It begs the question what people really want, when an opportunity to discuss aspirations and creative thought degenerates so quickly into bickering, complaining and in-fighting. Is it any wonder that politics of the last several decades has been hallmarked by petty squabbling and insincerity? If the politicians are representatives of the people, they have done a reasonable job of representing their constituents' attitudes, if not their beliefs or needs. What is needed is a dialogue where participants keep their emotions under control enough to think clearly, rationally, and of the overall whole. Yes, we all have things that we want or disagree with. Yes, many of them are disparate and some of them even directly counter what others want. The idea is to find enough common ground that we can look at each other, respect those differences for what they are, and move forward in a manner that benefits everyone in the long-term. Even if the only benefit some see is the freedom to disagree with the direction things are going and move to change directions again. Monotheist, polytheist or atheist; hetero-, bi- or homosexual; radical, moderate or uncertain: we all live under the same government and it is our right and indeed civic duty to help direct that government in a way that provides for not only those we agree with, but for all of our citizens. The argument could be made, in such a globalized culture, that it is even our duty to ensure that our government stands up for the rights of others outside our borders, but how can we set an example for anyone -even our own children- of responsibility and wisdom if we are always limited, nay, governed by the irrational aspects of our humanity.

I, for one, hope to make better use of my time and resources, and encourage those around me to learn and live better today than they did yesterday. I cannot speak for anyone other than myself, but I challenge each of you who reads this to think about the things that you, personally, have done or failed to do that you know you can amend or improve upon and dare yourself to do so. When demanding change of your government, realize that it is dependent on a change in the society as well. If you seek to be understood, it helps immensely to understand others. Take a new perspective on something today than you did yesterday, and try even another tomorrow. Too often do we formulate an opinion on so little information, even with the breadth of its availability in this time of technology.

To the incoming administration: you have made bold steps, thus far, and the people are watching. Many of us are with you, some hesitantly, but we are all both dependent on you and holding you accountable for the decisions made. That you ask the people is a good sign that you are aware of this, but think also of what the people need that goes unsaid. None of us has all the answers, and those that think realize this includes all of you. I bid you good fortunes, for your sake and all of ours, and may the people have the good sense to realize and appreciate the opportunities they have already won.