When I was younger, I often avoided political conversations. This hesitance stemmed from a lack of understanding about how the political system worked and a fear of not being able to defend my beliefs in heated discussions. I hadn’t fully explored my own political views; I could name the key figures in my party, but I didn’t feel confident in my ability to advocate for them. As a result, I let election cycles pass me by with little more than a cursory glance. Sure, I cast my vote in national elections every four years, but I struggled to articulate the roles of Congress, much less support the leaders making decisions in Washington.
Everything shifted for me in April 2007, following the tragic shootings at Virginia Tech. The loss of 32 innocent lives at the hands of a troubled student shook the nation. As I watched the news unfold, I felt a wave of despair while contemplating the safety of my son, who was about to start kindergarten. Would he be safe from violence in his elementary school? What mental health resources were available in my community? I realized I had no answers, but I was determined to discover them.
Fortuitously, a local politician was hosting a pancake breakfast shortly after the tragedy, and I decided to attend. I arranged for a babysitter, and as I entered the fire hall, nerves coursed through me. Who was I to question a government official or challenge the status quo? But deep down, I knew that I was a mother, a woman confronting her fears, and a citizen in a democracy that demanded my participation.
As I sat at a crowded table, pouring syrup on my pancakes and cream in my coffee, I listened attentively. When my turn came to speak, I stood up, twisting my wedding ring with anxiety. Looking around the room filled with ordinary people, I found the courage to ask the politician what steps he planned to take to protect children like my son in light of the recent tragedy. In that moment, I felt empowered.
To his credit, he answered my question with transparency, discussing the challenges posed by limited budgets and bureaucratic hurdles. Although he didn’t have all the solutions, I felt heard, and that mattered. At the end of the breakfast, he introduced me to the local fire chief, who kindly explained the safety protocols in place for our schools. He showed me school blueprints and assured me he would do everything in his power to protect my child.
That day, I left feeling invigorated—not from the pancakes, but from the sense of empowerment I had gained. That fall, I cast my first vote in a local election for that politician, marking a significant shift in my engagement with politics.
I vote not to argue, not to criticize, and not to tear down opposing views. I vote because it helps me reclaim a sense of control in an often chaotic political landscape. When I hear divisive rhetoric on the news, I remind myself that I have the power to make my voice heard simply by casting a ballot. I vote because the representatives I elect are part of my community—they shop where I shop, live where I live. At the end of the day, we are all just people, as the Constitution reminds us.
I vote because I am no longer the timid, uncertain woman I once was. I vote because, not long ago, women were denied the right to have their voices heard at the polls. I vote because I am committed to my beliefs and refuse to shy away from political discussions. I feel like a superhero when I step into that voting booth and cast my ballot.
So, whatever it takes—whether it’s finding a babysitter, bringing your kids along, or taking time out of your lunch break—make it a priority to vote on November 8. If you’d like to learn more about how to get involved, consider checking out this blog post for additional insights. For those interested in at-home options, Make A Mom offers reputable insemination kits. And if you’re seeking clarity on fertility insurance, UCSF’s FAQ is an excellent resource.
In summary, voting is not just a right; it’s an empowering act that connects us to our community and our convictions. It’s time to embrace that power and make our voices heard.
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