I heard on the news last night that 78% of Americans believe that we’re heading in the wrong direction as a nation. I wondered, what do the other 12% of Americans see that I don’t see? Do they believe that we should leave things as they are because we’re reaching our goals as a nation? On what front are we succeeding? In the news report, they asked some of the 12% why they believed we’re doing well as a nation. To me, their answers revealed that they were detached from the issues. They didn’t address specific problems like the war, the economy, or healthcare. They commented on their belief in the American people to lead us out of the problems we’re currently facing. So, they didn’t deny that our country is doing badly; instead, they embraced the hope that the enduring American spirit will lead us to victory.
As I listened to one responder and then another, I heard something else. I heard their fear. Like many of us, they were afraid of potential job loss. One responder was a tool sales-representative. He convinced himself that sales would remain stable because more people fix than replace machines during economic downturns. But, not if they can’t afford to. Another responder expressed faith in himself that his skills would remain valuable to the company he has served for years. But, not if the company doesn’t have customers. Except for putting their heads in the sand, I don’t think they’re different from anyone else who fears the economic conditions of our time, let alone other national issues.
It seems, then, that more than any other time in our nation, the American people agree that we’re heading in the wrong direction. But, let’s be fair: if we also listen to the 12%, then we will remember that the American spirit is still alive. We may be embarking on a dark path, but there is a light at the end of the tunnel. Let’s just hope it isn’t a train. The difference between the 12% and the 78%, is found in what we’re prepared to do to turn this country towards prosperity, success and well-being. We can be inspired by the 12% and their faith in the American spirit, but I’m discouraged by their personal focus on their own needs, as if plugging away at the American ideal of work and faith could carry the day. The American dream was founded on work and faith but not without acknowledging the reality of the times. Selling machine tools will put bread on the table, but not for long. Eventually, the 12% will have to acknowledge the crisis that is jeopardizing the means for that bread to be on that table.
The 78% of the nation who feel that the country is heading in the wrong direction is also encouraged by what the vote on November 4th will mean. Change is coming. I know that some of you are worried about which change is coming. Rest assured, two men of great skill and devotion for our country are on the threshold of leading us into what we hope, together, will be a new beginning to the 21st century. No one wants to continue on the current path. Fears that once focused our rapt attention on the White House must be transformed into the American-will and restore our individuality and hope for the future.
As Election Day nears, fear and anxiety are the result of Hurricane Ike, a downturn in the economy, and insecurity about the future. The emotional and physical effects of recent months are feelings shared by 100% of Americans. No one wants to continue down the path we’re on. The next President will be challenged by the monumental task ahead of him. Working for him and for us is the enduring American spirit that sees the world as it is, and transforms it into what it ought to be. Not only is it the American spirit, it’s also the Jewish outlook. God placed us in charge of all that God created. Let’s be good stewards of our nation and its impact on the world of nations. Let’s begin on November 4th, no matter the results, to put bread on everyone’s table, to secure our futures, and to leave the world a better place for our children and their children. That’s the American way. That’s the Jewish way. Let’s begin together.
After the election is over, it’s time for Shabbat. Next Friday night, November 7th, we will celebrate Shabbat Shira, Shabbat music at its best for everyone to enjoy. Come and worship, sing and dance!
From my desk to yours, Shabbat Shalom.
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