If politics is dirty, it is our responsibility to change it. Only an informed electorate that casts its ballot can ensure that politicians truly govern by the consent of the governed, rather than the few who have the loudest voices or make the largest campaign contributions. In recent decades, fewer than 20 percent of registered voters [in the United States] usually participate in primary elections. When we do not inform ourselves about issues and the differences among candidates, communicate with elected officials, and vote, we have no right to complain about politics. We are part of the problem, because ignorance and apathy are paths of harming.
In mindful gratitude
for such freedom as I have,
may I overcome
ignorance and apathy
and become a force for good.