- Think globally, act locally.

- Grant me the serenity to accept the things I cannot change; Courage to change the things I can; And wisdom to know the difference

We are often convinced that the universe revolves around Washington DC and New York. Politicians and our media do their damnedest to keep this impression going. That's where the power is, after all. God forbid Americans start getting the idea they can live a life without their lords in Washington. But we elected a president, not a god.

In point of fact, for most of us, life goes on pretty much the same no matter who is in office. You will never elect anyone who will fix everything. Conversely, as long as the system works the way it does, you will never elect someone who will destroy everything. Look back through history, at the incredible variety we had in presidents. Which one of them made poverty, sickness, and war go away? Which one destroyed America?

You sound like you make a difference where you live. Involved in local politics (I'm not) and working on a job where you help people every day.

Raising a family is one of the most important things you can do. Sounds like you've done a good job of that.

You also sound like someone who has firm principles, even in the face of a lot of opposition and who can look in a mirror with no problems.

I assume you voted in Pennsylania. Pennsylvania went to Kerry by only two points. Your vote was not irrelevant.

If I were you, I wouldn't leave the country. Maybe I would find a part of the country that fits me a bit better.

Maybe you need a break from the board for a while. That hurts like hell to say, since you are a major asset here. Quit watching the news and reading the paper for a week.

Hell, I'm not going to pretend that I don't fall into all the same thought habits, or that I manage to keep the perspective I advise. I wouldn't be the best example, here by a long shot. But that doesn't make the advice invalid.