On this 4th of July weekend I was impressed by the words of Nobel Peace Price winner Elie Wiesel, a Holocaust survivor.  Wiesel declared, “The opposite of love is not hate, it is indifference.  The opposite of art is not ugliness, it’s indifference.  The opposite of faith is not heresy, it’s indifference.  And the opposite of life is not death, it’s indifference.   Joseph Cramer, professor of pediatrics at the University of Utah, added to Wiesel’s list in a Deseret News article saying, “The opposite of patriotism is not treason, it is indifference.

It is true that much of our suffering as a nation has been self-inflicted and that the current state of our country and economy is due, at least in part, to indifference.  For too long we have comfortably drifted into a state of indifference where what government did didn’t matter and what happened down the street or across the country was of little concern.  But 2010 has proven to be a year of awakening in which indifference has given way to love, beauty, faith, life and true patriotism.

I have been amazed and inspired by countless people across the state of Utah who have exhibited patriotism, sacrifice and service.  I saw one individual personally ensure 300 people in his precinct got out to vote in the primary.  My campaign noted the contributions of a modest, but inspiring supporter, who made contributions to the cause in $20 increments at great personal sacrifice.  I have witnessed countless volunteers, not only in my campaign but in those of former challengers, give not just hours or days of their time, but literally weeks and months.  My family and I have been blessed by people who have opened their homes to host meetings and thousands of others who have actively engaged in the political process for the very first time.

All of this gives me hope for the future of our state and country.  I believe in the greatness of this country and the goodness of its people.  I am convinced that we are entering a season in our nation’s history in which indifference must be defeated and replaced with personal responsibility and government accountability.  When the people of this country rally around powerful ideas and the principles upon which our nation was founded, we can do the extraordinary.  We have proved this time and time again, and I am convinced we are about to do it once more.

During this holiday weekend I hope you will take time to reflect on the greatness of this country, the sacrifices that have been made to preserve it and the ongoing commitment of individuals and families to maintain the many freedoms we enjoy.  Above all, take time to determine what you can do to combat indifference by actively engaging in causes that matter, and therby making a difference for the people around you.