The Debate Blues

On my way home today, from the library, i was full of the peace that a library brings me. I had accomplished more than i had set out for and i was thrilled. I picked up two books for my upcoming weekend class on prayer. I also discovered some new CDs i want to explore. I got my address updated in the system. and then, as i was almost out the door, i saw a booklet on voter issues.
I must admit, i have paid little attention to politics and voter issues for the upcoming elections and i joined the game late. i probably only care 6 out of 10. But if i celebrate and encourage my friends in Guinea-Bissau to vote, than i better follow my own advice. Trouble is, i don't see how it really matters. I'm not sure our votes matter in Guinea-Bissau or in America. It's not true, i know, but i doubt that my vote really is going to change much these days. If one gets into office, health care may change, and the war stays the same. If the other gets into office, the war may change and taxes stay the same. How do i put a value judgement on these issues and people? It is my right to do that. But maybe I'm not interested in this specific right of mine at all.
I am excited about my prayer class. looking forward to reading about and learning different practices of prayer. this feels relevant, and i believe this matters in the scope of things.
I am challenged by my practicum group. The analogy i thought of this week was a rugby team, all circled in, arms around each other. As we come together each week, to hear another persons deep tragedies and pain, we have the opportunity to bear burdens together. to shoulder the weight of each others stories. and this weight that is in our stories, it is a gift. To bear the weight of another's story, this matters.
A friend asked in class the other day why we have to put value judgements on people and things? Why do we feel the need to classify one thing as good and another as bad? Why is it that one person may be good and another bad? What does that really say? What value does that offer? But, I'm making my own judgement calls. Prayer and practicum have value and voting has little value. once again, I'm caught in my own complaint.
One of my professors commented that most blogs are critiques and complaints about things. It's easy to be a critic. It is much harder to get invested, work for change and love well.
I want to love well.