All For One, One For One

This week, once again, I'm reminded of just how fragile democracy is. This isn't a criticism of democracy, mind you. I, like any other sane, sentient being, am in awe of the democratic ideal. At the same time I recognize how difficult it is to pursue, given that it inevitably must come butt up against the imperfections of mankind, thus revealing it in all its paradoxes. In Orange County this week a student brought suit against a teacher because he is offended by statements the teacher routinely makes critical of religion. Disregarding the 1st Amendment, the suit claims that since a public school is a government institution, the teacher is violating the separation of church and state. It's a sticky situation, and you can be sure that people will line up on both sides of the argument depending on their personal axes to grind. It's a perfect example of how democracy can work only if everyone -- and it does take 100 percent participation -- starts thinking about "us" instead of "me." As Frank Lloyd Wright said, "Democracy is a wonderful thing. We should try it sometime."