American Democracy - A Work In Progress

In June of 2001, I became more active in presidential politics than I have ever been in my adult life. Because of my intense past involvement in a local non-profit organization, even though I had very strong political feelings, I limited my activity to simply voting in 1992 and 1996, to protect the organization I headed. Prior to that, I voted, but seldom did much more.

Governor Howard Dean, and the arrogant politics of President George W. Bush, provided me with a strong incentive to be more than a casual voter. Having resigned from that local non-profit organization, also afforded me the right to express my political views freely and without reservation.

For the first time ever, I donated money to a couple presidential campaigns. For the first time ever, I placed political stickers on my classic 1965 VW Beetle. I also purchased newspaper ads supporting my candidates of choice and launched a website which endorsed one of those candidates. I wrote letters to leaders of both major political parties and expressed my views in a series of letters to newspapers and media organizations all across America.

On November 2nd, 2004, I was one of the first to cast my votes in my hometown of Kohler, Wisconsin.

What I have learned through my involvement in America’s Democracy, is how it is a work in progress. It isn’t perfect and it isn’t quite the democracy our Founding Fathers had hoped for. Big money has far too much influence and the average American far too little influence. Much of politics is downright ruthless and discourages productive and objective discussion of the vital issues facing our nation. However, when enough people care enough to get involved, with their hearts in the right place, change can and will take place.

Another lesson I learned is how divided America is. There is very little respect for opposing viewpoints and not much interest in compromise. Finding common ground and being civil have been seen as weakness rather than virtue. Family members and co-workers are pitted against each other, unwilling to budge even one inch to find something to agree on.

Time and again, Governor Dean reminded Americans how they have the power to improve our “work in progress”, (our democracy). Improving our American democracy will ensure our freedom and our world’s peace. Repeatedly, Governor Dean encouraged us to educate ourselves on the issues and then express our views and stand up for what we believe in. During this presidential election cycle, there were others who had the courage to challenge the status quo, but Governor Dean lead the charge. He inspired timid Americans like me to be more active in our American democracy, which was built and preserved through the sacrifices of so many who came before us.

For our American democracy (a work in progress) to improve, we need to be active and vigilant always, not just during a presidential election. We must take the time to study the issues, ask questions, challenge our leaders and hold them accountable for the decisions they make and the policy they set.

Regardless of what you think of Governor Howard Dean, he does have a point when he says, “(in our American democracy) you, the people, have the power.” From this point on, let us use our people power to unite America and the world. Let us strive for peace in our world which is weary of war and turmoil. Let us look within and recognize the ways we can be instruments of the peace we long for. The “call to action” we’ve witnessed during this hard-fought race for the White House must now be focused on making this world a better place. Remember, we the people have the power to transform that elusive dream into reality. Join me today and together, we will make it happen.

America's Democracy - A Work In Progress