This article was originally published in May of 2009 as Part 1 of a 2-part series. However, it is being published again today in an effort to revisit the questions/topics discussed herein. Some slight edits have been made so that portions of the article are more up-to-date.

“Putting A Name With A Face”

By: Corey Thompson, “The Thirsty Quill”

Over the past several months, I have often been asked to identify the current ‘face’ of the Conservative movement. I suppose that because I write a few opinion-based articles here and there (nearly all of which are Conservative in nature), or because I serve as President of a local Conservative group, that somehow I have some ‘inside information,’ or that I possess enough wisdom and foresight to make such a proclamation.

Truth be told, I’m not sure that I know any more than the next guy. I’m just as baffled and perplexed as the very people who asked me for my opinion in the first place.

I too have been asking that very same question since last November. I am a member of a movement that, for the time being, seems to be leaderless. Sure, just as I have stated many times before, Conservatives are popping up in droves these days, finding unity and cohesion in scores of groups and activities by which we can voice our opinions and frustrations…albeit to each other for the most part…

Now don’t get me wrong. Indeed, there are leaders among these grassroots campaigns, and new voices are emerging from the wilderness (and the halls of Congress) each week. Yet, who is driving the bus? We all seem to be on board, excited about the next stop along the way, yelling playfully out the windows to whoever will listen…but who the heck is driving the rolling wheels of our Conservative ideology?

Is it a politician, a TV or radio personality, a Conservative author, or perhaps even someone who is a relative unknown at this time? Is his or her name Sarah, Mitt, Jeb, Mike, Bobby, Rush, Glenn, Sean, or even John? Is it none of the above?

Come on now, I’ve bought my ticket, put on my best marching shoes, packed a lunch for a full day of work, and I’m ready to go! Now, exactly where is it that we’re going again? Who has the map, and more importantly, who has the keys? Everybody better check their pockets.

While you’re looking for the keys to start this thing, and for someone to drive it, allow me to pass around a mirror. When it comes your way, I’d ask that you take a long, hard look into it…for that, my friends, is where you will find the answer to your question.

The answer is not on a key ring, nor is it in the front seat…and it may not even be in Washington, DC…it’s right there in that mirror staring back at you…and at me.

Now, (insert your name and photo here), start the bus. We’re ready to go. Who will lead the way? Our nation, and our children, are counting on someone to grab hold of the wheel, and guide us toward a better tomorrow.