democracy

It is important to understand the political process in a democracy. We live in a country in which our spirituality and our faith (in ourselves, each other, and the world) is open to discussion and, unlike the fundamentalist right wing that demands obedience, we can separate out church, synagogue, mosque and state. We can hold politicians accountable to represent our ideals and our beliefs. If they do not, we can take responsibility by voting them out of office.

In an unhealthy community organized religion is what replaces personal values and love. Dogma is a God-substitute. We need not think for ourselves or employ our personal values. This is true, too, of gangs. People like ombudspeople, government employees, and unelected officials, should not hold power over policy. We are entitled to hold politicians accountable to fulfill their promises.

What is happening as social networking sites, such as Facebook, those with little experience, education, or objectivity, rant and promote misinformation. You can see this on sites in which people rant about issues where loved ones experience victimization by those who are mentally ill. The recent violence on buses, for example, have led to an outpouring of rage. There is a call to action and more vigilant security. Unfortunately, anything that the bus company does will cause bus tickets to rise. No one wants to pay $200 for a 200 km trip.

Progress has been made in the war on drinking and driving. But we are all responsible, not just governments. It takes a vigilance, and a reflection on policies to improve our legislation.

It is healthy to be clear and precise in our discussions. Stakeholders must sit down and work out what is best for all. The language we use is important. In my attempts to ask questions and employ discourse on the Save the Bala Falls issue I have been cut down. This is wrong. My conversations have been ignored and postings deleted in an attempt to remove any reflection.

Our spirituality, and a spirit of grace, unconditional love, is what we live for. Dogma and doctrine is what we kill for.

--to paraphrase Rev. Ed Bacon