Reply #4: I'll miss your posts Beachmom. (Don't stay away too long!)

[MH1]

I can understand a lot of what you write. I've backed off blogging quite a bit myself, not for exactly the same reasons, but it seems clear to me that the role that we played in 2005 - 2008 isn't quite as relevant or needed anymore, so I'm less motivated for blogging and other things tend to take priority.

As to Kerry, I guess I have always seen him as a politician. One of the better ones, overall; but also with moments and issues where he clearly outshines in understanding, vision, and integrity. Then there are moments where I shake my head and say, "well he is a politician, after all." The political world royally sucks for getting anything sensible done, and in one sense I am thankful for the John Kerrys of the world who will put themselves and their ideals through that special hell. But then at other times I grind my teeth and wonder why they can't be better?

I would disagree with one statement you make: "those who have career ambitions have to make compromises that most of us would not make". I guess I have a more cynical view of humanity - I think most people do make those kind of compromises when their jobs or the security of the world they know is at stake. I try not to, and I think many of us here really try not to, but to be honest, if I have to take care of my family then I will be watching out at my job and make sure I toe the line at certain critical points. If the line isn't where I want it to be I will most likely adjust my thinking so that I can find it okay. Also, politics is, as Wellstone often quoted (Bismarck, I think) "the art of the possible". If what's possible is only a tiny bit of what is needed, it is still better than nothing .. maybe. Usually, people of good will could disagree whether what was possible was really better than nothing. So some might see it is a bad compromise, others might see it as worthwhile.

Ah well, so it goes. I am sure you will make some good contributions as "a well informed and engaged citizen" - we definitely need a few more of those. I hope we will keep in touch and hopefully we will see you blog occasionally too. You do blog very well. :)