I think its safe to say that this fall election season has truly revealed some ugliness in people’s hearts. Our nation seems more divided than ever. The good thing is, we can’t fix something if we don’t realize there is a problem and frankly, there IS a problem. But the more I try and think of multiple solutions, a lot of them can and should start at home (not trying to minimize serious systemic issues that cannot be fixed at home).

We can’t point out the flaws in someone else until we recognize our own flaws. Like the saying, “when you point your finger at someone, there are three more pointing back at you.”

That being said, I have truly come to the realization and revelation that for change to come to our country, we first have to look inward. Now I understand not everyone has the same values and beliefs as me, but some of the values that are implied in the questions I felt most people universally try to live by. If you don’t that’s ok, but I am going to freely ask them because hey, its my blog (haha)

So here are about 15-20 questions for you to HONESTLY ask yourself and reflect on….

• How do I talk to the people in my household? Is it with patience, love, and compassion? or am I condescending, criticizing, quick to point blame?
• When was the last time I admitted I was wrong and apologized?
• When was the last time I did something nice for someone in my home?  When was the last time I did something nice for a stranger?

• When people talk to me, do I listen to truly understand them or do I quickly respond?
• When was the last time I talked to someone who looked different than me or had a different perspective on something than me? If you did, did you listen to understand them?
• Do I regularly show respect towards the people in my house? to people who are not like me?
• How do I talk about others when I am around the people in my house? How do I talk of people in authority (boss, pastor, president, teacher, etc.)?

• When was the last time I talked about someone negatively? Why did I say that? Did I feel better about myself afterwards?
• What do I do when no one is watching me? Is there something I do that no one knows about?
• When there is a problem/argument in my home do I address it or avoid it?

• Is there someone who has hurt me that I need to forgive? Do I need to ask someone I hurt for forgiveness?
• When I see someone I do not know, do I pre-judge them before I get to know them? if yes, are these judgments prejudices, stereotypes, or bias’?
• Do I talk to and act towards others the way I want others to treat me?

I think if you honestly ask yourself these questions and answer them truthfully, we can all see where we are at fault and where we need to grow. You can be part of the solution, instead of the problem. I ultimately believe if we look inward, ask God for the strength to change, there will be a major shift in our lives and our country. The way to a better world first starts at HOME.

Much Joy,

Charity HOPE

P.S If you realize you need help in any areas and are not sure how to go about it or change, please email me, I would love to meet up and talk with you!