DEAR HARRIETTE: I was so engaged in the political theater of our world that I got overwhelmed. Ever since January, I have not paid as close attention.
I know that’s not right, and I see the impact on my kids. They were accustomed to my husband and me debating the actions of the former president or the status of the United States Supreme Court. We did get riled up about Roe v. Wade, but we haven’t been involved much.
I want my children to be part of the political process. How can we get our interest back?
Political Burnout
DEAR POLITICAL BURNOUT: Many people have gotten worn out by the intensity of politics in the past few years, regardless of their political affiliation. But the beauty and gift of the United States is that we do have the right to talk about and engage in the political system. This is not true in some parts of the world.
Get creative to get back in the game. You may want to look at the international headlines and encourage your children to learn about governments in other parts of the world. Compare their rights to ours. Look at the issues we share with other countries and those that are different.
Pay attention on a local level. Invite your kids to go with you to city council meetings and other local political events so that they can learn about how government works where you live. Research local and national organizations that align with your values, and consider joining. You do not have to be glued to the television, agonizing over the daily headlines. Get involved.
DEAR HARRIETTE: My young adult child finally moved out of my house this summer. He finished college a few years ago and has just gotten on his feet with a job. It looks like he is starting his life off well.
The issue I’m having is that he left his room a mess. Not only is it not tidy, but he left all kinds of stuff behind, everything from old CDs to clothing, books and random other stuff.
I do not want to have to keep his door closed. In fact, I want to convert his room into a guest room.
He will be allowed to stay there if he visits overnight, but he still lives in our town, so that is unlikely.
I know he will be upset if I dump his stuff, but something’s got to give. How should I get him to take action?
Clean It Out
DEAR CLEAN IT OUT: Give your son a deadline for coming to empty his room, and be crystal clear about it.
Tell him that you are about to convert his room into a guest room. Make sure he knows he is welcome to use it when he visits, but it will no longer be his. Note the date after which you will clear out his room. Tell him and email or text him the date so that he has clarity on your plan.
Ask him to come help you remove the contents of the room. Point out that whatever he doesn’t collect will be donated or discarded.
A week before the date, remind your son of your plan to dump the room’s contents. Urge him to help you. He filled the room. You should not be responsible for emptying it on your own. If he doesn’t show, get help and get rid of the items.
Harriette Cole is a lifestylist and founder of DREAMLEAPERS, an initiative to help people access and activate their dreams. You can send questions to [email protected] or c/o Andrews McMeel Syndication, 1130 Walnut St., Kansas City, MO 64106.
Stay connected with us on social media platform for instant update click here to join our Twitter, & Facebook
We are now on Telegram. Click here to join our channel (@TechiUpdate) and stay updated with the latest Technology headlines.
For all the latest Lifestyle News Click Here
