Aug 31, 2008 | 8:44 pm
Lesser of Two Evils
I have a favor. Please, for the next two months at least, please don’t use the phrase “lesser of two evils.” I’ve heard it every four years in terms of the election of our President since 1992. I don’t want to hear it this year. I’ll tell you why, and then I’ll tell you some things I think are better things to say.
To say that either person is a “lesser of two evils” is thin and shallow. In order to say this, one would have to believe that intelligent, respected leaders are somehow evil. How can either of these individuals, Obama and McCain, be evil? I just don’t buy it - and it shows incomplete and erroneous thinking.
If you believe that the American political system is evil - well, boo. I don’t think that you are giving credit to a system that has developed over 200+ years. I don’t believe our system is perfect, and if it’s perfect you want, get more involved, run for office, and do your best. Guess what? Perfect doesn’t exist at schools, at home, in yourself, and certainly not your government. Get over that excuse and start making change happen yourself. (I encourage you to read my friend Rhonda’s blog on this issue)
Here’s some ideas of things I’d love to hear. Let me know if any resonate with you:
- I loved that debate - although I didn’t hear where they differed on a particular issue, I got a better sense of how they make decisions.
- That ad, even though I want to vote for him, was very negative against his opponent and I don’t like that kind of campaigning.
- I believe that ______ shares my point of view, and I want a President that agrees with me.
- I know what it is about ______ that I don’t like. I wasn’t sure before, and now I realize that his/her stance on this issue is too extreme for me.
- I am really excited to have _____ in office. I can’t wait to have a (ex-POW/great orator) in office.
Whatever you choose, CHOOSE IT.
And please VOTE.
Truly Yours,
Joseph Lyons