It’s that time again, Election year! No matter who you’re voting for, don’t forget that your vote counts. We are so lucky to live in a country, and a time when everyone has the right to vote. Throughout most of history, that hasn’t been the case. But today, right now, you can have your say. And what you say matters.

Sometimes political issues can seem so big and overwhelming, it’s hard to feel like we really make much of a difference. But we do. It’s our duty, in this democratic country, to exercise our rights. Don’t let other people speak for you and make all the decisions. Make your voice heard. Only you know the issues that are important to you, and that will impact your family and your community. Vote and take charge.

And even more important than the Presidential election is your vote on local issues and leaders. Vote for your schools, vote for the people who are going to impact your life.

The first time I ever voted, I was nineteen years old. Soon after my birthday hit, my dad helped me register to vote and he sat down and explained all the different things I would be voting for on that election. But when I asked him who he was voting for, and what his opinions were on each issue. He wouldn’t tell me. He told me the best thing I could do was a little research and decide for myself what I thought the best choice would be. This was a great lesson not only in educated voting, but in learning to make a choice on my own.

Make a choice this year. Vote!