Make a Resolution to Make a Difference

A new year is just around the corner and it's time to start thinking about new beginnings. How do you want to spend your time next year? Are you happy with the way you spent this one? One urge common to most people is the desire to make a difference in their community. If the recent midterm elections are any indication, Americans are ready to make their voices heard.

Perhaps the Christmas season is influencing my thinking, but one of the most worthwhile things I can think of is something for my community, something that goes beyond food drives and toy collections. I have a few issues that I take personal interest in, and you probably do too. Why not make a resolution to get your thoughts out there and put your energy into something for the greater good. Goodwill towards men isn't only for the holidays. One way to make a difference is to become what I call an armchair activist. You'll be speaking up for what you believe in and that is a powerful start.

First of all, become informed. This takes the least amount of effort but the most time. It's still relatively easy. Pick whatever you're concerned about, say, development in your city, or our rapidly disappearing civil rights. Whatever gets you going. Now soak up all you can on the topic. Do a lot of critical thinking and read other's opinions. Read about your local or national representatives and their positions on your issues. State and federal websites are often good places for information on related studies. Representatives also often have press releases on their sites. Some even have bogs now! Which opens up temptation to simply post comments but to really get noticed we need more than that.

Perhaps most importantly, brush up on government and the legislative process. If I can make it through an hour of CSPAN so can you! Many city councils are also broadcast on cable access or public radio. If you're writing regarding an ordinance in your town you'll have to look into their procedures, usually available through the city hall website. And if you're interested in city hall politics, why not drop by for a session to see it in action?

One thing to remember when studying an issue is to look at things from both sides, with information from sources that are both neutral and pro/con. Beware of information from any political action group, conservative or liberal, that doesn't back up it's findings. Statistics are easy to toss around or manipulate. Do your homework.

You'll need to locate the correct addresses to contact your representatives. Email is considered "second class" mail or spam in many political offices and is sometimes deleted upon reciept. If you want to be taken seriously you have to send a typed and signed or handwritten letter. Handwritten letters are sometimes given more weight. Try to use as many of your own words as possible. If you have a form letter you'd like to endorse, try to rewrite and paraphrase or include personal, relevant, anecdotes. Original letters carry more weight than form letters or postcards.

Personal letterhead is a good idea, even better if it's on good quality stationary. Focus on only one issue per letter and keep it brief to make sure you grab their attention. Wordy letters are more likely to be put aside to be read when there's more time.State your subject clearly in the first paragraph. Again, you have to get and keep their attention. Save the inspiring quotes from Jefferson for your closing. State your position and give 3 - 4 points in support of it. Use clear, concise wording and brief sentences.

Ask your representative for action. Suggest they bring up the issue at the next session. Tell them you look forward to hearing from them. Don't be disappointed if at first your get form letters or something written by a staffer. Eventually your voice will make a diference.

Speaking of voice, remember to keep your tone civil and non-confrontational. We've all read arguments where the author is ranting and practically yelling to get their point across. You want to present yourself as a potential ally, a constituent to be wooed. You don't want to create enemies either. Use firm but cool-headed language. Also, a little praise goes a long way - if there's anything the politician has done that you approve of make sure you express your thanks.

I'm beginning with the aim of writing one letter per month, starting with my local city council. If I begin brushing up now I might have some good arguments and a better grasp of things come January 1st In the past I've sent email, postcards or signed petitions. My research on reaching politicians tells me that those are not the best methods. An old fashioned envelope I had to stuff, lick and walk to the mailbox tells my city council member more than an email petition ever can.

Not everyone can adopt a child in Africa or support groups with money every month. But everyone can write a letter and possibly contribute to better decisions by our representatives. That's a simple resolution that's going to have lasting impact and one that will satisfy those urges to help. Or who knows? Maybe it'll fan the flames. Either way you're going to have an effect and that's something to feel good about.