Duly noted: Democracy is not easily maintained. It takes work, may lead to frustration, and various factions may not realize all of its goals, or, even many of its goals, however, the effort, the meetings, the negotiations, always are ongoing and imbued with give-and-take. The democratic republic of the United States is never and has never been a guaranteed state. The challenges to a democratic government are tests. When we pass those tests they make us stronger. Each generation, continually, must not take its democratic republic ideals for granted. Forces are always testing, probing, pushing, and providing alternatives.
We have found ourselves in the midst of those political reality tests in recent years. We must recognize the dilemma and deal with it directly, capably, and with confidence. Noisy authoritarians may make gains in the short term in the U.S., however, in the long run have fizzled within the context of competing with the democratic republic tradition. Understanding, tradition, resolve do win the day. Add vigilance as a measured ingredient to maintaining democratic republic ideals.
Those analyses surely must be taught at the high school and college levels. It is more than just loyalty and adherence to political thought. Political parties never were an initial part of the U.S. Constitution. It must be country above party!
Room here for a few notes:
• We at The Voice are thankful for the wonderful journalistic contributions of the Capitol News Illinois which brings us statewide information and allows access because of our affiliation with the Illinois Press Association (IPA). The IPA president and CEO has a commentary on page 8 this week. Ideas, exchange of thoughts, reflection, and consideration for those with different orientation make us all stronger. We owe it to ourselves!
• Senior meal distribution in Aurora has added dates, October 25 and November 11, at St. Athanasios Greek Orthodox Church.
• Cantigny Park will hold its 17th annual 5K Run/Walk in Wheaton and start at the Midwest Shelter for Homeless Veterans, a nonprofit which offers housing and support services that lead to self-sufficiency. The fundraising run will be at 9 a.m. Saturday, Nov. 6. See runsignup.com.
Clear and Concise, Week 42, Year 2:
Honesty is the best policy. Has our country veered away from honesty and may want to justify a pose, posture, of honesty, when in reality there is a sense of dishonesty? It is up to each person to see clearly, to find an honest conviction. Collectively we move forward with honesty and positive introspection. We keep within ourselves rather than point the finger at others. It is best in the long run, in spite of short-term rugged terrain.