Just got back from early voting.
I’ve voted in every election since turning 18 years of age. The electoral college not withstanding, if there’s even the slightest chance that my vote can make a difference…well, let it not be said that I’m not a man who didn’t take action.
Standing in line, it felt as epic as last time. The volunteers couldn’t have been friendlier and there were a lot of blacks standing in line. We each smiled that knowing smile at one another the way family does. We know what’s at stake and for us well, failure is not an option.
So why did I vote?
Because I actually think preserving the environment and this planet God (Insert deity(ies) of your choice) is very important.
I voted because helping the poor and the disabled is something that should be a priority for everyone.
I voted because I believe that women should be paid equally as men and call me crazy but I think they know their bodies and their health better than I do and they have every right to protect themselves and make their own decisions about their health.
I voted because I’m sick and tired of seeing blacks and other people of color get treated like 3/5 of a person.
I voted because I believe LGBTQs should be given the same rights and protections under the law and the fact that I still have to explain this to people in the 21st century is beyond effed up.
I voted because I’m all too happy to flip the Man and the Establishment, the bird in anyway shape or form, be it protest, a blog post gone viral, or well voting.
I voted because I want to be the change I wish to see in the world and I don’t believe you have the right to complain when you do nothing.
I’m not naive. I don’t believe all problems will go away with a single ballot. But you know what they say about the journey of a thousand miles.
But I’ve been wrong before. We’ll see what happens.
In any event, I’ve done my part. The rest is up to you.
DENNIS R. UPKINS 