Can We Focus?

"Power tends to corrupt, and absolute power corrupts absolutely. Great men are almost always bad men." ~ John Emerich Edward Dalberg Acton

Now that the Republicans have won the majority in the House of Representatives, most Conservative pundits are celebrating what would seem to be a great victory. And, if a Republican victory is all the American people wanted, then there is indeed a reason to celebrate.

But, not so fast, my friends.

As Lord Acton observed, power has a way of staining the most spotless of reputations.

Many a fresh-faced idealistic political hopeful has lost his integrity when faced with difficult choices. There is always a certain amount of compromise in political negotiations. The trick is to stand strong for one's principles in the face of relentless opposition. Can they do that?

I don't know. I hope they can.

I know I seem cynical, but we've all seen this movie before and we know how it usually ends.

I hope I'm wrong. I hope this election was indeed the turning point in history that we all desire.

I hope and pray these new representatives can stave off temptation and stick to their guns. I hope they don't let the old beltway politics get to them.

I was born in Missouri, the show-me state.

I will be keeping a watchful eye on our new representatives, and will not fully relax until they show me they will not be corrupted by their new found power.

Let us celebrate, but let us be wary.

The old guard will not surrender easily.