Let’s Look in the Mirror: Voting With The Best Intentions
By Jack Levine, Founder, 4Generations Institute
We are getting close to Election Day. For most of us, it’s coming none too soon.
I think you’ll agree that the past few months have unleashed a storm of controversy, and we seek shelter, impatiently waiting for the winds to blow over so we can get back to recovery and reconstruction.
I’m not going to get into the “He Said – She Said” or “He Did – She Did” battle in this most unseemly and thankfully unusual presidential race.
The steady stream of accusations, allegations, and discoveries have created a flood which threatens to drown us. We are gasping for fresh air in a noxious environment.
As citizens, I believe we should take a deep breath and determine where our nation stands on matters which matter most.
How do we account for our assets and liabilities? Where are we on the balance sheet of quality of life, justice, safety, and a myriad of global issues?
What plans are being proposed for paving a positive path forward for ourselves, our children, grandchildren and generations to come behind us?
It’s always wise to conduct a reality check when there’s a need to move forward.
Who do we think is best able to lead us into the future? Let’s look in the mirror and determine whose image best reflects our values and vision at every level of office.
It’s our obligation to learn our history and live the lessons of our past so that we can take steps toward a better future. That’s one definition of advocacy which I am dedicated to both preach and practice.
There are sins of commission – actions which do harm and are transgressions against legal or moral ethics. And there are sins of omission – ignoring a problem or offense which does harm, but not taking action to rectify the situation.
Unlike nations which suffer under tyrannical rule, a representative form of government requires active citizen engagement. In our nation, we cannot be punished for participating.
While I’m strictly non-partisan in my advocacy for family policies that improve the odds for health, protection and lifelong success, I’m an ardent promoter of participation in all aspects of the political process.
I truly believe that voting is not just a right, it’s a sacred responsibility. There are no more influential civic activities than voting. It takes a few minutes but has an impact for years to come.
When I consider the many who struggled, suffered, fought and even died for our right to vote, I’m motivated all the more to have my voice be heard.
It is my earnest hope that despite all of the negativity, vitriol and divisiveness in today’s politics we can come to a place which brings us to pledge to participate as informed, active and dedicated voters.
Please do not fall into the trap of complacency. Let’s take every opportunity to accept the obligation to be dedicated citizens of this nation. Our vote is our voice.
I implore you to participate and encourage others to join you.
Every journey of 1,000 miles begins with a single step. Please pay attention and take action.
If you would like to receive my Compendium of Success Quotes, please reply with Success Quotes in the subject line and I’ll be pleased to share as a gift.
About the Author – Jack Levine, Founder 4Generations Institute
850.567.5252 (mobile/voicemail)
P.O. Box 10875 Tallahassee, FL 32302
The Advocate’s Credo:
Thou art my child, my parent, and my elder,
I love thee best,
But could not love thee half as much,
Loved I not all the rest.