I know the economy isn’t hitting on all cylinders right now. I know that we all have to work a little harder these days. But I can’t help but wonder how much our economy stutters when the media chooses to focus on the negative day after day. I’ve heard that the stock market, in particular, is as much psychology as science. Investors work with numbers, statistics and….hunches. “Confidence” is so important to our economy that the Consumer Confidence Index is actually a key economic indicator. But I can’t imagine many out there feel confident in making investments or purchases right now when they’re bombarded with negative reports and, worse, commentary. This is not to suggest that the media shouldn’t cover these things. However, we all know that how it’s covered, how often it’s covered, and how it’s analyzed by the talking heads has a real impact on the viewer.I, for one, would like to hear a little good news now and then. It’s out there. We’re just not hearing about it.
 

Well, it’s that time again. The Legislature of the State of Texas will be convening for its regular session this January. And of course, this fall will bring election season. Now, I know that this tends to elicit skeptical remarks and a generally cynical attitude on the part of the general electorate. Perhaps some of our elected leaders (here and nationally) have earned that.

But I’d ask all of us to consider just how important the political process is in our lives. We can choose to ignore or criticize it from afar, which is the easy way out, as far as I’m concerned. That usually allows for the worst possible results. Or we can get involved. We still live in a democratic republic. Skepticism aside, we can still make a difference. At the minimum, get educated on the issues impacting your life by using more than political advertisements and water cooler conversation. Make your voice heard. And if you don’t like something, get involved! That, in my humble opinion, is the Texan’s way.