Democrats or democracy? What's the message?

There has been a lot of talk about whether the Iraq war should divide Democrats, how "we" can take back Congress and the White House, and staying "on message". Yes, the results of Republican control are awful. But what can we do to make sure that Democratic control is better than "not quite as bad"? Let's not forget that the Dems brought us the Viet Nam war and welfare reform as well as the Civil Rights Act. Some day, the Iraq war will be over. If ending the war is our main focus, what will we focus on then?
If "we" take back Congress, what will "we" do with it? Would the Dems repeal the USA PATRIOT Act? Most of them voted for it. What will we do about global warming?
The Dems have been too worried about the right wing labelling them as soft on crime, terrorism and "moral values" to present any message at all.
We must articulate a positive vision that calls on our better nature rather than our fears. A culture of caring. Respect for the dignity of every individual and the potential of every child. Statewide or nationwide funding for schools would allow kids in the city to have the education all of us want for our own children. Encouraging achievement and cooperation rather than competition would build self-esteem on a more solid foundation than giving everyone a trophy just for showing up.
Moral and religious values (for those who feel their religion makes them better people) are about caring for the orphan, the widow and the stranger, sharing with the poor, respecting those who work for you, making peace with your neighbor, and considering the effects of our choices on the rest of the world and our grandchildren's grandchildren, not just the next election.
Imagine what this country could be like if our government reflected those values. Let's make it happen.
Hey, Democrats, can you get behind this vision?