A Ship in a Bottle

Elected representatives from across this nation (Canada) meet together in our Parliament to make decisions in varying degrees of importance to its citizens. But do they truly act on the behalf of those who vote for them? What accountability is there to ensure that they represent the views of their constituents?

Is there elitism in Ottawa? Can it be possible that a few elected persons, once elected, can push forward their own personal agenda with or without the support of the citizens of this nation? Who has given them this mandate?

Our democracy has become little more than a ship in a bottle. It appears to be an attractive sea-worthy vessel but it is actually out of touch with the reality of ocean waves and high winds; definitely not working as a ship ought to be working. Our democracy looks good but is it truly democratic? Does your MP really represent you?

Currently our Prime Minister has an agenda to rewrite the social structure of our nation by redefining marriage despite the outpouring of concern and opposition. Will he decide to listen to the request for a referendum on this issue? Or will he decide that he doesn't trust that the 'right' decision would be made by the people of this nation?

I fear that I live in a country that has an elected dictatorship; that elected officials can proceed to make a drastic change assuming they know what is best for our country even it means ignoring the people's wishes. The burden of proof for the need for such a change should lie with those who wish to change such a fundamental institution to our society as marriage. Those who want to see marriage include gay and lesbian relationships certainly haven't 'proven' that such action is necessary or beneficial to society as a whole. Ottawa, please break down the glass barrier and listen.........really listen!