I'm on a political kick. Perhaps its because it's such an important time in our country, and having studied it much, I feel that. Perhaps it's because I know this election season is my oldest children's first "test run" before they are old enough to take this God-given priviledge of voting to heart and do it themselves. I believe that the ability to vote on issues, laws, and principles in this country is God's way of giving us a "written test". Think about it...what you vote for is truely what you believe in your heart (or it should be). You can't vote for gay marriage if you disagree with it. You couldn't vote to keep gays from marrying if you felt it was their right...so voting is a true measure of what you have in your heart. I think it's a way that the Lord gives to us to share our inmost thoughts and feelings...by what we choose to allow to happen with our votes, in the communities where we live, and in the people we choose to lead and direct our nation. I want my children to know this and understand the importance of the privilege of voting our conscience...not with the popular wave, or what another would want them to vote. But from their hearts.

I also feel this because I see in my own family a quiet malaise. They aren't interested in hearing about this. They don't want to talk about the issues. A few want the whole thing to go away. I think this is why we have clods in Washington...people don't really do their homework, they just vote for someone who they've heard of, or some one who's TV ads they like. I don't want to do that. I'd like to be sure that I've done my best to try to put great leaders in. If I stand alone, I stand alone. I don't mind being a patriot. I love being an American with this ability to voice my preferences, and choose my public servants. I'll try to do what's right...no matter how busy I am or how little I think my vote will matter in a nation this size. It matters to me, my children, my nation, and my God. And, besides, when things go in the "pooper", I'll know I tried to make a difference. Sincerely trying matters.

Today is Super Tuesday for many states. Not mine. I'm pleased some of my friends are sitting in polling areas today volunteering their time in their states. How lucky they are to watch history as it happens, and to be an active part of this Constitutional right! I hope they have a fun day!! Many others are making phone calls on behalf of candidates, or standing in bad weather to be sure to get their votes in. Horray for the priviledge to CHOOSE our leaders! Many have died for this right, and I'm excited for those that honor this by doing all they can to keep this freedom alive.

Another thing I know is that many are still confused on who they'd like to support for President. Of course, this is only one of many voting issues. But, at this time, it's a big one. I'd like to share something that was in a NE paper a couple of weeks ago. It shows the character of Romney. I think what a person does on his "day off" or "Sabbath Day" gives some insight into their character. Mitt didn't have to go to church...he wasn't home, and no one would know if he decided to sleep in during this busy time in his life. But, this is one man's experience with him...

Published: Sunday, January 20, 2008
Romney visit to church a memorable experience

On Sunday, Jan. 6, as I do every Sunday, I attended the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints on Concord Street. It was the Nashua 2nd Ward's fast and testimony meeting. On the first weekend of every month, Mormons traditionally abstain from food for 24 hours, then at the conclusion of this fast we attend our meetings. From the money we save from not eating, we're encouraged to donate generously to the poor among us. This meeting is called a 'testimony meeting' because anyone feeling prompted can rise to the podium to speak. It's certainly a unique and sometimes unpredictable meeting.

As Bishop Spenser was welcoming the congregation, I happened to glance behind me. I was astonished to see Mitt Romney and an aide quietly walk in and sit down. I had just watched him on Fox News Sunday minutes before.

After the passing of the sacrament, the bishop opened the microphone to the congregation. During this hour-long meeting, about 12 to 15 adults and children spoke. Romney sat through the rest of the meeting and listened graciously. At the conclusion, he walked to the foyer where many greeted him and wished him well.

I will always remember this Sunday's meeting for what did and did not happen. What amazed me was that during the meeting no one, including the bishop, mentioned or made reference to our important visitor. And unlike Mike Huckabee, who was preaching a sermon somewhere in New Hampshire on 'Becoming an Army for Christ,' Romney chose not to speak but rather chose to simply listen respectfully to the impromptu speakers.

I think this experience is significant for two reasons. First, it is a good example of how the culture in the Mormon Church clearly respects the separation of religion and politics. Second, I also respect and admire Romney's choice not to arise and address the congregation. His quiet reverence said a lot more about who he is and what he values. He was just one of us. Lastly, as the bread and water was quietly being passed, I couldn't help but glance over at him a time or two. I saw his head bowed, his eyes closed and his hands resting on his lap.

As we sat solemnly amidst the quiet, I wondered what was going on in the mind of someone seeking the highest office in the land. I thought of all the criticism from the media questioning his integrity, calling him a liar and flip-flopper. I thought of Huckabee's campaign manager wishing to kick his teeth in. I thought of vicious attacks on his character from everywhere and wondered how he could and why he would endure such disparagement.

When the meeting was over, I couldn't get near him so I approached his aide, who was standing at the door, and shook his hand. After a few words, he grabbed Romney's arm from behind and said 'gotta go.' Standing in the way, I moved aside to let Romney by. As he passed, he turned and extended his hand to me, he looked me square in the eye and smiled as I smiled back. And then I knew. I knew exactly how he got his strength and I knew exactly why he was doing this.

Mitt Romney has been blessed with great, great ability and talent. Our nation has critical problems that all seem to be reaching a tipping point at the same time. Consider the coming insolvency of Social Security, our unmanageable $8 trillion debt, the forthcoming economic tests from China and India, the illegal immigration challenge to our sovereignty, the Islamic extremists who want to harm us, our dependency on foreign oil, and the crisis in education and health care.

Have we ever had more of a need for an honest, competent, compassionate, think-out-of-the-box problem solver? Can you honestly say in your heart that any other candidate, or even any other American, is more qualified to lead us through all these challenges?

Even if you disagree with some of his political positions, consider what it would mean to America's youth and future if someone of his competence, principles and character occupied the Oval Office. Certainly, one can look back at the last two administrations and see the consequence of what the lack of competence has meant during the last seven years and what damage the lack of character and principles did during the previous eight.

Mitt Romney is not doing this for himself. He's doing this because we need him to. Our children and grandchildren need him to. He's our last hope if this country is to survive, then thrive, once again. I know the New Hampshire primary is over. I get a feeling though that you'll have a chance to vote for him once again.

Paul Yarmo
Hudson

Thanks Kelly for sharing this. Now, go vote!