This past Sunday I volunteered to canvass with the Lynchburg Democrats and gleaned a lot

This semester I was motivated to reach out and become involved on-the-ground in a political campaign. I drove twenty minutes to a little suburban house that had a million lawn signs out front advocating the different candidates on the Democratic ticket*. The leaders were very friendly, organized and answered my clarification questions. There were stickers, clipboards, pamphlets, water bottles and voter registration cards. This being my first time as a political Jehovah’s witness (and a major step outside the introvert comfort zone), I was nervous. Luckily, an older lady—whom I shall Anne**—suggested she and I paper the neighborhood together since she was also a first timer. There the journey begins…

1. There are several obstacles to get to a goal

It was very very very hilly (if you didn’t know that already). It was a decent 70 something frickin' degrees and we were walking up and down multiple mountains. Another blockade is where to put the informational papers if no one answers the door. Lastly, some people can just be rude. I had at least two doors in my face after the opening line of the spiel. One woman wagged a finger and said condescendingly, “We are notDemocrats.” The goal of ringing the doorbell and having an actual conversation were challenging but so much sweeter once achieved.

2. You will be surprised by how much you have in common

Anne and I started our trek and began talking. I was relieved to find her a truly interesting grandmotherly-sort. She had been in the Peace Corps, which I want to enter after graduation. Her wild experiences and stories in Southeast Asia and Western Africa were entertaining, to say the least! Also, she has a son who lives and works in Eastern Europe. I used to live in Ukraine and speak Russian! Anne also was from Massachusetts, my home state; she was familiar with Cape Cod! Also, Anne has German roots—like, you guessed it: me!—and has traveled to Germany! It blew my mind that we could talk endlessly and have so many awesome facts in common. Simple conversation can build a strong connection. Anne even invited me to spend Thanksgiving with her and her family!

3. You can be a wonderful surprise!

Anne was shocked to learn I was a student at Liberty University. I think much of the world outside the community bubble of our school sees us all the same: painted red with Trump bumper stickers and a thick accent. She kept saying I was brave and admirable but really, Liberty University is tolerant of different views. We invite a diverse array of speakers and performers; students are totally free to have an individualized political opinion. That doesn’t mean debate doesn’t happen, but LU is a constructive environment.

4. Working with someone older, unsaved and a faithful Democrat opens your eyes to their worldview

Anne’s perspective on Liberty University allowed me to see our own hypocrisies and flaws. She mentioned that LU does not allow a Young Democrats Club to meet on campus. I understand why the Falwells would discourage that and they are legally fine to say no, since we are a private university. But in preaching tolerance, why shouldn’t we practice it on campus, too? Anne’s similar awe and encouragement because I was so young is interesting. I saw no other people my age volunteering or answering the doors.

5. Democrats v. Republicans

Both parties visibly loathe one another and throw more labels daily into the mix: “racist, socialist, fascist, communist, idiot, etc. “ If you take part in this sort of behavior, it is: a) not christian and b) pointless. Even in our interactive culture, we overuse "milennial" or "baby-boomer" and if you listen, the words "they", "you" (plural) and "us/we" escapes people mouths when describing tense situations. I understand Liberty's motto is to be politically incorrect and that is not the same as refraining from limiting labels. It should always be love over labels, and then true leadership will be birthed.

Democrats are not evil or ill-intentioned. They, just like Republicans, can be bristly because they believe that they are also acting patriotically when protesting Trump and advocating their policies. Everyone loves America and has different visions that need to be combined and compromised upon to build a cohesive, clear future. Lastly and most importantly: college students, your VOTE matters!

Get to know your city, get to know your representatives, get out and vote no matter which "label" you choose. We're all neighbors. Mark 12:31 "The second is this: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’ There is no other commandment greater than these.” (ESV)

November 7th is Virginia's election for several offices:

Governor of VA = Ralph Northam (D)

Lieutenant Governor = Jill Vogel (R)

Attorney General = John Adams (R)

23^rd District Delegate = T. Scott Garrett (R)

(although I handed out flyers for Democrat Natalie Short)

Commonwealth's Attorney for Lynchburg City = Bethany Hamilton (R)

Sheriff, Treasurer and Commissioner of Revenue are single-option

*I do not identify as either Republican or Democrat; I am more utilitarian

**Anne is not her real name