Give America a Christmas Present

by Bill Faber

To endure a democracy demands responsibilities of its citizens. They must work to understand the issues confronting the nation and they must actively participate in their own governing. Rights require responsibilities. This is what John F. Kennedy meant when he said, “Ask not what your country can do for you, but ask what you can do for your country.”

Television and radio talk show bluster will not sustain this democracy. The informed citizen must look elsewhere. Citizens must seek written analysis of the issues confronting America. And they must seek divergent opinions. The nation does not need spin; it needs truth.

If you view the nation not as conservative vs. liberal nor as right vs. left but as community, then the shouting must shift to conversation. In community neighbors and friends talk to each other. Diverse viewpoints must be understood and valued. From conversation and listening, compromise blooms. Neither family nor community nor nation can exist absent the give and take of compromise.

Today dynamic men and women hold themselves aloof from politics. They consider politics dirty and beneath their dignity. This sense is understandable but wrong. It puts the nation in jeopardy. When the qualified and wise citizens stand aside the second-rate and greedy step in to govern. History teaches that good government requires good people.

The birth of this nation demanded the best of men: Washington, Franklin, Jefferson, Hamilton, Madison and Adams. And so the best of our citizens must again get to work: run for office, help a candidate or join a community group.

Your grandchildren need you to act now. Give America a Christmas present. Get informed and get going. Thanks for listening and Merry Christmas.

Bill Faber is a Decatur lawyer with over 20 years experience trying cases to juries of the people. He welcomes your comments at 425-9002; www.wmfaberlaw.com