The Reaction: A bit about activism

By Carol Gee

Note: This was originally cross-posted at S/SW on 10/29. The buzz of the moment kept me from posting it here back then. Most of the ideas still apply.

There is no time like the present -- to be an active citizen for the good of the country. Here are some of the more obvious things you might consider doing:

Vote if early voting is available in your state. Offer to take someone from your neighborhood or workplace with you to do the same.

Go to your candidates' websites and make your presence known there. Write a note of encouragement, make a donation, or fill out a poll form on issues of importance to you.

Visit your party's headquarters. Pick up some election souvenirs, or make a purchase.

Write a letter to the editor of your local paper. Express your opinion in good form and it might get published.

Switch channels on TV to avoid getting too exorcised by idiots. Guard your peace of mind during these tough times.

Leave an encouraging comment at a blogsite whose author is feeling very "down and discouraged." Think about doing that for some thoughtful Republican writer, with an eye to unity, bipartisanship and reconciliation. These are very difficult times for Republicans, after all. Be magnanimous if you can.

Continuing with this week's tidbits on activism -- First, thanks to the Internet, the truth gets out.# Count your blessings as an American for your Internet freedoms.* And count the days# (82) until Bush moves out of the White House. Remember that we will soon be free of campaign advertising. It is likely, however, that we will not be free of endless news about the sad state of Republican affairs. That will continue. Please note that most Americans are good and principled people,* and that we still have our senses of humor.# It is heartwarming also that all rich men are not greedy, including T. Boone Pickins and Warren Buffett. Anyone have any good ideas for more things activists can do this week?

Bonus reads: