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On a party line vote, the House of Representatives on January 13 passed ‘‘Freedom to Vote: John 3 R. Lewis Act’’ that combines the Freedom to Vote Act and the John Lewis Voting Rights Amendment Act. However, the democrats in the Senate did not have the votes to change the filibuster rule to allow passage by a simple majority. Senators Joe Manchin (D-WV) and Kyrsten Sinema (D-AZ) voted against changing the filibuster rule. However, Manchin and Sinema are not solely to blame for the failure to pass the voting rights legislation; they share the blame with the 50 Republican senators who voted against the legislation. -more-

When you feel too depressed to do anything, is that a good enough reason not to clean your house? When you feel too scattered with psychotic thoughts, is that a good enough reason not to go to school or work? When your mind is in the clouds with mania, does that justify not doing the dishes, or does it justify not preparing a meal? When your psychotic anger is brimming up to your ears, is that enough of a reason to remain locked in your room, against the wishes of others?

Do symptoms of mental illness justify not doing what is expected and/or necessary?

For a guide to answering this question, look to the idea of cause and effect. What will be the projected scenario of delaying something or not doing it? What will you get if you overcome the hesitancy? There is no right or wrong answer to either of these questions. -more-