I Voted! What An American Day To Remember!
57
The Historical Political Moment
A hush fell on the room. "130, 131, 132, 134, 135" the calm but loud voice of the voting official called out the numbers of those whose turn it was, to cast their vote in the 2008 Presidential Campaign. I was number 135.
As an early voter, I stepped forward thoughtfully, with sober intent. Others in the line with me were quiet, smiling, purposeful. We were a varied group, but united. We were Americans. With ID in hand, we took our places at the counter, proving we were real, and then moving to the ballot booth. I took a deep breath, and glanced around at the other people, heads bent, markers moving across the page in a deliberate, methodical manner.
The only sound was the soft murmur of voices as officials gave instructions. "Move to the left, pick an empty booth, mark your ballot bubbles with the marker, walk over to the machine and the monitor will tell how to insert your vote. Thank you." The workers spoke softly, the voters nodded pleasantly. The Donkey and the Elephant were not at war in here.
Walking into the lobby a few minutes earlier had given me goose bumps. I marveled at my reaction; this vote was different. Having voted for years, I knew this time, this vote was one I would not forget. Caucasians, Blacks, Asian, Hispanic, and other nationalities I could not readily place were gathered in small groups, waiting their turn to participate in history. Vote. No one spoke much, faces were smiling and pleasant. The word "pleasant" was repeating, a silent recording of the mind and spirit. It was an oddly serious and pleasant task. Children waiting with parents were well-behaved, absorbing the feeling of quiet, that comforting blanket covering us all.
I had a feeling of reverence, it was not my imagination, whatever was going on, it touched my heart. A powerful privilege; my vote, my right. It mattered and I made a difference. I looked around one more time, what a special group we were.
As a member of the voting crowd, I felt good, included, a part of an important process. The issues were crucial, I felt closer to the solution with this vote more than any other time in my voting history. My American citizenship weighed on me today, a burden of value.
The ticks of the clock sounded loud to me, ticking off the minutes of our future. Feet shuffled, bodies moved, the machine that tallied our precious votes hummed.
I looked down at my ballot, and proudly marked the bubble for Barack Obama, Democrat 2008 Presidential candidate. The decision had been thoughtfully made, he earned my vote, I was comfortable and proud to cast it, to participate in this election of history making difference. I had hope for better years ahead, yet knew our path was littered with obstacles. One step at a time, we could reach a unified destination. I just knew it. Maybe worry and stress would come tomorrow as our country faltered in its search for balance, but for now, I stood firm and confident in the knowledge I had done my part.
My husband and I walked back to the car, hand in hand, glad we had taken the time to vote on this warm Saturday afternoon, October 25th, 2008. The day and moment, when I voted not only for the best man, but the first black man applying for the job of leader of our great nation. I had a part in a special history, today.
It felt good. We could speak no words, and our eyes glistened with tears. I could read his mind, and he mine. We wanted the best for America; our fellow countrymen felt like our brothers and sisters in that moment. Throats constricted with feeling, caused us both to swallow hard. Lynn asked "Are you hungry?"
"When am I not hungry?" I replied, smiling.
"Yeah, Miss Marisue, let's go eat something greasy and fattening." Lynn grinned with that same grin that got my attention across the room many years ago. "Miss Marisue" has long been a nickname of mine, but he only uses it when he wants to get my attention, this time for food.
As we munched on nachos, we were able to laugh and talk as though a huge weight had been lifted. In that hour, maybe only that hour, all was right with the world.
I am Marisue, I write, and I vote. What An American day, for an average American on the ground.
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Comments
cj.stebbins, what an enormous compliment you have paid me, I am honored. Thank you so much for reading and taking the time to comment. I wish you and our great country and OBAMA well. =)) come back soon!
Dear Ms. Marisue
I find your words most eloquent. I enjoy the hubs and the message that they contain, I read them diligently. You are a gifted writer. Thank You.
Funny I voted yesterday today - its NZ's General Election on the 7 Nov and I am overseas. I downloaded my voting paper from the internet: got a colleague to witness my absence from the country - voted - put both in an envelope and mailed it! It wasn't that exciting really LOL But then I guess whoever NZ votes in won't make any difference to anyone except for (marginally) the 4 million who live there and we won't even have a result much before Christmas becasuse of the coalition making game! I'm not particlularly proud to be a NZer - I wish e didn't have to be citizens of anywhere - it would stop a lot of wars - but its a convenient passport which allows me to travel freely.
Nice hub- and I really hope your vote does count: I never thought that America would have either a female or black president but Ireally,really hope that you get Obama and I just hope he has some very,very good security on him - he's got to be huge target now that he looks like he will win - and I don't mean by overseas based terrorists either!
