The freedom to vote…
Most days, thoughts about having that privilege never cross my mind. However, yesterday was an exception. As I freely and easily entered the voting booth, allowing my voice to be heard, I couldn’t help but think about the lack of this opportunity in other countries.
In our travels on Third World mission projects, as we have observed and experienced the quality of life (or lack thereof) in various countries, I am more aware than ever of the abundant freedom of expression we are blessed with here. During – and after – each of our trips, I am extremely thankful that I was fortunate enough to be born in the good old US of A, despite all of its imperfections. I will never ever take that for granted.
All politics aside, (and certainly not to be discussed here!), have you ever thought about the concept of taking a vote on certain aspects of your life? If you could vote for change, where would you like to see it ?
Externally, would it be about your job … health… relationships…surroundings…? Internally, would that even be possible? Would you – or could you – cast a vote for a change of heart toward someone or something? Is it as simple as coloring in a circle on your mental voting card to stop that negative thought pattern – or finally quit that thing you wish you didn’t do?
For one thing (in case you are wondering), I am casting a vote on limiting my consumption of copious quantities of curly, crunchy potato chips. Do you think they could add a hefty tax on those? (Rest assured that my other personal voting decisions go much deeper.)
We could also think in terms of voting to keep the status quo, and let things ride for another “term”, if you will. Think about what those things might be for you. Upon careful reflection, our list of the things we are content with in our lives may be more extensive than we thought!
Perhaps the answers to some of the questions above will enter your minds like a flash; others may require some serious thought. All are definitely worth contemplating…
The thing is, we voted yesterday so that our leaders will act upon the results of our votes. It is up to us ( there’s that word again) to intitiate change of a personal nature.
One thing I know is true…God is constantly out there on the campaign trail…and His vote will always be for you…for the long term…
beWARM 
First of all, I think that Nana would be disappointed that you want to cut back on curly potato chips! One of the smallest, most loving gestures that I see between Grandpa and Nana is that when he’s eating potato chips, he ALWAYS gives those to her and says, “The folded ones are Nana’s favorite.”
As for your question about wishing you could “vote” to get something about yourself changed, I certainly would agree with that. There are things about myself and the way that I think that I have consciously tried to work on and address over the past couple of years, but it’s SO hard! I wish it was as easy as pressing a “NO THANKS!” button. Definitely a character-enriching challenge, though.
Thank you for the wonderful thoughts for today. XOXO
I LOVE the idea of a “NO,THANKS!” button (and it would get more action than I care to admit). It is a great visual, though, that I intend to add to my mental homepage.
Regarding the selflessness of Nana and Grandpa…hmmmm….another topic there….
Thanks for sharing! :)
xo
Loved this message, Tone…I have a lot of thinking to do. Of course, it is easy to point out what can STAY and what can GO – much harder to take action. One thing at a time, I guess. Thinking of you and feeling blessed for my freedoms AND my family. XOXOXOX
And I am feeling blessed, too!!!
xoxox