STAND UP AND BE COUNTED....VOTE We, the people, are about to embark, once again, on the journey of American politics. After weeks of trying to pry oversized cards and glossy literature from an overstuffed mailbox, the day of reckoning on June 3rd is about to reveal which candidates, propositions and measures have successfully communicated a message that resonates with voters. Or maybe, which candidate has spent the most money on slick advertising and currying favor of special interest groups and organizations. Through the ballot, citizens have the right and obligation to express their preferences. Throughout campaigns and in the midst of public forums of all types, vocal advocates of particular issues or those who simply like to wrap themselves in a mantle of free speech are heard. At times, the most vociferous advocates of free speech act in a fashion antithetical to its provisions and intentions. In response, heavy voter turnout in free and clean elections can confirm the will of a majority and mute those who choose to undermine our way of life. Elections are the time for those more moderate in their views to make themselves heard. Richard M. Nixon tried to galvanize a “great silent majority” to favor his Viet Nam policies, Bill Clinton promised to listen to the “quiet, troubled voice of the forgotten middle class” and Barack Obama tried to harness a frustrated middle class that have been “ignored.” It is this sector of our society that casts deciding ballots and can have a transformative effect on political institutions. Unlike recent sham votes of the Crimea and in other parts of the world, we actually do enjoy freedom from fear at the ballot box. Will we use it or simply acquiesce to ignorance, disinterest, manipulators, special interests and slick slogans? The test of our fortitude is how we participate in our political system and challenge tyranny, both from declared enemies and those who slither and hide beneath the mantle of freedom. We must declare our intention to continue the great American adventure at the polls, then follow through, voting, demanding answers and respect from our elected leadership while respecting their role as well. Once decisions have been made through the ballot box, our system relies on civil dialogue and behavior to meet and overcome the challenges ahead. The silent majority should not be silent; our adventure should be loud, noisy, joyous and include everyone. Stand up and be counted… vote!
Posted on: Tue, 27 May 2014 18:24:24 +0000