Well, the day we dread is now upon us. It’s not the end of the world, but with the way this whole thing has been going down, it sure feels that way too many people, maybe even yourself. You’ve may have had about as much as you can take when it comes to politics, but since it’s such a big event, here’s another article going into the world discussing the 2016 Presidential Election. You’re welcome.

Before I actually make your ears bleed with talk about government, let me just make a few things clear. I really don’t have a passion for politics like I probably should. Yes, understand that as an American citizen, I should actually care what goes on and who’s in control of our country. I think it’s important, but I can’t bring myself to really care. That sounds bad, I know, but it’s good, to be honest. Politics is rough enough. My view can also turn to be a bit hypocritical when I say that I’m registered to vote, but I hate politics. It’s an American tradition, and thought to myself, “I’m of age, might as well.” so I did it. I’m currently taking an introductory course called American Government. You may be asking, “If you hate government so much, why did you take a whole class devoted to it.” I say, “Excellent question. To be honest—if not blunt as well—I signed up because it was required to either take American Government or American History. Both subjects bore me endless, but I had to choose something. I can’t remember dates and events and the people involved in them. That’s bad too, but I’m human. At least with American Government, certain issues, like abortion, for example, are discussed, bringing out everyone’s views. It’s interesting, and with this being an election year, I thought this class would be very interesting. It is, but I can’t bring myself to be bothered about any of it outside the classroom. I just don’t get worked up over it. I’ll clarify this somewhat by saying: It’s not the professors. They’re doing their job, and I applaud them for it. I just can’t get into the material. With all that being said…

When I first found out who the presidential candidates were going to be, I had a thought I’m sure many people have had: I don’t really like either one of them, so I can move to another country once the winner is announced. I’m old enough to do so, so why not? I can get a passport (for the first time ever) have a place set up in a European country I always wanted to visit (maybe Wales, England, or Venice), and have a nice civilian or landlord person keep watch over it for me until I get over there. Once Election Day ends, I’ll pack my bags and you’ll never see me again (not because I’m dead, but you know what I mean). It’ll be a clean slate, starting over in a new place with a new life. I could change my name is I wanted, but in truth, I love my name and would hate to part with it. However…

I have to be realistic. The only real flaw in my brilliant plan is the funds, which I have none of. So, it’s Plan B. This entails sucking it up and dealing with whoever wins the presidency and pray that he/she would do a good job. I mean, I live in this country (for now), I might as well show a little patriotism. For a short amount of time, I’ll allow myself to be an active member in our government. I wasn’t even going to vote before taking American Government, but my professor did bring up valid points during the lessons. Ok, fine! I’ll vote. If you think this is the part where I tell you my political party, who I plan to vote for, or to just smack talk the candidates, you might as well stop reading, because you would be disappointed.

I plan to vote. Prior to Election Day, I plan (no promises) to sit down and truly consider to pros and cons of both candidates. I’ll try to study their views on various issues. I’ll attempt to not get irritated…no. Nevermind. Politics irritate me enough already. I’ll stick what I said before: take an afternoon and weigh the advantages and disadvantages of each, and pick according.

What does this have to do with you, dear reader? Here come hypocritical views again, but I can’t help myself. I really encourage everyone who is capable of voting. I'm not saying who you should vote for, but you should vote. Believe it or not, you have a voice, and you always make a difference. To go along with that notion, participate in any way you can. Do what I’m doing. Take an intro level government course. Get informed. Be wary of bias. Set up support organizations or charities for your preferred candidate. Voice your concerns. Don’t be afraid to call or write government officials to find out what they plan to do about the problems facing our country, your state, your town. Get involved. Anything helps. If all that fails, you can try the “fleeing to another country” thing. Let me know how it all works out. I hope it goes well. I wish the same for here too.