444 Days

According to my "Bush's Last Day" countdown clock (which was a gift I received from my sister back in January) there are 444 days left in Bush's presidency. For approximately 75% of Americans, this is 444 days too many. According to the most recent poll, Bush's approval rating is a mere 25%. This record low, polled in October 2007 ties with July 2007 - more results (and detailed information) can be found by CLICKING HERE.

I've never been a fan of complaining, without taking action. We can lament all we want about our government, our leaders and public policy. But, like the saying goes, unless we are part of the solution, we are part of the problem. So, if we don't like something, how can we, as citizens, change it? Are we powerless? Is the saying, "You can't fight City Hall" really true?

One of the most powerful ways to contribute as a citizen is by voting. Voting at the polls every election, of course, but also by voting with our consumer dollars. Every purchase you make can either contribute to the greater good or to the further breakdown of our economy or our society. Purchasing goods made in America using American materials, purchasing local produce cultivated by local farmers, purchasing items made by workers who are being treated fairly and being paid a living wage (whether in this country or a foreign country), purchasing products that are made without the use of toxic chemicals or harmful carcinogens and buying products that do not harm animals or the environment are just a few examples. And what about investing our money? Instead of investing in funds that we know nothing about, that typically invest in weaponry (think: war) or dangerous agricultural practices or only serve to perpetuate slavery, war and exploitation in underdeveloped nations, how about investing in some of the "green funds" that promote socially responsible and conscious investing?

And what about other ways we can contribute to society and lobby for change? How about contacting your state representatives, senators, mayor and governor about issues that you care about? Phoning and writing in is often referred to as being an "armchair lobbyist" and I am a big fan of it. When is the last time, if ever, that you contacted one of these people? Remember, they work for you. Whether you voted them into office or not, they won the election and now represent YOU. Make the most of that! Even simply writing a Letter to the Editor of any newspaper or magazine that you read can create an impact. So many people have strong opinions about various articles they read, but never think to actually respond to them in writing.

Be an active part of your community, get involved and raise awareness! One of my favorite quotes is by Margaret Mead:

"Never doubt that a small, group of thoughtful, committed citizens can change the world. Indeed, it is the only thing that ever has."

If you're part of the 75% of polled Americans who don't like what George Bush's administration is doing, then be sure to commit to educating yourself and others about the the candidates for the 2008 presidential election, get involved in the issues and support the campaign of the person you think can best do the job. If we don't learn from our past - and present - history, we are doomed to repeat it.

444 days and counting.............. January 20, 2009 we eagerly await you

For information about socially responsible investing, go to PAX WORLD MUTUAL FUNDS.

To learn about divestment and if your investment firm is funding the genocide in Darfur, please CLICK HERE.

For presidential candidate debates, go to YOU TUBE'S YOU CHOOSE CHANNEL.