We Will Continue to Fight for Our Democracy

By Dan Rather, Dan Rather's Facebook Page

27 May 18

espite the storms that rage across our political landscape, despite the threats to the norms of our democracy, our Earth continues on its cosmic dance around our brilliant sun. And the seasons change. The forces of nature are bigger than all of us.

The official start of summer is a few weeks hence, but unofficially many of us are already on its doorstep. We are in what euphemistically we call a "long weekend"- this one of course made so by Memorial Day. For me, it is always a time of churning and mixed emotions. I seek out the cool rivers of the blossoming fishing season. I tune the old radio to the familiar patter of a summer ball game. But I am also aware that this Monday marks a solemn day in our calendar, one in which we should all really pause from our pursuit of pleasure to reflect on those who have died in service to our country.

This year, my shoulders seem to be bearing the added burden of trying to make sense of so much dysfunction. But I am resolute. To the best that I can, I will choose to reconnect with family, nature, and my broader country. I will seek out walks, and books, and chats over perhaps an adult beverage or two with those I love.

Meanwhile, in my thoughts, will be those whose lives were cut short, often in distant battlefields and on far-flung seas. Many died before they could taste much of life. They fought not just for a land, but for all of us - citizens of an ideal as well as a physical home. We can honor them by vowing that we will continue to fight for our democracy, in our own neighborhoods, cities, towns, farms, and country. And especially at the ballot box.

This is a moment of reckoning. It will require vigilance and stamina. But it is summer - a time when optimism seems to be the order of nature.