Editor,
I appreciate the thought-provoking headline, "Students search for reason to vote." It reminded me to do something I haven't for a couple of weeks. I'd like to say thank you to all the veterans who have sacrificed for the cause of democracy. Thanks to all of you and to the families of those who have given their all so that I can have a voice in how I'm governed. I'm honored that, in at least one way, I can stand shoulder-to-shoulder with these soldiers in defending democracy by simply voting.
I also thank God I live in a country so spoiled we seem to easily forget voting isn't just a right, but a right that must be defended, and is therefore a duty.
"Ask not what your country can do for you; ask what you can do for your country." Remember this?
As an American citizen and a citizen of the democratic world, it's the least I can do, as well as my greatest act. One thing that makes life worth living is to be a part of something greater than ourselves. Democracy - not just for our nation, but for all people - is something I can get passionate about. In fact, I can educate myself about the issues, rather than wait for politicians to show up on my doorstep. Generally, when politicians' lips start to move, I start to question.
Democracy isn't for wimps. It requires that we educate ourselves, take action and then build on the result as a product of our collaborative effort. If you are one of those who are looking for a reason to vote, then I hope you find and embrace that reason. Ask those who are from non-democratic or newly-democratic nations, and I'm sure they can explain it better than I can.
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In the meantime, go pick up a Voters' Guide from the League of Women Voters, or check any number of other sources. People who like to be spoon-fed by parties and politicians are scary.
Steve Burford
UNM staff
