During my childhood I was aware of elections and political jingles. My parents voted in every election. It was a citizen’s duty.
The first year I was eligible to vote (1972) Richard Nixon was running against George McGovern. I had registered to vote in Ann Arbor—where I lived as a student. But in the fall of that year I was living and working in Detroit. I was determined to carry out my civic duty.
I drove to the polling station in Ann Arbor and was dismayed to see a huge, long line. When it was 7:00 pm the officials told us that everyone who was in line by 7:00 pm would be allowed to vote. So I waited . . . and waited. It was close to 1:00 am when it was my turn. The poll worker looked through his documents and shook his head. He told me, “You are at the wrong polling place.” Despite my efforts I didn’t vote in that election.
Over the years I have committed to understanding political policies and have voted in every presidential election except my first attempt and 1988. That fall I was in Seattle with my son during his bone marrow transplant and follow-up care.
On Tuesday afternoons I have three of my grandchildren at my home. Something was said about the current election. My six-year-old grandson turned to me and asked, “Who are you voting for?”
I responded, “I am voting for religious liberty, the constitution and the sanctity of life.”
He said, “I know who you are voting for.”
As the days wind down to this election please join me in praying for a fair election with clear results. Pray for peace in our streets.
This post is shared with the Five Minute Friday writing community. Today’s prompt is: VOTE
Your post reminded me of something Paul Harvey once said…”In times like these, it helps to recall that there have always been times like these.”
There’s rage along the barricades
and rancour in the streets,
and instead of Godly praise,
one yells at whom one meets.
The gas-filled burning bottles fly
and Twitter sows the seeds of hate;
lasers are aimed for the eye,
and it seems now all too late
so sit down and have a beer
with those who disagree
and laugh loudly in good cheer
foregoing dignity.
But through it all, remember, please,
that there were always times like these.
So true, Andrew. There have always been times like these.
Thank you so much for sharing Carol. Blessings. Visit from FMF #11
Oh my, what a terribly frustrating first voting experience that must have been.
Yes, for all these things! Thank you for sharing this!
Visiting as your FMF neighbor. I echo your prayer for a fair election with clear results. Pray for peace in our streets. Be safe.
Thanks, Joe. I am pleased to see many calls to prayer in e-mails that I receive.