...as I did when a youngster that our representatives in Congress were there "representing" us but with the understanding that they would have knowledge we didn't and couldn't possess in order to make informed decisions in OUR INTERESTS? Now, I'm in my seventies and I've long been schooled in the reality of that belief. Still it is beyond disappointing to realize that today there is little reason to believe "our interests" drive any of the actions/policies/decisions of those currently holding those offices. When I was in seventh grade I had an exceptional social studies teacher and I still remember a question he asked me during a class discussion. I suspect the topic was socialism or communism because he wanted me to say whether I'd be fine with his decision to reward someone in the class who did little or no work while I diligently participated and fulfilled all requirments? He asked if it would be fine for both of us to receive a C in the class? For some reason that question stayed with me longer than my answer and is something I have revisited, philosophically, often over the years. Because even back then I didn't believe that ANY grade was the "reward" I was after, I feel confident my response was that I wouldn't care what the other person got. Over the years and in my eventual career as a educator that position was constantly reinforced because it is my belief that the "reward" for doing your best work in school is the knowledge you gain and the excitement of being on a "lifelong learning journey" filled with intellectual curiosity about what you might learn next! Sadly, that philosophy dates me in far too many circles today. I guess my point is that one must decide what the ultimate payment is for efforts put forth. In the case of our congressional representatives today it seems to be more about the money and power and influence they can garner than the satisfaction of feeling they have performed their best for those who put them there. Or, should I say, the voters because it is all too true that what "puts them there" is the result of the constant fundraising they do to gain and hold those offices. Perhaps that is why one of my favorite signs on display at OWS is:
"I can't afford my own politician, so I made this sign!" GET THE MONEY OUT and hope against hope that there are still people of ethics, conscience, and integrity willing to fill those houses of Congress!