Fellow Petitioners, On December 19th, as electors gathering in state capitals to cast their votes for President, I made a pilgrimage to the birthplace of our country’s electoral process: Independence Hall in Philadelphia. I was deeply moved, standing in the exact spot where both the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. The room is a noble yet humble space, befitting our principled and practical Founders. Some of the original furniture and fixtures endure--including the silver ink stand used in signing the documents. As I looked over this scene, two thoughts came to mind that I wanted to share as sources of hope as we look to a new year and a new face to our representative government. First, I was reminded that ferocious argument, agonizing deliberation, and frustrating compromises have, ultimately, led our country to breathtakingly successful and positive outcomes. The creation and evolution of the U.S. Constitution is the greatest example. America has a long history of taking on tough political challenges by each generation in the struggle to form a more perfect Union. This process was rarely easy, comfortable, quick, or without setbacks, but it has been effective and stabilizing over the long term. Current political dynamics and circumstances will lead to the greater good, perhaps sooner, perhaps later, because the U.S. Constitution relies on the pursuit of self-interests by citizens, and provides checks and balances on power among the branches of government. Tensions have always existed and propelled us forward as a nation since winning our independence. Broader civic engagement and self-education seem likely after this election season, and will benefit both the process and outcomes. Second, I felt an intense sense of responsibility and concern. Continued success of our democratic republic depends on current generations to know and live out a mutual understanding and reverence for the process laid out by the Framers in the U.S. Constitution. Do we REALLY understand why it is the way it is? Are we REALLY aware that it can only protect and provide for us if we continually revive this collective understanding? It reminded me of an excellent little book called, “The Genius of America.” It’s fascinating, accessible, and an excellent way to give your Constitutional Conscience a boost. The introduction alone is a page-turner. If you read it, I think you’ll be inspired and want to discuss it with others: http://www.bloomsbury.com/us/the-genius-of-america-9781596918399/ https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00413PI0O The authors tell the story of how the country was close to falling apart in the decade after winning the Revolution. The Founders realized that the original government (under the Articles of Confederation) was ineffective and failing. Rather than modify it, as was expected, they replaced it with the U.S. Constitution—which shocked the country by framing a wholly new form of self-governance, that we can now see if perhaps the greatest innovation in human history. On January 20th we will witness our 45th peaceful transition of power. Why not pledge our own oath as citizens? After the new President is inaugurated, I’m going to promise that, “I will, to the best of my Ability, preserve, protect and defend the Constitution of the United States.” To start, I’ll continue to educate myself and discuss what I’m learning and pondering with others. Although our petition did not achieve in its direct call for action, perhaps it will succeed in calling ourselves to be more informed and engaged citizens. Happy New Year, Frankie P.S. Delegates to the Constitutional Convention in 1787 ranged in age from 26 to 81. Madison, the chief architect, was just 36. Whatever age you are, it’s a good age to be a more engaged citizen.