Americans live in a country that is founded on the principles of freedom, political participation, private property and equality. This country was founded on principles that take citizen's opinions into consideration. In America, everyone eligible to vote can vote—no matter ethnicity, race, religion or gender. People in America do not fully understand the magnificence of this opportunity.

Millions of people around the world live in countries where they are not allowed to vote. These people are not allowed to express their opinions if they differ from that of the government in power. They can be arrested or even killed if they express controversial beliefs. They don't have the right to vote for their leaders or any say in who is governing their lives.

To the people who say their vote doesn't matter—you're wrong. It is a privilege and an honor to live in a country where your opinions matter. You are wrong because people are dying daily all over the world fighting against a government that abuses its power. You are wrong because men laid their life on battlefields so you have the chance to live in a free and independent nation.

Do not disrespect the people that laid their lives down for your rights. Do not choose to live a life not appreciating the selfless behaviors of others. It is demoralizing and wrong to not acknowledge what others have done for America's fight for independence.

If you do not believe that voting matters, then you don't believe the Fourth of July matters. Both voting and the Fourth of July are celebrations of the rights Americans have to live free and prosperous lives, not in a nation where we can be killed for expressing our opinions. Or in a country where we don't have the right to vote because of our gender, race or religion.

In the upcoming election, do not vote just because "both candidates suck" or you "don't care who wins."

Every election, only 50 to 60 percent of Americans who are eligible to vote actually vote.

Do not fall into the 50 to 60 percent of Americans who aren't voting.

Educate yourself and exercise a right that has been given to you because an American soldier lost his life for it. Realize what a severity and blessing the right to vote is.