Bewarethechicken, To some extent, I agree with you. I agree that in a truly democratic society, the people get the government they deserve. However, I disagree that the US has a truly democratic society. In a democratic society, everyone is supposed to have equal access to voting and running for public office. When the average networth of a member of Congress is at least $2.9 million, it is obvious that national office is reserved for a certain group of people. And it is also easy to see how that group of people would find it easy to ignore the needs of the people. (Stat from http://thehill.com/homenews/senate/57139-kerry-issa-harman-most-wealthy-new-kids-of-09-are-rich-kids-too)

Mike, thank you so much for sharing your insight and wisdom! Let's continue to strive to make the ideal real.

Great post Karyn! I love the line "Fear too often guides the U.S. economic policies, upholds the status quo and protects the ones who need the least protection."

I have had that feeling too. That is what advocacy and lobbying is all about. We need to do more of it. It is a beautiful way to share the stories that have impacted us so much and an influential way to use the power that this unjust world has give us. Thanks Karyn.