I love how you described the room where you voted. It is a neutral room. There are no elephants or donkeys, and no suggestion of them. We meet in that room as citizens first, recipients of the right to vote no matter our choices. Everyone in that room, those who vote and those who make it possible for us to vote, know that, honor it, and respect it. It is a safe place. It is a precious place in a precious moment.
I've never been given a number to vote, maybe that's a Florida thing. And we don't have to produce ID, so long as we've voted in that district before. A signature is good.
Thanks for sharing your very special experience. As you may recall, the tradition of voting day for me and my daughter is to go out to eat afterwards. Why is that? We need food, and comfort food. To hell with a diet on that day!
Thanks, Miss Marisue.
Hi amber Korn, thank you so much for your loyalty to my words and writing, it means so much to reach a "reader" as that connection is the essence and purpose of the writing...and you have just fed my soul. There is no paycheck higher than that! I thank you!!
Hi Lissie, I think the way so many cast their vote is interesting and I am so glad you explained yours...voting no matter how it's cast, is a precious thing, and it really resonated as such for me this time. I, too, hope my vote counts and all the others, I wish no vote would ever be disallowed, if it is legally cast!! I fear the election is at risk of being stolen, why can't we get the system right in America??
I hope Obama will be carefuly, surely his security is tight. I pray so and I hope we can give this man a chance to do what he's laid out in his plans. We need to begin to solve our problems, I will be glad when January comes, Bush is Out and Obama is IN!! =)) thanks for stopping by and come back soon!!
Hi Sally's Trove!! This voting was so special to me, I still am quite moved by it. So many in that room felt and behaved just as you also described, it was as if we had entered a place separate and apart from the harsh world we live in, it was a place of respite...of reflection, and of action. True action.Â
I hope your voting day this time will be memorable, too, as was your day of voting for Hilary.., I loved the fact that you and your daughter make it so special. We've invited our boys over to watch the election, but they had to turn us down...it is, after all  a work night for them and so many. Our hearts will be united as we watch history in the making. I will not be able to sleep that night!!Â
May our country soon be on the road to healing and re-building! (smiling at the "miss marisue" name....20 years ago a foster child coined it, and it stuck, I've grown quite fond of it....LOL  )
(some foster kids will call us "mom" quickly and it hurts their birth parents as it would me...so we said they could call us by our first name if they used it respectfully....one little boy very seriously said Ok, then can I call you "Miss Marisue" - it became the norm...)
Well, I voted here in Albuquerque, NM yesterday afternoon. Took only 20 minutes. Everything in the early voting location was extremely well organized and polite. First we stood in line outside the building. About 20 people were ahead of me. Many of them had little children in their arms -- all well behaved. There was very little talking, no cell phones, no buttons or badges for candidates. In a few minutes, I was inside and found a seat in front of a pole worker who gave be a "ballot application" to fill out with my "registered name and address". I filled it out and handed it back to her. She time-stamped it and handed it to another lady, who checked it and handed it to another lady who also checked it. The final lady handed it back up the line, where it was placed on a pile upside down. I was told to walk over to a line of chairs for my name to be called. I did, and about 4 people and 5 minutes later a man called my name, handed me the application and told me to take a seat at one of the four desks where pole workers where sitting at computers. My desk's computer operator asked for my ID, which I gave him with the application. He compared the two and typed something into the computer. Then another man brought me the actual ballot, and told me to go to one of the booths to fill it out, then walk over to the ballot reading machines to have it scanned. Did all that and walked out the door.
I voted! Guess who for?
Hint: He's not old enough for Social Security.
ahahha good for you level1diet - all these voting experiences are so interesting, freedom in action, here's hoping the healing of our nation's woes, begin Nov 4,with Obama winning!
Way to go marisue! I can hardly wait. I will remember this election for the rest of my life, I can tell you that. We are expecting 75% turnout here in MI, so it should be pretty interesting. I wish we had early voting, but even if I have to stand in line all day, I'll be there with bells on. Thanks for the hub and for reminding us all to get out there and do the deed!
Hi Pam, I still get goose bumps when I think about it; I haven't felt this way in a long time. Last night, listening and observing Obama's info-mercial...I thoght, this man was born to do this. It is his time, our time as a country. We need him; he needs us. The repugs are yelling they are so mad. They just don't know how to lose, we Democrats have lost many times, never acted this badly. McCain is not well, a very sick man, in my view, and I have studied him. Palin is a power mad woman, on a self serving mission, she's already written McCain off in her book. Ignorant of important procedures and issues for our country, this crazed path she is on is one of smear, lies, deceit...I shudder to think what will happen to anything she is in charge of. People who are for her are definitely looking past her actions and words, which is a dangerous road.
