The news that our PM is stepping down has drawn the full range of opinions from across the country. Most of what I've seen and read support this decision - with comments spanning supportive and happy of the decision to full attacks from the further right of centre (and from the left of centre as well).
Why is it that some within the populace can spew such vitriol on a single individual? While I don't support much of what our current government has done, I can also say I'm not overly excited at the prospect that any of the other options would be any better at representing my specific needs or views.
Do the centrists out there feel like there is no one to represent their views? Values? Goals for the future?
Over the holiday break, I was sitting down to lunch with some family and the topic of politics came up. After much discussion regarding the state of democratic rule in Canada (and the US as well), I made the statement that "we let it happen." While this statement will likely be viewed as 'idealistic', I do believe that our elected officials should represent their constituents, not just the wealthy, the powerful, the one-percent, everyone.
Perhaps our current version of democracy is broken?
I'm curious if there is a way back. I would like to believe that there is a group of individuals that have had enough of the attacks, the hate, the us vs. them zero-sum game that we are currently playing. According to the sources I dug up, it was Margaret Mead that said "Never doubt that a small group of thoughtful, committed, citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."
I believe there a place for technology to help us back to a place where democracy, energized debate and representative government can overcome half-truths, hate and divisiveness. It's on my list. I'll keep you posted.