Taken for Granted

I'm realizing I take a lot for granted these days.

I'm stoked about being able to vote in the upcoming presidential election. I feel that by casting my vote, and becoming aware of the politics of this nation, I can change my little slice of the world. Hell, why just my little slice? Why not go for the whole damn pie? I have this option because I'm 18, and legally able to vote.

Yet, just one generation ago, I would not be able to do this. The voting age was 21 until 1971. I have to thank my foremothers for giving me the right to vote at all, as a woman. Just in 1920, the 19th amendment was passed. That's 88 years ago, my great-grandmother's generation. (See here for a timeline of voting rights. My opinions? That's for another blog)

I don't really think about things like this as much as I should. I go on tirades about how we need to stand up, a la the 1960s anti-war movement. Yet...in that decade...I wouldn't have been able to vote for what I think is right.

What I think now, is for every person that is able to vote in the upcoming election should stand up and be counted. Let's exercise the rights our forefathers and foremothers gave us.

Peace.