We’ve had much political “stuff” this week, depressing for many and joyful for others. I’m sorry to say, but large numbers of those opposites live in the same house, on the same street, attend the same church, and drink beer at the same pub.

I am trying to do what my mother often told my sisters and me: “Just don’t think about it, Honey!” I wonder if she thought the situation would go away or just wouldn’t be disturbing. I wish I could ask her. But when I asked “Why” about something, she often answered, “Cat fur to make kitten britches.” That would leave us rolling our eyes and walking away.

When one of us was worried about a blemish on our face or a scuffed shoe, she would say, “Nobody will notice on a galloping horse.”

As I think about her adorable wisdom, I conclude she had the answer for today’s political stress, mess, conflict, or whatever you want to call it. Her message was always to put things in perspective.

How bad is it–really?

Keep it off your shoulders if you can’t do much about it.

Everything seems less catastrophic if you keep your body and mind busy.

Put your energy, money, and effort into what you want and believe in—support it all you can.

Sometimes, active participation wins over observing from the sidelines.

What you put energy into grows. When you think of the worst case, you feel depressed—who wants that?

Be hopeful—your worst fear has not happened yet.

Try crediting the other guy’s opinion—maybe there’s a middle ground.

Remember, love is always better than hate—one of the few times I use the word, always.

Count your blessings—it’s an excellent way to counter your fears.

Take care of yourself—eat a lot of color, sleep many hours, and reduce bad habits.

Be thankful to have a strong passion for issues that affect America—she is the most valuable asset we all share.

Competition is good until it isn’t. Don’t let your head fall off—there’s no winning in that.

Think broad, not narrow. America’s challenges are complex, not simple. Let’s contribute to solutions instead of feeding fires.

I remember when my sisters and I would fight like Americans are fighting today, my mother would make us kiss each other. Yes, kiss each other on the lips. It was the absolute worst punishment, but you know what? It helped us deflate and become more civil.

I am happy to share my mother with you on this glorious day in July. She was wise.

Until the next time: Live while you live.

Jennifer Goble, Ph.D., LPC, is the author of “My Clients…My Teachers,” and the blogger and writer of Rural Women Stories: www.ruralwomenstories.com.

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