Proverbs 29:2

Here we are in the year 2008, another presidential election soon to be upon us. If you are like me you may feel bombarded by all the political propaganda. You may have already decided on who you are voting for, and the negative ads against that person provoke negative feelings, or you may find yourself arguing with those of a different view point. How should we make the decision of who we vote for? Should we believe the ads we see on tv, radio or in the newspaper? Should we just not vote? I would argue that not voting is not the best choice. We need to take our voting rights serious and study the issues and the candidates, but how? What do we look for? Who do we believe? I want to pose an idea? Take some time to study the candidates lives? Have they lived a life of virtue and honor? Have they lived a life of principle? Proverbs 29:2 reads,

"When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice; but when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn."

If we reflect back on history a moment we can find that to be true. How was life under Hitler? What about under Abraham Lincoln? One defended freedoms, another used force and control. Do we want the next leaders of our country, states, and towns to rule by controlling us, or defending our freedoms?

Let's reflect back on the word righteous. If we replace "the righteous" with "those who lived principle based lives" we can get a different perspective. True principles are taught in many cultures and religions. True principles do not change because one is Muslim, Jewish, Buddhist, or Christian. Honesty is always honesty, patience is always patience, peace is always peace, integrity, fidelity, responsiblity, perseverence, charity, these are all universal principles.

Let's take these universal principles and see how those who wish to be in political positions live them. Not just in public, but maybe, may I suggest more importantly, in private.

Thank you for taking the time to visit my blog today. I hope that things that I have shared today have been inspirational. My hope is that we can all continue to learn and practice true principles enabling us to live a happier, more peaceful life.

Until next time,
Daneece