Who’s Driving This Thing Anyway?

I will admit, I am not much for politics. I look at the current situation we find ourselves in and then look at the choices we have to deal with it. Democracy has become a lazy system. People like me vote for someone and then do nothing until the next election. We hope that who we vote for will work unsupervised for the next 4 years to solve our problems. Which is working great so far.

When you read each party’s manifesto they all say the right things. All people deserve respect. The economy will be stronger under their plan. Healthcare will be better. Flowers will be brighter and more fragrant. Your favorite sports team will win every game, etc.. So if they are all pretty much saying the same things, what do we do to figure out what works best for us?

Words are easy. Actions are louder. When you measure what they actually do against what they say, you get the reality. So take that measure and hold them to it. If they promise something and don’t do it, call them. Every MLA and MP has a phone number to call. Just because you voted for them, or even if you didn’t, you have the right to ask questions. Find out where they stand on issues, and what they are willing to do. If they’re not doing the job, talk to a different representative. Some might point you in a direction to get heard. Democracy works more the more people work in it. The Canadian system of voting, then complaining to friends and family until it’s time to vote again, is very ineffective. Popular? Yes. Effective? No.

Not everyone will take action. Not everyone needs to. But if something bothers you and you feel your representative should do something, let them know. Hoping you’re disappointed grumbling will make it happen hasn’t been moving mountains. Believe me.

Time to stop expecting government for the people without government by the people. Take part while you still can