I proudly cast my vote, and hope no one steals it. Your's as well...I will be thinking of you! the lines are long here in Florida, I sing praises for Gov. Charlie Crist for extending hours - a brave move, one that serves the voters well! Proud of him for that!
Hi Marisue,
Your hub is so beautifully written. I've never cared too much about elections abroad before this one, but this is history in the making. The whole world needs this to be the right result, and I so hope that honour and justice prevails, and that your man wins.
Thank you Amanda!! I appreciate your kind words, and do believe the world is watching this election more than any others; most people overseas want Obama as do most of us; we see him as a thinking person, one who wants to do the will of the people and wants to do good things for the average person, social programs are not an evil thing; we should always want to help our own, and that makes us a stronger nation, not weak. We are weak now; with the Republicans strategy in the past. The past 2 years the Democrats still did not have enough votes across the party lines to get much done, with a larger majority, we'll finally have an impact.
The Repugs, liked it just fine when they had control of Congress, but they say it's evil if the Democrats gain control. They have lost their heart and soul, it's all about greed for the rich, maybe it won't change much, but we can try!! I hope we have a chance...at least that.
thank you so much for commenting and reading Amanda!!
I voted too, we have mail vote. Usually I just let the postman take the ballot when it just local yahoos and ballot measures that only a few people really care about, but this election (even tho Obama is expected to take my state) I felt very protective of my vote. I hand delivered it to a locked box at the courthouse just in case my postman was a "real American" or if there happened to be any of them prowling around my hood looking for unattended ballots. If Obama doesn't win this election there's something extremely fishy going on.
Marisue what a delightful moment to share. I had heard about the early voting process but I lived the moment with you. I loved the line "My husband and I walked back to the car, hand in hand,.. ". this brought tears to my eyes epitomising the loving relationship you have with your eating, farting,loving cop LOL.
Hi Hot dorkage!! I agree, I don't think even the Repugs, can steal this one that big; tho I think they'll try, I hate to sound cynical. What poor losers they are; they are not patriotic enough to say "My country, My President" -- I did for 6 years, publicly, until I could bear it no more...and found so many wrongs that must be voiced. However, Obama has done nothing wrong; he's stated his hopes and dreams and desire for America, for us. There are some who would deny him that right, just because he's black. Shame on them, that kind of thinking; it's a literal crying shame.
I hope he wins, I hope we heal, I hope. ( thanks for reading and commenting, too, by the way!! =)) )
Hi Sixtyorso!! Thank you for your loyalty and always reading the emotion from my articles. You give me the connection I seek as I write....I hope others feel it too. Thank you so much for your kind words...my vote was so meaningful to me this election; more than any previous, tho' I've always taken it seriously.
I know Obama won't be able to do all he wants; but at least he wants good things; and I intend to take an active interest in our Congressional leaders to help him bring about the programs we need that will help the average American on the ground.
Love your visits to my hubs and stories....you might be interested to know that another Tales from the badge hub is coming soon, - I took a break to build up some of my other blog sites, but am cooking a badge tale now. =))
Great stuff. I always enjoy the tales from the badge. Looking forward to that one
Hi Clive and I'm glad you do, I'm really hoping it will be a book once I get enough of them written. Where does the time in the day go? I've not published hubs as much because of trying to write the stories I want in books...so much to tell, so little time. I'm also working on a major story about My Mom's acceptance of her blindess, called "The Door Out of Hell" -- it's somewhat painful to write, but it was when she decided to train for her Guide Dog, it was a major decision, and one that truly did open the door from hell for her, so she could once again live her life with a measure of independence and freedom. Stay tuned, it's the best one in the Hell Series,"Eye of fear, rainbow of my mind, all of those... (in my humble opinion....haha)
Glad you were able to vote early. I have to wait until the day :(.
I also thoughtfully voted for Obama. It was a great election and the man much deserved my vote. Great hub marisue!
Hi Sweetie Pie, it was an election I will always remember. I have such hope for fairness, real help for Americans, honest listening to issues and differences by our leader; it's an amazing feeling to have someone at the helm who has such intelligence and caring for our problems and issues, and national security. He will surround himself by the best brains as any president should -- more openess is going to feel so good. He wants to solve our problems and let our economy grow after the emergency care it has to have.
