Strictly from a patriotic perspective, why do you vote?
IT’S OUR DUTY
Voting. It’s our patriotic duty, our patriotic responsibility and our patriotic privilege.
Our nation’s forefathers labored to draft a set of standards and procedures in the establishment of a government that would be “of the people, by the people, for the people.” Voting is our channel to preserve the law of the land and to uphold the values upon which our country was founded.
The need to vote is not limited to our personal timely interests. To vote demonstrates respect for those who came before us, those with the courage, wisdom and foresight to establish our nation.
Voting likewise demonstrates honor to those who gave their service and sacrificed their lives to preserve this nation. Looking ahead, voting is also for the interests of those who will come after us. The results of our voting contribute to and affect the lives of future generations.
Voting is our voice in a representative republic. Failure to cast an educated vote negates that voice. Not to be taken for granted, voting is truly a freedom to be exercised.
Joyce Kuhlemeyer Wagner
McLean Electric Cooperative
PATRIOTIC PRIDE
I vote as a patriot because I was given this birthright. I feel this country BELONGS to me. When something belongs to me, I feel I’m responsible for its upkeep. When that something breaks down, I feel it’s because I was careless with its upkeep. Therefore, I must vote to help keep our United States from decay.
I was born into a patriotic family. My mother only missed one election in her 91 years, only because she had given birth the day before. (She was born aboard the ship coming from Germany, but still had to study for the citizenship test like all the others.) My father never failed to ask his family members on Election Day, “Did you vote already today?” I still believe in celebrating days like Independence Day.
I recently attended a family reunion, led by a generation removed. I could not have been more proud when the program was opened by the Pledge of Allegiance and the singing of our national anthem.
I am now in my twilight years and will continue to vote, because I’m proud to be an American.
Alvera Leier
Capital Electric Cooperative
AN HONOR
Many countries do not allow voting for leadership positions. Our Constitution gives us that right.
Some say they don’t vote because they are not into politics. If you pay taxes or drive a car, you are already involved.
It is sad our state and nation doesn’t have a higher percentage of people voting or even running for office.
Listen or read about the candidates and choose who you think best suits your wishes. Don’t just listen to ads. Do some research to see if their values match yours.
I have voted in every primary and general election since I turned 21, which was the legal age at that time.
I consider it an honor and privilege to vote for people who I think can lead for the position they are hoping to achieve.
Marlene Kouba
Slope Electric Cooperative
UPCOMING READER REPLY QUESTION
October: It’s National Co-op Month! What’s the greatest benefit of being a cooperative member?
Deadline for submission: Sept. 12
November: Who are you grateful for this year and why?
Deadline for submission: Oct. 11
We want to hear FROM you: Submissions should be no more than 250 words, typewritten or in legible handwriting. Include your name, complete address, daytime phone number and name of your electric cooperative. Note: Magazine staff reserves the right to make edits and cuts. We pay $25 for each letter we print. Email to ndliving@ndarec.com or mail to READER REPLY, North Dakota Living, P.O. Box 727, Mandan, ND 58554-0727.
