Given the significance of the issue, I listened to Joe Wilson's address to the National Press Club last night. The man exuded competence and credibility. Given his meticulous documentation of the events and the man's impeccable credentials, there can be little doubt as to the authenticity of his story.

As both an "Independent, by default Republican" and as a loyal American citizen, it was truly disheartening to have my worst suspicions regarding "unethical governmental behavior" confirmed.

Despite my own jaded sensibilities, and the seeming impossibility of accomplishing the task, I became convinced that the American people simply must find a way to begin the long and hard road towards achieving full transparency and accountability by their elected officials. As Mr. Wilson so aptly and repeatedly stated. [Para: In a democracy we rule by point of law. We settle our differences through open discussion; and ultimately by the vote of the electorate.]

The current two party system is an anachronistic and ineffective system which prevents legitimate and necessary change. If we as a country are to achieve true political reform, we must find a way to completely severe the ties at least between political campaigning/fundraising and special interest funding. If we simply continue to allow candidates to "buy their way into power," we deserve what we get.

Exactly how this can be accomplished is probably as much a mystery to most Americans as it is to me. The solution will only be found through persistent investigation and the relentless demand by all citizens for immediate and effective reform. There is a great deal of wisdom in the adage: "Necessity is the mother of invention."

How this will happen may be a mystery. But that it definitely will happen, must, in our minds, be a foregone conclusion.