People think their single vote doesn’t matter. “We already know who the winner of this election will be, so why bother?” they usually say. Others justify themselves in a different way. “I don’t want to be a part of this farce!” “I don’t like any of the candidates and there’s no option to vote against all of them. I will stay at home.” “I’m not interested in politics. I understand nothing in it.” “I have things to do on Sunday. I would like to vote, but I simply have no time.”
The sad part is that many of these people have the ability to make a choice. Polling stations are located within 10 minutes of walk from their homes. Yet thousands of lame excuses are found to avoid making any effort. The funny part is non-voters like to complain about the government. They deliberately refuse to use the one and only legal option they have to make some changes, no matter how subtle the changes will be.
When I register and receive a ballot, my actions show that I care. If I don’t like any of the candidates, I spoil the ballot and drop in on the bottom of a voting booth. It doesn’t matter. No one will ever know who has done such a thing. Besides, someone may use his or her ballot in the same way. It’s not a crime, it’s a choice. What does matter is the government will know I am not a passive observer. I won’t tolerate corruption and misuse of rights.
I’m sick of people who claim themselves patriots and neglect elections. Love requires action. It’s easy to be fond of your country’s nature, history, and culture. Anyone has the right to be proud of the greatest achievements of his own country, which took place in the past. Why don’t such patriots understand that their silence will have serious consequences? Politicians have authority, so they have enough power to change the course of history both in negative and positive ways. One minor government measure leads to another. Nothing is neutral.
You don’t have to be an expert in politics to make the right decision. In this case, any decision is better than none. Just look around and ponder for a little. Believe me, there aren’t too many options, after all. Watch debates. Those politicians who reject having a conversation with their opponents are cowards. Period. They are afraid of being asked awkward questions. A truly strong candidate or a representative of a political party should want to interest as many voters as he possibly can. He is eager to spread the word about his wonderful legislative proposals.
I must admit, the means of propaganda have reached their pinnacle. Many people are fooled by the news, which distorts the reality. Why people do not see the obvious remains a mystery for me. A word of caution: you may severely damage your relationships with a relative or a friend, or a colleague, for that matter, trying to convince him or her of voting for a certain candidate you find superior to other ones. Avoid arguing. Briefly explain your position, never raise your voice, be calm and confident.
Your favorite candidate may not win. He or she may not even be in the list of candidates on a ballot. Accept it. Setback is not a defeat.
