I would like to spew forth
a few words regarding one of our incredible privileges that we too often take for granted. That’s the privilege to vote
in this country. This is a privilege that was bought and paid for with the blood of countless men and women
over the period of over 200 years - a privilege that none of us should ever take lightly or for granted.
Voting is one of those meaning,
quantifiable acts that we can do whereby we can have a meaningful, lasting impact on our community and our country. For better
or for worse, you don’t even have to be too terribly smart or have a complete grasp of the issues under consideration
or know anything about a politician running for office in order to vote.
Next Tuesday, we can, again,
exercise our precious right to vote. However, before you do, I would to attempt to correct a misperception
that is in the minds of a lot of people, though. It’s a point that I think is incredibly important.
It’s been said that
we live in a democracy, which isn’t exactly true. After the Constitutional Convention of 1787 was
complete, Benjamin Franklin was asked, “Well, Doctor, what have we got, a republic or a monarchy?”
Good ol’ Ben replied, “A republic, if you can keep it!”
So, what’s the difference between a democracy and
a republic? Well, I’m not political expert (I haven’t even played one on T.V.!), so I would
encourage you to research this for yourself. However, I’ll give you my “Reader’s Digest”
version of what I believe the differences between the two are.
Simply put, a democracy is spruced up version of “mob rule” in which the
majority (as determined by votes) rules over the minority. A republic is supposed to be where the majority
is kept in check so as not to over rule the unalienable rights of each individual. Those rights are to
be THE standard by which the laws of the land are created and enforced.
Liberty undoubtedly survives in a republic.
It can be at risk in a democracy. To quote Ben Franklin again, “Democracy is two wolves and
a lamb voting on what to have for lunch. Liberty is a well-armed lamb contesting the vote.”
Politicians and groups with
their own political agendas have bombarded us with ads, telling us how they or the issue they support will be good for you
and everyone else. Often, what results is a bit different than what was promised. Should that mean you
never vote again? Hardly! Vote your conscience. Vote your beliefs. More
importantly, vote what you believe is genuinely right and good. In doing so, the boneheads in power will
eventually be voted out or get the message. Either way, America wins.
So, will I see you at the polls
next Tuesday? I hope so. America is counting on you.
