I have often heard people say that the most controversial issues in life have to do with religion and politics. What you probably don’t think about is the fact that most people have faith in something, but it may not fit a traditional definition: God, a group, freedom, your career, or even a pet.

And politics is not just the formal system that we recognize through voting and governance. In fact, politics is part of absolutely everything we do!

The two, faith and politics in fact, are closely linked. We tend to think that the political party we support should reflect and support the ideas of faith that we hold dear. However, that does not always happen, especially when there is a strong party that has enough seats to govern all without considering the prospects of the other parties.

True democracy allows everyone to participate and considers the needs of all citizens.

Our most recent elections came as a surprise to many. Some people were disappointed, while others were very upset with the results.

We’ve had twelve minorities over the years in Canada at the federal level. The good news is that a lot of very important things have happened in Canada as a result of minority governments. The Canadian flag, the health care system, and the Canada Pension Plan are just three of a long list of items that were passed during these times.

You see, the way our system works is that if a minority party experiences a lack of confidence because they make a proposal that cannot pass the House of Commons, an election and a new government must be formed. To avoid this type of situation, the parties must work together and create bills that receive enough votes to be approved.

So right now in Canada, we see a country that is very divided. There are pockets of support where voters feel threatened that they will not be heard and that their needs will not be met.

However, if our new government is wise, it will recognize that all parts of Canada must not only be considered, but steps must also be taken to ensure that what happens in the coming months benefits all parts of Canada.

If this doesn’t happen, and those in power don’t listen or consider their options wisely, it won’t be long before mistrust occurs, and we’ll be looking at yet another election!

I think we can all learn from what we have in front of us. If we are not willing to consider the needs and wishes of our neighbors and work collaboratively, we will soon lose the respect and trust of others.

There is nothing we can do about the election results, but there is much we can do about the way we conduct ourselves in our personal dealings!

Are you a person who is willing to work with others for the benefit of all?

Federal, provincial or personal – it’s all about faith and politics!