Election Musings

So the Question of the Day for TODAY is simply: What are your thoughts about tomorrow's election?

First of all, let me preface this by saying I have no intention of giving away who I'm voting for tomorrow...those of you who know me well already know, and your view of this post will likely be clouded by your opinions, because let's be honest...that's what we DO. I would guess there are approximately four actual undecided voters in this country tonight. Most of us have known for quite some time which candidate we would be supporting, and thus, we have likewise chosen which brand of media to consume based on this knowledge. I would venture to say some people knew what side they were voting for before primary season had even really begun and a party nomination was determined. I can say with some pride that I am NOT one of those people.

I can also say, in all honesty, I try not to vote that way. I'm not always successful, but I try...as I'm considering the various issues and proposed policies, I make a concerted effort to see both sides of an argument and consider not only how individual issues would affect me personally, but how it would affect the country as a whole, and choose my candidates based on who I feel represents the best interests of the majority of Americans. Far too many people cast their votes without giving any thought to the greater good. I want a President who belongs to everybody, and will work across party lines. Social issues can be sticky...at the end of the day, you have to be able to sleep at night, so obviously a certain level of emotion is going to play into choosing a candidate. I just feel too much emotion can sometimes cloud good judgement.

As far as this campaign goes, I am disappointed with both candidates. Both ran negative campaigns based largely on information that was either misleading, taken out of context, and in certain cases, an outright fabrication. I'd much rather hear about your experience--your successes, yes, but also your failures and what you learned from them. I'll have so much more respect for someone who demonstrates to me WHY he's human, instead of pointing out the flaws of another.

All of that being said...I have little to no respect for someone who doesn't even try to educate themselves on the issues. Living in this country is a privilege, and responsible citizens should take full advantage of their rights. Do a little research. Watch the debates. Ask questions. Check facts. Voting a straight-party ticket is lazy, and I hate the fact that the option still exists, at least in Oklahoma. Educate yourself, because it's your responsibility. Especially if you have kids. For the love of God, set them a good example.

Tomorrow, I will take Sara with me to the polls before school starts, so she can watch democracy in action (sort of). Tonight, I made a traditional Election Day yeast-risen cake with my kids, and explained the history of the tradition. I answered my daughters' questions about the candidates as honestly and impartially as I could--with the understanding that I'm human. I have not come out and told them who I'm voting for...not yet. I would never bash either side in front of them, because I want them to have respect for the Office of the President, no matter who it is. And you know what, folks? We don't know who's going to win yet.

I'm thankful I live in this country, where I have a say (sort of), and I hope my kids learn to take full advantage of those rights and responsibilities they have as citizens.