I don’t know what to say

It’s been awhile since I’ve posted anything original. I guess it’s because I don’t know what to say. I like reading other people’s blogs because I get to “hear” someone else’s opinion and insight on a subject of interest to me. And so, I try to return the favor by giving my own opinion.

But lately, I find that I don’t have an opinion on the things I’ve been thinking most about. I only have questions. My faith is still sound. I am a committed Catholic. I believe in an objective truth. But I find myself very frustrated and confused by the “either or” political movements going on. And I find it difficult to discuss these issues with people I know. They either think I am an “un-American liberal” or they think I am a “close-minded idealist.”

What does our faith tell us about our approach to issues such as…

• Universal health care
• Affirmative action
• Gun control
• Minimum wage
• Capital punishment
• Welfare
• Social security
• Migrants and refugees
• Green initiatives
• Economic policy

These are the questions I seek real answers to. But it seems that both sides (liberals & conservatives) are oversimplifying their own cases—they’re oversimplifying the issues. I’m afraid that too many of us put or allegiance to a certain political party over our own faith.

So my goal is to look at these issues through the lens of scripture and the teachings of the Magisterium and try to determine what is the best approach for each. I will attempt to approach these issues not as a Republican or Democrat or even as an American. Instead, I will attempt to approach the issues as a Catholic.

I hope to write more about each issue, as I feel confident in what I glean.