most realize that circumstance matters and that the poor are trying in a difficult world

As harsh as our politics often seem in the United States, a recent YouGov/Huffington Post poll says most Americans don't believe that the poor are because they are lazy or due to some personal failing. 

From the Huffington Post---

"Among all Americans, 44 percent said they think poor people are poor mostly because of a lack of opportunities, while only 30 percent said it's mostly because of their individual failings. More specifically, 47 percent said poverty has to do more with the fact good jobs aren't available, while only 28 percent said it's because poor people have a poor work ethic."

This is hopeful. 

Despite all the meanness and lies in our political conversations, most folks understand that life is difficult and that people are doing as best they can.

This belief is a strong foundation for alternatives to our often mean-spitited and money-bought campaigns and to our elected officials of both parties who seem to be for sale to the highest bidder.

The work of finding options beyond our current politics is up to each of us. Here are some ideas for everyday resistance to our greed-based economy and our death culture.    

It is good to know that so many people have a clear understanding of the difficulties of everyday life and of our shared frailties. This understanding is a good starting point for a hopeful future.

Please read all of NeilAquino.com