Congratulations to Egypt! Through peaceful protest, they have achieved democracy. It warms my heart to see the committed Egyptian citizens who fought so hard for change in their country.

For this is what democracy is truly about – government for the people and by the people. Many pundits and analysts are using the term “power to the people” and it is truly appropriate. The people have fought hard to gain their release from what many describe as a dictatorship.

Now, however, the true work begins. Nation-building and new democracies are fragile at best. Our own democracy is 235 years old and still struggles with a delicate balance between people and power.

As new leadership emerges in Egypt, the people cannot quit. They must diligently continue to demand that their new leaders are responsive to the people. Personally, when I saw the footage of the military tanks turning their guns away from the crowds, I knew that victory had been achieved. Even the military soldiers were joining in the celebration.

Too many Americans have forgotten the struggle for democracy and how their own country fought for freedom from oppressive English rule. They no longer care enough to vote or bother to keep up with their elected leadership. Less than 50% of Americans participate in national elections and the numbers drop dramatically as it moves to state and local elections.

Maybe the American people can look to Egypt for inspiration. Realize how dedicated these citizens were to standing for their freedom. They made significant personal sacrifices as they shut down their number one industry – tourism. Their businesses lost money and many didn’t work during the period of protest.

Yet, their commitment and belief ran so deep that they stood their ground – for freedom from oppression.

So allow me to join the chorus and say “power to the people!” Congratulations to Egypt!