10/29/2008

'Maybe if I had only…'
Commentary by Bob Lassahn

On Tuesday, November 4, 2008 Americans will be asked to make one of the most important decisions in recent history. On that day they must select the individual who will lead them through the next four years and hopefully, turn around an America that has slipped somewhat from its previous pedestal.
I'm not saying that America isn't a great country, even considering the bumps in the road encountered over these last months. It certainly beats anything else I've experienced as a place to call home during my travels. But there is obviously a need to get back to some basics and stabilize things before they spiral further down the tubes.

The man who will become president will face many challenges. Right now turning the economy around seems to take center stage, but don't forget that America is also at war with a determined adversary. The commander in chief must be ready and willing to face down America's enemies while he concentrates on getting the economy back on track. Don't believe for one second the terrorists pledged to bring down America are about to kiss and make up when the new president is sworn in.

As Americans make their way to the polls, I am confident they are taking the responsibility placed upon their shoulders seriously. That doesn't mean they agree with me regarding my own choice, rather that they have reached their decision based upon careful consideration regarding which candidate they believe is the right man for the job of leading the country.

And yes, I am aware that for some people the "right man" may not be a candidate in this election. Rather, they feel left to decide between the lesser of two evils, or perhaps go for one of the third party candidates, regardless of how slim hope might be for success. The choices are there and each individual is charged with sorting out who will get their vote.

For Marylanders there will be yet another issue taking center stage. Voters will be deciding on a referendum that could bring slots to the state. Passions on both sides of the issue run deep. Whether they are for or against slots in Maryland, it behooves each voter to make sure their opinion counts in the final decision.
If you're thinking about skipping a trek to the polls, I urge you to reconsider. In these troubling times it is important that Americans stand up for what they believe in. Whether the victor will be John McCain, Barack Obama, or even that long shot, third party underdog, there should be a clear message that Americans turned out in force to select their next leader and they believe in his message. He's going to need that support as he moves forward.

Set the alarm clock, rise early, meet and greet your neighbors at the polls…and if so inclined, volunteer your time to work for a candidate. Win or lose, you will have the satisfaction of knowing you contributed to these important decisions. The absolute worst thing to do is awake on November 5 and think, "maybe if I had only…"