I don’t usually like to discuss politics. There are many reasons for this, but mainly it is because politics, in my opinion, are dirty. There are too few people out there in office or running for office, who are actually there to do the most good for the good of the people. I think career politicians are like corporate monsters who seek their own personal gain. Rather than being present for the right reasons, they are here to serve their own purposes. Yes, I sincerely believe this.
However, I must vote. I must do my part to have my voice heard. I must do my part to bring about the social and economic change we desperately need in our country. This is my duty as an American citizen. Plain and simple.
Today, I bring all this up because of the break down that is occurring all over our nation. More and more, I see who are actually voting. I see who is taking time out of their day to make their opinion and life style choices understood by our politicians.
I see this first hand because, I started working the polls. I do this so I could put my time where my mouth is. As I sit and check voters in I am given insight to who is out there voting. Despondently, I was not shocked.
What or who did I see? Retired, mostly Christian men. This is who I saw voting more than anyone else. This is concerning.
Seeing who I see makes me think about all the power, corruption, and control one religious sect seems to have in our political system. It makes me wonder. Does it really have to be this way? Do we really have to live in a culture and society where someone else’s religion calls the shots? Or is it possible to strike a balance? Is it possible to elect those into office who will help create and maintain a balance for all religious and spiritual people to live well within?
The simple fact is this: If we allow other people to speak for us, then we are giving our rights away as Pagans, and we forfeit our freedom of religion.
Tomorrow is November 4, 2014, Election Day here in the USA. Tomorrow you have the chance to make yourself heard. Tomorrow you have a chance to tell our government what you want and who you want in office.
You don’t have to be politically savvy or overly interested in who is who, you only need to do some research. A small amount of research will help you discover who might be the best candidate for you in this country.
Yes, you are only one person, but you matter. So take your power back and get out there and use it. Voting doesn’t have to be daunting or rigorous. Your voice needs to be heard and you absolutely make a difference.
I don’t want to scold you, I only want to encourage you.
Tomorrow, I will be sitting behind the table checking in voters. I will be wearing my pagan necklace to let other pagans know I am here, and I support them. I will also be letting other know, I am making my voice heard. I hope you will join me no matter where you are in the country.
I am Pagan and I VOTE!
Here are some resources that may help you decide who you might vote for in your area.
http://www.eac.gov/voter_resources/ Detailed voter information in a variety of area.
http://www.vote411.org/ Offers personalized voting info and a voting guide
http://www.nfib.com/advocacy/elections/voter-resources/ Detailed of info and knowledge related to candidates and offices.
http://votersedge.org/ Gives you descriptions of candidates in your area for governor, congress, etc.
http://votesmart.org/ There is a feature here that will help you find the political candidate that is most like you.