Notes From Jon

I’ve read a lot of comments lately that Barack Obama should start fighting back against buckets of mud being tossed at him by his current political rival, John McCain.  There’s probably the normal amount of mud – I think McCain was just withholding it until after the political conventions last month.  And I’m sure that some mud is being slung out the “back door” of the Obama campaign, as well.  Yet in public, he remains cool and confident.

I’ve watched this election with more interest than any before because it actually seems like people are ready for a change.  Republicans, Democrats, Independents – people seem to be looking for something different.  And political lines aside, I feel like Obama best embodies that idea.  He’s refused to play the game… OK, well, maybe not “refused.”  More like, stayed on the sidelines, with an occasional foray onto the field.  I’m pretty naive at times, but I’m certain that his advisers are telling Obama to “keep the high road.”

But still, he’s shown me hope that things might be heading for a change in our nation’s landscape – no matter who takes office in January.

This is informed by my faith, of course.  I have to have hope that human beings can aspire to improve ourselves and our societies – I need to have hope that God can make a difference in our world, even in the political arena.  But every time I’ve thought, “what would it be like to be in politics?” I hear the instant response from my conscience:

“Impossible.  How could I live as a follower of Christ and “turn the other cheek” when someone slings mud at me and my family?  How could I resist slinging some mud of my own when I get information that might make it easier to get me elected?” I know myself.  I’d make decisions that would override my integrity, if those decisions gave me a better chance of reaching my goal.

I don’t think I could play the political game with integrity.  But I’m glad to know someone can, and I hope he will ignore all those people urging him to do otherwise.