I went by my precinct polls on the way to work this morning, undecided as to whether to try to vote before going in to work or after getting off. The line was about as long as it was 4 years ago (when I stood in line for almost 2 hrs) so I opted for another go at the end of the day. My assumption was that everyone would assume it would be much too long a wait at the end of the work day, so most would attempt to vote before then. My theory was mocked as preposterous by my co-workers who were certain I’d miscalculated and would be standing in a long line for even longer this evening. How proud I am to say I know my neighbors’ thinking well -- I didn’t get to the polls till 6:30 -- I already knew who and what I was voting for, the new electronic ballots were a breeze, and with no waiting line (there was only 1 woman at the registration table when I walked in) I was in and out in about 7 mins total.

I must say it’s been interesting to observe voting day behaviors and conversations -- what an arrogant lot we are, we humans -- with arrogance and pride that crosses all party lines. I COULD toss in MY 2 cents worth of political commentary (along with rebuttals of generalizations regarding southern voters), but frankly, I’m too tired of hearing everyone of differing views bicker about it all day. I’m just grateful to have the freedom to be ABLE to disagree, and to vote according to what I believe. I had my say at the polls. If I don’t like the outcome of the election, I’ve now earned the right to complain for the next 4 years. I made my contribution to democracy and rewarded myself with a shamefully large portion of butter pecan ice cream for supper. It’s time to curl up with my suspense novel and listen to the rain and the crickets. I just hope we don’t have to wait 2 weeks this go-round to find out who our president is -- I don’t want to have to wait 2 weeks before I start complaining. Because the simple fact is that I could surely do a much better job at running this country than either Kerry OR Bush, because I’m right and everyone who disagrees with me is wrong...RIGHT?!