The kids are (still) home from school.
The days are getting longer.
The construction zones are growing.
Temperatures are reaching the 80s and 90s.
We think baseball is coming back to Comerica Park.
All these are signs of summer, yes?
Throw in the Primary Election coming up in August and there are many reasons why people are getting hot under the collar.
Summer is supposed to be the time when families gather more frequently, either in backyards or up at the cottage.
It’s when the smell of hamburgers and hot dogs on the grill means dinner is about ready.
It’s when the kids can all take a break from textbooks and assignments to still be a kid and get dirty, get into trouble, and enjoy summer freedom away from school.
It’s when people are thankful for air conditioning.
It’s when the sidewalks and cafes in downtown Clarkston are lined with people shopping, eating, or just enjoying some fresh air.
It’s when car windows are rolled down and those under 30 blare what those over 30 think is music.
You know, summer can still be all those things if we all scrolled through social media and simply agreed with opposing opinions or viewpoints.
I saw something recently that asked whatever happened to agreeing to disagree and moving on. Seems these days that if folks don’t agree – and these are grown adults, mind you – that one is wrong and that’s all there is to it.
As my wife says, “Chillax!”
If there is one thing I’ve learned in life, it’s that life is too short to experience with a miserable attitude. Find your happiness, your fun place, your reason to smile.
That’s all there is to it.
Just be a role model. You can be upset and sour when those are your feelings, but come on, people, pick your battles.
Just my opinion, but summer is here, the kids are home, and the sun is out – enjoy these short Michigan summers!

— Matt Mackinder