Beyond Just Mom

I admit, I’ve been obsessing a bit about the big election.  I might be getting too involved.  And today, my hope surged with the speeches I heard.

What, you ask?  This election?  For president?

Yes. 

For president of student council at my son’s elementary school. 

Eleven fourth and fifth grade girls and boys—like a little United Nations of european, african american, middle eastern, latino and asian descent—bravely stood on stage, announcing their plans to a tough crowd of over 300 students.   

The campaign themes were universal:  

Better food in the cafeteria.  More playground equipment.  Making school more fun for all. 

No false promises were made, for the sponsor insisted any “I will. . .” be changed to “I will try. . .”  And at least half finished with “I’m ____, and I approve this message”–today’s required ending to any political statement. 

I was struck by the timelessness of the whole scene.  I think I gave the same speech decades ago.  I was also moved by the earnestness of each candidate. 

These ten year olds aren’t cynical.  They really believe they’re going to improve the food in the cafeteria and make school more fun.  Questions of motivation, corruption, pandering, and fact checks aren’t even on their radar.  They just think it would be fun to be president.  Simple democracy at its best.

When my son (one of the candidates) left home this morning, I felt so nervous for him.  I worried about the implications of this big event on his fragile ego.  But he said, “It’s okay mom, if I don’t win, I’ll just try for class rep.”

There it was, right in front of me.  A hope for change that we can believe in. 

For our youth, the future is bright and the journey goes way beyond this election. 

May we keep that childlike optimism through this crazy season.