Finding Balance: An Invitation

In this digital world, the demand for our attention is at a premium. Between “Breaking News” flashing across our screens, salacious stories, and divisive language dominating social and mainstream media, it’s easy to get sucked into the never-ending news cycle. One click leads to another, and soon the adrenalin kicks in. This unrest quickly spills over into daily life, diverting our attention from shared family, neighborhood, and community ideals. Suddenly, we find ourselves divided and losing sight of what’s important.

So, what is the solution? Stop all news and detach? Many good citizens will likely disagree, claiming that being informed is our duty, otherwise we risk losing our freedoms. I believe the answer is found in seeking an intentional balance of news watching and civic participation, with an emphasis on critical thinking.

Years ago, I found myself living in an increasingly negative world. The news was one sided, and the American dream, with all its themes of rugged individualism, was slipping away at an alarming rate. I was overwhelmed and frustrated but taking no action to make things better. A friend suggested that instead of being weighed down by the social and political divide cultivated by the media, I should get involved locally. I took her advice to heart and started attending township, county, and local GOP meetings.

To say that I immediately felt better is an overstatement. However, there have been victories along the way and many experiences that renewed my spirit. Goodness exists. Integrity and responsibility are values shared by most. Finding common ground is achievable when media hyperbole is set aside, and individuals talk and listen to each other.  

One of these moments came at a Cass County Republican Party meeting last year. It is customary for local officials to provide updates during each meeting, and the report that evening by the Cass County Prosecuting Attorney struck a nerve with me.

He shared that an active shooter driving in Cass County was peppering bullets from his car when he pulled into the parking lot of a local store. Citizens and local police officers alike sprang into action and neutralized the situation, preventing the shooter from entering the store. It was never stated precisely why these citizens acted, but the fact stands that they stepped up, showing true American resolve. We’re fighters. We don’t accept the status quo.

The Cass County Republican Party invites you to share in our commitment to Make America Great Again. Please join us at the Cass County GOP Chili and Cornbread Cook-Off Fundraiser on Saturday, January 31, 2026, from 5:00–8:00 PM at the First Church of God, 21083 Spencer Road, Cassopolis, Michigan. At 7:00 that group of brave citizens and police officers will be recognized for their heroic efforts to avert a possible mass murder in Cass County. Details of the jury trial, including video of the crime and other matters relevant to the incident, will be presented by Prosecutor Fitz and Sheriff Roach at the Recognition Event. Flags donated by The Flagpole Company will be presented to the eight local heroes.

Balance the negative news cycle by attending a positive event. Talk to your neighbors. Ask questions. Listen. Get involved.