l've seen a post on social media today from a newspaper. lt's about a woman who is a mother, who is down to her last 14p. She's bemoaning (rightly enough) how much she's struggling, and how difficult her life is.
Then she says "l still don't know who to vote for."
l am stunned. How can you be in that situation, and say that?! We've had this lot for 10 years. Every year, things have got worse. What makes you think that things are going to magically improve next week with the same lot?
Too many people are saying "l'd vote Labour but l don't like Jeremy Corbyn." lt's not just about personalities, though, is it? (Or it shouldn't be). lt's about whether you think another party could make things better. l don't genuinely think they could get much worse.
The Tories have had years and years, and things are dire. People starving. Can't feed their children, or heat their homes. Foodbank use is massively increased. NHS is being sold down the river. People are dying because of lack of resources and money. Homelessness is soaring. Drastic cuts in funding everywhere, police, fire service, schools etc. Someone l follow on social media has referred a client of hers for mental health treatment. The waiting list is nine months. Nine months. Can you imagine feeling desperate and hopeless, then you get a letter telling you that?
lf this lady really thinks the Conservatives are going to change the habits of a lifetime, she should vote for them. Or maybe it's time to have a think about if anyone else could make things better. lt won't happen overnight. But we need people who care about other people, and not just about themselves.
lt's not just about "l'm alright, Jack". lf you can afford holidays, food, heating, healthcare - good luck to you. l'm not envious. Well done. But a lot of people have worked hard all their lives, and are still in dire straits. Some of us have health conditions. We NEED the NHS. Some of you may not. Good for you, private healthcare is amazing. lf you choose to spend your money that way, it's your money, feel free.
But spare a though for the millions who depend on it. Rather than being bothered about paying a bit more tax, and being ok with letting people die for lack of medical care.
Those of us who care about other people need to think seriously. lt's not just about me or you. lt's not just about people squirrelling money away in tax havens. lt's about having a bit of compassion for your fellow man.