Jack Levine  of 4Generations Institute

Now It's Time to Unite and Work Together

On this early morning after Election Day, I am motivated to send this message to you.  While the final results of all elections are yet to be certified, I think it's important to connect with you on a few core ideas.

{sidebar id=1}Whether you're feeling exuberantly celebratory or sadly shell-shocked, I think you'll agree with me that it's time to unify and pledge to work together across the political spectrum to create a positive future.

I've been through many victories and disappointments in observing politics for most of my life, but I hold to my belief that all candidates deserve to be honored for their willingness to run for office.  How few among us is courageous enough to step across the line and commit to being a candidate.  Representative democracy depends upon those who consider elective public service as an important expression of leadership.  While I may disagree with some of their policies, I never forget to thank them for their willingness to serve.

While some of us take the step of congratulating the victors, how many of us send messages to those who were defeated... this time around?  I urge you to let those who did not "win" know that their effort is appreciated.  Please remember that many candidates do choose to run again, and today's "loser" may well be a "winner" in the future.

Every election is a multiple choice test... the candidates are the focus of attention, of course, but what amazes me is how many qualified citizens choose to let others make the decisions. To me, not voting is the most inexcusable act of neglect in a democracy.  While this year's turnout seems to be a record-breaker, there are still many who can be convinced to participate in the future.

One ideal for all of us to strive for, no matter our political leanings, is to inspire greater participation in our process of government at all levels.  Informed voting is one step, but keeping in touch with our public officials is a key to effective advocacy.  Winning an election is only the first step in public service.  Acting to bring positive change is the job description for all of us, and each of us is obligated to be vocal advocates for the policies and programs we believe need attention.

Anonymity is the antithesis of effectiveness in a democracy. Knowing our elected officials, and having them know us, is our obligation and greatest opportunity to exercise influence.

I am committed to be in touch with you as opportunities arise to send new messages and develop new partnerships.  There are strategies to develop, skills to hone, and plans of action to be implemented.  We have work to do and challenges to face.

{sidebar id=1}I always welcome hearing from you. Please let me know how I can be of assistance in pursuit of mutual goals for our families and community.

As an advocate, I'm dedicated to assist those whose mission is creating better policies and more accessible programs to meet the needs of those who count on us... across the generations.  With the challenges many face in economic and emotional terms, now seems to be the time for creative approaches and cooperative activities.

To help reach community and organizational goals, I'm available to deliver keynote speeches and lead strategy seminars on a diversity of topics for professional and partnership development.  Consider inviting me to inspire and empower at an event you are involved in planning. You can find my bio sketch at http://www.4gen.org .  Click to the link under my photo.  A reply to me will get us in touch to discuss options and opportunities.

Three of my favorite new quotations... Please send me of few of yours!

"Pessimism leads to weakness, optimism to power.”  Henry James, American Author

"The average pencil is eight inches long, with just a half-inch eraser - in case you thought optimism was dead."  Robert Brault, American Business Leader

"How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world."  Anne Frank, Teenage Diarist and Holocaust Victim (1929-1945)

Finally... I found an organization and website with the mission of teaching children how to be philanthropic and community-involved.  http://www.learningtogive.org   Please visit the site and tell me what you think!  The future is in our and in our children's hands!

Please remember to enter my correct e-address jack@4Gen.org in your directory.  My old e-address jack.levine@comcast.net will soon be history!

All my best!

Jack
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Jack Levine, Founder
4Generations Institute
850.567.5252
Jack@4Gen.org (note new e-mail)
http://www.4Gen.org
P.O. Box 10875
Tallahassee, FL 32302
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This article originally published on November 5, 2008.

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mkwestmark

 

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