Where reality and perception, meet and diverge, in our everyday lives, is often challenging to clearly identify, but when it comes to politics, the task often appears to be overwhelming! We often wonder why individuals see the same set of occurrences, yet interpret them so differently Since many people have no interest, in undergoing objective introspection, they fail to realize and recognize, how, their personal biases and prejudgments, direct them to see things through some particular set of lenses, which, may, or may not, obstruct their willingness or ability to get the whole picture.

1. Political beliefs: When one possesses strong political positions or views, he often has a biased, skewed perspective, which makes him stop listening, when information, which differs from his preferred position, is presented. Recently, certain politicians have labeled any information, which differs from their agenda, as Fake facts. It reminds me of the old story, where someone proceeds with the philosophy, Don’t confuse me, with the facts, How can there be any degree of rational, realistic thinking, occur, when someone refuses to expand his comfort zone? Unless one is ready, willing and able, to consider alternatives, and prioritizes service, over party politics, we get a polarizing, vitriolic conversation, rather than solution – oriented, meeting of the minds!

2. Which is stronger.: Is the focus on winning, at any cost, or, is it on achieving the best possible result? When we face so many urgent priorities, and challenges, if political leaders focus more on party politics, rather than doing what’s best for constituents, and the result is often paying more attention to perceptions, promises, and political advantages, we all become losers. While we need statesmen, who care deeply about serving others, we often discover, a less than optimal reality!

All too often, empty promises and rhetoric, when combined with less than honorable leadership, leads to false perceptions, and disappointing reality. Every voter needs to take more personal responsibility, learn more, on every side of an issue, and learn and care about potential ramifications, opportunities, and honor!