Vote

Dear sisters & brothers in Christ,

I pray that you are blessed. I don’t know about you, but I almost can’t believe we are almost at this election. It seems like it started the day after the last one four years ago, and the amount of political commercials and mailings have just become ridiculous in my opinion. Unfortunately, no matter what happens on Tuesday, I am sure we will be hearing about it for weeks to come. If you are like me, and are weary about all of this, especially all of the mud slinging and bickering, we cannot lose sight of what this is ultimately about... a democratically elected government that from it’s inception was meant to be founded on the voice of the people. No matter how weary or frustrated you may be, it is essential that you let your voice be heard, no matter who you are for. It is your right and your responsibility. Besides, if you don’t vote then you cannot complain, and complaining is just as American as voting. Seriously, it is so important that you vote and give voice to your opinion.

In my opinion, I think most people vote in one of three ways, either they vote blindly according to their party (a party that they probably identify with because their parents did so), or they vote for the candidate who they think will help their personal economics, or the vote for a single cause. The hope is that we move beyond the sound bites and catch phrases, that we do more research than simply believing what one candidate says about another, or worse, some faceless organization that simply has enough money to buy an ad. For us Christians, it is also hoped that when we step into the voting booth (real or virtual), we take our faith with us. That we take our entire faith with us, not just one aspect, but to ask ourselves who best is inline with the kingdom, with the love of neighbor, with protecting all life including the environment (of which we are its stewards). Of course no candidate will ring all of these bells. I think we are still called to ponder these issues, to ultimately ask ourselves the honest question, “Why? Why am I voting for this person, or perhaps why am I not voting for that person?” Ultimately, it is not an easy thing to do if we take it seriously and realize that our vote is not just about what is best for me, but what is best for my community, my state, my nation, and perhaps even the world.

This is why it is so important that you vote. This is why millions of people will stand in line for hours, in the heat and the cold, in rain and snow. It is why many of our ancestors bleed and died for this right. It is why some are still bleeding and dying for the opportunity to voice their opinion—so they can have a say in forming the government that will help shape our community and our world. We will hopefully elect people of integrity, people who will accept this responsibility with all sincerity, and realize that they stand on the shoulders of all of those who went before them. People that will realize that things do matter, that their decisions effect “the widow and the orphan,” just as much as they effect giant corporations.

One final suggestion; include your children. Have a discussion with them about the issues that you are most concerned about and why you think the person you are voting for is the best choice. Ask them for their opinion and let them ask questions. Don’t forget that they have been bombarded with the same amount of advertising and news stories and debates that we have. I know quite a few families that go to the polls as families.

So if you are one of those who still hasn’t made up your mind, know that you are in my prayers. As you ponder the candidates and the issues I wish you the best. May The Spirit guide each of us. Just be sure to vote.

In the Redeemer, Fr. Rick