Monday, October 18, 2010

Dearest God,

What force of nature can change us from being a good person to a lying, scheming, and mean individual? I have watched some of the political ads on television and I am sickened every time I watch one that is designed to tear down, name call, lie and treat opponents poorly. I wonder why we would want any of them to represent us as a nation because candidates rarely tell us what they stand for and plan to do if they win the election; rather they focus on ripping and tearing those who run against them. And we the voters vote not for someone but rather against them.

O God, as we think about mentors, models and examples for our children, what messages are our American politicians giving? How to be childish, dishonest, corrupt, unkind and just plain mean? Whatever happened to "Do unto others as you would have them do undo you?" Our nation is only as good as our leaders and our people. If we follow the current model, then we can imagine more cutthroat behavior in schools, homes, institutions and work places.

I am alarmed by behaviors designed to harm. I am concerned by a growing distrust on the part of other nations toward us and for that matter our mistrust for each other. I am disturbed by good citizens that turn radical because they feel they aren't being represented or cared for by national, state, county and local leaders. We used to be a proud country who truly seemed to care for people at risk. We were looked up to by world leaders. But our standards, ethics, morality and service have slipped and so have we. I am 64; I don't have that many more years to be influenced or impacted by a country in some ways who has gone mad. But my grandchildren have many more before them. Who will positively challenge and inspire them to rightful, meaningful, kind and caring service to their neighbor, be she or he near or far?

I love
my family
and my nation
but who
are we becoming?
What are
we becoming?
Have we forgotten
the good samaritan?
Have we forgotten
how to love
and care
for one another?
Raise up leaders
who are
not afraid
to be
your representatives
bringing love,
moral good,
exceptional character,
integrity and compassion
to the table.
Remind us
that your way
"love your neighbor"
is always
the best way,
I earnestly pray.

Love, Andrea