This Is How Politics Should Be

It's Blue's second shot at school politics.  He ran for Grade School Student Government Treasurer.

It was one week of making speeches in front of the different grade levels. The main event was the Meeting de Avance, in which the Parties gave mini-presentations to campaign to the crowd.  After that, each of the candidates had to answer an impromptu question.  Talk about nerve-wracking!  Imagine, you had to think of an answer quickly and deliver it to a crowd as big as this...

 and this...

 and this...

That's a headcount of around 1200 people!  Not to mention, the Principal and Assistant Principal (and a video camera) were right smack in front of the stage.

I would have cowered, stammered...and...DIED!  Well, some of the kids actually did, even the older ones, but, Blue didn't!  I'm a super proud mom!  Imagine me waving a tiny red flag all the way across the gymnasium and shouting at the top of my lungs, "Go Blue!"

I thank God for giving Blue a gift of public speaking.  But more so, I'm thankful for the way Blue has handled his defeat.  (yup, unfortunately, he lost)  Still, it was a great experience for him and we are content.

As an adult observer, I can't help but be amazed at the children's camaraderie.  I was humbled by the kids' genuine friendship and mutual respect.  The world would definitely be a better place if politics were as innocent as this:

when political parties are set aside in favor of genuine friendship

• While walking in the corridor, a candidate from another party told Blue, "Good luck tomorrow, bro!"
• Blue says "hi, ate!" or "hi, kuya!" to other candidates, even if they're from another party
• I saw kids from different parties hanging-out together in the cafetorium

when showing your support for a candidate is as easy as pie... without fear of judgement or ridicule

• Kids who do not know Blue, even those from higher grade levels, give him a high five, or a tap on the shoulder, saying, "Good job!" or "I will vote for you!" 

when defeat is accepted without questioning the results; and with the knowledge that there is still much work to be done, even when not in position

Blue:  Mom, I didn't win.

Me:  Are you ok?  Did you cry?

Blue:  Mom, why would I cry?  I'll still be part of the working council anyway.  Besides, I'm still President of my class.

Me:  sniff...sniff