Well, friends, we’ve finally made it to election day, after what feels like two decades of ads, debates, and rhetoric (North Carolina is considered a swing state this year so we’ve been getting the hard sell for months now). And while my kids are happy to have a day off school to catch up on sleep, I’m mostly glad that we’ve crossed the finish line as a nation. And I’m here to let you in on a little secret–when I voted (early) two weeks ago, I voted for…
…just kidding! I’m actually not going to tell you for whom I voted, because remember, one of the cornerstones of our republic is the secret ballot, and we as a nation never want to undermine the freedom to vote for the candidate of our choice, without fear of repercussion.
Now, I know that if you’re active on Facebook or other social media sites, then you’re well aware that absolutely no one observes that little rule anymore, but I did want to ask you all about it. See, one of the most ear-blistering lectures I ever received as a child was from my mother, when I asked my grandmother for whom she was voting. Just like talking about religion at the dinner table, it just wasn’t done. Not even of close family members!
This election cycle, my kids have been asked (frequently) by their friends–and even adults–for whom I intend to vote. This was a great opportunity for me to explain that they might need to gently educate those folks about voting etiquette. My children are very articulate about politics (my 15-year-old son has his own subscriptions to The Economist and Foreign Policy, dontcha know) and love to discuss and debate the issues at school and after-hours, but the secret ballot is sacrosanct, and my vote is most definitely none of their darned business.
Yes, of course you’re free to shout from the mountaintops about why your candidate is the best, but that information should be freely offered, which means you don’t ask others what they intend to do! Plus, it makes social media (and the dinner table) so much more enjoyable.
So, just curious, am I the only one who was raised that way? I’d love to hear your thoughts. Now, head out there and vote–it’s your right, privilege, and responsibility as an informed member of our electorate!
Thanks for stopping by-
Absolutely, wholeheartedly agree!!!! My opinions, religion, and political choices belong to me and I intend to keep it that way. Appreciate your post so very much.
Amen!! I was raised exactly the same way. Thanks for all you do.
I grew up with the same rules! One did not share their choice of candidate or how much money they made. There was no discussion of negative subjects, politics or religion at the table or if there were guests sitting in the living room.
I so hope that social media is not filled with anger and hate tomorrow, regardless of who wins. There’s been too much of that going on for eons. It would be nice to see kindness, love and laughter for a change.
xo
Pat
I laughed as I read through the post thinking “that sounds like my childhood”. Unfortunately,It seems that belief is quickly becoming something of the past. I too live in NC (Wake County) and one positive outcome of the election is NC state has gotten some very positive publicity and exposure.
I agree with you and was raised that way too.
I believe it is private also. I think we are free to tell who we vote for if we do it willingly but certainly it is no body’s business and should not be questioned. Would eliminate the polling problems–they aren’t trustworthy anyway.
Also would surely eliminate all the protests and people in the streets, ready to riot and close off streets to those just trying to drive or ride buses. And eliminate so much anger and hate for someone voting for the other candidate!
I’m with you, Cindy. And it truly is a shame that we have people rioting in the streets because their candidate didn’t win!
Christy