Politically Speaking

So I’ve stayed with over 50 hosts at this point, that equates to living with over 150 people I have never met. Living with them for at least a few days. In those few days a lot of insight comes out. I have a hard time summing up what I’m learning about the American people, mostly because it’s coming at me at a rate so fast that it’s hard to process. Half way through I have this remarkable first-hand experience of how Americans live their daily lives, learn about their jobs, hobbies, families, what they value, and the list goes on. I’m seeing the fabric of the country on individual thread at a time of that red, white, and blue flag.

Last night, Larry and I were talking about politics. We discussed how we were raised and how that’s an important factor in our adult lives. We discussed the recent presidents. Larry made a joke that my trip was a big plot to run for president. That after this trip I announce my candidacy. This would be my preliminary campaign. Well, what if it was?

First of all I’m too young, I’d have to be 35. But, even when I turn 35 I should have quite the backing from this trip and more trips like it yet to come. The importance of knowing one’s own country is immense, especially for anyone running for office. After my experience thus far what I feel is lacking in most politicians is exactly what I’m doing. How well do they really know the American public? How well do they relate to someone? I think most people would agree that the majority of politicians are where they are because of who they know, who their father was, their charisma, and other various factors. But once again, how well do they know the American public and each one of those threads. A person can go through the process, study all the books, have the right degrees, know the right people, do the best campaigning, and climb all the way up the ladder. But to me what may be most valuable is their relationship to the citizens and how well they truly know the people.

A politician should stand up for his or her people and represent their views. What better way to do understand that than by living with them. Surely it’s not the only way and I don’t think many people would be up for it. For myself I can say that seeing the country first hand through the lives of other people will make a difference in my life and politicking in a positive way for the rest of my life.