In effect, one could argue that your vote and my vote at the polls really means nothing. They will do whatever they want to do regardless of what you or I think or want. For instance, two-thirds of the country polled wanted nothing to do with Obamacare. Guess what? We have Obamacare. You can see there is validity to this notion that we are all ultimately powerless.
But...
We are still Americans. We still live in a form of a democracy, albeit one where your freedom of thought and speech is clearly not as free as it was even just ten years ago. Go onto Facebook and post an opinion that is not the same as your supposed good friends. You will witness intolerance that would mystify and embarrass our founding fathers.
Nevertheless...
You do have the right to vote. You can go into your polling place and make a small statement. Whether you think your ballot is meaningful or not, please cherish it. There are nations all over the globe that don't allow for even the slightest of participation from its inhabitants. In those places, you want a change in leadership? Here's a bullet. Take your best shot.
Make a smart choice today. Exercise your right to raise your hand and say, "this is what I think." Regardless of what lever you pull today, please do so. Enjoy the basic right that our soldiers have fought for in several world wars. You may be like me. You may believe that we are completely screwed either way and that America's best days are clearly in our rear view mirrors.
But, still...
Vote. It's what makes us all Americans.
And, when the old lady behind the counter laden with voting record printouts and powdered jelly donuts offers you a sticker to wear, display it proudly.
Because, thank God, we still can.
Yes, you voted.
Dinner last night: Leftover ravioli.
1 comment:
No thanks.
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