(Nov 4) I am writing this as we are approaching the election week. This is a pivotal election in so many ways – how we as a country demonstrate our “Trust in God”, sustain a democracy that is “of the people, by the people and for the people” and uphold rule of law while also examining those laws and rules that offend our souls. Our vices are many and it became acutely clear in this election cycle – active support of genocide in Gaza, open racism and nationalism in the country, flow of dark money in swaying election and vile, greedy, and uncivil people trying to take on leadership – something that was unthinkable just a decade ago. Alas! How we have changed as a country!!
Having said that, American is still the best of the countries and we not only need to preserve its constitution, democratic institutions and its prized openness to immigration and diversity – all of which are under threat – but also double down on our resolve and effort to protect and guide this country of ours in the coming years and decades, rather than feeling and succumbing to the despair that all is lost. The restoration and recovery of our democracy, rule of law and moral clarity depends on you first and then collectively on each community - all faith groups, liberals and conservative alike, each suburb, each state, and across the nation like winds and clouds bring living-giving rain and fertilization across the plain for all living beings.
(Nov 6) As I am finishing up the short editorial, Republican party will dominate the political landscape at least for the next four years, if not for decades, through various means within the three branches of the government, the media, the churches, the conservative think tanks and businesspeople owners and executives focused on profit over equity and responsible stewardship of our planet. A profound soul searching must start in American and around the world as countries after countries are moving toward more authoritarian government/regimes and corruption, injustice and disregards of basic human rights and safety are increasingly under threat. Abuse of religious teaching to misguide people on one hand and wanton disregard for religious discourse in the intellectual circle are both causes for concern and will prolong any meaningful change. We would hope that our readers and our countryman will come together and continue to steward the country towards democracy and inclusiveness, rather than what many fear now under the new age Republicans.
