is important for me to acknowledge that - just now, because having gone over this evolution, this conversion, this awakening, in writing, and in revisiting those times, I am even more keenly aware of how I used to be.

However, I also owe him a debt of thanks - for, among other things, having been there to support this new journey, to help me understand, to explain to me exactly what was happening (out there, and within my own soul), and for being a Guide along the way - steady, informed, willing to take the time to teach me, and encouraging me every step I take. And so here, publicly, I thank him for all of that, and more.

My journey is by no means complete. No journey in life ever is.

But I was compelled to write this down this way because if I'd waited any longer, there would be even more to write and I will tackle those events as they happen now that the genesis is down in words.

I know it isn't the popular side to inhabit. But looking around - in my own ever-expanding circle, on social media, in blogs, in media, and even in parts of the world beginning to see the Light - it is becoming less of a vilified position to take.

Part of that is due to the continuous news cycle of neverending "missteps" (in quotes because it is an understatement and the crimes to which I refer will be addressed in future entries on this blog). The government is messing up. It is happening more often, more publicly, and more egregiously than before. Perhaps there is hope that the media (at the very least) will experience an awakening of their own.

At this point, I'm not hopeful. I see some members of the Fourth Estate opening the other eye to begin seeing depth to the surface stories they're filing. But not yet.

However, I remain the eternal optimist.

And even if not - I am proud to be this person I have become. The one who shed the idealist blinders and faces truth no matter how frightening or unpleasant it is. Because one can never go wrong - in politics, in friendship, in love, in life - when one espouses the Truth.

I will end here - but only the narrative. The journey continues. The growth, the quest for more, the enlightenment, and the exhilaration (and the sharing thereof) continue.

My thanks for having stuck with this - and with me;  I extend to you an invitation to comment no matter what your leanings.  I've never shared my views in order to try to change someone's mind. But if I could help one person to stop and think - as was done, and continues to be done with me - it can be the beginning of harmony, shared enlightenment, and true change in a world that is fraught with challenges.

So, let's talk.

Awakening - Part II: With A Little Help From My Friend

(Continued from Awakening - Part I: The Beginnings Of Political Fascination)

By now, you've figured out that the girl in Part I is me. But I hadn't figured it out till I got a good look from a different perspective.

Let's go to 2010, about a year after the election of the young senator from Illinois to the Highest Office In The Land.

I had been enjoying my inclusion in the world of politics. I talked about how great the president was, how smart and how eloquent his speeches were. I collected magazines that featured him on the cover. I bought a Special Edition that featured all his speeches. That was mostly what I was seeing. I was still not as interested in policy, and was definitely not interested in any other Party but the Dems.

When the Tea Party began to emerge as a movement, I was aware of it, but I scoffed. It sounded so trivial. So not-serious. So rebel-without-a-cause.

{Personal Interjection: All along, since well before my peripheral interest in politics, I had "met" (using that term in quotes because the face-to-face hasn't yet happened but the friendship had) a man (to protect his identity, I'll refer to him as "J") whose political leanings were not really that important to me. We had other things in common and were enjoying the things we did. Everything from art, to music, movies and books, common mindsets and complementary values - those were what defined the friendship.

We never talked about politics.

Correction - I did. I would (I realize now) go on and on about this exciting new development. The election was an emotional time, the inauguration had me watching my television in tears of awe, and this man listened to me prattle on without ever opposing my views.

I think I knew he was not a Liberal. But because there was so much more to what we ever discussed, it wasn't important. So as much as I do know about him, it's odd to not have been aware of his political leanings.

This is important because in my Awakening, he plays a key part. THE Key Part.

It should be noted that he is a hunter. And that from the beginnings of our discussions back in the early part of 2000, I was learning about hunting; how it was not illegal, immoral, or cruel. His philosophy of hunting is not for sport; his Native roots have guided him all his life, and learning about how HE hunts, how he thanks the animal for giving its life, how he uses every part of the animal in every way possible, and how he does NOT hang the Trophy on some macabre man-cave collection wall, I began to not only accept, but embrace hunting as a practice. 

