Politics...

Generally, I HATE talking about politics. I was a political science major in college and I still don't like talking politics. I don't like to argue with people and when it comes to politics it always leads to arguments. Since we are having a Presidential election this year everyone wants to talk politics. I try and avoid it as much as possible. I won't talk about it at work for sure and I really don't want to talk about it at all.

I have always been told that you don't talk politics, sex or religion with people. It just isn't going to go the way you want it to. It always leads to heated discussion and debate. I have seen it. I married a debater. For me personally, I don't like to debate. People have their opinions and me getting into a heated discussion isn't going to change anybody's mind so why bother.

I bring this up because all around me lately there have been heated discussions both in person and online. I have barely participated in both of these discussions. I did feel a little attacked in one discussion so I posted my opinion but other than I am going to butt out. I have better things to do.

So for one time and one time only I will spell out my thoughts on the upcoming election. I am not interested in a debate just stating my beliefs. I have friends that agree with me and plenty of friends that don't and that is fine with me. We don't have to have the same political beliefs to be friends; that just isn't on the list of friend material for me.

I classify myself as: a pro-life, Christian, conservative. I have since the age of 18 been a registered Republican. I am not ashamed to say that. I have always voted Republican. I will do the same this election. I am also glad that there is a woman VP candidate. I don't agree 100% with everything the Republican party says and does but on the issues that matter to me I do agree.

Now just because I use the words Christian and conservative doesn't mean that I don't have some dare I say progressive/liberal ideas. I know shocker. My stance on some things will never change like abortion however I think gay couples should be allowed to adopt children. Better to have a child loved by two people same sex or not then spend any more time in an orphanage or bouncing in and out of foster homes. I don't see things in black and white. I see things in shades of gray. I am actually a pretty reasonable person with an open mind who just happens to be a Republican. I have strong beliefs and a strong faith that I cannot sacrifice even if it makes me unpopular in some circles. And in the words of Popeye the Sailorman, " I am what I am".