Last Updated: Friday, November 7, 2008 9:59 PM CST
A post- election call for unity
Jim Winkler
Power of youth
On this, the weekend after Election Day, I am motivated to send this message to you. While the final results of all elections are yet to be certified at this writing, I think it’s important to connect with you on a few core ideas.
Whether you’re feeling exuberantly celebratory or sadly shell-shocked, I think you'll agree with me that it's time to unify and pledge to work together across the political spectrum to create a positive future.
I’ve been through many victories and disappointments in observing politics for most of my life, but I hold to my belief that all candidates deserve to be honored for their willingness to run for office.
How few among us are courageous enough to step across the line and commit to being a candidate.
Representative democracy depends upon those who consider elective public service as an important expression of leadership.
While we may disagree with some of their policies, we should never forget to thank them for their willingness to serve.
While some of us take the step of congratulating the victorious, how many of us send messages to those who were defeated, this time around? I urge you to let those who did not “win” know that their effort is appreciated.
Please remember that many candidates do choose to run again, and today’s “loser” may well be a “winner” in the future.
Every election is a multiple choice test.....the candidates are the focus of attention, of course, but what amazes me is how many qualified citizens choose to let others make the decisions. To me, not voting is the most inexcusable act of neglect in a democracy.
While this year’s turnout seems to be a record-breaker, there are still many who can be convinced to participate in the future.
One ideal for all of us to strive for, no matter our political leanings, is to inspire greater participation in our process of government at all levels.
Informed voting is one step, but keeping in touch with our public officials is a key to effective advocacy.
Winning an election is only the first step in public service. Acting to bring positive change is the job description for all of us, and each of us is obligated to be vocal advocates for the policies and programs we believe need attention.
Being anonymous is not very effective in a democracy.
Knowing our elected officials, and having them know us, is our obligation and greatest opportunity to exercise influence.
There are strategies we need to develop, skills to hone, and plans of action to be implemented.
We have work to do and challenges to face.
As an advocate, I’m dedicated to assist those whose mission is creating better policies and more accessible programs to meet the needs of those who count on us....across the generations.
With the challenges many face in economic and emotional terms, now seems to be the time for creative approaches and cooperative activities.
I leave you with this quote.
“How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world.”
Anne Frank, Teenage Diarist and Holocaust Victim (1929-1945)
| Tell us what you think... |
| Comments » |
The
comments above are from readers. In no way do they represent the views of the Rhinelander Daily News. |
|
| Post a comment
(150 word limit) » |
| We will not post reader comments containing
racial, religious or personal attacks, slander,
profanity, e-mail addresses, mailing addresses,
phone numbers or Web site addresses that are
for personal or promotional gain. |
|
|
| Thank you for your comments! Once your comments
are approved, they will appear on the site. |
|
|
|
|
feed
Comments