I also began to ask him to teach me about guns. I became aware that there were many people blaming the guns for all the evils in the world. It didn't sit right with me. I have known people who have died in car accidents, in terrible falls, and the headlines - though peppered with gun violence - also speak of drunk driving deaths, pool drownings, stabbings, and every other method of death one can imagine.

I began to understand that guns are merely an instrument, not an evil. And I began to defend law-abiding gun owners.

Operative word: began. This was very early in my awakening but I was seeing the Other Side a little more clearly every day; and it was no longer the Dark Side, but becoming lighter with everything I learned.}

Okay, 2010 - floating along in Obamaniac Mode. Defending why I, as a woman, did not pull for Hillary. (Looking back I realize my then-fellow Liberals slotted - either you wanted the woman or you wanted the black guy and you wanted them BECAUSE of that, not for any other reason).

In 2009, Obama made a speech in Cairo, essentially condemning Israel for building settlements. Stating that the USA did not recognize or accept the legitimacy of those settlements. And I was unsettled by that. It wasn't enough to sway me but future events would.

Israel is an integral part of my soul. Having visited, the land and the spirit of the country are inside me emotionally. As a Jew, I am an automatic citizen of Israel. I have always stood up for the rights of Israelis to live in peace. And I have always had a deep-seated fear that Israel's enemies would seek to destroy all she stands for, and more.

In 2010, Obama began to make announcements that a Palestinian State would be achieved within a year's time. I could see this was naive and next to impossible; without Hamas being ousted as part of the Palestinian government, without the Palestinians outright declaring they would accept a Jewish State, how could this happen?

And I began to question the Administration's position on Israel. Because how could he stand for Israel AND be advocating for a Palestinian state the way things were?

Disillusionment was knocking at my door.

At the beginning of 2011, tragedy struck in Arizona. Congresswoman Gabby Giffords was shot in the head in a mass shooting at an outdoor event she was holding. The world watched yet another Live Event as it unfolded. News stations rushed to announce Rep. Giffords had died of her wounds. Updates brought the welcome news that she had not.

But it was the immediate fallout that began to nag at me: Sarah Palin, the oft-ridiculed (shamefully, I was one) former Governor of Alaska, Republican Vice-Presidential candidate in the 2008 election, was suddenly on the hot seat. Palin, it was said, was directly responsible for the shooting as she had used the graphic of crosshairs on a map to "target" the "battleground" states. Being the Democratic Representative from Arizona, Gabby Giffords was in Palin's crosshairs, and therefore MUST have been targeted by Palin who must have encouraged the shooter in some warped way to actually shoot Rep. Giffords.

It didn't make sense to me. There were others on that "map". There were other states, other candidates. And how did anyone draw a line between a map with a little graphic on it to a disturbed shooter opening fire on men, women, children even if his target had been the Congresswoman? Just how closely were people watching the tiny details like these? And...could it be true?

I began to discuss my questions. I began to see that not only was it ridiculous, it was malicious. Palin was no more responsible for this shooting than I was. It seemed that my friends - the Liberals with whom I had freely, actively, and happily exchanged political discourse, were viciously attacking Sarah Palin for her part in this shooting.

I definitely took my courage in hand when I began to swim against the tide on a friend's Facebook page. I argued that it was not only premature to draw any conclusions, it was utterly illogical.

I then faced a deluge of hostility. It rose until my friend's husband posted, "It should be noted that Lissa is Canadian. A hike should be taken."

I was taken aback.  I was shaken. I was humiliated. And then I saw red.  I blasted him for his short-sightedness, told him I would no longer bother him or his wife, and did what I had not done to date on Facebook: unfriended and blocked them.

But I was feeling a stirring sense of realization. I was no longer who I had been just some short months earlier. It began with my discomfort over how the administration was treating Israel.

