 a way to speak out against tyranny and oppression. The US government is locking children in cages. They are offering migrant families choices such as separation of child from parent, one to go free and one to remain in ICE custody or instant group deportations. Children and adults are getting COVID-19 in ICE prisons. And this is only one example of the terrible things happening in the US. If you do care, then speak out, and do it loudly. And in fact, one doesn't have to be an American to criticize loudly what is going on. Silence gave us Hitler. Now another despot is on the loose. Fight back!
I second what Isabel said.
First and foremost: You have always been very kind, generous, and open. I am sure whatever you write will be presented in these same ways. If not, we will call it "passion for a cause".
This is *your* blog, and therefor *your* voice. You do not owe anything to your readers, they come, they go, they come back again, and so forth. As this is 'part' of your business (but from my viewpoint -mostly personal and familial), yes, things can get tricky because some folks get weird when politics comes into something they wish to purchase. For me, I'm old enough to know that much of what I put my money into will somehow become invested by the larger fish in the pond, and might end up feeding a shark I would never associate with, but this is modern capitalism and I am pretty insignificant little shrimp who still may need a 'whatzit' I can only buy from "that guy".
You are entitled to your opinions, your voice, and for speaking what is weighing on your heart and mind, however political. It's very 'American' to speak up, even when -or particularly when- we disagree! It's the American way, no?
Speak your truth. If we can handle it we'll stay. If not we'll go. But speak your truth!
and make sure your VOTE! counts.
Hard decision! But, it’s is your blog. I believe any of us who have followed you for a long time, know how you think.
Love you, but not interested in your politics. I’m surrounded by opinions and news cycles and come here for your thoughtful ways and attitude of peace.
I agree with NANCY!
I second your wise cousins above.
I appreciate your silence. Thank you.  There is no taking sides. There are so many differing opinions, so many arguments, so much anger that I have almost stopped reading social media, or any media for that matter. Your blog and Instagram stories are a welcome relief! I have loved the flowers! Silence in a blog is not agreement or disagreement. If someone wants politics, there are plenty of places to go for it!
I love that your blog is a respite from all if the partisan, political ugliness.
I think everyone needs a place where they feel free to speak from the heart. If you want to leave 'French La Vie' free from politics, you could perhaps have a sidebar such as you have for your journeys and rentals and readers could choose to go there or not. A blog that shows just the peachy side of life can be a place to escape to but sometimes there's more to be said.
Even though you've said very little about politics here, I know where you stand by your empathy and logic. Your ability to put yourself in the place of others. You've said a lot without overtly saying it.
And if you weren't concerned, I'd be concerned. Your cousins' comments are good. Hugs.
Dear Corey, I admire your reserve, control, patience, respect, and love for your blog readers, most of all I admire your honesty as well. Living where I do...I do not share much of my political opinions either. I am afraid to loose relationships I treasure, but I am afraid now to not speak up! so I have just ordered two political signs for my front yard they will let my people know how I feel without me having to say anything unless they ask!.....wish me luck ha! send me a prayer too!
Also, like John Lewis says..."if you see something, say something, get in Good Trouble"
I agree with Isabel.
I'm with Penni, Isabel and the cousins. It is your blog so you should speak your truth. This is too important. And I agree with turning off comments if that makes it easier.....again, your blog. Long time follower here and I love the things you share.
Dearest Corey...Do not let the freedom of our conversations be hijacked....if we can collectively like a picture of a flower...why can’ t we listen without judgement to another’s opinion. What are we so afraid of?
resonates within them.
We need cross pollination, the thoughtful listening to each other so we can mend the divide together.
If you are called to speak...follow your heart, and I know for one...I will listen.
I second what Arnelle and Cousin Judy shared. I couldn’t say it any better. Love to you, dear friend.
These are not political times. These are not sane times. Hard not to feel and say and stand. Your heart says it all. And the flowers can't hurt.
I never discuss politics, but this year I have been vocal. If something I could say would sway someone to vote for the democracy of the country I love, then I am saying something, in a kind, truthful way. I agree with Arnelle and your cousins. I feel like I must do all that I can do, in addition to voting, to help get my country back on track. I want to leave this election, knowing I did what I could do. At this point, for me, I am going to speak the truth, in a respectful way. I am terrified at the thought of the direction the last four years has taken us and what we could become with four more. If you choose not to speak out, I will continue to follow your blog and love you.
It seems disingenuous to me, but that’s just my take. Now is NOT the time to be silent in my opinion. Sometimes cleaning house is a needed task.
This is your blog Corey. We all know how kind and respectful you are. Speak up and block any comments that criticise you.
I love that you don't talk politics! If you did speak your mind, half of your subscribers would cheer you on and the other half would feel insulted or angry. I know many people who have left social platforms because the views presented weren't in alignment with theirs and they found it to be exhausting.
Your blog is beautiful full of family stories, friendships, recipes, and of course the brocante. Keep it as it is. We are bombarded with the news, the good the bad the ugly, we do not need more but a place to call our own retreat, of beauty peace and friendships. Write letters to the / your congressmen, offer Op-Ed opinions on the newspaper editorial, form zoom chat groups to find solutions.
there are many more meaningful ways to offer your views, but please keep your blog the way it is, you can always offer a second blog for your opinions, and have chat sessions for meaningful discussions and your political views.
It is only together that we can move forward in a positive direction.We all need to open our ears and listen, and our hearts to what we know is true,and to find the common ground. Also to exercise our right to freedom of speech (In a civilized manner) when we feel very strongly about something.
'One nation under God, with liberty and justice for all'.
What a marvelous C orey-ous topic!
Testing to see if I can enter a comment.
I am so struck by the generous and gracious flavour of all these responses.
And yet. Perhaps it is even more of a calling to be a bringer of Peace and Respite to the people who follow you, and who clearly appreciate generosity and grace.
So. I changed my mind, just in the reading. See what you facilitated?
Dear Corey, seen the candidates one side or the other I suggest not to vote!
Nothing changes anyway!
They only look after their own interest and don’t give a f**k all about the people as it is in Italy, France and the rest of the world!
And this is the truth as simple as that!
When we the people, will remember that we are the 99% and them only the 1% and we will start to do something about it thus forcing a change once and for all, then and only then, I would take into consideration voting again!
I’m sick and tired of what I see in Italy everyday: corruption, scandals, robberies, mafia, etc. etc. in all parties!
Better stop here as I think you got the idea of what I mean.
Your blog is a restful place for sure. There’s no doubt your readers know you speak from the light. We know darkness may eclipse the light but can’t do so forever - the light always finds a way through, water always wears rock. Speak as you wish - we know who your are!
I agree with Robin. I think at this point most have made up our minds. I think you want to share your thoughts. It’s healthy!
Thank you for everything that you have shared over the past years, you have been a blessing more than you know. I so enjoy following your blog, and am from Northern California too. I rarely comment, but this is no time to be silent. In