My First Time

No no, not that.  Come on now, it's Election Day!

I stand before you admitting that today was my first vote.  I know what you're thinking:  "It's your civic duty" and "Our ancestors fought long and hard for the right to vote".  Look, I've heard them all but until this year, I was confident that our country could manage through whatever decision may result.  I'm not political by nature and and without a strong opinion, it wasn't something that I prioritized.  

This year is certainly different.  

Some may say that it's because I've had a child and I'm thinking more about the future now - his future - but I don't think that's the driver.  As it stands, I often believe that my toddler more closely aligns with Trump in his joy of tantrums and mutual need for an super hold hairspray.  

Others may assume that I'm simply trying to be a part of history by voting for the first woman to be nominated by a major party.  While this historic moment is amazing (AH-MAZ-ING!!), it would never be the sole motivator to head out to the polls.  

I voted today because I'm ready to be part of the conversation, part of the solution.  We're a society that has literally divided over views, opinions, judgment and choice.  Not only is it my choice to vote, but it's my choice to select a candidate that is right for me and my future. For the past number of months, this society has torn each other down for making that choice as it may not align with those around them.  The hate filled speech and the unwillingness to HEAR each other has become the norm, and when the norm is unacceptable you fight for change.  

At the end of the day, my choice to vote for Hillary Clinton is a confident decision that the conversation remains open to all voices, regardless of race, gender, age or socio-economic status.  It's going to be a long road, folks, as change doesn't happen overnight, but I can hope that tonight's results show that we're on the right path.  Until that time, take care to understand your fellow Americans and the fears that drive their decisions, speak WITH them rather than AT them and make this country what everyone wants it to be.  You may not be feeling that it's a great place to be, but if you look around with open minds, it's a pretty great opportunity.  

So if you haven't yet, make your way to the polls and vote for what's important to you.  Whether it's your first step into the booth or you're an old pro, not only find your way there but find yourself open to those your meet along the way.