Thread by @spencerhelsel

Normally, I avoid politics, but as a military spouse, here are my thoughts on the #governmentshutdown2018 A THREAD.

2. My wife and I are discussing what we plan to do in the event the shutdown isn't solved by the next pay check. We have savings, but they are for my sons' tuition fund for college. We only have $3,000. Why are we debating between their futures and buying food?

3. My parents have said if the worst happens, they'll help us, but a) we are in another country and b) why are my 60 year old parents supporting us still when we are 30?

4. We are fortunate bc my wife is an officer, but I know many enlisted who rely solely on their soldier's paycheck and already live paycheck to paycheck bc they devoted their lives to the military. This will be very difficult for them until they receive their pay

5. And speaking of pay, the people who serve will have pay delayed, making their lives uncomfortable, but those whose job it is to civilly discuss and compromise and make decisions continue to get paid? Is that fair? Is that just?

6. As we live abroad, certain services are shut down & GS employees are not furloughed, unable to help with the mission. Mission essential will continue, but as my wife points out, sometimes it is the "non-essential" who make things happen easier and swifter. Mission is affected

7. We are fond of saying "God Bless Our Troops" but this, like the VA waiting list deaths, homeless veterans, lack of funds in the budget for services for families (day cares, for example) show that it, at times, is a hollow mantra.

8. This isn't a Republican or Democratic post. This isn't about my feelings on immigration, a fucking wall, Dreamers, or a president. To me it isn't a #GOPshutdown or a #SchumerShutdown It is a #governmentshutdown plain and simple.

9. It is the failure of elected officials, who have pitted one against the other, who fail to compromise on anything (this, by the way, has been shown increasingly to occur through studies). We're losing sight of who we are.

10. We will be fine, but it is this kind of thing that shakes my faith in my country. I worry. I fear. My wife is an amazing woman. My sons are growing up to be amazing men. I fear for them at times like these; that their lives will be taken from them at any moment.

11. I plead with you, instead of hurling anger at those of another party, to turn your compassion on those who will be most affected; soldier and civilian. If you know them, reach out to them. If they don't have a support system, become that for them.

12. Offer what you can, whether it is emotional or other support. At the very least remind them they are not alone. Compassion should be what makes us American. Put aside part in favor of love.

Love you all.