Elections

As we progress through yet another political season, it is sometimes difficult to watch or listen to the drama unfold in the media.  There are more than enough mantras, blurbs, soundbites, put-downs, commentary and propaganda repeatedly advertising bad behavior and bully tactics which are then excused by faithful followers. Unfortunately, the truth is often twisted and those being blamed are occasionally the victims rather than the perpetrators.  Quite honestly, it turns my stomach.

Each election is a new reminder of experiences our family had several years ago being on the inside of political campaigns.  Most of the voting public seem to be totally unaware of, and would be appalled to learn, what really goes on behind the scenes…the tactics, compromises, threats and back-room deals.  When you are “up close and personal,” you learn to recognize the written and unwritten “rules” as well as the puppets and puppeteers.

For many political insiders, truth becomes irrelevant as loyal supporters line up behind candidates who are well-versed in the culture of lies and “who can win.”  While there are those who stand for truth and freedom, their messages are drowned out by groups and individuals who would rather keep honest people from being able to discern what is real.

It seems pretty clear to me that unaware voters are being played like instruments in an orchestra, and when things don’t go as the “planners” have planned, there will be consequences for some to pay, maybe loss of a job or threats to family or livelihood.  Most decent people would never want to put their families through the fire of a political campaign.  Hence, our choices are very limited when it comes to elections.

But the real battle in politics is not between Republicans and Democrats.  Nor are religious battles between Christians, Muslims and Jews.  The real battles are between right and wrong.  Good and evil use similar processes, but good is based on freedom of choice and evil is based on force or coercion.  Force stifles desire, while freedom encourages creativity, accomplishment and abundance.

The fight for freedom takes place daily in our own communities.  Instead of complaining, become involved.  Share your talents.  Give a little of your time.  Get in the game, meet the players, and learn the truth for yourself.  You might learn a few things.  Being in the eye of the public teaches many lessons to those who are willing to learn:  the importance of honesty, integrity, respect, friendship, service, love, obedience and loyalty to good principles, trust, sacrifice, gratitude, honor, discernment, perseverance, and courage in the face of affliction.

Everyone has something to give, an idea, talent or resource of some sort.  When we bear one another’s burdens, we share what we have with those who don’t have – whatever it might be – food, clothing, shelter, financial means, knowledge, and love.  Unmet needs lead to social, mental, emotional, and physical problems due to lack of hope.  Providing hope for the downtrodden helps them conquer life’s challenges, and provides happiness for those giving.  It is easy to see how the world would be a better place if more people enjoyed doing good, rather than being so concerned about their own personal gain.  Life isn’t about what we own or control, but what we give. 

With each election, we are choosing the direction for our country’s future and whether or not we will remain a free people.  Corruption is rampant, so it is extremely important to be thoughtful in choosing a candidate to support. We need someone who doesn’t just listen to the will of the people, but acts on it, even if they sometimes disagree with our personal philosophy.  We need to stop making our political choices out of fear, for choices made in fear are often shortsighted.  We don’t want leaders who say only what they think we want to hear to get elected.  Truthfully, if we keep making similar choices, we will continue getting similar results.