Elections

Last week we had elections on campus. What an interesting event this is. The campaigning, the lobbying, the brightly colored poster, and the desperation/commitment of those dear volunteers. I am reminded of our own campaigns, namely the ones that ended with Mr. Obama, and started so long ago in this country.

I will be the first to admit that elections are a crazy time. So many things are going on, pulling you in every direction. What to do? Who to vote for? Why must this go on? But despite all of these things, or perhaps it is because of them, I love the election process. I find it amazing that power passes hands so peacefully. Politics can be a messy business, but despite all of the  . . . well politics of this event, all is well. No revolution. No resistance. At least none to boast of. That is amazing. Power can be a tricky thing, and yet the way that our government is set up allows for such an almost seamless transition . . . maybe that's generous (especially considering a shift in war tactics, and on opinions on stem cell research, and stimulus plans - nonetheless.) I live in a truly remarkable place. 

The seemingly insignificant campus elections, and that distinctive shift of power is an admirable bit of offspring from the mother of all democracies. The U.S. constitution has had a resounding impact on the governments of most of the world. This country can claim plenty of problems, but I believe that the election process, in all its vain glory can be admired. It works. It works so well that we use it everywhere, and it continues to function beautifully for our government. How grateful I am to live in a nation where peace is not only possible, but it persists and proceeds so beautifully.