I’m one of those people who loves the ritual of voting. Casting a ballot at the neighborhood schoolhouse never fails to provide a few moments to celebrate tradition, say hello to friends and think about what it means to live in a democracy.

I recognize this is a minority opinion. More than half the ballots counted tonight will be absentee ballots. Most people seem to appreciate the convenience of voting without leaving the living room.

Still, there were a surprising number of voters at my neighborhood precinct just now. Precinct workers described it as the rush that comes from people heading home from their jobs. They all looked happy to be there.

Given the costs and the growing number of absentee voters, the day may come when all voting is absentee. Meanwhile, I’ll celebrate this Election Day ritual that reminds me of where I live and the rights I enjoy as a citizen.

(Visited 3 times, 1 visits today)