I was born a traveler. It has always been exciting to me to be on the road and see different places, hear individuals’ stories, and learn the history attached to these beloved locations.
As homeschoolers, my siblings and I were granted a very unique opportunity growing up to travel alongside our parents and see some of the most well-known historical sites in the country firsthand. As we visited these places, the events of old were brought to life and engraved into our memories. Nearly 20 years later, we still talk about many of these adventures.
However, one of our favorite journeys was when we visited Colonial Williamsburg in Virginia. Although many of the original houses had been lost to fires and other tragedies, there were many replicas rebuilt to help visitors envision 18th-century America at the time of the American Revolution.
I vividly remember one of these houses, including a kitchen that was fitted with a working, old-timey, wood-burning stove. It was so hot in that non-air-conditioned room that I could hardly breathe. Yet, as we walked down the cobblestone roads and experienced the old way of living, there was something different about this trip.
Patriotism filled the air.
While performers acted out scenes of what it may or may not have been like during our country’s independence, the thrill of freedom rang from every bell and steeple. Even as a child, I remember my siblings and I imagining the rush of American patriots as they sought to fight for freedom.
But alas, that patriotism we once saw as children is dwindling in today’s America.
According to a recent Gallup poll, “Two in five Americans, 41%, say they are ‘extremely proud’ to be American,” while “26% of U.S. adults say they are ‘very proud.’”
And while that number disheartens me, I still believe that there are still many more Americans proud of their heritage and eager to see change happen once again.
But desiring a change in our nation isn’t enough. We have to get involved.
Unlike our ancestors, we have been given the opportunity to express our patriotism and desire for change in our culture with a simple mark at the ballot box. And this opportunity is happening next Tuesday, November 5th!
This time next week, the 2024 election season and the opportunities it brings will come to a close. Likewise, so will the results, that have the potential to change our country forever!
So, before it’s too late, go ahead and start making your preparations to get involved now.
A few things that you can do to make sure you’re ready include:
- Make sure that you know where your polling location is. Where is it in regard to your day-to-day activities? You can even route it so you know just how long it will take to arrive.
- Go ahead and choose a time of day to vote. Is before work the best time for your family? What about during lunch? Do you need to make a stop after work? Do you need a caretake for your children? By having a plan already, you can make sure you will make it to the polls and get your vote in before the end of the day. Don’t forget your ID!
- If you are still looking for more information about the candidates on your ballot, have no fear. The iVoterGuide is here! This tool allows anyone with internet access to gain helpful information quickly. By typing in a physical address, voters can get an in-depth look at presidential and other candidates running for various offices in area during this November election.
But most importantly, remember to pray as the days grow closer to this significant day in history.
Pray for the safety of the voters, polling workers, and the future of our great nation!
