Time to move on

Well, friends, I have to say I was disappointed with the recall results last night. My worst worries came to fruition - a big Republican win that Walker would see as a mandate. I never had a good feeling about Barrett's odds. It seemed that recall organizers put all this effort into getting the signatures, but then it all somehow fizzled when it came to putting forth a strong candidate.

At first, my frustration manifested itself in a sort of perverse desire to go on the Post-Crescent message boards and see what people were saying, even though I knew it would further deflate my spirits. I was certain a lot of people would be writing to crow about Walker's victory, but yet I couldn't keep myself from venturing out there. I promise myself multiple times a week I'll stay off comments sections, but it's an addiction with me. I need some kind of help.

As expected, a lot of people, on both sides, were making snide comments. A big part of me wanted to respond to each and every person I'd deemed offensive. Thankfully, I stopped myself and realized it was time to take one giant step back, because what good does firing back ever do? After the initial rush of making a snappy comment, all that ever remains is my own anger and resentment.

Anyway, as I began to read people's comments further, a handful, again on both sides, were expressing sentiments similar to what I was feeling, namely a readiness to move on and a hope that opposing sides could reach out and find a way to work together. That may sound ridiculously Pollyanaish, but what is the alternative? The people of Wisconsin have spoken, and they've sided with Walker. I'm going to pin my hopes that some kind of renewed spirit of compromise will come from all this. 

I read that Walker was gracious in his victory, that he said he was committed to working with opponents. I mightily hope that's the case. I'm trying to move beyond this now. I always think it's ridiculous when some pundit or politician says that if so-and-so is elected, it will be ruinous for the country, state, whatever. The election didn't turn out the way I'd hoped, but that's not a disaster. Americans have a great way of self-correcting the direction of the government when it veers too far to the right or left (thanks for that soundbite, NPR!). Above all, I am profoundly grateful that this recall election is over. Oh, and I have faith that Wisconsin will continue to move Forward.