There's a wonderful scene in the movie WILLY WONKA & THE CHOCOLATE FACTORY, where the charismatic and quirky Willy Wonka (played to perfection by Gene Wilder) sings that "if you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it; anything you want to - do it! Want to change the world? There's nothing to it..."
As I child, I loved this film. I connected to the story of the innocent and untainted Charlie Bucket. Charlie, a boy of meager status, found pleasure in life's simple things. He only wanted health and safety for his family, happiness, and maybe the occasional chocolate bar. Who can't relate to that? Isn't that all anyone really wants - to have their basic needs met, and if possible, maybe an occasional treat? The story of Charlie Bucket plays out as a parable against wanting too much; greedy children are quickly dispatched away, as there is no room for those who want more than their share. The moral of the story is that good things come to those who wait and that diligence and perseverance will be rewarded; in the end, this proves true as Charlie has all of his wishes fulfilled.
Today is Super Tuesday - the Primary Elections - in what will prove to be a historical election year, no matter which side you're viewing it from. This morning, as I cast my own vote, I couldn't help but hear Gene Wilder's voice ringing in my ears - "Want to change the world? There's nothing to it!" Indeed, in a time where our society seems to be unraveling from the very fiber of it's being, we are at a crossroads in politics. Don't like the status quo? CHANGE IT! It would seem that, much like Charlie Bucket, the world is our oyster - simply waiting for us to make our decisions on how we'd have it play out.
We see the world for what it is. The beauty of our world is that it's different from every angle. Your perspective may be totally different from mine - and that perspective colors your decisions. So, that's why Super Tuesday is so important....literally, the future of our country rests in the decisions that you make. We determine where we go!
Don't like the war in Iraq? Voice it! Want Gay marriages? Voice it! Need healthcare reform? Voice it! Want stronger public schools? Voice it! Whatever your issue, whatever your cause, whatever your concern - VOICE IT!
"If you want to view paradise, simply look around and view it; anything you want to - do it! Want to change the world? There's nothing to it..."
I couldn't agree more, Mr. Wonka.
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