The thing that I was most unprepared for in grieving was the strange, very real, very physical distress it caused.

yes, this. It's not wasted time and effort if it is congress's actual job to do it, and if it is for a good cause. Let it get shot down every time. Still worth it every time.

Look local, act local. Local politics are just as, if not more, important that federal. It’ll take years to see strong results, but starting in his first 30 days is as good as any time :)