I don't want to elect a "Leader"

[SHRED]

I do not want to be lead!

I want to elect a "Representative".
I want to be represented!

So much of our descriptive political wording is messed up.
The word "represent" is what I understand to be our system of government yet the word "leader" is used instead in it's place.

A "Representative" implies someone who will listen to the will of the people. We need that now in terms of health care, energy, education, environment, etc...

A "Leader" implies intractable, entrenched positions, a stubbornness if you will that is fitting more with a King or Dictator. We have that now and look at the shape we are in.

Can we be aware of this please?


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[bdamomma]

1. we should be the leaders they should follow us.

[Peggy Day]

2. Good point! nt

[cali]

3. I want both

I want someone who represents us and who can lead. I don't see that that's contradictory. We need someone who's willing to use the bully pulpit and lead legislative fights while representing the interests of the people.

[SHRED]

5. I do also however...

...the "Representative" aspect is dangerously lacking and/or missing from our collective political consciousness, I believe.

Many people have lost touch with participatory government and now want a King type ruler.
At least that is how I see this Nation.

Times are changing I do believe.
There is hope.
I am just trying to speed up the process.

[Anouka]

4. Leaders listen.

The head bird of a flock in flight looks behind him or herself, taking cues from the rest of the flock.

Good leaders are diplomats, not dictators.

Obama looks to be a very good leader and a very good diplomat. He appears to listen, and respect those with whom he does not agree. He appears sincere in that respect, and in respect of those ideas.

Bush and Cheney have really screwed things up... but bad leadership didn't start with their administration. May I ask, who best represents the qualities you yourself look for in a leader, whether they are still in the running or not?

[Yael]

6. Then you have anarchy. Congress represents us, the President takes the leadership role

of herding cats.