Well, here it is, only the first week of February, and the blustering has just begun. I, for one, am already weary of the coldness of the climate.
Before you think I'm talking about the weather, let me assure you, I am not. I am referring to the political climate in our country, and that amongst most candidates hoping to win the office of President of the United States of America.
I rarely discuss politics because I dislike conflict and argument. There is indeed quite a difference between a discussion, and a discussion that escalates into an argument. I must say, I've not been hearing much discussion.
Sadly, what I seem to be hearing the most of is rambling rhetoric and blustering buffoonery from many candidates who seem to be running a race where mud-slinging is encouraged, a race that has been misreported and misrepresented by the media and by candidates themselves, a race where candidates pick up their marbles and go home pouting if things don't go their way, a race that seems to be more and more about who's got the money, honey, and a race where a sense of duty and service has been replaced with a desire for power and greed.
I long for the days when we spoke of statesmen not professional politicos, whose desire to run for the highest office in our land stemmed from a sense of duty and responsibility to citizens. I long for the days when what one had to say held more importance than how much jingle was put in one's pocket. I long for integrity, decency, honesty-those characteristics that some of our forefathers had. I long for a political climate that seeks to work together towards the best interests of our country, regardless of a partisan line or personal gain.
Yes, I am probably an impractical idealist. Dreaming that this country could turn the histrionics down and work towards the common good is a highly improbable reality. I guess I still am naive enough and have enough hope left to cast my vote once again.
I sincerely hope you do, too. Don't let apathy or disgust or even the counted-on indifference you may feel sway you. When it's time, cast your vote. It's your right, your responsibility, and your integrity that are really hanging on the line, not theirs.
