It is no real confession on my part to say that I am not/was not a fan of the Bush administration. Those who live in my community, walk the same halls I haunt, or have ever seen my reading list could easily peg me as a non-appreciator of the slightly, moderately, or extremely right. Hate is too strong a word. I like to reserve that for the most dastardly villains and sins. However, confused or embarrassed or disgusted might be applicable terms I have uttered in the past.
But the political process is a funny thing. Just like history, it takes a big picture vision to grasp a more balanced and valued understanding of just what has happened before and what might happen next.
No - I am not about to turn Red on you.
Why getting involved in the political process is worth it comes down to the fact that now our current president is my choice, my guy, on my side, and representing my views. I won! And believe you me, I am certainly grateful this man is our leader. But I must say (as wifey and I have discussed) He isn't doing every single thing the way I hoped he would. He has been slow on a few points and maybe moved too quickly on others. The honeymoon isn't over, but I am beginning to understand the type of committed relationship it takes to make vows to a president and deal with the implications that they still may leave the cap off the toothpaste or dirty socks on the floor.
I have some sympathy for W. He didn't have an easy world or time to govern and I do not despise him as a human being (anymore). Do I think he misled our country? Drove us to unnecessary war? Is responsible for much of the financial crisis we are presently treading water in? Yes. Do I hope Dick Cheney gets appropriately tared an feathered for his wicked ways that side-stepped justice. Absolutely.
But to be fair, I am quite worried about our involvement in Afghanistan. We are spending a ridiculous amount of money to fix the economy. I hope for health care and education reform. I would like to see marriage available for all people and a much more sustainable society all around. I hope MY president does what I want. But I know that history and the big picture will tell the story more honestly than the present media ever will. So, I wait patiently. It hasn't even been 6 months yet?! Right?
Why is it worth it to get involved in the political system? It makes you slightly more understanding of the other side and gives you the perspective that leading, on any level, in any capacity, is not an easy thing to do. Something I am sure 44 is figuring out like the previous 43.
Go O!
Ivan L
