A very long time ago, in 1968, I entered military service with the Air Force. I was a troubled young man without vision of where or what I wanted. I quickly took to complaining about most everything, as I suppose most young military members do.
With time, I discovered I was making myself miserable, as well as those around me. I decided to look to the good in each day and to enjoy whatever God sent my way. I discovered the joy of doing a good job and of fulfilling my responsibility to my service and country. Even bad weather days were greeted with joy and promise. I had switched from the negative glass half empty to the positive glass half full.
I kept this view even after leaving the Air Force after 28 years. It is reflected in my view of life including my politics. I do not look at the nation and go complaining “woe is me” and try to deride anyone or anything. Rather, I look to what is good and hope to bring the underperforming aspects to better performance.
It is my outlook that guides my politics. I can not abide the negative outreach, so I am shying away from the conservative apparatus that I have supported for so long and embrace the moderate stances that view the nation as a bastion of democracy and freedom. For sure, there is work to do, but let us make it constructive and avoid harmful or destructive rhetoric and policies.
— Michael L. Mott
Eagle River
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