People crossing the busy street | Photo by Luca Bravo from Unsplash
Have you ever tried standing at the intersection of the road? Amidst the hustle and bustle of the city, your mind is, at the same time, in the busiest state, trying to make a decision—until you realize you’re at the crossroads of choices.
When you’re trying to make a choice or decision, your mind can wander, weighing every tiny detail, imagining all the possible outcomes, and what doors it will lead you through. It’s mind-boggling, some would definitely say. It is because people want the best. But, aren’t we all? Of course, you always take the steps that you won’t regret.
However, how often do we pause to think about the unseen ways our decisions ripple out to others?
At the Crossroads of Politics
When you think of politics, the ones at the crossroads are not the people but the leaders in the position. These leaders’ decisions regarding government policies and laws are essential, for they benefit not only them but everyone under their leadership. Whatever they do has a domino effect on people.
Strategic Decision
Leaders in position should make strategic decisions. Well, everything matters at this point. This is not just choosing whether to walk in the morning or just drink a cup of coffee. This is about deciding on long-term goals and high-impact choices. Every side of the angle should be considered, especially regarding healthcare, government services, education, security, and necessities.
Resource Allocation
To survive means having the necessary resources. People are doing everything they can to attain these resources. However, no one has complete autonomy over this. The government has the power, specifically in healthcare and government services. Resource allocation was crucial during the COVID-19 pandemic. Vaccines, health paraphernalia, and basic needs were allocated without biases; otherwise, the people would have suffered and faced irreversible outcomes.
Continuous Learning
At the crossroads of politics, leaders should be able to step back, pause, and listen to their surroundings. Sometimes, after checking all the angles, there are mishaps. But this is just inevitable. Leaders should listen to the feedback from the people’s grievances. This is an avenue for continuous learning and, eventually, improvements. Improvements mean better lives for the people. This is how politics affects people.
At the Crossroads of People
“Nobody makes a greater mistake than he who does nothing because he could do only a little.”
Imagine you are in a community project, but you refuse to contribute, even in small actions, because you think you can only offer in little ways, and it wouldn’t matter to you. But Edmund Burke looked at it as a great mistake, a terrible miscalculation.
Political Participation
Not contributing is indeed a terrible miscalculation. Think of it: if you contribute in small ways, collectively, you will make an impact. One good example is your vote. Exercising your right to suffrage is a critical point in building society. But how are you voting? Are you voting wisely? What are the factors to consider?
At the crossroads, people struggle to pick the best candidates to elect. Factors vary from education to social isolation and stigma. As a civic duty, voting should be based on an informed decision. It’s never an “eenie meenie miney mo” moment.
To be informed, you should engage in political activities such as society’s forums or candidates’ debates. You can also check if their stance or platforms align with your values. You have to weigh every option there are.
If the leaders have the power, so do you. You have every power to elect the right leader. If you want change and the desire to break the bad politics cycle, please vote wisely.
At the Crossroads of Power
“Build power, but never at the expense of your authenticity, ethics, and a greater sense of what is right and just.”
At the crossroads, power resides. But who holds power? Each of you has power, but it only applies to certain things. Therefore, power has limitations. Regardless, make it align with your true self and instill the idea that it can influence others.
In the grand scheme of things, politics, and people hold different kinds of power. Political leaders have the power to shape society through their platforms, while people have the power to elect the leaders and serve them.
But power is just like fire— a force capable of creating and destroying. These leaders can use their power to greed for personal and selfish interests. On the other hand, people can be blinded by any monetary amount just to support a candidate.
If power is used for good, it can create; if it’s the other way, it can destroy, and you wouldn’t want that. Remember, a balanced power can create harmony and progress. So, use your power as a force for good.
Inspirational and Powerful Pages
Simultaneously and From Small To Tall are books by Christina Trezevant McGriff that unfold a story of inspiration and societal issues. If you want to be motivated and more aware in society through poetry, get a copy through this link. You can stay connected and keep up with updates from the author Christina Trezevant McGriff by following her on popular social media platforms like Facebook, Pinterest, LinkedIn, and Tumblr.
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