Rosa Maria Juarez, a 96-year-old resident of Montebello, California, shares her thoughts on the current state of the nation, expressing her concerns about the direction it is heading. During a recent interview, she reflected on how the tumultuous political climate has affected her daily life. Juarez, who enjoys staying active by attending exercise classes at the Pico Rivera Senior Center, has adopted a strategy to cope with the overwhelming news cycle.
“I keep up with the news, but I don’t want to watch it now,” she said. “I don’t want to feel depressed.” Instead, she focuses on maintaining a positive outlook, prioritizing her happiness and well-being. Juarez often drives to the senior center for morning classes and walks up to two miles outdoors, which helps her stay engaged and active.
Despite her efforts to shield herself from distressing news, Juarez still feels the weight of the political turmoil. She expressed her fears about the country, comparing its current state to the Titanic. “We’re a country that’s going down, like the Titanic,” she said. “I hope not, but what can we do?”
Juarez’s sentiments resonate with many older Californians who feel disillusioned by the political landscape. In a recent outreach, columnist Steve Lopez spoke with over a dozen seniors, and many echoed similar feelings of despair and frustration. Bernard Parks Sr., a former LAPD chief, voiced his disbelief at the political events unfolding, stating, “I never thought in my lifetime I’d see a person with 34 felonies be elected president.”
On the other hand, some Trump supporters believe the country is finally on the right path. Norman Eagle, a resident of Palos Verdes Estates, expressed optimism about the current administration, despite acknowledging the chaos. “I am extremely happy that the country is now headed in the right direction,” he said.
The divide in opinions reflects the broader national discourse, where feelings of hope and despair coexist. Juarez, while uncertain about the future, remains committed to making a difference in her community. She actively reaches out to those who seem isolated or marginalized, hoping to connect with them at the senior center and beyond.
As the country grapples with significant challenges, the voices of older Californians like Juarez highlight the personal impact of political decisions. Their stories serve as reminders of the importance of community and connection, especially in times of uncertainty.