Election Day 2012

Election day brings out the best in some people. A sense of community, of civic duty. The idea that we are all part of something and that we succeed or fail collectively. Coworkers and acquaintances encourage each other to go vote, despite having different perspectives. Visiting the polls is celebrated, there is a sense of accomplishment and pride. People who rarely get fired up reveal a sense of passion that you didn't know was there. And the evening is spent watching news pundits rather than the latest reality show or formulaic crime drama.

Election day can also bring out the worst in people. The passion of some is only exceeded by their obtuseness. The partisan disagreements can quickly change a civil discussion about policy into a shouting match of personal attacks. The idea that everyone should share our personal beliefs is easy to fall into, but leads to the dangerous need to convert everyone else's beliefs to match our own. We should be proud of our beliefs and opinions, but it's so easy for that pride to boil over into hostility toward anyone who doesn't share our positions.

As with most things, I believe balance is required to be true to ourselves and yet not alienate the people around us. Be content with knowing what you believe. Don't insist on converting everyone you come in contact with. Understand that people can read, listen, ponder, and deeply consider the same scenario that you see and yet come out at a different place. That doesn't make them idiots. Or uneducated. Or unchristian. It's merely a reminder that we are all different.

By all means discuss. But find ways to do so respectfully. Be ready to explain your positions. But try and give equal time to the other person to explain theirs. Be encouraged that there are other people who take the time to think things through and value their efforts to understand life. Don't dismiss them simply because they see a different perspective.

In closing, it's fair to note the freedom with which elections are held in this country. We are not compelled to support a government candidate at the point of a gun. There is confidence that your vote will be properly counted (despite persistent and troubling reports of sketchy polling place activity). When a winner is declared the losing candidate will graciously stand aside, not organize a coup to ignore the voice of the people. We are fortunate that voting is as placid an experience as it is. Would that our conversation and interactions with other people could reflect the same calmness.