Article snippet: New Year’s Day is often a time of contemplation and reflection. We pause to consider our triumphs and trials during the past year, look back at where we did well and where we fell down, and resolve to do better. Most of the time this is a personal journal and reckoning, but today I would like to expand it to our politics. I didn’t vote Hillary Clinton. I have in my life and career voted for both parties and worked for candidates on all sides. Today I am a proud independent and see the need for new parties to arise that better represent the majority of Americans who feel our two legacy parties no longer fit our needs in the 21st century. That day is coming. As I said, I didn’t vote for Donald Trump, and have criticized him quite a bit since he was inaugurated nearly a year ago. I have also at times lauded him for things he’s done well, but his achievements have been spotty at best. The president has done much damage to our country’s ability to come together for the common good and has jeopardized the pursuit of truth in his words and actions. I’ll continue to point this out. But this year I want to do it more from a place of kindness and compassion. I don’t hate President Trump. I think we need to get to a point in our politics where we can stand up and fight for truth and justice without hating the person we criticize or, even worse, by demanding others hate to prove they are strong and on the side of good or right. Hate for me may temporarily satisfy... Link to the full article to read more