I want to tell you how I feel every time I vote, even now, after about 32 years of voting.

[Amy6627]

This morning, I got out of bed extra early, so I could be one of the first at my polling place. Well, actually, I got out of bed extra early ‘cause my back was hurting me and I couldn’t stand it, but that’s beside the point. I still like voting early on Election Day. And, even after all these years, I am still moved by the experience. As corny as it sounds, I think of the great sacrifices that have been made to ensure that I can cast my vote. This morning in particular, my thoughts went to Suffragettes and civil rights workers, individuals who saw it as their personal mission to ensure that women and people of color can legally and safely vote. I thought of my brothers and sisters in the Democratic Republic of the Congo, who only recently had their first opportunity to vote in a democratic, though deeply flawed election. I thought about how proud I felt on Election Day two years ago, when this country finally grew up and elected its first President of color.

My vote counts. Your vote counts. I believe this, even when my candidate or proposition doesn’t win. Read the propositions, study the supporting and dissenting arguments, get into debates with others, and make decisions. Vote even if it’s inconvenient or you don’t think your candidate will win. Vote even if political ads and the media have left a disgusting taste in your mouth. Vote even if you’re mad about what’s happening in our country – or maybe especially if you’re mad. Voting is your right, but also your responsibility. Four years ago, millions of Congolese walked miles and stood for hours in long lines to cast their votes, because they felt an abiding sense of hope for their country. I hope that you will always appreciate what your vote means.

[ScreamingMeemie]

1. Happy to recommend.

:hi:

[H2O Man]

2. Recommended.

Thank you for this.

I've been voting for a bit longer than you, and I still get excited each and every time.

[slackmaster]

3. 34 years voting, and I feel the same way

K&R

:kick:

[Raven]

4. I have been voting for 46 years and I still get the same feeling

when I wake up on election day...butterflies...the feeling that I am going to be doing a very important thing. And when I leave the polling place I feel joyful. Here in SWNH it was a beautiful late Fall afternoon and I vote in a small New England town with paper ballot and folks older than me running the show. Wonderful!

[stray cat]

5. Thanks for your courage to post the sentiment

Even one of my students who voted absentee said he missed the voting day participation

[babylonsister]

6. Great post! nt

[HereSince1628]

7. Yep. I get it.

I voted absentee the first time. I was a participant in the Southeast Asian War Games.

It never fails that as I walk slowly along the line into a polling place that my mind turns to that ballot and the 63K soldiers who never got to return to a voting booth. They didn't see themselves as exceptional and stepped up to answer the call of their government.

Filling out a ballot when the government calls on me to do so isn't nearly as difficult.

[Pathwalker]

8. I get too excited to sleep well before every election, so I'm tired today.

I feel the same way you do; it isn't just a privilege, it's a duty and responsibility because of of all those who've fought for us to have this opportunity, as well of those who are not allowed to vote. I always have to take a deep breath before I cast my votes, and before I stick the ballot in the machine, daring it to spit it out. Then, I clear that small catch in my throat, and walk a little taller as I leave - with my family beside me. 34th year, and it still makes me proud. :hi:

[bullimiami]

9. we all have just one vote. i just like to know regardless of the outcome that i did my small part.

[xiamiam]

10. i feel the proud..everytime...42 years here...nt