BTN Record Numbers for Democracy 11/05/2004

[Beyond The News]

November 05, 2004 Record Numbers for Democracy —David Aikman The presidential campaign has tested everyone's patience and good will. But on Tuesday, November 2nd, Americans in greater numbers than ever before had access to an awesome privilege: the right to select their leaders. Think about that. For most of human history ordinary people were governed by kings, queens, dictators or a privileged clique of aristocrats. Two centuries ago we initiated a process that has stood the test of time. Of course, we've had a hiccup or two, most recently in the 2000 election in Florida. But by and large it works so well that it's been replicated from Afghanistan to Zambia. Before we utter a curse on all politicians let's be grateful that we have the right to select them. It's awesome. David Aikman is a veteran journalist and the chairman of Gegrapha. David Aikman is the author of A Man of Faith: The Spiritual Journey of George W. Bush. If this commentary was forwarded to you, sign up for your own free subscription. Beyond the News Commentaries go past today's headlines to give you concise and penetrating insight into the most pressing challenges facing our culture today. BTN commentaries cover everything from politics to popular culture, from faith to international relations and family values to the progress of the war on terrorism. You are receiving the email because you have subscribed to this list. If you would like to remove yourself from this list, please use the following link and you will be removed immediately! Thank you! Copyright 2004 Beyond The News TM Find The Love of Your Life Today Do You Have An Ugly Website? An Old-Fashioned Win [Washington Post] Election 2004 Results [Yahoo News]