Steeped in white privilege, it was easy to register as a Republican. I was serving in the U.S. Navy during the fat Reagan years. I worked hard and went to school for years taking advantage of every opportunity availed. Isn’t this the land of the free? Everyone has the same opportunities. Truth is, the playing field has never been level, but now it’s a ski slope.
Fast forward 32 years, I just left the Republican party. Quite frankly, I’m embarrassed to be affiliated with a party whose leading candidate worships greed, pride, and fear mongering — everything that is wrong with America.
Having a fatal diagnosis was the real catalyst for change. No longer am I able to pick myself up by my proverbial boot straps. I am at the mercy of others. From this vantage point it’s easier to have mercy on others.
I used to think hard work was enough; but it’s not enough anymore. I believe God put enough resources on the earth to take care of everyone. I believe we are all connected. I believe we can take care of each other.
I’m Forgiven and Free and feeling the Bern
February 8, 2016 at 12:16 am
Welcome to the revolution that is Bernie Sanders. Thanks for all your work on behalf of others. Let’s continue together!
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February 8, 2016 at 5:17 am
Thanks so much Cynthia! I’m very hopeful ❤
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February 8, 2016 at 12:19 am
So sorry to hear of your illness. It’s amazing what we learn when the tables are turned. Thank you for keeping an open mind and heart. All of us, the Bernie family, welcome you and send healing thoughts your way. #Bernie2016
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February 8, 2016 at 5:21 am
Thank you Nancy for the warm welcome ❤
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February 8, 2016 at 12:36 am
Thank you for supporting Mr. Sanders! We truely need change and deep in my heart i believe he is the man to do it.
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February 8, 2016 at 5:22 am
I totally agree Rebecca! ❤
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February 8, 2016 at 1:33 am
Thank you so much for this! You are making very wise decisions for you and the younger generations. Bernie is our only hope for peace, clean energy and a corruption-free nation that can become the beacon of the world! You must be a very special lady! Hugs!!
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February 8, 2016 at 5:23 am
Thanks Eduardo! I appreciate your wisdom and kind words ❤
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February 8, 2016 at 1:48 am
Reply coming from the East Coast to the Left Coast after Super Bowl. Maybe tomorrow……….. I’ll work on it all night. Love , Don
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February 8, 2016 at 2:00 am
Thank you for realizing there must be a change! And that the only man deserving the nomination for President of the United States is Senator Sanders. His integrity is unmatched in politics today and I know he will win. Your daughter posted in Facebook and seems mighty proud of you for this realization. You are indeed a special lady and obviously a great mom as well. All the best to you and your family… sending hugs across the internet.
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February 8, 2016 at 5:24 am
Thank you Elyse! I’m super proud of my daughter ❤ Hugs to you.
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February 8, 2016 at 2:22 am
Thank you for your words! It means so much! I have been a republican and a nurse for 20 years. When I learned of Bernie Sanders and the integrity he represents, I made the switch, too! It has been a while since we have had the option to vote for a candidate such as Bernie. It might be a while before we get another. Now is the time. Find more information about Bernie, the only candidate who represents the people and always has. Much love from Texas!
https://berniesanders.com/?nosplash=true/
http://feelthebern.org
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February 8, 2016 at 5:25 am
Thanks Julie! Let’s hope there are thousands more like us who make the switch to support Bernie!
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February 8, 2016 at 3:41 am
Welcome to the revolution. #FeelTheBern!
Much appreciation,
Berning in NJ
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February 8, 2016 at 5:26 am
Thanks Michelle! I’m feeling the Bern 😉
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February 8, 2016 at 7:21 am
Thank you for your voice, and your newly sharpened vision.
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February 8, 2016 at 12:44 pm
A it’s heartwarming to read your word . I too, recognize tge integrity of Bernie Sanders and the moral values he stands for and has been fighting for for decades. The “grand ” usa is like a ship in a storm, broken sails… no morals, greed, deceit and the bleeding dry of planet and every living being. We need people like you whose eyes are opened and willing to climb our rooftops and shout it out. We are all one, we, people, animals on land and see and resources. Bless you magnificent Shelly!!!! Margaret
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February 8, 2016 at 4:12 pm
I worked on a great reply but my new life with ALS has taught me that we all must go where we feel called. Your my Doctor but I lovingly disagree with your decision. We must change the system from within and not allow the wrong people to take us down that unacceptable path. The leading candidates from both parties are so very wrong for this country the one you mention WILL NOT carry the banner and nor will the lady opposing Bernie. Such people are not the pride of our system. Being a vet who had to guard facilities, to be abandoned ( movie 13 Hours ) is not forgivable. To lie to the families, to have no respect for security needs of e-mail communications that could have caused further loss of lives. The Foundation of her & husband drawing in million of dollars in clear conflict of interest. When I worked for government anything that even might be construed as a conflict would have cost me my job.
Take care my friend I won’t make any wild comments that would light up your site with reactions. The use of emotions of the uneducated I guess is the main ploy of politics.
Those Broncos sure shut down my team. Manning and the defense were terrific. Glad to see him end his career that way.
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March 4, 2016 at 4:08 pm
Shelly,
I got chills reading your post. Good chills. You are a very compassionate person to be able to take your situation and expand your view and heart to see the struggles of others and how they are similar, even if they are very different.
I respect your values and persepctive. I agree with you that instead of a level field we have a ski slope. You put it so well.
I’m supporting Bernie too.
Peace,
Eileen
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