futility?

I do a bit of writing to my senators regarding different issues up for vote. The fact that a lot of action groups have automated email to representatives makes it easier, but I've been known to write real, paper letters as well (like when I opposed Ashcroft's nomination).

After filling out the latest action against RAVE Act II, I'm starting to wonder if I make any difference at all. I have gone to protests (against RAVE I and the inaugural protests), but I strongly suspect that the Powers That Be(TM) don't care what anyone thinks unless they can throw money at it, and I don't have that kinda cash :(

Anyone else ever just get plainly discouraged at the state of the world?