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Politics is a funny thing. Most of the issues that become political footballs have no business falling into a party political situation, with billions wasted flopping from one direction to the next. For example National Health Service and education are two major issues that need cohesive planning and running and not coats of red or blue paint depending who has control.
It is galling that our youth are pawns to experiment teaching methods and our sick are statistics and gambling on survival.
But when it comes to a local level some of the political points trying to be scored is abhorrent! I had the pleasure recently to be at a Neighbourhood Watch meeting for an area of Newham.
There have been inflammatory reports escalating the appearance of problems and in reality most are working to try and improve quality of life and enhance living experience. However what I found enlightening was the appearance of a lad called Eddie, who was one of the youths hanging round in a gang on the streets appearing threatening and menacing by circumstance and dress more than intention.
The slant he gave the debate was fascinating – they feel angered and marginalises from the abusive comments made on a website about them and their families. It felt like a fog lifted and the opportunity of new way lit up.
In essence everyone deserves treating with respect and good should be sort ahead of building fortresses.
Of course this assumes those that want to carp and criticise and play politics have a desire for change for good.
30 Nov 2009 11:15:04