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