The best 4th of July I ever spent was the one that I was out of the country for. I was in Mexico City the weekend that Vincente Fox was elected. It was an amazing time of democracy, an election that held the people's true intentions after decades of incumbent corruption. The people rushed out on to the street and celebrated and cried and were so hopeful. While the legacy of Fox may not be as historic as his election, it at least opened up the possibilty of a democracy whose representatives are chosen by the people. I hope that this seasons elections and newly elected official will create some of the changes the people were so hopeful for with Fox. Although as Mexico finds itself in a situation eerily similar to one we know too well, with no clear winner, and the people divided about the best course of action for their country I hope that they find themselves with a leader whose main concern is the will of the people and raising the standard of living for his constituents.

I hope that the next US elections open up the possibility for leaders whose hopes are for what is best for the people of the country that they represent. Vote in November, the Congressional and State officials are the people whose decisions closest effect your daily life. Celebrate democracy not only on the 4th but everyday.

Happy Independence day!

xoxo
-missy