Educate yourself and VOTE
Yes, a political blog post. Keep reading, I promise it is not going to be controversial.
I was at a meeting this evening, a group of individuals of differing political opinions, discussing politics. IT WAS WONDERFUL. Mutual respect of differing opinions. No fear of criticism. No personal attacks. Just like it should be.
At this meeting each of us had a chance to hop on the "soapbox". (no boxes were harmed in this spectacular display, the box was there as a metaphor only). I really had planned to pass when it was my turn. It was my first time coming to this group and I figured I might be better off holding my tongue until at least the 2nd meeting. I have been know to have a big mouth at times.
But then listening to the others made me realize what I needed to talk about. This is something that really bugs me, but so few people talk about it.
A vote without knowledge should not be counted. Now I know there is no real way of enforcing such a thing. We need to police ourselves. Hold ourselves morally accountable to ourselves. I really don't care if you are democrat, republican or Martian. Learn what is important to YOU. Then find your causes, find your candidates. VOTE.
A challenge to us all. On election day, when you are facing that ballot, when you see an item that you have not educated yourself on, pass it up. Do not place a vote simply to vote. Only vote when you know what it means.
(hopping off the box now)
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