Democracy and Discontent

The greatest and most renowned Greek thinkers that we so love to quote did not approve of democracy. At most, they saw that form of government as a compromise, or an impending reality that they had to face. 

Their critique on democratic rule would cause most of us, if we read their work in their entirety and not just pick up snippets of the catchiest quotes or passages, to relent or be repulsed; especially after considering their programs for government.

We live in a democratic country. We love our freedom. We love the idea of a government of the people. But how long must we watch - yes watch - those we elect for being the best of our peers mutilate and pervert every facet of the democratic process? 

Fine, be angry at the ancient philosophers who had little faith. Oligarchy truly looks or does no better. Look at the oligarchs in robes. 

Fine, monarchy looks no better, 

look at the kings and queens who reside at our nation's palace.

But we should not be too angry at those who disapprove of our democracy to the point that we would be willing to say that the ravenous wolves tearing at the seams do not weaken the fabric of our nation. 

Do not close your eyes and look back at the cave of shadows because the light is blinding. 

Do not turn away and cover your ears because the noise is deafening. 

Do not straighten your back and spew out rhetorics because the truth feels like coal in your mouth.

Never condone violence, but never let go of your discontent. 

Discontent not out of jealousy or greed, but that unshakeable discontent borne out of decades enduring wrongs that should never be written into history to look right.