Something to celebrate

The idea of a democracy is that citizens will determine the direction and tenor of their government.

Voting gives people a chance to express their hopes and desires. It allows them to voice what they feel is needed and necessary.

Often, the accumulation of individual votes results in dramatic shifts in power. In America, immense power is peacefully relinquished or peacefully retained based solely on the vote of the people.

It is a miraculous event. Few countries experience it, and none have experienced for as long or as unquestionably as America.

That it even happens needs to be celebrated.

And, the celebration should begin by citizens casting votes and making their choices known.

The new methods of early voting, voting by mail, electronic voting and the loss of community precincts where citizens could congregate and share the voting experience have changed the tone of elections.

Everything has been done to make the process easy. Yet, the changes do not make voting less personal or less important. Whether in a booth or at the kitchen table, voting is still a vital and precious act. One person can still help decide who will be their representative and spokesperson. Whether for president or county commissioner, one person can still help determine the course for the future.

One vote out of thousands or millions may not seem like much, but the accumulation of those votes can have a dramatic effect.

The peaceful act of self-determination should not be diminished or ignored. It is something to celebrate and treasure. That celebration must include casting a ballot.

Yes, there is still time

There is still time to register to vote in the November 6 General Election. There may still be time, but there is precious little of it.

The last day to register is October 29. That is this Monday.

Registration must be completed in person. Call the county elections office for details.

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