06/09/2024
The "Great" Driveway Democracy
Hmm, June 2024—by-election time in Chestermere—when the tranquility of our small city is upended by the whimsical dance of democracy in its most “streamlined” form. While some towns and cities might “waste” precious hours on debates and policy discussions during elections, here in Chestermere, we've elevated the electoral process to an art form. We, the residents, have honed the ability to choose our leaders based on the fleeting magic of a handshake and the visual delight of a well-placed sign.
Let’s be honest, dear Chestermere citizens, it’s not ONLY the candidates who’ve simplified this process—it's us. We’ve collectively decided that the best way to gauge a candidate’s suitability for office is through a 20-second driveway interaction. Why bother with in-depth scrutiny when we can be swayed by a confident smile and a promise to “make things better” as we take out the trash or mow the lawn?
Consider the scene: A candidate approaches, their aura of earnestness palpable, and within mere seconds, some of us nod approvingly, perhaps even enthusiastically. “Yes,” we think, “this person, who I’ve known for less time than it takes to boil an egg, will lead our city to greatness.” And why wouldn’t we? In Chestermere, the true measure of a candidate’s competence is their ability to deliver a compelling pitch in the time it takes for a garage door to close.
And oh, the signs! Our streets become a vibrant gallery of electoral ambition, each sign a testament to our civic pride and discernment. We've decided that the sheer quantity of signage is a more reliable indicator of a candidate’s potential than any tedious debate or policy proposal. After all, if a candidate can dominate the landscape with their name, surely they can handle the complexities of municipal governance, right? But here's a thought, Chestermere: If signs equaled success, would we even need elections? Maybe we could just vote for the candidate with the shiniest smiley face sticker!
Who needs 1:1 interviews where candidates sit down and engage in deep, meaningful debate? That’s so overrated, right? Why “waste” time on lengthy discussions when we have the “brilliant” format of electoral debates where candidates are simply asked YES or NO questions? It’s so much more efficient, right? Yes or No—how delightfully comprehensive! After all, a two-year-old can answer YES or NO as well, right? Why should we demand more from those aspiring to lead our city, right?
We, the residents of Chestermere, have perfected the art of passive political participation. We’ve traded the rich dialogue of a healthy democracy for the convenience of quick interactions and the allure of catchy slogans. And why not? We’re busy people with lawns to mow and garages to organize. Who has time for the cumbersome task of holding our candidates accountable or understanding their policies in depth? Because really, who has the time for all that political stuff anyway? I mean, there's Netflix to binge-watch and snacks to devour. Who cares about the future of our city when there are new episodes to stream? Priorities, people!
To those who think they can live in a bubble of indifference and mediocrity, believing that their vote doesn't matter or that they're too busy—wake up! Whether you like it or not, the outcomes of these elections will impact your life in one way or another. It's not enough to shrug it off and say, “This is not my business.” The decisions made by those we elect affect us all, shaping our community and our future. Oh, and yes, your pocket as well, dear neighbor. Sorry for interrupting you from your movie-watching marathon. My bad, eh! After all, who needs to concern themselves with the intricacies of civic duty when there's a remote control to conquer and popcorn to inhale, am I right?
Instead of lamenting the state of affairs after the fact, be a responsible voter and citizen NOW. Get informed, ask questions, demand substance from your candidates, and push for real debates—1:1 formats where they can prove their worth beyond a handshake and a lawn sign. Our democracy, here in Chestermere, deserves more than a superficial glance; it requires our full attention and active participation.
Oh Canada, as we stand in the glow of our “efficient” electoral process, we must remember the greatness of Canada that was built on the sacrifices of those who fought for our right to vote - for your right to vote. Democracy is not just a right; it is a responsibility that demands our engagement and effort. The freedom to choose our leaders came at a high cost, and it is up to all of us to honor that sacrifice by keeping our democracy healthy and vibrant for now and for the future.
But beware, for complacency is the silent killer of freedom, and in the absence of vigilance, the seeds of tyranny take root.
Oh,...,and remember, young folks, if voting really didn't matter, they wouldn't make it so hard to get a good selfie in the ballot booth!
IF YOU CARE, DON’T JUST STARE,
LIKE & SHARE EVERYWHERE!
Yours in good humor,
Mr. Green
