Tim Samoff // Weblog (old)

September 30, 2004

Religion and politics and personal opinions oh my!

Wise words from my buddy Mordecai (Esther 4:14 ~ The Message):

“If you persist in staying silent at a time like this, help and deliverance will arrive for the Jews from someplace else; but you and your family will be wiped out. Who knows? Maybe you were made queen for just such a time as this.”

“If you decide not to vote, that’s fine, a president will still be elected; but who it is will not be your concern. Who knows? Maybe you were made an American citizen for just such a time as this.”

Last night, we had a great discussion in our small group about politics and the upcoming election — in fact, some of what we all talked about came from the comments of a recent Blog entry of mine. The discussion got heated at times, and it was very introspective at others, but over-all, I think we gave a good go at it (I thank God for the people he has decided to place Julianna and me with!). We talked about everything from abortion (of course) to the separation of church and state — and who is, if anybody, is responsibile for looking after the “moral” affairs of the world. This isn’t our last discussion either, which I am glad for… I am still a bit confused about the two main candidates. It is maddening.

After last night, though, I am even more adamant about the fact that we shouldn’t sit back and do nothing. We need to vote (even if it’s for a write-in). And continuing the conversation is good too — even if you fear embarrassment, rejection, or even persecution… (Or even familial-rifts — just kidding Will and Lisa!)

If anything, I am realizing that this election is causing a lot more than debate and national dissent. America is restive and tense; in politics…in media…in the air.

Voting may be be a priviledge that we take for granted. Or, voting may be an ideal that’s been brainwashed into the American psyche. I don’t know. What I do know is that we were put here to do something.

Posted at 10:59 am

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