Are we on a downward spiral?

This post isn't for everyone but I've noticed over the years how people have become more angry and bitter. I first noticed it in New York and slowly to California. When I visit places like Scotland, Canada, Australia, and even Arkansas I notice that a bigger percentage of people are more genuine and cordial. I'm not saying it causes more violence in the US but it doesn't help. When I go through customs in these other places I'm treated like a person. When I go through customs in New York or New Jersey I'm yelled at and treated like cattle. So I smile and joke with them. I've even been sent through extra security for telling a TSA agent that she needed an attitude adjustment and made to miss a flight by customs because I'm a smart ass to rude people.

I definitely still get angry but I realize it soon and I check myself (or My family checks me). Most people that know me can attest I'm generally a class clown jokester. But one thing that pushes my buttons is someone treating someone else badly. From personal experience as a young kid being that angry person I know for a fact it will only hurt you. I didn't tell my wife happy anniversary on Facebook on June 7th like many of you do. We first met in August of 1995. But I do credit her and appreciate her for helping me see that love is the most powerful aspect of life. Even though we've had tough times, I have 3 wonderful young adults because of her. I also wouldn't be the person I am happy to be today without her.

Be the reason someone else has a good day by just showing some genuine kindness. I've decided I have to speak up even though I'm generally insecure and afraid of what people think. I have to ignore my own self doubt and realize there are people out there like me that wear their heart on their sleeve and are a bit different.

Also, not many of you are still reading this, but if you are you know I love you. Stay strong and may we find a way to fix the downward spiral were on as a species. It's on us as a whole and we can't depend on the Donald Trumps or Hillary Clintons to fix it for us.