Elections, voting call attention to America’s faults and virtues

Published 2012-11-07T13:51:00Z”/>

opinion

Kevin Crittenden

Election day is a beautiful example of what is wrong and what is right about our country. We host a media circus of misinformation fueled by billions of dollars spent on campaigning that comes to a frenzied climax on Nov. 6.

There is an air of overwhelming hope and worry — an anxious festering toward progress that culminates in a ballot cast.

For now, it’s all over folks. No more annoying political posts to sift through on Facebook. No more politically inclined strangers waiting to assault students with flyers, pens and information. It’s OK to put away your clipboards, badges and flag lapels.

We can all breathe a sigh of collective relief; even if your guy didn’t win, this round of the fight is up, the bell has rung, the victor has been acknowledged. If you voted, you did your part.

At least Romney supporters can have the slim satisfaction of watching Obama attempt to accelerate job growth while taking measures to reduce the nation’s debt during a time of enduring bi-partisan gridlock.

It wouldn’t be an easy task for anybody, regardless of where they were or weren’t born, or who their father is or isn’t. With the house and the senate split among party lines, change will not be easy to enact.

And despite our problematic two-party system, states are making changes that could have nationwide implications. Both Colorado and Washington have legalized the recreational use of marijuana for adults over the age of 21.

It will be interesting to witness how the state versus federal government showdown unfolds, given that pot is still illegal according to federal law. Perhaps we are nearing a tipping point for that particular piece of federal legislation that could free up a profitable, uplifting industry that includes not just smoked herb, but hemp products as well.

As our nation enters a new chapter in these troubled times it is worth remembering that although we take polar sides once every four years, we live together in the time between elections.

For all of its explosive dysfunction, the United States is doing its best to maintain the appearance of a government that enacts the will of its people.

Here’s an experiment: take a moment to breathe. Notice where you are and what you are doing. Know that you are living in the most democratic country at this time.

<hr />

Kevin Crittenden can be reached at <a href=”mailto:[email protected]”>[email protected]</a>.