Citizens,
Today, Friday, 3 February 2012, I will continue the reflections I began last week about the origins of America’s government and what I observe today.
As I go around the country now, visiting with citizens in conventions, association meetings, schools and so forth, many ask me what my view is of the present American government or what recommendations I would have for positive change. As a humble visitor to your time, I would not have the presumption to advise you on your 21st century affairs. But I admit to a certain puzzlement about your reliance on state caucuses and political parties to choose your president. From my very limited perspective, it seems overly cumbersome. And it is my perception that sometimes, loyalty to political party seems to eclipse loyalty to nation. If this all-too-brief impression is one you find correct, I would hope you would be outraged and move to change it. On the other hand, I am absolutely delighted to see that the Republic, despite creaking a bit, is still standing and still flourishing (Not unlike your humble servant!)
The essential, the core of our Constitution is, miraculously, still intact: each of you over the age of eighteen, in keeping with the ideals we embodied so long ago, has a voice in choosing your representatives. This is the essence of a Republic and, at the same time, both simple and complex. And I am particularly gratified to note that this now includes women! Such inclusiveness is a core strength of the nation! Neither our first President and Congress nor those of today are formed in secret, by appointment, or by the elite, but by you and me, the ordinary citizens of the land. It was to throw out the concept of elite government, so typified by the British Empire and the arrogance of George III and his House of Lords, and to place our faith in the people’s will that we created our Republic during that Constitutional Convention I mentioned earlier. Now, 225 years later, you still have regular opportunity to recreate a government responsive to your needs and wishes. Few nations give their citizens this trust and this power! Seize the privilege! Become engaged in the exciting process of charting your own destiny and your children’s future! Vote, yes, but vote not on looks, charm, nor wit, but on ideas, heart, and perceived ability.