Tomorrow is officially election day. I've waited to vote on the day as opposed to absentee ballot or early voting. Part of it is so that my kids, who always get off school on election day, can go with me.
They've gone since infants: my son first went in a car carrier seat at less than a month old. They've never missed one. I think it's important for them to know what a privilege and responsibility it is to vote, and how magnificent and unique this country is. We've used purple markers to color in the box, pulled the curtain behind us and flipped the levers, and touched a computer screen. We wear our flag-bearing "I voted" stickers all day.
Another reason I wait is for the experience of it. Mailing an envelope doesn't quite feel the same (although if I had to do that, I'd do it proudly!). And the early voting is in a different location. As a creature of routine, I like my home polling place. I run into neighbors. I know the polling volunteers.
So tomorrow I brave the crowds. Tomorrow I vote.
I'm proud of being an American. Proud of the history of this country, although it's far from perfect. And whichever way this election goes, I'll still be proud to have been a part of this process. Whichever way it goes, I'll be glad to live in this incredible place I call home.
What a great post!
ReplyDeleteOur federal election two weeks ago was dismal. Our voter turn out is so low, it's shameful. I feel like finding the apathetic non-voters and yelling, "This is your country! You get to choose! If you don't like any of them, just go vote for the underdog! Just show up!"
Anyways...
Kids need to be involved early, I agree. You wouldn't believe how interested these Canadian kids are in the U.S. elections. They'll remember this one.
Cool post!
ReplyDeleteI agree with you, it would b e so great to include your kids in the process from such a young age. I'm sad to say my parents didN't, and I always grew up just 'EH' about voting.
It's only when I moved overseas that I became really interested inthe process, sadly. If and when we ever go back to the US I'll be a better, more involved person in the process.
Go you! :)
Nicely said!
ReplyDelete