Politicking

This last Thursday night I had the opportunity to attend our Republican caucus. It was the first such meeting I have ever been to, and I really didn't know what to expect. I initially thought about attending because I simply wanted to learn more, and my roommate was running for state delegate and wanted me there. Then Elder Cook of the quorum of the Twelve Apostles encouraged us in a CES fireside to attend our caucus. Then (as the final nail in the coffin) there was a letter from the First Presidency in Sacrament meeting last Sunday asking us to participate in such meetings. I'm pretty thick sometimes, but luckily I was paying enough attention this time to know I need to be more involved in the political process.

So what was it like? Well we met at a high school, and there were about 65 of us from our precinct. Our precinct chair ran the meeting fairly well despite the fact that it lasted 2 1/2 hours. We voted for state and county delegates and each nominee was given an opportunity to tell about themselves, followed by a Q&A. It was very educational.

I learned that it is much easier to get involved in politics than I previously thought. Maybe I am still naive, but it seems to me that you don't have to be anything special or have a lot of money to make a difference on a local level.

I learned that there really are a lot more people out there that feel the same way I do about our country than I thought there were.

I learned that there is a spirit associated with politics. You may smirk at that, and think "there sure is a spirit in politics, but not the kind you feel at church...", but I really believe that the spirit of patriotism motivates us to get involved. Can anyone who truly loves our country be indifferent toward the men and women that are chosen to govern its affairs?

Leaving the caucus I felt a desire to do more and know more about what is going on. If you haven't read section 134 of the Doctrine and Covenants lately, I suggest taking some time to study it. What struck me the most was the first verse,

"We believe that governments were instituted of God for the benefit of man; and that he holds men accountable for their acts in relation to them, both in making laws and administering them, for the good and safety of society." Doctrine and Covenants 134:1

If you have any suggestions for me on how to know more or do more, please leave a comment!