I voted today. I filled out my mail-in absentee ballot, stuck it in the envelope, licked the seal, and signed my name. This is the second presidential election I have had the chance to vote in since turning 18 seven years ago.
I checked the Obama box under the Presidential Candidates section... it took me awhile to do so. It was a mix of excitement, disappointment, and resignment to the structure of the American political system, where, although I agree with Obama on many issues, I also disagree with him on many others. And yet, I voted for him, as regardless of his positions, they are closer to my own beliefs than are John McCain's.
Despite my opinion being one small vote, I did feel a sense of empowerment. Proud that I was indeed able to vote in a system that actually counted my vote, that my vote actually does matter.
There were a number of referendums on the Colorado ballot as well. A few for raising taxes for education, transportation, and libraries - I voted yes for all of them. There was also Referendum __ (I forgot the number) asking whether the state of Colorado should define a fetus or a newly conceived blob as a person from the moment of conception. The implications of this statement are fairly strong - morning after pill? - murder, health-related abortion? - murder, car accident where the fetus dies - unintentional manslaughter, etc. I understand the impetus behind the referendum - those who are firmly against abortion in all circumstances (Pro-life is such an inaccurate term) are continually trying to find ways to punish abortion in the United States. For me as a Christian, it is an odd place for me to be. I am generally "pro-life" - against unnecessary wars, against capital punishment, against systems which exploit and humiliate the less fortunate allegedly providing "equal opportunity" but not equal results to all Americans, but I am also "pro-choice" when it comes to specific elements of the abortion debate. In fact I am against the discourse of the entire debate more than anything - pro-life vs. pro-choice is so misleading and unfair, and categorically stereotypes each side.
Most of the other ballot measures were rather boring.
Two great articles from the NYT this week, one on Obama and one on McCain. Both are well-written and fairly objective.
Obama
McCain
It is about time somewhat said this. My respect for General Colin Powell just skyrocketed - not because of his endorsement for Obama - but for his willingness to stand up to others who have been using "Muslim" as a slur throughout the campaign.
He stated his concern more eloquently than I can, so watch the video for yourself. His comments on Muslims are from 4:30 forward.
I thought I would share our first baby photo with you guys:
Isn't Angedrew beautiful? Now maybe my Mom and Grandma will stop nagging me to get married :)
Created at http://www.vw.com/vwhype/babymaker/en/us/
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