The Yoga of "Just Powers"

Getting Back to Basics

...and some old guys a long time ago

One of the benefits of being brand new to politics (especially local politics) is that I am completely unaware of the social mores -- any "unwritten rules" -- surrounding them. In that sense, I am judgement free (check out my judgement post from yesterday for more on that)! I can approach a situation without baggage, bringing only my raw self: my beliefs and my rights as an American citizen.

Mind you, I am gathering what I know from my (admittedly limited) exposure to our political system from my experiences in school (I'm talking 11th grade American History class... the one where I spent most of my time doodling and passing notes to friends). Really, really sorry about that, by the way, Mr. P.

But what I clearly remember is this: our system of government places the greatest values on the RIGHTS of an individual, plain and simple. We have rights to express our opinions. We have rights to question our government. And most importantly--we have our most VALUABLE right: the right to vote.

Although I'd argue that some old guys a long time ago put it much more eloquently: "... to secure these rights, Governments are instituted among Men, deriving their just powers from the consent of the governed, — That whenever any Form of Government becomes destructive of these ends, it is the Right of the People to alter or to abolish it."

And while the issues involving local politics may seem inconsequential as we look at the countless injustices and tragedies facing our world right now, that doesn't give us the right to be complacent or apathetic. In fact, I would argue that it is actually our duty -- our responsibility -- to make our voices heard.

Maybe you aren't comfortable in the vulnerability of sharing your views publicly... and that's okay (I'm not judging! Well, not any more at least wink wink). Because as long as you are willing to use your most valuable right -- your right to vote -- that's all that really matters.

Because ultimately, local politics are where it all begins -- and now that I'm dipping my toes in it, it's become so clear to me that these smaller, tight-knit governmental operations tend to mirror the issues facing our country at its highest level. If you're not happy with the way things are happening around you, your participation in local organizations is where you can make the greatest, most immediate impact on our quality of life.

And in case anyone's forgotten, tomorrow is Election Day. This is our opportunity to express "the content (or maybe discontent) of the governed)."  Because if we keep thinking that it's not our place to get involved, we will soon be left with this:

Get out the vote!