As the economy continues to spiral downward, the political rhetoric seems to reach new meteoric heights. The donkeys and the elephants argue unquestionably that it is the other sides fault for the mess on Wall Street. They seem to be more interested in political correctness and their public perception than the problems at hand. In the meantime, the American public simply shrugs its shoulders wondering if the blame belongs with the all politicians in the first place.
In the midst of this mess is the Presidential election. One hand, we have a Senator from Arizona making promises that he will put the country first. On the other hand, we have a Senator from Illinois promising change that will restore our confidence as a nation. However, weren’t the same promises recited by numerous candidates in countless elections in the past?
In our state, we are constantly bombarded by ads from two political candidates who have somehow forgotten that it is important to love your neighbor. The mud being hurled is constant and messy. Both men are painting each other as nothing short of criminal. In the meantime, there are hurting people from the coast to the hills who desperately need a loving, self-sacrificing friend to lift them a hand.
As November approaches, the citizenry of this great county are left wondering about the future and our leaders. If you stop and think about those running for office and the problems they are trying to address, it makes you wonder if there ever will be real change. The fact that we are still engaged in the political process is a reminder that within all of us there is a desire for something worthwhile and lasting and joyful. Perhaps the ultimate answer is not found on Pennsylvania Avenue, but in a King who will one day establish his kingdom of peace forever. (The Madison Herald Saturday, October 26th)