Values, Part 2

Last December, a friend introduced me to this book. My friend is what I consider to be an extremly liberal Chrsitian, so I was surprised when he heralded Jimmy Carter's book as a work of art.

I was only a year old when Jimmy Carter left office in 1981. After reading about his beliefs and values, I wish he could be re-elected today. In a series of essays, he outlines where America has come and where it appears to be going under our current administration. His simple, clear writing stye enables any citizen to grasp a clear understanding of both sides of the issues.

I admire Carter's "spine." I don't meet leaders today that have the ability to speak out publicly about toxic issues -- and do so with authority and respect. He addresses topics such as homosexuality, science and religion, church and state, threats to the environment, and fundamentalism with research and facts. He doesn't fluff the issues; they are laid bare on the table. He disputes the opposition, but without insulting them.

It is interesting to read reviews about the book. I guess he wasn't a popular president. Why? (More research and reading required.) Because he has a heart for humanity and a level head? Because the president before him left the economy rocky and he had to suffer the consequences of it.

One question I have for Mr. Carter: How can anyone get involved seriously in politics with the sense of doom lingering? I can imagine things getting better; being a Christian I recognize both the responsibility of maintaining the planet, but acknowledging is eventual destruction. As a leader, my answer to my own question: its the little things that matter. Like the analogy of the starfish on the beach, making a difference for one life is more important than cleaning the entire beach.

Its the sense of doom that politics instills that keeps me from getting involved, but I still like to be aware. This book opened my eyes and educated me on a few issues I've ignored or hidden from lately. I highly recommend it.