Voting 101

I like to vote. I like the ability to express my opinions. Voting is an outlet, and it allows the voice of the people to be heard. I was determined, inclement weather and all, to make it the polls yesterday. As soon as Erik got home for work, Parker and I went out in the sleet and cast our vote. I saw one of our neighbors and church members manning the polls, and I also ran into our neighbor from across the street. Being there, with the other members of my community, gave me a sense of commraderie with my fellow citizens. It is a unifying experience when people from all walks of life come together for a common purpose...to elect it's governing officials.

I proudly wore my "I Voted" sticker (and Parker wore his 12 stickers) to the grocery store, and I hoped that small advertisement would inspire other patrons to go out and exercise their democratic freedom.

Now, with all of that said, I wish someone would publish a cliff's notes version of the election process for our government. I want to understand what the delegates are for, what role the electoral college plays, and the reason behind the assignment of red and blue states.

I was watching the results pour in last evening, and I felt like I was watching a sporting event. My heart was racing, my palms were sweating, and I had such anticipation for what the evening would reveal.

Now, when does each party elect their final candidate that they want to appear on the presidential ballot in November? I thought the winner of the primary vote would indicate this, but apparently each party chooses at their national convention. And, it doesn't matter how many states you win, but rather the total amount of delegates that you obtain. Could this be any more confusing?

I wish I paid more attention in High School instead of passing notes to Angel.


Regardless, I think voting is a small way to say "Thank You" to our service men and women of the past and present who have fought for this freedom. As I left the polling place last night, I said a small prayer and thanked God for putting me in a country that allows me to have an opinion.

I also said another small prayer and asked God not to let a certain person (or should I say 'couple' to win)!