a post about voting in which I don't tell you whether I voted...

Well as you may have heard it's election day.  I'm expecting less people to read this post than any other post because social media is FLOODED with everyone's personal accounts of their voting experience.  I'm not sure if it's because I was out of the country living in a dorm in a remote part of Asia last election season, the fact that we're living in such a politically charged area, or just the uptick in social media in the last 4 years, but I am sooooo over it.  So you will not find my account of voting here.  I'm not even going to tell you whether I voted, let alone who for.  

The increased focus on politics that happens every 4 years seems to be just another platform for people to feel good about themselves and tell everyone about it. I voted! I voted for so & so! I voted against such & such! I'm so informed! I'm so progressive! I'm so conservative! Look at me! 

It did my heart well to advise a friend yesterday who was stressing about overnighting her absentee ballot to just (gasp! dare I say it?) NOT VOTE. I don't mean any disrespect to those who've given their lives for the right to vote, and I'm well aware that it is an incredible privilege that many others around the world aren't allowed.  But I have to ask: is the sense of shame that accompanies being uninformed or uninvolved really healthy? Is the sense of pride or self-righteousness that so many tout for being engaged citizens a good thing?  I'm just not sure.  

Are we trying to prove something about ourselves when we vote (and share about it on facebook, twitter, instagram, etc.) or are we just exercising a right as American citizens? Are we grateful to be given a voice in such an important process or proud that we took the time out to engage because we are so responsible? I guess I understand wanting to encourage others to engage in this way, but few people tweet about voting for city council (for those who do I applaud you and appreciate you sharing your passion with others). I'm glad we get a say in who will serve as president, but it should not define who we are.    

Maybe my attitude stems from a belief that while the POTUS is quite powerful, he's not all-powerful.  Whoever wins will not save our nation, nor ruin it. They have great responsibility and garner great respect, but ultimately they are just a man granted authority for a season.  

I guess if I could encourage my readers in anything it would be to enjoy your freedoms without imposing them as standards on others. Take a step back and remember that: "As for man, his days are like grass; he flourishes like a flower of the field; for the wind passes over it and it it gone, and its place knows it no more." (Psalm 103: 15-16).  This is just 4 years and these are just men.

Please forgive me if I've in any way stepped on toes or offended anyone reading this. I know many of my friends have a great perspective (even if it's not totally in-line with the above) and I appreciate them for it! Thanks for allowing me space to process these thoughts & engaging with me on them.     

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