Last Friday, Chloe greeted everyone with a warm, “Hi-iiii!” as I sat at a little table filling out my information. I had done my research and was ready to cast my vote. I walked up to the little voting booth, inserted my card, and touched the boxes next to the candidates of my choice. About five minutes later, Chloe and I stuck our stickers on our shirts and headed towards the van.
Wednesday morning, I read friends’ comments of frustration and depression and others’ of pure elation as the election results were known to all those who cared. And I felt grateful. I felt hopeful.
I am so spoiled to live in a country where I can vote without having to fight for it. Others already paved that road for me. I am privileged to live in a country where I can voice my support or dissent for candidates or choose to remain silent. I don’t have to fear the consequences of my voice or lack thereof.
I am thankful for a process that, regardless of how I voted during any particular election, does hear the voice of the majority and responds, and I am thankful for the gridlock which helps protect the ideals of the minority, as well. And after this election, I am hopeful for another chance for our government to work together, where our president and all parties can emerge as winners come the next election.
It’s not a perfect process, but amidst the mess and slinging of mud, there is beauty in a government that is by the people. And I will never forget that I am part of that people and will exercise my vote of thanks each change I get.
For what are you thankful this week?
Jennifer Vignola Davis 
I tend to easily forget that our right to vote has not always been a right. Women and minorities have fought hard for my right to stand up and be heard. In other countries, even as we complain about candidates and roll our eyes at campaign commercials, there are citizens who have no say in what goes on around them. Freedom to vote is not even a consideration – freedom of speech would be first on their list. I too, vote every chance I get. Although, as J. Vernon McGee once said, "I never feel as though I am voting for someone. I always feel as though I am voting against someone else!"
This is rather random, but it came to mind this week: I am thankful that I do not have any chronic pain or illness. I am in good health, and for some reason God chose this week to remind me that not all share in that with me. Maybe He gives me health because He knew I would be so cranky with chronic pain that no one would want to be around me!
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When I would hear that women helped 'fight' for our right to vote, I always thought that meant they held up signs and were persistent. I didn't realize they were beaten, thrown in prison, and starved until I read something about these women this year. Becoming a little more educated totally gave me an even greater respect for the privilege I have. And I'm with you–many times I'm voting against someone, but nonetheless, I'm expressing my opinion!I often wonder why God has spared me some of the burdens He has allowed others to carry, and to that, the only response is thanks for His mercy. I bet you might surprise yourself, though. Sometimes, adversity can bring out strength in us that we didn't know we had!
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Jen, i agree with you whole heartedly!! I love our country and this is one of the ways we the people can exercise our freedom. Our flag still evokes such emotion. I believe National Geographic is hosting a show sometime during Thanksgiving which shows immigrants coming to Ellis Island. If anyone can help with the time/date, let me know.
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Let me know if you figure out when it's airing; I'm sure the show will be interesting!
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Aloha dude! I completely accept your opinion. I have just shared it on Facebook.
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