Greetings, flatlanders, from high atop the world (the central Rockies, which doesn't quite have the same impact). Hope you're doing well, and understand that this here mountain man's been thinking about you since our last column. Why, I reflect on many things regarding the "human experience" on a day-to-day basis.
My reflections focus on a broader, common-sense view of our actions and understandings as humans. I try to avoid the old forest-through-the-trees scenario, and look for connections between us all, even when faced with opposing views. Regardless of which stance we vigorously defend, we need a rap on the noggin sometimes to snap us out of our occasional one-sidedness and remind us of a broader, shared experience.
I generally stay away from certain hot-button topics—not because I lack views or understandings on these issues, but more to avoid the emotional, knee-jerk reactions that often occur; reactions that cloud our rationality.
With that in mind, let's step outside the lines and talk about—well, here it goes—politics.
Being an election year, it's everywhere: a constant stream of coverage on the Internet and television of candidates, debates, pundits, spats and criticisms. With "Super Tuesday" behind us now, front runners are evident on both sides; but there'll be no letting up on coverage as party wonks try to extol the wisdom of voting for their candidate and his/her positions. In fact, the battle's just begun.
These same experts reveal the candidates' strategies to appeal to this or that group, modifying behaviors to appear "moderate" or "centrist," courting constituents, etc. Appealing, modifying, appearing, courting—I don't know about you, but it sounds disingenuous to me. "Hey, that's the reality," I'm told.
When I deal with people, regardless of the context, I value their diplomacy and respect for others—even those they disagree with—their civility and honesty, and upright principles revealed in actions, not words.
My political views are simple: a politician, whether a city councilman or presidential candidate, is in place solely to serve the people, not to advance a career. Public service is an honor, a privilege, and a responsibility, that should be carried out with honesty and integrity, and in the spirit of our constitution and founding laws.
Why should someone "appear" moderate, liberal, or conservative? I say he/she should "be" truthful about issues and positions, lay the chips on the table, and let us decide where we want to go as a people.
Of course, we—meaning us citizens—are solely to blame for this. Over the years we have elevated the political culture to its present level. Wrapped up in our personal lives, we don't take the time to learn of issues and scrutinize the behavior of our leaders; instead, we vote along party lines and attack those that disagree. To promote our own understandings and selfishly guard our views, we've tossed aside civility, the respect for and tolerance of those we disagree with, and the desire for truth and honesty.
It is more important to uphold and develop this character than to advance an agenda. The soul benefits from this morality and development. As for the gains achieved by discarding such character, you really—truly—can't take it with you. Life IS short, and human society surges through dynamic changes that are left behind for history. All we are left with, as human beings, is the upholding of our morality and the development of our hearts. When ruled by the heart, one needs less governance. This self responsibility is the doorway to real freedom.
It isn't easy to live life with these standards. But who said it had to be easy.
You don't have to compromise your principles. Be civil and honest, genuinely respectful of others' views, and make your case. As society adjusts to this new sense of responsibility—I believe it is happening as we speak—they will see you in a different light, and admire you for your wisdom and tolerance. You will speak loudly through actions, not words.
Of course, the effect may be a reduction in the amount of political rhetoric and insights we are barraged with by the mass media. Hallelujah, brother. We can sort this out ourselves.
Well, there you have it. Now that wasn't so bad. All I'm doing is reminding you of things we all already know, but have let slip by the wayside. Now more than ever, we should work to not only recover these virtues, but emphasize them. Start small—in your own personal dealings, community involvement, whatever you can do. Put aside your own agenda and show your selflessness. Be a good neighbor, and a good human being.
The end result is a government—and president—worthy of representing us.
Hail to the chief.
Feeds