Before he became a founding father, let alone our second president, John Adams wrote, “Government is nothing more than the combined force of society, or the united power of the multitude, for the peace, order, safety, good and happiness of the people.”

Here and now, more than 230 years later, that basic truth is as relevant as ever. While nationally, we are on a steady march towards another free election, locally, there are big decisions to be made as well.

One need only look to the pending Comprehensive Plan update and the debate over what to do with the county’s elementary school to find such important decisions that require “the combined force of society.”

In a free republic, there is a part to be played by all in situations like these. But without that participation, without that voice from the far reaches that adds insight and frames the question, it’s impossible for elected officials and other representatives of government to do anything besides their own wishes.

What right do you or I have to voice a complaint if we haven’t gotten involved in the process?

Sure, Comp Plans and school debates aren’t exactly the same thing as shaping the birth of a nation. But it’s just as likely that one, while on a larger scale, does have relation to the other.

There really can’t be anything more meaningful to the residents of Goochland County that today’s elected officials will do, at such an important time, than to mold the way this county grows, both in terms of its land-use policy and in the education of its children.

We all feel this country is special and yet, many times, we can’t put the reasoning into the appropriate words. I would venture to guess that it comes down to the relationship between a citizen and his or her government that makes the biggest difference.

If it’s on the national, state, or local level, the point remains the same: People need to speak up in order to take ownership of their government. Contrary to popular cynicism, this government does belong to you. And while you can’t exactly waltz up to the White House, or the county administration building, for that matter, and put your feet up, it’s all still yours. And you get what you put in.

I hope that as Goochland County continues to work out many of these integral questions, people will make sure their voices are heard. Take every opportunity you can to learn, to discuss, and to decide. Elections, hearings, and other forms of public discourse are essential to a well-run, well-engaged, knowledgeable community.

Don’t let a lack of understanding keep you distant. Don’t let apathy chain you. Think about what matters and form your own conclusions about what you think should be done once you’ve had a chance to educate yourself.

And most importantly, take advantage of the chances you have to shape the future of your county, your state, or your country.

As Adams would surely agree, nature throws us all into this world. It’s up to us to decide what we do from there.