As I soften my gaze to see the cinnamon-colored hot air balloon rise into the bright blue cloudless sky past the half moon still present in the west, I feel a strong sense of loss and disappointment. Just last evening, a person I had perceived as an intelligent, insightful, and higher-order individual posited an action that is designed to cause civil unrest.
I took an oath 37 years ago to support the constitution when I was sworn into The Florida Bar by a United States District Judge. I have been working within the democratic election system, and recently served Archuleta County as an election judge in this past election. I know how much hard work and commitment election officials and workers put into their jobs, because I am one of them.
I can verify that the rules and regs of the systems; and the dedication and allegiance of those in charge and those following their direction are of the highest integrity. How can I make this assertion? I have been in both leadership and assistant roles in a number of jurisdictions. In addition, in my role as a member of the League of Women Voters I have reviewed systems, written guidelines and procedures, registered individuals to vote, and acted as a poll watcher. The reason I am writing this, is because I am watching and listening to the most bizarre intentional disinformation course of action that I have seen since I have been old enough to vote.
The concern I have is that those people who tout their powers of reasoning, are reasonably educated, and assert their compassionate caring for their families and society have succumbed to being led off a cliff of conspiracy theories that are counterfactual. The rhetoric is ‘lies’…plain and simple. A “lie” is an intentionally false statement. It is not a mistaken fact…It is knowingly premeditated, and designed to deceive in order to gain an advantage. In this case, the advantage is to cause a violent rejection of our electoral process. And, to create chaos. Why? To advance greed and political power. Hence, I’m sad and thoroughly disappointed that some of those who I thought were critical thinkers of high integrity, and ethics, in fact are exhibiting the character of cult-followers.
The first principle I both embody and teach others in my many years of dealing with students is “think for yourself”. We have created a system of laws and a republic that personifies a balance of power. Our branches of government are checks and balances that through our election process is governed by the people. No, it’s not perfect. Then, again, that is why we keep working within the system to make it better. That’s why I swore to uphold our constitution. Where we believe something should be changed, work within the system. Make it happen. Yes, we are sovereign. Act like it.
Remembering the chaos of the 1960’s riots…It is time to GROW UP!
