Those who love our form of government because common citizens can shape its actions have reason to celebrate this week. That reason, of course, is Senator-elect Scott Brown of Massachusetts.

First off, let me extend my congratulations to Scott Brown. He stepped into the ring when victory seemed impossible. Regardless, he campaigned hard and ultimately won, achieving more than was originally thought possible.

So, let us take a few moments and consider the lessons that come from this event. One lesson is the resilience of our form of government. With the replacement of 1 Senator – just 1% of the Senate, the power of balance shifted sharply from the existing majority.

And yet this shift occurred without bloodshed and rioting as happens in so many other countries. We are truly blessed to live in a country that has the governmental structures and history necessary for peaceful transfer of power. This is part of American exceptionalism and it is worth defending.

A second lesson is the value of effort spent even when the outcome is uncertain and success is doubtful. I can tell you for certain that Scott Brown wouldn’t have become a Senator had he chosen not to run. While our country was structured to protect an individual’s right to life, liberty and the pursuit of happiness, we aren’t guaranteed success.

This opportunity, the chance to choose our own destiny, is a major part of what makes us free. And, it too, is worth defending. Let’s not choose the path of mediocrity, trading our freedom for the promise of better life that must be lived within limits set by others.

A third lesson from this election is the importance of participation. With only a 5% margin of victory and 50% of the voters choosing not to participate, there were enough uncast votes to easily give the victory to Martha Coakley. She didn’t have to lose.

To the extent that we don’t show up for elections and cast our votes we accept for ourselves the decisions of others. And, we honor those who founded and have defended our right to vote every time we exercise that right.

I am running a campaign to become your Representative even though there is no guarantee that I’ll be elected. I firmly believe America is exceptional and I believe in protecting the freedom of all citizens. Please join with me as we seek to preserve for ourselves and our children this great country.

Join the Resistance! Set America Free.

Sincerely,

Doug Keller