It continued with the illogical accusations being made against a woman living in a remote State that wasn't even part of the lower 48.

And I began to emerge from what felt like a groggy nap.

It made me start to question everything. What is the problem in this picture? Why are people so hostile when all I did was point out the facts and the illogical direction their arguments were taking?

And who was I?

Here is where J comes in - I told him what had happened on that Facebook page, and how it had made me feel. I was confused as to how I had been treated. How is it suddenly my nationality made me a pariah? How is it, when never before, my opinions are being vilified - and me with them?

J explained that I was starting to see that Truth, and Facts, are not always popular.

Here's where details get fuzzy.  See, if I could, I would recount exactly how he helped me to navigate being on this side of the Divide. But I can't - the details run together because just as suddenly as I was wildly unpopular, I was also beginning to feel a lifting of the veil. And it began to speed up, taking me with it so that the former mindsets I embraced were becoming blurry as they passed behind me.

J would encourage me to explore. He never told me what to think, or where to find my sources. He knew that the educator, researcher, and critical thinker that I am would find the credibility in what I read.

And I did. I was able to separate out the extreme viewpoints - on both sides (yes, there are right-wing extremists and no, not all conservatives hold them near and dear). I was able to cross-reference the more credible, reliable sources by the "About" tabs on their webpages (a skill I urge everyone to do, no matter whether you are researching politics or how to keep chickens in your yard).

Did I lose friends on social media? Yes. I lost one so-called friend when I posted on my own wall, and she somehow believed I had posted it on hers. She actually blasted me for making her friends uncomfortable. (While this is not a piece about social media, I will take a moment to assure you that it doesn't work that way - what one posts on their own wall stays there unless there are tags involved - in this case, there were none)

She "unfriended" without much fanfare after her tirade.

And while it bothered me at the beginning, I now smile in full knowledge that those who leave my milieu due to political discord were never people I would have enjoyed outside of the political arena either.

But as I continued in what J terms my "Awakening" (and truly, the visual fits), I began to see things palindromically. Things that had happened while I was still in the thrall of Obamania, believing what the mainstream media was feeding me, understanding now that it was a spoonfed, poisonous ideology that somehow the rest of the world was not catching onto as such.

Frustration set in.

I was suddenly seeing Liberal mentality everywhere. Like the optical illusion that, once seen, cannot be unseen, I was recognizing the Liberal Mindset in media, in friends, in commenters on websites.

I began to wonder if people really do believe what they are spouting or if they are toeing some collective line out of habit.

I began to watch Fox News, ever defensive of those who scoff at it as "Faux" and accuse the network of making things up (in defense of Fox, I found statistics conducted by objective researchers who found that it is not Fox that manufactures news but that this very accusation is what is manipulated to discredit the network).

I changed my homepage from CNN.com to PJMedia.com (that was a proud moment for me).

I began to shed my previous skin which had become too small, too constricting, too unbearable to wear.

And I came out as Conservative, proud of it, speaking up with truth, facts, and logic. I got *gasps* from the leftist friends I shocked, questions from many who believed I was going through a phase. And newfound respect from those friends who are not leftist but who suddenly revealed to me that they, too, hold to the values I was now embracing.

(Never mind the reactions I got from people who found out that I was now a card-carrying member of the NRA - that was fun!)

Scandal after scandal began to rock the administration. I expressed the relief and belief that finally something would be done, finally something would give, finally someone in the White House would be held to account.

When none of that happened, my frustration grew. My disconcerting fear of "what will it take?" overtook the exhilaration of enlightenment.

I began to express the tongue-in-cheek theory that liberal media's sole purpose of existence was to see to it that my head exploded on a daily basis, à la Kenny McCormick.

But in all the frustration, discord, outright vitriol I encountered in traversing the Internet and spreading the Truth, and bewilderment at said vitriol, I began to feel something else.

Something positive would grow.

(Part III)