My shoulders are lighter, I even walk differently with a zip in my step! It's not going to be easy cleaning up the mess Bush has left us, and continues to do with his last minute executive disorder...but I have hope.Â
It's a great feeling.  =))) always thanks for reading and commenting, take care of you!!
I was able to capture your emotions, made my eyes wet, and smiled regarding your reply to your husband when he invited you to eat after voting. My mate, always teases me about my never not being hungry, and my enjoyment in eating out.
Not that you are in need of fans, LOL, as you have plenty, but I have become your fan. I thought I already was your fan.
Great post, and I'm a Canadian! I just voted in our city election, and a month ago in our Federal Election. It's a great privledge to be able to vote, and it irritates the heck out of me that so few people do it. Maybe with more posts like this, and more wins like Obama's, people will get keen on the process. If we don't use it, we'll lose it!
Hi violetSun, thank you for understanding how my vote affected me-- We need a good president - these next 4 years, 8 even, really matter and I felt so moved about not only the importance of the vote, but my single part in history of his Election. I really believe in him, he may not be able to "fix" everything, but he earned my respect. He seems more honest than we've had in years, more committed to doing a good job, and he has a good plan that includes helping Americans. =)) I'm so glad you are a fan, I am yours as well! =)) Â
Hi Bruce!!! I never felt the importance of my vote more than this year; it meant so much to me, I felt the priviledge, the responsibility of it; the moral and spirituality of it. I have hope now, and I walk a bit lighter, knowing that Obama will find answers to questions he may not be able to answer immediately; he won't just forget about national security, or the economy and the average American on the ground. He's thoughtful and intelligent; we are so used to not seeing that, it has made some people afraid of it....instead of being afraid of the stupidity of Palin (sorry but what else does one call it?) or the erratic behavior of Mccain, they fear the common sense calm approach of a normal president. sigh.
Needless to say, I was proud to cast my carefully considered vote. I thank you so much for reading, and come back soon! =))
Me, too, everything you said. It's a pleasure to watch this intelligent man work so hard to serve our country as President.
Voting was a pleasure. I don't expect perfection, I'm sure he'll make some mistakes, but I think lack of trying won't be one of them.
I Voted! What An American Day To Remember! in the News
- Poll body extends voting hoursSun Star16 hours ago
VOTING in the coming May elections have been extended by three hours according to the General Instructions (GI) released by the Commission on Elections (Comelec). read more
- Afghan parliament starts voting on new cabinetPress TV20 hours ago
The Wolesi Jirga, the Lower House of the Afghan parliament, has started the voting process to show or deny confidence in minister-designates proposed by President Hamid Karzai.
- Voting to ministerial nominees begins in Afghan parliamentPeople's Daily18 hours ago
Vote of confidence to ministerial nominees began in the Wolesi Jirga or Lower House of the Afghan parliament on Saturday. In the process, the legislators, through secret voting, would approve or reject 24 minister-designates introduced by President Hamid Karzai couple of weeks ago. However, there is no nominee to replace the acting Foreign Minister Rangin Dadfar Spanta as the authorities say he ...
- Afghan parliament starts voting on new cabinetThe Star22 hours ago
KABUL (Reuters) - The Afghan parliament on Saturday began voting on the cabinet proposed by President Hamid Karzai, which keeps many key ministers unchanged but leaves the post of foreign minister unfilled.
- Voting hours extended (12: 51 p.m.)Sun Star24 hours ago
MANILA -- Voting in the coming May 2010 elections have been extended by three hours according to the General Instructions (GI) released by the Commission on Elections (Comelec). read more
- Rep. Hill can't hide his voting recordEvansville Courier & Press23 hours ago
Rep. Hill can't hide his voting record To the editor:How dumb does U.S. Rep. Baron Hill think Hoosier voters are? A recent announcement that he's pondering a 2010 gubernatorial run seems to suggest that the big-spending Democrat is not anxious to face either his disgusted 9th District constituents or GOP challenger Todd Young. That's probably a very smart move for all Nancy Pelosi lapdogs ...
- Pike voting precinct location changes OK’dMcComb Enterprise-Journal24 hours ago
The U.S. Department of Justice has approved two Pike County voting precinct changes, county supervisors learned Wednesday.
- Pentagon eases voting process for troopsThe Palladium-Times24 hours ago
The U.S. Department of Defense recently took the final step toward easing the voting process for members of the military stationed abroad during elections.
cj.stebbins says:
14 months ago
Your familys life of warmth and kinship with each other is a delightful story on its on. As a African American woman of dark skin I was encouraged by it. I hope all of us who read this is inspired to follow the example.