Some Conditions Apply

We got a call the other day from some political campaign polling our opinions as voters. Well, I say we, but Jeff answered and he is the one who gave the opinion. I listened to his answers and from that alone, I was able to determine what the questions were.

I have so much trouble with these kinds of things. For me, life is not black or white, everything really deserves that "additional comments" box to qualify and explain answers. Things are complicated and complex. A simple yes or no seems impossible--no matter what the question.

"Right Direction," he said. Sigh. Right direction? Well, yes...sort of. I believe in this country, our leaders and our rights. But really, seems like at some point, things need to change with the war. I am not bashing Bush or those amazing heroes over there fighting for us. It is more of a Dr. Phil moment--how is the current situation working for us? Not to good. Maybe right direction, poor execution or wrong direction despite the excellent execution...not sure and this is a debate that much too large for my little mommy-blog. But, the point is I think it is way beyond choosing from three answers: right direction, wrong direction or don't know.

"Pro-Life," he said. Pro-Life, clearly they asked what is position was on abortion. Oh here is another whole-can-o-worms. Pro-Life? That is it? Not that I have a problem with his position or the fact that pro-life is his position, but more I am fascinated by the fact that he can answer--that quickly and that plainly. Pro-Life. What about all the what-ifs? What about the reality that is life for so many children in this country--hungry, ignored, abused. What about the woman--young, scared, maybe even raped. Nope, for me it isn't as simple as pro-life.

I am not sure there is an additional comments box big enough to help me really articulate my position on this one--I don't even think I fully understand my own position on it. I say I would never make that choice, but I haven't ever been in a position where I even needed to consider it. What if they told me the baby's life or mine? What if they could tell the baby had three hearts growing on the outside of its chest wall. What if, what if, what if.

I have been pregnant, am a mother and all I can say is I have enormous respect for the miracle and responsibility of making humans. God's grace is ever-present in the course of pregnancy, but the gift isn't for everyone. I don't have an answer and wouldn't be willing to let some random phone poll use my complex confusion and inability to commit as a check in their politically-preferred column.

And, it isn't just these big issues that throw me for a loop. A survey on a hotel stay is never without comment. A "how was everything" at a restaurant usually involves some commentary. Do I just like to hear myself talk? Not so much. I think it is more about my compulsive need to analyse and contemplate. And, perhaps there is a dash of my constant pursuit for perfectionism in there. I always want whatever it is to be striving for perfection, even though it is unattainable, you should still strive to achieve your best. So, go ahead...ask my opinion. But, don't expect a simple yes or no answer in response.