Movement prompts discussion

Fear the Occupy Wall Street movement? Regardless of your party/beliefs, you should pay attention. It’s a wake-up call about how America is becoming a second-rate country because of both failed citizenry and leadership (business and Congress). Real democracy isn’t easy.

Our focus on “winning at all costs” overlooks a responsibility to each other in managing a democracy. We’ve become unaccountable – concerned only with self-interest, profit and blame.

Leaders don’t lead. They don’t courageously share truths, provide vision and bring disparate viewpoints together in compromise for solutions. They blame, delay, obfuscate, manipulate – constantly protecting themselves.

Nor do citizens engage respectfully or seek with open minds the whole truth – based on facts, not ideology. Our electorate has abandoned its role and responsibility to be active, informed watchdogs of freedoms so long taken for granted.

We are spoiled by what previous generations did and have no recollection of our history or the involvement required to defend rights and freedoms.

Money and influence controls everything – divides us and punishes reasonableness. Let’s be honest about where we are, respect each other, come together, and stop playing victim.

Here’s hoping the Occupy Wall Street movement stimulates real, respectful and effective discussion. Once and for all.

Michael Quick

Newport, Wash.