marichiko

Let me add one other thing. If our lives are not affected by those whom we choose to lead us (or those who grab power into their own hands), then why is democracy such a sacred ideal? Why bother to go out and vote if the outcome of the elections is meaningless to me and everyone else? A big rationale for the war in Iraq is that we are generously helping the Iraqi people rid themselves of an evil dictator and have free elections. I don't buy this excuse for one moment, but the fact that it is given and that so many people buy into it must mean that people feel the quality of their leadership impacts their lives, and that they have a right to say which individuals will be their leaders. So important is this principle, that people will give their lives for this ideal.

Certainly, we are all responsible for our own individual well-being and happiness, that is why we have the responsibility to uphold the principles of this democratic republic we call the United States of America. In order to ensure my own well being, it is a matter of integrity for me to speak out when I see this country's leadership ignore the democratic ideal for reasons of personal gain and power.

People who state that the government has no impact on their personal lives are being disingenious at best, fools who deserve the government that is coming for them, at worst.