It's our turn to have a voice (11/06/06)

Now it's your turn.

For months now, the stage has belonged to those seeking public office.

Professional politicians and amateurs running for the first time in their lives have been jostling for your attention. They've rung your doorbell, handed you fliers, and waved at you in parades. They've walked your neighborhood, issued position papers, and submitted to media interviews.

Now it's your turn.

On Tuesday, the greatest power in a democratic society rests with you, the voter.

Sadly, some folks will never exercise that power. They blame the process for their alienation, but that's really just an excuse for abdicating their responsibility as citizens.

You know these folks. They're the ones who say all politicians are alike. They're the ones who say they can't be bothered to stay up on the issues by reading the newspaper or going to meetings.

They're also the ones who know, in their heart of hearts, that none of those excuses ring true. They know, if they're honest with themselves for just a minute, that they've failed, that their laziness and detachment is inexcusable when so many people around the world are envious.

But Tuesday isn't really about them. It's not so much about the individual office-seekers either.

It's about you, the voter.

It's your turn. Vote. - J.R.[[In-content Ad]]