In the last two Presidential elections it has appeared that, our country and the voters are equally divided. This has seemed to provide an atmosphere of constant battle with so much distasteful rhetoric by individuals, the press, and political leaders. The feelings of freedom to speak and democracy are not always present. One may wish to question if they even exist.

There seems to be a cry perpetuated by flag waving individuals that any one who wishes to question the administration or their policies, is not an American. The attitude is if you cannot support all that this administration says and the policies it promotes, you support the enemy, and you should leave the country.

The real question is where has this attitude come from? What has caused this condition to develop and why. There has always been a strong two party system in this country and yet Republicans and Democrats have always had a respect for one another. Presently there is little evidence of this.

The leaders of all countries have a strong obligation to lead their country and people by example. The speeches by all the leaders in power and the press releases they control are the true value of their leadership. When a country is united and behind their leaders, it then reveals their true leadership abilities.

In order to lead a divided country all elected officials must first recognize the division and address and listen to both sides. The alternative is to ignore the opposition and in a subtle way degrade their views. However, in so doing the division grows deeper and angrier and becomes a threat to the Democracy we all hold and cherish.

The answer to this problem and our only hope is for another election that clearly results in a bigger majority, a shorter campaign time with less rhetoric against each candidate but more about their stance on important issues.

I can dream can't I?

Anne Lebrecht "Memories of a Forgotten Past" "Discoveries of a Hidden Past" http://www.annelebrecht.com

Anne Lebrecht is a best selling author of novels, poetry, short stories and articles. She lives on Balboa Island, California with her husband. They have two daughters and two grandchildren.

"Memories of a Forgotten Past"
"Discoveries of a Hidden Past"
Available at your favorite book stores.

Visit the author at: http://www.annelebrecht.com