How you doin'?

It's another cool and rainy day in the Ozarks, but it is November so I remind myself that you don't have to shovel rain. In the mountains west of Denver, my daughter has had plenty of snow already. The two big dogs (husky/shepherd/wolf) love the snow. The little pit mix, not so much.

Weather-wise, today will be a good day to stay home. Plus it is Saturday so there are more people out in public places and that is always a good reason to stay home. The deck is dry (mostly) and comfortable in sweatpants and a sweater. My feet are a little cold this morning and I may have to put on some socks. It's 50 (10c) now and it should make it up to 60 (15c) by this afternoon. 

I feel I need to check on friends to see how they are doing in the post election week. I have many that have some legitimate reasons to be fearful of the future. 
While my privileged life will go on without much change in the day-to-day routine, others are facing fears over losing health insurance and healthcare provided by the Affordable Care Act. 
Some are facing fears over their status as members of the queer community. Will they lose rights to live where they live, work where they work, and love whom they love? Will violence against them be ignored or tolerated?
Will legit citizens be harassed and deported? Will their families be divided? Will legal immigrants be denied work or housing?

Honestly, I have concerns about things like democracy and the economy, but they pale in comparison to my concern for the injustices that I fear will increase in our communities across the nation. I think this is why I'm not surprised at the results of the election -- I believe that most people will always do what they believe is best for themselves at the time. Our fear of what might happen to us or our loved ones will always be greater than our concern for the rights and needs of others.
Yes, I know plenty of people that are greatly concerned for others and work against the injustices of the world, but I believe they are the extraordinary exceptions to the majority of humanity. "Looking out for #1" is the way of the world and a base survival instinct. It is how we function without reason.

So...
How you doin'? (You have to say it like Joey on Friends)
Need a friend?
Need a hug?
Let me know.

John