Julia_S

I have always been a "people watcher". In the least sketch ball way possible. I've seen a lot of different people, rich, poor, happy to be alive, taking everything for granted, young, old, powerful, and others who have virtually nothing. I believe democracy was created so that all of these people, no matter how different they are or try to be, have the same amount of voice. Without democracy; the government for the people and by the people, all of these faces I see day by day would be seen in a completely different way. Everyone is different; we were taught that in Kindergarten, so democracy is important, especially in our society because everyone plays a different role. In English class the other day we were discussing what makes a hero and a villain. My classmates and I had to write down examples of people who we thought portrayed these traits. On two separate pieces of paper, I found president Obama's name under both hero and villain. This proves the difference of opinions on a day to day basis and how democracy, like voting, covers up one whole side of conflict. Just because the one side is majority doesn't mean that the other disappears. This is why, in my opinion, people get violent. Majority always rules, and if you're not part of the majority, it just sucks for you. If you sit in the middle of Wickford in the summer, you see the tourists before anything else, masses of people making out well, or at least making it seem like they are, because of their place in the American society. Rich people making bank off others losses. Then turn to the other side of Rhode Island, the cities, the parts we pass when we get lost in providence. I see people trying to get by, raising children in the roughest time to start a career. Still, I bet you that a large portion of them are still smiling. I think it is because of democracy. They all know that because they are an American they have much more opportunity to speak up and change their stars than if they were to live in a different place. Everyone has the chance to speak up and have a life as good as they can. Even if it isn't always that easy, the chance is still there. So, I believe no matter where you are in your life at this point, you shouldn't take anything for granted.

Democracy is not always the best deal for everyone though. It is good at some points and corrupt at others. I look at my parents and my friend's parents trying to get by, but because of our democratic government, it is much harder than it should be in the life of "an American". Then again, look at the people in third world countries and it makes you feel lucky for what you have. I think I should feel lucky, and I try to remind people of this when there are complaints. However, I see all over the news pictures of corrupt political figures and how they are gaining for others disadvantages. In conclusion, I guess you could say that I believe democracy, as an idea, is a phenomenal thing for the working class, but the democratic government makes me afraid for the future. That is what I view it as at this point of my life, being a sixteen year old living in a nice town surrounded by many different people living completely different lives.