Today we have before us the opportunity to change the course of the nation. Over the past eight years so many dreadful things have happened - Guantanamo, the War(s), the economy, the Patriot Act, the respect of the rest of the world - where do we begin?
Barack Obama has always noted that what we are doing today - voting - is but the beginning. It is vital for us to remain engaged in the operation and day-to-day running of our country. There is so much broken that it is a daunting task. I would hope that we as a united nation can find a way to prioritize a restructuring of the government so that "Liberty and justice for all" is no longer a meaningless slogan.
Off the top of my head, here is a list of things I hope we can address in the coming months, in no particular order:
The economy - Supply side economics became a cruel joke.
Banking - They took away the ability to go fully bankrupt, and credit card rates kept going up anyway.
Corporate power - fewer and fewer corporations own more and more.
Freedom - Wiretapping, Patriot Act, etc. Internet regulation.
War - The world was with us after 9/11. Our government was arrogant and for the first time ever, America started a war. With the wrong country.
War on (some) Drugs - A deeply failed policy. You can't legislate morality. Also Civil Asset Forfeiture is tyrannical.
Congress - lobbyists everywhere, threatening government of the people, by the people, for the people.
Executive Branch - took on a lot of power, which should be returned to Congress.
Bear in mind that with so many things that need tending, it's doubtful that our vision for a kinder, more enlightened America can be fully realized. The opposition party will still exist, ignorance will not evaporate overnight, and compassion does not come easily to those who do not seek it.
What are your hopes for America? With the advent of progressive government, how do we turn around the train wreck and get back on track to a good life for all? What shall we work on when we get the chance?
This election, we are opening a door. Let us keep the fervor that got us here, and work with our government to effect - dare I say it? - Change!