Weathering Cynical Politics

Dear Just Wanna Be,

I grew up in the era of Dr. Seuss books so I take the advice of their writer and illustrator, Theodor Seuss Geisel (1904-1991) who wrote, “Be who you are and say what you feel because those who mind don’t matter and those who matter don’t mind.” 

Geisel was more than a writer of popular books. In 1984 he received a special Pulitzer Prize “for his contribution of nearly half a century to the education and enjoyment of America’s children and their parents.” The honor underscored the immense popularity of his works, which were perennial best sellers. According to various reports, by the early 21st century more than 600 million copies of Dr. Seuss books had been sold worldwide.

In these turbulent times, here are a few more lessons Dr. Seuss imparted that I’ve taken to heart. Perhaps they’ll help you too.  

- Unless someone like you cares a whole awful lot, nothing is going to get better. It’s not. It’s not too late to get involved whether it’s with your time, your talents, or your money. Taking action will help you get over the feeling of helplessness.

 - A person’s a person, no matter how small. Seuss might have been writing about small in stature but I’m defining small in a larger context, like showing respect to people from all walks of life and political persuasion whether they are like you or not. 

-The more that you read, the more things you’ll know. The more that you learn, the more places you’ll go. Do your homework in regards to the candidates and the issues. Resist blindly following the opinion of a spouse, a family tradition, or a biased news organization. This is why we have the secret ballot. 

- Today you are you, that is truer than true. There is no one alive who is you-er than you. Stay true to yourself and your convictions. Your vote counts.

 - You have brains in your head. You have feet in your shoes. You can steer yourself in any direction you choose. Steer yourself in a direction that honors your values no matter what those around you may be saying. Steer yourself toward seeking the truth. 

- Don’t cry because it’s over, smile because it happened. Whatever the outcome of the election, be grateful that you’re living in a free country with open elections.