We waited in line together for 31/2 hours! It was hot. There were people there with walkers and canes and wheelchairs. I felt sorry for some of the folks voting today.The polling place has had similar lines all day long, every day this week.
Our area is expecting, and already seeing, record turn-outs. We live in "a battleground state" that could go either way and candidates from both parties have targeted our area for heavy campaigning--between the two parties we've had 5 visits in 7 days.
It was a good experience. Strangers became friends--saving spots in line so folks could take turns retreating to the shade in order to get some relief from the heat and then returning to give their "spot-saver" a turn in the shade.
It was moving to see people willing to stand in line, and endure momentary misery, in order to participate in democracy. To see elderly African-Americans waiting to cast their ballot for "a brother", thinking they would never live long enough to see this day. Military families enjoying having Dad home for awhile. To see young people like my daughter picking a president for the first time. Pride, in a good sense of the word.
Discussions steered toward the weather and local high school football--intentionally away from politics--and that was okay. The crowd knew they didn't see eye-to-eye on issues and candidates. But at the same time they were sharing a common experience--and it was special.
The pride of being an American, of getting a say in how things are run and who runs things, of enjoying the privilege and freedom to elect our leaders--a privilege and freedom that people in many countries would give nearly anything to enjoy. It was special.
When people exited the building others still waiting in line would cheer and congratulate them. It didn't matter for whom they voted, but that they voted. It was a special day, and I can't wait until Tuesday.
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