On the eve of this long-anticipated election, some (most?) have grown tired of the constant “gloom and doom” claims from the media and the relentless flood of mass advertising. (Given that the election is upon us, do you think the candidates could stop texting me 25 times a day asking for money? How about just once they honor my decision to “opt out” of text messaging?) It can be easy to feel overwhelmed by the choices before us. But here’s the thing: this election isn’t just about which candidate you choose—it’s about your opportunity to make that choice.
Unlike almost every other person on this planet, here we get to decide and that is a powerful tool if we use it.
For a period of time, I served on my local city council as an elected representative. We got paid $50 a month (yea, I lost my amateur status!) and attended meetings of a committee or the council about 4 nights a week. In one year (I think it was 2007) I lost my re-election campaign by TEN VOTES. Do not tell me every vote does not count. (So this record is clear, I won four years later!]
While serving in local government, I learned a great many lessons. First, almost everyone I met was like me – simply trying to do the best they could to make their community a little bit better than they found it. While I did not always agree with those with whom I worked (and many of them I almost never agreed with), I did not doubt their sincerity or their commitment. Second, I learned that figuring out the “right” thing to do was incredibly hard. Why? Because the issues we face are incredibly hard. If they were not hard, we would have tackled them long ago. (See point “first” above.) Third, everyone has an opinion about what you should have done or could have done, and you cannot ever please everyone. (There is an old saying that if you want a friend in politics, get a dog.)
In the face of stark political divisions, some people might be tempted to sit this one out, thinking their vote won’t matter, or the “other person” is wrong or in it for the wrong reasons, or whatever. But let me assure you, your vote counts. Every election and every office is critical because it reflects who we are as a society and what we value. Whether you’re voting for Trump, Harris, or any other candidate, the act of voting is about much more than a single outcome—it’s about participating in democracy itself.
A Moment to Reflect
Regardless of political preference, Election Day is an opportunity to reflect on the larger picture. The system isn’t perfect, and neither are any of the thousands of candidates seeking federal, state and local officers. But our system needs your input, your voice to bring out the best we are able to be.
So, this Election Day, whether you lean toward one tribe or the other, or someone else entirely, make sure to show up. Cast your vote not just for a candidate but for the principles of democracy, justice, and the future you want to see. Because in the end, it’s not just about who wins—it’s about making your voice heard.
If you want a say in the kind of future we will have . . .
Just Vote.