"Politically and religiously, these people almost always self-identify as conservatives."

As of late I've attempted to fit my new understanding into the real world. That understanding being:

"Conservatives invest in property.

Progressives invest in humanity."

When some time has passed I'd like to tell you about how a beloved "pet" raccoon returned to me repeatedly after death to bring me comfort (including once as a spirit seen and heard, the only in my life.) But that's for another time.

I hope the pain of loss is easing for you and your family.