I just returned from casting my vote for the nominee of my choice for the political party with which I most frequently identify. I proudly wore the "I Just Voted" sticker given me at my polling place, hoping if someone who had not yet voted might be reminded or inspired to do so. I felt really good about participating in the election process of our country; I also felt that I had carried out my responsibility as a citizen of America.
From what I'm hearing on the news, voter turnout on this super primary Tuesday will no doubt be in record numbers. That's great news. Even so, those numbers will still not represent the majority of registered voters, and registered voters don't represent the majority of those old enough to vote.
Whether you feel that this country needs major changes in the way the government works, or you feel that the present situation is acceptable--either way, YOUR VOICE is important. Your VOTE is one of the best ways to make your VOICE heard. It isn't the only way, but it is part of the process.
We live in a country where we have the right to vote; in my mind, it is not only a right, but a responsibility of each citizen. To fail to vote is to say "I don't care." Politicians have long noted the growing silence of the citizenry. Don't ask why elected officials aren't representing your views--especially if you are a non-voter. As citizens we have been bored and frustrated into complacency by the political system and process--but the system and the process isn't at fault. It is we citizens who fail to vote, to write letters, emails, make phone calls, or stay abreast with issues that are really at fault.
If we want our elected officials to stand up and take notice, first we have to do so. Believe me, when more people register to vote and more registered voters vote, elected officials will take notice. They take notice when we write them or call them or visit their offices. Being a responsible citizen in a country such as ours where officials are elected not appointed or born into office requires some effort. The outcome of such effort will be rewarded many times over by a more responsive government. Help me, help yourself and your children, help the entire country by becoming involved.
Write and let me know your thoughts, please.
