Reflections on Election 2011
May 03, 2011 | Author: Harold Ludwig |
While much of the world’s attention was focused on the dramatic news about the killing of Osama Bin Laden in Pakistan, millions of Canadians exercised their democratic right to cast votes for parties and candidates they wished to support.
The final result was a much-vaunted Conservative majority, a NDP official opposition, a decimated Liberal rump, as well as the virtual elimination of the Bloc. In addition, the election of a Green Member of Parliament for the first time, thus showing there is some room for a small party to succeed in spite of the first-past-the-post system.
Congratulations to all those who were elected and we wish them well as they seek to represent their constituents and govern the country on behalf of all its citizens.
Regardless of the outcome, the day after an election is a time for reflection and thanks.
On behalf of the leadership of this party, I want to pay a special word of tribute to our National Leader, Jim Hnatiuk, for his efforts in leading the party in preparing for this election and for his work during the campaign.
We also want to acknowledge those who held up the needs of the party in prayer, for without that all of our efforts are in vain.
Our heartfelt thanks go to all of the candidates, their supporters, those who contributed their time, their money, or other resources, as well as those who actually cast their votes for a responsible alternative.
As well, a word of thanks is due to our Elections Chair, Vicki Gunn, who stepped into the breach on very short notice and who worked tirelessly to deal with the minutiae of a campaign as well as representing the party in her own riding.
As we take stock of our involvement in this election, it’s good to pause and reflect on the positives of our participation.
In at least forty-six ridings across this country, voters had an option to vote for a candidate and a party that stands on unalterable principles and that put forward a platform of better solutions for the governing of Canada.
It gave an opportunity for those who wanted to vote for a pro-life candidate and party to cast their votes in good conscience, knowing that we would never abandon our position for strategic gain.
We were able to demonstrate that there are still many principled people who are not afraid to speak up for the truth or to remind other voters that they do have a principled option in CHP Canada.
As we go forward, we can be inspired by the prayer and devotional update published by our National PEP Director, Eric Pennings, on election day.
The title of it is “Following God’s Will . . . As it is in Heaven” and in it he refers to the prophet Jonah who cried out to the Lord in the midst of his distress.
He, like us, had to learn to look to the Lord to solve his problems here on earth. He had to learn that God has his plans and we have to listen carefully so that we know how we must respond.
In the meantime, we must keep the faith and remember that this is not about looking after our own interests or promoting our own agenda.
As the angels in heaven do God’s bidding, let us remember here on earth to do the same, through whatever means he gives to us.
The last sentence of the devotional summed it up very well: “As we seek to follow God’s will for a society in Canada that is consistent with God’s will, let’s remember the example of the angels and strive for His will to be accomplished regularly, entirely, sincerely, willingly, fervently, wholeheartedly, immediately, and constantly.”Other Commentary by Harold Ludwig: