The Ballot Card of Life

So, election day has come and gone. America has completed its (at most optimistic) yearly duty and the power now rests with our elected officials.

How sad is it that this is the mentality of many Americans today. Yes the Vote is important, but there is a much more powerful statement we make.

Throughout this year I have been learning more about myself and about life in general. One of the biggest ideas that I have learned is that every action or non-action that we choose to take is very similar to a vote. In this way, we are truly voting for what we value and believe. And we are not even aware that we are making such huge statements in our life. Our ballot card is in front of us every moment of everyday.

For example, earlier this week I stopped off at the grocery store and picked up a convenience meal (one that you cook in the microwave). I didn't even put much thought into it. Now, looking back, at that moment I valued time much more than other values. I didn't take into account the amount of plastic and other materials that is used and wasted with such items and the effect that those would have on the environment. I didn't think about how I was choosing to spend the money that I earned on an item where the distributors (aka company) instead of the producers (aka farmers, etc) get a larger portion of the profits. I never thought of these things prior to my decision. Now, I value conservation/preservation of the environment and support for local producers, but looking back on it, my choice showed that I valued my own time above these.

I could give several other examples, but the point is to learn that all of our actions, not matter how big or small give an insight into who and what we are as individuals. And I am not here to convince someone that their choices are wrong. I just want people to realize that those choices reflect to the world who they truly are.

So, for all of you who feel that your values and what not are reflected in their vote last Tuesday, I am here to tell you that you are wrong. Your values and beliefs are much better reflected in your own actions and words, not a simple ballot card....