chasing the sun

One of the things you may or may not know about me is that I love politics. I have always been fascinated by the legislative process and its mysteries, i.e. the electoral college or the art of the filibuster. For a time, I really tried to distance myself from the intrigue because I get so invested in what’s happening that I start to forget that, no matter what they say, most politicians have an agenda – an agenda which they may or may not make known to the general public. I am joined in my distrust of politicians by a majority of Americans, I would say. But does that serve that we should give up completely on the political process? I used to think so - I might still think so - but I’m definitely being challenged on that score at present.

Strangely, I find myself, in 2008, willing to risk my reputation as a skeptic and cynic. And I don’t know if I’ve grown in my understanding of what’s really at stake in a presidential election after nearly eight years of war-mongering and scandal, or if I’ve simply been duped by a brilliant and enthusiastic wordsmith who says exactly what I’ve been waiting years to hear…but I feel a renewed interest and hope in the American political system. Maybe it’s the sheer fact that I, like millions of Americans, have grown weary of being ignored by our government and leaders.

I still don’t fully understand the relationship between church and state. And I don’t know if, as a Christian, I am obligated to vote, or if it doesn’t really matter at all. But I can’t help but notice that for the first time in a long time, a presidential candidate is speaking hope to disillusioned America. And not only that, but he’s actually managed to take a hard line on issues without denigrating his opponents. He speaks respectfully of those with whom he disagrees and presents logical, well-reasoned support for his own views. As well, he is angling to unite people to participate in their government, to see themselves as part of the process rather than consumers of it.

As a political strategy, this is brilliance! Remind the people that the government belongs to them and watch how they show up in droves to support you. Make it about them and not about you!

But what is more is that I am tempted to think that he actually….and here’s the kicker….he actually believes what he is saying. He actually thinks that we can change the way things are done, that we can lessen the harm we do to the earth, that we can educate and empower the poor and under-resourced, that we can work for justice and create peace.

I am terrified to even let myself hope that he is as sincere as he seems, but I feel strongly that electing this man is an important step for us as a nation, and a desperately needed shift in direction.