I have existed on this earth for 37 years without ever exercising my basic democratic right to vote for my leaders.
(I know, I know. Spank me . . . Harder please.)
To be quite honest though, I don't feel a bit bad about it. I held politicians in the lowest esteem. In my opinion, voting had always been a matter of choosing the lesser of two evils, because they ALL screwed us over in one way or another. So while closely following politics most of my life, I've never wanted to actively participate in what I saw as a farce; wealthy white men saying what we want to hear in order to get wealthier.
I've felt this way until that is, this presidential election. For the first time I have felt moved by a political candidate, the first time I felt that one particular person is best suited to lead my country. I see in my candidate the potential illustriousness of historical icons past: Kennedy, Malcom X, Gandhi, Churchill. I now understand the pull those men had upon society and the greatness they inspired in others. I feel passionate about this election, and I anticipate the future with baited breath.
I am not the only one.
There are record numbers of newly registered voters. Regardless of partisanship, this is the first election I've watched unfold that inspires such passion on both sides. For the first time I understand the deep sense of patriotism, even though at times I must put my emotions in check. While it is entirely appropriate to disagree with one's views and stances on issues, I must remind myself that it is NOT RATIONAL to want to kick Sarah Palin in the face. However, I love that I care enough to do so.
In this complacent culture, I must wonder if this might be the beginning of an era of political leaders that inspire us to be something more than what we are. Might we as a country gain back the greatness and global respect we once had?
Yet I'm terrified that in the end, I'm going to regret becoming so emotionally vested.
I beg of my candidate, don't let me down, be who you say you are.
