How I see it: Voting is a blessing and responsibility

As we approach the coming election of the president of our nation, I am reminded that the supreme right of suffrage is a benefit and responsibility that all adult Americans have the opportunity to share.

When I first voted I knew that I had been part of something much bigger than myself. I had made an impact by participating in the process. 

In 1992, almost 20% of the voters chose a third candidate for president (almost 1 out of every 5!) and it made a difference, and severely influenced the course of our nation.

In tandem with the right to vote is the responsibility to be correctly informed. Whenever possible, use first hand resources to become informed about any issue in which you have interest. When first-hand sources are not available, find sources as close to the information as possible. The internet, in all of its glory, provides first-hand access to such diverse information as legislation and the latest stand-up routine by your favorite comic. Presumably, anyone reading this has access. Read newspapers and magazines of varying persuasions; look up proposed legislation on the Thomas web-server. Whatever you do, before you vote, become informed!

As people who are part of the process, we have an obligation to make known to our associates that this important privilege must not be taken for granted or dismissed lightly. If you can, become a deputy registrar so that no one with whom you come in contact (within your jurisdiction) has an excuse for not being part of this democratic process. When you can, remind people to vote.

As often as you can, discuss the issues over which the next election will be won or lost. And daily, remind yourself that you are blessed to live in a nation where all adult citizens are free to vote according to their consciences and that you want the people of this nation to continue to be able to exercise this franchise in freedom.

That's how I see it.